Wayzata World Factbook 1996/The World Factbook - 1996 Edition - Wayzata Technology (3079) (1996).iso/pc/windows/lrgtext.tbk

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A,I,I,I
Armenia
ARMENIA - Passport and visa required.  For additional information contact
the Consular Section of the Embassy of Armenia, 122 C Street, N.W., Suite
360, Washington, D.C. 20001 (202/393-5983).
Armenia - Consular Information Sheet
September 23, 1993
Country Description:  Armenia is a nation undergoing profound political and
economic change.  Street demonstrations and other disturbances may occur
without warning.  In addition, a natural gas and transportation blockade is
causing severe food and medical shortages, frequent interruptions in
electrical power, and shortages of transportation fuel.  Internal travel,
especially by air, may be disrupted by fuel shortages and other problems.
Tourist facilities are not highly developed, and many of the goods and
services taken for granted in other countries are not yet available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Without a visa,
travelers cannot register at hotels and may be required to leave the country
immediately via the route by which they entered.  U.S. citizens can contact
the Armenian Embassy at 122 C Street, Suite 360, Washington, D.C. 20001,
tel. [phone] for current information on visa requirements.
Areas of Instability:  Armed conflict is taking place in and around the
Armenian-populated area of Nagorno-Karabakh located in Azerbaijan and along
the Armenian-Azerbaijani border.  Fighting continues on a daily basis, and
front lines change frequently.  The U.S. government has prohibited all U.S.
officials from traveling overland between Georgia and Armenia due to the
activity of bandits.
Medical Information:  Medical care in Armenia is limited.  The U.S. Embassy
maintains a list of English speaking physicians in the area.  There is a
severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable needles,
anesthetics, and antibiotics.  Elderly travelers and those with existing
health problems may be at risk due to inadequate medical facilities.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.  Further
information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers' hotline, tel: [phone].
Crime Information:  Armenia has a low rate of violent crime, but common
street crime has increased especially at night.  The loss or theft abroad of
a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the
nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  The Department of State's pamphlet "A
Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful information on guarding valuables and
protecting personal security while traveling abroad.  Additional information
on the region can be found in the brochure "Tips for Travelers to Russia".
Both publications are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Armenia is a cash only economy.  Traveler's checks
and credit cards are not accepted.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the Consular Section of the U.S.
Embassy may obtain updated information on travel and security within Armenia.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Yerevan, Armenia, is located at 18
General Bagramian Street, Telephone [phone].
No. 93-248
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 29, 1993 to add
information on banditry along the border with Georgia and to note that U. S.
government employees are restricted from traveling overland between Armenia
and Georgia.
8                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Armenia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southwestern Asia, east of Turkey
Map references:
    Commonwealth of Independent States - European States
Area:
  total area:
    29,800 sq km
  land area:
    28,400 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Maryland
Land boundaries:
    total 1,254 km, Azerbaijan (east) 566 km, Azerbaijan (south) 221 km, Georgia
    164 km, Iran 35 km, Turkey 268 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    supports ethnic Armenians in Nagorno-Karabakh in their separatist conflict
    against the Azerbaijani government; traditional demands on former Armenian
    lands in Turkey have subsided
Climate:
    highland continental, hot summers, cold winters
Terrain:
    high Armenian Plateau with mountains; little forest land; fast flowing
    rivers; good soil in Aras River valley
Natural resources:
    small deposits of gold, copper, molybdenum, zinc, alumina
Land use:
  arable land:
    17%
  permanent crops:
    3%
  meadows and pastures:
    20%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    60%
Irrigated land:
    3,050 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    soil pollution from toxic chemicals such as DDT; energy blockade, the result
    of conflict with Azerbaijan, has led to deforestation as citizens scavenge
    for firewood; pollution 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
  natural hazards:
    occasionally severe earthquakes; droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban, Wetlands; signed,
    but not ratified - Desertification
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Armenia
                                     People
Population:
    3,557,284 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    31% (female 542,664; male 570,998)
  15-64 years:
    61% (female 1,103,171; male 1,076,226)
  65 years and over:
    8% (female 154,784; male 109,441) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.94% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    22.79 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.66 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -6.68 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    26 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    72.36 years
  male:
    68.94 years
  female:
    75.95 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.06 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Armenian(s)
  adjective:
    Armenian
Ethnic divisions:
    Armenian 93%, Azeri 3%, Russian 2%, other (mostly Yezidi Kurds) 2% (1989)
  note:
    as of the end of 1994, most Azeris had emigrated from Armenia
Religions:
    Armenian Orthodox 94%
Languages:
    Armenian 96%, Russian 2%, other 2%
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    99%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    98%
Labor force:
    1.578 million
  by occupation:
    industry and construction 34%, agriculture and forestry 31%, other 35%
    (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Armenia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Armenia
  conventional short form:
    Armenia
  local long form:
    Hayastani Hanrapetut'yun
  local short form:
    Hayastan
  former:
    Armenian Soviet Socialist Republic; Armenian Republic
Digraph:
    AM
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Yerevan
Administrative divisions:
    37 regions (shrjanner, singular - shrjan) and 23 cities* (kaghakner,
    singular - kaghak); Abovyan*, Akhuryani Shrjan, Alaverdi*, Amasiayi Shrjan,
    Anii Shrjan, Aparani Shrjan, Aragatsi Shrjan, Ararat*, Ararati Shrjan,
    Armaviri Shrjan, Artashat*, Artashati Shrjan, Art'ik*, Art'iki Shrjan,
    Ashots'k'i Shrjan, Ashtarak*, Ashtaraki Shrjan, Baghramyani Shrjan,
    Ch'arents'avan*, Dilijan*, Ejmiatsin*, Ejmiatsni Shrjan, Goris*, Gorisi
    Shrjan, Gugark'i Shrjan, Gyumri*, Hoktemberyan*, Hrazdan*, Hrazdani Shrjan,
    Ijevan*, Ijevani Shrjan, Jermuk*, Kamo*, Kamoyi Shrjan, Kapan*, Kapani
    Shrjan, Kotayk'i Shrjan, Krasnoselski Shrjan, Martunu Shrjan, Masisi Shrjan,
    Meghru Shrjan, Metsamor*, Nairii Shrjan, Noyemberyani Shrjan, Sevan*, Sevani
    Shrjan, Sisiani Shrjan, Spitak*, Spitaki Shrjan, Step'anavan*, Step'anavani
    Shrjan, T'alini Shrjan, Tashiri Shrjan, Taushi Shrjan, T'umanyani Shrjan,
    Vanadzor*, Vardenisi Shrjan, Vayk'i Shrjan, Yeghegnadzori Shrjan, Yerevan*
Independence:
    28 May 1918 (First Armenian Republic);  23 September 1991 (from Soviet
    Union)
National holiday:
    Referendum Day, 21 September
Constitution:
    adopted NA April 1978; referendum on new constitution to be held 5 July 1995
Legal system:
    based on civil law system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Levon Akopovich TER-PETROSYAN (since October 1991) election last
    held 16 October 1991 (next to be held NA 1996); results - Levon Akopovich
    TER-PETROSYAN 86%; radical nationalists about 7%; note - Levon Akopovich
    TER-PETROSYAN was elected Chairman of the Armenian Supreme Soviet 4 August
    1990 before becoming president
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Hrant BAGRATYAN (since 16 February 1993); First Deputy Prime
    Minister Vigen CHITECHYAN (since 16 February 1993)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Armenia
                                   Government
  Supreme Soviet:
    elections last held 20 May 1990 (next to be held 5 July 1995); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (260 total) non-aligned 136, ANM 52,
    DPA 17, Democratic Liberal Party 17, ARF 12, NDU 9, Christian Democratic
    Party 1, Constitutional Rights Union 1, ONS 1, Republican Party 1,
    Nagorno-Karabakh representatives 13
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Armenian National Movement (ANM), Ter-Husik LAZARYAN, chairman; National
    Democratic Union (NDU), David VARTANYAN, chairman; Armenian Revolutionary
    Federation (ARF, Dashnaktsutyun); note - banned until reorganized;
    Democratic Party of Armenia (DPA; Communist Party), Aram SARKISYAN,
    chairman; Christian Democratic Party, Azat ARSHAKYAN, chairman; Greens
    Party, Hakob SANASARIAN, chairman; Democratic Liberal Party, Rouben
    MIRZAKHANYAN, chairman; Republican Party, Ashot NAVARSARDYAN, chairman;
    Union for Self-Determination (ONS), Paruir AIRIKYAN, chairman
Member of:
    BSEC, CCC, CIS, EBRD, ECE, ESCAP, FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFAD, ILO,
    IMF, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ITU, NACC, NAM (observer), OSCE, PFP, UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ruben SHUGARIAN
  chancery:
    Suite 210, 1660 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Harry J. GILMORE
  embassy:
    18 Gen Bagramian, Yerevan
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [7] (8852) 151-144, 524-661
  FAX:
    [7] (8852) 151-138
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of red (top), blue, and gold
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Armenia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Under the old Soviet central planning system, Armenia had developed a more
    modern industrial sector, supplying machine building equipment, textiles,
    and other manufactured goods to sister republics in exchange for raw
    materials and energy resources. Armenia is a large 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 Azerbaijan.
    Azerbaijan 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. In addition, bread is
    strictly rationed and there are shortages of other goods. In 1994, the
    economy seemed to bottom out. The government has managed to increase its
    financial and budgetary discipline, bringing inflation down from around 40%
    per month in first half 1994 to single digits in second half 1994 and the
    first quarter of 1995. A full economic recovery cannot be expected until the
    conflict is settled and the blockade lifted.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $8.1 billion (1994 estimate as extrapolated
    from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    -2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $2,290 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    27% per month average (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    6.5% of officially registered unemployed but large numbers of underemployed
    (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $43 million to countries outside the FSU (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    gold and jewelry, aluminum, transport equipment, electrical equipment
  partners:
    Iran, Russia, Turkmenistan, Georgia
Imports:
    $120 million from countries outside the FSU (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    grain, other foods, fuel, other energy
  partners:
    Iran, Russia, Turkmenistan, Georgia, US, EU
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate 7% (1994 est.); accounts for 41% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    4,620,000 kW
  production:
    5.7 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,620 kWh (1994)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Armenia
                                     Economy
Industries:
    traditionally diverse, including (as a percent of output of former USSR)
    metalcutting machine tools (5.5%), forging-pressing machines (1.9%),
    electric motors (9%), tires (1.5%), knitted wear (4.4%), hosiery (3.0%),
    shoes (2.2%), silk fabric (0.8%), washing machines (2.0%), chemicals,
    trucks, watches, instruments, and microelectronics (1990); currently, much
    of industry is shut down
Agriculture:
    only 17% of land area is arable; employs 31% of labor force as residents
    increasingly turn to subsistence agriculture; fruits (especially grapes) and
    vegetable farming, minor livestock sector; vineyards near Yerevan are famous
    for brandy and other liqueurs
Illicit drugs:
    illicit cultivator of cannabis mostly for domestic consumption; used as a
    transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    considerable humanitarian aid, mostly food and energy products, from US and
    EU; Russia granted 60 billion rubles in technical credits in late 1994 and
    approved a 110 billion ruble credit almost half of which was to go toward
    the restart of the Metsamor nuclear power plant
Currency:
    1 dram = 100 luma (introduced new currency in November 1993)
Exchange rates:
    dram per US$1 - 406 (end December 1994)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Armenia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    840 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines
  broad gauge:
    840 km 1.520-m gauge (1990)
Highways:
  total:
    11,300 km
  paved:
    10,500 km
  unpaved:
    earth 800 km (1990)
Inland waterways:
    NA km
Pipelines:
    natural gas 900 km (1991)
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    11
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Armenia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    about 650,000 telephones; 177 telephones/1,000 persons; progress on
    installation of fiber optic cable and construction of facilities for mobile
    cellular phone service remains in the negotiation phase for joint venture
    agreement
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    international connections to other former republics of the USSR are by
    landline or microwave and to other countries by satellite and by leased
    connection through the Moscow international gateway switch; 1 INTELSAT
    satellite link
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA; note - 100% of population receives Armenian and Russian TV programs
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Armenia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Air and Air Defense Forces, National Guard, Security Forces (internal
    and border troops)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 877,414; males fit for military service 699,167; males reach
    military age (18) annually 28,634 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    250 million rubles, NA% of GDP (1992 est.); note - conversion of the
    military budget into US dollars using the current exchange rate could
    produce misleading results
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    31,200 telephones; limited telephone, telegraph, and radiobroadcast
    services; 1 public telephone in Kabul
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    one link between western Afghanistan and Iran (via satellite)
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 5, FM 0, shortwave 2
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    several television stations run by factions and local councils which provide
    intermittent service
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    the military still does not exist on a national scale; some elements of the
    former Army, Air and Air Defense 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
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 5,646,789; males fit for military service 3,011,777; males
    reach military age (22) annually 200,264 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $450 million, 15% of GDP (1990 est.); the new
    government has not yet adopted a defense budget
Entry Requirements
Country Information
Latvia
*KYRGYZ REPUBLIC (Kyrgyzstan) - Passport and visa required.  Visa
requires 1 application form, 2 photos, (a letter of invitation from a Kyrgyz
citizen or organization if  staying more then 21 days).  Multi-entry visa $100
(no personal checks).  Include SASE for return of passport by mail (or
proper fee for express mail service).  For additional information contact the
Embassy of the Kyrgyz  Republic, 1511 K St., N.W., Suite 707,
Washington, D.C.  20005 (202/628-0433).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Kyrgyzstan
============================================================
Kyrgyzstan - Consular Information Sheet
 March 28, 1995
Country Description:  Kyrgyzstan is a newly independent nation
undergoing profound political and economic change.  Tourist
facilities are not highly developed, and many of the goods and
services taken for granted in other countries are not yet available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Visas for
Kyrgyzstan are issued by the Kyrgyz Embassy in Washington, D.C.
United States citizens may contact the Kyrgyz Embassy at 1511 K
Street, N.W., Suite 706, Washington, D.C. 20005, telephone
202-347-3732 for further information.  Valid visas from Russia,
Kazakstan, Tajikistan, Armenia and Belarus allow for temporary stays
in Kyrgyzstan of up to three days.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Kyrgyzstan is limited.  The
U.S. Embassy maintains a list of English speaking physicians in the
area.  There is a severe shortage of basic medical supplies,
including disposable needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics.
Incidents of cholera have been found, but preventative government
measures have limited the number of cases. Elderly travelers and
those with existing health problems may be at risk due to inadequate
medical facilities.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate
cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Travelers have found that
in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proved to be useful.  Further information on health
matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's
international travelers' hotline, tel: [phone].
Air Travel:  With the breakup of Aeroflot into many small airlines,
air travel in the former Soviet Union is often unreliable.
Travelers must often cope with unpredictable schedules and difficult
conditions including deterioration of quality of service and
overloading.  At present, no airline provides dependable regularly
scheduled international air service into Bishkek.  Most
international air travelers fly to Almaty and then travel overland
(approx. 3 hours) to Bishkek.  Train travel in Central Asia is
irregular and arduous.
Crime Information:  Kyrgyzstan has a moderate rate of violent
crime.  Recently, common street crimes and burglaries have
increased, especially at night.  Members of the foreign community
have been singled out as targets.  Traveling in a group, especially
at night, can improve security.  Some incidents of muggings have
occurred outside hotels that cater to foreigners.  The government is
taking steps to reduce the crime level, and has initiated walking
militia patrols throughout the city.  More specific information is
available at the consular section of the U.S. Embassy.  The loss or
theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides
useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad.  Additional information on the
region can be found in the Department of State's brochure "Tips for
Travelers to Russia."  Both publications are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Kyrgyzstan is a cash only economy.  Credit
cards are not accepted.  One or two hotels or banks may, on
occasion, accept travelers checks but the fee is quite high, as much
as 20 percent.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the Consular Section of
the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated information on travel and
security within Kyrgyzstan.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, is
located at Erkindik Prospect No. 66, telephone [phone] and
after hours phone number (7-3312) 22-53-58.  The Embassy fax number
is 22-32-10.
 No. 95-042
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated November 25,
1994 to include additional information on crime.
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Kyrgyzstan
============================================================
Kyrgyzstan - Consular Information Sheet
 March 28, 1995
Country Description:  Kyrgyzstan is a newly independent nation
undergoing profound political and economic change.  Tourist
facilities are not highly developed, and many of the goods and
services taken for granted in other countries are not yet available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Visas for
Kyrgyzstan are issued by the Kyrgyz Embassy in Washington, D.C.
United States citizens may contact the Kyrgyz Embassy at 1511 K
Street, N.W., Suite 706, Washington, D.C. 20005, telephone
202-347-3732 for further information.  Valid visas from Russia,
Kazakstan, Tajikistan, Armenia and Belarus allow for temporary stays
in Kyrgyzstan of up to three days.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Kyrgyzstan is limited.  The
U.S. Embassy maintains a list of English speaking physicians in the
area.  There is a severe shortage of basic medical supplies,
including disposable needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics.
Incidents of cholera have been found, but preventative government
measures have limited the number of cases. Elderly travelers and
those with existing health problems may be at risk due to inadequate
medical facilities.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate
cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Travelers have found that
in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proved to be useful.  Further information on health
matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's
international travelers' hotline, tel: [phone].
Air Travel:  With the breakup of Aeroflot into many small airlines,
air travel in the former Soviet Union is often unreliable.
Travelers must often cope with unpredictable schedules and difficult
conditions including deterioration of quality of service and
overloading.  At present, no airline provides dependable regularly
scheduled international air service into Bishkek.  Most
international air travelers fly to Almaty and then travel overland
(approx. 3 hours) to Bishkek.  Train travel in Central Asia is
irregular and arduous.
Crime Information:  Kyrgyzstan has a moderate rate of violent
crime.  Recently, common street crimes and burglaries have
increased, especially at night.  Members of the foreign community
have been singled out as targets.  Traveling in a group, especially
at night, can improve security.  Some incidents of muggings have
occurred outside hotels that cater to foreigners.  The government is
taking steps to reduce the crime level, and has initiated walking
militia patrols throughout the city.  More specific information is
available at the consular section of the U.S. Embassy.  The loss or
theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides
useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad.  Additional information on the
region can be found in the Department of State's brochure "Tips for
Travelers to Russia."  Both publications are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Kyrgyzstan is a cash only economy.  Credit
cards are not accepted.  One or two hotels or banks may, on
occasion, accept travelers checks but the fee is quite high, as much
as 20 percent.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the Consular Section of
the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated information on travel and
security within Kyrgyzstan.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, is
located at Erkindik Prospect No. 66, telephone [phone] and
after hours phone number (7-3312) 22-53-58.  The Embassy fax number
is 22-32-10.
 No. 95-042
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated November 25,
1994 to include additional information on crime.
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4                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Asia, west of China
Map references:
    Commonwealth of Independent States - Central Asian States
Area:
  total area:
    198,500 sq km
  land area:
    191,300 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than South Dakota
Land boundaries:
    total 3,878 km, China 858 km, Kazakhstan 1,051 km, Tajikistan 870 km,
    Uzbekistan 1,099 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    territorial dispute with Tajikistan on southwestern boundary in Isfara
    Valley area
Climate:
    dry continental to polar in high Tien Shan; subtropical in southwest
    (Fergana Valley); temperate in northern foothill zone
Terrain:
    peaks of Tien Shan rise to 7,000 meters, and associated valleys and basins
    encompass entire nation
Natural resources:
    abundant hydroelectric potential; significant deposits of gold and rare
    earth metals; locally exploitable coal, oil and natural gas; other deposits
    of nepheline, mercury, bismuth, lead, and zinc
Land use:
  arable land:
    7%
  permanent crops:
    NEGL%
  meadows and pastures:
    42%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    51%
Irrigated land:
    10,320 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution; many people get their water directly from contaminated
    streams and wells, as a result, water-borne diseases are prevalent;
    increasing soil salinity from faulty irrigation practices
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                     People
Population:
    4,769,877 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    37% (female 868,108; male 888,479)
  15-64 years:
    57% (female 1,377,221; male 1,345,990)
  65 years and over:
    6% (female 185,807; male 104,272) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.5% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    25.97 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.32 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -3.66 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    45.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    68.13 years
  male:
    63.92 years
  female:
    72.56 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.31 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Kyrgyz(s)
  adjective:
    Kyrgyz
Ethnic divisions:
    Kirghiz 52.4%, Russian 21.5%, Uzbek 12.9%, Ukrainian 2.5%, German 2.4%,
    other 8.3%
Religions:
    Muslim 70%, Russian Orthodox NA%
Languages:
    Kirghiz (Kyrgyz) - official language, Russian widely used
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    97%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    96%
Labor force:
    1.836 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture and forestry 38%, industry and construction 21%, other 41%
    (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kyrgyz Republic
  conventional short form:
    Kyrgyzstan
  local long form:
    Kyrgyz Respublikasy
  local short form:
    none
  former:
    Kirghiz Soviet Socialist Republic
Digraph:
    KG
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Bishkek
Administrative divisions:
    6 oblasttar (singular - oblast) and 1 city* (singular - shaar); Bishkek
    Shaary*, Chuy Oblasty (Bishkek), Jalal-Abad Oblasty, Naryn Oblasty, Osh
    Oblasty, Talas Oblasty, Ysyk-Kol Oblasty (Karakol)
  note:
    names in parentheses are administrative centers when name differs from
    oblast name
Independence:
    31 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    National Day, 2 December; Independence Day, 31 August (1991)
Constitution:
    adopted 5 May 1993
Legal system:
    based on civil law system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Askar AKAYEV (since 28 October 1990); election last held 12
    October 1991 (next to be held NA 1996); results - Askar AKAYEV won in
    uncontested election with 95% of vote and with 90% of electorate voting;
    note - president elected by Supreme Soviet 28 October 1990, then by popular
    vote 12 October 1991; AKAYEV won 96% of the vote in a referendum on his
    status as president on 30 January 1994
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Apas DJUMAGULOV (since NA December 1993)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet of Ministers; subordinate to the president
Legislative branch:
    bicameral
  Assembly of Legislatures:
    elections last held 5 February 1995 (next to be held no later than NA 1998);
    35-member house to which 19 members have been elected so far; next round of
    runoffs scheduled for 19 April 1995
  Assembly of Representatives:
    elections last held 5 February 1995 (next to be held no later than NA 1998);
    70-member house to which 60 members have been elected so far; next round of
    runoffs scheduled for 19 April 1995
  note:
    the legislature became bicameral for the 5 February 1995 elections
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                   Government
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Social Democratic Party (SDP), Ishenbai KADYRBEKOV, chairman; Democratic
    Movement of Kyrgyzstan (DMK), Kazat AKHMATOV, chairman; National Unity,
    German KUZNETSOV; Communist Party of Kyrgyzstan (PCK), Sherali SYDYKOV,
    chairman; Democratic Movement of Free Kyrgyzstan (ErK), Topchubek
    TURGUNALIYEV, chairman; Republican Popular Party of Kyrgyzstan; Agrarian
    Party of Kyrgyzstan, A. ALIYEV
Other political or pressure groups:
    National Unity Democratic Movement; Peasant Party; Council of Free Trade
    Unions; Union of Entrepreneurs; Agrarian Party
Member of:
    AsDB, CIS, EBRD, ECE, ECO, ESCAP, FAO, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, ILO,
    IMF, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NACC, OIC, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD,
    UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires ad interim Almas CHUKIN
  chancery:
    (temporary) Suite 705, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 3733, 3718
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Eileen A. MALLOY
  embassy:
    Erkindik Prospekt #66, Bishkek 720002
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [7] [phone], 22-27-77, 22-26-31, 22-24-73
  FAX:
    [7] [phone]
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Kyrgyzstan is one of the smallest and poorest states of the former Soviet
    Union. Its economy is heavily agricultural, growing cotton and tobacco on
    irrigated land in the south and grain in the foothills of the north and
    raising sheep and goats on mountain pastures. Its small and obsolescent
    industrial sector, concentrated around Bishkek, has traditionally relied on
    Russia and other CIS countries for customers and industrial inputs,
    including most of its fuel. Since 1990, the economy has contracted by almost
    50% as subsidies from Moscow vanished and trade links with other former
    Soviet republics eroded. At the same time, the Kyrgyz government stuck to
    tight monetary and fiscal policies in 1994 that succeeded in reducing
    inflation from 23% per month in 1993 to 5.4% per month in 1994. Moreover,
    Kyrgyzstan has been the most successful of the Central Asian states in
    reducing state controls over the economy and privatizing state industries.
    Nevertheless, restructuring proved to be a slow and painful process in 1994
    despite relatively large flows of foreign aid and continued progress on
    economic reform. The decline in output in 1995 may be much smaller, perhaps
    5%, compared with an estimated 24% in 1994.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $8.4 billion (1994 estimate as extrapolated
    from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    -24% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,790 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    5.4% per month (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    0.7% includes officially registered unemployed; also large numbers of
    unregistered unemployed and underemployed workers (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $116 million to countries outside the FSU (1994)
  commodities:
    wool, chemicals, cotton, ferrous and nonferrous metals, shoes, machinery,
    tobacco
  partners:
    Russia 70%, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and others
Imports:
    $92.4 million from countries outside the FSU (1994)
  commodities:
    grain, lumber, industrial products, ferrous metals, fuel, machinery,
    textiles, footwear
  partners:
    other CIS republics
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate -24% (1994 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    3,660,000 kW
  production:
    12.7 billion kWh
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    2,700 kWh (1994)
Industries:
    small machinery, textiles, food-processing industries, cement, shoes, sawn
    logs, refrigerators, furniture, electric motors, gold, and rare earth metals
Agriculture:
    wool, tobacco, cotton, livestock (sheep, goats, cattle), vegetables, meat,
    grapes, fruits and berries, eggs, milk, potatoes
Illicit drugs:
    illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for CIS consumption;
    limited government eradication program; used as transshipment point for
    illicit drugs to Western Europe and North America from Southwest Asia
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    IMF aid commitments were $80 million in 1993 and $400 million in 1994
Currency:
    introduced national currency, the som (10 May 1993)
Exchange rates:
    soms per US$1 - 10.6 (yearend 1994)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    370 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines
  broad gauge:
    370 km 1.520-m gauge (1990)
Highways:
  total:
    30,300 km
  paved and graveled:
    22,600 km
  unpaved:
    earth 7,700 km (1990)
Pipelines:
    natural gas 200 km
Ports:
    Ysyk-Kol (Rybach'ye)
Airports:
  total:
    54
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    9
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    32
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    342,000 telephones (1991); 76 telephones/1,000 persons (December 1991);
    poorly developed; about 100,000 unsatisfied applications for household
    telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    principally by microwave radio relay
  international:
    connections with other CIS countries by landline or microwave and with other
    countries by leased connections with Moscow international gateway switch and
    by satellite; 1 GORIZONT and 1 INTELSAT satellite link through Ankara to 200
    other countries
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    825,000 (radio receiver systems with multiple speakers for program diffusion
    748,000)
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA; note - receives Turkish broadcasts
  televisions:
    875,000
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    National Guard, Security Forces (internal and border troops), Civil Defense
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,154,683; males fit for military service 934,167; males
    reach military age (18) annually 44,526 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
  consumption per capita:
    189 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum; mining - diamonds, iron ore, phosphates, feldspar, bauxite,
    uranium, and gold; fish processing; food processing; brewing; tobacco;
    sugar; textiles; cement; basic metal products
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Angola
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    cash crops - bananas, sugarcane, coffee, sisal, corn, cotton, cane, manioc,
    tobacco; food crops - cassava, corn, vegetables, plantains; livestock
    production accounts for 20%, fishing 4%, forestry 2% of total agricultural
    output
Illicit drugs:
    increasingly used as a transshipment point for cocaine destined for Western
    Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $265 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.105 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $1.3 billion; net official disbursements
    (1985-89), $750 million
Currency:
    1 new kwanza (NKz) = 100 lwei
Exchange rates:
    new kwanza (NKz) per US$1 - 900,000 (official rate 25 April 1995), 1,900,000
    (black market rate 6 April 1995), 600,000 (official rate 10 January 1995),
    90,000 (official rate 1 June 1994), 180,000 (black market rate 1 June 1994);
    7,000 (official rate 16 December 1993), 50,000 (black market rate 16
    December 1993); 3,884 (July 1993); 550 (April 1992); 90 (November 1991); 60
    (October 1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Angola
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,189 km; note - limited trackage in use because of landmines still in place
    from the civil war; majority of the Benguela Railroad also closed because of
    civil war
  narrow gauge:
    2,879 km 1.067-m gauge; 310 km 0.600-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    73,828 km
  paved:
    bituminous-surface 8,577 km
  unpaved:
    crushed stone, gravel, improved earth 29,350 km; unimproved earth 35,901 km
Inland waterways:
    1,295 km navigable
Pipelines:
    crude oil 179 km
Ports:
    Ambriz, Cabinda, Lobito, Luanda, Malogo, Namibe, Porto Amboim, Soyo
Merchant marine:
  total:
    12 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 63,776 GRT/99,863 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 11, oil tanker 1
Airports:
  total:
    289
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    9
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    12
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    93
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    33
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    126
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Angola
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    40,300 telephones; 4.1 telephones/1,000 persons; high frequency radio used
    extensively for military links; telephone service limited mostly to
    government and business use
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    limited system of wire, microwave radio relay, and troposcatter routes
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 17, FM 13, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    6
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Angola
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, National Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,315,717; males fit for military service 1,166,082; males
    reach military age (18) annually 100,273 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $1.1 billion, 31% of GDP (1993)
Antarctica
4                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Antarctica
                                    Geography
Location:
    continent mostly south of the Antarctic Circle
Map references:
    Antarctic Region
Area:
  total area:
    14 million sq km (est.)
  land area:
    14 million sq km (est.)
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 1.5 times the size of the US
  note:
    second-smallest continent (after Australia)
Land boundaries:
    none, but see entry on International disputes
Coastline:
    17,968 km
Maritime claims:
    none, but see entry on International Disputes
International disputes:
    Antarctic Treaty defers claims (see Antarctic Treaty Summary below);
    sections (some overlapping) claimed by Argentina, Australia, Chile, France
    (Adelie Land), New Zealand (Ross Dependency), Norway (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
Climate:
    severe low temperatures vary with latitude, elevation, and distance from the
    ocean; East Antarctica is colder than West Antarctica 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
Terrain:
    about 98% thick continental ice sheet and 2% barren rock, with average
    elevations between 2,000 and 4,000 meters; mountain ranges up to 4,897
    meters high; 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
Natural resources:
    none presently exploited; iron ore, chromium, copper, gold, nickel, platinum
    and other minerals, and coal and hydrocarbons have been found in small,
    uncommercial quantities
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100% (ice 98%, barren rock 2%)
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Antarctica
                                    Geography
Environment:
  current issues:
    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 Antarctica since 1975 when measurements were
    first taken
  natural hazards:
    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 Antarctica; other seismic activity rare
    and weak
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Antarctica
                                     People
Population:
    no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are seasonally staffed research
    stations
  Summer (January) population:
    over 4,115 total; Argentina 207, Australia 268, Belgium 13, Brazil 80, Chile
    256, China NA, Ecuador NA, Finland 11, France 78, Germany 32, Greenpeace 12,
    India 60, Italy 210, Japan 59, South Korea 14, Netherlands 10, NZ 264,
    Norway 23, Peru 39, Poland NA, South Africa 79, Spain 43, Sweden 10, UK 116,
    Uruguay NA, US 1,666, former USSR 565 (1989-90)
  Winter (July) population:
    over 1,046 total; Argentina 150, Australia 71, Brazil 12, Chile 73, China
    NA, France 33, Germany 19, Greenpeace 5, India 1, Japan 38, South Korea 14,
    NZ 11, Poland NA, South Africa 12, UK 69, Uruguay NA, US 225, former USSR
    313 (1989-90)
  Year-round stations:
    42 total; Argentina 6, Australia 3, Brazil 1, Chile 3, China 2, Finland 1,
    France 1, Germany 1, India 1, Japan 2, South Korea 1, NZ 1, Poland 1, South
    Africa 3, UK 5, Uruguay 1, US 3, former USSR 6 (1990-91)
  Summer only stations:
    over 38 total; Argentina 7, Australia 3, Chile 5, Germany 3, India 1, Italy
    1, Japan 4, NZ 2, Norway 1, Peru 1, South Africa 1, Spain 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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Antarctica
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Antarctica
Digraph:
    AY
Type:
  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 Antarctica.
    Administration is carried out through consultative member meetings - the
    18th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting was in Japan 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 Antarctica 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,
    Australia, Chile, France, New Zealand, Norway, and the UK. Nonclaimant
    consultative nations are - Belgium, Brazil (1983), China (1985), Ecuador
    (1990), Finland (1989), Germany (1981), India (1983), Italy (1987), Japan,
    South Korea (1989), Netherlands (1990), Peru (1989), Poland (1977), South
    Africa, Spain (1988), Sweden (1988), Uruguay (1985), the US, and Russia.
    Acceding (nonvoting) members, with year of accession in parentheses, are -
    Austria (1987), Bulgaria (1978), Canada (1988), Colombia (1988), Cuba
    (1984), Czech Republic (1993), Denmark (1965), Greece (1987), Guatemala
    (1991), Hungary (1984), North Korea (1987), Papua New Guinea (1981), Romania
    (1971), Slovakia (1993), Switzerland (1990), and Ukraine (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 jurisdiction over observers and scientists by their own states
  Article 9:
    frequent consultative meetings take place among member nations
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Antarctica
                                   Government
  Article 10:
    treaty states will discourage activities by any country in Antarctica 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 adop
Liberia
$LEBANON - Passport and visa required.  AIDS test required for those
seeking residence permits; U.S. test accepted.  Since January 1987, U.S.
passports are not valid for travel in, to, or through Lebanon without
authorization from the Department of State.  Application for exemptions to this
restriction should be submitted in writing to Passport Services, U.S.
Department of State, 1425 K St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20524, Attn:
CA/PPT/C, Room 300.  For further visa information contact Embassy of
Lebanon, 2560 28th St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008  (202/939-6300) or
nearest Consulate General:  Los Angeles (213/467-1253), Detroit
(313/567-0233) or New York (212/744-7905).
Lebanon - Travel Warning
September 6, 1994
The United States Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against travel
to Lebanon.  The situation in Lebanon is so dangerous that no U.S. citizen
can be considered safe from terrorist acts.  While all of the known American
hostages have been released, the organizations which abducted them continue
to operate within the country.  U.S. passports are not valid for travel to,
in or through Lebanon unless special validation has been obtained.  Due to
an extremely limited staff and heightened security, the U.S. Embassy in
Beirut cannot perform normal consular functions.  In addition, local
telephone service is highly unreliable and it is extremely difficult to
contact the Embassy by phone or to place a local call from most of the
country.
Additional details can be found in the Department of State's Consular
Information Sheet for Lebanon.
No. 94-037
This extends the Department of State Travel Warning for Lebanon dated August
31, 1993.
Lebanon - Consular Information Sheet
September 1, 1994
Warning:  The United States Department of State warns all U.S citizens
against travel to Lebanon.  The situation in Lebanon is so dangerous that no
U.S. citizen can be considered safe from terrorist acts.  While all of the
known American hostages have been released, the organizations which abducted
them continue to operate within the country.  U.S. passports are not valid
for travel to, in or through Lebanon unless special validation has been
obtained.  Due to an extremely limited staff and heightened security, the
U.S. Embassy in Beirut cannot perform normal consular functions.  In
addition, local telephone service is highly unreliable and it is extremely
difficult to contact the Embassy by phone or to place a local call from most
of the country.
Intermediate Stops in Beirut:  Several international air carriers are now
making intermediate stops in Beirut.  U.S. citizens are advised not to board
such flights because of the danger of traveling to or transiting Lebanon.
Such stops are not always announced.  Travelers should therefore inquire,
before making travel arrangements in the region, whether a flight will make
a stop in Beirut.  U.S. passports are not valid for travel to, in or through
Lebanon, which includes landing at the Beirut airport, unless specifically
endorsed by the Secretary of State.
Country Description:  The Republic of Lebanon is a parliamentary republic.
The country is emerging from a long period of civil war which has damaged
the economy and the social fabric.  The population is composed of both
Christians and Muslims from a variety of sects.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required.  Without the
requisite validation, use of a U.S. passport for travel to, in or through
Lebanon may constitute a violation of U. S. law and may be punishable by a
fine and/or imprisonment.
The categories of individuals eligible for consideration for a special
passport validation are set forth in 22 C.F.R. 51.74.  Passport validation
requests for Lebanon should be forwarded in writing to the following address:
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Passport Services
U.S. Department of State
1111 19th Street, N.W., Suite 260
Washington, D.C.  20522-1705
Attn:  Office of Passport Policy and Advisory Services
Telephone [phone] and 955-0232
Fax [phone].
The request must be accompanied by supporting documentation according to the
category under which validation is sought.  Currently, the four categories
of persons specified in 22 C.F.R. 51.74 as being eligible for consideration
for passport validation are as follows:
[a]  Professional reporters:  Includes full-time members of the reporting or
writing staff of a newspaper, magazine or broadcasting network whose purpose
for travel is to gather information about Lebanon for dissemination to the
general public.
[b]  American Red Cross:  Applicant establishes that he or she is a
representative of the American Red Cross or International Red Cross
traveling pursuant to an officially sponsored Red Cross mission.
[c]  Humanitarian considerations:  Applicant must establish that his or her
trip is justified by compelling humanitarian considerations or for family
unification.  At this time, "compelling humanitarian considerations" include
situations where the applicant can document that an immediate family member
is critically ill in Lebanon.  Documentation concerning family illness must
include the name and address of the relative, and be from that relative's
physician attesting to the nature and gravity of the illness.  "Family
unification" situations may include cases in which spouses or minor children
are residing in Lebanon, with and dependent on, a Lebanese national spouse
or parent for their support.
[d]  National interest:  The applicant's request is otherwise found to be in
the national interest.
In all requests for passport validation for travel to Lebanon, the name,
date and place of birth for all concerned persons must be given, as well as
the U.S. passport numbers.  Documentation as outlined above should accompany
all requests.  Additional information may be obtained by writing to the
above address or by calling the Office of Passport Policy and Advisory
Services at [phone] or 955-0232.
Areas of Instability:  Although all known Western hostages have been
released, the organizations that abducted them continue to operate within
the country.  The issues that ignited the civil war have not been completely
resolved.  Syrian troops are present in a large area of the country.
Militias still have the capability to operate within Lebanon.  Israel has
established a "security zone" in southern Lebanon, and hostilities occur in
the area without warning.  The Lebanese populace is armed, and incidents of
violence can occur at any time.
Dual Nationality:  U.S. consular protection - when available - is severely
limited for dual nationals traveling on a foreign passport.
Medical Facilities:  In Beirut and the surrounding areas, basic modern
medical care and medicines are widely available.  Such facilities are not
always available in outlying areas.  Doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate cash payment for services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid outside the United States. Supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  The international travelers
hotline at the Centers for Disease Control, telephone [phone], has
additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  While the crime rate in Lebanon is moderate, the
incidence of both car thefts and house break-ins is on the increase.  The
loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately to
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful information
on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security, and other matters
while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlets, "A
Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to the Middle East and North
Africa."  They are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal practices
of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are severe in Lebanon, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.  Individuals charged with drug offenses
are not usually releasable on bail and can expect to remain in jail while
judicial authorities prepare their cases for prosecution.
Consular Services:  Although registration records are maintained at the
Consular Section, the tight security under which the U.S. Embassy operates
mean that assistance is available only in cases of extreme emergency such as
arrest or death.  The Consular Section is not able to replace lost, stolen
or expired passports.  Because of unreliable telephone service in Lebanon,
contacting the Embassy can be difficult.  Access to the Consular Section is
not possible unless prior arrangements have been made.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in Antelias, P.O. Box 70-840,
Beirut, Lebanon.  The telephone number is (961-1) 417-774, 415-802, 415-803,
402-184, 402-200, 403-300.
No. 94-214
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 31, 1993 to show
the new address and phone numbers of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for
Passport Services, U.S. Department of State.
=p=                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lebanon
                                     Header
Note:
    Lebanon 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 three
    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 Sh'ia party, retains most of its weapons.
    Foreign forces still occupy areas of Lebanon. Israel maintains troops in
    southern Lebanon and continues to support a proxy militia, The Army of South
    Lebanon (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 Jazzine. As of December 1993,
    Syria maintained about 30,000-35,000 troops in Lebanon. These troops are
    based mainly in Beirut, North Lebanon, and the Bekaa Valley. Syria's
    deployment was legitimized by the Arab League early in Lebanon's civil war
    and in the Ta'if accord. Citing the continued weakness of the LAF, Beirut'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 Beirut.
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lebanon
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Israel and Syria
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    10,400 sq km
  land area:
    10,230 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.8 times the size of Connecticut
Land boundaries:
    total 454 km, Israel 79 km, Syria 375 km
Coastline:
    225 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    separated from Israel by the 1949 Armistice Line; Israeli troops in southern
    Lebanon since June 1982; Syrian troops in northern, central, and eastern
    Lebanon since October 1976
Climate:
    Mediterranean; mild to cool, wet winters with hot, dry summers; Lebanon
    mountains experience heavy winter snows
Terrain:
    narrow coastal plain; Al Biqa' (Bekaa Valley) separates Lebanon and
    Anti-Lebanon Mountains
Natural resources:
    limestone, iron ore, salt, water-surplus state in a water-deficit region
Land use:
  arable land:
    21%
  permanent crops:
    9%
  meadows and pastures:
    1%
  forest and woodland:
    8%
  other:
    61%
Irrigated land:
    860 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; desertification; air pollution in Beirut from
    vehicular traffic and the burning of industrial wastes; pollution of coastal
    waters from raw sewage and oil spills
  natural hazards:
    duststorms, sandstorms
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea,
    Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not
    ratified - Desertification, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping,
    Marine Life Conservation
Note:
    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 ethnicity
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lebanon
                                     People
Population:
    3,695,921 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    36% (female 657,403; male 682,757)
  15-64 years:
    58% (female 1,131,450; male 1,016,859)
  65 years and over:
    6% (female 111,585; male 95,867) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.15% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    27.9 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.44 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    38 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    69.69 years
  male:
    67.22 years
  female:
    72.28 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.31 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Lebanese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Lebanese
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab 95%, Armenian 4%, other 1%
Religions:
    Islam 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), Judaism NEGL%
Languages:
    Arabic (official), French (official), Armenian, English
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    80%
  male:
    88%
  female:
    73%
Labor force:
    650,000
  by occupation:
    industry, commerce, and services 79%, agriculture 11%, government 10% (1985)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lebanon
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Lebanon
  conventional short form:
    Lebanon
  local long form:
    Al Jumhuriyah al Lubnaniyah
  local short form:
    none
Digraph:
    LE
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Beirut
Administrative divisions:
    5 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al Biqa, 'Al Janub, Ash
    Shamal, Bayrut, Jabal Lubnan
Independence:
    22 November 1943 (from League of Nations mandate under French
    administration)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 22 November (1943)
Constitution:
    23 May 1926, amended a number of times
Legal system:
    mixture of Ottoman law, canon law, Napoleonic code, and civil law; no
    judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; compulsory for all males; authorized for women at age 21
    with elementary education
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Ilyas HARAWI (since 24 November 1989); 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
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Rafiq HARIRI (since 22 October 1992)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; chosen by the president in consultation with the members of the
    National Assembly
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly:
     (Arabic - Majlis Alnuwab, French - Assemblee Nationale) Lebanon's first
    legislative election in 20 years was held in the summer of 1992; the
    National Assembly is composed of 128 deputies, one-half Christian and
    one-half Muslim; its mandate expires in 1996
Judicial branch:
    four Courts of Cassation (three courts for civil and commercial cases and
    one court for criminal cases)
Political parties and leaders:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lebanon
                                   Government
Member of:
    ABEDA, ACCT, AFESD, AL, AMF, CCC, ESCWA, FAO, G-24, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OIC, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNRWA,
    UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Riyad TABBARAH
  chancery:
    2560 28th Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Detroit, New York, and Los Angeles
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant)
  embassy:
    Antelias, Beirut
  address:
    P. O. Box 70-840, Beirut; PSC 815, Box 2, Beirut; FPO AE 09836-0002
  telephone:
    [961] (1) 402200, 403300, 416502, 426183, 417774
  FAX:
    [961] (1) 407112
Flag:
    three horizontal bands of red (top), white (double width), and red with a
    green and brown cedar tree centered in the white band
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lebanon
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The 1975-1991 civil war seriously damaged Lebanon's economic infrastructure,
    cut national output by half, and all but ended Lebanon's position as a
    Middle Eastern entrepot and banking hub. A tentative peace has enabled the
    central government to begin restoring control in Beirut, collect taxes, and
    regain access to key port and government facilities. The battered economy
    has also been propped up by a financially sound banking system and resilient
    small- and medium-scale manufacturers. Family remittances, banking
    transactions, manufactured and farm exports, the narcotics trade, and
    international emergency 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 further rebuilding of the
    war-ravaged country was delayed in 1992 because of an upturn in political
    wrangling. In October 1992, Rafiq HARIRI was appointed Prime Minister.
    HARIRI, a wealthy entrepreneur, announced ambitious plans for Lebanon's
    reconstruction which involve a substantial influx of foreign aid and
    investment. Progress on restoring basic services is limited. Since Prime
    Minister HARIRI's appointment, the most significant improvement lies in the
    stabilization of the Lebanese pound, which had gained over 30% in value by
    yearend 1993. The years 1993 and 1994 were marked by efforts of the new
    administration to encourage domestic and foreign investment and to obtain
    additional international assistance. The construction sector led the 8.5%
    advance in real GDP in 1994.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $15.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    8.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,360 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    12% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    35% (1993 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.4 billion
  expenditures:
    $3.2 billion (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $925 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    agricultural products, chemicals, textiles, precious and semiprecious metals
    and jewelry, metals and metal products
  partners:
    Saudi Arabia 21%, Switzerland 9.5%, Jordan 6%, Kuwait 12%, US 5%
Imports:
    $4.1 billion (c.i.f., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    consumer goods, machinery and transport equipment, petroleum products
  partners:
    Italy 14%, France 12%, US 6%, Turkey 5%, Saudi Arabia 3%
External debt:
    $765 million (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 25% (1993 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,220,000 kW
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lebanon
                                     Economy
  production:
    2.5 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    676 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    banking, food processing, textiles, cement, oil refining, chemicals,
    jewelry, some metal fabricating
Agriculture:
    principal products - citrus fruits, vegetables, potatoes, olives, tobacco,
    hemp (hashish), sheep, goats; not self-sufficient in grain
Illicit drugs:
    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; increasingly a key locus of cocaine processing and
    trafficking; a Lebanese/Syrian 1994 eradication campaign eliminated the
    opium crop and caused a 50% decrease in the cannabis crop
Economic aid:
    the government estimates that it has received $1.7 billion in aid and has an
    additional $725 million in commitments to support its $3 billion National
    Emergency Recovery Program
Currency:
    1 Lebanese pound (#L) = 100 piasters
Exchange rates:
    Lebanese pounds (#L) per US$1 - 1,644.6 (January 1995), 1,680.1 (1994),
    1,741.4 (1993), 1,712.8 (1992), 928.23 (1991), 695.09 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lebanon
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    222 km
  standard gauge:
    222 km 1.435-m
  note:
    system in disrepair, considered inoperable
Highways:
  total:
    7,300 km
  paved:
    6,200 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 450 km; improved earth 650 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 72 km (none in operation)
Ports:
    Al Batrun, Al Mina, An Naqurah, Antilyas, Az Zahrani, Beirut, Jubayl,
    Juniyah, Shikka Jadidah, Sidon, Tripoli, Tyre
Merchant marine:
  total:
    64 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 260,383 GRT/381,937 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 4, cargo 41, chemical tanker 1, combination bulk 1, combination ore/oil
    1, container 2, livestock carrier 6, refrigerated cargo 3, roll-on/roll-off
    cargo 2, specialized tanker 1, vehicle carrier 2
Airports:
  total:
    9
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lebanon
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    325,000 telephones; 95 telephones/1,000 persons; telecommunications system
    severely damaged by civil war; rebuilding still underway
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    primarily microwave radio relay and cable
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean) earth stations (erratic
    operations); coaxial cable to Syria; microwave radio relay to Syria but
    inoperable beyond Syria to Jordan; 3 submarine coaxial cables
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 5, FM 3, shortwave 0; note - numerous AM and FM stations are operated
    sporadically by various factions
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    13
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lebanon
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF; includes Army, Navy, and Air Force)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 857,698; males fit for military service 533,640 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $278 million, 5.5% of GDP (1994)
 Maged to register with
the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires at 4300 Colombia,
1425, telephone: [phone].
No. 94-178
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 9, 1994 to add
information on aviation oversight.
>                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Chile
    and Uruguay
Map references:
    South America
Area:
  total area:
    2,766,890 sq km
  land area:
    2,736,690 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than three-tenths the size of the US
Land boundaries:
    total 9,665 km, Bolivia 832 km, Brazil 1,224 km, Chile 5,150 km, Paraguay
    1,880 km, Uruguay 579 km
Coastline:
    4,989 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    short section of the boundary with Uruguay is in dispute; short section of
    the boundary with Chile is indefinite; claims British-administered Falkland
    Islands (Islas Malvinas); claims British-administered South Georgia and the
    South Sandwich Islands; territorial claim in Antarctica
Climate:
    mostly temperate; arid in southeast; subantarctic in southwest
Terrain:
    rich plains of the Pampas in northern half, flat to rolling plateau of
    Patagonia in south, rugged Andes along western border
Natural resources:
    fertile plains of the pampas, lead, zinc, tin, copper, iron ore, manganese,
    petroleum, uranium
Land use:
  arable land:
    9%
  permanent crops:
    4%
  meadows and pastures:
    52%
  forest and woodland:
    22%
  other:
    13%
Irrigated land:
    17,600 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    erosion results from inadequate flood controls and improper land use
    practices; irrigated soil degradation; desertification; air pollution in
    Buenos Aires and other major cites; water pollution in urban areas; rivers
    becoming polluted due to increased pesticide and fertilizer use
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                    Geography
  natural hazards:
    Tucuman and Mendoza areas in the Andes subject to earthquakes; pamperos are
    violent windstorms that can strike the Pampas and northeast; heavy flooding
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity,
    Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous
    Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship
    Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification,
    Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation
Note:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                     People
Population:
    34,292,742 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    28% (female 4,706,793; male 4,903,589)
  15-64 years:
    62% (female 10,680,074; male 10,689,728)
  65 years and over:
    10% (female 1,922,552; male 1,390,006) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.11% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    19.51 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.62 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.19 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    28.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    71.51 years
  male:
    68.22 years
  female:
    74.97 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.65 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Argentine(s)
  adjective:
    Argentine
Ethnic divisions:
    white 85%, mestizo, Indian, or other nonwhite groups 15%
Religions:
    nominally Roman Catholic 90% (less than 20% practicing), Protestant 2%,
    Jewish 2%, other 6%
Languages:
    Spanish (official), English, Italian, German, French
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    95%
  male:
    96%
  female:
    95%
Labor force:
    10.9 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 12%, industry 31%, services 57% (1985 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Argentine Republic
  conventional short form:
    Argentina
  local long form:
    Republica Argentina
  local short form:
    Argentina
Digraph:
    AR
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Buenos Aires
Administrative divisions:
    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
    Rioja; Mendoza; Misiones; Neuquen; Rio Negro; Salta; San Juan; San Luis;
    Santa Cruz; Santa Fe; Santiago del Estero; Tierra del Fuego, Antartida e
    Islas del Atlantico Sur; Tucuman
  note:
    the US does not recognize any claims to Antarctica or Argentina's claims to
    the Falkland Islands
Independence:
    9 July 1816 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Revolution Day, 25 May (1810)
Constitution:
    1 May 1853; revised August 1994
Legal system:
    mixture of US and West European legal systems; has not accepted compulsory
    ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Carlos Saul MENEM (since 8 July 1989); Vice President (position
    vacant); election last held 14 May 1995 (next to be held NA May 1999);
    results - Carlos Saul MENEM was reelected
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    bicameral National Congress (Congreso Nacional)
  Senate:
    elections last held May 1989, but provincial elections in late 1991 set the
    stage for indirect elections by provincial senators for one-third of 48
    seats in the national senate in May 1992; seats (48 total) - PJ 29, UCR 11,
    others 7, vacant 1
  Chamber of Deputies:
    elections last held 3 October 1993 ( next to be held October 1995);
    elections are held every two years and half of the total membership is
    elected each time for four year terms; seats - (257 total) PJ 122, UCR 83,
    MODIN 7, UCD 5, other 40
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Corte Suprema)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Justicialist Party (PJ), Carlos Saul MENEM, Peronist umbrella political
    organization; Radical Civic Union (UCR),Raul ALFONSIN, moderately
    left-of-center party; Union of the Democratic Center (UCD), Jorge AGUADO,
    conservative party; Dignity and Independence Political Party (MODIN), Aldo
    RICO, right-wing party; Grand Front (Frente Grande), Carlos ALVAREZ,
    center-left coalition; several provincial parties
Other political or pressure groups:
    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
Member of:
    AfDB, AG (observer), Australia Group, BCIE, CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G- 6, G-11,
    G-15, G-19, G-24, G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA,
    IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM,
    ISO, ITU, LAES, LAIA, MERCOSUR, MINURSO, MTCR, NSG (observer), OAS, ONUSAL,
    OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UNAVEM II, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNFICYP, UNHCR, UNIDO,
    UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMIH, UNOMOZ, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Raul Enrique GRANILLO OCAMPO
  chancery:
    1600 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 6403
  consulate(s) general:
    Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San
    Francisco, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador James R. CHEEK
  embassy:
    4300 Colombia, 1425 Buenos Aires
  mailing address:
    Unit 4334; APO AA 34034
  telephone:
    [54] (1) 777-4533, 4534
  FAX:
    [54] (1) 777-0197
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 inflation 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. The
    economy registered an impressive 6% advance in 1994, fueled largely by
    inflows of foreign capital and strong domestic consumption spending. The
    government's major short term objective is encouraging exports, e.g., by
    reducing domestic costs of production. At the start of 1995, the government
    had to deal with the spillover from international financial movements
    associated with the devaluation of the Mexican peso. In addition,
    unemployment had become a serious issue for the government. Despite average
    annual 7% growth in 1991-94, unemployment surprisingly has doubled - due
    mostly to layoffs in government bureaus and in privatized industrial firms
    and utilities and, to a lesser degree, to illegal immigration. Much remains
    to be done in the 1990s in dismantling the old statist barriers to growth,
    extending the recent economic gains, and bringing down the rate of
    unemployment.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $270.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $7,990 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3.9% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    12% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $48.46 billion
  expenditures:
    $46.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $3.5 billion (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $15.7 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    meat, wheat, corn, oilseed, manufactures
  partners:
    US 12%, Brazil, Italy, Japan, Netherlands
Imports:
    $21.4 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, chemicals, metals, fuels and lubricants,
    agricultural products
  partners:
    US 22%, Brazil, Germany, Bolivia, Japan, Italy, Netherlands
External debt:
    $73 billion (April 1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 12.5% accounts for 31% of GDP (1994 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                     Economy
Electricity:
  capacity:
    17,330,000 kW
  production:
    54.8 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,610 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    food processing, motor vehicles, consumer durables, textiles, chemicals and
    petrochemicals, printing, metallurgy, steel
Agriculture:
    accounts for 8% of GDP (including fishing); produces abundant food for both
    domestic consumption and exports; among world's top five exporters of grain
    and beef; principal crops - wheat, corn, sorghum, soybeans, sugar beets
Illicit drugs:
    increasing use as a transshipment country for cocaine headed for the US and
    Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $4.4 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $718 million
Currency:
    1 nuevo peso argentino = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    pesos per US$1 - 0.99870 (December 1994), 0.99901 (1994), 0.99895 (1993),
    0.99064 (1992), 0.95355 (1991), 0.48759 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    34,572 km
  broad gauge:
    NA km 1.676-m gauge
  standard gauge:
    NA km 1.435-m
  narrow gauge:
    400 km 0.750-m gauge; NA km 1.000-m gauge (209 km electrified)
Highways:
  total:
    208,350 km
  paved:
    57,000 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 39,500 km; improved/unimproved earth 111,850 km
Inland waterways:
    11,000 km navigable
Pipelines:
    crude oil 4,090 km; petroleum products 2,900 km; natural gas 9,918 km
Ports:
    Bahia Blanca, Buenos Aires, Comodoro Rivadavia, Concepcion del Uruguay, La
    Plata, Mar del Plata, Necochea, Rio Gallegos, Rosario, Santa Fe, Ushuaia
Merchant marine:
  total:
    44 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 434,525 GRT/667,501 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 3, cargo 21, chemical tanker 1, container 4, oil tanker 8, railcar
    carrier 1, refrigerated cargo 5, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    1,602
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    25
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    55
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    48
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    703
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    70
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    693
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    2,650,000 telephones; 12,000 public telephones; 78 telephones/1,000 persons;
    extensive modern system but many families do not have telephones; microwave
    widely used; however, during rainstorms, the telephone system frequently
    grounds out, even in Buenos Aires
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay and domestic satel
Lithuania
.LIBYA - Passport and visa required.  AIDS test required for those
seeking residence permits; U.S. test accepted.  Since December 1981, U.S.
passports are not valid for travel in, to, or through Libya without authorization
from the Department of State.  Application for exemptions to this
restriction should be submitted in writing to Passport Services, U.S.
Department of State, 1425 K St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20524, Attn:
CA/PPT/C, Room 300.  Attention:  U.S. citizens need a Treasury Dept.
license in order to engage in any transactions related to travel to and
within Libya.  Before planning any travel to Libya, U.S. citizens
should contact the Licensing Division, Office of Foreign Assets Control,
Department of the Treasury, 1331 G St., N.W., Washington, D.C.  20220
(202/622-2480).  Application and inquiries for visas must be made
through a country that maintains diplomatic relations with Libya.
Libya - Travel Warning
August 31, 1993
The United States Department of State warns all U.S. citizens to avoid
travel to Libya and to depart the country immediately if resident of visitor
there.  The U..S. government has determined that due to Libya's long history
of flouting international law and directing terrorist attacks against U.S.
citizens, it is unsafe for Americans to travel there.  U.S. passports are
not valid for travel to, in or through Libya unless a special validation is
obtained from the department of state.   All financial and commercial
transactions with Libya are prohibited, unless licensed by the U.S. Treasury
Department.
There is no U.S. Embassy in Libya.  U.S. government interests ate
represented by the government of Belgium, which as a protecting power can
provide only limited emergency service to U.S. citizens.  Further details
can be obtained in the Department of State's Consular Information
Information Sheet on Libya.
No. 93-034
This extends the Department of State's warning travel warning for Libya
issued January 8, 1993.
Libya - Consular Information Sheet
August 31, 1993
Warning:  The United States Department of State warns all U.S. citizens to
avoid travel to Libya and to depart the country immediately if resident or
visiting there.  The U.S. Government has determined that due to Libya's long
history of flouting international law and directing terrorist attacks
against U.S. citizens, it is unsafe for Americans to travel there.  U.S.
passports are not valid for travel to, in or through Libya unless a special
validation is obtained from the Department of State.  All financial and
commercial transactions with Libya are prohibited, unless licensed by the
U.S. Treasury Department.  There is no U.S. Embassy in Libya.  U.S.
Government interests are represented by the Government of Belgium, which as
a protecting power can provide only limited emergency services to U.S.
citizens.
Country Description:  The Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
considers itself an Islamic Arab Socialist "Mass-State", (i.e., a state run
by the masses).  Libya has a developing economy.  Islamic ideals and beliefs
provide the conservative foundation of the country's customs, laws and
practices.  Tourist facilities are not widely available.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required.  On December 11,
1981, U.S. passports ceased to be valid for travel to, in or through Libya
and may not be used for that purpose without a special validation.  Without
this requisite validation, use of a U.S. passport for travel to, in or
through Libya may constitute a violation of 18 U.S.C. 1544, and may be
punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment.
In addition, the Department of the Treasury prohibits all travel-related
transactions by U.S. persons intending to visit Libya, unless specifically
licensed by the Office of Foreign Assets Control.  There are limited
exceptions to this licensing requirement for Libyan nationals' family
members, and for journalists.
The categories of individuals eligible for consideration for a special
passport validation are set forth in 22 C.F.R. 51.74.  Passport validation
requests for Libya can be forwarded in writing to the following address:
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Passport Services
U.S. Department of State
1425 K Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C.  20522-1705
Attn:  Office of Citizenship Appeals and Legal Assistance (Room 300).
Telephone [phone] or 326-6182.
The request must be accompanied by supporting documentation according to the
category under which validation is sought.  Currently, the four categories
of persons specified in 22 C.F.R. 51.74 as being eligible for consideration
for passport validation are as follows:
[1]  Professional reporters:  includes full-time members of the reporting or
writing staff of a newspaper, magazine or broadcasting network whose purpose
for travel is to gather information about Libya for dissemination to the
general public.
[2]  American Red Cross:  Applicant establishes that he or she is a
representative of the American Red Cross or International Red Cross
traveling pursuant to an officially sponsored Red Cross mission.
[3]  Humanitarian considerations:  Applicant must establish that his or her
trip is justified by compelling humanitarian considerations or for family
unification.  At this time, "compelling humanitarian considerations" include
situations where the applicant can document that an immediate family member
is critically ill in Libya.   Documentation concerning family illness must
include the name and address of the relative, and be from that relative's
physician attesting to the nature and gravity of the illness.  "Family
unification" situations may include cases in which spouses or minor children
are residing in Libya, with and dependent on, a Libyan national spouse or
parent for their support.
[4]  National interest:  The applicant's request is otherwise found to be in
the national interest.
In all requests for passport validation for travel to Libya, the name, date
and place of birth for all concerned persons must be given, as well as the
U.S. passport numbers.  Documentation as outlined above should accompany all
requests.  Additional information may be obtained by writing to the above
address or by calling the Office of Citizenship Appeals and Legal Assistance
at [202] 326-6168 or 326-6182.
U.S. Treasury Restrictions:  In addition to the passport validation, U.S.
Treasury requirements must be met.  Travelers may contact the Treasury
Department at the following address and phone number:
Chief of Licensing
Office of Foreign Assets Control
U.S. Department of the Treasury
1500 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20220
Telephone [phone]; fax [phone]
U.S. Treasury Sanctions:  On January 7, 1986, the United States imposed
sanctions against Libya, which are administered by the U.S. Treasury
Department, prohibiting all travel-related transactions with respect to
Libya for U.S. citizens and permanent resident aliens.  There are limited
exceptions for Libyan nationals' family members who register with the
Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control or with the Embassy
of Belgium in Tripoli, and for full-time journalists.  As of February 1,
1986, the President further prohibited transactions by U.S. persons relating
to transportation to or from Libya.  Additionally, all financial and
commercial transactions by U.S. persons anywhere in the world with Libya are
prohibited.  This includes working in Libya, providing a service of any
nature to Libya, or participating in an unauthorized transaction of any kind
involving property in which Libya has an interest.  Violations of the Libyan
sanctions may result in penalties, fines and/or imprisonment.
Under the Libyan Sanctions Regulations and in addition to any passport
validation issued by the Department of State, the U.S. Treasury Department
requires that U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents who wish to travel
to Libya to visit immediate family members in Libya are authorized to visit
Libya only if they file a registration letter prior to their trip with the
Office of Foreign Assets Control or with the Embassy of Belgium in Tripoli.
The registration must contain the following information:
(1)  Name, date and place of birth of the person registering [including the
name under which a registrant's most recent U.S. passport was issued, if
that is different];
(2)  If applicable, place and date of the registrant's naturalization as a
U.S. citizen, and the number of the registrant's naturalization certificate,
or, for permanent resident aliens, the alien registration number of the
registrant's alien registration receipt card;
(3) The name, relationship, and address of the immediate family member in
Libya whose relationship forms the basis for the registrant's eligibility;
(4)  The number and issue date of the registrant's current U.S. passport,
and the most recent date on which the passport was validated by the U.S.
Department of State for travel to Libya.
U.N. Sanctions:  U.N. Security Council sanctions against Libya, including an
air embargo, took effect on April 15, 1992.  U.N. Security Council
Resolution 748, passed on March 31, 1992, imposed sanctions on Libya until
Libya fully complies with the provisions of U.N.  Resolution 731 and 748,
adopted on January 21, 1992.  U.N. Security Council Resolutions 731 and 748
were adopted in response to Libya's responsibility for the bombings of Pan
Am flight 103 and UTA flight 772.  The U.S. cannot predict if or when Libya
will comply with the U.N. demands.  Since April 15, 1992, when air links
were discontinued, it has become difficult to leave Libya.  The sale in the
United States of air transportation including any stop in Libya became
illegal under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C.
1701.
Medical Facilities:  Basic modern medical care and medicines may not be
available in Libya.
Information on Crime:  Crime is generally not a serious problem for
travelers in Libya.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be
reported immediately to local police, the U.S. Interests Section, and the
nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding
valuables, protecting personal security, and other matters while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip
Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to the Middle East or North Africa."  They
are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal practices
of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are severe in Libya, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  There is no U.S. embassy in Libya.  The U.S. government is
not in a position to accord normal consular protective services to U.S.
citizens in Libya.  U.S. Government interests are represented by the
Government of Belgium, which as a protecting power can provide only limited
emergency services to U.S. citizens.
Embassy Location:  There is no U.S. embassy or consulate in Libya.  The U.S.
Interests Section of the Embassy of Belgium is located at Tower 4, That al
Imad complex, in the capital city of Tripoli.  The Belgian Embassy's mailing
address is P.O. 91650, Tripoli, Libya.  The telephone number is (218-21)
33771.
No. 93-220
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated January 8, 1993 to
include new telephone numbers for the Office of Foreign Assets Control and
the U.S. Treasury, and to add information on reporting the loss or theft of
a U.S. passport abroad.
2                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Libya
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Tunisia
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    1,759,540 sq km
  land area:
    1,759,540 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Alaska
Land boundaries:
    total 4,383 km, Algeria 982 km, Chad 1,055 km, Egypt 1,150 km, Niger 354 km,
    Sudan 383 km, Tunisia 459 km
Coastline:
    1,770 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
  Gulf of Sidra closing line:
    32 degrees 30 minutes north
International disputes:
    the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in February 1994 that the
    100,000 sq km Aozou Strip between Chad and Libya belongs to Chad, and that
    Libya must withdraw from it by 31 May 1994; Libya has withdrawn some its
    forces in response to the ICJ ruling, but still maintains an airfield in the
    disputed area; maritime boundary dispute with Tunisia; claims part of
    northern Niger and part of southeastern Algeria
Climate:
    Mediterranean along coast; dry, extreme desert interior
Terrain:
    mostly barren, flat to undulating plains, plateaus, depressions
Natural resources:
    petroleum, natural gas, gypsum
Land use:
  arable land:
    2%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    8%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    90%
Irrigated land:
    2,420 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    desertification; 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
  natural hazards:
    hot, dry, dust-laden ghibli is a southern wind lasting one to four days in
    spring and fall; duststorms, sandstorms
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Libya
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed,
    but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the
    Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Libya
                                     People
Population:
    5,248,401 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 1,226,851; male 1,269,813)
  15-64 years:
    49% (female 1,261,424; male 1,331,093)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 76,017; male 83,203) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.7% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    44.89 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.91 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    61.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    64.29 years
  male:
    62.12 years
  female:
    66.57 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.32 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Libyan(s)
  adjective:
    Libyan
Ethnic divisions:
    Berber and Arab 97%, Greeks, Maltese, Italians, Egyptians, Pakistanis,
    Turks, Indians, Tunisians
Religions:
    Sunni Muslim 97%
Languages:
    Arabic, Italian, English, all are widely understood in the major cities
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1984)
  total population:
    60%
  male:
    77%
  female:
    42%
Labor force:
    1 million (includes about 280,000 resident foreigners)
  by occupation:
    industry 31%, services 27%, government 24%, agriculture 18%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Libya
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
  conventional short form:
    Libya
  local long form:
    Al Jumahiriyah al Arabiyah al Libiyah ash Shabiyah al Ishirakiyah
  local short form:
    none
Digraph:
    LY
Type:
    Jamahiriya (a state of the masses) in theory, governed by the populace
    through local councils; in fact, a military dictatorship
Capital:
    Tripoli
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    24 December 1951 (from Italy)
National holiday:
    Revolution Day, 1 September (1969)
Constitution:
    11 December 1969, amended 2 March 1977
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Revolutionary Leader Col. Mu'ammar Abu Minyar al-QADHAFI (since 1 September
    1969)
  head of government:
    Chairman of the General People's Committee (Premier) Abd al Majid al-Qa'ud
    (since 29 January 1994)
  cabinet:
    General People's Committee; established by the General People's Congress
  note:
    national elections are indirect through a hierarchy of peoples' committees
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  General People's Congress:
    national elections are indirect through a hierarchy of peoples' committees
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    none
Other political or pressure groups:
    various Arab nationalist movements with almost negligible memberships may be
    functioning clandestinely, as well as some Islamic elements
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Libya
                                   Government
Member of:
    ABEDA, AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, AMU, CAEU, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, ISO, ITU, NAM, OAPEC, OAU, OIC, OPEC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UNITAR, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none
US diplomatic representation:
    none
Flag:
    plain green; green is the traditional color of Islam (the state religion)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Libya
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 GDP growth rates have slowed and 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. Windfall revenues from the hike in world oil prices in late 1990
    improved the foreign payments position and resulted in a current account
    surplus through 1992. The nonoil manufacturing and construction sectors,
    which account for about 20% of GDP, have expanded from processing mostly
    agricultural products to include petrochemicals, 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 Libya 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
    Libya's oil revenues generate sufficient foreign exchange which sustains
    imports of food, consumer goods, and equipment for the oil industry and
    ongoing development projects.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $32.9 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -0.9% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $6,510 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    25% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $8.1 billion
  expenditures:
    $9.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $3.1 billion (1989 est.)
Exports:
    $7.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    crude oil, refined petroleum products, natural gas
  partners:
    Italy, Germany, Spain, France, UK, Turkey, Greece, Egypt
Imports:
    $6.9 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery, transport equipment, food, manufactured goods
  partners:
    Italy, Germany, UK, France, Spain, Turkey, Tunisia, Eastern Europe
External debt:
    $3.5 billion excluding military debt (1991 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 10.5% (1990)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    4,600,000 kW
  production:
    16.1 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,078 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum, food processing, textiles, handicrafts, cement
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Libya
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    5% of GDP; cash crops - wheat, barley, olives, dates, citrus fruits,
    peanuts; 75% of food is imported
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-87),
    $242 million
  note:
    no longer a recipient
Currency:
    1 Libyan dinar (LD) = 1,000 dirhams
Exchange rates:
    Libyan dinars (LD) per US$1 - 0.3555 (January 1995), 0.3596 (1994), 0.3250
    (1993), 0.3013 (1992), 0.2684 (1991), 0.2699 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Libya
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  note:
    Libya 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 Egypt would establish a rail line from As
    Sallum, Egypt, to Tobruk with completion set for mid-1994; no progress has
    been reported
Highways:
  total:
    19,300 km
  paved:
    bituminous 10,800 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, earth 8,500 km
Inland waterways:
    none
Pipelines:
    crude oil 4,383 km; petroleum products 443 km (includes liquified petroleum
    gas 256 km); natural gas 1,947 km
Ports:
    Al Khums, Banghazi, Darnah, Marsa al Burayqah, Misratah, Ra's Lanuf, Tobruk,
    Tripoli, Zuwarah
Merchant marine:
  total:
    30 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 686,136 GRT/1,208,194 DWT
  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
Airports:
  total:
    146
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    24
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    22
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    21
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    17
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    44
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Libya
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    370,000 telephones; modern telecommunications system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay, coaxial cable, tropospheric scatter, and 14 domestic
    satellites
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) satellite earth stations;
    submarine cables to France and Italy; microwave radio relay to Tunisia and
    Egypt; tropospheric scatter to Greece; planned ARABSAT and Intersputnik
    satellite earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 17, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    12
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Libya
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Armed Peoples of the Libyan Arab Jamahiriyah (includes Army, Navy, and Air
    and Air Defense Command), Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,131,175; males fit for military service 672,571; males
    reach military age (17) annually 54,676 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $1.4 billion, 6.1% of GDP (1994 est.)
 YWales,
    Northern Territory*, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria,
    Western Australia
Dependent areas:
    Ashmore and Cartier Islands, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands,
    Coral Sea Islands, Heard Island and McDonald Islands, Norfolk Island
Independence:
    1 January 1901 (federation of UK colonies)
National holiday:
    Australia Day, 26 January (1788)
Constitution:
    9 July 1900, effective 1 January 1901
Legal system:
    based on English common law; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with
    reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    William George HAYDEN (since 16 February 1989)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Paul John KEATING (since 20 December 1991); Deputy Prime
    Minister Brian HOWE (since 4 June 1991)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; prime minister selects his cabinet from members of the House and
    Senate
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Federal Parliament
  Senate:
    elections last held 13 March 1993 (next to be held by NA 1996); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (76 total) Liberal-National 36, Labor
    30, Australian Democrats 7, Greens 2, independents 1
  House of Representatives:
    elections last held 13 March 1993 (next to be held by NA 1996); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (147 total) Labor 80, Liberal-National
    65, independent 2
Judicial branch:
    High Court
Political parties and leaders:
  government:
    Australian Labor Party, Paul John KEATING
  opposition:
    Liberal Party, John HOWARD; National Party, Timothy FISCHER; Australian
    Democratic Party, Cheryl KERNOT; Green Party, leader NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Australia
                                   Government
Other political or pressure groups:
    Australian Democratic Labor Party (anti-Communist Labor Party splinter
    group); Peace and Nuclear Disarmament Action (Nuclear Disarmament Party
    splinter group)
Member of:
    AfDB, AG (observer), ANZUS, APEC, AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, C, CCC, CP,
    EBRD, ESCAP, FAO, G- 8, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA,
    IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM,
    ISO, ITU, MINURSO, MTCR, NAM (guest), NEA, NSG, OECD, PCA, SPARTECA, SPC,
    SPF, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNFICYP, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNOSOM, UNTSO, UNU, UPU,
    WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Donald Eric RUSSELL
  chancery:
    1601 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Atlanta, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Pago Pago (American
    Samoa), and San Francisco
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Edward J. PERKINS
  embassy:
    Moonah Place, Yarralumla, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 2600
  mailing address:
    APO AP 96549
  telephone:
    [61] (6) 270-5000
  FAX:
    [61] (6) 270-5970
  consulate(s) general:
    Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney
  consulate(s):
    Brisbane
Flag:
    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 constellation in white with one small
    five-pointed star and four, larger, seven-pointed stars
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Australia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Australia has a prosperous Western-style capitalist economy, with a per
    capita GDP comparable to levels in industrialized West European countries.
    Rich in natural resources, Australia is a major exporter of agricultural
    products, minerals, metals, and fossil fuels. Primary products account for
    more than 60% 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. Australia 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 Australia's exports. Growth picked up so strongly in 1994
    that the government felt the need for fiscal and monetary tightening by
    yearend. Australia's GDP grew 6.4% in 1994, largely due to increases in
    industrial output and business investment. A severe drought in 1994 is
    expected to reduce the value of Australia's net farm production by $825
    million in the twelve months through June 1995, but rising world commodity
    prices are likely to boost rural exports by 7.7% to $14.5 billion in
    1995/96, according to government statistics.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $374.6 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6.4% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $20,720 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.5% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    8.9% (December 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $83.8 billion
  expenditures:
    $92.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY93/94)
Exports:
    $50.4 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    coal, gold, meat, wool, alumina, wheat, machinery and transport equipment
  partners:
    Japan 25%, US 11%, South Korea 6%, NZ 5.7%, UK, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong
    (1992)
Imports:
    $51.1 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment, computers and office machines, crude oil
    and petroleum products
  partners:
    US 23%, Japan 18%, UK 6%, Germany 5.7%, NZ 4% (1992)
External debt:
    $147.2 billion (1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3.9% (FY93/94); accounts for 32% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    34,540,000 kW
  production:
    155 billion kWh
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Australia
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    8,021 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    mining, industrial and transportation equipment, food processing, chemicals,
    steel
Agriculture:
    accounts for 5% of GDP and over 30% of export revenues; world's largest
    exporter of beef and wool, second-largest for mutton, and among top wheat
    exporters; major crops - wheat, barley, sugarcane, fruit; livestock -
    cattle, sheep, poultry
Illicit drugs:
    Tasmania 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
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-89), $10.4 billion
Currency:
    1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3058 (January 1995), 1.3667 (1994),
    1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2835 (1991), 1.2799 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Australia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    40,478 km (1,130 km electrified; 183 km dual gauge)
  broad gauge:
    7,970 km 1.600-m gauge
  standard gauge:
    16,201 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    16,307 km 1.067-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    837,872 km
  paved:
    243,750 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, stabilized earth 228,396 km; unimproved earth 365,726
    km
Inland waterways:
    8,368 km; mainly by small, shallow-draft craft
Pipelines:
    crude oil 2,500 km; petroleum products 500 km; natural gas 5,600 km
Ports:
    Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Devonport, Fremantle, Geelong, Hobart
    (Tasmania), Launceton (Tasmania), Mackay, Melbourne, Sydney, Townsville
Merchant marine:
  total:
    81 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,620,536 GRT/3,801,970 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 30, cargo 7, chemical tanker 3, combination bulk 2, container 7,
    liquefied gas tanker 6, oil tanker 18, roll-on/roll-off cargo 7, short-sea
    passenger 1
Airports:
  total:
    480
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    9
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    15
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    128
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    125
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    31
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    23
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    149
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Australia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    8,700,000 telephones; good international and domestic service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    domestic satellite service
  international:
    submarine cables to New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Indonesia; 10
    INTELSAT (4 Indian Ocean and 6 Pacific Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 258, FM 67, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    134
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Australia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Australian Army, Royal Australian Navy, Royal Australian Air Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 4,934,175; males fit for military service 4,274,900; males
    reach military age (17) annually 131,852 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $7.2 billion, 2.2% of GDP (FY94/95)
Austria
!AUSTRIA - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 3 months.
For longer stays check with Embassy of Austria, 3524 International Court,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/895-6767) or nearest Consulate General:
Los Angeles (310/444-9310), Chicago (312/222-1515) or New York
(212/737-6400).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Austria
============================================================
Austria - Consular Information Sheet
 August 15, 1995
Country Description:  Austria is a highly developed stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely
available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not
required for business or tourist stays up to three months.  For
information concerning longer stays or other entry regulations,
travelers can contact the Embassy of Austria at 3524 International
Court, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel: [phone], or the
nearest Austrian consulate general in Chicago, Los Angeles, or New
York.
Medical Facilities:  Good medical care is widely available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.
Information on specific health matters is available through the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline at
[phone].
Crime Information:  Austria has a low crime rate, and violent crime
is rare.  However, crimes involving theft of personal property have
increased in recent years.  Travelers can become targets of
pickpockets and purse snatchers who operate where tourists tend to
gather, favorite spots being Vienna's two largest train stations.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more
trouble-free trip.  The pamphlet is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Other Information:  Certain Austrian Airways flights between
Austria and various Middle Eastern points (usually Damascus or
Amman) make en route stops in Beirut.  (The State Department warns
U.S. citizens to avoid all t
Macedonia
LUXEMBOURG - Passport required.  Visa not required for tourist/business
stay up to 3 months.  For additional information contact Embassy of
Luxembourg, 2200 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/265-4171) or the nearest Consulate:  CA (415/788-0816), FL (305/373-1300), GA
(404/668-9811), IL (312/726-0355), MO (816/474-4761), NY (212/888-6664)
or OH (312/726-0355).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Luxembourg
============================================================
Luxembourg - Consular Information Sheet
 October 18, 1995
Country Description:  Luxembourg is a highly developed stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely
available.
Entry Requirements:  A visa is not required for tourist or business
stays up to three months out of a 180-day period within the area of
the Schengen countries, i.e., Luxembourg, France, Germany, the
Netherlands, Belgium, Spain and Portugal.  For further information
concerning entry requirements for Luxembourg, travelers can contact
the Embassy of Luxembourg at 2200 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008, tel [phone], or the Luxembourg
Consulates General in New York or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are widely available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.
Information on specific health matters is available through the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for
international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Luxembourg has a low crime rate.  However,
during the tourist season, pickpocketing, theft of unattended
baggage, and theft from vehicles can occur.  U.S. citizens can refer
to the Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways
to promote a more trouble-free voyage.  The pamphlet is available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Penalties for possession, use, and dealing in
illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail
sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  Americans who reside in
Luxembourg can register with the Consular Section of the U.S.
Embassy.  The section has available updated information on travel
and security within the area.  The Embassy is located at 22
Boulevard Emmanuel-Servais in Luxembourg City, telephone (352)
46-01-23.
 No. 95-129
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 18, 1994
issued to update the section on Entry Requirements.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Luxembourg
============================================================
Luxembourg - Consular Information Sheet
 October 18, 1995
Country Description:  Luxembourg is a highly developed stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely
available.
Entry Requirements:  A visa is not required for tourist or business
stays up to three months out of a 180-day period within the area of
the Schengen countries, i.e., Luxembourg, France, Germany, the
Netherlands, Belgium, Spain and Portugal.  For further information
concerning entry requirements for Luxembourg, travelers can contact
the Embassy of Luxembourg at 2200 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008, tel [phone], or the Luxembourg
Consulates General in New York or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are widely available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.
Information on specific health matters is available through the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for
international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Luxembourg has a low crime rate.  However,
during the tourist season, pickpocketing, theft of unattended
baggage, and theft from vehicles can occur.  U.S. citizens can refer
to the Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways
to promote a more trouble-free voyage.  The pamphlet is available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Penalties for possession, use, and dealing in
illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail
sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  Americans who reside in
Luxembourg can register with the Consular Section of the U.S.
Embassy.  The section has available updated information on travel
and security within the area.  The Embassy is located at 22
Boulevard Emmanuel-Servais in Luxembourg City, telephone (352)
46-01-23.
 No. 95-129
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 18, 1994
issued to update the section on Entry Requirements.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
`-P-                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Luxembourg
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Europe, between France and Germany
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    2,586 sq km
  land area:
    2,586 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Rhode Island
Land boundaries:
    total 359 km, Belgium 148 km, France 73 km, Germany 138 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    modified continental with mild winters, cool summers
Terrain:
    mostly gently rolling uplands with broad, shallow valleys; uplands to
    slightly mountainous in the north; steep slope down to Moselle floodplain in
    the southeast
Natural resources:
    iron ore (no longer exploited)
Land use:
  arable land:
    24%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    20%
  forest and woodland:
    21%
  other:
    34%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; air and water pollution in urban areas
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds,
    Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine
    Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical
    Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94,
    Desertification, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Luxembourg
                                     People
Population:
    404,660 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    18% (female 35,372; male 36,645)
  15-64 years:
    68% (female 136,960; male 137,792)
  65 years and over:
    14% (female 35,774; male 22,117) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.57% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    12.61 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.42 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    2.47 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    6.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    76.95 years
  male:
    73.31 years
  female:
    80.75 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.65 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Luxembourger(s)
  adjective:
    Luxembourg
Ethnic divisions:
    Celtic base (with French and German blend), Portuguese, Italian, and
    European (guest and worker residents)
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 97%, Protestant and Jewish 3%
Languages:
    Luxembourgisch, German, French, English
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
  total population:
    100%
  male:
    100%
  female:
    100%
Labor force:
    177,300 (one-third of labor force is foreign workers, mostly from Portugal,
    Italy, France, Belgium, and Germany)
  by occupation:
    services 65%, industry 31.6%, agriculture 3.4% (1988)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Luxembourg
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
  conventional short form:
    Luxembourg
  local long form:
    Grand-Duche de Luxembourg
  local short form:
    Luxembourg
Digraph:
    LU
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Luxembourg
Administrative divisions:
    3 districts; Diekirch, Grevenmacher, Luxembourg
Independence:
    1839
National holiday:
    National Day, 23 June (1921) (public celebration of the Grand Duke's
    birthday)
Constitution:
    17 October 1868, occasional revisions
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Grand Duke JEAN (since 12 November 1964); Heir Apparent Prince HENRI (son of
    Grand Duke JEAN, born 16 April 1955)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Jean-Claude JUNKER (since 1 January 1994); Vice Prime
    Minister Jacques F. POOS (since 21 July 1984)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the sovereign
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Chamber of Deputies (Chambre des Deputes):
    elections last held on 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
  note:
    the Council of State (Conseil d'Etat) is an advisory body whose views are
    considered by the Chamber of Deputies
Judicial branch:
    Superior Court of Justice (Cour Superieure de Justice)
Political parties and leaders:
    Christian Social People's Party (CSV), Erna HENNICOT-SCHOEPGES; Socialist
    Workers Party (LSAP), Ben FAYOT; Democratic Party (DP), Henri GRETHEN;
    Action Committee for Democracy and Pension Rights, Roby MEHLEN; other minor
    parties
Other political or pressure groups:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Luxembourg
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACCT, Australia Group, Benelux, CCC, CE, EBRD, EC, ECE, EIB, FAO, GATT,
    IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF,
    IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ITU, MTCR, NACC, NATO, NEA, NSG, OECD,
    OSCE, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WEU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Alphonse BERNS
  chancery:
    2200 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York and San Francisco
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Clay CONSTANTINOU
  embassy:
    22 Boulevard Emmanuel-Servais, 2535 Luxembourg City
  mailing address:
    PSC 11, Luxembourg City; APO AE 09132-5380
  telephone:
    [352] 46 01 23
  FAX:
    [352] 46 14 01
Flag:
    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 France
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Luxembourg
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The stable, prosperous economy features moderate growth, low inflation, 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 Belgium on trade and most
    financial matters, is also closely connected economically to the
    Netherlands, and as a member of the 15-member European Union enjoys the
    advantages of the open European market.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $9.2 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.6% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $22,830 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3.6% (1992)
Unemployment rate:
    2.4% (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $4 billion
  expenditures:
    $4.05 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $6.4 billion (f.o.b., 1991 est.)
  commodities:
    finished steel products, chemicals, rubber products, glass, aluminum, other
    industrial products
  partners:
    EC 76%, US 5%
Imports:
    $8.3 billion (c.i.f., 1991 est.)
  commodities:
    minerals, metals, foodstuffs, quality consumer goods
  partners:
    Belgium 37%, Germany 31%, France 12%, US 2%
External debt:
    $800 million (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -0.5% (1990); accounts for 25% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,238,750 kW
  production:
    1.374 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,395 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    banking, iron and steel, food processing, chemicals, metal products,
    engineering, tires, glass, aluminum
Agriculture:
    accounts for less than 3% of GDP (including forestry); principal products -
    barley, oats, potatoes, wheat, fruits, wine grapes; cattle raising
    widespread
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Luxembourg
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
    none
Currency:
    1 Luxembourg franc (LuxF) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Luxembourg francs (LuxF) per US$1 - 31.549 (January 1995), 33,456 (1994),
    34.597 (1993), 32.150 (1992), 34.148 (1991), 33.418 (1990); note - the
    Luxembourg franc is at par with the Belgian franc, which circulates freely
    in Luxembourg
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Luxembourg
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    271 km
  standard gauge:
    271 km 1.435-m gauge (243 km electrified; 178 km double track) (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    5,108 km
  paved:
    5,062 km (95 km of limited access divided highway)
  unpaved:
    46 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    37 km; Moselle River
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 48 km
Ports:
    Mertert
Merchant marine:
  total:
    45 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,129,466 GRT/1,790,988 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 6, cargo 2, chemical tanker 4, combination bulk 6, container 2,
    liquefied gas tanker 8, oil tanker 7, passenger 2, refrigerated cargo 6,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 2
Airports:
  total:
    2
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Luxembourg
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    230,000 telephones; highly developed, completely automated and efficient
    system, mainly buried cables; nationwide mobile phone system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    buried cable
  international:
    3 channels leased on TAT-6 coaxial submarine cable
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    3 and 1 direct-broadcast satellite link
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Luxembourg
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, National Gendarmerie
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 103,990; males fit for military service 85,912; males reach
    military age (19) annually 2,190 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $129 million, 1.2% of GDP (1994)
Korea South
KIRIBATI (formerly Gilbert Islands) - Passport and visa required.  For
additional information consult British Embassy (202/462-1340).
@("(                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Kiribati
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, group of islands in the Pacific Ocean, straddling the equator and
    the International Date Line, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to
    Australia
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    717 sq km
  land area:
    717 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than four times the size of Washington, DC
  note:
    includes three island groups - Gilbert Islands, Line Islands, Phoenix
    Islands
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    1,143 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; marine, hot and humid, moderated by trade winds
Terrain:
    mostly low-lying coral atolls surrounded by extensive reefs
Natural resources:
    phosphate (production discontinued in 1979)
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    51%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    3%
  other:
    46%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    typhoons can occur any time, but usually November to March; occasional
    tornadoes
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer
    Protection; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change
Note:
    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 Polynesia and Nauru
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Kiribati
                                     People
Population:
    79,386 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    1.95% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    31.25 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.31 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.56 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    98.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    54.16 years
  male:
    52.56 years
  female:
    55.78 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.73 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    I-Kiribati (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    I-Kiribati
Ethnic divisions:
    Micronesian
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 52.6%, Protestant (Congregational) 40.9%, Seventh-Day
    Adventist, Baha'i, Church of God, Mormon 6% (1985)
Languages:
    English (official), Gilbertese
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    7,870 economically active, not including subsistence farmers (1985 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Kiribati
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Kiribati
  conventional short form:
    Kiribati
  former:
    Gilbert Islands
Digraph:
    KR
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Tarawa
Administrative divisions:
    3 units; Gilbert Islands, Line Islands, Phoenix Islands
  note:
    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,
    Kiritimati, Kuria, Maiana, Makin, Marakei, Nikunau, Nonouti, Onotoa,
    Tabiteuea, Tabuaeran, Tamana, Tarawa, Teraina; note - one council for each
    of the inhabited islands)
Independence:
    12 July 1979 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 12 July (1979)
Constitution:
    12 July 1979
Legal system:
    NA
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President (Beretitenti) Teburoro TITO (since 1 October 1994); Vice President
    (Kauoman-ni-Beretitenti) Tewareka TENTOA (since 12 October 1994); election
    last held on 30 September 1994 (next to be held by NA 1999)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president from an elected parliament
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  House of Assembly (Maneaba Ni Maungatabu):
    elections last held on 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
Judicial branch:
    Court of Appeal, High Court
Political parties and leaders:
    National Progressive Party, Teatao TEANNAKI; Christian Democratic Party,
    Teburoro TITO; New Movement Party, leader NA; Liberal Party, Tewareka
    TENTOA; Maneaba Party, Roniti TEIWAKI; Maneaban Te Mauri, leader NA
  note:
    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
Member of:
    ACP, AsDB, C, ESCAP, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, IDA, IFC, IFRCS (associate), IMF,
    INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, ITU, SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UNESCO,
    UPU, WHO
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Kiribati
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
    Kiribati has no mission in the US
US diplomatic representation:
    the ambassador to Fiji is accredited to Kiribati
Flag:
    the upper half is red with a yellow frigate bird flying over a yellow rising
    sun, and the lower half is blue with three horizontal wavy white stripes to
    represent the ocean
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Kiribati
                                     Economy
Overview:
    A remote country of 33 scattered coral 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
    declined about 5% in 1987, as the fish catch fell sharply to only one-fourth
    the level of 1986 and copra production was hampered by repeated rains.
    Output rebounded strongly in 1988, with real GDP growing by 10%. The upturn
    in economic growth came from an increase in copra production and a good fish
    catch. GDP then fell by 2.2% in 1989 and by 2.9% in 1990, but has risen by
    about 3% annually in 1991-93. Foreign financial aid, largely from the UK and
    Japan, is a critical supplement to GDP, amounting to 25%-50% of GDP in
    recent years.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $62 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.9% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $800 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    6.5% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    2%; underemployment 70% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $29.6 million
  expenditures:
    $32.8 million, including capital expenditures of $14 million (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $4.2 million (f.o.b., 1992 est.)
  commodities:
    copra 50%, seaweed 16%, fish 15%
  partners:
    Denmark, Fiji, US
Imports:
    $33.1 million (c.i.f., 1992 est.)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, machinery and equipment, miscellaneous manufactured goods, fuel
  partners:
    Australia 40%, Japan 18%, Fiji 17%, NZ 6%, US 4% (1991)
External debt:
    $2 million (December 1989 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 0.7% (1992 est.); accounts for less than 4% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    5,000 kW
  production:
    13 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    131 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    fishing, handicrafts
Agriculture:
    accounts for 23% of GDP (including fishing); copra and fish contribute about
    65% to exports; subsistence farming predominates; food crops - taro,
    breadfruit, sweet potatoes, vegetables; not self-sufficient in food
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Kiribati
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89),
    $273 million
Currency:
    1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3058 (January 1995), 1.3667 (1994),
    1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2835 (1991), 1.2799 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Kiribati
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    640 km
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Inland waterways:
    small network of canals, totaling 5 km, in Line Islands
Ports:
    Banaba, Betio, English Harbor, Kanton
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1 passenger-cargo ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,291 GRT/1,295 DWT
Airports:
    21
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    11
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Kiribati
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    1,400 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Kiribati
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Police Force (carries out law enforcement functions and paramilitary duties;
    there are small police posts on all islands); no military force is
    maintained
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Dsula that juts into Caspian Sea
Natural resources:
    petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, nonferrous metals, alumina
Land use:
  arable land:
    18%
  permanent crops:
    4%
  meadows and pastures:
    25%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    53%
Irrigated land:
    14,010 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    local scientists consider the Abseron (Apsheron) Peninsula (including Baku
    and Sumqayit) and the Caspian Sea to be the ecologically most devastated
    area in the world because of severe air, water, and soil pollution; soil
    pollution results from the use of DDT as a pesticide and also from toxic
    defoliants used in the production of cotton
  natural hazards:
    droughts; some lowland areas threatened by rising levels of the Caspia
Malaysia
MADAGASCAR - Passport and visa required.  Visa valid 6 months for
single-entry up to 90 days, $22.50; or multiple-entries, $44.15 (no
personal checks).  Requires 4 application forms, 4 photos, yellow fever
and cholera immunizations, proof of onward/return transportation and
sufficient funds for stay.   Include a prepaid envelope for return of
passport by registered mail.  Allow 4 months to process visa for longer stay.  For
additional information contact Embassy of the Democratic Republic of
Madagascar, 2374 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/265-5525/6) or nearest Consulate:  NY (212/986-9491),
PA  (215/893-3067) or CA (1-800/856-2721).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Madagascar
============================================================
Madagascar - Consular Information Sheet
 March 7, 1995
Country Description:  Madagascar is a developing island nation off
the east coast of Africa.  Facilities for tourism are available, but
vary in quality.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required.  Evidence of
yellow fever immunizations must be submitted.  For additional entry
information, the traveler may contact the Embassy of the Republic of
Madagascar, 2374 Massachusetts Avenue,  N.W., Washington, D.C.
20008, telephone [phone].  There is a Madagasy Consulate in
New York, telephone [phone]. Honorary Consuls are located in
Philadelphia [phone] and Palo Alto [phone].
Areas of Instability: Madagascar completed a transition to a
multi-party democracy in 1993, and the capital, major cities and
countryside remain relatively calm.  Foreigners who remain near or
photograph political gatherings or demonstrations, especially in
towns outside Antananarivo, may be at risk.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are minimal.  Many
medicines are unavailable.  Doctors and hospitals often request
immediate cash payment for health care services.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  In some
cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proved useful.  Information on health matters can be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Street crime poses a risk for visitors,
especially in the capital, Antananarivo.  Reported incidents include
muggings and purse snatchings.  These crimes generally occur in or
near public mass transit systems, and against individuals walking at
night in the Antananarivo city center.  The loss or theft abroad of
a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local police and
to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe
Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide
useful information on protecting personal security while traveling
abroad and on travel in the region in general.  Both are available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Air Travel:  Domestic and international air services operate
regularly but they are subject to delays and occasional breakdowns.
Air Madagascar often changes flight schedules with little or no
prior warning to passengers.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in
Antananarivo may obtain updated information on travel and security
within Madagascar.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in the capital city
of Antananarivo, at 14 and 16 Rue Rainitovo, Antsahavola.  The
mailing address is B.P. 620, Antsahavola, Madagascar.  The telephone
number is (261-2) 212-57, 200-89 or 207-18.
 No. 95-037
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 18,
1993, to revise the paragraph on Areas of Instability, to delete the
paragraph on Demonstrations and to add a paragraph on Air Travel.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
6                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Madagascar
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Mozambique
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    587,040 sq km
  land area:
    581,540 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of Arizona
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    4,828 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    claims Bassas da India, Europa Island, Glorioso Islands, Juan de Nova
    Island, and Tromelin Island (all administered by France)
Climate:
    tropical along coast, temperate inland, arid in south
Terrain:
    narrow coastal plain, high plateau and mountains in center
Natural resources:
    graphite, chromite, coal, bauxite, salt, quartz, tar sands, semiprecious
    stones, mica, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    4%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    58%
  forest and woodland:
    26%
  other:
    11%
Irrigated land:
    9,000 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    soil erosion results from deforestation and overgrazing; desertification;
    surface water contaminated with raw sewage and other organic wastes; several
    species of flora and fauna unique to the island are endangered
  natural hazards:
    periodic cyclones
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban;
    signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification,
    Law of the Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Madagascar
                                    Geography
Note:
    world's fourth-largest island; strategic location along Mozambique Channel
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Madagascar
                                     People
Population:
    13,862,325 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    47% (female 3,231,647; male 3,265,715)
  15-64 years:
    50% (female 3,511,699; male 3,413,564)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 225,205; male 214,495) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.18% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    44.82 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.99 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    86.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    54.45 years
  male:
    52.47 years
  female:
    56.48 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.62 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Malagasy (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Malagasy
Ethnic divisions:
    Malayo-Indonesian (Merina and related Betsileo), Cotiers (mixed African,
    Malayo-Indonesian, and Arab ancestry - Betsimisaraka, Tsimihety, Antaisaka,
    Sakalava), French, Indian, Creole, Comoran
Religions:
    indigenous beliefs 52%, Christian 41%, Muslim 7%
Languages:
    French (official), Malagasy (official)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    80%
  male:
    88%
  female:
    73%
Labor force:
  total workers:
    4.9 million
  workers not receiving money wages:
    4.7 million (96% of total labor force); note - 4.3 million workers are in
    subsistence agriculture
  wage earners:
    175,000 (3.6% of total work force)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Madagascar
                                     People
  wage earners by occupation:
    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.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Madagascar
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Madagascar
  conventional short form:
    Madagascar
  local long form:
    Republique de Madagascar
  local short form:
    Madagascar
  former:
    Malagasy Republic
Digraph:
    MA
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Antananarivo
Administrative divisions:
    6 provinces; Antananarivo, Antsiranana, Fianarantsoa, Mahajanga, Toamasina,
    Toliary
Independence:
    26 June 1960 (from France)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 26 June (1960)
Constitution:
    19 August 1992 by national referendum
Legal system:
    based on French civil law system and traditional Malagasy law; has not
    accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Albert ZAFY (since 9 March 1993); election last held on 10
    February 1993 (next to be held 1998); results - Albert ZAFY (UNDD), 67%;
    Didier RATSIRAKA (AREMA), 33%
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Francisque RAVONY (since 9 August 1993)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    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 on 16 June 1993 (next to be held 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Cour Supreme), High Constitutional Court (Haute Cour
    Constitutionnelle)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Madagascar
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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
Other political or pressure groups:
    National Council of Christian Churches (FFKM); Federalist Movement
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ITU,
    NAM, OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNMIH, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Pierrot Jocelyn RAJAONARIVELO
  chancery:
    2374 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 5526
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Dennis P. BARRETT
  embassy:
    14-16 Rue Rainitovo, Antsahavola, Antananarivo
  mailing address:
    B. P. 620, Antananarivo
  telephone:
    [261] (2) 212-57, 200-89, 207-18
  FAX:
    [261] (2) 345-39
Flag:
    two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and green with a vertical white band
    of the same width on hoist side
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Madagascar
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in the world, suffering from
    chronic malnutrition, underfunded health and education facilities, a 3%
    annual population growth rate, and severe loss of forest cover, accompanied
    by erosion. Agriculture, including fishing and forestry, is the mainstay of
    the economy, accounting for over 30% of GDP and contributing more than 70%
    of total export earnings. Industry is largely confined to the processing of
    agricultural products and textile manufacturing; in 1991 it accounted for
    only 13% 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 exports, 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 infrastructure 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $10.6 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $790 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    35% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $250 million
  expenditures:
    $265 million, including capital expenditures of $180 million (1991 est.)
Exports:
    $240 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    coffee 45%, vanilla 20%, cloves 11%, shellfish, sugar, petroleum products
  partners:
    France, US, Germany, Japan, Russia
Imports:
    $510 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    intermediate manufactures 30%, capital goods 28%, petroleum 15%, consumer
    goods 14%, food 13%
  partners:
    France, Germany, Japan, UK, Italy, Netherlands
External debt:
    $4.3 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3.8% (1993 est.); accounts for 13% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    220,000 kW
  production:
    560 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    40 kWh (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Madagascar
                                     Economy
Industries:
    agricultural processing (meat canneries, soap factories, breweries,
    tanneries, sugar refining plants), light consumer goods industries
    (textiles, glassware), cement, automobile assembly plant, paper, petroleum
Agriculture:
    accounts for 31% of GDP; cash crops - coffee, vanilla, sugarcane, cloves,
    cocoa; food crops - rice, cassava, beans, bananas, peanuts; cattle raising
    widespread; almost self-sufficient in rice
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of cannabis (cultivated and wild varieties) used mostly for
    domestic consumption
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $136 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $3.125 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $491 million
Currency:
    1 Malagasy franc (FMG) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Malagasy francs (FMG) per US$1 - 3,718.0 (November 1994), 1,913.8 (1993),
    1,864.0 (1992), 1,835.4 (1991), 1,454.6 (December 1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Madagascar
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,020 km
  narrow gauge:
    1,020 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    40,000 km
  paved:
    4,694 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, stabilized earth 811 km; other earth 34,495 km (est.)
Inland waterways:
    of local importance only; isolated streams and small portions of Canal des
    Pangalanes
Ports:
    Antsiranana, Mahajanga, Port Saint-Louis, Toamasina, Toliaria
Merchant marine:
  total:
    10 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 20,261 GRT/28,193 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 5, chemical tanker 1, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 1,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 2
Airports:
  total:
    138
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    21
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    42
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    64
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Madagascar
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; above average system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    open-wire lines, coaxial cables, microwave radio relay, and tropospheric
    scatter links
  international:
    submarine cable to Bahrain; 1 earth station for Indian Ocean INTELSAT
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 17, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1 (repeaters 36)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Madagascar
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Popular Armed Forces (includes Intervention Forces, Development Forces,
    Aeronaval Forces - includes Navy and Air Force), Gendarmerie, Presidential
    Security Regiment
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 3,027,156; males fit for military service 1,800,127; males
    reach military age (20) annually 130,071 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $35 million, 1.3% of GDP (1991)
akothe Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos.
 No. 95-009
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 3,
1994, to add information on crime.
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`)Y)                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, chain of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of
    Florida
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    13,940 sq km
  land area:
    10,070 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Connecticut
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    3,542 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical marine; moderated by warm waters of Gulf Stream
Terrain:
    long, flat coral formations with some low rounded hills
Natural resources:
    salt, aragonite, timber
Land use:
  arable land:
    1%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    32%
  other:
    67%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    coral reef decay
  natural hazards:
    hurricanes and other tropical storms that cause extensive flood and wind
    damage
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship
    Pollution
Note:
    strategic location adjacent to US and Cuba; extensive island chain
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                     People
Population:
    256,616 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    28% (female 35,924; male 36,504)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 87,868; male 82,780)
  65 years and over:
    6% (female 8,247; male 5,293) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.09% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    19.23 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.79 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -2.56 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    24.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    72.12 years
  male:
    67.37 years
  female:
    76.97 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.01 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Bahamian(s)
  adjective:
    Bahamian
Ethnic divisions:
    black 85%, white 15%
Religions:
    Baptist 32%, Anglican 20%, Roman Catholic 19%, Methodist 6%, Church of God
    6%, other Protestant 12%, none or unknown 3%, other 2%
Languages:
    English, Creole (among Haitian immigrants)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write but definition of literary not available
    (1963 est.)
  total population:
    90%
  male:
    90%
  female:
    89%
Labor force:
    136,900 (1993)
  by occupation:
    government 30%, hotels and restaurants 25%, business services 10%,
    agriculture 5% (1989)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
     Commonwealth of The Bahamas
  conventional short form:
    The Bahamas
Digraph:
    BF
Type:
    commonwealth
Capital:
    Nassau
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    10 July 1973 (from UK)
National holiday:
    National Day, 10 July (1973)
Constitution:
    10 July 1973
Legal system:
    based on English common law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    Sir Clifford DARLING (since 2 January 1992)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Hubert A. INGRAHAM (since 19 August 1992)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the governor on the prime minister's recommendation
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), Sir Lynden O. PINDLING; Free National
    Movement (FNM), Hubert Alexander INGRAHAM;
Member of:
    ACP, C, CARICOM, CCC, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM,
    IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAS,
    OPANAL, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Timothy Baswell DONALDSON
  chancery:
    2220 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                   Government
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Miami and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Sidney WILLIAMS
  embassy:
    Mosmar Building, Queen Street, Nassau
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box N-8197, Nassau
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 328-2206
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of aquamarine (top), gold, and aquamarine with
    a black equilateral triangle based on the hoist side
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The Bahamas is a stable, developing nation whose economy is based primarily
    on tourism and offshore banking. Tourism alone provides about 50% of GDP and
    directly or indirectly employs about 50,000 people or 40% of the local work
    force. The economy has slackened in recent years, as the annual increase in
    the number of tourists slowed. Nonetheless, per capita GDP is one of the
    highest in the region.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $15,900 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.7% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    13.1% (1993)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $696 million
  expenditures:
    $756 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95)
Exports:
    $257 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    pharmaceuticals, cement, rum, crawfish, refined petroleum products
  partners:
    US 51%, UK 7%, Norway 7%, France 6%, Italy 5%
Imports:
    $1.15 billion (f.o.b,,1993 est.)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, manufactured goods, crude oil, vehicles, electronics
  partners:
    US 55%, Japan 17%, Nigeria 12%, Denmark 7%, Norway 6%
External debt:
    $455 million (December 1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3% (1990); accounts for 15% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    424,000 kW
  production:
    929 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,200 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tourism, banking, cement, oil refining and transshipment, salt production,
    rum, aragonite, pharmaceuticals, spiral welded steel pipe
Agriculture:
    accounts for 5% of GDP; dominated by small-scale producers; principal
    products - citrus fruit, vegetables, poultry; large net importer of food
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for cocaine and marijuana bound for US and Europe; also
    a money-laundering center
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY85-89), $1 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $345 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 Bahamian dollar (B$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Bahamian dollar (B$) per US$1 - 1.00 (fixed rate)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    2,400 km
  paved:
    1,350 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 1,050 km
Ports:
    Freeport, Matthew Town, Nassau
Merchant marine:
  total:
    936 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 21,815,474 GRT/35,253,416 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 162, cargo 181, chemical tanker 39, combination bulk 9, combination
    ore/oil 19, container 52, liquefied gas tanker 20, oil tanker 182, passenger
    55, refrigerated cargo 146, roll-on/roll-off cargo 43, short-sea passenger
    16, vehicle carrier 12
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; includes 46 countries among which are UK 158
    ships, Norway 125, Greece 100, US 94, Denmark 80, Netherlands 53, France 36,
    Finland 35, Japan 35, Sweden 25
Airports:
  total:
    60
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    16
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    11
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    22
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    8
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    99,000 telephones; totally automatic system; highly developed
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    tropospheric scatter and submarine cable links to Florida; 3 coaxial
    submarine cables; 1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 2, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Royal Bahamas Defense Force (Coast Guard only), Royal Bahamas Police Force
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $65 million, 2.7% of GDP (1990)
Baker Island
$BAHRAIN - Passport and visa required.  No tourist visas issued at this
time.  Transit visa available upon arrival for stay up to 72 hours, must
have return/onward ticket.  Business, work, or resident visas valid for 3
months, single-entry, require 1 application form, 1 photo, letter from
company or No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Immigration Dept. in Bahrain
and $30 fee ($20 for bearer of NOC).  Yellow fever vaccination needed if
arriving from infected area.  Send SASE for return of passport by mail.
For departure tax and other information, contact Embassy of the State of
Bahrain, 3502 International Drive, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/342-0741); or the Permanent Mission to the U.N., 2 United Nations
Plaza, East 44th Street, New York, NY 10017 (212/223-6200).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Bahrain
============================================================
Bahrain - Consular Information Sheet
 February 8, 1995
Country Description:  Bahrain is an emirate, governed by the
Al-Khalifa family in consultation with a Council of Ministers.
Islamic ideals and beliefs provide the conservative foundation of
the country's customs, laws and practices.  Bahrain is a modern,
developed country, and tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required.  For further
information on entry requirements, travelers can contact the Embassy
of the State of Bahrain, 3502 International Drive, N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20008, telephone [phone]; or the Bahrain Permanent
Mission to the U.N., 2 United Nations Plaza, East 44th St., New
York, N.Y. 10017, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Basic modern medical care and medicines are
available in several hospitals and health centers in Bahrain.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proven useful.  The international travelers
hotline at the Centers for Disease Control, telephone (404)
332-4559, has additional health information.
Information on Crime:  Although crime is generally not a problem
MALAYSIA (and the Borneo States, Sarawak and Sabah) - Passport
required. Visa not required for stay up to 3 months.  Yellow fever and cholera
immunizations necessary if arriving from infected areas.  AIDS test
required for work permits.  U.S. test somtimes accepted.  For entry of
pets or other types of visits, consult Embassy of Malaysia, 2401 Mass. Ave.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/328-2700) or nearest Consulate:  Los
Angeles (213/621-2991) or New York (212/490-2722).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Malaysia
============================================================
Malaysia - Consular Information Sheet
 November 30, 1995
Country Description:  Malaysia is a federal parliamentary democracy
with a constitutional monarch.  Tourist facilities and services are
available in major areas of interest.
Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements
travelers may call the Embassy of Malaysia, 2401 Massachusetts
Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities and services are adequate
in the larger cities.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate
cash payment for health services. U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage, including provision for
medical evacuation, has proven useful.  The Medicare/Medicaid
program does not provide payment for medical services outside the
United States.  The international travelers hotline of the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention at [phone] has additional
useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Malaysia has one of the highest rates of
credit card fraud in the world.  Petty crimes such as pickpocketing
and purse-snatching are common in tourist areas.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local
police and to the U.S. Embassy.  Useful information on guarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is
provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."
It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S citizens are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they are traveling.  Malaysia
strictly enforces its drug laws.  Malaysian legislation provides for
a mandatory death penalty for convicted drug traffickers.
Individuals arrested in possession of fifteen grams (1/2 ounce) of
heroin or two hundred grams (7 ounces) of marijuana are presumed by
law to be trafficking in drugs.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy can
obtain updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 376 Jalan Tun
Razak 50400, Kuala Lumpur.  The mailing address is P.O.Box No.
10035,50700 Kuala Lumpur; telephone [phone].  The fax number
for the Embassy is (60-3) 242-2207, the fax number for the Consular
Section is (60-3) 248-5801.
  No. 95-151
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 28, 1994,
to update information on entry requirements and crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Malaysia
============================================================
Malaysia - Consular Information Sheet
 November 30, 1995
Country Description:  Malaysia is a federal parliamentary democracy
with a constitutional monarch.  Tourist facilities and services are
available in major areas of interest.
Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements
travelers may call the Embassy of Malaysia, 2401 Massachusetts
Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities and services are adequate
in the larger cities.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate
cash payment for health services. U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage, including provision for
medical evacuation, has proven useful.  The Medicare/Medicaid
program does not provide payment for medical services outside the
United States.  The international travelers hotline of the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention at [phone] has additional
useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Malaysia has one of the highest rates of
credit card fraud in the world.  Petty crimes such as pickpocketing
and purse-snatching are common in tourist areas.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local
police and to the U.S. Embassy.  Useful information on guarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is
provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."
It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S citizens are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they are traveling.  Malaysia
strictly enforces its drug laws.  Malaysian legislation provides for
a mandatory death penalty for convicted drug traffickers.
Individuals arrested in possession of fifteen grams (1/2 ounce) of
heroin or two hundred grams (7 ounces) of marijuana are presumed by
law to be trafficking in drugs.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy can
obtain updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 376 Jalan Tun
Razak 50400, Kuala Lumpur.  The mailing address is P.O.Box No.
10035,50700 Kuala Lumpur; telephone [phone].  The fax number
for the Embassy is (60-3) 242-2207, the fax number for the Consular
Section is (60-3) 248-5801.
  No. 95-151
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 28, 1994,
to update information on entry requirements and crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
>                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Malaysia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, peninsula and northern one-third of the island of Borneo
    bordering the Java Sea and the South China Sea, south of Vietnam
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    329,750 sq km
  land area:
    328,550 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than New Mexico
Land boundaries:
    total 2,669 km, Brunei 381 km, Indonesia 1,782 km, Thailand 506 km
Coastline:
    4,675 km (Peninsular Malaysia 2,068 km, East Malaysia 2,607 km)
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to depth of exploitation; specified boundary in the South
    China Sea
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    involved in a complex dispute over the Spratly Islands with China,
    Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam, and possibly Brunei; State of Sabah claimed by
    the Philippines; Brunei may wish to purchase the Malaysian salient that
    divides Brunei into two parts; two islands in dispute with Singapore; two
    islands in dispute with Indonesia
Climate:
    tropical; annual southwest (April to October) and northeast (October to
    February) monsoons
Terrain:
    coastal plains rising to hills and mountains
Natural resources:
    tin, petroleum, timber, copper, iron ore, natural gas, bauxite
Land use:
  arable land:
    3%
  permanent crops:
    10%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    63%
  other:
    24%
Irrigated land:
    3,420 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution from industrial and vehicular emissions; water pollution from
    raw sewage; deforestation
  natural hazards:
    flooding
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Malaysia
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection,
    Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
Note:
    strategic location along Strait of Malacca and southern South China Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Malaysia
                                     People
Population:
    19,723,587 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    37% (female 3,559,434; male 3,690,310)
  15-64 years:
    59% (female 5,871,131; male 5,844,568)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 423,539; male 334,605) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.24% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    27.95 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.56 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    24.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    69.48 years
  male:
    66.55 years
  female:
    72.56 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.47 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Malaysian(s)
  adjective:
    Malaysian
Ethnic divisions:
    Malay and other indigenous 59%, Chinese 32%, Indian 9%
Religions:
  Peninsular Malaysia:
    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%
Languages:
  Peninsular Malaysia:
    Malay (official), English, Chinese dialects, Tamil
  Sabah:
    English, Malay, numerous tribal dialects, Chinese (Mandarin and Hakka
    dialects predominate)
  Sarawak:
    English, Malay, Mandarin, numerous tribal languages
    *** No data for this item ***
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    78%
  male:
    86%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Malaysia
                                     People
  female:
    70%
Labor force:
    7.627 million (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Malaysia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Malaysia
  former:
    Malayan Union
Digraph:
    MY
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
  note:
    Federation of Malaysia 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; Sabah - self-governing state, holds 20 seats in
    House of Representatives, with foreign affairs, defense, internal security,
    and other powers delegated to federal government; Sarawak - self-governing
    state, holds 27 seats in House of Representatives, with foreign affairs,
    defense, internal security, and other powers delegated to federal government
Capital:
    Kuala Lumpur
Administrative divisions:
    13 states (negeri-negeri, singular - negeri) and 2 federal territories*
    (wilayah-wilayah persekutuan, singular - wilayah persekutuan); Johor, Kedah,
    Kelantan, Labuan*, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Pulau
    Pinang, Sabah, Sarawak, Selangor, Terengganu, Wilayah Persekutuan*
Independence:
    31 August 1957 (from UK)
National holiday:
    National Day, 31 August (1957)
Constitution:
    31 August 1957, amended 16 September 1963
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Paramount Ruler JA'AFAR ibni Abdul Rahman (since 26 April 1994); Deputy
    Paramount Ruler SALAHUDDIN ibni Hisammuddin Alam Shah (since 26 April 1994)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Dr. MAHATHIR bin Mohamad (since 16 July 1981); Deputy Prime
    Minister ANWAR bin Ibrahim (since 1 December 1993)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the Paramount Ruler from members of parliament
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Parliament (Parlimen)
  Senate (Dewan Negara):
    consists of 58 members, 32 appointed by the paramount ruler and 26 elected
    by the state legislatures (2 from each state) for six-year terms; elections
    last held NA (next to be held NA); results - NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Malaysia
                                   Government
  House of Representatives (Dewan Rakyat):
    consists of 180 members, elected for five-year terms; elections last held 21
    October 1990 (next to be held by December 1995); results - National Front
    52%, other 48%; seats - (180 total) National Front 127, DAP 20, PAS 7,
    independents 4, other 22; note - within the National Front, UMNO won 71
    seats and MCA won 18 seats
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
  Peninsular Malaysia:
    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
    Malaysia, LIM Keng Yaik; Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC), S. Samy VELLU
  Sabah:
    National Front, SALLEH Said Keruak, Sabah Chief Minister, Sakaran DANDAI,
    head of Sabah State; United Sabah National Organizaton (USNO), leader NA
  Sarawak:
    coalition Sarawak National Front composed of the Party Pesaka Bumiputra
    Bersatu (PBB), Datuk Patinggi Amar Haji Abdul TAIB Mahmud; Sarawak United
    People's Party (SUPP), Datuk Amar James WONG Soon Kai; Sarawak National
    Party (SNAP), Datuk Amar James WONG; Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak (PBDS), Datuk
    Leo MOGGIE; major opposition parties are Democratic Action Party (DAP), LIM
    Kit Siang and Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), Fadzil NOOR
Member of:
    APEC, AsDB, ASEAN, C, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-15, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, NAM, OIC, UN, UNAVEM II, UNCTAD,
    UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNOMIL, UNOMOZ, UNOSOM, UNPROFOR, UPU, WCL, WFTU,
    WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Abdul MAJID bin Mohamed
  chancery:
    2401 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Los Angeles and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador John S. WOLF
  embassy:
    376 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box No. 10035, 50700 Kuala Lumpur; APO AP 96535-8152
  telephone:
    [60] (3) 2489011
  FAX:
    [60] (3) 2422207
Flag:
    fourteen 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 Islam; the design was based on the flag of
    the US
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Malaysia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The Malaysian economy, a mixture of private enterprise and a soundly managed
    public sector, has posted a remarkable record of 9% average annual growth in
    1988-94. The official growth target for 1995 is 8.5%. 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $166.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    8.7% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $8,650 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3.7% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    2.9% (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $18.7 billion
  expenditures:
    $19.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $4.8 billion (1994)
Exports:
    $56.6 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    electronic equipment, petroleum and petroleum products, palm oil, wood and
    wood products, rubber, textiles
  partners:
    Singapore 22%, US 20%, Japan 13%, UK 4%, Germany 4%, Thailand 4% (1993)
Imports:
    $55.2 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, chemicals, food, petroleum products
  partners:
    Japan 27%, US 17%, Singapore 15%, Taiwan 5%, Germany 4%, UK 3%, South Korea
    3% (1993)
External debt:
    $35.5 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 12% (1994); accounts for 38% of GDP (1993 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    6,700,000 kW
  production:
    31 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,528 kWh (1993)
Industries:
  Peninsular Malaysia:
    rubber and oil palm processing and manufacturing, light manufacturing
    industry, electronics, tin mining and smelting, logging and processing
    timber
  Sabah:
    logging, petroleum production
  Sarawak:
    agriculture processing, petroleum production and refining, logging
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Malaysia
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 16% of GDP (1993 est.)
  Peninsular Malaysia:
    natural rubber, palm oil, rice
  Sabah:
    mainly subsistence, but also rubber, timber, coconut, rice
  Sarawak:
    rubber, timber, pepper; deficit of rice in all areas
Illicit drugs:
    transit point for Golden Triangle heroin going to the US, Western Europe,
    and the Third World despite severe penalties for drug trafficking;
    increasing indigenous abuse of methamphetamine
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-84), $170 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $4.7 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $42 million
Currency:
    1 ringgit (M$) = 100 sen
Exchange rates:
    ringgits (M$) per US$1 - 2.5542 (January 1995), 2.6242 (1994), 2.5741
    (1993), 2.5474 (1992), 2.7501 (1991), 1.7048 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Malaysia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,801 km (Peninsular Malaysia 1,665 km; Sabah 136 km; Sarawak 0 km)
  narrow gauge:
    1,801 km 1.000-m gauge (Peninsular Malaysia 1,665 km; Sabah 136 km)
Highways:
  total:
    29,028 km (Peninsular Malaysia 23,602 km, Sabah 3,782 km, Sarawak 1,644 km)
  paved:
    NA (Peninsular Malaysia 19,354 km mostly bituminous treated)
  unpaved:
    NA (Peninsular Malaysia 4,248 km)
Inland waterways:
  Peninsular Malaysia:
    3,209 km
  Sabah:
    1,569 km
  Sarawak:
    2,518 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 1,307 km; natural gas 379 km
Ports:
    Kota Kinabalu, Kuantan, Kuching, Kudat, Lahad Datu, Labuan, Lumut, Miri,
    Pasir Gudang, Penang, Port Dickson, Port Kelang, Sandakan, Sibu, Tanjong
    Berhala, Tanjong Kidurong, Tawau
Merchant marine:
  total:
    213 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,410,823 GRT/3,635,966 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 34, cargo 73, chemical tanker 11, container 27, liquefied gas tanker 9,
    livestock carrier 1, oil tanker 50, roll-on/roll-off cargo 4, short-sea
    passenger 1, vehicle carrier 3
Airports:
  total:
    115
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    11
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    82
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    7
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Malaysia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    994,860 telephones (1984); international service good
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    good intercity service provided on Peninsular Malaysia mainly by microwave
    radio relay; adequate intercity microwave radio relay network between Sabah
    and Sarawak via Brunei; 2 domestic satellite links
  international:
    submarine cables extend to India and Sarawak; SEACOM submarine cable links
    to Hong Kong and Singapore; satellite earth stations - 2 INTELSAT (1 Indian
    Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean)
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 28, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    33
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Malaysia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Malaysian Army, Royal Malaysian Navy, Royal Malaysian Air Force, Royal
    Malaysian Police Force, Marine Police, Sarawak Border Scouts
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 5,041,003; males fit for military service 3,058,445; males
    reach military age (21) annually 183,760 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $2.1 billion, 2.9% of GDP (1994)
Maldives
MALAWI - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 1 year.
Strict dress codes apply for anyone visiting Malawi.  Women must wear
dresses that cover their shoulders, arms, and knees and may not wear
slacks except in specifically designated areas.  Men with long hair cannot
enter the country.  For further information about this and other
requirements, contact the Embassy of Malawi, 2408 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C.
20008 (202/797-1007) or Malawi Mission to the U.N., 600 3rd Ave., New
York, NY 10016 (212/949-0180).
Malawi - Consular Information Sheet
October 18, 1993
Country Description:  Malawi is a developing African nation.  Facilities for
tourists exist, but are limited.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  Visas are not required for a
stay of up to one year.  Strict dress codes apply to anyone visiting Malawi.
 Women must wear dresses that cover the shoulders, arms and knees and may
not wear slacks except in specifically designated areas.  Men with long hair
cannot enter the country.  For further information, the traveler may contact
the Embassy of Malawi, 2408 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C.
20008, telephone [phone], or the Malawi Mission to the U.N., 600
Third Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10016, telephone, [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Spontaneous civil disturbances are not common in
Malawi, but have occurred.  Strikes and demonstrations in the city of
Blantyre in the southern region of the country and in the capital city of
Lilongwe have become violent at times.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited.  Some medicines are in
short supply.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for
health care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States.  In some cases, supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage has proven useful.  Information on health matters
can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Petty crime, including purse snatching, occurs in
urban areas.  Residential break-ins have increased significantly during the
last six months. The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be
reported immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to
Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on protecting personal
security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region in general.
Both are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, or dealing in illegal
drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy may obtain
updated information on travel and security within Malawi.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in Area 40, City Center, in
the capital city of Lilongwe.  The mailing address is P.O. Box 30016.  The
telephone numbers are (265) 783-166 and 783-342; the fax number is (265) 780-
No. 93-281
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated December 24, 1992, to add
the U.S. Embassy's fax number and information on reporting the loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport.
,                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Malawi
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, east of Zambia
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    118,480 sq km
  land area:
    94,080 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Pennsylvania
Land boundaries:
    total 2,881 km, Mozambique 1,569 km, Tanzania 475 km, Zambia 837 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    dispute with Tanzania over the boundary in Lake Nyasa (Lake Malawi)
Climate:
    tropical; rainy season (November to May); dry season (May to November)
Terrain:
    narrow elongated plateau with rolling plains, rounded hills, some mountains
Natural resources:
    limestone, unexploited deposits of uranium, coal, and bauxite
Land use:
  arable land:
    25%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    20%
  forest and woodland:
    50%
  other:
    5%
Irrigated land:
    200 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; land degradation; water pollution from agricultural runoff,
    sewage, industrial wastes; siltation of spawning grounds endangers fish
    population
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental
    Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban,
    Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Malawi
                                     People
Population:
    9,808,384 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 2,361,309; male 2,384,679)
  15-64 years:
    49% (female 2,479,108; male 2,335,729)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 139,632; male 107,927) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.63% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    49.81 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    23.53 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    the return of refugees to Mozambique is much reduced compared with 1994
Infant mortality rate:
    140.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    39.01 years
  male:
    38.28 years
  female:
    39.76 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    7.36 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Malawian(s)
  adjective:
    Malawian
Ethnic divisions:
    Chewa, Nyanja, Tumbuko, Yao, Lomwe, Sena, Tonga, Ngoni, Ngonde, Asian,
    European
Religions:
    Protestant 55%, Roman Catholic 20%, Muslim 20%, traditional indigenous
    beliefs
Languages:
    English (official), Chichewa (official), other languages important
    regionally
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1987)
  total population:
    48%
  male:
    65%
  female:
    34%
Labor force:
    428,000 wage earners
  by occupation:
    agriculture 43%, manufacturing 16%, personal services 15%, commerce 9%,
    construction 7%, miscellaneous services 4%, other permanently employed 6%
    (1986)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Malawi
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Malawi
  conventional short form:
    Malawi
  former:
    Nyasaland
Digraph:
    MI
Type:
    multiparty democracy following a referendum on 14 June 1993; formerly a
    one-party republic
Capital:
    Lilongwe
Administrative divisions:
    24 districts; Blantyre, Chikwawa, Chiradzulu, Chitipa, Dedza, Dowa, Karonga,
    Kasungu, Lilongwe, Machinga (Kasupe), Mangochi, Mchinji, Mulanje, Mwanza,
    Mzimba, Ntcheu, Nkhata Bay, Nkhotakota, Nsanje, Ntchisi, Rumphi, Salima,
    Thyolo, Zomba
Independence:
    6 July 1964 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 6 July (1964)
Constitution:
    6 July 1966; republished as amended January 1974
Legal system:
    based on English common law and customary law; judicial review of
    legislative acts in the Supreme Court of Appeal; has not accepted compulsory
    ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Bakili MULUZI (since 21 May 1994), leader of the United Democratic
    Front
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; named by the president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly:
    elections last held 17 May 1994 (next to be held 1999); results - percent of
    vote by party NA; seats - (177 total) UDF 84, AFORD 33, MCP 55, others 5
Judicial branch:
    High Court, Supreme Court of Appeal
Political parties and leaders:
  ruling party:
    United Democratic Front (UDF), Bakili MULUZI
  opposition groups:
    Malawi Congress Party (MCP), Gwanda CHAKUAMBA Phiri, secretary general (top
    party position); Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), Chakufwa CHIHANA; Socialist
    League of Malawi (Lesoma), Kapote MWAKUSULA, secretary general; Malawi
    Democratic Union (MDU), Harry BWANAUSI; Congress for the Second Republic
    (CSR), Kanyama CHIUME; Malawi Socialist Labor Party (MSLP), Stanford
    SAMBANEMANJA
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD,
    IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO (correspondent),
    ITU, NAM, OAU, SADC, UN, UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Malawi
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires ad interim Patrick NYASULU (since 14 October
    1994)
  chancery:
    2408 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Peter R. CHAVEAS
  embassy:
    address NA, in new capital city development area in Lilongwe
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 30016, Lilongwe 3, Malawi
  telephone:
    [265] 783 166
  FAX:
    [265] 780 471
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of black (top), red, and green with a radiant,
    rising, red sun centered in the black band; similar to the flag of
    Afghanistan, which is longer and has the national coat of arms superimposed
    on the hoist side of the black and red bands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Malawi
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 40% of GDP and 90% of export
    revenues. After two years of weak performance, economic growth improved
    significantly in 1988-91 as a result of good weather and a broadly based
    economic adjustment effort by the government. Drought cut overall output
    sharply in 1992, but the lost ground was recovered in 1993. 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $7.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    9.3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $750 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    30% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $416 million
  expenditures:
    $498 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $311 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    tobacco, tea, sugar, coffee, peanuts, wood products
  partners:
    US, UK, Zambia, South Africa, Germany
Imports:
    $308 million (c.i.f., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    food, petroleum products, semimanufactures, consumer goods, transportation
    equipment
  partners:
    South Africa, Japan, US, UK, Zimbabwe
External debt:
    $1.8 billion (December 1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3.5% accounts for about 15% of GDP (1992 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    190,000 kW
  production:
    820 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    77 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    agricultural processing (tea, tobacco, sugar), sawmilling, cement, consumer
    goods
Agriculture:
    accounts for 40% of GDP; cash crops - tobacco, sugarcane, cotton, tea, and
    corn; subsistence crops - potatoes, cassava, sorghum, pulses; livestock -
    cattle, goats
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Malawi
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $215 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $2.15 billion
Currency:
    1 Malawian kwacha (MK) = 100 tambala
Exchange rates:
    Malawian kwacha (MK) per US$1 - 7.8358 (August 1994), 4.4028 (1993), 3.6033
    (1992), 2.8033 (1991), 2.7289 (1990), 2.7595 (1989)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Malawi
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    789 km
  narrow gauge:
    789 km 1.067-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    13,135 km
  paved:
    2,364 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, stabilized earth 251 km; earth, improved earth 10,520
    km
Inland waterways:
    Lake Nyasa (Lake Malawi); Shire River, 144 km
Ports:
    Chipoka, Monkey Bay, Nkhata Bay, Nkotakota
Airports:
  total:
    47
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    25
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    15
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Malawi
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    42,250 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    fair system of open-wire lines, radio relay links, and radio communications
    stations
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean ) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 10, FM 17, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Malawi
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army (includes Air Wing and Naval Detachment), Police (includes paramilitary
    Mobile Force Unit), paramilitary Malawi Young Pioneers
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,069,302; males fit for military service 1,056,372 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $13 million, 0.7% of GDP (FY93/94)
l exsible for U.S. interests in Dominica,
St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the islands of the French
West Indies including Martinique, Guadalupe and French St. Martin.  U.S.
citizens may call the U.S. Embassy to obtain updated information on travel
and security in Barbados.
No. 93-253
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 27, 1992 to include
the French West Indies in the U.S. Embassy's area of responsibility.
@*!*                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK

Marshall Islands
'MALTA - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 3 months
(extendable - extension must be applied for prior to end of 3-month
period or expiration of original visa).  Visa requires 3 application forms, 2
photos, proof of onward/return transportation and $46 fee (check or
money order).  Transit visa available for $31.  For additional information
consult Embassy of Malta, 2017 Conn. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/462-3611/2) or nearest Consulate:  CA (213/939-5011 and
415/468-4321), MA (617/259-1391), MI (313/525-9777), MO (816/833-0033), MN
(612/228-0935), NY (212/725-2345), PA (412/262-8460) or TX (713/497-2100 or
713/999-1812).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Malta
============================================================
Malta - Consular Information Sheet
 November 13, 1995
Country Description:  Malta is a small, developed, democratic
Mediterranean island nation, positioned as a cultural and political
stepping-stone between Europe and North Africa.  Tourist facilities
of all categories are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For information concerning entry requirements
for Malta, travelers can contact the Embassy of Malta at 2017
Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel: (202)
462-3611, or the Maltese Consulate in New York City.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is available. Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be
useful.  Information on specific health matters is available through
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for
international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Malta has a low rate of violent crime.
Incidents of Pickpocketing and purse-snatching are relatively rare;
however, break-ins and thefts from parked vehicles and thefts of
cars are on the increase.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S.
passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to
promote a more trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from
the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In Malta, penalties for
possession, use, and dealing of illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy can obtain updated information on travel and
security in Malta.  The U.S. Embassy in Malta is located on the
third floor of Development House, St. Anne Street, Floriana,
Valletta.  The Consular Section's telephone is
(356) 235-960.
 No. 95-144
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 26, 1994,
without change, following an annual review.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Malta
============================================================
Malta - Consular Information Sheet
 November 13, 1995
Country Description:  Malta is a small, developed, democratic
Mediterranean island nation, positioned as a cultural and political
stepping-stone between Europe and North Africa.  Tourist facilities
of all categories are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For information concerning entry requirements
for Malta, travelers can contact the Embassy of Malta at 2017
Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel: (202)
462-3611, or the Maltese Consulate in New York City.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is available. Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be
useful.  Information on specific health matters is available through
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for
international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Malta has a low rate of violent crime.
Incidents of Pickpocketing and purse-snatching are relatively rare;
however, break-ins and thefts from parked vehicles and thefts of
cars are on the increase.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S.
passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to
promote a more trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from
the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In Malta, penalties for
possession, use, and dealing of illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy can obtain updated information on travel and
security in Malta.  The U.S. Embassy in Malta is located on the
third floor of Development House, St. Anne Street, Floriana,
Valletta.  The Consular Section's telephone is
(356) 235-960.
 No. 95-144
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 26, 1994,
without change, following an annual review.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Malta
============================================================
Malta - Consular Information Sheet
 November 13, 1995
Country Description:  Malta is a small, developed, democratic
Mediterranean island nation, positioned as a cultural and political
stepping-stone between Europe and North Africa.  Tourist facilities
of all categories are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For information concerning entry requirements
for Malta, travelers can contact the Embassy of Malta at 2017
Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel: (202)
462-3611, or the Maltese Consulate in New York City.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is available. Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be
useful.  Information on specific health matters is available through
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for
international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Malta has a low rate of violent crime.
Incidents of Pickpocketing and purse-snatching are relatively rare;
however, break-ins and thefts from parked vehicles and thefts of
cars are on the increase.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S.
passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to
promote a more trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from
the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In Malta, penalties for
possession, use, and dealing of illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy can obtain updated information on travel and
security in Malta.  The U.S. Embassy in Malta is located on the
third floor of Development House, St. Anne Street, Floriana,
Valletta.  The Consular Section's telephone is
(356) 235-960.
 No. 95-144
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 26, 1994,
without change, following an annual review.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
@---                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Malta
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Europe, islands in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily (Italy)
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    320 sq km
  land area:
    320 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    140 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive fishing zone:
    25 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    Malta and Tunisia are discussing the commercial exploitation of the
    continental shelf between their countries, particularly for oil exploration
Climate:
    Mediterranean with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers
Terrain:
    mostly low, rocky, flat to dissected plains; many coastal cliffs
Natural resources:
    limestone, salt
Land use:
  arable land:
    38%
  permanent crops:
    3%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    59%
Irrigated land:
    10 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    very limited natural fresh water resources; increasing reliance on
    desalination
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine
    Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands;
    signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Desertification
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Malta
                                    Geography
Note:
    the country comprises an archipelago, with only the 3 largest islands
    (Malta, Gozo, and Comino) being inhabited; numerous bays provide good
    harbors
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Malta
                                     People
Population:
    369,609 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    22% (female 39,199; male 41,581)
  15-64 years:
    67% (female 123,665; male 124,167)
  65 years and over:
    11% (female 23,597; male 17,400) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.75% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    13.22 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.43 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    1.7 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    7.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.02 years
  male:
    74.75 years
  female:
    79.48 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.92 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Maltese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Maltese
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab, Sicilian, Norman, Spanish, Italian, English
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 98%
Languages:
    Maltese (official), English (official)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1985)
  total population:
    84%
  male:
    86%
  female:
    82%
Labor force:
    127,200
  by occupation:
    government (excluding job corps) 37%, services 26%, manufacturing 22%,
    training programs 9%, construction 4%, agriculture 2% (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Malta
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Malta
  conventional short form:
    Malta
Digraph:
    MT
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Valletta
Administrative divisions:
    none (administration directly from Valletta)
Independence:
    21 September 1964 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 21 September (1964)
Constitution:
    1964 constitution substantially amended on 13 December 1974
Legal system:
    based on English common law and Roman civil law; has accepted compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Ugo MIFSUD BONNICI (since 4 April 1994)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Dr. Edward (Eddie) FENECH ADAMI (since
    12 May 1987); Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Guido DE MARCO (since 14 May 1987)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president on advice of the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    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 total: 69 (MLP 33, NP 36 after
    adjustment)
Judicial branch:
    Constitutional Court, Court of Appeal
Political parties and leaders:
    Nationalist Party (NP), Edward FENECH ADAMI; Malta Labor Party (MLP), Alfred
    SANT
Member of:
    C, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, FAO, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFAD, ILO,
    IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ISO
    (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OSCE, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL,
    WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Albert Borg Olivier DE PUGET
  chancery:
    2017 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 3612
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Malta
                                   Government
  consulate(s):
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Joseph R. PAOLINO, Jr.
  embassy:
    2nd Floor, Development House, Saint Anne Street, Floriana, Malta
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 535, Valletta
  telephone:
    [356] 235960
  FAX:
    [356] 243229
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Malta
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Significant resources are limestone, 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 electronics and
    textile industries major contributors and with the state-owned Malta
    drydocks employing about 4,300 people. In 1994, over 1,000,000 tourists
    visited the island. Per capita GDP of $10,760 places Malta in the range of
    the less affluent EU countries.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $3.9 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4.4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $10,760 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    5% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    4.5% (March 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.4 billion
  expenditures:
    $1.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $215 million (FY94/95 est.)
Exports:
    $1.3 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment, clothing and footware, printed matter
  partners:
    Italy 32%, Germany 16%, UK 8%
Imports:
    $2.1 billion (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    food, petroleum, machinery and semimanufactured goods
  partners:
    Italy 27%, Germany 14%, UK 13%, US 9%
External debt:
    $603 million (1992)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5.4% (1992); accounts for 27% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    250,000 kW
  production:
    1.1 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,749 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tourism, electronics, ship repairyard, construction, food manufacturing,
    textiles, footwear, clothing, beverages, tobacco
Agriculture:
    accounts for 3% of GDP and 2% of the work force (1992); overall, 20%
    self-sufficient; main products - potatoes, cauliflower, grapes, wheat,
    barley, tomatoes, citrus, cut flowers, green peppers, hogs, poultry, eggs;
    generally adequate supplies of vegetables, poultry, milk, pork products;
    seasonal or periodic shortages in grain, animal fodder, fruits, other basic
    foodstuffs
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Malta
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for hashish from North Africa to Western Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-81), $172 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $336 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $76 million; Communist countries (1970-88), $48
    million
Currency:
    1 Maltese lira (LM) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Maltese liri (LM) per US$1 - 0.3656 (January 1995), 0.3776 (1994), 0.3821
    (1993), 0.3178 (1992), 0.3226 (1991), 0.3172 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Malta
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    1,291 km
  paved:
    asphalt 1,179 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone 77 km; earth 35 km
Ports:
    Marsaxlokk, Valletta
Merchant marine:
  total:
    964 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 15,518,359 GRT/26,604,739 DWT
  ships by type:
    barge carrier 3, bulk 272, cargo 300, chemical tanker 30, combination bulk
    26, combination ore/oil 16, container 33, liquefied gas tanker 3,
    multifunction large-load carrier 3, oil tanker 191, passenger 7,
    passenger-cargo 3, railcar carrier 1, refrigerated cargo 14,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 26, short-sea passenger 20, specialized tanker 5,
    vehicle carrier 11
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; includes 49 countries; the 10 major fleet
    flags are: Greece 351 ships, Russia 66, Croatia 63, Switzerland 31,
    Montenegro 29, Italy 27, Germany 23, Monaco 20, UK 20, and Georgia 10
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Malta
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    153,000 telephones; automatic system satisfies normal requirements
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    submarine cable and microwave radio relay between islands
  international:
    1 submarine cable and 1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 8, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Malta
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Armed Forces, Maltese Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 98,525; males fit for military service 78,305 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $21.4 million, about 0.9% of GDP (FY92/93)
ates              Belarus
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Belarus
  conventional short form:
    Belarus
  local long form:
    Respublika Byelarus'
  local short form:
    none
  former:
    Belorussian (Byelorussian) Soviet Socialist Republic
Digraph:
    BO
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Minsk
Administrative divisions:
    6 voblastsi (singular - voblasts') and one municipality* (harady, singular -
    horad); Brestskaya (Brest), Homyel'skaya (Homyel'), Horad Minsk*,
    Hrodzyenskaya (Hrodna), Mahilyowskaya (Mahilyow), Minskaya, Vitsyebskaya
    (Vitsyebsk)
  note:
    the administrative centers of the voblastsi are included in parentheses
Independence:
    25 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 27 July (1990)
Constitution:
    adopted 15 March 1994; replaces constitution of April 1978
Legal system:
    based on civil law system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Aleksandr LUKASHENKO (since 20 July 1994); election held June 24
    and 10 July 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); Aleksandr LUKASHENKO 80%,
    Vyacheslav KEBICH 14%
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Mikhail CHIGIR (since July 1994); Deputy Prime Ministers
    Vladimir GARKUN, Viktor GONCHAR, Sergey LING, Mikhail MYASNIKOVICH, Valeriy
    KOKAREV (since NA)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
  note:
    first presidential elections took place in June-July 1994
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Supreme Soviet:
    elections last held 4 April 1990 (next to be held 14 May 1995); results -
    Communists 87%; seats - (360 total) number of seats by party NA; note - 50
    seats are for public bodies; the Communist Party obtained an overwhelming
    majority
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK

Mayotte
MAURITANIA - Passport and visa required.  Obtain visa before arrival.
Visa valid 3 months, requires $10 fee (money order only), 2 application
forms, 4 photos, yellow fever and cholera immunizations and proof of
onward/return transportation.  Business travelers must have proof of sufficient funds
(bank statement) or letter from sponsoring company.  For further
information contact Embassy of the Republic of Mauritania, 2129 Leroy
Pl., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/232-5700/01) or Permanent Mission to
the U.N., 211 East 43rd Street, Suite 2000, New York, NY 10017
(212/986-7963).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Mauritania
============================================================
Mauritania - Consular Information Sheet
 February 8, 1995
Country Description:  Mauritania is a developing country in
northwestern Africa.  It is a Muslim country with a conservative
dress code.  Women are expected to wear garments with sleeves, to
have dress lengths that cover the knee and to not wear shorts.
Entry Requirements:  U.S. citizens need a passport and a visa.
Evidence of yellow fever immunization and proof of sufficient funds
are required.  Further information on entry requirements can be
obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of Mauritania, 2129 Leroy
Place, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], or
from the Mauritanian Permanent Mission to the U.N., 6100 Third
Avenue, 37th Floor, New York, N.Y. 10016, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Surface travel between Mauritania and the
former Western Sahara is dangerous, because of the continuing
conflict between Morocco and the Polisario movement.  Although a
ceasefire is presently in place, several violations have occurred,
and the area cannot be considered safe.  Travelers are at risk of
being caught up in hostilities between Morocco and the Polisario
movement.  There are reports of thousands of unexploded mines in the
Western Sahara and in areas of Mauritania adjacent to the Western
Sahara border.  Exploding mines are occasionally reported and have
caused death and injury.  Surface travel between Mali and Mauritania
is dangerous due to a series of violent incidents related to ethnic
conflict, cattle rustling, and the proliferation of weapons.  It is
not possible to get a Malian visa in Mauritania.  Both surface and
air travel between Mauritania and Senegal resumed in April 1992;
however, surface travel is restricted to several designated border
crossing-points, and the possibility of recurring violence is great.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Mauritania are limited.
Medicines are difficult to obtain.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  The
Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment of medical
services outside the United States.  In some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven useful.
 For additional health information, travelers can contact the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline,
telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Petty crime occurs.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  U.S. State
Department pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to
Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on protecting
personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region
in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Local currency may not be imported or
exported.  Credit cards, primarily American Express, can only be
used at a few hotels in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy may
obtain updated information on travel and security in Mauritania.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in the capital city
of Nouakchott between the Presidency Building and the Spanish
Embassy.  The postal address is B.P. 222, Nouakchott, Mauritania.
The phone number is (222-2) 526-60, and the fax number is (222-2)
515-92.
 No. 95-020
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 18,
1993, to provide updated information on medical facilities and
currency regulations.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
1d1                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mauritania
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Senegal and
    Western Sahara
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    1,030,700 sq km
  land area:
    1,030,400 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than three times the size of New Mexico
Land boundaries:
    total 5,074 km, Algeria 463 km, Mali 2,237 km, Senegal 813 km, Western
    Sahara 1,561 km
Coastline:
    754 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    boundary with Senegal in dispute
Climate:
    desert; constantly hot, dry, dusty
Terrain:
    mostly barren, flat plains of the Sahara; some central hills
Natural resources:
    iron ore, gypsum, fish, copper, phosphate
Land use:
  arable land:
    1%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    38%
  forest and woodland:
    5%
  other:
    56%
Irrigated land:
    120 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    overgrazing, deforestation, and soil erosion aggravated by drought are
    contributing to desertification; very limited natural fresh water resources
    away from the Senegal which is the only perennial river
  natural hazards:
    hot, dry, dust/sand-laden sirocco wind blows primarily in March and April;
    periodic droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection,
    Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Desertification, Law of
    the Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mauritania
                                    Geography
Note:
    most of the population concentrated along the Senegal River in the southern
    part of the country
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mauritania
                                     People
Population:
    2,263,202 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 544,674; male 551,099)
  15-64 years:
    49% (female 574,282; male 542,762)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 28,955; male 21,430) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.17% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    47.32 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    15.66 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    83.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    48.54 years
  male:
    45.66 years
  female:
    51.54 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.92 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Mauritanian(s)
  adjective:
    Mauritanian
Ethnic divisions:
    mixed Maur/black 40%, Maur 30%, black 30%
Religions:
    Muslim 100%
Languages:
    Hasaniya Arabic (official), Pular, Soninke, Wolof (official)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1988)
  total population:
    35%
  male:
    46%
  female:
    25%
Labor force:
    465,000 (1981 est.); 45,000 wage earners (1980)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 47%, services 29%, industry and commerce 14%, government 10%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mauritania
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Islamic Republic of Mauritania
  conventional short form:
    Mauritania
  local long form:
    Al Jumhuriyah al Islamiyah al Muritaniyah
  local short form:
    Muritaniyah
Digraph:
    MR
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Nouakchott
Administrative divisions:
    12 regions (regions, singular - region); Adrar, Assaba, Brakna, Dakhlet
    Nouadhibou, Gorgol, Guidimaka, Hodh ech Chargui, Hodh el Gharbi, Inchiri,
    Tagant, Tiris Zemmour, Trarza
  note:
    there may be a new capital district of Nouakchott
Independence:
    28 November 1960 (from France)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 28 November (1960)
Constitution:
    12 July 1991
Legal system:
    three-tier system: Islamic (Shari'a) courts, special courts, state security
    courts (in the process of being eliminated)
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Col. Maaouya Ould Sid'Ahmed TAYA (since 12 December 1984);
    election last held NA January 1992 (next to be held NA January 1998);
    results - President Col. Maaouya Ould Sid 'Ahmed TAYA elected
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
Legislative branch:
    bicameral legislature
  Senate (Majlis al-Shuyukh):
    elections last held 15 April 1994 (nex to be held NA 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mauritania
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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
Other political or pressure groups:
    Mauritanian Workers Union (UTM)
Member of:
    ABEDA, ACCT (associate), ACP, AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, AMU, CAEU, CCC, CEAO,
    ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS,
    ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, UN, UNCTAD,
    UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ismail Ould IYAHI (since 22 September 1994)
  chancery:
    2129 Leroy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Dorothy Myers SAMPAS
  embassy:
    address NA, Nouakchott
  mailing address:
    B. P. 222, Nouakchott
  telephone:
    [222] (2) 526-60, 526-63
  FAX:
    [222] (2) 515-92
Flag:
    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 Islam
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mauritania
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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.
    Mauritania 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, drought 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $2.4 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,110 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    10% (1993)
Unemployment rate:
    20% (1991 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $280 million
  expenditures:
    $346 million, including capital expenditures of $61 million (1989 est.)
Exports:
    $401 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    iron ore, fish and fish products
  partners:
    Japan 27%, Italy, Belgium, Luxembourg
Imports:
    $378 million (c.i.f., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, consumer goods, petroleum products, capital goods
  partners:
    Algeria 15%, China 6%, US 3%, France, Germany, Spain, Italy
External debt:
    $1.9 billion (1992 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%; accounts for almost 30% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    110,000 kW
  production:
    135 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    61 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    fish processing, mining of iron ore and gypsum
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mauritania
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 25% of GDP (including fishing); largely subsistence farming and
    nomadic cattle and sheep herding except in Senegal river valley; crops -
    dates, millet, sorghum, root crops; fish products number-one export; large
    food deficit in years of drought
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $168 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.3 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $490 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $277
    million; Arab Development Bank (1991), $20 million
Currency:
    1 ouguiya (UM) = 5 khoums
Exchange rates:
    ouguiyas (UM) per US$1 - 125.910 (January 1995), 123.575 (1994), 120.806
    (1993),87.027 (1992), 81.946 (1991), 80.609 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mauritania
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    690 km (single track); note - owned and operated by government mining
    company
  standard gauge:
    690 km 1.435-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    7,525 km
  paved:
    1,685 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, otherwise improved 1,040 km; unimproved earth 4,800
    km (roads, trails, tracks)
Inland waterways:
    mostly ferry traffic on the Senegal River
Ports:
    Bogue, Kaedi, Nouadhibou, Nouakchott, Rosso
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    28
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    6
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    10
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mauritania
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; poor system of cable and open-wire lines, minor microwave
    radio relay links, and radio communications stations (improvements being
    made)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    mostly cable and open wire lines
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) and 2 ARABSAT earth stations, with six planned
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mauritania
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, National Guard, National
    Police, Presidential Guard
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 483,916; males fit for military service 236,323
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $36 million, 2.7% of GDP (1994)
Man Isle of
MALI - Passport and visa required.  Visa must be obtained in advance.
Tourist/business visa for stay up to 4 weeks, may be extended after
arrival, requires $17 fee (cash or money order), 2 application forms, 2
photos, proof of onward/return transportation and yellow fever
vaccination. (Cholera immunization is recommended.)  For business travel, must have
company letter stating purpose of trip.  Send SASE for return of
passport if applying by mail.  Apply Embassy of the Republic of Mali, 2130 R
St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/332-2249).
Mali - Consular Information Sheet
September 21, 1994
Country Description:  Mali is a developing West African nation with a new
democratically elected system of government.  Facilities for tourism are
limited.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  For further
information, the traveler may contact the Embassy of the Republic of Mali,
2130 R Street, N.W., Washington, D.C.  20008, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Attacks by groups of armed bandits, usually focused
on vehicle theft, have occurred in the Timbuktu, Gao and Kidal regions.
Overland travel to the areas north of the Niger River in the Mopti region,
as well as to the areas near the Mauritanian border is also risky.  Tourists
who have traveled by air have not been threatened.  However, travel by river
boat may be dangerous; a river boat was attacked in the summer by bandits,
and several travelers were injured.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited.  Many medicines are
unavailable.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for
health care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage, including medical evacuation, has proved useful.  Information on
health matters may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's
international travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  While crime in general continues to escalate in Mali,
petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and simple theft, are still most common.
 Less frequent, yet more serious, are the incidents of armed robberies and
banditry that occur in the downtown Bamako area and along major travel
routes, near principal cities.  Victims have included foreigners.  Travelers
who stay alert, remain in groups, avoid poorly lit areas, etc., especially
during the hours of darkness may avoid problems.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to local police and to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  The pamphlets
"A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide
useful information on protecting personal security while traveling abroad
and in the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Road Conditions:  The roads from Bamako to Mopti, Douentza, Koutiala,
Sikasso, and Bougouni, and a few other roads are paved.  Road conditions on
other routes are poor, particularly in the rainy season which runs from mid-
June to mid-September.  On major roads, stops at customs and police
checkpoints are frequent.  Driving is particularly hazardous after dark, and
nighttime travel may be dangerous.
Photography:  Photography is no longer restricted, except for military
subjects.  However, interpretation of what may be considered off limits
varies.  Other subjects may be considered sensitive from a cultural or
religious viewpoint, and it is helpful to obtain permission before taking
photographs in Mali.
Currency:  The Malian currency is the CFA franc which is exchangeable for
French francs at a fixed rate.  Exchange of dollars in cash or travelers
checks is slow and often involves out-of-date rates.  The U.S. Embassy
cannot provide exchange facilities for non-official Americans.  Use of
credit cards is limited to payment for services at two hotels in Bamako.
Cash advances on credit cards are performed by only one bank in Mali, the
BMCD Bank in Bamako, and only on a "Visa" credit card.
Telephone Service:  International calls are expensive, and collect calls
cannot be made from Mali.  Calls to the United States cost approximately ten
dollars a minute.  Outside Bamako, it is often impossible to obtain an
international telephone line.
Exportation of Artifacts:  In 1993, the U.S. government began providing
emergency protection for Malian cultural property, thereby restricting the
importation of Malian archeological cultural property to the U.S.  While
these U.S. restrictions apply only to archeological items, travelers
planning to export any Malian cultural property are required by Malian law
to obtain an export authorization from the National Museum in Bamako.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in Bamako may
obtain updated informaton on travel and security in Mali.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at the intersection of Rue
Rochester NY and Rue Mohamed V, in Bamako, the capital city.  The mailing
address is B.P. 34, Bamako, Mali.  The telephone number is [phone].
The fax number is [phone].
No. 94-224
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated June 13, 1994, to note
that river boat travel may be risky and to revise the paragraph on crime.
/                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Mali
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, southwest of Algeria
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    1.24 million sq km
  land area:
    1.22 million sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 7,243 km, Algeria 1,376 km, Burkina 1,000 km, Guinea 858 km, Cote
    d'Ivoire 532 km, Mauritania 2,237 km, Niger 821 km, Senegal 419 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    the disputed international boundary between Burkina 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 and Mali are proceeding with boundary demarcation, including the
    tripoint with Niger
Climate:
    subtropical to arid; hot and dry February to June; rainy, humid, and mild
    June to November; cool and dry November to February
Terrain:
    mostly flat to rolling northern plains covered by sand; savanna in south,
    rugged hills in northeast
Natural resources:
    gold, phosphates, kaolin, salt, limestone, uranium, bauxite, iron ore,
    manganese, tin, and copper deposits are known but not exploited
Land use:
  arable land:
    2%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    25%
  forest and woodland:
    7%
  other:
    66%
Irrigated land:
    50 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; desertification; inadequate supplies of potable
    water; poaching
  natural hazards:
    hot, dust-laden harmattan haze common during dry seasons; recurring droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species, Law of the
    Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified -
    Biodiversity, Nuclear Test Ban
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Mali
                                     People
Population:
    9,375,132 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 2,240,565; male 2,242,373)
  15-64 years:
    49% (female 2,416,952; male 2,165,043)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 162,234; male 147,965) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.89% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    51.88 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    19.93 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -3 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    104.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    46.37 years
  male:
    44.7 years
  female:
    48.09 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    7.33 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Malian(s)
  adjective:
    Malian
Ethnic divisions:
    Mande 50% (Bambara, Malinke, Sarakole), Peul 17%, Voltaic 12%, Songhai 6%,
    Tuareg and Moor 10%, other 5%
Religions:
    Muslim 90%, indigenous beliefs 9%, Christian 1%
Languages:
    French (official), Bambara 80%, numerous African languages
Literacy:
    age 6 and over can read and write (1988)
  total population:
    19%
  male:
    27%
  female:
    12%
Labor force:
    2.666 million (1986 est.)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 80%, services 19%, industry and commerce 1% (1981)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Mali
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Mali
  conventional short form:
    Mali
  local long form:
    Republique de Mali
  local short form:
    Mali
  former:
    French Sudan
Digraph:
    ML
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Bamako
Administrative divisions:
    8 regions (regions, singular - region); Gao, Kayes, Kidal, Koulikoro, Mopti,
    Segou, Sikasso, Tombouctou
Independence:
    22 September 1960 (from France)
National holiday:
    Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic, 22 September (1960)
Constitution:
    adopted 12 January 1992
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Alpha Oumar KONARE (since 8 June 1992); election last held in
    April 1992 (next to be held April 1997); Alpha KONARE was elected in runoff
    race against Montaga TALL
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Ibrahima Boubacar KEITA (since March 1994)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly:
    elections last held on 8 March 1992 (next to be held 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
Political parties and leaders:
    Association 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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Mali
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, CEAO, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, FZ, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, UN, UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WADB, WCL,
    WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ibrahim Siragatou CISSE
  chancery:
    2130 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 939-8950
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant) (Ambassador William H. DAMERON III retired March 1995)
  embassy:
    Rue Rochester NY and Rue Mohamed V, Bamako
  mailing address:
    B. P. 34, Bamako
  telephone:
    [223] 22 54 70
  FAX:
    [223] 22 37 12
Flag:
    three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), yellow, and red; uses the
    popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Mali
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 Niger. 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%
    devaluation of January 1994. Post-devaluation inflation appears to have
    peaked at 35% in 1994 and the government appears to be keeping on track with
    its IMF structural adjustment program.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $5.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $600 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    35% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $376 million
  expenditures:
    $697 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $415 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    cotton, livestock, gold
  partners:
    mostly franc zone and Western Europe
Imports:
    $842 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, foodstuffs, construction materials, petroleum,
    textiles
  partners:
    mostly franc zone and Western Europe
External debt:
    $2.6 billion (1991 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -1.4% (1992 est.); accounts for 13.0% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    90,000 kW
  production:
    310 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    33 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    minor local consumer goods production and food processing, construction,
    phosphate and gold mining
Agriculture:
    accounts for 50% of GDP; mostly subsistence farming; cotton and livestock
    products account for over 70% of exports; other crops - millet, rice, corn,
    vegetables, peanuts; livestock - cattle, sheep, goats
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Mali
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $349 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $3.02 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $92 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $190
    million
Currency:
    1 CFA franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Communaute Financiere Africaine francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 529.43 (January
    1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991), 272.26
    (1990)
  note:
    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
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Mali
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    642 km; note - linked to Senegal's rail system through Kayes
  narrow gauge:
    642 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    15,700 km
  paved:
    1,670 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, improved earth 3,670 km; unimproved earth 10,360 km
Inland waterways:
    1,815 km navigable
Ports:
    Koulikoro
Airports:
  total:
    33
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    10
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    12
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Mali
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    11,000 telephones; domestic system poor but improving; provides only minimal
    service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay, wire, and radio communications stations; expansion of
    microwave radio relay in progress
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 2, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Mali
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Air Force, Gendarmerie, Republican Guard, National Guard, National
    Police (Surete Nationale)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,861,977; males fit for military service 1,062,916 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $66 million, 2.2% of GDP (1994)
Malta
MALDIVES  - Passport required.  Tourist visa issued upon arrival, no
charge.  Visitors must have proof of onward/return transportation and
sufficient funds (minimum of $10 per person per day).  Check with
Embassy of Maldives in Sri Lanka, 25 Melbourne Avenue, Colombo 4, Sri Lanka or
the Maldives Mission to the U.N.  in New York (212/599-6195) for further
information.
Maldives - Consular Information Sheet
August 15, 1994
Country Description:  Maldives is a group of islands west of Sri Lanka, off
the southern tip of India.  Facilities for tourism are relatively well
developed in most beach areas.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  Tourist visas are issued upon
arrival at no charge.  Visitors must have proof of onward/return
transportation and sufficient funds.  For further information the traveler
can contact the Embassy of Maldives in Sri Lanka, at 25 Melbourne Avenue,
Colombo 4, Sri Lanka, or the Maldives Mission to the U.N. in New York,
telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited and some medicine may be
unavailable.  Doctors and clinics often require immediate cash payment for
health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Supplemental coverage which specifically covers overseas
treatment has proven useful.  Information on health matters can be obtained
from the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline,
telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  There is a low rate of crime in Maldives.  However,
petty crime does exist.  Valuables left on beaches are subject to thievery.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately
to local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  There is no U.S.
Embassy in Maldives, but travelers may contact the consular agent in Male,
Maldives.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal
security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers
to South Asia."  They are available from the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced in Maldives.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register with the consular agent in
Maldives, or in the consular section of the U.S. Embassy in Colombo, Sri
Lanka, can obtain updated information on travel and security within Maldives.
Embassy Location:  There is no U.S. Embassy in Maldives.  The U.S.
ambassador to Sri Lanka is also accredited to the Maldives.  There is a U.S.
consular agent in Male, the capital city of Maldives.  The agent's address
is Mandhu Edurruge, 20-05 Violet Magu, Male, Republic of Maldives.  The
local telephone number is 322581 or 325199.  The consular agent works under
the jurisdiction of the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka.
No. 94-161
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 27, 1993, without
change, following an annual review.
&                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Maldives
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Asia, group of atolls in the Indian Ocean, south-southwest of India
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    300 sq km
  land area:
    300 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than 1.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    644 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    35-310 nm as defined by geographic coordinates; segment of zone coincides
    with maritime boundary with India
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid; dry, northeast monsoon (November to March); rainy,
    southwest monsoon (June to August)
Terrain:
    flat with elevations only as high as 2.5 meters
Natural resources:
    fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    10%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    3%
  forest and woodland:
    3%
  other:
    84%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    depletion of freshwater aquifers threatens water supplies
  natural hazards:
    low level of islands makes them very sensitive to sea level rise
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Ozone Layer
    Protection; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
Note:
    1,190 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls; archipelago of strategic
    location astride and along major sea lanes in Indian Ocean
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Maldives
                                     People
Population:
    261,310 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    47% (female 60,038; male 63,042)
  15-64 years:
    50% (female 63,526; male 67,020)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 3,537; male 4,147) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.58% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    42.8 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    50 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    65.49 years
  male:
    63.99 years
  female:
    67.07 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.17 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Maldivian(s)
  adjective:
    Maldivian
Ethnic divisions:
    Sinhalese, Dravidian, Arab, African
Religions:
    Sunni Muslim
Languages:
    Divehi (dialect of Sinhala; script derived from Arabic), English spoken by
    most government officials
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1985)
  total population:
    91%
  male:
    91%
  female:
    92%
Labor force:
    66,000 (est.)
  by occupation:
    fishing industry 25%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Maldives
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Maldives
  conventional short form:
    Maldives
Digraph:
    MV
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Male
Administrative divisions:
    19 districts (atolls); Aliff, Baa, Daalu, Faafu, Gaafu Aliff, Gaafu Daalu,
    Haa Aliff, Haa Daalu, Kaafu, Laamu, Laviyani, Meemu, Naviyani, Noonu, Raa,
    Seenu, Shaviyani, Thaa, Waavu
Independence:
    26 July 1965 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 26 July (1965)
Constitution:
    4 June 1968
Legal system:
    based on Islamic law with admixtures of English common law primarily in
    commercial matters; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Maumoon Abdul GAYOOM (since 11 November 1978); election last held
    1 October 1993 (next to be held 1998); results - President Maumoon Abdul
    GAYOOM was reelected with 92.76% of the vote
  cabinet:
    Ministry of Atolls; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  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
Judicial branch:
    High Court
Political parties and leaders:
    although political parties are not banned, none exist; country governed by
    the Didi clan for the past eight centuries
Member of:
    AsDB, C, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IMF,
    IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OIC, SAARC, UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    Maldives has no embassy in the US, but does have a UN mission in New York;
    Permanent Representative to the UN Ahmed ZAKI
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka is accredited to Maldives and makes periodic
    visits there
  consular agency:
    Midhath Hilmy, Male
  telephone:
    322581
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Maldives
                                   Government
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Maldives
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Fishing is the largest industry, employing 25% of the work force and
    accounting for over 60% of exports. Over 90% of government tax revenue comes
    from import duties and tourism-related taxes. During the 1980s tourism
    became one of the most important and highest growth sectors of the economy.
    In 1993, tourism accounted for 17% of GDP and more than 60% of the Maldives'
    foreign exchange receipts. 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
    cultivatable land and the shortage of domestic labor. Most staple foods must
    be imported. In 1993, industry which consisted mainly of garment production,
    boat building, and handicrafts accounted for about 6% of GDP.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $360 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5.4% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,500 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    20% (1993)
Unemployment rate:
    NEGL%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $95 million (excluding foreign transfers)
  expenditures:
    $143 million, including capital expenditures of $71 million (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $38.5 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    fish, clothing
  partners:
    US, UK, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Germany
Imports:
    $177.8 million (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    consumer goods, intermediate and capital goods, petroleum products
  partners:
    Singapore, Germany, Sri Lanka, India, Japan
External debt:
    $130 million (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 24% (1990); accounts for 6% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    5,000 kW
  production:
    30 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    123 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    fishing and fish processing, tourism, shipping, boat building, some coconut
    processing, garments, woven mats, coir (rope), handicrafts
Agriculture:
    fishing, coconuts, corn, sweet potatoes
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Maldives
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-88), $28 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $125 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $14 million
Currency:
    1 rufiyaa (Rf) = 100 laari
Exchange rates:
    rufiyaa (Rf) per US$1 - 11.770 (January 1995), 11.586 (1994), 10.957 (1993),
    10.569 (1992), 10.253 (1991), 9.509 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Maldives
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    NA
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA (Male has 9.6 km of coral highways within the city)
Ports:
    Gan, Male
Merchant marine:
  total:
    16 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 50,384 GRT/77,771 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 14, container 1, oil tanker 1
Airports:
  total:
    2
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Maldives
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    2,804 telephones; minimal domestic and international facilities
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Maldives
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    National Security Service (paramilitary police force)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 57,172; males fit for military service 31,911 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
to the victim.  Isolated areas are best avoided.
Business fraud stemming from Nigerian scam operations targets
foreigners, including Americans, and poses a danger of financial
loss and physical harm.  Persons contemplating business deals in
Benin with individuals promoting investment in Nigeria, especially
the Central Bank of Nigeria or the Nigerian National Petroleum
Company, are strongly urged to check with the U.S. Department of
Commerce or the U.S. Department of State before providing any
information, making financial commitments, or traveling to Benin.
The Department of State has issued a brochure for business
travelers to Nigeria; single copies are available at no charge from
the Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management, Room
4811, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520-4818.  Please
enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to
Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on protecting
personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region
in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to
register with the U.S. Embassy in Cotonou at Rue Caporal Anani
Bernard, and to obtain updated information on travel and security in
Benin.  The Embassy's mailing address is B.P. 2012, Cotonou, Benin.
The telephone numbers are [phone], 30-05-13, and 30-17-92.
The fax numbers are [phone] and 30-19-74.
 No. 95-147
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 28, 1995,
to include information on the prevalence of Nigerian business scams
operating in Benin.
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STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Benin
============================================================
Benin - Consular Information Sheet
 November 21, 1995
Country Description:  Benin is a develop
Morocco
MONGOLIA - Passport and visa required.  Transit visa for stay up to 48
hours requires onward ticket, visa for next destination and $15 fee
($30 for double transit).  Tourist visa for up to 90 days requires
confirmation from Mongolian Travel Agency (Zhuulchin) and $25 fee.  Business visa
requires letter from company stating purpose of trip and invitation
from Mongolian organization and $25 fee (multiple-entry $50).  Submit 1
application form, 2 photos, itinerary and prepaid envelope for return
of passport by certified or special delivery mail.  AIDS test required for
students and anyone staying longer than 3 months; U.S. test accepted.
For additional information contact Embassy of Mongolia, 2833 M Street,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20007 (202/333-7117) or the UN Mission of Mongolia, 6
East 77th St., New York, NY 10021 (212/861-9460).
Mongolia - Consular Information Sheet
July 29, 1994
Country Description:  Mongolia is a country undergoing substantial political
and economic changes.  In June 1993, it held democratic elections for the
third time since the resignation of the former government in 1990.  Tourist
facilities and services are not widely available.
Entry Requirements:  Passports, visas, and an invitation from a Mongolian
host are required.   Multiple-entry visas can only be obtained in
Ulaanbaatar with the sponsorship of a Mongolian organization.  Transit visas
for stays of 48 hours or less require an onward ticket, a visa for the next
destination, and a fee of 15 dollars.  Foreign travelers to Mongolia, even
those staying fewer than ten days, are required to register with the police
at the Citizens' Information and Registration Center within ten days of
their arrival.  Visitors who fail to register may be stopped at departure,
denied exit, and fined at least 25 dollars.  A Tourist visa for up to 90
days requires confirmation from the Mongolian Travel Agency Zhuulchin, or
from a private Mongolian travel agency, and a 25 dollar fee.  For more
current information on visa issuance and fees and registration requirements,
the traveler may contact the Embassy of Mongolia at 2833 M Street N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20007, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Mongolia are limited, and some
medicine is unavailable.  Plague, while relatively rare, is endemic to
Mongolia from August to October, and affected areas of the country may be
quarantined for limited periods during that time.  Doctors and hospitals
often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  In some cases,
supplemental medical insurance with specific coverage abroad, including
provision for medical evacuation, has proven useful.  The international
travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta, tel. (404)
332-4559, has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Mongolia, and especially the capital, Ulaanbaatar, is
suffering from a dramatic rise in crime.  Petty thefts, such as
pickpocketing, are common.  Areas such as the Ulaanbaatar local market and
the state-run department store deserve special caution from travelers.  In
addition to theft, there have been reports of more violent assaults on
foreigners.  As the economic situation remains difficult, there is little
possibility that the level of crime will decrease or that the Mongolian
police will be able to deal effectively with the situation.  Thefts continue
aboard international trains between Mongolia and Russia.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police
and the U.S. Embassy.  Useful information on guarding valuables and
protecting personal security while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  It is available from
the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  In Mongolia, penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
jail sentences and fines.
Currency Regulations:  U.S. dollars are often accepted, especially in
tourist locations, but it is also useful to carry some cash in the local
currency, the Tugrik.  Thomas Cook Travelers Checks in U.S. dollars and
American Express Travelers Checks can also be used at the major hotels.  The
American Express card is acceptable in a few locations, as are Visa and
Mastercard.  Cash advances against credit cards are not obtainable, and
there are no international banks.  However, international bank wire
transfers are possible.
Winter Power Shortages:  Severe fuel shortages and problems with the central
heating and electrical systems cause seriously reduced heating levels and
power outages in Ulaanbaatar and the cities of Darhan and Erdenet during the
winter months of November through April.  Smaller towns in the countryside
may have no heat or electricity at all during these months.  The U.S.
Embassy advises all Americans resident in Mongolia to be prepared to
evacuate in case of complete energy systems failure.
Delay in Arrival of Checked Baggage:  Passengers arriving in Ulaanbaatar by
plane from Beijing routinely encounter prolonged delays in the delivery of
their checked luggage ranging from overnight to four days.   Travelers who
include warm clothing and other essentials in carry-on baggage decrease the
inconvenience experienced while waiting for their luggage.
Accommodations:  Hotels are few in number and are often fully booked.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated
information on travel, security and health problems within the country.
Embassy Locations:  The U.S. Embassy is located in Micro Region 11, Big Ring
Road, Ulaanbaatar.  The telephone numbers are (976-1)329-095 and 329-606.
No. 94-140
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 9, 1993 and provides
updated currency information.
@0+0                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mongolia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Asia, north of China
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    1.565 million sq km
  land area:
    1.565 million sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Alaska
Land boundaries:
    total 8,114 km, China 4,673 km, Russia 3,441 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    desert; continental (large daily and seasonal temperature ranges)
Terrain:
    vast semidesert and desert plains; mountains in west and southwest; Gobi
    Desert in southeast
Natural resources:
    oil, coal, copper, molybdenum, tungsten, phosphates, tin, nickel, zinc,
    wolfram, fluorspar, gold
Land use:
  arable land:
    1%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    79%
  forest and woodland:
    10%
  other:
    10%
Irrigated land:
    770 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    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;
    desertification
  natural hazards:
    duststorms can occur in the spring
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Nuclear
    Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea
Note:
    landlocked; strategic location between China and Russia
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mongolia
                                     People
Population:
    2,493,615 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    40% (female 495,919; male 511,464)
  15-64 years:
    56% (female 693,037; male 693,776)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 54,991; male 44,428) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.58% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    32.65 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.82 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    41.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    66.54 years
  male:
    64.28 years
  female:
    68.92 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.26 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Mongolian(s)
  adjective:
    Mongolian
Ethnic divisions:
    Mongol 90%, Kazakh 4%, Chinese 2%, Russian 2%, other 2%
Religions:
    predominantly Tibetan Buddhist, Muslim 4%
  note:
    previously limited religious activity because of Communist regime
Languages:
    Khalkha Mongol 90%, Turkic, Russian, Chinese
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    primarily herding/agricultural
  note:
    over half the adult population is in the labor force, including a large
    percentage of women; shortage of skilled labor
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mongolia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Mongolia
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Mongol Uls
  former:
    Outer Mongolia
Digraph:
    MG
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Ulaanbaatar
Administrative divisions:
    18 provinces (aymguud, singular - aymag) and 3 municipalities* (hotuud,
    singular - hot); Arhangay, Bayanhongor, Bayan-Olgiy, Bulgan, Darhan*,
    Dornod, Dornogovi, Dundgovi, Dzavhan, Erdenet*, Govi-Altay, Hentiy, Hovd,
    Hovsgol, Omnogovi, Ovorhangay, Selenge, Suhbaatar, Tov, Ulaanbaatar*, Uvs
Independence:
    13 March 1921 (from China)
National holiday:
    National Day, 11 July (1921)
Constitution:
    adopted 13 January 1992
Legal system:
    blend of Russian, Chinese, and Turkish systems of law; no constitutional
    provision for judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Punsalmaagiyn OCHIRBAT (since 3 September 1990); 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)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Putsagiyn JASRAY (since 3 August 1992); Deputy Prime
    Ministers Lhamsuren ENEBISH and Choijilsurengiyn PUREVDORJ (since NA)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the Great Hural
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  State Great Hural:
    elections held for the first time 28 June 1992 (next to be held NA); results
    - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (76 total) MPRP 71, United Party of
    Mongolia 4, MSDP 1
  note:
    the People's Small Hural no longer exists
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court serves as appeals court for people's and provincial courts,
    but to date rarely overturns verdicts of lower courts
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mongolia
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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 Mongolia, leader NA
  note:
    opposition parties were legalized in May 1990
Member of:
    AsDB, CCC, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS,
    ILO, IMF, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ISO, ITU, NAM
    (observer), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Luvsandorj DAWAAGIW
  chancery:
    2833 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20007
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Donald C. JOHNSON
  embassy:
    address NA, Ulaanbaatar
  mailing address:
    c/o American Embassy Beijing, Micro Region 11, Big Ring Road; PSC 461, Box
    300, FPO AP 96521-0002
  telephone:
    [976] (1) 329095, 329606
  FAX:
    [976] (1) 320776
Flag:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mongolia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Mongolia'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, tungsten, 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 is soliciting support from
    international financial agencies and foreign investors. The economy,
    however, has still not recovered from the loss of Soviet aid, and the
    country continues to suffer substantial economic hardships, with one-fourth
    of the population below the poverty line.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,800 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    70% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    15% (1991 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA (1991 est.)
  note:
    deficit of $67 million
Exports:
    $360 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    copper, livestock, animal products, cashmere, wool, hides, fluorspar, other
    nonferrous metals
  partners:
    former CMEA countries 62%, China 17%, EC 8% (1992)
Imports:
    $361 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, fuels, food products, industrial consumer goods,
    chemicals, building materials, sugar, tea
  partners:
    USSR 75%, Austria 5%, China 5% (1991)
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate -15% (1992 est.); accounts for about 42% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    900,000 kW
  production:
    3.1 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,267 kWh (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mongolia
                                     Economy
Industries:
    copper, processing of animal products, building materials, food and
    beverage, mining (particularly coal)
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 35% of GDP and provides livelihood for about 50% of the
    population; livestock raising predominates (primarily sheep and goats, but
    also cattle, camels, and horses); crops - wheat, barley, potatoes, forage
Economic aid:
    NA
Currency:
    1 tughrik (Tug) = 100 mongos
Exchange rates:
    tughriks (Tug) per US$1 - 415.34 (January 1995), 412.72 (1994), 42.56
    (1992), 9.52 (1991), 5.63 (1990)
  note:
    the exchange rate 40 tughriks = 1US$ was introduced June 1991 and was in
    force to the end of 1992; beginning 27 May 1993 the exchange rate is the
    midpoint of the average buying and selling rates that are freely determined
    on the basis of market transactions between commercial banks and the nonbank
    public
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mongolia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,750 km
  broad gauge:
    1,750 km 1.524-m gauge (1988)
Highways:
  total:
    46,700 km
  paved:
    1,000 km
  unpaved:
    45,700 km (1988)
Inland waterways:
    397 km of principal routes (1988)
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    34
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    7
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    10
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    5
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mongolia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    63,000 telephones (1989)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    at least 1 satellite earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 12, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    220,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1 (provincial repeaters - 18)
  televisions:
    120,000
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mongolia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Mongolian People's Army (includes Internal Security Forces and Frontier
    Guards), Air Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 605,633; males fit for military service 394,433; males reach
    military age (18) annually 25,862 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $22.8 million, 1% of GDP (1992)
Micronesia
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mayotte
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territorial collectivity of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mayotte
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, island in the Mozambique Channel, about one-half of the way
    from northern Madagascar to northern Mozambique
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    375 sq km
  land area:
    375 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than twice the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    185.2 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claimed by Comoros
Climate:
    tropical; marine; hot, humid, rainy season during northeastern monsoon
    (November to May); dry season is cooler (May to November)
Terrain:
    generally undulating with ancient volcanic peaks, deep ravines
Natural resources:
    negligible
Land use:
  arable land:
    NA%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    cyclones during rainy season
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    part of Comoro Archipelago
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mayotte
                                     People
Population:
    97,088 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    49% (female 23,910; male 24,120)
  15-64 years:
    48% (female 22,824; male 23,935)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 1,165; male 1,134) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.8% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    48.44 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    10.46 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    77.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    58.27 years
  male:
    56.04 years
  female:
    60.57 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.71 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Mahorais (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Mahoran
Ethnic divisions:
    NA
Religions:
    Muslim 99%, Christian (mostly Roman Catholic)
Languages:
    Mahorian (a Swahili dialect), French
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mayotte
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Territorial Collectivity of Mayotte
  conventional short form:
    Mayotte
Digraph:
    MF
Type:
    territorial collectivity of France
Capital:
    Mamoutzou
Administrative divisions:
    none (territorial collectivity of France)
Independence:
    none (territorial collectivity of France)
National holiday:
    National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
Constitution:
    28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
Legal system:
    French law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Francois MITTERRAND (since 21 May 1981)
  head of government:
    Prefect Jean-Jacques DERACQ (since NA); President of the General Council
    Younoussa BAMANA (since NA 1976)
Legislative branch:
    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 on 24 September 1989 (next to be held NA September
    1995); 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Tribunal Superieur d'Appel)
Political parties and leaders:
    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),
Member of:
    FZ
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (territorial collectivity of France)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (territorial collectivity of France)
Flag:
    the flag of France is used
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mayotte
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Economic activity is based primarily on the agricultural sector, including
    fishing and livestock raising. Mayotte is not self-sufficient and must
    import a large portion of its food requirements, mainly from France. The
    economy and future development of the island are heavily dependent on French
    financial assistance. Mayotte's remote location is an obstacle to the
    development of tourism.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $54 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $600 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $37.3 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1985 est.)
Exports:
    $4 million (f.o.b., 1984)
  commodities:
    ylang-ylang, vanilla
  partners:
    France 79%, Comoros 10%, Reunion 9%
Imports:
    $21.8 million (f.o.b., 1984)
  commodities:
    building materials, transportation equipment, rice, clothing, flour
  partners:
    France 57%, Kenya 16%, South Africa 11%, Pakistan 8%
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    NA kW
  production:
    NA kWh
  consumption per capita:
    NA kWh
Industries:
    newly created lobster and shrimp industry
Agriculture:
    most important sector; provides all export earnings; crops - vanilla,
    ylang-ylang, coffee, copra; imports major share of food needs
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89),
    $402 million
Currency:
    1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.2943 (January 1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632
    (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991), 5.4453 (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mayotte
                                     Economy
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mayotte
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    42 km
  paved:
    bituminous 18 km
  unpaved:
    24 km
Ports:
    Dzaoudzi
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mayotte
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    450 telephones; small system administered by French Department of Posts and
    Telecommunications
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    radio relay and high-frequency radio communications for links to Comoros and
    international communications
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mayotte
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
Johnston Atoll
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Jarvis Island
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of the US)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Jarvis Island
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from
    Hawaii to the Cook Islands
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    4.5 sq km
  land area:
    4.5 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 7.5 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    8 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; scant rainfall, constant wind, burning sun
Terrain:
    sandy, coral island surrounded by a narrow fringing reef
Natural resources:
    guano (deposits worked until late 1800s)
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    no natural fresh water resources
  natural hazards:
    the narrow fringing reef surrounding the island can be a maritime hazard
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    sparse bunch grass, prostrate vines, and low-growing shrubs; primarily a
    nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat for seabirds, shorebirds, and marine
    wildlife; feral cats
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Jarvis Island
                                     People
Population:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Jarvis Island
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Jarvis Island
Digraph:
    DQ
Type:
    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
Capital:
    none; administered from Washington, DC
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Jarvis Island
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Jarvis Island
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only; note - there is one boat landing area in the
    middle of the west coast and another near the southwest corner of the island
Note:
    there is a day beacon near the middle of the west coast
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Jarvis Island
                                 Defense Forces
    defense is the responsibility of the US; visited annually by the US Coast
    Guard
elins:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bermuda

Namibia
MOROCCO - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 3
months, extendable.  For additional information consult Embassy of Morocco,
1601 21st St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009 (202/462-7979 to 7982) or
Consulate General in New York (212/213-9644).
Morocco - Consular Information Sheet
July 28, 1994
Country Description:  Morocco is a constitutional monarchy with a developing
economy.  Tourist facilities and means of transportation are widely
available, but may vary in quality depending on price and location.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not required for a
stay of up to 90 days.  For further information concerning entry
requirements for Morocco, travelers may contact the Embassy of Morocco at
1601 21st St. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009, telephone [phone] to 82,
or the Moroccan Consulate General in New York, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  The sparsely-settled Western Sahara (formerly Spanish
Sahara) was long the site of armed conflict between the Polisario Front and
Morocco on the issue of independence versus Moroccan sovereignty.  Although
a ceasefire is presently in place, several violations have occurred and the
area cannot be considered safe.  There are reports of thousands of
unexploded mines in the Western Sahara and in areas of Mauritania adjacent
to the Western Sahara border.  Exploding mines are occasionally reported,
and have caused death and injury.  Transit to the Western Sahara remains
restricted; persons planning to travel in the region may obtain information
on clearance requirements from the Moroccan Embassy.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Morocco is available, although not all
facilities meet high quality standards and specialized care or treatment may
not be available.  Travelers planning to drive in the mountains and other
remote areas may wish to carry a medical kit and a Moroccan phone card for
emergencies.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for
health care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proven useful.  Specific health questions may be addressed to
the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline at
telephone [phone].
Crime Information:  Morocco has a moderately high crime rate in urban areas.
 Criminals have targeted tourists for assaults, muggings, thefts,
pickpocketings, and scams of all types.  Commonly-reported crimes include
falsifying credit-card vouchers, and shipping inferior rugs as a substitute
for the rugs purchased by the traveler.  Some travelers have been befriended
by persons of various nationalities who have offered the travelers food,
drink, or cigarettes which are drugged.  Harassment of tourists by
unemployed Moroccans trying to be "guides" is a common problem.  Prudent
travelers hire only official tour guides through hotels and travel agencies.
 Traveling alone in the Rif mountain area is risky.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately
to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security, and
other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State
pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to the Middle East
and North Africa."  They are available from the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Travelers checks and credit cards are accepted at
some establishments in Morocco, mainly in urban areas.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.
Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs are severe,
and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the Consular Section of the
U.S. Embassy or Consulate General can obtain updated information on travel
and security within Morocco.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Rabat is located at 2
Avenue de Marrakech in the capital city of Rabat, telephone [phone]-
65.  The American Consulate General in Casablanca is located at 8 Boulevard
Moulay Youssef, telephone [phone].
No. 94-142
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Morocco issued August 31,
1993 to add information on carrying a medical kit when traveling in remote
areas.
`<T<                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Morocco
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean
    Sea, between Algeria and Western Sahara
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    446,550 sq km
  land area:
    446,300 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than California
Land boundaries:
    total 2,002 km, Algeria 1,559 km, Western Sahara 443 km
Coastline:
    1,835 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claims and administers Western Sahara, but sovereignty is unresolved; the UN
    is attempting to hold a referendum; the UN-administered cease-fire has been
    currently in effect since September 1991; Spain controls five places of
    sovereignty (plazas de soberania) on and off the coast of Morocco - the
    coastal enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla which Morocco contests as well as the
    islands of Penon de Alhucemas, Penon de Velez de la Gomera, and Islas
    Chafarinas
Climate:
    Mediterranean, becoming more extreme in the interior
Terrain:
    northern coast and interior are mountainous with large areas of bordering
    plateaus, intermontane valleys, and rich coastal plains
Natural resources:
    phosphates, iron ore, manganese, lead, zinc, fish, salt
Land use:
  arable land:
    18%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    28%
  forest and woodland:
    12%
  other:
    41%
Irrigated land:
    12,650 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    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 pollution of
    coastal waters
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Morocco
                                    Geography
  natural hazards:
    northern mountains geologically unstable and subject to earthquakes;
    periodic droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ship
    Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate
    Change, Desertification, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Ozone
    Layer Protection
Note:
    strategic location along Strait of Gibraltar
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Morocco
                                     People
Population:
    29,168,848 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    38% (female 5,486,176; male 5,659,410)
  15-64 years:
    58% (female 8,456,525; male 8,327,560)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 641,236; male 597,941) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.09% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    27.93 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.97 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -1.08 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    45.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    68.98 years
  male:
    67.03 years
  female:
    71.02 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.69 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Moroccan(s)
  adjective:
    Moroccan
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab-Berber 99.1%, other 0.7%, Jewish 0.2%
Religions:
    Muslim 98.7%, Christian 1.1%, Jewish 0.2%
Languages:
    Arabic (official), Berber dialects, French often the language of business,
    government, and diplomacy
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    50%
  male:
    61%
  female:
    38%
Labor force:
    7.4 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 50%, services 26%, industry 15%, other 9% (1985)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Morocco
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of Morocco
  conventional short form:
    Morocco
  local long form:
    Al Mamlakah al Maghribiyah
  local short form:
    Al Maghrib
Digraph:
    MO
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Rabat
Administrative divisions:
    36 provinces and 5 wilayas*; Agadir, Al Hoceima, Assa-Zag, Azilal, Beni
    Mellal, Ben Slimane, Boulemane, Casablanca*, Chaouen, El Jadida, El Kelaa
    des Sraghna, 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
Independence:
    2 March 1956 (from France)
National holiday:
    National Day, 3 March (1961) (anniversary of King Hassan II's accession to
    the throne)
Constitution:
    10 March 1972, revised 4 September 1992
Legal system:
    based on Islamic law and French and Spanish civil law system; judicial
    review of legislative acts in Constitutional Chamber of Supreme Court
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    King HASSAN II (since 3 March 1961)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Abdellatif FILALI (since 29 May 1994)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the King
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Morocco
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
  opposition:
    Socialist Union of Popular Forces (USFP), Mohammad al-YAZGHI; Istiqlal Party
    (IP), M'Hamed BOUCETTA; Party of Progress and Socialism (PPS), Ali YATA;
    Organization of Democratic and Popular Action (OADP), leader NA
  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
Member of:
    ABEDA, ACCT (associate), AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, AMU, CCC, EBRD, ECA, FAO,
    G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS,
    ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NAM, OAS
    (observer), OIC, UN, UNAVEM II, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UPU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Mohamed BENAISSA
  chancery:
    1601 21st Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 7982
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Marc C. GINSBERG
  embassy:
    2 Avenue de Marrakech, Rabat
  mailing address:
    PSC 74, Box 003, APO AE 09718
  telephone:
    [212] (7) 76 22 65
  FAX:
    [212] (7) 76 56 61
  consulate(s) general:
    Casablanca
Flag:
    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 Islam
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Morocco
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Morocco faces the typical problems of developing countries - restraining
    government spending, reducing constraints on private activity and foreign
    trade, and keeping inflation 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 drought 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%. Servicing
    the large debt, high unemployment, and vulnerability to external economic
    forces remain long-term problems for Morocco.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $87.5 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,060 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    5.4% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    16% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $8.1 billion
  expenditures:
    $8.9 billion (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $4.1 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    food and beverages 30%, semiprocessed goods 23%, consumer goods 21%,
    phosphates 17%
  partners:
    EU 70%, Japan 5%, US 4%, Libya 3%, India 2% (1993)
Imports:
    $7.5 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    capital goods 24%, semiprocessed goods 22%, raw materials 16%, fuel and
    lubricants 16%, food and beverages 13%, consumer goods 9%
  partners:
    EC 59%, US 8%, Saudi Arabia 5%, UAE 3%, Russia 2% (1993)
External debt:
    $20.5 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 0.1% accounts for 28% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    2,620,000 kW
  production:
    9.9 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    361 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    phosphate rock mining and processing, food processing, leather goods,
    textiles, construction, tourism
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Morocco
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 15% of GDP, 50% of employment, and 30% of export value; not
    self-sufficient in food; cereal farming and livestock raising predominate;
    barley, wheat, citrus fruit, wine, vegetables, olives
Illicit drugs:
    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 cocaine from South America destined for
    Western Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1.3 billion; US commitments,
    including Ex-Im (1992), $123.6 million; Western (non-US) countries, ODA and
    OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $7.5 billion; OPEC bilateral aid
    (1979-89), $4.8 billion; Communist countries (1970-89), $2.5 billion
  note:
    $2.8 billion debt canceled by Saudi Arabia (1991); IMF standby agreement
    worth $13 million; World Bank, $450 million (1991)
Currency:
    1 Moroccan dirham (DH) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Moroccan dirhams (DH) per US$1 - 2.892 (January 1995), 9.203 (1994), 9.299
    (1993), 8.538 (1992), 8.707 (1991), 8.242 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Morocco
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,893 km
  standard gauge:
    1,893 km 1.435-m gauge (974 km electrified; 246 km double track)
Highways:
  total:
    59,474 km
  paved:
    29,440 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, improved earth, unimproved earth 30,034 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 362 km; petroleum products (abandoned) 491 km; natural gas 241 km
Ports:
    Agadir, Al Jadida, Casablanca, El Jorf Lasfar, Kenitra, Mohammedia, Nador,
    Rabat, Safi, Tangier; also Spanish-controlled Ceuta and Melilla
Merchant marine:
  total:
    38 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 183,951 GRT/273,057 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 6, chemical tanker 9, container 2, oil tanker 4, refrigerated cargo
    10, roll-on/roll-off cargo 6, short-sea passenger 1
Airports:
  total:
    74
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    11
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    8
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    13
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    10
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    24
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Morocco
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    280,000 telephones; 10.5 telephones/1,000 persons
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    good system composed of wire lines, cables, and microwave radio relay links;
    principal centers are Casablanca and Rabat; secondary centers are Fes,
    Marrakech, Oujda, Tangier, and Tetouan
  international:
    5 submarine cables; 2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) and 1 ARABSAT earth station;
    microwave radio relay to Gibraltar, Spain, and Western Sahara; coaxial cable
    and microwave radio relay to Algeria; microwave radio relay network linking
    Syria, Jordan, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 20, FM 7, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    26 (repeaters 26)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Morocco
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Royal Moroccan Army, Royal Moroccan Navy, Royal Moroccan Air Force, Royal
    Gendarmerie, Auxiliary Forces
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 7,307,076; males fit for military service 4,637,453; males
    reach military age (18) annually 323,921 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $1.3 billion, 3.8% of GDP (1994)
Mauritius
)                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Martinique
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (overseas department of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Martinique
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    1,100 sq km
  land area:
    1,060 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than six times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    290 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; moderated by trade winds; rainy season (June to October)
Terrain:
    mountainous with indented coastline; dormant volcano
Natural resources:
    coastal scenery and beaches, cultivable land
Land use:
  arable land:
    10%
  permanent crops:
    8%
  meadows and pastures:
    30%
  forest and woodland:
    26%
  other:
    26%
Irrigated land:
    60 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    hurricanes, flooding, and volcanic activity (an average of one major natural
    disaster every five years)
  international agreements:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Martinique
                                     People
Population:
    394,787 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    23% (female 44,960; male 46,512)
  15-64 years:
    67% (female 134,439; male 130,642)
  65 years and over:
    10% (female 22,058; male 16,176) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.1% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    16.92 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.82 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.1 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    7.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    78.67 years
  male:
    75.94 years
  female:
    81.53 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.81 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Martiniquais (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Martiniquais
Ethnic divisions:
    African and African-Caucasian-Indian mixture 90%, Caucasian 5%, East Indian,
    Lebanese, Chinese less than 5%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 95%, Hindu and pagan African 5%
Languages:
    French, Creole patois
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1982)
  total population:
    93%
  male:
    92%
  female:
    93%
Labor force:
    100,000
  by occupation:
    service industry 31.7%, construction and public works 29.4%, agriculture
    13.1%, industry 7.3%, fisheries 2.2%, other 16.3%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Martinique
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Department of Martinique
  conventional short form:
    Martinique
  local long form:
    Departement de la Martinique
  local short form:
    Martinique
Digraph:
    MB
Type:
    overseas department of France
Capital:
    Fort-de-France
Administrative divisions:
    none (overseas department of France)
Independence:
    none (overseas department of France)
National holiday:
    National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
Constitution:
    28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
Legal system:
    French legal system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Francois MITTERRAND (since 21 May 1981)
  head of government:
    Prefect Michel MORIN (since NA); President of the General Council Claude
    LISE (since 22 March 1992); President of the Regional Council Emile CAPGRAS
    (since 22 March 1992)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
Legislative branch:
    unicameral General Council and a unicameral Regional Assembly
  General Council:
    elections last held 25 September and 8 October 1988 (next to be held NA);
    results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (44 total) number of seats by
    party NA; note - a leftist coalition obtained a one-seat margin
  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 NA); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) UDF 1, PPM 1
  French National Assembly:
    elections last held NA June 1993 (next to be held NA June 1998); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (4 total) RPR 3, FSM 1
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Martinique
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Rally for the Republic (RPR), Stephen BAGOE; Union for a Martinique of
    Progress (UMP); Martinique Progressive Party (PPM), Aime CESAIRE; Socialist
    Federation of Martinique (FSM), Michel YOYO; Martinique Communist Party
    (PCM); Martinique Patriots (PM); Union for French Democracy (UDF), Jean
    MARAN; Martinique Independence Movement (MIM), Alfred MARIE-JEANNE;
    Republican Party (PR), Jean BAILLY
Other political or pressure groups:
    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)
Member of:
    FZ, WCL, WFTU
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (overseas department of France)
US diplomatic representation:
    the post closed in August 1993 (overseas department of France)
Flag:
    the flag of France is used
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Martinique
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy is based on sugarcane, bananas, tourism, and light industry.
    Agriculture accounts for about 10% of GDP and the small industrial sector
    for 10%. Sugar production has declined, with most of the sugarcane now used
    for the production of rum. Banana exports are increasing, going mostly to
    France. 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 France. 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $3.9 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $10,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3.9% (1990)
Unemployment rate:
    32.1% (1990)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $610 million
  expenditures:
    $1.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1991)
Exports:
    $247 million (f.o.b., 1992)
  commodities:
    refined petroleum products, bananas, rum, pineapples
  partners:
    France 57%, Guadeloupe 31%, French Guiana (1991)
Imports:
    $1.75 billion (c.i.f., 1992)
  commodities:
    petroleum products, crude oil, foodstuffs, construction materials, vehicles,
    clothing and other consumer goods
  partners:
    France 62%, UK, Italy, Germany, Japan, US (1991)
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    113,100 kW
  production:
    700 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,677 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    construction, rum, cement, oil refining, sugar, tourism
Agriculture:
    including fishing and forestry, accounts for about 10% of GDP; principal
    crops - pineapples, avocados, bananas, flowers, vegetables, sugarcane for
    rum; dependent on imported food, particularly meat and vegetables
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for cocaine and marijuana bound for the US and Europe
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Martinique
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89),
    $10.1 billion
Currency:
    1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.2943 (January 1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632
    (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991), 5.4453 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Martinique
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    1,680 km
  paved:
    1,300 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, earth 380 km
Ports:
    Fort-de-France, La Trinite
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    2
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Martinique
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    68,900 telephones; domestic facilities are adequate
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    interisland microwave radio relay links to Guadeloupe, Dominica, and Saint
    Lucia; 2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 6, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    10
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Martinique
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    French forces (Army, Navy, Air Force), Gendarmerie
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
3d one of the poorest and least developed Latin American countries.
    However, Bolivia has experienced generally improving economic conditions
    since the PAZ Estenssoro administration (1985-89) introduced market-oriented
    policies which reduced inflation 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 Bolivia's once powerful labor movement. By
    maintaining fiscal discipline, PAZ Zamora helped reduce inflation 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 an inflation rate that
    continues to decrease - the 1994 rate of 8.5% was the lowest in ten years -
    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. Related laws - one that establishes
    SIRESE, the regulatory agency that will oversee the privatizations, and
    another that outlines the rules for privatization in the electricity sector
    - were approved later in the year.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $18.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4.2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $2,370 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    8.5% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    6.2% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $3.75 billion
  expenditures:
    $3.75 billion, including capital expenditures of $556.2 million (1995 est.)
Exports:
    $1.1 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    metals 39%, natural gas 9%, soybeans 11%, jewelry 11%, wood 8%
  partners:
    US 26%, Argentina 15% (1993 est.)
Imports:
    $1.21 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    capital goods 48%, chemicals 11%, petroleum 5%, food 5% (1993 est.)
  partners:
    US 24%, Argentina 13%, Brazil 11%, Japan 11% (1993 est.)
External debt:
    $4.2 billion (January 1995)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5% (1994 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    756,200 kW
  production:
    2.116 billion kWh
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bolivia
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    367 kWh (1994)
Industries:
    mining, smelting, petroleum, food and beverage, tobacco, handicrafts,
    clothing; illicit drug industry reportedly produces 15% of its revenues
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 21% of GDP (including forestry and fisheries); principal
    commodities - coffee, coca, cotton, corn, sugarcane, rice, potatoes, timber;
    self-sufficient in food
Illicit drugs:
    world's second-largest producer of coca (after Peru) with an estimated
    48,100 hectares under cultivation in 1994; voluntary and forced eradication
    programs unable to prevent production from rising to 89,800 metric tons in
    1994 from 84,400 tons in 1993; government considers all but 12,000 hectares
    illicit; intermediate coca products and cocaine exported to or through
    Colombia and Brazil to the US and other international drug markets;
    alternative crop program aims to reduce illicit coca cultivation
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $990 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $2.025 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $340 million
Currency:
    1 boliviano ($B) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    bolivianos ($B) per US$1 - 4.72 (January 1995), 4.6205 (1994), 4.2651
    (1993), 3.9005 (1992), 3.5806 (1991), 3.1727 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bolivia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,684 km (single track)
  narrow gauge:
    3,652 km 1.000-m gauge; 32 km 0.760-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    42,815 km
  paved:
    1,865 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 12,000 km; improved/unimproved earth 28,950 km
Inland waterways:
    10,000 km of commercially navig
Navassa Island
NAMIBIA - Passport, onward/return ticket and proof of sufficient funds
required.  Visa not required for tourist or business stay up to 90
days. Consult Embassy of Namibia, 1605 New Hampshire Ave., N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20009 (202/986-0540) for further information on entry requirements.
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Namibia
============================================================
Namibia - Consular Information Sheet
 January 31, 1995
Country Description:  Namibia is a southern African country with a
moderately developed economy.  Facilities for tourism are available.
 Roads are generally very good, although care should be taken to
avoid hitting wandering wildlife, especially at night.
Entry Requirements:  A passport, an onward/return ticket and proof
of sufficient funds are required for entrance into Namibia.  A visa
is not required for tourist or business visits of 90 days or less;
however, visitors must be processed through immigration at a legal
port of entry within 24 hours if the actual point of entry is not
staffed by an immigration official.  The following airports are
considered legal ports of entry for the purpose of complying with
this requirement:  Windhoek International, Eros Suburban,
Keetmanshoop, Oranjemund, Ross Pinah, Ondangwa, Oshakati,
Grootfontein, Mpacha, Rundu, and Rooikop.  Travelers can obtain
further information from the Embassy of Namibia at 1605 New
Hampshire Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009, telephone (202)
986-0540, or from the Permanent Mission of Namibia to the U.N. at
135 E. 36th St., New York, NY 10016, telephone [phone], fax
[phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are relatively modern,
especially in the city of Windhoek.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health care services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment of
medical services outside the United States.  In some cases,
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas and medical
evacuation coverage has proven useful.  For additional health
information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease Control's
international travelers hotline [phone].
Crime Information:  Some petty crime occurs.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local
police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The pamphlets,
"A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa,"
provide useful information on protecting personal security while
traveling abroad and on travel in the region in general.  Both are
available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Driving:  Visitors should refrain from driving off the main roads
in the northern part of the country, where unexploded landmines
continue to pose a threat.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in
Windhoek can obtain updated information on travel and security in
Namibia.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 14 Lossen Street
in Windhoek.  The mailing address is Private Bag 12029, Windhoek
9000, Namibia.  The telephone number is (264-61) 22-1601, and the
fax number is (264-61) 22-9792.
 No. 95-012
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated December 8,
1993, to update
information on entry requirements, medical facilities and driving.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Namibia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Angola and
    South Africa
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    825,418 sq km
  land area:
    825,418 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than half the size of Alaska
Land boundaries:
    total 3,824 km, Angola 1,376 km, Botswana 1,360 km, South Africa 855 km,
    Zambia 233 km
Coastline:
    1,572 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    short section of boundary with Botswana is indefinite; quadripoint with
    Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe is in disagreement; dispute with Botswana
    over uninhabited Kasikili ( Sidudu) Island in Linyanti (Chobe) River
    remained unresolved in mid-February 1995 and the parties agreed to refer the
    matter to the International Court of Justice;
Climate:
    desert; hot, dry; rainfall sparse and erratic
Terrain:
    mostly high plateau; Namib Desert along coast; Kalahari Desert in east
Natural resources:
    diamonds, copper, uranium, gold, lead, tin, lithium, cadmium, zinc, salt,
    vanadium, natural gas, fish; suspected deposits of oil, natural gas, coal,
    iron ore
Land use:
  arable land:
    1%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    64%
  forest and woodland:
    22%
  other:
    13%
Irrigated land:
    40 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    very limited natural fresh water resources; desertification
  natural hazards:
    prolonged periods of drought
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection;
    signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Namibia
                                     People
Population:
    1,651,545 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    47% (female 384,885; male 394,216)
  15-64 years:
    50% (female 414,283; male 405,938)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 26,783; male 25,440) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.44% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    43.04 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.61 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    59.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    62.1 years
  male:
    59.37 years
  female:
    64.9 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.34 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Namibian(s)
  adjective:
    Namibian
Ethnic divisions:
    black 86%, white 6.6%, mixed 7.4%
  note:
    about 50% of the population belong to the Ovambo tribe and 9% to the
    Kavangos tribe; other ethnic groups include (with approximate share of total
    population): Herero 7%, Damara 7%, Nama 5%, Caprivian 4%, Bushmen 3%, Baster
    2%, Tswana 0.5%
Religions:
    80%-90% Christian (50% Lutheran; at least 30% other Christian denominations)
Languages:
    English 7% (official), Afrikaans common language of most of the population
    and about 60% of the white population, German 32%, indigenous languages:
    Oshivambo, Herero, Nama
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1960)
  total population:
    38%
  male:
    45%
  female:
    31%
Labor force:
    500,000
  by occupation:
    agriculture 60%, industry and commerce 19%, services 8%, government 7%,
    mining 6% (1981 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Namibia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Namibia
  conventional short form:
    Namibia
Digraph:
    WA
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Windhoek
Administrative divisions:
    13 districts; Erongo, Hardap, Karas, Khomas, Kunene, Caprivi (Liambezi),
    Ohangwena, Okavango, Omaheke, Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto, Otjozondjupa
Independence:
    21 March 1990 (from South African mandate)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 21 March (1990)
Constitution:
    ratified 9 February 1990; effective 12 March 1990
Legal system:
    based on Roman-Dutch law and 1990 constitution
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Sam NUJOMA (since 21 March 1990); election last held 7-8 December
    1994 (next to be held NA); results - Sam NUJOMA elected president by popular
    vote
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president from the National Assembly
Legislative branch:
    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); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (72 total) SWAPO 53, DTA 15, UDF 2, MAG
    1, DCN 1
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    South West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO), Sam NUJOMA; DTA of Namibia
    (formerly Democratic Turnhalle Alliance) (DTA), Mishake MUYONGO; United
    Democratic Front (UDF), Justus GAROEB; Federal Convention of Namibia (FCN),
    Kephics CONRUDIE; Monitor Action Group (MAG), Kosie PRETORIUS; Workers
    Revolutionary Party (WRP); Southwest African National Union (SWANU), Hitjevi
    VEII; Democratic Coalition of Namibia (DCN), Moses KATJIUONGA
Other political or pressure groups:
    NA
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, FLS, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IFAD,
    IFC, IFRCS (associate), ILO, IMF, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL,
    IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM, OAU, SACU, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR,
    UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Namibia
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Tuliameni KALOMOH
  chancery:
    1605 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Marshall F. McCALLIE
  embassy:
    Ausplan Building, 14 Lossen St., Windhoek
  mailing address:
    Private Bag 12029 Ausspannplatz, Windhoek
  telephone:
    [264] (61) 221601
  FAX:
    [264] (61) 229792
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Namibia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy is heavily dependent on the mining industry to extract and
    process minerals for export. Mining accounts for almost 25% of GDP. Namibia
    is the fourth-largest exporter of nonfuel minerals in Africa and the world's
    fifth-largest producer of uranium. Alluvial diamond deposits are among the
    richest in the world, making Namibia a primary source for gem-quality
    diamonds. Namibia also produces large quantities of lead, zinc, tin, silver,
    and tungsten. More than half the population depends on agriculture (largely
    subsistence agriculture) for its livelihood. Namibia must import some of its
    food.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $5.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5.8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,600 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    11% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    35% in urban areas (1993 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $941 million
  expenditures:
    $1.05 billion, including capital expenditures of $157 million (FY93/94)
Exports:
    $1.3 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    diamonds, copper, gold, zinc, lead, uranium, cattle, processed fish, karakul
    skins
  partners:
    Switzerland, South Africa, Germany, Japan
Imports:
    $1.1 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, petroleum products and fuel, machinery and equipment
  partners:
    South Africa, Germany, US, Switzerland
External debt:
    about $385 million (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -14% (1993); accounts for 30% of GDP, including mining
Electricity:
  capacity:
    406,000 kW
  production:
    1.29 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    658 kWh (1991)
Industries:
    meat packing, fish processing, dairy products, mining (copper, lead, zinc,
    diamond, uranium)
Agriculture:
    accounts for 10% of GDP; livestock raising major source of cash income;
    crops - millet, sorghum, peanuts; fish catch potential of over 1 million
    metric tons not being fulfilled
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Namibia
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-87),
    $47.2 million
Currency:
    1 South African rand (R) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    South African rand (R) per US$1 - 3.539 (January 1995), 3.5489 (1994),
    3.2678 (1993), 2.8497 (1992), 2.7653 (1991), 2.5863 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Namibia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,341 km (single track)
  narrow gauge:
    2,341 km 1.067-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    54,500 km
  paved:
    4,080 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 2,540 km; earth 47,880 km (roads and tracks)
Ports:
    Luderitz, Walvis Bay
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    135
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    14
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    20
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    23
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    70
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Namibia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    62,800 telephones; telephone density - 38/1,000 persons
  local:
    good urban services
  intercity:
    fair rural service; microwave radio relay links major towns; connections to
    other populated places are by open wire
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 4, FM 40, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    3
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Namibia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    National Defense Force (Army), Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 348,380; males fit for military service 206,684 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $54 million, 2% of GDP (FY93/94)
Korea North
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Kingman Reef
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of the US)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Kingman Reef
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, reef in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from
    Hawaii to American Samoa
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    1 sq km
  land area:
    1 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 1.7 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    3 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical, but moderated by prevailing winds
Terrain:
    low and nearly level with a maximum elevation of about 1 meter
Natural resources:
    none
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    wet or awash most of the time, maximum elevation of about 1 meter makes this
    a maritime hazard
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    barren coral atoll with deep interior lagoon; closed to the public
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Kingman Reef
                                     People
Population:
    uninhabited
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Kingman Reef
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Kingman Reef
Digraph:
    KQ
Type:
    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
Capital:
    none; administered from Washington, DC
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Kingman Reef
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Kingman Reef
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
Airports:
    lagoon was used as a halfway station between Hawaii and American Samoa by
    Pan American Airways for flying boats in 1937 and 1938
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Kingman Reef
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
 singular - opstina) Banovici, Banja Luka, Bihac,
    Bijeljina, Bileca, Bosanska Dubica, Bosanska Gradiska, Bosanska Krupa,
    Bosanski Brod, Bosanski Novi, Bosanski Petrovac, Bosanski Samac, Bosansk
New Caledonia
NETHERLANDS - Passport required.  Visa not required for
tourist/business visit up to 90 days.  Tourists may be asked to show onward/return
ticket or proof of sufficient funds for stay.  For further information contact
Embassy of the Netherlands, 4200 Linnean Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C.
20008  (202/244-5300) or nearest Consulate General:  CA (213/380-3440),
IL (312/856-0110), NY (212/246-1429) or TX (713/622-8000).
Netherlands - Consular Information Sheet
October 24, 1994
Country Description:  The Netherlands is a highly developed, stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not required for
tourist or business stays up to 90 days.  For further information concerning
entry requirements for the Netherlands, travelers can contact the Embassy of
the Netherlands at 4200 Linnean Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel.
[phone], or the nearest Dutch Consulate General in Chicago, Houston,
Los Angeles, or New York.
Customs:  Regulations strictly prohibit the importation of items made from
animals or plants protected under the Convention on International Trade of
Endangered Species.  This includes, for example, clothing made of animal fur
or skin.  Travelers should contact the Embassy of the Netherlands or the
nearest Dutch Consulate General to obtain specific information about
specific items.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are widely available.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  Travelers have
found that in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proved to be useful.  Further information on health
matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline, tel. [phone].
Crime Information:  The Netherlands has a low, but rising, violent crime
rate, little or none of which is directed at tourists.  Nevertheless,
visitors to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, the Hague, and other areas may become
targets of pickpockets, bag snatchers, and other petty thieves.  Thieves in
Amsterdam are most active in and around the central train station, the red
light district, in restaurants, on public transportation, and in other
tourist areas of the city.  Thefts of bicycles and of personal belongings
from automobiles, especially car stereos, are very common throughout the
Netherlands.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  U.S.
citizens can refer to the Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip
Abroad" for ways to promote a more trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is
available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  The Netherlands enforces strict penalties for
drug possession and trafficking.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who intend to remain in the Netherlands for
more than a few weeks may register at the Consulate General in Amsterdam,
where all American citizens can obtain updated information on travel and
security in the Netherlands.  The U.S. Embassy in the Hague provides no
consular services.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in the Netherlands is
located in The Hague, at Lange Voorhout 102; telephone [phone].
All requests for consular assistance should be directed to the Consulate
General in Amsterdam at Museumplein 19, telephone (31) (20) 664-5661 or (31)
(20) 679-0321, and fax (31) (20) 575-5310.  The after-hours emergency
telephone number is (31) (20) 310-9499.
No. 94-244
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 29, 1993 to update
information on crime and the Consulate General telephone numbers.
7                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Netherlands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Europe, bordering the North Sea, between Belgium and Germany
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    37,330 sq km
  land area:
    33,920 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of New Jersey
Land boundaries:
    total 1,027 km, Belgium 450 km, Germany 577 km
Coastline:
    451 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate; marine; cool summers and mild winters
Terrain:
    mostly coastal lowland and reclaimed land (polders); some hills in southeast
Natural resources:
    natural gas, petroleum, fertile soil
Land use:
  arable land:
    26%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    32%
  forest and woodland:
    9%
  other:
    32%
Irrigated land:
    5,500 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution in the form of heavy metals, organic compounds, and
    nutrients such as nitrates and phosphates; air pollution from vehicles and
    refining activities; acid rain
  natural hazards:
    the extensive system of dikes and dams, protects nearly one-half of the
    total area from being flooded
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds,
    Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate
    Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes,
    Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed,
    but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Biodiversity, Desertification,
    Law of the Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Netherlands
                                    Geography
Note:
    located at mouths of three major European rivers (Rhine, Maas or Meuse, and
    Schelde)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Netherlands
                                     People
Population:
    15,452,903 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    18% (female 1,382,057; male 1,445,451)
  15-64 years:
    68% (female 5,184,224; male 5,369,018)
  65 years and over:
    14% (female 1,238,336; male 833,817) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.52% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    12.42 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.48 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    1.29 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.95 years
  male:
    74.9 years
  female:
    81.17 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.56 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Dutchman(men), Dutchwoman(women)
  adjective:
    Dutch
Ethnic divisions:
    Dutch 96%, Moroccans, Turks, and other 4% (1988)
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 34%, Protestant 25%, Muslim 3%, other 2%, unaffiliated 36%
    (1991)
Languages:
    Dutch
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1979 est.)
  total population:
    99%
Labor force:
    6.4 million (1993)
  by occupation:
    services 71.4%, manufacturing and construction 24.6%, agriculture 4.0%
    (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Netherlands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of the Netherlands
  conventional short form:
    Netherlands
  local long form:
    Koninkrijk de Nederlanden
  local short form:
    Nederland
Digraph:
    NL
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Amsterdam; The Hague is the seat of government
Administrative divisions:
    12 provinces (provincien, singular - provincie); Drenthe, Flevoland,
    Friesland, Gelderland, Groningen, Limburg, Noord-Brabant, Noord-Holland,
    Overijssel, Utrecht, Zeeland, Zuid-Holland
Dependent areas:
    Aruba, Netherlands Antilles
Independence:
    1579 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Queen's Day, 30 April (1938)
Constitution:
    17 February 1983
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen BEATRIX Wilhelmina Armgard (since 30 April 1980); Heir Apparent
    WILLEM-ALEXANDER, Prince of Orange, son of Queen Beatrix (born 27 April
    1967)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Willem (Wim) KOK (since 22 August 1994); Vice Prime Minister
    Hans DIJKSTAL and Hans VAN MIERLO (since 22 August 1994)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    bicameral legislature (Staten Generaal)
  First Chamber (Eerste Kamer):
    members indirectly elected by the country's 12 provincial councils for
    four-year terms; elections last held 9 June l991 (next to be held 9 June
    1995); 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 on 3 May
    1994 (next to be held in May 1999); 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (De Hoge Raad)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Netherlands
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA), Hans HELGERS; Labor (PvdA), Wim KOK;
    Liberal (VVD - People's Party for Freedom and Democracy), Frits BOLKESTEIN;
    Democrats '66 (D'66), Hans van MIERLO; a host of minor parties
Other political or pressure groups:
    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)
Member of:
    AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, Benelux, BIS, CCC, CE, CERN,
    EBRD, EC, ECE, ECLAC, EIB, ESA, ESCAP, FAO, G-10, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MTCR, NACC, NAM (guest), NATO, NEA,
    NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OSCE, PCA, UN, UNAVEM II, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR,
    UNIDO, UNITAR, UNOMOZ, UNOMUR, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WEU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Adriaan JACOBOVITS DE SZEGED
  chancery:
    4200 Linnean Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Kirk Terry DORNBUSH
  embassy:
    Lange Voorhout 102, 2514 EJ The Hague
  mailing address:
    PSC 71, Box 1000, the Hague; APO AE 09715
  telephone:
    [31] (70) 310-9209
  FAX:
    [31] (70) 361-4688
  consulate(s) general:
    Amsterdam
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and blue; similar to the
    flag of Luxembourg, which uses a lighter blue and is longer
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Netherlands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 France. 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 integration.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $275.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $17,940 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.5% (December 1994)
Unemployment rate:
    8.8% (December 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $109.9 billion
  expenditures:
    $122.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $153 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    metal products, chemicals, processed food and tobacco, agricultural products
  partners:
    EC 77% (Germany 27%, Belgium-Luxembourg 15%, UK 10%), Central and Eastern
    Europe 10%, US 4% (1991)
Imports:
    $137 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    raw materials and semifinished products, consumer goods, transportation
    equipment, crude oil, food products
  partners:
    EC 64% (Germany 26%, Belgium-Luxembourg 14%, UK 8%), US 8% (1991)
External debt:
    $0
Industrial production:
    growth rate -1.5% (1993 est.); accounts for 25% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    17,520,000 kW
  production:
    72.4 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    5,100 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    agroindustries, metal and engineering products, electrical machinery and
    equipment, chemicals, petroleum, fishing, construction, microelectronics
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Netherlands
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 4.6% of GDP; animal production predominates; crops - grains,
    potatoes, sugar beets, fruits, vegetables; shortages of grain, fats, and
    oils
Illicit drugs:
    important gateway for cocaine, heroin, and hashish entering Europe; European
    producer of illicit amphetamines and other synthetic drugs
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-89), $19.4 billion
Currency:
    1 Netherlands guilder, gulden, or florin (f.) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Netherlands guilders, gulden, or florins (f.) per US$1 - 1.7178 (January
    1995), 1.8200 (1994), 1.8573 (1993), 1.7585 (1992), 1.8697 (1991), 1.8209
    (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Netherlands
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,757 km
  standard gauge:
    2,757 km km 1.435-m gauge (1,991 km electrified; 1,800 km double track)
    (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    104,831 km
  paved:
    92,251 km (2,118 km of expressway)
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone 12,580 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    6,340 km, of which 35% is usable by craft of 1,000 metric ton capacity or
    larger
Pipelines:
    crude oil 418 km; petroleum products 965 km; natural gas 10,230 km
Ports:
    Amsterdam, Delfzijl, Dordrecht, Eemshaven, Groningen, Haarlem, Ijmuiden,
    Maastricht, Rotterdam, Terneuzen, Utrecht
Merchant marine:
  total:
    343 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,629,578 GRT/3,337,307 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 2, cargo 195, chemical tanker 21, combination bulk 3, container 33,
    liquefied gas tanker 12, livestock carrier 1, multifunction large-load
    carrier 1, oil tanker 37, railcar carrier 1, refrigerated cargo 18,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 14, short-sea passenger 3, specialized tanker 2
  note:
    many Dutch-owned ships are also registered on the Netherlands Antilles
    register
Airports:
  total:
    29
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    9
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    5
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    8
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Netherlands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    9,418,000 telephones; highly developed, well maintained, and integrated;
    extensive redundant system of multiconductor cables, supplemented by
    microwave radio relay links
  local:
    nationwide mobile phone system
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay
  international:
    5 submarine cables; 3 INTELSAT (1 Indian Ocean and 2 Atlantic Ocean) and 1
    EUTELSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3 (relays 3), FM 12 (repeaters 39), shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    8 (repeaters 7)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Netherlands
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Royal Netherlands Army, Royal Netherlands Navy (includes Naval Air Service
    and Marine Corps), Royal Netherlands Air Force, Royal Constabulary
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 4,177,555; males fit for military service 3,656,529; males
    reach military age (20) annually 94,771 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $7.1 billion, 2.2% of GDP (1994)
Nepal
NAURU - Passport, visa, onward/return ticket and sponsorship from a
resident in Nauru required.  For more information contact Consulate of
the Republic of Nauru in Guam, P.O. Box Am, Agana, Guam 96910
(671/649-8300).
Nauru - Consular Information Sheet
July 15, 1994
Country Description:  Nauru is a constitutional republic with a
parliamentary system of government.  Its economy is based on the export of
phosphates.  Tourist facilities are available on a limited basis.  Yaren,
the capital, has an international airport.
Entry Requirements:  Passports, visas, and onward/return tickets are
required.  Further specific information is available from the Consulate of
the Republic of Nauru, First Floor, ADA Professional Building, Marine Drive,
in Agana, Guam.  The telephone number is [phone], with the mailing
address P.O. Box A.M., Agana, Guam, 96910.
Medical Facilities:  Health care facilities in the Republic of Nauru are
adequate for routine medical problems.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid outside the United States.  Supplemental Medical insurance which
specifically covers overseas treatment has proven to be useful to travelers.
 The International Travelers' Hotline of the Centers for Disease Control,
telephone number [phone] has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  The crime rate in the Republic of Nauru is low.  The
loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe
Trip Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use, or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy in Suva, Fiji can
obtain up-to-date information on travel and security in Nauru.
Embassy Location:  There is no U.S. Embassy or other diplomatic post in
Nauru.  Assistance for U.S. citizens is available at the U.S. Embassy in
Fiji located at 31 Loftus Street in the capital city of Suva.  The telephone
number is: (679) 314-466.
No. 94-115
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 16, 1993, reissued
without change following an annual review.
                              THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nauru
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, south of the Marshall Islands
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    21 sq km
  land area:
    21 sq km
  comparative area:
    about one-tenth the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    30 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; monsoonal; rainy season (November to February)
Terrain:
    sandy beach rises to fertile ring around raised coral reefs with phosphate
    plateau in center
Natural resources:
    phosphates
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    limited natural fresh water resources, roof storage tanks collect rainwater;
    phosphate mining threatens limited remaining land resources
  natural hazards:
    periodic droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Marine Dumping; signed, but not
    ratified - Law of the Sea
Note:
    Nauru 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
    Polynesia; only 53 km south of Equator
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nauru
                                     People
Population:
    10,149 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    1.33% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    18.03 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.1 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.4 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    40.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    66.68 years
  male:
    64.3 years
  female:
    69.18 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.08 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Nauruan(s)
  adjective:
    Nauruan
Ethnic divisions:
    Nauruan 58%, other Pacific Islander 26%, Chinese 8%, European 8%
Religions:
    Christian (two-thirds Protestant, one-third Roman Catholic)
Languages:
    Nauruan (official; a distinct Pacific Island language), English widely
    understood, spoken, and used for most government and commercial purposes
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
  by occupation:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nauru
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Nauru
  conventional short form:
    Nauru
  former:
    Pleasant Island
Digraph:
    NR
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    no official capital; government offices in Yaren District
Administrative divisions:
    14 districts; Aiwo, Anabar, Anetan, Anibare, Baiti, Boe, Buada, Denigomodu,
    Ewa, Ijuw, Meneng, Nibok, Uaboe, Yaren
Independence:
    31 January 1968 (from the Australia, New Zealand, and UK-administered UN
    trusteeship)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 31 January (1968)
Constitution:
    29 January 1968
Legal system:
    own Acts of Parliament and British common law
Suffrage:
    20 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Bernard DOWIYOGO (since 12 December 1989); election last held 19
    November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1995); results - Bernard DOWIYOGO
    elected by Parliament
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president from the parliament
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Parliament:
    elections last held on 14 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1995);
    results - percent of vote NA; seats - (18 total) independents 18
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    none
Member of:
    AsDB, C (special), ESCAP, ICAO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, ITU,
    SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UPU
Diplomatic representation in US:
  consulate(s):
    Agana (Guam)
US diplomatic representation:
    the US Ambassador to Fiji is accredited to Nauru
Flag:
    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 Nauru
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nauru
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Revenues come from the export of phosphates, the reserves of which are
    expected to be exhausted by the year 2000. Phosphates 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 Australia. The rehabilitation of mined land and the replacement of
    income from phosphates are serious long-term problems. Substantial amounts
    of phosphate income are invested in trust funds to help cushion the
    transition.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $100 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $10,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    0%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $69.7 million
  expenditures:
    $51.5 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1986 est.)
Exports:
    $93 million (f.o.b., 1984)
  commodities:
    phosphates
  partners:
    Australia, NZ
Imports:
    $73 million (c.i.f., 1984)
  commodities:
    food, fuel, manufactures, building materials, machinery
  partners:
    Australia, UK, NZ, Japan
External debt:
    $33.3 million
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    14,000 kW
  production:
    30 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,036 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    phosphate mining, financial services, coconut products
Agriculture:
    coconuts; other agricultural activity negligible; almost completely
    dependent on imports for food and water
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries (1970-89), $2 million
Currency:
    1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nauru
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3058 (January 1995), 1.3667 (1994),
    1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2834 (1991), 1.2799 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nauru
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3.9 km; note - used to haul phosphates from the center of the island to
    processing facilities on the southwest coast
Highways:
    27 km
  paved:
    21 km
  unpaved:
    improved earth 6 km
Ports:
    Nauru
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nauru
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    1,600 telephones; adequate local and international radio communications
    provided via Australian facilities
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    4,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nauru
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    no regular armed forces; Directorate of the Nauru Police Force
Defense expenditures:
    $NA; note - no formal defense structure
 NDP m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    62
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Botswana
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    26,000 telephones; sparse system; telephone density - 18.67 telephones/1,000
    persons
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    small system of open wire lines, microwave radio relay links, and a few
    radio communication stations
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 7, FM 13, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Botswana
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Botswana Defense Force (includes Army and Air Wing), Botswana National
    Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 306,878; males fit for military service 161,376; males reach
    military age (18) annually 15,403 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $198 million, 5.2% of GDP (FY93/94)
Brazil
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Bouvet Island
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of Norway)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Bouvet Island
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, island in the South Atlantic Ocean, south-southwest of the
    Cape of Good Hope (South Africa)
Map references:
    Antarctic Region
Area:
  total area:
    58 sq km
  land area:
    58 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.3 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    29.6 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    4 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    antarctic
Terrain:
    volcanic; maximum elevation about 800 meters; coast is mostly inaccessible
Natural resources:
    none
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100% (all ice)
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    covered by glacial ice
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK

Niger
NEW ZEALAND - Passport required.  Visa not required for
tourist/business stay up to 3 months, must have onward/return ticket, visa for next
destination and proof of sufficient funds.  For additional information
contact Embassy of New Zealand, 37 Observatory Circle, N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/328-4800) or the Consulate General, Los Angeles
(213/477-8241).
New Zealand - Consular Information Sheet
August 22, 1994
Country Description:  New Zealand is a highly developed stable parliamentary
democracy which recognizes the British monarch as sovereign.  It has a
modern economy and tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not required for
tourist/business stays of up to three months, and visitors must have
onward/return tickets and a visa for the next destination.  Proof of
sufficient funds may also be required with prearranged accommodations.
Specific information is available through the Embassy of New Zealand, 37
Observatory Circle, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 - telephone: [phone]
or the Consulate General of New Zealand in Los Angeles - telephone: (213)
477-8241.
Medical Facilities:  Good medical care is widely available.  Doctors and
hospitals may expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental overseas medical insurance, including coverage for medical
evacuation, has proven useful.  The Medicare/Medicaid Program does not
provide payment of medical services outside the United States.  The
international travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control (404) 332-
4559 has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Crime in New Zealand is comparatively low but has
increased in recent years.  Foreign visitors, including those from the U.S.,
are seldom victims of crime.  The most prevalent incident is occasional
theft or attempted theft.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport
should be reported immediately to the local police, and the nearest U.S.
Embassy or Consulate.  Useful information on guarding valuables and
protecting personal security while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  It is available from
the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use, or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate can
obtain updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in New Zealand is located
at 29 Fitzherbert Terrace, Thorndon, Wellington - telephone: (64-4) 472-
2068.  The U.S. Consulate General in Auckland is located on the 4th floor,
Yorkshire General Building, Corner of Shortland and O'Connell Streets, -
telephone: (64) (9) 303-2724.  The U.S. Consular Agent in Christchurch may
be reached c/o Price Waterhouse Center, 119 Armagh Street, tel. (64-3) 379-
0040.
No. 94-168
This replaces the consular information sheet dated July 9, 1993, and
provides information on supplemental medical evacuation coverage.
;                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   New Zealand
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, southeast of Australia
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    268,680 sq km
  land area:
    268,670 sq km
  comparative area:
    about the size of Colorado
  note:
    includes Antipodes Islands, Auckland Islands, Bounty Islands, Campbell
    Island, Chatham Islands, and Kermadec Islands
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    15,134 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    territorial claim in Antarctica (Ross Dependency)
Climate:
    temperate with sharp regional contrasts
Terrain:
    predominately mountainous with some large coastal plains
Natural resources:
    natural gas, iron ore, sand, coal, timber, hydropower, gold, limestone
Land use:
  arable land:
    2%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    53%
  forest and woodland:
    38%
  other:
    7%
Irrigated land:
    2,800 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; native flora and fauna hard-hit by species
    introduced from outside
  natural hazards:
    earthquakes are common, though usually not severe
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity,
    Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous
    Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical
    Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea,
    Marine Life Conservation
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   New Zealand
                                    Geography
Note:
    about 80% of the population lives in cities
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   New Zealand
                                     People
Population:
    3,407,277 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    23% (female 381,027; male 401,285)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 1,109,402; male 1,111,079)
  65 years and over:
    12% (female 234,339; male 170,145) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.52% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.14 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.03 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -1.87 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    8.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    76.65 years
  male:
    73.08 years
  female:
    80.42 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.99 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    New Zealander(s)
  adjective:
    New Zealand
Ethnic divisions:
    European 88%, Maori 8.9%, Pacific Islander 2.9%, other 0.2%
Religions:
    Anglican 24%, Presbyterian 18%, Roman Catholic 15%, Methodist 5%, Baptist
    2%, other Protestant 3%, unspecified or none 33% (1986)
Languages:
    English (official), Maori
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
  total population:
    99%
Labor force:
    1,603,500 (June 1991)
  by occupation:
    services 66.6%, industry 22.6%, agriculture 10.8% (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   New Zealand
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    New Zealand
Abbreviation:
    NZ
Digraph:
    NZ
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Wellington
Administrative divisions:
    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
  note:
    there may be a new administrative structure of 16 regions (Auckland, Bay of
    Plenty, Canterbury, Gisborne, 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, Gisborne, 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
Independence:
    26 September 1907 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Waitangi Day, 6 February (1840) (Treaty of Waitangi established British
    sovereignty)
Constitution:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   New Zealand
                                   Government
Legal system:
    based on English law, with special land legislation and land courts for
    Maoris; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    Dame Catherine TIZARD (since 12 December 1990)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister James BOLGER (since 29 October 1990); Deputy Prime Minister
    Donald McKINNON (since 2 November 1990)
  cabinet:
    Executive Council; appointed by the governor general on recommendation of
    the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  House of Representatives:
     (commonly called Parliament) elections last held 6 November 1993 (next to
    be held NA 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
Judicial branch:
    High Court, Court of Appeal
Political parties and leaders:
    National Party (NP, government), James BOLGER; New Zealand Labor Party
    (NZLP, opposition), Helen CLARK; Alliance, Sandra LEE; Democratic Party,
    Dick RYAN; New Zealand Liberal Party, Hanmish MACINTYRE and Gilbert MYLES;
    Green Party, no official leader; Mana Motuhake, Martin RATA; Socialist Unity
    Party (SUP, pro-Soviet), Kenneth DOUGLAS; New Zealand First, Winston PETERS
  note:
    the New Labor, Democratic, and Mana Motuhake parties formed a coalition
    called the Alliance Party, Sandra LEE, president, in September 1991; the
    Green Party joined the coalition in May 1992
Member of:
    ANZUS (US suspended security obligations to NZ on 11 August 1986), APEC,
    AsDB, Australia Group, C, CCC, CP, EBRD, ESCAP, FAO, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, MTCR, NAM (guest), OECD, PCA,
    SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UN, UNAVEM II, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOSOM, UNPROFOR,
    UNTSO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Lionel John WOOD
  chancery:
    37 Observatory Circle NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Apia (Western Samoa), Los Angeles
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Josiah Horton BEEMAN
  embassy:
    29 Fitzherbert Terrace, Thorndon, Wellington
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 1190, Wellington; PSC 467, Box 1, FPO AP 96531-1001
  telephone:
    [64] (4) 472-2068
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   New Zealand
                                   Government
  FAX:
    [64] (4) 472-3537
  consulate(s) general:
    Auckland
Flag:
    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 constellation
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   New Zealand
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Since 1984 the government has been reorienting an agrarian economy dependent
    on a guaranteed British market to 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: inflation 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. Inflation remains among the lowest in the
    industrial world.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $56.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6.2% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $16,640 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.6% (FY93/94)
Unemployment rate:
    7.5% (December 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $18.94 billion
  expenditures:
    $18.82 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95)
  note:
    surplus $120 million (FY94/95)
Exports:
    $11.2 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    wool, lamb, mutton, beef, fish, cheese, chemicals, forestry products, fruits
    and vegetables, manufactures
  partners:
    Australia 20%, Japan 15%, US 12%, UK 6%
Imports:
    $10.4 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, vehicles and aircraft, petroleum, consumer goods
  partners:
    Australia 21%, US 18%, Japan 16%, UK 6%
External debt:
    $38.5 billion (September 1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 1.9% (1990); accounts for about 20% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    7,520,000 kW
  production:
    30.5 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    8,401 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    food processing, wood and paper products, textiles, machinery,
    transportation equipment, banking and insurance, tourism, mining
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   New Zealand
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 9% of GDP and about 11% of the work force; livestock
    predominates - wool, meat, dairy products all export earners; crops - wheat,
    barley, potatoes, pulses, fruits, vegetables; surplus producer of farm
    products; fish catch reached a record 503,000 metric tons in 1988
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-89), $526 million
Currency:
    1 New Zealand dollar (NZ$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    New Zealand dollars (NZ$) per US$1 - 1.5601 (January 1995), 1.6844 (1994),
    1.8495 (1993), 1.8584 (1992), 1.7265 (1991), 1.6750 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   New Zealand
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    4,716 km
  narrow gauge:
    4,716 km 1.067-m gauge (113 km electrified; 274 km double track)
Highways:
  total:
    92,648 km
  paved:
    49,547 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone 43,101 km
Inland waterways:
    1,609 km; of little importance to transportation
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 160 km; natural gas 1,000 km; condensate (liquified
    petroleum gas - LPG) 150 km
Ports:
    Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Tauranga, Wellington
Merchant marine:
  total:
    18 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 165,504 GRT/218,699 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 6, cargo 2, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 3, railcar carrier 1,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 5
Airports:
  total:
    102
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    8
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    28
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    41
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    21
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   New Zealand
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    2,110,000 telephones; excellent international and domestic systems
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    submarine cables extend to Australia and Fiji; 2 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean)
    earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 64, FM 2, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    14
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   New Zealand
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    New Zealand Army, Royal New Zealand Navy, Royal New Zealand Air Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 883,668; males fit for military service 742,871; males reach
    military age (20) annually 27,162 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $792 million, 2% of GDP (FY90/91)
Mozambique
@ ?                              THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Montserrat
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (dependent territory of the UK)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Montserrat
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, southeast of Puerto Rico
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    100 sq km
  land area:
    100 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.6 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    40 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; little daily or seasonal temperature variation
Terrain:
    volcanic islands, mostly mountainous, with small coastal lowland
Natural resources:
    negligible
Land use:
  arable land:
    20%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    10%
  forest and woodland:
    40%
  other:
    30%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    land erosion occurs on slopes that have been cleared for cultivation
  natural hazards:
    severe hurricanes (June to November); volcanic eruptions (there are seven
    active volcanoes on the island)
  international agreements:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Montserrat
                                     People
Population:
    12,738 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    0.3% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.5 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.81 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -2.65 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    11.69 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    75.69 years
  male:
    73.93 years
  female:
    77.49 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.99 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Montserratian(s)
  adjective:
    Montserratian
Ethnic divisions:
    black, Europeans
Religions:
    Anglican, Methodist, Roman Catholic, Pentecostal, Seventh-Day Adventist,
    other Christian denominations
Languages:
    English
Literacy:
    age 15 and over has ever attended school (1970)
  total population:
    97%
  male:
    97%
  female:
    97%
Labor force:
    5,100
  by occupation:
    community, social, and personal services 40.5%, construction 13.5%, trade,
    restaurants, and hotels 12.3%, manufacturing 10.5%, agriculture, forestry,
    and fishing 8.8%, other 14.4% (1983 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Montserrat
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Montserrat
Digraph:
    MH
Type:
    dependent territory of the UK
Capital:
    Plymouth
Administrative divisions:
    3 parishes; Saint Anthony, Saint Georges, Saint Peter's
Independence:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
National holiday:
    Celebration of the Birthday of the Queen (second Saturday of June)
Constitution:
    present constitution came into force 19 December 1989
Legal system:
    English common law and statute law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor Frank
    SAVAGE (since NA February 1993)
  head of government:
    Chief Minister Reuben T. MEADE (since NA October 1991)
  cabinet:
    Executive Council; consists of the governor, the chief minister, three other
    ministries, the attorney-general, and the finance secretary
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Legislative Council:
    elections last held 8 October 1991; results - percent of vote by party NA;
    seats - (11 total, 7 elected) NPP 4, NDP 1, PLM 1, independent 1
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    National Progressive Party (NPP) Reuben T. MEADE; People's Liberation
    Movement (PLM), Noel TUITT; National Development Party (NDP), Bertrand
    OSBORNE
Member of:
    CARICOM, CDB, ECLAC (associate), ICFTU, INTERPOL (subbureau), OECS, WCL
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Montserrat
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy is small and open with economic activity centered on tourism and
    construction. Tourism is the most important sector and accounts for roughly
    one-fifth of GDP. Agriculture accounts for about 4% of GDP and industry 10%.
    The economy is heavily dependent on imports, making it vulnerable to
    fluctuations in world prices. Exports consist mainly of electronic parts
    sold to the US.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $55.6 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    1% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,380 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.8% (1992)
Unemployment rate:
    NA
Budget:
  revenues:
    $12.1 million
  expenditures:
    $14.3 million, including capital expenditures of $3.2 million (1988 est.)
Exports:
    $2.8 million (f.o.b., 1992)
  commodities:
    electronic parts, plastic bags, apparel, hot peppers, live plants, cattle
  partners:
    NA
Imports:
    $80.6 million (f.o.b., 1992)
  commodities:
    machinery and transportation equipment, foodstuffs, manufactured goods,
    fuels, lubricants, and related materials
  partners:
    NA
External debt:
    $2.05 million (1987)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 8.1% (1986); accounts for 10% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    5,271 kW
  production:
    17 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,106 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tourism; light manufacturing - rum, textiles, electronic appliances
Agriculture:
    accounts for 4% of GDP; small-scale farming; food crops - tomatoes, onions,
    peppers; not self-sufficient in food, especially livestock products
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $90
    million
Currency:
    1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.70 (fixed rate since 1976)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Montserrat
                                     Economy
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Montserrat
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    280 km
  paved:
    200 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, earth 80 km
Ports:
    Plymouth
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Montserrat
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    3,000 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 8, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Montserrat
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Police Force
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the UK
    coral islands relatively flat; volcanic islands steep, hilly
Natural resources:
    negligible
Land use:
  arable land:
    20%
  permanent crops:
    7%
  meadows and pastures:
    33%
  forest and woodland:
    7%
  other:
    33%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    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)
  natural hazards:
    hurricanes and tropical storms (July to October)
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    strong ties to nearby US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             British Virgin Islands
                                     People
Population:
    13,027 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    1.27% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    20.25 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.07 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -1.5 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    19.33 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    72.73 years
  male:
    70.88 years
  female:
    74.7 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.27 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    British Virgin Islander(s)
  adjective:
    British Virgin Islander
Ethnic divisions:
    black 90%, white, Asian
Religions:
    Protestant 86% (Methodist 45%, Anglican 21%, Church of God 7%, Seventh-Day
    Adventist 5%, Baptist 4%, Jehovah's Witnesses 2%, other 2%), Roman Catholic
    6%, none 2%, other 6% (1981)
Languages:
    English (official)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1970)
  total population:
    98%
  male:
    98%
  female:
    98%
Labor force:
    4,911 (1980)
  by occupation:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             British Virgin Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    British Virgin Islands
Abbreviation:
    BVI
Digraph:
    VI
Type:
    dependent territory of the UK
Capital:
    Road Town
Administrative divisions:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
Independence:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
National holiday:
    Territory Day, 1 July
Constitution:
    1 June 1977
Legal system:
    English law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor Peter
    Alfred PENFOLD (since 14 October 1991)
  head of government:
    Chief Minister H. Lavity STOUTT (since NA September 1986)
  cabinet:
    Executive Council; appointed by the governor
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Legislative Council:
    election last held 20 February 1995 (next to be held on NA February 2000);
    results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (13 total) VIP 6, CCM 2, UP
    2, independents 3
  note:
    legislature was expanded to 13 seats as of election on 20 February 1995
Judicial branch:
    Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    United Party (UP), Conrad MADURO; Virgin Islands Party (VIP), H. Lavity
    STOUTT; Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM), E. Walwyln BREWLEY
Member of:
    CARICOM (associate), CDB, ECLAC (associate), INTERPOL (subbureau), IOC, OECS
    (associate), UNESCO (associate)
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
Flag:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             British Virgin Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy, one of the most prosperous in the Caribbean area, is highly
    dependent on the tourist industry, which generates about 21% of the national
    income. In 1985 the government offered offshore registration to companies
    wishing to incorporate in the islands, and, in consequence, incorporation
    fees generated about $2 million in 1987. The economy slowed in 1991 because
    of the poor performances of the tourist sector and tight commercial bank
    credit. Livestock raising is the most significant agricultural activity. The
    islands' crops, limited by poor soils, are unable to meet food requirements.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $133 million (1991)
National product real growth rate:
    2% (1991)
National product per capita:
    $10,600 (1991)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.5% (1990 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NEGL% (1992)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $51 million
  expenditures:
    $88 million, including capital expenditures of $38 million (1991)
Exports:
    $2.7 million (f.o.b., 1988)
  commodities:
    rum, fresh fish, gravel, sand, fruits, animals
  partners:
    Virgin Islands (US), Puerto Rico, US
Imports:
    $11.5 million (c.i.f., 1988)
  commodities:
    building materials, automobiles, foodstuffs, machinery
  partners:
    Virgin Islands (US), Puerto Rico, US
External debt:
    $4.5 million (1985)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 4% (1985)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    10,500 kW
  production:
    50 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,148 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tourism, light industry, construction, rum, concrete block, offshore
    financial center
Agriculture:
    livestock (including poultry), fish, fruit, vegetables
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    US currency is used
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             British Virgin Islands
                                     Economy
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             British Virgin Islands
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    106 km (1983)
NIGER -  Passport and visa required.  Visa valid between 7 and 12
months (from date of issuance), depending on type/category of travelers.
Requires 3 application forms, 3 photos, yellow fever vaccination (cholera
vaccination is  recommended, but not required), proof of onward/return
transportation,  letter of invitation and $56.07 fee.  For further
information and fees contact Embassy of the Republic of Niger, 2204 R
St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/483-4224).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Niger
============================================================
Niger - Consular Information Sheet
 April 28, 1995
Country Description:  Niger is a developing, inland African nation
whose northern area includes a part of the Sahara Desert.  Tourism
facilities are minimal, particularly outside of Niamey.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required for entry
into Niger.  Visas are valid for a period of one week to three
months from the date of issuance, depending on the type of visa and
category of traveler.  Yellow fever and cholera vaccinations are
required for entry into Niger.  Travelers should also consider a
meningitis vaccination.  For further information, travelers may
contact the Embassy of the Republic of Niger, 2204 R Street, N.W.,
Washington D.C. 20008, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Travel remains dangerous in the north of the
country and extreme east of the country above a line connecting
(west to east) Tera, Tillaberi,Ouallam, Filingue, Tahoua, Keita,
Bouza, Dakoro, Tamout, and Nguigmi because of acts of armed
insurrection and banditry by elements of Niger's Tuareg population.
Travel by U.S. government personnel by road north of this line is
restricted and must be approved by the U.S. Embassy's security
office in advance.  Travel by U.S. government personnel to the towns
of Tera, Tillaberi, Ouallam and Filingue is permitted without prior
clearance but employees must notify the Embassy's security office of
their plans.  Travelers should be particularly cautious in
south-east Niger in the area surrounding Diffa due to sporadic
ethnic rivalries.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are poor in Niger,
particularly outside the city of Niamey.  Medicines are in short
supply, and doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash
payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid or accepted outside the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid
program does not provide for payment of medical services outside the
United States.  Travelers have found supplemental medical insurance
with specific overseas and medical evacuation coverage to be useful.
 For additional health information, travelers can contact the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline (404)
332-4559.
Information on Crime:  Niger is considered a high crime country.
Armed bandits operate in northern Niger, and a number of people have
been killed over the last several years.  Care must be taken in
walking city streets anywhere in the country at any time, but
especially at night.  Thieves and pickpockets are especially active
in tourist areas.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Dress Restrictions:  Local culture and Islamic tradition encourage
conservative dress for both men and women.  There have been
incidents of harassment of African women wearing western clothes in
the conservative towns along the southern border with Nigeria.
Although U.S. citizens are not specific targets, travelers should be
careful in choosing their attire.
Photography Restrictions:  Tourists are free to take pictures
anywhere in Niger, except near military installations, radio and
television stations, the Presidency Building, and the airport.
Currency Regulations:  There are no laws restricting currency
transactions in Niger.  Local currency (the CFA Franc) or foreign
currency, up to the equivalent of four  thousand U.S. dollars, can
be taken into or out of Niger without violating local law.
Telephone Service:  Due to poor line quality, callers often
experience delays in getting a line and telefaxes are often garbled.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens who register with the
U.S. Embassy in Niamey on Rue Des Ambassades may obtain updated
information on travel and security in Niger.  The mailing address is
B.P. 11201.  The telephone number is [phone] through
72-26-64. The fax number is [phone].
 No. 95-060
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 22, 1994,
to revise the paragraphs on areas of instability, crime, medical
information and dress restrictions.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
0                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niger
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, southeast of Algeria
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    1.267 million sq km
  land area:
    1,266,700 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 5,697 km, Algeria 956 km, Benin 266 km, Burkina 628 km, Chad 1,175 km,
    Libya 354 km, Mali 821 km, Nigeria 1,497 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    Libya claims about 19,400 sq km in northern Niger; 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 Cameroon,
    Chad, Niger, and Nigeria; Burkina and Mali are proceeding with boundary
    demarcation, including the tripoint with Niger
Climate:
    desert; mostly hot, dry, dusty; tropical in extreme south
Terrain:
    predominately desert plains and sand dunes; flat to rolling plains in south;
    hills in north
Natural resources:
    uranium, coal, iron ore, tin, phosphates
Land use:
  arable land:
    3%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    7%
  forest and woodland:
    2%
  other:
    88%
Irrigated land:
    320 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    overgrazing; soil erosion; deforestation; desertification; wildlife
    populations (such as elephant, hippopotamus, and lion) threatened because of
    poaching and habitat destruction
  natural hazards:
    recurring droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Nuclear Test Ban,
    Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity,
    Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the Sea
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niger
                                     People
Population:
    9,280,208 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    49% (female 2,275,338; male 2,275,999)
  15-64 years:
    49% (female 2,314,857; male 2,188,938)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 107,432; male 117,644) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.4% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    54.8 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    20.8 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    109.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    45.07 years
  male:
    43.42 years
  female:
    46.77 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    7.35 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Nigerien(s)
  adjective:
    Nigerien
Ethnic divisions:
    Hausa 56%, Djerma 22%, Fula 8.5%, Tuareg 8%, Beri Beri (Kanouri) 4.3%, Arab,
    Toubou, and Gourmantche 1.2%, about 4,000 French expatriates
Religions:
    Muslim 80%, remainder indigenous beliefs and Christians
Languages:
    French (official), Hausa, Djerma
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1988)
  total population:
    11%
  male:
    17%
  female:
    5%
Labor force:
    2.5 million wage earners (1982)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 90%, industry and commerce 6%, government 4%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niger
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Niger
  conventional short form:
    Niger
  local long form:
    Republique du Niger
  local short form:
    Niger
Digraph:
    NG
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Niamey
Administrative divisions:
    7 departments (departements, singular - departement); Agadez, Diffa, Dosso,
    Maradi, Niamey, Tahoua, Zinder
Independence:
    3 August 1960 (from France)
National holiday:
    Republic Day, 18 December (1958)
Constitution:
    approved by national referendum 16 December 1992; promulgated January 1993
Legal system:
    based on French civil law system and customary law; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Mahamane OUSMANE (since 16 April 1993); election last held 17
    March 1993 (next to be held NA February 1998)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Hama AMADOU (since 21 February 1995)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly:
    elected by proportional representation for 5 year terms; elections last held
    12 January 1995 (next to be held NA); 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
Judicial branch:
    State Court (Cour d'Etat), Court of Appeal (Cour d'Apel)
Political parties and leaders:
    National Movement of the Development Society (MNSD-NASSARA), Mamadou TANDJA,
    chairman; Democratic and Social Convention (CDS), Jacoub SANOUSSI; Nigerien
    Party for Democracy and Socialism (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; Niger Social Democrat Party (PADN), Malam Adji WAZIRI;
    Niger Progressive Party-African Democratic Rally (PPN-RDA), Dori ABDOULAI,
    chairman; Union of Patriots, Democrats, and Progressives (UPDP), Professor
    Andre SALIFOU, chairman
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niger
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, CEAO, ECA, ECOWAS, Entente, FAO, FZ, G-77, GATT, IAEA,
    IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WADB, WCL, WFTU,
    WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Adamou SEYDOU
  chancery:
    2204 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 4227
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador John S. DAVISON
  embassy:
    Rue Des Ambassades, Niamey
  mailing address:
    B. P. 11201, Niamey
  telephone:
    [227] 72 26 61 through 72 26 64
  FAX:
    [227] 73 31 67
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niger
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Niger is one of the world's poorest countries, with GDP growth lagging
    behind 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 Nigeria, Niger's largest
    regional trade partner, have improved dramatically since the 50% devaluation
    of the African franc in January 1994; this devaluation boosted exports of
    livestock, peas, onions, and the products of Niger'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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4.6 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    1.4% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $550 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $188 million
  expenditures:
    $400 million, including capital expenditures of $125 million (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $246 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    uranium ore 67%, livestock products 20%, cowpeas, onions
  partners:
    France 77%, Nigeria 8%, Cote d'Ivoire, Italy
Imports:
    $286 million (c.i.f., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    consumer goods, primary materials, machinery, vehicles and parts, petroleum,
    cereals
  partners:
    France 23%, Cote d'Ivoire, Germany, Italy, Japan
External debt:
    $1.2 billion (December 1991 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -2.7% (1992 est.); accounts for 15% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    60,000 kW
  production:
    200 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    42 kWh (1992)
Industries:
    cement, brick, textiles, food processing, chemicals, slaughterhouses, and a
    few other small light industries; uranium mining began in 1971
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niger
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for roughly 40% of GDP and 90% of labor force; cash crops -
    cowpeas, cotton, peanuts; food crops - millet, sorghum, cassava, rice;
    livestock - cattle, sheep, goats; self-sufficient in food except in drought
    years
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $380 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $3.165 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $504 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $61
    million
Currency:
    1 CFA franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Communaute Financiere Africaine francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 529.43 (January
    1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991), 272.26
    (1990)
  note:
    the official rate is pegged to the French franc, and 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
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niger
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    39,970 km
  paved:
    bituminous 3,170 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, laterite 10,330 km; earth 3,470 km; tracks 23,000 km
Inland waterways:
    Niger River is navigable 300 km from Niamey to Gaya on the Benin frontier
    from mid-December through March
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    29
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    6
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    16
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niger
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    14,260 telephones; small system of wire, radiocommunications, and radio
    relay links concentrated in southwestern area
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    wire, radiocommunications, and radio relay; 3 domestic satellite links, with
    1 planned
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 15, FM 5, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    18
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niger
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, Republican Guard, National Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,908,767; males fit for military service 1,029,384; males
    reach military age (18) annually 94,506 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $32 million, 1.3% of GDP (FY92/93)
Nicaragua
&                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  New Caledonia
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (overseas territory of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  New Caledonia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Australia
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    19,060 sq km
  land area:
    18,760 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than New Jersey
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    2,254 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; modified by southeast trade winds; hot, humid
Terrain:
    coastal plains with interior mountains
Natural resources:
    nickel, chrome, iron, cobalt, manganese, silver, gold, lead, copper
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    14%
  forest and woodland:
    51%
  other:
    35%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    typhoons most frequent from November to March
  international agreements:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  New Caledonia
                                     People
Population:
    184,552 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    31% (female 27,712; male 28,677)
  15-64 years:
    64% (female 58,462; male 60,169)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 4,997; male 4,535) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.75% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    22.04 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.9 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.4 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    14.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    74.02 years
  male:
    70.73 years
  female:
    77.48 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.57 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    New Caledonian(s)
  adjective:
    New Caledonian
Ethnic divisions:
    Melanesian 42.5%, European 37.1%, Wallisian 8.4%, Polynesian 3.8%,
    Indonesian 3.6%, Vietnamese 1.6%, other 3%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 60%, Protestant 30%, other 10%
Languages:
    French, 28 Melanesian-Polynesian dialects
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1976)
  total population:
    91%
  male:
    92%
  female:
    90%
Labor force:
    50,469 foreign workers for plantations and mines from Wallis and Futuna,
    Vanuatu, and French Polynesia (1980 est.)
  by occupation:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  New Caledonia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Territory of New Caledonia and Dependencies
  conventional short form:
    New Caledonia
  local long form:
    Territoire des Nouvelle-Caledonie et Dependances
  local short form:
    Nouvelle-Caledonie
Digraph:
    NC
Type:
    overseas territory of France since 1956
Capital:
    Noumea
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    none (overseas territory of France; a referendum on independence will be
    held in 1998)
National holiday:
    National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
Constitution:
    28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
Legal system:
    the 1988 Matignon Accords grant substantial autonomy to the islands;
    formerly under French law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Francois MITTERRAND (since 21 May 1981)
  head of government:
    High Commissioner and President of the Council of Government Didier CULTIAUX
    (since NA July 1994; appointed by the French Ministry of the Interior);
    President of the Territorial Congress Simon LOUECKHOTE (since 26 June 1989)
  cabinet:
    Consultative Committee
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Territorial Assembly:
    elections last held 11 June 1989 (next to be held July 1995); results - RPCR
    44.5%, FLNKS 28.5%, FN 7%, CD 5%, UO 4%, other 11%; seats - (54 total) RPCR
    27, FLNKS 19, FN 3, other 5; note - election boycotted by FULK
  French Senate:
    elections last held 27 September 1992 (next to be held 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
Judicial branch:
    Court of Appeal
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  New Caledonia
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    white-dominated Rassemblement pour la Caledonie dans la Republique (RPCR),
    conservative, Jacques LAFLEUR, president - affiliated to France's
    Rassemblement pour la Republique (RPR; also called South Province Party);
    Melanesian proindependence Kanaka Socialist National Liberation Front
    (FLNKS), Paul NEAOUTYINE; 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
Member of:
    ESCAP (associate), FZ, ICFTU, SPC, WFTU, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (overseas territory of France)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (overseas territory of France)
Flag:
    the flag of France is used
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  New Caledonia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    New Caledonia has more than 25% 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $1 billion (1991 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.4% (1988)
National product per capita:
    $6,000 (1991 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.4% (1990)
Unemployment rate:
    16% (1989)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $224 million
  expenditures:
    $211 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1985 est.)
Exports:
    $671 million (f.o.b., 1989)
  commodities:
    nickel metal 87%, nickel ore
  partners:
    France 32%, Japan 23.5%, US 3.6%
Imports:
    $764 million (c.i.f., 1989)
  commodities:
    foods, fuels, minerals, machines, electrical equipment
  partners:
    France 44.0%, US 10%, Australia 9%
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    250,000 kW
  production:
    1.2 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    6,178 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    nickel mining and smelting
Agriculture:
    large areas devoted to cattle grazing; coffee, corn, wheat, vegetables; 60%
    self-sufficient in beef
Illicit drugs:
    illicit cannabis cultivation is becoming a principal source of income for
    some families
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89),
    $4.185 billion
Currency:
    1 CFP franc (CFPF) = 100 centimes
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  New Caledonia
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    Comptoirs Francais du Pacifique francs (CFPF) per US$1 - 96.25 (January
    1995), 100.93 (1994), 102.96 (1993), 96.24 (1992), 102.57 (1991), 99.00
    (1990); note - linked at the rate of 18.18 to the French franc
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  New Caledonia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    6,340 km
  paved:
    634 km
  unpaved:
    5,706 km (1987)
Ports:
    Mueo, Noumea, Thio
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1 roll-on/roll-off ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 3,079 GRT/724 DWT
Airports:
    36
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    19
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    13
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  New Caledonia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    32,578 telephones (1987)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) satellite link
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 5, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    7
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  New Caledonia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    French Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, Gendarmerie); Police Force
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
  THnge are confidence tricksters intent on swindling
the unwary travelers.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Persons convicted of possession, use, or
trafficking in illegal drugs are subject to imprisonment and fines.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In November 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Bulgaria's civil aviation authority as in compliance
with international aviation safety oversight standards for Bulgaria's
carriers operating to and from the U.S.  The same level of safety oversight
would typically be applied to operations to other destinations.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at 1-800-
322-7873.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section of the
U.S. Embassy can obtain updated information on travel and security within
Bulgaria.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Sofia, Bulgaria, is located at 1
Suborna (formerly 1 A. Stamboliski Boulevard); telephone [phone] to
-05.  This is also the after hours number for emergencies.
The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy is located at 1 Kapitan Andreev
Street in Sofia; telephone [phone].
No. 94-182
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated January 19, 1994, to add
the paragraph on aviation oversight.
8                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Bulgaria
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Romania and Turkey
Map references:
    Ethnic Groups in Eastern Europe, Europe
Area:
  total area:
    110,910 sq km
  land area:
    110,550 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Tennessee
Land boundaries:
    total 1,808 km, Greece 494 km, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 148
    km, Romania 608 km, Serbia and Montenegro 318 km (all with Serbia), Turkey
    240 km
Coastline:
    354 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
Palau
NORWAY - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 3 months.
(Period begins when entering Scandinavian area:  Finland, Sweden,
Denmark, Iceland.)  For further information contact Royal Norwegian Embassy,
2720 34th St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/333-6000) or nearest
Consulate General:  CA (415/986-0766 to 7168 and 213/933-7717), MN
(612/332-3338), NY (212/421-7333) or TX (713/521-2900).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Norway
============================================================
Norway - Consular Information Sheet
 April 4, 1995
Country Description:  Norway is a highly developed stable democracy
with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A tourist or business
visa is not required for stays up to three months (the 90-day period
begins when entering the Nordic area:  Sweden, Norway, Finland,
Denmark, Iceland).  U.S. citizens must have advance authorization
from Norwegian authorities for stays longer than 90 days or stays
involving study or employment.  For further information concerning
entry requirements, travelers can contact the Royal Norwegian
Embassy at 2720 34th Street N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, Tel (202)
333-6000, or the nearest Norwegian Consulate General in Houston, Los
Angeles, Minneapolis, New York, or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities: Medical care is widely available.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  Travelers
have found that in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.  Further
information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control's international travelers hotline, tel: (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  By U.S. standards, Norway has a relatively low
crime rate.  Most crimes involve burglary (which has been on the
rise) or theft of personal property.  Persons who appear affluent
may become targets of pickpockets and purse snatchers.  Violent
crime, additionally, has been rare; weapons are almost never used by
thieves or burglars.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad
should be reported immediately to the local police and to the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  U.S. citizens may refer to the
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to
promote a more trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from
the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.  Mandatory jail sentences are
also routine for driving while intoxicated.
Registration:  Americans who register at the Consular Section of
the U.S. Embassy can obtain updated information on travel and
security in Norway.
Embassy Location: The U.S. Embassy in Oslo is located near the
Royal Palace at Drammensveien 18; Telephone [phone].
 No. 95-045
This replaces the Consular Information sheet dated March 23, 1994,
to update information on entry requirements and crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
<                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Norway
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Europe, bordering the North Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, west
    of Sweden
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    324,220 sq km
  land area:
    307,860 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than New Mexico
Land boundaries:
    total 2,515 km, Finland 729 km, Sweden 1,619 km, Russia 167 km
Coastline:
    21,925 km (includes mainland 3,419 km, large islands 2,413 km, long fjords,
    numerous small islands, and minor indentations 16,093 km)
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    10 nm
  continental shelf:
    200 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    4 nm
International disputes:
    territorial claim in Antarctica (Queen Maud Land); maritime boundary dispute
    with Russia over portion of Barents Sea
Climate:
    temperate along coast, modified by North Atlantic Current; colder interior;
    rainy year-round on west coast
Terrain:
    glaciated; mostly high plateaus and rugged mountains broken by fertile
    valleys; small, scattered plains; coastline deeply indented by fjords;
    arctic tundra in north
Natural resources:
    petroleum, copper, natural gas, pyrites, nickel, iron ore, zinc, lead, fish,
    timber, hydropower
Land use:
  arable land:
    3%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    27%
  other:
    70%
Irrigated land:
    950 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution; acid rain damaging forests and adversely affecting lakes,
    threatening fish stocks; air pollution from vehicle emissions
  natural hazards:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Norway
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds,
    Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate
    Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes,
    Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution,
    Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 94, Desertification, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94
Note:
    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; Norway and
    Turkey only NATO members having a land boundary with Russia
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Norway
                                     People
Population:
    4,330,951 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    19% (female 390,344; male 444,570)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 1,375,493; male 1,424,027)
  65 years and over:
    16% (female 408,675; male 287,842) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.37% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    12.86 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    10.35 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    1.15 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    6.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.61 years
  male:
    74.26 years
  female:
    81.15 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.76 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Norwegian(s)
  adjective:
    Norwegian
Ethnic divisions:
    Germanic (Nordic, Alpine, Baltic), Lapps (Sami) 20,000
Religions:
    Evangelical Lutheran 87.8% (state church), other Protestant and Roman
    Catholic 3.8%, none 3.2%, unknown 5.2% (1980)
Languages:
    Norwegian (official)
  note:
    small Lapp- and Finnish-speaking minorities
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1976 est.)
  total population:
    99%
Labor force:
    2.13 million
  by occupation:
    services 71%, industry 23%, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 6% (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Norway
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of Norway
  conventional short form:
    Norway
  local long form:
    Kongeriket Norge
  local short form:
    Norge
Digraph:
    NO
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Oslo
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    26 October 1905 (from Sweden)
National holiday:
    Constitution Day, 17 May (1814)
Constitution:
    17 May 1814, modified in 1884
Legal system:
    mixture of customary law, civil law system, and common law traditions;
    Supreme Court renders advisory opinions to legislature when asked; accepts
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    King HARALD V (since 17 January 1991); Heir Apparent Crown Prince HAAKON
    MAGNUS (born 20 July 1973)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Gro Harlem BRUNDTLAND (since 3 November 1990)
  cabinet:
    State Council; appointed by the king in accordance with the will of the
    Storting
Legislative branch:
    modified unicameral Parliament (Storting) which, for certain purposes,
    divides itself into two chambers
  Storting:
    elections last held 13 September 1993 (next to be held 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,
    Consevatives 18, Christian People's 13, Socialist Left 13, Progress 10, Left
    Party 1, Red Electoral Alliance 1, unawarded 10
  note:
    for certain purposes, the Storting divides itself into two chambers and
    elects one-fourth of its membership to an upper house or Lagting
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Hoyesterett)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Norway
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Labor Party, Thorbjorn JAGLUND; Conservative Party, Jan PETERSEN; Center
    Party, Anne ENGER LAHNSTEIN; Christian People's Party, Kjell Magne BONDEVIK;
    Socialist Left, Kjellbjorg LUNDE; Norwegian Communist, Kare Andre NILSEN;
    Progress Party, Carl I. HAGEN; Liberal, Odd Einar DORUM; Left Party; Red
    Electoral Alliance, Erling FOLKVORD
Member of:
    AfDB, AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD, ECE, EFTA, ESA,
    FAO, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC,
    IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU,
    MTCR, NACC, NAM (guest), NATO, NC, NEA, NIB, NSG, OECD, OSCE, PCA, UN,
    UNAVEM II, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMOGIP,
    UNOMOZ, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UPU, WEU (associate), WHO, WIPO, WMO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Kjeld VIBE
  chancery:
    2720 34th Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Houston, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New York, and San Francisco
  consulate(s):
    Miami
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Thomas A. LOFTUS
  embassy:
    Drammensveien 18, 0244 Oslo
  mailing address:
    PSC 69, Box 1000, APO AE 09707
  telephone:
    [47] 22 44 85 50
  FAX:
    [47] 22 44 33 63
Flag:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Norway
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Norway has a mixed economy involving a combination of free market activity
    and government intervention. The government controls key areas, such as the
    vital petroleum sector (through large-scale state enterprises) and
    extensively subsidizes agriculture, fishing, and areas with sparse
    resources. Norway also maintains an extensive welfare system that helps
    propel public sector expenditures to slightly more than 50% of the GDP and
    results in one of the highest average tax burdens in the world (54%). A
    small country with a high dependence on international trade, Norway 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 -
    petroleum, hydropower, fish, forests, and minerals - and is highly dependent
    on its oil sector to keep its economy afloat. Norway imports more than half
    its food needs. Although one of the government's main priorities is to
    reduce this dependency, this situation is not likely to improve for years to
    come. The government also hopes to reduce unemployment and strengthen and
    diversify the economy through tax reform and a series of expansionary
    budgets. The budget deficit is expected to hit a record 8% of GDP because of
    welfare spending and bail-outs of the banking system. Unemployment is
    currently running at 8.4% - including those in job programs - because of the
    weakness of the economy outside the oil sector. Economic growth, only 1.6%
    in 1993, moved up to 5.5% in 1994. Oslo opted to stay out of the EU during a
    referendum in November 1994.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $95.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $22,170 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.3% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    8.4% (including people in job-training programs; 1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $50.9 billion
  expenditures:
    $55.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $36.6 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    petroleum and petroleum products 40%, metals and products 10.6%, fish and
    fish products 6.9%, chemicals 6.4%, natural gas 6.0%, ships 5.4%
  partners:
    EC 66.3%, Nordic countries 16.3%, developing countries 8.4%, US 6.0%, Japan
    1.8% (1993)
Imports:
    $29.3 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment 38.9%, chemicals and other industrial inputs 26.6%,
    manufactured consumer goods 17.8%, foodstuffs 6.4%
  partners:
    EC 48.6%, Nordic countries 25.1%, developing countries 9.6%, US 8.1%, Japan
    8.0% (1993)
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate 4.6% (1994); accounts for 14% of GDP
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Norway
                                     Economy
Electricity:
  capacity:
    27,280,000 kW
  production:
    118 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    23,735 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum and gas, food processing, shipbuilding, pulp and paper products,
    metals, chemicals, timber, mining, textiles, fishing
Agriculture:
    accounts for 3% of GDP and about 6% of labor force; among world's top 10
    fishing nations; livestock output exceeds value of crops; fish catch of 1.76
    million metric tons in 1989
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for drugs shipped via the CIS and Baltic states for the
    European market
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-89), $4.4 billion
Currency:
    1 Norwegian krone (NKr) = 100 oere
Exchange rates:
    Norwegian kroner (NKr) per US$1 - 6.7014 (January 1995), 7.0469 (1994),
    7.0941 (1993), 6.2145 (1992), 6.4829 (1991), 6.2597 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Norway
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    4,026 km
  standard gauge:
    4,026 km 1.435-m gauge (2,422 km electrified; 96 km double track) (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    88,922 km
  paved:
    61,356 km (75 km of expressway)
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, earth 27,566 km (1990)
Inland waterways:
    1,577 km along west coast; 2.4 m draft vessels maximum
Pipelines:
    refined products 53 km
Ports:
    Bergen, Drammen, Flora, Hammerfest, Harstad, Haugesund, Kristiansand,
    Larvik, Narvik, Oslo, Porsgrunn, Stavanger, Tromso, Trondheim
Merchant marine:
  total:
    764 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 20,793,968 GRT/35,409,472 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 159, cargo 92, chemical tanker 85, combination bulk 8, combination
    ore/oil 28, container 17, liquefied gas tanker 81, oil tanker 162, passenger
    13, passenger-cargo 2, railcar carrier 1, refrigerated cargo 13,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 54, short-sea passenger 21, vehicle carrier 28
  note:
    the government has created a captive 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
Airports:
  total:
    104
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    12
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    13
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    10
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    62
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Norway
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    3,102,000 telephones; high-quality domestic and international telephone,
    telegraph, and telex services
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    domestic earth stations
  international:
    2 buried coaxial cable systems; 4 coaxial submarine cables; EUTELSAT,
    INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean), and MARISAT earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 46, FM 493 (350 private and 143 government), shortwave 0
  radios:
    3.3 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    54 (repeaters 2,100)
  televisions:
    1.5 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Norway
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Norwegian Army, Royal Norwegian Navy, Royal Norwegian Air Force, Home Guard
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,116,130; males fit for military service 928,774; males
    reach military age (20) annually 29,123 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $3.4 billion, 3.2% of GDP (1994)
&                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (commonwealth in political union with the US)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, islands in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way
    from Hawaii to the Philippines
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    477 sq km
  land area:
    477 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
  note:
    includes 14 islands including Saipan, Rota, and Tinian
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    1,482 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical marine; moderated by northeast trade winds, little seasonal
    temperature variation; dry season December to June, rainy season July to
    October
Terrain:
    southern islands are limestone with level terraces and fringing coral reefs;
    northern islands are volcanic; highest elevation is 471 m (Mt. Okso'
    Takpochao on Saipan)
Natural resources:
    arable land, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    5% on Saipan
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    19%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    contamination of groundwater on Saipan by raw sewage contributes to disease
  natural hazards:
    active volcanoes on Pagan and Agrihan; typhoons (especially August to
    November)
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    strategic location in the North Pacific Ocean
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                     People
Population:
    51,033 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    3.04% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    33.05 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.61 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    37.96 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    67.43 years
  male:
    65.53 years
  female:
    69.48 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.69 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    NA
  adjective:
    NA
Ethnic divisions:
    Chamorro, Carolinians and other Micronesians, Caucasian, Japanese, Chinese,
    Korean
Religions:
    Christian (Roman Catholic majority, although traditional beliefs and taboos
    may still be found)
Languages:
    English, Chamorro, Carolinian
  note:
    86% of population speaks a language other than English at home
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980)
  total population:
    97%
  male:
    97%
  female:
    96%
Labor force:
    7,476 total indigenous labor force, 2,699 unemployed; 21,188 foreign workers
    (1990)
  by occupation:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
  conventional short form:
    Northern Mariana Islands
Digraph:
    CQ
Type:
    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
Capital:
    Saipan
Administrative divisions:
    none
Independence:
    none (commonwealth in political union with the US)
National holiday:
    Commonwealth Day, 8 January (1978)
Constitution:
    Covenant Agreement effective 3 November 1986 and the Constitution of the
    Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
Legal system:
    based on US system except for customs, wages, immigration laws, and taxation
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal; indigenous inhabitants are US citizens but do
    not vote in US presidential elections
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993); Vice President
    Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993)
  head of government:
    Governor Froilan C. TENORIO (since January 1994); Lieutenant Governor Jesus
    C. BORJA (since January 1994); 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
Legislative branch:
    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)
Judicial branch:
    Commonwealth Supreme Court, Superior Court, Federal District Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Republican Party, Benigno R. FITIAL, Leader; Democratic Party, Dr. Carlos S.
    CAMACHO, Chairman
Member of:
    ESCAP (associate), INTERPOL (subbureau), SPC
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                   Government
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 cattle ranches and small farms producing coconuts, breadfruit, tomatoes,
    and melons. Industry is small scale, mostly handicrafts, light
    manufacturing, and garment production.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $524 million (1994 est.)
  note:
    GDP numbers reflect US spending
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $10,500 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    6.5% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $190.4 million
  expenditures:
    $190.4 million, including capital expenditures of $19.1 million (FY94/95)
Exports:
    $263.4 million (f.o.b. 1991 est.)
  commodities:
    garments
  partners:
    NA
Imports:
    $392.4 million (c.i.f. 1991 est.)
  commodities:
    food, construction equipment and materials, petroleum products
  partners:
    US, Japan
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    105,000 kW
  production:
    NA kWh
  consumption per capita:
    NA kWh
Industries:
    tourism, construction, light industry, handicrafts
Agriculture:
    coconuts, fruits, cattle, vegetables; food is a major import
Economic aid:
    none
Currency:
    1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    US currency is used
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    381.5 km
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
  undifferentiated:
    primary 134.5 km; secondary 55 km; local 192 km (1991)
Inland waterways:
    none
Ports:
    Saipan, Tinian
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    8
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0 (1984)
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1; note - there are 2 cable TV stations
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
 relay, wire, and radio communication stations
  international:
    1 Atlantic Ocean INTELSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Burkina
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, National Police, People's Militia
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,081,999; males fit for military service 1,065,605 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $104 million, 6.4% of GDP (1994)
Burundi
0BURMA - (See Myanmar.)
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Burma (Myanmar)
============================================================
Burma (Myanmar) - Consular Information Sheet
 October 19, 1995
Country Description:  Burma, renamed Myanmar in 1989, experienced
major political unrest in 1988.  Conditions are stable under a
military government except in remote border areas where longstanding
insurgencies persist.
Entry Requirements:  Travel to and within Burma is strictly
controlled by that country's government.  A passport and visa is
required.  Tourist visas are issued for package/group tours as well
as to foreign individual tourists ("FITS") for stays of up to four
weeks.  Burmese visas may be issued at the point of entry to certain
individual tourists and group travelers.  "FITS" must exchange a
minimum of $300 for dollar denominated foreign exchange certificates
upon arrival.  Information about entering Burma via land borders as
well as other information may be sought from the Burmese Embassy
(Embassy of the Union of Myanmar), 2300 S Street, N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20008 [phone]/6), or the Permanent Mission of Myanmar to
the U.N., 10 East 77th St., New York, N.Y. 10021 (212-535-1311).
Areas of Instability:  Travel to main tourist areas of Pagan, Inle
Lake and the Mandalay area is routine.  Travel to other parts of
Burma is possible, although transportation is difficult.  Visiting
destinations such as Kyaiktiyo, Moulemein, and Myitkyina may require
advance permission from authorities, which takes several days to
arrange in Rangoon.  Those destinations requiring permission are
subject to change without advance notice.  Unauthorized travelers
may be stopped and harassed by security personnel and turned around.
 Some persons traveling to places where permission is not expressly
required have also reported delays, including temporary detention by
local security personnel.  Others report being able to travel
freely.  Obtaining advance permission to certain destinations does
not guarantee ability to travel, which is ultimately at the
discretion of Burmese military intelligence.  There has been one
reported guerrilla attack in the vicinity of Kanbauk (Tenasserim) in
the vicinity of a planned gas pipeline.
Southern Shan State is the scene of occasional fighting between the
government forces and Shan United Army (MTA).  There has also been
recent fighting by other groups in the Thai-Burma border region, and
travelers may obtain updated information from the U.S. Embassy at
Rangoon.  The Tachilek border area, at which border crossings are
sometimes permitted, is a potential site for fighting.  Even
inadvertently crossing the border elsewhere may result in danger.
Medical Facilities:  Hospital and medical services are available in
Rangoon.  Elsewhere, medical care is limited.  Doctors and hospitals
often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage,
including provision for medical evacuation, has proven useful.  The
international travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention can be reached at [phone] for additional
useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Security in tourist areas is generally good.
 Lost or stolen passports should be reported to local police and the
U.S. Embassy.  The level of violent crime and crime against property
is low.  There are occasional reports of pickpocketing.  Useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State
pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  It is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and
possible sentences include stiff jail terms and fines or the death
penalty.
Currency:  Foreign Exchange Certificates (FEC) are de facto
exchangeable for
Palmyra Atoll
%PAKISTAN - Passport and visa required.  Visa must be obtained before
arrival.  Tourist visa requires 1 application form, 1 photo and proof
of onward/return transportation.  Validity depends on length of visit
(minimum 3 months), multiple entries, no charge.  Need letter from company for
business visa.  Include prepaid envelope for return of passport by
registered mail.  AIDS test required for stays over 1 year.  For
applications and inquiries in Washington area, contact Consular Section
of the Embassy of Pakistan, 2315 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/939-6295).  All other areas apply to Consulate General, 12 East
65th St., New York, NY 10021 (212/879-5800).
Pakistan - Consular Information Sheet
August 3, 1994
Country Description:  Pakistan is a developing country with a parliamentary
democracy.  Tourist facilities are available in the principal population
centers of the country.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  The visa must be
obtained from a Pakistani Embassy or Consulate before arrival at the point
of entry.  Information on entry requirements can be obtained from the
Embassy of Pakistan, 2315 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C.,
20008, telephone [phone].  Travelers may also contact one of the
Consulates General of Pakistan, located at 12 East 65th St., New York, NY
10021, telephone [phone], and 18050 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1100, Los
Angeles, CA 90010, [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Rallies, demonstrations and processions occur from
time to time throughout Pakistan on very short notice, and have occasionally
taken on an anti-American or anti-Western character.  The potential exists
for U.S. citizens to be injured during such events.  During the Islamic
religious observances of Ramadan and Moharram sectarian rivalry and violence
often increase.
Travel in the Northwest Frontier Province:  Because of dangerous security
conditions affecting foreigners, particularly Americans, in the Khyber
Agency, U.S. government officials and their dependents are currently
prohibited from traveling overland through the tribal areas to the Khyber
Pass.  Substantial areas within the Northwest Frontier are designated tribal
areas, outside the normal jurisdiction of government law enforcement
authorities.  Travel within these areas is particularly hazardous.  Tribal
feuds or conflicts between smuggling factions may involve foreigners.  Even
in the settled areas, ethnic, political, or sectarian violence may target
foreigners.  Car hijackings and the abduction of foreigners are occasionally
reported from the tribal areas.  If visitors must enter the tribal areas, a
permit must be obtained from the Home Department, which may require that an
armed escort accompany the visitor.
Travel in  Sindh Province:  In the areas of Karachi and Hyderabad, there
have been recurring outbreaks of ethnic and sectarian violence which have
been characterized by random bombings, shootings and mass demonstrations.
Recent incidents have resulted in several deaths and the imposition of
curfews.  There have also been numerous incidents of kidnapping for ransom.
In rural Sindh Province, the security situation is hazardous, especially in
regard to overland travel.  Foreigners have occasionally been kidnapped, and
in one incident, the foreign kidnap victim was killed in a subsequent
gunfight between police and bandits.  The Pakistan government has
recommended that travelers limit their movements in Sindh Province to the
city of Karachi.  If visitors must go into the interior of Sindh Province,
the Pakistan government requests that travelers inform police authorities
well in advance of the trip so that necessary police security arrangements
can be made.
Travel in Baluchistan Province:  The province of Baluchistan, which borders
both Iran and Afghanistan, is notorious for cross-border smuggling.  Armed
battles between clans are frequent.  Due to a limited provincial police
presence, travelers wishing to visit the interior of Baluchistan should
consult with the province's Home Secretary; advance permission from
provincial authorities is required for travel into some areas.  While
quieter than the interior, Quetta, the provincial capital, has experienced
serious ethnic violence which has led to the imposition of curfews.
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical care is available in major cities in
Pakistan, but may be limited in rural areas.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate payment in cash for treatment.  Supplemental health insurance
which specifically covers overseas treatment has proven useful.  Additional
information on health problems can be obtained from the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers' hotline at [phone].
Information on Crime:  In Karachi, armed robberies are common, and drivers
resisting the theft of their motor vehicles are often shot.  In addition,
petty crime, especially theft of personal property, is common throughout
Pakistan.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to South
Asia."  They are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties: Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal
drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
of several years with heavy fines.  Legislation passed in 1994 makes
trafficking offenses punishable by death.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad
or the Consulates General in Karachi, Lahore or Peshawar may obtain updated
information on travel and security in Pakistan.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in Islamabad, Diplomatic
Enclave, Ramna 5, telephone - 826 161.  The Consular Section is located
separately in the USAID building, 18 Sixth Avenue, Ramna 5.  In Karachi, the
Consulate General is located at 8 Abdullah Haroon Road, telephone - 568-
5170.  In Lahore, the U.S. Consulate General is located on Sharah-E-Abdul
Hamid Bin Badees (50 Empress Road), New Simla Hills, telephone - 636-5530.
In Peshawar, the U.S. Consulate is located at 11 Hospital Road, Peshawar
Cantonment, telephone - 279-801, 279-802, 279-803.
No. 94-149
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated June 15, 1993, to add the
address of the Pakistani Consulate General in Los Angeles; additional
information on potential violence; a section on travel in Baluchistan
province, and new legislation concerning punishment for drug trafficking.
Pakistan - Public Announcement
November 14, 1994
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release
The U.S. Consulate in Karachi, Pakistan released the following announcement
on November 14:
In the wake of the November 10 assassination of the MQM (HAQIQI) deputy
leader, there has been violence in many parts of the city, particularly in
Jacob Lines, Landhi, Shah Faisal Colony, Korangi, Orangi, Malir,
Liaquatabad, Nazimabad, and Gulshan-Iqbal.  In addition, some businesses
remain closed and a general transportation strike has been called.  Various
murders have been reported throughout Karachi, and it is not clear if the
motives are political or criminal.  MQM (HAQIQI) has called for a 'day of
protest' (or "Black Day") on Tuesday, November 15, to mourn the death of
their deputy leader and to protest alleged "American/Indian designs in the
region."
The American Consulate urges all American citizens to exercise greater than
usual caution, avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from affected parts of
the city.  Large crowds or gatherings should also be avoided, as violence
can be quickly sparked.  The U.S. Consulate General will be open for
business on Tuesday, November 15.
No. 94-pak
----------------------------------------------
Pakistan - Public Announcement
November 8, 1994
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release
On November 6, the U.S. Embassy  in Islamabad provided the following
information on civil unrest in the Malakand Division (including the Swat
District) in northern Pakistan:
"Since November 2, a militant group campaigning for the imposition of Sharia
(Islamic) law has occupied numerous towns and at least one airport.  Roads
have been blocked, many hostages taken and several killed.
Police and paramilitary moves against the unrest have begun, and a few towns
seized earlier by the militants are reported to be in government hands.
However, the unrest has spread rapidly, and numerous towns in Swat and
Malakand are known to be under seige or occupied by militant forces.
All U.S. citizens in or planning to enter Pakistan are urged to follow local
media reports and contact the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad or U.S. Consulates
in Peshawar, Lahore, or Karachi before considering travel to Swat or
Malakand."
Additional information may be found in the Department of State's Consular
Information Sheet for Pakistan.
No. 94-pa1
?c?                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Pakistan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Asia, bordering the Arabian Sea, between India and Iran
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    803,940 sq km
  land area:
    778,720 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of California
Land boundaries:
    total 6,774 km, Afghanistan 2,430 km, China 523 km, India 2,912 km, Iran 909
    km
Coastline:
    1,046 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    status of Kashmir with India; border question with Afghanistan (Durand
    Line); water-sharing problems (Wular Barrage) over the Indus with upstream
    riparian India
Climate:
    mostly hot, dry desert; temperate in northwest; arctic in north
Terrain:
    flat Indus plain in east; mountains in north and northwest; Balochistan
    plateau in west
Natural resources:
    land, extensive natural gas reserves, limited petroleum, poor quality coal,
    iron ore, copper, salt, limestone
Land use:
  arable land:
    23%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    6%
  forest and woodland:
    4%
  other:
    67% (1993)
Irrigated land:
    170,000 sq km (1992)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution 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; desertification
  natural hazards:
    frequent earthquakes, occasionally severe especially in north and west;
    flooding along the Indus after heavy rains (July and August)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Pakistan
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental
    Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection,
    Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of
    the Sea, Marine Life Conservation
Note:
    controls Khyber Pass and Bolan Pass, traditional invasion routes between
    Central Asia and the Indian Subcontinent
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Pakistan
                                     People
Population:
    131,541,920 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    44% (female 28,033,354; male 29,777,818)
  15-64 years:
    52% (female 33,456,410; male 35,109,482)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 2,556,846; male 2,608,010) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.28% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    41.8 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.07 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -16.93 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    99.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    57.86 years
  male:
    57.18 years
  female:
    58.56 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.35 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Pakistani(s)
  adjective:
    Pakistani
Ethnic divisions:
    Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashtun (Pathan), Baloch, Muhajir (immigrants from India
    and their descendents)
Religions:
    Muslim 97% (Sunni 77%, Shi'a 20%), Christian, Hindu, and other 3%
Languages:
    Urdu (official), English (official; lingua franca of Pakistani elite and
    most government ministries), Punjabi 64%, Sindhi 12%, Pashtu 8%, Urdu 7%,
    Balochi and other 9%
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    35%
  male:
    47%
  female:
    21%
Labor force:
    36 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 46%, mining and manufacturing 18%, services 17%, other 19%
  note:
    extensive export of labor
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Pakistan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Islamic Republic of Pakistan
  conventional short form:
    Pakistan
  former:
    West Pakistan
Digraph:
    PK
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Islamabad
Administrative divisions:
    4 provinces, 1 territory*, and 1 capital territory**; Balochistan, Federally
    Administered Tribal Areas*, Islamabad Capital Territory**, North-West
    Frontier, Punjab, Sindh
  note:
    the Pakistani-administered portion of the disputed Jammu and Kashmir region
    includes Azad Kashmir and the Northern Areas
Independence:
    14 August 1947 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Pakistan Day, 23 March (1956) (proclamation of the republic)
Constitution:
    10 April 1973, suspended 5 July 1977, restored with amendments 30 December
    1985
Legal system:
    based on English common law with provisions to accommodate Pakistan's
    stature as an Islamic state; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with
    reservations
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal; separate electorates and reserved parliamentary
    seats for non-Muslims
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Sardar Farooq LEGHARI; 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
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Benazir BHUTTO
  cabinet:
    Cabinet
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Parliament (Majlis-e-Shoora)
  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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court, Federal Islamic (Shari'at) Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Pakistan
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
  government:
    Pakistan People's Party (PPP), Benazir BHUTTO; Pakistan 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), Maulana Kausar NIAZI; Pakhtun
    Quami Party (PKQP), Mohammed AFZAL Khan; Jamhoori Watan Party (JWP), Akbar
    Khan BUGTI
  opposition:
    Pakistan Muslim League, Nawaz Sharif faction (PML/N), Nawaz SHARIF; Awami
    National Party (ANP), Khan Abdul WALI KHAN; Pakistan Islamic Front (PIF),
    Qazi Hussain AHMED; Balochistan National Movement, Mengal Group (BNM/M),
    Sardar Akhtar MENGAL; Mohajir Quami Movement, Altaf faction (MQM/A), Altaf
    HUSSAIN; Jamaat-i-Islami (JI), Qazi Hussain AHMED; Jamiat-al-Hadith (JAH)
  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 Pakistan
    (ASSP); Islami-Jamhoori-Mahaz (IJM-Islamic Democratic Party), the IJM
    includes Jamiat Ulema-i-Islami, Fazlur Rehman group (JUI/F); Jamiat
    Ulema-i-Pakistan, Noorani faction (JUP/NO); Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam,
    Sami-ul-Haq faction (JUI/S); Pakistan Muslim League, Functional Group
    (PML/F); Pakistan National Party (PNP)
  note:
    political alliances in Pakistan can shift frequently
Other political or pressure groups:
    military remains important political force; ulema (clergy), landowners,
    industrialists, and small merchants also influential
Member of:
    AsDB, C, CCC, CP, ECO, ESCAP, FAO, G-19, G-24, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, NAM, OAS (observer), OIC,
    PCA, SAARC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNOMIL,
    UNOSOM, UNPROFOR, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Maleeha LODHI
  chancery:
    2315 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Los Angeles and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador John C. MONJO
  embassy:
    Diplomatic Enclave, Ramna 5, Islamabad
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 1048, PSC 1212, Box 2000, Unit 6220, Islamabad; APO AE 09812-2000
  telephone:
    [92] (51) 826161 through 826179
  FAX:
    [92] (51) 214222
  consulate(s) general:
    Karachi, Lahore
  consulate(s):
    Peshawar
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Pakistan
                                   Government
Flag:
    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 Islam
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Pakistan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The Pakistani economy has made progress in several key areas since Benazir
    BHUTTO became Prime Minister in October 1993. She has been under pressure
    from international donors and the IMF - which gave Pakistan a $1.3 billion
    structural adjustment credit in February 1994 - to continue the economic
    reforms and austerity measures begun by her predecessor, caretaker Prime
    Minister Moeen QURESHI (July-October 1993). Foreign exchange reserves
    climbed to more than $3 billion in 1994, and the budget deficit was
    substantially reduced. Real GDP growth was 4% in FY93/94, up from 2.3% in
    FY92/93. Foreign direct and portfolio investment also have increased.
    Privatization of large public sector utilities began in 1994 with the sale
    of 12% of the Pakistan Telecommunications Corporation (PTC) and the Water
    and Power Development Authority (WAPDA); the sale of state-owned banks and
    other large units are planned for 1995. Still, the government must cope with
    long-standing economic vulnerabilities - high levels of debt service and
    defense spending, a small tax base, a huge population, and dependence on
    cotton-based exports - which hamper its ability to create a stable economic
    environment. In addition, Pakistan's infrastructure is inadequate and
    deteriorating, low levels of literacy constrain industrial growth, and
    increasing sectarian, ethnic, and tribal violence disrupt production.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $248.5 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,930 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    12% (FY93/94)
Unemployment rate:
    10% (FY90/91 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $10.5 billion
  expenditures:
    $11.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $3.1 billion (FY93/94)
Exports:
    $6.7 billion (1993)
  commodities:
    cotton, textiles, clothing, rice, leather, carpets
  partners:
    US, Japan, Hong Kong, Germany, UK, UAE, France
Imports:
    $9.5 billion (1993)
  commodities:
    petroleum, petroleum products, machinery, transportation equipment,
    vegetable oils, animal fats, chemicals
  partners:
    Japan, US, Germany, UK, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, South Korea
External debt:
    $24 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5.6% (FY93/94); accounts for 18% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    10,800,000 kW (1994)
  production:
    52.4 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    389 kWh (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Pakistan
                                     Economy
Industries:
    textiles, food processing, beverages, construction materials, clothing,
    paper products, shrimp
Agriculture:
    24% of GDP; world's largest contiguous irrigation system; major crops -
    cotton, wheat, rice, sugarcane, fruits, vegetables; livestock products -
    milk, beef, mutton, eggs
Illicit drugs:
    major illicit producer of opium and hashish for the international drug
    trade; remains world's third largest opium producer (160 metric tons in
    1994); major center for processing Afghan heroin and key transit area for
    Southwest Asian heroin moving to Western market
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    $2.5 billion (FY91/92); $2.5 billion (FY92/93); $2.5 billion (FY93/94); no
    US commitments, includes bi- and multilateral aid
Currency:
    1 Pakistani rupee (PRe) = 100 paisa
Exchange rates:
    Pakistani rupees (PRs) per US$1 - 30.860 (January 1995), 30.570 (1994),
    28.107 (1993), 25.083 (1992), 23.801 (1991), 21.707 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Pakistan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    8,773 km
  broad gauge:
    7,718 km 1.676-m gauge (286 km electrified; 1,037 double track)
  narrow gauge:
    445 km 1.000-m gauge; 610 km less than 1.000-m gauge (1985)
Highways:
  total:
    177,410 km
  paved:
    94,027 km
  unpaved:
    83,383 km (1991 est.)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 250 km; petroleum products 885 km; natural gas 4,044 km (1987)
Ports:
    Gwadar, Karachi, Ormaro (under construction), Port Muhammad bin Qasim
Merchant marine:
  total:
    30 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 352,189 GRT/532,782 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 1, cargo 25, oil tanker 1, passenger-cargo 3
Airports:
  total:
    119
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    12
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    21
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    33
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    14
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    24
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    7
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    8
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Pakistan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; about 7 telephones/1,000 persons; the domestic telephone
    system is poor, adequate only for government and business use; the system
    for international traffic is better
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay
  international:
    3 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean) earth stations; microwave
    radio relay
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 19, FM 8, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    29
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Pakistan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, Civil Armed Forces, National Guard,
    paramilitary/security forces
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 30,219,551; males fit for military service 18,544,008; males
    reach military age (17) annually 1,429,719 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $3.2 billion, 5.6% of GDP (FY94/95)
Norfolk Island
jNIGERIA - Passport  and visa required.  Visa, no charge, valid for one
entry within 12 months, requires 1 photo, yellow fever vaccination,
proof of onward/return transportation, and for tourism a  letter of
invitation is required.  Business visa requires letter from counterpart in Nigeria
and letter of introduction from U.S. company.  For further information
contact Embassy of the Republic of Nigeria, 2201 M St., N.W., Washington, D.C.
20037 (202/822-1500 or 1522) or the Consulate General in New York
(212/715-7200).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Nigeria
============================================================
Nigeria - Travel Warning
 June 5, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the
dangers of travel to Nigeria.  Violent crime, practiced by persons
in police and military uniforms, as well as by ordinary criminals,
is an acute problem.  Harassment and shake-downs of foreigners and
Nigerians alike by uniformed personnel and others occur frequently
throughout the country.
Business, charity and other scams target foreigners worldwide and
pose dangers of financial loss and physical harm.  Persons
contemplating business deals are strongly urged to check with the
U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce before
providing any information, making any financial commitments or
traveling to Nigeria.  Under no circumstances should American
citizens travel to Nigeria without a valid visa.  Invitation to
enter Nigeria without a visa is normally indicative of illegal
activity.
 No. 95-018
Nigeria - Consular Information Sheet
 June 16, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the
dangers of travel to Nigeria.  Violent crime, practiced by persons
in police and military uniforms, as well as by ordinary criminals,
is an acute problem.  Harassment and shake-downs of foreigners and
Nigerians alike by uniformed personnel and others occur frequently
throughout the country.
Business, charity and other scams target foreigners worldwide and
pose dangers of financial loss and physical harm.  Persons
contemplating business deals are strongly urged to check with the
U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce before
providing any information, making any financial commitments or
traveling to Nigeria.  Under no circumstances should American
citizens travel to Nigeria without a valid visa.  Invitation to
enter Nigeria without a visa is normally indicative of illegal
activity.
Country Description:  Nigeria, with limited facilities for tourism,
poses considerable risks for travelers.  Violent crime is acute (see
paragraph on Crime and Criminal Violence).  Business scams that
target foreigners are a pervasive problem, and persons contemplating
business deals are strongly urged to check with the U.S. Department
of Commerce or the U.S. Embassy in Lagos before traveling to Nigeria
or making financial commitments (see paragraph on Commercial Fraud).
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Evidence
of yellow fever and cholera vaccinations is also required.  Airport
visas are not available.  Promises of entry into Nigeria without a
visa are credible indicators of a fraudulent commercial scheme in
which the perpetrators seek to exploit the foreign traveler's
illegal presence in Nigeria with threats of extortion or bodily
harm.  Furthermore, U.S. citizens cannot legally depart Nigeria
unless they can prove, by presenting their entry visas, that they
entered Nigeria legally.  Payment of 35 U.S. dollars airport tax is
required upon departure.  Current information on entry requirements
may be obtained at the Embassy of the Republic of Nigeria, 2201 M
Street, N.W., in Washington, D.C. 20037, telephone [phone],
or at the Nigerian Consulate General in New York.
Information on Crime and Criminal Violence:  Violent crime
affecting foreigners is an extremely serious problem, especially in
Lagos and the southern half of the country.  Visitors, as well as
resident Americans, report widespread armed muggings, assault,
burglary, carjackings and extortion, often involving violence.
Carjackings, roadblock robberies and armed break-ins occur often,
with victims sometimes shot by assailants for no apparent reason.
Reports of armed robberies in broad daylight on rural roads in the
northern half of the country appear to be increasing.  Law
enforcement authorities usually respond to crimes slowly, if at all,
and provide little or no investigative support to victims.
Pickpockets and confidence artists, some posing as local immigration
and other government officials, are especially common at Murtala
Muhammad Airport.
In addition to harassment and shake-downs of American citizens by
officials at airports and throughout Nigeria, there have been
isolated but troubling reports of violent attacks by purported
government officials on Americans and other foreigners.  The
Nigerian government has not responded meaningfully to complaints by
the American Embassy in Lagos and the U.S. State Department in
Washington, D.C. concerning these abuses and attacks, nor is there
any indication that the officers involved have been disciplined.
Upon arrival in Nigeria, U.S. citizens are urged to register at the
U.S. Embassy in Lagos where they may obtain current information and
advice on minimizing risks.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Commercial Fraud:  A major and continuing problem is the commercial
scam or sting that targets foreigners, including many U.S. citizens.
 Such scams could involve U.S. citizens in illegal activity,
resulting in extortion or bodily harm.  The scams generally involve
phony offers of either outright money transfers or lucrative sales
or contracts with promises of large commissions or up-front
payments.  Alleged deals frequently invoke the authority of one or
more ministries or offices of the Nigerian government and may even
cite by name the support of a Nigerian government official.  The
apparent use in some scams of actual government stationery, seals,
and offices is grounds for concern that some individual Nigerian
officials may be involved in these activities.  The ability of U.S.
Embassy officers to extricate Americans from unlawful business deals
is extremely limited.  Nigerian police do not always inform the U.S.
Embassy of an American citizen in distress.  The Department of
Commerce has issued advisories to the U.S. business community on
doing business in Nigeria.  Both the Department of Commerce and the
U.S. Embassy in Lagos can provide business travelers with further
details.
The Department of State has issued a brochure for business
travelers to Nigeria; single copies are available at no charge from
the Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management, Room
4811, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520-4818.  Please
enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope.
Airport Safety:  Due to a lack of effective security measures, the
U.S. Secretary of Transportation has ordered that direct air
services between the U.S. and the Murtala Muhammad Airport in Lagos
be suspended.  U.S. travelers may wish to check with their travel
agents or the airlines for alternate routing.  The U.S. Embassy is
concerned by reports that maintenance and operational procedures for
Nigerian airlines may not be adequate to ensure passenger safety.
Periodic strikes may also affect flight scheduling and raise
additional concerns about the reliability and safety of Nigerian
aviation.  The section "Information on Crime and Criminal Violence"
provides information concerning crime at airports.
Areas of Instability:  Nigeria has experienced civil unrest,
violence and strikes.  The causes and locations vary.  Locations
where outbreaks of violence have occurred include the Lagos area,
southwestern Nigeria and parts of Delta, Rivers, Plateau and Kaduna
states.  There has been an increase in the number of unauthorized
automobile checkpoints.  These checkpoints are operated by bands of
police, soldiers, or bandits posing as or operating with police or
soldiers, whose personnel should be considered armed and dangerous.
Many incidents, including murder, illustrate the increasing risks of
road travel in Nigeria.  Reports of threats against firms and
foreign workers in the petroleum sector recur from time to time.
Chadian troop incursions have reportedly occurred at the border area
in the far northeast, near Lake Chad.
Despite labor unrest in various parts of the country and occasional
flare-ups in local markets, U.S. citizens have not been specifically
targetted in such disturbances.  However, they and their vehicles
could inadvertently become caught up in a demonstration or riot.
Heightened tensions resulting from the delayed process of transition
from military rule to an elected government could result in further
unrest and disturbances.  Early June (prior to and during the week
of the June 12 anniversary of the 1993 annulled presidential
election) is a time to be especially mindful of security concerns,
to exercise particular caution and to avoid public gatherings.
Medical Facilities:  A variety of diseases pose a serious health
threat.  The public is not always informed in a timely manner about
outbreaks of typhoid, cholera and yellow fever.  Hepatitis and
malaria, including potentially fatal cerebral malaria, are endemic.
Medical facilities are limited; not all medicines are available.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proven useful.  Information on health matters
can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Photography Restrictions:  Permission is required to take
photographs of government buildings, airports, bridges or
official-looking buildings.  Permission may be obtained from
Nigerian security personnel.
Currency Regulations:  Credit cards are rarely accepted in Nigeria
and, because of the prevalence of credit card fraud in Nigeria, as
well as credit card fraud by Nigerians in the U.S., their use is
generally ill-advised.  It is often necessary to bring travelers
checks or currency in a sufficient amount to cover the period of a
planned visit.  Interbank transfers are often difficult, if not
impossible, to accomplish.  The government of Nigeria has fixed an
artificially high rate for the local currency, the naira (in terms
of its value in exchange for foreign currencies).  Persons seeking
to trade at lower rates on the "black market" could be arrested or
shaken down.  U.S. visitors are strongly urged to exchange dollars
for local currency only at the official rate and at approved
exchange facilities, usually including the major hotels.  For
further information, visitors may wish to contact the U.S. Embassy.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Those
arrested routinely face prolonged detention before trial, and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in
Lagos may obtain updated information on travel and security in
Nigeria.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 2 Eleke Crescent,
Victoria Island in Lagos.  The telephone number is (234) (1)
261-0050.
 No. 95-071
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 20, 1994,
to include the Travel Warning issued  June 5, 1995, and to add
information in the paragraphs on Airport Safety and Areas of
Instability.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
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Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Nigeria
============================================================
Nigeria - Public Announcement
 June 9, 1995
 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
 For Immediate Release
The U.S. Embassy in Lagos issued an announcement on June 9 advising
American citizens in Nigeria to exercise particular caution and
avoid public gatherings during the weekend before and the week of
the June 12 anniversary of the 1993 annulled presidential election.
The U.S. Embassy has no information suggesting a likelihood of civil
disturbances, but feels Americans should be especially mindful of
security concerns during this period.
For further information on travel to Nigeria you may consult the
Department's Travel Warning and Consular Information Sheet.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Nigeria
============================================================
Nigeria - Travel Warning
 June 5, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the
dangers of travel to Nigeria.  Violent crime, practiced by persons
in police and military uniforms, as well as by ordinary criminals,
is an acute problem.  Harassment and shake-downs of foreigners and
Nigerians alike by uniformed personnel and others occur frequently
throughout the country.
Business, charity and other scams target foreigners worldwide and
pose dangers of financial loss and physical harm.  Persons
contemplating business deals are strongly urged to check with the
U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce before
providing any information, making any financial commitments or
traveling to Nigeria.  Under no circumstances should American
citizens travel to Nigeria without a valid visa.  Invitation to
enter Nigeria without a visa is normally indicative of illegal
activity.
 No. 95-018
Nigeria - Consular Information Sheet
 June 16, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the
dangers of travel to Nigeria.  Violent crime, practiced by persons
in police and military uniforms, as well as by ordinary criminals,
is an acute problem.  Harassment and shake-downs of foreigners and
Nigerians alike by uniformed personnel and others occur frequently
throughout the country.
Business, charity and other scams target foreigners worldwide and
pose dangers of financial loss and physical harm.  Persons
contemplating business deals are strongly urged to check with the
U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce before
providing any information, making any financial commitments or
traveling to Nigeria.  Under no circumstances should American
citizens travel to Nigeria without a valid visa.  Invitation to
enter Nigeria without a visa is normally indicative of illegal
activity.
Country Description:  Nigeria, with limited facilities for tourism,
poses considerable risks for travelers.  Violent crime is acute (see
paragraph on Crime and Criminal Violence).  Business scams that
target foreigners are a pervasive problem, and persons contemplating
business deals are strongly urged to check with the U.S. Department
of Commerce or the U.S. Embassy in Lagos before traveling to Nigeria
or making financial commitments (see paragraph on Commercial Fraud).
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Evidence
of yellow fever and cholera vaccinations is also required.  Airport
visas are not available.  Promises of entry into Nigeria without a
visa are credible indicators of a fraudulent commercial scheme in
which the perpetrators seek to exploit the foreign traveler's
illegal presence in Nigeria with threats of extortion or bodily
harm.  Furthermore, U.S. citizens cannot legally depart Nigeria
unless they can prove, by presenting their entry visas, that they
entered Nigeria legally.  Payment of 35 U.S. dollars airport tax is
required upon departure.  Current information on entry requirements
may be obtained at the Embassy of the Republic of Nigeria, 2201 M
Street, N.W., in Washington, D.C. 20037, telephone [phone],
or at the Nigerian Consulate General in New York.
Information on Crime and Criminal Violence:  Violent crime
affecting foreigners is an extremely serious problem, especially in
Lagos and the southern half of the country.  Visitors, as well as
resident Americans, report widespread armed muggings, assault,
burglary, carjackings and extortion, often involving violence.
Carjackings, roadblock robberies and armed break-ins occur often,
with victims sometimes shot by assailants for no apparent reason.
Reports of armed robberies in broad daylight on rural roads in the
northern half of the country appear to be increasing.  Law
enforcement authorities usually respond to crimes slowly, if at all,
and provide little or no investigative support to victims.
Pickpockets and confidence artists, some posing as local immigration
and other government officials, are especially common at Murtala
Muhammad Airport.
In addition to harassment and shake-downs of American citizens by
officials at airports and throughout Nigeria, there have been
isolated but troubling reports of violent attacks by purported
government officials on Americans and other foreigners.  The
Nigerian government has not responded meaningfully to complaints by
the American Embassy in Lagos and the U.S. State Department in
Washington, D.C. concerning these abuses and attacks, nor is there
any indication that the officers involved have been disciplined.
Upon arrival in Nigeria, U.S. citizens are urged to register at the
U.S. Embassy in Lagos where they may obtain current information and
advice on minimizing risks.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Commercial Fraud:  A major and continuing problem is the commercial
scam or sting that targets foreigners, including many U.S. citizens.
 Such scams could involve U.S. citizens in illegal activity,
resulting in extortion or bodily harm.  The scams generally involve
phony offers of either outright money transfers or lucrative sales
or contracts with promises of large commissions or up-front
payments.  Alleged deals frequently invoke the authority of one or
more ministries or offices of the Nigerian government and may even
cite by name the support of a Nigerian government official.  The
apparent use in some scams of actual government stationery, seals,
and offices is grounds for concern that some individual Nigerian
officials may be involved in these activities.  The ability of U.S.
Embassy officers to extricate Americans from unlawful business deals
is extremely limited.  Nigerian police do not always inform the U.S.
Embassy of an American citizen in distress.  The Department of
Commerce has issued advisories to the U.S. business community on
doing business in Nigeria.  Both the Department of Commerce and the
U.S. Embassy in Lagos can provide business travelers with further
details.
The Department of State has issued a brochure for business
travelers to Nigeria; single copies are available at no charge from
the Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management, Room
4811, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520-4818.  Please
enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope.
Airport Safety:  Due to a lack of effective security measures, the
U.S. Secretary of Transportation has ordered that direct air
services between the U.S. and the Murtala Muhammad Airport in Lagos
be suspended.  U.S. travelers may wish to check with their travel
agents or the airlines for alternate routing.  The U.S. Embassy is
concerned by reports that maintenance and operational procedures for
Nigerian airlines may not be adequate to ensure passenger safety.
Periodic strikes may also affect flight scheduling and raise
additional concerns about the reliability and safety of Nigerian
aviation.  The section "Information on Crime and Criminal Violence"
provides information concerning crime at airports.
Areas of Instability:  Nigeria has experienced civil unrest,
violence and strikes.  The causes and locations vary.  Locations
where outbreaks of violence have occurred include the Lagos area,
southwestern Nigeria and parts of Delta, Rivers, Plateau and Kaduna
states.  There has been an increase in the number of unauthorized
automobile checkpoints.  These checkpoints are operated by bands of
police, soldiers, or bandits posing as or operating with police or
soldiers, whose personnel should be considered armed and dangerous.
Many incidents, including murder, illustrate the increasing risks of
road travel in Nigeria.  Reports of threats against firms and
foreign workers in the petroleum sector recur from time to time.
Chadian troop incursions have reportedly occurred at the border area
in the far northeast, near Lake Chad.
Despite labor unrest in various parts of the country and occasional
flare-ups in local markets, U.S. citizens have not been specifically
targetted in such disturbances.  However, they and their vehicles
could inadvertently become caught up in a demonstration or riot.
Heightened tensions resulting from the delayed process of transition
from military rule to an elected government could result in further
unrest and disturbances.  Early June (prior to and during the week
of the June 12 anniversary of the 1993 annulled presidential
election) is a time to be especially mindful of security concerns,
to exercise particular caution and to avoid public gatherings.
Medical Facilities:  A variety of diseases pose a serious health
threat.  The public is not always informed in a timely manner about
outbreaks of typhoid, cholera and yellow fever.  Hepatitis and
malaria, including potentially fatal cerebral malaria, are endemic.
Medical facilities are limited; not all medicines are available.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proven useful.  Information on health matters
can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Photography Restrictions:  Permission is required to take
photographs of government buildings, airports, bridges or
official-looking buildings.  Permission may be obtained from
Nigerian security personnel.
Currency Regulations:  Credit cards are rarely accepted in Nigeria
and, because of the prevalence of credit card fraud in Nigeria, as
well as credit card fraud by Nigerians in the U.S., their use is
generally ill-advised.  It is often necessary to bring travelers
checks or currency in a sufficient amount to cover the period of a
planned visit.  Interbank transfers are often difficult, if not
impossible, to accomplish.  The government of Nigeria has fixed an
artificially high rate for the local currency, the naira (in terms
of its value in exchange for foreign currencies).  Persons seeking
to trade at lower rates on the "black market" could be arrested or
shaken down.  U.S. visitors are strongly urged to exchange dollars
for local currency only at the official rate and at approved
exchange facilities, usually including the major hotels.  For
further information, visitors may wish to contact the U.S. Embassy.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Those
arrested routinely face prolonged detention before trial, and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in
Lagos may obtain updated information on travel and security in
Nigeria.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 2 Eleke Crescent,
Victoria Island in Lagos.  The telephone number is (234) (1)
261-0050.
 No. 95-071
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 20, 1994,
to include the Travel Warning issued  June 5, 1995, and to add
information in the paragraphs on Airport Safety and Areas of
Instability.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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`2D2                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Nigeria
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Benin and
    Cameroon
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    923,770 sq km
  land area:
    910,770 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than twice the size of California
Land boundaries:
    total 4,047 km, Benin 773 km, Cameroon 1,690 km, Chad 87 km, Niger 1,497 km
Coastline:
    853 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    30 nm
International disputes:
    demarcation of international boundaries in Lake Chad, the lack of which led
    to border incidents in the past, is completed and awaits ratification by
    Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria; dispute with Cameroon over land and
    maritime boundaries in the vicinity of the Bakasi Peninsula has been
    referred to the International Court of Justice
Climate:
    varies; equatorial in south, tropical in center, arid in north
Terrain:
    southern lowlands merge into central hills and plateaus; mountains in
    southeast, plains in north
Natural resources:
    petroleum, tin, columbite, iron ore, coal, limestone, lead, zinc, natural
    gas
Land use:
  arable land:
    31%
  permanent crops:
    3%
  meadows and pastures:
    23%
  forest and woodland:
    15%
  other:
    28%
Irrigated land:
    8,650 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    soil degradation; rapid deforestation; desertification; recent droughts in
    north severely affecting marginal agricultural activities
  natural hazards:
    periodic droughts
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Nigeria
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear
    Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Nigeria
                                     People
Population:
    101,232,251 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    45% (female 22,643,026; male 22,850,322)
  15-64 years:
    52% (female 25,842,286; male 26,978,906)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 1,438,392; male 1,479,319) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.16% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    43.26 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.01 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.35 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    72.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    55.98 years
  male:
    54.69 years
  female:
    57.3 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.31 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Nigerian(s)
  adjective:
    Nigerian
Ethnic divisions:
  north:
    Hausa and Fulani
  southwest:
    Yoruba
  southeast:
    Ibos
    non-Africans 27,000
  note:
    Hausa and Fulani, Yoruba, and Ibos together make up 65% of population
Religions:
    Muslim 50%, Christian 40%, indigenous beliefs 10%
Languages:
    English (official), Hausa, Yoruba, Ibo, Fulani
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    51%
  male:
    62%
  female:
    40%
Labor force:
    42.844 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 54%, industry, commerce, and services 19%, government 15%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Nigeria
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Federal Republic of Nigeria
  conventional short form:
    Nigeria
Digraph:
    NI
Type:
    military government since 31 December 1983; plans to institute a
    constitutional conference to prepare for a new transition to civilian rule
    after plans for a transition in 1993 were negated by General BABANGIDA
Capital:
    Abuja
  note:
    on 12 December 1991 the capital was officially moved from Lagos to Abuja;
    many government offices remain in Lagos pending completion of facilities in
    Abuja
Administrative divisions:
    30 states and 1 territory*; Abia, Abuja Capital Territory*, Adamawa, Akwa
    Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Enugu, Imo,
    Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Niger, Ogun, Ondo,
    Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe
Independence:
    1 October 1960 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 1 October (1960)
Constitution:
    1979 constitution still in force; plan for 1989 constitution to take effect
    in 1993 was not implemented
Legal system:
    based on English common law, Islamic law, and tribal law
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    Chairman of the Provisional Ruling Council and Commander in Chief of Armed
    Forces and Defense Minister Gen. Sani ABACHA (since 17 November 1993);
    Vice-Chairman of the Provisional Ruling Council Oladipo DIYA (since 17
    November 1993)
  cabinet:
    Federal Executive Council
Legislative branch:
    bicameral National Assembly
  Senate:
    suspended after coup of 17 November 1993
  House of Representatives:
    suspended after coup of 17 November 1993
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court, Federal Court of Appeal
Political parties and leaders:
  note:
    two political party system suspended after the coup of 17 November 1993
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, G-15, G-19, G-24, G-77, GATT, IAEA,
    IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, MINURSO, NAM, OAU, OPEC, PCA, UN, UNAMIR,
    UNAVEM II, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNPROFOR, UNU, UPU, WCL,
    WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTO
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Nigeria
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Zubair Mahmud KAZAURE
  chancery:
    1333 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Walter C. CARRINGTON
  embassy:
    2 Eleke Crescent, Lagos
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 554, Lagos
  telephone:
    [234] (1) 261-0097
  FAX:
    [234] (1) 261-0257
  branch office:
    Abuja
  consulate(s) general:
    Kaduna
Flag:
    three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and green
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Nigeria
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The oil-rich Nigerian economy continues to be hobbled by political
    instability and poor macroeconomic management. Nigeria's unpopular military
    rulers show no sign of wanting to restore democratic civilian rule in the
    near future and appear divided on how to redress fundamental economic
    imbalances that cause troublesome inflation and the steady depreciation of
    the naira. The government's domestic and international arrears continue to
    limit economic growth - even in the oil sector - and prevent an agreement
    with the IMF and bilateral creditors on debt relief. The inefficient
    (largely subsistence) agricultural sector has failed to keep up with rapid
    population growth, and Nigeria, once a large net exporter of food, now must
    import food.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $122.6 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -0.8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,250 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    53% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    28% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $9 billion
  expenditures:
    $10.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $11.9 billion (f.o.b., 1992)
  commodities:
    oil 95%, cocoa, rubber
  partners:
    US 54%, EC 23%
Imports:
    $8.3 billion (c.i.f., 1992)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, manufactured goods, food and animals
  partners:
    EC 64%, US 10%, Japan 7%
External debt:
    $29.5 billion (1992)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 7.7% (1991); accounts for 43% of GDP, including petroleum
Electricity:
  capacity:
    4,570,000 kW
  production:
    11.3 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    109 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    crude oil and mining - coal, tin, columbite; primary processing industries -
    palm oil, peanut, cotton, rubber, wood, hides and skins; manufacturing
    industries - textiles, cement, building materials, food products, footwear,
    chemical, printing, ceramics, steel
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Nigeria
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 35% of GDP and half of labor force; cash crops - cocoa,
    peanuts, palm oil, rubber; food crops - corn, rice, sorghum, millet,
    cassava, yams; livestock - cattle, sheep, goats, pigs; fishing and forestry
    resources extensively exploited
Illicit drugs:
    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 cocaine from South America
    intended for West European, East Asian, and North American markets
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $705 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $3 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $2.2 billion
Currency:
    1 naira (N) = 100 kobo
Exchange rates:
    naira (N) per US$1 - 21.996 (January 1995), 21.996 (1994), 22.065 (1993),
    17.298 (1992), 9.909 (1991), 8.038 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Nigeria
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,567 km
  narrow gauge:
    3,505 km 1.067-m gauge
  standard gauge:
    62 km 1.435-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    107,990 km
  paved:
    mostly bituminous-surface treatment 30,019 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, improved earth 25,411 km; unimproved earth 52,560 km
Inland waterways:
    8,575 km consisting of Niger and Benue Rivers and smaller rivers and creeks
Pipelines:
    crude oil 2,042 km; petroleum products 3,000 km; natural gas 500 km
Ports:
    Calabar, Lagos, Onne, Port Harcourt, Sapele, Warri
Merchant marine:
  total:
    32 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 404,064 GRT/661,850 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 1, cargo 14, chemical tanker 3, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 12,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    80
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    6
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    10
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    10
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    7
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    25
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    21
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Nigeria
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; above-average system limited by poor maintenance; major
    expansion in progress
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay, coaxial cable, and 20 domestic satellite earth
    stations carry intercity traffic
  international:
    3 INTELSAT earth stations (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1
    coaxial submarine cable carry international traffic
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 35, FM 17, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    28
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Nigeria
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 23,167,009; males fit for military service 13,246,223; males
    reach military age (18) annually 1,024,059 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $172 million, about 1% of GDP (1992)
  nd Tonle Sap
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cambodia
                                     People
Population:
    10,561,373 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    46% (female 2,367,414; male 2,438,104)
  15-64 years:
    51% (female 2,932,788; male 2,494,203)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 185,337; male 143,527) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.83% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    44.42 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    16.16 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    109.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    49.46 years
  male:
    48 years
  female:
    51 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.81 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Cambodian(s)
  adjective:
    Cambodian
Ethnic divisions:
    Khmer 90%, Vietnamese 5%, Chinese 1%, other 4%
Religions:
    Theravada Buddhism 95%, other 5%
Languages:
    Khmer (official), French
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    35%
  male:
    48%
  female:
    22%
Labor force:
    2.5 million to 3 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 80% (1988 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cambodia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of Cambodia
  conventional short form:
    Cambodia
  local long form:
    Reacheanachak Kampuchea
  local short form:
    Kampuche
Philippines
PARAGUAY - Passport required.  Visa not required for tourist/business
stay up to 90 days (extendable).   AIDS  test required for resident visas.
U.S. test sometimes accepted.  For additional information consult Embassy of
Paraguay, 2400 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/483-6960).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Paraguay
============================================================
Paraguay - Public Announcement
 June 17, 1995
 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
 For Immediate Release
The government of Paraguay is considering the extradition to
Argentina of seven people suspected to have ties to the terrorist
group Hizballah and who may be charged with bombings in Buenos
Aires.  Some of the defendants are currently appealing the
Paraguayan court decision to grant extradition.  We are not aware of
any specific threat to U.S. citizens related to these possible
extraditions.  However, groups sympathetic to the seven may
nonetheless attempt to take revenge on U.S. citizens.  U.S. citizens
contemplating travel to Paraguay may wish to consider this when
making their plans and take such security precautions as they deem
appropriate.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Paraguay
============================================================
Paraguay - Consular Information Sheet
 September 2, 1994
Country Description:  Paraguay is a medium income nation with a
developing economy.  Tourist facilities are good in Asuncion, poor
in major cities, and almost nonexistent in remote areas.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  U.S. citizens do not
need a visa for a three-month stay.  Minors (under 20) traveling
alone, with one parent or with a third party must present written
authorization from the absent parent(s) or legal guardian,
specifically granting permission to travel alone, with one parent or
with a third party.  This authorization must be notarized,
authenticated by the Paraguayan embassy or consulate, and translated
into Spanish.  For current information concerning entry and customs
requirements for Paraguay, travelers can contact the Paraguayan
Embassy at 2400 Massachusetts Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008,
tel: [phone] or the nearest consulate in Los Angeles, Miami
or New York.
Medical Facilities:  Facilities for medical care are limited.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for
payment of medical services outside the United States.  In some
cases, medical insurance with specific overseas and medical
evacuation coverage has proved to be useful.  For additional health
information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease Control's
international travelers' hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Armed robberies, car thefts, and burglaries
have increased significantly.  Street crime to include pickpocketing
and muggings is prevalent in the cities, particularly during the
evening hours in the vicinity of hotels and airports.  There have
been incidents of pilferage from checked airline baggage.  Travelers
have found it prudent to put valuables in their carry-on luggage.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," which is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.  Also available from the same address is the
Department of State publication, "Tips for travelers to Central and
South America."
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties in Paraguay for
possession, use and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Adoptions:  Due to serious problems in the international adoption
process in Paraguay, including chronic unpredictability in the
issuance of final decrees and uncertainty over case processing and
prospects for proposed adoption regulations, the U.S. Embassy
strongly urges prospective adopting parents to postpone any
commitment to a Paraguayan prospective child until such time as the
situation at juvenile court is clarified.  Some adoptions have been
put on hold pending court investigations of local lawyers, notaries
and government officials responsible for documentation of birth and
abandonment.  American citizens who have secured court dates with
the judge handling their international adoption petition, should be
aware that prospective parents' stay in Asuncion is often a
prolonged one.  The consular officer is not authorized to act as
agents of behalf of U.S. citizens seeking to adopt Paraguayan
children.  Updated information on Paraguayan adoption proceedings
and U.S. immigrant visa requirements is available from the consular
section of the U.S. Embassy.  Additional information is available by
writing the Office of Citizens Consular Services, CA/OCS/CCS, Room
4817, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520, or by telephoning
[phone].
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In March 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Paraguay's civil aviation authority as not
in compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards
for Paraguay's carriers operating to and from the U.S.  Typically,
the same level of safety oversight is applied to operations to other
destinations.  For further information, travelers may contact the
Department of Transportation at 1-800-322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration:  Americans who register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Asuncion at 1776 Mariscal
Lopez Avenue, telephone:  [phone], may obtain updated
information on travel and security within Paraguay.
 No. 94-211
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 20, 1994  to
add information on aviation oversight.
6                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Paraguay
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central South America, northeast of Argentina
Map references:
    South America
Area:
  total area:
    406,750 sq km
  land area:
    397,300 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than California
Land boundaries:
    total 3,920 km, Argentina 1,880 km, Bolivia 750 km, Brazil 1,290 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    short section of the boundary with Brazil, just west of Salto del Guaira
    (Guaira Falls) on the Rio Parana, has not been determined
Climate:
    varies from temperate in east to semiarid in far west
Terrain:
    grassy plains and wooded hills east of Rio Paraguay; Gran Chaco region west
    of Rio Paraguay mostly low, marshy plain near the river, and dry forest and
    thorny scrub elsewhere
Natural resources:
    hydropower, timber, iron ore, manganese, limestone
Land use:
  arable land:
    20%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    39%
  forest and woodland:
    35%
  other:
    5%
Irrigated land:
    670 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation (an estimated 2 million hectares of forest land have been lost
    from 1958-1985); water pollution; inadequate means for waste disposal
    present health risks for many urban residents
  natural hazards:
    local flooding in southeast (early September to June); poorly drained plains
    may become boggy (early October to June)
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea,
    Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Nuclear Test Ban
Note:
    landlocked; buffer between Argentina and Brazil
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Paraguay
                                     People
Population:
    5,358,198 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    41% (female 1,077,284; male 1,123,776)
  15-64 years:
    55% (female 1,465,147; male 1,468,642)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 120,776; male 102,573) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.71% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    31.48 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.38 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    24.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    73.58 years
  male:
    72.06 years
  female:
    75.18 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.22 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Paraguayan(s)
  adjective:
    Paraguayan
Ethnic divisions:
    mestizo (mixed Spanish and Indian) 95%, Caucasians plus Amerindians 5%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 90%, Mennonite and other Protestant denominations
Languages:
    Spanish (official), Guarani
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    90%
  male:
    92%
  female:
    88%
Labor force:
    1.692 million (1993 est.)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 45%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Paraguay
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Paraguay
  conventional short form:
    Paraguay
  local long form:
    Republica del Paraguay
  local short form:
    Paraguay
Digraph:
    PA
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Asuncion
Administrative divisions:
    19 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Alto Paraguay, Alto
    Parana, Amambay, Boqueron, Caaguazu, Caazapa, Canindeyu, Central, Chaco,
    Concepcion, Cordillera, Guaira, Itapua, Misiones, Neembucu, Nueva Asuncion,
    Paraguari, Presidente Hayes, San Pedro
Independence:
    14 May 1811 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Independence Days, 14-15 May (1811)
Constitution:
    promulgated 20 June 1992
Legal system:
    based on Argentine codes, Roman law, and French codes; judicial review of
    legislative acts in Supreme Court of Justice; does not accept compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory up to age 60
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Juan Carlos WASMOSY (since 15 August 1993); Vice President Roberto
    Angel SEIFART (since 15 August 1993); election last held 9 May 1993 (next to
    be held May 1998); results - Juan Carlos WASMOSY 40.09%, Domingo LAINO
    32.06%, Guillermo CABALLERO VARGAS 23.04%
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; nominated by the president
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Congress (Congreso)
  Chamber of Senators (Camara de Senadores):
    elections last held 9 May 1993 (next to be held May 1998); results - percent
    of vote by party NA; seats - (45 total) Colorado Party 20, PLRA 17, EN 8
  Chamber of Deputies (Camara de Diputados):
    elections last held on 9 May 1993 (next to be held by May 1998); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (80 total) Colorado Party 38, PLRA 33,
    EN 9
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia)
Political parties and leaders:
    Colorado Party, Eugenio SANABRIA CANTERO, president; Authentic Radical
    Liberal Party (PLRA), Domingo LAINO; National Encounter (EN), Guillermo
    CABALLERO VARGAS (the EN party includes the following minor parties:
    Christian Democratic Party (PDC), Jose Angel BURRO; Febrerista Revolutionary
    Party (PRF), Euclides ACEVEDO; Popular Democratic Party (PDP), Hugo RICHER)
Other political or pressure groups:
    Confederation of Workers (CUT); Roman Catholic Church
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Paraguay
                                   Government
Member of:
    AG (observer), CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM,
    ITU, LAES, LAIA, MERCOSUR, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jorge Genaro Andres PRIETO CONTI
  chancery:
    2400 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 6962
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Miami, New Orleans, and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Robert SERVICE
  embassy:
    1776 Avenida Mariscal Lopez, Asuncion
  mailing address:
    C. P. 402, Asuncion; Unit 4711, APO AA 34036-0001
  telephone:
    [595] (21) 213-715
  FAX:
    [595] (21) 213-728
Flag:
    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 PARAGUAY, 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 PARAGUAY, all within two circles)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Paraguay
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Agriculture, including forestry, accounts for about 25% of GDP, employs
    about 45% of the labor force, and provides the bulk of exports, in which
    soybeans and cotton are the most important. Paraguay lacks substantial
    mineral or petroleum resources but possesses a large hydropower potential.
    In a major step to increase its economic activity in the region, Paraguay in
    March 1991 joined the Southern Cone Common Market (MERCOSUR), which includes
    Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. In 1992, the government, through an
    unorthodox approach, reduced external debt with both commercial and official
    creditors by purchasing a sizable amount of the delinquent commercial debt
    in the secondary market at a substantial discount. The government had paid
    100% of remaining official debt arrears to the US, Germany, France, and
    Spain. All commercial debt arrears have been rescheduled. For the long run,
    the government must press forward with general, market-oriented economic
    reforms. Growth of 3.5% in 1993 was spurred by higher-than-expected
    agricultural output and rising international commodity prices. Inflation
    picked up steam in fourth quarter 1993 because of rises in public sector
    salaries and utility rates. GDP growth continued in 1994 at 3.5%. Although
    inflation declined a bit over 1993, increases in food prices, and crop and
    infrastructure damage from heavy rains at the end of the year, forced
    inflation to 18%, above the government's target of 15%. Paraguay reaffirmed
    its commitment to MERCOSUR on 1 January 1995 by implementing the
    organization's common external tariff.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $15.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $2,950 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    18% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    11.2% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.2 billion
  expenditures:
    $1.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $487 million (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $728 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    cotton, soybeans, timber, vegetable oils, meat products, coffee, tung oil
  partners:
    EC 37%, Brazil 25%, Argentina 10%, Chile 6%, US 6%
Imports:
    $1.38 billion (c.i.f., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    capital goods, foodstuffs, consumer goods, raw materials, fuels
  partners:
    Brazil 30%, EC 20%, US 18%, Argentina 8%, Japan 7%
External debt:
    $1.4 billion (yearend 1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3.6% (1993 est.); accounts for 20% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    6,530,000 kW
  production:
    26.5 billion kWh (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Paraguay
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    NA
  note:
    much of the electricity produced in Paraguay is exported to Brazil and
    domestic consumption cannot be determined
Industries:
    meat packing, oilseed crushing, milling, brewing, textiles, other light
    consumer goods, cement, construction
Agriculture:
    accounts for 26% of GDP; cash crops - cotton, sugarcane, soybeans; other
    crops - corn, wheat, tobacco, cassava, fruits, vegetables; animal products -
    beef, pork, eggs, milk; surplus producer of timber; self-sufficient in most
    foods
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; important
    transshipment point for Bolivian cocaine headed for the US and Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $172 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.1 billion
Currency:
    1 guarani (G) = 100 centimos
Exchange rates:
    guaranies (G) per US$ - 1,949.6 (January 1995), 1,911.5 (1994), 1,744.3
    (1993), 1,500.3 (1992), 1,325.2 (1991), 1,229.8 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Paraguay
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    970 km
  standard gauge:
    440 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    60 km 1.000-m gauge
  other:
    470 km various gauges (privately owned)
Highways:
  total:
    28,300 km
  paved:
    2,600 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 500 km; earth 25,200 km
Inland waterways:
    3,100 km
Ports:
    Asuncion, Villeta, San Antonio, Encarnacion
Merchant marine:
  total:
    13 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 16,747 GRT/19,513 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 11, oil tanker 2
  note:
    in addition, 1 naval cargo ship is sometimes used commercially
Airports:
  total:
    929
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    578
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    27
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    314
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Paraguay
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    78,300 telephones; 16 telephones/1,000 persons; meager telephone service;
    principal switching center in Asuncion
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    fair microwave radio relay network
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 40, FM 0, shortwave 7
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    5
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Paraguay
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy (includes Naval Air and Marines), Air Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,290,894; males fit for military service 937,054; males
    reach military age (17) annually 55,551 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $100 million, 1.6% of GDP (1994 est.)
Paracel Islands
@/:/PANAMA - Passport, tourist card or visa and onward/return ticket
required. Tourist card valid 30 days, available from airline serving Panama for
$5 fee.  For longer stays and additionall information contact Embassy of
Panama, 2862 McGill Terrace, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/483-1407).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Panama
============================================================
Panama - Consular Information Sheet
 October 20, 1995
Country Description:  Panama has a developing economy.  Outside the
Panama City area, tourist facilities vary in quality.
Entry Requirements:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to obtain a U.S.
passport before traveling to Panama.  Although entry into Panama is
permitted with any proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a certified
birth certificate or a naturalization certificate) and official
photo identification (such as a driver's license), some travelers
have experienced difficulties returning to the U.S. when not in
possession of a valid U.S. passport.  Travelers must either purchase
a tourist card from the airline serving Panama or obtain a visa from
a Panamanian embassy or consulate before traveling to Panama.
Further information may be obtained from the Embassy of Panama, 2862
McGill Terrace, N.W., Washington D.C. 20008, telephone (202)
483-1407.
Areas of Instability:  U.S. citizen missionaries were kidnapped in
early 1993 from an Indian village in the Darien jungle area
bordering Colombia and are still missing.  There is no Panamanian
police presence in much of the Darien area, which is known to be
frequented by Colombian guerrillas, smugglers and illegal aliens.
Travel south of Yaviza to the Colombian border is possible only by
foot and is risky for individual travelers or small groups.
Occasional flare-ups of armed violence continue to occur in
metropolitan areas of Panama.
On July 19, 1994, an ALAS domestic flight traveling between Colon
and Paitilla airport in Panama City exploded in mid flight.
Panamanian authorities have announced that the explosion was caused
by a bomb carried aboard by a passenger.  In the wake of the
bombing, the Panamanian government agreed to take steps to enhance
security at Panama's domestic airports.  Travelers on flights using
Panamanian airports other than Tocumen International may wish to
consider this information when making travel plans.
Medical Facilities:  Although Panama City has some very good
medical facilities, medical facilities outside the capital are
limited.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid
outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage, including provision for medical
evacuation, has proven useful in many emergencies.  For additional
health information, travelers may contact the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline at (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  There is a medium incidence of crime in the
Panama City and Colon areas.  The Consular Section of the U.S.
Embassy regularly receives reports from American tourists and
businesspersons who have been victims of crimes ranging from armed
robberies to muggings, purse-snatchings, and petty theft.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  This publication, as well as
others, such as "Tips for Travelers to Central and South America,"
are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington D.C.  20402.  While in Panama, it is
also helpful to monitor U.S. Southern Command Network (SCN)
television, radio stations, and to contact the local police and the
U.S. Embassy in Panama City for current information and advisories.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties in Panama for
possession, use and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Aviation Oversight:  In January 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Panama's civil aviation authority as in
compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards
for Panamanian carriers operating to and from the U.S.  The same
level of safety oversight would typically be applied to operations
to other destinations.  For further information, travelers may
contact the Department of Transportation at 1 [phone].
Registration/Embassy Location:  Americans who register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Panama may also obtain
updated information on travel and security within Panama.  The
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Panama is located on Panama
Bay in Panama City, at Balboa Avenue and 40th Street.  The
international mailing address is Apartado 6959, Panama 5, Republic
of Panama.  The U.S. mailing address is Unit 0945, APO AA  34002.
The telephone number is [phone].
 No. 95-133
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 2,
1994, to update Entry Requirement and Crime Information, and to
amend the U.S. Embassy telephone number.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Panama
============================================================
Panama - Consular Information Sheet
 October 20, 1995
Country Description:  Panama has a developing economy.  Outside the
Panama City area, tourist facilities vary in quality.
Entry Requirements:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to obtain a U.S.
passport before traveling to Panama.  Although entry into Panama is
permitted with any proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a certified
birth certificate or a naturalization certificate) and official
photo identification (such as a driver's license), some travelers
have experienced difficulties returning to the U.S. when not in
possession of a valid U.S. passport.  Travelers must either purchase
a tourist card from the airline serving Panama or obtain a visa from
a Panamanian embassy or consulate before traveling to Panama.
Further information may be obtained from the Embassy of Panama, 2862
McGill Terrace, N.W., Washington D.C. 20008, telephone (202)
483-1407.
Areas of Instability:  U.S. citizen missionaries were kidnapped in
early 1993 from an Indian village in the Darien jungle area
bordering Colombia and are still missing.  There is no Panamanian
police presence in much of the Darien area, which is known to be
frequented by Colombian guerrillas, smugglers and illegal aliens.
Travel south of Yaviza to the Colombian border is possible only by
foot and is risky for individual travelers or small groups.
Occasional flare-ups of armed violence continue to occur in
metropolitan areas of Panama.
On July 19, 1994, an ALAS domestic flight traveling between Colon
and Paitilla airport in Panama City exploded in mid flight.
Panamanian authorities have announced that the explosion was caused
by a bomb carried aboard by a passenger.  In the wake of the
bombing, the Panamanian government agreed to take steps to enhance
security at Panama's domestic airports.  Travelers on flights using
Panamanian airports other than Tocumen International may wish to
consider this information when making travel plans.
Medical Facilities:  Although Panama City has some very good
medical facilities, medical facilities outside the capital are
limited.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid
outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage, including provision for medical
evacuation, has proven useful in many emergencies.  For additional
health information, travelers may contact the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline at (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  There is a medium incidence of crime in the
Panama City and Colon areas.  The Consular Section of the U.S.
Embassy regularly receives reports from American tourists and
businesspersons who have been victims of crimes ranging from armed
robberies to muggings, purse-snatchings, and petty theft.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  This publication, as well as
others, such as "Tips for Travelers to Central and South America,"
are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington D.C.  20402.  While in Panama, it is
also helpful to monitor U.S. Southern Command Network (SCN)
television, radio stations, and to contact the local police and the
U.S. Embassy in Panama City for current information and advisories.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties in Panama for
possession, use and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Aviation Oversight:  In January 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Panama's civil aviation authority as in
compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards
for Panamanian carriers operating to and from the U.S.  The same
level of safety oversight would typically be applied to operations
to other destinations.  For further information, travelers may
contact the Department of Transportation at 1 [phone].
Registration/Embassy Location:  Americans who register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Panama may also obtain
updated information on travel and security within Panama.  The
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Panama is located on Panama
Bay in Panama City, at Balboa Avenue and 40th Street.  The
international mailing address is Apartado 6959, Panama 5, Republic
of Panama.  The U.S. mailing address is Unit 0945, APO AA  34002.
The telephone number is [phone].
 No. 95-133
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 2,
1994, to update Entry Requirement and Crime Information, and to
amend the U.S. Embassy telephone number.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
`8I8                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Panama
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific
    Ocean, between Colombia and Costa Rica
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    78,200 sq km
  land area:
    75,990 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than South Carolina
Land boundaries:
    total 555 km, Colombia 225 km, Costa Rica 330 km
Coastline:
    2,490 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    200 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid, cloudy; prolonged rainy season (May to January), short
    dry season (January to May)
Terrain:
    interior mostly steep, rugged mountains and dissected, upland plains;
    coastal areas largely plains and rolling hills
Natural resources:
    copper, mahogany forests, shrimp
Land use:
  arable land:
    6%
  permanent crops:
    2%
  meadows and pastures:
    15%
  forest and woodland:
    54%
  other:
    23%
Irrigated land:
    320 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution from agricultural runoff threatens fishery resources;
    deforestation of tropical rain forest; land degradation
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine
    Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical
    Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, Law of the
    Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Tropical Timber 94
Note:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Panama
                                     People
Population:
    2,680,903 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    34% (female 439,491; male 458,817)
  15-64 years:
    61% (female 812,876; male 823,124)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 74,672; male 71,923) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.9% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    24.12 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.79 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.36 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    15.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    75.2 years
  male:
    72.57 years
  female:
    77.97 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.8 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Panamanian(s)
  adjective:
    Panamanian
Ethnic divisions:
    mestizo (mixed Indian and European ancestry) 70%, West Indian 14%, white
    10%, Indian 6%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 85%, Protestant 15%
Languages:
    Spanish (official), English 14%
  note:
    many Panamanians bilingual
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    89%
  male:
    89%
  female:
    88%
Labor force:
    979,000 (1994 est.)
  by occupation:
    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%
  note:
    shortage of skilled labor, but an oversupply of unskilled labor
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Panama
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Panama
  conventional short form:
    Panama
  local long form:
    Republica de Panama
  local short form:
    Panama
Digraph:
    PM
Type:
    constitutional  republic
Capital:
    Panama
Administrative divisions:
    9 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia) and 1 territory* (comarca);
    Bocas del Toro, Chiriqui, Cocle, Colon, Darien, Herrera, Los Santos, Panama,
    San Blas*, Veraguas
Independence:
    3 November 1903 (from Colombia; became independent from Spain 28 November
    1821)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 3 November (1903)
Constitution:
    11 October 1972; major reforms adopted April 1983
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts in the
    Supreme Court of Justice; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with
    reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Ernesto PEREZ BALLADARES Gonzalez Revilla (since 1 September 1994,
    elected 8 May 1994); First Vice President Tomas Gabriel ALTAMIRANO DUQUE
    (since 1 September 1994); Second Vice President Felipe Alejandro VIRZI Lopez
    (since 1 September 1994 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%
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    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, PALA 1, PA 14, MPE 6, MOLIRENA 4, PLA 3,
    PRC 3, PL 2, PDC 1, UDI 1, MORENA 1
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia), 5 superior courts, 3
    courts of appeal
Political parties and leaders:
  governing coalition:
    Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD), Gerardo GONZALEZ; Solidarity Party
    (PS), Samuel LEWIS GALINDO; Liberal Republican Party (PLR), Rodolfo CHIARI;
    Labor Party (PALA), Carlos Lopez GUEVARA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Panama
                                   Government
  other parties:
    Nationalist Republican Liberal Movement (MOLIRENA), Alfredo RAMIREZ;
    Authentic Liberal Party (PLA), Arnulfo ESCALONA; Arnulfista Party (PA),
    Mireya MOSCOSO DE GRUBER; Christian Democratic Party (PDC), Raul OSSA;
    Liberal Party (PL), Roberto ALEMAN Zubieta; Papa Egoro Movement (MPE), Ruben
    BLADES; 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
Other political or pressure groups:
    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)
Member of:
    AG (associate), CG, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM,
    IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC,
    IOM, ITU, LAES, LAIA (observer), NAM, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO,
    UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ricardo Alberto ARIAS
  chancery:
    2862 McGill Terrace NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Atlanta, Houston, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco, San Juan
    (Puerto Rico), Tampa
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Oliver P. GARZA
  embassy:
    Avenida Balboa and Calle 38, Apartado 6959, Panama City 5
  mailing address:
    American Embassy Panama, Unit 0945; APO AA 34002
  telephone:
    [507] 27-1777
  FAX:
    [507] 27-1964
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Panama
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Because of its key geographic location, Panama's economy is service-based,
    heavily weighted toward banking, commerce, and tourism. Trade and financial
    ties with the US are especially close. GDP grew at 3.6% in 1994, a
    respectable rate, yet below the 7.1% average of the early 1990s. Banking and
    financial services and trade through the Colon Free Zone continued to expand
    rapidly, with the industrial and agricultural sectors experiencing little
    growth. The new administration, inaugurated 1 September 1994, has launched
    an economic plan designed to reverse rising unemployment, attract foreign
    investment, cut back the size of government, and modernize the economy. The
    success of the plan in meeting its goals for 1995 and beyond depends largely
    on the success of the administration in reforming the labor code and
    instituting the reforms necessary to join the GATT.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $12.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3.6% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,670 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.8% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    12.9% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.93 billion
  expenditures:
    $1.93 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994)
Exports:
    $520 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    bananas 43%, shrimp 11%, sugar 4%, clothing 5%, coffee 2%
  partners:
    US 45%, EU, Central America and Caribbean
Imports:
    $2.205 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    capital goods 21%, crude oil 11%, foodstuffs 9%, consumer goods, chemicals
  partners:
    US 40%, EU, Central America and Caribbean, Japan
External debt:
    $6.7 billion (yearend 1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 1.8% (1994 est.); accounts for about 9% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    960,000 kW
  production:
    2.8 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,047 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    manufacturing and construction, petroleum refining, brewing, cement and
    other construction materials, sugar milling
Agriculture:
    accounts for 10% of GDP (1992 est.); crops - bananas, rice, corn, coffee,
    sugarcane; livestock; fishing; importer of food grain, vegetables
Illicit drugs:
    major cocaine transshipment point and drug money laundering center
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Panama
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $516 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $582 million;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $4 million
Currency:
    1 balboa (B) = 100 centesimos
Exchange rates:
    balboas (B) per US$1 - 1.000 (fixed rate)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Panama
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    238 km
  broad gauge:
    78 km 1.524-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    160 km 0.914-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    8,530 km
  paved:
    2,745 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone 3,270 km; improved, unimproved earth 2,515 km
Inland waterways:
    800 km navigable by shallow draft vessels; 82 km Panama Canal
Pipelines:
    crude oil 130 km
Ports:
    Bahia de las Minas, Balboa, Colon, Cristobal, Panama
Merchant marine:
  total:
    3,526 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 60,748,525 GRT/95,102,552 DWT
  ships by type:
    barge carrier 1, bulk 787, cargo 1,070, chemical tanker 175, combination
    bulk 33, combination ore/oil 25, container 259, liquefied gas tanker 125,
    livestock carrier 8, multifunction large-load carrier 6, oil tanker 465,
    passenger 24, passenger-cargo 3, refrigerated cargo 284, roll-on/roll-off
    cargo 81, short-sea passenger 34, specialized tanker 9, vehicle carrier 137
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; includes 93 countries; the 10 major fleet
    flags are: Japan 1,171 ships, Greece 323, Hong Kong 276, US 212, Taiwan 184,
    Singapore 181, South Korea 172, China 145 ships, UK 102, and Norway 70
Airports:
  total:
    115
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    5
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    14
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    74
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    20
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Panama
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    220,000 telephones; domestic and international facilities well developed
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 coaxial submarine cable; 2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations;
    connected to the Central American Microwave System
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 91, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    23
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Panama
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Panamanian Public Forces (PPF; includes the National Police or PNP, Maritime
    Service, National Air Service, and Institutional Protective Service);
    Judicial Branch Technical Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 701,691; males fit for military service 481,927 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    expenditures for the Panamanian security forces amounted to $105 million,
    1.0% of GDP (1993 est.)
Juan de Nova Island
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Johnston Atoll
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of the US)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Johnston Atoll
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-third of the way from
    Hawaii to the Marshall Islands
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    2.8 sq km
  land area:
    2.8 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 4.7 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    10 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical, but generally dry; consistent northeast trade winds with little
    seasonal temperature variation
Terrain:
    mostly flat with a maximum elevation of 4 meters
Natural resources:
    guano (deposits worked until about 1890)
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    no natural fresh water resources
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    strategic location in the North Pacific Ocean; Johnston Island and Sand
    Island are natural islands; North Island (Akau) and East Island (Hikina) are
    manmade islands formed from coral dredging; closed to the public; former
    nuclear weapons test site; site of Johnston Atoll Chemical Agent Disposal
    System (JACADS); some low-growing vegetation
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Johnston Atoll
                                     People
Population:
    327 (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    NA
Death rate:
    NA
Net migration rate:
    NA
Infant mortality rate:
    NA
Life expectancy at birth:
    NA
Total fertility rate:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Johnston Atoll
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Johnston Atoll
Digraph:
    JQ
Type:
    unincorportated territory of the US administered by the US Defense 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
Capital:
    none
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (territory of the US)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (territory of the US)
Flag:
    the flag of the US is used
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Johnston Atoll
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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.
Electricity:
    supplied by the management and operations contractor
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Johnston Atoll
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    NA
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    Johnston Island
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Johnston Atoll
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; excellent system including 60-channel submarine cable,
    Autodin/SRT terminal, digital telephone switch, Military Affiliated Radio
    System (MARS station), and UHF/VHF air-ground radio
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    commercial satellite television system
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Johnston Atoll
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
   nohn (New Brunswick), Saint John's (N
Poland
PHILIPPINES - Passport and onward/return ticket required.  For entry by
Manila International Airport, visa not required for transit/tourist
stay up to 21 days.  Visa required for longer stay, maximum of 59 days, 1
application form, 1 photo, no charge.  Company letter needed for
business visa.  AIDS test required for permanent residency; U.S. test accepted.
For more information contact the Embassy of the Philippines, 1600 Mass.
Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036 (202/467-9300) or nearest Consulate
General: CA (213/387-5321 and 415/433-6666), HI (808/595-6316), IL
(312/332-6458), NY (212/764-1330), TX (713/621-8609) or WA (206/441-1640).
Philippines - Consular Information Sheet
August 12, 1994
Country Description:  The Philippines is a developing democratic republic.
Tourist facilities are available within the population centers and main
tourist sites.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and onward/return tickets are required for
entry through the international airports in Manila, Cebu, Davao, and Laoag.
A visa is not required of U.S. citizens transit or for tourist visits of up
to 21 days.  Current information concerning specific requirements is
available through the Embassy of the Philippines, 1600 Massachusetts Avenue,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036, telephone: [phone], or Philippine
consulates general in Chicago, Honolulu, Los Angeles, New York, or San
Francisco.
Security Concerns:  The government of the Philippines is engaged in
negotiations with communist, Muslim, and military rebels, and the security
situation has improved in most areas of the country in recent years.
Nevertheless, rebel presence and/or activity in certain areas of the
Philippines pose potential or real security concerns.  Most likely to be at
risk are U.S. government employees, missionaries, military personnel, and
resident Americans associated with organizations identified with the United
States.  In Northern Luzon, the presence of New People's Army (NPA)
guerrillas and armed bandits makes travel in the provinces of Abra, Aurora,
Cagayan, Isabela, Kalinga-Apayao and Mountain Province (including Sagada and
Bontoc) potentially dangerous.  NPA units are also active in Southern Luzon,
and travel is potentially dangerous in Quezon Province and the Bicol region,
except Catanduanes.
In the Visayas regions, there are small numbers of NPA rebels sporadically
active in the interior areas of Panay, Negros, and Samar Islands, making
travel to these areas potentially dangerous.
In the Mindanao Region, continuing crime and insurgency problems make travel
to and within the autonomous regions of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Basilan
Island, Zamboanga City, and Cotabato City dangerous.  (The ARMM consists of
the provinces of Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, Maguindanao, and Lanao del Sur.)  In June
1994, government troops launched a military offensive against the Muslim
fundamentalist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the Philippines' remote,
southernmost province, Sulu Province.  In retaliation, fifteen Filipino
Christians were abducted and murdered by ASG sympathizers in Basilan.
Subsequently, Christians in Basilan waylaid a jeepney, killing several
Muslims.  The ASG has also been implicated in bombings in Davao City in
December 1993 and General Santos City in 1993 and 1994.
There were several kidnappings of foreigners in Sulu and Basilan in 1992 and
1993, and credible threats continue.  While all those foreigners kidnapped
eventually escaped or were released, travelers should be aware of the danger
and take appropriate precautions.  Although Filipino Christians and Muslims
have been the primary victims of this cycle of violence, American citizens -
especially religious workers - resident in all the areas of Mindanao noted
above are at increased risk.  Communist NPA guerrillas continue to be
present and sporadically active in the provinces of Agusan del Sur and
Surigao del Sur, and in the border areas of the provinces of Davao del Norte
and Davao del Sur, making travel to these areas potentially dangerous.
Americans who anticipate travel to the above regions should obtain current,
detailed information from the U.S. Embassy in Manila or the Consulate in Cebu.
Volcanic Eruptions:  The June 1991 eruption of Mt. Pinatubo deposited large
amounts of volcanic ash in a wide area around the volcano (located sixty
miles northwest of Manila).  The principal danger now comes from "lahars",
or mudflows, which can inundate low-lying areas and wash away bridges.
These conditions will persist for several years, especially during the rainy
season (May to November).
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical care is available in major cities, but
is limited in rural and  more remote areas.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health care services.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  The
Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide payment of medical services
outside the United States.   In some cases, supplemental overseas medical
insurance, including coverage for medical evacuation, has proven useful.
The international travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control at
[phone] has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Crime is of serious concern in the Philippines.
Homicides, kidnapping, other crimes of violence, confidence games,
pickpocketing and credit card fraud are common.  Foreign tourists are often
victims of petty crimes.  Travel by public conveyance as well as private
vehicle may be risky; travel off the national highways and paved roads,
especially at night, is particularly dangerous.  Lost or stolen U.S.
passports should be reported immediately to local police and to  the U.S.
Embassy in Manila or to the Consulate in Cebu.  Useful information on
safeguarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip
Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  In the Philippines, penalties for
possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.  Capital punishment can be
applied in cases of heinous crimes.
Registration:  U.S. citizens living in or visiting the Philippines can
register with the U.S. Embassy in Manila or the U.S. Consulate in Cebu and
obtain updated information on travel and security in the Philippines.
Information for Americans contemplating road travel within the Philippines
is also available at the Embassy or Consulate.  A recorded message of the
Embassy's latest travel information may be heard by telephoning (63-2) 521-
9261.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Manila is located at
1201 Roxas Boulevard, telephone: [phone].  The U.S. Consulate is
located in Cebu on the 3rd Floor, PCI Bank, Gorordo Avenue, Lahug,
telephone: [phone].
No. 94-159
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated February 14, 1994.  It
provides updated information concerning continuing threats to security in
Mindanao,  mentions capital punishment as applicable for heinous crimes,
provides updated information concerning supplemental medical evacuation
coverage, and provides the current address and telephone number of the
Embassy of the Philippines in Washington, D.C.  Information concerning the
1993 eruption of Mt. Mayon has been deleted.
<                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Philippines
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, archipelago between the Philippine Sea and the South
    China Sea, east of Vietnam
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    300,000 sq km
  land area:
    298,170 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Arizona
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    36,289 km
Maritime claims:
    measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
  continental shelf:
    to depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    irregular polygon 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
International disputes:
    involved in a complex dispute over the Spratly Islands with China, Malaysia,
    Taiwan, Vietnam, and possibly Brunei; claims Malaysian state of Sabah
Climate:
    tropical marine; northeast monsoon (November to April); southwest monsoon
    (May to October)
Terrain:
    mostly mountains with narrow to extensive coastal lowlands
Natural resources:
    timber, petroleum, nickel, cobalt, silver, gold, salt, copper
Land use:
  arable land:
    26%
  permanent crops:
    11%
  meadows and pastures:
    4%
  forest and woodland:
    40%
  other:
    19%
Irrigated land:
    16,200 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    uncontrolled deforestation in watershed areas; soil erosion; air and water
    pollution in Manila; increasing pollution of coastal mangrove swamps which
    are important fish breeding grounds
  natural hazards:
    astride typhoon belt, usually affected by 15 and struck by five to six
    cyclonic storms per year; landslides, active volcanoes, destructive
    earthquakes, tsunamis
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Philippines
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Philippines
                                     People
Population:
    73,265,584 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    38% (female 13,841,552; male 14,214,234)
  15-64 years:
    58% (female 21,603,818; male 20,923,307)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 1,425,706; male 1,256,967) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.23% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    30.42 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.97 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -1.14 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    49.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    65.65 years
  male:
    63.16 years
  female:
    68.25 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.81 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Filipino(s)
  adjective:
    Philippine
Ethnic divisions:
    Christian Malay 91.5%, Muslim Malay 4%, Chinese 1.5%, other 3%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 83%, Protestant 9%, Muslim 5%, Buddhist and other 3%
Languages:
    Pilipino (official; based on Tagalog), English (official)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    94%
  male:
    94%
  female:
    93%
Labor force:
    24.12 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 46%, industry and commerce 16%, services 18.5%, government 10%,
    other 9.5% (1989)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Philippines
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of the Philippines
  conventional short form:
    Philippines
  local long form:
    Republika ng Pilipinas
  local short form:
    Pilipinas
Digraph:
    RP
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Manila
Administrative divisions:
    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, Mindoro
    Occidental, Mindoro Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental,
    Mountain, Naga*, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, North Cotabato,
    Northern Samar, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Olongapo*, Ormoc*, Oroquieta*,
    Ozamis*, Pagadian*, Palawan, 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
Independence:
    4 July 1946 (from US)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 12 June (1898) (from Spain)
Constitution:
    2 February 1987, effective 11 February 1987
Legal system:
    based on Spanish and Anglo-American law; accepts compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    15 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Fidel Valdes RAMOS (since 30 June 1992); Vice President Joseph
    Ejercito ESTRADA (since 30 June 1992); 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
  cabinet:
    Executive Secretary; appointed by the president with the consent of the
    Commission of Appointments
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Philippines
                                   Government
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Congress (Kongreso)
  Senate (Senado):
    elections last held 11 May 1992 (next to be held NA May 1995); results - LDP
    66%, NPC 20%, Lakas/NUCD 8%, Liberal 6%; seats - (24 total) LDP 15, NPC 5,
    Lakas/NUCD 2, Liberal 1, independent 1
  House of Representatives (Kapulungan Ng Mga Kinatawan):
    elections last held 11 May 1992 (next to be held NA May 1995); results - LDP
    43.5%; Lakas/NUCD 25%, NPC 23.5%, Liberal 5%, KBL 3%; seats - (200 total)
    LDP 87, NPC 45, Lakas/NUCD 41, Liberal 15, NP 6, KBL 3, independents 3
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Democratic Filipino Struggle (Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipinas, LDP),
    Edgardo ESPIRITU; People Power-National Union of Christian Democrats (Lakas
    ng Edsa, NUCD and Partido Lakas Tao, Lakas/NUCD); Fidel V. RAMOS, President
    of the Republic, Raul MANGLAPUS, Jose DE VENECIA, secretary general;
    Nationalist People's Coalition (NPC), Eduardo COJUANGCO; Liberal Party,
    Jovito SALONGA; People's Reform Party (PRP), Miriam DEFENSOR-SANTIAGO; New
    Society Movement (Kilusan Bagong Lipunan; KBL), Imelda MARCOS; Nacionalista
    Party (NP), Salvador H. LAUREL, president
Member of:
    APEC, AsDB, ASEAN, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-24, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, NAM, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNU,
    UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Raul Chaves RABE
  chancery:
    1600 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Agana (Guam), Chicago, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, San
    Francisco, and Seattle
  consulate(s):
    San Diego and San Jose (Saipan)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador John D. NEGROPONTE
  embassy:
    1201 Roxas Boulevard, Ermita Manila 1000
  mailing address:
    APO AP 96440
  telephone:
    [63] (2) 521-71-16
  FAX:
    [63] (2) 522-43-61
  consulate(s):
    Cebu
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Philippines
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Domestic output in this primarily agricultural economy failed to grow in
    1992 and rose only slightly in 1993. Drought and power supply problems
    hampered production, while inadequate revenues prevented government pump
    priming. Worker remittances helped to supplement GDP. A marked increase in
    capital goods imports, particularly power generating equipment,
    telecommunications equipment, and electronic data processors, contributed to
    20% annual import growth in 1992-94. Provided the government can cope with
    the substantial trade deficit and meet the fiscal targets agreed to with the
    IMF, the Philippines should duplicate the strong growth performance of 1994
    in 1995-96.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $161.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4.3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $2,310 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    7.1% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    9% (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $14 billion
  expenditures:
    $15.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95 est.)
Exports:
    $13.4 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    electronics, textiles, coconut products, copper, fish
  partners:
    US 39%, Japan 16%, Germany 5%, Hong Kong 5%, UK 4% (1993)
Imports:
    $21.3 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    raw materials 40%, capital goods 25%, petroleum products 10%
  partners:
    Japan 23%, US 20%, Taiwan 6%, Singapore 5%, South Korea 5% (1993)
External debt:
    $40 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 1.4% (1993); accounts for 28% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    6,770,000 kW
  production:
    20.4 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    278 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    textiles, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, wood products, food processing,
    electronics assembly, petroleum refining, fishing
Agriculture:
    accounts for 22% of GDP and about 45% of labor force; major crops - rice,
    coconuts, corn, sugarcane, bananas, pineapples, mangos; animal products -
    pork, eggs, beef; net exporter of farm products; fish catch of 2 million
    metric tons annually
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Philippines
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    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 heroin bound for the US
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $3.6 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-88), $7.9 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $5 million; Communist countries (1975-89), $123
    million
Currency:
    1 Philippine peso (P) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    Philippine pesos (P) per US$1 - 24.622 (January 1995), 26.417 (1994), 22.120
    (1993), 25.512 (1992), 27.479 (1991), 24.311 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Philippines
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    800 km (est.); note - including about 390 km in Luzon
  narrow gauge:
    800 km 1.067-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    160,700 km
  paved:
    29,000 km
  unpaved:
    131,700 km
Inland waterways:
    3,219 km; limited to shallow-draft (less than 1.5 m) vessels
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 357 km
Ports:
    Batangas, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Guimaras, Iligan, Iloilo, Jolo,
    Legaspi, Manila, Masao, Puerto Princesa, San Fernando, Subic Bay, Zamboanga
Merchant marine:
  total:
    552 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 8,748,083 GRT/14,373,730 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 237, cargo 134, chemical tanker 4, combination bulk 10, combination
    ore/oil 1, container 10, liquefied gas tanker 6, livestock carrier 9, oil
    tanker 46, passenger 1, passenger-cargo 11, refrigerated cargo 24,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 13, short-sea passenger 17, vehicle carrier 29
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; Japan owns 13 ships, Norway 2, Switzerland
    1, Taiwan 1, and South Korea 1
Airports:
  total:
    269
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    7
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    24
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    32
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    133
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    67
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Philippines
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    872,900 telephones; good international radio and submarine cable services;
    domestic and interisland service adequate
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    11 domestic satellite links
  international:
    submarine cables extended to Hong Kong, Guam, Singapore, Taiwan, and Japan;
    3 INTELSAT (1 Indian Ocean and 2 Pacific Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 267 (including 6 US), FM 55, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    33 (including 4 US)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Philippines
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy (includes Coast Guard and Marine Corps), Air Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 18,238,568; males fit for military service 12,876,771; males
    reach military age (20) annually 752,622 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $731 million, 1.4% of GNP (1992)
Pitcairn Islands
MPERU - Passport required.  Visa not required for tourist stay up to 90
days, extendable after arrival.  Tourists may need onward/return
ticket. For official/diplomatic passport and other travel, visa required and
must be obtained in advance.  Business visa requires company letter stating
purpose of trip and $27 fee.  For further information contact Embassy
of Peru, 1700 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036 (202/833-9860-9) or
nearest Consulate:  CA (213/383-9896 and 415/362-5185), FL (305/374-1407),
IL (312/853-6173), NY (212/644-2850), PR (809/763-0679) or TX
(713/781-5000).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Peru
============================================================
Peru - Consular Information Sheet
 July 28, 1995
Country Description:  Peru is a developing country with significant
tourist and commercial activity.  The quality of tourist facilities
varies depending on cost and location.
Entry Requirements:  U.S. citizens must have a valid passport but
do not need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days.  Visitors
for other purposes must obtain a visa.  Further information
regarding entry requirements is available from the Embassy of Peru,
1700 Massachusetts avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20036, tel. (202)
833-9860, and Peruvian consular offices in California, Florida,
Illinois, New York, Puerto Rico, and Texas.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is adequate in major cities but
is generally less so elsewhere.  Local  health care providers do not
accept U.S. health insurance coverage and require cash payment for
medical services.  Medicare/Medicaid do not pay for medical services
outside the United States.  For information regarding health
conditions and precautions, contact the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline at [phone].
Terrorist Activity:  Peruvian government action has greatly reduced
the effectiveness of the two active terrorist groups, Sendero
Luminoso (Shining Path) and MRTA (Tupac Amaru Revolutionary
Movement).  Terrorist attacks have not been directed against
traditional tourist destinations.  Terrorists do, however, continue
to attempt sporadic attacks against institutional targets including
government offices, embassies and major commercial interests.
Miraflores and other affluent suburbs of Lima have been the site of
serious bombings.  In May 1995, after an interval of several months
without a major bombing in Miraflores, a powerful car bomb was
detonated in front of a hotel killing four persons and injuring
several others.  U.S. visitors to Peru are advised of the potential
risk of collateral damage from terrorist bomb attacks.
The U.S. Embassy restricts official travel of government employees
to several areas because guerrilla groups and narcotics traffickers
there still resort to violence, usually against local security
forces and civilians.  Overland travel in or near these areas,
particularly at night, is risky.  Private U.S. citizens may wish to
take the following U.S. Embassy employee-restricted travel areas
into consideration when making their travel plans:
 -Ancash:  Provinces of Pallasca, Corongo, and Sihuas only
 -Apurimac:  All areas except Abancay city
 -Ayacucho:  Huanta province (except Huanta city) and  Lamar
Province only
 -Cajamarca:  Provinces of Cajabamba, Celendin, Jaen, and San
Ignacio
 -Cuzco:  Area north of Quillabamba
 -Huancavelica:  All
 -Huanuco:  All areas except Tingo Maria by air
 -Junin:  Province of Satipo
 -La Libertad:  Bolivar, Sanchez Carrion, Santiago de Chuco and
Otuzco Provinces
 -Pasco:  Province of Oxapampa
 -Piura:  Province of Huancabamba
 -Puno:  Sandia and Azangaro provinces
 -San Martin:  All rural areas.  Travel by air is permitted to the
cities of Tarapoto, Juanji, Lamas, Saposoa, Rioja and Moyobamba
 -Ucayali:  Padre Abad and Coronel Portillo Provinces
This list is under constant review.  For updated information
regarding U.S. Embassy-designated restricted travel areas, contact
the U.S. Embassy in Lima.  (Note:  these "restricted travel areas"
do not in all cases correspond to existing Peruvian
government-designated "emergency zones" which still encompass nearly
half of the country, including metropolitan Lima.  Certain
constitutional rights are suspended in these "emergency zones,
giving security forces extraordinary powers to detain and question
individuals.)
Peru-Ecuador Border:  Due to recent hostilities, there is a
continuing military presence in the border area.  Border crossings
may be restricted.  It is important that travelers obey the
instructions of authorities.
Crime Information:  Peru is relatively safe for the group tourist
who takes appropriate precautions and does not stray from the
confines of organized tour packages.  The risk of street crime in
downtown Lima is high. Nonviolent street crime such as petty theft
also occurs in most other urban areas.
Violent crimes include assault and armed robbery.  Resistance to
violent crime usually provokes greater  violence.  Travel in groups
and with experienced guides is safer.  Walking alone, especially
late at night or early in the morning, can be dangerous.
It is important that trail hikers register at Ministry of Tourism
trail checkpoints and register admission to national parks.  It is
also essential for visitors to the remote Aguaruna/Huambisa tribal
area (where two U.S. citizens were attacked, one of whom was killed
in January 1995) to obtain permission to visit from the tribal
council, and to not visit villages without advance permission.
Visitors to Peru should immediately report any criminal activity
against them to the nearest police station or tourism police office
and to the U.S. Embassy in Lima or the consular agent in Cuzco.
Immediate action often results in detaining the thieves and
recovering stolen property.  Tourism police in Cuzco have upgraded
and expanded coverage of areas frequented by visitors.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting
personal security while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  This
publication, as well as others such as, "Tips for Travelers to
Central and South America," are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC  20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties in Peru for
possession, use, and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Prison conditions are poor.
Other Information:  Updated information on Peruvian adoption
procedures and the U.S. immigrant visa application process is
available from the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy, as well as
from the Office of Children's Issues, Room 4811, Department of
State, Washington, D.C.  20520, tel. [phone].
Civil marriage in Peru of U.S.-citizen non-residents to Peruvians
is difficult, if not impossible.  Non-residents are required to
present a "Certificado de Solteria" (Certificate of
Marriageability).  The U.S. Embassy does not issue such documents.
The U.S. Embassy also does not authenticate U.S. civil documents for
local use.  U.S. citizens may wish to have a Peruvian consular
official in the U.S. authenticate relevant U.S. civil documents
before traveling to Peru.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In February 1992, the U.S. Federal
Aviation Administration assessed Peru's civil aviation authority as
in compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards
for Peruvian carriers operating to and from the United States.  The
same level of safety oversight would typically be applied to
operations to other destinations.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at
1-800-322-7873.
Registration/Embassy and Consular Agency Locations:  U.S. citizens
may register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Lima,
and may also obtain updated information on travel and security
within Peru.  The U.S. Embassy in Lima is located at Avenida de la
Encalada (no number), Monterrico, Lima, tel. [phone].  The
Consular Agency in Cuzco is located at Avenida Tullumayo 125, tel.
(51-84) 23-3541.
 No. 95-085
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Peru dated
September 2, 1994, to remove the Travel Warning, provide updated
crime and security information, add information on civil marriage,
and provide the new U.S. Embassy address and phone number.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Peru
============================================================
Peru - Public Announcement
 July 21, 1995
 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
 For Immediate Release
The United States Embassy in Lima, Peru, warns that the Shining
Path (Sendero Luminoso) may increase terrorist activities from now
through the remainder of July in conjunction with Peruvian
Independence Day and the inauguration of President Alberto Fujimori
on July 28.  U.S. citizens in Peru are encouraged to exercise
caution during this period and to avoid Peruvian government
installations, diplomatic missions and high-density commercial
areas, particularly after dark.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Peru
============================================================
Peru - Consular Information Sheet
 July 28, 1995
Country Description:  Peru is a developing country with significant
tourist and commercial activity.  The quality of tourist facilities
varies depending on cost and location.
Entry Requirements:  U.S. citizens must have a valid passport but
do not need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days.  Visitors
for other purposes must obtain a visa.  Further information
regarding entry requirements is available from the Embassy of Peru,
1700 Massachusetts avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20036, tel. (202)
833-9860, and Peruvian consular offices in California, Florida,
Illinois, New York, Puerto Rico, and Texas.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is adequate in major cities but
is generally less so elsewhere.  Local  health care providers do not
accept U.S. health insurance coverage and require cash payment for
medical services.  Medicare/Medicaid do not pay for medical services
outside the United States.  For information regarding health
conditions and precautions, contact the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline at [phone].
Terrorist Activity:  Peruvian government action has greatly reduced
the effectiveness of the two active terrorist groups, Sendero
Luminoso (Shining Path) and MRTA (Tupac Amaru Revolutionary
Movement).  Terrorist attacks have not been directed against
traditional tourist destinations.  Terrorists do, however, continue
to attempt sporadic attacks against institutional targets including
government offices, embassies and major commercial interests.
Miraflores and other affluent suburbs of Lima have been the site of
serious bombings.  In May 1995, after an interval of several months
without a major bombing in Miraflores, a powerful car bomb was
detonated in front of a hotel killing four persons and injuring
several others.  U.S. visitors to Peru are advised of the potential
risk of collateral damage from terrorist bomb attacks.
The U.S. Embassy restricts official travel of government employees
to several areas because guerrilla groups and narcotics traffickers
there still resort to violence, usually against local security
forces and civilians.  Overland travel in or near these areas,
particularly at night, is risky.  Private U.S. citizens may wish to
take the following U.S. Embassy employee-restricted travel areas
into consideration when making their travel plans:
 -Ancash:  Provinces of Pallasca, Corongo, and Sihuas only
 -Apurimac:  All areas except Abancay city
 -Ayacucho:  Huanta province (except Huanta city) and  Lamar
Province only
 -Cajamarca:  Provinces of Cajabamba, Celendin, Jaen, and San
Ignacio
 -Cuzco:  Area north of Quillabamba
 -Huancavelica:  All
 -Huanuco:  All areas except Tingo Maria by air
 -Junin:  Province of Satipo
 -La Libertad:  Bolivar, Sanchez Carrion, Santiago de Chuco and
Otuzco Provinces
 -Pasco:  Province of Oxapampa
 -Piura:  Province of Huancabamba
 -Puno:  Sandia and Azangaro provinces
 -San Martin:  All rural areas.  Travel by air is permitted to the
cities of Tarapoto, Juanji, Lamas, Saposoa, Rioja and Moyobamba
 -Ucayali:  Padre Abad and Coronel Portillo Provinces
This list is under constant review.  For updated information
regarding U.S. Embassy-designated restricted travel areas, contact
the U.S. Embassy in Lima.  (Note:  these "restricted travel areas"
do not in all cases correspond to existing Peruvian
government-designated "emergency zones" which still encompass nearly
half of the country, including metropolitan Lima.  Certain
constitutional rights are suspended in these "emergency zones,
giving security forces extraordinary powers to detain and question
individuals.)
Peru-Ecuador Border:  Due to recent hostilities, there is a
continuing military presence in the border area.  Border crossings
may be restricted.  It is important that travelers obey the
instructions of authorities.
Crime Information:  Peru is relatively safe for the group tourist
who takes appropriate precautions and does not stray from the
confines of organized tour packages.  The risk of street crime in
downtown Lima is high. Nonviolent street crime such as petty theft
also occurs in most other urban areas.
Violent crimes include assault and armed robbery.  Resistance to
violent crime usually provokes greater  violence.  Travel in groups
and with experienced guides is safer.  Walking alone, especially
late at night or early in the morning, can be dangerous.
It is important that trail hikers register at Ministry of Tourism
trail checkpoints and register admission to national parks.  It is
also essential for visitors to the remote Aguaruna/Huambisa tribal
area (where two U.S. citizens were attacked, one of whom was killed
in January 1995) to obtain permission to visit from the tribal
council, and to not visit villages without advance permission.
Visitors to Peru should immediately report any criminal activity
against them to the nearest police station or tourism police office
and to the U.S. Embassy in Lima or the consular agent in Cuzco.
Immediate action often results in detaining the thieves and
recovering stolen property.  Tourism police in Cuzco have upgraded
and expanded coverage of areas frequented by visitors.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting
personal security while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  This
publication, as well as others such as, "Tips for Travelers to
Central and South America," are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC  20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties in Peru for
possession, use, and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Prison conditions are poor.
Other Information:  Updated information on Peruvian adoption
procedures and the U.S. immigrant visa application process is
available from the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy, as well as
from the Office of Children's Issues, Room 4811, Department of
State, Washington, D.C.  20520, tel. [phone].
Civil marriage in Peru of U.S.-citizen non-residents to Peruvians
is difficult, if not impossible.  Non-residents are required to
present a "Certificado de Solteria" (Certificate of
Marriageability).  The U.S. Embassy does not issue such documents.
The U.S. Embassy also does not authenticate U.S. civil documents for
local use.  U.S. citizens may wish to have a Peruvian consular
official in the U.S. authenticate relevant U.S. civil documents
before traveling to Peru.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In February 1992, the U.S. Federal
Aviation Administration assessed Peru's civil aviation authority as
in compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards
for Peruvian carriers operating to and from the United States.  The
same level of safety oversight would typically be applied to
operations to other destinations.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at
1-800-322-7873.
Registration/Embassy and Consular Agency Locations:  U.S. citizens
may register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Lima,
and may also obtain updated information on travel and security
within Peru.  The U.S. Embassy in Lima is located at Avenida de la
Encalada (no number), Monterrico, Lima, tel. [phone].  The
Consular Agency in Cuzco is located at Avenida Tullumayo 125, tel.
(51-84) 23-3541.
 No. 95-085
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Peru dated
September 2, 1994, to remove the Travel Warning, provide updated
crime and security information, add information on civil marriage,
and provide the new U.S. Embassy address and phone number.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
?                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Peru
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western South America, bordering the South Pacific Ocean, between Chile and
    Ecuador
Map references:
    South America
Area:
  total area:
    1,285,220 sq km
  land area:
    1.28 million sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Alaska
Land boundaries:
    total 6,940 km, Bolivia 900 km, Brazil 1,560 km, Chile 160 km, Colombia
    2,900 km, Ecuador 1,420 km
Coastline:
    2,414 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    200 nm
International disputes:
    three sections of the boundary with Ecuador are in dispute
Climate:
    varies from tropical in east to dry desert in west
Terrain:
    western coastal plain (costa), high and rugged Andes in center (sierra),
    eastern lowland jungle of Amazon Basin (selva)
Natural resources:
    copper, silver, gold, petroleum, timber, fish, iron ore, coal, phosphate,
    potash
Land use:
  arable land:
    3%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    21%
  forest and woodland:
    55%
  other:
    21%
Irrigated land:
    12,500 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; overgrazing of the slopes of the costa and sierra leading to
    soil erosion; desertification; air pollution in Lima; pollution of rivers
    and coastal waters from municipal and mining wastes
  natural hazards:
    earthquakes, tsunamis, flooding, landslides, mild volcanic activity
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity,
    Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban,
    Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands,
    Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Tropical Timber 94
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Peru
                                    Geography
Note:
    shares control of Lago Titicaca, world's highest navigable lake, with
    Bolivia
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Peru
                                     People
Population:
    24,087,372 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    35% (female 4,152,520; male 4,296,293)
  15-64 years:
    61% (female 7,280,287; male 7,378,227)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 535,156; male 444,889) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.8% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    24.88 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.84 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    52.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    66.07 years
  male:
    63.86 years
  female:
    68.38 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Peruvian(s)
  adjective:
    Peruvian
Ethnic divisions:
    Indian 45%, mestizo (mixed Indian and European ancestry) 37%, white 15%,
    black, Japanese, Chinese, and other 3%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic
Languages:
    Spanish (official), Quechua (official), Aymara
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    82%
  male:
    92%
  female:
    74%
Labor force:
    8 million (1992)
  by occupation:
    government and other services 44%, agriculture 37%, industry 19% (1988 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Peru
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Peru
  conventional short form:
    Peru
  local long form:
    Republica del Peru
  local short form:
    Peru
Digraph:
    PE
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Lima
Administrative divisions:
    24 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento) and 1 constitutional
    province* (provincia constitucional); Amazonas, Ancash, Apurimac, Arequipa,
    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
  note:
    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), Arequipa (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.
Independence:
    28 July 1821 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 28 July (1821)
Constitution:
    31 December 1993
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Alberto Kenyo FUJIMORI Fujimori (since 28 July 1990); 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%
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president
  note:
    Prime Minister Efrain GOLDENBERG Schreiber (since NA February 1994) does not
    exercise executive power; this power is in the hands of the president
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Peru
                                   Government
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Congress:
    elections last held 9 April 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - C90/NM
    52.1% of the total vote, UPP 14%, eleven 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia)
Political parties and leaders:
    Change 90-New Majority (C90/NM), Alberto FUJIMORI; Union for Peru (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; Peru 2000-National Front of Workers and Peasants (FRENATRACA),
    Roger CACARES; Popular Agricultural Front (FREPAP), Ezequiel ATAUCUSI
Other political or pressure groups:
    leftist guerrilla groups include Shining Path, Abimael GUZMAN Reynoso
    (imprisoned); Tupac Amaru Revolutionary Movement, Nestor SERPA and Victor
    POLAY (imprisoned)
Member of:
    AG, CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-11, G-15, G-19, G-24, G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO (correspondent), ITU, LAES, LAIA, NAM, OAS, OPANAL,
    PCA, RG (suspended), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO,
    WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ricardo V. LUNA Mendoza
  chancery:
    1700 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 9869
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Paterson (New Jersey), and
    San Francisco
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Alvin P. ADAMS, Jr.
  embassy:
    corner of Avenida Inca Garcilaso de la Vega and Avenida Espana, Lima
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 1995, Lima 1; American Embassy (Lima), APO AA 34031
  telephone:
    [51] (14) 338000
  FAX:
    [51] (14) 316682
Flag:
    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 llama, cinchona tree (the source of quinine), and a yellow
    cornucopia spilling out gold coins, all framed by a green wreath
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Peru
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The Peruvian economy has become increasingly market-oriented, with major
    privatizations completed in 1994 in the mining and telecommunications
    industries. In the 1980s the economy suffered from hyperinflation, declining
    per capita output, and mounting external debt. Peru 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 inflation 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 had fallen 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 and 8.6% in
    1994.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $73.6 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    8.6% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,110 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    15% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    15%; extensive underemployment (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $2 billion
  expenditures:
    $1.7 billion, including capital expenditures of $300 million (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $4.1 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    copper, zinc, fishmeal, crude petroleum and byproducts, lead, refined
    silver, coffee, cotton
  partners:
    US 19%, Japan 9%, Italy, Germany
Imports:
    $5.1 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery, transport equipment, foodstuffs, petroleum, iron and steel,
    chemicals, pharmaceuticals
  partners:
    US 21%, Colombia, Argentina, Japan, Germany, Brazil
External debt:
    $22.4 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    NA
Electricity:
  capacity:
    4,190,000 kW
  production:
    11.2 billion kWh
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Peru
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    448 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    mining of metals, petroleum, fishing, textiles, clothing, food processing,
    cement, auto assembly, steel, shipbuilding, metal fabrication
Agriculture:
    accounts for 12% of GDP, about 35% of labor force; commercial crops -
    coffee, cotton, sugarcane; other crops - rice, wheat, potatoes, plantains,
    coca; animal products - poultry, red meats, dairy, wool; not self-sufficient
    in grain or vegetable oil; fish catch of 6.9 million metric tons (1990)
Illicit drugs:
    world's largest coca leaf producer with about 108,600 hectares under
    cultivation in 1994; source of supply for most of the world's coca paste and
    cocaine base; at least 85% of coca cultivation is for illicit production;
    most of cocaine base is shipped to Colombian drug dealers for processing
    into cocaine for the international drug market, but exports of finished
    cocaine are increasing
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1.7 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $4.3 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $577 million
Currency:
    1 nuevo sol (S/.) = 100 centimos
Exchange rates:
    nuevo sol (S/.) per US$1 - 2.20 (February 1995), 2.195 (1994),1.988 (1993),
    1.245 (1992), 0.772 (1991), 0.187 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Peru
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,801 km
  standard gauge:
    1,501 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    300 km 0.914-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    69,942 km
  paved:
    7,459 km
  unpaved:
    improved earth 13,538 km; unimproved earth 48,945 km
Inland waterways:
    8,600 km of navigable tributaries of Amazon system and 208 km of Lago
    Titicaca
Pipelines:
    crude oil 800 km; natural gas and natural gas liquids 64 km
Ports:
    Callao, Chimbote, Ilo, Iquitos, Matarani, Paita, Pucallpa, Salaverry, San
    Martin, Talara, Yurimaguas
  note:
    Iquitos, Pucallpa, and Yurimaguas are all on the upper reaches of the Amazon
    and its tributaries
Merchant marine:
  total:
    10 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 90,501 GRT/144,913 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 3, cargo 6, refrigerated cargo 1
  note:
    in addition, 4 naval tankers and 1 naval cargo are sometimes used
    commercially
Airports:
  total:
    236
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    6
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    16
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    11
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    5
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    97
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    21
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    77
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Peru
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    544,000 telephones; fairly adequate for most requirements
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    nationwide microwave radio relay system and 12 domestic satellite links
  international:
    2 Atlantic Ocean INTELSAT earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 273, FM 0, shortwave 144
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    140
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Peru
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army (Ejercito Peruano), Navy (Marina de Guerra del Peru), Air Force (Fuerza
    Aerea del Peru), National Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 6,369,157; males fit for military service 4,300,772; males
    reach military age (20) annually 251,798 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $810 million, about 2.7% of GDP (1994)
 m) e in French and Arabic (1990
    est.)
  total population:
    30%
  male:
    42%
  female:
    18%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    agriculture 85% (engaged in unpaid subsistence farming, herding, and
    fishing)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Chad

Rwanda
ROMANIA - Passport and visa required.  Transit and tourist visa may be
obtained at border in Romania or from the Romanian Embassy or Consulate
before departure.  Transit visa for stay up to 4 days, single-entry $21
or double-entry $31.  Tourist/business visa, single-entry valid 6 months
for stay up to 60 days, $31 (multiple-entry $68).  No application or photos
needed.  Provide SASE for return of passport by mail.  Allow 1 to 3
days for processing.  For additional information consult Embassy of Romania,
1607 23rd St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008  (202/232-4747-9) or the
Consulate General, New York (212/682-9120, 9121, 9122).
Romania - Consular Information Sheet
November 4, 1994
Country Description:  Romania has undergone profound political and economic
changes since the 1989 revolution and is in a period of economic transition.
 Most tourist facilities, while being upgraded, have not yet reached Western
European standards.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Transit and tourist
visas may be obtained on arrival at Romanian border points or the
international airport in Bucharest.  Prior to departure, travelers can
obtain a visa and other information regarding entry requirements from the
Romanian Embassy at 1607 23rd Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008,
telephone [phone] or the Romanian Consulate in New York City,
telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Romania is limited.  There is a severe
shortage of basic medical supplies.  Doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Travelers have found supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage useful.  There have been a
number of confirmed cases of cholera, mainly in the Constanta region.
Further information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control's international travelers hotline on [phone].
Crime Information:  Crimes against tourists (robbery, mugging,
pickpocketing, and confidence scams perpetrated by black-market money
changers) are a growing problem in Romania.  Presently thefts are most
likely to occur on trains and at railroad stations.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police
and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful information on guarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is
provided in the pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" which is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington,
D.C. 20402.
Currency Information:  Credit cards and travelers checks are of limited
utility in Romania.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use, or sale of illegal
drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Adoptions:  Recent changes in the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization
Service's definition of an orphan are having a widespread effect on
international adoptions.  Before traveling to Romania, prospective parents
may wish to obtain information about both American visa requirements and
Romanian adoption law from the U.S. Embassy in Bucharest.  Romanian adoption
law mandates criminal penalties for offering money or goods to obtain the
release of children for adoption.  An information packet on Romanian
adoptions is available by writing the Office of Overseas Citizens Services,
Room 4817, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520, or by telephoning
[phone].
Other Information:  Customs regulations prohibit the export of some items
from Romania.  At the time of departure, tourists may need all receipts for
presentation to customs authorities.  Persons who participate in or
photograph demonstrations risk arrest.
Registration:  U.S. citizens may register in the Consular Section of the
U.S. Embassy and obtain updated information on travel and security within
Romania.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Bucharest, Romania, is located at
Strada Tudor Arghezi 7-9; telephone [phone].  After hours a duty
officer may be reached by calling [phone].  Consular services for
U.S. citizens are performed in the Consular Section located at Strada
Filipescu No. 26 (formerly Strada Snagov), one block from the U.S. Embassy
at the corner of Strada Batistei.  The telephone number of the Consulate is
[phone]; the Consulate fax number is [phone].
No. 94-261
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 26, 1994, to update
the information on adoptions and to add information on cholera.
;                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Romania
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Bulgaria and Ukraine
Map references:
    Ethnic Groups in Eastern Europe, Europe
Area:
  total area:
    237,500 sq km
  land area:
    230,340 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Oregon
Land boundaries:
    total 2,508 km, Bulgaria 608 km, Hungary 443 km, Moldova 450 km, Serbia and
    Montenegro 476 km (all with Serbia), Ukraine (north) 362 km, Ukraine (south)
    169 km
Coastline:
    225 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    certain territory of Moldova and Ukraine - including Bessarabia and Northern
    Bukovina - are considered by Bucharest as historically a part of Romania;
    this territory was incorporated into the former Soviet Union following the
    Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact in 1940
Climate:
    temperate; cold, cloudy winters with frequent snow and fog; sunny summers
    with frequent showers and thunderstorms
Terrain:
    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
Natural resources:
    petroleum (reserves declining), timber, natural gas, coal, iron ore, salt
Land use:
  arable land:
    43%
  permanent crops:
    3%
  meadows and pastures:
    19%
  forest and woodland:
    28%
  other:
    7%
Irrigated land:
    34,500 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    soil erosion and degradation; water pollution; air pollution in south from
    industrial effluents; contamination of Danube delta wetlands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Romania
                                    Geography
  natural hazards:
    earthquakes most severe in south and southwest; geologic structure and
    climate promote landslides
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change,
    Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear
    Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not
    ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea
Note:
    controls most easily traversable land route between the Balkans, Moldova,
    and Ukraine
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Romania
                                     People
Population:
    23,198,330 (July 1995 est.)
  note:
    the Romanian census of January 1992 gives the population for that date as
    22.749 million; the government estimates that population declined in 1993 by
    0.3%
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    21% (female 2,413,933; male 2,534,019)
  15-64 years:
    67% (female 7,737,531; male 7,732,038)
  65 years and over:
    12% (female 1,604,210; male 1,176,599) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.09% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    13.71 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.93 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -2.88 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    18.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    72.24 years
  male:
    69.31 years
  female:
    75.35 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.82 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Romanian(s)
  adjective:
    Romanian
Ethnic divisions:
    Romanian 89.1%, Hungarian 8.9%, German 0.4%, Ukrainian, Serb, Croat,
    Russian, Turk, and Gypsy 1.6%
Religions:
    Romanian Orthodox 70%, Roman Catholic 6% (of which 3% are Uniate),
    Protestant 6%, unaffiliated 18%
Languages:
    Romanian, Hungarian, German
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1992)
  total population:
    97%
  male:
    98%
  female:
    95%
Labor force:
    11.3 million (1992)
  by occupation:
    industry 38%, agriculture 28%, other 34% (1989)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Romania
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Romania
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Romania
Digraph:
    RO
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Bucharest
Administrative divisions:
    40 counties (judete, singular - judet) and 1 municipality* (municipiu);
    Alba, Arad, Arges, Bacau, Bihor, Bistrita-Nasaud, Botosani, Braila, Brasov,
    Bucuresti*, Buzau, Calarasi, Caras-Severin, Cluj, Constanta, Covasna,
    Dimbovita, Dolj, Galati, Gorj, Giurgiu, Harghita, Hunedoara, Ialomita, Iasi,
    Maramures, Mehedinti, Mures, Neamt, Olt, Prahova, Salaj, Satu Mare, Sibiu,
    Suceava, Teleorman, Timis, Tulcea, Vaslui, Vilcea, Vrancea
Independence:
    1881 (from Turkey; republic proclaimed 30 December 1947)
National holiday:
    National Day of Romania, 1 December (1990)
Constitution:
    8 December 1991
Legal system:
    former mixture of civil law system and Communist legal theory; is now based
    on the Constitution of France's Fifth Republic
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Ion ILIESCU (since 20 June 1990, previously President of
    Provisional Council of National Unity since 23 December 1989); 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%
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Nicolae VACAROIU (since November 1992)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court of Justice, Constitutional Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Romania
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Democratic Party (DP-FSN), Petre ROMAN; Social Democratic Party of Romania
    (PSDR), Adrian NASTASE; Democratic Union of Hungarians in Romania (UDMR),
    Bela MARKO; National Liberal Party (PNL), Mircea IONESCU-QUINTUS; National
    Peasants' Christian and Democratic Party (PNTCD), Corneliu COPOSU; Romanian
    National Unity Party (PUNR), Gheorghe FUNAR; Socialist Labor Party (PSM),
    Ilie VERDET; Agrarian Democratic Party of Romania (PDAR), Victor SURDU; The
    Democratic Convention (CDR), Emil CONSTANTINESCU; Romania Mare Party (PRM),
    Corneliu Vadim TUDOR; Civic Alliance Party (PAC), Nicolae MANOLESCU,
    chairman
  note:
    numerous other small parties exist but almost all failed to gain
    representation in the most recent election
Other political or pressure groups:
    various human rights and professional associations
Member of:
    ACCT, BIS, BSEC, CCC, CE, CEI (associate members), EBRD, ECE, FAO, G- 9,
    G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO,
    INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC, NAM
    (guest), NSG, OAS (observer), OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UNIKOM, UNOSOM, UPU, WCL, WEU (associate partner), WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO,
    WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Mihai Horia BOTEZ
  chancery:
    1607 23rd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 4848, 4851
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Los Angeles and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Alfred H. MOSES
  embassy:
    Strada Tudor Arghezi 7-9, Bucharest
  mailing address:
    American Consulate General (Bucharest), Unit 1315, Bucharest; APO AE
    09213-1315
  telephone:
    [40] (1) 210 01 49, 210 40 42
  FAX:
    [40] (1) 210 03 95
  branch office:
    Cluj-Napoca
Flag:
    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 Andorra and Chad
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Romania
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Despite the continuing difficulties in moving away from the former command
    system, the Romanian economy seems to have bottomed out in 1993-94. Market
    oriented reforms have been introduced fitfully since the downfall of
    CEAUSESCU in December 1989, with the result a growing private sector,
    especially in services. The slow pace of structural reform, however, has
    exacerbated Romania's high inflation rate and eroded real wages.
    Agricultural production rebounded in 1993 from the drought-reduced harvest
    of 1992. The economy continued its recovery in 1994, further gains being
    realized in agriculture, construction, services, and trade. Food supplies
    are adequate but expensive. Romania's infrastructure had deteriorated over
    the last five years due to reduced levels of public investment. Residents of
    the capital reported frequent disruptions of heating and water services. The
    slow and painful process of conversion to a more open economy will continue
    in 1995.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $64.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3.4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $2,790 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    62% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    10.9% (December 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $8.3 billion
  expenditures:
    $9.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
Exports:
    $6 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    metals and metal products 17.6%, mineral products 11.9%, textiles 18.5%,
    electric machines and equipment 8.4%, transport materials 6.5% (1994)
  partners:
    EC 36.1%, developing countries 27.4%, East and Central Europe 14.9%, EFTA
    5.1%, Russia 5%, Japan 1.4%, US 1.3% (1993)
Imports:
    $6.3 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    minerals 21.1%, machinery and equipment 19.7%, textiles 11.5%, agricultural
    goods 9.2% (1994)
  partners:
    EC 45.8%, East and Central Europe 8.6%, developing countries 22.6%, Russia
    11%, EFTA 6.2%, US 5.0%, Japan 0.8% (1993)
External debt:
    $4.4 billion (1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -1% (1993 est.); accounts for 45% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    22,180,000 kW
  production:
    50.8 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,076 kWh (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Romania
                                     Economy
Industries:
    mining, timber, construction materials, metallurgy, chemicals, machine
    building, food processing, petroleum production and refining
Agriculture:
    accounts for 18% of GDP and 28% of labor force; major wheat and corn
    producer; other products - sugar beets, sunflower seed, potatoes, milk,
    eggs, meat, grapes
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for southwest Asian heroin and Latin American cocaine
    transiting the Balkan route
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    1 leu (L) = 100 bani
Exchange rates:
    lei (L) per US$1 - 1,776.00 (January 1995), 1,655.09 (1994), 760.05 (1993),
    307.95 (1992), 76.39 (1991), 22.432 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Romania
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    11,365 km
  broad gauge:
    45 km 1.524-m gauge
  standard gauge:
    10,893 km 1.435-m gauge (3,723 km electrified; 3,060 km double track)
  narrow gauge:
    427 km 0.760-m gauge (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    461,880 km
  paved:
    235,559 km (113 km of expressways)
  unpaved:
    226,321 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    1,724 km (1984)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 2,800 km; petroleum products 1,429 km; natural gas 6,400 km (1992)
Ports:
    Braila, Constanta, Galatz, Mangalia, Sulina, Tulcea
Merchant marine:
  total:
    238 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,528,971 GRT/3,849,943 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 46, cargo 167, container 2, oil tanker 14, passenger-cargo 1, railcar
    carrier 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 7
  note:
    in addition, Romania owns 20 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,207,388
    DWT that operate under Liberian, Maltese, Cypriot, and Bahamian registry
Airports:
  total:
    156
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    9
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    14
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    17
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    108
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Romania
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    about 2.3 million telephones; 99 telephones/1,000 persons; 89% of phone
    network is automatic; poor service; cable and open wire
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    trunk network is microwave; roughly 3,300 villages with no service (February
    1990)
  international:
    1 INTELSAT earth station; new digital international direct dial exchanges
    are in Bucharest (1993)
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 12, FM 5, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    13 (1990)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Romania
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Paramilitary Forces, Civil Defense
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 5,934,524; males fit for military service 5,002,287; males
    reach military age (20) annually 196,587 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    1,260 billion lei, 3% of GDP (1994); note - conversion of defense
    expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce
    misleading results
Reunion
+                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Puerto Rico
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (commonwealth associated with the US)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Puerto Rico
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean,
    east of the Dominican Republic
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    9,104 sq km
  land area:
    8,959 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than three times the size of Rhode Island
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    501 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical marine, mild, little seasonal temperature variation
Terrain:
    mostly mountains with coastal plain belt in north; mountains precipitous to
    sea on west coast; sandy beaches along most coastal areas
Natural resources:
    some copper and nickel, potential for onshore and offshore crude oil
Land use:
  arable land:
    8%
  permanent crops:
    9%
  meadows and pastures:
    41%
  forest and woodland:
    20%
  other:
    22%
Irrigated land:
    390 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    the recent drought has caused water levels in reservoirs to drop and
    prompted water rationing for more than one-half of the population
  natural hazards:
    periodic droughts
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Puerto Rico
                                     People
Population:
    3,812,569 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    25% (female 466,596; male 489,127)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 1,274,765; male 1,195,785)
  65 years and over:
    10% (female 213,716; male 172,580) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.16% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.92 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.47 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -6.81 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    12.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    75.1 years
  male:
    70.78 years
  female:
    79.66 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.98 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Puerto Rican(s) (US citizens)
  adjective:
    Puerto Rican
Ethnic divisions:
    Hispanic
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 85%, Protestant denominations and other 15%
Languages:
    Spanish, English
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980)
  total population:
    89%
  male:
    90%
  female:
    88%
Labor force:
    1.2 million (1993)
  by occupation:
    government 22%, manufacturing 17%, trade 20%, construction 6%,
    communications and transportation 5%, other 30% (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Puerto Rico
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Commonwealth of Puerto Rico
  conventional short form:
    Puerto Rico
Digraph:
    RQ
Type:
    commonwealth associated with the US
Capital:
    San Juan
Administrative divisions:
    none (commonwealth associated with the US); note - there are 78
    municipalities
Independence:
    none (commonwealth associated with the US)
National holiday:
    US Independence Day, 4 July (1776)
Constitution:
    ratified 3 March 1952; approved by US Congress 3 July 1952; effective 25
    July 1952
Legal system:
    based on Spanish civil code
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal; indigenous inhabitants are US citizens but do
    not vote in US presidential elections
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993); Vice President
    Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993)
  head of government:
    Governor Pedro ROSSELLO (since 2 January 1993); 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%
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Legislative Assembly
  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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court, Superior Courts, Municipal Courts
Political parties and leaders:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Puerto Rico
                                   Government
Other political or pressure groups:
    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
Member of:
    CARICOM (observer), ECLAC (associate), FAO (associate), ICFTU, INTERPOL
    (subbureau), IOC, WCL, WFTU, WHO (associate), WTO (associate)
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (commonwealth associated with the US)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (commonwealth associated with the US)
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Puerto Rico
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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,
    electronics, textiles, petrochemicals, 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $26.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.6% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $7,050 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.9% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    16% (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $5.1 billion
  expenditures:
    $5.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95)
Exports:
    $21.8 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    pharmaceuticals, electronics, apparel, canned tuna, rum, beverage
    concentrates, medical equipment, instruments
  partners:
    US 86.2% (1993)
Imports:
    $16.7 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    chemicals, clothing, food, fish, petroleum products
  partners:
    US 69.2% (1993)
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5% (1994 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    4.230,000 kW
  production:
    15.6 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,819 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    manufacturing accounts for 39.4% of GDP; manufacturing of pharmaceuticals,
    electronics, apparel, food products, instruments; tourism
Agriculture:
    accounts for only 3% of labor force and just over 1% of GDP; crops -
    sugarcane, coffee, pineapples, plantains, bananas; livestock - cattle,
    chickens; imports a large share of food needs (1993)
Economic aid:
    none
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Puerto Rico
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    US currency is used
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Puerto Rico
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    96 km rural narrow-gauge system for hauling sugarcane; note - no passenger
    railroads
Highways:
    13,762 km
  paved:
    13,762 km (1982)
Ports:
    Guanica, Guayanilla, Guayama, Playa de Ponce, San Juan
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    31
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    9
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    14
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Puerto Rico
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; modern system, integrated with that of the US by high
    capacity submarine cable and INTELSAT with high-speed data capability;
    digital telephone system with about 1 million lines; cellular telephone
    service (1990)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT earth station and submarine cable
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 50, FM 63, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    9; note - cable television available with US programs (1990)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Puerto Rico
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    paramilitary National Guard, Police Force
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
Netherlands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Navassa Island
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of the US)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Navassa Island
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, about one-fourth of the way from
    Haiti to Jamaica
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    5.2 sq km
  land area:
    5.2 sq km
  comparative area:
    about nine times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    8 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claimed by Haiti
Climate:
    marine, tropical
Terrain:
    raised coral and limestone plateau, flat to undulating; ringed by vertical
    white cliffs (9 to 15 meters high)
Natural resources:
    guano
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    10%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    90%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    strategic location 160 km south of the US Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay,
    Cuba; mostly exposed rock, but enough grassland to support goat herds; dense
    stands of fig-like trees, scattered cactus
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Navassa Island
                                     People
Population:
    uninhabited; note - transient Haitian fishermen and others camp on the
    island
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Navassa Island
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Navassa Island
Digraph:
    BQ
Type:
    unincorporated territory of the US administered by the US Coast Guard
Capital:
    none; administered from Washington, DC
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Navassa Island
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Navassa Island
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Navassa Island
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
apacrs wishing to adopt a child in China can expect to spend at
least two weeks in China.  Current adoption information can be obtained by
calling the U.S. Department of State [phone], or writing to the
Office of Overseas Citizens Services, Room 4800, Department of State,
Washington, D.C. 20520.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Criminal penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking of illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can
expect severe jail sentences and fines.  Hong Kong passport holders have
been executed for drug offenses, and one U.S. citizen, convicted on drug
related charges in Shanghai, has received a fifteen year prison sentence.
Customs Information:
Saint Kitts and Nevis
*RWANDA - Passport and visa required.  Multiple-entry visa for stay up
to 3 months requires, $20 fee, 2 application forms, 2 photos and
immunizations for yellow fever.  Exact date of entry into Rwanda required with
application.  Include prepaid envelope or postage for return of
passport by certified mail.  Apply at one of the following:  Embassy of the
Republic of Rwanda, 1714 New Hampshire Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009
(202/232-2882), Permanent Mission of Rwanda to the U.N., 124 East 39th
Street, New York, NY 10016 (212/696-0644/45/46) or the Consulate
General in Chicago (708/205-1188) or Denver (303-321-2400).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Rwanda
============================================================
Rwanda - Travel Warning
 September 12, 1995
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to defer travel to
Rwanda.  Sporadic fighting continues inside Rwanda; border areas in
particular have been the sight of low-key insurgent outbreaks.
Further, poor communication, transportation, and health services
continue to make travel in Rwanda difficult and potentially
hazardous.  The U.S. Embassy in Kigali resumed consular services
July 26, 1995.
 No. 95-028
This replaces the Travel Warning dated August 4, 1994 to update
information on the security situation in Rwanda and to note the
resumption of consular services at the U.S. Embassy in Kigali.
Rwanda - Consular Information Sheet
 September 13, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to defer
travel to Rwanda.  Sporadic fighting continues inside Rwanda; border
areas in particular have been the site of low-key insurgent
outbreaks.  Further, poor communication, transportation, and health
services continue to make travel in Rwanda difficult and potentially
hazardous.  The U.S. Embassy in Kigali resumed consular services on
July 26, 1995.
Country Description:  Rwanda is a central/east African country
recovering from years of ethnic and political strife that culminated
in a three-month civil war ending in July 1994.  Infrastructure
damaged in the war is slowly being repaired but services such as
telephone, electricity, and water are not reliable, particularly
outside the capital city of Kigali.  Tourism facilities in Rwanda
are very limited.  International air services generally operate on
schedule.  Public transportation is almost non-existent.
Entry Requirements:  A passport, a visa, and evidence of yellow
fever immunization are required.  Airport visas are not available.
There is also a departure tax.  For entry information, travelers may
contact the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda, 1714 New Hampshire
Ave., NW, Washington D.C. 20009, Tel: [phone].
Areas of Instability:  While there has been no open warfare in
Rwanda since July 1994, border areas continue to suffer from low-key
insurgent attacks, especially along the western and southern
frontiers with Zaire and Burundi, where there are large
concentrations of refugees.  Although such violence is generally not
directed against foreign visitors, there is a danger of being caught
in the middle of the fighting.  Travelers are subjected to frequent
stops at roadblocks throughout the country, during which their
vehicles and luggage may be searched.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are extremely limited and
dependent on irregular utility service.  Trained medical personnel
are in short supply; doctors and hospitals usually expect cash
payment for services and will not accept U.S. medical insurance.
The Medicare/Medicaid Program does not provide for payment of
medical services outside the United States.  Supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage and medical evacuation
provision is recommended.  Travelers generally bring their own
supplies of prescription drugs and preventive medicines.
Information on health conditions and precautions may be obtained
from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international
travelers hotline at [phone].
Information on Crime:  Pickpocketing in crowded public places is
common as is petty theft from cars and hotel rooms.
Currency Regulations:  The Rwandan Franc is freely exchangeable for
hard currencies in bureaux de change and banks.  Several Kigali
banks can efficiently handle wire transfers from U.S. banks; banks
outside Kigali are slowly re-opening.  Credit cards are acceptable
at only a few hotels in Kigali and travelers should expect to handle
most expenses in cash.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens who plan to enter
Rwanda are urged to register at the U.S. Embassy in Kigali where
consular services resumed July 26, 1995.  The U.S. Embassy is
located at Boulevard de la Revolution, B.P. 28, Kigali.  The
telephone is (250) 75601/75602 and the fax is (250) 72128.
 No. 95-110
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued June 7, 1994,
to include the updated Travel Warning and to update and revise
information about the current situation in Rwanda.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Rwanda
============================================================
Rwanda - Travel Warning
 September 12, 1995
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to defer travel to
Rwanda.  Sporadic fighting continues inside Rwanda; border areas in
particular have been the sight of low-key insurgent outbreaks.
Further, poor communication, transportation, and health services
continue to make travel in Rwanda difficult and potentially
hazardous.  The U.S. Embassy in Kigali resumed consular services
July 26, 1995.
 No. 95-028
This replaces the Travel Warning dated August 4, 1994 to update
information on the security situation in Rwanda and to note the
resumption of consular services at the U.S. Embassy in Kigali.
Rwanda - Consular Information Sheet
 September 13, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to defer
travel to Rwanda.  Sporadic fighting continues inside Rwanda; border
areas in particular have been the site of low-key insurgent
outbreaks.  Further, poor communication, transportation, and health
services continue to make travel in Rwanda difficult and potentially
hazardous.  The U.S. Embassy in Kigali resumed consular services on
July 26, 1995.
Country Description:  Rwanda is a central/east African country
recovering from years of ethnic and political strife that culminated
in a three-month civil war ending in July 1994.  Infrastructure
damaged in the war is slowly being repaired but services such as
telephone, electricity, and water are not reliable, particularly
outside the capital city of Kigali.  Tourism facilities in Rwanda
are very limited.  International air services generally operate on
schedule.  Public transportation is almost non-existent.
Entry Requirements:  A passport, a visa, and evidence of yellow
fever immunization are required.  Airport visas are not available.
There is also a departure tax.  For entry information, travelers may
contact the Embassy of the Republic of Rwanda, 1714 New Hampshire
Ave., NW, Washington D.C. 20009, Tel: [phone].
Areas of Instability:  While there has been no open warfare in
Rwanda since July 1994, border areas continue to suffer from low-key
insurgent attacks, especially along the western and southern
frontiers with Zaire and Burundi, where there are large
concentrations of refugees.  Although such violence is generally not
directed against foreign visitors, there is a danger of being caught
in the middle of the fighting.  Travelers are subjected to frequent
stops at roadblocks throughout the country, during which their
vehicles and luggage may be searched.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are extremely limited and
dependent on irregular utility service.  Trained medical personnel
are in short supply; doctors and hospitals usually expect cash
payment for services and will not accept U.S. medical insurance.
The Medicare/Medicaid Program does not provide for payment of
medical services outside the United States.  Supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage and medical evacuation
provision is recommended.  Travelers generally bring their own
supplies of prescription drugs and preventive medicines.
Information on health conditions and precautions may be obtained
from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international
travelers hotline at [phone].
Information on Crime:  Pickpocketing in crowded public places is
common as is petty theft from cars and hotel rooms.
Currency Regulations:  The Rwandan Franc is freely exchangeable for
hard currencies in bureaux de change and banks.  Several Kigali
banks can efficiently handle wire transfers from U.S. banks; banks
outside Kigali are slowly re-opening.  Credit cards are acceptable
at only a few hotels in Kigali and travelers should expect to handle
most expenses in cash.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens who plan to enter
Rwanda are urged to register at the U.S. Embassy in Kigali where
consular services resumed July 26, 1995.  The U.S. Embassy is
located at Boulevard de la Revolution, B.P. 28, Kigali.  The
telephone is (250) 75601/75602 and the fax is (250) 72128.
 No. 95-110
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued June 7, 1994,
to include the updated Travel Warning and to update and revise
information about the current situation in Rwanda.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
@5(5                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Rwanda
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Africa, east of Zaire
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    26,340 sq km
  land area:
    24,950 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Maryland
Land boundaries:
    total 893 km, Burundi 290 km, Tanzania 217 km, Uganda 169 km, Zaire 217 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate; two rainy seasons (February to April, November to January); mild
    in mountains with frost and snow possible
Terrain:
    mostly grassy uplands and hills; relief is mountainous with altitude
    declining from west to east
Natural resources:
    gold, cassiterite (tin ore), wolframite (tungsten ore), natural gas,
    hydropower
Land use:
  arable land:
    29%
  permanent crops:
    11%
  meadows and pastures:
    18%
  forest and woodland:
    10%
  other:
    32%
Irrigated land:
    40 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation results from uncontrolled cutting of trees for fuel;
    overgrazing; soil exhaustion; soil erosion
  natural hazards:
    periodic droughts; the volcanic Virunga mountains are in the northwest along
    the border with Zaire
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified -
    Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
Note:
    landlocked; predominantly rural population
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Rwanda
                                     People
Population:
    8,605,307 (July 1995 est.)
  note:
    the demographic estimates were prepared before civil strife, starting in
    April 1994, set in motion substantial and continuing population changes
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    51% (female 2,184,549; male 2,201,049)
  15-64 years:
    47% (female 2,034,278; male 1,968,298)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 126,255; male 90,878) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.67% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    48.52 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    21.82 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    since April 1994, more than one million refugees have fled the civil strife
    between the Hutu and Tutsi factions in Rwanda and crossed into Zaire,
    Burundi, and Tanzania; close to 350,000 Rwandan Tutsis who fled civil strife
    in earlier years are returning to Rwanda and a few of the recent Hutu
    refugees are going home despite the danger of doing so; the ethnic violence
    continues and in 1995 could produce further refugee flows as well as deter
    returns
Infant mortality rate:
    118.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    39.33 years
  male:
    38.5 years
  female:
    40.19 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    8.12 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Rwandan(s)
  adjective:
    Rwandan
Ethnic divisions:
    Hutu 90%, Tutsi 9%, Twa (Pygmoid) 1%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 65%, Protestant 9%, Muslim 1%, indigenous beliefs and other
    25%
Languages:
    Kinyarwanda (official), French (official), Kiswahili used in commercial
    centers
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    50%
  male:
    64%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Rwanda
                                     People
  female:
    37%
Labor force:
    3.6 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 93%, government and services 5%, industry and commerce 2%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Rwanda
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Rwanda
  conventional short form:
    Rwanda
  local long form:
    Republika y'u Rwanda
  local short form:
    Rwanda
Digraph:
    RW
Type:
    republic; presidential system
  note:
    after genocide and civil war in April 1994, the Tutsi Rwandan Patriotic
    Front, in July 1994, took power and formed a new government
Capital:
    Kigali
Administrative divisions:
    10 prefectures (prefectures, singular - prefecture in French; plural - NA,
    singular - prefegitura in Kinyarwanda); Butare, Byumba, Cyangugu, Gikongoro,
    Gisenyi, Gitarama, Kibungo, Kibuye, Kigali, Ruhengeri
Independence:
    1 July 1962 (from Belgium-administered UN trusteeship)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 1 July (1962)
Constitution:
    18 June 1991
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    NA years of age; universal adult
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Pasteur BIZIMUNGU (since 19 July 1994); took office following the
    siezure of the government by the Tutsi Rwandan Patriotic Front and the
    exiling of interim President Dr. Theodore SINDIKUBWABO; no future election
    dates have been set
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Faustin TWAGIRAMUNGU (since the siezure of power by the Tutsi
    Rwandan Patriotic Front in July 1994)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Development Council:
     (Conseil National de Developpement) elections last held 19 December 1988
    (next to be held NA 1995); results - MRND was the only party; seats - (70
    total) MRND 70
Judicial branch:
    Constitutional Court consists of the Court of Cassation and the Council of
    State in joint session
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Rwanda
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), Alexis KANYARENGWE, Chairman; National
    Revolutionary Movement for Democracy and Development (MRND); significant
    independent parties include: Democratic Republican Movement (MDR); Liberal
    Party (PL); Democratic and Socialist Party (PSD); Coalition for the Defense
    of the Republic (CDR); Party for Democracy in Rwanda (PADER); Christian
    Democratic Party (PDL)
  note:
    formerly a one-party state, Rwanda legalized independent parties in mid-1991
Other political or pressure groups:
    Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA), the RPF military wing, Maj. Gen. Paul KAGAME,
    commander;
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, CEEAC, CEPGL, ECA, FAO, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM,
    OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires ad interim Joseph W. MUTABOBA
  chancery:
    1714 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  note:
    US Embassy closed indefinitely
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador David P. RAWSON
  embassy:
    Boulevard de la Revolution, Kigali
  mailing address:
    B. P. 28, Kigali
  telephone:
    [250] 756 01 through 03
  FAX:
    [250] 721 28
Flag:
    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 Ethiopia; similar to the flag of Guinea, which has a
    plain yellow band
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Rwanda
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Rwanda is a poor African nation suffering bitterly from ethnic-based civil
    war. Almost 50% of GDP comes from the agricultural sector; coffee and tea
    make up 80%-90% of total exports. The amount of fertile land is limited,
    however, and deforestation and soil erosion continue to create problems. The
    industrial sector in Rwanda is small, contributing only 17% to GDP.
    Manufacturing focuses mainly on the processing of agricultural products. The
    Rwandan economy remains dependent on coffee/tea exports and foreign aid.
    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 massive resumption of 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 infrastructure, looting, neglect of
    important cash crops, and lack of health care facilities.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $7.9 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -8% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $950 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $350 million
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $44 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    coffee 63%, tea, cassiterite, wolframite, pyrethrum
  partners:
    Germany, Belgium, Italy, Uganda, UK, France, US
Imports:
    $250 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    textiles, foodstuffs, machines and equipment, capital goods, steel,
    petroleum products, cement and construction material
  partners:
    US, Belgium, Germany, Kenya, Japan
External debt:
    $873 million (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -2.2% (1991); accounts for 17% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    60,000 kW
  production:
    190 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    23 kWh (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Rwanda
                                     Economy
Industries:
    mining of cassiterite (tin ore) and wolframite (tungsten ore), tin, cement,
    agricultural processing, small-scale beverage production, soap, furniture,
    shoes, plastic goods, textiles, cigarettes
Agriculture:
    cash crops - coffee, tea, pyrethrum (insecticide made from chrysanthemums);
    main food crops - bananas, beans, sorghum, potatoes; stock raising
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $128 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $2 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $45 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $58
    million
  note:
    in October 1990 Rwanda 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)
Currency:
    1 Rwandan franc (RF) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Rwandan francs (RF) per US$1 - 144.3 (3rd quarter 1994), 144.25 (1993),
    133.35 (1992), 125.14 (1991), 82.60 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Rwanda
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    4,885 km
  paved:
    880 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, sand and gravel 1,305 km; unimproved earth 2,700 km
Inland waterways:
    Lac Kivu navigable by shallow-draft barges and native craft
Ports:
    Cyangugu, Gisenyi, Kibuye
Airports:
  total:
    7
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Rwanda
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; telephone system does not provide service to the general
    public but is intended for business and government use
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    the capital, Kigali, is connected to the centers of the prefectures by
    microwave radio relay; the remainder of the network depends on wire and high
    frequency radio
  international:
    international connections employ microwave radio relay to neighboring
    countries and satellite communications to more distant countries; 1 INTELSAT
    (Indian Ocean) and 1 SYMPHONIE earth station in Kigali (includes telex and
    telefax service)
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Rwanda
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Gendarmerie
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,792,326; males fit for military service 913,711 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $112.5 million, 7% of GDP (1992)
Romania
QATAR - Passport and visa required.  Single-entry visa $33;
multiple-entry visa, valid 3-6 months for $60 fee or 12 months for $115 fee; transit
visa $6.  Visas require No Objection Certificate from Qatar Ministry of
Interior, 2 application forms, 2 photos and SASE for return of passport
by mail.  Business visa must be obtained through sponsor in Qatar.  AIDS
test required for work and student visas; U.S. test accepted if within 3
months of visit.  For specific information contact Embassy of the State of
Qatar, Suite 1180, 600 New Hampshire Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20037
(202/338-0111).
Qatar - Consular Information Sheet
August 1, 1994
Country Description:  Qatar is a traditional emirate, governed by the Al-
Thani family in consultation with a Council of Ministers and a legislative
Advisory Council.  Islamic ideals and beliefs provide the conservative
foundation of the country's customs, laws and practices.  Qatar is a modern,
developed country, and tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required.  Visitors must have a
business or personal sponsor.  For further entry information, travelers can
contact the Embassy of the State of Qatar, Suite 1180, 600 New Hampshire
Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20037, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Basic modern medical care and medicines are available
in several hospitals and health centers in Qatar.  U.S. medical insurance is
not always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage has proven useful.  The international
travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control, telephone (404) 332-
4559, has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Crime is generally not a problem for travelers in
Qatar.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security,
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to the Middle
East and North Africa."  They are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict in Qatar and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy can obtain
updated information on travel and security within Qatar.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 149 Ali Bin Ahmed St.,
Farig Bin Omran, in Doha, Qatar (opposite the TV station), P.O. Box 2399.
The telephone number is (974) 864-701/702/703.  The workweek in Qatar is
Saturday through Wednesday.
No. 94-146
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 31, 1993, without
change, following an annual review.
%                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Qatar
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, peninsula bordering the Persian Gulf and Saudi Arabia
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    11,000 sq km
  land area:
    11,000 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Connecticut
Land boundaries:
    total 60 km, Saudi Arabia 60 km
Coastline:
    563 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    territorial dispute with Bahrain over the Hawar Islands; maritime boundary
    with Bahrain
Climate:
    desert; hot, dry; humid and sultry in summer
Terrain:
    mostly flat and barren desert covered with loose sand and gravel
Natural resources:
    petroleum, natural gas, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    5%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    95%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    limited natural fresh water resources are increasing dependence on
    large-scale desalination facilities
  natural hazards:
    haze, dust storms, sandstorms common
  international agreements:
    signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Law of the Sea
Note:
    strategic location in central Persian Gulf near major petroleum deposits
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Qatar
                                     People
Population:
    533,916 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    30% (female 81,443; male 80,591)
  15-64 years:
    68% (female 104,921; male 258,135)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 2,941; male 5,885) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.74% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    22.72 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    3.59 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    8.25 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    20.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    73.03 years
  male:
    70.45 years
  female:
    75.5 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.63 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Qatari(s)
  adjective:
    Qatari
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab 40%, Pakistani 18%, Indian 18%, Iranian 10%, other 14%
Religions:
    Muslim 95%
Languages:
    Arabic (official), English commonly used as a second language
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1986)
  total population:
    76%
  male:
    77%
  female:
    72%
Labor force:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Qatar
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    State of Qatar
  conventional short form:
    Qatar
  local long form:
    Dawlat Qatar
  local short form:
    Qatar
Digraph:
    QA
Type:
    traditional monarchy
Capital:
    Doha
Administrative divisions:
    9 municipalities (baladiyat, singular - baladiyah); Ad Dawhah, Al
    Ghuwayriyah, Al Jumayliyah, Al Khawr, Al Wakrah, Ar Rayyan, Jarayan al
    Batinah, Madinat ash Shamal, Umm Salal
Independence:
    3 September 1971 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 3 September (1971)
Constitution:
    provisional constitution enacted 2 April 1970
Legal system:
    discretionary system of law controlled by the amir, although civil codes are
    being implemented; Islamic law is significant in personal matters
Suffrage:
    none
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    Amir and Prime Minister KHALIFA bin Hamad Al Thani (since 22 February 1972);
    Crown Prince HAMAD bin Khalifa Al Thani (appointed 31 May 1977; son of Amir
    and Minister of Defense)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the amir
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Advisory Council (Majlis al-Shura):
    constitution calls for elections for part of this consultative body, but no
    elections have been held; seats - (30 total)
Judicial branch:
    Court of Appeal
Political parties and leaders:
    none
Member of:
    ABEDA, AFESD, AL, AMF, CCC, ESCWA, FAO, G-77, GATT, GCC, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICRM, IDB, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC,
    ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OAPEC, OIC, OPEC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador ABD AL-RAHMAN bin Saud bin Fahd Al Thani
  chancery:
    Suite 1180, 600 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20037
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Qatar
                                   Government
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Kenton W. KEITH
  embassy:
    149 Ali Bin Ahmed St., Farig Bin Omran (opposite the television station),
    Doha
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 2399, Doha
  telephone:
    [974] 864701 through 864703
  FAX:
    [974] 861669
Flag:
    maroon with a broad white serrated band (nine white points) on the hoist
    side
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Qatar
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 Qatar 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 oil and the diversification of the economy.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $10.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -1% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $20,820 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $2.5 billion
  expenditures:
    $3 billion, including capital expenditures of $440 million (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $3.13 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    petroleum products 75%, steel, fertilizers
  partners:
    Japan 57%, South Korea 9%, Brazil 4%, UAE 4%, Singapore 3% (1992)
Imports:
    $1.75 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, consumer goods, food, chemicals
  partners:
    Japan 16%, UK 11%, US 11%, Germany 7%, France 5% (1992)
External debt:
    $1.5 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    accounts for 50% of GDP, including oil
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,520,000 kW
  production:
    4.5 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    8,415 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    crude oil production and refining, fertilizers, petrochemicals, steel (rolls
    reinforcing bars for concrete construction), cement
Agriculture:
    farming and grazing on small scale, less than 2% of GDP; agricultural area
    is small and government-owned; commercial fishing increasing in importance;
    most food imported
Economic aid:
  donor:
    pledged in ODA to less developed countries (1979-88), $2.7 billion
Currency:
    1 Qatari riyal (QR) = 100 dirhams
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Qatar
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    Qatari riyals (QR) per US$1 - 3.6400 riyals (fixed rate)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Qatar
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    1,190 km
  paved:
    1,030 km
  unpaved:
    160 km (1988 est.)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 235 km; natural gas 400 km
Ports:
    Doha, Halul Island, Umm Sa'id
Merchant marine:
  total:
    19 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 463,227 GRT/763,507 DWT
  ships by type:
    combination ore/oil 1, container 3, cargo 11, oil tanker 3, refrigerated
    cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    6
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Qatar
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    110,000 telephones; modern system centered in Doha
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    tropospheric scatter to Bahrain; microwave radio relay to Saudi Arabia and
    UAE; submarine cable to Bahrain and UAE; 2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1
    Indian Ocean) and 1 ARABSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    3
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Qatar
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, Public Security
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 219,442; males fit for military service 115,103; males reach
    military age (18) annually 3,915 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA%, of GDP
- ba   based upon the laws of Australia and local laws
Suffrage:
    NA
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952)
  head of government:
    Administrator B. CUNNINGHAM (since NA)
  cabinet:
    Islands Council; Chairman of the Islands Council Haji WAHIN bin Bynie (since
    NA)
Legislative branch:
    unicameral Islands Council
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    NA
Member of:
    none
Diplomatic representation in US:
    n
Sao Tome and Principe
SAINT VINCENT AND THE GRENADINES - Proof of U.S. citizenship, photo ID,
and onward/return ticket and/or proof of sufficient funds required for
tourist stay up to 6 months.  For more information consult the Embassy of Saint
Vincent and the Grenadines, 1717 Mass. Ave., N.W., Suite 102,
Washington, D.C. 20036 (202/462-7806 or 7846) or Consulate, 801 Second Ave., 21st
Floor, New York, NY 10017 (212/687-4490).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - St. Vincent & the Grenadines
============================================================
St. Vincent and the Grenadines - Consular Information Sheet
 October 18, 1995
Country Description:  St. Vincent and the Grenadines is a
developing island nation.  Tourism facilities are available but in
some instances are not highly developed.
Entry Requirements:  For stays of up to six months, U.S. citizens
may enter St. Vincent and the Grenadines without a passport, but
must carry an original document proving U.S. citizenship, photo
identification, and a return/onward ticket and/or proof of
sufficient funds.  For further information concerning entry
requirements, travelers can contact the Embassy of St. Vincent and
the Grenadines, 3216 New Mexico Ave., Washington, D.C. 20016, tel:
[phone] or the consulate in New York.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is limited.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  In some cases, supplementary medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.  For additional
health information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline at (404)
332-4559 or the CDC fax information service at [phone].
Crime Information:  Petty street crime occurs.  Objects have also
been stolen from yachts in the Grenadines.  Valuables left
unattended on beaches are subject to theft.  The loss or theft of a
U.S. passport overseas should be reported to the local police and
the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  A birth certificate and/or
driver's license generally cannot be replaced outside the United
States.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," which provides useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad.  Both this pamphlet and "Tips for Travelers to the
Caribbean" are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use, and dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Aviation Oversight:  In June 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed St. Vincent and the Grenadines' civil
aviation authority as in compliance with international aviation
safety oversight standards for Organization of Eastern Caribbean
States carriers operating to and from the U.S.  However, during its
assessment, the FAA noted that the Organization of Eastern Caribbean
States' operations to destinations other than the U.S. are not
provided a similar level of safety oversight.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation
at 1 [phone].
Embassy Location and Registration:  The United States does not
maintain an Embassy in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.  American
citizens requiring assistance may contact the U.S. Embassy in
Bridgetown, Barbados; telephone [phone]; the consular section
is located in the American Life Insurance Company (Alico) Building,
Cheapside, Bridgetown; telephone [phone].  U.S. citizens may
obtain from that Embassy updated information on travel and security
in St. Vincent and the Grenadines.
 No. 95-125
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 7,
1994, with no change following periodic review.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
 ) )                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                        Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, islands in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    340 sq km
  land area:
    340 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    84 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  continental shelf:
    200 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; little seasonal temperature variation; rainy season (May to
    November)
Terrain:
    volcanic, mountainous; Soufriere volcano on the island of Saint Vincent
Natural resources:
    negligible
Land use:
  arable land:
    38%
  permanent crops:
    12%
  meadows and pastures:
    6%
  forest and woodland:
    41%
  other:
    3%
Irrigated land:
    10 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    pollution of coastal waters and shorelines from discharges by pleasure
    yachts and other effluents; in some areas pollution is severe enough to make
    swimming prohibitive
  natural hazards:
    hurricanes; Soufriere volcano is a constant threat
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ship Pollution, Whaling;
    signed, but not ratified - Desertification
Note:
    the administration of the islands of the Grenadines group is divided between
    Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                        Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
                                     People
Population:
    117,344 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    34% (female 19,551; male 20,185)
  15-64 years:
    61% (female 35,565; male 35,573)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 3,793; male 2,677) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.65% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    19.62 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.46 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -7.63 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    17.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    72.66 years
  male:
    71.15 years
  female:
    74.21 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.08 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Saint Vincentian(s) or Vincentian(s)
  adjective:
    Saint Vincentian or Vincentian
Ethnic divisions:
    African descent, Caucasian, East Indian, Carib Indian
Religions:
    Anglican, Methodist, Roman Catholic, Seventh-Day Adventist
Languages:
    English, French patois
Literacy:
    age 15 and over has ever attended school (1970)
  total population:
    96%
  male:
    96%
  female:
    96%
Labor force:
    67,000 (1984 est.)
  by occupation:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                        Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
Digraph:
    VC
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Kingstown
Administrative divisions:
    6 parishes; Charlotte, Grenadines, Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George,
    Saint Patrick
Independence:
    27 October 1979 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 27 October (1979)
Constitution:
    27 October 1979
Legal system:
    based on English common law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    David JACK (since 29 September 1989)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister James F. MITCHELL (since 30 July 1984); Deputy Prime Minister
    Parnel CAMPBELL (since NA February 1994); note - governor general appoints
    leader of the majority party to position of prime minister
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime
    minister
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (based on Saint Lucia)
Political parties and leaders:
    New Democratic Party (NDP), James MITCHELL (son of Prime Minister 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)
Member of:
    ACP, C, CARICOM, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA,
    IFAD, IFRCS, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ITU,
    OAS, OECS, OPANAL, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Kingsley C.A. LAYNE
  chancery:
    1717 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Suite 102, Washington, DC 20036
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                        Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
                                   Government
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 7846
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
    no official presence since the Ambassador resides in Bridgetown (Barbados)
Flag:
    three vertical bands of blue (hoist side), gold (double width), and green;
    the gold band bears three green diamonds arranged in a V pattern
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                        Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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. In 1993, economic growth slowed to 1.4%,
    reflecting a sharp decline in agricultural production caused by drought. The
    government has been relatively unsuccessful at introducing new industries,
    and high unemployment rates of 35%-40% continue.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $235 million (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $2,000 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    4% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    35%-40% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $66.2
  expenditures:
    $77.3 million, including capital expenditures of $23 million (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $57.1 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    bananas, eddoes and dasheen (taro), arrowroot starch, tennis racquets
  partners:
    UK 54%, CARICOM 34%, US 10%
Imports:
    $134.6 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, machinery and equipment, chemicals and fertilizers, minerals and
    fuels
  partners:
    US 36%, CARICOM 21%, UK 18%, Trinidad and Tobago 13%
External debt:
    $74.9 million (1993)
Industrial production:
    NA
Electricity:
  capacity:
    16,600 kW
  production:
    50 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    436 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    food processing, cement, furniture, clothing, starch
Agriculture:
    accounts for 14% of GDP and 60% of labor force; provides bulk of exports;
    products - bananas, coconuts, sweet potatoes, spices; small numbers of
    cattle, sheep, hogs, goats; small fish catch used locally
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for South American drugs destined for the US and Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-87), $11 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $81 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                        Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.70 (fixed rate since 1976)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                        Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    1,000 km
  paved:
    300 km
  unpaved:
    improved earth 400 km; unimproved earth 300 km
Ports:
    Kingstown
Merchant marine:
  total:
    580 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,212,812 GRT/8,530,725 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 106, cargo 289, chemical tanker 15, combination bulk 10, combination
    ore/oil 3, container 36, liquefied gas tanker 5, livestock carrier 2, oil
    tanker 53, passenger 2, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated cargo 30,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 25, short-sea passenger 1, specialized tanker 1,
    vehicle carrier 1
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; includes 16 countries among which are
    Croatia 49 ships, Russia 23, Slovenia 11, China 8, Germany 3, Serbia 2,
    Latvia 1, Montenegro 1, Georgia 1, UAR 1
Airports:
  total:
    6
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    4
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                        Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    6,500 telephones; islandwide fully automatic telephone system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    VHF/UHF interisland links from Saint Vincent to the other islands of the
    Grenadines
  international:
    VHF/UHF interisland links from Saint Vincent to Barbados; new SHF links to
    Grenada and to Saint Lucia
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1 cable
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                        Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, Coast Guard
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Saint Vincent and the Grenadines
!SAINT LUCIA - Passport (or proof of U.S. citizenship and photo ID) and
return/onward ticket required for stay up to 6 months.  For additional
information contact Embassy of Saint Lucia, 2100 M St., N.W., Suite
309, Washington, D.C. 20037 (202/463-7378/9) or Permanent Mission to the
U.N., 820 Second St., 9th Floor, New York, NY 10017 (212/697-9360).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - St. Lucia
============================================================
St. Lucia - Consular Information Sheet
 October 18, 1995
Country Description: St. Lucia is a developing island nation.
Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For stays of up to six months, U. S. citizens
may enter St. Lucia without a passport, but must carry an original
document proving U.S. citizenship, photo identification, and a
return/onward ticket.  For further information concerning entry
requirements, travelers can contact the Embassy of St. Lucia, 3216
New Mexico Ave.,  Washington, D.C. 20016, tel: [phone] or the
permanent mission to the United Nations in New York.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is limited.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  In some cases supplementary medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proved useful.  For additional health
information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline at [phone]
or the CDC fax information service at [phone].
Crime Information:  Petty street crime occurs.  Valuables left
unattended on beaches are subject to theft.  The loss or theft of a
U.S. passport overseas should be reported to the local police and
the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  A birth certificate and/or
driver's license generally cannot be replaced outside the United
States.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," which provides useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad.  Both this pamphlet and "Tips for Travelers to the
Caribbean" are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use, and dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy
fines.
Aviation Oversight:  In June 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed St. Lucia's civil aviation authority as in
compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards
for Organization of Eastern Caribbean States carriers operating to
and from the U.S.  However, during its assessment, the FAA noted
that the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States' operations to
destinations other than the U.S. are not provided a similar level of
safety oversight.  For further information, travelers may contact
the Department of Transportation at 1 [phone].
Embassy Location/Registration:  The United States does not maintain
an embassy in St. Lucia.  U.S. citizens requiring assistance can
contact the U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados; telephone (809)
436-4950.  The Consular Section of the Embassy is located in the
American Life Insurance Company (Alico) Building, Cheapside,
Bridgetown: telephone [phone].  U.S. citizens may obtain from
that Embassy updated information on travel and security within the
area.
 No. 95-127
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 7,
1994, with no change following periodic review.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - St. Lucia
============================================================
St. Lucia - Consular Information Sheet
 October 18, 1995
Country Description: St. Lucia is a developing island nation.
Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For stays of up to six months, U. S. citizens
may enter St. Lucia without a passport, but must carry an original
document proving U.S. citizenship, photo identification, and a
return/onward ticket.  For further information concerning entry
requirements, travelers can contact the Embassy of St. Lucia, 3216
New Mexico Ave.,  Washington, D.C. 20016, tel: [phone] or the
permanent mission to the United Nations in New York.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is limited.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  In some cases supplementary medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proved useful.  For additional health
information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline at [phone]
or the CDC fax information service at [phone].
Crime Information:  Petty street crime occurs.  Valuables left
unattended on beaches are subject to theft.  The loss or theft of a
U.S. passport overseas should be reported to the local police and
the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  A birth certificate and/or
driver's license generally cannot be replaced outside the United
States.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," which provides useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad.  Both this pamphlet and "Tips for Travelers to the
Caribbean" are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use, and dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and heavy
fines.
Aviation Oversight:  In June 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed St. Lucia's civil aviation authority as in
compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards
for Organization of Eastern Caribbean States carriers operating to
and from the U.S.  However, during its assessment, the FAA noted
that the Organization of Eastern Caribbean States' operations to
destinations other than the U.S. are not provided a similar level of
safety oversight.  For further information, travelers may contact
the Department of Transportation at 1 [phone].
Embassy Location/Registration:  The United States does not maintain
an embassy in St. Lucia.  U.S. citizens requiring assistance can
contact the U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados; telephone (809)
436-4950.  The Consular Section of the Embassy is located in the
American Life Insurance Company (Alico) Building, Cheapside,
Bridgetown: telephone [phone].  U.S. citizens may obtain from
that Embassy updated information on travel and security within the
area.
 No. 95-127
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 7,
1994, with no change following periodic review.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
&                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Saint Lucia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    620 sq km
  land area:
    610 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 3.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    158 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical, moderated by northeast trade winds; dry season from January to
    April, rainy season from May to August
Terrain:
    volcanic and mountainous with some broad, fertile valleys
Natural resources:
    forests, sandy beaches, minerals (pumice), mineral springs, geothermal
    potential
Land use:
  arable land:
    8%
  permanent crops:
    20%
  meadows and pastures:
    5%
  forest and woodland:
    13%
  other:
    54%
Irrigated land:
    10 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion, particularly in the northern region
  natural hazards:
    hurricanes and volcanic activity
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental
    Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Whaling
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Saint Lucia
                                     People
Population:
    156,050 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    35% (female 26,710; male 27,255)
  15-64 years:
    60% (female 47,584; male 46,326)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 5,040; male 3,135) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.17% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    22.48 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.1 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -4.67 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    20.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    69.88 years
  male:
    66.33 years
  female:
    73.67 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.37 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Saint Lucian(s)
  adjective:
    Saint Lucian
Ethnic divisions:
    African descent 90.3%, mixed 5.5%, East Indian 3.2%, Caucasian 0.8%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 90%, Protestant 7%, Anglican 3%
Languages:
    English (official), French patois
Literacy:
    age 15 and over has ever attended school (1980)
  total population:
    67%
  male:
    65%
  female:
    69%
Labor force:
    43,800
  by occupation:
    agriculture 43.4%, services 38.9%, industry and commerce 17.7% (1983 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Saint Lucia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Saint Lucia
Digraph:
    ST
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Castries
Administrative divisions:
    11 quarters; Anse La Raye, Castries, Choiseul, Dauphin, Dennery, Gros Islet,
    Laborie, Micoud, Praslin, Soufriere, Vieux Fort
Independence:
    22 February 1979 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 22 February (1979)
Constitution:
    22 February 1979
Legal system:
    based on English common law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    Sir Stanislaus Anthony JAMES (since 10 October 1988)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister John George Melvin COMPTON (since 3 May 1982)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Parliament
  Senate:
    consists of an 11-member body, 6 appointed on the advice of the prime
    minister, 3 on the advice of the leader of the opposition, and 2 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
Judicial branch:
    Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    United Workers' Party (UWP), John COMPTON; Saint Lucia Labor Party (SLP),
    Julian HUNTE; Progressive Labor Party (PLP), Jon ODLUM
Member of:
    ACCT (associate), ACP, C, CARICOM, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory
    user), INTERPOL, IOC, ISO (subscriber), NAM, OAS, OECS, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO,
    UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Dr. Joseph Edsel EDMUNDS
  chancery:
    3216 New Mexico Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 6795
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Saint Lucia
                                   Government
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
    no official presence since the Ambassador resides in Bridgetown (Barbados)
Flag:
    blue with a gold isosceles triangle below a black arrowhead; the upper edges
    of the arrowhead have a white border
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Saint Lucia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 Debbie in mid-1994 caused the loss of 60% 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
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $610 million (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,200 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    0.8% (1993)
Unemployment rate:
    25% (1993 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $121 million
  expenditures:
    $127 million, including capital expenditures of $104 million (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $122.8 million (f.o.b., 1992)
  commodities:
    bananas 60%, clothing, cocoa, vegetables, fruits, coconut oil
  partners:
    UK 56%, US 22%, CARICOM 19% (1991)
Imports:
    $276 million (f.o.b., 1992)
  commodities:
    manufactured goods 21%, machinery and transportation equipment 21%, food and
    live animals, chemicals, fuels
  partners:
    US 34%, CARICOM 17%, UK 14%, Japan 7%, Canada 4% (1991)
External debt:
    $96.4 million (1992 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3.5% (1990 est.); accounts for 12% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    20,000 kW
  production:
    112 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    693 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    clothing, assembly of electronic components, beverages, corrugated cardboard
    boxes, tourism, lime processing, coconut processing
Agriculture:
    accounts for 14% of GDP and 43% of labor force; crops - bananas, coconuts,
    vegetables, citrus fruit, root crops, cocoa; imports food for the tourist
    industry
Illicit drugs:
    transit country for South American drugs destined for the US and Europe
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Saint Lucia
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89),
    $120 million
Currency:
    1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.70 (fixed rate since 1976)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Saint Lucia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    760 km
  paved:
    500 km
  unpaved:
    otherwise improved  260 km
Ports:
    Castries, Vieux Fort
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Saint Lucia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    9,500 telephones
  local:
    low density (6 telephones/100 persons) but the system is automatically
    switched
  intercity:
    no intercity traffic
  international:
    direct microwave link with Martinique and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines;
    interisland troposcatter link to Barbados
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 4, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1 cable
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Saint Lucia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, Coast Guard
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Pacific Ocean
OMAN - Passport and visa required.  Tourist/business visas for
single-entry issued for stay up to 3 weeks.  Requires $21 fee, 1 application form, 1
photo and cholera immunization if arriving from infected area.  AIDS
test required for work permits.  U.S test not accepted.  Allow 1 week to 10
days for processing.   For transit and road travel check Embassy of the
Sultanate of Oman, 2535 Belmont Rd., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/387-1980-2).
Oman - Consular Information Sheet
September 2, 1994
Country Description:  Oman is a monarchy which has developed rapidly in the
last twenty years.  The economy is largely dependent on the production and
export of oil.  Tourist facilities are available in the capital area of
Muscat and in Salalah and are being expanded elsewhere in the country.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required for entry into Oman.
Evidence of yellow fever immunization is required if the traveler enters
from an infected area.  For more details on entry requirements, the traveler
can contact the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman, 2342 Massachusetts Ave.
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Adequate care and medicines are available in Oman.
Emergency treatment is available at government-run hospitals, and there are
many private clinics.  Doctors and hospitals expect immediate cash payment
for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proven useful.  Information on health matters can also be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers
hotline at tel. [phone].
Information on Crime:  The incidence of street crime is low in Oman and
violent crimes are very rare.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport
should be reported immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy
or consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in
the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to the Middle East and North Africa."  They are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington,
D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict in Oman and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Customs:  Travelers entering Oman may not carry with them or in accompanied
baggage any firearms, ammunition, liquor, or pornography; all are subject to
seizure if found.  Unaccompanied baggage and shipments of household goods
are also subject to inspection.  Books, video tapes, and audio tapes may be
reviewed prior to being released to the owner.  A copy of the packing list
is required to clear effects through customs.
Dress Codes:  Islamic ideals provide the conservative foundation of Oman's
customs, laws and practices.  Foreign visitors are expected to remain
sensitive to the  Islamic culture, and not dress in a revealing or
provocative style.  This includes wearing of sleeveless shirts and blouses,
halter tops and shorts.  Athletic clothing is worn in public only when the
wearer is obviously engaged in athletic activity.  Western bathing attire is
the norm at hotel pools and beaches, however.
Importation of Pets:  Pets entering Oman require an import permit from the
Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Department of Animal Health, before
shipment.  Forms may be obtained from the Ministry by one's sponsor and must
be submitted with a copy of the pet's rabies vaccination record and a health
certificate.  Vaccination against rabies is required no less than one month
and no more than six months before the travel date.  There are additional
vaccination requirements for dogs and cats less than 30 days old.  A second
health certificate dated 48 hours before the pet travels is also a
requirement.  Pets may be subjected to a six month quarantine, although this
is usually not required when importing the pet from a rabies-free country.
Pets must be manifested as cargo on an airway bill when transported by air.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In March 1994, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Oman's civil aviation authority as in compliance
with international aviation safety oversight standards for Omani carriers
operating to and from the U.S.  The same level of safety oversight would
typically be applied to operations to other destinations.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at 1-800-
322-7873.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy can obtain
updated information on travel and security within Oman.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Oman is located on Safaraat Street,
Al-Khawair, in the capital city of Muscat.  The mailing address is P.O. Box
202, Code 115, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.  The telephone number is (968) 698-
989 and after 4:00 p.m. local time (968) 699-049.  The workweek in Oman is
Saturday through Wednesday.
No. 94-187
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 4, 1994 to add
information on aviation oversight.
)                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Oman
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, bordering the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, and Persian Gulf,
    between Yemen and the United Arab Emirates
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    212,460 sq km
  land area:
    212,460 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Kansas
Land boundaries:
    total 1,374 km, Saudi Arabia 676 km, UAE 410 km, Yemen 288 km
Coastline:
    2,092 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    no defined boundary with most of UAE; Administrative Line with UAE in far
    north
Climate:
    dry desert; hot, humid along coast; hot, dry interior; strong southwest
    summer monsoon (May to September) in far south
Terrain:
    vast central desert plain, rugged mountains in north and south
Natural resources:
    petroleum, copper, asbestos, some marble, limestone, chromium, gypsum,
    natural gas
Land use:
  arable land:
    less than 2%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    5%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    93%
Irrigated land:
    410 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    rising soil salinity; beach pollution from oil spills; very limited natural
    fresh water resources
  natural hazards:
    summer winds often raise large sandstorms and duststorms in interior;
    periodic droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ship Pollution, Whaling; signed,
    but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Oman
                                    Geography
Note:
    strategic location with small foothold on Musandam Peninsula controlling
    Strait of Hormuz, a vital transit point for world crude oil
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Oman
                                     People
Population:
    2,125,089 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    46% (female 480,974; male 498,619)
  15-64 years:
    51% (female 493,685; male 593,740)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 31,826; male 26,245) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.71% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    38.05 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    4.09 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    34.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    70.25 years
  male:
    68.31 years
  female:
    72.29 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.16 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Omani(s)
  adjective:
    Omani
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab, Baluchi, South Asian (Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan, Bangladeshi)
Religions:
    Ibadhi Muslim 75%, Sunni Muslim, Shi'a Muslim, Hindu
Languages:
    Arabic (official), English, Baluchi, Urdu, Indian dialects
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    430,000 (est.)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 40% (est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Oman
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Sultanate of Oman
  conventional short form:
    Oman
  local long form:
    Saltanat Uman
  local short form:
    Uman
Digraph:
    MU
Type:
    monarchy
Capital:
    Muscat
Administrative divisions:
    6 regions (mintaqah, singular - mintaqat) and 2 governorates* (muhafazah,
    singular - muhafazat) Ad Dakhiliyah, Al Batinah, Al Wusta, Ash Sharqiyah, Az
    Zahirah, Masqat, Musandam*, Zufar*
Independence:
    1650 (expulsion of the Portuguese)
National holiday:
    National Day, 18 November (1940)
Constitution:
    none
Legal system:
    based on English common law and Islamic law; ultimate appeal to the sultan;
    has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    none
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    Sultan and Prime Minister QABOOS bin Said Al Said (since 23 July 1970)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet
Legislative branch:
    unicameral Consultative Council
Judicial branch:
    none; traditional Islamic judges and a nascent civil court system
Political parties and leaders:
    none
Other political or pressure groups:
    NA
Member of:
    ABEDA, AFESD, AL, AMF, ESCWA, FAO, G-77, GCC, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IDB, IFAD,
    IFC, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO (correspondent),
    ITU, NAM, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Abdallah bin Muhammad bin Aqil al-DHAHAB
  chancery:
    2535 Belmont Rd. NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 1982
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador David J. DUNFORD
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Oman
                                   Government
  embassy:
    address NA, Muscat
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 202, Code No. 115, Muscat
  telephone:
    [968] 698989
  FAX:
    [968] 699779
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Oman
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Economic performance is closely tied to the fortunes of the oil industry,
    including trends in international oil prices and the ability of OPEC
    producers to agree on output quotas. Petroleum accounts for more than 85% of
    export earnings, about 80% 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $17 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    0.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $10,020 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.2% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $4.4 billion
  expenditures:
    $5.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $1 billion (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $4.8 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    petroleum 87%, re-exports, fish, processed copper, textiles
  partners:
    UAE 33%, Japan 20%, South Korea 14%, China 7% (1993)
Imports:
    $4.1 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery, transportation equipment, manufactured goods, food, livestock,
    lubricants
  partners:
    UAE 24% (largely re-exports), Japan 21%, UK 12%, US 7%, France 6% (1993)
External debt:
    $3 billion (1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 8.6% (1991); accounts for almost 60% of GDP, including petroleum
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,540,000 kW
  production:
    6 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,407 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    crude oil production and refining, natural gas production, construction,
    cement, copper
Agriculture:
    accounts for 4% of GDP and 40% of the labor force (including fishing); less
    than 2% of land cultivated; largely subsistence farming (dates, limes,
    bananas, alfalfa, vegetables, camels, cattle); not self-sufficient in food;
    annual fish catch averages 100,000 metric tons
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Oman
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $137 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $148 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $797 million
Currency:
    1 Omani rial (RO) = 1,000 baiza
Exchange rates:
    Omani rials (RO) per US$1 - 0.3845 (fixed rate since 1986)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Oman
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    26,000 km
  paved:
    5,000 km
  unpaved:
    21,000 km (1992 est.)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 1,300 km; natural gas 1,030 km
Ports:
    Mina' al Fahl, Mina' Qabus, Mina' Raysut
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1 passenger ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 4,442 GRT/1,320 DWT
Airports:
    140
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    36
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    61
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    31
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Oman
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    50,000 telephones; modern system consisting of open-wire, microwave, and
    radio communications stations; limited coaxial cable
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    open wire, microwave, radio communications, and 8 domestic satellite links
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean) and 1 ARABSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    7
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Oman
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, Royal Oman Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 520,428; males fit for military service 294,993; males reach
    military age (14) annually 26,065 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $1.7 billion, 14.2% of GDP (1995 est.)
    onal agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83;
    signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification,
    Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94
Note:
    about 70% of the population lives in Brazzaville, Pointe Noire, or along the
    railroad between them
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Congo
                                     People
Population:
    2,504,996 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    44% (female 543,324; male 548,840)
  15-64 years:
    53% (female 682,927; male 645,045)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 49,879; male 34,981) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.32% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    39.86 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    16.7 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    109.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    47.09 years
  male:
    45.23 years
  female:
    49 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.23 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Congolese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Congolese or Congo
Ethnic divisions:
  south:
    Kongo 48%
  north:
    Sangha 20%, M'Bochi 12%
  center:
    Teke 17%, Europeans 8,500 (mostly French)
Religions:
    Christian 50%, animist 48%, Muslim 2%
Languages:
    French (official), African languages (Lingala and Kikongo are the most
    widely used)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1984)
  total population:
    60%
  male:
    71%
  female:
    49%
Labor force:
    79,100 wage earners
  by occupation:
    agriculture 75%, commerce, industry, and government 25%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Congo
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of the Congo
  conventional short form:
    Congo
  local long form:
    Republique Populaire du Congo
  local short form:
    Congo
  former:
    Congo/Brazzaville
Digraph:
    CF
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Brazzaville
Administrative divisions:
    9 regions (regions, singular - region) and 1 commune*; Bouenza,
    Brazzaville*, Cuvette, Kouilou, Lekoumou, Likouala, Niari, Plateaux, Pool,
    Sangha
Independence:
    15 August 1960 (from France)
National holiday:
    Congolese National Day, 15 August (1960)
Constitution:
    new constitution approved by referendum March 1992
Legal system:
    based on French civil law system and cust
Seychelles
SENEGAL - Passport  required.  Visa not needed for stay up to 90 days.
U.S. citizens need onward/return ticket and yellow fever vaccination.
For further information contact Embassy of the Republic of Senegal, 2112
Wyoming Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/234-0540).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Senegal
============================================================
Senegal- Consular Information Sheet
 April 25, 1995
Country Description:  Senegal is a developing West African country.
 Facilities for tourists are widely available but vary in quality.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  Visas are not
required for stays of less than 90 days.  U.S. citizens need
onward/return tickets.  Proof of yellow fever immunization may be
required by airport officials.  There are several types of items
which cannot be brought into Senegal without clearance by Senegalese
customs.  These include computers and computer parts, video cameras
and players, stereo equipment, tape players, auto parts, and various
tools and spare parts.  Such items will be held by airport customs
officials if brought in as baggage or carry-on luggage.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Embassy of the Republic of
Senegal, 2112 Wyoming Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C., 20008,
telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Separatists in the Casamance area of
southern Senegal have again become active.  A series of violent
incidents has resulted in the deaths of some Senegalese citizens.
As a result, the U.S. Embassy in Dakar has advised U.S. citizens to
avoid travel to southern Senegal south of the Casamance River
extending from the Atlantic Ocean east to the town of Tanaf
including Ziguinchor and Cap Skirring.  Roads in the Casamance are
poor, and driving can be extremely hazardous, particularly at night.
 Travel only on the major (hardsurfaced) routes.  In addition, road
travel between Mauritania and Senegal is restricted to several
designated border crossing points.  Long delays at the border are
normal.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited, particularly
in areas outside the capital, Dakar.  Malaria is present in Senegal
and travelers may wish to start taking mefloquine, a prescription
medication, one week before arrival.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid or accepted outside the United States.  The
Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment of medical
services outside the United States.  In some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas and medical evacuation
coverage has proven useful.  For additional health information,
travelers can contact the Centers for Disease Control's
international travelers hotline [phone].
Information on Crime:  Street crime in Senegal poses moderate risks
for visitors.  Most reported incidents involve pickpockets, purse
snatchers and street scam artists.  Wallets, jewelry and other
valuables are subject to theft, especially during times of
international meetings or events which draw large crowds.  In Dakar,
there has been a relatively high incidence of purse snatchings and
muggings in a popular restaurant area known locally as "la Petite
Corniche" which is located along a three kilometer stretch of
coastal road in the southeastern part of the city.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens may obtain updated
information on travel and security in Senegal and register at the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy at Avenue Jean XXIII, Dakar,
telephone [phone].  The mailing address is B.P. 49.
 No. 95-053
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated February 17,
1995, to revise the sections on entry requirements, areas of
instability, medical facilities, and crime.  JJ
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3                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Senegal
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea-Bissau
    and Mauritania
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    196,190 sq km
  land area:
    192,000 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than South Dakota
Land boundaries:
    total 2,640 km, The Gambia 740 km, Guinea 330 km, Guinea-Bissau 338 km, Mali
    419 km, Mauritania 813 km
Coastline:
    531 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    short section of the boundary with The Gambia is indefinite; boundary with
    Mauritania in dispute;
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid; rainy season (December to April) has strong southeast
    winds; dry season (May to November) dominated by hot, dry harmattan wind
Terrain:
    generally low, rolling, plains rising to foothills in southeast
Natural resources:
    fish, phosphates, iron ore
Land use:
  arable land:
    27%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    30%
  forest and woodland:
    31%
  other:
    12%
Irrigated land:
    1,800 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    wildlife populations threatened by poaching; deforestation; overgrazing;
    soil erosion; desertification; overfishing
  natural hazards:
    lowlands seasonally flooded; periodic droughts
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Senegal
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone
    Layer Protection, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified -
    Desertification, Marine Dumping
Note:
    The Gambia is almost an enclave of Senegal
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Senegal
                                     People
Population:
    9,007,080 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    45% (female 2,004,514; male 2,021,251)
  15-64 years:
    52% (female 2,398,609; male 2,301,236)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 140,128; male 141,342) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.12% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    42.87 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    11.64 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    73.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    57.16 years
  male:
    55.65 years
  female:
    58.71 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.03 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Senegalese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Senegalese
Ethnic divisions:
    Wolof 36%, Fulani 17%, Serer 17%, Toucouleur 9%, Diola 9%, Mandingo 9%,
    European and Lebanese 1%, other 2%
Religions:
    Muslim 92%, indigenous beliefs 6%, Christian 2% (mostly Roman Catholic)
Languages:
    French (official), Wolof, Pulaar, Diola, Mandingo
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1988)
  total population:
    27%
  male:
    37%
  female:
    18%
Labor force:
    2.509 million (77% are engaged in subsistence farming; 175,000 wage earners)
  by occupation:
    private sector 40%, government and parapublic 60%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Senegal
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Senegal
  conventional short form:
    Senegal
  local long form:
    Republique du Senegal
  local short form:
    Senegal
Digraph:
    SG
Type:
    republic under multiparty democratic rule
Capital:
    Dakar
Administrative divisions:
    10 regions (regions, singular - region); Dakar, Diourbel, Fatick, Kaolack,
    Kolda, Louga, Saint-Louis, Tambacounda, Thies, Ziguinchor
Independence:
    20 August 1960 (from France; The Gambia and Senegal 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)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 4 April (1960)
Constitution:
    3 March 1963, revised 1991
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Abdou DIOUF (since 1 January 1981); 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%
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Habib THIAM (since 7 April 1991)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the prime minister in consultation with
    the president
Legislative branch:
    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 Senegal 3, PIT 2, UDS-R 1
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
Political parties and leaders:
    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
    Senegal (coalition of African Party for Democracy and Socialism and National
    Democratic Rally); other small uninfluential parties
Other political or pressure groups:
    students; teachers; labor; Muslim Brotherhoods
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Senegal
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, CEAO, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, FZ, G-15, G-77, GATT, IAEA,
    IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO,
    INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, PCA,
    UN, UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNMIH, UNOMUR, UPU, WADB, WCL,
    WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Mamadou Mansour SECK
  chancery:
    2112 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 0541
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Mark JOHNSON
  embassy:
    Avenue Jean XXIII at the corner of Avenue Kleber, Dakar
  mailing address:
    B. P. 49, Dakar
  telephone:
    [221] 23 42 96, 23 34 24
  FAX:
    [221] 22 29 91
Flag:
    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 Ethiopia
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Senegal
                                     Economy
Overview:
    In 1994 Senegal embarked on its most concerted structural adjustment effort
    yet to exploit the 50% devaluation of the currencies of the 14 Francophone
    African nations on 12 January. After years of foot-dragging, the government
    finally passed a liberalized labor code which should significantly help
    lower the cost of labor and improve the manufacturing sector's
    competitiveness. Inroads also have been made in closing tax loopholes and
    eliminating monopoly power in several sectors. 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. A bumper peanut crop - Senegal's main source of foreign
    exchange - coincided with an improvement of international prices and
    probably resulted in a doubling of earnings in 1994 over 1993. The country's
    narrow resource base, environmental degradation, and untamed population
    growth will continue to hold back growth in living standards over the medium
    term.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $12.3 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -2% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,450 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    -1.8% (1991 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.2 billion
  expenditures:
    $1.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $269 million (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $904 million (f.o.b., 1991 est.)
  commodities:
    fish, ground nuts (peanuts), petroleum products, phosphates, cotton
  partners:
    France, other EC countries, Cote d'Ivoire, Mali
Imports:
    $1.2 billion (c.i.f., 1991 est.)
  commodities:
    foods and beverages, consumer goods, capital goods, petroleum
  partners:
    France, other EC countries, Nigeria, Cote d'Ivoire, Algeria, China, Japan
External debt:
    $2.9 billion (1990)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 1.9% (1991); accounts for 15% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    230,000 kW
  production:
    720 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    79 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    agricultural and fish processing, phosphate mining, petroleum refining,
    building materials
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Senegal
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 20% of GDP; major products - peanuts (cash crop), millet, corn,
    sorghum, rice, cotton, tomatoes, green vegetables; estimated two-thirds
    self-sufficient in food; fish catch of 354,000 metric tons in 1990
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for Southwest and Southeast Asian heroin moving to
    Europe and North America
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $551 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $5.23 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $589 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $295
    million
Currency:
    1 CFA franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Communaute Financiere Africaine francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 529.43 (January
    1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991), 272.26
    (1990)
  note:
    the official rate is pegged to the French franc, and 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
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Senegal
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    905 km
  narrow gauge:
    905 km 1.000-meter gauge (70 km double track)
Highways:
  total:
    14,007 km
  paved:
    3,777 km
  unpaved:
    crushed stone, improved earth 10,230 km
Inland waterways:
    897 km total; 785 km on the Senegal, 112 km on the Saloum
Ports:
    Dakar, Kaolack, Matam, Podor, Richard-Toll, Saint-Louis, Ziguinchor
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1 bulk ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,995 GRT/3,775 DWT
Airports:
    24
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    9
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    7
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Senegal
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; above-average urban system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave and cable
  international:
    3 submarine cables; 1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 8, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Senegal
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, National Police (Surete
    Nationale)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,021,019; males fit for military service 1,054,855; males
    reach military age (18) annually 96,589 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $134 million, 2.1% of GDP (1993)
Russia
&                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Reunion
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (overseas department of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Reunion
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar
Map references:
    World
Area:
  total area:
    2,510 sq km
  land area:
    2,500 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Rhode Island
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    201 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical, but moderates with elevation; cool and dry from May to November,
    hot and rainy from November to April
Terrain:
    mostly rugged and mountainous; fertile lowlands along coast
Natural resources:
    fish, arable land
Land use:
  arable land:
    20%
  permanent crops:
    2%
  meadows and pastures:
    4%
  forest and woodland:
    35%
  other:
    39%
Irrigated land:
    60 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    periodic, devastating cyclones (December to April); Piton de la Fournaise on
    the southeastern coast is an active volcano
  international agreements:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Reunion
                                     People
Population:
    666,067 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    32% (female 104,924; male 109,972)
  15-64 years:
    62% (female 210,762; male 203,774)
  65 years and over:
    6% (female 21,606; male 15,029) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.98% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    24.59 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.79 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    7.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    74.46 years
  male:
    71.39 years
  female:
    77.67 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.75 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Reunionese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Reunionese
Ethnic divisions:
    French, African, Malagasy, Chinese, Pakistani, Indian
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 94%
Languages:
    French (official), Creole widely used
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1982)
  total population:
    79%
  male:
    76%
  female:
    80%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    agriculture 30%, industry 21%, services 49% (1981)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Reunion
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Department of Reunion
  conventional short form:
    Reunion
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Ile de la Reunion
Digraph:
    RE
Type:
    overseas department of France
Capital:
    Saint-Denis
Administrative divisions:
    none (overseas department of France)
Independence:
    none (overseas department of France)
National holiday:
    National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
Constitution:
    28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
Legal system:
    French law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Francois MITTERRAND (since 21 May 1981)
  head of government:
    Prefect of Reunion Island Hubert FOURNIER (since NA)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
Legislative branch:
    unicameral General Council and unicameral Regional Council
  General Council:
    elections last held 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
Judicial branch:
    Court of Appeals (Cour d'Appel)
Political parties and leaders:
    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 France
    (UPF - including RPR and UDF); Free-Dom Movement, Marguerite SUDRE
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Reunion
                                   Government
Member of:
    FZ, WFTU
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (overseas department of France)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (overseas department of France)
Flag:
    the flag of France is used
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Reunion
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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
    France.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $2.5 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $3,900 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    35% (February 1991)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $358 million
  expenditures:
    $914 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1986 est.)
Exports:
    $166 million (f.o.b., 1988)
  commodities:
    sugar 75%, rum and molasses 4%, perfume essences 4%, lobster 3%, vanilla and
    tea 1%
  partners:
    France, Mauritius, Bahrain, South Africa, Italy
Imports:
    $1.7 billion (c.i.f., 1988)
  commodities:
    manufactured goods, food, beverages, tobacco, machinery and transportation
    equipment, raw materials, and petroleum products
  partners:
    France, Mauritius, Bahrain, South Africa, Italy
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%; about 25% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    180,000 kW
  production:
    1 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,454 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    sugar, rum, cigarettes, several small shops producing handicraft items
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Reunion
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 30% of labor force; dominant sector of economy; cash crops -
    sugarcane, vanilla, tobacco; food crops - tropical fruits, vegetables, corn;
    imports large share of food needs
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89),
    $14.8 billion
Currency:
    1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.2943 (January 1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632
    (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991), 5.4453 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Reunion
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    2,800 km
  paved:
    2,200 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, stabilized earth 600 km
Ports:
    Le Port, Pointe des Galets
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Reunion
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    85,900 telephones; adequate system; principal center Saint-Denis
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    modern open-wire and microwave network
  international:
    radiocommunication to Comoros, France, Madagascar; new microwave route to
    Mauritius; 1 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 13, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1 (repeaters 18)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Reunion
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    French forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, and Gendarmerie)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 173,693; males fit for military service 89,438; males reach
    military age (18) annually 5,781 (1995 est.)
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
plains separated by rugged mountains
Natural resources:
    hydropower potential
Land use:
  arable land:
    6%
  permanent crops:
    7%
  meadows and pastures:
    45%
  forest and woodland:
    34%
  other:
    8%
Irrigated land:
    1,180 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation, largely a result of the clearing of land for cattle ranching;
    soil erosion
  natural hazards:
    occasional earthquakes, hurricanes along Atlantic coast; frequent flooding
    of lowlands at onset of rainy season; active volcanoes
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea,
    Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands, Whaling;
    signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Marine Life Conservation
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Costa Rica
                                     People
Population:
    3,419,114 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    35% (female 585,976; male 617,456)
  15-64 years:
    60% (female 1,013,491; male 1,036,195)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 88,050; male 77,946) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.24% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    24.88 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    3.47 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    1.02 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    10.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    78.11 years
  male:
    76.21 years
  female:
    80.1 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.01 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Costa Rican(s)
  adjective:
    Costa Rican
Ethnic divisions:
    white (including mestizo) 96%, black 2%, Indian 1%, Chinese 1%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 95%
Languages:
    Spanish (official), English; spoken around Puerto Limon
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1984)
  total population:
    93%
  male:
    93%
  female:
    93%
Labor force:
    868,300
  by occupation:
    industry and commerce 35.1%, government and services 33%, agriculture 27%,
    other 4.9% (1985 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Costa Rica
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Costa Rica
  conventional short form:
    Costa Rica
  local long form:
    Republica de Costa Rica
  local short form:
    Costa Rica
Digraph:
    CS
Type:
    democratic republic
Capital:
    San Jo
Sierra Leone
&t&SERBIA AND MONTENEGRO - Passport  required.  For further information
check with the Embassy of the Former Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (Serbia &
Montenegro), 2410 California St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/462-6566)  Attention:  U.S. citizens need a Treasury Dept. license
in order to engage in any commercial transactions within Serbia &
Montenegro. Before planning any travel to Serbia & Montenegro, U.S. citizens should
contact the Licensing Division, Office of Foreign Assets Control,
Department of the Treasury, 1331 G St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20220
(202/622-2480).
Serbia & Montenegro - Travel Warning
April 29, 1994
The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens not to travel to Serbia and
Montenegro because of the potential for rapid changes in the security
situation there, and the threat of potential repercussions from the ongoing
conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
No. 94-018
This replaces the Travel Warning dated April 22, 1994 to reflect the
termination of ordered departure status for U.S. Embassy dependents and some
Embassy employees from Belgrade.
Serbia & Montenegro - Consular Information Sheet
November 2, 1994
Warning:  The U.S. Department of State warns U.S. citizens not to travel to
Serbia and Montenegro because of the potential for rapid changes in the
security situation there, and the threat of potential repercussions from the
ongoing conflict in Bosnia and Herzegovina.
Country Description:  The former Yugoslav republics of Serbia and Montenegro
are currently under stringent United Nations economic sanctions; however,
international commercial air traffic has been reestablished after a two year
hiatus.  Belgrade airport is open for civilian passengers but cargo is still
prohibited.  There may be long delays at the border when entering the
country by car or bus.  Internal air travel is possible, but schedules are
unreliable.  Trains continue to operate, but are often overbooked,
unreliable, and unsafe.  There have been incidents of assaults and robberies
on the trains.  Travelers should be aware that essential supplies, including
basic food items and medicines, often are unavailable, and that traveler's
checks and credit cards are not valid.  Rapid changes in the value of local
currency occur as hyperinflation continues and travelers may experience
power outages and and heating irregularities.  Although automobile travel is
generally possible, there is a shortage of spare parts and gasoline, and it
is wise to make certain that sufficient fuel is available before undertaking
such travel.  Travel after dark on many roads is hazardous because of the
presence of slow, poorly marked vehicles, horse-drawn carts, and worn or
nonexistent median lines and shoulder markings.  In addition, traffic signs
may be poorly marked and new signs are likely to be written in the cyrillic
alphabet in some areas of Serbia.  The road between Zagreb and Belgrade is
closed and it is impossible to enter Croatia from Serbia.
There are checkpoints throughout the country which are manned generally by
policemen (militia), but occasionally by undisciplined, untrained reserve
militia groups.  Travelers are expected to provide identification and
cooperate fully at these checkpoints.  Travelers are prohibited from
photographing police, buildings under police or military guard, border
crossings, demonstrations, riots, and military personnel, convoys, maneuvers
and bases.  There are marked areas where all photography is prohibited.
Entry Requirements:  U.S. citizens require a passport and visa.  Visas
normally are not granted at the border.  The "Federal Republic of
Yugoslavia" (FRY), which claims to be the successor state to the Socialist
Federal Republic of Yugoslavia, is not fully recognized by the United
States.  The FRY maintains an office at 2410 California Street, N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], which travelers can
contact for updated entry requirements.  U.S. travelers overseas can check
with the nearest FRY consular office.
Areas of Instability:  U.S. Embassy personnel may not enter the following
areas without prior U.S. government permission: the border areas with
Croatia and Bosnia-Herzegovina, the Sandzak region, and Kosovo.
The Border with Croatia:  Sporadic violence, which can become intense,
continues in areas of Croatia along this boundary.
The Border with Bosnia-Herzegovina:  The ongoing war in Bosnia-Herzegovina
makes this area very dangerous.  The danger is especially acute in the Drina
River valley of both Bosnia-Herzegovina and Serbia.
Sandzak Region: Heightened ethnic tensions and sporadic acts of violence
(particularly near the border with Bosnia-Herzegovina), as well as the
presence in some areas of paramilitary forces, makes travel to this region
of Serbia and Montenegro potentially dangerous.  Travel in the border
regions may be especially perilous.
Kosovo:  Ethnic tensions are especially acute in this southern Serbian
province (called Kosovo Metohija by Serbian authorities).  Demonstrations,
sometimes violent, can occur without warning.  In recent months, there have
been several armed attacks on Serbian police, resulting in death and injury.
 Security forces are at a high state of alert and police check points are
widespread.  Travelers are routinely subject to police search and
interrogation.
Danube River:  There have been recent incidents of both cargo and passenger
ships on the Danube transiting Serbia being delayed for several days by
purported private organizations protesting U.N. sanctions.  Persons
traveling on the Danube through Serbia should be prepared for delays and
alterations to their plans.
The Remainder of Serbia and Montenegro:  While this area is generally calm,
in some areas, for example, Vojvodina, tensions are high as a result of
bombings, other acts of intimidation and threats by armed paramilitary
groups.  The potential for violent incidents exists and will probably
increase as a result of the political situation and worsening economic
conditions.  For example, a bomb was detonated in front of the U.S. Embassy
in Belgrade in 1993, causing some damage.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited.  Many medicines and
basic medical supplies as well as X-ray film often are unavailable.
Hospitals usually require payment in hard-currency for all services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  While
travelers have found that supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proven to be useful, they may be forced to pay first
and then seek reimbursement.  Further information on health matters can be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers
hotline, telephone [phone].
Crime Information:  There is a continuing trend toward lawlessness and
disorder.  Murder has increased dramatically with many incidents in broad
daylight and some at popular public places.  Crime has increased markedly in
the cities, particularly near railroad and bus stations and on trains.  The
possession of firearms has proliferated greatly and it is estimated that 20
percent of the citizens are now armed.  Police protection is almost non-
existent.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful
information on protecting personal security and possessions while traveling
abroad.  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Commercial Regulations:  United Nations economic sanctions on Serbia and
Montenegro, enforced by the United States, prohibit imports, exports and all
other commercial transactions.  Humanitarian transactions require waivers
from the U.N. Security Council's Yugoslavia Sanctions Committee.  Further
information regarding waivers can be obtained from the U.S. Department of
Treasury.  Travel is permitted for personal, non-commercial reasons only.
Credit cards, travelers' checks and personal checks are not accepted locally
and their use is prohibited.  The only medium of exchange is hard currency,
for example, U.S. dollars or German marks.  It is illegal to exchange
currency at other than official banks and institutions.  For further
information, travelers can contact the Office of Foreign Assets Control at
the U.S. Treasury Department in Washington, D.C.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Other Information:  In compliance with a U.N. resolution mandating the
reduction of Embassy staffs, the Department of State has reduced the size of
its mission in Belgrade.  Assistance to U.S. citizens may therefore be
limited.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register with the U.S. Embassy in Belgrade
can obtain updated information on travel and security in Serbia and
Montenegro.  The Embassy will attempt to contact U.S. citizens who have
registered if the situation worsens.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Belgrade is at Kneza Milosa 50,
telephone [phone]. The after hours telephone number is (381-11) 646-
481.  The Consular Section fax number is (381-11) 644-053.  The alternate
fax number is (381-11) 645-221.
No. 94-259
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 29, 1994, to
reflect the termination of sanctions on international air travel and the
opening of Belgrade airport for commercial traffic.
DkD                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Serbia and Montenegro
                                     Header
Note:
    Serbia and Montenegro 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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Serbia and Montenegro
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea, between Albania and Bosnia
    and Herzegovina
Map references:
    Ethnic Groups in Eastern Europe, Europe
Area:
  total area:
    102,350 sq km
  land area:
    102,136 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Kentucky
  note:
    Serbia has a total area and a land area of 88,412 sq km making it slightly
    larger than Maine; Montenegro has a total area of 13,938 sq km and a land
    area of 13,724 sq km making it slightly larger than Connecticut
Land boundaries:
    total 2,246 km, Albania 287 km (114 km with Serbia; 173 km with Montenegro),
    Bosnia and Herzegovina 527 km (312 km with Serbia; 215 km with Montenegro),
    Bulgaria 318 km, Croatia (north) 241 km, Croatia (south) 25 km, Hungary 151
    km, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 221 km, Romania 476 km
  note:
    the internal boundary between Montenegro and Serbia is 211 km
Coastline:
    199 km (Montenegro 199 km, Serbia 0 km)
Maritime claims:
    NA
International disputes:
    Sandzak region bordering northern Montenegro and southeastern Serbia -
    Muslims seeking autonomy; disputes with Bosnia and Herzegovina and Croatia
    over Serbian populated areas; Albanian majority in Kosovo seeks independence
    from Serbian Republic
Climate:
    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
Terrain:
    extremely varied; to the north, rich fertile plains; to the east, limestone
    ranges and basins; to the southeast, ancient mountain and hills; to the
    southwest, extremely high shoreline with no islands off the coast
Natural resources:
    oil, gas, coal, antimony, copper, lead, zinc, nickel, gold, pyrite, chrome
Land use:
  arable land:
    30%
  permanent crops:
    5%
  meadows and pastures:
    20%
  forest and woodland:
    25%
  other:
    20%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Serbia and Montenegro
                                    Geography
Environment:
  current issues:
    pollution of coastal waters from sewage outlets, especially in
    tourist-related areas such as Kotor; air pollution around Belgrade and other
    industrial cities; water pollution from industrial wastes dumped into the
    Sava which flows into the Danube
  natural hazards:
    destructive earthquakes
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    controls one of the major land routes from Western Europe to Turkey and the
    Near East; strategic location along the Adriatic coast
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Serbia and Montenegro
                                     People
Population:
  total population:
    11,101,833 (July 1995 est.)
  Montenegro:
    708,248 (July 1995 est.)
  Serbia:
    10,393,585 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  Montenegro:
    *** No data for this item ***
  0-14 years:
    22% (female 77,498; male 82,005)
  15-64 years:
    68% (female 236,987; male 241,397)
  65 years and over:
    10% (female 41,625; male 28,736) (July 1995 est.)
  Serbia:
    *** No data for this item ***
  0-14 years:
    22% (female 1,095,121; male 1,173,224)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 3,431,823; male 3,483,066)
  65 years and over:
    12% (female 699,488; male 510,863) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
  Montenegro:
    0.79% (1995 est.)
  Serbia:
    0.51% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
  Montenegro:
    14.39 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  Serbia:
    14.15 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
  Montenegro:
    5.7 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  Serbia:
    8.72 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
  Montenegro:
    -0.78 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  Serbia:
    -0.36 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
  Montenegro:
    9.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
  Serbia:
    18.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  Montenegro:
    *** No data for this item ***
  total population:
    79.56 years
  male:
    76.69 years
  female:
    82.61 years (1995 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Serbia and Montenegro
                                     People
  Serbia:
    *** No data for this item ***
  total population:
    73.94 years
  male:
    71.4 years
  female:
    76.68 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
  Montenegro:
    1.79 children born/woman (1995 est.)
  Serbia:
    2 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Serb(s) and Montenegrin(s)
  adjective:
    Serbian and Montenegrin
Ethnic divisions:
    Serbs 63%, Albanians 14%, Montenegrins 6%, Hungarians 4%, other 13%
Religions:
    Orthodox 65%, Muslim 19%, Roman Catholic 4%, Protestant 1%, other 11%
Languages:
    Serbo-Croatian 95%, Albanian 5%
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    2,640,909
  by occupation:
    industry, mining 40% (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Serbia and Montenegro
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Serbia and Montenegro
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Srbija-Crna Gora
Digraph:
  Serbia:
    SR
  Montenegro:
    MW
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Belgrade
Administrative divisions:
    2 republics (pokajine, singular - pokajina); and 2 nominally autonomous
    provinces*; Kosovo*, Montenegro, Serbia, Vojvodina*
Independence:
    11 April 1992 (Federal Republic of Yugoslavia formed as self-proclaimed
    successor to the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia - SFRY)
National holiday:
    NA
Constitution:
    27 April 1992
Legal system:
    based on civil law system
Suffrage:
    16 years of age, if employed;  18 years of age, universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Zoran LILIC (since 25 June 1993); note - Slobodan MILOSEVIC is
    president of Serbia (since 9 December 1990); Momir BULATOVIC is president of
    Montenegro (since 23 December 1990); Federal Assembly elected Zoran LILIC on
    25 June 1993
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Radoje KONTIC (since 29 December 1992); Deputy Prime
    Ministers Jovan ZEBIC (since NA March 1993), Uros KLIKOVAC (since 15
    September 1994), Nikola SAINOVIC (since 15 September 1995)
  cabinet:
    Federal Executive Council
Legislative branch:
    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
  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
Judicial branch:
    Savezni Sud (Federal Court), Constitutional Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Serbia and Montenegro
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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 Serbia (Depos), Vojlslav KOSTUNICA; Democratic Party of
    Socialists of Montenegro (DPSCG), Momir BULATOVIC, president; People's Party
    of Montenegro (NS), Milan PAROSKI; Liberal Alliance of Montenegro, Slavko
    PEROVIC; Democratic Community of Vojvodina Hungarians (DZVM), Andras
    AGOSTON; League of Communists-Movement for Yugoslavia (SK-PJ), Dragan
    ATANASOVSKI; Democratic Alliance of Kosovo (LDK), Dr. Ibrahim RUGOVA,
    president; Party of Democratic Action (SDA), Sulejman UGLJANIN; Civic
    Alliance of Serbia (GSS), Vesna PESIC, chairman; Socialist Party of
    Montenegro (SP), leader NA
Other political or pressure groups:
    NA
Diplomatic representation in US:
    US and Serbia and Montenegro do not maintain full diplomatic relations; the
    Embassy of the former Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia continues to
    function in the US
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Rudolf V. PERINA
  embassy:
    address NA, Belgrade
  mailing address:
    Box 5070, Unit 1310, APO AE 09213-1310
  telephone:
    [381] (11) 645655
  FAX:
    [381] (11) 645221
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), white, and red
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Serbia and Montenegro
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The swift collapse of the Yugoslav federation in 1991 has been followed by
    bloody ethnic warfare, the destabilization of republic boundaries, and the
    breakup of important interrepublic trade flows. Serbia and Montenegro faces
    major economic problems; output has dropped sharply, particularly in 1993.
    First, like the other former Yugoslav republics, it depended on its sister
    republics for large amounts of foodstuffs, 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 Serbia and Montenegro is the continuation in office of a communist
    government that is primarily interested in political and military mastery,
    not economic reform. A further complication is the imposition of economic
    sanctions by the UN in 1992. 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 $1,000 per
    capita in 1994 is extremely rough. Output in 1994 seems to have leveled off
    after the plunge in 1993.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity -  $10 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $1,000 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    20% (January-November 1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    more than 40% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    prior to the breakup of the federation, Yugoslavia exported machinery and
    transport equipment, manufactured goods, chemicals, food and live animals,
    raw materials
  partners:
    prior to the imposition of UN sanctions trade partners were the other former
    Yugoslav republics, Italy, Germany, other EC, the FSU countries, East
    European countries, US
Imports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    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
  partners:
    prior to the imposition of UN sanctions trade partners were the other former
    Yugoslav republics, the FSU countries, EC countries (mainly Italy and
    Germany), East European countries, US
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Serbia and Montenegro
                                     Economy
External debt:
    $4.2 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    10,400,000 kW
  production:
    34 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,400 kWh (1994 est.)
Industries:
    machine building (aircraft, trucks, and automobiles; armored vehicles and
    weapons; electrical equipment; agricultural machinery), metallurgy (steel,
    aluminum, copper, lead, zinc, chromium, antimony, bismuth, cadmium), mining
    (coal, bauxite, nonferrous ore, iron ore, limestone), consumer goods
    (textiles, footwear, foodstuffs, appliances), electronics, petroleum
    products, chemicals, and pharmaceuticals
Agriculture:
    the fertile plains of Vojvodina produce 80% of the cereal production of the
    former Yugoslavia and most of the cotton, oilseeds, and chicory; Vojvodina
    also produces fodder crops to support intensive beef and dairy production;
    Serbia proper, although hilly, has a well-distributed rainfall and a long
    growing season; produces fruit, grapes, and cereals; in this area, livestock
    production (sheep and cattle) and dairy farming prosper; Kosovo produces
    fruits, vegetables, tobacco, and a small amount of cereals; the mountainous
    pastures of Kosovo and Montenegro support sheep and goat husbandry;
    Montenegro has only a small agriculture sector, mostly near the coast where
    a Mediterranean climate permits the culture of olives, citrus, grapes, and
    rice
Illicit drugs:
    NA
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    1 Yugoslav New Dinar (YD) = 100 paras
Exchange rates:
    Yugoslav New Dinars (YD) per US $1 - 102.6 (February 1995 black market rate)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Serbia and Montenegro
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,960 km
  standard gauge:
    3,960 km 1.435-m gauge (partially electrified) (1992)
Highways:
  total:
    46,019 km
  paved:
    26,949 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 10,373 km; earth 8,697 km (1990)
Inland waterways:
    NA km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 415 km; petroleum products 130 km; natural gas 2,110 km
Ports:
    Bar, Belgrade, Kotor, Novi Sad, Pancevo, Tivat
Merchant marine:
  Montenegro:
    total 35 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 543,511 GRT/891,664 DWT
    (controlled by Montenegrin beneficial owners)
  ships by type:
    bulk 15, cargo 14, container 5, short-sea passenger ferry 1
  note:
    under Maltese and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines flags; no ships remain
    under Yugoslav flag
  Serbia:
    total 2 (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 113,471 GRT/212,742 DWT (controlled by
    Serbian beneficial owners)
  ships by type:
    bulk 2
  note:
    all under the flag of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; no ships remain
    under Yugoslav flag
Airports:
  total:
    54
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    5
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    24
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    14
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Serbia and Montenegro
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    700,000 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 26, FM 9, shortwave 0
  radios:
    2.015 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    18
  televisions:
    1 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Serbia and Montenegro
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    People's Army (includes Ground Forces with internal and border troops, Naval
    Forces, and Air and Air Defense Forces), Civil Defense
Manpower availability:
  Montenegro:
    males age 15-49 194,154; males fit for military service 157,611; males reach
    military age (19) annually 5,498 (1995 est.)
  Serbia:
    males age 15-49 2,652,224; males fit for military service 2,131,894 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    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
Senegal
SAO TOME AND PRINCIPE - Passport and visa required.  Tourist/business
visa for visit up to 2 weeks, requires 2 application forms, 2 photos and
yellow fever immunization card, letter stating purpose of travel and $15 fee
(money orders only).  Company letter is required for a business visa.
Enclose prepaid envelope or postage for return of passport by certified
or special delivery mail.  Apply Permanent Mission of Sao Tome and
Principe to the U.N., 122 East 42nd Street, Suite 1604, New York, NY 10168
(212/697-4211).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Sao Tome and Principe
============================================================
Sao Tome and Principe - Public Announcement
August 17, 1995
U.S. Department of State
Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release
The U.S. Embassy in Gabon, which has jurisdiction over American
interests in the country of Sao Tome and Principe, reports a coup
d'etat occurred on August 15 in Sao Tome, the capital city of Sao
Tome and Principe.  The Embassy further reports the military forces
of Sao Tome and Principe took into custody the President, the Prime
Minister and other government officials and blocked access around
the presidential palace.  There have been no reports of gunfire and
no evidence of violence.  The military has announced an 8:00 p.m.
curfew.  For further information on travel to Sao Tome and Principe,
consult the Department of State's Consular Information Sheet of
August 25, 1994 or contact the U.S. Embassy in Libreville, Gabon, at
(241)762003/4 or 743492.
 No. 95-Sao
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Sao Tome & Principe
============================================================
Sao Tome and Principe - Consular Information Sheet
 November 15, 1995
Country Description:  Sao Tome and Principe is an island nation
with a population of 120,000, located off the west coast of Africa.
Per capita income is less than $1000 per year.  Facilities for
tourism are limited but adequate.  The national language is
Portuguese.
Entry Requirements:  Information about entry requirements may be
obtained from the Permanent Mission of Sao Tome and Principe, 122
East 42nd St., Suite 1604, New York, N.Y. 10168, telephone (212)
697-4211.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Sao Tome and Principe
are limited.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash
payment for health care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid
program does not provide for payment of medical services outside of
the United States.  In some cases, supplemental medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage, including a provision for medical
evacuation, has proved to be useful.  Information on health matters
can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and
Prevention's international travelers hotline, telephone (404)
332-4559.
Information on Crime:  Incidents of crime occur.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local
police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate, which is in
Libreville, Gabon.  U.S. State Department pamphlets "A Safe Trip
Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide
useful information on protecting personal security while traveling
abroad and on travel in the region in general.  Both are available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
U.S. Representation:  There is no U.S. Embassy in Sao Tome and
Principe.  U.S. citizens in Sao Tome and Principe needing assistance
may contact the U.S. Embassy in Libreville, Gabon, located on the
Boulevard de la Mer.  The mailing address is B.P. 4000, Libreville,
Gabon.  The telephone is (241) 762003/4 or (214) 743492.
 No. 95-140
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 25, 1994,
to update the country description and the information on crime.
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Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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*                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Sao Tome and Principe
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, island in the Atlantic Ocean, straddling the equator, west
    of Gabon
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    960 sq km
  land area:
    960 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 5.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    209 km
Maritime claims:
    measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid; one rainy season (October to May)
Terrain:
    volcanic, mountainous
Natural resources:
    fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    1%
  permanent crops:
    20%
  meadows and pastures:
    1%
  forest and woodland:
    75%
  other:
    3%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion and exhaustion
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea; signed, but not
    ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Sao Tome and Principe
                                     People
Population:
    140,423 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    40% (female 27,995; male 28,452)
  15-64 years:
    55% (female 38,846; male 38,619)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 3,615; male 2,896) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.62% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    34.94 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.7 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    62.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    63.65 years
  male:
    61.76 years
  female:
    65.59 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.44 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Sao Tomean(s)
  adjective:
    Sao Tomean
Ethnic divisions:
    mestico, angolares (descendents of Angolan slaves), forros (descendents of
    freed slaves), servicais (contract laborers from Angola, Mozambique, and
    Cape Verde), tongas (children of servicais born on the islands), Europeans
    (primarily Portuguese)
Religions:
    Roman Catholic, Evangelical Protestant, Seventh-Day Adventist
Languages:
    Portuguese (official)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1991)
  total population:
    73%
  male:
    85%
  female:
    62%
Labor force:
    most of population mainly engaged in subsistence agriculture and fishing;
    labor shortages on plantations and of skilled workers
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Sao Tome and Principe
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Democratic Republic of Sao Tome and Principe
  conventional short form:
    Sao Tome and Principe
  local long form:
    Republica Democratica de Sao Tome e Principe
  local short form:
    Sao Tome e Principe
Digraph:
    TP
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Sao Tome
Administrative divisions:
    2 districts (concelhos, singular - concelho); Principe, Sao Tome
Independence:
    12 July 1975 (from Portugal)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 12 July (1975)
Constitution:
    approved March 1990; effective 10 September 1990
Legal system:
    based on Portuguese law system and customary law; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Miguel TROVOADA (since 4 April 1991); election last held 3 March
    1991 (next to be held NA March 1996); results - Miguel TROVOADA was elected
    without opposition in Sao Tome's first multiparty presidential election
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Carlos da GRACA (since 25 October 1994)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president on the proposal of the
    prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National People's Assembly:
     (Assembleia Popular Nacional) parliament dissolved by President TROVOADA in
    July 1994; early elections held 2 October 1994; results - MLSTP 27%, PCD-GR
    25.5%, ADI 25.5%; seats - (55 total) MLSTP 27, PCD-GR 14, ADI 14
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    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 SANTOS; Democratic Opposition Coalition (CODO), leader NA;
    Independent Democratic Action (ADI), Gabriel COSTA; other small parties
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, CEEAC, ECA, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO,
    IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU,
    NAM, OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WMO, WTO
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Sao Tome and Principe
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
    Sao Tome and Principe has no 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, telephone
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
    ambassador to Gabon is accredited to Sao Tome and Principe on a nonresident
    basis and makes periodic visits to the islands
Flag:
    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 Ethiopia
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Sao Tome and Principe
                                     Economy
Overview:
    This small poor island economy has remained dependent on cocoa since
    independence 20 years ago. Since then, however, cocoa production has
    gradually declined because of drought and mismanagement, so that by 1987
    annual output had fallen from 10,000 tons to 3,900 tons. As a result, a
    shortage of cocoa for export has created a serious balance-of-payments
    problem. Production of less important crops, such as coffee, copra, and palm
    kernels, has also declined. The value of imports generally exceeds that of
    exports by a ratio of 4:1 or more. The emphasis on cocoa 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 is estimated in the 3%-4% range for 1994-96.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $133 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $1,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    27% (1992 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $10.2 million
  expenditures:
    $36.8 million, including capital expenditures of $22.5 million (1989 est.)
Exports:
    $5.5 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    cocoa 78%, copra, coffee, palm oil (1992)
  partners:
    Netherlands, Germany, China, Portugal
Imports:
    $31.5 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and electrical equipment 44%, food products 18%, petroleum 11%
    (1992)
  partners:
    Portugal, Japan, Spain, France, Angola
External debt:
    $237 million (1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 1% (1991); accounts for 7% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    5,000 kW
  production:
    17 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    105 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    light construction, shirts, soap, beer, fisheries, shrimp processing
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Sao Tome and Principe
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 25% of GDP; dominant sector of economy, primary source of
    exports; cash crops - cocoa, coconuts, palm kernels, coffee; food products -
    bananas, papaya, beans, poultry, fish; not self-sufficient in food grain and
    meat
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $8 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $89 million
Currency:
    1 dobra (Db) = 100 centimos
Exchange rates:
    dobras (Db) per US$1 - 129.59 (1 July 1993), 230 (1992), 260.0 (November
    1991), 122.48 (December 1988), 72.827 (1987)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Sao Tome and Principe
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    300 km
  paved:
    200 km
  unpaved:
    100 km
  note:
    roads on Principe are mostly unpaved and in need of repair
Ports:
    Santo Antonio, Sao Tome
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1 cargo ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,096 GRT/1,105 DWT
Airports:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Sao Tome and Principe
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA; minimal system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 Atlantic Ocean INTELSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 2, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Sao Tome and Principe
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, National Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 33,789; males fit for military service 17,752 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
hortsible by
road from Slovenia and by ferry from Italy.
Visitors who stay abreast of developments and familiarize
themselves with local protective shelters, police stations, and
hospitals reduce the risk to their safety.  Crossing Serb lines or
checkpoints may be dangerous.
Medical Facilities:  Health facilities in Croatia, although
generally of Western caliber, are under severe strain.  Some
medicines are in short supply.  Doctors and hospitals may expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical coverage
is not always valid outside the United Sta
Slovenia
SINGAPORE - Passport and onward/return ticket required.  Visa not
required for tourist/business stay up to 2 weeks, extendable to 3 months
maximum. AIDS test required for some work visas.  U.S. test is not accepted.
For additional information contact Embassy of Singapore, 3501 Int'l Place,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/537-3100).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Singapore
============================================================
Singapore - Consular Information Sheet
 June 16, 1995
Country Description:  Singapore is a small, highly developed
parliamentary democracy.  Tourist facilities are modern and widely
available.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and onward/return tickets are
required. Visas are not required for tourist/business stays of up to
two weeks.  For more current information, travelers can contact the
Embassy of Singapore, 3501 International Place, N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20008, tel. [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities and services are good and
widely available in Singapore.  Doctors and hospitals may expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  The
international traveler's hotline at the Centers for Disease Control
can be reached at [phone] for additional useful health
information.
Information on Crime:  Major crimes against tourists are not
common. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing do occur in tourist
areas.  Visitors should be aware of Singapore's strict laws and
penalties for a variety of offenses that might be considered minor
in the United States, including jaywalking, littering, spitting, as
well as the importation and sale of chewing gum.  Singapore imposes
a mandatory caning sentence on males for vandalism offenses.  Caning
may also be imposed for immigration violations and other offenses.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police, and the U.S. Embassy.  Useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State
pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  It is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect, at least, a jail sentence and fine.
Singapore has a mandatory death penalty for many narcotics offenses.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy can
obtain updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 30 Hill Street,
Singapore 0617; the mailing address is American Embassy Singapore,
FPO AP 96534; telephone [phone].
 No. 95-072
This is a reissuance of the Consular Information Sheet dated May 9,
1994.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Singapore
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, islands between Malaysia and Indonesia
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    632.6 sq km
  land area:
    622.6 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 3.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    193 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    within and beyond territorial sea, as defined in treaties and practice
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    two islands in dispute with Malaysia
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid, rainy; no pronounced rainy or dry seasons;
    thunderstorms occur on 40% of all days (67% of days in April)
Terrain:
    lowland; gently undulating central plateau contains water catchment area and
    nature preserve
Natural resources:
    fish, deepwater ports
Land use:
  arable land:
    4%
  permanent crops:
    7%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    5%
  other:
    84%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    industrial pollution; limited natural fresh water resources; limited land
    availability presents waste disposal problems
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate
    Change
Note:
    focal point for Southeast Asian sea routes
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Singapore
                                     People
Population:
    2,890,468 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    23% (female 327,417; male 348,345)
  15-64 years:
    70% (female 991,015; male 1,030,668)
  65 years and over:
    7% (female 105,081; male 87,942) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.06% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.93 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.35 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    5.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    76.16 years
  male:
    73.28 years
  female:
    79.25 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.87 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Singaporean(s)
  adjective:
    Singapore
Ethnic divisions:
    Chinese 76.4%, Malay 14.9%, Indian 6.4%, other 2.3%
Religions:
    Buddhist (Chinese), Muslim (Malays), Christian, Hindu, Sikh, Taoist,
    Confucianist
Languages:
    Chinese (official), Malay (official and national), Tamil (official), English
    (official)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    89%
  male:
    95%
  female:
    83%
Labor force:
    1.649 million (1994)
  by occupation:
    financial, business, and other services 33.5%, manufacturing 25.6%, commerce
    22.9%, construction 6.6%, other 11.4% (1994)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Singapore
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Singapore
  conventional short form:
    Singapore
Digraph:
    SN
Type:
    republic within Commonwealth
Capital:
    Singapore
Administrative divisions:
    none
Independence:
    9 August 1965 (from Malaysia)
National holiday:
    National Day, 9 August (1965)
Constitution:
    3 June 1959, amended 1965 (based on preindependence State of Singapore
    Constitution)
Legal system:
    based on English common law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    20 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President ONG Teng Cheong (since 1 September 1993); election last held 28
    August 1993 (next to be held NA August 1997); results - ONG Teng Cheong was
    elected with 59% of the vote in the country's first popular election for
    president
  head of government:
    Prime Minister GOH Chok Tong (since 28 November 1990); Deputy Prime Minister
    LEE Hsien Loong (since 28 November 1990)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president, responsible to parliament
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
  government:
    People's Action Party (PAP), GOH Chok Tong, secretary general
  opposition:
    Workers' Party (WP), J. B. JEYARETNAM; Singapore Democratic Party (SDP),
    CHEE Soon Juan; National Solidarity Party (NSP), leader NA; Barisan Sosialis
    (BS, Socialist Front), leader NA; Singapore People's Party (SPP), SIN Kek
    Tong
Member of:
    APEC, AsDB, ASEAN, C, CCC, CP, ESCAP, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC,
    ICFTU, ICRM, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC,
    ISO, ITU, NAM, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNIKOM, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Sellapan Rama NATHAN
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Singapore
                                   Government
  chancery:
    3501 International Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Timothy A. CHORBA
  embassy:
    30 Hill Street, Singapore 0617
  mailing address:
    FPO AP 96534
  telephone:
    [65] 3380251
  FAX:
    [65] 3384550
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Singapore
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Singapore has an open entrepreneurial economy with strong service and
    manufacturing sectors and excellent international trading links derived from
    its entrepot history. The economy registered 10.1% growth in 1994, with
    prospects for 7.5%-8.5% growth in 1995. In 1994, the manufacturing and
    financial and business services sectors have led economic growth. Exports
    boomed, led by the electronics sector, particularly US demand for disk
    drives. Rising labor costs continue to be a threat to Singapore's
    competitiveness, but there are indications that productivity is keeping up.
    In applied technology, per capita output, investment, and labor discipline,
    Singapore has key attributes of a developed country.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $57 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    10.1% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $19,940 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3.6% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    2.6% (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $11.9 billion
  expenditures:
    $10.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $3.9 billion (FY93/94 est.)
Exports:
    $96.4 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    computer equipment, rubber and rubber products, petroleum products,
    telecommunications equipment
  partners:
    Malaysia 20%, US 19%, Hong Kong 9%, Japan 7%, Thailand 6% (1994)
Imports:
    $102.4 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    aircraft, petroleum, chemicals, foodstuffs
  partners:
    Japan 22%, Malaysia 16%, US 15%, Taiwan 4%, Saudi Arabia 4% (1994)
External debt:
    $20 million (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 13% (1994 est.); accounts for 28% of GDP (1993)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    4,510,000 kW
  production:
    17 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    5,590 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum refining, electronics, oil drilling equipment, rubber processing
    and rubber products, processed food and beverages, ship repair, entrepot
    trade, financial services, biotechnology
Agriculture:
    minor importance in the economy; self-sufficient in poultry and eggs; must
    import much of other food; major crops - rubber, copra, fruit, vegetables
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Singapore
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    transit point for Golden Triangle heroin going to the US, Western Europe,
    and the Third World; also a major money-laundering center
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-83), $590 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1 billion
Currency:
    1 Singapore dollar (S$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Singapore dollars (S$) per US$1 - 1.4524 (January 1995), 1.5275 (1994),
    1.6158 (1993), 1.6290 (1992), 1.7276 (1991), 1.8125 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Singapore
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    38.6 km
  narrow gauge:
    38.6 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    2,883 km
  paved:
    2,796 km
  unpaved:
    87 km (1991 est.)
Ports:
    Singapore
Merchant marine:
  total:
    563 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 11,167,596 GRT/17,845,687 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 96, cargo 121, chemical tanker 16, combination bulk 2, combination
    ore/oil 7, container 78, liquefied gas tanker 6, oil tanker 198,
    refrigerated cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 12, short-sea passenger 1,
    specialized tanker 3, vehicle carrier 22
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; includes 20 countries among which are Japan
    35 ships, Denmark 21, Germany 21, Hong Kong 18, Belgium 14, Thailand 11,
    Sweden 8, US 7, Indonesia 6, and Norway 5; Singapore owns 1 ship under
    Malaysia registry
Airports:
  total:
    10
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Singapore
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    1,110,000 telephones; good domestic facilities; good international service;
    good radio and television broadcast coverage
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    submarine cables extend to Malaysia (Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia),
    Indonesia, and the Philippines; 2 INTELSAT (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific
    Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 13, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Singapore
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, People's Defense Force, Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 860,437; males fit for military service 629,973 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $2.7 billion, 6% of GDP (1993 est.)
Paraguay
PAPUA NEW GUINEA - Passport, onward/return ticket and proof of
sufficient funds required.  Tourist visa not required  for a stay of up to 30
days. Business visa requires 2 application forms, 2 photos,  company letter,
bio-data and $10.25  fee (single entry ) or  $154.00 (multiple entry).
AIDS test required for work and residency permits; U.S. test accepted.
For longer stays and further information contact Embassy of Papua New
Guinea, Suite 300, 1615 New Hampshire Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009
(202/745-3680).
1                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Papua New Guinea
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, group of islands including the eastern half of the island
    of New Guinea between the Coral Sea and the South Pacific Ocean, east of
    Indonesia
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    461,690 sq km
  land area:
    451,710 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than California
Land boundaries:
    total 820 km, Indonesia 820 km
Coastline:
    5,152 km
Maritime claims:
    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
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; northwest monsoon (December to March), southeast monsoon (May to
    October); slight seasonal temperature variation
Terrain:
    mostly mountains with coastal lowlands and rolling foothills
Natural resources:
    gold, copper, silver, natural gas, timber, oil potential
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    71%
  other:
    28%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    rain forest subject to deforestation as a result of growing commercial
    demand for tropical timber; pollution from mining projects
  natural hazards:
    active volcanism; situated along the Pacific "Rim of Fire"; the country is
    subject to frequent and sometimes severe earthquakes; mudslides
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered
    Species, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone
    Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but
    not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Papua New Guinea
                                    Geography
Note:
    shares island of New Guinea with Indonesia; one of world's largest swamps
    along southwest coast
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Papua New Guinea
                                     People
Population:
    4,294,750 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    41% (female 847,208; male 892,718)
  15-64 years:
    57% (female 1,161,961; male 1,268,266)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 66,759; male 57,838) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.3% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    33.2 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    10.18 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    61.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    56.85 years
  male:
    56.01 years
  female:
    57.74 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.55 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Papua New Guinean(s)
  adjective:
    Papua New Guinean
Ethnic divisions:
    Melanesian, Papuan, Negrito, Micronesian, Polynesian
Religions:
    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%
Languages:
    English spoken by 1%-2%, pidgin English widespread, Motu spoken in Papua
    region
  note:
    715 indigenous languages
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    52%
  male:
    65%
  female:
    38%
Labor force:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Papua New Guinea
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Independent State of Papua New Guinea
  conventional short form:
    Papua New Guinea
Digraph:
    PP
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Port Moresby
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    16 September 1975 (from the Australian-administered UN trusteeship)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 16 September (1975)
Constitution:
    16 September 1975
Legal system:
    based on English common law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    Wiwa KOROWI (since NA November 1991)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Sir Julius CHAN (since 30 August 1994); Deputy Prime Minister
    Chris HAIVETA (since 7 September 1994)
  cabinet:
    National Executive Council; appointed by the governor on recommendation of
    the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Papua New Guinea United Party (Pangu Party), Jack GENIA; 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
Member of:
    ACP, APEC, AsDB, ASEAN (observer), C, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC,
    ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, NAM (observer), SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Kepas Isimel WATANGIA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Papua New Guinea
                                   Government
  chancery:
    3rd floor, 1615 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Richard W. TEARE
  embassy:
    Armit Street, Port Moresby
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 1492, Port Moresby, or APO AE 96553
  telephone:
    [675] 211455, 211594, 211654
  FAX:
    [675] 213423
Flag:
    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 constellation
    centered
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Papua New Guinea
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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
    infrastructure. Agriculture provides a subsistence livelihood for 85% of the
    population. Mining of numerous deposits, including copper and gold, accounts
    for about 60% of export earnings. Budgetary support from Australia and
    development aid under World Bank auspices have helped sustain the economy.
    Robust growth in 1991-92 was led by the mining sector; the opening of a
    large new gold mine helped the advance. At the start of 1995, Port Moresby
    is looking primarily to the exploitation of mineral and petroleum 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $9.2 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6.1% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $2,200 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.6% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.33 billion
  expenditures:
    $1.36 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
Exports:
    $2.4 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    gold, copper ore, oil, logs, palm oil, coffee, cocoa, lobster
  partners:
    Australia, Japan, US, Singapore, New Zealand
Imports:
    $1.2 billion (c.i.f., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, food, fuels,
    chemicals
  partners:
    Australia, Japan, UK, New Zealand, Netherlands
External debt:
    $3.2 billion (1992)
Industrial production:
    accounts for 32% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    490,000 kW
  production:
    1.8 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    390 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    copra crushing, palm oil processing, plywood production, wood chip
    production, mining of gold, silver, and copper, construction, tourism
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Papua New Guinea
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    Accounts for 25% of GDP; livelihood for 85% of population; fertile soils and
    favorable climate permits cultivating a wide variety of crops; cash crops -
    coffee, cocoa, coconuts, palm kernels; other products - tea, rubber, sweet
    potatoes, fruit, vegetables, poultry, pork; net importer of food for urban
    centers
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $40.6 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $6.5 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $17 million
Currency:
    1 kina (K) = 100 toea
Exchange rates:
    kina (K) per US$1 - 0.8565 (December 1994), 0.9950 (1994), 1.0221 (1993),
    1.0367 (1992), 1.0504 (1991), 1.0467 (1990); note - the government floated
    the kina on 10 October 1994
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Papua New Guinea
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    19,200 km
  paved:
    640 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, stabilized earth 10,960 km; unimproved earth 7,600 km
Inland waterways:
    10,940 km
Ports:
    Kieta, Lae, Madang, Port Moresby, Rabaul
Merchant marine:
  total:
    12 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 22,565 GRT/27,071 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 2, cargo 3, combination ore/oil 5, container 1, roll-on/roll-off 1
Airports:
  total:
    505
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    13
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    5
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    411
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    12
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    63
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Papua New Guinea
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    more than 70,000 telephones (1987); services are adequate and being
    improved; facilities provide radiobroadcast, radiotelephone and telegraph,
    coastal radio, aeronautical radio, and international radiocommunication
    services
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    mostly radio telephone
  international:
    submarine cables extend to Australia and Guam; 1 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean)
    earth station; international radio communication service
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 31, FM 2, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2 (1987)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Papua New Guinea
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Papua New Guinea Defense Force (includes Army, Navy, and Air Force)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,111,661; males fit for military service 618,696 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $55 million, 1.8% of GDP (1993 est.)
    ls traveling on official business, including
representatives of international organizations of which the United
States is a member; journalists regularly employed by a news
reporting organization; and family visitors traveling once a year
due to extreme humanitarian needs.  The Treasury Department will
consider specific licenses on a case-by-case basis for other
humanitarian travel including cases of extreme hardship relating to
close relatives, for telecommunications activities, and for travel
in connection with professional research and similar activities.
Additional information may be obtained by contacting the Licensing
Division, Office of Foreign Assets Control, at the U.S. Department
of the Treasury (202-622-2480).  Failure to comply with these
regulations could result in civil penalties and criminal prosecution
upon return to the United States.
Should a traveler receive a license, a passport and visa are
required for entry to Cuba.  For current information on Cuban entry
and customs requirements, travelers may contact the Cuban Interests
Section, an office of the Cuban government located at 2630 16th
Street N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009, tel: [phone].
Entry into and exit from Cuba is strictly controlled by Cuban
authorities.  Attempts to enter or exit Cuba illegally or to aid the
illegal exit of Cuban nationals are punishable by jail terms of up
to 5 years.  Entering Cuban territory, territorial waters or
airspace without prior authorization
Spain
@SOUTH AFRICA - Passport  required.  Visa not required for tourist stay
up to 90 days.  Malarial suppressants are recommended.  For business
travel, a visa and company letter are required.  For more information contact:
Embassy of South Africa, Attn:  Consular Office, 3201 New Mexico Ave.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20016 (202/966-1650) or nearest Consulate:  CA
(310/657-9200), IL (312/939-7929), or NY (212/213-4880).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - South Africa
============================================================
South Africa - Consular Information Sheet
 November 13, 1995
Country Description:  Although South Africa is in many respects a
developed country, much of its population lives in poverty.  There
are adequate facilities in all urban centers, game parks and areas
most commonly visited by tourists.  Food and water are generally
safe, and a wide variety of consumer goods and pharmaceuticals are
readily available.
Entry Requirements:  Travelers may obtain information on entry
requirements from the Embassy of South Africa, 3201 New Mexico
Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20016, telephone [phone], or
the South African consulates in Beverly Hills, Chicago, or New York.
 Overseas, inquiries should be made at the nearest South African
Embassy or Consulate.
Areas of Instability:  Political violence has significantly
decreased in most areas of South Africa since the establishment of a
democratically elected government in May 1994.  Throughout most of
South Africa, the political situation is stabilizing as the country
consolidates its transition to non-racial democracy.  However, some
public gatherings have provoked violent clashes between political
factions, which have resulted in casualties.  The highest incidence
of violence occurs in the province of Kwazulu/Natal, particularly in
townships near Durban.
Although foreigners have not been specifically targeted in these
attacks, some have been caught up in general disturbances.  Some
townships in the vicinity of major cities, most notably Durban,
Johannesburg, and Cape Town, have been scenes of violent
demonstrations and factional conflict.  Areas most frequented by
tourists, such as major hotels, game parks and beaches, have not
been affected by political or factional violence.
Road conditions are generally good.  However, drivers are allowed
relatively high rates of speed on major thoroughfares, and the poor
lighting on rural roads and insufficient regulatory control
regarding driver licensing and vehicle maintenance pose dangers to
travelers.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are good in urban areas and
in the vicinity of game parks and beaches, but may be limited
elsewhere.   Doctors and hospitals often require immediate cash
payment for health services, but usually accept major credit cards
in addition to cash.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid
outside the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not
provide for payment of medical services outside of the U.S.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage,
including provision for medical evacuation, has proven useful.
Information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline,
telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Although the vast majority of visitors
complete their travels in South Africa without incident, visitors
should be aware that criminal activity, sometimes violent, is
reported on a routine basis.  Criminal activity, such as assault and
armed robbery, is present in areas surrounding downtown and suburban
hotels and public transportation centers, especially in major
cities.  Car hijacking is also prevalent in the suburbs of major
metropolitan areas.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Travel to the former "Independent Homelands":  Although the new
constitution provides for the reincorporation of Bophuthatswana,
Ciskei, Transkei, and Venda into South Africa, at this time many
former homeland institutions, notably police authorities, remain in
place.  Since these structures are not necessarily accustomed to
responding to diplomatic and consular representations, the U.S.
government may still face some difficulties in providing consular
assistance in the former homelands.  Until homeland structures are
fully incorporated into mainstream South African administration,
there are likely to be occasional strikes and unrest which could
affect Americans traveling in these areas.  The South African police
advise against travel to the former Homeland of Transkei, and urge
caution while traveling in Ciskei.  Travelers may contact U.S.
consulates in Cape Town or Durban before embarking on trips to the
eastern cape or extreme southern Natal, which have incorporated the
territory formerly known as the Homelands of Ciskei and Transkei.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Aviation Oversight:  As a result of an assessment conducted by the
U.S. Federal Aviation Administration in November 1994, the FAA has
found the Government of South Africa's Civil Aviation Authority to
be in compliance with international aviation safety standards for
oversight of South African air carrier operations.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation
at 1 [phone].
Embassy Registration/Location:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to
register with the the Consular Sections at the U.S. Embassy or the
nearest U.S. consulate and to obtain updated information on travel
and security in South Africa.  The U.S. Embassy is located at 877
Pretorius Street in Pretoria, telephone [phone].  Note:
The U.S. consulate general in Johannesburg provides most consular
services for Americans in the Pretoria area.
The Consulate General in Johannesburg is located at Kine Center,
11th Floor, 141 Commissioner Street (intersection with Kruis
Street), telephone [phone].  Its consular jurisdiction
includes Gauteng, Eastern Transvaal, Northern, North West, and Free
State Provinces.
The Consulate General in Cape Town is located at Broadway
Industries Center, Heerengracht, Foreshore, telephone (27-21)
214-280.  Its consular jurisdiction includes Western Cape, Eastern
Cape, and Northern Cape Provinces.
The Consulate General in Durban is located at Durban House, 29th
Floor, 333 Smith Street, telephone [phone].  Its consular
jurisdiction includes Kwazulu/Natal province.
 No. 95-148
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 30, 1995,
to revise the paragraphs on Areas of Instability and the Information
on Crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - South Africa
============================================================
South Africa - Public Announcement
 April 18, 1994
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release
The U.S. Embassy in Pretoria has issued the following statement:
All American mission personnel are cautioned to delay non-essential
travel to the central business district of Johannesburg during the
week of April 18.  The Inkatha Freedom Party has called for "Rolling
Mass Action" (demonstrations, marches and sit-ins) for the week.
South African Government authorities have denied the IFP permission
to march in the city.  The possibility of violent clashes between
marchers and security forces is great.
 No. 94-sss
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - South Africa
============================================================
South Africa - Consular Information Sheet
 November 13, 1995
Country Description:  Although South Africa is in many respects a
developed country, much of its population lives in poverty.  There
are adequate facilities in all urban centers, game parks and areas
most commonly visited by tourists.  Food and water are generally
safe, and a wide variety of consumer goods and pharmaceuticals are
readily available.
Entry Requirements:  Travelers may obtain information on entry
requirements from the Embassy of South Africa, 3201 New Mexico
Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20016, telephone [phone], or
the South African consulates in Beverly Hills, Chicago, or New York.
 Overseas, inquiries should be made at the nearest South African
Embassy or Consulate.
Areas of Instability:  Political violence has significantly
decreased in most areas of South Africa since the establishment of a
democratically elected government in May 1994.  Throughout most of
South Africa, the political situation is stabilizing as the country
consolidates its transition to non-racial democracy.  However, some
public gatherings have provoked violent clashes between political
factions, which have resulted in casualties.  The highest incidence
of violence occurs in the province of Kwazulu/Natal, particularly in
townships near Durban.
Although foreigners have not been specifically targeted in these
attacks, some have been caught up in general disturbances.  Some
townships in the vicinity of major cities, most notably Durban,
Johannesburg, and Cape Town, have been scenes of violent
demonstrations and factional conflict.  Areas most frequented by
tourists, such as major hotels, game parks and beaches, have not
been affected by political or factional violence.
Road conditions are generally good.  However, drivers are allowed
relatively high rates of speed on major thoroughfares, and the poor
lighting on rural roads and insufficient regulatory control
regarding driver licensing and vehicle maintenance pose dangers to
travelers.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are good in urban areas and
in the vicinity of game parks and beaches, but may be limited
elsewhere.   Doctors and hospitals often require immediate cash
payment for health services, but usually accept major credit cards
in addition to cash.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid
outside the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not
provide for payment of medical services outside of the U.S.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage,
including provision for medical evacuation, has proven useful.
Information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline,
telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Although the vast majority of visitors
complete their travels in South Africa without incident, visitors
should be aware that criminal activity, sometimes violent, is
reported on a routine basis.  Criminal activity, such as assault and
armed robbery, is present in areas surrounding downtown and suburban
hotels and public transportation centers, especially in major
cities.  Car hijacking is also prevalent in the suburbs of major
metropolitan areas.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Travel to the former "Independent Homelands":  Although the new
constitution provides for the reincorporation of Bophuthatswana,
Ciskei, Transkei, and Venda into South Africa, at this time many
former homeland institutions, notably police authorities, remain in
place.  Since these structures are not necessarily accustomed to
responding to diplomatic and consular representations, the U.S.
government may still face some difficulties in providing consular
assistance in the former homelands.  Until homeland structures are
fully incorporated into mainstream South African administration,
there are likely to be occasional strikes and unrest which could
affect Americans traveling in these areas.  The South African police
advise against travel to the former Homeland of Transkei, and urge
caution while traveling in Ciskei.  Travelers may contact U.S.
consulates in Cape Town or Durban before embarking on trips to the
eastern cape or extreme southern Natal, which have incorporated the
territory formerly known as the Homelands of Ciskei and Transkei.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Aviation Oversight:  As a result of an assessment conducted by the
U.S. Federal Aviation Administration in November 1994, the FAA has
found the Government of South Africa's Civil Aviation Authority to
be in compliance with international aviation safety standards for
oversight of South African air carrier operations.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation
at 1 [phone].
Embassy Registration/Location:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to
register with the the Consular Sections at the U.S. Embassy or the
nearest U.S. consulate and to obtain updated information on travel
and security in South Africa.  The U.S. Embassy is located at 877
Pretorius Street in Pretoria, telephone [phone].  Note:
The U.S. consulate general in Johannesburg provides most consular
services for Americans in the Pretoria area.
The Consulate General in Johannesburg is located at Kine Center,
11th Floor, 141 Commissioner Street (intersection with Kruis
Street), telephone [phone].  Its consular jurisdiction
includes Gauteng, Eastern Transvaal, Northern, North West, and Free
State Provinces.
The Consulate General in Cape Town is located at Broadway
Industries Center, Heerengracht, Foreshore, telephone (27-21)
214-280.  Its consular jurisdiction includes Western Cape, Eastern
Cape, and Northern Cape Provinces.
The Consulate General in Durban is located at Durban House, 29th
Floor, 333 Smith Street, telephone [phone].  Its consular
jurisdiction includes Kwazulu/Natal province.
 No. 95-148
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 30, 1995,
to revise the paragraphs on Areas of Instability and the Information
on Crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
`;B;                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  South Africa
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, at the southern tip of the continent of Africa
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    1,219,912 sq km
  land area:
    1,219,912 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of Texas
  note:
    includes Prince Edward Islands (Marion Island and Prince Edward Island)
Land boundaries:
    total 4,750 km, Botswana 1,840 km, Lesotho 909 km, Mozambique 491 km,
    Namibia 855 km, Swaziland 430 km, Zimbabwe 225 km
Coastline:
    2,798 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    Swaziland 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;
Climate:
    mostly semiarid; subtropical along east coast; sunny days, cool nights
Terrain:
    vast interior plateau rimmed by rugged hills and narrow coastal plain
Natural resources:
    gold, chromium, antimony, coal, iron ore, manganese, nickel, phosphates,
    tin, uranium, gem diamonds, platinum, copper, vanadium, salt, natural gas
Land use:
  arable land:
    10%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    65%
  forest and woodland:
    3%
  other:
    21%
Irrigated land:
    11,280 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    lack of important arterial rivers or lakes requires extensive water
    conservation and control measures; growth in water usage threatens to
    outpace supply; pollution of rivers from agricultural runoff and urban
    discharge; air pollution resulting in acid rain; soil erosion;
    desertification
  natural hazards:
    prolonged droughts
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  South Africa
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic Treaty, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine
    Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection,
    Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified -
    Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the
    Sea
Note:
    South Africa completely surrounds Lesotho and almost completely surrounds
    Swaziland
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  South Africa
                                     People
Population:
  total:
    45,095,459 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    40% (female 8,842,764; male 9,091,722)
  15-64 years:
    56% (female 12,825,617; male 12,508,039)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 1,047,285; male 780,032) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
  total:
    2.61% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    33.39 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.42 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.17 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    45.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    65.42 years
  male:
    62.68 years
  female:
    68.25 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.35 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    South African(s)
  adjective:
    South African
Ethnic divisions:
    black 75.2%, white 13.6%, Colored 8.6%, Indian 2.6%
Religions:
    Christian (most whites and Coloreds and about 60% of blacks), Hindu (60% of
    Indians), Muslim 2%
Languages:
    eleven official languages, including Afrikaans, English, Ndebele, Pedi,
    Sotho, Swazi, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa, Zulu
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980)
  total population:
    76%
  male:
    78%
  female:
    75%
Labor force:
    13.4 million economically active (1990)
  by occupation:
    services 35%, agriculture 30%, industry 20%, mining 9%, other 6%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  South Africa
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of South Africa
  conventional short form:
    South Africa
Abbreviation:
    RSA
Digraph:
    SF
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Pretoria (administrative); Cape Town (legislative); Bloemfontein (judicial)
Administrative divisions:
    9 provinces; Eastern Cape, Eastern Transvaal, KwaZulu/Natal, Northern Cape,
    Northern Transvaal, Northwest, Orange Free State, Gauteng, Western Cape
Independence:
    31 May 1910 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Freedom Day, 27 April (1994)
Constitution:
    27 April 1994 (interim constitution, replacing the constitution of 3
    September 1984)
Legal system:
    based on Roman-Dutch law and English common law; accepts compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    Executive President Nelson MANDELA (since 10 May 1994); Deputy Executive
    President Thabo MBEKI (since 10 May 1994); Deputy Executive President
    Frederik W. DE KLERK (since 10 May 1994)
  note:
    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
  cabinet:
    Cabinet appointed by the Executive President
Legislative branch:
    bicameral
  National Assembly:
    elections last held 26-29 April 1994 (next to be held NA); 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
  note:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  South Africa
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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); Pan Africanist Congress (PAC), Clarence
    MAKWETU, president; African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), leader NA
  note:
    in addition to these seven parties which received seats in the National
    Assembly, twelve other parties won votes in the national elections in April
    1994
Other political or pressure groups:
    NA;;
Member of:
    BIS, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS,
    ILO, IMF, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO, ITU, NAM, OAU, SACU, SADC,
    UN, UNCTAD, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Franklin SONN
  chancery:
    3051 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Beverly Hills (California), Chicago, and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Princeton N. LYMAN
  embassy:
    877 Pretorius St., Arcadia 0083
  mailing address:
    P.O. Box 9536, Pretoria 0001
  telephone:
    [27] (12) 342-1048
  FAX:
    [27] (12) 342-2244
  consulate(s) general:
    Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg
Flag:
    two equal width horizontal bands of red (top) and blue separated by a
    central green band which splits into a horozontal 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
  note:
    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 Transvaal Republic adjoining on
    the other side
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  South Africa
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 an
    aggressive 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $194.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,420 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    9% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    32.6% (1994 est.); an additional 11% underemployment
Budget:
  revenues:
    $26.3 billion
  expenditures:
    $34 billion, including capital expenditures of $2.5 billion (FY93/94 est.)
Exports:
    $25.3 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    gold 27%, other minerals and metals 20%-25%, food 5%, chemicals 3%
  partners:
    Italy, Japan, US, Germany, UK, other EU countries, Hong Kong
Imports:
    $21.4 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery 32%, transport equipment 15%, chemicals 11%, oil, textiles,
    scientific instruments
  partners:
    Germany, US, Japan, UK, Italy
External debt:
    $18 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%; accounts for about 40% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    39,750,000 kW
  production:
    163 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,482 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    mining (world's largest producer of platinum, gold, chromium), automobile
    assembly, metalworking, machinery, textile, iron and steel, chemical,
    fertilizer, foodstuffs
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  South Africa
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 5% of GDP and 30% of labor force; diversified
    agriculture, with emphasis on livestock; products - cattle, poultry, sheep,
    wool, milk, beef, corn, wheat, sugarcane, fruits, vegetables;
    self-sufficient in food
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment center for heroin and cocaine; cocaine consumption on the
    rise; world's largest market for illicit methaqualone, usually imported
    illegally from India through various east African countries
Economic aid:
    many aid packages for the new government are still being prepared; current
    aid pledges include US $600 million over 3 years; UK $150 million over 3
    years; Australia $21 million over 3 years; Japan $1.3 billion over 2 years
Currency:
    1 rand (R) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    rand (R) per US$1 - 3.5389 (January 1995), 3.5490 (1994), 3.2636 (1993),
    2.8497 (1992), 2.7563 (1991), 2.5863 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  South Africa
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    20,638 km
  narrow gauge:
    20,324 km 1.067-m gauge (substantial electrification); 314 km 0.610-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    188,309 km
  paved:
    54,013 km
  unpaved:
    crushed stone, gravel, improved earth 134,296 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 931 km; petroleum products 1,748 km; natural gas 322 km
Ports:
    Cape Town, Durban, East London, Mosselbaai, Port Elizabeth, Richards Bay,
    Saldanha
Merchant marine:
  total:
    4 container ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 211,276 GRT/198,602 DWT
Airports:
    853
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    9
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    47
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    72
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    327
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    39
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    354
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  South Africa
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    over 4,500,000 telephones; the system is the best developed, most modern,
    and has the highest capacity in Africa
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    consists of carrier-equipped open-wire lines, coaxial cables, microwave
    radio relay links, fiber optic cable, and radiocommunication stations; key
    centers are Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Port Elizabeth,
    and Pretoria
  international:
    1 submarine cable; 3 INTELSAT (1 Indian Ocean and 2 Atlantic Ocean) earth
    stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 14, FM 286, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    67
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  South Africa
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    South African National Defence Force (SANDF; includes Army, Navy, Air Force,
    and Medical Services), South African Police Service (SAPS)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 10,830,079; males fit for military service 6,601,323; males
    reach military age (18) annually 439,793 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $3.2 billion, 2.8% of GDP (FY93/94)
Saint Pierre and Miquelon
SAINT KITTS AND NEVIS -  Proof of U.S. citizenship, photo ID and
onward/return ticket required for stay up to 6 months.  AIDS test
required for work permit, residency or student visas; U.S. test is accepted.
For further information consult Embassy of St. Kitts and Nevis, 2501 M St.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20037 (202/833-3550) or Permanent Mission to the
U.N., 414 East 75th St., Fifth Floor, New York, NY 10021
(212/535-1234).
St. Kitts & Nevis - Consular Information Sheet
September 7, 1994
Country Description: St. Kitts and Nevis is a developing island nation.
Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements: For stays of up to six months, U.S. citizens need proof
of U.S. citizenship, photo identification, and a return/onward ticket.  For
further information concerning entry requirements, travelers can contact the
Embassy of St. Kitts and Nevis, 2100 M Street N.W., Suite 608, Washington,
D.C. 20037, tel: [phone] or the permanent mission to the United
Nations in New York.
Medical Facilities: Medical care is limited.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid outside the United States.  In some cases, supplementary
medical insurance specifically covering overseas problems has proved to be
useful.  For additional health information, travelers may contact the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline at (404) 332-
4559.
Crime Information: Petty street crime occurs but is unusual.  Valuables left
unattended on beaches are subject to theft.  The loss or theft of a U.S.
passport overseas should be reported to the local police and the nearest
U.S. embassy or consulate.  A birth certificate and/or driver's license
generally cannot be replaced outside of the United States.  U.S. citizens
can refer to the Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" which
provides useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad.  Both this pamphlet and "Tips for Travelers
to the Caribbean" are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties: U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for possession, use, and
dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In June 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed St. Kitts and Nevis' civil aviation authority as in
compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards for
Organization of Eastern Caribbean States' carriers operating to and from the
U.S.  However, during its assessment, the FAA noted that Organization of
Eastern Caribbean States' operations to destinations other than the U.S. are
not provided a similar level of safety oversight.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at 1-800-322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration:  The United States does not maintain an
embassy in St. Kitts and Nevis.  For assistance, U.S. citizens may contact
the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados, which is
located in the American Life Insurance Company (ALICO) Building, Cheapside,
telephone [phone].  U.S. citizens may obtain from the U.S. Embassy
updated information on travel and security in St. Kitts and Nevis and the
other islands for which the U.S. Embassy is responsible.
No. 94-195
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 27, 1993 by adding
information on aviation oversight and to reflect a change in the U.S.
Embassy responsible for this jurisdiction.
&                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Saint Kitts and Nevis
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, islands in the Caribbean Sea, about one-third of the way from
    Puerto Rico to Trinidad and Tobago
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    269 sq km
  land area:
    269 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than 1.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    135 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    subtropical tempered by constant sea breezes; little seasonal temperature
    variation; rainy season (May to November)
Terrain:
    volcanic with mountainous interiors
Natural resources:
    negligible
Land use:
  arable land:
    22%
  permanent crops:
    17%
  meadows and pastures:
    3%
  forest and woodland:
    17%
  other:
    41%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    hurricanes (July to October)
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Saint Kitts and Nevis
                                     People
Population:
    40,992 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    35% (female 7,072; male 7,430)
  15-64 years:
    57% (female 11,784; male 11,756)
  65 years and over:
    8% (female 1,729; male 1,221) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.85% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    23.49 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.56 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -5.39 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    19.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    66.51 years
  male:
    63.51 years
  female:
    69.69 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.56 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Kittsian(s), Nevisian(s)
  adjective:
    Kittsian, Nevisian
Ethnic divisions:
    black African
Religions:
    Anglican, other Protestant sects, Roman Catholic
Languages:
    English
Literacy:
    age 15 and over has ever attended school (1980)
  total population:
    97%
  male:
    97%
  female:
    98%
Labor force:
    20,000 (1981)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Saint Kitts and Nevis
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis
  conventional short form:
    Saint Kitts and Nevis
  former:
    Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis
Digraph:
    SC
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Basseterre
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    19 September 1983 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 19 September (1983)
Constitution:
    19 September 1983
Legal system:
    based on English common law
Suffrage:
    NA years of age; universal adult
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    Sir Clement Athelston ARRINDELL (since 19 September 1983, previously
    Governor General of theWest Indies Associated States since NA November 1981)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Dr. Kennedy Alphonse SIMMONDS (since 19 September 1983,
    previously Premier of the West Indies Associated States since NA February
    1980); Deputy Prime Minister Hugh HEYLIGER (since November 1994)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the governor general in consultation with the prime
    minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  House of Assembly:
    elections last held 29 November 1993 (next to be held by 15 November 1995);
    results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (14 total, 11 elected) PAM 4,
    SKNLP 4, NRP 1, CCM 2
Judicial branch:
    Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (based on Saint Lucia)
Political parties and leaders:
    People's Action Movement (PAM), Dr. Kennedy SIMMONDS; Saint Kitts and Nevis
    Labor Party (SKNLP), Dr. Denzil DOUGLAS; Nevis Reformation Party (NRP),
    Simeon DANIEL; Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM), Vance AMORY
Member of:
    ACP, C, CARICOM, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD,
    IFRCS (associate), IMF, INTERPOL, IOC, OAS, OECS, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UPU, WCL, WHO
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Saint Kitts and Nevis
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Erstein Mallet EDWARDS
  chancery:
    Suite 608, 2100 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20037
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
    no official presence; covered by embassy in Bridgetown, Barbados
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Saint Kitts and Nevis
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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,
    although they still only account for 7% and 4% of GDP respectively. Growth
    in the construction and tourism sectors spurred the economic expansion in
    1994. Most food is imported.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $210 million (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $5,300 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.6% (1993)
Unemployment rate:
    12.2% (1990)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $103.2 million
  expenditures:
    $102.6 million, including capital expenditures of $50.1 million (1995 est.)
Exports:
    $32.4 million (f.o.b., 1992)
  commodities:
    machinery, food, electronics, beverages and tobacco
  partners:
    US 50%, UK 30%, CARICOM nations 11% (1992)
Imports:
    $100 million (f.o.b., 1992)
  commodities:
    machinery, manufactures, food, fuels
  partners:
    US 43%, CARICOM nations 18%, UK 12%, Canada 4%, Japan 4%, OECS 4% (1992)
External debt:
    $43.3 million (1992)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5.9% (1992 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    15,800 kW
  production:
    45 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    990 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    sugar processing, tourism, cotton, salt, copra, clothing, footwear,
    beverages
Agriculture:
    accounts for 17% of GDP; cash crop - sugarcane; subsistence crops - rice,
    yams, vegetables, bananas; fishing potential not fully exploited
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for South American drugs destined for the US
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY85-88), $10.7 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $67 million
Currency:
    1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Saint Kitts and Nevis
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.70 (fixed rate since 1976)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Saint Kitts and Nevis
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    58 km on Saint Kitts for sugarcane
  narrow gauge:
    58 km 0.760-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    300 km
  paved:
    125 km
  unpaved:
    otherwise improved 125 km; unimproved earth 50 km
Ports:
    Basseterre, Charlestown
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Saint Kitts and Nevis
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    2,400 telephones; good interisland VHF/UHF/SHF radio connections and
    international link via Antigua and Barbuda and Saint Martin
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    interisland links are handled by VHF/UHF/SHF radio; within the islands all
    calls are local
  international:
    international calls are carried by radio to Antigua and Barbuda and there
    switched to submarine cable or to INTELSAT, or carried to Saint Martin by
    radio and switched to INTELSAT
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    4
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Saint Kitts and Nevis
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Royal Saint Kitts and Nevis Police Force, Coast Guard
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
\parkish Cypriot Security Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 188,231; males fit for military service 129,397; males reach
    military age (18) annually 5,467 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $457 million, 5.6% of GDP (1995)
Denmark
CZECH REPUBLIC - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 30
days.  All foreigners must register with the proper authorities within 48
hours of arrival.  For more information  contact Embassy of the Czech
Republic, 3900 Spring of Freedom Street., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/363-6315).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Czech Republic
============================================================
Czech Republic - Consular Information Sheet
 October 24, 1995
Country Description:  The Czech Republic is a rapidly developing
European nation.  It is undergoing p
Svalbard
SUDAN - Passport and visa required.  Visa must be obtained in advance.
Transit visa valid up to 7 days, requires $50 fee (cash or money
order), onward/return ticket and visa for next destination, if appropriate.
Tourist/business visa for single entry up to 3 months (extendable),
requires $50 fee, 1 application form, 1 photo, proof of sufficient
funds for stay and SASE for return passport.  Business visa requires company
letter stating purpose of visit and invitation from Sudanese officials.
Malarial suppressants and vaccinations for yellow fever, cholera, and
meningitis recommended.  Visas not granted to passports showing Israeli
or South African visas.  Allow 4 weeks for processing.  Travelers must
declare currency upon arrival and departure.  Check additional currency
regulations for stays longer than 2 months.  Contact Embassy of the Republic of the
Sudan, 2210 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008  (202/338-8565 to
8570) or Consulate General, 210 East 49th St., New York, NY 10017
(212/573-6035).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Sudan
============================================================
Sudan - Travel Warning
 January 30, 1995
U.S. citizens are warned against all travel to Sudan because of
potential violence within the country.  Travel anywhere outside the
capital city of Khartoum requires the permission of the government
of Sudan.
 No. 95-003
This Travel Warning replaces the Warning dated March 3, 1994, to
delete information concerning ordered departure of all U.S.
Government dependents.
Sudan - Consular Information Sheet
 February 1, 1995
Warning: U.S. citizens are warned against all travel to Sudan
because of potential violence within the country.  Travel anywhere
outside the capital city of Khartoum requires the permission of the
government of Sudan.
Country Description:  Sudan is a large under-developed country in
northeastern Africa.  Tourism facilities are minimal.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required to enter
Sudan.  The Sudanese government recommends that malarial
suppressants be taken, and that yellow fever, cholera and meningitis
vaccinations be in order.  Visas are not granted in passports
showing Israeli visas.  Further information concerning entry
requirements may be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of the
Sudan, 2210 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008.  The
telephone numbers are [phone] thru 8570.  There is also a
Sudanese Consulate General at 210 East 49th Street, New York, NY,
10017, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Travel in all parts of Sudan is considered
potentially hazardous.  Western interests in Khartoum have been the
target several times in recent years of terrorist acts.  Civil war
persists in southern Sudan in the three provinces of Upper Nile,
Bahr El Ghazal and Equatoria.  Banditry and incursions by southern
Sudanese rebels are common in western Sudan, particularly in Darfur
Province along the Chadian and Libyan borders and in southern
Kordofan Province.
Curfew Rules:  The government of Sudan has ordered a curfew with
rules that are strictly enforced.  Persons who are outside during
curfew hours without authorization are subject to arrest.  Curfew
hours change frequently.  The U.S. Embassy's Consular Section, some
hotel officials and local police can inform visitors of current
curfew hours.
Registration with Local Police:  Travelers are required to register
with police headquarters within three days of arrival.  Travelers
must obtain police permission before moving to another location in
Sudan and must register with police within 24 hours of arrival at
the new location.  These regulations are strictly enforced.  Even
with proper documentation, travelers in Sudan have been subjected to
delays and detentions by Sudan's security forces, especially when
traveling outside Khartoum.  Authorities expect roadblocks to be
respected.
Currency Regulations:  Individuals who exchange money at other than
an authorized banking institution risk arrest and loss of funds
through unscrupulous black marketeers.
Photography Restrictions:  A permit must be obtained before taking
photographs anywhere in Khartoum, as well as in the interior of the
country.  Photographing military areas, bridges, drainage stations,
broadcast stations, public utilities and slum areas or beggars is
prohibited.
Infrastructure:  Disruptions of water and electricity are frequent.
 Telecommunications are slow and often impossible.
Domestic Travel Information:  Unforeseen circumstances such as
sandstorms and electrical outages may cause flight delays.  The
Khartoum Airport arrival and departure procedures are lengthy.
Passengers usually allow three hours for pre-departure security and
other processing at the airport.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who visit or remain in Sudan, despite
the warning, may register at the U.S. Embassy and obtain updated
information on travel and security.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at Sharia Ali Abdul
Latif in the capital city of Khartoum.  The mailing address is P.O.
Box 699, or APO AE 09829.  Telephone numbers are 74700 and 74611.
The work week is Sunday through Thursday.
 No. 95-015
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated March 7, 1994,
to delete the restriction relating to dependents of employees
assigned to the U.S. Embassy in Khartoum.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
;                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Sudan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Africa, bordering the Red Sea, between Egypt and Eritrea
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    2,505,810 sq km
  land area:
    2.376 million sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than one-quarter the size of the US
Land boundaries:
    total 7,687 km, Central African Republic 1,165 km, Chad 1,360 km, Egypt
    1,273 km, Eritrea 605 km, Ethiopia 1,606 km, Kenya 232 km, Libya 383 km,
    Uganda 435 km, Zaire 628 km
Coastline:
    853 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    18 nm
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    administrative boundary with Kenya does not coincide with international
    boundary; administrative boundary with Egypt 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
Climate:
    tropical in south; arid desert in north; rainy season (April to October)
Terrain:
    generally flat, featureless plain; mountains in east and west
Natural resources:
    small reserves of petroleum, iron ore, copper, chromium ore, zinc, tungsten,
    mica, silver, gold
Land use:
  arable land:
    5%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    24%
  forest and woodland:
    20%
  other:
    51%
Irrigated land:
    18,900 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    inadequate supplies of potable water; wildlife populations threatened by
    excessive hunting; soil erosion; desertification
  natural hazards:
    dust storms
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Sudan
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test
    Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity,
    Desertification
Note:
    largest country in Africa; dominated by the Nile and its tributaries
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Sudan
                                     People
Population:
    30,120,420 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    46% (female 6,801,001; male 7,124,892)
  15-64 years:
    52% (female 7,706,864; male 7,830,980)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 280,297; male 376,386) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.35% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    41.29 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    11.74 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    the flow of refugees from the civil war in Sudan into neighboring countries
    continues, often at the rate of tens of thousands annually; Uganda was the
    main recipient of Sudanese refugees in the past year; repatriation of
    Eritrean and Ethiopean refugees in Sudan continues
Infant mortality rate:
    77.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    54.71 years
  male:
    53.81 years
  female:
    55.65 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Sudanese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Sudanese
Ethnic divisions:
    black 52%, Arab 39%, Beja 6%, foreigners 2%, other 1%
Religions:
    Sunni Muslim 70% (in north), indigenous beliefs 25%, Christian 5% (mostly in
    south and Khartoum)
Languages:
    Arabic (official), Nubian, Ta Bedawie, diverse dialects of Nilotic,
    Nilo-Hamitic, Sudanic languages, English
  note:
    program of Arabization in process
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1983)
  total population:
    32%
  male:
    44%
  female:
    21%
Labor force:
    6.5 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Sudan
                                     People
  by occupation:
    agriculture 80%, industry and commerce 10%, government 6%
  note:
    labor shortages for almost all categories of skilled employment (1983 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Sudan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of the Sudan
  conventional short form:
    Sudan
  local long form:
    Jumhuriyat as-Sudan
  local short form:
    As-Sudan
  former:
    Anglo-Egyptian Sudan
Digraph:
    SU
Type:
    ruling military junta - Revolutionary Command Council (RCC) - dissolved on
    16 October 1993 and government civilianized
Capital:
    Khartoum
Administrative divisions:
    9 states (wilayat, singular - wilayat or wilayah*); A'ali an Nil, Al Wusta*,
    Al Istiwa'iyah*, Al Khartum, Ash Shamaliyah*, Ash Sharqiyah*, Bahr al
    Ghazal, Darfur, Kurdufan
  note:
    on 14 February 1994, the 9 states comprising Sudan were divided into 26 new
    states; the new state boundary alignments are undetermined
Independence:
    1 January 1956 (from Egypt and UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 1 January (1956)
Constitution:
    12 April 1973, suspended following coup of 6 April 1985; interim
    constitution of 10 October 1985 suspended following coup of 30 June 1989
Legal system:
    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
    jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    none
Executive branch:
  Chief of State and Head of Government:
    President Lt. General Umar Hasan Ahmad al-BASHIR (since 16 October 1993);
    prior to 16 October 1993, BASHIR served concurrently as Chief of State,
    Chairman of the RCC, Prime Minister, and Minister of Defence (since 30 June
    1989);  First Vice President Major General al-Zubayr Muhammad SALIH (since
    19 October 1993); Second Vice President (Police) Maj. General George KONGOR
    (since NA February 1994); note - 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), Sudan's appointed legislative
    body
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Sudan
                                   Government
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president; note - on 30 October 1993, President
    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 BASHIR's
    government is dominated by members of Sudan's National Islamic Front, a
    fundamentalist political organization formed from the Muslim Brotherhood in
    1986; front leader Hasan al-TURABI controls Khartoum's overall domestic and
    foreign policies
Legislative branch:
    appointed 300-member Transitional National Assembly; officially assumes all
    legislative authority for Sudan until the proposed 1995 resumption of
    national elections
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court, Special Revolutionary Courts
Political parties and leaders:
    none; banned following 30 June 1989 coup
Other political or pressure groups:
    National Islamic Front, Hasan al-TURABI
Member of:
    ABEDA, ACP, AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, CAEU, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IGADD, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNU, UPU,
    WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ahmad SULAYMAN
  chancery:
    2210 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 8570
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Donald K. PETTERSON
  embassy:
    Shar'ia Ali Abdul Latif, Khartoum
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 699, Khartoum; APO AE 09829
  telephone:
    74700, 74611 (operator assistance required)
  FAX:
    Telex 22619 AMEMSD
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and black with a green
    isosceles triangle based on the hoist side
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Sudan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Sudan is buffeted by civil war, chronic political instability, adverse
    weather, high inflation, a drop in remittances from abroad, and
    counterproductive economic policies. Governmental entities account for more
    than 70% of new investment. 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 Sudan noncooperative because of its nonpayment
    of arrearages to the Fund. After Sudan backtracked on promised reforms in
    1992-93, the IMF threatened to expel Sudan from the Fund. To avoid
    expulsion, Khartoum agreed to make payments on its arrears to the Fund,
    liberalize exchange rates, and reduce subsidies. These measures have been
    partially implemented. The government's continued prosecution of the civil
    war and its growing international isolation led to a further deterioration
    of the nonagricultural sectors of the economy during 1994. Agriculture, on
    the other hand, after several disappointing years, enjoyed a bumper fall
    harvest in 1994; its strong performance produced an overall growth rate in
    GDP of perhaps 7%.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $23.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    7% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $870 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    112% (FY93/94 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    30% (FY92/93 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $493 million
  expenditures:
    $1.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $225 million (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $419 million (f.o.b., FY93/94)
  commodities:
    gum arabic 29%, livestock/meat 24%, cotton 13%, sesame, peanuts
  partners:
    Western Europe 46%, Saudi Arabia 14%, Eastern Europe 9%, Japan 9%, US 3%
    (FY87/88)
Imports:
    $1.7 billion (c.i.f., FY93/94)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, petroleum products, manufactured goods, machinery and equipment,
    medicines and chemicals, textiles
  partners:
    Western Europe 32%, Africa and Asia 15%, US 13%, Eastern Europe 3% (FY87/88)
External debt:
    $17 billion (June 1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 6.8% (FY92/93 est.); accounts for 11% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    500,000 kW
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Sudan
                                     Economy
  production:
    1.3 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    42 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    cotton ginning, textiles, cement, edible oils, sugar, soap distilling,
    shoes, petroleum refining
Agriculture:
    accounts for 35% of GDP; major products - cotton, oilseeds, sorghum, millet,
    wheat, gum arabic, sheep; marginally self-sufficient in most foods
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1.5 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $5.1 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $3.1 billion; Communist countries (1970-89), $588
    million
Currency:
    1 Sudanese pound (#Sd) = 100 piastres
Exchange rates:
    official rate - Sudanese pounds (#Sd) per US$1 - 434.8 (January 1995), 277.8
    (1994), 153.8 (1993), 69.4 (1992), 5.4288 (1991), 4.5004 (1990); note - the
    commercial rate is 300 Sudanese pounds per US$1
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Sudan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    5,516 km
  narrow gauge:
    4,800 km 1.067-m gauge; 716 km 1.6096-m gauge plantation line
Highways:
  total:
    20,703 km
  paved:
    bituminous treated 2,000 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 4,000 km; improved earth 2,304 km; unimproved earth  12,399 km
Inland waterways:
    5,310 km navigable
Pipelines:
    refined products 815 km
Ports:
    Juba, Khartoum, Kusti, Malakal, Nimule, Port Sudan, Sawakin
Merchant marine:
  total:
    5 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 43,024 GRT/122,379 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 3, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2
Airports:
  total:
    70
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    13
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    14
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    33
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Sudan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; large, well-equipped system by African standards, but barely
    adequate and poorly maintained by modern standards
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    consists of microwave radio relay, cable, radio communications,
    troposcatter, and a domestic satellite system with 14 stations
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) and 1 ARABSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 11, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    3
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Sudan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, Popular Defense Force Militia
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 6,806,588; males fit for military service 4,185,206; males
    reach military age (18) annually 313,958 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $600 million, 7.3% of GDP (FY93/94 est.)
Panama
Palau - Consular Information Sheet
July 9, 1993
Country Description: The Republic of Palau is a constitutional democracy
administered by the United States as the Trust Territory of the Pacific
Islands since July 18, 1947, pursuant to a trusteeship agreement approved by
the United Nations.  It has a developing agrarian economy.  Tourist
facilities are available only on a limited basis.
Entry Requirements:  Proof of U.S. citizenship and an onward/return ticket
are required for stays of up to 30 days.  Extensions are available in Palau
for a $50 fee.  Further specific information is available through the Office
of the Palau Representative, 444 North Capitol Street, Suite 208,
Washington, D.C. 20001, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Health facilities in the Republic of Palau are adequate
for routine medical care, but limited in availability and quality.  Doctors
and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance which specifically covers overseas treatment
has proved useful.  The international travelers hotline of the Centers for
Disease Control at [phone] has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  The crime rate in the Republic of Palau is low.  The
loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe
Trip Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use, or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
jail sentences and fines.
Other Penalties:  Firearms of any kind are strictly prohibited in Palau.
The penalty for possession of a firearm is up to fifteen years imprisonment.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Liaison office can obtain
updated information on travel and security within the area.
U.S. Liaison Office Locations:  The U.S. Liaison Office in the Republic of
Palau is located c/o P.O. Box 6028 in Koror, telephone [phone].
No. 93-187
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated November 13, 1992, to
include information on reporting the loss or theft of a U.S. passport.
'                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Palau
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, group of islands in the North Pacific Ocean, southeast of the
    Philippines
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    458 sq km
  land area:
    458 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    1,519 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to depth of exploitation
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    wet season May to November; hot and humid
Terrain:
    about 200 islands varying geologically from the high, mountainous main
    island of Babelthuap to low, coral islands usually fringed by large barrier
    reefs
Natural resources:
    forests, minerals (especially gold), marine products, deep-seabed minerals
Land use:
  arable land:
    NA%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    inadequate facilities for disposal of solid waste; threats to the marine
    ecosystem from sand and coral dredging and illegal fishing practices that
    involve the use of dynamite
  natural hazards:
    typhoons (June to December)
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Palau
                                     People
Population:
    16,661 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    1.76% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    22.11 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.61 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    2.12 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    25.07 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    71.01 years
  male:
    69.14 years
  female:
    73.02 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.85 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Palauan(s)
  adjective:
    Palauan
Ethnic divisions:
    Palauans are a composite of Polynesian, Malayan, and Melanesian races
Religions:
    Christian (Catholics, Seventh-Day Adventists, Jehovah'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)
Languages:
    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)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980)
  total population:
    92%
  male:
    93%
  female:
    90%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Palau
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Palau
  conventional short form:
    Palau
  former:
    Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands
Digraph:
    PS
Type:
    self-governing territory in free association with the US pursuant to Compact
    of Free Association which entered into force 1 October 1994; Palau is fully
    responsible for internal affairs; US retains responsibility for external
    affairs
Capital:
    Koror
  note:
    a new capital is being built about 20 km northeast in eastern Babelthuap
Administrative divisions:
    there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US
    Government, but there are 16 states: Aimeliik, Airai, Angaur, Kayangel,
    Koror, Melekeok, Ngaraard, Ngardmau, Ngaremlengui, Ngatpang, Ngchesar,
    Ngerchelong, Ngiwal, Peleliu, Sonsorol, Tobi
Independence:
    1 October 1994 (from the US-administered UN Trusteeship)
National holiday:
    Constitution Day, 9 July (1979)
Constitution:
    1 January 1981
Legal system:
    based on Trust Territory laws, acts of the legislature, municipal, common,
    and customary laws
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Kuniwo NAKAMURA (since 1 January 1993), Vice-President Tommy E.
    REMENGESAU Jr. (since 1 January 1993); election last held 4 November 1992
    (next to be held NA November 1996); results - Kuniwo NAKAMURA 50.7%, Johnson
    TORIBIONG 49.3%
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court, National Court, Court of Common Pleas
Member of:
    ESCAP (associate), SPC, SPF (observer), UN
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Liaison Officer NA
  liaison office:
    444 North Capital Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Palau
                                   Government
  telephone:
    [phone]
  FAX:
    NA
  note:
    relationship of free association with the US pursuant to compact of free
    association which entered into force 1 October 1994
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Liaison Officer Lloyd W. MOSS
  liaison office:
    Erenguul Street, Koror, Republic of Palau
  mailing address:
    P.O. Box 6028, Republic of Palau 96940
  telephone:
    [680] 488-2920
  FAX:
    [680] 488-2911
  note:
    relationship of free association with the US pursuant to compact of free
    association which entered into force 1 October 1994
Flag:
    light blue with a large yellow disk (representing the moon) shifted slightly
    to the hoist side
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Palau
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 compact of "free association" with the
    United States, 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 some military facilities. The population, in effect, enjoys a per
    capita income of $5,000, twice that of the Philippines and much of
    Micronesia. 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $81.8 million (1994 est.)
  note:
    GDP numbers reflect US spending
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $5,000 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    20% (1986)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $6 million
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA (1986 est.)
Exports:
    $600,000 (f.o.b., 1989)
  commodities:
    trochus (type of shellfish), tuna, copra, handicrafts
  partners:
    US, Japan
Imports:
    $24.6 million (c.i.f., 1989)
  commodities:
    NA
  partners:
    US
External debt:
    about $100 million (1989)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    16,000 kW
  production:
    22 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,540 kWh (1990)
Industries:
    tourism, craft items (shell, wood, pearl), some commercial fishing and
    agriculture
Agriculture:
    subsistence-level production of coconut, copra, cassava, sweet potatoes
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Palau
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $2.56 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $92 million
Currency:
    1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    US currency is used
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Palau
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    61 km
  paved:
    36 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 25 km
Ports:
    Koror
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Palau
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Palau
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    NA
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US pursuant to Compact of Free
    Association which entered into force 1 October 1994
4 es1%, government services 30.4%, manufacturing and mining
    20%, construction 6.3%, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 5.6%,
    electricity/gas/water 0.6% (1991)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Denmark
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of Denmark
  conventional short form:
    Denmark
  local long form:
    Kongeriget Danmark
  local short form:
    Danmark
Digraph:
    DA
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Copenhagen
Administrative divisions:
    metropolitan Denmark - 14 counties (amter, singular - amt) and 1 city*
    (stad); Arhus, Bornholm, Frederiksborg, Fyn, Kbenhavn, Nordjylland, Ribe,
    Ringkbing, Roskilde, Snderjylland, Staden Kbenhavn*, Storstrm, Vejle,
    Vestsjaelland, Viborg
  note:
    see separate entries for the Faroe Islands and Greenland, which are part of
    the Danish realm and self-governing administrative divisions
Independence:
    1849 (became a constitutional monarchy)
National holiday:
    Birthday of the Queen, 16 April (1940)
Constitution:
    5 June 1953
Legal system:
    civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts; accepts compulsory
    ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen MARGRETHE II (since NA January 1972); Heir Apparent Crown Prince
    FREDERIK, elder son of the Queen (born 26 May 1968)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Poul Nyrup RASMUSSEN (since NA January 1993)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the monarch
Legislative branch:
    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,
Syria
SWEDEN - Valid passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 3
months.  (Period begins when entering Scandinavian area:  Finland,
Norway, Denmark, Iceland.)  For further information check Embassy of Sweden,
Suite 1200, 600 New Hampshire Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20037
(202/944-5600) or nearest Consulate General:  Los Angeles (310/575-3383) or
New York (212/751-5900).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Sweden
============================================================
Sweden - Consular Information Sheet
 April 13, 1995
Country Description: Sweden is a highly developed stable democracy
with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A tourist or business
visa is not required for stays up to three months (the 90-day period
begins when entering the Nordic area:  Sweden, Norway, Denmark,
Iceland and Finland).  For further entry requirements for Sweden,
travelers can contact the Royal Swedish Embassy at 1501 M Street,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20005, tel: [phone], or the Swedish
Consulate General in Los Angeles or New York.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is widely available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the  United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.
Further information on health matters can be obtained from the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline, tel:
[phone].
Crime Information:  Sweden has a low crime rate.  Violent crime is
rare.  Most crimes involve theft of personal property in public
areas or burglary of vacant residences.  However, travelers,
especially those who appear affluent, can become targets of
pickpockets and purse snatchers.  Over the past year, there have
been isolated incidents of violence directed against non-European
immigrants.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more
trouble-free trip.  The pamphlet is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are high, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Other information:  Driving regulations and signs differ from those
in the U.S.  Moving violations, especially speeding and driving
under the influence of alcohol, are strictly enforced, and fines can
be severe.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy can obtain updated information on travel and
security in Sweden.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Stockholm is located at
Strandvagen 101, telephone [phone], fax [phone] or
661-1964.
 No. 95-050
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 28, 1994,
to provide the new address of the Swedish Embassy in Washington, D.C.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
@=)=                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Sweden
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, Gulf of Bothnia, and Skagerrak,
    between Finland and Norway
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    449,964 sq km
  land area:
    410,928 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than California
Land boundaries:
    total 2,205 km, Finland 586 km, Norway 1,619 km
Coastline:
    3,218 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    agreed boundaries or midlines
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate in south with cold, cloudy winters and cool, partly cloudy
    summers; subarctic in north
Terrain:
    mostly flat or gently rolling lowlands; mountains in west
Natural resources:
    zinc, iron ore, lead, copper, silver, timber, uranium, hydropower potential
Land use:
  arable land:
    7%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    2%
  forest and woodland:
    64%
  other:
    27%
Irrigated land:
    1,120 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    acid rain damaging soils and lakes; pollution of the North Sea and the
    Baltic Sea
  natural hazards:
    ice floes in the surrounding waters, especially in the Gulf of Bothnia, can
    interfere with maritime traffic
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Sweden
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds,
    Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate
    Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes,
    Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution,
    Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 94, Desertification, Law of the Sea
Note:
    strategic location along Danish Straits linking Baltic and North Seas
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Sweden
                                     People
Population:
    8,821,759 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    19% (female 810,859; male 854,553)
  15-64 years:
    64% (female 2,761,060; male 2,856,012)
  65 years and over:
    17% (female 887,597; male 651,678) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.46% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    13.19 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    10.84 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    2.27 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    5.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    78.43 years
  male:
    75.64 years
  female:
    81.39 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.97 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Swede(s)
  adjective:
    Swedish
Ethnic divisions:
    white, Lapp (Sami), foreign born or first-generation immigrants 12% (Finns,
    Yugoslavs, Danes, Norwegians, Greeks, Turks)
Religions:
    Evangelical Lutheran 94%, Roman Catholic 1.5%, Pentecostal 1%, other 3.5%
    (1987)
Languages:
    Swedish
  note:
    small Lapp- and Finnish-speaking minorities; immigrants speak native
    languages
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1991 est.)
  total population:
    99%
Labor force:
    4.552 million (84% unionized,1992)
  by occupation:
    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 forestry
    3.2% (1991)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Sweden
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of Sweden
  conventional short form:
    Sweden
  local long form:
    Konungariket Sverige
  local short form:
    Sverige
Digraph:
    SW
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Stockholm
Administrative divisions:
    24 provinces (lan, singular and plural); Alvsborgs Lan, Blekinge Lan,
    Gavleborgs Lan, Goteborgs och Bohus Lan, Gotlands Lan, Hallands Lan,
    Jamtlands Lan, Jonkopings Lan, Kalmar Lan, Kopparbergs Lan, Kristianstads
    Lan, Kronobergs Lan, Malmohus Lan, Norrbottens Lan, Orebro Lan,
    Ostergotlands Lan, Skaraborgs Lan, Sodermanlands Lan, Stockholms Lan,
    Uppsala Lan, Varmlands Lan, Vasterbottens Lan, Vasternorrlands Lan,
    Vastmanlands Lan
Independence:
    6 June 1809 (constitutional monarchy established)
National holiday:
    Day of the Swedish Flag, 6 June
Constitution:
    1 January 1975
Legal system:
    civil law system influenced by customary law; accepts compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    King CARL XVI GUSTAF (since 19 September 1973); Heir Apparent Princess
    VICTORIA Ingrid Alice Desiree, daughter of the King (born 14 July 1977)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Ingvar CARLSSON (since 6 October 1994); Deputy Prime Minister
    Mona SAHLIN (since 6 October 1994)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    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
    4.8% of votes for a seat in parliament
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Hogsta Domstolen)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Sweden
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Social Democratic Party, Ingvar CARLSSON; 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), Gudrun SCHYMAN; Communist
    Workers' Party, Rolf HAGEL; Green Party, no formal leader but party
    spokesperson is Birger SHLAUG
Member of:
    AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD,
    ECE, EFTA, ESA, EU, FAO, G- 6, G- 8, G- 9, G-10, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MTCR, NAM (guest), NC, NEA, NIB,
    NSG, OECD, ONUSAL, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNAVEM II, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR,
    UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMOGIP, UNOMIG, UNOMOZ, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UPU, WFTU,
    WHO, WIPO, WMO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Carl Henrik Sihver LILJEGREN
  chancery:
    1501 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Los Angeles and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Thomas L. SIEBERT
  embassy:
    Strandvagen 101, S-115 89 Stockholm
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [46] (8) 783 53 00
  FAX:
    [46] (8) 661 19 64
Flag:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Sweden
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Aided by a long period of peace and neutrality during World War I through
    World War II, Sweden has achieved an enviable standard of living under a
    mixed system of high-tech capitalism 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 that is heavily oriented toward
    foreign trade. Privately owned firms account for about 90% of industrial
    output, of which the engineering sector accounts for 50% of output and
    exports. In 1990, agriculture accounted for only 1.2% of GDP and 1.9% of the
    jobs, Sweden being about 50% sufficient in most products. In the last few
    years, however, this extraordinarily favorable picture has been clouded by
    inflation, growing unemployment, and a gradual loss of competitiveness in
    international markets. Although Prime Minister BILDT's center-right minority
    coalition had hoped to charge ahead with free-market-oriented reforms, a
    skyrocketing budget deficit - about 14% of GDP in FY93/94 projections - and
    record unemployment have forestalled many of the plans. Unemployment in 1994
    is estimated at around 9% with another 5% in job training. Continued heavy
    foreign exchange speculation forced the government to cooperate in late 1992
    with the opposition Social Democrats on two crisis packages - one a severe
    austerity pact and the other a program to spur industrial competitiveness -
    which basically set economic policy through 1997. In November 1992, Sweden
    broke its tie to the EC's ECU, and the krona has since depreciated about 25%
    against the dollar. The boost in export competitiveness from the
    depreciation helped lift Sweden out of its 3-year recession. To curb the
    budget deficit and bolster confidence in the economy, the new Social
    Democratic government is proposing cuts in welfare benefits, subsidies,
    defense, and foreign aid. Sweden has harmonized its economic policies with
    those of the EU, which it joined at the start of 1995.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $163.1 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $18,580 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.5% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    8.8% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $47.9 billion
  expenditures:
    $70.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY93/94)
Exports:
    $59.9 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery, motor vehicles, paper products, pulp and wood, iron and steel
    products, chemicals, petroleum and petroleum products
  partners:
    EC 55.8% (Germany 15%, UK 9.7%, Denmark 7.2%, France 5.8%), EFTA 17.4%
    (Norway 8.4%, Finland 5.1%), US 8.2%, Central and Eastern Europe 2.5% (1992)
Imports:
    $49.6 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery, petroleum and petroleum products, chemicals, motor vehicles,
    foodstuffs, iron and steel, clothing
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Sweden
                                     Economy
  partners:
    EC 53.6% (Germany 17.9%, UK 6.3%, Denmark 7.5%, France 4.9%), EFTA (Norway
    6.6%, Finland 6%), US 8.4%, Central and Eastern Europe 3% (1992)
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate 9% (1994)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    34,560,000 kW
  production:
    141 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    14,891 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    iron and steel, precision equipment (bearings, radio and telephone parts,
    armaments), wood pulp and paper products, processed foods, motor vehicles
Agriculture:
    animal husbandry predominates, with milk and dairy products accounting for
    37% of farm income; main crops - grains, sugar beets, potatoes; 100%
    self-sufficient in grains and potatoes; Sweden is about 50% self-sufficient
    in most products
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for narcotics shipped via the CIS and Baltic states for
    the European market
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-89), $10.3 billion
Currency:
    1 Swedish krona (SKr) = 100 oere
Exchange rates:
    Swedish kronor (SKr) per US$1 - 7.4675 (January 1995), 7.7160 (1994), 7.7834
    (1993), 5.8238 (1992), 6.0475 (1991) 5.9188 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Sweden
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    12,000 km (includes 953 km of privately owned railways)
  standard gauge:
    10,742 km 1.435-m gauge (7,502 km electrified and 1,152 km double track); 8
    km 1.435-m gauge (electrified; privately owned)
  narrow gauge:
    61 km 0.891-m gauge (electrified; privately owned)
  other:
    1,189 km NA-m gauge (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    135,859 km
  paved:
    97,818 km (including 936 km of expressways)
  unpaved:
    gravel 38,041 km (1991)
Inland waterways:
    2,052 km navigable for small steamers and barges
Pipelines:
    natural gas 84 km
Ports:
    Gavle, Goteborg, Halmstad, Helsingborg, Hudiksvall, Kalmar, Karlshamn,
    Malmo, Solvesborg, Stockholm, Sundsvall
Merchant marine:
  total:
    157 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,872,350 GRT/2,075,722 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 10, cargo 24, chemical tanker 25, combination ore/oil 1, container 2,
    oil tanker 31, railcar carrier 2, refrigerated cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off
    cargo 37, short-sea passenger 8, specialized tanker 4, vehicle carrier 12
Airports:
  total:
    253
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    8
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    84
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    26
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    129
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Sweden
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    8,200,000 telephones; excellent domestic and international facilities;
    automatic system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    coaxial and multiconductor cable carry most voice traffic; parallel
    microwave network carries TV, radio, and some additional telephone channels
  international:
    5 submarine coaxial cables; 1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) and 1 EUTELSAT earth
    station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 5, FM 360 (mostly repeaters), shortwave 0
  radios:
    7 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    880 (mostly repeaters)
  televisions:
    3.5 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Sweden
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Swedish Army, Royal Swedish Navy, Swedish Air Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,133,420; males fit for military service 1,864,258; males
    reach military age (19) annually 52,937 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $5.4 billion, 2.4% of GDP (FY94/95)
Mauritania
MARSHALL ISLANDS, REPUBLIC OF THE - Proof of U.S. citizenship,
sufficient funds for stay and onward/return ticket required for stay up to 30 days
(extendable up to 90 days from date of entry).  Entry permit not needed
to bring in sea-going vessel.  Obtain necessary forms from airline or
shipping agent serving Marshall Islands.  Departure fee $10 (those over age 60
exempt).  Health certificate required if arriving from infected areas.
AIDS test may be required for visits over 30 days; U.S. test accepted.
Check information with Representative Office, Suite 1004, 1901
Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006 (202/234-5414) or the nearest
Consulate General:   CA (714/474-0331) or  HI (808/942-4422).
Marshall Islands - Consular Information Sheet
September 7, 1994
Country Description:  The Republic of the Marshall Islands is a
parliamentary democracy, constitutionally in free association with the
United States.  It has a developing agrarian economy.  Tourist facilities
are not widely available, but adequate.  Small hotels exist in Majuro and on
Ebeye, the second most populous island in the nation.  Rental cars and taxis
are plentiful.
Entry Requirements:  Proof of U.S. citizenship (ie: a U.S. passport, U.S.
birth certificate, Certificate of U.S. Naturalization, Certificate of U.S.
Citizenship, or Report of Birth Abroad of a U.S. citizen), sufficient funds
for the intended stay, and and onward/return ticket are required for a stay
of up to 30 days.  Further specific information is available through the
Embassy of The Republic of the Marshall Islands, 2433 Massachusetts Avenue
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008.  The telephone number is [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Health facilities in the Republic of the Marshall
Islands are adequate for routine medical problems, but are available only on
Majuro and Ebeye.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Supplemental overseas medical insurance, including coverage
for medical evacuation, has proven useful.  The Medicare/Medicaid program
does not provide payment of medical services outside the United States.  The
international travelers hotline of the Centers for Disease Control at (404)
332-4559 has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  The crime rate in the Republic of the Marshall
Islands is low, but rapidly increasing.  Most common crimes are break-ins
and thefts from homes, hotel rooms and vehicles.  The loss or theft abroad
of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police, and
the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is
provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  It is
available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use, or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
jail sentences and fines.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In July 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed the Republic of the Marshall Islands' civil aviation
authority as in compliance with international aviation safety oversight
standards for the Republic of the Marshall Islands' carriers operating to
and from the U.S.  However, during its assessment, the FAA noted that the
Republic of the Marshall Islands' operations to destinations other than the
U.S. are not provided a similar level of safety oversight.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at 1-800-
322-7873.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy in Majuro can
obtain updated information on travel and security within the area.
Embassy Location: The U.S. Embassy is located in Majuro, c/o P.O. Box 1379;
telephone [phone], on the ocean-side of the island's road, near the
Mormon church and "Blue Wall" compound.
No. 94-193
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 17, 1993.  It
provides updated information concerning supplemental medical evacuation
coverage and also adds information regarding aviation oversight.
%                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Marshall Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, group of atolls and reefs in the North Pacific Ocean, about
    one-half of the way from Hawaii to Papua New Guinea
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    181.3 sq km
  land area:
    181.3 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Washington, DC
  note:
    includes the atolls of Bikini, Eniwetak, and Kwajalein
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    370.4 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claims US territory of Wake Island
Climate:
    wet season May to November; hot and humid; islands border typhoon belt
Terrain:
    low coral limestone and sand islands
Natural resources:
    phosphate deposits, marine products, deep seabed minerals
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    60%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    40%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    inadequate supplies of potable water
  natural hazards:
    occasional typhoons
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Ship Pollution
Note:
    two archipelagic island chains of 30 atolls and 1,152 islands; Bikini and
    Eniwetak are former US nuclear test sites; Kwajalein, the famous World War
    II battleground, is now used as a US missile test range
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Marshall Islands
                                     People
Population:
    56,157 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    51% (female 13,950; male 14,547)
  15-64 years:
    47% (female 12,801; male 13,470)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 740; male 649) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.86% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    46.03 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.48 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    48 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    63.49 years
  male:
    61.94 years
  female:
    65.11 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.89 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Marshallese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Marshallese
Ethnic divisions:
    Micronesian
Religions:
    Christian (mostly Protestant)
Languages:
    English (universally spoken and is the official language), two major
    Marshallese dialects from the Malayo-Polynesian family, Japanese
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980)
  total population:
    93%
  male:
    100%
  female:
    88%
Labor force:
    4,800 (1986)
  by occupation:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Marshall Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of the Marshall Islands
  conventional short form:
    Marshall Islands
  former:
    Marshall Islands District (Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands)
Digraph:
    RM
Type:
    constitutional government in free association with the US; the Compact of
    Free Association entered into force 21 October 1986
Capital:
    Majuro
Administrative divisions:
    none
Independence:
    21 October 1986 (from the US-administered UN trusteeship)
National holiday:
    Proclamation of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, 1 May (1979)
Constitution:
    1 May 1979
Legal system:
    based on adapted Trust Territory laws, acts of the legislature, municipal,
    common, and customary laws
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Amata KABUA (since 1979); election last held 6 January 1992 (next
    to be held NA); results - President Amata KABUA was reelected
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; president selects from the parliament
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Parliament (Nitijela):
    elections last held 18 November 1991 (next to be held November 1995);
    results - percent of vote NA; seats - (33 total) independents 33
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    no formal parties; President KABUA is chief political (and traditional)
    leader
Member of:
    AsDB, ESCAP, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFC, IMF, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user),
    INTERPOL, SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UN, UNCTAD, WHO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Wilfred I. KENDALL
  chancery:
    2433 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Honolulu and Los Angeles
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Marshall Islands
                                   Government
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador David C. FIELDS
  embassy:
    address NA, Majuro
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 1379, Majuro, Republic of the Marshall Islands 96960-1379
  telephone:
    [692] 247-4011
  FAX:
    [692] 247-4012
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Marshall Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 cattle 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 US
    Government provides about 70% of the budget.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $75 million (1992 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6% (1992)
National product per capita:
    $1,500 (1992 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    7% (1992 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    16% (1991 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $106 million
  expenditures:
    $128.7 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993)
Exports:
    $3.9 million (f.o.b., 1992 est.)
  commodities:
    coconut oil, fish, live animals, trichus shells
  partners:
    US, Japan, Australia
Imports:
    $62.9 million (c.i.f., 1992 est.)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, machinery and equipment, beverages and tobacco, fuels
  partners:
    US, Japan, Australia
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    42,000 kW
  production:
    80 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,840 kWh (1990)
Industries:
    copra, fish, tourism; craft items from shell, wood, and pearls; offshore
    banking (embryonic)
Agriculture:
    coconuts, cacao, taro, breadfruit, fruits, pigs, chickens
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    under the terms of the Compact of Free Association, the US is to provide
    approximately $40 million in aid annually
Currency:
    1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Marshall Islands
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    US currency is used
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Marshall Islands
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    NA
  note:
    paved roads on major islands (Majuro, Kwajalein), otherwise stone-, coral-,
    or laterite-surfaced roads and tracks
Ports:
    Majuro
Merchant marine:
  total:
    37 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,205,275 GRT/4,263,247 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk carrier 23, cargo 1, combination ore/oil 1, oil tanker 12
Airports:
  total:
    16
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Marshall Islands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    570 telephones (Majuro) and 186 telephones (Ebeye); telex services
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    islands interconnected by shortwave radio (used mostly for government
    purposes)
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth stations; US Government satellite
    communications system on Kwajalein
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 2, shortwave 1
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Marshall Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    no regular military forces; Police
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
izente Change, Environmental Modification, Law of
    the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Dominica
                                     People
Population:
    82,608 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    29% (female 11,665; male 12,130)
  15-64 years:
    64% (female 25,606; male 26,890)
  65 years and over:
    7% (female 3,724; male 2,593) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.4% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    18.63 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.33 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -9.36 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    9.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.2 years
  male:
    74.35 years
  female:
    80.2 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.95 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Dominican(s)
  adjective:
    Dominican
Ethnic divisions:
    black, Carib Indians
Religion
Taiwan
SWITZERLAND - Passport required.  Visa not required for
tourist/business stay up to 3 months.  For further information contact Embassy of
Switzerland, 2900 Cathedral Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C.  20008
(202/745-7900) or nearest Consulate General:  CA (310/575-1145 or
415/788-2272), GA (404/870-2000), IL (312/915-0061), NY (212/758-2560)
or TX (713/650-0000).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Switzerland and Liechtenstein
============================================================
Switzerland and Liechtenstein - Consular Information Sheet
 June 30, 1995
Country Descriptions:  Switzerland is a highly developed democracy
with a modern economy.  Liechtenstein is a stable,
democratically-run constitutional monarchy with a modern economy.
Tourist services are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For both Switzerland and Liechtenstein, a
passport is required; a visa is not required for tourist or business
stays up to three months.  For further information on entry
requirements for both countries, travelers may contact the Embassy
of Switzerland at 2900 Cathedral Avenue N.W., Washington D.C. 20008,
tel [phone], or the nearest Swiss Consulate General in
Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Good medical care is widely available.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Travelers have found that in some cases,
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has
proved to be useful.  Information on specific health matters is
available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
hotline for international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Switzerland has a low rate of violent crime.
However, pickpocketing and purse-snatching do occur during peak
tourist periods (such as summer and Christmas) and when major
conferences, shows, or exhibits are scheduled in major cities.  Most
crime is restricted to specific localities in major cities that are
best avoided by the prudent traveler and residents, such as areas
frequented by drug dealers and users, the general vicinity of train
and bus stations, and some public parks.  Liechtenstein has a low
crime rate.
Travelers may wish to exercise caution on trains, especially on
overnight trains to neighboring countries.  Even locked sleeping
compartments can be entered by thieves who steal from passengers
while they sleep.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more
trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In Switzerland and in
Liechtenstein, the penalties for possession, use, and dealing in
illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail
sentences and fines.
Dual Nationality:  U.S. citizens who are considered to also have
Swiss citizenship may be subject to compulsory military service and
other requirements while in Switzerland.  Those who might be
affected may inquire at a Swiss embassy or consulate regarding their
status.  In some instances, dual nationality may hamper U.S.
government efforts to provide protection abroad.
Registration and Embassy and Consulate Locations:  U.S. citizens
who register in the Consular Section at the below locations may
obtain updated information on travel and security in Switzerland.
The U.S. Embassy in Bern is located at Jubilaeumstrasse 93,
telephone [phone], fax [phone].
The Consulate General in Zurich is located at Zollikerstrasse 141,
telephone [phone], fax [phone].
Limited consular services for U.S. citizens are offered by a
part-time consular agency in Geneva located at the America Center of
Geneva, World Trade Center II, Geneva Airport, Route de Pre-Bois 29,
telephone [phone] or 798-1615, fax [phone].
There is no U.S. Embassy or consulate in Liechtenstein.  For
assistance and information on travel and security in Liechtenstein,
U.S. citizens may contact or register at the U.S. Consulate General
in Zurich at the address above.
 No. 95-077
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 10, 1994, to
include information on Liechtenstein, note the change of fax number
at the Embassy in Bern and the phone number at the Consulate General
in Zurich, and provide the new address and telephone numbers for the
consular agency in Geneva.
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BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
8                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Switzerland
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Europe, east of France
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    41,290 sq km
  land area:
    39,770 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than twice the size of New Jersey
Land boundaries:
    total 1,852 km, Austria 164 km, France 573 km, Italy 740 km, Liechtenstein
    41 km, Germany 334 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate, but varies with altitude; cold, cloudy, rainy/snowy winters; cool
    to warm, cloudy, humid summers with occasional showers
Terrain:
    mostly mountains (Alps in south, Jura in northwest) with a central plateau
    of rolling hills, plains, and large lakes
Natural resources:
    hydropower potential, timber, salt
Land use:
  arable land:
    10%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    40%
  forest and woodland:
    26%
  other:
    23%
Irrigated land:
    250 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution from vehicle emissions and open air burning; acid rain; water
    pollution from increased use of agricultural fertilizers; loss of
    biodiversity
  natural hazards:
    avalanches, landslides, flash floods
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic
    Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental
    Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation,
    Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber
    83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94,
    Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification, Law of the Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Switzerland
                                    Geography
Note:
    landlocked; crossroads of northern and southern Europe; along with
    southeastern France and northern Italy, contains the highest elevations in
    Europe
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Switzerland
                                     People
Population:
    7,084,984 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    17% (female 594,565; male 622,436)
  15-64 years:
    68% (female 2,375,792; male 2,448,213)
  65 years and over:
    15% (female 623,136; male 420,842) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.57% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    12.04 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.16 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    2.82 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    6.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    78.36 years
  male:
    74.99 years
  female:
    81.88 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.6 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Swiss (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Swiss
Ethnic divisions:
  total population:
    German 65%, French 18%, Italian 10%, Romansch 1%, other 6%
  Swiss nationals:
    German 74%, French 20%, Italian 4%, Romansch 1%, other 1%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 47.6%, Protestant 44.3%, other 8.1% (1980)
Languages:
    German 65%, French 18%, Italian 12%, Romansch 1%, other 4%
  note:
    figures for Swiss nationals only -
    German 74%, French 20%, Italian 4%, Romansch 1%, other 1%
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
  total population:
    99%
Labor force:
    3.48 million (900,000 foreign workers, mostly Italian)
  by occupation:
    services 50%, industry and crafts 34%, government 10%, agriculture and
    forestry 6% (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Switzerland
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Swiss Confederation
  conventional short form:
    Switzerland
  local long form:
    Schweizerische Eidgenossenschaft (German) Confederation Suisse (French)
    Confederazione Svizzera (Italian)
  local short form:
    Schweiz (German) Suisse (French)  Svizzera (Italian)
Digraph:
    SZ
Type:
    federal republic
Capital:
    Bern
Administrative divisions:
    26 cantons (cantons, singular - canton in French; cantoni, singular -
    cantone in Italian; kantone, singular - kanton in German); Aargau,
    Ausser-Rhoden, Basel-Landschaft, Basel-Stadt, Bern, Fribourg, Geneve,
    Glarus, Graubunden, Inner-Rhoden, Jura, Luzern, Neuchatel, Nidwalden,
    Obwalden, Sankt Gallen, Schaffhausen, Schwyz, Solothurn, Thurgau, Ticino,
    Uri, Valais, Vaud, Zug, Zurich
Independence:
    1 August 1291
National holiday:
    Anniversary of the Founding of the Swiss Confederation, 1 August (1291)
Constitution:
    29 May 1874
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Kaspar VILLIGER (1995 calendar year; presidency rotates annually);
    Vice President Jean-Pascal DELAMURAZ (term runs concurrently with that of
    president)
  cabinet:
    Federal Council (German - Bundesrat, French - Censeil Federal, Italian -
    Consiglio Federale); elected by the Federal Assembly from own members
Legislative branch:
    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 1991 (next to be held NA 1995);
    results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (46 total) FDP 18, CVP 16,
    SVP 4, SPS 3, LPS 3, LdU 1, Ticino League 1
  National Council:
    German - Nationalrat, French - Conseil National, Italian - Consiglio
    Nazionale; elections last held 20 October 1991 (next to be held NA October
    1995); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (200 total) FDP 44,
    SPS 42, CVP 37, SVP 25, GPS 14, LPS 10, AP 8, LdU 6, SD 5, EVP 3, PdA 2,
    Ticino League 2, other 2
Judicial branch:
    Federal Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Switzerland
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Free Democratic Party (FDP), Franz STEINEGGER, president; Social Democratic
    Party (SPS), Peter BODENMANN, president; Christian Democratic People's Party
    (CVP), Anton COTTIER, president; Swiss People's Party (SVP), Hans UHLMANN,
    president; Green Party (GPS), Verena DIENER, president; Freedom Party (FPS),
    Roland BORER, president; Liberal Party (LPS), Christoph EYMANN, president;
    Alliance of Independents' Party (LdU), Monica WEBER, president; Ticino
    League, Giuliano BIGNASCA, president; and other minor parties including the
    Automobile Party (AP), Swiss Democratic Party (SD), Workers' Party (PdA),
    and the Evangelical People's Party (EVP); note - see elections
Member of:
    AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD, ECE,
    EFTA, ESA, FAO, G- 8, G-10, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM,
    IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, MTCR, NAM (guest), NEA, NSG, OAS (observer),
    OECD, OSCE, PCA, UN (observer), UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNITAR, UNMIH,
    UNOMIG, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Carlo JAGMETTI
  chancery:
    2900 Cathedral Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Pago Pago (American
    Samoa), and San Francisco
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador M. Larry LAWRENCE
  embassy:
    Jubilaeumstrasse 93, 3005 Bern
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [41] (31) 357 70 11
  FAX:
    [41] (31) 357 73 44
  branch office:
    Geneva
  consulate(s) general:
    Zurich
Flag:
    red square with a bold, equilateral white cross in the center that does not
    extend to the edges of the flag
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Switzerland
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Switzerland's economy - one of the most prosperous and stable in the world -
    is nonetheless undergoing a stressful adjustment after both the inflationary
    boom of the late 1980s and the electorate's rejection of membership in the
    European Economic Area (EEA) in 1992. So far the decision to remain outside
    the European single market structure does not appear to have harmed Swiss
    interests. In December 1994, the Swiss began bilateral negotiations with the
    EU aimed at establishing closer ties in areas of mutual interest and
    progressing toward the free circulation of persons, goods, capital, and
    services between the two parties. The Swiss emerged from a three-year
    recession in mid-1993 and posted 1.8% GDP growth in 1994. The Swiss central
    bank's tight monetary policies brought inflation down from about 4% in 1992
    to just under 1% in 1994. Unemployment has fallen slightly from 5.1% in 1993
    to 4.7% in 1994. Swiss per capita output, living standards, education, and
    health care remain unsurpassed in Europe. The country has few mineral
    resources, but its spectacular natural beauty sustains a substantial tourism
    industry.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $148.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    1.8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $22,080 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    0.9% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    4.7% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $26.7 billion
  expenditures:
    $32 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $69.6 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, precision instruments, metal products, foodstuffs,
    textiles and clothing
  partners:
    Western Europe 63.1% (EU countries 56%, other 7.1%), US 8.8%, Japan 3.4%
Imports:
    $68.2 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    agricultural products, machinery and transportation equipment, chemicals,
    textiles, construction materials
  partners:
    Western Europe 79.2% (EU countries 72.3%, other 6.9%), US 6.4%
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate 0% (1993 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    15,430,000 kW
  production:
    58 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    6,699 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    machinery, chemicals, watches, textiles, precision instruments
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Switzerland
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    dairy farming predominates; less than 50% self-sufficient in food; must
    import fish, refined sugar, fats and oils (other than butter), grains, eggs,
    fruits, vegetables, meat
Illicit drugs:
    money-laundering center
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-89), $3.5 billion
Currency:
    1 Swiss franc, franken, or franco (SwF) = 100 centimes, rappen, or centesimi
Exchange rates:
    Swiss francs, franken, or franchi (SwF) per US$1 - 1.2880 (January 1995),
    1.3677 (1994), 1.4776 (1993), 1.4062 (1992), 1.4340 (1991), 1.3892 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Switzerland
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    5,763 km (1,432 km double track)
  standard gauge:
    3,533 km 1.435-m gauge (99% electrified; 560 km nongovernment owned)
  narrow gauge:
    1,094 km 1.000-m gauge (99% electrified; 1,020 km nongovernment owned)
  other:
    1,136 km NA-m gauge (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    71,118 km
  paved:
    71,118 km (including 1,514 km of expressways)
Inland waterways:
    65 km; Rhine (Basel to Rheinfelden, Schaffhausen to Bodensee); 12 navigable
    lakes
Pipelines:
    crude oil 314 km; natural gas 1,506 km
Ports:
    Basel
Merchant marine:
  total:
    22 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 374,935 GRT/669,353 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 12, cargo 2, chemical tanker 4, oil tanker 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1,
    specialized tanker 1
Airports:
  total:
    69
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    14
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    5
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    42
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Switzerland
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    5,890,000 telephones; excellent domestic, international, and broadcast
    services
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    extensive cable and microwave networks
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean and Indian Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 7, FM 265, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    18 (repeaters 1,322)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Switzerland
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Air Force and Antiaircraft Command
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,847,639; males fit for military service 1,582,335; males
    reach military age (20) annually 41,831 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $4.1 billion, 1.4% of GDP (1995)
Serbia and Montenegro
`2Z2                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Saudi Arabia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea, north of Yemen
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    1,960,582 sq km
  land area:
    1,960,582 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than one-fourth the size of the US
Land boundaries:
    total 4,415 km, Iraq 814 km, Jordan 728 km, Kuwait 222 km, Oman 676 km,
    Qatar 60 km, UAE 457 km, Yemen 1,458 km
Coastline:
    2,640 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    18 nm
  continental shelf:
    not specified
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    large section of boundary with Yemen not defined; status of boundary with
    UAE not final; Kuwaiti ownership of Qaruh and Umm al Maradim islands is
    disputed by Saudi Arabia
Climate:
    harsh, dry desert with great extremes of temperature
Terrain:
    mostly uninhabited, sandy desert
Natural resources:
    petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, gold, copper
Land use:
  arable land:
    1%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    39%
  forest and woodland:
    1%
  other:
    59%
Irrigated land:
    4,350 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    desertification; depletion of underground water resources; the lack of
    perennial rivers or permanent water bodies has prompted the development of
    extensive seawater desalination facilities; coastal pollution from oil
    spills
  natural hazards:
    frequent sand and dust storms
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Ozone Layer Protection; signed,
    but not ratified - Law of the Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Saudi Arabia
                                    Geography
Note:
    extensive coastlines on Persian Gulf and Red Sea provide great leverage on
    shipping (especially crude oil) through Persian Gulf and Suez Canal
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Saudi Arabia
                                     People
Population:
    18,729,576 (July 1995 est.)
  note:
    a 1992 census gives the number of Saudi citizens as 12,304,835 and the
    number of residents who are not citizens as 4,624,459
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    43% (female 3,952,573; male 4,065,224)
  15-64 years:
    55% (female 4,078,001; male 6,219,737)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 203,372; male 210,669) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.68% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    38.78 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.54 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    3.56 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    48.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    68.5 years
  male:
    66.79 years
  female:
    70.3 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.48 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Saudi(s)
  adjective:
    Saudi or Saudi Arabian
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab 90%, Afro-Asian 10%
Religions:
    Muslim 100%
Languages:
    Arabic
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    62%
  male:
    73%
  female:
    48%
Labor force:
    5 million-6 million
  by occupation:
    government 34%, industry and oil 28%, services 22%, agriculture 16%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Saudi Arabia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of Saudi Arabia
  conventional short form:
    Saudi Arabia
  local long form:
    Al Mamlakah al Arabiyah as Suudiyah
  local short form:
    Al Arabiyah as Suudiyah
Digraph:
    SA
Type:
    monarchy
Capital:
    Riyadh
Administrative divisions:
    13 provinces (mintaqah, singular - mintaqat); Al Bahah, Al Hudud ash
    Shamaliyah, Al Jawf, Al Madinah, Al Qasim, Ar Riyad, Ash Sharqiyah, Asir,
    Hail, Jizan, Makkah, Najran, Tabuk
Independence:
    23 September 1932 (unification)
National holiday:
    Unification of the Kingdom, 23 September (1932)
Constitution:
    none; governed according to Shari'a (Islamic law)
Legal system:
    based on Islamic law, several secular codes have been introduced; commercial
    disputes handled by special committees; has not accepted compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    none
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    King and Prime Minister FAHD bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud (since 13 June 1982);
    Crown Prince and First Deputy Prime Minister ABDALLAH bin Abd al-Aziz Al
    Saud (half-brother to the King, appointed heir to the throne 13 June 1982)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; dominated by royal family members appointed by the
    king
Legislative branch:
    a consultative council comprised of 60 members and a chairman who are
    appointed by the King for a term of four years
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Council of Justice
Political parties and leaders:
    none allowed
Member of:
    ABEDA, AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, CCC, ESCWA, FAO, G-19, G-77, GCC, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICC, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO, ITU, NAM, OAPEC, OAS (observer), OIC, OPEC,
    UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador BANDAR bin Sultan Abd al-Aziz Al Saud
  chancery:
    601 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20037
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Saudi Arabia
                                   Government
  consulate(s) general:
    Houston, Los Angeles, and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Raymond E. MABUS, Jr.
  embassy:
    Collector Road M, Diplomatic Quarter, Riyadh
  mailing address:
    American Embassy, Unit 61307, Riyadh; International Mail: P. O. Box 94309,
    Riyadh 11693; APO AE 09803-1307
  telephone:
    [966] (1) 488-3800
  FAX:
    [966] (1) 482-4364
  consulate(s) general:
    Dhahran, Jiddah (Jeddah)
Flag:
    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
    Islam
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Saudi Arabia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    This is a well-to-do oil-based economy with strong government controls over
    major economic activities. About 46% of GDP comes from the private sector.
    Economic (as well as political) ties with the US are especially strong. The
    petroleum sector accounts for roughly 75% of budget revenues, 35% of GDP,
    and almost all export earnings. Saudi Arabia has the largest reserves of
    petroleum in the world (26% of the proved total), ranks as the largest
    exporter of petroleum, 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 about a decade, Saudi
    Arabia'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 1995, the country looks for improvement in oil prices
    and will continue its policies of restraining public spending and
    encouraging non-oil exports.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $173.1 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $9,510 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    6.5% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $39 billion
  expenditures:
    $50 billion, including capital expenditures of $7.5 billion (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $39.4 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    petroleum and petroleum products 92%
  partners:
    US 20%, Japan 18%, Singapore 5%, France 5%, South Korea 5% (1992)
Imports:
    $28.9 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, chemicals, foodstuffs, motor vehicles, textiles
  partners:
    US 21%, Japan 14%, UK 11%, Germany 8%, Italy 6%, France 5% (1992)
External debt:
    $18.9 billion (December 1989 est., includes short-term trade credits)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 20% (1991 est.); accounts for 35% of GDP, including petroleum
Electricity:
  capacity:
    17,550,000 kW
  production:
    46 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,430 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    crude oil production, petroleum refining, basic petrochemicals, cement, two
    small steel-rolling mills, construction, fertilizer, plastics
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Saudi Arabia
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 10% of GDP, 16% of labor force; subsidized by government;
    products - wheat, barley, tomatoes, melons, dates, citrus fruit, mutton,
    chickens, eggs, milk; approaching self-sufficiency in food
Illicit drugs:
    death penalty for traffickers; increasing consumption of heroin and cocaine
Economic aid:
  donor:
    pledged bilateral aid (1979-89), $64.7 billion; pledged $100 million in 1993
    to fund reconstruction of Lebanon
Currency:
    1 Saudi riyal (SR) = 100 halalah
Exchange rates:
    Saudi riyals (SR) per US$1 - 3.7450 (fixed rate since late 1986), 3.7033
    (1986)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Saudi Arabia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,390 km
  standard gauge:
    1,390 km 1.435-m gauge (448 km double track)
Highways:
  total:
    151,530 km
  paved:
    60,610 km
  unpaved:
    90,920 km (1992 est.)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 6,400 km; petroleum products 150 km; natural gas 2,200 km
    (includes natural gas liquids 1,600 km)
Ports:
    Ad Dammam, Al Jubayl, Duba, Jiddah, Jizan, Rabigh, Ras al Khafji, Ras al
    Mishab, Ras Tanura, Yanbu' al Bahr, Yanbu' al Sinaiyah
Merchant marine:
  total:
    71 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 855,452 GRT/1,233,477 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 1, cargo 12, chemical tanker 5, container 3, liquefied gas tanker 1,
    livestock carrier 4, oil tanker 22, passenger 1, refrigerated cargo 4,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 11, short-sea passenger 7
Airports:
  total:
    211
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    30
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    12
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    22
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    21
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    6
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    73
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    43
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Saudi Arabia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    1,624,000 telephones; modern system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    extensive microwave and coaxial and fiber optic cable systems
  international:
    microwave radio relay to Bahrain, Jordan, Kuwait, Qatar, UAE, Yemen, and
    Sudan; coaxial cable to Kuwait and Jordan; submarine cable to Djibouti,
    Egypt and Bahrain; earth stations - 5 INTELSAT (3 Atlantic Ocean and 2
    Indian Ocean), 1 ARABSAT, and 1 INMARSAT
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 43, FM 13, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    80
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Saudi Arabia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Land Force (Army), Navy, Air Force, Air Defense Force, National Guard, Coast
    Guard, Frontier Forces, Special Security Force, Public Security Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 5,303,679; males fit for military service 2,949,842; males
    reach military age (17) annually 164,220 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $17.2 billion, 13.8% of GDP (1994)
r degrowth rate:
    1.95% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    25.08 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.55 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    37.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    70.35 years
  male:
    67.83 years
  female:
    72.99 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.97 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Ecuadorian(s)
  adjective:
    Ecuadorian
Ethnic divisions:
    mestizo (mixed Indian and Spanish) 55%, Indian 25%, Spanish 10%, black 10%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 95%
Languages:
    Spanish (official), Indian languages (especially Quechua)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    87%
  male:
    90%
  female:
    84%
Labor force:
    2.8 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 35%, manufacturing 21%, commerce 16%, services and other
    activities 28% (1982)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ecuador
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Ecuador
  conventional short form:
    Ecuador
  local long form:
    Republica del Ecuador
  local short form:
    Ecuador
Digraph:
    EC
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Quito
Administrative divisions:
    21 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Azuay, Bolivar, Canar,
    Carchi, Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Galapago
Equatorial Guinea
@6*6EL SALVADOR - Passport and visa required. (Length of validity of visa  will
be determined by immigration authorities upon arrival.)  Requires 1
application form and 2 photos.    Allow 3 working days for processing.
Send SASE for return of passport by mail.  AIDS test required for premanent
residence permit.  U.S. test not accepted.  Apply Consulate General of El
Salvador, 1010 16th St., N.W., 3rd Floor, Washington, D.C. 20036
(202/331-4032) or nearest Consulate:  CA (213/383-5776 or 415/781-7924), FL
(305/371-8850), LA (504/522-4266), NY (212/889-3608) or TX (713/270-6239).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - El Salvador
============================================================
El Salvador - Consular Information Sheet
 August 17, 1995
Country Description:  El Salvador has a developing economy.  Its
tourism facilities are not fully developed.  Credit cards are widely
accepted.
Entry Requirements:  A U.S. passport and a one-entry tourist card
(the tourist card can be obtained for a fee from airlines serving El
Salvador) are required.  Travelers who plan to remain in El Salvador
more than 30 days, or who plan multiple visits, can apply for a
multiple-entry visa, issued gratis, from a Salvadoran consulate in
the U.S.  Travelers may be asked to present evidence of U.S.
employment and adequate finances for their visit at the time of visa
application or upon arrival in El Salvador.  For additional
information, travelers may contact the Embassy of El Salvador at
1010 16th Street NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20036, Tel. (202)
331-4032, or the nearest Consulate in Houston, Los Angeles, San
Francisco, New Orleans, Miami, New York, or Chicago.
Crime and Security Information:  Violent as well as petty crimes
are prevalent throughout El Salvador.  U.S. citizens are often
victims.  Visitors should avoid carrying valuables in public places.
 Armed assaults and car-jackings take place both in San Salvador,
the capital, and in the interior of the country, but are especially
frequent on roads outside the capital where police patrols are
infrequent.  Criminals have been known to follow travelers from the
international airports to private residences where they carry out
assaults and robberies.  Criminals often become violent quickly,
especially when victims fail to cooperate immediately in
surrendering valuables.  Frequently, victims who argue with
assailants or refuse to give up their valuables are shot.
The Peace Accords signed in 1992 between the government of El
Salvador and the FMLN ended the war in El Salvador.  Areas formerly
considered conflictive zones or zones of concentration for
demobilizing guerrillas are now open for travel.  The U.S. Embassy,
however, warns its personnel to drive with their doors locked and
windows raised; to avoid travel after dark, and to avoid travel on
unpaved roads at all times because of random banditry, car-jackings,
criminal assaults and lack of police and road service facilities.
Most fatal accidents or robberies and assaults occur during the
evening or early morning hours.  Travelers with conspicuous amounts
of luggage, late-model cars and foreign license plates are
particularly vulnerable even in the capital.  Many Salvadorans are
armed and shootouts are not infrequent.  Travelers, however, may not
carry guns, even for their own protection or for use on the road
from the United States, without first procuring from Salvadoran
officials a gun license.  Failure to do so will result in detention
and confiscation of the traveler's firearm even if it is licensed in
the U.S.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting
personal security while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  This
publication and others, such as "Tips for Travelers to Central and
South America," are available from the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Medical Information:  Medical care is limited.  Doctors and
hospitals expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  In
some cases, medical insurance with specific overseas coverage may
prove to be useful.
Most hospitals accept credit cards for hospital charges, but not
for doctors' fees.  For information on health conditions and
precautions, travelers may contact the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline at [phone].
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties in El Salvador for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Other Information:  The Salvadoran constitution prohibits
foreigners from participating in domestic political activities,
including public demonstrations.  The government of El Salvador
considers such involvement to be a violation of the participant's
tourist visa status.
Mine removal efforts have ended, but land mines and unexploded
ammunition in back country regions still pose a threat to
off-the-road tourists, backpackers and campers.
Aviation Oversight.  In June 1995, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) assessed El Salvador's civil aviation authority
as in compliance with international aviation safety oversight
standards for El Salvador's carriers operating to and from the U.S.
The same level of safety oversight would typically be applied to
operations to other destinations.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at
1-800-322-7873.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to
register with the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in San
Salvador, where they may obtain updated information on travel and
security in El Salvador and neighboring countries.  The U.S. Embassy
in El Salvador is located at Final Boulevard Santa Elena,
Urbanizacion Santa Elena, Antiguo Cuscatlan, San Salvador, El
Salvador; Telephone [phone].
 No. 95-94
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated January 27, 1995
to provide updated information on entry requirements, aviation
oversight, and mine removal efforts.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - El Salvador
============================================================
El Salvador - Consular Information Sheet
 August 17, 1995
Country Description:  El Salvador has a developing economy.  Its
tourism facilities are not fully developed.  Credit cards are widely
accepted.
Entry Requirements:  A U.S. passport and a one-entry tourist card
(the tourist card can be obtained for a fee from airlines serving El
Salvador) are required.  Travelers who plan to remain in El Salvador
more than 30 days, or who plan multiple visits, can apply for a
multiple-entry visa, issued gratis, from a Salvadoran consulate in
the U.S.  Travelers may be asked to present evidence of U.S.
employment and adequate finances for their visit at the time of visa
application or upon arrival in El Salvador.  For additional
information, travelers may contact the Embassy of El Salvador at
1010 16th Street NW, Third Floor, Washington, D.C. 20036, Tel. (202)
331-4032, or the nearest Consulate in Houston, Los Angeles, San
Francisco, New Orleans, Miami, New York, or Chicago.
Crime and Security Information:  Violent as well as petty crimes
are prevalent throughout El Salvador.  U.S. citizens are often
victims.  Visitors should avoid carrying valuables in public places.
 Armed assaults and car-jackings take place both in San Salvador,
the capital, and in the interior of the country, but are especially
frequent on roads outside the capital where police patrols are
infrequent.  Criminals have been known to follow travelers from the
international airports to private residences where they carry out
assaults and robberies.  Criminals often become violent quickly,
especially when victims fail to cooperate immediately in
surrendering valuables.  Frequently, victims who argue with
assailants or refuse to give up their valuables are shot.
The Peace Accords signed in 1992 between the government of El
Salvador and the FMLN ended the war in El Salvador.  Areas formerly
considered conflictive zones or zones of concentration for
demobilizing guerrillas are now open for travel.  The U.S. Embassy,
however, warns its personnel to drive with their doors locked and
windows raised; to avoid travel after dark, and to avoid travel on
unpaved roads at all times because of random banditry, car-jackings,
criminal assaults and lack of police and road service facilities.
Most fatal accidents or robberies and assaults occur during the
evening or early morning hours.  Travelers with conspicuous amounts
of luggage, late-model cars and foreign license plates are
particularly vulnerable even in the capital.  Many Salvadorans are
armed and shootouts are not infrequent.  Travelers, however, may not
carry guns, even for their own protection or for use on the road
from the United States, without first procuring from Salvadoran
officials a gun license.  Failure to do so will result in detention
and confiscation of the traveler's firearm even if it is licensed in
the U.S.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting
personal security while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  This
publication and others, such as "Tips for Travelers to Central and
South America," are available from the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Medical Information:  Medical care is limited.  Doctors and
hospitals expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  In
some cases, medical insurance with specific overseas coverage may
prove to be useful.
Most hospitals accept credit cards for hospital charges, but not
for doctors' fees.  For information on health conditions and
precautions, travelers may contact the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline at [phone].
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties in El Salvador for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Other Information:  The Salvadoran constitution prohibits
foreigners from participating in domestic political activities,
including public demonstrations.  The government of El Salvador
considers such involvement to be a violation of the participant's
tourist visa status.
Mine removal efforts have ended, but land mines and unexploded
ammunition in back country regions still pose a threat to
off-the-road tourists, backpackers and campers.
Aviation Oversight.  In June 1995, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration (FAA) assessed El Salvador's civil aviation authority
as in compliance with international aviation safety oversight
standards for El Salvador's carriers operating to and from the U.S.
The same level of safety oversight would typically be applied to
operations to other destinations.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at
1-800-322-7873.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to
register with the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in San
Salvador, where they may obtain updated information on travel and
security in El Salvador and neighboring countries.  The U.S. Embassy
in El Salvador is located at Final Boulevard Santa Elena,
Urbanizacion Santa Elena, Antiguo Cuscatlan, San Salvador, El
Salvador; Telephone [phone].
 No. 95-94
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated January 27, 1995
to provide updated information on entry requirements, aviation
oversight, and mine removal efforts.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
4~4                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   El Salvador
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle America, bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Guatemala and
    Honduras
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    21,040 sq km
  land area:
    20,720 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Massachusetts
Land boundaries:
    total 545 km, Guatemala 203 km, Honduras 342 km
Coastline:
    307 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    200 nm
International disputes:
    land boundary dispute with Honduras 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,
    Honduras and Nicaragua likely would be required
Climate:
    tropical; rainy season (May to October); dry season (November to April)
Terrain:
    mostly mountains with narrow coastal belt and central plateau
Natural resources:
    hydropower, geothermal power, petroleum
Land use:
  arable land:
    27%
  permanent crops:
    8%
  meadows and pastures:
    29%
  forest and woodland:
    6%
  other:
    30%
Irrigated land:
    1,200 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; water pollution; contamination of soils from
    disposal of toxic wastes
  natural hazards:
    known as the Land of Volcanoes; frequent and sometimes very destructive
    earthquakes and volcanic activity
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test
    Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, Law
    of the Sea
Note:
    smallest Central American country and only one without a coastline on
    Caribbean Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   El Salvador
                                     People
Population:
    5,870,481 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    40% (female 1,165,152; male 1,200,759)
  15-64 years:
    56% (female 1,677,958; male 1,602,230)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 122,368; male 102,014) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.02% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    32.39 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.19 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -5.96 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    38.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    67.5 years
  male:
    64.89 years
  female:
    70.23 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.69 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Salvadoran(s)
  adjective:
    Salvadoran
Ethnic divisions:
    mestizo 94%, Indian 5%, white 1%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 75%
  note:
    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
Languages:
    Spanish, Nahua (among some Indians)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    73%
  male:
    76%
  female:
    70%
Labor force:
    1.7 million (1982 est.)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 40%, commerce 16%, manufacturing 15%, government 13%, financial
    services 9%, transportation 6%, other 1%
  note:
    shortage of skilled labor and a large pool of unskilled labor, but training
    programs improving situation (1984 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   El Salvador
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of El Salvador
  conventional short form:
    El Salvador
  local long form:
    Republica de El Salvador
  local short form:
    El Salvador
Digraph:
    ES
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    San Salvador
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    15 September 1821 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
Constitution:
    20 December 1983
Legal system:
    based on civil and Roman law, with traces of common law; judicial review of
    legislative acts in the Supreme Court; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction,
    with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Armando CALDERON SOL (since 1 June 1994); Vice President Enrique
    BORGO Bustamante (since 1 June 1994) election last held 20 March 1994 (next
    to be held 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%
  cabinet:
     Council of Ministers
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Legislative Assembly (Asamblea Legislativa):
    elections last held 20 March 1994 (next to be held 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Corte Suprema)
Political parties and leaders:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   El Salvador
                                   Government
  note:
    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
Other political or pressure groups:
  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
Member of:
    BCIE, CACM, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM,
    IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ITU,
    LAES, LAIA (observer), NAM (observer), OAS, OPANAL, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO,
    UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ana Cristina SOL
  chancery:
    2308 California Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 9672
  consulate(s) general:
    Chicago, Dallas, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, and San
    Francisco
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Alan H. FLANIGAN
  embassy:
    Final Boulevard, Station Antiguo Cuscatlan, San Salvador
  mailing address:
    Unit 3116, San Salvador; APO AA 34023
  telephone:
    [503] 78-4444
  FAX:
    [503] 78-6011
Flag:
    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 Nicaragua, which has a different coat of
    arms centered in the white band - it features a triangle encircled by the
    words REPUBLICA DE NICARAGUA on top and AMERICA CENTRAL on the bottom; also
    similar to the flag of Honduras, which has five blue stars arranged in an X
    pattern centered in the white band
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   El Salvador
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The agricultural sector accounts for 24% of GDP, employs about 40% of the
    labor force, and contributes about 66% to total exports. Coffee is the major
    commercial crop, accounting for 45% of export earnings. The manufacturing
    sector, based largely on food and beverage processing, accounts for 19% of
    GDP and 15% of employment. In 1992-94 the government made substantial
    progress toward privatization and deregulation of the economy. Growth in
    national output in 1991-94 nearly averaged 5%, exceeding growth in
    population for the first time since 1987; and inflation in 1994 of 10% was
    down from 19% in 1993.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $9.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,710 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    10% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    6.7% (1993)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $846 million
  expenditures:
    $890 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $823 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    coffee, sugarcane, shrimp
  partners:
    US, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Germany
Imports:
    $2.1 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    raw materials, consumer goods, capital goods
  partners:
    US, Guatemala, Mexico, Venezuela, Germany
External debt:
    $2.6 billion (December 1992)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 7.6% (1993)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    750,000 kW
  production:
    2.4 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    408 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    food processing, beverages, petroleum, nonmetallic products, tobacco,
    chemicals, textiles, furniture
Agriculture:
    accounts for 24% of GDP and 40% of labor force (including fishing and
    forestry); coffee most important commercial crop; other products -
    sugarcane, corn, rice, beans, oilseeds, beef, dairy products, shrimp; not
    self-sufficient in food
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for cocaine; marijuana produced for local consumption
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   El Salvador
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-90), $2.95 billion (plus $250 million
    for 1992-96); Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments
    (1970-89), $525 million
Currency:
    1 Salvadoran colon (C) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    Salvadoran colones (C) per US$1 - 8.760 (January 1995), 8.750 (1994), 8.670
    (1993), 8.4500 (1992), 8.080 (1991), 8.0300 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   El Salvador
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    602 km (single track; note - some sections abandoned, unusable, or operating
    at reduced capacity)
  narrow gauge:
    602 km 0.914-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    10,000 km
  paved:
    1,500 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 4,100 km; improved, unimproved earth 4,400 km
Inland waterways:
    Rio Lempa partially navigable
Ports:
    Acajutla, Puerto Cutuco, La Libertad, La Union, Puerto El Triunfo
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    106
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    78
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    23
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   El Salvador
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    116,000 telephones; 21 telephones/1,000 persons
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    nationwide microwave radio relay system
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station; connected to Central American
    Microwave System
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 77, FM 0, shortwave 2
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    5
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   El Salvador
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,393,480; males fit for military service 892,958; males
    reach military age (18) annually 77,562 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $103 million, 0.7% of GDP (1994); $91.9 million,
    less than 1% of GDP (1995 est.)
Ecuador
DOMINICAN REPUBLIC - Passport or proof of U.S. citizenship and tourist card
or visa required.  Tourist card for stay up to 2 months, available from
Consulate or from airline serving the Dominican Republic, $10 fee.  Visa
issued by Consulate, valid up to 5 years, no charge.  All persons must pay
$10 airport departure fee.  AIDS test required for residence permit.  U.S.
test not accepted.  For business travel and other information call the
Embassy of the Dominican Republic, 1715 22nd St., N.W., Washington, D.C.
20008 (202/332-6280) or nearest Consulate General:  CA (415/982-5144), FL
(305/358-3221), IL (312/772-6363), LA (504/522-1007), MA (617/482-8121), NY
(212/768-2480), PA (215/923-3006) or PR (809/725-9550).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Dominican Republic
============================================================
Dominican Republic - Public Announcement
 March 27, 1995
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release
Santo Domingo  has experienced civil unrest in some areas of the
city since
March 20.  Demonstrations at the National University, the
Universidad Autonima de Santo Domingo (UASD), resulted in the
burning of several vehicles and spread through the poorer areas of
the city, particularly north and east of the city.  Skirmishes
between police and protestors have resulted in injuries and deaths.
U.S. citizens visiting Santo Domingo should be aware of the
potential for violence, avoid entering poorer neighborhoods
especially north and east of the city, avoid crowds, and avoid the
National University campus.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Dominican Republic
============================================================
Dominican Republic - Consular Information Sheet
 May 31, 1995
Country Description: The Dominican Republic has a developing
economy.  Tourist facilities vary, depending on price and area.
Entry Requirements: A passport or proof of U.S. citizenship and a
tourist card or visa are required.  For further information
concerning entry requirements, travelers may contact the Embassy of
the Dominican Republic at 1715 22nd St. N.W., Washington, D.C.
20008, Tel: [phone] or the nearest consulate in Los Angeles,
Miami, Chicago, New Orleans, Boston, New York, Philadelphia or San
Juan.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is limited.  Malaria is prevalent
in the rural, non-tourist areas near the Haitian border.
Tuberculosis and typhoid are more common than in the U.S.  Human
immunodeficiency virus (HIV) poses a significant health risk and is
prevalent in tourist areas.  Doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.
For additional health information, travelers can contact the Centers
for Disease Control's international travelers hotline at (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  Petty street crime involving U.S. tourists
occurs infrequently.  Valuables left unattended in parked
automobiles, on beaches, and in other public places are subject to
theft.  Burglaries of private residences have increased.  Resort
areas on the north coast, for example, Puerto Plata, Sosua and
Cabarete, have experienced an increase in violent crime.  Some
incidents have involved foreign residents and tourists, including
U.S. citizens.  The larger, better-known resort complexes, which
rely on private security services, have generally not been affected.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported to
the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  A lost
or stolen U.S. birth certificate and/or driver's license generally
cannot be replaced outside of the United States.  U.S. citizens may
refer to the Department of State's pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad,"
which provides useful information on guarding valuables and
protecting personal security while traveling abroad.  Both this
pamphlet and "Tips for Travelers to the Caribbean" are available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  It is legal to exchange currency only at
banks and exchange booths in hotels.  The exchange rate is set by
the Central Bank based on prevailing market conditions.  No more
than $5000 (U.S.), may be taken out of the Dominican Republic at the
time of departure.  U.S. tourists have been arrested for even minor
illegal currency transactions.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use, and dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Aviation Oversight:  In January 1993, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed the Dominican Republic as not providing
oversight in compliance with international aviation safety standards
for Dominican carrier operations.  As a result, Dominican carriers
arrange to have their flights conducted by an air carrier from a
country meeting international safety standards in order to provide
commercial passenger service to the U.S.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at
1-800-322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration: U.S. citizens may register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in the Dominican Republic.  The
Embassy is located at the corner of Calle Cesar Nicolar Penson and
Calle Leopoldo Navarro in Santo Domingo; Telephone [phone].
The Consular Section is a half mile away at the corner of Calle
Cesar Nicolas Penson and Maximo Gomez.
There is a Consular Agency in Puerto Plata at Calle Beller 51, 2nd
Floor, Office 6; Telephone [phone]; office hours Monday
through Friday, 8:30 - 12:00 P.M., Thursday, 2:00 - 4:00 P.M.
U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated
information on travel and security in the Dominican Republic.
 No. 95-068
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 2,
1994, to update information on crime and currency regulations.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
`5E5                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Dominican Republic
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, between the
    Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Haiti
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    48,730 sq km
  land area:
    48,380 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than twice the size of New Hampshire
Land boundaries:
    total 275 km, Haiti 275 km
Coastline:
    1,288 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical maritime; little seasonal temperature variation; seasonal variation
    in rainfall
Terrain:
    rugged highlands and mountains with fertile valleys interspersed
Natural resources:
    nickel, bauxite, gold, silver
Land use:
  arable land:
    23%
  permanent crops:
    7%
  meadows and pastures:
    43%
  forest and woodland:
    13%
  other:
    14%
Irrigated land:
    2,250 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water shortages; soil eroding into the sea damages coral reefs;
    deforestation
  natural hazards:
    occasional hurricanes (July to October)
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation,
    Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified -
    Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Dominican Republic
                                    Geography
Note:
    shares island of Hispaniola with Haiti (eastern two-thirds is the Dominican
    Republic, western one-third is Haiti)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Dominican Republic
                                     People
Population:
    7,511,263 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    35% (female 1,288,210; male 1,336,162)
  15-64 years:
    61% (female 2,246,791; male 2,312,555)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 178,388; male 149,157) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.17% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    23.92 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.15 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -6.04 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    49.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    68.73 years
  male:
    66.57 years
  female:
    70.99 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.72 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Dominican(s)
  adjective:
    Dominican
Ethnic divisions:
    white 16%, black 11%, mixed 73%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 95%
Languages:
    Spanish
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    83%
  male:
    85%
  female:
    82%
Labor force:
    2.3 million to 2.6 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 49%, services 33%, industry 18% (1986)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Dominican Republic
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Dominican Republic
  conventional short form:
    none
  local long form:
    Republica Dominicana
  local short form:
    none
Digraph:
    DR
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Santo Domingo
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    27 February 1844 (from Haiti)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 27 February (1844)
Constitution:
    28 November 1966
Legal system:
    based on French civil codes
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory or married persons regardless of
    age
  note:
    members of the armed forces and police cannot vote
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Joaquin BALAGUER Ricardo (since 16 August 1986, sixth elected term
    began 16 August 1994); Vice President Jacinto PEYNADO (since 16 August 1994)
    election last held 16 May 1994 (next to be held 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%
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; nominated by the president
Legislative branch:
    bicameral National Congress (Congreso Nacional)
  Senate (Senado):
    elections last held 16 May 1994 (next to be held 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 May 1998); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) PLD 13, PRSC 50, PRD 57
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Corte Suprema)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Dominican Republic
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
  major parties:
    Social Christian Reformist Party (PRSC), Joaquin BALAGUER Ricardo; Dominican
    Liberation Party (PLD), (vacant following retirement of Juan BOSCH Gavino);
    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
  note:
    in 1983 several leftist parties, including the PCD, joined to form the
    Dominican Leftist Front (FID); however, they still retain individual party
    structures
Other political or pressure groups:
    Collective of Popular Organzations (COP), leader NA
Member of:
    ACP, CARICOM (observer), ECLAC, FAO, G-11, G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, IOM, ITU, LAES, LAIA (observer), NAM (guest), OAS, OPANAL, PCA, UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jose del Carmen ARIZA Gomez
  chancery:
    1715 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Mayaguez (Puerto Rico), Miami, New Orleans,
    New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
  consulate(s):
    Charlotte Amalie (Virgin Islands), Detroit, Houston, Jacksonville,
    Minneapolis, Mobile, and Ponce (Puerto Rico)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Donna Jean HRINAK
  embassy:
    corner of Calle Cesar Nicolas Penson and Calle Leopoldo Navarro, Santo
    Domingo
  mailing address:
    Unit 5500, Santo Domingo; APO AA 34041
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 8100
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Dominican Republic
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The Dominican economy showed some signs of slippage in 1994, although its
    overall performance in recent years has been relatively strong. After
    posting an increase of nearly 8% in 1992, GDP growth fell to 3% in 1993 and
    1994 as mining output decreased and erosion of real wages caused private
    consumption to decline. A pre-election boost in government spending in early
    1994 led to the first government deficit in four years and bumped inflation
    up to 14% for the year. Continued dynamism in construction and the services
    sector, especially tourism, should keep the economy growing in 1995.
    Tourism, agriculture, and manufacturing for export remain key sectors of the
    economy. Domestic industry is based on the processing of agricultural
    products, oil refining, and chemicals.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $24 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.9% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,070 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    14% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    30% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.8 billion
  expenditures:
    $2.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $585 million (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    ferronickel, sugar, gold, coffee, cocoa
  partners:
    US 52%, EC 23%, Puerto Rico 9%, Asia 7% (1992)
Imports:
    $2.5 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, petroleum, cotton and fabrics, chemicals and pharmaceuticals
  partners:
    US 60% (1993)
External debt:
    $4.3 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3.4% (1994); accounts for 14% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,450,000 kW
  production:
    5.4 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    651 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tourism, sugar processing, ferronickel and gold mining, textiles, cement,
    tobacco
Agriculture:
    accounts for 15% of GDP and employs 49% of labor force; commercial crops -
    sugarcane, coffee, cotton, cocoa, and tobacco; food crops - rice, beans,
    potatoes, corn, bananas; animal output - cattle, hogs, dairy products, meat,
    eggs; not self-sufficient in food
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Dominican Republic
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for South American drugs destined for the US and Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY85-89), $575 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $655 million
Currency:
    1 Dominican peso (RD$) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    Dominican pesos (RD$) per US$1 - 13.258 (January 1995), 13.160 (1994),
    12.679 (1993), 12.774 (1992), 12.692 (1991), 8.525 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Dominican Republic
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,655 km (in numerous segments; includes 4 different gauges from 0.558-m
    narrow gauge to 1.435-m standard gauge)
Highways:
    12,000 km
  paved:
    5,800 km
  unpaved:
    gravel or improved earth 5,600 km; unimproved earth 600 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 96 km; petroleum products 8 km
Ports:
    Barahona, La Romana, Puerto Plata, San Pedro de Macoris, Santo Domingo
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1 cargo ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,587 GRT/1,165 DWT
Airports:
    36
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    5
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    16
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Dominican Republic
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    190,000 telephones; relatively efficient domestic system based on islandwide
    microwave radio relay network
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    islandwide microwave radio relay network
  international:
    1 coaxial submarine cable; 1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 120, FM 0, shortwave 6
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    18
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Dominican Republic
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, National Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,008,597; males fit for military service 1,266,812; males
    reach military age (18) annually 79,769 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $116 million, 1.4% of GDP (1994)
Brazil
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Bouvet Island
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of Norway)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Bouvet Island
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, island in the South Atlantic Ocean, south-southwest of the
    Cape of Good Hope (South Africa)
Map references:
    Antarctic Region
Area:
  total area:
    58 sq km
  land area:
    58 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.3 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    29.6 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    4 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    antarctic
Terrain:
    volcanic; maximum elevation about 800 meters; coast is mostly inaccessible
Natural resources:
    none
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100% (all ice)
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    covered by glacial ice
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Bouvet Island
                                     People
Population:
    uninhabited
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Bouvet Island
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Bouvet Island
Digraph:
    BV
Type:
    territory of Norway
Capital:
    none; administered from Oslo, Norway
Independence:
    none (territory of Norway)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Bouvet Island
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Bouvet Island
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Bouvet Island
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    *** No data for this item ***
Note:
    automatic meteorological station
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Bouvet Island
                                 Defense Forces
    defense is the responsibility of Norway
Belarus
                                 THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Bassas da India
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (possession of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Bassas da India
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, islands in the southern Mozambique Channel, about one-half
    of the way from Madagascar to Mozambique
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    0.2 km2
  land area:
    0.2 km2
  comparative area:
    NA
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    35.2 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claimed by Madagascar
Climate:
    tropical
Terrain:
    a volcanic rock 2.4 meters high
Natural resources:
    none
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100% (all rock)
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    maritime hazard since it is usually under water during high tide and
    surrounded by reefs; subject to periodic cyclones
  international agreements:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Bassas da India
                                     People
Population:
    uninhabited
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Bassas da India
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Bassas da India
Digraph:
    BS
Type:
    French possession administered by a Commissioner of the Republic, resident
    in Reunion
Capital:
    none; administered by France from Reunion
Independence:
    none (possession of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Bassas da India
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Bassas da India
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Bassas da India
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
gi- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Eritrea
EQUATORIAL GUINEA - Passport and visa required.  Obtain visa in
advance. For further information contact the residence of the Ambassador of
Equatorial Guinea at 57 Magnolia Ave., Mount Vernon, NY (914/667-9664).
Equatorial Guinea - Consular Information Sheet
November 4, 1994
Country Description:  Equatorial Guinea is a developing country in West
Africa.  Tourism facilities are minimal.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa, obtained in advance, are
required.  For entry information, travelers may contact the residence of the
Ambassador of Equatorial Guinea, 57 Magnolia Avenue, Mount Vernon, New York,
telephone [phone].
Airline Safety:  It is reported that the government-owned Equatorial Guinean
Airlines (EGA) does not meet any internationally accepted standards for
airworthiness.  U.S. government employees are prohibited from flying on this
airline.  Acceptable means of travel from Equatorial Guinea to the rest of
Africa is by charter air service, by Cameroon Airlines from Malabo to
Douala, Cameroon, by Iberia Airlines from Malabo to Madrid, Spain, or
overland through another country.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are extremely limited.  Many
medicines are unavailable.  There is one dentist and no optician in the
country.  Malaria, including cerebral malaria, is endemic; travelers usually
take malaria suppressants when traveling to Equatorial Guinea.  Water is not
potable; bottled water may be purchased.  Doctors and clinics often expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  Information on particular
health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's
international travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Petty crime is common.  The loss or theft abroad of a
U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local police and to the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and
"Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the
region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use or trafficking of
illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Currency Restrictions:  The government of Equatorial Guinea has established
stringent currency restrictions, applied both on arrival and departure from
the country.  Visitors bearing tourist passports must declare any currency
in excess of 20,000 CFA local currency (approximately $40 U.S. ) upon
arrival.  This requirement is not clearly posted; nonetheless, travelers who
fail to declare their excess currency risk forfeiture of any amount over
20,000 CFA upon departure.  Recovery of confiscated currency from the
government of Equatorial Guinea is difficult, at best.
Prohibition on Photography:  Special permits may be needed for some types of
photography.  Photographing the Presidential Palace and its environs,
military installations, airports, harbors and other sensitive areas may
cause problems.  U.S. citizens may obtain information from the U.S. Embassy
about current restrictions.
Tourism Permits:  Visits to some areas of the country may require permits.
The U.S. Embassy can provide further information.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy may obtain
updated information on travel and security within Equatorial Guinea.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is in the capital city of Malabo at
Calle de los Ministros, P.O. Box 597, telephone [phone].  The fax
number is (240-9) 2164.
No. 94-262
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 11, 1993, to delete
the paragraph on Areas of Instability and to update the information on
Airline Safety and Currency Restrictions.
0                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Equatorial Guinea
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Cameroon and
    Gabon
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    28,050 sq km
  land area:
    28,050 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Maryland
Land boundaries:
    total 539 km, Cameroon 189 km, Gabon 350 km
Coastline:
    296 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    maritime boundary dispute with Gabon because of disputed sovereignty over
    islands in Corisco Bay
Climate:
    tropical; always hot, humid
Terrain:
    coastal plains rise to interior hills; islands are volcanic
Natural resources:
    timber, petroleum, small unexploited deposits of gold, manganese, uranium
Land use:
  arable land:
    8%
  permanent crops:
    4%
  meadows and pastures:
    4%
  forest and woodland:
    51%
  other:
    33%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    tap water is not potable; desertification
  natural hazards:
    violent windstorms
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but
    not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea
Note:
    insular and continental regions rather widely separated
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Equatorial Guinea
                                     People
Population:
    420,293 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    43% (female 90,404; male 90,997)
  15-64 years:
    53% (female 117,124; male 105,724)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 8,969; male 7,075) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.59% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    40.22 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    14.36 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    100.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    52.56 years
  male:
    50.39 years
  female:
    54.79 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.23 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Equatorial Guinean(s) or Equatoguinean(s)
  adjective:
    Equatorial Guinean or Equatoguinean
Ethnic divisions:
    Bioko (primarily Bubi, some Fernandinos), Rio Muni (primarily Fang),
    Europeans less than 1,000, mostly Spanish
Religions:
    nominally Christian and predominantly Roman Catholic, pagan practices
Languages:
    Spanish (official), pidgin English, Fang, Bubi, Ibo
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1983)
  total population:
    62%
  male:
    77%
  female:
    48%
Labor force:
    172,000 (1986 est.)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 66%, services 23%, industry 11% (1980)
  note:
    labor shortages on plantations
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Equatorial Guinea
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Equatorial Guinea
  conventional short form:
    Equatorial Guinea
  local long form:
    Republica de Guinea Ecuatorial
  local short form:
    Guinea Ecuatorial
  former:
    Spanish Guinea
Digraph:
    EK
Type:
    republic in transition to multiparty democracy
Capital:
    Malabo
Administrative divisions:
    7 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Annobon, Bioko Norte, Bioko
    Sur, Centro Sur, Kie-Ntem, Litoral, Wele-Nzas
Independence:
    12 October 1968 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 12 October (1968)
Constitution:
    new constitution 17 November 1991
Legal system:
    partly based on Spanish civil law and tribal custom
Suffrage:
    universal adult at age NA
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Teodoro OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO (since 3 August
    1979); election last held 25 June 1989 (next to be held 25 June 1996);
    results - President Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Teodoro OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO was
    reelected without opposition
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Silvestre SIALE BILEKA (since 17 January 1992); Vice Prime
    Minister Anatolio NDONG MBA (since November 1993)
  cabinet:
     Council of Ministers; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  House of People's Representatives:
     (Camara de Representantes del Pueblo) elections last held 21 November 1993;
    seats - (82 total) PDGE 72, various opposition parties 10
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Tribunal
Political parties and leaders:
  ruling party:
    Democratic Party for Equatorial Guinea (PDGE), Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Teodoro
    OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO, party leader
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Equatorial Guinea
                                   Government
  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 MOKUY, 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), leaders unknown;
    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), Jesus Nze Obama Avomo, general
    secretary; Popular Union (UP), Juan Bitui, president
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, BDEAC, CEEAC, ECA, FAO, FZ, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFAD,
    IFC, IFRCS (associate), ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user),
    INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAS (observer), OAU, UDEAC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO,
    UNIDO, UPU, WHO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires ad interim Teodoro Biyogo NSUE
  chancery:
    (temporary) 57 Magnolia Avenue, Mount Vernon, NY 10553
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 667-6913
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Charge d'Affaires Joseph P. O'NEILL
  embassy:
    Calle de Los Ministros, Malabo
  mailing address:
    P.O. Box 597, Malabo
  telephone:
    [240] (9) 21-85, 24-06, 25-07
  FAX:
    [240] (9) 21-64
Flag:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Equatorial Guinea
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Agriculture, forestry, and fishing account for about half of GDP and nearly
    all exports. Subsistence farming predominates. Although pre-independence
    Equatorial Guinea counted on cocoa 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 international donor community have
    failed to revitalize export agriculture. Businesses for the most part are
    owned by government officials and their family members. Commerce accounts
    for about 8% of GDP and the construction, public works, and service sectors
    for about 38%. Undeveloped natural resources include titanium, iron ore,
    manganese, uranium, and alluvial gold. Oil exploration, taking place under
    concessions offered to US, French, and Spanish firms, has been moderately
    successful. Increased production from recently discovered natural gas fields
    will provide a greater share of exports in 1995.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $280 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    7.3% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $700 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.6% (1992 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $32.5 million
  expenditures:
    $35.9 million, including capital expenditures of $3 million (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $56 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    coffee, timber, cocoa beans
  partners:
    Spain 55.2%, Nigeria 11.4%, Cameroon 9.1% (1992)
Imports:
    $62 million (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    petroleum, food, beverages, clothing, machinery
  partners:
    Cameroon 23.1%, Spain 21.8%, France 14.1%, US 4.3% (1992)
External debt:
    $260 million (1992 est)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 11.3% (1993 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    23,000 kW
  production:
    20 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    50 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    fishing, sawmilling
Agriculture:
    accounts for almost 50% of GDP, cash crops - timber and coffee from Rio
    Muni, cocoa from Bioko; food crops - rice, yams, cassava, bananas, oil palm
    nuts, manioc, livestock
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Equatorial Guinea
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY81-89), $14 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $130 million;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $55 million
Currency:
    1 CFA franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Communaute Financiere Africaine francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 529.43 (January
    1995), 555.20 (1994), 273,16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991), 272.26
    (1990)
  note:
    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
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Equatorial Guinea
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    0 km
Highways:
    2,760 km (2,460 km on Rio Muni and 300 km on Bioko)
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    Bata, Luba, Malabo
Merchant marine:
  total:
    2 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 6,412 GRT/6,699 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 1, passenger-cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Equatorial Guinea
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    2,000 telephones; poor system with adequate government services
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    international communications from Bata and Malabo to African and European
    countries; 1 Indian Ocean INTELSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Equatorial Guinea
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, Rapid Intervention Force, National Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 89,752; males fit for military service 45,611 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $2.5 million, NA% of GDP (FY93/94)
n&n&n&
American Samoa
%k%                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of the US)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the
    way from Hawaii to New Zealand
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    199 sq km
  land area:
    199 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Washington, DC
  note:
    includes Rose Island and Swains Island
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    116 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    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
Terrain:
    five volcanic islands with rugged peaks and limited coastal plains, two
    coral atolls (Rose Island, Swains Island)
Natural resources:
    pumice, pumicite
Land use:
  arable land:
    10%
  permanent crops:
    5%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    75%
  other:
    10%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    limited natural fresh water resources; in many areas of the island water
    supplies come from roof catchments
  natural hazards:
    typhoons common from December to March
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                     People
Population:
    57,366 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    3.82% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    36.21 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.01 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    6 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    18.78 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    72.91 years
  male:
    71.03 years
  female:
    74.85 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.3 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    American Samoan(s)
  adjective:
    American Samoan
Ethnic divisions:
    Samoan (Polynesian) 89%, Caucasian 2%, Tongan 4%, other 5%
Religions:
    Christian Congregationalist 50%, Roman Catholic 20%, Protestant
    denominations and other 30%
Languages:
    Samoan (closely related to Hawaiian and other Polynesian languages),
    English; most people are bilingual
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980)
  total population:
    97%
  male:
    98%
  female:
    97%
Labor force:
    14,400 (1990)
  by occupation:
    government 33%, tuna canneries 34%, other 33% (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Territory of American Samoa
  conventional short form:
    American Samoa
Abbreviation:
    AS
Digraph:
    AQ
Type:
    unincorporated and unorganized territory of the US; administered by the US
    Department of Interior, Office of Territorial and International Affairs
Capital:
    Pago Pago
Administrative divisions:
    none (territory of the US)
Independence:
    none (territory of the US)
National holiday:
    Territorial Flag Day, 17 April (1900)
Constitution:
    ratified 1966, in effect 1967
Legal system:
    NA
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993); Vice President
    Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993)
  head of government:
    Governor A. P. LUTALI (since 3 January 1993); Lieutenant Governor Tauese P.
    SUNIA (since 3 January 1993); election last held 3 November 1992 (next to be
    held NA November 1996); results - A. P. LUTALI (Democrat) 53%, Peter Tali
    COLEMAN (Republican) 36%
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Legislative Assembly (Fono)
  House of Representatives:
    elections last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1994);
    results - representatives popularly elected from 17 house districts; seats -
    (21 total, 20 elected, and 1 nonvoting delegate from Swains Island)
  Senate:
    elections last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1996);
    results - senators elected by village chiefs from 12 senate districts; seats
    - (18 total) number of seats by party NA
  US House of Representatives:
    elections last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1994);
    results - Eni R. F. H. FALEOMAVAEGA reelected as delegate
Judicial branch:
    High Court
Political parties and leaders:
    NA
Member of:
    ESCAP (associate), INTERPOL (subbureau), IOC, SPC
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (territory of the US)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (territory of the US)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                   Government
Flag:
    blue with a white triangle edged in red that is based on the fly 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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Economic activity is strongly linked to the US, with which American Samoa
    conducts 80%-90% of its foreign trade. Tuna fishing and tuna processing
    plants are the backbone of the private sector, with canned tuna the primary
    export. The tuna 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
    Samoa's economic well-being.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $128 million (1991 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $2,600 (1991)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    7% (1990)
Unemployment rate:
    12% (1991)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $97 million (includes $43,000,000 in local revenue and $54,000,000 in grant
    revenue);
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY90/91)
Exports:
    $306 million (f.o.b., 1989)
  commodities:
    canned tuna 93%
  partners:
    US 99.6%
Imports:
    $360.3 million (c.i.f., 1989)
  commodities:
    materials for canneries 56%, food 8%, petroleum products 7%, machinery and
    parts 6%
  partners:
    US 62%, Japan 9%, NZ 7%, Australia 11%, Fiji 4%, other 7%
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    30,000 kW
  production:
    90 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,505 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tuna canneries (largely dependent on foreign fishing vessels), meat canning,
    handicrafts
Agriculture:
    bananas, coconuts, vegetables, taro, breadfruit, yams, copra, pineapples,
    papayas, dairy farming
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    $21,042,650 in operational funds and $1,227,000 in construction funds for
    capital improvement projects from the US Department of Interior (1991)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 United States dollar = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    US currency is used
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    350 km
  paved:
    150 km
  unpaved:
    200 km
Ports:
    Aanu'u (new construction), Auasi, Faleosao, Ofu, Pago Pago, Ta'u
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    4
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    3
  note:
    small airstrips on Fituita and Ofu
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    8,399 telephones; good telex, telegraph, and facsimile services
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) and 1 COMSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
  resources include titanium, iron ore,
    manganese, uranium, and alluvial gold. Oil exploration, taking place under
    concessions offered to US, French, and Spanish firms, has been moderately
    successful. Increased production from recently discovered natural gas fields
    will provide a greater share of exports in 1995.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $280 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    7.3% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $700 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.6% (1992 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $32.5 million
  expenditures:
    $35.9 million, including capital expenditures of $3 million (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $56 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    coffee, timber, cocoa beans
  partners:
    Spain 55.2%, Nigeria 11.4%, Cameroon 9.1% (1992)
Imports:
    $62 million (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    petroleum, food, beverages, clothing, machinery
  partners:
    Cameroon 23.1%, Spain 21.8%, France 14.1%, US 4.3% (1992)
External debt:
    $260 million (1992 est)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 11.3% (1993 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    23,000 kW
  production:
    20 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    50 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    fishing, sawmilling
Agriculture:
    accounts for almost 50% of GDP, cash crops - timber and coffee from Rio
    Muni, cocoa from Bioko; food crops - rice, yams, cassava, bananas, oil palm
    nuts, manioc, livestock
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Equatorial Guinea
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY81-89), $14 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $130 million;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $55 million
Currency:
    1 CFA franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Communaute Financiere Africaine francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 529.43 (January
    1995), 555.20 (1994), 273,16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991), 272.26
    (1990)
  note:
    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
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Equatorial Guinea

Ethiopia
ESTONIA - Passport required.  Visas not required for stay of up to 90
days. AIDS test required for residency and work permits.  U.S. test sometimes
accepted.  For further information check Embassy of the Republic of
Estonia, 9 Rockefeller Plaza, Suite J-1421, New York, NY 10020
(212/247-1450).
Estonia - Consular Information Sheet
October 24, 1994
Country Description:  Estonia is a moderately developed European nation that
has experienced significant successes in restructuring its political and
economic relationships.  Tourist facilities are rapidly improving.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required but U.S. citizens are not
required to obtain Estonian visas for most stays of 90 days or less.  U.S.
citizens who plan to work in Estonia or stay longer than 90 days must obtain
a work and/or residence permit from the Estonian Embassy or Consulate before
departure.  U.S. citizens may contact the Estonian Embassy, 1030 15th
Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20005, telephone: [phone], fax: (202)
789-0471, or the Estonian Consulate, 630 Fifth Ave., Suite 2415, New York,
N.Y. 10111, telephone: [phone], fax: [phone], for current
information on visa requirements.  Travelers who plan to enter Russia, even
in transit, from Estonia will need a Russian visa.  U.S. citizens should be
aware that it is not easy to obtain Russian visas in Tallinn.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Estonia is limited.  There is a
shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable needles,
anesthetics, and antibiotics.  Elderly travelers and those with existing
health problems may be at risk due to medical facilities which do not meet
western standards.  Doctors and hospitals expect immediate cash payment for
health services.  The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of English speaking
physicians.  As U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States, travelers have found that supplemental insurance offering
overseas coverage has proven useful.  Further information on health matters
can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline, tel.: [phone].
Crime Information:  Estonian police authorities have advised the U.S.
Embassy of significant crime problems, and the rate of violent crime is
increasing.  It is unadvisable for foreigners who are not in large groups to
be on the streets of Tallinn after dark, especially if they have been
drinking.  Street muggings, car vandalism and car thefts are not uncommon.
Robberies have occurred on trains, in train stations, in hotel rooms, in
bars and restaurants, and on the street even during the day.  The police
force suffers from a lack of manpower, resources and equipment and is not
capable of responding to these problems.  Local police officers are not
likely to speak English, and it can be difficult to obtain police
assistance.  The emergency telephone number in Estonia for police assistance
is 445266.  It is wise for travelers to exercise the same precautions with
regard to personal safety and protection of valuables in Tallinn that they
would in any major U.S. city.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy.  The Department of State's
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful information on guarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad.  This
publication is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  The Estonian crown (kroon) is the only currency.
Credit cards and traveler's checks can be used at major hotels, restaurants
and banks.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the Consular Section of the U.S.
Embassy may obtain updated information on travel and security within Estonia.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Tallinn, Estonia, is located at
Kentmanni 20, telephone [phone].  The fax number is (372-6) 312-025.
 The U.S. Embassy cellular phone number for emergencies is 011- 372-5-244-
091, if dialed from the U.S. and 8-25-244-091, if dialed from within Estonia.
No. 94-245
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated June 14, 1993, to reflect
the change in the crime situation, and to update medical information and
entry requirements.
6                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Estonia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Finland, between Latvia
    and Russia
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    45,100 sq km
  land area:
    43,200 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than New Hampshire and Vermont combined
  note:
    includes 1,520 islands in the Baltic Sea
Land boundaries:
    total 557 km, Latvia 267 km, Russia 290 km
Coastline:
    1,393 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    limits to be fixed in coordination with neighboring states
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    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
Climate:
    maritime, wet, moderate winters, cool summers
Terrain:
    marshy, lowlands
Natural resources:
    shale oil, peat, phosphorite, amber
Land use:
  arable land:
    22%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    11%
  forest and woodland:
    31%
  other:
    36%
Irrigated land:
    110 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air heavily polluted with sulfur dioxide from oil-shale burning power plants
    in northeast; contamination of soil and groundwater with petroleum products,
    chemicals at military bases
  natural hazards:
    flooding occurs frequently in the spring
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Estonia
                                     People
Population:
    1,625,399 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    22% (female 174,304; male 181,101)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 549,473; male 515,426)
  65 years and over:
    13% (female 139,722; male 65,373) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.53% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    13.9 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    11.93 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    3.31 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    18.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    70.17 years
  male:
    65.2 years
  female:
    75.39 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.98 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Estonian(s)
  adjective:
    Estonian
Ethnic divisions:
    Estonian 61.5%, Russian 30.3%, Ukrainian 3.17%, Byelorussian 1.8%, Finn
    1.1%, other 2.13% (1989)
Religions:
    Lutheran
Languages:
    Estonian (official), Latvian, Lithuanian, Russian, other
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    100%
  male:
    100%
  female:
    100%
Labor force:
    750,000 (1992)
  by occupation:
    industry and construction 42%, agriculture and forestry 20%, other 38%
    (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Estonia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Estonia
  conventional short form:
    Estonia
  local long form:
    Eesti Vabariik
  local short form:
    Eesti
  former:
    Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic
Digraph:
    EN
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Tallinn
Administrative divisions:
    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)
  note:
    county centers are in parentheses
Independence:
    6 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 24 February (1918)
Constitution:
    adopted 28 June 1992
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; no judicial review of legislative acts
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Lennart MERI (since 21 October 1992); election last held 20
    September 1992; (next to be held fall 1996); results - no candidate received
    majority; newly elected Parliament elected Lennart MERI (21 October 1992)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Andres TARAND (since NA October 1994)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the prime minister, authorized by the
    legislature
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Parliament (Riigikogu):
    elections last held 5 March 1995 (next to be held NA 1998); results - KMU
    32.22%, RE 16.18%, K 14.17%, Pro Patria and ERSP 7.85%, M 5.98%, Our Home is
    Estonia and Right-Wingers 5.0%; seats - (101 total) KMU 41, RE 19, K 16, Pro
    Patria 8, Our Home is Estonia 6, M 6, Right-Wingers 5
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Estonia
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Coalition Party and Rural Union (KMU) made up of 4 parties: Coalition Party,
    Country People's Party, Farmer's Assembly, and Pensioners' and Families'
    League; Coalition Party, Tiit VAHI, chairman; Country People's Party, Arnold
    RUUTEL, chairman; Farmer's Assembly, Jaak-Hans KUKS, chairman; Pensioners'
    and Families' League; Reform Party-Liberals (RE), Siim KALLAS, chairman;
    Center Party (K), Edgar SAVISAAR, chairman; Union of Pro Patria (Isaama of
    Fatherland), Mart LAAR, chairman; National Independence Party (ERSP), Kelam
    TUNNE, chairman; Our Home is Estonia made up of 2 parties: United Peoples
    Party and the Russian Party in Estonia; United Peoples Party, Viktor
    ANDREJEV, chairman; Russian Party in Estonia, 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
Member of:
    BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFC, ILO,
    IMF, IMO, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NACC, OSCE, PFP, UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WEU (associate partner), WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Toomas Hendrik ILVES
  chancery:
    1030 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005, Suite 1000
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Keith SMITH
  embassy:
    Kentmanni 20, Tallinn EE 0001
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [372] (2) 312-021 through 024
  FAX:
    [372] (2) 312-025
Flag:
    pre-1940 flag restored by Supreme Soviet in May 1990 - three equal
    horizontal bands of blue (top), black, and white
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Estonia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Bolstered by a widespread national desire to reintegrate into Western
    Europe, the Estonian government has pursued an ambitious program of market
    reforms and stabilization measures, which is rapidly transforming the
    economy. Three years after independence - and two years after the
    introduction of the kroon - Estonians are beginning to reap tangible
    benefits; inflation, though still high, was brought down to about 2% per
    month in second half 1994; production declines have bottomed out with
    estimated growth of 4% in 1994; and living standards are rising. Economic
    restructuring has been dramatic. By 1994 the service sector accounted for
    over 55% of GDP, while the once-dominant heavy industrial sector continues
    to shrink. The private sector is growing rapidly; the share of the state
    enterprises in the economy has steadily declined and by late 1994 accounted
    for only about 40% of GDP. Estonia's foreign trade has shifted rapidly from
    East to West; the Western industrialized countries now account for
    two-thirds of foreign trade.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $10.4 billion (1994 estimate as extrapolated
    from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $6,460 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3.3% per month (1994 average)
Unemployment rate:
    about 2% in 1994 (official estimate but large number of underemployed
    workers)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $643 million
  expenditures:
    $639 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $1.65 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    textile 14%, food products 11%, vehicles 11%, metals 11% (1993)
  partners:
    Russia, Finland, Sweden, Germany
Imports:
    $1 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery 18%, fuels 15%, vehicles 14%, textiles 10% (1993)
  partners:
    Finland, Russia, Germany, Sweden
External debt:
    $650 million (end of 1991)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -27% (1993)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    3,420,000 kW
  production:
    11.3 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    6,528 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    oil shale, shipbuilding, phosphates, electric motors, excavators, cement,
    furniture, clothing, textiles, paper, shoes, apparel
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Estonia
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 10% of GDP; employs 20% of work force; very efficient by Soviet
    standards; net exports of meat, fish, dairy products, and potatoes; imports
    of feedgrains for livestock; fruits and vegetables
Illicit drugs:
    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
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (1992), $10 million
Currency:
    1 Estonian kroon (EEK) = 100 cents (introduced in August 1992)
Exchange rates:
    kroons (EEK) per US$1 - 12.25 (January 1995); note - kroons are tied to the
    German Deutschmark at a fixed rate of 8 to 1
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Estonia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,030 km common carrier lines only; does not include dedicated industrial
    lines
  broad gauge:
    1,030 km 1.520-m gauge (1990)
Highways:
  total:
    30,300 km
  paved or graveled:
    29,200 km
  unpaved:
    earth 1,100 km (1990)
Inland waterways:
    500 km perennially navigable
Pipelines:
    natural gas 420 km (1992)
Ports:
    Haapsalu, Narva, Novotallin, Paldiski, Parnu, Tallinn
Merchant marine:
  total:
    65 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 415,332 GRT/532,749 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 6, cargo 44, container 2, oil tanker 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 7,
    short-sea passenger 4
Airports:
  total:
    22
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    7
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    5
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Estonia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    about 400,000 telephones; 246 telephones/1,000 persons; telephone 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 telephone service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    international traffic is carried to the other former USSR republics by land
    line or microwave 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 Estonia access to international
    circuits everywhere; substantial investment has been made in cellular
    systems which are operational throughout Estonia and also Latvia and which
    have access to the international packet switched digital network via
    Helsinki
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    3; note - provide Estonian programs as well as Moscow Ostenkino's first and
    second programs
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Estonia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air Defense Force (not officially sanctioned),
    Maritime Border Guard, Volunteer Defense League (Kaitseliit), Security
    Forces (internal and border troops), Coast Guard
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 396,588; males fit for military service 311,838; males reach
    military age (18) annually 11,915 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $34.1 million, almost 5% of the overall State
    budget and 1.5% of GDP (1995)
Barbados
BANGLADESH - Passport, visa, and onward/return ticket required.
Tourist/business visa  requires 2 application forms, 2 photos.   Business
visa also requires company letter.  For longer stays and more information
consult Embassy of the People's Republic of Bangladesh, 2201 Wisconsin
Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20007 (202/342-8373).
1                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Bangladesh
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Asia, bordering the Bay of Bengal, between Burma and India
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    144,000 sq km
  land area:
    133,910 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Wisconsin
Land boundaries:
    total 4,246 km, Burma 193 km, India 4,053 km
Coastline:
    580 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    18 nm
  continental shelf:
    up to the outer limits of the continental margin
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    a portion of the boundary with India is in dispute; water-sharing problems
    with upstream riparian India over the Ganges
Climate:
    tropical; cool, dry winter (October to March); hot, humid summer (March to
    June); cool, rainy monsoon (June to October)
Terrain:
    mostly flat alluvial plain; hilly in southeast
Natural resources:
    natural gas, arable land, timber
Land use:
  arable land:
    67%
  permanent crops:
    2%
  meadows and pastures:
    4%
  forest and woodland:
    16%
  other:
    11%
Irrigated land:
    27,380 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    many people are landless and forced to live on and cultivate flood-prone
    land; limited access to potable water; water-borne diseases prevalent; water
    pollution 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
  natural hazards:
    droughts, cyclones; much of the country routinely flooded during the summer
    monsoon season
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Bangladesh
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental
    Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection,
    Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Bangladesh
                                     People
Population:
    128,094,948 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    40% (female 25,195,262; male 26,352,299)
  15-64 years:
    57% (female 34,862,105; male 37,867,705)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 1,761,336; male 2,056,241) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.32% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    34.62 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    11.43 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    104.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    55.46 years
  male:
    55.69 years
  female:
    55.22 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.39 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Bangladeshi(s)
  adjective:
    Bangladesh
Ethnic divisions:
    Bengali 98%, Biharis 250,000, tribals less than 1 million
Religions:
    Muslim 83%, Hindu 16%, Buddhist, Christian, other
Languages:
    Bangla (official), English
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    35%
  male:
    47%
  female:
    22%
Labor force:
    50.1 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 65%, services 21%, industry and mining 14% (1989)
  note:
    extensive export of labor to Saudi Arabia, UAE, and Oman (1991)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Bangladesh
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    People's Republic of Bangladesh
  conventional short form:
    Bangladesh
  former:
    East Pakistan
Digraph:
    BG
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Dhaka
Administrative divisions:
    4 divisions; Chittagong, Dhaka, Khulna, Rajshahi
Independence:
    16 December 1971 (from Pakistan)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 26 March (1971)
Constitution:
    4 November 1972, effective 16 December 1972, suspended following coup of 24
    March 1982, restored 10 November 1986, amended many times
Legal system:
    based on English common law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Abdur Rahman BISWAS (since 8 October 1991); election last held 8
    October 1991 (next to be held by NA October 1996); results - Abdur Rahman
    BISWAS received 52.1% of parliamentary vote
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Khaleda ZIAur RAHMAN (since 20 March 1991)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Parliament (Jatiya Sangsad):
    elections last held 27 February 1991 (next to be held by February 1996);
    results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (330 total, 300 elected and
    30 seats reserved for women) BNP 168, AL 93, JP 35, JI 20, BCP 5, National
    Awami Party (Muzaffar) 1, Workers Party 1, JSD 1, Ganotantri Party 1, Islami
    Oikya Jote 1, NDP 1, independents 3
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Bangladesh Nationalist Party (BNP), Khaleda ZIAur RAHMAN; Awami League (AL),
    Sheikh Hasina WAJED; Jatiyo Party (JP), Hussain Mohammad ERSHAD (in jail);
    Jamaat-E-Islami (JI), Ali KHAN; Bangladesh Communist Party (BCP), Saifuddin
    Ahmed MANIK; National Awami Party (Muzaffar); Workers Party, leader NA;
    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; Democratic League, Khondakar MUSHTAQUE Ahmed; United People's Party,
    Kazi ZAFAR Ahmed
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Bangladesh
                                   Government
Member of:
    AsDB, C, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM,
    IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, NAM, OIC, SAARC, UN, UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNESCO,
    UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNOMIG, UNOMIL, UNOMOZ, UNOMUR, UNOSOM, UNPROFOR, UNU, UPU,
    WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Humayun KABIR
  chancery:
    2201 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 8376
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador David N. MERRILL
  embassy:
    Diplomatic Enclave, Madani Avenue, Baridhara, Dhaka
  mailing address:
    G. P. O. Box 323, Dhaka 1212
  telephone:
    [880] (2) 884700 through 884722
  FAX:
    [880] (2) 883-744
Flag:
    green with a large red disk slightly to the hoist side of center; green is
    the traditional color of Islam
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Bangladesh
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Despite sustained domestic and international efforts to improve economic and
    demographic prospects, Bangladesh remains one of the world's poorest, most
    densely populated, and least developed nations. 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), and inadequate power supplies.
    Excellent rice crops and expansion of the export garment industry led to
    real growth of 4% in 1992 and again in 1993. Policy measures intended to
    reduce government regulation of private industry, to curb population growth,
    and to expand employment opportunities have had only partial success given
    the serious nature of Bangladesh's basic problems.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $130.1 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,040 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    4.3% (1992 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $2.8 billion
  expenditures:
    $4.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $1.8 billion (FY92/93)
Exports:
    $2.38 billion (1993)
  commodities:
    garments, jute and jute goods, leather, shrimp
  partners:
    US 33%, Western Europe 39% (Germany 8.4%, Italy 6%) (FY91/92 est.)
Imports:
    $3.99 billion (1993)
  commodities:
    capital goods, petroleum, food, textiles
  partners:
    Hong Kong 7.5%, Singapore 7.4%, China 7.4%, Japan 7.1% (FY91/92 est.)
External debt:
    $13.5 billion (June 1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 6.9% (FY92/93 est.); accounts for 9.4% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    2,740,000 kW
  production:
    9.2 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    70 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    jute manufacturing, cotton textiles, food processing, steel, fertilizer
Agriculture:
    accounts for 33% of GDP, 65% of employment, and one-fifth of exports;
    world's largest exporter of jute; commercial products - jute, rice, wheat,
    tea, sugarcane, potatoes, beef, milk, poultry; shortages include wheat,
    vegetable oils, cotton
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Bangladesh
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    transit country for illegal drugs produced in neighboring countries
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $3.4 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1980-89), $11.65 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $6.52 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $1.5
    billion
Currency:
    1 taka (Tk) = 100 poiska
Exchange rates:
    taka (Tk) per US$1 - 40.250 (January 1995), 40.212 (1994), 39.567 (1993),
    38.951 (1992), 36.596 (1991), 34.569 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Bangladesh
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,892 km
  broad gauge:
    978 km 1.676-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    1,914 km 1.000-m gauge (1992)
Highways:
  total:
    7,240 km
  paved:
    3,840 km
  unpaved:
    3,400 km (1985)
Inland waterways:
    5,150-8,046 km navigable waterways (includes 2,575-3,058 km main cargo
    routes)
Pipelines:
    natural gas 1,220 km
Ports:
    Barisal, Chandpur, Chittagong, Cox's Bazar, Dacca, Khulna, Mongla (includes
    Chalna), Narayanganj
Merchant marine:
  total:
    38 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 293,304 GRT/428,013 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 2, cargo 31, oil tanker 2, refrigerated cargo 3
Airports:
  total:
    16
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    7
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Bangladesh
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    241,250 telephones; 1 telephone/522 persons; poor domestic telephone service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean) earth stations; adequate international radio
    communications and landline service
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 9, FM 6, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    11
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Bangladesh
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force
  paramilitary forces:
    Bangladesh Rifles, Bangladesh Ansars, Armed Police Reserve, Village Defense
    Parties, National Cadet Corps
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 33,039,035; males fit for military service 19,607,817 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $448 million, 1.7% of GDP (FY93/94)
14 kd (Tartu), Valga maakond (Valga), Viljandi
    maakond (Viljandi), Voru maakond (Voru)
  note:
    county centers are in parentheses
Independence:
    6 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 24 February (1918)
Constitution:
    adopted 28 June 1992
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; no judicial review of legislative acts
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Lennart MERI (since 21 October 1992); election last held 20
    September 1992; (next to be he
Europa Island
LETHIOPIA - Passport and visa required.  Tourist/business visa valid for
stay up to 2 years, fee $50 or transit visa for 48 hours, $20, requires
1 application, 1 photo and yellow fever immunization.  Business visa
requires company letter.  Send $2 postage for return of passport or $15.30 for
Federal Express and $9.95 for Express Mail service.  (Money orders
only.) Allow 2 weeks for processing.    Exit visas are required of all
visitors remaining in Ethiopia for more than 30 days.  For longer stays and
other information contact Embassy of Ethiopia, 2134 Kalorama Rd., N.W.,
Washington, D.C.  20008 (202/234-2281/2).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Ethiopia
============================================================
Ethiopia - Consular Information Sheet
 September 13, 1995
Country Description:  Ethiopia is a developing east African
country.  A transitional government, which came to power in
September 1991 following two decades of civil war, turned over power
to an elected permanent government August 22, 1995.  Although most
of Ethiopia is stable, some outlying areas of the country continue
to experience lawlessness and there are scattered reports of
low-level civil strife.  Tourism facilities in Ethiopia are minimal.
 Eritrea, formerly a province of Ethiopia, became an independent
country on May 24, 1993.  There is a separate Consular Information
Sheet on Eritrea.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required, as well as
evidence of yellow fever immunization.  Travelers must enter
Ethiopia by air, either at Addis Ababa or at Dire Dawa.  Travelers
entering overland risk being detained by immigration authorities
and/or fined.  Airport visas may be obtained only if 72 hours
advance notice has been provided by the traveler's sponsoring
organization to proper authorities within Ethiopia.  Airport visas
are not available to travelers departing from or traveling through a
country where an Ethiopian diplomatic mission is located.  Exit
visas are required of all visitors remaining in Ethiopia for more
than 30 days.  There is an airport departure tax of ten U. S.
dollars, payable in hard currency, for all foreigners.   For more
information on entry/exit requirements, travelers may contact the
Embassy of Ethiopia, 2134 Kalorama Road, N.W., Washington, D.C.
20008, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Incidents of banditry are not uncommon in
the southernmost areas of Ethiopia, along the Kenyan border and as
far north as Woleyita (former Sidamo province).  Isolated incidents
of violence have recently occurred in other regions as well,
including the Lake Tana, Lake Langano, Awassa, and Arbaminch areas.
There have also been sporadic reports of armed clashes between
various opposition elements and government forces in Region 5
(Somalia border area).  There is also possible spillover from the
conflict in Somalia for travelers in nearby border areas.  Oromo
Liberation Front (OLF) elements claim that armed OLF units
periodically clash with forces of the Ethiopian People's
Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) in the western area of
Nekemte (former Wollega province) and in the east, around Harar.
However, these claims are unconfirmed.
Travel within the Country:  Domestic and international air services
generally operate on schedule, although flights between Addis Ababa
and Asmara are heavily booked and may be canceled without warning.
Airport security procedures are thorough.  Nevertheless, there have
been occasional hijackings of domestic flights.  No American
citizens or other passengers have been harmed.
Domestic Travel Hazards:  Land mines and other anti-personnel
devices can be encountered frequently in areas which suffered
fighting during the war.  Areas such as the route to Asebeteferi,
the vicinity of Harar, the Ogaden region, and the roads north from
Addis Ababa to Tigray province are known mined areas.  Many persons,
including foreigners, have been injured by these devices.  Travel on
paved roads generally is safer than travel on unpaved roads.  Areas
off the pavement around bridges or water crossings may also be
hazardous.  Overland travel is especially dangerous in areas east
and south of Harar, in Region 5 (formerly known as the Ogaden), due
to land mines on the main road between Harar and Jijiga.  Irregular
fuel supplies can make traveling by car outside of Addis Ababa very
difficult.  Vehicle travel after dark outside Addis Ababa and other
cities is dangerous due to the possibility of armed robbery and
dangerous driving conditions.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Ethiopia are extremely
limited.  Even the best hospitals in Addis Ababa suffer from
inadequate facilities, antiquated equipment and shortages of
supplies, particularly medicine, although physicians themselves are
generally well-trained.  Emergency assistance is limited.  Travelers
generally bring their own supplies of prescription drugs and
preventive medicines.  Doctors and hospitals usually expect cash
payment for services.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not
provide for payment of medical services outside the United States.
Not all U.S. medical insurance is valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage and
medical evacuation provisions has proved useful.  Information on
health matters may be obtained from the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Pickpocketing is prevalent in urban areas
and there have been numerous reports of thieves snatching jewelry.
Banditry occurs on roads outside major towns or cities, and may be
accompanied by violence.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S.
passport should be reported immediately to local police and to the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip
Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to sub-Saharan Africa" provide
useful information on protecting personal security while traveling
abroad and on travel in the region in general.  Both are available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  The black market for hard currency is
declining as the official and free market rates for the Ethiopian
birr converge.  Visitors must declare hard currency upon arrival and
may be required to present this declaration when applying for an
exit visa.  Penalties for exchanging money on the black market range
from fines to imprisonment.  Credit cards are accepted by only one
hotel in Ethiopia.  Foreigners are required to pay for hotel and car
rental expenses in hard currency.
Prohibition on Photography:  Certain buildings and public places
may not be photographed.  Travel guides, police, and Ethiopian
officials can advise if a particular site may be photographed.
Photographing banned sites may result in the confiscation of film
and camera.  Equipment such as video cameras and laptop computers
must be declared upon arrival and departure from Ethiopia.  Tape
recorders require special customs permits.  Those intending
prolonged stays should check with the Ethiopian Embassy prior to
travel regarding customs procedures.
Export of Antiques and Animal Skins:  Permits are required before
either antiques or animal skins can be exported from Ethiopia.
Antique religious artifacts, including "Ethiopian crosses," require
documentation from the National Museum in Addis Ababa.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences, fines and possible confiscation
of personal property.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens who register at the
U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa may obtain updated information on travel
and security in Ethiopia.  The U.S. Embassy is located at Entoto
Avenue, P.O. Box 1014, in Addis Ababa.  The telephone is (251-1)
550-666, extension 316/336; the emergency afterhours number is
(251-1) 552-558.  The Embassy general fax number is (251-1) 55-21-91
and the consular fax number is (251-1) 551-094/551-748.
 No. 95-111
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 6, 1995,
to update the summary of the political situation, the areas where
banditry has been reported, the description of airport security, and
currency developments.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Ethiopia
============================================================
Ethiopia - Public Announcement
June 28, 1995
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release
PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT - ETHIOPIA
The American Embassy in Addis Ababa issued a warden message on June
26 informing the local American community of the assassination
attempt on
President Mubarek of Egypt.  The message stated further all American
residents should exercise caution, especially in the next few days
during the Organization of African Unity summit.  Persons arriving
in Ethiopia should be aware of heightened security concerns and be
prepared to cooperate fully with Ethiopian security personnel.
For further information on travel to Ethiopia consult the
Department of State's Consular Information Sheet of April 6, 1995.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Ethiopia
============================================================
Ethiopia - Consular Information Sheet
 September 13, 1995
Country Description:  Ethiopia is a developing east African
country.  A transitional government, which came to power in
September 1991 following two decades of civil war, turned over power
to an elected permanent government August 22, 1995.  Although most
of Ethiopia is stable, some outlying areas of the country continue
to experience lawlessness and there are scattered reports of
low-level civil strife.  Tourism facilities in Ethiopia are minimal.
 Eritrea, formerly a province of Ethiopia, became an independent
country on May 24, 1993.  There is a separate Consular Information
Sheet on Eritrea.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required, as well as
evidence of yellow fever immunization.  Travelers must enter
Ethiopia by air, either at Addis Ababa or at Dire Dawa.  Travelers
entering overland risk being detained by immigration authorities
and/or fined.  Airport visas may be obtained only if 72 hours
advance notice has been provided by the traveler's sponsoring
organization to proper authorities within Ethiopia.  Airport visas
are not available to travelers departing from or traveling through a
country where an Ethiopian diplomatic mission is located.  Exit
visas are required of all visitors remaining in Ethiopia for more
than 30 days.  There is an airport departure tax of ten U. S.
dollars, payable in hard currency, for all foreigners.   For more
information on entry/exit requirements, travelers may contact the
Embassy of Ethiopia, 2134 Kalorama Road, N.W., Washington, D.C.
20008, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Incidents of banditry are not uncommon in
the southernmost areas of Ethiopia, along the Kenyan border and as
far north as Woleyita (former Sidamo province).  Isolated incidents
of violence have recently occurred in other regions as well,
including the Lake Tana, Lake Langano, Awassa, and Arbaminch areas.
There have also been sporadic reports of armed clashes between
various opposition elements and government forces in Region 5
(Somalia border area).  There is also possible spillover from the
conflict in Somalia for travelers in nearby border areas.  Oromo
Liberation Front (OLF) elements claim that armed OLF units
periodically clash with forces of the Ethiopian People's
Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) in the western area of
Nekemte (former Wollega province) and in the east, around Harar.
However, these claims are unconfirmed.
Travel within the Country:  Domestic and international air services
generally operate on schedule, although flights between Addis Ababa
and Asmara are heavily booked and may be canceled without warning.
Airport security procedures are thorough.  Nevertheless, there have
been occasional hijackings of domestic flights.  No American
citizens or other passengers have been harmed.
Domestic Travel Hazards:  Land mines and other anti-personnel
devices can be encountered frequently in areas which suffered
fighting during the war.  Areas such as the route to Asebeteferi,
the vicinity of Harar, the Ogaden region, and the roads north from
Addis Ababa to Tigray province are known mined areas.  Many persons,
including foreigners, have been injured by these devices.  Travel on
paved roads generally is safer than travel on unpaved roads.  Areas
off the pavement around bridges or water crossings may also be
hazardous.  Overland travel is especially dangerous in areas east
and south of Harar, in Region 5 (formerly known as the Ogaden), due
to land mines on the main road between Harar and Jijiga.  Irregular
fuel supplies can make traveling by car outside of Addis Ababa very
difficult.  Vehicle travel after dark outside Addis Ababa and other
cities is dangerous due to the possibility of armed robbery and
dangerous driving conditions.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Ethiopia are extremely
limited.  Even the best hospitals in Addis Ababa suffer from
inadequate facilities, antiquated equipment and shortages of
supplies, particularly medicine, although physicians themselves are
generally well-trained.  Emergency assistance is limited.  Travelers
generally bring their own supplies of prescription drugs and
preventive medicines.  Doctors and hospitals usually expect cash
payment for services.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not
provide for payment of medical services outside the United States.
Not all U.S. medical insurance is valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage and
medical evacuation provisions has proved useful.  Information on
health matters may be obtained from the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Pickpocketing is prevalent in urban areas
and there have been numerous reports of thieves snatching jewelry.
Banditry occurs on roads outside major towns or cities, and may be
accompanied by violence.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S.
passport should be reported immediately to local police and to the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip
Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to sub-Saharan Africa" provide
useful information on protecting personal security while traveling
abroad and on travel in the region in general.  Both are available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  The black market for hard currency is
declining as the official and free market rates for the Ethiopian
birr converge.  Visitors must declare hard currency upon arrival and
may be required to present this declaration when applying for an
exit visa.  Penalties for exchanging money on the black market range
from fines to imprisonment.  Credit cards are accepted by only one
hotel in Ethiopia.  Foreigners are required to pay for hotel and car
rental expenses in hard currency.
Prohibition on Photography:  Certain buildings and public places
may not be photographed.  Travel guides, police, and Ethiopian
officials can advise if a particular site may be photographed.
Photographing banned sites may result in the confiscation of film
and camera.  Equipment such as video cameras and laptop computers
must be declared upon arrival and departure from Ethiopia.  Tape
recorders require special customs permits.  Those intending
prolonged stays should check with the Ethiopian Embassy prior to
travel regarding customs procedures.
Export of Antiques and Animal Skins:  Permits are required before
either antiques or animal skins can be exported from Ethiopia.
Antique religious artifacts, including "Ethiopian crosses," require
documentation from the National Museum in Addis Ababa.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences, fines and possible confiscation
of personal property.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens who register at the
U.S. Embassy in Addis Ababa may obtain updated information on travel
and security in Ethiopia.  The U.S. Embassy is located at Entoto
Avenue, P.O. Box 1014, in Addis Ababa.  The telephone is (251-1)
550-666, extension 316/336; the emergency afterhours number is
(251-1) 552-558.  The Embassy general fax number is (251-1) 55-21-91
and the consular fax number is (251-1) 551-094/551-748.
 No. 95-111
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 6, 1995,
to update the summary of the political situation, the areas where
banditry has been reported, the description of airport security, and
currency developments.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
8                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Ethiopia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Africa, west of Somalia
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    1,127,127 sq km
  land area:
    1,119,683 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 5,311 km, Djibouti 337 km, Eritrea 912 km, Kenya 830 km, Somalia 1,626
    km, Sudan 1,606 km
Coastline:
    none - landlocked
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    southern half of the boundary with Somalia is a Provisional Administrative
    Line; territorial dispute with Somalia over the Ogaden
Climate:
    tropical monsoon with wide topographic-induced variation
Terrain:
    high plateau with central mountain range divided by Great Rift Valley
Natural resources:
    small reserves of gold, platinum, copper, potash
Land use:
  arable land:
    12%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    41%
  forest and woodland:
    24%
  other:
    22%
Irrigated land:
    1,620 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification; famine
  natural hazards:
    geologically active Great Rift Valley susceptible to earthquakes, volcanic
    eruptions; frequent droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Ozone Layer
    Protection; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Environmental
    Modification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
Note:
    landlocked - entire coastline along the Red Sea was lost with the de jure
    independence of Eritrea on 27 April 1993
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Ethiopia
                                     People
Population:
    55,979,018 (July 1995 est.)
  note:
    Ethiopian demographic data, except population and population growth rate,
    include Eritrea
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    46% (female 12,782,345; male 12,802,187)
  15-64 years:
    52% (female 14,352,059; male 14,511,342)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 815,974; male 715,111) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.09% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    46.68 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    15.77 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    repatriation of Ethiopian refugees from Sudan, Kenya and Somalia, where they
    had taken refuge from war and famine in earlier years, is expected to
    continue in 1995; additional influxes of Sudanese and Somalis fleeing
    fighting in their countries can be expected in 1995
Infant mortality rate:
    120.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    50 years
  male:
    48.28 years
  female:
    51.78 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    7.07 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Ethiopian(s)
  adjective:
    Ethiopian
Ethnic divisions:
    Oromo 40%, Amhara and Tigrean 32%, Sidamo 9%, Shankella 6%, Somali 6%, Afar
    4%, Gurage 2%, other 1%
Religions:
    Muslim 45%-50%, Ethiopian Orthodox 35%-40%, animist 12%, other 5%
Languages:
    Amharic (official), Tigrinya, Orominga, Guaraginga, Somali, Arabic, English
    (major foreign language taught in schools)
Literacy:
    age 10 and over can read and write (1984)
  total population:
    24%
  male:
    33%
  female:
    16%
Labor force:
    18 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Ethiopia
                                     People
  by occupation:
    agriculture and animal husbandry 80%, government and services 12%, industry
    and construction 8% (1985)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Ethiopia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Ethiopia
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Ityop'iya
Digraph:
    ET
Type:
    transitional government
  note:
    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 elections are scheduled for May 1995; the
    administrative regions will elect regional assemblies by popular vote; the
    National Assembly will have two chambers - one elected by popular vote and
    the other selected as representatives by the regional assemblies; the lower
    house of the National Assembly will select or confirm the president, the
    prime minister and the cabinet officers and judges; the prime minister will
    be the chief executive officer and the duties of the president will be
    mostly ceremonial
Capital:
    Addis Ababa
Administrative divisions:
    14 ethnically-based administrative regions (astedader akababiwach, singular
    - astedader akababi) Addis Ababa, Afar, Amhara, Benishangul, Gambela,
    Gurage-Hadiya-Kambata, Hareri, Kefa, Omo, Oromo, Sidama, Somali, Tigray,
    Wolayta
  note:
    the following named four administrative regions may have been abolished and
    their territories distributed among the remaining ten regions: Kefa, Omo,
    Sidama, and Wolayta
Independence:
    oldest independent country in Africa and one of the oldest in the world - at
    least 2,000 years
National holiday:
    National Day, 28 May (1991) (defeat of Mengistu regime)
Constitution:
    new constitution promulgated in December 1994
Legal system:
    NA
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President MELES Zenawi (since 1 June 1991); appointed by the Council of
    Representatives following the military defeat of the MENGISTU government;
    following the elections to the National Assembly scheduled for May 1995 the
    lower house of the National Assembly will nominate a new president
  head of government:
    Prime Minister TAMIRAT Layne (since 6 June 1991); a new prime minister will
    be designated by the party in power following the elections to the General
    Assembly in May 1995
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Ethiopia
                                   Government
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; presently designated by the chairman of the Council of
    Representatives; under the new constitution and following the elections in
    May 1995 the cabinet officers will be selected by the prime minister
Legislative branch:
  Constituent Assembly:
    elections were held on 5 June 1994; results - government parties swept
    almost all seats; in December 1994 the Constituent Assembly ratified the new
    constitution with few changes; the new constitution prescribes two chambers
    for the new National Assembly - one which is elected by popular vote and one
    which represents the ethnic interests of the regional governments
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF), MELES Zenawi;
Other political or pressure groups:
    Oromo Liberation Front (OLF); All Amhara People's Organization; Southern
    Ethiopia People's Democratic Coalition; numerous small, ethnic-based groups
    have formed since Mengistu's resignation, including several Islamic militant
    groups
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-24, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD,
    IFC, IFRCS, IGADD, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO, ITU, NAM,
    OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNU, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador BERHANE Gebre-Christos
  chancery:
    2134 Kalorama Road NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 2282
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Irvin HICKS
  embassy:
    Entoto Street, Addis Ababa
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 1014, Addis Ababa
  telephone:
    [251] (1) 550666
  FAX:
    [251] (1) 552191
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of green (top), yellow, and red; Ethiopia 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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Ethiopia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    With the independence of Eritrea on 27 April 1993, Ethiopia 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 45% of GDP, 90% of exports, and 80% of total employment; coffee
    generates 60% of export earnings. The agricultural sector suffers from
    frequent periods of drought, 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 infrastructure badly neglected during years of civil strife.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $20.3 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $380 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    10% (FY93/94)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.2 billion
  expenditures:
    $1.7 billion, including capital expenditures of $707 million (FY93/94)
Exports:
    $219.8 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    coffee, leather products, gold
  partners:
    Germany, Japan, Saudi Arabia, France, Italy
Imports:
    $1.04 billion (c.i.f., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    capital goods, consumer goods, fuel
  partners:
    US, Germany, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Japan
External debt:
    $3.7 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -3.3% (FY91/92); accounts for 12% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    460,000 kW
  production:
    1.3 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    23 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    food processing, beverages, textiles, chemicals, metals processing, cement
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Ethiopia
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 45% of GDP; export crops of coffee and oilseeds are grown
    partly on state farms; estimated 50% of agricultural production is at
    subsistence level; principal crops and livestock - cereals, pulses, coffee,
    oilseeds, sugarcane, potatoes and other vegetables, hides and skins, cattle,
    sheep, goats
Illicit drugs:
    transit hub for heroin originating in Southwest and Southeast Asia and
    destined for Europe and North America as well as cocaine destined for
    southern African markets; cultivates qat (chat) for local use and regional
    export
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $504 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $3.4 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $8 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $2
    billion
Currency:
    1 birr (Br) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    birr (Br) per US$1 - 5.9500 (January 1995), 5.9500 (1994), 5.0000 (fixed
    rate 1992-93); fixed at 2.070 before 1992; note - official rate pegged to
    the US$
Fiscal year:
    8 July - 7 July
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Ethiopia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    681 km (Ethiopian segment of the Addis Ababa-Djibouti railroad)
  narrow gauge:
    681 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    24,127 km
  paved:
    3,289 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 6,664 km; improved earth 1,652 km; unimproved earth 12,522 km (1993)
Ports:
    none
Merchant marine:
  total:
    12 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 62,627 GRT/88,909 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 8, livestock carrier 1, oil tanker 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    98
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    24
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    6
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    14
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    42
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Ethiopia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; open-wire and radio relay system adequate for government use
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    open wire and microwave radio relay links
  international:
    open-wire to Sudan and Djibouti; microwave radio relay to Kenya and
    Djibouti; 3 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Pacific Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 4, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    9 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    100,000
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Ethiopia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Transitional Government of Ethiopia Forces, Air Force, Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 12,658,084; males fit for military service 6,569,759; males
    reach military age (18) annually 565,976 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $140 million, 4.1% of GDP (FY94/95)
ystem between Finland and the former Soviet Union under which So
British Indian Ocean Territory
VIRGIN ISLANDS, British - Islands include Anegarda, Jost van Dyke,
Tortola and Virgin Gorda.  Proof of U.S. citizenship, photo ID,
onward/return ticket and sufficient funds required for tourist stay
up to 3 months. AIDS test required for residency or work; U.S. test
accepted. Consult British Embassy for further information (202/986-0205).
`!^!                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             British Virgin Islands
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (dependent territory of the UK)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             British Virgin Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of
    Puerto Rico
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    150 sq km
  land area:
    150 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.8 times the size of Washington, DC
  note:
    includes the island of Anegada
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    80 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    subtropical; humid; temperatures moderated by trade winds
Terrain:
    coral islands relatively flat; volcanic islands steep, hilly
Natural resources:
    negligible
Land use:
  arable land:
    20%
  permanent crops:
    7%
  meadows and pastures:
    33%
  forest and woodland:
    7%
  other:
    33%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    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)
  natural hazards:
    hurricanes and tropical storms (July to October)
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    strong ties to nearby US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             British Virgin Islands
                                     People
Population:
    13,027 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    1.27% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    20.25 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.07 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -1.5 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    19.33 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    72.73 years
  male:
    70.88 years
  female:
    74.7 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.27 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    British Virgin Islander(s)
  adjective:
    British Virgin Islander
Ethnic divisions:
    black 90%, white, Asian
Religions:
    Protestant 86% (Methodist 45%, Anglican 21%, Church of God 7%, Seventh-Day
    Adventist 5%, Baptist 4%, Jehovah's Witnesses 2%, other 2%), Roman Catholic
    6%, none 2%, other 6% (1981)
Languages:
    English (official)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1970)
  total population:
    98%
  male:
    98%
  female:
    98%
Labor force:
    4,911 (1980)
  by occupation:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             British Virgin Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    British Virgin Islands
Abbreviation:
    BVI
Digraph:
    VI
Type:
    dependent territory of the UK
Capital:
    Road Town
Administrative divisions:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
Independence:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
National holiday:
    Territory Day, 1 July
Constitution:
    1 June 1977
Legal system:
    English law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor Peter
    Alfred PENFOLD (since 14 October 1991)
  head of government:
    Chief Minister H. Lavity STOUTT (since NA September 1986)
  cabinet:
    Executive Council; appointed by the governor
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Legislative Council:
    election last held 20 February 1995 (next to be held on NA February 2000);
    results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (13 total) VIP 6, CCM 2, UP
    2, independents 3
  note:
    legislature was expanded to 13 seats as of election on 20 February 1995
Judicial branch:
    Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    United Party (UP), Conrad MADURO; Virgin Islands Party (VIP), H. Lavity
    STOUTT; Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM), E. Walwyln BREWLEY
Member of:
    CARICOM (associate), CDB, ECLAC (associate), INTERPOL (subbureau), IOC, OECS
    (associate), UNESCO (associate)
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
Flag:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             British Virgin Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy, one of the most prosperous in the Caribbean area, is highly
    dependent on the tourist industry, which generates about 21% of the national
    income. In 1985 the government offered offshore registration to companies
    wishing to incorporate in the islands, and, in consequence, incorporation
    fees generated about $2 million in 1987. The economy slowed in 1991 because
    of the poor performances of the tourist sector and tight commercial bank
    credit. Livestock raising is the most significant agricultural activity. The
    islands' crops, limited by poor soils, are unable to meet food requirements.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $133 million (1991)
National product real growth rate:
    2% (1991)
National product per capita:
    $10,600 (1991)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.5% (1990 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NEGL% (1992)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $51 million
  expenditures:
    $88 million, including capital expenditures of $38 million (1991)
Exports:
    $2.7 million (f.o.b., 1988)
  commodities:
    rum, fresh fish, gravel, sand, fruits, animals
  partners:
    Virgin Islands (US), Puerto Rico, US
Imports:
    $11.5 million (c.i.f., 1988)
  commodities:
    building materials, automobiles, foodstuffs, machinery
  partners:
    Virgin Islands (US), Puerto Rico, US
External debt:
    $4.5 million (1985)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 4% (1985)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    10,500 kW
  production:
    50 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,148 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tourism, light industry, construction, rum, concrete block, offshore
    financial center
Agriculture:
    livestock (including poultry), fish, fruit, vegetables
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    US currency is used
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             British Virgin Islands
                                     Economy
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             British Virgin Islands
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    106 km (1983)
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    Road Town
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             British Virgin Islands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    3,000 telephones; worldwide external telephone service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    submarine cable communication links to Bermuda
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             British Virgin Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the UK
 NAir Force, Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 12,658,084; males fit for military service 6,569,759; males
    reach military age (18) annually 565,976 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $140 million, 4.1% of GDP (FY94/95)
Falkland Islands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Europa Island
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (possession of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Europa Island
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, island in the Mozambique Channel, about one-half of the way
    from southern Madagascar to southern Mozambique
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    28 sq km
  land area:
    28 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.2 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    22.2 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claimed by Madagascar
Climate:
    tropical
Terrain:
    NA
Natural resources:
    negligible
Land use:
  ara
Finland
FIJI - Passport, proof of sufficient funds and onward/return ticket
required.  Visa issued on arrival for stay up to 30 days and may be
extended up to 6 months.  For further information contact Embassy of
Fiji, 2233 Wisconsin Ave., N.W., #240, Washington, D.C. 20007 (202/337-8320)
or Mission to the U.N., One United Nations Plaza, 26th Floor, New York, NY
10017 (212/355-7316).
Fiji - Consular Information Sheet
July 15, 1994
Country Description:  Fiji returned to parliamentary government in elections
of May 1992.  It has a developing economy.  Tourist facilities are
available.
Entry Requirements:  Passport, proof of sufficient funds and an
onward/return ticket are required.  A tourist visa is issued upon arrival
for an initial stay of up to four months.  The tourist permit may be
extended upon application to the Fiji Immigration Department headquarters in
Suva to allow a total stay of six months.  A visa is required for those
entering Fiji to work, study or reside.  Information on specific
requirements is available through the Embassy of Fiji, 2233 Wisconsin
Avenue, N.W., No. 240, Washington, D.C. 20007, - telephone: [phone]
or the Fiji Mission to the U.N., New United Nations Plaza, 26th Floor, New
York, NY 10017 - telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Health care facilities in Fiji are adequate for routine
medical problems.  Two major hospitals, the Lautoka hospital in the city of
Lautoka and the Colonial War Memorial Hospital in Suva, provide emergency
and outpatient services.  Other hospitals and clinics provide only a limited
range of health services.  Serious medical emergencies may be referred to
Australia, New Zealand or the United States.  Medical practitioners and
hospitals expect payment upon treatment or before release.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven  useful.
Additional health information is available through the international
travelers' hotline of the Centers for Disease Control at [phone].
Information on Crime:  The crime rate in Fiji's resort and tourist areas is
low, although criminal activity in major urban areas is on the rise.  The
loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police, and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  Useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe
Trip Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use, or
trafficking in illegal drugs, including Indian hemp or marijuana, are
strict.  Convicted offenders receive a minimum of three months' imprisonment.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated
information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Fiji is located at 31 Loftus Street
in the capital city of Suva.  The telephone number is: (679) 314-466.
No. 94-116
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 9, 1993, without
change, following an annual review.
`4I4                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Fiji
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, island group in the South Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the
    way from Hawaii to New Zealand
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    18,270 sq km
  land area:
    18,270 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than New Jersey
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    1,129 km
Maritime claims:
    measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation; rectilinear shelf claim added
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical marine; only slight seasonal temperature variation
Terrain:
    mostly mountains of volcanic origin
Natural resources:
    timber, fish, gold, copper, offshore oil potential
Land use:
  arable land:
    8%
  permanent crops:
    5%
  meadows and pastures:
    3%
  forest and woodland:
    65%
  other:
    19%
Irrigated land:
    10 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion
  natural hazards:
    cyclonic storms can occur from November to January
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Marine Life
    Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 94
Note:
    includes 332 islands of which approximately 110 are inhabited
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Fiji
                                     People
Population:
    772,891 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    36% (female 136,570; male 142,581)
  15-64 years:
    61% (female 235,491; male 235,411)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 11,943; male 10,895) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.16% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    23.69 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.42 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -5.67 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    17.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    65.42 years
  male:
    63.13 years
  female:
    67.82 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.87 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Fijian(s)
  adjective:
    Fijian
Ethnic divisions:
    Fijian 49%, Indian 46%, European, other Pacific Islanders, overseas Chinese,
    and other 5%
Religions:
    Christian 52% (Methodist 37%, Roman Catholic 9%), Hindu 38%, Muslim 8%,
    other 2%
  note:
    Fijians are mainly Christian, Indians are Hindu, and there is a Muslim
    minority (1986)
Languages:
    English (official), Fijian, Hindustani
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1986)
  total population:
    87%
  male:
    90%
  female:
    84%
Labor force:
    235,000
  by occupation:
    subsistence agriculture 67%, wage earners 18%, salary earners 15% (1987)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Fiji
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Fiji
  conventional short form:
    Fiji
Digraph:
    FJ
Type:
    republic
  note:
    military coup leader Maj. Gen. Sitiveni RABUKA formally declared Fiji a
    republic on 6 October 1987
Capital:
    Suva
Administrative divisions:
    4 divisions and 1 dependency*; Central, Eastern, Northern, Rotuma*, Western
Independence:
    10 October 1970 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 10 October (1970)
Constitution:
    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
Legal system:
    based on British system
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Ratu Sir Kamisese MARA (since 12 January 1994); First Vice
    President Ratu Sir Josaia TAIVAIQIA (since 12 January 1994); Second Vice
    President Ratu Inoke TAKIVEIKATA (since 12 January 1994); note - President
    GANILAU died on 15 December 1993 and Vice President MARA became acting
    president; MARA was elected president by the Great Council of Chiefs on 12
    January 1994
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Sitiveni RABUKA (since 2 June 1992)
  Presidential Council:
    appointed by the governor general
  Great Council of Chiefs:
    highest ranking members of the traditional chiefly system
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by prime minister from members of Parliament and
    responsible to Parliament
Legislative branch:
    the bicameral Parliament was dissolved following the coup of 14 May 1987
  Senate:
    nonelective body containing 34 seats, 24 reserved for ethnic Fijians, 9 for
    Indians and others, 1 for the island of Rotuma; appointed by President
  House of Representatives:
    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) number of seats by party SVT 31, NFP 20, FLP 7, FA 5, GVP 4,
    independents 2, ANC 1
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Fiji
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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; Fiji Labor Party (FLP),
    Mahendra CHAUDHRY; General Voters Party (GVP), Bill SORBY; Fiji Conservative
    Party (FCP), Isireli VUIBAU; Conservative Party of Fiji (CPF), Jolale
    ULUDOLE and Viliame SAVU; Fiji Indian Liberal Party, Swami MAHARAJ; Fiji
    Indian Congress Party, Ishwari BAJPAI; Fiji Independent Labor (Muslim),
    leader NA; Four Corners Party, David TULVANUAVOU; Fijian Association (FA),
    leader NA; General Electors' Association, leader NA
  note:
    in early 1995, ethnic Fijian members of the All National Congress (ANC)
    merged with the Fijian Association (FA); the new FA is scheduled to hold its
    first meeting in April 1995 at which time the leaders of the party will be
    chosen; it is likely that Josevata KAMIKAMICA, the leader of the FA before
    the merger, will be elected leader and Adi Kuini Bavadra SPEED, the leader
    of the ANC before the merger, will be elected deputy leader; the remaining
    members of the ANC have renamed their party the General Electors'
    Association
Member of:
    ACP, AsDB, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD,
    IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, PCA, SPARTECA, SPC,
    SPF, UN, UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNIKOM, UPU, WFTU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Pita Kewa NACUVA
  chancery:
    Suite 240, 2233 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s):
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Michael W. MARINE
  embassy:
    31 Loftus Street, Suva
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 218, Suva
  telephone:
    [679] 314466
  FAX:
    [679] 300081
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Fiji
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Fiji's economy is primarily agricultural, with a large subsistence sector.
    Sugar exports and tourism are the major sources of foreign exchange.
    Industry contributes 13% to GDP, with sugar processing accounting for
    one-third of industrial activity. Roughly 250,000 tourists visit each year.
    Political uncertainty and drought, 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 Cyclone Kina. Growth in 1994 is estimated to be 5%, largely
    attributed to increased tourism and expansion in domestic production,
    particularly in the manufacturing sector.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $5,650 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.5% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    5.4% (1992)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $485 million
  expenditures:
    $579 million, including capital expenditures of $58 million (1994)
Exports:
    $405 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    sugar 40%, clothing, gold, processed fish, lumber
  partners:
    EC 26%, Australia 15%, Pacific Islands 11%, Japan 6%
Imports:
    $634 million (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment, petroleum products, food, consumer goods,
    chemicals
  partners:
    Australia 30%, NZ 17%, Japan 13%, EC 6%, US 6%
External debt:
    $670 million (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 0% (1993 est.); accounts for 13% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    200,000 kW
  production:
    480 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    581 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    sugar, tourism, copra, gold, silver, clothing, lumber, small cottage
    industries
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Fiji
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 23% of GDP; principal cash crop is sugarcane; coconuts,
    cassava, rice, sweet potatoes, bananas; small livestock sector includes
    cattle, pigs, horses, and goats; fish catch nearly 33,000 tons (1989)
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1980-89),
    $815 million
Currency:
    1 Fijian dollar (F$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Fijian dollars (F$) per US$1 - 1.4140 (January 1995), 1.4641 (1994), 1.5418
    (1993), 1.5030 (1992), 1.4756 (1991), 1.4809 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Fiji
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    644 km; note - belongs to the government owned Fiji Sugar Corporation
  narrow gauge:
    644 km 0.610-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    3,300 km
  paved:
    1,590 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, stabilized earth 1,290 km; unimproved earth 420 km
    (1984)
Inland waterways:
    203 km; 122 km navigable by motorized craft and 200-metric-ton barges
Ports:
    Labasa, Lautoka, Levuka, Savusavu, Suva
Merchant marine:
  total:
    5 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 16,267 GRT/17,884 DWT
  ships by type:
    chemical tanker 2, oil tanker 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2
Airports:
  total:
    23
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    16
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Fiji
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    53,228 telephones; 71 telephones/1,000 persons; modern local, interisland,
    and international (wire/radio integrated) public and special-purpose
    telephone, telegraph, and teleprinter facilities; regional radio center
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    important COMPAC cable link between US-Canada and NZ-Australia; 1 INTELSAT
    (Pacific Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 7, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Fiji
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF; includes army, navy, and air
    elements)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 201,441; males fit for military service 111,046; males reach
    military age (18) annually 8,466 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $22.4 million, about 2% of GDP (FY91/92)
Bhutan
BERMUDA - Proof of U.S. citizenship, photo ID and onward/return ticket
required for tourist stay up to 21 days.  Departure tax of $10 is paid at
airport.  For further information consult British Embassy (202/986-0205).
Bermuda - Consular Information Sheet
October 13, 1994
Country Description:  Bermuda is a highly developed British dependent
territory with a stable democracy and a modern economy.  Tourist facilities
are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  Proof of U.S. citizenship, a photo ID and an
onward/return ticket are required for tourist stays of up to 21 days.  For
further information concerning entry requirements for Bermuda, travelers may
contact the Embassy of the United Kingdom at 3100 Massachusetts Avenue,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel. [phone], or the nearest British
consulate in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, New York or San
Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is available.  U.S. medical insurance is
not always valid out of the United States.  Travelers have found that in
some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage
has proved to be useful.  Further information on health matters can be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers
hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Bermuda has a low crime rate.  However, during the
tourist season, pickpocketing, theft of unattended baggage, and theft from
vehicles can occur.  Popular tourist attractions such as museums, monuments,
restaurants, hotels, and transportation systems are often areas where
criminals operate.  Valuables left unattended on beaches are subject to theft.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported to the
local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  A lost or stolen
birth certificate and/or driver's license generally cannot be replaced
outside of the United States.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of
State's pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," which provides useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad.
Both this pamphlet and "Tips for Travelers to the Caribbean" are available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for possession, use, and
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
jail sentences and fines.  U.S. citizens who are taking medication for a
particular illness must inform the Bermuda Customs officials at the point of
entry.  Medicines must be in labeled containers.  Travelers may wish to
carry a copy of the written prescription and also a letter from the
physician or pharmacist confirming the reason the medicine has been
prescribed.
Consulate Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens may register with the
consular section of the U.S. Consulate General, located at Crown Hill, 16
Middle Road, Devonshire, Hamilton; telephone [phone], where they may
also obtain updated information on travel and security in Bermuda.
No. 94-236
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 28, 1993 to
amend the country description section.
`%U%                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bermuda
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (dependent territory of the UK)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bermuda
                                    Geography
Location:
    North America, group of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, east of North
    Carolina (US)
Map references:
    North America
Area:
  total area:
    50 sq km
  land area:
    50 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.3 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    103 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    subtropical; mild, humid; gales, strong winds common in winter
Terrain:
    low hills separated by fertile depressions
Natural resources:
    limestone, pleasant climate fostering tourism
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    20%
  other:
    80%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    hurricanes (June to November)
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    consists of about 360 small coral islands with ample rainfall, but no rivers
    or freshwater lakes; some reclaimed land leased by US Government
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bermuda
                                     People
Population:
    61,629 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    0.76% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.07 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.3 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.13 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    13.16 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    75.03 years
  male:
    73.36 years
  female:
    76.97 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.81 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Bermudian(s)
  adjective:
    Bermudian
Ethnic divisions:
    black 61%, white and other 39%
Religions:
    Anglican 37%, Roman Catholic 14%, African Methodist Episcopal (Zion) 10%,
    Methodist 6%, Seventh-Day Adventist 5%, other 28%
Languages:
    English
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1970)
  total population:
    98%
  male:
    98%
  female:
    99%
Labor force:
    32,000
  by occupation:
    clerical 25%, services 22%, laborers 21%, professional and technical 13%,
    administrative and managerial 10%, sales 7%, agriculture and fishing 2%
    (1984)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bermuda
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Bermuda
Digraph:
    BD
Type:
    dependent territory of the UK
Capital:
    Hamilton
Administrative divisions:
    9 parishes and 2 municipalities*; Devonshire, Hamilton, Hamilton*, Paget,
    Pembroke, Saint George*, Saint Georges, Sandys, Smiths, Southampton, Warwick
Independence:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
National holiday:
    Bermuda Day, 24 May
Constitution:
    8 June 1968
Legal system:
    English law
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor Lord
    David WADDINGTON (since 25 August 1992)
  head of government:
    Premier John William David SWAN (since NA January 1982); Deputy Premier J.
    Irving PEARMAN (since 5 October 1993)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; nominated by the premier, appointed by the governor
Legislative branch:
    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 - percent of vote by party UBP 50%, PLP 46%, independents 4%; seats
    - (40 total) UBP 22, PLP 18
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    United Bermuda Party (UBP), John W. D. SWAN; Progressive Labor Party (PLP),
    Frederick WADE; National Liberal Party (NLP), Gilbert DARRELL
Other political or pressure groups:
    Bermuda Industrial Union (BIU), Ottiwell SIMMONS
Member of:
    CARICOM (observer), CCC, ICFTU, INTERPOL (subbureau), IOC
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Robert A. FARMER
  consulate(s) general:
    Crown Hill, 16 Middle Road, Devonshire, Hamilton
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box HM325, Hamilton HMBX; PSC 1002, FPO AE 09727-1002
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bermuda
                                   Government
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
Flag:
    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 Bermuda in
    1609) centered on the outer half of the flag
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bermuda
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Bermuda 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $1.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.5% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $28,000 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.5% (1993)
Unemployment rate:
    6% (1991)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $327.5 million
  expenditures:
    $308.9 million, including capital expenditures of $35.4 million (FY90/91
    est.)
Exports:
    $60 million (f.o.b., 1991)
  commodities:
    semitropical produce, light manufactures, re-exports of pharmaceuticals
  partners:
    US 62.4%, UK 20%
Imports:
    $519 million (f.o.b.,1993)
  commodities:
    fuel, foodstuffs, machinery
  partners:
    US 38%, UK 5%, Canada 5%
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    140,000 kW
  production:
    504 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    7,745 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tourism, finance, structural concrete products, paints, pharmaceuticals,
    ship repairing
Agriculture:
    accounts for less than 1% of GDP; most basic foods must be imported;
    produces bananas, vegetables, citrus fruits, flowers, dairy products
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-81), $34 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $277 million
Currency:
    1 Bermudian dollar (Bd$) = 100 cents
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bermuda
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    Bermudian dollar (Bd$) per US$1 - 1.0000 (fixed rate)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bermuda
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    210 km
  paved:
    210 km
  note:
    in addition, there are 400 km of paved and unpaved roads that are privately
    owned
Ports:
    Hamilton, Saint George
Merchant marine:
  total:
    65 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 3,144,245 GRT/5,152,030 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 14, cargo 4, container 7, liquefied gas tanker 15, oil tanker 16,
    refrigerated cargo 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 5, short-sea passenger 1,
    vehicle carrier 1
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; includes 12 countries among which are UK 6
    ships, Canada 4, US 4, Sweden 3, Hong Kong 2, Mexico 2, Norway 2, Australia
    1, Germany 1, NZ 1
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bermuda
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    52,670 telephones; modern, fully automatic telephone system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    3 submarine cables; 2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 5, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bermuda
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Bermuda Regiment, Bermuda Police Force, Bermuda Reserve Constabulary
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the UK
HE Wdissolved following the coup of 14 May 1987
  Senate:
    nonelective body containing 34 seats, 24 reserved for ethnic Fijians, 9 for
    Indians and others, 1 for the island of Rotuma; appointed by President
  House of Representatives:
    electi
French Guiana
8FRANCE - Passport required to visit France, Andorra, Monaco, Corsica
and French Polynesia.  Visa not required for tourist/business stay up to 3
months in France, Andorra, Monaco and Corsica, and 1 month in French
Polynesia (officials/diplomats, journalists on assignment, ship or
plane crew members, and students are required to obtain a visa in advance.
For further information consult Embassy of France, 4101 Reservoir Rd.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20007 (202/944-6200/6215) or nearest Consulate:  CA
(310/479-4426 or 415/397-4330), FL (305/372-9798), GA (404/522-4226),
HI (808/599-4458), IL (312/787-5359), LA (504/523-5774), ME
(617/482-3650), MI (313/568-0990), NY (212/606-3600), PR (809/753-1700) or TX
(713/528-2181).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - France and Monaco
============================================================
France and Monaco - Consular Information Sheet
 December 6, 1995
Country Description:  France is a highly developed and stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Monaco is a constitutional
monarchy and a highly developed European nation.  Tourist facilities
are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements for both
France and Monaco, travelers may contact the Embassy of France at at
4101 Reservoir Road, N.W.  Washington, DC 20007, tel: (202)
944-6000, or the nearest French Consulate General in Boston,
Chicago, Detroit, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New
Orleans, New York, San Francisco or San Juan.  Travelers to Monaco
may also contact the nearest Honorary Consulate of Monaco in Boston,
Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York, Palm Beach,
Florida, Philadelphia, San Francisco, San Juan or Washington, D.C.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is widely available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be useful.
Further information on health matters can be obtained from the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline on [phone].
Crime Information:  France and Monaco both have relatively low
rates of violent crime.  Crimes involving larceny are increasingly
more common.  Pickpocketing, theft of unattended baggage and theft
from rental cars or vehicles with out-of-town or foreign license
plates are daily occurrences.  Criminals often operate around
popular tourist attractions such as museums, monuments, restaurants,
hotels, beaches, and on trains and subways.  Americans in France and
Monaco should be particularly alert to pickpockets on trains and
subways, as well as in train and subway stations.  Travelers are
advised to carry only whatever cash and personal checks are
absolutely necessary, leaving extra cash, credit cards, personal
documents, and passport copies at home or in the hotel safe.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" which provides useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad.  The pamphlet is available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC  20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In France, the penalties for
possession, use, and dealing in illegal drugs are very strict.
Convicted offenders can expect a significant jail sentence and a
heavy customs fine; failure to pay can result in upwards of an
additional two years imprisonment.
Dual Nationality:  U.S. citizens who are considered to have also
acquired French citizenship may be subject to compulsory military
service and other aspects of French law while in France.  Those who
might be affected can inquire at a French Embassy or consulate
regarding their status.  In some instances, dual nationality may
hamper U.S. government efforts to provide protection abroad.
Other Information:  Certain Air France flights between France and
various Middle Eastern points (usually Damascus or Amman) make en
route stops in Beirut.  U.S. passports are not valid for travel to,
in, or through Lebanon unless special validation has been obtained
from the Department of State.
Terrorist Activities:  Civil disorder is rare in France.  However,
over the past year, terrorist groups have committed violent acts in
France, including a few closely-targeted political assassinations.
Recent bombings in Paris also appear to be the work of terrorists,
and have killed or injured French citizens and foreign visitors.
However, there is no indication that these acts are specifically
directed at American citizens, American business or American
interests.  These bombings have resulted in an increased police
presence at airports, metro and train stations, etc.
The Basque Separatist Party (ETA) and the National Front for the
Liberation of Corsica (FLNC), continue to operate in the south of
France and have occasionally bombed local government institutions,
travel agencies, etc.  ETA and FLNC attacks usually occur late in
the evening in an apparent attempt to minimize casualties.  Over the
last year, terrorist groups have committed other terrorist acts,
including a few closely targeted political killings and kidnappings,
but no Americans have been affected.
Registration and Embassy/Consulate Locations:  U.S. citizens may
register at the Consular Section in the U.S. Embassy or one of the
three Consulates, where they may obtain updated information on
travel and security in France.  There is no U.S. embassy or
consulate in Monaco.  For assistance and registration in Monaco,
U.S. citizens can contact the U.S. consulate general in Marseille or
the U.S. Consular agent in Nice.
The U.S. Embassy in Paris is located at 2 Avenue Gabriel, telephone
(33) 1-42-96-12-02, fax [phone].  The Consular Section is
located one block away, across the Place de la Concorde, at 2 Rue
St. Florentin, fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Bordeaux is located at:  22 Cours du Marechal
Foch, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Marseille is located at:  12 Boulevard Paul
Peytral, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Strasbourg is located at:  15 Avenue
d'Alsace, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
There is a Consular Agent in Nice, at 31 Rue du Marechal Joffre,
telephone [phone], fax [phone].
 No. 95-157
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for France dated
September 14, 1995, to add information on Monaco.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - France and Monaco
============================================================
France and Monaco - Consular Information Sheet
 December 6, 1995
Country Description:  France is a highly developed and stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Monaco is a constitutional
monarchy and a highly developed European nation.  Tourist facilities
are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements for both
France and Monaco, travelers may contact the Embassy of France at at
4101 Reservoir Road, N.W.  Washington, DC 20007, tel: (202)
944-6000, or the nearest French Consulate General in Boston,
Chicago, Detroit, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New
Orleans, New York, San Francisco or San Juan.  Travelers to Monaco
may also contact the nearest Honorary Consulate of Monaco in Boston,
Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York, Palm Beach,
Florida, Philadelphia, San Francisco, San Juan or Washington, D.C.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is widely available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be useful.
Further information on health matters can be obtained from the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline on [phone].
Crime Information:  France and Monaco both have relatively low
rates of violent crime.  Crimes involving larceny are increasingly
more common.  Pickpocketing, theft of unattended baggage and theft
from rental cars or vehicles with out-of-town or foreign license
plates are daily occurrences.  Criminals often operate around
popular tourist attractions such as museums, monuments, restaurants,
hotels, beaches, and on trains and subways.  Americans in France and
Monaco should be particularly alert to pickpockets on trains and
subways, as well as in train and subway stations.  Travelers are
advised to carry only whatever cash and personal checks are
absolutely necessary, leaving extra cash, credit cards, personal
documents, and passport copies at home or in the hotel safe.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" which provides useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad.  The pamphlet is available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC  20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In France, the penalties for
possession, use, and dealing in illegal drugs are very strict.
Convicted offenders can expect a significant jail sentence and a
heavy customs fine; failure to pay can result in upwards of an
additional two years imprisonment.
Dual Nationality:  U.S. citizens who are considered to have also
acquired French citizenship may be subject to compulsory military
service and other aspects of French law while in France.  Those who
might be affected can inquire at a French Embassy or consulate
regarding their status.  In some instances, dual nationality may
hamper U.S. government efforts to provide protection abroad.
Other Information:  Certain Air France flights between France and
various Middle Eastern points (usually Damascus or Amman) make en
route stops in Beirut.  U.S. passports are not valid for travel to,
in, or through Lebanon unless special validation has been obtained
from the Department of State.
Terrorist Activities:  Civil disorder is rare in France.  However,
over the past year, terrorist groups have committed violent acts in
France, including a few closely-targeted political assassinations.
Recent bombings in Paris also appear to be the work of terrorists,
and have killed or injured French citizens and foreign visitors.
However, there is no indication that these acts are specifically
directed at American citizens, American business or American
interests.  These bombings have resulted in an increased police
presence at airports, metro and train stations, etc.
The Basque Separatist Party (ETA) and the National Front for the
Liberation of Corsica (FLNC), continue to operate in the south of
France and have occasionally bombed local government institutions,
travel agencies, etc.  ETA and FLNC attacks usually occur late in
the evening in an apparent attempt to minimize casualties.  Over the
last year, terrorist groups have committed other terrorist acts,
including a few closely targeted political killings and kidnappings,
but no Americans have been affected.
Registration and Embassy/Consulate Locations:  U.S. citizens may
register at the Consular Section in the U.S. Embassy or one of the
three Consulates, where they may obtain updated information on
travel and security in France.  There is no U.S. embassy or
consulate in Monaco.  For assistance and registration in Monaco,
U.S. citizens can contact the U.S. consulate general in Marseille or
the U.S. Consular agent in Nice.
The U.S. Embassy in Paris is located at 2 Avenue Gabriel, telephone
(33) 1-42-96-12-02, fax [phone].  The Consular Section is
located one block away, across the Place de la Concorde, at 2 Rue
St. Florentin, fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Bordeaux is located at:  22 Cours du Marechal
Foch, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Marseille is located at:  12 Boulevard Paul
Peytral, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Strasbourg is located at:  15 Avenue
d'Alsace, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
There is a Consular Agent in Nice, at 31 Rue du Marechal Joffre,
telephone [phone], fax [phone].
 No. 95-157
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for France dated
September 14, 1995, to add information on Monaco.
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D                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     France
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Europe, bordering the Bay of Biscay and English Channel, between
    Belgium and Spain southeast of the UK; bordering the Mediterranean Sea,
    between Italy and Spain
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    547,030 sq km
  land area:
    545,630 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than twice the size of Colorado
  note:
    includes Corsica and the rest of metropolitan France, but excludes the
    overseas administrative divisions
Land boundaries:
    total 2,892.4 km, Andorra 60 km, Belgium 620 km, Germany 451 km, Italy 488
    km, Luxembourg 73 km, Monaco 4.4 km, Spain 623 km, Switzerland 573 km
Coastline:
    3,427 km (mainland 2,783 km, Corsica 644 km)
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    Madagascar claims Bassas da India, Europa Island, Glorioso Islands, Juan de
    Nova Island, and Tromelin Island; Comoros claims Mayotte; Mauritius claims
    Tromelin Island; Seychelles claims Tromelin Island; Suriname claims part of
    French Guiana; Mexico claims Clipperton Island; territorial claim in
    Antarctica (Adelie Land); Saint Pierre and Miquelon is focus of maritime
    boundary dispute between Canada and France
Climate:
    generally cool winters and mild summers, but mild winters and hot summers
    along the Mediterranean
Terrain:
    mostly flat plains or gently rolling hills in north and west; remainder is
    mountainous, especially Pyrenees in south, Alps in east
Natural resources:
    coal, iron ore, bauxite, fish, timber, zinc, potash
Land use:
  arable land:
    32%
  permanent crops:
    2%
  meadows and pastures:
    23%
  forest and woodland:
    27%
  other:
    16%
Irrigated land:
    11,600 sq km (1989 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     France
                                    Geography
Environment:
  current issues:
    some forest damage from acid rain; air pollution from industrial and vehicle
    emissions; water pollution from urban wastes, agricultural runoff
  natural hazards:
    flooding
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty,
    Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine
    Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution,
    Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds,
    Desertification, Law of the Sea
Note:
    largest West European nation; occasional warm tropical wind known as mistral
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     France
                                     People
Population:
    58,109,160 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    19% (female 5,438,447; male 5,700,143)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 18,889,771; male 19,001,536)
  65 years and over:
    16% (female 5,433,276; male 3,645,987) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.46% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    13 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.29 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.86 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    6.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    78.37 years
  male:
    74.5 years
  female:
    82.44 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.8 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Frenchman(men), Frenchwoman(women)
  adjective:
    French
Ethnic divisions:
    Celtic and Latin with Teutonic, Slavic, North African, Indochinese, Basque
    minorities
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 90%, Protestant 2%, Jewish 1%, Muslim (North African workers)
    1%, unaffiliated 6%
Languages:
    French 100%, rapidly declining regional dialects and languages (Provencal,
    Breton, Alsatian, Corsican, Catalan, Basque, Flemish)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1991 est.)
  total population:
    99%
Labor force:
    24.17 million
  by occupation:
    services 61.5%, industry 31.3%, agriculture 7.2% (1987)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     France
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    French Republic
  conventional short form:
    France
  local long form:
    Republique Francaise
  local short form:
    France
Digraph:
    FR
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Paris
Administrative divisions:
    22 regions (regions, singular - region); Alsace, Aquitaine, 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
  note:
    the 22 regions are subdivided into 96 departments; see separate entries for
    the overseas departments (French Guiana, Guadeloupe, Martinique, Reunion)
    and the territorial collectivities (Mayotte, Saint Pierre and Miquelon)
Dependent areas:
    Bassas da India, Clipperton Island, Europa Island, French Polynesia, French
    Southern and Antarctic Lands, Glorioso Islands, Juan de Nova Island, New
    Caledonia, Tromelin Island, Wallis and Futuna
  note:
    the US does not recognize claims to Antarctica
Independence:
    486 (unified by Clovis)
National holiday:
    National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
Constitution:
    28 September 1958, amended concerning election of president in 1962, amended
    to comply with provisions of EC Maastricht Treaty in 1992; amended to
    tighten immigration laws 1993
Legal system:
    civil law system with indigenous concepts; review of administrative but not
    legislative acts
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Francois MITTERRAND (since 21 May 1981); election last held 8 May
    1988 (next to be held by May 1995); results - Second Ballot Francois
    MITTERRAND 54%, Jacques CHIRAC 46%
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Edouard BALLADUR (since 29 March 1993)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president on the suggestion of the
    prime minister
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Parliament (Parlement)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     France
                                   Government
  Senate (Senat):
    elections last held 27 September 1992 (next to be held September 1995;
    nine-year term, elected by thirds every three years); results - percent of
    vote by party NA; seats - (321 total; 296 metropolitan France, 13 for
    overseas departments and territories, and 12 for French nationals abroad)
    RPR 91, UDF 142, PS 66, PCF 16, independents 2, other 4
  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
Judicial branch:
    Constitutional Court (Cour Constitutionnelle)
Political parties and leaders:
    Rally for the Republic (RPR), Alain JUPPE, interim head; Union for French
    Democracy (UDF, coalition of PR, CDS, RAD, PSD), Valery Giscard d'ESTAING;
    Republican Party (PR), Gerard LONGUET; Center for Social Democrats (CDS),
    Francois BAYROU; Radical (RAD), Yves GALLAND; Socialist Party (PS), Henri
    EMMANUELLI; Left Radical Movement (MRG), Jean-Francois HORY; Communist Party
    (PCF), Robert HUE; National Front (FN), Jean-Marie LE PEN; The Greens,
    Antoine WAECHTER, Jean-Louis VIDAL, Guy CAMBOT; Generation Ecology (GE),
    Brice LALONDE
Other political or pressure groups:
    Communist-controlled labor union (Confederation Generale du Travail - CGT)
    nearly 2.4 million members (claimed); Socialist-leaning labor union
    (Confederation Francaise Democratique du Travail or 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)
Member of:
    ACCT, AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BDEAC, BIS, CCC, CDB
    (non-regional), CE, CERN, EBRD, EC, ECA (associate), ECE, ECLAC, EIB, ESA,
    ESCAP, FAO, FZ, G- 5, G- 7, G-10, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, MTCR, NACC, NATO, NEA, NSG, OAS
    (observer), OECD, ONUSAL, OSCE, PCA, SPC, UN, UN Security Council, UNCTAD,
    UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMIH, UNPROFOR, UNRWA, UNTSO,
    UNU, UPU, WCL, WEU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jacques ANDREANI
  chancery:
    4101 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New
    Orleans, New York, San Francisco, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Pamela C. HARRIMAN
  embassy:
    2 Avenue Gabriel, 75382 Paris Cedex 08
  mailing address:
    Unit 21551, Paris; APO AE 09777
  telephone:
    [33] (1) 42 96 12 02, 42 61 80 75
  FAX:
    [33] (1) 42 66 97 83
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     France
                                   Government
  consulate(s) general:
    Bordeaux, Marseille, Strasbourg
Flag:
    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 Belgium, Chad, Ireland, Cote
    d'Ivoire, and Luxembourg; the official flag for all French dependent areas
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     France
                                     Economy
Overview:
    One of the world's most highly developed economies, France 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, France 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 in
    1994 expanded 2.4%. Growth in 1995 is expected to be in the 3.0% to 3.5%
    range. Persistently high unemployment will still pose a major problem for
    the government. Paris remains committed to maintaining the franc-deutsche
    mark parity, which has kept French interest rates high despite France's low
    inflation. Although the pace of economic and financial integration within
    the European Union has slowed down, integration presumably will remain a
    major force shaping the fortunes of the various economic sectors over the
    next few years.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $1.0801 trillion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $18,670 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.6% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    12.6% (yearend 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $220.5 billion
  expenditures:
    $249.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $47 billion (1993 budget)
Exports:
    $249.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and transportation equipment, chemicals, foodstuffs, agricultural
    products, iron and steel products, textiles and clothing
  partners:
    Germany 18.6%, Italy 11.0%, Spain 11.0%, Belgium-Luxembourg 9.1%, UK 8.8%,
    Netherlands 7.9%, US 6.4%, Japan 2.0%, FSU 0.7% (1991 est.)
Imports:
    $238.1 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    crude oil, machinery and equipment, agricultural products, chemicals, iron
    and steel products
  partners:
    Germany 17.8%, Italy 10.9%, US 9.5%, Netherlands 8.9%, Spain 8.8%,
    Belgium-Luxembourg 8.5%, UK 7.5%, Japan 4.1%, FSU 1.3% (1991 est.)
External debt:
    $300 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 2.6% (1994 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    105,250,000 kW
  production:
    447 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    6,149 kWh (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     France
                                     Economy
Industries:
    steel, machinery, chemicals, automobiles, metallurgy, aircraft, electronics,
    mining, textiles, food processing, tourism
Agriculture:
    accounts for 4% of GDP (including fishing and forestry); one of the world's
    top five wheat producers; other principal products - beef, dairy products,
    cereals, sugar beets, potatoes, wine grapes; self-sufficient for most
    temperate-zone foods; shortages include fats and oils and tropical produce,
    but overall net exporter of farm products; fish catch of 850,000 metric tons
    ranks among world's top 20 countries and is all used domestically
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-89), $75.1 billion
Currency:
    1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.9243 (January 1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632
    (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991), 5.4453 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     France
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    34,074 km
  standard gauge:
    33,975 km 1.435-m gauge (5,850 km electrified; 12,132 km double or multiple
    track)
  other:
    99 km various gauges including 1.000-m (privately owned and operated) (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    1,511,200 km
  paved:
    811,200 km (including 7,700 km of controlled access divided highway)
  unpaved:
    700,000 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    14,932 km; 6,969 km heavily traveled
Pipelines:
    crude oil 3,059 km; petroleum products 4,487 km; natural gas 24,746 km
Ports:
    Bordeaux, Boulogne, Cherbourg, Dijon, Dunkerque, La Pallice, Le Havre, Lyon,
    Marseille, Mullhouse, Nantes, Paris, Rouen, Saint Nazaire, Saint Malo,
    Strasbourg
Merchant marine:
  total:
    78 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,186,183 GRT/3,323,068 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 6, cargo 7, chemical tanker 6, container 15, liquefied gas tanker 4,
    oil tanker 21, passenger 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 11, short-sea passenger
    5, specialized tanker 2
  note:
    France also maintains a captive register for French-owned ships in the
    Kerguelen Islands (French Southern and Antarctic Lands) and French Polynesia
Airports:
  total:
    476
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    12
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    29
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    96
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    74
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    188
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    74
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     France
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    39,200,000 telephones; highly developed; extensive cable and microwave radio
    relay networks; large-scale introduction of optical-fiber systems; satellite
    systems for domestic traffic
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay, optical fiber cable, and domestic satellites
  international:
    2 INTELSAT earth stations (with total of 5 antennas - 2 Indian Ocean and 3
    for Atlantic Ocean); HF radio communications with more than 20 countries;
    INMARSAT service; EUTELSAT TV service
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 41, FM 800 (mostly repeaters), shortwave 0
  radios:
    48 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    846 (mostly repeaters)
  televisions:
    36 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     France
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy (includes Naval Air), Air Force and Air Defense, National
    Gendarmerie
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 14,740,155; males fit for military service 12,258,691; males
    reach military age (18) annually 378,489 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $47.1 billion, 3.1% of GDP (1995)
Comoros
&COLOMBIA - Passport, proof of onward/return ticket, and entry permit
required for tourist/business stay of up to 6 months.  Entry permits are
granted by the immigration authorities at the port of entry.  Minors (under
18) traveling alone, with one parent or in someone else's custody, must
present written authorization signed before a notary and authenticated by
the Colombian Embassy or Consulate from the absent parent(s) or guardian.
Persons suspected of being HIV-positive may be denied entry.  For
information about longer stays, business and official travel contact
Embassy of Colombia (Consulate), 1825 Conn. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C.
20009 (202/332-7476) or nearest Consulate General:  CA (213/362-1137 or
415/362-0080), FL (305/448-5558), GA (404/237-1045), IL (312/341-0658/9),
LA (504/525-5580), MA (617/536-6222), MI (313/352-4970), MN (612/933-2408),
MO (314/991-3636), OH (216/943-1200), NY (212/949-9898), PR (809/754-6885)
or TX (713/527-8919).
Colombia - Travel Warning
October 24, 1994
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the dangers of
travel to Colombia.  With the exception of several popular tourist areas,
violence continues to affect a significant portion of the country.  Recent
kidnappings and attacks have targeted U.S. citizens and institutions.
Additional information can be found in the Department of State's Consular
Information Sheet on Colombia.
No. 94-045
This replaces the Travel Warning for Colombia dated January 28, 1994, to
incorporate updated information.
Colombia - Consular Information Sheet
October 31, 1994
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the dangers of
travel to Colombia.  With the exception of several popular tourist areas,
violence continues to affect a significant portion of the country.  Recent
kidnappings and attacks have targeted U.S. citizens and institutions.
Country Description:  Colombia is a medium income country with a diverse
economy.  Tourist facilities vary, depending on cost and area.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a return/onward ticket are required for
stays of up to three-months.  Minors (under 18) traveling alone, with one
parent, or with a third party must present written authorization from the
absent parent(s) or legal guardian, specifically granting permission to
travel alone, with one parent or with a third party.  This authorization
must be notarized, authenticated by a Colombian Embassy or Consulate, and
translated into Spanish.  For current information concerning entry and
customs requirements for Colombia, travelers can contact the Colombian
Embassy at 2118 Leroy Place N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone: (202)
387-8338 or the nearest Consulate in Los Angeles, Miami, Chicago, New
Orleans, New York, Houston or San Juan.
Medical Facilities: Medical care is adequate in major cities, but varies in
quality elsewhere.  Health problems in Colombia include the presence of
cholera, though cholera is found largely in areas outside the cities and
usual tourist areas.  Visitors who follow proper precautions regarding food
and drink are not usually at major risk.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment of
medical services outside the United States.  In some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas and medical evacuation coverage has
proven useful.  For additional health information, travelers can contact the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers' hotline [phone].
Crime Information:  Based on Colombian government statistics, Colombia's per
capita murder rate of 77.5 murders per 100,000 inhabitants is seven times
higher than that of the United States.  While narcotics and guerrilla
related violence account for much of this, common criminals are responsible
for 75 percent of the reported murders.
Minor crime is prevalent in cities, especially in the vicinity of hotels and
airports.  Theft of hand luggage and travel documents at airports is common.
 Taking illegal taxis, which are sometimes characterized by two drivers and
irregular markings, may be dangerous.  Attempts at extortion and kidnappings
on rural buses are not unusual.
Many criminals use the drug "scopolamine" to incapacitate tourists, rob
them, and then leave them unconscious, often for over 24 hours.  The drug is
administered in drinks (in bars), through cigarette smoke (in taxis), and in
powder form (tourists are approached by someone asking directions, with the
drug concealed in a piece of paper. The drug renders the person disoriented
and powerless to resist the criminal's orders.
Another common scam is an approach to an obvious tourist by an alleged
"policeman" who says that he is checking for counterfeit U.S. dollars and
wants to "check" the foreigner's money.  The person gives the criminal
his/her money, receives a receipt and the "policeman" disappears.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the
local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  Useful information
on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip
Abroad," it is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.  Also available from the
same address is the Department of State publication, "Tips for travelers to
Central and South America."
Areas of Instability:  Violence in Colombia by criminal and guerrilla
organizations is widespread.  Travel by road outside the major cities is
considered dangerous because of guerrilla activities in the countryside.  As
a result, the official travel of U.S. Government employees in Colombia is
restricted as described below.  The security situation in Colombia is
volatile.  U.S. citizens may consult the Department of State or the U.S.
Embassy in Santa Fe de Bogota or the U.S. Consulate in Barranquilla to
obtain the latest information about areas of instability in Colombia.
The following areas are considered particularly dangerous:
-  Cundinamarca Department:  rural roads.
-  Colombia east of the Andes except the city of Leticia in the Amazonas
Department and adjacent tourist areas in Amazonas.
-  All of Antioquia Department (zone) including the city of Medellin.
-  Most of the North Coast, except for the major tourist areas such as Santa
Marta, Barranquilla, Cartagena, and San Andres.
-  The Northern half of Choco Department, particularly the Uraba region,
except for the tourist area of Capurgana.
-  The Magdelena Medio region: The Magdelena River valley south to Tolima,
including western Boyaca, eastern Caldas, and northwestern Cundinamarca.
-  Rural Valle de Cauca Department and most of the Cauca River valley
including the cities of Cali and Buenaventura, and the road between Cali and
Buenaventura.
-  Tolima Department south of Espinal, especially if traveling after dark.
-  Road travel in Huila and Cauca Departments.  The cities of Neiva and
Popayan are considered to be safe if reached by air.
Restrictions on U.S. Government Employees:  Because of security concerns,
U.S. government employees assigned to Colombia or temporarily visiting in
connection with their official government duties face severe restrictions on
travel within Colombia.  Travel by such personnel to the areas of
instability listed above is generally limited to essential official
functions and must be authorized by the Embassy.  Requests by Embassy
personnel for travel by car outside the Santa Fe de Bogota metropolitan area
are considered on a case by case basis.  The official travel of all U.S.
government personnel traveling to Colombia must be approved in advance by
the U.S. Embassy.
Terrorist Activities:  Several terrorist or guerrilla groups are active in
Colombia and U.S. interests are among their targets.  Kidnapping for ransom
or political purposes is increasing in Colombia.  Several U.S. citizens have
recently been kidnapped by guerrillas.  In 1994, properties of churches
identified with the U.S. were bombed in Bucaramanga, Cali and Medellin, and
a bomb damaged a Coca-Cola bottling plant in Bucaramanga.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties in Colombia for possession, use and
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Firearms:  Colombian law prohibits tourists and business travelers from
importing or bringing firearms into Colombia.  The penalty for illegal
importation and/or possession of firearms is 3 to 10 years in prison.
Aviation Oversight:  In December 1991, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Colombia's Civil Aviation Authority as in compliance
with international aviation safety oversight standards for Colombia's
carriers operating to and from the U.S.  The same level of safety oversight
would typically be applied to operations to other destinations.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at 1-800-
322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration:  Upon arrival U.S. citizens are urged to
register with the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Bogota at Calle 38
No. 8-61, telephone: [phone] or the Consulate in Barranquilla at
Calle 77, Carrera 68, Centro Comercial Mayorista, telephone: [phone]-
088, and to obtain updated information on travel and security within Colombia.
No. 94-255
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 2, 1994 by
updating the warning and information on crime, terrorism and areas of
instability.
@<0<                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Colombia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern South America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Panama and
    Venezuela, and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Ecuador and Panama
Map references:
    South America
Area:
  total area:
    1,138,910 sq km
  land area:
    1,038,700 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than three times the size of Montana
  note:
    includes Isla de Malpelo, Roncador Cay, Serrana Bank, and Serranilla Bank
Land boundaries:
    total 7,408 km, Brazil 1,643 km, Ecuador 590 km, Panama 225 km, Peru 2,900
    km, Venezuela 2,050 km
Coastline:
    3,208 km (Caribbean Sea 1,760 km, North Pacific Ocean 1,448 km)
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    maritime boundary dispute with Venezuela in the Gulf of Venezuela;
    territorial dispute with Nicaragua over Archipelago de San Andres y
    Providencia and Quita Sueno Bank
Climate:
    tropical along coast and eastern plains; cooler in highlands
Terrain:
    flat coastal lowlands, central highlands, high Andes Mountains, eastern
    lowland plains
Natural resources:
    petroleum, natural gas, coal, iron ore, nickel, gold, copper, emeralds
Land use:
  arable land:
    4%
  permanent crops:
    2%
  meadows and pastures:
    29%
  forest and woodland:
    49%
  other:
    16%
Irrigated land:
    5,150 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil damage from overuse of pesticides; air pollution,
    especially in Bogota, from vehicle emissions
  natural hazards:
    highlands subject to volcanic eruptions; occasional earthquakes; periodic
    droughts
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Colombia
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Marine Life
    Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution,
    Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental
    Protocol, Climate Change, Desertification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea,
    Marine Dumping
Note:
    only South American country with coastlines on both North Pacific Ocean and
    Caribbean Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Colombia
                                     People
Population:
    36,200,251 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    32% (female 5,784,010; male 5,925,600)
  15-64 years:
    63% (female 11,642,870; male 11,245,235)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 888,358; male 714,178) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.7% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    21.89 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.69 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.17 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    26.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    72.48 years
  male:
    69.68 years
  female:
    75.38 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.4 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Colombian(s)
  adjective:
    Colombian
Ethnic divisions:
    mestizo 58%, white 20%, mulatto 14%, black 4%, mixed black-Indian 3%, Indian
    1%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 95%
Languages:
    Spanish
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1985)
  total population:
    88%
  male:
    88%
  female:
    88%
Labor force:
    12 million (1990)
  by occupation:
    services 46%, agriculture 30%, industry 24% (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Colombia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Colombia
  conventional short form:
    Colombia
  local long form:
    Republica de Colombia
  local short form:
    Colombia
Digraph:
    CO
Type:
    republic; executive branch dominates government structure
Capital:
    Bogota
Administrative divisions:
    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
    Providencia, Santander, Sucre, Tolima, Valle del Cauca, Vaupes, Vichada
Independence:
    20 July 1810 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 20 July (1810)
Constitution:
    5 July 1991
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Ernesto SAMPER Pizano (since 7 August 1994);  election last held
    29 May 1994 (next to be held May 1998) and resulted in no candidate
    receiving more than 50% of the total vote; a run-off election to select a
    president from the two leading candidates was held on 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 was elected
    vice president in a new proceedure that replaces the traditional designation
    of vice presidents by newly elected presidents.
  cabinet:
    Cabinet
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Congress (Congreso)
  Senate (Senado):
    elections last held 13 March 1994 (next to be held NA March 1998);
    preliminary 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);
    preliminary results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (161 total)
    Liberal Party 89, conservatives (includes PC, MSN, and NDF) 53, AD/M-19 2,
    other 17
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Colombia
                                   Government
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justical), Constitutional Court,
    Council of State
Political parties and leaders:
    Liberal Party (PL), Juan Guillermo ANGEL; Conservative Party (PC), Fabio
    VALENCIA Cossio; National Salvation Movement (MSN), Alvaro GOMEZ Hurtado;
    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 Colombia (FARC) and Colombian Communist Party
    (PCC), Carlos ROMERO
Other political or pressure groups:
    three insurgent groups are active in Colombia - Revolutionary Armed Forces
    of Colombia (FARC), Manuel MARULANDA and Alfonso CANO; National Liberation
    Army (ELN), Manuel PEREZ; and dissidents of the recently demobilized
    People's Liberation Army (EPL), Francisco CARABALLO; Francisco CARABALLO was
    captured by the government in June 1994
Member of:
    AG, CCC, CDB, CG, ECLAC, FAO, G-11, G-24, G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, LAES, LAIA, NAM, OAS, ONUSAL,
    OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNPROFOR, UNU, UPU, WCL,
    WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Carlos LLERAS de la Fuente
  chancery:
    2118 Leroy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San
    Francisco, San Juan (Puerto Rico), and Washington, DC
  consulate(s):
    Atlanta and Tampa
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Myles R. R. FRECHETTE
  embassy:
    Calle 38, No. 8-61, Bogota
  mailing address:
    Apartado Aereo 3831, Bogota; APO AA 34038
  telephone:
    [57] (1) 320-1300
  FAX:
    [57] (1) 288-5687
  consulate(s):
    Barranquilla
Flag:
    three horizontal bands of yellow (top, double-width), blue, and red; similar
    to the flag of Ecuador, which is longer and bears the Ecuadorian coat of
    arms superimposed in the center
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Colombia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Colombia's economy has grown steadily since 1991, when the government
    implemented sweeping economic reform measures. President SAMPER, who took
    office in August 1994, has pledged to maintain those reforms while expanding
    government assistance for poor Colombians, who continue to make up about 40%
    of the population. In an effort to bring down inflation, SAMPER has arranged
    a "social pact" with business and labor to curtail price hikes and trim
    inflation to 18%. The rapid development of oil, coal, and other
    nontraditional industries, along with copious inflows of capital and
    strengthening of prices for coffee, have helped keep growth at 5%-6%.
    Development of the massive Cusiana oilfield provides the means to sustain
    this level over the next several years. Exporters say, however, that their
    sales have been hampered by the appreciation of the Colombian peso, and
    farmers have sought government help in adjusting to greater foreign
    competition. Moreover, increased foreign investment and even greater
    domestic growth have been hindered by an inadequate energy and
    transportation infrastructure and by violence stemming from drug trafficking
    and persistent rural insurgency.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $172.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5.7% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,850 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    22.6% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    7.9% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $16 billion (1995 est.)
  expenditures:
    $21 billion (1995 est.)
Exports:
    $8.3 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    petroleum, coffee, coal, bananas, fresh cut flowers
  partners:
    US 39%, EC 25.7%, Japan 2.9%, Venezuela 8.5% (1992)
Imports:
    $10.6 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    industrial equipment, transportation equipment, consumer goods, chemicals,
    paper products
  partners:
    US 36%, EC 18%, Brazil 4%, Venezuela 6.5%, Japan 8.7% (1992)
External debt:
    $12.6 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5% (1994 est.); accounts for about 20% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    10,220,000 kW
  production:
    33 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    890 kWh (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Colombia
                                     Economy
Industries:
    textiles, food processing, oil, clothing and footwear, beverages, chemicals,
    metal products, cement; mining - gold, coal, emeralds, iron, nickel, silver,
    salt
Agriculture:
    growth rate 3.8% (1994 est.); accounts for about 15% of GDP; crops make up
    two-thirds and livestock one-third of agricultural output; climate and soils
    permit a wide variety of crops, such as coffee, rice, tobacco, corn,
    sugarcane, cocoa beans, oilseeds, vegetables; forest products and shrimp
    farming are becoming more important
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of coca, opium poppies, and cannabis; about 45,000 hectares
    of coca under cultivation; the world's largest processor of coca derivatives
    into cocaine; supplier of cocaine to the US and other international drug
    markets; active eradication program against narcotics crop
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1.6 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $3.3 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89),  $399 million
Currency:
    1 Colombian peso (Col$) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    Colombian pesos (Col$) per US$1 - 846.67 (January 1995), 844.84 (1994),
    863.06 (1993), 759.28 (1992), 633.05 (1991), 502.26 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Colombia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,386 km
  standard gauge:
    150 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    3,236 km 0.914-m gauge (2,611 km in use)
Highways:
  total:
    107,377 km (1991)
  paved:
    12,778 km
  unpaved:
    gravel/earth 94,599 km
Inland waterways:
    14,300 km, navigable by river boats
Pipelines:
    crude oil 3,585 km; petroleum products 1,350 km; natural gas 830 km; natural
    gas liquids 125 km
Ports:
    Barranquilla, Buenaventura, Cartagena, Leticia, Puerto Bolivar, San Andres,
    Santa Marta, Tumaco, Turbo
Merchant marine:
  total:
    22 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 104,577 GRT/142,617 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 6, cargo 9, container 4, oil tanker 3
Airports:
  total:
    1,307
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    7
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    34
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    31
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    734
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    80
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    419
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Colombia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    1,890,000 telephones; modern system in many respects
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    nationwide microwave radio relay system; 11 domestic earth stations
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 413, FM 0, shortwave 28
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    33
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Colombia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army (Ejercito Nacional), Navy (Armada Nacional, includes Marines and Coast
    Guard), Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Colombiana), National Police (Policia
    Nacional)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 9,851,980; males fit for military service 6,640,348; males
    reach military age (18) annually 349,599 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $1.2 billion (1992 est.)
,P,P,P
China
CHILE - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 3 months, may
be extended.  For official/diplomatic travel and other information consult
Embassy of Chile, 1732 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036
(202/785-3159) or nearest Consulate General:  CA (310/785-0113 and
415/982-7662), FL (305/373-8623), PA (215/829-9520), NY (212/980-3366), TX
(713/621-5853) or PR (809/725-6365).
Chile - Consular Information Sheet
September 2, 1994
Country Description:  Chile has a stable government and a strong economy.
Civil disorder is rare.  Facilities for tourism vary according to price and
area.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  U.S. citizens do not need a
visa for a three-month stay.  However, those considering scientific,
technical or mountaineering activities in areas classified as frontier areas
are required to obtain authorization from the Chilean government.  Requests
for authorization must be presented to Chilean authorities at least 90 days
prior to the beginning of the expedition.  The portions of Antarctica
claimed by Chile are exempt from these pre-approval requirements.  For
current information concerning entry and customs requirements for Chile,
travelers can contact the Chilean Embassy at 1732 Massachusetts Avenue N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20036; tel: [phone] or the nearest consulate in Los
Angeles, Miami, Philadelphia, New York, Houston, or Chicago.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is good but may not meet U.S. standards.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Supplemental medical insurance, which includes specific overseas
coverage, is highly recommended.  In-country medical evacuation from
outlying areas to Santiago costs $2000 (U.S.) or more.  Cost for
international evacuations begin at about $10,000 (U.S.).  For travelers to
the Antarctic, additional insurance to cover the cost of air evacuation
specifically from that remote region is strongly recommended.  In the event
of illness, injury or even death, the cost of evacuation from the Antarctic
region to Santiago can exceed $10,000 (U.S.).  This is in addition to the
evacuation costs indicated above.  For additional health information
travelers can contact the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers' hotline at [phone].
Crime Information: In Santiago and other large cities, thieves thrive on
rush hour crowding on the street and aboard public transportation.  Persons
wearing expensive looking jewelry or carrying luggage or cameras are
particular targets.  Walking in the downtown area after dark, or on weekends
in the late afternoon, even in the well-traveled areas, is considered risky.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe
Trip Abroad," which is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.  Also available from the
same address is the Department of State's publication, "Tips for Travelers
to Central and South America."
Terrorist Activities:  Specific terrorist groups have conducted sporadic
bombings and other violent acts against business facilities and institutions
identified with the United States.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties in Chile for possession and trafficking
in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail
sentences and fines.
Adoptions:  The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy can provide updated
information on Chilean adoption procedures and on immigrant visa matters
related to adoptions.  Consular officers are not authorized to act as agents
on behalf of Americans seeking to adopt Chilean children.  Additional
information is available by writing the Office of Citizens Consular
Services, CA/OCS/CCS, Room 4817, Department of State, Washington, D.C.
20520, or by telephoning [phone].
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In March 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Chile's civil aviation authority as in compliance
with international aviation safety oversight standards for Chilean carriers
operating to and from the U.S.  The same level of safety oversight would
typically be applied to operations to other destinations.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at 1-800-
322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration: Americans who register with the Consular
Section of the U.S. Embassy at 2800 Andres Bello, Vitacura, Santiago;
telephone [phone], can obtain updated information on travel and
security within Chile.
No. 94-183
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet of May 2, 1994 to add
information on aviation oversight.
@;5;                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Chile
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean and South Pacific
    Ocean, between Argentina and Peru
Map references:
    South America
Area:
  total area:
    756,950 sq km
  land area:
    748,800 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than twice the size of Montana
  note:
    includes Isla de Pascua (Easter Island) and Isla Sala y Gomez
Land boundaries:
    total 6,171 km, Argentina 5,150 km, Bolivia 861 km, Peru 160 km
Coastline:
    6,435 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  continental shelf:
    200 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    short section of the southern boundary with Argentina is indefinite; Bolivia
    has wanted a sovereign corridor to the South Pacific Ocean since the Atacama
    area was lost to Chile in 1884; dispute with Bolivia over Rio Lauca water
    rights; territorial claim in Antarctica (Chilean Antarctic Territory)
    partially overlaps Argentine and British claims
Climate:
    temperate; desert in north; cool and damp in south
Terrain:
    low coastal mountains; fertile central valley; rugged Andes in east
Natural resources:
    copper, timber, iron ore, nitrates, precious metals, molybdenum
Land use:
  arable land:
    7%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    16%
  forest and woodland:
    21%
  other:
    56%
Irrigated land:
    12,650 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution from industrial and vehicle emissions; water pollution from
    raw sewage; deforestation contributing to loss of biodiversity; soil
    erosion; desertification
  natural hazards:
    severe earthquakes; active volcanism; tsunamis
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Chile
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity,
    Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous
    Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship
    Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
Note:
    strategic location relative to sea lanes between Atlantic and Pacific Oceans
    (Strait of Magellan, Beagle Channel, Drake Passage); Atacama Desert one of
    world's driest regions
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Chile
                                     People
Population:
    14,161,216 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    29% (female 2,014,877; male 2,099,450)
  15-64 years:
    64% (female 4,574,947; male 4,529,251)
  65 years and over:
    7% (female 549,385; male 393,306) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.49% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    20.29 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.42 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    14.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    74.88 years
  male:
    71.89 years
  female:
    78.01 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.49 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Chilean(s)
  adjective:
    Chilean
Ethnic divisions:
    European and European-Indian 95%, Indian 3%, other 2%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 89%, Protestant 11%, Jewish
Languages:
    Spanish
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1992)
  total population:
    94%
  male:
    95%
  female:
    94%
Labor force:
    4.728 million
  by occupation:
    services 38.3% (includes government 12%), industry and commerce 33.8%,
    agriculture, forestry, and fishing 19.2%, mining 2.3%, construction 6.4%
    (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Chile
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Chile
  conventional short form:
    Chile
  local long form:
    Republica de Chile
  local short form:
    Chile
Digraph:
    CI
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Santiago
Administrative divisions:
    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, Valparaiso
  note:
    the US does not recognize claims to Antarctica
Independence:
    18 September 1810 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 18 September (1810)
Constitution:
    11 September 1980, effective 11 March 1981; amended 30 July 1989
Legal system:
    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; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Eduardo FREI Ruiz-Tagle (since 11 March 1994) election last held
    11 December 1993 (next to be held December 1999); results - Eduardo FREI
    Ruiz-Tagle (PDC) 58%, Arturo ALESSANDRI 24.4%, other 17.6%
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    bicameral National Congress (Congreso Nacional)
  Senate (Senado):
    election last held 11 December 1993 (next to be held December 1997); results
    - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (46 total, 38 elected) Concertation
    of Parties for Democracy 21 (PDC 13, PS 4, PPD 3, PR 1), Union for the
    Progress of Chile 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 December 1997); results
    - Concertation of Parties for Democracy 53.95% (PDC 27.16%, PS 12.01%, PPD
    11.82%, PR 2.96%,); Union for the Progress of Chile 30.57% (RN 15.25%, UDI
    12.13%, UCC 3.19%); seats - (120 total) Concertation of Parties for
    Democracy 70 (PDC 37, PPD 15, PR 2, PS 15, left-wing independent 1), Union
    for the Progress of Chile 47 (RN 30, UDI 15, UCC 2), right-wing independents
    3
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Corte Suprema)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Chile
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Concertation of Parties for Democracy consists mainly of three parties:
    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 Chile consists mainly of three parties:
    National Renewal (RN), Andres ALLAMAND; Independent Democratic Union (UDI),
    Jovino NOVOA; Center Center Union (UCC), Francisco Javier ERRAZURIZ
Other political or pressure groups:
    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
Member of:
    APEC, CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-11, G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, LAES, LAIA, NAM, OAS, ONUSAL, OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMOGIP, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO,
    WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Gabriel GUERRA-MONDRAGON
  chancery:
    1732 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, San Francisco,
    and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Gabriel GUERRA-MONDRAGON
  embassy:
    Codina Building, 1343 Agustinas, Santiago
  mailing address:
    Unit 4127, Santiago; APO AA 34033
  telephone:
    [56] (2) 232-2600
  FAX:
    [56] (2) 330-3710
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Chile
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Chile 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 1991-94 has averaged 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;
    Chile is the world's largest producer and exporter of copper. Success in
    meeting the government's goal of sustained annual 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $97.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4.3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $7,010 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    8.7% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    6% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $10.9 billion
  expenditures:
    $10.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $1.2 billion (1993)
Exports:
    $11.5 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    copper 41%, other metals and minerals 8.7%, wood products 7.1%, fish and
    fishmeal 9.8%, fruits 8.4% (1991)
  partners:
    EC 29%, Japan 17%, US 16%, Argentina 5%, Brazil 5% (1992)
Imports:
    $10.9 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    capital goods 25.2%, spare parts 24.8%, raw materials 15.4%, petroleum 10%,
    foodstuffs 5.7%
  partners:
    EC 24%, US 21%, Brazil 10%, Japan 10% (1992)
External debt:
    $20 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 4.3% (1993 est.); accounts for 34% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    4,810,000 kW
  production:
    22 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,499 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    copper, other minerals, foodstuffs, fish processing, iron and steel, wood
    and wood products, transport equipment, cement, textiles
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Chile
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 7% of GDP (including fishing and forestry); major
    exporter of fruit, fish, and timber products; major crops - wheat, corn,
    grapes, beans, sugar beets, potatoes, deciduous fruit; livestock products -
    beef, poultry, wool; self-sufficient in most foods; 1991 fish catch of 6.6
    million metric tons; net agricultural importer
Illicit drugs:
    a minor transshipment country for cocaine destined for the US and Europe;
    booming economy has made it more attractive to traffickers seeking to
    launder drug profits
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $521 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.6 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $386 million
Currency:
    1 Chilean peso (Ch$) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    Chilean pesos (Ch$) per US$1 - 408 (January 1995), 420.08 (1994), 404.35
    (1993), 362.59 (1992), 349.37 (1991), 305.06 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Chile
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    7,766 km
  broad gauge:
    3,974 km 1.676-m gauge (1,865 km electrified)
  standard gauge:
    150 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    3,642 km 1.000-m gauge (80 km electrified)
Highways:
  total:
    79,599 km
  paved:
    10,984 km
  unpaved:
    gravel or earth 68,615 km (1990)
Inland waterways:
    725 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 755 km; petroleum products 785 km; natural gas 320 km
Ports:
    Antofagasta, Arica, Chanarol, Coquimbo, Iquique, Puerto Montt, Punta Arenas,
    San Antonio, San Vicente, Talcahuano, Valparaiso
Merchant marine:
  total:
    36 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 510,006 GRT/879,891 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 13, cargo 7, chemical tanker 3, combination ore/oil 2, liquefied gas
    tanker 3, oil tanker 3, roll-on/roll-off cargo 3, vehicle carrier 2
Airports:
  total:
    390
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    18
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    17
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    252
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    13
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    76
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Chile
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    768,000 telephones; modern telephone system based on extensive microwave
    radio relay facilities
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    extensive microwave radio relay links and 3 domestic satellite stations
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 159, FM 0, shortwave 11
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    131
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Chile
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army of the Nation, National Navy (includes Naval Air, Coast Guard, and
    Marines), Air Force of the Nation, Carabineros of Chile (National Police),
    Investigations Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 3,758,770; males fit for military service 2,796,740; males
    reach military age (19) annually 121,831 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $1 billion, 3.4% of GDP (1991 est.)
Cape Verde
CANADA - Proof of U.S. citizenship and photo ID required.  Visa not
required for U.S. tourists entering from the U.S. for a stay up to 180
days.  However, anyone with a criminal record (including a DWI charge)
should contact the Canadian Embassy or nearest consulate before travel.
U.S. citizens entering Canada from a third country must have a valid
passport.  For student or business travel, check with the Canadian Embassy,
501 Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C.  20001 (202/682-1740) or
nearest Consulate General:  CA (213/687-7432 and 415/495-6021), GA
(404/577-6810), IL (312/427-1031), MA (617/262-3760), MI (313/567-2340), MN
(612/333-4641), NY (212/768-2400 or 716/852-1247), OH (216/771-0150), TX
(214/922-9806) or WA (206/443-1777).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Canada
============================================================
Canada - Consular Information Sheet
 May 11, 1995
Country Description:  Canada is a highly developed stable democracy
with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely available; in
northern and wilderness areas, tourist facilities are less developed
and can be vast distances apart.
Entry Requirements:  Proof of U.S. citizenship and photo
identification are required for travel to Canada.  Visas are not
required for U.S. citizen tourists entering from the United States
for stays up to 180 days.  U.S. citizens entering Canada from a
third country must have a valid passport or an official U.S. travel
document.  For further information, including information on student
or business travel, travelers can contact the Embassy of Canada at
501 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20001, [phone]
or the nearest Canadian consulate in Atlanta, Boston, Buffalo,
Chicago, Cleveland, Dallas, Detroit, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New
York, or Seattle.
Medical Facilities:  Good medical care is widely available.  U.S.
medical and auto insurance may not be valid in Canada.  Travelers
have found that in some cases, supplemental auto or medical
insurance with specific Canadian coverage has proven to be useful.
Further information on health matters can be obtained from the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline on
[phone].
Crime Information:  Canada has a higher incidence of criminal
activity in urban areas than in the countryside.  Violent crimes
such as murder, armed robbery, and rape occur infrequently.  The
loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or
Consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more
trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, DC 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to Canadian laws while
they are in Canada.  Penalties for possession, use, and dealing in
illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail
sentences and fines.
Other Information:  (a) Canadians consider driving under the
influence of alcohol a serious offense.  Penalties are heavy, and
any prior conviction (no matter how long ago or how minor the
infraction) is grounds for exclusion from Canada.  A waiver of
exclusion may be obtained from Canadian consulates in the United
States, but requires several weeks.  (b) Firearms are strictly
controlled.  In general, handguns are not permitted in Canada.
Anyone wishing to take hunting rifles into Canada can contact in
advance the nearest Canadian Consulate for detailed information and
instructions.  In all cases, travelers must declare to Canadian
Customs authorities any firearms in their possession when entering
Canada.  If a traveler is denied permission to take the firearm into
Canada, there are in many cases facilities near the border crossing
where firearms may be stored pending the traveler's return to the
U.S.  Canadian law requires that officials confiscate guns from
those crossing the border who deny having guns in their possession.
Confiscated guns are never returned.  (c) It is illegal to take
automobile radar detectors into the provinces of Quebec, Ontario,
and Manitoba or into the Yukon and Northwest territories.  The
police will confiscate radar detectors, whether in use or not, and
impose fines up to $1000.  (d) The prevailing language in Quebec
province is French rather than English as in most of Canada.
However, even in Quebec, English is spoken at most hotels and many
tourist facilities.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section
at the U.S. Embassy or at a U.S. consulate may obtain updated
information on travel and security within Canada.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Canada is
located at 100 Wellington Street, Ottawa, Ontario, telephone (613)
238-5335.  There are also Consulates in Calgary, Alberta, at 615
Macleod Trail SE, [phone]; in Halifax, Nova Scotia, at Suite
910, Cogswell Tower, Scotia Square, [phone]; in Montreal,
Quebec, at 1155 St. Alexander Street, [phone]; in Quebec
City, Quebec, at 2 Place Terrasse Dufferin, [phone]; in
Toronto, Ontario, at 360 University Avenue, [phone], and in
Vancouver, British Columbia, at 1095 West Pender Street, (604)
685-4311.
 No. 95-065
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 19, 1994,
with no change following a periodic review.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
:                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Canada
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern North America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and North Pacific
    Ocean, north of the conterminous US
Map references:
    North America
Area:
  total area:
    9,976,140 sq km
  land area:
    9,220,970 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than US
Land boundaries:
    total 8,893 km, US 8,893 km (includes 2,477 km with Alaska)
Coastline:
    243,791 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    maritime boundary disputes with the US; Saint Pierre and Miquelon is focus
    of maritime boundary dispute between Canada and France
Climate:
    varies from temperate in south to subarctic and arctic in north
Terrain:
    mostly plains with mountains in west and lowlands in southeast
Natural resources:
    nickel, zinc, copper, gold, lead, molybdenum, potash, silver, fish, timber,
    wildlife, coal, petroleum, natural gas
Land use:
  arable land:
    5%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    3%
  forest and woodland:
    35%
  other:
    57%
Irrigated land:
    8,400 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution 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 forestry
    activities
  natural hazards:
    continuous permafrost 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 Arctic, Pacific, and American interior, and produce most
    of the country's rain and snow
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Canada
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change,
    Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine
    Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical
    Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94,
    Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol,
    Desertification, Law of the Sea
Note:
    second-largest country in world (after Russia); strategic location between
    Russia and US via north polar route; nearly 90% of the population is
    concentrated in the region near the US/Canada border
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Canada
                                     People
Population:
    28,434,545 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    21% (female 2,874,705; male 3,016,050)
  15-64 years:
    67% (female 9,529,272; male 9,531,107)
  65 years and over:
    12% (female 2,022,324; male 1,461,087) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.09% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    13.74 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.43 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    4.55 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    6.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    78.29 years
  male:
    74.93 years
  female:
    81.81 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.83 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Canadian(s)
  adjective:
    Canadian
Ethnic divisions:
    British Isles origin 40%, French origin 27%, other European 20%, indigenous
    Indian and Eskimo 1.5%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 46%, United Church 16%, Anglican 10%, other 28%
Languages:
    English (official), French (official)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1986)
  total population:
    97%
Labor force:
    13.38 million
  by occupation:
    services 75%, manufacturing 14%, agriculture 4%, construction 3%, other 4%
    (1988)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Canada
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Canada
Digraph:
    CA
Type:
    confederation with parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Ottawa
Administrative divisions:
    10 provinces and 2 territories*; Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New
    Brunswick, Newfoundland, Northwest Territories*, Nova Scotia, Ontario,
    Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan, Yukon Territory*
Independence:
    1 July 1867 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Canada Day, 1 July (1867)
Constitution:
    amended British North America Act 1867 patriated to Canada 17 April 1982;
    charter of rights and unwritten customs
Legal system:
    based on English common law, except in Quebec, where civil law system based
    on French law prevails; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with
    reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    Romeo LeBLANC (since 8 February 1995)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Jean CHRETIEN (since 4 November 1993) was elected on 25
    October 1993, replacing Kim CAMBELL; Deputy Prime Minister Sheila COPPS
  cabinet:
    Federal Ministry; chosen by the prime minister from members of his own party
    sitting in Parliament
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Parliament (Parlement)
  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 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
    178, Bloc Quebecois 54, Reform Party 52, New Democratic Party 8, Progressive
    Conservative Party 2, independents 1
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Liberal Party, Jean CHRETIEN; Bloc Quebecois, Lucien BOUCHARD; Reform Party,
    Preston MANNING; New Democratic Party, Audrey McLAUGHLIN; Progressive
    Conservative Party, Jean CHAREST
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Canada
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACCT, AfDB, AG (observer), APEC, AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, C, CCC, CDB
    (non-regional), EBRD, ECE, ECLAC, ESA (cooperating state), FAO, G- 7, G- 8,
    G-10, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC,
    IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU,
    MINURSO, MTCR, NACC, NAM (guest), NATO, NEA, NSG, OAS, OECD, ONUSAL, OSCE,
    PCA, UN, UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNDOF, UNESCO, UNFICYP, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM,
    UNITAR, UNOMOZ, UNOSOM, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO,
    WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Raymond A.J. CHRETIEN
  chancery:
    501 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20001
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Atlanta, Boston, Buffalo, Chicago, Dallas, Detroit, Los Angeles,
    Minneapolis, New York, and Seattle
  consulate(s):
    Cincinnati, Cleveland, Miami, Philadelphia, Pittsburgh, Princeton, San
    Diego, San Francisco, San Jose, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador James Johnston BLANCHARD
  embassy:
    100 Wellington Street, K1P 5T1, Ottawa
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 5000, Ogdensburg, NY 13669-0430
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 4470
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Calgary, Halifax, Montreal, Quebec, Toronto, and Vancouver
Flag:
    three vertical bands of red (hoist side), white (double width, square), and
    red with a red maple leaf centered in the white band
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Canada
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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. In the 1980s, Canada
    registered one of the highest rates of real growth among the OECD nations,
    averaging about 3.2%. With its great natural resources, skilled labor force,
    and modern capital plant, Canada has excellent economic prospects, although
    the country still faces high unemployment and a growing debt. Moreover, the
    continuing constitutional impasse between English- and French-speaking areas
    has observers discussing a possible split in the confederation; foreign
    investors have become edgy.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $639.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4.5% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $22,760 (1994)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    0.2% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    9.6% (December 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $85 billion (Federal)
  expenditures:
    $115.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY93/94 est.)
Exports:
    $164.3 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    newsprint, wood pulp, timber, crude petroleum, machinery, natural gas,
    aluminum, motor vehicles and parts; telecommunications equipment
  partners:
    US, Japan, UK, Germany, South Korea, Netherlands, China
Imports:
    $151.5 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    crude oil, chemicals, motor vehicles and parts, durable consumer goods,
    electronic computers; telecommunications equipment and parts
  partners:
    US, Japan, UK, Germany, France, Mexico, Taiwan, South Korea
External debt:
    $243 billion (1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 4.8% (1993)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    108,090,000 kW
  production:
    511 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    16,133 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    processed and unprocessed minerals, food products, wood and paper products,
    transportation equipment, chemicals, fish products, petroleum and natural
    gas
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Canada
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 3% of GDP; one of the world's major producers and
    exporters of grain (wheat and barley); key source of US agricultural
    imports; large forest resources cover 35% of total land area; commercial
    fisheries provide annual catch of 1.5 million metric tons, of which 75% is
    exported
Illicit drugs:
    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 cocaine entering the US market
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-89), $7.2 billion
Currency:
    1 Canadian dollar (Can$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Canadian dollars (Can$) per US$1 - 1.4129 (January 1995), 1.3656 (1994),
    1.2901 (1993), 1.2087 (1992), 1.1457 (1991), 1.1668 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Canada
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    78,148 km; note - there are two major transcontinental freight railway
    systems: Canadian National (government owned) and Canadian Pacific Railway;
    passenger service provided by VIA (government operated)
  standard gauge:
    78,148 km 1.435-m gauge (185 km electrified) (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    849,404 km
  paved:
    253,692 km (15,983 km of expressways)
  unpaved:
    gravel 595,712 km (1991)
Inland waterways:
    3,000 km, including Saint Lawrence Seaway
Pipelines:
    crude and refined oil 23,564 km; natural gas 74,980 km
Ports:
    Becancour, Churchill, Halifax, Montreal, New Westminister, Prince Rupert,
    Quebec, Saint John (New Brunswick), Saint John's (Newfoundland), Seven
    Islands, Sydney, Three Rivers, Toronto, Vancouver, Windsor
Merchant marine:
  total:
    71 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 617,010 GRT/878,819 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 17, cargo 10, chemical tanker 5, oil tanker 23, passenger 1,
    passenger-cargo 1, railcar carrier 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 7, short-sea
    passenger 3, specialized tanker 2
  note:
    does not include ships used exclusively in the Great Lakes
Airports:
  total:
    1,386
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    17
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    16
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    147
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    234
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    550
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    69
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    353
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Canada
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    18,000,000 telephones; excellent service provided by modern media
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    about 300 earth stations for domestic satellite communications
  international:
    5 coaxial submarine cables; 5 INTELSAT earth stations (4 Atlantic Ocean and
    1 Pacific Ocean)
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 900, FM 29, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    53 (repeaters 1,400)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Canada
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Canadian Armed Forces (includes Land Forces Command or LC, Maritime Command
    or MC, Air Command or AC, Communications Command or CC, Training Command or
    TC), Royal Canadian Mounted Police (RCMP)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 7,570,877; males fit for military service 6,522,092; males
    reach military age (17) annually 151,590 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $9.0 billion, 1.6% of GDP (FY95/96)
Canada
+CAMEROON - Passport and visa required.  Obtain visa before arrival to avoid
difficulty at airport.  Multiple-entry tourist visa for stay up to 90 days,
requires $65.22 fee, 2 application forms, 2 photos, yellow fever and
cholera immunizations, proof of onward/return transportation and bank
statement.  If invited by family or friends, visa available for up to 3
months, may be extended 1 month.  Invitation must be signed by authorities
in Cameroon.  Multiple-entry business visa, valid 12 months, requires
company letter to guarantee financial and legal responsibility; include
exact dates of travel.  Enclose prepaid envelope for return of passport by
registered, certified or express mail.  For additional information contact
Embassy of the Republic of Cameroon, 2349 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20008 (202/265-8790 to 8794).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Cameroon
============================================================
Cameroon - Consular Information Sheet
 September 6, 1995
Country Description:  Cameroon is a developing African country.
Facilities for tourism are limited.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Travelers
who do not obtain a visa for Cameroon in advance of their departure
from the U.S. may encounter difficulties upon arrival.  Evidence of
a yellow fever immunization must be presented.  Additional entry
information can be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of
Cameroon, 2349 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington D.C. 20008,
telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Continuing political tensions and social
consequences of Cameroon's severe economic downturn have sparked
isolated incidents of violence in several areas of the country.  The
potential for disorder exists throughout Cameroon.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited.  Cleanliness
and sanitation levels in even the best hospitals are low.  Not all
medicines are available.  Doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
does not always provide coverage outside of the United States.  The
Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment of medical
services outside of the United States.  Travelers have found
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage to be
useful.  Information on health matters can be obtained from the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Armed banditry is an increasing problem
throughout the country, including tourist areas in Cameroon's far
north province and all major cities.  Persons traveling at night on
rural highways in the far north province are at extreme risk and
should exercise caution when traveling outside the major towns even
in daylight hours.  The continued armed banditry in the extreme
north province in the region between Waza Park and Kousseri have
prompted the U.S. Embassy in Yaounde to restrict all travel of
Embassy personnel north of Waza Park.  Travel between Nsimalen
Airport and downtown Yaounde is dangerous at night.  A new shuttle
service provided by the Cameroonian Airport Authority may reduce
nighttime security incidents and traffic accidents on the road
between the airport and the capital city.  To curb banditry,
security personnel at random security checkpoints may request
persons to show their passports, residence cards, driver's license
and/or vehicle registrations.
There is an increasing circulation of counterfeit U.S. and
Cameroonian currency in the country.  Business travelers have
experienced increased credit risk in Cameroon's banking sector.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to
Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on protecting
personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region
in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Photography Restrictions:  While photography is not officially
forbidden, security officials are sensitive about the photographing
of government buildings and military installations, many of which
are unmarked.  Photography of these subjects may result in seizure
of photographic equipment by Cameroon authorities.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens may register with
the U.S. Embassy in Yaounde.  The Embassy can also provide updated
information on travel and security in Cameroon.  The U.S. Embassy is
located in the capital city of Yaounde on Rue Nachtigal; the mailing
address is B.P. 817, Yaounde, Cameroon. The telephone number is
(237) 234-014; the Embassy fax number is (237) 230-753.
 No. 95-106
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated February 17,
1995, to update the information on medical facilities and crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Cameroon
============================================================
Cameroon - Consular Information Sheet
 September 6, 1995
Country Description:  Cameroon is a developing African country.
Facilities for tourism are limited.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Travelers
who do not obtain a visa for Cameroon in advance of their departure
from the U.S. may encounter difficulties upon arrival.  Evidence of
a yellow fever immunization must be presented.  Additional entry
information can be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of
Cameroon, 2349 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington D.C. 20008,
telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Continuing political tensions and social
consequences of Cameroon's severe economic downturn have sparked
isolated incidents of violence in several areas of the country.  The
potential for disorder exists throughout Cameroon.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited.  Cleanliness
and sanitation levels in even the best hospitals are low.  Not all
medicines are available.  Doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
does not always provide coverage outside of the United States.  The
Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment of medical
services outside of the United States.  Travelers have found
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage to be
useful.  Information on health matters can be obtained from the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Armed banditry is an increasing problem
throughout the country, including tourist areas in Cameroon's far
north province and all major cities.  Persons traveling at night on
rural highways in the far north province are at extreme risk and
should exercise caution when traveling outside the major towns even
in daylight hours.  The continued armed banditry in the extreme
north province in the region between Waza Park and Kousseri have
prompted the U.S. Embassy in Yaounde to restrict all travel of
Embassy personnel north of Waza Park.  Travel between Nsimalen
Airport and downtown Yaounde is dangerous at night.  A new shuttle
service provided by the Cameroonian Airport Authority may reduce
nighttime security incidents and traffic accidents on the road
between the airport and the capital city.  To curb banditry,
security personnel at random security checkpoints may request
persons to show their passports, residence cards, driver's license
and/or vehicle registrations.
There is an increasing circulation of counterfeit U.S. and
Cameroonian currency in the country.  Business travelers have
experienced increased credit risk in Cameroon's banking sector.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to
Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on protecting
personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region
in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Photography Restrictions:  While photography is not officially
forbidden, security officials are sensitive about the photographing
of government buildings and military installations, many of which
are unmarked.  Photography of these subjects may result in seizure
of photographic equipment by Cameroon authorities.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens may register with
the U.S. Embassy in Yaounde.  The Embassy can also provide updated
information on travel and security in Cameroon.  The U.S. Embassy is
located in the capital city of Yaounde on Rue Nachtigal; the mailing
address is B.P. 817, Yaounde, Cameroon. The telephone number is
(237) 234-014; the Embassy fax number is (237) 230-753.
 No. 95-106
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated February 17,
1995, to update the information on medical facilities and crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
`2D2                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cameroon
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Equatorial
    Guinea and Nigeria
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    475,440 sq km
  land area:
    469,440 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than California
Land boundaries:
    total 4,591 km, Central African Republic 797 km, Chad 1,094 km, Congo 523
    km, Equatorial Guinea 189 km, Gabon 298 km, Nigeria 1,690 km
Coastline:
    402 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    50 nm
International disputes:
    demarcation of international boundaries in Lake Chad, the lack of which led
    to border incidents in the past, is completed and awaits ratification by
    Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria; dispute with Nigeria over land and
    maritime boundaries in the vicinity of the Bakasi Peninsula has been
    referred to the International Court of Justice
Climate:
    varies with terrain, from tropical along coast to semiarid and hot in north
Terrain:
    diverse, with coastal plain in southwest, dissected plateau in center,
    mountains in west, plains in north
Natural resources:
    petroleum, bauxite, iron ore, timber, hydropower potential
Land use:
  arable land:
    13%
  permanent crops:
    2%
  meadows and pastures:
    18%
  forest and woodland:
    54%
  other:
    13%
Irrigated land:
    280 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water-borne diseases are prevalent; deforestation; overgrazing;
    desertification; poaching; overfishing
  natural hazards:
    recent volcanic activity with release of poisonous gases
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea,
    Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified -
    Desertification, Nuclear Test Ban, Tropical Timber 94
Note:
    sometimes referred to as the hinge of Africa
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cameroon
                                     People
Population:
    13.521 million (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    44% (female 2,978,216; male 3,001,487)
  15-64 years:
    52% (female 3,562,247; male 3,523,100)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 248,314; male 207,636) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.92% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    40.42 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    11.19 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    75.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    57.48 years
  male:
    55.41 years
  female:
    59.6 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.8 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Cameroonian(s)
  adjective:
    Cameroonian
Ethnic divisions:
    Cameroon Highlanders 31%, Equatorial Bantu 19%, Kirdi 11%, Fulani 10%,
    Northwestern Bantu 8%, Eastern Nigritic 7%, other African 13%, non-African
    less than 1%
Religions:
    indigenous beliefs 51%, Christian 33%, Muslim 16%
Languages:
    24 major African language groups, English (official), French (official)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1987)
  total population:
    55%
  male:
    66%
  female:
    45%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    agriculture 74.4%, industry and transport 11.4%, other services 14.2% (1983)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cameroon
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Cameroon
  conventional short form:
    Cameroon
  former:
    French Cameroon
Digraph:
    CM
Type:
    unitary republic; multiparty presidential regime (opposition parties
    legalized 1990)
Capital:
    Yaounde
Administrative divisions:
    10 provinces; Adamaoua, Centre, Est, Extreme-Nord, Littoral, Nord,
    Nord-Ouest, Ouest, Sud, Sud-Ouest
Independence:
    1 January 1960 (from UN trusteeship under French administration)
National holiday:
    National Day, 20 May (1972)
Constitution:
    20 May 1972
Legal system:
    based on French civil law system, with common law influence; has not
    accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    20 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Paul BIYA (since 6 November 1982); election last held 11 October
    1992; results - President Paul BIYA reelected with about 40% of the vote
    amid widespread allegations of fraud; SDF candidate John FRU NDI got 36% of
    the vote; UNDP candidate Bello Bouba MAIGARI got 19% of the vote
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Simon ACHIDI ACHU (since 9 April 1992)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale):
    elections last held 1 March 1992 (next scheduled for March 1997); results -
    (180 seats) CPDM 88, UNDP 68, UPC 18, MDR 6
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM), Paul BIYA, president, is
    government-controlled and was formerly the only party, but opposition
    parties were legalized in 1990
  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)
Other political or pressure groups:
    Alliance for Change (FAC), Cameroon Anglophone Movement (CAM)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cameroon
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, BDEAC, CCC, CEEAC, ECA, FAO, FZ, G-19, G-77, GATT, IAEA,
    IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO,
    INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, PCA, UDEAC, UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jerome MENDOUGA
  chancery:
    2349 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 8794
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Harriet W. ISOM
  embassy:
    Rue Nachtigal, Yaounde
  mailing address:
    B. P. 817, Yaounde
  telephone:
    [237] 23-40-14
  FAX:
    [237] 23-07-53
  consulate(s):
    none (Douala closed September 1993)
Flag:
    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 Ethiopia
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cameroon
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Because of its offshore oil resources and favorable agricultural conditions,
    Cameroon 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 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: coffee,
    cocoa, and petroleum. 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.
    Although the 50% devaluation of the currency in January 1994 improved the
    potential for export growth, mismanagement remains and is the main barrier
    to economic improvement.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $15.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -2.9% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,200 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    -0.8% (FY91/92)
Unemployment rate:
    25% (1990 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.6 billion
  expenditures:
    $2.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $226 million (FY92/93 est.)
Exports:
    $1.6 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    petroleum products, lumber, cocoa beans, aluminum, coffee, cotton
  partners:
    EC (particularly France) about 40%, African countries, US
Imports:
    $1.96 billion (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    machines and electrical equipment, food, consumer goods, transport equipment
  partners:
    EC about 60% (France 38%, Germany 9%), African countries, Japan, US 5%
External debt:
    $6 billion (1991)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -2.1% (FY90/91); accounts for about 20% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    630,000 kW
  production:
    2.7 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    196 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum production and refining, food processing, light consumer goods,
    textiles, lumber
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cameroon
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    the agriculture and forestry sectors provide employment for the majority of
    the population, contributing about 25% to GDP and providing a high degree of
    self-sufficiency in staple foods; commercial and food crops include coffee,
    cocoa, timber, cotton, rubber, bananas, oilseed, grains, livestock, root
    starches
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-90), $479 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-90), $4.75 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $29 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $125
    million
Currency:
    1 CFA franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Communaute Financiere Africaine francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 529.43 (January
    1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991), 272.26
    (1990)
  note:
    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
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cameroon
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,111 km
  narrow gauge:
    1,111 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    65,000 km
  paved:
    2,682 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, improved earth 32,318 km; unimproved earth 30,000 km
Inland waterways:
    2,090 km; of decreasing importance
Ports:
    Bonaberi, Douala, Garoua, Kribi, Tiko
Merchant marine:
  total:
    2 cargo ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 24,122 GRT/33,509 DWT
Airports:
    60
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    20
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    9
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    21
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cameroon
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    26,000 telephones; telephone density - 2 telephones/1,000 persons; available
    only to business and government
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    cable, microwave radio relay, and troposcatter
  international:
    2 Atlantic Ocean INTELSAT earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 11, FM 11, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cameroon
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy (includes Naval Infantry), Air Force, National Gendarmerie,
    Presidential Guard
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 3,038,007; males fit for military service 1,532,303; males
    reach military age (18) annually 147,293 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $102 million, NA% of GDP (1994)
Burma
BURKINA FASO - Passport and visa required.  Single-entry visa valid 3
months for visit up to 1 month, extendable, requires $20 fee, 2 application
forms, 2 photos and yellow fever vaccination (cholera immunization
recommended).  Send passport by registered mail and include postage or
prepaid envelope for return by mail.  Payment accepted in cash or money
order only.  For further information call Embassy of Burkina Faso, 2340
Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/332-5577) or Honorary
Consulate in Decatur, GA (404/378-7278), Los Angeles, CA (213/824-5100) or
New Orleans, LA (504/945-3152).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Burkina Faso
============================================================
Burkina Faso - Consular Information Sheet
 January 20, 1995
Country Description:  Burkina Faso, previously known as Upper
Volta, is a developing West African country which borders the Sahara
Desert.  The official language is French.  Facilities for tourism
are not widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Cholera
immunization is recommended.  Additional information can be obtained
from the Embassy of Burkina Faso, 2340 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.,
Washington, D.C.  20008, telephone [phone].  There are
honorary consuls for Burkina Faso in Decatur (Georgia), Los Angeles
and New Orleans.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Burkina Faso are
limited.  Medicine may be in short supply. Doctors and hospitals
often expect immediate cash payment for health care services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment of
medical services outside the United States.  In some cases,
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas and medical
evacuation coverage has proven useful.  Malaria risk exists
throughout the year and throughout the country.  Malaria prophylaxis
is used by most visitors and residents.  Local water is not potable.
 Bottled water is available in urban areas, but is not widely
available in rural areas.  Information on health matters can be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Some petty crime occurs.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local
police and to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  The pamphlets,
"A Safe Trip Abroad," and "Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan
Africa," provide useful information on protecting personal security
while traveling abroad and on travel in the region in general.  Both
are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Photography Restrictions:  A valid photo permit must be obtained
from the Ministry of Tourism; the Ministry's list of photo
restrictions are expected to be observed.  The U.S. Embassy can
provide information on specific photography regulations.
Currency Information:  Credit cards are rarely accepted.  Travelers
checks can be cashed at local banks.
Use of Telephones:  Local telephone service is excellent but
expensive.  International calls cannot always be made from hotels.
It is often necessary to make international calls from a Post and
Telecommunications office where calls must be paid for in local
currency only.  Collect calls are not possible.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in
Ouagadougou can obtain updated information on travel and security in
Burkina Faso.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in the capital city
of Ouagadougou on Avenue Raoul Follerau.  The mailing address is 01
B.P. 35, Ouagadougou, Burkina Faso.  The telephone numbers are (226)
30-67-23/24/25.  The fax number is [phone].
 No. 95-007
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 23,
1993, with no changes following an annual review.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
,                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Burkina
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, north of Ghana
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    274,200 sq km
  land area:
    273,800 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Colorado
Land boundaries:
    total 3,192 km, Benin 306 km, Ghana 548 km, Cote d'Ivoire 584 km, Mali 1,000
    km, Niger 628 km, Togo 126 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    following mutual acceptance of an International Court of Justice (ICJ)
    ruling in December 1986 on their international boundary dispute, Burkina and
    Mali are proceeding with boundary demarcation, including the tripoint with
    Niger
Climate:
    tropical; warm, dry winters; hot, wet summers
Terrain:
    mostly flat to dissected, undulating plains; hills in west and southeast
Natural resources:
    manganese, limestone, marble; small deposits of gold, antimony, copper,
    nickel, bauxite, lead, phosphates, zinc, silver
Land use:
  arable land:
    10%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    37%
  forest and woodland:
    26%
  other:
    27%
Irrigated land:
    160 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    recent droughts and desertification severely affecting agricultural
    activities, population distribution, and the economy; overgrazing; soil
    degradation; deforestation
  natural hazards:
    recurring droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Life
    Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified -
    Desertification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Burkina
                                     People
Population:
    10,422,828 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 2,488,662; male 2,517,245)
  15-64 years:
    49% (female 2,707,601; male 2,378,957)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 184,578; male 145,785) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.79% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    48.05 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    18.22 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -1.9 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    116.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    46.6 years
  male:
    45.71 years
  female:
    47.51 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.88 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Burkinabe (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Burkinabe
Ethnic divisions:
    Mossi (about 2.5 million), Gurunsi, Senufo, Lobi, Bobo, Mande, Fulani
Religions:
    indigenous beliefs 40%, Muslim 50%, Christian (mainly Roman Catholic) 10%
Languages:
    French (official), tribal languages belonging to Sudanic family, spoken by
    90% of the population
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    18%
  male:
    28%
  female:
    9%
Labor force:
    NA (most adults are employed in subsistance agriculture)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 80%, industry 15%, commerce, services, and government 5%
  note:
    20% of male labor force migrates annually to neighboring countries for
    seasonal employment (1984)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Burkina
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Burkina Faso
  conventional short form:
    Burkina
  former:
    Upper Volta
Digraph:
    UV
Type:
    parliamentary
Capital:
    Ouagadougou
Administrative divisions:
    30 provinces; Bam, Bazega, Bougouriba, Boulgou, Boulkiemde, Ganzourgou,
    Gnagna, Gourma, Houet, Kadiogo, Kenedougou, Komoe, Kossi, Kouritenga,
    Mouhoun, Namentenga, Naouri, Oubritenga, Oudalan, Passore, Poni, Sanguie,
    Sanmatenga, Seno, Sissili, Soum, Sourou, Tapoa, Yatenga, Zoundweogo
Independence:
    5 August 1960 (from France)
National holiday:
    Anniversary of the Revolution, 4 August (1983)
Constitution:
    2 June 1991
Legal system:
    based on French civil law system and customary law
Suffrage:
    none
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Captain Blaise COMPAORE (since 15 October 1987); election last
    held December 1991
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Roch KABORE (since March 1994)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers;  appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Assembly of People's Deputies:
    elections last held 24 May 1992 (next to be held 1997); results - percent of
    vote by party NA; seats - (107 total), ODP-MT 78, CNPP-PSD 12, RDA 6, ADF 4,
    other 7
  note:
    the current law also provides for a second consultative chamber, which has
    not been formally constituted
Judicial branch:
    Appeals Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Organization for People's Democracy - Labor Movement (ODP-MT), ruling party,
    Simon COMPAORE, Secretary General; 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
Other political or pressure groups:
    committees for the defense of the revolution; watchdog/political action
    groups throughout the country in both organizations and communities
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Burkina
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, CEAO, ECA, ECOWAS, Entente, FAO, FZ, G-77, GATT, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU,
    WADB, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Gaetan R. OUEDRAOGO
  chancery:
    2340 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 6895
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Donald J. McCONNELL
  embassy:
    Avenue Raoul Follerau, Ouagadougou
  mailing address:
    01 B. P. 35, Ouagadougou
  telephone:
    [226] 306723 through 306725
  FAX:
    [226] 312368
Flag:
    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 Ethiopia
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Burkina
                                     Economy
Overview:
    One of the poorest countries in the world, Burkina 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 provides about 40% of GDP
    and is mainly of a subsistence nature. Industry, dominated by unprofitable
    government-controlled corporations, accounts for about 15% of GDP. Following
    the 50% currency devaluation in January 1994, the government updated its
    development program in conjunction with international agencies. Even with
    the best of plans, however, the government faces formidable problems on all
    sides.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $6.5 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    0.4% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $660 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    -0.6% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $483 million
  expenditures:
    $548 million, including capital expenditures of $189 million (1992)
Exports:
    $273 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    cotton, gold, animal products
  partners:
    EC 42%, Cote d'Ivoire 11%, Taiwan 15% (1992)
Imports:
    $636 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    machinery, food products, petroleum
  partners:
    EC 49%, Africa 24%, Japan 6% (1992)
External debt:
    $865 million (December 1991 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 6.7% (1992); accounts for about 15% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    60,000 kW
  production:
    190 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    17 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    cotton lint, beverages, agricultural processing, soap, cigarettes, textiles,
    gold mining and extraction
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 40% of GDP; cash crops - peanuts, shea nuts, sesame,
    cotton; food crops - sorghum, millet, corn, rice; livestock; not
    self-sufficient in food grains
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Burkina
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $294 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $2.9 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89),  $113 million
Currency:
    1 CFA franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    CFA francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 529.43 (January 1995), 555.20 (1995), 283.16
    (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991), 272.26 (1990)
  note:
    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
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Burkina
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    620 km (520 km Ouagadougou to Cote d'Ivoire border and 100 km Ouagadougou to
    Kaya; single track)
  narrow gauge:
    620 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    16,500 km
  paved:
    1,300 km
  unpaved:
    improved earth 7,400 km; unimproved earth 7,800 km (1985)
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    48
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    26
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    16
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Burkina
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; all services only fair
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay, wire, and radio communication stations
  international:
    1 Atlantic Ocean INTELSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Burkina
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, National Police, People's Militia
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,081,999; males fit for military service 1,065,605 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $104 million, 6.4% of GDP (1994)
BULGARIA
BRUNEI - Passport required.  Visa not required for tourist/business stay up
to 90 days.  Yellow fever vaccination needed if arriving from infected
area.  For  more information, contact Embassy of the State of Brunei
Darussalam, Suite 300, 2600 Virginia Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20037
(202/342-0159) or Brunei Permanent Mission to the U.N., 866 United Nations
Plaza, Rm. 248, New York, NY  10017 (212/838-1600).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Brunei
============================================================
Brunei - Consular Information Sheet
 August 16, 1995
Country Description:  Brunei is a small Islamic Sultanate on the
north coast of the island of Borneo.  The capital, Bandar Seri
Begawan, is the only major city.  Tourist facilities are good, and
generally available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  Visas are not
required for Americans traveling to Brunei for business or pleasure
on a designated carrier for stays of less than 90 days.  Travelers
on official business continue to need visas, which must be obtained
in advance.  A yellow fever vaccination is needed if arriving from
an infected area.  For more information, the traveler may contact
the Embassy of the State of Brunei Darussalam, Suite 300, 2600
Virginia Ave., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20037; tel. [phone].
Aviation Oversight:  In March 1995, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Brunei's civil aviation authority as in
compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards
for air carriers licensed by Brunei.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at
1-800-322-7873.
Medical Facilities:  Hospital and medical services, as well as
adequate facilities, are available in Brunei.  Doctors and hospitals
often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has
proven useful.  The international travelers hotline at the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention can be reached at [phone]
for additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  The crime rate in Brunei is very low, and
violent crime is rare.  Lost or stolen passports should be reported
to the local police and the U.S. Embassy.  Useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip
Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  The trafficking in
and the illegal importation of controlled drugs are very serious
offenses in Brunei and the penalty for such offenses is death.
Persons carrying amounts above specified minimum quantities (15
grams of heroin, etc.) are subject to the maximum penalty.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy can
obtain updated information on travel and security within the area.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located on the third floor,
Teck Guan Plaza, Julan Sultan, in the capital city of Bandar Seri
Begawan.  The mailing address is American Embassy Box B, APO AP
96440; telephone [phone].
 No. 95-093
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 11, 1994,
to add information on aviation safety.J
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Brunei
============================================================
Brunei - Consular Information Sheet
 August 16, 1995
Country Description:  Brunei is a small Islamic Sultanate on the
north coast of the island of Borneo.  The capital, Bandar Seri
Begawan, is the only major city.  Tourist facilities are good, and
generally available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  Visas are not
required for Americans traveling to Brunei for business or pleasure
on a designated carrier for stays of less than 90 days.  Travelers
on official business continue to need visas, which must be obtained
in advance.  A yellow fever vaccination is needed if arriving from
an infected area.  For more information, the traveler may contact
the Embassy of the State of Brunei Darussalam, Suite 300, 2600
Virginia Ave., N.W. Washington, D.C. 20037; tel. [phone].
Aviation Oversight:  In March 1995, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Brunei's civil aviation authority as in
compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards
for air carriers licensed by Brunei.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at
1-800-322-7873.
Medical Facilities:  Hospital and medical services, as well as
adequate facilities, are available in Brunei.  Doctors and hospitals
often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has
proven useful.  The international travelers hotline at the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention can be reached at [phone]
for additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  The crime rate in Brunei is very low, and
violent crime is rare.  Lost or stolen passports should be reported
to the local police and the U.S. Embassy.  Useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip
Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  The trafficking in
and the illegal importation of controlled drugs are very serious
offenses in Brunei and the penalty for such offenses is death.
Persons carrying amounts above specified minimum quantities (15
grams of heroin, etc.) are subject to the maximum penalty.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy can
obtain updated information on travel and security within the area.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located on the third floor,
Teck Guan Plaza, Julan Sultan, in the capital city of Bandar Seri
Begawan.  The mailing address is American Embassy Box B, APO AP
96440; telephone [phone].
 No. 95-093
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 11, 1994,
to add information on aviation safety.J
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
@+!+                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brunei
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and Malaysia
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    5,770 sq km
  land area:
    5,270 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Delaware
Land boundaries:
    total 381 km, Malysia 381 km
Coastline:
    161 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm or to median line
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    may wish to purchase the Malaysian salient that divides the country; all of
    the Spratly Islands are claimed by China, Taiwan, and Vietnam; parts of them
    are claimed by Malaysia and the Philippines; in 1984, Brunei established an
    exclusive fishing zone that encompasses Louisa Reef, but has not publicly
    claimed the island
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid, rainy
Terrain:
    flat coastal plain rises to mountains in east; hilly lowland in west
Natural resources:
    petroleum, natural gas, timber
Land use:
  arable land:
    1%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    1%
  forest and woodland:
    79%
  other:
    18%
Irrigated land:
    10 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    typhoons, earthquakes, and severe flooding are very rare
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution;
    signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
Note:
    close to vital sea lanes through South China Sea linking Indian and Pacific
    Oceans; two parts physically separated by Malaysia; almost an enclave of
    Malaysia
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brunei
                                     People
Population:
    292,266 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    34% (female 48,458; male 50,624)
  15-64 years:
    62% (female 85,581; male 95,955)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 5,172; male 6,476) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.63% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    25.83 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.07 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    5.49 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    24.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    71.24 years
  male:
    69.65 years
  female:
    72.91 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.41 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Bruneian(s)
  adjective:
    Bruneian
Ethnic divisions:
    Malay 64%, Chinese 20%, other 16%
Religions:
    Muslim (official) 63%, Buddhism 14%, Christian 8%, indigenous beliefs and
    other 15% (1981)
Languages:
    Malay (official), English, Chinese
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1991)
  total population:
    88%
  male:
    92%
  female:
    82%
Labor force:
    119,000 (1993 est.); note - includes members of the Army
  by occupation:
    government 47.5%, production of oil, natural gas, services, and construction
    41.9%, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 3.8% (1986)
  note:
    33% of labor force is foreign (1988)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brunei
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Negara Brunei Darussalam
  conventional short form:
    Brunei
Digraph:
    BX
Type:
    constitutional sultanate
Capital:
    Bandar Seri Begawan
Administrative divisions:
    4 districts (daerah-daerah, singular - daerah); Belait, Brunei and Muara,
    Temburong, Tutong
Independence:
    1 January 1984 (from UK)
National holiday:
    National Day 23 February (1984)
Constitution:
    29 September 1959 (some provisions suspended under a State of Emergency
    since December 1962, others since independence on 1 January 1984)
Legal system:
    based on Islamic law
Suffrage:
    none
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    Sultan and Prime Minister His Majesty Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji
    HASSANAL Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah (since 5 October 1967)
  cabinet:
    Council of Cabinet Ministers; composed chiefly of members of the royal
    family
Legislative branch:
    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 constitution reform, but elections are unlikely
    for several years
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Brunei United National Party (inactive), Anak HASANUDDIN, chairman; Brunei
    National Solidarity Party (the first legal political party and now banned),
    leader NA; Brunei Peoples Party (banned), leader NA
Member of:
    APEC, ASEAN, C, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, GATT, ICAO, IDB, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT
    (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OIC, UN,
    UNCTAD, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Haji JAYA bin Abdul Latif
  chancery:
    Watergate, Suite 300, 3rd floor, 2600 Virginia Avenue NW, Washington, DC
    20037
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brunei
                                   Government
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Theresa A. TULL
  embassy:
    Third Floor, Teck Guan Plaza, Jalan Sultan, Bandar Seri Begawan
  mailing address:
    American Embassy Box B, APO AP 96440
  telephone:
    [673] (2) 229670
  FAX:
    [673] (2) 225293
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brunei
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 petroleum 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4.43 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -4% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $16,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.5% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    5% (1993 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.5 billion
  expenditures:
    $1.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $255 million (1990 est.)
Exports:
    $2.2 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    crude oil, liquefied natural gas, petroleum products
  partners:
    Japan 52%, South Korea 10%, UK 9%, Thailand 7%, Singapore 6% (1991)
Imports:
    $1.2 billion (c.i.f., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, food, chemicals
  partners:
    Singapore 34%, UK 23%, US 10%, Japan 8%, Malaysia 7%, Switzerland 4% (1991)
External debt:
    $0
Industrial production:
    growth rate 12.9% (1987); accounts for 41.6% of GDP (1990), includes mining,
    quarrying, and manufacturing
Electricity:
  capacity:
    380,000 kW
  production:
    1.2 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,971 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum, petroleum refining, liquefied natural gas, construction
Agriculture:
    imports about 80% of its food needs; principal crops and livestock include
    rice, cassava, bananas, buffaloes, and pigs
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-87), $20.6 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $153 million
Currency:
    1 Bruneian dollar (B$) = 100 cents
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brunei
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    Bruneian dollars (B$) per US$1 - 1.4524 (January 1995), 1.5274 (1994),
    1.6158 (1993), 1.6290 (1992), 1.7276 (1991), 1.8125 (1990); note - the
    Bruneian dollar is at par with the Singapore dollar
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brunei
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    13 km private line
  narrow gauge:
    13 km 0.610-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    1,090 km
  paved:
    bituminous 370 km (with another 52 km under construction)
  unpaved:
    gravel or earth 720 km
Inland waterways:
    209 km; navigable by craft drawing less than 1.2 meters
Pipelines:
    crude oil 135 km; petroleum products 418 km; natural gas 920 km
Ports:
    Bandar Seri Begawar, Kuala Belait, Muara, Seria, Tutong
Merchant marine:
  total:
    7 liquefied gas carriers (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 348,476 GRT/340,635
    DWT
Airports:
    5
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brunei
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    33,000 telephones (1987); service throughout country is adequate for present
    needs; international service good to adjacent Malaysia
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    INTELSAT (NA Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 4, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    74,000 (1987)
  note:
    radiobroadcast coverage good
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brunei
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Land Forces, Navy, Air Force, Royal Brunei Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 81,560; males fit for military service 47,403; males reach
    military age (18) annually 2,835 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $312 million, 6.2% of GDP (1994)
Bouvet Island
"BOTSWANA - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 90 days.
For further information contact Embassy of the Republic of Botswana, Suite
7M, 3400 International Drive, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/244-4990/1)
or nearest Honorary Consulate:  Los Angeles (213/626-8484), San Francisco
(415/346-4435) or Houston (713/622-1900).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Botswana
============================================================
Botswana - Consular Information Sheet
 September 26, 1995
Country Description:  Botswana is a developing southern African
nation.  Facilities for tourism are available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  No visa is necessary
for stays of less than 90 days.  Further information can be obtained
from the Embassy of the Republic of Botswana, Suite 7M, 3400
International Drive, N.W., Washington, D.C.  20008, telephone (202)
244-4990/1.  There are also honorary consuls in Los Angeles, San
Francisco and Houston.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Botswana are limited.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide
for payment of medical services outside the United States.  In some
cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas and
medical evacuation coverage has proven useful.  Information on
health matters can be obtained from the Centers For Disease
Control's international travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Violent crime is increasing and has affected
the American community in Gaborone.  Auto theft and auto highjacking
of popular vehicle models have become a daily occurrence in
Gaborone.  Prudent security measures, such as alarms and
immobilizers, may deter such crimes.  Petty crime, such as
pickpocketing, and economic crimes of opportunity, such as stealing
valuables left exposed in vehicles, remain the most common forms of
crime in Botswana.  It is dangerous for visitors to travel alone at
night on foot in unfamiliar areas.  The loss or theft abroad of a
U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and
to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe
Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide
useful information on protecting personal security while traveling
abroad and on travel in the region in general.  Both are available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Botswana's
laws mandate harsh punishments for unlawful dealing and possession
of cannabis (known locally as motokwane or dagga).
Automobile Travel:  Travel by automobile outside of large towns may
be dangerous.  Although major roads are generally in good condition,
the combination of long, tedious stretches of two-lane highway, high
speed limits, and the occasional presence of large animals on the
roads makes fatal accidents a frequent occurrence.  Driving at night
on rural highways is particularly hazardous.
Registration and Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens may register at
the U.S. Embassy and obtain updated information on travel and
security in Botswana.  The U.S. Embassy is located in the capital
city of Gaborone on Embassy Drive, Government Enclave.  The mailing
address is P.O. Box 90, Gaborone.  The telephone number is (267)
353-982; the fax number is (267) 356-947, and the after-hours
emergency telephone number is (267) 357-111.
 No. 95-119
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated January 20,
1995, to amend the sections on crime, medical facilities and drug
penalties.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Botswana
============================================================
Botswana - Consular Information Sheet
 September 26, 1995
Country Description:  Botswana is a developing southern African
nation.  Facilities for tourism are available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  No visa is necessary
for stays of less than 90 days.  Further information can be obtained
from the Embassy of the Republic of Botswana, Suite 7M, 3400
International Drive, N.W., Washington, D.C.  20008, telephone (202)
244-4990/1.  There are also honorary consuls in Los Angeles, San
Francisco and Houston.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Botswana are limited.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide
for payment of medical services outside the United States.  In some
cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas and
medical evacuation coverage has proven useful.  Information on
health matters can be obtained from the Centers For Disease
Control's international travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Violent crime is increasing and has affected
the American community in Gaborone.  Auto theft and auto highjacking
of popular vehicle models have become a daily occurrence in
Gaborone.  Prudent security measures, such as alarms and
immobilizers, may deter such crimes.  Petty crime, such as
pickpocketing, and economic crimes of opportunity, such as stealing
valuables left exposed in vehicles, remain the most common forms of
crime in Botswana.  It is dangerous for visitors to travel alone at
night on foot in unfamiliar areas.  The loss or theft abroad of a
U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and
to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe
Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide
useful information on protecting personal security while traveling
abroad and on travel in the region in general.  Both are available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Botswana's
laws mandate harsh punishments for unlawful dealing and possession
of cannabis (known locally as motokwane or dagga).
Automobile Travel:  Travel by automobile outside of large towns may
be dangerous.  Although major roads are generally in good condition,
the combination of long, tedious stretches of two-lane highway, high
speed limits, and the occasional presence of large animals on the
roads makes fatal accidents a frequent occurrence.  Driving at night
on rural highways is particularly hazardous.
Registration and Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens may register at
the U.S. Embassy and obtain updated information on travel and
security in Botswana.  The U.S. Embassy is located in the capital
city of Gaborone on Embassy Drive, Government Enclave.  The mailing
address is P.O. Box 90, Gaborone.  The telephone number is (267)
353-982; the fax number is (267) 356-947, and the after-hours
emergency telephone number is (267) 357-111.
 No. 95-119
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated January 20,
1995, to amend the sections on crime, medical facilities and drug
penalties.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
,                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Botswana
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, north of South Africa
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    600,370 sq km
  land area:
    585,370 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 4,013 km, Namibia 1,360 km, South Africa 1,840 km, Zimbabwe 813 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    short section of boundary with Namibia is indefinite; quadripoint with
    Namibia, Zambia, and Zimbabwe is in disagreement; dispute with Namibia over
    uninhabited Kasikili (Sidudu) Island in Linyanti (Chobe) River remained
    unresolved in mid-February 1995 and the parties agreed to refer the matter
    to the International Court of Justice
Climate:
    semiarid; warm winters and hot summers
Terrain:
    predominately flat to gently rolling tableland; Kalahari Desert in southwest
Natural resources:
    diamonds, copper, nickel, salt, soda ash, potash, coal, iron ore, silver
Land use:
  arable land:
    2%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    75%
  forest and woodland:
    2%
  other:
    21%
Irrigated land:
    20 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    overgrazing, primarily as a result of the expansion of the cattle
    population; desertification; limited natural fresh water resources
  natural hazards:
    periodic droughts; seasonal August winds blow from the west, carrying sand
    and dust across the country, which can obscure visibility
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test
    Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity
Note:
    landlocked; population concentrated in eastern part of the country
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Botswana
                                     People
Population:
    1,392,414 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    43% (female 300,598; male 303,333)
  15-64 years:
    53% (female 398,347; male 344,838)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 25,773; male 19,525) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.36% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    31.01 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.41 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    38 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    63.56 years
  male:
    60.54 years
  female:
    66.67 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.86 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Motswana (singular), Batswana (plural)
  adjective:
    Motswana (singular), Batswana (plural)
Ethnic divisions:
    Batswana 95%, Kalanga, Basarwa, and Kgalagadi 4%, white 1%
Religions:
    indigenous beliefs 50%, Christian 50%
Languages:
    English (official), Setswana
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    23%
  male:
    32%
  female:
    16%
Labor force:
    428,000 (1992)
  by occupation:
    220,000 formal sector employees, most others are engaged in cattle raising
    and subsistence agriculture (1992 est.); 14,300 are employed in various
    mines in South Africa (March 1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Botswana
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Botswana
  conventional short form:
    Botswana
  former:
    Bechuanaland
Digraph:
    BC
Type:
    parliamentary republic
Capital:
    Gaborone
Administrative divisions:
    10 districts; Central, Chobe, Ghanzi, Kgalagadi, Kgatleng, Kweneng,
    Ngamiland, North-East, South-East, Southern; in addition, there are 4 town
    councils - Francistown, Gaborone, Lobatse, Selebi-Phikwe
Independence:
    30 September 1966 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 30 September (1966)
Constitution:
    March 1965, effective 30 September 1966
Legal system:
    based on Roman-Dutch law and local customary law; judicial review limited to
    matters of interpretation; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Sir Ketumile MASIRE (since 13 July 1980); Vice President Festus
    MOGAE (since 9 March 1992); election last held 15 October 1994 (next to be
    held October 1999); results - President Sir Ketumile MASIRE was reelected by
    the National Assembly
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Parliament
  House of Chiefs:
    is a largely advisory 15-member body consisting of chiefs of the 8 principal
    tribes, 4 elected subchiefs, and 3 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 of which 40 are elected and
    4 are appointed) BDP 27, BNF 13
Judicial branch:
    High Court, Court of Appeal
Political parties and leaders:
    Botswana Democratic Party (BDP), Sir Ketumile MASIRE; Botswana National
    Front (BNF), Kenneth KOMA; Botswana People's Party (BPP), Knight MARIPE;
    Botswana Independence Party (BIP), Motsamai MPHO
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, FLS, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA,
    IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC,
    ITU, NAM, OAU, SACU, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMOZ, UNOMUR,
    UNOSOM, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Botsweletse Kingsley SEBELE
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Botswana
                                   Government
  chancery:
    Suite 7M, 3400 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 4991
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Howard F. JETER
  embassy:
    address NA, Gaborone
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 90, Gaborone
  telephone:
    [267] 353982
  FAX:
    [267] 356947
Flag:
    light blue with a horizontal white-edged black stripe in the center
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Botswana
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy has historically been based on cattle 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 cattle raising predominate. 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. No other sector has
    experienced such growth, especially not agriculture, which is plagued by
    erratic rainfall and poor soils. The unemployment rate remains a problem at
    25%. Hampered by a still sluggish diamond market in 1994, GDP grew by only
    1%.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    1% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,130 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    10% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    25% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.7 billion
  expenditures:
    $1.99 billion, including capital expenditures of $652 million (FY93/94)
Exports:
    $1.8 billion (f.o.b. 1994)
  commodities:
    diamonds 78%, copper and nickel 6%, meat 5%
  partners:
    Switzerland, UK, SACU (Southern African Customs Union)
Imports:
    $1.8 billion (c.i.f., 1992)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, vehicles and transport equipment, textiles, petroleum products
  partners:
    Switzerland, SACU (Southern African Customs Union), UK, US
External debt:
    $344 million (December 1991)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 4.6% (FY92/93); accounts for about 43% of GDP, including mining
Electricity:
  capacity:
    220,000 kW
  production:
    900 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    694 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    mining of diamonds, copper, nickel, coal, salt, soda ash, potash; livestock
    processing
Agriculture:
    sorghum, maize, millet, pulses, groundnuts, beans, cowpeas, sunflower seeds;
    livestock
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Botswana
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US aid (1992), $13 million; Norway (1992), $16 million; Sweden (1992), $15.5
    million; Germany (1992), $3.6 million; EC/Lome-IV (1992), $3 million-$6
    million in grants; $28.7 million in long-term projects (1992)
Currency:
    1 pula (P) = 100 thebe
Exchange rates:
    pula (P) per US$1 - 1.7086 (January 1995), 2.6976 (November 1994), 2.4190
    (1993), 2.1327 (1992), 2.0173 (1991), 1.8601 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Botswana
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    888 km
  narrow gauge:
    888 km 1.067-m gauge (1992)
Highways:
  total:
    11,514 km
  paved:
    1,600 km
  unpaved:
    crushed stone, gravel 1,700 km; improved earth 5,177 km; unimproved earth
    3,037 km
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    100
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    6
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    23
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    62
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Botswana
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    26,000 telephones; sparse system; telephone density - 18.67 telephones/1,000
    persons
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    small system of open wire lines, microwave radio relay links, and a few
    radio communication stations
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 7, FM 13, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Botswana
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Botswana Defense Force (includes Army and Air Wing), Botswana National
    Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 306,878; males fit for military service 161,376; males reach
    military age (18) annually 15,403 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $198 million, 5.2% of GDP (FY93/94)
Botswana
,BOSNIA AND HERZEGOVINA - Passport required.  At the time of publication,
Bosnia-Herzegovina entry permission is being granted at the border on a
case by-case basis.
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Bosnia-Herzegovina
============================================================
Bosnia-Herzegovina - Travel Warning
 December 8, 1995
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens not to travel to the
Republic of Bosnia-Herzegovina.  The three-year civil war has left
landmines and unexploded ordnance throughout the country;  roads,
airports, and railways have been bombed and are not functional.  Law
enforcement and civil authority is nonexistent in many regions which
are still controlled by Serb militia.  A peace agreement has been
initialed which calls for withdrawal of forces to barracks and
introduction of a new constitution, but it has not yet been
implemented.
 No. 95-053
This replaces the Travel Warning for Bosnia-Herzegovina dated
September 22, 1995 to add information about landmines,
infrastructure, and the peace agreement.
Bosnia-Herzegovina - Consular Information Sheet
 June 1, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens not to travel
to the Republic of Bosnia-Herzegovina because of increased
hostilities.  All U.S. citizens presently in Bosnia-Herzegovina are
urged to leave.  The recent hostage-taking by Bosnian Serb militia
suggests that foreigners, including U.S. citizens, are at risk of
being taken hostage.  At the same time, the ability of the American
Embassy in Sarajevo to assist citizens, even in emergencies, is
severely limited by the increased military activity.
Country Description:  The Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina,
formerly one of the Yugoslav republics, is currently in a state of
war.  The resulting deaths, destruction, food shortages and travel
disruptions affecting roads, airports and railways, make travel to
all parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina extremely hazardous.  The
popular religious shrine at Medjugorje is located within Bosnia and
Herzegovina's borders.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  Permission to enter
Bosnia and Herzegovina is currently granted at the border on a
case-by-case basis.
Areas of Instability:  Over 70% of Bosnia is under the control of
Bosnian Serb military forces.  These rebel forces have taken
hostages, both military and civilian.  The Bosnian government and
federation-controlled regions, while currently stable, are subject
to possible deterioration of civilian security.
Medical Facilities:  Health facilities are minimal or non-existent;
most medicines are unobtainable.  Further information on health
matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's
international traveler's hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  General lawlessness and deteriorating economic
conditions have brought an increase in crime.  Adequate police
response in the event of an emergency is doubtful.  Anti-American
sentiments run high in many parts of the country, particularly in
Serb-dominated areas.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad"
provides useful information on protecting personal security while
traveling abroad.  It is available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402.
Currency Information:  It is impossible to use credit cards or to
cash traveler's checks.  German deutsche marks are the currency of
favor at present.
Other Information:  Roadblocks manned by local militias are
numerous.  These militia groups frequently confiscate relief goods
and trucks, and may otherwise behave unprofessionally.  U.S.
citizens are reminded that they are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.
Registration:  U.S. citizens visiting or remaining in Bosnia and
Herzegovina, despite the warning, can register at the U.S. Embassy
in Sarajevo, or either the U.S. Embassy in Belgrade or in Zagreb to
obtain updated information on travel and security within Bosnia and
Herzegovina.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo is located at Djure
Djakovica 43, telephone number (387-71) 659-992.  Due to extremely
limited staffing, the Embassy is unable to provide consular services
except in extreme emergencies.  U.S. citizens seeking routine
assistance while in Bosnia can contact the U.S. Embassies in
Belgrade or Zagreb.
The U.S. Embassy in Belgrade, Serbia, is located at Kneza Milosa
50, telephone [phone].
The U.S. Embassy in Zagreb, Croatia, is located at Andrije Hebranga
2, telephone [phone].
 No. 95-069
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 10, 1994,
to change the Warning to reflect the escalation of hostilities, the
threat of hostage-taking, and the U.S. Embassy's severely limited
ability to assist American citizens in that  country.  Areas of
Instability have been added.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Bosnia-Herzegovina
============================================================
Bosnia-Herzegovina - Travel Warning
 December 8, 1995
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens not to travel to the
Republic of Bosnia-Herzegovina.  The three-year civil war has left
landmines and unexploded ordnance throughout the country;  roads,
airports, and railways have been bombed and are not functional.  Law
enforcement and civil authority is nonexistent in many regions which
are still controlled by Serb militia.  A peace agreement has been
initialed which calls for withdrawal of forces to barracks and
introduction of a new constitution, but it has not yet been
implemented.
 No. 95-053
This replaces the Travel Warning for Bosnia-Herzegovina dated
September 22, 1995 to add information about landmines,
infrastructure, and the peace agreement.
Bosnia-Herzegovina - Consular Information Sheet
 June 1, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens not to travel
to the Republic of Bosnia-Herzegovina because of increased
hostilities.  All U.S. citizens presently in Bosnia-Herzegovina are
urged to leave.  The recent hostage-taking by Bosnian Serb militia
suggests that foreigners, including U.S. citizens, are at risk of
being taken hostage.  At the same time, the ability of the American
Embassy in Sarajevo to assist citizens, even in emergencies, is
severely limited by the increased military activity.
Country Description:  The Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina,
formerly one of the Yugoslav republics, is currently in a state of
war.  The resulting deaths, destruction, food shortages and travel
disruptions affecting roads, airports and railways, make travel to
all parts of Bosnia and Herzegovina extremely hazardous.  The
popular religious shrine at Medjugorje is located within Bosnia and
Herzegovina's borders.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  Permission to enter
Bosnia and Herzegovina is currently granted at the border on a
case-by-case basis.
Areas of Instability:  Over 70% of Bosnia is under the control of
Bosnian Serb military forces.  These rebel forces have taken
hostages, both military and civilian.  The Bosnian government and
federation-controlled regions, while currently stable, are subject
to possible deterioration of civilian security.
Medical Facilities:  Health facilities are minimal or non-existent;
most medicines are unobtainable.  Further information on health
matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's
international traveler's hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  General lawlessness and deteriorating economic
conditions have brought an increase in crime.  Adequate police
response in the event of an emergency is doubtful.  Anti-American
sentiments run high in many parts of the country, particularly in
Serb-dominated areas.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad"
provides useful information on protecting personal security while
traveling abroad.  It is available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402.
Currency Information:  It is impossible to use credit cards or to
cash traveler's checks.  German deutsche marks are the currency of
favor at present.
Other Information:  Roadblocks manned by local militias are
numerous.  These militia groups frequently confiscate relief goods
and trucks, and may otherwise behave unprofessionally.  U.S.
citizens are reminded that they are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.
Registration:  U.S. citizens visiting or remaining in Bosnia and
Herzegovina, despite the warning, can register at the U.S. Embassy
in Sarajevo, or either the U.S. Embassy in Belgrade or in Zagreb to
obtain updated information on travel and security within Bosnia and
Herzegovina.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Sarajevo is located at Djure
Djakovica 43, telephone number (387-71) 659-992.  Due to extremely
limited staffing, the Embassy is unable to provide consular services
except in extreme emergencies.  U.S. citizens seeking routine
assistance while in Bosnia can contact the U.S. Embassies in
Belgrade or Zagreb.
The U.S. Embassy in Belgrade, Serbia, is located at Kneza Milosa
50, telephone [phone].
The U.S. Embassy in Zagreb, Croatia, is located at Andrije Hebranga
2, telephone [phone].
 No. 95-069
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 10, 1994,
to change the Warning to reflect the escalation of hostilities, the
threat of hostage-taking, and the U.S. Embassy's severely limited
ability to assist American citizens in that  country.  Areas of
Instability have been added.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
?                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Bosnia and Herzegovina
                                     Header
Note:
    Bosnia and Herzegovina is set to enter its third year of interethnic civil
    strife which began in the spring of 1992 after the Government of Bosnia and
    Herzegovina held a referendum on independence. Bosnia's Serbs - supported by
    neighboring Serbia - responded with armed resistance aimed at partitioning
    the republic along ethnic lines and joining Serb-held areas to '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,
    DC, creating the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. A group of rebel
    Muslims, however, continues to battle government forces in the northwest
    enclave of Bihac. A Contact Group of countries, the US, UK, France, Germany,
    and Russia, continues to seek a resolution between the Federation and the
    Bosnian Serbs. In July of 1994 the Contact Group presented a plan to the
    warring parties that roughly equally divides the country between the two,
    while maintaining Bosnia in its current internationally recognized borders.
    The Federation agreed to the plan almost immediately, while the Bosnian
    Serbs rejected it.
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Bosnia and Herzegovina
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and Croatia
Map references:
    Ethnic Groups in Eastern Europe, Europe
Area:
  total area:
    51,233 sq km
  land area:
    51,233 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Tennessee
Land boundaries:
    total 1,459 km, Croatia 932 km, Serbia and Montenegro 527 km (312 km with
    Serbia; 215 km with Montenegro)
Coastline:
    20 km
Maritime claims:
    NA
International disputes:
    as of January 1995, Bosnian Government and Bosnian Serb leaders remain far
    apart on territorial and constitutional solutions for Bosnia; the two sides
    did, however, sign a four-month cessation of hostilities agreement effective
    January 1; the Bosnian Serbs continue to reject the Contact Group Plan
    submitted by the United States, United Kingdom, France, Germany, and Russia,
    and accepted by the Bosnian Government, which stands firm in its desire to
    regain lost territory and preserve Bosnia as a multiethnic state within its
    current borders; Bosnian Serb forces control approximately 70% of Bosnian
    territory
Climate:
    hot summers and cold winters; areas of high elevation have short, cool
    summers and long, severe winters; mild, rainy winters along coast
Terrain:
    mountains and valleys
Natural resources:
    coal, iron, bauxite, manganese, timber, wood products, copper, chromium,
    lead, zinc
Land use:
  arable land:
    20%
  permanent crops:
    2%
  meadows and pastures:
    25%
  forest and woodland:
    36%
  other:
    17%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution from metallurgical plants; sites for disposing of urban waste
    are limited; widespread casualties, water shortages, and destruction of
    infrastructure because of civil strife
  natural hazards:
    frequent and destructive earthquakes
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life
    Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Bosnia and Herzegovina
                                     People
Population:
    3,201,823 (July 1995 est.)
  note:
    all data dealing with population is subject to considerable error because of
    the dislocations caused by military action and ethnic cleansing
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    22% (female 337,787; male 370,966)
  15-64 years:
    68% (female 1,082,357; male 1,085,610)
  65 years and over:
    10% (female 190,992; male 134,111) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.65% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    11.29 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.51 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    2.72 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    11.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    75.47 years
  male:
    72.75 years
  female:
    78.37 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.65 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Bosnian(s), Herzegovinian(s)
  adjective:
    Bosnian, Herzegovinian
Ethnic divisions:
    Muslim 38%, Serb 40%, Croat 22% (est.)
Religions:
    Muslim 40%, Orthodox 31%, Catholic 15%, Protestant 4%, other 10%
Languages:
    Serbo-Croatian 99%
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    1,026,254
  by occupation:
    NA%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Bosnia and Herzegovina
                                   Government
Note:
    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.
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina
  conventional short form:
    Bosnia and Herzegovina
  local long form:
    Republika Bosna i Hercegovina
  local short form:
    Bosna i Hercegovina
Digraph:
    BK
Type:
    emerging democracy
Capital:
    Sarajevo
Administrative divisions:
    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, Kotor 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
  note:
    currently under negotiation with the assistance of international mediators
Independence:
    NA April 1992 (from Yugoslavia)
National holiday:
    NA
Constitution:
    promulgated in 1974 (under the Communists), amended 1989, 1990, and 1991;
    the Assembly planned to draft a new constitution in 1991, before conditions
    deteriorated; constitution of Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina
    (including Muslim and Croatian controlled parts of Republic) ratified April
    1994
Legal system:
    based on civil law system
Suffrage:
    16 years of age, if employed;  18 years of age, universal
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Bosnia and Herzegovina
                                   Government
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Alija IZETBEGOVIC (since 20 December 1990), other members of the
    collective presidency: 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)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Haris SILAJDZIC (since NA October 1993)
  cabinet:
    executive body of ministers; members of, and responsible to, the National
    Assembly
  note:
    the president of the Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina is Kresimir ZUBAK
    (since 31 May 1994); Vice President Ejup GANIC (since 31 May 1994)
Legislative branch:
    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
  note:
    legislative elections for Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina are slated
    for late 1994
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court, Constitutional Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Party of Democratic Action (SDA), Alija IZETBEGOVIC; Croatian Democratic
    Union of Bosnia and Herzegovina (HDZ BiH), Dario KORDIC; Serbian Democratic
    Party of Bosnia and Herzegovina (SDS BiH), Radovan KARADZIC, president;
    Liberal Bosnian Organization (LBO), Adil ZULFIKARPASIC, president;
    Democratic Party of Socialists (DSS), Nijaz DURAKOVIC, president; Party of
    Democratic Changes, leader NA; Serbian Movement for Renewal (SPO), Milan
    TRIVUNCIC; Alliance of Reform Forces of Yugoslavia for Bosnia and
    Herzegovina (SRSJ BiH), Dr. Nenad KECMANOVIC, president; Democratic League
    of Greens (DSZ), Drazen PETROVIC; Liberal Party (LS), Rasim KADIC, president
Other political or pressure groups:
    NA
Member of:
    CE (guest), CEI, ECE, FAO, ICAO, IFAD, ILO, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory
    user), INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM (guest), OSCE, UN, UNCTAD,
    UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Sven ALKALAJ
  chancery:
    Suite 760, 1707 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 3613, 3615
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Victor JACKOVICH
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Bosnia and Herzegovina
                                   Government
  embassy:
    address NA
  mailing address:
    American Embassy Bosnia, c/o AmEmbassy Vienna Boltzmangasse 16, A-1091,
    Vienna, Austria; APO: (Bosnia) Vienna, Department of State, Washington, DC
    20521-9900
  telephone:
    [43] (1) 313-39
  FAX:
    [43] (1) 310-0682
Flag:
    white with a large blue shield; the shield contains white Roman crosses with
    a white diagonal band running from the upper hoist corner to the lower fly
    side
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Bosnia and Herzegovina
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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. As of February 1995, Bosnia and
    Herzegovina was being torn apart by the continued bitter interethnic warfare
    that has caused production to plummet, unemployment and inflation to soar,
    and human misery to multiply. No economic statistics for 1992-94 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $NA
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $NA
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    NA
  partners:
    NA
Imports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    NA
  partners:
    NA
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%; production is sharply down because of interethnic and
    interrepublic warfare (1991-94)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    3,800,000 kW
  production:
    NA kWh
  consumption per capita:
    NA kWh (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Bosnia and Herzegovina
                                     Economy
Industries:
    steel production, mining (coal, iron ore, lead, zinc, manganese, and
    bauxite), manufacturing (vehicle assembly, textiles, tobacco products,
    wooden furniture, 40% of former Yugoslavia's armaments including tank and
    aircraft assembly, domestic appliances), oil refining (1991)
Agriculture:
    accounted for 9.0% of GDP in 1989; regularly produces less than 50% of food
    needs; the foothills of northern Bosnia support orchards, vineyards,
    livestock, and some wheat and corn; long winters and heavy precipitation
    leach soil fertility reducing agricultural output in the mountains; farms
    are mostly privately held, small, and not very productive (1991)
Illicit drugs:
    NA
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    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
Exchange rates:
    NA
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Bosnia and Herzegovina
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,021 km (electrified 795 km)
  standard gauge:
    1,021 km 1.435-m gauge (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    21,168 km
  paved:
    11,436 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 8,146 km; earth 1,586 km (1991)
Inland waterways:
    NA km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 174 km; natural gas 90 km (1992); note - pipelines now disrupted
Ports:
    Bosanski Brod
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    27
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    11
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    8
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Bosnia and Herzegovina
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    727,000 telephones; telephone 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
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    no earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 9, FM 2, shortwave 0
  radios:
    840,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    6
  televisions:
    1,012,094
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Bosnia and Herzegovina
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 815,055; males fit for military service 657,454; males reach
    military age (19) annually 38,201 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
B,],],]
Bermuda
@(&(BENIN - Passport and visa required.  Entry/transit visa for stay up to 90
days, requires $20 fee (no personal checks), 2 application forms, 2 photos,
vaccination certificates for yellow fever and cholera, proof of
return/onward transportation (guarantee from travel agency or photocopy of
round trip ticket) and letter of guarantee from employer.  Send prepaid
envelope for return of passport by certified or express mail.  Apply at
Embassy of the Republic of Benin, 2737 Cathedral Ave., N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20008 (202/232-6656).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Benin
============================================================
Benin - Consular Information Sheet
 November 21, 1995
Country Description:  Benin is a developing west African country.
Its capital city is Porto Novo; however, the city of Cotonou is the
main port and largest city, site of the international airport and
most government, commercial, and tourist activity.  Tourist
facilities in Cotonou are available, but are not fully developed
elsewhere.
Entry Requirements:  A visa is required.  Travelers should obtain
the latest information from the Embassy of the Republic of Benin,
2737 Cathedral Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone (202)
232-6656.  Overseas, inquiries should be made at the nearest
Beninese Embassy or Consulate.
Areas of Instability:  Travel at night, outside of population
centers, poses a risk principally because of poor road conditions.
Travelers may wish to contact the U.S. Embassy for the latest
security information.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Benin are limited.  Not
all medicines are available, and doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid or accepted outside the United States.  The
Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment of medical
services outside the United States.  Travelers have found
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas and medical
evacuation coverage to be useful.  For additional health
information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline [phone].
Information on Crime:  Street crime, especially within Cotonou,
continues to rise.  Most robberies and muggings occur along the
Marina Boulevard and the beach near the hotels frequented by
international visitors.  Some of the incidents reported involve the
use of force, often by armed persons, with occasional minor injury
to the victim.  Isolated areas are best avoided.
Business fraud stemming from Nigerian scam operations targets
foreigners, including Americans, and poses a danger of financial
loss and physical harm.  Persons contemplating business deals in
Benin with individuals promoting investment in Nigeria, especially
the Central Bank of Nigeria or the Nigerian National Petroleum
Company, are strongly urged to check with the U.S. Department of
Commerce or the U.S. Department of State before providing any
information, making financial commitments, or traveling to Benin.
The Department of State has issued a brochure for business
travelers to Nigeria; single copies are available at no charge from
the Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management, Room
4811, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520-4818.  Please
enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to
Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on protecting
personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region
in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to
register with the U.S. Embassy in Cotonou at Rue Caporal Anani
Bernard, and to obtain updated information on travel and security in
Benin.  The Embassy's mailing address is B.P. 2012, Cotonou, Benin.
The telephone numbers are [phone], 30-05-13, and 30-17-92.
The fax numbers are [phone] and 30-19-74.
 No. 95-147
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 28, 1995,
to include information on the prevalence of Nigerian business scams
operating in Benin.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Benin
============================================================
Benin - Consular Information Sheet
 November 21, 1995
Country Description:  Benin is a developing west African country.
Its capital city is Porto Novo; however, the city of Cotonou is the
main port and largest city, site of the international airport and
most government, commercial, and tourist activity.  Tourist
facilities in Cotonou are available, but are not fully developed
elsewhere.
Entry Requirements:  A visa is required.  Travelers should obtain
the latest information from the Embassy of the Republic of Benin,
2737 Cathedral Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone (202)
232-6656.  Overseas, inquiries should be made at the nearest
Beninese Embassy or Consulate.
Areas of Instability:  Travel at night, outside of population
centers, poses a risk principally because of poor road conditions.
Travelers may wish to contact the U.S. Embassy for the latest
security information.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Benin are limited.  Not
all medicines are available, and doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid or accepted outside the United States.  The
Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment of medical
services outside the United States.  Travelers have found
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas and medical
evacuation coverage to be useful.  For additional health
information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline [phone].
Information on Crime:  Street crime, especially within Cotonou,
continues to rise.  Most robberies and muggings occur along the
Marina Boulevard and the beach near the hotels frequented by
international visitors.  Some of the incidents reported involve the
use of force, often by armed persons, with occasional minor injury
to the victim.  Isolated areas are best avoided.
Business fraud stemming from Nigerian scam operations targets
foreigners, including Americans, and poses a danger of financial
loss and physical harm.  Persons contemplating business deals in
Benin with individuals promoting investment in Nigeria, especially
the Central Bank of Nigeria or the Nigerian National Petroleum
Company, are strongly urged to check with the U.S. Department of
Commerce or the U.S. Department of State before providing any
information, making financial commitments, or traveling to Benin.
The Department of State has issued a brochure for business
travelers to Nigeria; single copies are available at no charge from
the Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management, Room
4811, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520-4818.  Please
enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to
Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on protecting
personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region
in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to
register with the U.S. Embassy in Cotonou at Rue Caporal Anani
Bernard, and to obtain updated information on travel and security in
Benin.  The Embassy's mailing address is B.P. 2012, Cotonou, Benin.
The telephone numbers are [phone], 30-05-13, and 30-17-92.
The fax numbers are [phone] and 30-19-74.
 No. 95-147
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 28, 1995,
to include information on the prevalence of Nigerian business scams
operating in Benin.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
3                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Benin
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Nigeria and Togo
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    112,620 sq km
  land area:
    110,620 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Pennsylvania
Land boundaries:
    total 1,989 km, Burkina 306 km, Niger 266 km, Nigeria 773 km, Togo 644 km
Coastline:
    121 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    200 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid in south; semiarid in north
Terrain:
    mostly flat to undulating plain; some hills and low mountains
Natural resources:
    small offshore oil deposits, limestone, marble, timber
Land use:
  arable land:
    12%
  permanent crops:
    4%
  meadows and pastures:
    4%
  forest and woodland:
    35%
  other:
    45%
Irrigated land:
    60 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    recent droughts have severely affected marginal agriculture in north;
    inadequate supplies of potable water; poaching threatens wildlife
    populations; deforestation; desertification
  natural hazards:
    hot, dry, dusty harmattan wind may affect north in winter
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental
    Modification, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not
    ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea
Note:
    no natural harbors
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Benin
                                     People
Population:
    5,522,677 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 1,324,553; male 1,333,673)
  15-64 years:
    49% (female 1,431,630; male 1,299,180)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 74,119; male 59,522) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.33% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    47.25 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    13.93 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    107.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    52.24 years
  male:
    50.34 years
  female:
    54.2 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.72 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Beninese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Beninese
Ethnic divisions:
    African 99% (42 ethnic groups, most important being Fon, Adja, Yoruba,
    Bariba), Europeans 5,500
Religions:
    indigenous beliefs 70%, Muslim 15%, Christian 15%
Languages:
    French (official), Fon and Yoruba (most common vernaculars in south), tribal
    languages (at least six major ones in north)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    23%
  male:
    32%
  female:
    16%
Labor force:
    1.9 million (1987)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 60%, transport, commerce, and public services 38%, industry less
    than 2%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Benin
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Benin
  conventional short form:
    Benin
  local long form:
    Republique du Benin
  local short form:
    Benin
  former:
    Dahomey
Digraph:
    BN
Type:
    republic under multiparty democratic rule dropped Marxism-Leninism December
    1989; democratic reforms adopted February 1990; transition to multiparty
    system completed 4 April 1991
Capital:
    Porto-Novo
Administrative divisions:
    6 provinces; Atakora, Atlantique, Borgou, Mono, Oueme, Zou
Independence:
    1 August 1960 (from France)
National holiday:
    National Day, 1 August (1990)
Constitution:
    2 December 1990
Legal system:
    based on French civil law and customary law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Nicephore SOGLO (since 4 April 1991); election last held 10 and 24
    March 1991 (next election 1996); results - Nicephore SOGLO 68%, Mathieu
    KEREKOU 32%
  cabinet:
    Executive Council; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale):
    elections last held 28 March 1995; 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Benin
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    as of August 1994, 72 political parties were officially recognized; the
    following are among the most important: Alliance of the Democratic Union for
    the Forces of Progress (UDFP), Timothee ADANLIN; Movement for Democracy and
    Social Progress (MDPS), Jean-Roger AHOYO; Union for Liberty and Development
    (ULD), Marcellin DEGBE; Alliance of the National Party for Democracy and
    Development (PNDD) and the Democratic Renewal Party (PRD), Pascal Chabi KAO;
    Alliance of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the National Union for
    Solidarity and Progress (UNSP), Bruno AMOUSSOU; Our Common Cause (NCC),
    Albert TEVOEDJRE; National Rally for Democracy (RND), Joseph KEKE; Alliance
    of the National Movement for Democracy and Development (MNDD), leader NA;
    Movement for Solidarity, Union, and Progress (MSUP), Adebo ADENIYI; Union
    for Democracy and National Reconstruction (UDRN), Azaria FAKOREDE; Union for
    Democracy and National Solidarity (UDS), Mama Amadou N'DIAYE; Assembly of
    Liberal Democrats for National Reconstruction (RDL), Severin ADJOVI;
    Alliance for Social Democracy (ASD), Robert DOSSOU; Bloc for Social
    Democracy (BSD), Michel MAGNIDE; Alliance for Democracy and Progress (ADP),
    Akindes ADEKPEDJOU, and the Democratic Union for Social Renewal (UDRS), Bio
    Gado Seko N'GOYE; National Union for Democracy and Progress (UNDP), Robert
    TAGNON; Party for Progress and Democracy, Thiophile NATA; FARD-ALAFIA,
    Mathieu KEREKOU; The Renaissance Party, Nicephore SOGLO; The Patriotic Union
    for the Republic (UPR), Jean-Marie ZAHOUN; Union for the Conservation of
    Democracy, Bernard HOUEGNON
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CEAO, ECA, ECOWAS, Entente, FAO, FZ, G-77, GATT, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WADB,
    WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Lucien Edgar TONOUKOUIN
  chancery:
    2737 Cathedral Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 6657, 6658
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ruth A. DAVIS
  embassy:
    Rue Caporal Bernard Anani, Cotonou
  mailing address:
    B. P. 2012, Cotonou
  telephone:
    [229] 30-06-50, 30-05-13, 30-17-92
  FAX:
    [229] 41-15-22
Flag:
    two equal horizontal bands of yellow (top) and red with a vertical green
    band on the hoist side
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Benin
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy of Benin remains underdeveloped and dependent on subsistence
    agriculture, cotton production, and regional trade. Growth in real output
    has averaged a sound 4% in 1991-94 but this rate barely exceeds the rapid
    population growth of 3.3%. Inflation jumped to 35% in 1994 (compared to 3%
    in 1993) following the 50% currency devaluation in January. Commercial and
    transport activities, which make up almost 36% of GDP, are extremely
    vulnerable to developments in Nigeria as evidenced by decreased reexport
    trade in 1994 due to a severe contraction in Nigerian demand. The industrial
    sector accounts for less than 10% of GDP and mainly produces foods,
    beverages, cement, and textiles. 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, is gradually implementing a World Bank supported
    structural adjustment program.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $6.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,260 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    35% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $272 million (1993 est.)
  expenditures:
    $375 million, including capital expenditures of $84 million (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $332 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    cotton, crude oil, palm products, cocoa
  partners:
    FRG 36%, France 16%, Spain 14%, Italy 8%, UK 4%
Imports:
    $571 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, beverages, tobacco, petroleum products, intermediate goods,
    capital goods, light consumer goods
  partners:
    France 20%, Thailand 8%, Netherlands 7%, US 5%
External debt:
    $1 billion (December 1990 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -0.7% (1988); accounts for 10% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    30,000 kW
  production:
    10 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    25 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    textiles, cigarettes, construction materials, beverages, food, petroleum
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Benin
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 35% of GDP; small farms produce 90% of agricultural output;
    production is dominated by food crops - corn, sorghum, cassava, yams, beans,
    rice; cash crops include cotton, palm oil, peanuts; poultry and livestock
    output has not kept up with consumption
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for narcotics associated with Nigerian trafficking
    organizations and most commonly destined for Western Europe and the US
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $46 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.3 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $19 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $101
    million
Currency:
    1 CFA franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Communaute Financiere Africaine francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 529.43 (January
    1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991), 272.26
    (1990)
  note:
    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
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Benin
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    578 km (single track)
  narrow gauge:
    578 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    8,435 km
  paved:
    1,038 km
  unpaved:
    crushed stone 2,600 km; improved earth 1,530 km; unimproved earth 3,267 km
Inland waterways:
    navigable along small sections, important only locally
Ports:
    Cotonou, Porto-Novo
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    7
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Benin
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; fair system of open wire and microwave radio relay
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay and open wire
  international:
    1 Atlantic Ocean INTELSAT earth station, submarine cable
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 2, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Benin
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Armed Forces (includes Army, Navy, Air Force), National Gendarmerie
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,165,463; females age 15-49 1,249,234; males fit for
    military service 596,956; females fit for military service 631,780; males
    reach military age (18) annually 60,282 (1995 est.); females reach military
    age (18) annually 58,770 (1995 est.)
  note:
    both sexes are liable for miltary service
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $33 million, 3.2% of GDP (1994)
Austria
!AUSTRIA - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 3 months.
For longer stays check with Embassy of Austria, 3524 International Court,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/895-6767) or nearest Consulate General:
Los Angeles (310/444-9310), Chicago (312/222-1515) or New York
(212/737-6400).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Austria
============================================================
Austria - Consular Information Sheet
 August 15, 1995
Country Description:  Austria is a highly developed stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely
available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not
required for business or tourist stays up to three months.  For
information concerning longer stays or other entry regulations,
travelers can contact the Embassy of Austria at 3524 International
Court, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel: [phone], or the
nearest Austrian consulate general in Chicago, Los Angeles, or New
York.
Medical Facilities:  Good medical care is widely available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.
Information on specific health matters is available through the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline at
[phone].
Crime Information:  Austria has a low crime rate, and violent crime
is rare.  However, crimes involving theft of personal property have
increased in recent years.  Travelers can become targets of
pickpockets and purse snatchers who operate where tourists tend to
gather, favorite spots being Vienna's two largest train stations.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more
trouble-free trip.  The pamphlet is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Other Information:  Certain Austrian Airways flights between
Austria and various Middle Eastern points (usually Damascus or
Amman) make en route stops in Beirut.  (The State Department warns
U.S. citizens to avoid all travel to or through Lebanon and that
U.S. passports are not valid for such travel without special
validation).
Registration :  U.S. citizens may register at the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy or Consular Agency and obtain updated
information on travel and security in Austria.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Vienna is
located at Boltzmanngasse 16 in the Ninth District.  The Consular
Section of the U.S. Embassy is located on the fourth floor of
Gartenbau Promenade 2 in the First District.  The telephone number
for both the Embassy and the Consular Section is (43-) 31-339.
There is also a Consular Agency in Salzburg at Herbert Von Karajan
Platz 1, telephone [phone], open Monday, Wednesday, and
Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 noon.  U.S. citizens in Salzburg who
require emergency assistance after hours should contact the U.S.
Embassy in Vienna.
 No. 95-092
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated February 9,
1994, to note a change in the Austrian Embassy telephone number and
to consolidate the U.S. Embassy and consulate information.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Austria
============================================================
Austria - Consular Information Sheet
 August 15, 1995
Country Description:  Austria is a highly developed stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely
available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not
required for business or tourist stays up to three months.  For
information concerning longer stays or other entry regulations,
travelers can contact the Embassy of Austria at 3524 International
Court, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel: [phone], or the
nearest Austrian consulate general in Chicago, Los Angeles, or New
York.
Medical Facilities:  Good medical care is widely available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.
Information on specific health matters is available through the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline at
[phone].
Crime Information:  Austria has a low crime rate, and violent crime
is rare.  However, crimes involving theft of personal property have
increased in recent years.  Travelers can become targets of
pickpockets and purse snatchers who operate where tourists tend to
gather, favorite spots being Vienna's two largest train stations.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more
trouble-free trip.  The pamphlet is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Other Information:  Certain Austrian Airways flights between
Austria and various Middle Eastern points (usually Damascus or
Amman) make en route stops in Beirut.  (The State Department warns
U.S. citizens to avoid all travel to or through Lebanon and that
U.S. passports are not valid for such travel without special
validation).
Registration :  U.S. citizens may register at the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy or Consular Agency and obtain updated
information on travel and security in Austria.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Vienna is
located at Boltzmanngasse 16 in the Ninth District.  The Consular
Section of the U.S. Embassy is located on the fourth floor of
Gartenbau Promenade 2 in the First District.  The telephone number
for both the Embassy and the Consular Section is (43-) 31-339.
There is also a Consular Agency in Salzburg at Herbert Von Karajan
Platz 1, telephone [phone], open Monday, Wednesday, and
Friday from 9:00 A.M. to 12:00 noon.  U.S. citizens in Salzburg who
require emergency assistance after hours should contact the U.S.
Embassy in Vienna.
 No. 95-092
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated February 9,
1994, to note a change in the Austrian Embassy telephone number and
to consolidate the U.S. Embassy and consulate information.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
`7R7                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Austria
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Europe, north of Italy
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    83,850 sq km
  land area:
    82,730 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Maine
Land boundaries:
    total 2,496 km, Czech Republic 362 km, Germany 784 km, Hungary 366 km, Italy
    430 km, Liechtenstein 37 km, Slovakia 91 km, Slovenia 262 km, Switzerland
    164 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate; continental, cloudy; cold winters with frequent rain in lowlands
    and snow in mountains; cool summers with occasional showers
Terrain:
    in the west and south mostly mountains (Alps); along the eastern and
    northern margins mostly flat or gently sloping
Natural resources:
    iron ore, petroleum, timber, magnesite, aluminum, lead, coal, lignite,
    copper, hydropower
Land use:
  arable land:
    17%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    24%
  forest and woodland:
    39%
  other:
    19%
Irrigated land:
    40 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    some forest degradation caused by air and soil pollution; soil pollution
    results from the use of agricultural chemicals; air pollution results from
    emissions by coal- and oil-fired power stations and industrial plants and
    from trucks transiting Austria between northern and southern Europe
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic
    Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental
    Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection,
    Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air
    Pollution-Sulpher 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea,
    Whaling
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Austria
                                    Geography
Note:
    landlocked; strategic location at the crossroads of central Europe with many
    easily traversable Alpine passes and valleys; major river is the Danube;
    population is concentrated on eastern lowlands because of steep slopes, poor
    soils, and low temperatures elsewhere
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Austria
                                     People
Population:
    7,986,664 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    17% (female 681,087; male 711,127)
  15-64 years:
    67% (female 2,672,554; male 2,677,100)
  65 years and over:
    16% (female 791,762; male 453,034) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.35% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    11.21 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    10.27 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    2.5 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    6.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    76.9 years
  male:
    73.7 years
  female:
    80.27 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.48 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Austrian(s)
  adjective:
    Austrian
Ethnic divisions:
    German 99.4%, Croatian 0.3%, Slovene 0.2%, other 0.1%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 85%, Protestant 6%, other 9%
Languages:
    German
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1974 est.)
  total population:
    99%
Labor force:
    3.47 million (1989)
  by occupation:
    services 56.4%, industry and crafts 35.4%, agriculture and forestry 8.1%
  note:
    an estimated 200,000 Austrians are employed in other European countries;
    foreign laborers in Austria number 177,840, about 5% of labor force (1988)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Austria
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Austria
  conventional short form:
    Austria
  local long form:
    Republik Oesterreich
  local short form:
    Oesterreich
Digraph:
    AU
Type:
    federal republic
Capital:
    Vienna
Administrative divisions:
    9 states (bundeslaender, singular - bundesland); Burgenland, Kaernten,
    Niederoesterreich, Oberoesterreich, Salzburg, Steiermark, Tirol, Vorarlberg,
    Wien
Independence:
    12 November 1918 (from Austro-Hungarian Empire)
National holiday:
    National Day, 26 October (1955)
Constitution:
    1920; revised 1929 (reinstated 1 May 1945)
Legal system:
    civil law system with Roman law origin; judicial review of legislative acts
    by a Constitutional Court; separate administrative and civil/penal supreme
    courts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal; compulsory for presidential elections
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Thomas KLESTIL (since 8 July 1992); election last held 24 May 1992
    (next to be held 1996); results of second ballot - Thomas KLESTIL 57%,
    Rudolf STREICHER 43%
  head of government:
    Chancellor Franz VRANITZKY (since 16 June 1986); Vice Chancellor Erhard
    BUSEK (since 2 July 1991)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; chosen by the president on the advice of the
    chancellor
Legislative branch:
    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 3 representatives
  National Council (Nationalrat):
    elections last held 9 October 1994 (next to be held October 1998); results -
    SPOE 34.9%, OEVP 27.7%, FPOE 22.5%, Greens 7.3%, LF 6.0% other 1.6%; seats -
    (183 total) SPOE 65, OEVP 52, FPOE 42, Greens 13, LF 11
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Judicial Court (Oberster Gerichtshof) for civil and criminal cases,
    Administrative Court (Verwaltungsgerichtshof) for bureaucratic cases,
    Constitutional Court (Verfassungsgerichtshof) for constitutional cases
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Austria
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Social Democratic Party of Austria (SPOE), Franz VRANITZKY, chairman;
    Austrian People's Party (OEVP), Erhard BUSEK, chairman; Freedom Movement (F)
    (was the Freedom Party of Austria, FPOE), Joerg HAIDER, chairman; Communist
    Party (KPOE), Walter SILBERMAYER, chairman; The Greens, Madeleine PETROVIC;
    Liberal Forum (LF), Heide SCHMIDT
Other political or pressure groups:
    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
Member of:
    AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE, CEI, CERN, EBRD,
    ECE, EFTA, ESA, EU, FAO, G- 9, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC,
    IOM, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, MTCR, NAM (guest), NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD,
    ONUSAL, OSCE, PCA, UN, UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNDOF, UNESCO, UNFICYP, UNHCR, UNIDO,
    UNIKOM, UNMIH, UNOMIL, UNOMOZ, UNTSO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO,
    ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Helmut TUERK
  chancery:
    3524 International Court NW, Washington, DC 20008-3035
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Swanee G. HUNT
  chancery:
    Boltzmanngasse 16, A-1091, Vienna
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [43] (1) 313-39
  FAX:
    [43] (1) 310-0682
  consulate(s) general:
    none (Salzburg closed September 1993)
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and red
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Austria
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Austria boasts a prosperous and stable market economy with a sizable but
    falling proportion of nationalized industry and with extensive welfare
    benefits. Thanks to its raw material endowment, a technically skilled labor
    force, and strong links to German industrial firms, Austria occupies
    specialized niches in European industry and services (tourism, banking) and
    produces almost enough food to feed itself with only 8% of the labor force
    in agriculture. After 11 consecutive years of growth, the Austrian economy
    experienced a mild recession in 1993, but growth resumed in 1994.
    Unemployment is 4.3% and will likely stay at that level as companies adjust
    to the competition of EU membership beginning 1 January 1995. To prepare for
    EU membership, Austria's government has taken measures to open the economy
    by introducing a major tax reform, privatizing state-owned firms, and
    liberalizing cross-border capital movements. Problems for the 1990s include
    an aging population, the high level of industrial subsidies, and the
    struggle to keep welfare benefits within budgetary capabilities - the
    deficit climbed to over 4% of GDP in 1994.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $139.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $17,500 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    4.3% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $52.2 billion
  expenditures:
    $60.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $44.1 billion (1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, iron and steel, lumber, textiles, paper products,
    chemicals
  partners:
    EC 63.5% (Germany 38.9%), EFTA 9.0%, Eastern Europe/FSU 12.3%, Japan 1.5%,
    US 3.4% (1993)
Imports:
    $53.8 billion (1994 est.)
  commodities:
    petroleum, foodstuffs, machinery and equipment, vehicles, chemicals,
    textiles and clothing, pharmaceuticals
  partners:
    EC 66.8% (Germany 41.3%), EFTA 6.7%, Eastern Europe/FSU 7.5%, Japan 4.4%, US
    4.4% (1993)
External debt:
    $21.5 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 2.5% (1994 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    17,230,000 kW
  production:
    50.2 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    5,824 kWh (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Austria
                                     Economy
Industries:
    foods, iron and steel, machines, textiles, chemicals, electrical, paper and
    pulp, tourism, mining, motor vehicles
Agriculture:
    accounts for 3.2% of GDP (including forestry); principal crops and animals -
    grains, fruit, potatoes, sugar beets, sawn wood, cattle, pigs, poultry;
    80%-90% self-sufficient in food
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin transiting the Balkan route
    and Eastern Europe
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-89), $2.4 billion
Currency:
    1 Austrian schilling (S) = 100 groschen
Exchange rates:
    Austrian schillings (S) per US$1 - 10.774 (January 1995), 11.422 (1994),
    11.632 (1993), 10.989 (1992), 11.676 (1991), 11.370 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Austria
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    5,624 km
  standard gauge:
    5,269 km 1.435-m gauge (3,162 km electrified)
  narrow gauge:
    355 km 1.000-m and 0.760-m gauge (84 km electrified) (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    110,000 km
  paved:
    35,000 km (including 1,554 km of autobahn)
  unpaved:
    mostly gravel and earth 75,000 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    446 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 554 km; petroleum products 171 km; natural gas 2,611 km
Ports:
    Linz, Vienna
Merchant marine:
  total:
    32 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 152,885 GRT/235,719 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 3, cargo 25, oil tanker 1, refrigerated cargo 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo
    1
Airports:
  total:
    55
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    41
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Austria
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    4,014,000 telephones; highly developed and efficient
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), and EUTELSAT earth
    stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 6, FM 21 (repeaters 545), shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    47 (repeaters 870)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Austria
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army (includes Flying Division)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,026,567; males fit for military service 1,695,879; males
    reach military age (19) annually 46,821 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - about $1.8 billion, 0.9% of GDP (1994)
Australia
AUSTRALIA - Passport, visa and onward/return transportation required.
Transit visa not necessary for up to 8-hour stay at airport.  Visitor visa
valid 1 year  for multiple entries up to 3 months, no charge, requires 1
application and 1 photo.  Applications for a stay of longer than 3 months
or with a validity longer than 1 year, require fee of $25 (U.S.).  Need
company letter for business visa.  Departure tax, $20 (Australian), paid at
airport.  Minors not accompanied by parent require notarized copy of the
child's birth certificate and notarized written parental consent from both
parents.  AIDS test required for permanent resident visa applicants age 15
and over; U.S. test accepted.  Send prepaid envelope for return of passport
by mail.  Allow 3 weeks for processing.  For further information contact
the Embassy of Australia, 1601 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C.  20036
(1-800-242-2878, 202/797-3145) or the nearest Consulate General:  CA
(213/469-4300 or 415-362-6160), HI (808/524-5050), NY (212/245-4000) or TX
(713/629-9131).
Australia - Consular Information Sheet
August 31, 1994
Country Description:  Australia is a highly developed stable democracy with
a federal-state system.  Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport, visa, and onward/return transportation are
required.  Transit visas are not required for stays of up to eight hours at
the airport.  For further information concerning longer stays or any other
Australian regulations, travelers may contact the Embassy of Australia at
1601 Massachusetts Avenue, Washington, D.C. 20036, telephone [phone]
or Australian Consulates General in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Honolulu,
New York, or Houston.
Medical Facilities:  Good medical care is widely available.  Doctors and
hospitals may expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental overseas medical insurance, including coverage for medical
evacuation, has proven useful.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not
provide payment of medical services outside the United States.  Information
on health matters can also be obtained from the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers hotline at tel. [phone].
Information on Crime:  Australia's crime rate is low.  However, foreign
visitors from the U.S. or elsewhere are targets for pick-pockets, purse
snatchers and petty thieves.  Automobile burglaries and theft of personal
belongings also occur.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should
be reported immediately to the local police, and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State
pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."   It is available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use, or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy or a consulate may
obtain updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Canberra is located at
Moonah Place, Canberra, A.C.T. 2600; the telephone number is (61-6) 270-
5000.  The U.S. Consulate General in Sydney is located on Level 59, MLC
Centre, 19-29 Martin Place, Sydney, N.S.W. 2000; the telephone number is (61-
2) 373-9200.  The U.S. Consulate General in Melbourne is located at 553 St.
Kilda Road, P.O. Box 6722, Melbourne, VIC 3004; the telephone number is (61-
3) 526-5900.  The U.S. Consulate General in Perth is located on the 13th
floor, 16 St. Georges Terrace, Perth, WA 6000; telephone: [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Brisbane is at 383 Wickham Terrace, 4th Floor,
Brisbane, QLD 4000, telephone: [phone].
No. 94-176
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 22, 1994, and
provides the correct address of the U.S. Consulate General in Sydney.
9                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Australia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, continent between the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    7,686,850 sq km
  land area:
    7,617,930 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than the US
  note:
    includes Macquarie Island
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    25,760 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    territorial claim in Antarctica (Australian Antarctic Territory)
Climate:
    generally arid to semiarid; temperate in south and east; tropical in north
Terrain:
    mostly low plateau with deserts; fertile plain in southeast
Natural resources:
    bauxite, coal, iron ore, copper, tin, silver, uranium, nickel, tungsten,
    mineral sands, lead, zinc, diamonds, natural gas, petroleum
Land use:
  arable land:
    6%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    58%
  forest and woodland:
    14%
  other:
    22%
Irrigated land:
    18,800 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    soil erosion from overgrazing, industrial development, urbanization, and
    poor farming practices; soil salinity rising due to the use of poor quality
    water; desertification; 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 coral reef in the world, is
    threatened by increased shipping and its popularity as a tourist site;
    limited natural fresh water resources
  natural hazards:
    cyclones along the coast; severe droughts
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Australia
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity,
    Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous
    Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear
    Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83,
    Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification
Note:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Australia
                                     People
Population:
    18,322,231 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    22% (female 1,929,366; male 2,032,238)
  15-64 years:
    67% (female 6,017,362; male 6,181,887)
  65 years and over:
    11% (female 1,227,004; male 934,374) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.31% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    14.13 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.37 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    6.33 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    7.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.78 years
  male:
    74.67 years
  female:
    81.04 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.82 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Australian(s)
  adjective:
    Australian
Ethnic divisions:
    Caucasian 95%, Asian 4%, aboriginal and other 1%
Religions:
    Anglican 26.1%, Roman Catholic 26%, other Christian 24.3%
Languages:
    English, native languages
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
  total population:
    100%
  male:
    100%
  female:
    100%
Labor force:
    8.63 million (September 1991)
  by occupation:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Australia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Commonwealth of Australia
  conventional short form:
    Australia
Digraph:
    AS
Type:
    federal parliamentary state
Capital:
    Canberra
Administrative divisions:
    6 states and 2 territories*; Australian Capital Territory*, New South Wales,
    Northern Territory*, Queensland, South Australia, Tasmania, Victoria,
    Western Australia
Dependent areas:
    Ashmore and Cartier Islands, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands,
    Coral Sea Islands, Heard Island and McDonald Islands, Norfolk Island
Independence:
    1 January 1901 (federation of UK colonies)
National holiday:
    Australia Day, 26 January (1788)
Constitution:
    9 July 1900, effective 1 January 1901
Legal system:
    based on English common law; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with
    reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    William George HAYDEN (since 16 February 1989)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Paul John KEATING (since 20 December 1991); Deputy Prime
    Minister Brian HOWE (since 4 June 1991)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; prime minister selects his cabinet from members of the House and
    Senate
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Federal Parliament
  Senate:
    elections last held 13 March 1993 (next to be held by NA 1996); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (76 total) Liberal-National 36, Labor
    30, Australian Democrats 7, Greens 2, independents 1
  House of Representatives:
    elections last held 13 March 1993 (next to be held by NA 1996); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (147 total) Labor 80, Liberal-National
    65, independent 2
Judicial branch:
    High Court
Political parties and leaders:
  government:
    Australian Labor Party, Paul John KEATING
  opposition:
    Liberal Party, John HOWARD; National Party, Timothy FISCHER; Australian
    Democratic Party, Cheryl KERNOT; Green Party, leader NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Australia
                                   Government
Other political or pressure groups:
    Australian Democratic Labor Party (anti-Communist Labor Party splinter
    group); Peace and Nuclear Disarmament Action (Nuclear Disarmament Party
    splinter group)
Member of:
    AfDB, AG (observer), ANZUS, APEC, AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, C, CCC, CP,
    EBRD, ESCAP, FAO, G- 8, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA,
    IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM,
    ISO, ITU, MINURSO, MTCR, NAM (guest), NEA, NSG, OECD, PCA, SPARTECA, SPC,
    SPF, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNFICYP, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNOSOM, UNTSO, UNU, UPU,
    WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Donald Eric RUSSELL
  chancery:
    1601 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Atlanta, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Pago Pago (American
    Samoa), and San Francisco
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Edward J. PERKINS
  embassy:
    Moonah Place, Yarralumla, Canberra, Australian Capital Territory 2600
  mailing address:
    APO AP 96549
  telephone:
    [61] (6) 270-5000
  FAX:
    [61] (6) 270-5970
  consulate(s) general:
    Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney
  consulate(s):
    Brisbane
Flag:
    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 constellation in white with one small
    five-pointed star and four, larger, seven-pointed stars
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Australia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Australia has a prosperous Western-style capitalist economy, with a per
    capita GDP comparable to levels in industrialized West European countries.
    Rich in natural resources, Australia is a major exporter of agricultural
    products, minerals, metals, and fossil fuels. Primary products account for
    more than 60% 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. Australia 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 Australia's exports. Growth picked up so strongly in 1994
    that the government felt the need for fiscal and monetary tightening by
    yearend. Australia's GDP grew 6.4% in 1994, largely due to increases in
    industrial output and business investment. A severe drought in 1994 is
    expected to reduce the value of Australia's net farm production by $825
    million in the twelve months through June 1995, but rising world commodity
    prices are likely to boost rural exports by 7.7% to $14.5 billion in
    1995/96, according to government statistics.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $374.6 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6.4% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $20,720 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.5% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    8.9% (December 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $83.8 billion
  expenditures:
    $92.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY93/94)
Exports:
    $50.4 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    coal, gold, meat, wool, alumina, wheat, machinery and transport equipment
  partners:
    Japan 25%, US 11%, South Korea 6%, NZ 5.7%, UK, Taiwan, Singapore, Hong Kong
    (1992)
Imports:
    $51.1 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment, computers and office machines, crude oil
    and petroleum products
  partners:
    US 23%, Japan 18%, UK 6%, Germany 5.7%, NZ 4% (1992)
External debt:
    $147.2 billion (1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3.9% (FY93/94); accounts for 32% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    34,540,000 kW
  production:
    155 billion kWh
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Australia
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    8,021 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    mining, industrial and transportation equipment, food processing, chemicals,
    steel
Agriculture:
    accounts for 5% of GDP and over 30% of export revenues; world's largest
    exporter of beef and wool, second-largest for mutton, and among top wheat
    exporters; major crops - wheat, barley, sugarcane, fruit; livestock -
    cattle, sheep, poultry
Illicit drugs:
    Tasmania 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
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-89), $10.4 billion
Currency:
    1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3058 (January 1995), 1.3667 (1994),
    1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2835 (1991), 1.2799 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Australia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    40,478 km (1,130 km electrified; 183 km dual gauge)
  broad gauge:
    7,970 km 1.600-m gauge
  standard gauge:
    16,201 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    16,307 km 1.067-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    837,872 km
  paved:
    243,750 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, stabilized earth 228,396 km; unimproved earth 365,726
    km
Inland waterways:
    8,368 km; mainly by small, shallow-draft craft
Pipelines:
    crude oil 2,500 km; petroleum products 500 km; natural gas 5,600 km
Ports:
    Adelaide, Brisbane, Cairns, Darwin, Devonport, Fremantle, Geelong, Hobart
    (Tasmania), Launceton (Tasmania), Mackay, Melbourne, Sydney, Townsville
Merchant marine:
  total:
    81 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,620,536 GRT/3,801,970 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 30, cargo 7, chemical tanker 3, combination bulk 2, container 7,
    liquefied gas tanker 6, oil tanker 18, roll-on/roll-off cargo 7, short-sea
    passenger 1
Airports:
  total:
    480
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    9
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    15
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    128
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    125
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    31
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    23
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    149
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Australia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    8,700,000 telephones; good international and domestic service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    domestic satellite service
  international:
    submarine cables to New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Indonesia; 10
    INTELSAT (4 Indian Ocean and 6 Pacific Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 258, FM 67, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    134
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Australia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Australian Army, Royal Australian Navy, Royal Australian Air Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 4,934,175; males fit for military service 4,274,900; males
    reach military age (17) annually 131,852 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $7.2 billion, 2.2% of GDP (FY94/95)
1lSlSlS
Argentina
ARGENTINA - Passport required.  Visa not required for tourist stay up to 3
months.  Business visa requires company letter detailing purpose of trip
and length of stay.  For more information contact Argentine Embassy, 1600
New Hampshire Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009 (202/939-6400) or the
nearest Consulate:  CA (213/739-5959 and 415/982-3050), FL (305/373-1889),
IL (312/263-7435), LA (504/523-2823), NY (212/603-0415), PR (809/754-6500)
or TX (713/871-8935) .
Argentina - Consular Information Sheet
September 2, 1994
Country Description:  Argentina is a medium income nation with a developing
economy.  The quality of facilities for tourism varies according to price
and area.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  U.S. citizens do not need a
visa for a tourist stay.  For current information concerning entry and
customs requirements for Argentina, travelers can contact the Argentine
Embassy at 1600 New Hampshire Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C., tel: (202) 939-
6400, or the nearest consulate in Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, Chicago,
New York, Houston, or San Juan.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is good but varies in quality outside
major cities.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for
health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide payment of
medical services outside the United States.  In some cases, medical
insurance with specific overseas and medical evacuation coverage has proved
to be useful.  For additional health information, travelers can contact the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline at (404) 332-
4559.
Crime Information:  There are no specific threats directed against American
visitors or tourists at the present time.  Street crime is a problem in the
metropolitan Buenos Aires area.  Most crime affecting tourists or business
travelers in Argentina is of the non-violent type: pickpockets, purse
snatching, hotel burglaries and fraudulent dealings.  However, it is
recommended that caution be exercised when traveling about the city.  Street
robberies (muggings), while not common, are not unheard of in Buenos Aires.
For additional crime information, travelers can contact the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy either before or upon arrival.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe
Trip Abroad," it is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.  Also available from the
same address is the Department of State's publication, "Tips for Travelers
to Central and South America."
Adoptions:  Argentine adoptions often involve complications and delays.  In
general, the adoption of Argentine orphans is possible but discouraged by
the Council of Minors due to a waiting list of qualified Argentine couples
wishing to adopt children.  Updated information on Argentine adoption
proceedings and U.S. immigrant visa requirements is available from the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy.  Additional information is available
by writing the Office of Citizens Consular Services, CA/OCS/CCS, Room 4817,
Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520, or by telephoning [phone].
Dual Nationality:  U.S. citizens also considered to be citizens of Argentina
who remain in Argentina more than sixty days, are required to leave the
country on their Argentine passports.  They might also be subject to
compulsory military service while in Argentina.  Those who may be affected
can inquire at an Argentine embassy or consulate to determine their status.
In some instances, dual nationality may hamper U.S. government efforts to
provide protection abroad.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties in Argentina for possession, use and
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In October 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Argentina's civil aviation authority as in
compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards for
Argentine carriers operating to and from the U.S.  The same level of safety
oversight would typically be applied to operations to other destinations.
For further information, travelers may contact the Department of
Transportation at 1-800-322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration:  Americans are encouraged to register with
the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Buenos Aires at 4300 Colombia,
1425, telephone: [phone].
No. 94-178
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 9, 1994 to add
information on aviation oversight.
>                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Chile
    and Uruguay
Map references:
    South America
Area:
  total area:
    2,766,890 sq km
  land area:
    2,736,690 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than three-tenths the size of the US
Land boundaries:
    total 9,665 km, Bolivia 832 km, Brazil 1,224 km, Chile 5,150 km, Paraguay
    1,880 km, Uruguay 579 km
Coastline:
    4,989 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    short section of the boundary with Uruguay is in dispute; short section of
    the boundary with Chile is indefinite; claims British-administered Falkland
    Islands (Islas Malvinas); claims British-administered South Georgia and the
    South Sandwich Islands; territorial claim in Antarctica
Climate:
    mostly temperate; arid in southeast; subantarctic in southwest
Terrain:
    rich plains of the Pampas in northern half, flat to rolling plateau of
    Patagonia in south, rugged Andes along western border
Natural resources:
    fertile plains of the pampas, lead, zinc, tin, copper, iron ore, manganese,
    petroleum, uranium
Land use:
  arable land:
    9%
  permanent crops:
    4%
  meadows and pastures:
    52%
  forest and woodland:
    22%
  other:
    13%
Irrigated land:
    17,600 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    erosion results from inadequate flood controls and improper land use
    practices; irrigated soil degradation; desertification; air pollution in
    Buenos Aires and other major cites; water pollution in urban areas; rivers
    becoming polluted due to increased pesticide and fertilizer use
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                    Geography
  natural hazards:
    Tucuman and Mendoza areas in the Andes subject to earthquakes; pamperos are
    violent windstorms that can strike the Pampas and northeast; heavy flooding
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity,
    Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous
    Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship
    Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification,
    Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation
Note:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                     People
Population:
    34,292,742 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    28% (female 4,706,793; male 4,903,589)
  15-64 years:
    62% (female 10,680,074; male 10,689,728)
  65 years and over:
    10% (female 1,922,552; male 1,390,006) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.11% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    19.51 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.62 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.19 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    28.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    71.51 years
  male:
    68.22 years
  female:
    74.97 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.65 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Argentine(s)
  adjective:
    Argentine
Ethnic divisions:
    white 85%, mestizo, Indian, or other nonwhite groups 15%
Religions:
    nominally Roman Catholic 90% (less than 20% practicing), Protestant 2%,
    Jewish 2%, other 6%
Languages:
    Spanish (official), English, Italian, German, French
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    95%
  male:
    96%
  female:
    95%
Labor force:
    10.9 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 12%, industry 31%, services 57% (1985 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Argentine Republic
  conventional short form:
    Argentina
  local long form:
    Republica Argentina
  local short form:
    Argentina
Digraph:
    AR
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Buenos Aires
Administrative divisions:
    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
    Rioja; Mendoza; Misiones; Neuquen; Rio Negro; Salta; San Juan; San Luis;
    Santa Cruz; Santa Fe; Santiago del Estero; Tierra del Fuego, Antartida e
    Islas del Atlantico Sur; Tucuman
  note:
    the US does not recognize any claims to Antarctica or Argentina's claims to
    the Falkland Islands
Independence:
    9 July 1816 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Revolution Day, 25 May (1810)
Constitution:
    1 May 1853; revised August 1994
Legal system:
    mixture of US and West European legal systems; has not accepted compulsory
    ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Carlos Saul MENEM (since 8 July 1989); Vice President (position
    vacant); election last held 14 May 1995 (next to be held NA May 1999);
    results - Carlos Saul MENEM was reelected
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    bicameral National Congress (Congreso Nacional)
  Senate:
    elections last held May 1989, but provincial elections in late 1991 set the
    stage for indirect elections by provincial senators for one-third of 48
    seats in the national senate in May 1992; seats (48 total) - PJ 29, UCR 11,
    others 7, vacant 1
  Chamber of Deputies:
    elections last held 3 October 1993 ( next to be held October 1995);
    elections are held every two years and half of the total membership is
    elected each time for four year terms; seats - (257 total) PJ 122, UCR 83,
    MODIN 7, UCD 5, other 40
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Corte Suprema)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Justicialist Party (PJ), Carlos Saul MENEM, Peronist umbrella political
    organization; Radical Civic Union (UCR),Raul ALFONSIN, moderately
    left-of-center party; Union of the Democratic Center (UCD), Jorge AGUADO,
    conservative party; Dignity and Independence Political Party (MODIN), Aldo
    RICO, right-wing party; Grand Front (Frente Grande), Carlos ALVAREZ,
    center-left coalition; several provincial parties
Other political or pressure groups:
    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
Member of:
    AfDB, AG (observer), Australia Group, BCIE, CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G- 6, G-11,
    G-15, G-19, G-24, G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA,
    IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM,
    ISO, ITU, LAES, LAIA, MERCOSUR, MINURSO, MTCR, NSG (observer), OAS, ONUSAL,
    OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UNAVEM II, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNFICYP, UNHCR, UNIDO,
    UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMIH, UNOMOZ, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Raul Enrique GRANILLO OCAMPO
  chancery:
    1600 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 6403
  consulate(s) general:
    Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San
    Francisco, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador James R. CHEEK
  embassy:
    4300 Colombia, 1425 Buenos Aires
  mailing address:
    Unit 4334; APO AA 34034
  telephone:
    [54] (1) 777-4533, 4534
  FAX:
    [54] (1) 777-0197
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 inflation 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. The
    economy registered an impressive 6% advance in 1994, fueled largely by
    inflows of foreign capital and strong domestic consumption spending. The
    government's major short term objective is encouraging exports, e.g., by
    reducing domestic costs of production. At the start of 1995, the government
    had to deal with the spillover from international financial movements
    associated with the devaluation of the Mexican peso. In addition,
    unemployment had become a serious issue for the government. Despite average
    annual 7% growth in 1991-94, unemployment surprisingly has doubled - due
    mostly to layoffs in government bureaus and in privatized industrial firms
    and utilities and, to a lesser degree, to illegal immigration. Much remains
    to be done in the 1990s in dismantling the old statist barriers to growth,
    extending the recent economic gains, and bringing down the rate of
    unemployment.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $270.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $7,990 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3.9% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    12% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $48.46 billion
  expenditures:
    $46.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $3.5 billion (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $15.7 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    meat, wheat, corn, oilseed, manufactures
  partners:
    US 12%, Brazil, Italy, Japan, Netherlands
Imports:
    $21.4 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, chemicals, metals, fuels and lubricants,
    agricultural products
  partners:
    US 22%, Brazil, Germany, Bolivia, Japan, Italy, Netherlands
External debt:
    $73 billion (April 1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 12.5% accounts for 31% of GDP (1994 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                     Economy
Electricity:
  capacity:
    17,330,000 kW
  production:
    54.8 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,610 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    food processing, motor vehicles, consumer durables, textiles, chemicals and
    petrochemicals, printing, metallurgy, steel
Agriculture:
    accounts for 8% of GDP (including fishing); produces abundant food for both
    domestic consumption and exports; among world's top five exporters of grain
    and beef; principal crops - wheat, corn, sorghum, soybeans, sugar beets
Illicit drugs:
    increasing use as a transshipment country for cocaine headed for the US and
    Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $4.4 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $718 million
Currency:
    1 nuevo peso argentino = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    pesos per US$1 - 0.99870 (December 1994), 0.99901 (1994), 0.99895 (1993),
    0.99064 (1992), 0.95355 (1991), 0.48759 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    34,572 km
  broad gauge:
    NA km 1.676-m gauge
  standard gauge:
    NA km 1.435-m
  narrow gauge:
    400 km 0.750-m gauge; NA km 1.000-m gauge (209 km electrified)
Highways:
  total:
    208,350 km
  paved:
    57,000 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 39,500 km; improved/unimproved earth 111,850 km
Inland waterways:
    11,000 km navigable
Pipelines:
    crude oil 4,090 km; petroleum products 2,900 km; natural gas 9,918 km
Ports:
    Bahia Blanca, Buenos Aires, Comodoro Rivadavia, Concepcion del Uruguay, La
    Plata, Mar del Plata, Necochea, Rio Gallegos, Rosario, Santa Fe, Ushuaia
Merchant marine:
  total:
    44 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 434,525 GRT/667,501 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 3, cargo 21, chemical tanker 1, container 4, oil tanker 8, railcar
    carrier 1, refrigerated cargo 5, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    1,602
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    25
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    55
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    48
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    703
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    70
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    693
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    2,650,000 telephones; 12,000 public telephones; 78 telephones/1,000 persons;
    extensive modern system but many families do not have telephones; microwave
    widely used; however, during rainstorms, the telephone system frequently
    grounds out, even in Buenos Aires
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay and domestic satellite network with 40 earth stations
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 171, FM 0, shortwave 13
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    231
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Argentina
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Argentine Army, Navy of the Argentine Republic, Argentine Air Force,
    National Gendarmerie, Argentine Naval Prefecture (Coast Guard only),
    National Aeronautical Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 8,573,780; males fit for military service 6,954,584; males
    reach military age (20) annually 301,166 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Norway
NORFOLK ISLAND - Passport and visa required.  Visa issued upon arrival
for visit up to 30 days, extendable, requires confirmed accommodations and
onward/return ticket.  Australian transit visa must also be obtained in
advance for travel to Norfolk Island.  For both visas consult
Australian Embassy (202/797-3000).
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Norfolk Island
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of Australia)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Norfolk Island
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Australia
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    34.6 sq km
  land area:
    34.6 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.2 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    32 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    subtropical, mild, little seasonal temperature variation
Terrain:
    volcanic formation with mostly rolling plains
Natural resources:
    fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    25%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    75%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    typhoons (especially May to July)
  international agreements:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Norfolk Island
                                     People
Population:
    2,756 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    1.69% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    NA
Death rate:
    NA
Net migration rate:
    NA
Infant mortality rate:
    NA
Life expectancy at birth:
    NA
Total fertility rate:
    NA
Nationality:
  noun:
    Norfolk Islander(s)
  adjective:
    Norfolk Islander(s)
Ethnic divisions:
    descendants of the Bounty mutineers, Australian, New Zealander
Religions:
    Anglican 39%, Roman Catholic 11.7%, Uniting Church in Australia 16.4%,
    Seventh-Day Adventist 4.4%, none 9.2%, unknown 16.9%, other 2.4% (1986)
Languages:
    English (official), Norfolk a mixture of 18th century English and ancient
    Tahitian
Labor force:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Norfolk Island
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Territory of Norfolk Island
  conventional short form:
    Norfolk Island
Digraph:
    NF
Type:
    territory of Australia
Capital:
    Kingston (administrative center); Burnt Pine (commercial center)
Administrative divisions:
    none (territory of Australia)
Independence:
    none (territory of Australia)
National holiday:
    Pitcairners Arrival Day Anniversary, 8 June (1856)
Constitution:
    Norfolk Island Act of 1979
Legal system:
    wide legislative and executive responsibility under the Norfolk Island Act
    of 1979; Supreme Court
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Administrator
    Alan Gardner KERR (since NA April 1992), who is appointed by the Governor
    General of Australia
  head of government:
    Assembly President David Ernest BUFFETT (since NA May 1992)
  cabinet:
    Executive Council
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    NA
Member of:
    none
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (territory of Australia)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (territory of Australia)
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Norfolk Island
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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.
National product:
    GDP $NA
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $NA
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $4.2 million, including capital expenditures of $400,000 (1989 est.)
Exports:
    $1.7 million (f.o.b., FY85/86)
  commodities:
    postage stamps, seeds of the Norfolk Island pine and Kentia palm, small
    quantities of avocados
  partners:
    Australia, Pacific Islands, NZ, Asia, Europe
Imports:
    $15.6 million (c.i.f., FY85/86)
  commodities:
    NA
  partners:
    Australia, Pacific Islands, NZ, Asia, Europe
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    7,000 kW
  production:
    8 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,160 kWh (1990)
Industries:
    tourism
Agriculture:
    Norfolk Island pine seed, Kentia palm seed, cereals, vegetables, fruit,
    cattle, poultry
Economic aid:
    none
Currency:
    1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3058 (January 1995), 1.3667 (1994),
    1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2835 (1991), 1.2799 (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Norfolk Island
                                     Economy
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Norfolk Island
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    80 km
  paved:
    53 km
  unpaved:
    earth, coral 27 km
Ports:
    none; loading jetties at Kingston and Cascade
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Norfolk Island
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    987 telephones (1983)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    radio link service with Sydney
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    1,000 (1987 est.)
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Norfolk Island
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of Australia
 of al flag
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Guam
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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. Guam faces the problem of building up the civilian economic sector
    to offset the impact of military downsizing.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $2 billion (1991 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $14,000 (1991 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    4% (1992 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    2% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $525 million
  expenditures:
    $395 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1991)
Exports:
    $34 million (f.o.b., 1984)
  commodities:
    mostly transshipments of refined petroleum products, construction materials,
    fish, food and beverage products
  partners:
    US 25%, Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands 63%, other 12%
Imports:
    $493 million (c.i.f., 1984)
  commodities:
    petroleum and petroleum products, food, manufactured goods
  partners:
    US 23%, Japan 19%, other 58%
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    300,000 kW
  production:
    750 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    4,797 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    US military, tourism, construction, transshipment services, concrete
    products, printing and publishing, food processing, textiles
Agriculture:
    relatively undeveloped with most food imported; fruits, vegetables, eggs,
    pork, poultry, beef, copra
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Guam
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
    although Guam receives no foreign aid, it does receive large transfer
    payments from the general revenues of the US Federal Treasury into which
    Guamanians pay no income or excise taxes; under the provisions of a special
    law of Congress, the Guamanian Treasury, rather than the US Treasury,
    receives federal income taxes paid by military and civilian Federal
    employees stationed in Guam
Currency:
    1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    US currency is used
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Guam
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    674 km (all-weather roads)
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    Apra Harbor
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    5
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Guam
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    26,317 telephones (1989)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    3
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Guam
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
Guinea
`@J@GUATEMALA - Passport and visa or tourist card required.  Visas no
charge, valid 1 year, multiple entries of 30 days each, requires passport, 1
application form, 1 photo and $5 fee.  Provide SASE for return of
passport by mail.  For travel by minors and  information about tourist cards
contact the Embassy of Guatemala, 2220 R St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/745-4952), or nearest Consulate:  CA (213/365-9251/2 or
415/788-5651), FL (305/443-4828/29), IL (312/332-1587), NY (212/686-3837) or TX
(713/953-9531).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Guatemala
============================================================
Guatemala - Travel Warning
 April 18, 1995
The United States Department of State warns U.S. citizens about
possible dangers of travel to Guatemala.  Unfounded rumors that
foreigners are involved in the theft of children for the purpose of
using their organs in transplants have led to threats and incidents
of mob violence in several parts of the country.  However, these
incidents have not occurred in the traditional tourist destinations
of Tikal, Antigua, Panajachel, Chichicastenango, Quetzaltenango, Rio
Dulce, Puerto Barrios, Santo Tomas de Castillo, Puerto Quetzal, and
tourist/business sections of Guatemala City.  Adoptive parents in
particular should exercise caution.  U.S. citizens should avoid
traveling alone and should restrict their travel, even in large
cities, to areas that are frequented by tourists or business people.
 In particular, travelers should avoid contact with Guatemalan
children.  U.S. citizens in Guatemala are encouraged to register
with the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala City.
 No. 95-010
This replaces the Travel Warning for Guatemala dated June 24, 1994.
 No changes have been made to the text.
Guatemala - Consular Information Sheet
 April 18, 1995
Warning:  The United States Department of State warns U.S. citizens
about possible dangers of travel to Guatemala.  Unfounded rumors
that foreigners are involved in the theft of children for the
purpose of using their organs in transplants have led to threats and
incidents of mob violence in several parts of the country.  However,
these incidents have not occurred in the traditional tourist
destinations of Tikal, Antigua, Panajachel, Chichicastenango,
Quetzaltenango, Rio Dulce, Puerto Barrios, Santo Tomas de Castilla,
Puerto Quetzal, and tourist/business sections of Guatemala City.
Adoptive parents in particular should exercise extreme caution.
U.S. citizens should avoid traveling alone and should restrict their
travel, even in large cities, to areas that are frequented by
tourists or business people.  In particular, travelers should avoid
contact with Guatemalan children.  U.S. citizens in Guatemala are
encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy in Guatemala City.
Country Description:  Guatemala has a developing economy and a
democratic government.  Democracy and constitutional rule were
suspended for a short time in late May 1993, but were quickly
restored.  Except for luxury hotels in Guatemala City, Panajachel,
Chichicastenango and Flores (Tikal), tourist facilities are not
fully developed.  Road condi
Guyana
9GUINEA - Passport and visa required.  Tourist/business visa for stay up
to 3 months, requires 3 application forms, 3 photos, yellow fever
immunization and $25 fee (cash or money order only).  Malaria suppressants are
recommended.  For business visa need company letter stating purpose of
trip and letter of invitation from company in Guinea.  Provide SASE for
return of passport by mail. For more information contact the Embassy of the
Republic of Guinea, 2112 Leroy Pl., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/483-9420).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Guinea
============================================================
Guinea - Public Announcement
 August 18, 1995
 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
 For Immediate Release
The United States Embassy in Conakry issued an announcement on
August 18, 1995, informing American citizens in Guinea that the
Coalition of Opposition Parties (CODEM) has called for a general
strike to be held in Conakry on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday,
August 21-23, 1995 to protest alleged election irregularities.  The
Embassy has notified United States Government personnel to avoid
large gatherings and non-essential travel, and to stay alert.  For
further information on travel to Guinea consult the Department of
State's Consular Information Sheet of February 3, 1995.
Guinea - Consular Information Sheet
 February 3, 1995
Country Description:  Guinea is a developing coastal West African
country with minimal facilities for tourism.  Travelers should make
hotel arrangements in advance.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Evidence
of yellow fever immunization is required, and the Guinean government
recommends the taking of malarial suppressants.  There is a
departure tax of $15 payable at the airport.  Further entry
information may be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of
Guinea, 2112 Leroy Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone
[phone].
Areas of Instability:  Guinea has experienced occasional civil
unrest in larger towns in all regions of the country.  U.S. citizens
have not been targeted specifically in any demonstration-related
violence.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited.  Diseases such
as malaria, including cerebral malaria, hepatitis and intestinal
disorders, are endemic.  Doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid outside the United States.  The
Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment of medical
services outside the United States.  In some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas and medical evacuation
coverage has proven useful.  For additional health information,
travelers can contact the Centers for Disease Control's
international travelers hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  The Guinean government has established
roadblocks and imposed an unofficial curfew from midnight to 6 AM in
an effort to stem the tide of urban banditry.  Armed men at
roadblocks and elsewhere have prevented U.S. Embassy personnel from
responding to emergencies during curfew hours.  In the past, the
Embassy has received reports of imposters who have set up their own
roadblocks to extort money.
Residential and street crime, including armed robbery, is common.
Criminals particularly target visitors at the airport, in the
markets, and near hotels and restaurants frequented by foreigners.
Visitors should avoid unsolicited offers of assistance by
freelancers at the airport or hotels as these people may be seeking
opportunities to make off with bags, purses, or wallets.  Being met
at the airport or your hotel by family, friends or business contacts
can reduce vulnerability to these crimes of opportunity.  Commercial
scams and disputes with local business partners have occasionally
created legal difficulties for U.S. citizens.  The ability of the
U.S. Embassy to extricate U.S. citizens from unlawful business deals
is extremely limited.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the U.S. Embassy.  The pamphlets,
"A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa,"
provide useful information on protecting personal security while
traveling abroad and on travel in the region in general.  Both are
available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict.  Convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Restrictions on Photography:  Visitors are advised to restrict
photography to private gatherings.  Explicit permission from the
Guinean government should be obtained before photographing military
and transportation facilities, government buildings or public works.
 Visitors should note that taking a photograph without permission in
any public area may agitate security personnel or create offense
among those being photographed.
Currency Regulations:  Credit cards are rarely accepted in Guinea,
and credit card cash advances are not available at local banks.
Inter-bank fund transfers are frequently difficult, if not
impossible, to accomplish.
Telephones:  The communication system is poor.  Telephones are
available in Conakry and other major towns at major hotels and at a
limited number of phone booths, using telephone cards.
International service is frequently unreliable.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in
Conakry may obtain updated information on travel and security in
Guinea.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in the capital city
of Conakry at Second Boulevard and Ninth Avenue.  The mailing
address is B.P. 603.  The telephone number is [phone]/21/23.
The fax number is [phone].
 No. 95-016
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated December 3,
1993, to update information on entry requirements, areas of
instability, medical facilities, crime, photograph restrictions,
currency regulations and telephones.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Guinea
============================================================
Guinea - Public Announcement
 June 15, 1995
 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
 For Immediate Release
The U.S. Embassy in Conakry has informed American citizens in
Guinea that U.S. Government personnel have been instructed to avoid
large gatherings and non-essential travel and to be especially
alert.  Demonstrations, perhaps violent, could occur since Guinea's
three largest opposition parties publicly announced on June 14 their
boycott of the electoral process and their refusal to be seated in
the National Assembly.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Guinea
============================================================
Guinea - Public Announcement
 August 18, 1995
 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
 For Immediate Release
The United States Embassy in Conakry issued an announcement on
August 18, 1995, informing American citizens in Guinea that the
Coalition of Opposition Parties (CODEM) has called for a general
strike to be held in Conakry on Monday, Tuesday, and Wednesday,
August 21-23, 1995 to protest alleged election irregularities.  The
Embassy has notified United States Government personnel to avoid
large gatherings and non-essential travel, and to stay alert.  For
further information on travel to Guinea consult the Department of
State's Consular Information Sheet of February 3, 1995.
Guinea - Consular Information Sheet
 February 3, 1995
Country Description:  Guinea is a developing coastal West African
country with minimal facilities for tourism.  Travelers should make
hotel arrangements in advance.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Evidence
of yellow fever immunization is required, and the Guinean government
recommends the taking of malarial suppressants.  There is a
departure tax of $15 payable at the airport.  Further entry
information may be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of
Guinea, 2112 Leroy Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone
[phone].
Areas of Instability:  Guinea has experienced occasional civil
unrest in larger towns in all regions of the country.  U.S. citizens
have not been targeted specifically in any demonstration-related
violence.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited.  Diseases such
as malaria, including cerebral malaria, hepatitis and intestinal
disorders, are endemic.  Doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid outside the United States.  The
Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment of medical
services outside the United States.  In some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas and medical evacuation
coverage has proven useful.  For additional health information,
travelers can contact the Centers for Disease Control's
international travelers hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  The Guinean government has established
roadblocks and imposed an unofficial curfew from midnight to 6 AM in
an effort to stem the tide of urban banditry.  Armed men at
roadblocks and elsewhere have prevented U.S. Embassy personnel from
responding to emergencies during curfew hours.  In the past, the
Embassy has received reports of imposters who have set up their own
roadblocks to extort money.
Residential and street crime, including armed robbery, is common.
Criminals particularly target visitors at the airport, in the
markets, and near hotels and restaurants frequented by foreigners.
Visitors should avoid unsolicited offers of assistance by
freelancers at the airport or hotels as these people may be seeking
opportunities to make off with bags, purses, or wallets.  Being met
at the airport or your hotel by family, friends or business contacts
can reduce vulnerability to these crimes of opportunity.  Commercial
scams and disputes with local business partners have occasionally
created legal difficulties for U.S. citizens.  The ability of the
U.S. Embassy to extricate U.S. citizens from unlawful business deals
is extremely limited.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the U.S. Embassy.  The pamphlets,
"A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa,"
provide useful information on protecting personal security while
traveling abroad and on travel in the region in general.  Both are
available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict.  Convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Restrictions on Photography:  Visitors are advised to restrict
photography to private gatherings.  Explicit permission from the
Guinean government should be obtained before photographing military
and transportation facilities, government buildings or public works.
 Visitors should note that taking a photograph without permission in
any public area may agitate security personnel or create offense
among those being photographed.
Currency Regulations:  Credit cards are rarely accepted in Guinea,
and credit card cash advances are not available at local banks.
Inter-bank fund transfers are frequently difficult, if not
impossible, to accomplish.
Telephones:  The communication system is poor.  Telephones are
available in Conakry and other major towns at major hotels and at a
limited number of phone booths, using telephone cards.
International service is frequently unreliable.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in
Conakry may obtain updated information on travel and security in
Guinea.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in the capital city
of Conakry at Second Boulevard and Ninth Avenue.  The mailing
address is B.P. 603.  The telephone number is [phone]/21/23.
The fax number is [phone].
 No. 95-016
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated December 3,
1993, to update information on entry requirements, areas of
instability, medical facilities, crime, photograph restrictions,
currency regulations and telephones.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
@/'/                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guinea
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea-Bissau
    and Sierra Leone
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    245,860 sq km
  land area:
    245,860 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Oregon
Land boundaries:
    total 3,399 km, Guinea-Bissau 386 km, Cote d'Ivoire 610 km, Liberia 563 km,
    Mali 858 km, Senegal 330 km, Sierra Leone 652 km
Coastline:
    320 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    generally hot and humid; monsoonal-type rainy season (June to November) with
    southwesterly winds; dry season (December to May) with northeasterly
    harmattan winds
Terrain:
    generally flat coastal plain, hilly to mountainous interior
Natural resources:
    bauxite, iron ore, diamonds, gold, uranium, hydropower, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    6%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    12%
  forest and woodland:
    42%
  other:
    40%
Irrigated land:
    240 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; inadequate supplies of potable water; desertification; soil
    contamination and erosion; overfishing
  natural hazards:
    hot, dry, dusty harmattan haze may reduce visibility during dry season
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea,
    Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guinea
                                     People
Population:
    6,549,336 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    44% (female 1,450,501; male 1,448,164)
  15-64 years:
    53% (female 1,784,420; male 1,691,502)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 102,735; male 72,014) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.43% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    43.43 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    19.13 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    Guinea has received about 400,000 refugees from the civil wars in Liberia
    and Sierra Leone; the continued fighting in Sierra Leone will likely drive
    more refugees into Guinea in 1995; on the other hand, peace may be achieved
    in Liberia and permit Liberian refugees to return home
Infant mortality rate:
    136.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    44.6 years
  male:
    42.31 years
  female:
    46.95 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.79 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Guinean(s)
  adjective:
    Guinean
Ethnic divisions:
    Peuhl 40%, Malinke 30%, Soussou 20%, smaller tribes 10%
Religions:
    Muslim 85%, Christian 8%, indigenous beliefs 7%
Languages:
    French (official); each tribe has its own language
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    24%
  male:
    35%
  female:
    13%
Labor force:
    2.4 million (1983)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 80.0%, industry and commerce 11.0%, services 5.4%, civil
    servants 3.6%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guinea
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Guinea
  conventional short form:
    Guinea
  local long form:
    Republique de Guinee
  local short form:
    Guinee
  former:
    French Guinea
Digraph:
    GV
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Conakry
Administrative divisions:
    33 administrative regions (regions administratives, singular - region
    administrative); Beyla, Boffa, Boke, Conakry, Coyah, Dabola, Dalaba,
    Dinguiraye, Faranah, Forecariah, Fria, Gaoual, Gueckedou, Kankan, Kerouane,
    Kindia, Kissidougou, Koubia, Koundara, Kouroussa, Labe, Lelouma, Lola,
    Macenta, Mali, Mamou, Mandiana, Nzerekore, Pita, Siguiri, Telimele, Tougue,
    Yomou
Independence:
    2 October 1958 (from France)
National holiday:
    Anniversary of the Second Republic, 3 April (1984)
Constitution:
    23 December 1990 (Loi Fundamentale)
Legal system:
    based on French civil law system, customary law, and decree; legal codes
    currently being revised; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Lansana CONTE, elected in the first multi-party election 19
    December 1993; prior to the election he had ruled as head of military
    government since 5 April 1984
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    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, tentatively scheduled for 1994, were not held
    and are now rescheduled for 11 June 1995
Judicial branch:
    Court of Appeal (Cour d'Appel)
Political parties and leaders:
    political parties were legalized on 1 April 1992
  pro-government:
    Party for Unity and Progress (PUP)
  other:
    Rally for the Guinean People (RPG), Alpha CONDE; Union for a New Republic
    (UNR), Mamadou BAH; Party for Renewal and Progress (PRP), Siradiou DIALLO;
    Movement of Patriotic Democrats (MDP), Ahmed Tidiane CISSE
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guinea
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, CEAO (observer), ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC,
    ITU, MINURSO, NAM, OAU, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Elhadj Boubacar BARRY
  chancery:
    2112 Leroy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Joseph A. SALOOM III
  embassy:
    2nd Boulevard and 9th Avenue, Conakry
  mailing address:
    B. P. 603, Conakry
  telephone:
    [224] 44 15 20 through 44 15 23
  FAX:
    [224] 44 15 22
Flag:
    three equal vertical bands of red (hoist side), yellow, and green; uses the
    popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia; similar to the flag of Rwanda, which
    has a large black letter R centered in the yellow band
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guinea
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Although possessing major mineral and hydropower resources and considerable
    potential for agricultural development, Guinea remains one of the poorest
    countries in the world. The agricultural sector contributes about 40% to GDP
    and employs 80% of the work force, while industry accounts for 27% of GDP.
    Guinea possesses over 25% of the world's bauxite reserves. The mining sector
    accounted for 85% of exports in 1991. Long-run improvements in literacy,
    financial institutions, and the legal framework are needed if the country is
    to move out of poverty. Except in the bauxite industry, foreign investment
    remains minimal.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $6.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    0.8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $980 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    16.6% (1992 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $449 million
  expenditures:
    $708 million, including capital expenditures of $361 million (1990 est.)
Exports:
    $622 million (f.o.b., 1992 est.)
  commodities:
    bauxite, alumina, diamonds, gold, coffee, pineapples, bananas, palm kernels
  partners:
    US 23%, Belgium 12%, Ireland 12%, Spain 12%
Imports:
    $768 million (c.i.f., 1992 est.)
  commodities:
    petroleum products, metals, machinery, transport equipment, foodstuffs,
    textiles, and other grain
  partners:
    France 26%, Cote d'Ivoire 12%, Hong Kong 6%, Germany 6%
External debt:
    2.5 billion (1992)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%; accounts for 27% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    180,000 kW
  production:
    520 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    77 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    mining - bauxite, gold, diamonds; alumina refining; light manufacturing and
    agricultural processing industries
Agriculture:
    accounts for 40% of GDP (includes fishing and forestry); mostly subsistence
    farming; principal products - rice, coffee, pineapples, palm kernels,
    cassava, bananas, sweet potatoes, timber; livestock - cattle, sheep and
    goats; not self-sufficient in food grains
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guinea
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $227 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.465 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $120 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $446
    million
Currency:
    1 Guinean franc (FG) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Guinean francs (FG) per US$1 - 810.94 (1 July 1993), 922.9 (30 September
    1992), 675 (1990), 618 (1989), 515 (1988), 440 (1987), 383 (1986)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guinea
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,048 km
  standard gauge:
    241 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    807 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    30,100 km
  paved:
    1,145 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone 12,955 km (of which barely 4,500 are currently
    all-weather roads); unimproved earth 16,000 km (1987)
Inland waterways:
    1,295 km navigable by shallow-draft native craft
Ports:
    Boke, Conakry, Kamsar
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    15
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    7
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guinea
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    15,000 telephones; poor to fair system of open-wire lines, small
    radiocommunication stations, and new radio relay system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay and radio communication stations
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    200,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    65,000
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guinea
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy (acts primarily as a coast guard), Air Force, Republican Guard,
    Presidential Guard, paramilitary National Gendarmerie, National Police Force
    (Surete National)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,478,653; males fit for military service 745,990 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $50 million, 1.6% of GDP (1994)
Grenada
GREECE - Passport required.  Visa not required for tourist/business
stay up to 3 months.  If traveling on diplomatic/official passport, visa
required and must be obtained in advance.  AIDS test required for performing
artists and students on Greek scholarships; U.S. test not accepted.  For
additional information consult Consular Section of the Embassy of Greece, 2221
Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008  (202/232-8222) or nearest
Consulate: CA (213/385-1447 or 415/775-2102), GA (404/261-3313), IL
(312/372-5356), LA (504/523-1167), MA (617/542-3240), NY (212/988-5500) or TX
(713/840-7522).
Greece - Consular Information Sheet
September 15, 1994
Country Description:  Greece is a developed and stable democracy with a
modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements.  A passport is required.  A visa is not required for
tourist or business stays up to three months.  An AIDS test is required for
performing artists and students on Greek scholarships; U.S. test results are
not accepted.  For further information concerning entry requirements to
Greece, travelers can contact the Embassy of Greece at 2221 Massachusetts
Avenue, NW, Washington, DC  20008, telephone [phone], or the nearest
Consulate General in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, New Orleans, New
York, or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities.  Medical facilities are available.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid  outside the United States.  Travelers have
found that in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proved to be useful.  Further information on health
matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline on [phone].
Crime Information.  Greece has a low rate of crime, but some pickpocketing,
purse-snatching, and luggage theft does occur in Greece at popular tourist
areas.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" is available from
the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, DC  20402.  It provides useful information on guarding valuables
and protecting personal security while traveling abroad.
Terrorist Activities:  Civil disorder is rare.  However, there are several
active terrorist groups, including the "17 November" organization, which at
times has targeted U.S. Government and U.S. commercial interests.  Between
1975 and 1991, "17 November" assassinated five Americans assigned to U.S.
diplomatic or military installations in Greece.  Terrorists in Greece have
seldom targeted tourists.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  In Greece, penalties for possession, use, and
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
jail sentences and fines.  Arrestees may spend up to 18 months in pretrial
confinement.
Penalties for Customs Violations:  Unauthorized purchase or removal from
Greece of antiquities, including pieces of archaeological sites, is strictly
forbidden.  Penalties range from fines of several hundred dollars to prison
terms.
Dual Nationality:  U.S. citizens who are also considered to be Greek
citizens could be subject to compulsory military service and other aspects
of Greek law while in Greece.  Those who may be affected can inquire at a
Greek Embassy or consulate to determine status.  In some instances, dual
nationality may hamper U.S. Government efforts to provide protection abroad.
Driving:  Visitors to Greece must be prepared to drive defensively.  Greece
has the third highest fatal accident rate in Europe.  High casualty rates on
Greek highways led to a recent toughening of traffic laws and new increased
traffic policepresence on major roads.  The use of motorbikes on the islands
can be dangerous because of heavy traffic and difficulty of the terrain.
The majority of U.S. citizen traffic casualties in Greece have involved
motorbikes.  Owners of rental motorbikes are not required to carry insurance
coverage; the renter is liable for damages caused to the rental vehicle and
to property of third parties.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the Consular Section of the
U.S. Embassy or Consulate can obtain updated information on travel and
security in Greece.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Athens is located at
91 Vasilissis Sophias Boulevard, telephone [phone].  The Consular
Section of the U.S. Embassy may be reached at (30)(1) 721-8561.  The U.S.
Consulate in Thessaloniki is located at 59 Leoforos Nikis, telephone
(30)(31) 242-905.
No. 94-218
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued April 29, 1993, to
provide information on the penalties for removing antiquities from Greece.
<q<                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Greece
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Europe, bordering the Aegean Sea, Ionian Sea, and the Mediterranean
    Sea, between Albania and Turkey
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    131,940 sq km
  land area:
    130,800 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Alabama
Land boundaries:
    total 1,210 km, Albania 282 km, Bulgaria 494 km, Turkey 206 km, The Former
    Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 228 km
Coastline:
    13,676 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  territorial sea:
    6 nm
International disputes:
    complex maritime, air, and territorial disputes with Turkey in Aegean Sea;
    Cyprus question; dispute with The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia over
    name, symbols, and certain constitutional provisions; Greece is involved in
    a bilateral dispute with Albania over border demarcation, the treatment of
    Albania's ethnic Greek minority, and migrant Albanian workers in Greece
Climate:
    temperate; mild, wet winters; hot, dry summers
Terrain:
    mostly mountains with ranges extending into sea as peninsulas or chains of
    islands
Natural resources:
    bauxite, lignite, magnesite, petroleum, marble
Land use:
  arable land:
    23%
  permanent crops:
    8%
  meadows and pastures:
    40%
  forest and woodland:
    20%
  other:
    9%
Irrigated land:
    11,900 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution; water pollution
  natural hazards:
    severe earthquakes
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Greece
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change,
    Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine
    Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical
    Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Nitrogen
    Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds,
    Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification, Law of the Sea
Note:
    strategic location dominating the Aegean Sea and southern approach to
    Turkish Straits; a peninsular country, possessing an archipelago of about
    2,000 islands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Greece
                                     People
Population:
    10,647,511 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    18% (female 904,374; male 947,494)
  15-64 years:
    67% (female 3,601,029; male 3,565,931)
  65 years and over:
    15% (female 919,044; male 709,639) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.72% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    10.56 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.31 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    5.99 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    8.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.92 years
  male:
    75.39 years
  female:
    80.59 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.46 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Greek(s)
  adjective:
    Greek
Ethnic divisions:
    Greek 98%, other 2%
  note:
    the Greek Government states there are no ethnic divisions in Greece
Religions:
    Greek Orthodox 98%, Muslim 1.3%, other 0.7%
Languages:
    Greek (official), English, French
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1991)
  total population:
    95%
  male:
    98%
  female:
    93%
Labor force:
    4.077 million
  by occupation:
    services 52%, agriculture 23%, industry 25% (1994)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Greece
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Hellenic Republic
  conventional short form:
    Greece
  local long form:
    Elliniki Dhimokratia
  local short form:
    Ellas
  former:
    Kingdom of Greece
Digraph:
    GR
Type:
    presidential parliamentary government; monarchy rejected by referendum 8
    December 1974
Capital:
    Athens
Administrative divisions:
    52 prefectures (nomoi, singular - nomos); Aitolia kai Akarnania, Akhaia,
    Argolis, Arkadhia, Arta, Attiki, Dhodhekanisos, Dhrama, Evritania, Evros,
    Evvoia, Florina, Fokis, Fthiotis, Grevena, Ilia, Imathia, Ioannina,
    Iraklion, Kardhitsa, Kastoria, Kavala, Kefallinia, Kerkira, Khalkidhiki,
    Khania, Khios, Kikladhes, Kilkis, Korinthia, Kozani, Lakonia, Larisa,
    Lasithi, Lesvos, Levkas, Magnisia, Messinia, Pella, Pieria, Piraievs,
    Preveza, Rethimni, Rodhopi, Samos, Serrai, Thesprotia, Thessaloniki,
    Trikala, Voiotia, Xanthi, Zakinthos, autonomous region: Agion Oros (Mt.
    Athos)
Independence:
    1829 (from the Ottoman Empire)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 25 March (1821) (proclamation of the war of independence)
Constitution:
    11 June 1975
Legal system:
    based on codified Roman law; judiciary divided into civil, criminal, and
    administrative courts
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Konstantinos (Kostis) STEPHANOPOULOS (since 10 March 1995)
    election last held 10 March 1995 (next to be held by NA 2000); results -
    Konstantinos STEPHANOPOULOS was elected by Parliament
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Andreas PAPANDREOU (since 10 October 1993)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Judicial Court, Special Supreme Tribunal
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Greece
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    New Democracy (ND; conservative), Miltiades EVERT; Panhellenic Socialist
    Movement (PASOK), Andreas PAPANDREOU; Communist Party (KKE), Aleka PAPARIGA;
    Ecologist-Alternative List, leader rotates; Political Spring, Antonis
    SAMARAS; Coalition of the Left and Progress (Synaspismos), Nikolaos
    KONSTANTOPOULOS
Member of:
    Australia Group, BIS, BSEC, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD, EC, ECE, EIB, FAO, G- 6,
    GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO,
    IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, MTCR,
    NACC, NAM (guest), NATO, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OSCE, PCA, UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UPU, WEU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO,
    ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Loucas TSILAS
  chancery:
    2221 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco
  consulate(s):
    New Orleans
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Thomas M.T. NILES
  embassy:
    91 Vasilissis Sophias Boulevard, 10160 Athens
  mailing address:
    PSC 108, Athens; APO AE 09842
  telephone:
    [30] (1) 721-2951, 8401
  FAX:
    [30] (1) 645-6282
  consulate(s) general:
    Thessaloniki
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Greece
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Greece has a mixed capitalist economy with the basic entrepreneurial system
    overlaid in 1981-89 by a socialist system that enlarged the public sector
    from 55% of GDP in 1981 to about 70% in 1989. Since then, the public sector
    has been reduced to about 60% of GDP. Tourism continues as a major source of
    foreign exchange, and agriculture is self-sufficient except for meat, dairy
    products, and animal feedstuffs. Over the last decade, real GDP growth has
    averaged 1.6% a year, compared with the European Union average of 2.2%.
    Inflation continues to be well above the EU average, and the national debt
    has reached 140% of GDP, the highest in the EU. Prime Minister PAPANDREOU
    will probably make only limited progress correcting the economy's problems
    of high inflation, large budget deficit, and decaying infrastructure. His
    economic program suggests that although he will shun his expansionary
    policies of the 1980s, he will avoid tough measures needed to slow inflation
    or reduce the state's role in the economy. He has limited the previous
    government's privatization plans, for example, and has called for generous
    welfare spending and real wage increases. Athens continues to rely heavily
    on EU aid, which recently has amounted to about 6% of GDP. Greece almost
    certainly will not meet the EU's Maastricht Treaty convergence targets of
    public deficit held to 3% of GDP and national debt to 60% of GDP by 1999.
    Per capita GDP has fallen below Portugal's level, the lowest among EU
    members.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $93.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    0.4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $8,870 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    10.9% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    10.1% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $28.3 billion
  expenditures:
    $37.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $5.2 billion (1994)
Exports:
    $9 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    manufactured goods 53%, foodstuffs 34%, fuels 5%
  partners:
    Germany 24%, Italy 14%, France 7%, UK 6%, US 4% (1993)
Imports:
    $19.2 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    manufactured goods 72%, foodstuffs 15%, fuels 10%
  partners:
    Germany 16%, Italy 14%, France 7%, Japan 7%, UK 6% (1993)
External debt:
    $26.9 billion (1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3.2% (1993 est.); accounts for 18% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    8,970,000 kW
  production:
    35.8 billion kWh
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Greece
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    3,257 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tourism, food and tobacco processing, textiles, chemicals, metal products,
    mining, petroleum
Agriculture:
    including fishing and forestry, accounts for 12% of GDP; principal products
    - wheat, corn, barley, sugar beets, olives, tomatoes, wine, tobacco,
    potatoes; self-sufficient in food except meat, dairy products, and animal
    feedstuffs
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of cannabis and limited opium; mostly for domestic
    production; 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
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-81), $525 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.39 billion
Currency:
    1 drachma (Dr) = 100 lepta
Exchange rates:
    drachmae (Dr) per US$1 - 238.20 (January 1995), 242.60 (1994), 229.26
    (1993), 190.62 (1992), 182.27 (1991), 158.51 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Greece
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,503 km
  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; 29 km 0.600-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    130,000 km
  paved:
    119,210 km (116 km expressways)
  unpaved:
    10,790 km (1990)
Inland waterways:
    80 km; system consists of three coastal canals; including the Corinth Canal
    (6 km) which crosses the Isthmus of Corinth connecting the Gulf of Corinth
    with the Saronic Gulf and shortens the sea voyage from the Adriatic to
    Piraievs (Piraeus) by 325 km; and three unconnected rivers
Pipelines:
    crude oil 26 km; petroleum products 547 km
Ports:
    Alexandroupolis, Elevsis, Iraklion (Crete), Kavala, Kerkira, Khalkis,
    Igoumenitsa, Lavrion, Patrai, Piraievs (Piraeus), Thessaloniki, Volos
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1,046 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 29,076,911 GRT/53,618,024 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 469, cargo 105, chemical tanker 22, combination bulk 21, combination
    ore/oil 31, container 40, liquefied gas tanker 5, oil tanker 239, passenger
    14, passenger-cargo 3, refrigerated cargo 10, roll-on/roll-off cargo 16,
    short-sea passenger 67, specialized tanker 3, vehicle carrier 1
  note:
    ethnic Greeks also own 125 ships under Liberian registry, 323 under
    Panamanian, 705 under Cypriot, 351 under Maltese, and 100 under Bahamian
Airports:
  total:
    79
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    15
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    16
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    17
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    22
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Greece
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    4,080,000 telephones; adequate, modern networks reach all areas; microwave
    radio relay carries most traffic; extensive open-wire network; submarine
    cables to off-shore islands
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay and open wire
  international:
    tropospheric links, 8 submarine cables; 2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1
    Indian Ocean) and 1 EUTELSAT ground station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 29, FM 17 (repeaters 20), shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    361
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Greece
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Hellenic Army, Hellenic Navy, Hellenic Air Force, National Guard, Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,676,152; males fit for military service 2,046,996; males
    reach military age (21) annually 75,857 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $4.1 billion, 5.4% of GDP (1994)
Gabon
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                       French Southern and Antarctic Lands
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (overseas territory of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                       French Southern and Antarctic Lands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, islands in the southern Indian Ocean, about equidistant
    between Africa, Antarctica, and Australia; note - "French Southern and
    Antarctic Lands" includes Ile Amsterdam, Ile Saint-Paul, Iles Crozet, and
    Iles Kerguelen in the southern Indian Ocean, along with the French-claimed
    sector of Antartica, "Terre Adelie"; the United States does not recognize
    the French claim to "Terre Adelie"
Map references:
    Antarctic Region
Area:
  total area:
    7,781 sq km
  land area:
    7,781 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 1.5 times the size of Delaware
  note:
    includes Ile Amsterdam, Ile Saint-Paul, Iles Crozet and Iles Kerguelen;
    excludes "Terre Adelie" claim of about 500,000 sq km in Antarctica that is
    not recognized by the US
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    1,232 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm from Iles Kerguelen only
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    "Terre Adelie" claim in Antarctica is not recognized by the US
Climate:
    antarctic
Terrain:
    volcanic
Natural resources:
    fish, crayfish
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    Ile Amsterdam and Ile Saint-Paul are extinct volcanoes
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    remote location in the southern Indian Ocean
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                       French Southern and Antarctic Lands
                                     People
Population:
    no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are researchers whose numbers vary
    from 150 in winter (July) to 200 in summer (January)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                       French Southern and Antarctic Lands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Territory of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands
  conventional short form:
    French Southern and Antarctic Lands
  local long form:
    Territoire des Terres Australes et Antarctiques Francaises
  local short form:
    Terres Australes et Antarctiques Francaises
Digraph:
    FS
Type:
    overseas territory of France since 1955; governed by High Administrator
    Bernard de GOUTTES (since May 1990), who is assisted by a 7-member
    Consultative Council and a 12-member Scientific Council
Capital:
    none; administered from Paris, France
Administrative divisions:
    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 Amsterdam; excludes
    "Terre Adelie" claim in Antarctica that is not recognized by the US
Independence:
    none (overseas territory of France)
Flag:
    the flag of France is used
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                       French Southern and Antarctic Lands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 France and
    Reunion.
Budget:
  revenues:
    $17.5 million
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                       French Southern and Antarctic Lands
                                 Transportation
Highways:
  total:
    NA
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
Merchant marine:
  total:
    48 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,290,975 GRT/2,403,050 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 5, cargo 6, chemical tanker 4, container 1, liquefied gas tanker 3,
    multifunction large-load carrier 1, oil tanker 15, refrigerated cargo 4,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 8, specialized liquefied tanker 1
  note:
    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
Airports:
    none
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                       French Southern and Antarctic Lands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                       French Southern and Antarctic Lands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
    13%
Labor force:
    2.4 million (1983)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 80.0%, industry and commerce 11.0%, services 5.4%, civil
    servants 3.6%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guinea
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Guinea
  conventional short form:
    Guinea
  local long form:
    Republique de Guinee
  local short form:
    Guinee
  former:
    French Guinea
Digraph:
    GV
Holy See (Vatican City)
-HAITI -  Passport required.  For further information consult Embassy of
Haiti, 2311 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/332-4090) or
nearest Consulate:  FL (305/859-2003), MA (617/723-5211), NY
(212/697-9767) or PR (809/766-0758).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Haiti
============================================================
Haiti - Consular Information Sheet
 December 5, 1995
Country Description:  Haiti is one of the economically least
developed countries in the western hemisphere.  There are shortages
of goods and services in the countryside, although that is not the
case in Port Au Prince.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required for travel to Haiti.
Although travel agencies and Haitian consulates in the U.S. often
inform travelers that a birth certificate or voter registration card
is sufficient documentation, Haitian immigration officials in Haiti
are increasingly requiring a valid passport to enter.  The airlines
that provide service between Haiti and the U.S. will not board
American citizens to return to the U.S. without a valid passport,
due to concerns about possible fraud.  For additional information
regarding entry, tax, and customs requirements for Haiti, contact
the Haitian Embassy at 2311 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington,
DC  20008 (Tel:  [phone]) or Haitian consulates in Florida,
Massachusetts, New York, Illinois or Puerto Rico.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is limited and the level of
community sanitation is low.  Medical facilities outside the capital
are few, far between, and almost always below U.S. standards.  None
of the medical facilities in Haiti have the equipment and expertise
to which U.S. citizens may be accustomed, and life-threatening
emergencies may require evacuation by air ambulance at the patient's
expense.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid
outside the U.S.  In some instances, supplemental medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage and medical evacuation coverage has
proven useful.  For additional health information, travelers can
contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
international travelers' hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Although crime remains a problem in Port au
Prince and the provinces, there have been few reported incidents
involving U.S. citizens.  Owing to their relative affluence,
foreigners in Haiti are at risk from violent criminal attacks,
particularly in urban areas.  Overall, the level of crime
approximates that which exists in larger cities in the U.S.  Crime
victims are often frustrated by the lack of response and enforcement
capabilities of the local police and judiciary.
The loss or theft of a passport overseas should be reported to the
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Lost or
stolen U.S. birth certificates and/or drivers licenses used as entry
documents generally cannot be replaced outside the U.S.
Areas of Instablitiy:  Haiti has experienced occasional civil
unrest, including unofficial roadblocks in larger towns in all
regions of the country.  U.S. citizens have not been targeted in any
demonstration-related incidents, but travelers are urged to use
common sense in avoiding large crowds, which have been known to turn
violent.  There is also the potential for increased tensions with
Haiti experiencing its first presidential election process and
presidential inauguration since the return of President Aristide.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use and dealing in illegal drugs are strict.  Those
accused of drug-related crimes can expect lengthy legal proceedings,
irregular application of Haitian law, and delayed due process.  If
convicted, offenders may face long jail sentences and substantial
fines.
Aviation Oversight:  As a result of an assessment conducted by the
U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in February 1995, the FAA
has found the government of Haiti's Civil Aviation Authority to not
be in compliance with international aviation safety standards for
oversight of Haitian air carrier operations.  Operations to the U.S.
by Haitian air carriers are not permitted unless they arrange to
have their flights conducted by a carrier from a country meeting
international aviation safety standards.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at 1 800
322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration:  All U.S. citizens in Haiti should
register with the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy.  The U.S.
Embassy is located on Harry Truman Blvd., Port au Prince; telephone
(509) 22-0200, 22-0354, 22-0368 or 22-0612; fax [phone].  The
Consular Section is located on Rue Oswald Durand, Port au Prince;
telephone [phone] or 23-8971; consular annex fax (509)
23-9665.  U.S. citizens may obtain updated information from the U.S.
Embassy on travel and security within Haiti.
 No. 95-156
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 8, 1995,
to add paragraphs on Entry Requirements and Areas of Instability.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Haiti
============================================================
Haiti - Consular Information Sheet
 December 5, 1995
Country Description:  Haiti is one of the economically least
developed countries in the western hemisphere.  There are shortages
of goods and services in the countryside, although that is not the
case in Port Au Prince.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required for travel to Haiti.
Although travel agencies and Haitian consulates in the U.S. often
inform travelers that a birth certificate or voter registration card
is sufficient documentation, Haitian immigration officials in Haiti
are increasingly requiring a valid passport to enter.  The airlines
that provide service between Haiti and the U.S. will not board
American citizens to return to the U.S. without a valid passport,
due to concerns about possible fraud.  For additional information
regarding entry, tax, and customs requirements for Haiti, contact
the Haitian Embassy at 2311 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington,
DC  20008 (Tel:  [phone]) or Haitian consulates in Florida,
Massachusetts, New York, Illinois or Puerto Rico.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is limited and the level of
community sanitation is low.  Medical facilities outside the capital
are few, far between, and almost always below U.S. standards.  None
of the medical facilities in Haiti have the equipment and expertise
to which U.S. citizens may be accustomed, and life-threatening
emergencies may require evacuation by air ambulance at the patient's
expense.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid
outside the U.S.  In some instances, supplemental medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage and medical evacuation coverage has
proven useful.  For additional health information, travelers can
contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
international travelers' hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Although crime remains a problem in Port au
Prince and the provinces, there have been few reported incidents
involving U.S. citizens.  Owing to their relative affluence,
foreigners in Haiti are at risk from violent criminal attacks,
particularly in urban areas.  Overall, the level of crime
approximates that which exists in larger cities in the U.S.  Crime
victims are often frustrated by the lack of response and enforcement
capabilities of the local police and judiciary.
The loss or theft of a passport overseas should be reported to the
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Lost or
stolen U.S. birth certificates and/or drivers licenses used as entry
documents generally cannot be replaced outside the U.S.
Areas of Instablitiy:  Haiti has experienced occasional civil
unrest, including unofficial roadblocks in larger towns in all
regions of the country.  U.S. citizens have not been targeted in any
demonstration-related incidents, but travelers are urged to use
common sense in avoiding large crowds, which have been known to turn
violent.  There is also the potential for increased tensions with
Haiti experiencing its first presidential election process and
presidential inauguration since the return of President Aristide.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use and dealing in illegal drugs are strict.  Those
accused of drug-related crimes can expect lengthy legal proceedings,
irregular application of Haitian law, and delayed due process.  If
convicted, offenders may face long jail sentences and substantial
fines.
Aviation Oversight:  As a result of an assessment conducted by the
U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in February 1995, the FAA
has found the government of Haiti's Civil Aviation Authority to not
be in compliance with international aviation safety standards for
oversight of Haitian air carrier operations.  Operations to the U.S.
by Haitian air carriers are not permitted unless they arrange to
have their flights conducted by a carrier from a country meeting
international aviation safety standards.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at 1 800
322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration:  All U.S. citizens in Haiti should
register with the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy.  The U.S.
Embassy is located on Harry Truman Blvd., Port au Prince; telephone
(509) 22-0200, 22-0354, 22-0368 or 22-0612; fax [phone].  The
Consular Section is located on Rue Oswald Durand, Port au Prince;
telephone [phone] or 23-8971; consular annex fax (509)
23-9665.  U.S. citizens may obtain updated information from the U.S.
Embassy on travel and security within Haiti.
 No. 95-156
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 8, 1995,
to add paragraphs on Entry Requirements and Areas of Instability.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
5                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Haiti
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, western one-third of the island of Hispaniola, between the
    Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, west of the Dominican Republic
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    27,750 sq km
  land area:
    27,560 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Maryland
Land boundaries:
    total 275 km, Dominican Republic 275 km
Coastline:
    1,771 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  continental shelf:
    to depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claims US-administered Navassa Island
Climate:
    tropical; semiarid where mountains in east cut off trade winds
Terrain:
    mostly rough and mountainous
Natural resources:
    bauxite
Land use:
  arable land:
    20%
  permanent crops:
    13%
  meadows and pastures:
    18%
  forest and woodland:
    4%
  other:
    45%
Irrigated land:
    750 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    extensive deforestation (much of the remaining forested land is being
    cleared for agriculture and use as fuel); soil erosion; inadequate supplies
    of potable water
  natural hazards:
    lies in the middle of the hurricane belt and subject to severe storms from
    June to October; occasional flooding and earthquakes; periodic droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation; signed, but not
    ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Hazardous Wastes,
    Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Haiti
                                    Geography
Note:
    shares island of Hispaniola with Dominican Republic (western one-third is
    Haiti, eastern two-thirds is the Dominican Republic)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Haiti
                                     People
Population:
    6,539,983 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    46% (female 1,490,939; male 1,535,607)
  15-64 years:
    50% (female 1,692,032; male 1,557,568)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 133,291; male 130,546) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.5% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    38.64 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    18.65 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -4.99 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    107.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    44.77 years
  male:
    43.04 years
  female:
    46.59 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.82 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Haitian(s)
  adjective:
    Haitian
Ethnic divisions:
    black 95%, mulatto and European 5%
Religions:
    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)
Languages:
    French (official) 10%, Creole
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1982)
  total population:
    35%
  male:
    37%
  female:
    32%
Labor force:
    2.3 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 66%, services 25%, industry 9%
  note:
    shortage of skilled labor, unskilled labor abundant (1982)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Haiti
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Haiti
  conventional short form:
    Haiti
  local long form:
    Republique d'Haiti
  local short form:
    Haiti
Digraph:
    HA
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Port-au-Prince
Administrative divisions:
    9 departments, (departements, singular - departement); Artibonite, Centre,
    Grand'Anse, Nord, Nord-Est, Nord-Ouest, Ouest, Sud, Sud-Est
Independence:
    1 January 1804 (from France)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 1 January (1804)
Constitution:
    approved March 1987, suspended June 1988, most articles reinstated March
    1989; October 1991, government claims to be observing the Constitution
Legal system:
    based on Roman civil law system; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Jean-Bertrand ARISTIDE (since 7 February 1991), ousted in a coup
    in September 1991 but, with US military support, returned to power on 15
    October 1994; election last held 16 December 1990 (next to be held by
    December 1995); results - Rev. Jean-Bertrand ARISTIDE 67.5%, Marc BAZIN
    14.2%, Louis DEJOIE 4.9%
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Smarck MICHEL (since October 1994)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; chosen by prime minister in consultation with the president
Legislative branch:
    bicameral National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale)
  Senate:
    elections last held 18 January 1993, widely condemned as illegitimate (next
    to be held 25 June 1994); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (27
    total) FNCD 12, MIDH-PANPRA 8, PAIN 2, MRN 1, RDNP 1, PNT 1, independent 2
  Chamber of Deputies:
    elections last held 16 December 1990, with runoff held 20 January 1991 (next
    to be held 25 June 1995); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (83
    total) FNCD 27, MIDH-PANPRA 17, PDCH 7, PAIN 6, RDNP 6, MDN 5, PNT 3, MKN 2,
    MODELH 2, MRN 1, independents 5, other 2
Judicial branch:
    Court of Appeal (Cour de Cassation)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Haiti
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    National Front for Change and Democracy (FNCD), Evans PAUL, including
    National Cooperative Action Movement (MKN), Volvick Remy JOSEPH; National
    Congress of Democratic Movements (CONACOM), Victor BENOIT; Movement for the
    Installation of Democracy in Haiti (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), Joseph DOUZE; Assembly
    of Progressive National Democrats (RDNP), Leslie MANIGAT; National Party of
    Labor (PNT), Thomas DESULME; Mobilization for National Development (MDN),
    Hubert DE RONCERAY; Democratic Movement for the Liberation of Haiti
    (MODELH), Francois LATORTUE; Haitian Social Christian Party (PSCH), Gregoire
    EUGENE; Movement for the Organization of the Country (MOP), Gesner COMEAU
    and Jean MOLIERE; Democratic Unity Confederation (KID), Evans PAUL; National
    Lavalas Political Organization (OPL), Gerard PIERRE/CHARLES
Other political or pressure groups:
    Roman Catholic Church; Confederation of Haitian Workers (CTH); Federation of
    Workers Trade Unions (FOS); Autonomous Haitian Workers (CATH); National
    Popular Assembly (APN); Revolutionary Front for Haitian Advancement and
    Progress (FRAPH)
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, CARICOM (observer), CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA,
    IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, ITU, LAES, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU,
    WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jean CASIMIR
  chancery:
    2311 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 4092
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Boston, Chicago, Miami, New York, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador William Lacy SWING
  embassy:
    Harry Truman Boulevard, Port-au-Prince
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 1761, Port-au-Prince
  telephone:
    [509] 22-0354, 22-0368, 22-0200, 22-0612
  FAX:
    [509] 23-1641
Flag:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Haiti
                                     Economy
Overview:
    About 75% of the population live in abject poverty. Agriculture is mainly
    small-scale subsistence farming and employs two-thirds of the work force.
    The majority of the population does not have ready access to safe drinking
    water, adequate medical care, or sufficient food. The lack of employment
    opportunities remains one of the most critical problems facing the economy,
    along with soil erosion and political instability. International trade
    sanctions in response to the September 1991 coup against President ARISTIDE
    further damaged the economy. The restoration of President ARISTIDE, the
    lifting of sanctions in late 1994, and foreign aid will alleviate some
    economic problems. Haiti will continue to depend heavily on foreign aid.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $5.6 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -15% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $870 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    52% (FY93/94 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    50% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $56 million
  expenditures:
    $131 million, including capital expenditures of $6 million (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $173.3 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    light manufactures 65%, coffee 19%, other agriculture 8%, other 8%
  partners:
    US 81%, Europe 12% (1993)
Imports:
    $476.8 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    machines and manufactures 34%, food and beverages 22%, petroleum products
    14%, chemicals 10%, fats and oils 9%
  partners:
    US 51%, Europe 16%, Latin America 18% (1993)
External debt:
    $871 million (September 1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -2% (1991 est.); accounts for 15% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    150,000 kW
  production:
    590 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    86 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    sugar refining, textiles, flour milling, cement manufacturing, tourism,
    light assembly industries based on imported parts
Agriculture:
    accounts for 28% of GDP and employs two-thirds of work force; mostly
    small-scale subsistence farms; commercial crops - coffee, mangoes,
    sugarcane, wood; staple crops - rice, corn, sorghum; shortage of wheat flour
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for cocaine and marijuana en route to the US and Europe
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Haiti
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (1970-89), $700 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $770 million
Currency:
    1 gourde (G) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    gourdes (G) per US$1 - 14.10 (1 December 1994), 12.00 (1 July 1993), 8.4
    (December 1991), fixed rate of 5.000 through second quarter of 1991
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Haiti
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    40 km (single track; privately owned industrial line)
  narrow gauge:
    40 km 0.760-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    4,000 km
  paved:
    950 km
  unpaved:
    otherwise improved 900 km; unimproved earth 2,150 km
Inland waterways:
    negligible; less than 100 km navigable
Ports:
    Cap-Haitien, Gonaives, Jacmel, Jeremie, Cayes, Miragoane, Port-au-Prince,
    Port-de-Paix, Saint-Marc
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    14
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    6
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    5
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Haiti
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    36,000 telephones; domestic facilities barely adequate, international
    facilities slightly better
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 33, FM 0, shortwave 2
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    4
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Haiti
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, Police
  note:
    the regular Haitian Army, Navy and Air Force are currently suspended and
    replaced by the Interim Public Security Force (IPSF)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,323,034; males fit for military service 716,233; males
    reach military age (18) annually 64,371 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $34 million, 1.5% of GDP (1988 est.)
LjLjLj
Heard Island
`9B9GUYANA - Passport required.  For more information consult Embassy of
Guyana, 2490 Tracy Pl., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/265-6900/03)
or Consulate General, 866 U.N. Plaza, 3rd Floor, New York, NY  10017
(212/527-3215).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Guyana
============================================================
Guyana - Consular Information Sheet
 October 19, 1995
Country Description:  Guyana is a developing nation.  Except for
hotels in the capital city of Georgetown, tourist facilities are not
fully developed.  Road conditions throughout the country are poor.
Entry Requirements:  Valid passports are required for all U.S.
citizens to enter Guyana.  Dual nationals must have a U.S. passport
to depart Guyana for the U.S.  Unlike the rest of the Caribbean, a
naturalization certificate or birth certificate does not fulfill
immigration or boarding requirements for departure from Guyana.  On
arrival, all visitors are granted a 30-day stay.  Extensions of stay
may be obtained from the Ministry of Home Affairs at 6 Brickdam,
Georgetown, Guyana.  The extension must then be noted in the
visitor's passport by the Central Immigration Office located on Camp
Road, Georgetown, Guyana.  Travelers for other than tourism purposes
should also check in with the Ministry of Home Affairs if they
require additional information about Guyana's immigration
requirements for work permits and extended stays.   For other
information, travelers may consult the Embassy of Guyana at 2490
Tracy Place, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel.:  [phone] or
the Consulate General in New York City.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is available for minor medical
problems, but emergency care and major medical care requiring a
hospital stay are very limited due to a lack of specialists,
diagnostic aids and poor sanitary conditions in most medical
facilities.  Travelers are advised to bring prescription medicine
sufficient for their length of stay and should be aware that
Guyana's humid climate may affect some items.  Prescription medicine
(mainly generic) has now become available.  Doctors and hospitals
often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the U.S.  In some
instances, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proved useful, particularly when a medical evacuation
is necessary.
For additional health information, the traveler may contact the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline at [phone] or the CDC fax information service at
[phone].
Crime Information:  Crimes against people and property have become
commonplace.  Foreigners in particular are viewed as wealthy targets
of opportunity.  Crimes of violence are primarily confined to
Georgetown and the other more populated areas of Guyana.  Most
crimes occur in the major business and shopping districts of
Georgetown, in and around the two major indoor/outdoor markets of
Stabroek and Bourda, and in the vicinity of the two major hotels
most frequented by tourists and other foreigners (Tower and Forte
Crest).  The area adjacent to the seawall in Georgetown is usually
deserted and therefore dangerous except early in the morning and in
the late afternoon when it is frequented by people walking or
jogging.  Burglary from vehicles is common, but is very low from
rooms at the major hotels.  Police are cooperative but largely
ineffective.  U.S. visitors who suffer criminal assaults are
encouraged to contact the police as well as the Consular Section of
the U.S. Embassy (or the duty officer after hours) for advice and
assistance.
In addition to money, thieves seek U.S. passports and Alien
Registration Cards.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas
should be reported to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy
or consulate.  U.S. citizens should be prepared to present evidence
of citizenship and identity as well as a letter from Guyana
Immigration showing entry into the country with a U.S. passport in
addition to a police report.  U.S. citizens may refer to the
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad," which provides
useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad.  Both this pamphlet and "Tips for
Travelers to Central and South America" are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Other Information: Some visitors wish to take a tropical bird back
to the U.S.  Many birds are protected species, and quarantine space
must be obtained in advance from the U.S. Department of
Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).
Proof that space has been reserved for the bird in the U.S. must be
presented to the Guyana Ministry of Agriculture before permission
for export will be given.  This process takes some time, so it is
unlikely that a temporary traveler will be able to complete the
paperwork during a short visit to Guyana.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use and dealing with illegal drugs are strict, even for
small amounts.  Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail
sentences and proportionately high fines charged as court costs.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In January 1994, the U.S. Federal
Aviation Administration assessed Guyana's Civil Aviation Authority
as in compliance with international aviation safety oversight
standards for Guyanese carriers operating to and from the U.S.
However, during its assessment, the FAA noted that Guyana's
operations to destinations other than the U.S. are not provided a
similar level of safety oversight.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at
1-800-322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens may register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy located at 99-100 Young and
Duke Streets, Kingston, Georgetown; telephone [phone].  The
Consular Section's entrance is on Duke Street.  Office hours Monday
through Friday are 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.  For emergencies after hours,
weekends and holidays, call (592-2) 57-963.  U.S. citizens may
obtain updated information on travel and security within Guyana upon
request when they register at the U.S. Embassy.
No. 95-131
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 7,
1994 to update information on entry requirements, medical facilities
and crime information and to amend the Consular Section's hours.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Guyana
============================================================
Guyana - Consular Information Sheet
 October 19, 1995
Country Description:  Guyana is a developing nation.  Except for
hotels in the capital city of Georgetown, tourist facilities are not
fully developed.  Road conditions throughout the country are poor.
Entry Requirements:  Valid passports are required for all U.S.
citizens to enter Guyana.  Dual nationals must have a U.S. passport
to depart Guyana for the U.S.  Unlike the rest of the Caribbean, a
naturalization certificate or birth certificate does not fulfill
immigration or boarding requirements for departure from Guyana.  On
arrival, all visitors are granted a 30-day stay.  Extensions of stay
may be obtained from the Ministry of Home Affairs at 6 Brickdam,
Georgetown, Guyana.  The extension must then be noted in the
visitor's passport by the Central Immigration Office located on Camp
Road, Georgetown, Guyana.  Travelers for other than tourism purposes
should also check in with the Ministry of Home Affairs if they
require additional information about Guyana's immigration
requirements for work permits and extended stays.   For other
information, travelers may consult the Embassy of Guyana at 2490
Tracy Place, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel.:  [phone] or
the Consulate General in New York City.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is available for minor medical
problems, but emergency care and major medical care requiring a
hospital stay are very limited due to a lack of specialists,
diagnostic aids and poor sanitary conditions in most medical
facilities.  Travelers are advised to bring prescription medicine
sufficient for their length of stay and should be aware that
Guyana's humid climate may affect some items.  Prescription medicine
(mainly generic) has now become available.  Doctors and hospitals
often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the U.S.  In some
instances, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proved useful, particularly when a medical evacuation
is necessary.
For additional health information, the traveler may contact the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline at [phone] or the CDC fax information service at
[phone].
Crime Information:  Crimes against people and property have become
commonplace.  Foreigners in particular are viewed as wealthy targets
of opportunity.  Crimes of violence are primarily confined to
Georgetown and the other more populated areas of Guyana.  Most
crimes occur in the major business and shopping districts of
Georgetown, in and around the two major indoor/outdoor markets of
Stabroek and Bourda, and in the vicinity of the two major hotels
most frequented by tourists and other foreigners (Tower and Forte
Crest).  The area adjacent to the seawall in Georgetown is usually
deserted and therefore dangerous except early in the morning and in
the late afternoon when it is frequented by people walking or
jogging.  Burglary from vehicles is common, but is very low from
rooms at the major hotels.  Police are cooperative but largely
ineffective.  U.S. visitors who suffer criminal assaults are
encouraged to contact the police as well as the Consular Section of
the U.S. Embassy (or the duty officer after hours) for advice and
assistance.
In addition to money, thieves seek U.S. passports and Alien
Registration Cards.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas
should be reported to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy
or consulate.  U.S. citizens should be prepared to present evidence
of citizenship and identity as well as a letter from Guyana
Immigration showing entry into the country with a U.S. passport in
addition to a police report.  U.S. citizens may refer to the
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad," which provides
useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad.  Both this pamphlet and "Tips for
Travelers to Central and South America" are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Other Information: Some visitors wish to take a tropical bird back
to the U.S.  Many birds are protected species, and quarantine space
must be obtained in advance from the U.S. Department of
Agriculture's Animal and Plant Health Inspection Service (APHIS).
Proof that space has been reserved for the bird in the U.S. must be
presented to the Guyana Ministry of Agriculture before permission
for export will be given.  This process takes some time, so it is
unlikely that a temporary traveler will be able to complete the
paperwork during a short visit to Guyana.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use and dealing with illegal drugs are strict, even for
small amounts.  Convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail
sentences and proportionately high fines charged as court costs.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In January 1994, the U.S. Federal
Aviation Administration assessed Guyana's Civil Aviation Authority
as in compliance with international aviation safety oversight
standards for Guyanese carriers operating to and from the U.S.
However, during its assessment, the FAA noted that Guyana's
operations to destinations other than the U.S. are not provided a
similar level of safety oversight.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at
1-800-322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens may register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy located at 99-100 Young and
Duke Streets, Kingston, Georgetown; telephone [phone].  The
Consular Section's entrance is on Duke Street.  Office hours Monday
through Friday are 8:00 am to 4:30 pm.  For emergencies after hours,
weekends and holidays, call (592-2) 57-963.  U.S. citizens may
obtain updated information on travel and security within Guyana upon
request when they register at the U.S. Embassy.
No. 95-131
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 7,
1994 to update information on entry requirements, medical facilities
and crime information and to amend the Consular Section's hours.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
/                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guyana
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Suriname
    and Venezuela
Map references:
    South America
Area:
  total area:
    214,970 sq km
  land area:
    196,850 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Idaho
Land boundaries:
    total 2,462 km, Brazil 1,119 km, Suriname 600 km, Venezuela 743 km
Coastline:
    459 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200 nm or to the outer edge of the continental margin
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    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)
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid, moderated by northeast trade winds; two rainy seasons
    (May to mid-August, mid-November to mid-January)
Terrain:
    mostly rolling highlands; low coastal plain; savanna in south
Natural resources:
    bauxite, gold, diamonds, hardwood timber, shrimp, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    3%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    6%
  forest and woodland:
    83%
  other:
    8%
Irrigated land:
    1,300 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution from sewage and agricultural and industrial chemicals;
    deforestation
  natural hazards:
    flash floods are a constant threat during rainy seasons
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea,
    Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guyana
                                     People
Population:
    723,774 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    33% (female 118,515; male 123,048)
  15-64 years:
    62% (female 224,484; male 225,543)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 17,540; male 14,644) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    -0.81% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    19.41 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.34 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -20.19 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    47.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    65.1 years
  male:
    61.86 years
  female:
    68.5 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.23 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Guyanese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Guyanese
Ethnic divisions:
    East Indian 51%, black and mixed 43%, Amerindian 4%, European and Chinese 2%
Religions:
    Christian 57%, Hindu 33%, Muslim 9%, other 1%
Languages:
    English, Amerindian dialects
Literacy:
    age 15 and over has ever attended school (1990 est.)
  total population:
    96%
  male:
    98%
  female:
    95%
Labor force:
    268,000
  by occupation:
    industry and commerce 44.5%, agriculture 33.8%, services 21.7%
  note:
    public-sector employment amounts to 60%-80% of the total labor force (1985)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guyana
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Co-operative Republic of Guyana
  conventional short form:
    Guyana
  former:
    British Guiana
Digraph:
    GY
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Georgetown
Administrative divisions:
    10 regions; Barima-Waini, Cuyuni-Mazaruni, Demerara-Mahaica, East
    Berbice-Corentyne, Essequibo Islands-West Demerara, Mahaica-Berbice,
    Pomeroon-Supenaam, Potaro-Siparuni, Upper Demerara-Berbice, Upper
    Takutu-Upper Essequibo
Independence:
    26 May 1966 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Republic Day, 23 February (1970)
Constitution:
    6 October 1980
Legal system:
    based on English common law with certain admixtures of Roman-Dutch law; has
    not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Executive President Cheddi JAGAN (since 5 October 1992); election last held
    5 October 1992; results - Cheddi JAGAN was elected president since he was
    leader of the party with the most votes in the National Assembly elections
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Sam HINDS (since 5 October 1992)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet of Ministers; appointed by the president, responsible to the
    legislature
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court of Judicature
Political parties and leaders:
    People's Progressive Party (PPP), Cheddi JAGAN; People's National Congress
    (PNC), Hugh Desmond HOYTE; Good and Green Georgetown (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; Guyana Labor Party (GLP),
    Nanda GOPAUL
Other political or pressure groups:
    Trades Union Congress (TUC); Guyana Council of Indian Organizations (GCIO);
    Civil Liberties Action Committee (CLAC)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guyana
                                   Government
  note:
    the latter two organizations are small and active but not well organized
Member of:
    ACP, C, CARICOM, CCC, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, GATT, IADB, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user),
    INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, LAES, NAM, OAS, ONUSAL, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU,
    WCL, WFTU, WHO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Dr. Ali Odeen ISHMAEL
  chancery:
    2490 Tracy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 6901
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador George F. JONES
  embassy:
    99-100 Young and Duke Streets, Kingston, Georgetown
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 10507, Georgetown
  telephone:
    [592] (2) 54900 through 54909, 57960 through 57969
  FAX:
    [592] (2) 58497
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guyana
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Guyana, one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere, has pushed
    ahead strongly in 1992-94, with an 8% average annual economic growth rate,
    led by gold mining, and rice, sugar, and forestry 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 inflation 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 will have to persist in efforts to manage its large $2.2 billion
    external debt, control inflation, and to extend the privatization program.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $1.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    8.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,950 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    15.5% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    12% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $23.7 million
  expenditures:
    $19.6 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $475 million (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    sugar, bauxite/alumina, rice, shrimp, molasses
  partners:
    UK 33%, US 31%, Canada 9%, France 5%, Japan 3% (1992)
Imports:
    $456 million (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    manufactures, machinery, petroleum, food
  partners:
    US 37%, Trinidad and Tobago 13%, UK 11%, Italy 8%, Japan 5% (1992)
External debt:
    $2.2 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5.6% (1994 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    110,000 kW
  production:
    230 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    286 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    bauxite mining, sugar, rice milling, timber, fishing (shrimp), textiles,
    gold mining
Agriculture:
    most important sector, accounting for 25% of GDP and about half of exports;
    sugar and rice are key crops; development potential exists for fishing and
    forestry; not self-sufficient in food, especially wheat, vegetable oils, and
    animal products
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guyana
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for narcotics from South America - primarily Venezuela -
    to the US and Europe; producer of cannabis
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $116 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $325 million;
    Communist countries 1970-89, $242 million
Currency:
    1 Guyanese dollar (G$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Guyanese dollars (G$) per US$1 - 142.7 (January 1995), 138.3 (1994), 126.7
    (1993), 125.0 (1992), 111.8 (1991), 39.533 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guyana
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    100 km NA-m gauge industrial lines for the transport of minerals, including
    bauxite
Highways:
    7,665 km
  paved:
    550 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 5,000 km; earth 2,115 km
Inland waterways:
    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
Ports:
    Bartica, Georgetown, Linden, New Amsterdam, Parika
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1 cargo ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,317 GRT/2,558 DWT
Airports:
    54
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    34
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    14
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guyana
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    over 27,000 telephones; fair system for long distance calling
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay network for trunk lines
  international:
    tropospheric scatter link to Trinidad; 1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth
    station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 4, FM 3, shortwave 1
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Guyana
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Guyana Defense Force (GDF; includes Ground Forces, Coast Guard, and Air
    Corps), Guyana People's Militia (GPM), Guyana National Service (GNS)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 198,665; males fit for military service 150,573 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Colombia
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Cocos (Keeling) Islands
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of Australia)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Cocos (Keeling) Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, south of Indonesia,
    about one-half of the way from Australia to Sri Lanka
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    14 sq km
  land area:
    14 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 24 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
  note:
    includes the two main islands of West Island and Home Island
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    2.6 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    pleasant, modified by the southeast trade wind for about nine months of the
    year; moderate rain fall
Terrain:
    flat, low-lying coral atolls
Natural resources:
    fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    NA%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    there are no natural fresh water resources on the island, groundwater does
    accumulate in natural underground reservoirs
  natural hazards:
    cyclones may occur in the early months of the year
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    two coral atolls thickly covered with coconut palms and other vegetation
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Cocos (Keeling) Islands
                                     People
Population:
    604 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    0.98% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    NA births/1,000 population
Death rate:
    NA deaths/1,000 population
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population
Infant mortality rate:
    NA deaths/1,000 live births
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    NA years
  male:
    NA years
  female:
    NA years
Total fertility rate:
    NA children born/woman
Nationality:
  noun:
    Cocos Islander(s)
  adjective:
    Cocos Islander
Ethnic divisions:
  West Island:
    Europeans
  Home Island:
    Cocos Malays
Religions:
    Sunni Muslims
Languages:
    English
Labor force:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Cocos (Keeling) Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Territory of Cocos (Keeling) Islands
  conventional short form:
    Cocos (Keeling) Islands
Digraph:
    CK
Type:
    territory of Australia
Capital:
    West Island
Administrative divisions:
    none (territory of Australia)
Independence:
    none (territory of Australia)
National holiday:
    NA
Constitution:
    Cocos (Keeling) Islands Act of 1955
Legal system:
    based upon the laws of Australia and local laws
Suffrage:
    NA
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952)
  head of government:
    Administrator B. CUNNINGHAM (since NA)
  cabinet:
    Islands Council; Chairman of the Islands Council Haji WAHIN bin Bynie (since
    NA)
Legislative branch:
    unicameral Islands Council
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    NA
Member of:
    none
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (territory of Australia)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (territory of Australia)
Flag:
    the flag of Australia is used
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Cocos (Keeling) Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 Australia.
National product:
    GDP $NA
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $NA
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    copra
  partners:
    Australia
Imports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    foodstuffs
  partners:
    Australia
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,000 kW
  production:
    2 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,980 kWh (1990)
Industries:
    copra products
Agriculture:
    gardens provide vegetables, bananas, pawpaws, coconuts
Economic aid:
    none
Currency:
    1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3058 (January 1995), 1.3667 (1994),
    1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2836 (1991), 1.2799 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Cocos (Keeling) Islands
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    NA km
  paved:
    NA km
  unpaved:
    NA km
Ports:
    none; lagoon anchorage only
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Cocos (Keeling) Islands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    linked by telephone, telex, and facsimile communications via satellite with
    Australia
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    250 (1985)
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Cocos (Keeling) Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of Australia
Although crime remains a problem in Port au
Prince and the provinces, there have been few reported incidents
involving U.S. citizens.  Owing to their relative affluence,
Howland Island
HONDURAS - Passport  and onward/return ticket required.  For additional
information contact Embassy of Honduras (Consular Section), Suite 319,
1612 K Street., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006 (202/223-0185) or nearest
Consulate:  CA (213/383-9244 and 415/392-0076), FL (305/447-8927), IL
(312/772-7090), LA (504/522-3118), NY (212/269-3611) or TX
(713/622-4572).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Honduras
============================================================
Honduras - Consular Information Sheet
 May 9, 1995
Country Description:  Honduras has a developing economy.  Tourist
facilities are generally adequate, but vary in quality.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required for travel to Honduras.
 For additional information concerning entry and customs
requirements travelers can contact the Embassy of Honduras at 3700
Tilden Street N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel: [phone] or
the nearest consulate in Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New
Orleans, New York, or San Francisco.
Areas of Instability:  Cross-border bandit groups operate out of
areas near the Honduran/Salvadoran border.  Travel by road, even on
main highways, between Nicaragua and Honduras is potentially
hazardous.  The presence of extensive minefields on both sides of
the border, particularly along the Rio Coco and in the atlantic
coast region, presents a danger to anyone venturing close to the
border at other than the El Espino, Las Manos, and Guasaule border
crossings.  (The El Espino crossing is known by the name La
Fraternidad.)  It can be hazardous to venture off main roads in the
Honduran-Nicaraguan border area.  The Las Manos and El Espino border
crossings between Honduras and Nicaragua, as well as the Agua
Caliente border crossing between Honduras and Guatemala, are open
only during daylight hours.  The Guasaule border crossing is open
daily from 8 a.m. to 4 p.m.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care varies in quality.  Cholera is
present in Honduras.  Visitors who follow proper precautions are not
usually at risk.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash
payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid outside the United States.  In some cases supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  For
additional health information, the traveler can contact the Centers
for Disease Control's international travelers hotline at (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  The number of reported urban street crimes,
such as robberies and assaults, continues to rise.  The level of
rural criminal activity is also high.  Tourists have been targeted
by criminals in some areas of San Pedro Sula and Tegucigalpa.
Displaying jewelry or large amounts of money increases the risk of
robbery.  Travelers to rural areas and to the border regions near
Guatemala, El Salvador, and Nicaragua, should use caution.  There
have been reports of armed bands operating in some of the border
regions.  Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting
personal security while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  This
publication, as well as others such as "Tips for Travelers to
Central and South America," are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate and the local
police.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties in Honduras for
possession, use and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Purchasing Property:  The enforcement of laws pertaining to
property titles in Honduras is uncertain and unreliable.  Even
though the Honduran Congress passed a law authorizing the purchase
of coastal property by foreigners, there are constitutional
restrictions prohibiting such ownership.  Local governments or
squatters have laid claim to a number of properties owned by U.S.
citizens.
Currency Regulations:  It is impossible to cash personal checks in
Honduras.  It is also extremely difficult to arrange for the
transfer of funds from abroad to Honduras, and in particular to the
Bay Islands, where banking facilities are limited.
Adoption:  Information on adoption in Honduras can be obtained by
writing to the Office of Children's Issues, CA/OCS/CI, Room 4811,
Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520, or by telephoning (202)
647-2688.
Aviation Oversight:  In May 1993, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Honduras as not providing oversight in
compliance with international aviation safety standards for Honduran
carriers operating to and from the U.S.  As a result, Honduran
carriers arrange to have their flights conducted by an air carrier
from a country meeting international safety standards in order to
provide commercial passenger service to the United States.  For
further information, travelers may contact the Department of
Transportation at 1 [phone].
Registration:  U.S. citizens may register at the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy in Tegucigalpa, and may also obtain updated
information on travel and security within Honduras.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Honduras is located at
Avenida La Paz in Tegucigalpa; telephone [phone].
 No. 95-063
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 2,
1994, to add information on purchasing property.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
7                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Honduras
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Guatemala and Nicaragua
    and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between El Salvador and Nicaragua
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    112,090 sq km
  land area:
    111,890 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Tennessee
Land boundaries:
    total 1,520 km, Guatemala 256 km, El Salvador 342 km, Nicaragua 922 km
Coastline:
    820 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  continental shelf:
    natural extension of territory or to 200 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    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,
    Honduras and Nicaragua likely would be required
Climate:
    subtropical in lowlands, temperate in mountains
Terrain:
    mostly mountains in interior, narrow coastal plains
Natural resources:
    timber, gold, silver, copper, lead, zinc, iron ore, antimony, coal, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    14%
  permanent crops:
    2%
  meadows and pastures:
    30%
  forest and woodland:
    34%
  other:
    20%
Irrigated land:
    900 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Honduras
                                    Geography
  natural hazards:
    frequent, but generally mild, earthquakes; damaging hurricanes and floods
    along Caribbean coast
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test
    Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not
    ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Honduras
                                     People
Population:
    5,459,743 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    43% (female 1,159,846; male 1,201,927)
  15-64 years:
    53% (female 1,468,950; male 1,444,959)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 95,361; male 88,700) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.66% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    34.12 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -1.56 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    43.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    68.04 years
  male:
    65.64 years
  female:
    70.55 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.55 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Honduran(s)
  adjective:
    Honduran
Ethnic divisions:
    mestizo (mixed Indian and European) 90%, Indian 7%, black 2%, white 1%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 97%, Protestant minority
Languages:
    Spanish, Indian dialects
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    73%
  male:
    76%
  female:
    71%
Labor force:
    1.3 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 62%, services 20%, manufacturing 9%, construction 3%, other 6%
    (1985)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Honduras
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Honduras
  conventional short form:
    Honduras
  local long form:
    Republica de Honduras
  local short form:
    Honduras
Digraph:
    HO
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Tegucigalpa
Administrative divisions:
    18 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Atlantida,
    Choluteca, Colon, Comayagua, Copan, Cortes, El Paraiso, Francisco Morazan,
    Gracias a Dios, Intibuca, Islas de la Bahia, La Paz, Lempira, Ocotepeque,
    Olancho, Santa Barbara, Valle, Yoro
Independence:
    15 September 1821 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
Constitution:
    11 January 1982, effective 20 January 1982
Legal system:
    rooted in Roman and Spanish civil law; some influence of English common law;
    accepts ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Carlos Roberto REINA Idiaquez (since 27 January 1994); 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%
  cabinet:
    Cabinet
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justica)
Political parties and leaders:
    Liberal Party (PLH), Rafael PINEDA Ponce, president; National Party of
    Honduras (PNH), Oswaldo RAMOS Soto, president; National Innovation and Unity
    Party (PINU), Olban VALLADARES, president; Christian Democratic Party
    (PDCH), Efrain DIAZ Arrivillaga, president
Other political or pressure groups:
    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 Honduras (CODEH); Coordinating Committee of Popular
    Organizations (CCOP)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Honduras
                                   Government
Member of:
    BCIE, CACM, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, GATT, IADB, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA,
    IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ITU, LAES,
    LAIA (observer), MINURSO, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Roberto FLORES Bermudez
  chancery:
    3007 Tilden Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 2604, 5008, 4596
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco,
    and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
  consulate(s):
    Boston, Detroit, and Jacksonville
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador William T. PRYCE
  embassy:
    Avenida La Paz, Apartado Postal No 3453, Tegucigalpa
  mailing address:
    American Embassy, APO AA 34022, Tegucigalpa
  telephone:
    [504] 36-9320, 38-5114
  FAX:
    [504] 36-9037
Flag:
    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, Guatemala, Honduras, and Nicaragua;
    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 Nicaragua, which features a triangle
    encircled by the word REPUBLICA DE NICARAGUA on top and AMERICA CENTRAL on
    the bottom, centered in the white band
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Honduras
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Honduras is one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere.
    Agriculture, the most important sector of the economy, accounts for 28% of
    GDP, employs 62% of the labor force, and produces two-thirds of exports.
    Productivity remains low. Manufacturing, still in its early stages, employs
    9% of the labor force, accounts for 15% of GDP, and generates 20% of
    exports. The service sectors, including public administration, account for
    50% of GDP and employ 20% of the labor force. Many basic problems face the
    economy, including rapid population growth, high unemployment, inflation, a
    lack of basic services, a large and inefficient public sector, and the
    dependence of the export sector mostly on coffee 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $9.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -1.9% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,820 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    30% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    10%; underemployed 30%-40% (1992)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $527 million
  expenditures:
    $668 million, including capital expenditures of $166 million (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $850 million (f.o.b., 1993 est)
  commodities:
    bananas, coffee, shrimp, lobster, minerals, meat, lumber
  partners:
    US 53%, Germany 11%, Belgium 8%, UK 5%
Imports:
    $990 million (c.i.f. 1994 est)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment, chemical products, manufactured goods,
    fuel and oil, foodstuffs
  partners:
    US 50%, Mexico 8%, Guatemala 6%
External debt:
    $4 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 10% (1992 est.); accounts for 22% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    290,000 kW
  production:
    2.3 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    445 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    agricultural processing (sugar and coffee), textiles, clothing, wood
    products
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Honduras
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    most important sector, accounting for 28% of GDP, more than 60% of the labor
    force, and two-thirds of exports; principal products include bananas,
    coffee, timber, beef, citrus fruit, shrimp; importer of wheat
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for narcotics; illicit producer of cannabis, cultivated
    on small plots and used principally for local consumption
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1.4 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.1 billion
Currency:
    1 lempira (L) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    lempiras (L) per US$1 - 9.1283 (October 1994), 7.2600 (1993), 5.8300 (1992),
    5.4000 (1991); 2.0000 (fixed rate until 1991) 5.70 parallel black-market
    rate (November 1990); the lempira was allowed to float in 1992
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Honduras
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    785 km
  narrow gauge:
    508 km 1.067-m gauge; 277 km 0.914-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    8,950 km
  paved:
    1,700 km
  unpaved:
    otherwise improved 5,000 km; unimproved earth 2,250 km
Inland waterways:
    465 km navigable by small craft
Ports:
    La Ceiba, Puerto Castilla, Puerto Cortes, San Lorenzo, Tela, Puerto Lempira
Merchant marine:
  total:
    271 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 802,990 GRT/1,210,553 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 31, cargo 171, chemical tanker 1, combination bulk 1, container 6,
    liquefied gas tanker 2, livestock carrier 3, oil tanker 21, passenger 2,
    passenger-cargo 3, refrigerated cargo 19, roll-on/roll-off cargo 7,
    short-sea passenger 2, specialized tanker 1, vehicle carrier 1
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; Russia owns 14 ships, Vietnam 7, North Korea
    4, US 3, Hong Kong 2, South Korea 2, Greece 1
Airports:
  total:
    159
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    118
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    27
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Honduras
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; 7 telephones/1,000 persons; inadequate system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations and the Central American
    microwave radio relay system
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 176, FM 0, shortwave 7
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    28
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Honduras
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy (includes Marines), Air Force, Public Security Forces (FUSEP)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,275,670; males fit for military service 760,113; males
    reach military age (18) annually 62,405 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $41 million, about 0.4% of GDP (1994)
Guatemala
GUADELOUPE - (See West Indies, French.)
WEST INDIES, French - Islands include Guadeloupe,  Isles des Saintes,
La Desirade, Marie Galante, Saint Barthelemy, St. Martin and Martinique.
Proof of U.S. citizenship and photo ID required for visit up to 3
weeks. (For stays longer than 3 weeks a passport is required.)  No visa
required for stay up to 3 months.  For further information consult Embassy of
France (202/944-6200/6215).
@)+)                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Guadeloupe
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (overseas department of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Guadeloupe
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, islands in the eastern Caribbean Sea, southeast of Puerto Rico
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    1,780 sq km
  land area:
    1,706 sq km
  comparative area:
    10 times the size of Washington, DC
  note:
    Guadeloupe is an archipelago of nine inhabited islands, of which
    Basse-Terre, Grande-Terre, and Marie-Galante are the three largest
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    306 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    subtropical tempered by trade winds; relatively high humidity
Terrain:
    Basse-Terre is volcanic in origin with interior mountains; Grand-Terre is
    low limestone formation; most of the seven other islands are volcanic in
    origin
Natural resources:
    cultivable land, beaches and climate that foster tourism
Land use:
  arable land:
    18%
  permanent crops:
    5%
  meadows and pastures:
    13%
  forest and woodland:
    40%
  other:
    24%
Irrigated land:
    30 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    hurricanes (June to October); La Soufriere is an active volcano
  international agreements:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Guadeloupe
                                     People
Population:
    402,815 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    26% (female 51,069; male 52,922)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 134,328; male 130,875)
  65 years and over:
    8% (female 19,318; male 14,303) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.24% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    18.15 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.58 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.16 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    8.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.2 years
  male:
    74.16 years
  female:
    80.38 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.95 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Guadeloupian(s)
  adjective:
    Guadeloupe
Ethnic divisions:
    black or mulatto 90%, white 5%, East Indian, Lebanese, Chinese less than 5%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 95%, Hindu and pagan African 5%
Languages:
    French, creole patois
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1982)
  total population:
    90%
  male:
    90%
  female:
    90%
Labor force:
    120,000
  by occupation:
    services, government, and commerce 53.0%, industry 25.8%, agriculture 21.2%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Guadeloupe
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Department of Guadeloupe
  conventional short form:
    Guadeloupe
  local long form:
    Departement de la Guadeloupe
  local short form:
    Guadeloupe
Digraph:
    GP
Type:
    overseas department of France
Capital:
    Basse-Terre
Administrative divisions:
    none (overseas department of France)
Independence:
    none (overseas department of France)
National holiday:
    National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
Constitution:
    28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
Legal system:
    French legal system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Francois MITTERRAND (since 21 May 1981)
  head of government:
    Prefect Franck PERRIEZ (since NA 1992); President of the General Council
    Dominique LARIFLA (since NA); President of the Regional Council Lucette
    MICHAUX-CHEVRY (since 22 March 1992)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
Legislative branch:
    unicameral General Council and unicameral Regional Council
  General Council:
    elections last held NA 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 on 31 January 1993 (next to be held by 16 March 1998);
    results - RPR/DUD 48.30%, FGPS 17.09%, FRUI.G 7.44%, PPDG 8.90%, UPLG 7.75%
    PCG 6.05%; seats - (41 total) seats by party NA
  French Senate:
    elections last held in September 1986 (next to be held September 1995);
    Guadeloupe elects two representatives; results - percent of vote by party
    NA; seats - (2 total) PCG 1, FGPS 1
  French National Assembly:
    elections last held on 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held March 1998);
    Guadeloupe elects four representatives; results - percent of vote by party
    NA; seats - (4 total) FGPS 1, RPR 1, PPDG 1, independent 1
Judicial branch:
    Court of Appeal (Cour d'Appel) with jurisdiction over Guadeloupe, French
    Guiana, and Martinique
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Guadeloupe
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Rally for the Republic (RPR), Aldo BLAISE; Communist Party of Guadeloupe
    (PCG), Christian Medard CELESTE; Socialist Party (FGPS), Georges LOUISOR;
    Popular Union for the Liberation of Guadeloupe (UPLG), Lucien PERATIN; FGPS
    Dissidents (FRUI.G); Union for French Democracy (UDF), Simon BARLAGNE;
    Progressive Democratic Party (PPDG), Henri BANGOU
Other political or pressure groups:
    Popular Union for the Liberation of Guadeloupe (UPLG); Movement for
    Independent Guadeloupe (MPGI); General Union of Guadeloupe Workers (UGTG);
    General Federation of Guadeloupe Workers (CGT-G); Christian Movement for the
    Liberation of Guadeloupe (KLPG)
Member of:
    FZ, WCL, WFTU
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (overseas department of France)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (overseas department of France)
Flag:
    the flag of France is used
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Guadeloupe
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy depends on agriculture, tourism, light industry, and services.
    It is also dependent upon France 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 Guadeloupe is still dependent on imported food, which comes mainly
    from France. Light industry consists mostly of sugar and rum production.
    Most manufactured goods and fuel are imported. Unemployment is especially
    high among the young.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $3.8 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $9,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3.7% (1990)
Unemployment rate:
    31.3% (1990)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $400 million
  expenditures:
    $671 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1989)
Exports:
    $130 million (f.o.b., 1992)
  commodities:
    bananas, sugar, rum
  partners:
    France 70%, Martinique 17% (1991)
Imports:
    $1.5 billion (c.i.f., 1992)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, fuels, vehicles, clothing and other consumer goods, construction
    materials
  partners:
    France 60%, EC, US, Japan (1991)
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    320,000 kW
  production:
    650 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,421 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    construction, cement, rum, sugar, tourism
Agriculture:
    cash crops - bananas, sugarcane; other products include tropical fruits and
    vegetables; livestock - cattle, pigs, goats; not self-sufficient in food
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Guadeloupe
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-88), $4 million;  Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $8.235 billion
Currency:
    1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.9243 (January 1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632
    (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991), 5.4453 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Guadeloupe
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    NA km; privately owned, narrow-gauge plantation lines
Highways:
    1,940 km
  paved:
    1,600 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, earth 340 km
Ports:
    Basse-Terre, Gustavia, Marigot, Pointe-a-Pitre
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    9
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    6
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Guadeloupe
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    57,300 telephones; domestic facilities inadequate
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station; interisland microwave radio relay
    to Antigua and Barbuda, Dominica, and Martinique
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 8 (private stations licensed to broadcast FM 30), shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    9
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Guadeloupe
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    French Forces, Gendarmerie
Note:
    defense is responsibility of France
Cocos Islands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Clipperton Island
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (possession of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Clipperton Island
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle America, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, southwest of Mexico
Map references:
    World
Area:
  total area:
    7 sq km
  land area:
    7 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 12 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    11.1 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claimed by Mexico
Climate:
    tropical
Terrain:
    coral atoll
Natural resources:
    none
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100% (all coral)
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    reef about 8 km in circumference
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Clipperton Island
                                     People
Population:
    uninhabited
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Clipperton Island
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Clipperton Island
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Ile Clipperton
  former:
    sometimes called Ile de la Passion
Digraph:
    IP
Type:
    French possession administered by France from French Polynesia by High
    Commissioner of the Republic
Capital:
    none; administered by France from French Polynesia
Independence:
    none (possession of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Clipperton Island
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The only economic activity is a tuna fishing station.
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Clipperton Island
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Clipperton Island
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
inental shelf:
    natural extension of territory or to 200 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
Hungary
HONG KONG - Passport and onward/return transportation by sea/air
required. Visa not required for tourist stay up to 30 days, may be extended to 3
months.  Confirmed hotel and flight reservations recommended during
peak travel months.  Departure tax 150 Hong Kong dollars (approx. $20 U.S.)
paid at airport.  Visa required for work or study.  For other types of
travel consult British Embassy (202/986-0205).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Hong Kong
============================================================
Hong Kong - Consular Information Sheet
 August 18, 1995
Country Description:  Hong Kong, a British Crown Colony, is made up
of three geographic areas:  The New Territories, Kowloon peninsula,
and Hong Kong Island.  It is a cosmopolitan, highly developed
territory.  It will revert to China on July 1, 1997.  Tourist
facilities and services are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and onward/return transportation by
sea/air are required.  A visa is not required for tourist visits of
up to 30 days; the period of time may be extended.  A departure tax
must be paid at the airport.  Visas are required to work or study.
For more current information the traveler can consult the British
Embassy at 3100 Massachusetts Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008,
[phone], or British Consulates in Los Angeles, Atlanta,
Chicago, Boston, New York, or Cleveland.
Medical Facilities:  Good medical facilities are available and
there are many western-trained physicians.  Information on health
matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's
International Travelers Hotline, telephone [phone].  Doctors
and hospitals generally do not accept credit cards and require
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
is generally not valid outside the United States.  Supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage including
provision for medical evacuation has proven useful.
Information On Crime:  Major crime is not a problem for most
travelers.  Petty crime such as pickpocketing is common.  The loss
or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and to the U.S. Consulate.  Useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip
Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession, use, and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Quarantine For Pets:  Dogs and cats may be admitted without
spending time in quarantine, if there are valid health (vaccination)
certificates, and if the pet, when coming from the United States,
has been in the U.S. for at least six months.
Registration:  Americans who register at the Consulate General can
obtain updated information on travel and security conditions within
the area.
Embassy Location:  The American Consulate General is located at 26
Garden Road in Hong Kong.  The mailing address is:  Box 30, FPO AP
96522-0002; tel: [phone], fax [phone].
 No. 95-097
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 4, 1994
to delete the specific amount of the departure tax.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Hong Kong
============================================================
Hong Kong - Consular Information Sheet
 August 18, 1995
Country Description:  Hong Kong, a British Crown Colony, is made up
of three geographic areas:  The New Territories, Kowloon peninsula,
and Hong Kong Island.  It is a cosmopolitan, highly developed
territory.  It will revert to China on July 1, 1997.  Tourist
facilities and services are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and onward/return transportation by
sea/air are required.  A visa is not required for tourist visits of
up to 30 days; the period of time may be extended.  A departure tax
must be paid at the airport.  Visas are required to work or study.
For more current information the traveler can consult the British
Embassy at 3100 Massachusetts Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008,
[phone], or British Consulates in Los Angeles, Atlanta,
Chicago, Boston, New York, or Cleveland.
Medical Facilities:  Good medical facilities are available and
there are many western-trained physicians.  Information on health
matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's
International Travelers Hotline, telephone [phone].  Doctors
and hospitals generally do not accept credit cards and require
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
is generally not valid outside the United States.  Supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage including
provision for medical evacuation has proven useful.
Information On Crime:  Major crime is not a problem for most
travelers.  Petty crime such as pickpocketing is common.  The loss
or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and to the U.S. Consulate.  Useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip
Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession, use, and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Quarantine For Pets:  Dogs and cats may be admitted without
spending time in quarantine, if there are valid health (vaccination)
certificates, and if the pet, when coming from the United States,
has been in the U.S. for at least six months.
Registration:  Americans who register at the Consulate General can
obtain updated information on travel and security conditions within
the area.
Embassy Location:  The American Consulate General is located at 26
Garden Road in Hong Kong.  The mailing address is:  Box 30, FPO AP
96522-0002; tel: [phone], fax [phone].
 No. 95-097
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 4, 1994
to delete the specific amount of the departure tax.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
`4H4                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Hong Kong
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (dependent territory of the UK)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Hong Kong
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and China
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    1,040 sq km
  land area:
    990 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than six times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    total 30 km, China 30 km
Coastline:
    733 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical monsoon; cool and humid in winter, hot and rainy from spring
    through summer, warm and sunny in fall
Terrain:
    hilly to mountainous with steep slopes; lowlands in north
Natural resources:
    outstanding deepwater harbor, feldspar
Land use:
  arable land:
    7%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    1%
  forest and woodland:
    12%
  other:
    79%
Irrigated land:
    20 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air and water pollution from rapid urbanization
  natural hazards:
    occasional typhoons
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    more than 200 islands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Hong Kong
                                     People
Population:
    5,542,869 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    19% (female 499,460; male 549,734)
  15-64 years:
    70% (female 1,866,540; male 2,016,684)
  65 years and over:
    11% (female 331,391; male 279,060) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    -0.12% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    12.02 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.02 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -7.22 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    5.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    80.18 years
  male:
    76.78 years
  female:
    83.78 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.39 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Chinese
  adjective:
    Chinese
Ethnic divisions:
    Chinese 95%, other 5%
Religions:
    eclectic mixture of local religions 90%, Christian 10%
Languages:
    Chinese (Cantonese), English
Literacy:
    age 15 and over has ever attended school (1971)
  total population:
    77%
  male:
    90%
  female:
    64%
Labor force:
    2.8 million (1990)
  by occupation:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Hong Kong
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Hong Kong
Abbreviation:
    HK
Digraph:
    HK
Type:
    dependent territory of the UK scheduled to revert to China in 1997
Capital:
    Victoria
Administrative divisions:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
Independence:
    none (dependent territory of the UK; the UK signed an agreement with China
    on 19 December 1984 to return Hong Kong to China on 1 July 1997; in the
    joint declaration, China promises to respect Hong Kong's existing social and
    economic systems and lifestyle)
National holiday:
    Liberation Day, 29 August (1945)
Constitution:
    unwritten; partly statutes, partly common law and practice; new Basic Law
    approved in March 1990 in preparation for 1997
Legal system:
    based on English common law
Suffrage:
    direct election 21 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
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952)
  head of government:
    Governor Chris PATTEN (since 9 July 1992); Chief Secretary Anson CHAN Fang
    On-Sang (since 29 November 1993)
  cabinet:
    Executive Council; appointed by the governor
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Legislative Council:
    indirect elections last held 12 September 1991 and direct elections were
    held for the first time 15 September 1991 (next to be held 17 September 1995
    when the number of directly-elected seats increases to 50); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (60 total; 21 indirectly elected by
    functional constituencies, 18 directly elected, 18 appointed by governor, 3
    ex officio members); indirect elections - number of seats by functional
    constituency NA; direct elections - UDHK 12, Meeting Point 3, ADPL 1, other
    2
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Democratic Party, Martin LEE, chairman; Democratic Alliance for the
    Betterment of Hong Kong, TSANG Yuk-shing, chairman; Hong Kong Democratic
    Foundation, Dr. Patrick SHIU Kin-ying, chairman
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Hong Kong
                                   Government
  note:
    in April 1994, the United Democrats of Hong Kong (UDHK) and Meeting Point
    merged to form the Democratic Party; the merger became effective in October
    1994
Other political or pressure groups:
    Liberal Party, Allen LEE, chairman; 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 Kowloon Trade Union Council
    (pro-Taiwan); Confederation of Trade Unions (pro-democracy), LAU Chin-shek,
    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
Member of:
    APEC, AsDB, CCC, ESCAP (associate), GATT, ICFTU, IMO (associate), INTERPOL
    (subbureau), IOC, ISO (correspondent), WCL, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Consul General Richard W. MUELLER
  consulate(s) general:
    26 Garden Road, Hong Kong
  mailing address:
    PSC 464, Box 30, Hong Kong, or FPO AP 96522-0002
  telephone:
    [852] 523-9011
  FAX:
    [852] 845-4845
Flag:
    blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant with the Hong
    Kong coat of arms on a white disk centered on the outer half of the flag;
    the coat of arms contains a shield (bearing two junks below a crown) held by
    a lion (representing the UK) and a dragon (representing China) with another
    lion above the shield and a banner bearing the words HONG KONG below the
    shield
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Hong Kong
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 accounts for about 17% 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, and 5.5% in 1994. Unemployment, which has been
    declining since the mid-1980s, is now about 2%. A shortage of labor
    continues to put upward pressure on prices and the cost of living. Prospects
    for 1995-96 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $136.1 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $24,530 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    8.5% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    1.9% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $19.2 billion
  expenditures:
    $19.7 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY93/94)
Exports:
    $168.7 billion (including re-exports of $121.0 billion )(f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    clothing, textiles, yarn and fabric, footwear, electrical appliances,
    watches and clocks, toys
  partners:
    China 32%, US 23%, Germany 5%, Japan 5%, UK 3% (1993 est.)
Imports:
    $160 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, transport equipment, raw materials, semimanufactures, petroleum;
    a large share is re-exported
  partners:
    China 36%, Japan 19%, Taiwan 9%, US 7% (1993 est.)
External debt:
    none (1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 2% (1993 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    8,930,000 kW
  production:
    33 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    4,628 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    textiles, clothing, tourism, electronics, plastics, toys, watches, clocks
Agriculture:
    minor role in the economy; local farmers produce 26% fresh vegetables, 27%
    live poultry; 8% of land area suitable for farming
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Hong Kong
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    a hub for Southeast Asian heroin trade; transshipment and major financial
    and money-laundering center; increasing indigenous amphetamine and cocaine
    abuse
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-87), $152 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $923 million
Currency:
    1 Hong Kong dollar (HK$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Hong Kong dollars (HK$) per US$ - 7.800 (1994), 7.800 (1993), 7.741 (1992),
    7.771 (1991), 7.790 (1990); note - linked to the US dollar at the rate of
    about 7.8 HK$ per 1 US$ since 1985
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Hong Kong
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    35 km
  standard gauge:
    35 km 1.435-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    1,100 km
  paved:
    794 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, earth 306 km
Ports:
    Hong Kong
Merchant marine:
  total:
    217 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 7,657,749 GRT/13,181,496 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 116, cargo 29, chemical tanker 2, combination bulk 2, combination
    ore/oil 6, container 28, liquefied gas tanker 5, oil tanker 18, refrigerated
    cargo 7, short-sea passenger 1, vehicle carrier 3
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; includes 15 countries among which are UK
    with 53 ships, China 15, Bermuda 7, Japan 6, Belgium 3, Germany 3, Greece 3,
    Canada 2, Netherlands 2, Singapore 2
Airports:
  total:
    3
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Hong Kong
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    3,000,000 telephones; modern facilities provide excellent domestic and
    international services
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave transmission links and extensive optical fiber transmission
    network
  international:
    3 INTELSAT (1 Pacific Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean) earth stations; coaxial
    cable to Guangzhou, China; links to 5 international submarine cables
    providing access to ASEAN member nations, Japan, Taiwan, Australia, Middle
    East, and Western Europe
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 6, FM 6, shortwave 0
  radios:
    2.5 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    4 (British Broadcasting Corporation repeater 1; British Forces Broadcasting
    Service repeater 1)
  televisions:
    1.312 million (1,224,000 color TV sets)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Hong Kong
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Headquarters of British Forces, Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force, Royal
    Hong Kong Auxiliary Air Force, Royal Hong Kong Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,634,559; males fit for military service 1,245,905; males
    reach military age (18) annually 40,996 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $207 million, 0.2% of GDP (FY92/93); this
    represents 65% of the total cost of defending the colony, the remainder
    being paid by the UK
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the UK
Guernsey
'                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Guam
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of the US)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Guam
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, island in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way
    from Hawaii to the Philippines
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    541.3 sq km
  land area:
    541.3 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than three times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    125.5 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    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
Terrain:
    volcanic origin, surrounded by coral reefs; relatively flat coraline
    limestone plateau (source of most fresh water) with steep coastal cliffs and
    narrow coastal plains in north, low-rising hills in center, mountains in
    south
Natural resources:
    fishing (largely undeveloped), tourism (especially from Japan)
Land use:
  arable land:
    11%
  permanent crops:
    11%
  meadows and pastures:
    15%
  forest and woodland:
    18%
  other:
    45%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    frequent squalls during rainy season; relatively rare, but potentially very
    destructive typhoons (especially in August)
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    largest and southernmost island in the Mariana Islands archipelago;
    strategic location in western North Pacific Ocean
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Guam
                                     People
Population:
    153,307 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    2.42% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    25.01 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    3.86 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    3 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    15.17 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    74.29 years
  male:
    72.42 years
  female:
    76.13 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.32 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Guamanian(s)
  adjective:
    Guamanian
Ethnic divisions:
    Chamorro 47%, Filipino 25%, Caucasian 10%, Chinese, Japanese, Korean, and
    other 18%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 98%, other 2%
Languages:
    English, Chamorro, Japanese
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    99%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    99%
Labor force:
    46,930 (1990)
  by occupation:
    federal and territorial government 40%, private 60% (trade 18%, services
    15.6%, construction 13.8%, other 12.6%) (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Guam
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Territory of Guam
  conventional short form:
    Guam
Digraph:
    GQ
Type:
    organized, unincorporated territory of the US with policy relations between
    Guam and the US under the jurisdiction of the Office of Territorial and
    International Affairs, US Department of the Interior
Capital:
    Agana
Administrative divisions:
    none (territory of the US)
Independence:
    none (territory of the US)
National holiday:
    Guam Discovery Day (first Monday in March) (1521); Liberation Day, 21 July
Constitution:
    Organic Act of 1 August 1950
Legal system:
    modeled on US; federal laws apply
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal; US citizens, but do not vote in US presidential
    elections
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993); Vice President
    Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993)
  head of government:
    Governor Carl GUTIERREZ (since 8 November 1994); Lieutenant Governor
    Madeleine BORDALLO (since 8 November 1994); election last held 8 November
    1994 (next to be held NA November 1998); results - Carl GUTIERREZ (Democrat)
    was elected Governor and Madeleine BORDALLO (Democrat) was elected
    Lieutenant Governor
  cabinet:
    executive departments; heads appointed by the governor with the consent of
    the Guam legislature
Legislative branch:
    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); Guam
    elects one delegate; results - Robert UNDERWOOD was reelected as delegate;
    seats - (1 total) Democrat 1
Judicial branch:
    Federal District Court, Territorial Superior Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Democratic Party (controls the legislature); Republican Party (party of the
    Governor)
Member of:
    ESCAP (associate), INTERPOL (subbureau), IOC, SPC
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (territory of the US)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Guam
                                   Government
US diplomatic representation:
    none (territory of the US)
Flag:
    territorial flag is dark blue with a narrow red border on all four sides;
    centered is a red-bordered, pointed, vertical ellipse containing a beach
    scene, outrigger canoe with sail, and a palm tree with the word GUAM
    superimposed in bold red letters; US flag is the national flag
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Guam
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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. Guam faces the problem of building up the civilian economic sector
    to offset the impact of military downsizing.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $2 billion (1991 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $14,000 (1991 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    4% (1992 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    2% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $525 million
  expenditures:
    $395 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1991)
Exports:
    $34 million (f.o.b., 1984)
  commodities:
    mostly transshipments of refined petroleum products, construction materials,
    fish, food and beverage products
  partners:
    US 25%, Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands 63%, other 12%
Imports:
    $493 million (c.i.f., 1984)
  commodities:
    petroleum and petroleum products, food, manufactured goods
  partners:
    US 23%, Japan 19%, other 58%
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    300,000 kW
  production:
    750 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    4,797 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    US military, tourism, construction, transshipment services, concrete
    products, printing and publishing, food processing, textiles
Agriculture:
    relatively undeveloped with most food imported; fruits, vegetables, eggs,
    pork, poultry, beef, copra
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Guam
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
    although Guam receives no foreign aid, it does receive large transfer
    payments from the general revenues of the US Federal Treasury into which
    Guamanians pay no income or excise taxes; under the provisions of a special
    law of Congress, the Guamanian Treasury, rather than the US Treasury,
    receives federal income taxes paid by military and civilian Federal
    employees stationed in Guam
Currency:
    1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    US currency is used
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Guam
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    674 km (all-weather roads)
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    Apra Harbor
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    5
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Guam
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    26,317 telephones (1989)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    3
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Guam
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
Greenland
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Glorioso Islands
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (possession of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Glorioso Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, northwest of
    Madagascar
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    5 sq km
  land area:
    5 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 8.5 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
  note:
    includes Ile Glorieuse, Ile du Lys, Verte Rocks, Wreck Rock, and South Rock
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    35.2 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claimed by Madagascar
Climate:
    tropical
Terrain:
    NA
Natural resources:
    guano, coconuts
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100% (all lush vegetation and coconut palms)
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    periodic cyclones
  international agreements:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Glorioso Islands
                                     People
Population:
    uninhabited
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Glorioso Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Glorioso Islands
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Iles Glorieuses
Digraph:
    GO
Type:
    French possession administered by Commissioner of the Republic, resident in
    Reunion
Capital:
    none; administered by France from Reunion
Independence:
    none (possession of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Glorioso Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Glorioso Islands
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Glorioso Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
Note:
    defense is the respon
w,E,E,E
Indian Ocean
ICELAND - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 3
months. (Period begins when entering Scandinavian area:  Denmark, Finland,
Norway, Sweden.)  For additional information call Embassy of Iceland, 2022
Conn. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/265-6653-5) or Consulate
General in New York (212/686-4100).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Iceland
============================================================
Iceland - Consular Information Sheet
 July 6, 1995
Country Description:  Iceland is a highly developed stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely
available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A tourist or business
visa is not required for stays up to 90 days (the period begins when
entering the Nordic area: Sweden, Norway, Denmark, Finland,
Iceland).  For further information concerning entry requirements for
Iceland, travelers can contact the Embassy of Iceland at 1156 15th
Street N.W., Suite1200, Washington, D.C. 20005, tel [phone],
or the Icelandic Consulate General in New York.  Tel. [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Excellent medical facilities are available.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be
useful.  Further information on health matters can be obtained from
the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers' hotline
at [phone].
Crime Information:  Iceland has a low crime rate.  However,
travelers can become the targets of purse snatchers and pickpockets
in urban areas.  Tourists should be aware that downtown Reykjavik
can become disorderly on late evenings, especially over weekends.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and the U.S. Embassy.  Useful
information on personal security while traveling abroad is provided
in the Department of State pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad", available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.  Driving under the influence of
alcohol In Iceland is considered a serious matter, is measured by a
stricter standard, and is generally penalized more severely than in
the United States.
Registration and Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens who register with
the Consular Section of the Embassy may obtain updated information
on travel and security in Iceland.  The U.S. Embassy in Reykjavik is
located at Laufasvegur 21, telephone [phone].
 No. 95-078
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 20, 1994, to
change the address of the Icelandic Embassy in Washington and to
update crime information.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
3e3                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Iceland
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Europe, island between the Greenland Sea and the North Atlantic
    Ocean, northwest of the UK
Map references:
    Arctic Region
Area:
  total area:
    103,000 sq km
  land area:
    100,250 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Kentucky
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    4,988 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    Rockall continental shelf dispute involving Denmark, Ireland, and the UK
    (Ireland and the UK have signed a boundary agreement in the Rockall area)
Climate:
    temperate; moderated by North Atlantic Current; mild, windy winters; damp,
    cool summers
Terrain:
    mostly plateau interspersed with mountain peaks, icefields; coast deeply
    indented by bays and fiords
Natural resources:
    fish, hydropower, geothermal power, diatomite
Land use:
  arable land:
    1%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    20%
  forest and woodland:
    1%
  other:
    78%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution from fertilizer runoff; inadequate wastewater treatment
  natural hazards:
    earthquakes and volcanic activity
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea,
    Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution,
    Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Environmental Modification, Marine Life
    Conservation
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Iceland
                                    Geography
Note:
    strategic location between Greenland and Europe; westernmost European
    country; more land covered by glaciers than in all of continental Europe
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Iceland
                                     People
Population:
    265,998 (July 1995 est.)
  note:
    population data estimates based on average growth rate may differ slightly
    from official population data because of volatile migration rates
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    24% (female 31,482; male 32,912)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 84,559; male 87,089)
  65 years and over:
    11% (female 16,554; male 13,402) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.92% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.85 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.7 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    78.98 years
  male:
    76.69 years
  female:
    81.39 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.06 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Icelander(s)
  adjective:
    Icelandic
Ethnic divisions:
    homogeneous mixture of descendants of Norwegians and Celts
Religions:
    Evangelical Lutheran 96%, other Protestant and Roman Catholic 3%, none 1%
    (1988)
Languages:
    Icelandic
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1976 est.)
  total population:
    100%
Labor force:
    127,900
  by occupation:
    commerce, transportation, and services 60.0%, manufacturing 12.5%, fishing
    and fish processing 11.8%, construction 10.8%, agriculture 4.0% (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Iceland
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Iceland
  conventional short form:
    Iceland
  local long form:
    Lyoveldio Island
  local short form:
    Island
Digraph:
    IC
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Reykjavik
Administrative divisions:
    23 counties (syslar, singular - sysla) and 14 independent towns*
    (kaupstadhir, singular - kaupstadhur); Akranes*, Akureyri*, Arnessysla,
    Austur-Bardhastrandarsysla, Austur-Hunavatnssysla, Austur-Skaftafellssysla,
    Borgarfjardharsysla, Dalasysla, Eyjafjardharsysla, Gullbringusysla,
    Hafnarfjordhur*, Husavik*, Isafjordhur*, Keflavik*, Kjosarsysla, Kopavogur*,
    Myrasysla, Neskaupstadhur*, Nordhur-Isafjardharsysla, Nordhur-Mulasys-la,
    Nordhur-Thingeyjarsysla, Olafsfjordhur*, Rangarvallasysla, Reykjavik*,
    Saudharkrokur*, Seydhisfjordhur*, Siglufjordhur*, Skagafjardharsysla,
    Snaefellsnes-og Hnappadalssysla, Strandasysla, Sudhur-Mulasysla,
    Sudhur-Thingeyjarsysla, Vesttmannaeyjar*, Vestur-Bardhastrandarsysla,
    Vestur-Hunavatnssysla, Vestur-Isafjardharsysla, Vestur-Skaftafellssysla
Independence:
    17 June 1944 (from Denmark)
National holiday:
    Anniversary of the Establishment of the Republic, 17 June (1944)
Constitution:
    16 June 1944, effective 17 June 1944
Legal system:
    civil law system based on Danish law; does not accept compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Vigdis FINNBOGADOTTIR (since 1 August 1980); election last held on
    29 June 1988 (next scheduled for June 1996); results - there was no election
    in 1992 as President Vigdis FINNBOGADOTTIR was unopposed
  head of government:
    Prime Minister David ODDSSON (since 30 April 1991)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Haestirettur)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Iceland
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Independence Party (conservative), David ODDSSON; Progressive Party, Halldor
    ASGRIMSSON; Social Democratic Party, Jon Baldvin HANNIBALSSON; People's
    Alliance (left socialist), Olafur Ragnar GRIMSSON; Women's Party; People's
    Movement (moderate left); National Awakening, Johanna SIGURDARDOTTIR
Member of:
    Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, EFTA, FAO, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, ISO, ITU, MTCR, NACC, NATO, NC, NEA, NIB, OECD, OSCE, PCA,
    UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNU, UPU, WEU (associate), WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Einar BENEDIKTSSON
  chancery:
    Suite 1200, 1156 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 6655
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Parker W. BORG
  embassy:
    Laufasvegur 21, Box 40, Reykjavik
  mailing address:
    US Embassy, PSC 1003, Box 40, Reykjavik; FPO AE 09728-0340
  telephone:
    [354] (1) 629100
  FAX:
    [354] (1) 629139
Flag:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Iceland
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Iceland's Scandinavian-type economy is basically capitalistic, but with an
    extensive welfare system, relatively 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 -
    Iceland'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. Real GDP grew by perhaps 2.4% in 1994. The center-right
    government plans to continue its policies of reducing the budget and current
    account deficits, limiting foreign borrowing, containing inflation, 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4.5 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $17,250 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.3% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    7% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.9 billion
  expenditures:
    $2.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $1.4 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    fish and fish products, animal products, aluminum, ferrosilicon, diatomite
  partners:
    EC 68% (UK 25%, Germany 12%), US 11%, Japan 8% (1992)
Imports:
    $1.3 billion (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    machinery and transportation equipment, petroleum products, foodstuffs,
    textiles
  partners:
    EC 53% (Germany 14%, Denmark 10%, UK 9%), Norway 14%, US 9% (1992)
External debt:
    $2.5 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 1.75% (1991 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,070,000 kW
  production:
    4.7 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    16,458 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    fish processing, aluminum smelting, ferro-silicon production, geothermal
    power
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Iceland
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 15% of GDP; fishing is most important economic activity,
    contributing nearly 75% to export earnings; principal crops - potatoes,
    turnips; livestock - cattle, sheep; fish catch of about 1.1 million metric
    tons in 1992
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-81), $19.1 million
Currency:
    1 Icelandic krona (IKr) = 100 aurar
Exchange rates:
    Icelandic kronur (IKr) per US$1 - 67.760 (January 1995), 69.944 (1994),
    67.603 (1993), 57.546 (1992), 58.996 (1991), 58.284 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Iceland
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    11,373 km
  paved:
    2,513 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, earth 8,860 km (1992)
Ports:
    Akureyri, Hornafjordur, Isafjordur, Keflavik, Raufarhofn, Reykjavik,
    Seydhisfjordhur, Straumsvik, Vestmannaeyjar
Merchant marine:
  total:
    6 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 30,025 GRT/40,410 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 1, chemical tanker 1, oil tanker 1, refrigerated cargo 1,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 2
Airports:
  total:
    90
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    53
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    23
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Iceland
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    140,000 telephones; adequate domestic service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    the trunk network consists of coaxial and fiber-optic cables and microwave
    radio relay links
  international:
    2 earth stations carry all international traffic through an Atlantic Ocean
    INTELSAT satellite
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 5, FM 147 (transmitters and repeaters), shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    202 (transmitters and repeaters)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Iceland
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    no regular armed forces; Police, Coast Guard; note - Iceland's defense is
    provided by the US-manned Icelandic Defense Force (IDF) headquartered at
    Keflavik
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 70,743; males fit for military service 62,698 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    none
Guinea-Bissau
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Guernsey
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (British crown dependency)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Guernsey
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Europe, islands in the English Channel, northwest of France
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    194 sq km
  land area:
    194 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Washington, DC
  note:
    includes Alderney, Guernsey, Herm, Sark, and some other smaller islands
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    50 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate with mild winters and cool summers; about 50% of days are overcast
Terrain:
    mostly level with low hills in southwest
Natural resources:
    cropland
Land use:
  arable land:
    NA%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    large, deepwater harbor at Saint Peter Port
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Guernsey
                                     People
Population:
    64,353 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    18% (female 5,664; male 5,892)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 21,574; male 21,030)
  65 years and over:
    16% (female 6,059; male 4,134) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.98% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    13.29 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.93 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    6.4 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    6.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    78.34 years
  male:
    75.63 years
  female:
    81.07 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.7 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Channel Islander(s)
  adjective:
    Channel Islander
Ethnic divisions:
    UK and Norman-French descent
Religions:
    Anglican, Roman Catholic, Presbyterian, Baptist, Congregational, Methodist
Languages:
    English, French; Norman-French dialect spoken in country districts
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Guernsey
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Bailiwick of Guernsey
  conventional short form:
    Guernsey
Digraph:
    GK
Type:
    British crown dependency
Capital:
    Saint Peter Port
Administrative divisions:
    none (British crown dependency)
Independence:
    none (British crown dependency)
National holiday:
    Liberation Day, 9 May (1945)
Constitution:
    unwritten; partly statutes, partly common law and practice
Legal system:
    English law and local statute; justice is administered by the Royal Court
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952)
  head of government:
    Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief Vice-Admiral Sir John COWARD
    (since NA 1994); Bailiff Mr. Graham Martyn DOREY (since February 1992)
  cabinet:
    Advisory and Finance Committee (other committees); appointed by the States
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Royal Court
Political parties and leaders:
    none; all independents
Member of:
    none
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (British crown dependency)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (British crown dependency)
Flag:
    white with the red cross of Saint George (patron saint of England) extending
    to the edges of the flag
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Guernsey
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Financial services account for more than 50% of total income. Tourism,
    manufacturing, and horticulture, 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. Per
    capita output and living standards are somewhat lower than the levels of the
    less affluent EU countries.
National product:
    GDP  $NA
National product real growth rate:
    9% (1987)
National product per capita:
    $NA
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    7% (1988)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $208.9 million
  expenditures:
    $173.9 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1988)
Exports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    tomatoes, flowers and ferns, sweet peppers, eggplant, other vegetables
  partners:
    UK (regarded as internal trade)
Imports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    coal, gasoline, and oil
  partners:
    UK (regarded as internal trade)
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    173,000 kW
  production:
    525 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    9,060 kWh (1992)
Industries:
    tourism, banking
Agriculture:
    tomatoes, flowers (mostly grown in greenhouses), sweet peppers, eggplant,
    other vegetables, fruit; Guernsey cattle
Economic aid:
    none
Currency:
    1 Guernsey (#G) pound = 100 pence
Exchange rates:
    Guernsey pounds (#G) per US$1 - 0.6350 (January 1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658
    (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991), 0.5603 (1990); note - the Guernsey
    pound is at par with the British pound
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Guernsey
                                     Economy
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Guernsey
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    NA
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    Saint Peter Port, Saint Sampson
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Guernsey
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    41,900 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 submarine cable
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Guernsey
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the UK
BRUNEI
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         British Indian Ocean Territory
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (dependent territory of the UK)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         British Indian Ocean Territory
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Asia, archipelago in the Indian Ocean, about one-half the way from
    Africa to Indonesia
Map references:
    World
Area:
  total area:
    60 sq km
  land area:
    60 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.3 times the size of Washington, DC
  note:
    includes the island of Diego Garcia
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    698 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    the entire Chagos Archipelago is claimed by Mauritius
Climate:
    tropical marine; hot, humid, moderated by trade winds
Terrain:
    flat and low (up to 4 meters in elevation)
Natural resources:
    coconuts, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         British Indian Ocean Territory
                                     People
Population:
    no indigenous inhabitants
  note:
    there are UK-US military personnel; civilian inhabitants, known as the
    Ilois, evacuated to Mauritius before construction of UK-US military
    facilities
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         British Indian Ocean Territory
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    British Indian Ocean Territory
  conventional short form:
    none
Abbreviation:
    BIOT
Digraph:
    IO
Type:
    dependent territory of the UK
Capital:
    none
Independence:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952)
  head of government:
    Commissioner Mr. D. R. MACLENNAN); Administrator Mr. David Smith; note -
    both reside in the UK
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         British Indian Ocean Territory
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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, Mauritius, the Philippines, and
    the US. There are no industrial or agricultural activities on the islands.
Electricity:
    provided by the US military
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         British Indian Ocean Territory
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    NA
  paved:
    short stretch of paved road between port and airfield on Diego Garcia
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    Diego Garcia
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         British Indian Ocean Territory
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; minimal facilities
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         British Indian Ocean Territory
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the UK
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                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Indian Ocean
                                    Geography
Location:
    body of water between Africa, Antarctica, Asia, and Australia
Map references:
    World
Area:
  total area:
    73.6 million sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than eight times the size of the US; third-largest ocean
    (after the Pacific Ocean and Atlantic Ocean, but larger than the Arctic
    Ocean)
  note:
    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
Coastline:
    66,526 km
International disputes:
    some maritime disputes (see littoral states)
Climate:
    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
Terrain:
    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; maximum depth is 7,258
    meters in the Java Trench
Natural resources:
    oil and gas fields, fish, shrimp, sand and gravel aggregates, placer
    deposits, polymetallic nodules
Environment:
  current issues:
    endangered marine species include the dugong, seals, turtles, and whales;
    oil pollution in the Arabian Sea, Persian Gulf, and Red Sea
  natural hazards:
    ships subject to superstructure icing in extreme south near Antarctica from
    May to October
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    major chokepoints include Bab el Mandeb, Strait of Hormuz, Strait of
    Malacca, southern access to the Suez Canal, and the Lombok Strait
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Indian Ocean
                                   Government
Digraph:
    XO
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Indian Ocean
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 petroleum and petroleum products from the
    oilfields of the Persian Gulf and Indonesia. Its fish are of great and
    growing importance to the bordering countries for domestic consumption and
    export. Fishing fleets from Russia, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan also exploit
    the Indian Ocean, mainly for shrimp and tuna. Large reserves of hydrocarbons
    are being tapped in the offshore areas of Saudi Arabia, Iran, India, and
    western Australia. 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, Indonesia, Sri Lanka, and Thailand.
Industries:
    based on exploitation of natural resources, particularly fish, minerals, oil
    and gas, fishing, sand and gravel
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Indian Ocean
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    Bombay (India), Calcutta (India), Colombo (Sri Lanka), Durban (South
    Africa), Jakarta (Indonesia), Madras (India), Melbourne (Australia),
    Richard's Bay (South Africa)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Indian Ocean
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
  international:
    submarine cables from India to United Arab Emirates and Malaysia, and from
    Sri Lanka to Djibouti and Indonesia
Indonesia
$INDIA - Passport and visa required.  Obtain visa in advance.  Tourist
visa valid for stay up to 1 month, requires $5 fee, up to 6 months $25 fee
and up to 12 months $50 fee, 1 application form, 2 photos, onward/return
ticket and proof of sufficient funds.  Visa must be obtained before arrival.
Business visa requires $50 fee,  2 application forms, 2 photos and
company letter stating purpose of trip and itinerary.  Include prepaid envelope
for return of passport by certified mail.  Allow 2 weeks for processing.
Yellow fever immunization needed if arriving from infected area.  AIDS
test required for all students and anyone over 18 staying more than 1 year;
U.S. test sometimes accepted.  Check requirements with Embassy of India,
2536 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/939-9839/9850) or nearest
Consulate General:  Chicago (312/781-6280), New York (212/879-7800) or
San Francisco (415/668-0683).
India - Consular Information Sheet
October 13, 1994
Country Description:  India is a developing democratic republic.  Tourist
facilities varying in degree of comfort and amenities are widely available
in the major population centers and main tourist areas.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa (which must be obtained in advance)
are required for entry into India for tourism or business.  Evidence of
yellow fever immunization is needed if the traveler is arriving from an
infected area.  For further entry information, the traveler can contact the
Embassy of India at 2536 Massachusetts Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008,
telephone [phone] or 939-9850 or the Indian Consulates in Chicago,
New York, San Francisco, Honolulu, and New Orleans.
Terrorism:  There have been no major terrorist events in India since March
of 1993 when bombings at public buildings, hotels and transportation centers
in Bombay caused several hundred deaths and many injuries.  Foreigners were
not targeted in those attacks, and none were reported injured.  While the
threat of acts of terrorism remains, there have been no comparable bombings
in more than one year.
Areas of Instability:
Countrywide - The potential exists for outbreaks of communal and inter-caste
violence in most major cities.  Major civil disturbances can pose risks to a
traveler's personal safety and can disrupt transportation systems and city
services.  In response to communal violence, Indian authorities may
occasionally impose curfews.  In addition, political rallies and
demonstrations in India have the potential for violence.  Foreigners have
not been the targets of either communal or political violence in India, and
are principally at risk only of becoming inadvertent victims.  U.S. citizens
may contact the American Embassy or the nearest American Consulate General
for further information about the current situation in areas where they wish
to travel.
Kashmir - In July 1994 an American tourist was fatally shot in Srinagar, and
in June 1994 militants held two British hikers hostage for eighteen days
before releasing them.  These recent events demonstrate that the Kashmir
Valley in the State of Jammu and Kashmir remains a dangerous place where
terrorist activities and violent civil disturbances continue.
Uttar Pradesh - In September and October 1994 there were numerous incidents
of violent encounters between police and activists for a separate state for
the hill districts of Uttar Pradesh.  Dozens were killed and many more
injured in the incidents of mob action which resulted in imposition of
curfew and disruption of public transportation in many towns including
Dehradun, Rishikesh, Nainital and other popular tourist destinations.
Northeast States - Civil unrest pervades the Northeast States.  Terrorist
groups in Assam have bombed trains, buses and bridges.  The government of
India has declared Assam to be a "disturbed area."  Numerous political
killings have occurred in Nagaland and Manipur.
India/Pakistan Border - Tensions run high between India and Pakistan,
particularly over Kashmir.  The only official India-Pakistan border-crossing
point is between Atari, India and Wagah, Pakistan.  A Pakistani visa is
required for entry to Pakistan.
Restricted Areas:  Permission from the Indian government (from Indian
diplomatic missions abroad or, in some cases, from the Ministry of Home
Affairs) is required to visit the states of Mizoram, Manipur, Nagaland,
Meghalaya, Assam, Tripura, Arunachal Pradesh, Sikkim, parts of Kulu District
and Spiti District of Himachal Pradesh, border areas of Jammu and Kashmir,
areas of Uttar Pradesh, the area west of National Highway No. 15 running
from Ganganagar to Sanchar in Rajasthan, the Andaman and Nicobar Islands and
the Union Territory of the Laccadive Islands.
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical care is available in the major
population centers, but is usually limited in the rural areas of the
country.  Medical authorities suggest that travelers to India take
preventive measures against malaria, hepatitis, meningitis and Japanese
encephilitis (if arriving during the monsoon season).  Travelers arriving
from countries where outbreaks of yellow fever have occurred will be
required to furnish a certificate of yellow fever vaccination.  Cholera and
gastroenteritis occur during the summer monsoon months, mostly in the poorer
areas of India.  The best protection includes eating only at better quality
restaurants or hotels, drinking only boiled or bottled mineral water and
avoiding ice.  Eating untreated fruits and vegetables and cooked foods sold
by street vendors can be risky.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate payment in cash for health
services.  Supplemental health insurance which specifically covers overseas
treatment and medical evacuation has proven useful.  The interiors of
international flights arriving in India may be sprayed with insecticides
while passengers are still aboard, a practice discontinued in the U.S.
because of human health concerns.  Additional information on health matters
can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline at [phone].
Information on Crime:  Petty crime, especially theft of personal property,
is common.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.
Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security,
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to South
Asia."  They are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use, or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted offenders in
India can expect a minimum jail sentence of ten years and fines.
Customs Considerations:  Indian customs authorities strictly enforce the
laws and regulations governing the declaration, importation or possession of
gold and gold objects.  Travelers have sometimes been detained for
possession of undeclared gold objects.
Mountain Climbing:  Both India and Pakistan claim an area of the Karakoram
mountain range which includes the Siachen Glacier.  The two countries have
established military outposts in the region, and armed clashes have
occurred.  Because of this situation, U.S. citizens traveling to or climbing
peaks anywhere in the disputed area face significant risk of injury and
death.  The disputed area includes the following peaks: Rimo Peak, Apsarasas
I, II, and III, Tegam Kangri I, II, and III, Suingri Kangri, Ghaint I and
II, Indira Col, and Sia Kangri.
Piloting Civil Aircraft:  In past years there have been a number of
incidents in which civil aircraft have been detained for deviating from
approved flight plans.  U.S. citizens piloting civil aircraft in India must
file any changes to previous flight plans and may not overfly restricted
airspace.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi
or at one of the U.S. Consulates in India can obtain updated information on
travel and security in India and Bhutan and can obtain a copy of a booklet,
"Guidelines for American Travelers in India."
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in the capital city of New
Delhi on Shanti Path, Chanakyapuri 110021; telephone (91) (11) 600651.
There are U.S. Consulates General in Bombay at Lincoln House, 78 Bhulabhai
Desai Road, Bombay 400026, telephone (91) (22) 363-3611; in Calcutta at 5/1
Ho Chi Minh Sarani, Calcutta 700071, telephone (91) (033) 22-3611 through 22-
3615 and 22-2335 through 22-2337; and in Madras on Mount Road, Madras
600006, telephone (91) (44) 473-040/477-542. The workweek is Monday through
Friday.
No. 94-235
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 16, 1994, to
revise the section on Areas of Instability.
E                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      India
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Asia, bordering the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between
    Bangladesh and Pakistan
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    3,287,590 km2
  land area:
    2,973,190 km2
  comparative area:
    slightly more than one-third the size of the US
Land boundaries:
    total 14,103 km, Bangladesh 4,053 km, Bhutan 605 km, Burma 1,463 km, China
    3,380 km, Nepal 1,690 km, Pakistan 2,912 km
Coastline:
    7,000 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    boundaries with Bangladesh and China; status of Kashmir with Pakistan;
    water-sharing problems with downstream riparians, Bangladesh over the Ganges
    and Pakistan over the Indus
Climate:
    varies from tropical monsoon in south to temperate in north
Terrain:
    upland plain (Deccan Plateau) in south, flat to rolling plain along the
    Ganges, deserts in west, Himalayas in north
Natural resources:
    coal (fourth-largest reserves in the world), iron ore, manganese, mica,
    bauxite, titanium ore, chromite, natural gas, diamonds, petroleum, limestone
Land use:
  arable land:
    55%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    4%
  forest and woodland:
    23%
  other:
    17%
Irrigated land:
    430,390 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; overgrazing; desertification; air pollution
    from industrial effluents and vehicle emissions; water pollution 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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      India
                                    Geography
  natural hazards:
    droughts, flash floods, severe thunderstorms common; earthquakes
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered
    Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban,
    Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber, Wetlands, Whaling;
    signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol,
    Desertification, Law of the Sea
Note:
    dominates South Asian subcontinent; near important Indian Ocean trade routes
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      India
                                     People
Population:
    936,545,814 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    35% (female 159,921,309; male 168,812,255)
  15-64 years:
    61% (female 274,105,407; male 296,145,798)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 18,870,762; male 18,690,283) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.77% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    27.78 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    10.07 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    76.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    59.04 years
  male:
    58.5 years
  female:
    59.61 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.4 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Indian(s)
  adjective:
    Indian
Ethnic divisions:
    Indo-Aryan 72%, Dravidian 25%, Mongoloid and other 3%
Religions:
    Hindu 80%, Muslim 14%, Christian 2.4%, Sikh 2%, Buddhist 0.7%, Jains 0.5%,
    other 0.4%
Languages:
    English enjoys associate status but is the most important language for
    national, political, and commercial communication, Hindi the national
    language and primary tongue of 30% of the people, Bengali (official), Telugu
    (official), Marathi (official), Tamil (official), Urdu (official), Gujarati
    (official), Malayalam (official), Kannada (official), Oriya (official),
    Punjabi (official), Assamese (official), Kashmiri (official), Sindhi
    (official), Sanskrit (official), Hindustani a popular variant of Hindu/Urdu,
    is spoken widely throughout northern India
  note:
    24 languages each spoken by a million or more persons; numerous other
    languages and dialects, for the most part mutually unintelligible
Literacy:
    age 7 and over can read and write (1991)
  total population:
    52%
  male:
    64%
  female:
    39%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      India
                                     People
Labor force:
    314.751 million (1990)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 65% (1993 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      India
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of India
  conventional short form:
    India
Digraph:
    IN
Type:
    federal republic
Capital:
    New Delhi
Administrative divisions:
    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*, Goa, Gujarat, Haryana, Himachal Pradesh,
    Jammu and Kashmir, Karnataka, Kerala, Lakshadweep*, Madhya Pradesh,
    Maharashtra, Manipur, Meghalaya, Mizoram, Nagaland, Orissa, Pondicherry*,
    Punjab, Rajasthan, Sikkim, Tamil Nadu, Tripura, Uttar Pradesh, West Bengal
Independence:
    15 August 1947 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic, 26 January (1950)
Constitution:
    26 January 1950
Legal system:
    based on English common law; limited judicial review of legislative acts;
    accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Shankar Dayal SHARMA (since 25 July 1992); Vice President Kicheril
    Raman NARAYANAN (since 21 August 1992)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha RAO (since 21 June 1991)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president on recommendation of the
    prime minister
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Parliament (Sansad)
  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 by 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, Telugu 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,
    Samta Party 14, CPI 14, AIADMK 12, Janata Dal (Ajit) 7, Telugu Desam 7, RSP
    4, Janata Dal (Ex-Ajit) 3, Samajwadi Party 3, BSP 3, AIFB 3, Shiv Sena 2,
    Congress (S) Party 1, Kerala Congress (Mani faction) 1, Bihar Peoples Party
    1, India National League 1, other 14, vacant 16
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      India
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Congress (I) Party, P. V. Narasimha RAO, president; Bharatiya Janata Party
    (BJP), L.K. ADVANI; Janata Dal Party, S.R. BOMMAI; 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; Telugu Desam (a regional party in Andhra Pradesh), N. T. Rama RAO;
    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; Samta Party (formerly Janata Dal members), Natish
    KUMAR; Indian National League, Suliaman SAIT; Kerala Congress (Mani
    faction), K.M. MANI; All India Forward Bloc (AIFB), Prem Dutta PALIWAL
    (Chairman), Chitta BASU (General Secretary)
Other political or pressure groups:
    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
Member of:
    AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, C, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G- 6, G-15, G-19, G-24,
    G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO,
    IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NAM,
    OAS (observer), PCA, SAARC, UN, UNAVEM II, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIKOM,
    UNITAR, UNOMIL, UNOMOZ, UNOSOM, UNU, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Siddhartha Shankar RAY
  chancery:
    2107 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Chicago, New York, and San Francisco
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Frank G. WISNER
  embassy:
    Shanti Path, Chanakyapuri 110021, New Delhi
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [91] (11) 600651
  FAX:
    [91] (11) 6872028
  consulate(s) general:
    Bombay, Calcutta, Madras
Flag:
    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
    Niger, which has a small orange disk centered in the white band
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      India
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 100 million to 200
    million 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. Foreign exchange reserves,
    precariously low three years ago, now total more than $19 billion. Positive
    factors for the remainder of the 1990s are India's strong entrepreneurial
    class and the central government's recognition of the continuing need for
    market-oriented approaches to economic development, for example in upgrading
    the wholly inadequate communications facilities. Negative factors include
    the desperate poverty of hundreds of millions of Indians and the impact of
    the huge and expanding population on an already overloaded environment.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $1.2539 trillion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,360 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    10% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $30.85 billion
  expenditures:
    $48.35 billion, including capital expenditures of $10.5 billion (FY93/94)
Exports:
    $24.4 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    clothing, gems and jewelry, engineering goods, chemicals, leather
    manufactures, cotton yarn, and fabric
  partners:
    US, Japan, Germany, UK, Hong Kong
Imports:
    $25.5 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    crude oil and petroleum products, machinery, gems, fertilizer, chemicals
  partners:
    US, Germany, Saudi Arabia, UK, Belgium, Japan
External debt:
    $89.2 billion (November 1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 7% (1994 est.); accounts for 28% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    81,200,000 kW
  production:
    314 billion kWh
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      India
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    324 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    textiles, chemicals, food processing, steel, transportation equipment,
    cement, mining, petroleum, machinery
Agriculture:
    accounts for 34% of GDP; principal crops - rice, wheat, oilseeds, cotton,
    jute, tea, sugarcane, potatoes; livestock - cattle, buffaloes, sheep, goats,
    poultry; fish catch of about 3 million metric tons ranks India among the
    world's top 10 fishing nations
Illicit drugs:
    licit producer of opium poppy for the pharmaceutical trade, but an
    undetermined quantity of opium is diverted to illicit international drug
    markets; major transit country for illicit narcotics produced in neighboring
    countries; illicit producer of hashish and methaqualone; produced 82 metric
    tons of illicit opium in 1994
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $4.4 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1980-89), $31.7 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $315 million; USSR (1970-89), $11.6 billion;
    Eastern Europe (1970-89), $105 million
Currency:
    1 Indian rupee (Re) = 100 paise
Exchange rates:
    Indian rupees (Rs) per US$1 - 31.374 (January 1995), 31.374 (1994), 30.493
    (1993), 25.918 (1992), 22.742 (1991), 17.504 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      India
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    62,211 km (6,500 km electrified; 12,617 km double track)
  broad gauge:
    34,544 km 1.676-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    23,599 km 1.000-m gauge; 4,068 km 0.762-m and 0.610-m gauge (1994 est.)
Highways:
  total:
    1.97 million km
  paved:
    960,000 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, earth 1.01 million km (1989)
Inland waterways:
    16,180 km; 3,631 km navigable by large vessels
Pipelines:
    crude oil 3,497 km; petroleum products 1,703 km; natural gas 902 km (1989)
Ports:
    Bombay, Calcutta, Cochin, Haldia, Kandla, Madras, Mormugao, New Mangalore,
    Pondicherry, Port Blair (Andaman Islands), Tuticorin, Vishakhapatnam
Merchant marine:
  total:
    299 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 6,288,902 GRT/10,454,178 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 114, cargo 78, chemical tanker 9, combination bulk 2, combination
    ore/oil 5, container 10, liquefied gas tanker 6, oil tanker 68,
    passenger-cargo 5, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1, short-sea passenger 1
Airports:
  total:
    352
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    11
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    48
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    85
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    72
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    81
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    7
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    46
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      India
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; 5 telephones/1,000 persons; domestic telephone system is
    poor; long-distance telephoning has been improved by a domestic satellite
    system which also carries TV
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    3 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean) earth stations and submarine cables to Malaysia
    and the United Arab Emirates
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 96, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    274 (government controlled)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      India
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, various security or paramilitary forces (includes
    Border Security Force, Assam Rifles, and Coast Guard)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 253,134,487; males fit for military service 148,814,104;
    males reach military age (17) annually 9,461,907 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $7.8 billion, 2.8% of GDP (FY94/95)
Hong Kong
HOLY SEE, APOSTOLIC NUNCIATURE OF THE - Passport required (for entry
into Italy).  For further information consult Apostolic Nunciature of the
Holy See, 3339 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/333-7121) or
call Embassy of Italy (202/328-5500).
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Holy See (Vatican City)
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Europe, an enclave of Rome (Italy)
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    0.44 sq km
  land area:
    0.44 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.7 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    total 3.2 km, Italy 3.2 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate; mild, rainy winters (September to mid-May) with hot, dry summers
    (May to September)
Terrain:
    low hill
Natural resources:
    none
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution, Environmental Modification
Note:
    urban; landlocked; enclave of Rome, Italy; world's smallest state; outside
    the Vatican City, 13 buildings in Rome and Castel Gandolfo (the pope's
    summer residence) enjoy extraterritorial rights
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Holy See (Vatican City)
                                     People
Population:
    830 (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.15% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    NA
Death rate:
    NA
Net migration rate:
    NA
Infant mortality rate:
    NA
Life expectancy at birth:
    NA
Total fertility rate:
    NA
Nationality:
  noun:
    none
  adjective:
    none
Ethnic divisions:
    Italians, Swiss
Religions:
    Roman Catholic
Languages:
    Italian, Latin, various other languages
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    dignitaries, priests, nuns, guards, and 3,000 lay workers who live outside
    the Vatican
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Holy See (Vatican City)
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    The Holy See (State of the Vatican City)
  conventional short form:
    Holy See (Vatican City)
  local long form:
    Santa Sede (Stato della Citta del Vaticano)
  local short form:
    Santa Sede (Citta del Vaticano)
Digraph:
    VT
Type:
    monarchical-sacerdotal state
Capital:
    Vatican City
Independence:
    11 February 1929 (from Italy)
National holiday:
    Installation Day of the Pope, 22 October (1978) (John Paul II)
  note:
    Pope John Paul II was elected on 16 October 1978
Constitution:
    Apostolic Constitution of 1967 (effective 1 March 1968)
Legal system:
    NA
Suffrage:
    limited to cardinals less than 80 years old
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Pope JOHN PAUL II (Karol WOJTYLA; since 16 October 1978); 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
  head of government:
    Secretary of State Archbishop Angelo Cardinal SODANO (since NA 1991)
  cabinet:
    Pontifical Commission; appointed by Pope
Legislative branch:
    unicameral Pontifical Commission
Judicial branch:
    none; normally handled by Italy
Political parties and leaders:
    none
Other political or pressure groups:
    none (exclusive of influence exercised by church officers)
Member of:
    IAEA, ICFTU, INTELSAT, IOM (observer), ITU, OAS (observer), OSCE, UN
    (observer), UNCTAD, UNHCR, UPU, WIPO, WTO (observer)
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Apostolic Pro-Nuncio Archbishop Agostino CACCIAVILLAN
  chancery:
    3339 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Raymond L. FLYNN
  embassy:
    Via Delle Terme Deciane 26, Rome 00153
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Holy See (Vatican City)
                                   Government
  mailing address:
    PSC 59, APO AE 09624
  telephone:
    [39] (6) 46741
  FAX:
    [39] (6) 6380159
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Holy See (Vatican City)
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 Rome.
Budget:
  revenues:
    $169 million
  expenditures:
    $167.5 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    5,000 kW standby
  production:
    power supplied by Italy
  consumption per capita:
    NA kWh (1992)
Industries:
    printing and production of a small amount of mosaics and staff uniforms;
    worldwide banking and financial activities
Currency:
    1 Vatican lira (VLit) = 100 centesimi
Exchange rates:
    Vatican lire (VLit) per US$1 - 1,609.5 (January 1995), 1,612.4 (1994),
    1,573.7 (1993), 1,232.4 (1992), 1,240.6 (1991), 1,198.1 (1990); note - the
    Vatican lira is at par with the Italian lira which circulates freely
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Holy See (Vatican City)
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    862 meters; note - connects to Italy's network at Rome's Saint Peter's
    station
  narrow gauge:
    862 meters 1.435-m gauge
Highways:
    none; all city streets
Ports:
    none
Airports:
    none
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Holy See (Vatican City)
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    2,000 telephones; automatic exchange
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    tied into Italian system
  international:
    uses Italian system
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                             Holy See (Vatican City)
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of Italy; Swiss Papal Guards are posted at
    entrances to the Vatican City
Falkland Islands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Europa Island
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (possession of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Europa Island
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, island in the Mozambique Channel, about one-half of the way
    from southern Madagascar to southern Mozambique
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    28 sq km
  land area:
    28 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.2 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    22.2 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claimed by Madagascar
Climate:
    tropical
Terrain:
    NA
Natural resources:
    negligible
Land use:
  arable land:
    NA%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA% (heavily wooded)
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    wildlife sanctuary
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Europa Island
                                     People
Population:
    uninhabited
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Europa Island
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Europa Island
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Ile Europa
Digraph:
    EU
Type:
    French possession administered by Commissioner of the Republic; resident in
    Reunion
Capital:
    none; administered by France from Reunion
Independence:
    none (possession of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Europa Island
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Europa Island
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Europa Island
                                 Communications
Note:
    1 meteorological station
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Europa Island
                                 Defense Forces
    defense is the responsibility of France
t s; 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; maximum depth is 7,258
    meters in the Java Trench
Natural resources:
    oil and gas fields, fish, shrimp, sand and gravel aggregates, placer
    deposits, polymetallic nodules
Environment:
  current issues:
    endangered marine species include the dugong, seals, turtles, and whales;
    oil pollution in the Arabian Sea, Persian Gulf, and Red Sea
  natural hazards:
    ships subject to superstructure icing in extreme south near Antarctica from
    May to October
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    major chokepoints include Bab el Mandeb, Strait of Hormuz, Strait of
    Malacca, southern access to the Suez Canal, and the Lombok Strait
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Indian Ocean
                                   Government
Digraph:
    XO
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Indian Ocean
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 petroleum and petroleum products from the
    oilfields of the Persian Gulf and Indonesia. Its fish are of great and
    growing importance to the bordering countries for domestic consumption and
    export. Fishing fleets from Russia, Japan, Korea, and Taiwan also exploit
    the Indian Ocean, mainly for shrimp and tuna. Large reserves of hydrocarbons
    are being tapped in the offshore areas of Saudi Arabia, Iran, India, and
    western Australia. 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
Ireland
WIRAN - Passport and visa required.  The United States does not maintain
diplomatic or consular relations with Iran.  Travel by U.S. citizens is
not recommended.  For visa information contact Embassy of Pakistan, Iranian
Interests Section, 2209 Wisconsin Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20007
(202/965-4990).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Iran
============================================================
Iran - Travel Warning
 October 4, 1995
The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against travel to
Iran, which remains dangerous because of the generally anti-American
atmosphere and Iranian government hostility to the U.S. government.
U.S. citizens traveling to Iran have been detained without charge,
arrested, and harassed by Iranian authorities.  Former Muslims who
have converted to other religions, as well as persons who encourage
Muslims to convert, are subject to arrest and possible execution.
In addition, the Iranian government reportedly has the names of all
individuals who filed claims against Iran at the Iran-U.S. Claims
Tribunal at the Hague pursuant to the 1981 Algiers Accords.  There
are restrictions on both import and export of goods from Iran to the
United States.
The U.S. government does not currently have diplomatic or consular
relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran.  The Swiss government,
acting through its Embassy in Tehran, serves as the protecting power
for U.S. interests in Iran, but the Iranian government is reluctant
to permit the Swiss to provide protective services for American
citizens whom they consider to be Iranian nationals by birth or
naturalization.  Neither U.S. passports nor visas to the U.S. are
issued in Tehran.
 No. 95-032
This replaces the Department of State Travel Warning for Iran,
issued August 31, 1993, to include the following information:  That
former Muslims who have converted to other religions, as well as
those who encourage Muslims to convert, are subject to arrest and
possible execution; that the Iranian government has names of
individuals who filed claims against the government of Iran at the
Iran-U.S. Claims Tribunal at the Hague; and that there are trade
restrictions.
Iran - Consular Information Sheet
 October 5, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against
travel to Iran, which remains dangerous because of the generally
anti-American atmosphere and Iranian government hostility to the
U.S. government.  U.S. citizens traveling to Iran have been detained
without charge, arrested, and harassed by Iranian authorities.
Former Muslims who have converted to other religions, as well as
persons who encourage Muslims to convert, are subject to arrest and
possible execution.  In addition, the Iranian government reportedly
has the names of all individuals who filed claims against Iran at
the Iran-U.S. Claims Tribunal at The Hague pursuant to the 1981
Algiers Accords.  There are restrictions on both import and export
of goods from Iran to the United States.  The U.S. government does
not currently have diplomatic or consular relations with the Islamic
Republic of Iran.  The Swiss government, acting through its Embassy
in Tehran, serves as the Protecting Power for U.S. Interests in
Iran, but the Iranian Government is reluctant to permit the Swiss to
provide protective services for American citizens whom they consider
to be Iranian nationals by birth or naturalizations.  Neither U.S.
passports nor visas to the U.S. are issued in Tehran.  For
additional information see paragraphs on "Dual Citizenship" and
"Embassy Location."
Country Description:  Iran is a constitutional Islamic Republic,
governed by executive and legislative branches that derive national
leadership primarily through the Muslim clergy.  Shia Islam is the
official religion of Iran, and Islamic law is the basis of the
authority of the state.  Islamic ideals and beliefs provide the
conservative foundation of the country's customs, laws and
practices.  Iran is a developing country.  The workweek in Iran is
Saturday through Thursday; however, many of the government offices
and private companies are closed on Thursdays.  Friday is a public
holiday for all establishments.  Offices in Iran are open to the
public generally during morning hours only.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  The Iranian
Interests Section of the Embassy of Pakistan is located at 2209
Wisconsin Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20007, telephone (202)
965-4990.  U.S. passports are valid for travel to Iran.  However,
U.S./Iranian dual nationals have often had their U.S. passports
confiscated upon arrival and have been denied permission to depart
Iran documented as U.S. citizens.  To prevent the confiscation of
U.S. passports, the Department of State suggests that dual nationals
leave their U.S. passports at a U.S. embassy or consulate overseas
for safekeeping before entering Iran.  To facilitate their travel in
the event of the confiscation of a U.S. passport, dual nationals
may, prior to entering Iran, obtain in their Iranian passports the
necessary visas for countries which they will transit on their
return to the U.S., and where they may apply for a new U.S.
passport.  In case of having failed to obtain in advance the
necessary visas for their return trip to the U.S., dual nationals
can obtain a "Confirmation of Nationality" from the Embassy of
Switzerland, U.S. Interests Section, addressed to the relevant
embassies in Tehran, only after their U.S. nationality is confirmed
to the said office - a procedure that would take some time which may
delay their plans and deadlines for their return trip.  The
"Confirmation of Nationality" issued by the U.S. Interests Section
in Tehran is meant to enable the dual nationals to apply for third
country visas in Tehran.  Dual nationals must enter and leave the
United States on U.S. passports.
Trade and Investment Restrictions:  On May 6, 1995, President
Clinton signed Executive Order 12959, 60 Federal Register 24757 (May
9, 1995), which prohibits exporting goods or services to Iran,
reexporting certain goods to Iran, new investments in Iran or in
property owned or controlled by the government of Iran and brokering
or other transactions involving goods or services of Iranian origin
or owned or controlled by the government of Iran.  These
restrictions have been added to those already contained in the
Iranian Transactions Regulations, 31 CFR Part 560, which prohibited
unauthorized importation of Iranian-origin goods or services into
the United States, effective October 19, 1987.  The Office of
Foreign Assets Control, Department of Treasury, provides guidance to
the public on the interpretation of the order.  For information
regarding the issuance of licenses, contact the Licensing Division
Office of Foreign Assets Control, Department of the Treasury at
202-622-2500.  For information regarding banking and compliance,
contact Compliance Programs Division at 202-622-2490.
Medical Facilities:  Basic medical care and medicines are available
in the principal cities of Iran, but may not be available in
outlying areas.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States.  In some cases, supplemental medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage has proven useful.  The
international travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention, tel. [phone], has additional useful health
information.
Information on Crime:  Major crime is generally not a problem for
travelers in Iran, though foreigners occasionally have been victims
of petty street crime.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad
should be reported immediately to local police and the U.S.
Interests Section or nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security,
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to The Middle East and North Africa."  They are available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Criminal Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and
legal practices of the countries in which they travel.  Fines,
public floggings, and long prison terms are common.  Former Muslims
who have converted to other religions, as well as persons who
encourage Muslims to convert, are subject to arrest and possible
execution.  Penalties in Iran for possession, use or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict.  Iran executes scores of persons each year
on drug-related charges.
U.S. citizens in Iran who violate Iranian laws, including laws
which are unfamiliar to Westerners (such as laws regarding the
proper wearing apparel), may face severe penalties.
The Iranian government reportedly has obtained the names of all
claimants who filed claims against Iran at the Iran-U.S. Claims
Tribunal at The Hague pursuant to the 1981 Algiers Accords.  In
addition, the Iranian government reportedly has compiled a list of
the claimants who were awarded compensation in the Iran Claims
Program administered by the Foreign Claims Settlement Commission.
The Iranian government is allegedly targeting awardholders who
travel to Iran.  Upon the claimants' entry into Iran, Iranian
authorities are questioning them as to the status of payment of
their respective awards with a view to recouping the award money.
It is also reported that the Iranian government has threatened to
prevent claimants visiting in Iran from departing the country until
they make arrangements to pay part or all of their award money to
that government.
Dual Citizenship:  U.S. citizens who were born in Iran, who have
become naturalized citizens of Iran, or who were at one time
citizens of Iran, and the children of such persons, are considered
Iranian nationals by Iranian authorities.  Therefore, despite the
fact that these individuals possess U.S. citizenship, they usually
must enter and exit Iran bearing an Iranian passport.  Exit visas
are required for departure from Iran.  Recently we have been advised
that some former Iranian nationals have been issued visas in their
U.S. passports.
In addition, U.S./Iranian dual nationals are subject to Iranian
laws which impose special obligations upon Iranian nationals, such
as military service or taxes.  Exit permits for departure from Iran
for such persons may be denied until such obligations are met.  For
more specific information on Iranian passport and exit visa
requirements, you should contact the Iranian Interests Section of
the Embassy of Pakistan.  Dual nationals often have their U.S.
passports confiscated and may be denied permission to leave Iran, or
encounter other problems with Iranian authorities.
Measures which can be taken to facilitate travel, in the event a
U.S. passport is confiscated, are discussed in the section called
"Entry Requirements" of this Information Sheet. Specific questions
on dual nationality may be directed to the Office of American
Citizens Services, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520,
phone: [phone].
Embassy Location:  There is no U.S. embassy or consulate in Iran.
The U.S. Interests Section of the Swiss Embassy in Tehran is located
at Argentine Square, Bucharest Ave., 17th Street, no. 5, Tehran.
The local telephone numbers are (98-21) 87152 23/24 and 871 69 06.
The work week is Sunday through Thursday.  The U.S. Interests
Section does not issue U.S. visas or accept visa applications.  The
limited consular services provided by the U.S. Interests Section of
the Swiss Embassy in Tehran, Iran to U.S. citizens include:
(a) registering U.S. citizens;
(b) answering inquiries concerning the welfare and whereabouts of
U.S. citizens in Iran;
(c) rendering assistance in times of distress or physical danger;
(d) providing U.S. citizens with passport applications and other
citizenship forms for approval at the U.S. Embassy in Bern,
Switzerland;
(e) performing notarial services on the basis of accommodation; and
(f) taking provisional custody of the personal effects of deceased
U.S. citizens.
 No. 95-123
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 31, 1993
to update the Travel Warning, the section on entry Requirements, and
the section on Drug Penalties (now called Criminal Penalties), and
to delete the section on Areas of Instability.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Iran
============================================================
Iran - Travel Warning
 October 4, 1995
The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against travel to
Iran, which remains dangerous because of the generally anti-American
atmosphere and Iranian government hostility to the U.S. government.
U.S. citizens traveling to Iran have been detained without charge,
arrested, and harassed by Iranian authorities.  Former Muslims who
have converted to other religions, as well as persons who encourage
Muslims to convert, are subject to arrest and possible execution.
In addition, the Iranian government reportedly has the names of all
individuals who filed claims against Iran at the Iran-U.S. Claims
Tribunal at the Hague pursuant to the 1981 Algiers Accords.  There
are restrictions on both import and export of goods from Iran to the
United States.
The U.S. government does not currently have diplomatic or consular
relations with the Islamic Republic of Iran.  The Swiss government,
acting through its Embassy in Tehran, serves as the protecting power
for U.S. interests in Iran, but the Iranian government is reluctant
to permit the Swiss to provide protective services for American
citizens whom they consider to be Iranian nationals by birth or
naturalization.  Neither U.S. passports nor visas to the U.S. are
issued in Tehran.
 No. 95-032
This replaces the Department of State Travel Warning for Iran,
issued August 31, 1993, to include the following information:  That
former Muslims who have converted to other religions, as well as
those who encourage Muslims to convert, are subject to arrest and
possible execution; that the Iranian government has names of
individuals who filed claims against the government of Iran at the
Iran-U.S. Claims Tribunal at the Hague; and that there are trade
restrictions.
Iran - Consular Information Sheet
 October 5, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against
travel to Iran, which remains dangerous because of the generally
anti-American atmosphere and Iranian government hostility to the
U.S. government.  U.S. citizens traveling to Iran have been detained
without charge, arrested, and harassed by Iranian authorities.
Former Muslims who have converted to other religions, as well as
persons who encourage Muslims to convert, are subject to arrest and
possible execution.  In addition, the Iranian government reportedly
has the names of all individuals who filed claims against Iran at
the Iran-U.S. Claims Tribunal at The Hague pursuant to the 1981
Algiers Accords.  There are restrictions on both import and export
of goods from Iran to the United States.  The U.S. government does
not currently have diplomatic or consular relations with the Islamic
Republic of Iran.  The Swiss government, acting through its Embassy
in Tehran, serves as the Protecting Power for U.S. Interests in
Iran, but the Iranian Government is reluctant to permit the Swiss to
provide protective services for American citizens whom they consider
to be Iranian nationals by birth or naturalizations.  Neither U.S.
passports nor visas to the U.S. are issued in Tehran.  For
additional information see paragraphs on "Dual Citizenship" and
"Embassy Location."
Country Description:  Iran is a constitutional Islamic Republic,
governed by executive and legislative branches that derive national
leadership primarily through the Muslim clergy.  Shia Islam is the
official religion of Iran, and Islamic law is the basis of the
authority of the state.  Islamic ideals and beliefs provide the
conservative foundation of the country's customs, laws and
practices.  Iran is a developing country.  The workweek in Iran is
Saturday through Thursday; however, many of the government offices
and private companies are closed on Thursdays.  Friday is a public
holiday for all establishments.  Offices in Iran are open to the
public generally during morning hours only.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  The Iranian
Interests Section of the Embassy of Pakistan is located at 2209
Wisconsin Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20007, telephone (202)
965-4990.  U.S. passports are valid for travel to Iran.  However,
U.S./Iranian dual nationals have often had their U.S. passports
confiscated upon arrival and have been denied permission to depart
Iran documented as U.S. citizens.  To prevent the confiscation of
U.S. passports, the Department of State suggests that dual nationals
leave their U.S. passports at a U.S. embassy or consulate overseas
for safekeeping before entering Iran.  To facilitate their travel in
the event of the confiscation of a U.S. passport, dual nationals
may, prior to entering Iran, obtain in their Iranian passports the
necessary visas for countries which they will transit on their
return to the U.S., and where they may apply for a new U.S.
passport.  In case of having failed to obtain in advance the
necessary visas for their return trip to the U.S., dual nationals
can obtain a "Confirmation of Nationality" from the Embassy of
Switzerland, U.S. Interests Section, addressed to the relevant
embassies in Tehran, only after their U.S. nationality is confirmed
to the said office - a procedure that would take some time which may
delay their plans and deadlines for their return trip.  The
"Confirmation of Nationality" issued by the U.S. Interests Section
in Tehran is meant to enable the dual nationals to apply for third
country visas in Tehran.  Dual nationals must enter and leave the
United States on U.S. passports.
Trade and Investment Restrictions:  On May 6, 1995, President
Clinton signed Executive Order 12959, 60 Federal Register 24757 (May
9, 1995), which prohibits exporting goods or services to Iran,
reexporting certain goods to Iran, new investments in Iran or in
property owned or controlled by the government of Iran and brokering
or other transactions involving goods or services of Iranian origin
or owned or controlled by the government of Iran.  These
restrictions have been added to those already contained in the
Iranian Transactions Regulations, 31 CFR Part 560, which prohibited
unauthorized importation of Iranian-origin goods or services into
the United States, effective October 19, 1987.  The Office of
Foreign Assets Control, Department of Treasury, provides guidance to
the public on the interpretation of the order.  For information
regarding the issuance of licenses, contact the Licensing Division
Office of Foreign Assets Control, Department of the Treasury at
202-622-2500.  For information regarding banking and compliance,
contact Compliance Programs Division at 202-622-2490.
Medical Facilities:  Basic medical care and medicines are available
in the principal cities of Iran, but may not be available in
outlying areas.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States.  In some cases, supplemental medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage has proven useful.  The
international travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention, tel. [phone], has additional useful health
information.
Information on Crime:  Major crime is generally not a problem for
travelers in Iran, though foreigners occasionally have been victims
of petty street crime.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad
should be reported immediately to local police and the U.S.
Interests Section or nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security,
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to The Middle East and North Africa."  They are available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Criminal Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and
legal practices of the countries in which they travel.  Fines,
public floggings, and long prison terms are common.  Former Muslims
who have converted to other religions, as well as persons who
encourage Muslims to convert, are subject to arrest and possible
execution.  Penalties in Iran for possession, use or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict.  Iran executes scores of persons each year
on drug-related charges.
U.S. citizens in Iran who violate Iranian laws, including laws
which are unfamiliar to Westerners (such as laws regarding the
proper wearing apparel), may face severe penalties.
that government.
U.S. passports.
@                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iran
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, bordering the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf, between Iraq
    and Pakistan
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    1.648 million sq km
  land area:
    1.636 million sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Alaska
Land boundaries:
    total 5,440 km, Afghanistan 936 km, Armenia 35 km, Azerbaijan (north) 432
    km, Azerbaijan (northwest) 179 km, Iraq 1,458 km, Pakistan 909 km, Turkey
    499 km, Turkmenistan 992 km
Coastline:
    2,440 km
  note:
    Iran also borders the Caspian Sea (740 km)
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  continental shelf:
    natural prolongation
  exclusive economic zone:
    bilateral agreements, or median lines in the Persian Gulf
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    Iran and Iraq 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; Iran occupies
    two islands in the Persian Gulf claimed by the UAE: Tunb as Sughra (Arabic),
    Jazireh-ye Tonb-e Kuchek (Persian) or Lesser Tunb, and Tunb al Kubra
    (Arabic), Jazireh-ye Tonb-e Bozorg (Persian) or Greater Tunb; it jointly
    administers with the UAE an island in the Persian Gulf claimed by the UAE,
    Abu Musa (Arabic) or Jazireh-ye Abu Musa (Persian); in 1992 the dispute over
    Abu Musa and the Tunb islands became more acute when Iran 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
    Afghanistan over Helmand water rights; Caspian Sea boundaries are not yet
    determined
Climate:
    mostly arid or semiarid, subtropical along Caspian coast
Terrain:
    rugged, mountainous rim; high, central basin with deserts, mountains; small,
    discontinuous plains along both coasts
Natural resources:
    petroleum, natural gas, coal, chromium, copper, iron ore, lead, manganese,
    zinc, sulfur
Land use:
  arable land:
    8%
  permanent crops:
    0%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iran
                                    Geography
  meadows and pastures:
    27%
  forest and woodland:
    11%
  other:
    54%
Irrigated land:
    57,500 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution, especially in urban areas, from vehicle emissions, refinery
    operations, and industrial effluents; deforestation; overgrazing;
    desertification; oil pollution in the Persian Gulf; inadequate supplies of
    potable water
  natural hazards:
    periodic droughts, floods; duststorms, sandstorms; earthquakes along the
    Western border
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone
    Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate
    Change, Desertification, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Marine
    Life Conservation
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iran
                                     People
Population:
    64,625,455 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    45% (female 14,113,933; male 14,995,015)
  15-64 years:
    51% (female 16,237,810; male 16,803,943)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 1,197,869; male 1,276,885) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.29% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    34.85 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.85 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -5.11 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    54.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    66.97 years
  male:
    65.77 years
  female:
    68.22 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.93 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Iranian(s)
  adjective:
    Iranian
Ethnic divisions:
    Persian 51%, Azerbaijani 24%, Gilaki and Mazandarani 8%, Kurd 7%, Arab 3%,
    Lur 2%, Baloch 2%, Turkmen 2%, other 1%
Religions:
    Shi'a Muslim 95%, Sunni Muslim 4%, Zoroastrian, Jewish, Christian, and
    Baha'i 1%
Languages:
    Persian and Persian dialects 58%, Turkic and Turkic dialects 26%, Kurdish
    9%, Luri 2%, Baloch 1%, Arabic 1%, Turkish 1%, other 2%
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1991)
  total population:
    66%
  male:
    74%
  female:
    56%
Labor force:
    15.4 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 33%, manufacturing 21%
  note:
    shortage of skilled labor (1988 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iran
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Islamic Republic of Iran
  conventional short form:
    Iran
  local long form:
    Jomhuri-ye Eslami-ye Iran
  local short form:
    Iran
Digraph:
    IR
Type:
    theocratic republic
Capital:
    Tehran
Administrative divisions:
    24 provinces (ostanha, singular - ostan); Azarbayjan-e Bakhtari (West
    Azerbaijan), Azarbayjan-e Khavari (East Azerbaijan), Bakhtaran, Bushehr,
    Chahar Mahall va Bakhtiari, Esfahan, Fars, Gilan, Hamadan, Hormozgan, Ilam,
    Kerman, Khorasan, Khuzestan, Kohkiluyeh va Buyer Ahmadi, Kordestan,
    Lorestan, Markazi, Mazandaran, Semnan, Sistan va Baluchestan, Tehran, Yazd,
    Zanjan
  note:
    there may be a new province named Ardabil formed from a part of Azarbayjan-e
    Khavari (East Azerbaijan) which may have been renamed Azarbayjan-e Markazi
    (Central Azerbaijan); the name Bakhtaran may have been changed to
    Kermanshahan
Independence:
    1 April 1979 (Islamic Republic of Iran proclaimed)
National holiday:
    Islamic Republic Day, 1 April (1979)
Constitution:
    2-3 December 1979; revised 1989 to expand powers of the presidency and
    eliminate the prime ministership
Legal system:
    the Constitution codifies Islamic principles of government
Suffrage:
    15 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  supreme leader (rahbar) and functional chief of state:
    Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Ali Hoseini-KHAMENEI (since 4
    June 1989)
  head of government:
    President Ali Akbar Hashemi-RAFSANJANI (since 3 August 1989); election last
    held June 1993 (next to be held June 1997); results - Ali Akbar
    Hashemi-RAFSANJANI was elected with 63% of the vote
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; selected by the president with legislative approval
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Islamic Consultative Assembly (Majles-e-Shura-ye-Eslami):
    elections last held 8 April 1992 (next to be held April 1996); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (270 seats total) number of seats by
    party NA
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
Political parties and leaders:
    there are at least 76 licensed parties; the three most important are -
    Tehran Militant Clergy Association, Mohammad Reza MAHDAVI-KANI; Militant
    Clerics Association, Mehdi MAHDAVI-KARUBI and Mohammad Asqar
    MUSAVI-KHOINIHA; Fedaiyin Islam Organization, Sadeq KHALKHALI
Other political or pressure groups:
    groups that generally support the Islamic Republic include Hizballah,
    Mojahedin of the Islamic Revolution, Muslim Students Following the Line of
    the Imam; armed political groups that have been almost completely repressed
    by the government include Mojahedin-e Khalq Organization (MEK), People's
    Fedayeen, Kurdish Democratic Party; the Society for the Defense of Freedom
Member of:
    CCC, CP, ECO, ESCAP, FAO, G-19, G-24, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICRM,
    IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NAM, OIC, OPEC, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO,
    UNHCR, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Iran has an Interests Section in the Pakistani Embassy in Washington, DC
  chancery:
    Iranian Interests Section, 2209 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
    protecting power in Iran is Switzerland
Flag:
    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 Alkbar (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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iran
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Iran'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 because
    of political opposition. Iran 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, Iran rescheduled $12
    billion in debt. Earnings from oil exports - which provide 90% of Iran's
    export revenues - are providing less relief to Iran than usual because of
    reduced oil prices.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $310 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,720 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    35% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    over 30% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $16 billion (f.o.b., FY92/93 est.)
  commodities:
    petroleum 90%, carpets, fruits, nuts, hides
  partners:
    Japan, Italy, France, Netherlands, Belgium/Luxembourg, Spain, and Germany
Imports:
    $18 billion (c.i.f., FY92/93 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery, military supplies, metal works, foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals,
    technical services, refined oil products
  partners:
    Germany, Japan, Italy, UK, UAE
External debt:
    $30 billion (December 1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 4.6% (1993 est.); accounts for almost 30% of GDP, including
    petroleum
Electricity:
  capacity:
    19,080,000 kW
  production:
    50.8 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    745 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum, petrochemicals, textiles, cement and other building materials,
    food processing (particularly sugar refining and vegetable oil production),
    metal fabricating, armaments and military equipment
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iran
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 20% of GDP; principal products - wheat, rice, other
    grains, sugar beets, fruits, nuts, cotton, dairy products, wool, caviar; not
    self-sufficient in food
Illicit drugs:
    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
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-80), $1 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.675 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $976 million
  note:
    aid fell sharply following the 1979 revolution
Currency:
    10 Iranian rials (IR) = 1 toman; note - domestic figures are generally
    referred to in terms of the toman
Exchange rates:
    Iranian rials (IR) per US$1 - 1,749.04 (January 1995), 1,748.75 (1994),
    1,267.77 (1993), 65.552 (1992), 67.505 (1991); black market rate: 3,000
    rials per US$1 (December 1994)
Fiscal year:
    21 March - 20 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iran
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    4,850 km; note - 480 km under construction from Bafq to Bandar-e 'Abbas;
    segment from Bafq to Sirjan has been completed and is operational; section
    from Sirjan to Bandar-e 'Abbas still under construction
  broad gauge:
    90 km 1.676-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    4,760 km 1.432-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    140,200 km
  paved:
    42,694 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone 46,866 km; improved earth 49,440 km; unimproved earth
    1,200 km
Inland waterways:
    904 km; the Shatt al Arab is usually navigable by maritime traffic for about
    130 km; channel has been dredged to 3 meters and is in use
Pipelines:
    crude oil 5,900 km; petroleum products 3,900 km; natural gas 4,550 km
Ports:
    Abadan (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
Merchant marine:
  total:
    132 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 3,816,820 GRT/6,991,693 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 48, cargo 38, chemical tanker 5, combination bulk 2, liquefied gas
    tanker 1, oil tanker 26, refrigerated cargo 3, roll-on/roll-off cargo 8,
    short-sea passenger 1
Airports:
  total:
    261
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    28
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    12
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    32
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    20
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    46
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    18
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    101
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iran
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    2,143,000 telephones; 35 telephones/1,000 persons
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay extends throughout country; system centered in Tehran
  international:
    3 INTELSAT (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) earth stations; HF radio
    and microwave radio relay to Turkey, Pakistan, Syria, Kuwait, Tajikistan,
    and Uzbekistan; submarine fiber optic cable to UAE
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 77, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    28
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iran
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Islamic Republic of Iran Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air Defense Force,
    Revolutionary Guards (includes Basij militia with its ground, air, and naval
    forces), Law Enforcement Forces
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 14,639,290; males fit for military service 8,703,732; males
    reach military age (21) annually 615,096 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    according to official Iranian data, Iran spent 1,785 billion rials,
    including $808 million in hard currency, in 1992 and budgeted 2,507 billion
    rials, including $850 million in hard currency, for 1993
  note:
    conversion of rial expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange
    rate could produce misleading results
lNlNlN
INDONESIA - Valid passport and onward/return ticket required.  Visa not
required for tourist stay up to 2 months (non-extendable).  For longer
stays and additional information consult Embassy of the Republic of
Indonesia, 2020 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036 (202/775-5200)
or nearest Consulate:  CA (213/383-5126 or 415/474-9571), IL
(312/938-0101), NY (212/879-0600) or TX (713/626-3291).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Indonesia
============================================================
Indonesia - Consular Information Sheet
 May 8, 1995
Country Description:  Indonesia is an independent republic
consisting of more than 13,500 islands spread over 3000 miles.  Its
economy is developing and tourist services are plentiful in the
major tourist sites.
Entry Requirements:  Passports valid for a minimum of six months at
the time of admission and onward return tickets are required.  Visas
are not required for tourist/business stays of up to two months
(nonextendable).  Special permits are required for some areas of
Indonesia.  For longer stays and more current information, the
traveler may contact the Embassy of the Republic of Indonesia, 2020
Massachusetts Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036, telephone (202)
775-5200.
Areas of Instability:  Periodically, limited civil unrest resulting
in violence has occurred in the province of Aceh, located in the far
northern tip of Sumatra and in the Province of East Timor, located
300 miles north of Australia. In the Province of Irian Jaya, certain
regions require special permits to visit.  Permits can be obtained
from police authorities in Indonesia.
Medical Facilities:  The general level of sanitation and health is
below U.S. expectations.  Adequate routine medical care is available
in all major cities. Emergency services are generally inadequate
outside of major cities.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid
outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  The international
travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control can be reached
at [phone] for additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  The crime rate in Jakarta is moderate.
Minor crimes such as pickpocketing and thefts occur in popular
tourist sites throughout the country.  Incidents of car-jackings and
robbery have been reported.  Lost or stolen passports should be
reported to the local police and the U.S. Embassy or nearest U.S.
consulate.  Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting
personal security while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  It is available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy or a U.S.
consulate may obtain updated information on travel and security
within the country.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in Jakarta at Medan
Merdeka Selatan 5; telephone [phone].  U.S. consulates
general are in Medan at Jalan Immam Bonjol 13; telephone (62-61)
322200 and in Surabaya at Jalan Raya Dr. Sutomo 33; telephone
(62-31)582-287/8.  There is a Consular Agent in Bali at Jalan Segara
Ayu No. 5, Sanur Bali, telephone [phone].
 No. 95-062
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated November 25,
1994, to report incidents of car-jackings and robbery.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
@<=<                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Indonesia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, archipelago between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific
    Ocean
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    1,919,440 sq km
  land area:
    1,826,440 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than three times the size of Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 2,602 km, Malaysia 1,782 km, Papua New Guinea 820 km
Coastline:
    54,716 km
Maritime claims:
    measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    sovereignty over Timor Timur (East Timor Province) disputed with Portugal
    and not recognized by the UN; two islands in dispute with Malaysia
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid; more moderate in highlands
Terrain:
    mostly coastal lowlands; larger islands have interior mountains
Natural resources:
    petroleum, tin, natural gas, nickel, timber, bauxite, copper, fertile soils,
    coal, gold, silver
Land use:
  arable land:
    8%
  permanent crops:
    3%
  meadows and pastures:
    7%
  forest and woodland:
    67%
  other:
    15%
Irrigated land:
    75,500 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; water pollution from industrial wastes, sewage; air pollution
    in urban areas
  natural hazards:
    occasional floods, severe droughts, and tsunamis
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship
    Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified -
    Desertification, Marine Life Conservation, Tropical Timber 94
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Indonesia
                                    Geography
Note:
    archipelago of 13,500 islands (6,000 inhabited); straddles Equator;
    strategic location astride or along major sea lanes from Indian Ocean to
    Pacific Ocean
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Indonesia
                                     People
Population:
    203,583,886 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    32% (female 32,548,039; male 33,485,810)
  15-64 years:
    64% (female 65,394,816; male 64,914,362)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 4,027,367; male 3,213,492) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.56% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    24.06 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.48 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    65 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    61.22 years
  male:
    59.13 years
  female:
    63.42 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.74 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Indonesian(s)
  adjective:
    Indonesian
Ethnic divisions:
    Javanese 45%, Sundanese 14%, Madurese 7.5%, coastal Malays 7.5%, other 26%
Religions:
    Muslim 87%, Protestant 6%, Roman Catholic 3%, Hindu 2%, Buddhist 1%, other
    1% (1985)
Languages:
    Bahasa Indonesia (modified form of Malay; official), English, Dutch, local
    dialects the most widely spoken of which is Javanese
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    82%
  male:
    88%
  female:
    75%
Labor force:
    67 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 55%, manufacturing 10%, construction 4%, transport and
    communications 3% (1985 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Indonesia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Indonesia
  conventional short form:
    Indonesia
  local long form:
    Republik Indonesia
  local short form:
    Indonesia
  former:
    Netherlands East Indies; Dutch East Indies
Digraph:
    ID
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Jakarta
Administrative divisions:
    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 Timur, Kalimantan
    Barat, Kalimantan Selatan, Kalimantan Tengah, Kalimantan Timur, Lampung,
    Maluku, Nusa Tenggara Barat, Nusa Tenggara Timur, Riau, Sulawesi Selatan,
    Sulawesi Tengah, Sulawesi Tenggara, Sulawesi Utara, Sumatera Barat, Sumatera
    Selatan, Sumatera Utara, Timor Timur, Yogyakarta*
Independence:
    17 August 1945 (proclaimed independence; on 27 December 1949, Indonesia
    became legally independent from the Netherlands)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 17 August (1945)
Constitution:
    August 1945, abrogated by Federal Constitution of 1949 and Provisional
    Constitution of 1950, restored 5 July 1959
Legal system:
    based on Roman-Dutch law, substantially modified by indigenous concepts and
    by new criminal procedures code; has not accepted compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    17 years of age; universal and married persons regardless of age
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Gen. (Ret.) SOEHARTO (since 27 March 1968); Vice President Gen.
    (Ret.) Try SUTRISNO (since 11 March 1993)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  House of Representatives (Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat or DPR):
    elections last held on 8 June 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results -
    GOLKAR 68%, PPP 17%, PDI 15%; seats - (500 total, 400 elected, 100 military
    representatives appointed) GOLKAR 282, PPP 62, PDI 56
  note:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Mahkamah Agung)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Indonesia
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    GOLKAR (quasi-official party based on functional groups), Lt. Gen. (Ret.)
    HARMOKO, general chairman; Indonesia 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
Member of:
    APEC, AsDB, ASEAN, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-15, G-19, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NAM, OIC, OPEC, UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNMIH, UNPROFOR, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO,
    WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Arifin Mohamad SIREGAR
  chancery:
    2020 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Robert L. BARRY
  embassy:
    Medan Merdeka Selatan 5, Box 1, Jakarta
  mailing address:
    APO AP 96520
  telephone:
    [62] (21) 360360
  FAX:
    [62] (21) 3862259
  consulate(s) general:
    Medan, Surabaya
Flag:
    two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and white; similar to the flag of
    Monaco, which is shorter; also similar to the flag of Poland, which is white
    (top) and red
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Indonesia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Indonesia is a mixed economy with some socialist institutions and central
    planning but with a recent emphasis on deregulation and private enterprise.
    Indonesia has extensive natural wealth, yet, with a large and rapidly
    increasing population, it remains a rather poor country. Real GDP growth in
    1985-94 averaged about 6%, quite impressive, but not sufficient to both
    slash underemployment and absorb the 2.3 million workers annually entering
    the labor force. Agriculture, including forestry and fishing, is an
    important sector, accounting for 21% of GDP and over 50% of the labor force.
    The staple crop is rice. Once the world's largest rice importer, Indonesia
    is now nearly self-sufficient. Plantation crops - rubber and palm oil - and
    textiles and plywood are being encouraged for both export and job
    generation. Industrial output now accounts for almost 40% of GDP and 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.
    Japan remains Indonesia's most important customer and supplier of aid. Rapid
    growth in the money supply in 1989-90 prompted Jakarta to implement a tight
    monetary policy in 1991, forcing the private sector to go to foreign banks
    for investment financing. Real interest rates remained above 10% and
    off-shore commercial debt grew. The growth in off-shore debt prompted
    Jakarta to limit foreign borrowing beginning in late 1991. Despite the
    continued problems in moving toward a more open financial system and the
    persistence of a fairly tight credit situation, GDP growth in 1992-94 has
    matched the government target of 6%-7% annual growth.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $619.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6.7% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,090 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    9.3% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    3% official rate; underemployment 40% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $32.8 billion
  expenditures:
    $32.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $12.9 billion (FY94/95)
Exports:
    $41.3 billion (f.o.b, 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    manufactures 56.7%, fuels 24.8%, foodstuffs 11.1%, raw materials 7.4% (1994
    est.)
  partners:
    Japan 30%, US 14%, Singapore 9%, South Korea 6%, Taiwan 4% (1993)
Imports:
    $31.4 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    capital equipment 44.2%, intermed and raw materials 37.0%, consumer goods
    11.5%, fuels 7.2% (1994 est.)
  partners:
    Japan 22%, US 11%, South Korea 7%, Germany 7%, Singapore 6%, Australia 5%,
    Taiwan 5% (1993)
External debt:
    $87 billion (1994)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Indonesia
                                     Economy
Industrial production:
    growth rate 8.4% (1993 est.); accounts for 40% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    12,100,000 kW
  production:
    44 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    207 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum and natural gas, textiles, mining, cement, chemical fertilizers,
    plywood, food, rubber
Agriculture:
    accounts for 21% of GDP; subsistence food production; small-holder and
    plantation production for export; main products are rice, cassava, peanuts,
    rubber, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, copra, other tropical products, poultry,
    beef, pork, eggs
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of cannabis for the international drug trade, but not a
    major player; government actively eradicating plantings and prosecuting
    traffickers; growing role as transshipment point for Golden Triangle heroin;
    increasing indigenous methamphetamine abuse
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $4.4 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $25.9 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $213 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $175
    million
Currency:
    1 Indonesian rupiah (Rp) = 100 sen (sen no longer used)
Exchange rates:
    Indonesian rupiahs (Rp) per US$1 - 2,203.6 (January 1995), 2,160.7 (1994),
    2,087.1 (1993), 2,029.9 (1992), 1,950.3 (1991), 1,842.8 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Indonesia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    6,964 km
  narrow gauge:
    6,389 km 1.067-m gauge (101 km electrified; 101 km double track); 497 km
    0.750-m gauge; 78 km 0.600-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    119,500 km
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
  undifferentiated:
    provincial 34,180 km; district 73,508 km; state 11,812 km
Inland waterways:
    21,579 km total; Sumatra 5,471 km, Java and Madura 820 km, Kalimantan 10,460
    km, Celebes 241 km, Irian Jaya 4,587 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 2,505 km; petroleum products 456 km; natural gas 1,703 km (1989)
Ports:
    Cilacap, Cirebon, Jakarta, Kupang, Palembang, Semarang, Surabaya,
    Ujungpandang
Merchant marine:
  total:
    438 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,942,527 GRT/2,818,296 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 26, cargo 259, chemical tanker 7, container 11, liquefied gas tanker 6,
    livestock carrier 1, oil tanker 85, passenger 6, passenger-cargo 12,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 7, short-sea passenger 7, specialized tanker 7,
    vehicle carrier 4
Airports:
  total:
    450
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    10
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    35
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    42
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    324
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    32
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Indonesia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    763,000 telephones (1986); domestic service fair, international service good
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    interisland microwave system and HF police net; 1 earth station for a
    domestic satellite
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 618, FM 38, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
  note:
    radiobroadcast coverage good
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    9
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Indonesia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, National Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 55,883,688; males fit for military service 32,952,204; males
    reach military age (18) annually 2,247,586 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $2.4 billion, 1.5% of GNP (FY94/95)
Afghanistan
AFGHANISTAN - Passport and visa required.No tourist or business visas are
being issued at this time.  For further information contact Embassy of the
Republic of Afghanistan, 2341 Wyoming Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/234-3770/1).
Afghanistan - Travel Warning
January 12, 1994
The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against travel to
Afghanistan.  Fighting continues between opposing factions in the civil war
and indiscriminate rocket attacks, aerial bombardments, and other violence
can occur without warning.  Land mines are prevalent throughout the
countryside.  Westerners are vulnerable to politically and criminally-
motivated attacks, including robbery, kidnapping and hostage-taking.  All
U.S. personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul were evacuated on January 31,
1989, and no other diplomatic mission represents U.S. interests or provides
consular services.
No. 94-002
This replaces the Department of State Travel Warning of February 12, 1993,
to add information on dangers due to fighting between opposing factions in
the civil war.
Afghanistan - Consular Information Sheet
January 19, 1994
Warning:  The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against travel to
Afghanistan.  Fighting continues between opposing factions in the civil war
and indiscriminate rocket attacks, aerial bombardments, and other violence
can occur without warning.  Land mines are prevalent throughout the
countryside.  Westerners are vulnerable to politically and criminally-
motivated attacks, including robbery, kidnapping and hostage-taking.  All
U.S. personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul were evacuated on January 31,
1989, and no other diplomatic mission represents U.S. interests or provides
consular services.
Country Description:  Afghanistan is a developing, Islamic country trying to
emerge from a long period of civil war.  Tourism facilities are minimal.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  For further
information, the traveler can contact the Embassy of the Republic of
Afghanistan, 2341 Wyoming Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone
[phone]/1.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is limited.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  For further information,
the traveler can contact the centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline at [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Significant military encounters, including artillery
shelling, occur sporadically and unpredictably in Kabul and elsewhere in
Afghanistan.
Information on Crime:  Politically and criminally-motivated attacks and
violence, including robbery, kidnapping and hostage-taking are widespread.
Petty crime also exists.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should
be reported immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in
the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to South Asia."  They are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D. C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal practices
of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict in Afghanistan and convicted
offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at U.S. Embassies in Pakistan,
India, Tajikistan, or Uzbekistan can obtain updated information on security
in Afghanistan.
Embassy Location:  Because no third country represents United States
interest in Afghanistan, the United States Government is unable to accord
normal consular protective services to U.S..citizens in Afghanistan.  The
nearest U.S. embassies and consulates are in Pakistan and Tajikistan.  The
telephone number for the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan is (92-51)826-
161 through 826-179.  In Peshawar, Pakistan, the U.S. Consulate telephone is
(92-521) 279-801/2/3.
The telephone number for the U.S. Embassy in Tashkent, Uzbekistan is (7-
3712) 771-407.
In Dushanbe, Tajikistan, the phone number of the U.S. Embassy is (7-3772)21-
0356/0360/0457.
The telephone number of the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, India is (91-11) 600-
No. 94-005
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 31, 1993 to add
information on dangers due to fighting between opposing factions in the
civil war, and to include information on contacting the U.S. Embassies in
Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
:                            THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Asia, north of Pakistan
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    647,500 sq km
  land area:
    647,500 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 5,529 km, China 76 km, Iran 936 km, Pakistan 2,430 km, Tajikistan
    1,206 km, Turkmenistan 744 km, Uzbekistan 137 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    periodic disputes with Iran over Helmand water rights; Iran 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 Pakistan
    (Durand Line); support to Islamic militants worldwide by some factions
Climate:
    arid to semiarid; cold winters and hot summers
Terrain:
    mostly rugged mountains; plains in north and southwest
Natural resources:
    natural gas, petroleum, coal, copper, talc, barites, sulphur, lead, zinc,
    iron ore, salt, precious and semiprecious stones
Land use:
  arable land:
    12%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    46%
  forest and woodland:
    3%
  other:
    39%
Irrigated land:
    26,600 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    soil degradation; overgrazing; deforestation (much of the remaining forests
    are being cut down for fuel and building materials); desertification
  natural hazards:
    damaging earthquakes occur in Hindu Kush mountains; flooding
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping,
    Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change,
    Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                     People
Population:
    21,251,821 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    42% (female 4,342,218; male 4,507,141)
  15-64 years:
    56% (female 5,406,675; male 6,443,734)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 256,443; male 295,610) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    14.47% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    42.69 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    18.53 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    120.5 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    152.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    45.37 years
  male:
    45.98 years
  female:
    44.72 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.21 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Afghan(s)
  adjective:
    Afghan
Ethnic divisions:
    Pashtun 38%, Tajik 25%, Uzbek 6%, Hazara 19%, minor ethnic groups (Chahar
    Aimaks, Turkmen, Baloch, and others)
Religions:
    Sunni Muslim 84%, Shi'a Muslim 15%, other 1%
Languages:
    Pashtu 35%, Afghan Persian (Dari) 50%, Turkic languages (primarily Uzbek and
    Turkmen) 11%, 30 minor languages (primarily Balochi and Pashai) 4%, much
    bilingualism
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    29%
  male:
    44%
  female:
    14%
Labor force:
    4.98 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture and animal husbandry 67.8%, industry 10.2%, construction 6.3%,
    commerce 5.0%, services and other 10.7% (1980 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Islamic State of Afghanistan
  conventional short form:
    Afghanistan
  local long form:
    Dowlat-e Eslami-ye Afghanestan
  local short form:
    Afghanestan
  former:
    Republic of Afghanistan
Digraph:
    AF
Type:
    transitional government
Capital:
    Kabul
Administrative divisions:
    30 provinces (velayat, singular - velayat); Badakhshan, Badghis, Baghlan,
    Balkh, Bamian, Farah, Faryab, Ghazni, Ghowr, Helmand, Herat, Jowzjan, Kabol,
    Kandahar, Kapisa, Konar, Kondoz, Laghman, Lowgar, Nangarhar, Nimruz,
    Oruzgan, Paktia, Paktika, Parvan, Samangan, Sar-e Pol, Takhar, Vardak, Zabol
  note:
    there may be two new provinces of Nurestan (Nuristan) and Khowst
Independence:
    19 August 1919 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Victory of the Muslim Nation, 28 April; Remembrance Day for Martyrs and
    Disabled, 4 May; Independence Day, 19 August
Constitution:
    none
Legal system:
    a new legal system has not been adopted but the transitional government has
    declared it will follow Islamic law (Shari'a)
Suffrage:
    undetermined; previously males 15-50 years of age, universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Burhanuddin RABBANI (Interim President July-December 1992;
    President since 2 January 1993); Vice President Mohammad NABI MOHAMMADI
    (since NA); election last held 31 December 1992 (next to be held NA);
    results - Burhanuddin RABBANI was elected to a two-year term by a national
    shura, later amended by multi-party agreement to 18 months; note - in June
    1994 failure to agree on a transfer mechanism resulted in RABBANI's
    extending the 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
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Gulbuddin HIKMATYAR (since 17 March 1993); note - Prime
    Minister HIKMATYAR is the nominal head of government and does not have any
    real authority; First Deputy Prime Minister Qutbuddin HELAL (since 17 March
    1993); Deputy Prime Minister Arsala RAHMANI (since 17 March 1993)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                   Government
  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
Legislative branch:
    a unicameral parliament consisting of 205 members was chosen by the shura in
    January 1993; non-functioning as of June 1993
Judicial branch:
    an interim Chief Justice of the Supreme Court has been appointed, but a new
    court system has not yet been organized
Political parties and leaders:
    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 Afghanistan (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 Afghanistan (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
  note:
    the former ruling Watan Party has been disbanded
Other political or pressure groups:
    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)
Member of:
    AsDB, CP, ECO, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD,
    IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT, IOC, ITU, NAM, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO,
    UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Abdul RAHIM
  chancery:
    2341 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 3771
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
  consulate(s):
    Washington, DC
US diplomatic representation:
    none; embassy was closed in January 1989
Flag:
    NA; note - the flag has changed at least twice since 1992
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Afghanistan 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 15 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 Pakistan sheltering more
    than 3 million refugees and Iran about 3 million. About 1.4 million Afghan
    refugees remain in Pakistan and about 2 million in Iran. Another 1 million
    probably moved into and around urban areas within Afghanistan. Although
    reliable data are unavailable, gross domestic product is lower than 13 years
    ago because of the loss of labor and capital and the disruption of trade and
    transport.
National product:
    GDP $NA
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $NA
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    56.7% (1991)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $188.2 million (f.o.b., 1991)
  commodities:
    fruits and nuts, handwoven carpets, wool, cotton, hides and pelts, precious
    and semi-precious gems
  partners:
    FSU countries, Pakistan, Iran, Germany, India, UK, Belgium, Luxembourg,
    Czechoslovakia
Imports:
    $616.4 million (c.i.f., 1991)
  commodities:
    food and petroleum products; most consumer goods
  partners:
    FSU countries, Pakistan, Iran, Japan, Singapore, India, South Korea, Germany
External debt:
    $2.3 billion (March 1991 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 2.3% (FY90/91 est.); accounts for about 25% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    480,000 kW
  production:
    550 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    39 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    small-scale production of textiles, soap, furniture, shoes, fertilizer, and
    cement; handwoven carpets; natural gas, oil, coal, copper
Agriculture:
    largely subsistence farming and nomadic animal husbandry; cash products -
    wheat, fruits, nuts, karakul pelts, wool, mutton
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    an illicit cultivator of opium poppy and cannabis for the international drug
    trade; world's second-largest opium producer after Burma (950 metric tons in
    1994) and a major source of hashish
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    $450 million US assistance provided 1985-1993; the UN provides assistance in
    the form of food aid, immunization, land mine removal, and a wide range of
    aid to refugees and displaced persons
Currency:
    1 afghani (AF) = 100 puls
Exchange rates:
    afghanis (Af) per US$1 - 1,900 (January 1994), 1,019 (March 1993), 850
    (1991), 700 (1989-90), 220 (1988-89); note - these rates reflect the free
    market exchange rates rather than the official exchange rates
Fiscal year:
    21 March - 20 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    24.6 km
  broad gauge:
    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
Highways:
  total:
    21,000 km
  paved:
    2,800 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 1,650 km; earth 16,550 km (1984)
Inland waterways:
    total navigability 1,200 km; chiefly Amu Darya, which handles vessels up to
    about 500 metric tons
Pipelines:
    petroleum products - Uzbekistan to Bagram and Turkmenistan to Shindand;
    natural gas 180 km
Ports:
    Keleft, Kheyrabad, Shir Khan
Airports:
  total:
    48
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    15
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    14
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    31,200 telephones; limited telephone, telegraph, and radiobroadcast
    services; 1 public telephone in Kabul
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    one link between western Afghanistan and Iran (via satellite)
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 5, FM 0, shortwave 2
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    several television stations run by factions and local councils which provide
    intermittent service
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    the military still does not exist on a national scale; some elements of the
    former Army, Air and Air Defense 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
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 5,646,789; males fit for military service 3,011,777; males
    reach military age (22) annually 200,264 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $450 million, 15% of GDP (1990 est.); the new
    government has not yet adopted a defense budget
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 20007, telephone (202)
965-4990.  U.S. passports are valid for travel to Iran.  However,
U.S./Iranian dual nationals have often had their U.S. passports
confiscated upon arrival and have been denied permission to depart
Iran documented as U.S. citizens.  To prevent the confiscation of
U.S. passports, the Department of State suggests that dual nationals
leave their U.S. passports at a U.S. embassy or consulate overseas
for safekeeping before entering Iran.  To facilitate their travel in
the event of the confiscation of a U.S. passport, dual nationals
may, prior to entering Iran, obtain in their Iranian passports the
necessary visas for countries which they will transit on their
return to the U.S., and where they may apply for a new U.S.
passport.  In case of having failed to obtain in advance the
necessary visas for their return trip to the U.S., dual nationals
can obtain a "Confirmation of Nationality" from the Embassy of
Switzerland, U.S. Interests Section, addressed to the relevant
embassies in Tehran, only after their U.S. nationality is confirmed
to the said office - a procedure that would take some time which may
delay their plans and deadlines for their return trip.  The
"Confirmation of Nationality" issued by the U.S. Interests Section
in Tehran is meant to enable the dual nationals to apply for third
country visas in Tehran.  Dual nationals must enter and leave the
United States on U.S. passports.
Trade and Investment Restrictions:  On May 6, 1995, President
Clinton signed Executive Order 12959, 60 Federal Register 24757 (May
9, 1995), which prohibits exporting goods or services to Iran,
reexporting certain goods to Iran, new investments in Iran or in
property owned or controlled by the government of Iran and brokering
or other transactions involving goods or services of Iranian origin
or owned or controlled by the government of Iran.  These
restrictions have been added to those already contained in the
Iranian Transactions Regulations, 31 CFR Part 560, which prohibited
unauthorized importation of Iranian-origin goods or services into
the United States, effective October 19, 1987.  The Office of
Foreign Assets Control, Department of Treasury, provides guidance to
the public on the interpretation of the order.  For information
regarding the issuance of licenses, contact the Licensing Division
Office of Foreign Assets Control, Department of the Treasury at
202-622-2500.  For information regarding banking and compliance,
contact Compliance Programs Division at 202-622-2490.
Medical Facilities:  Basic medical care and medicines are available
in the principal cities of Iran, but may not be available in
outlying areas.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States.  In some cases, supplemental medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage has proven useful.  The
international travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention, tel. [phone], has additional useful health
information.
Information on Crime:  Major crime is generally not a problem for
travelers in Iran, though foreigners occasionally have been victims
of petty street crime.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad
should be reported immediately to local police and the U.S.
Interests Section or nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security,
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to The Middle East and North Africa."  They are available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Criminal Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and
legal practices of the countries in which they travel.  Fines,
public floggings, and long prison terms are common.  Former Muslims
who have converted to other religions, as well as persons who
encourage Muslims to convert, are subject to arrest and possible
execution.  Penalties in Iran for possession, use or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict.  Iran executes scores of persons each year
on drug-related charges.
U.S. citizens in Iran who violate Iranian laws, including laws
which are unfamiliar to Westerners (such as laws regarding the
proper wearing apparel), may face severe penalties.
that government.
U.S. passports.
>                                           Iran
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, bordering the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf, between Iraq
    and Pakistan
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    1.648 million sq km
  land area:
    1.636 million sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Alaska
Land boundaries:
    total 5,440 km, Afghanistan 936 km, Armenia 35 km, Azerbaijan (north) 432
    km, Azerbaijan (northwest) 179 km, Iraq 1,458 km, Pakistan 909 km, Turkey
    499 km, Turkmenistan 992 km
Coastline:
    2,440 km
  note:
    Iran also borders the Caspian Sea (740 km)
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  continental shelf:
    natural prolongation
  exclusive economic zone:
    bilateral agreements, or median lines in the Persian Gulf
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    Iran and Iraq 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; Iran occupies
    two islands in the Persian Gulf claimed by the UAE: Tunb as Sughra (Arabic),
    Jazireh-ye Tonb-e Kuchek (Persian) or Lesser Tunb, and Tunb al Kubra
    (Arabic), Jazireh-ye Tonb-e Bozorg (Persian) or Greater Tunb; it jointly
    administers with the UAE an island in the Persian Gulf claimed by the UAE,
    Abu Musa (Arabic) or Jazireh-ye Abu Musa (Persian); in 1992 the dispute over
    Abu Musa and the Tunb islands became more acute when Iran 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
    Afghanistan over Helmand water rights; Caspian Sea boundaries are not yet
    determined
Climate:
    mostly arid or semiarid, subtropical along Caspian coast
Terrain:
    rugged, mountainous rim; high, central basin with deserts, mountains; small,
    discontinuous plains along both coasts
Natural resources:
    petroleum, natural gas, coal, chromium, copper, iron ore, lead, manganese,
    zinc, sulfur
Land use:
  arable land:
    8%
  permanent crops:
    0%
                                      Iran
                                    Geography
  meadows and pastures:
    27%
  forest and woodland:
    11%
  other:
    54%
Irrigated land:
    57,500 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution, especially in urban areas, from vehicle emissions, refinery
    operations, and industrial effluents; deforestation; overgrazing;
    desertification; oil pollution in the Persian Gulf; inadequate supplies of
    potable water
  natural hazards:
    periodic droughts, floods; duststorms, sandstorms; earthquakes along the
    Western border
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone
    Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate
    Change, Desertification, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Marine
    Life Conservation
                                      Iran
                                     People
Population:
    64,625,455 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    45% (female 14,113,933; male 14,995,015)
  15-64 years:
    51% (female 16,237,810; male 16,803,943)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 1,197,869; male 1,276,885) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.29% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    34.85 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.85 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -5.11 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    54.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    66.97 years
  male:
    65.77 years
  female:
    68.22 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.93 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Iranian(s)
  adjective:
    Iranian
Ethnic divisions:
    Persian 51%, Azerbaijani 24%, Gilaki and Mazandarani 8%, Kurd 7%, Arab 3%,
    Lur 2%, Baloch 2%, Turkmen 2%, other 1%
Religions:
    Shi'a Muslim 95%, Sunni Muslim 4%, Zoroastrian, Jewish, Christian, and
    Baha'i 1%
Languages:
    Persian and Persian dialects 58%, Turkic and Turkic dialects 26%, Kurdish
    9%, Luri 2%, Baloch 1%, Arabic 1%, Turkish 1%, other 2%
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1991)
  total population:
    66%
  male:
    74%
  female:
    56%
Labor force:
    15.4 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 33%, manufacturing 21%
  note:
    shortage of skilled labor (1988 est.)
                                      Iran
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Islamic Republic of Iran
  conventional short form:
    Iran
  local long form:
    Jomhuri-ye Eslami-ye Iran
  local short form:
    Iran
Digraph:
    IR
Type:
    theocratic republic
Capital:
    Tehran
Administrative divisions:
    24 provinces (ostanha, singular - ostan); Azarbayjan-e Bakhtari (West
    Azerbaijan), Azarbayjan-e Khavari (East Azerbaijan), Bakhtaran, Bushehr,
    Chahar Mahall va Bakhtiari, Esfahan, Fars, Gilan, Hamadan, Hormozgan, Ilam,
    Kerman, Khorasan, Khuzestan, Kohkiluyeh va Buyer Ahmadi, Kordestan,
    Lorestan, Markazi, Mazandaran, Semnan, Sistan va Baluchestan, Tehran, Yazd,
    Zanjan
  note:
    there may be a new province named Ardabil formed from a part of Azarbayjan-e
    Khavari (East Azerbaijan) which may have been renamed Azarbayjan-e Markazi
    (Central Azerbaijan); the name Bakhtaran may have been changed to
    Kermanshahan
Independence:
    1 April 1979 (Islamic Republic of Iran proclaimed)
National holiday:
    Islamic Republic Day, 1 April (1979)
Constitution:
    2-3 December 1979; revised 1989 to expand powers of the presidency and
    eliminate the prime ministership
Legal system:
    the Constitution codifies Islamic principles of government
Suffrage:
    15 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  supreme leader (rahbar) and functional chief of state:
    Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Ali Hoseini-KHAMENEI (since 4
    June 1989)
  head of government:
    President Ali Akbar Hashemi-RAFSANJANI (since 3 August 1989); election last
    held June 1993 (next to be held June 1997); results - Ali Akbar
    Hashemi-RAFSANJANI was elected with 63% of the vote
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; selected by the president with legislative approval
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Islamic Consultative Assembly (Majles-e-Shura-ye-Eslami):
    elections last held 8 April 1992 (next to be held April 1996); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (270 seats total) number of seats by
    party NA
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    there are at least 76 licensed parties; the three most important are -
    Tehran Militant Clergy Association, Mohammad Reza MAHDAVI-KANI; Militant
    Clerics Association, Mehdi MAHDAVI-KARUBI and Mohammad Asqar
    MUSAVI-KHOINIHA; Fedaiyin Islam Organization, Sadeq KHALKHALI
Other political or pressure groups:
    groups that generally support the Islamic Republic include Hizballah,
    Mojahedin of the Islamic Revolution, Muslim Students Following the Line of
    the Imam; armed political groups that have been almost completely repressed
    by the government include Mojahedin-e Khalq Organization (MEK), People's
    Fedayeen, Kurdish Democratic Party; the Society for the Defense of Freedom
Member of:
    CCC, CP, ECO, ESCAP, FAO, G-19, G-24, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICRM,
    IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NAM, OIC, OPEC, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO,
    UNHCR, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Iran has an Interests Section in the Pakistani Embassy in Washington, DC
  chancery:
    Iranian Interests Section, 2209 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
    protecting power in Iran is Switzerland
Flag:
    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 Alkbar (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
                                      Iran
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Iran'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 because
    of political opposition. Iran 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, Iran rescheduled $12
    billion in debt. Earnings from oil exports - which provide 90% of Iran's
    export revenues - are providing less relief to Iran than usual because of
    reduced oil prices.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $310 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,720 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    35% (1994)
Bangladesh
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Baker Island
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of the US)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Baker Island
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from
    Hawaii to Australia
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    1.4 sq km
  land area:
    1.4 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 2.3 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    4.8 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    equatorial; scant rainfall, constant wind, burning sun
Terrain:
    low, nearly level coral island surrounded by a narrow fringing reef
Natural resources:
    guano (deposits worked until 1891)
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    no natural fresh water resources
  natural hazards:
    the narrow fringing reef surrounding the island can be a maritime hazard
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Baker Island
                                     People
Population:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Baker Island
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Baker Island
Digraph:
    FQ
Type:
    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
Capital:
    none; administered from Washington, DC
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Baker Island
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Baker Island
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only; note - there is one boat landing area along
    the middle of the west coast
Airports:
    1 abandoned World War II runway of 1,665 m
Note:
    there is a day beacon near the middle of the west coast
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Baker Island
                                 Defense Forces
    defense is the responsibility of the US; visited annually by the US Coast
    Guard
Israel
(IRAQ - Passport and visa required.  AIDS test required for stay over 5
days.  The United States suspended diplomatic and consular operations
in Iraq in 1990.  Since February 1991, U.S. passports are not valid for
travel in, to, or through Iraq without authorization from the Department of
State. Application for exemptions to this restriction should be submitted in
writing to Passport Services, U.S. Department of State, 1425 K St.,
N.W., Washington, D.C.  20524, Attn:  CA/PPT/C, Room 300.  Attention:  U.S.
citizens need a Treasury Dept. license in order to engage in any
transactions related to travel to and within Iraq.  Before planning any
travel to Iraq, U.S. citizens should contact the Licensing Division,
Office of Foreign Assets Control, Department of the Treasury, 1331 G St.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20220 (202/622-2480).  For visa information contact a
country that maintains diplomatic relations with Iraq.
Iraq - Travel Warning
September 15, 1994
The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against traveling to Iraq.
Conditions within the country remain unsettled and dangerous.  The United
States does not maintain diplomatic relations with Iraq and cannot provide
normal consular protective services to U.S. citizens.  U.S. passports are
not valid for travel to, in or through Iraq, unless they are specially
endorsed by the U.S. Government.  There is a U.S. trade embargo which
severely restricts financial and economic activities with Iraq, including
travel-related transactions.
Further details can be found in the Department of State Consular Information
Sheet on Iraq.
No. 94-038
This extends the Department of State Warning on Iraq dated August 31, 1993.
Iraq - Consular Information Sheet
September 15, 1994
Warning:  The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against traveling
to Iraq.  Conditions within the country remain unsettled and dangerous.  The
United States does not maintain diplomatic relations with Iraq and cannot
provide normal consular protective services to U.S. citizens.  U.S.
passports are not valid for travel to, in or through Iraq, unless they are
specially endorsed by the U.S. Government.  There is a U.S. trade embargo
which severely restricts financial and economic activities with Iraq,
including travel-related transactions.
Country Description:  The Republic of Iraq is governed by the repressive
Revolutionary Command Council.  Iraq has a developing economy that was
seriously damaged in the 1991 Gulf War.  U.N trade sanctions have also
affected the economy.  Islamic ideals and beliefs provide the conservative
foundation of the country's customs, laws and practices.  Tourist facilities
are not widely available.  The work week in Iraq is Sunday through Thursday.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required.  On February 8, 1991,
U.S. passports ceased to be valid for travel to, in or through Iraq and may
not be used for that purpose unless a special validation has been obtained.
Without the requisite validation, use of a U.S. passport for travel to, in
or through Iraq may constitute a violation of 18 U.S.C. 1544, and may be
punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment.  An exemption to the above
restriction is granted to Americans residing in Iraq as of February 8, 1991
who continue to reside there and to American professional reporters or
journalists on assignment there.
In addition, the Department of the Treasury prohibits all travel-related
transactions by U.S. persons intending to visit Iraq, unless specifically
licensed by the Office of Foreign Assets Control.  The only exceptions to
this licensing requirement are for journalistic activity or for U.S.
government or United Nations business.
The categories of individuals eligible for consideration for a special
passport validation are set forth in 22 C.F.R. 51.74.  Passport validation
requests for Iraq should be forwarded in writing to the following address:
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Passport Services
U.S. Department of State
1111 19th Street, N.W., Suite 260
Washington, D.C.  20522-1705
Attn:  Office of Passport Policy and Advisory Services
Telephone [phone] or 955-0232
Fax [phone]
The request must be accompanied by supporting documentation according to the
category under which validation is sought.  Currently, the four categories
of persons specified in 22 C.F.R. 51.74 as being eligible for consideration
for passport validation are as follows:
[a]  Professional reporters:  Includes full-time members of the reporting or
writing staff of a newspaper, magazine or broadcasting network whose purpose
for travel is to gather information about Iraq for dissemination to the
general public.
[b]  American Red Cross:  Applicant establishes that he or she is a
representative of the American Red Cross or International Red Cross
traveling pursuant to an officially-sponsored Red Cross mission.
[c]  Humanitarian considerations:  Applicant must establish that his or her
trip is justified by compelling humanitarian considerations or for family
unification.  At this time, "compelling humanitarian considerations" include
situations where the applicant can document that an immediate family member
is critically ill in Iraq.   Documentation concerning family illness must
include the name and address of the relative, and be from that relative's
physician attesting to the nature and gravity of the illness.  "Family
unification" situations may include cases in which spouses or minor children
are residing in Iraq, with and dependent on, an Iraqi national spouse or
parent for their support.
[d]  National interest:  The applicant's request is otherwise found to be in
the national interest.
In all requests for passport validation for travel to Iraq, the name, date
and place of birth for all concerned persons must be given, as well as the
U.S. passport numbers.  Documentation as outlined above should accompany all
requests.  Additional information may be obtained by writing to the above
address or by calling the Office of Passport Policy and Advisory Services at
[202] 955-0231 or 955-0232.
U.S. Treasury Restrictions:  In August 1990 President Bush issued Executive
Orders 12722 and 12724, imposing economic sanctions against Iraq including a
complete trade embargo.  The U.S. Treasury Department's Office of Foreign
Assets Control administers the regulations related to these sanctions, which
include restrictions on all financial transactions related to travel to
Iraq.  These regulations prohibit all travel-related transactions, except as
specifically licensed.  The only exceptions to this licensing requirement
are for persons engaged in journalism or in official U.S. government or U.N.
business.  Questions concerning these restrictions should be addressed
directly to:
Licensing Section
Office of Foreign Assets Control
U.S. Department of the Treasury,
Washington, D.C. 20220
Telephone: [phone];  Fax: [phone]
Areas of Instability:  Hostilities in the Gulf region ceased on February 27,
1991.  United Nations Security Council Resolution 687, adopted on April 3,
1991, set terms for a permanent cease-fire, but conditions in Iraq remain
unsettled.  Travel in Iraq is extremely hazardous, particularly for U.S.
citizens.
Regional conflicts continue in northern Iraq between Kurdish ethnic groups
and Iraqi security forces.  In southern Iraq, governmental repression of the
Shia communities is severe.
U.S. citizens in Kuwait working near the Kuwait-Iraq border are in jeopardy
of detention by Iraqi security personnel.  In 1992 and 1993, a number of
U.S. citizens and other foreigners working near the Kuwait-Iraq border were
detained by Iraqi authorities for lengthy periods under harsh conditions.
Medical Facilities:  Basic modern medical care and medicines may not be
available.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has
proved useful.  The international travelers hotline at the Centers for
Disease Control, telephone [phone], has additional useful health
information.
Information on Crime:  Reports of crime in Iraq are increasing, especially
in the larger cities.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be
reported immediately to local police, and the U.S. Interests Section or the
nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding
valuables, protecting personal security, and other matters while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip
Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to the Middle East and North Africa."  They
are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in
illegal drugs are severe, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Terrorism:  Tension in the Persian Gulf region remains high because of
continuing Iraqi defiance of U.N. Security Council resolutions.  As a
result, the risk of terrorism directed against U.S. citizens in Iraq remains
a continuing concern.
Registration:  There is no U.S. Embassy in Iraq.  The U.S. government is not
in a position to accord normal consular protective services to U.S. citizens
who, despite this warning, are in Iraq.  U.S. Government interests are
represented by the Government of Poland, which, as a protecting power, is
able to provide only limited emergency services to U.S. citizens.
Embassy Location:  There is no U.S. Embassy or Consulate in Iraq.  The U.S.
Interests Section of the Embassy of Poland is located opposite the Foreign
Ministry Club (Masbah Quarter); P.O. Box 2447 Alwiyah, Baghdad, Iraq.  The
telephone number is (964) (1) 719-6138, 719-6139, 719-3791, 718-1840.
No. 94-219
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 31, 1993 to update
the section on areas of instability, and to show the new address and phone
numbers of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for Passport Services, U.S.
Department of State
@?#?                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iraq
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf, between Iran and Kuwait
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    437,072 sq km
  land area:
    432,162 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than twice the size of Idaho
Land boundaries:
    total 3,631 km, Iran 1,458 km, Jordan 181 km, Kuwait 242 km, Saudi Arabia
    814 km, Syria 605 km, Turkey 331 km
Coastline:
    58 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    not specified
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    Iran and Iraq 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, Iraq formally accepted the UN-demarcated border with Kuwait which had
    been spelled out in Security Council Resolutions 687 (1991), 773 (1993), and
    883 (1993); this formally ends earlier claims to Kuwait and to Bubiyan and
    Warbah islands; potential dispute over water development plans by Turkey for
    the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers
Climate:
    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 Iraq
Terrain:
    mostly broad plains; reedy marshes along Iranian border in south; mountains
    along borders with Iran and Turkey
Natural resources:
    petroleum, natural gas, phosphates, sulfur
Land use:
  arable land:
    12%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    9%
  forest and woodland:
    3%
  other:
    75%
Irrigated land:
    25,500 sq km (1989 est)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iraq
                                    Geography
Environment:
  current issues:
    government water control projects have drained most of the inhabited marsh
    areas west of Al Qurnah 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 pollution; soil degradation (salinization)
    and erosion; desertification
  natural hazards:
    duststorms, sandstorms, floods
  international agreements:
    party to - Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified -
    Environmental Modification
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iraq
                                     People
Population:
    20,643,769 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 4,850,028; male 5,009,513)
  15-64 years:
    49% (female 5,021,710; male 5,125,191)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 338,790; male 298,537) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.72% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    43.6 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.82 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.39 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    62.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    66.52 years
  male:
    65.54 years
  female:
    67.56 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.56 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Iraqi(s)
  adjective:
    Iraqi
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab 75%-80%, Kurdish 15%-20%, Turkoman, Assyrian or other 5%
Religions:
    Muslim 97% (Shi'a 60%-65%, Sunni 32%-37%), Christian or other 3%
Languages:
    Arabic, Kurdish (official in Kurdish regions), Assyrian, Armenian
Literacy:
    age 15-45 can read and write (1985)
  total population:
    89%
  male:
    90%
  female:
    88%
Labor force:
    4.4 million (1989)
  by occupation:
    services 48%, agriculture 30%, industry 22%
  note:
    severe labor shortage; expatriate labor force was about 1,600,000 (July
    1990); since then, it has declined substantially
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iraq
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Iraq
  conventional short form:
    Iraq
  local long form:
    Al Jumhuriyah al Iraqiyah
  local short form:
    Al Iraq
Digraph:
    IZ
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Baghdad
Administrative divisions:
    18 provinces (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al Anbar, Al Basrah, Al
    Muthanna, Al Qadisiyah, An Najaf, Arbil, As Sulaymaniyah, At Ta'mim, Babil,
    Baghdad, Dahuk, Dhi Qar, Diyala, Karbala', Maysan, Ninawa, Salah ad Din,
    Wasit
Independence:
    3 October 1932 (from League of Nations mandate under British administration)
National holiday:
    Anniversary of the Revolution, 17 July (1968)
Constitution:
    22 September 1968, effective 16 July 1970 (provisional Constitution); new
    constitution drafted in 1990 but not adopted
Legal system:
    based on Islamic law in special religious courts, civil law system
    elsewhere; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    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)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister SADDAM Husayn (since NA May 1994); Deputy Prime Minister
    Tariq Mikhail AZIZ (since NA 1979)
  Revolutionary Command Council:
    Chairman SADDAM Husayn, Vice Chairman Izzat IBRAHIM al-Duri
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly (Majlis al-Watani):
    elections last held on 1 April 1989 (next to be held NA); results - Sunni
    Arabs 53%, Shi'a Arabs 30%, Kurds 15%, Christians 2% (est.); seats - (250
    total) number of seats by party NA
  note:
    in northern Iraq, a "Kurdish Assembly" was elected in May 1992 and calls for
    Kurdish self-determination within a federated Iraq; the assembly is not
    recognized by the Baghdad government
Judicial branch:
    Court of Cassation
Political parties and leaders:
    Ba'th Party
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iraq
                                   Government
Other political or pressure groups:
    political parties and activity severely restricted; opposition to regime
    from disaffected members of the Ba'th Party, Army officers, and Shi'a
    religious and ethnic Kurdish dissidents; the Green Party
    (government-controlled)
Member of:
    ABEDA, ACC, AFESD, AL, AMF, CAEU, CCC, ESCWA, FAO, G-19, G-77, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAPEC, OIC, OPEC, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Iraq has an Interest Section in the Algerian Embassy in Washington, DC
  chancery:
    Iraqi Interests Section, 1801 P Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); note - operations have been temporarily suspended; a US Interests
    Section is located in Poland's embassy in Baghdad
  embassy:
    Masbah Quarter (opposite the Foreign Ministry Club), Baghdad
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 2447 Alwiyah, Baghdad
  telephone:
    [964] (1) 719-6138, 719-6139, 718-1840, 719-3791
  FAX:
    Telex 212287
Flag:
    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
    Syria that has two stars but no script and the flag of Yemen that has a
    plain white band; also similar to the flag of Egypt that has a symbolic
    eagle centered in the white band
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iraq
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 Iran and
    damage to oil export facilities by Iran, led the government to implement
    austerity measures and to borrow heavily and later reschedule foreign debt
    payments. 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. Iraq's
    seizure of Kuwait 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 1993 and 1994; consumer prices have more than doubled in both
    1993 and 1994. 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 in 1993-94 is far below the 1989-90 level, but no precise
    estimate is available.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $NA
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $NA
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $10.4 billion (f.o.b., 1990)
  commodities:
    crude oil and refined products, fertilizer, sulfur
  partners:
    US, Brazil, Turkey, Japan, Netherlands, Spain (1990)
Imports:
    $6.6 billion (c.i.f., 1990)
  commodities:
    manufactures, food
  partners:
    Germany, US, Turkey, France, UK (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iraq
                                     Economy
External debt:
    $50 billion (1989 est.), excluding debt of about $35 billion owed to Gulf
    Arab states
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%; manufacturing accounts for 10% of GNP (1989)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    7,170,000 kW
  production:
    25.7 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,247 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum production and refining, chemicals, textiles, construction
    materials, food processing
Agriculture:
    accounted for 11% of GNP and 30% of labor force before the Gulf war;
    principal products - wheat, barley, rice, vegetables, dates, other fruit,
    cotton, wool; livestock - cattle, sheep; not self-sufficient in food output
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-80), $3 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $647 million;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $3.9 billion
Currency:
    1 Iraqi dinar (ID) = 1,000 fils
Exchange rates:
    Iraqi dinars (ID) per US$1 - 3.2 (fixed official rate since 1982);
    black-market rate (March 1995) US$1 = 1200 Iraqi dinars; semi-official rate
    US$1 = 650 Iraqi dinars
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iraq
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,457 km
  standard gauge:
    2,457 km 1.435-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    45,550 km
  paved:
    38,400 km
  unpaved:
    7,150 km (1989 est.)
Inland waterways:
    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
Pipelines:
    crude oil 4,350 km; petroleum products 725 km; natural gas 1,360 km
Ports:
    Umm Qasr, Khawr az Zubayr, and Al Basrah have limited functionality
Merchant marine:
  total:
    36 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 795,346 GRT/1,431,154 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 14, oil tanker 16, passenger 1, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated cargo
    1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 3
Airports:
  total:
    121
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    21
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    34
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    8
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    7
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    22
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    16
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iraq
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    632,000 telephones; reconstitution of damaged telecommunication facilities
    began after the Gulf war; most damaged facilities have been rebuilt
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    the network consists of coaxial cables and microwave radio relay links
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 GORIZONT (Atlantic
    Ocean) in the Intersputnik system, and 1 ARABSAT earth station; coaxial
    cable and microwave radio relay to Jordan, Kuwait, Syria, and Turkey; Kuwait
    line is probably non-operational
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 16, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    13
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Iraq
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Republican Guard and Special Republican Guard, Navy, Air Force, Air
    Defense Force, Border Guard Force, Internal Security Forces
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 4,626,610; males fit for military service 2,597,687; males
    reach military age (18) annually 229,015 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GNP
,5ssenger-cargo 1, refrigerated cargo
    1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 3
Airports:
  total:
    121
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    21
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    34
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    8
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    7
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    22
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    16
                                      Iraq
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    632,000 telephones; reconstitution of damaged telecommunication facilities
    began after the Gulf war; most damaged facilities have been rebuilt
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    the network consists of coaxial cables and microwave radio relay links
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 GORIZONT (Atlantic
    Ocean) in the Intersputnik system, and 1 ARABSAT earth station; coaxial
    cable and microwave radio relay to Jordan, Kuwait, Syria, and Turkey; Kuwait
    line is probably non-operational
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 16, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    13
  televisions:
    NA
                                      Iraq
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Republican Guard and Special Republican Guard, Navy, Air Force, Air
    Defense Force, Border Guard Force, Internal Security Forces
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 4,626,610; males fit for military service 2,597,687; males
    reach military age (18) annually 229,015 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GNP
Italy
IRELAND - Passport required.  Tourists are not required to obtain visas
for stays under 90 days, but may be asked to show onward/return ticket.
For further information consult Embassy of Ireland, 2234 Mass. Ave., N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/462-3939) or nearest Consulate General:  CA
(415/392-4214), IL (312/337-1868), MA (617/267-9330) or NY
(212/319-2555).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Ireland
============================================================
Ireland - Consular Information Sheet
 October 20, 1995
Country Description:  Ireland is a highly developed stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely
available.
Entry Requirements:  For information concerning entry requirements
for Ireland, travelers can contact the Embassy of Ireland at 2234
Massachusetts Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel: (202)
462-3939, or the nearest Irish Consulate General in Boston, Chicago,
New York or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage, including provision for
medical air evacuation, has proved to be useful.  Further
information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline at
[phone].
Crime Information:  Ireland has a low rate of violent crime.  There
is a high incidence of petty crime, mostly theft, burglary, and
purse-snatching.  Rental cars and tourists, particularly in the
vicinity of tourist attractions, are targeted by thieves.  The loss
or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  U.S.
citizens can refer to the Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe
Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a trouble-free trip.  The pamphlet
is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Terrorist Activities:  Since the cease-fire took effect in August
of 1994, terrorist incidents in Northern Ireland have all but
ceased, and the danger of acts of violence spilling over into the
Republic of Ireland decreased accordingly.  The police and military
security profile in the border areas has also decreased.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling. Penalties for possession, use,
or dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens who register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy can obtain updated information
on travel and security in Ireland.  Travelers to Northern Ireland
may consult the Consular Information Sheet for the United Kingdom.
The U.S. Embassy in Dublin is located at 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge,
Telephone [phone], fax [phone].  The Consular
section is located across the street from the U.S. Embassy in Hume
House, 3rd Floor, Pembroke Road, Ballsbridge.
 No. 95-134
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 20, 1994
to update the decreased threat of terrorist activities.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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--------------------------------------------------------
Jersey
JAPAN - Passport and onward/return ticket required.  Visa not required
for tourist/business stay up to 90 days.  Departure tax $15.50 paid at
airport. For specific information  consult Embassy of Japan, 2520 Mass. Ave.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/939-6800) or nearest Consulate:  AK
(907/279-8428), CA (213/624-8305 or 415/777-3533), FL (305/530-9090),
GA (404/892-2700), Guam (671/646-1290), HI (808/536-2226), IL
(312/280-0400),
LA (504/529-2101), MA (617/973-9772), MI 9313/567-0120), MO
(816/471-0111),
NY (212/371-8222), OR 9503/221-1811), TX (713/652-2977) or WA
(206/682-9107).
Japan - Consular Information Sheet
July 20, 1994
Country Description:  Japan is a highly developed stable parliamentary
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  Passports are required.   Onward/return tickets are
required for visitors arriving on the visa waiver and may be requested for
visitors arriving on other types of visas.  Visas are not required for
tourist/business stays of up to 90 days.  However, anyone arriving under the
terms of the 90-day visa waiver will not be allowed to extend his/her stay
or adjust status.  There are no exceptions to this rule.  For specific
information concerning travel to Japan, travelers may consult the Consular
Section of the Embassy of Japan at 2520 Massachusetts Avenue N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008, Tel: [202] 939-6700, or the nearest consulate in
Anchorage, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Guam, Honolulu, Houston, Kansas City,
Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York, Portland, San Francisco, or Seattle.
Medical Facilities:  Health care facilities in Japan are good.  However,
Japan has a national health insurance system, and it can be very difficult
for foreigners not insured in Japan to receive medical care.  Medical care
clinics do not require deposits, but insist upon payment in full at time of
treatment and may require proof of ability to pay prior to treating a
foreigner.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Supplemental medical insurance which specifically covers treatment
in Japan has proven useful.  The Centers for Disease Controls' international
travelers hotline may be reached at [phone] for additional useful
health information.
Information on Crime:  Crimes against U.S. citizens are rare and those that
occur usually involve petty theft and vandalism.  The loss or theft abroad
of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police, and
the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful information on guarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is
provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad".  It is
available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect
jail sentences and fines.  It is illegal to bring Vicks inhalers, Sudafed,
and other types of over-the-counter medicines containing trace amounts of
amphetamines or amphetamine-like drugs into Japan.  Travelers carrying these
items have been detained by Japanese customs officials and subjected to
investigation, sometimes for several weeks.  Japanese officials may require
travelers in possession of medicines to present copies of prescriptions.
Detention for Minor Offenses:  Persons arrested in Japan, even for a minor
offense, can be held in detention for weeks or months during the
investigation and legal proceedings.
Other Information:  Japan is an extremely expensive country to visit.
Visitors have found it useful to determine in advance what expenses will be
and to make sure they have ample funds for their expected stay.  In Japan,
vehicular traffic moves on the left but turns at red lights are not allowed
unless specifically authorized.  Traffic accidents are automatically
considered to involve professional negligence, and criminal charges can be
brought in any case involving
injury without specific proof of the negligence.  Heavy criminal penalties
are possible in cases involving injury.
Registration:  U. S. citizens who register at the Embassy or a consulate can
obtain updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Japan is located at 10-
5, Akasaka 1-chome, Minato-ku (107), Tokyo, telephone, (81-3) 224-5000.  The
U.S. Consulate General in Naha is located at 2564 Nishihara, Urasoe, Okinawa
901-21 - telephone: [phone].  The U.S. Consulate General in Osaka
Kobe is located at 11-5 Nishitenma 2-chome, Kita-ku, Osaka 530, telephone:
(81-6) 315-5900.  The U.S. Consulate General in Sapporo is located at Kita 1-
jo Nishi 28-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 064, telephone: [phone].  The
U.S. Consulate in Fukuoka is located at 5-26 Ohori 2-chome, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
810, telephone: [phone].  The U.S. Embassy fax number is (81-3)
3505-1862; for Naha it is (81-98) 876-4243; for Osaka-Kobe it is (81-6) 315-
5930; for Sapporo it is (81-11) 643-1283; for Fukuoka it is (81-92) 713-9222.
No. 94-120
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet of July 9, 1993 and provides
the current fax number for the U.S. Consulate General in Osaka-Kobe.
@A=A                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Japan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Asia, island chain between the North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of
    Japan, east of the Korean peninsula
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    377,835 sq km
  land area:
    374,744 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than California
  note:
    includes Bonin Islands (Ogasawara-gunto), Daito-shoto, Minami-jima,
    Okinotori-shima, Ryukyu Islands (Nansei-shoto), and Volcano Islands
    (Kazan-retto)
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    29,751 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    islands of Etorofu, Kunashiri, Shikotan, and the Habomai group occupied by
    the Soviet Union in 1945, now administered by Russia, claimed by Japan;
    Liancourt Rocks disputed with South Korea; Senkaku-shoto (Senkaku Islands)
    claimed by China and Taiwan
Climate:
    varies from tropical in south to cool temperate in north
Terrain:
    mostly rugged and mountainous
Natural resources:
    negligible mineral resources, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    13%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    1%
  forest and woodland:
    67%
  other:
    18%
Irrigated land:
    28,680 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution from power plant emissions results in acid rain; acidification
    of lakes and reservoirs degrading water quality and threatening aquatic
    life; Japan's appetite for fish and tropical timber is contributing to the
    depletion of these resources in Asia and elsewhere
  natural hazards:
    many dormant and some active volcanoes; about 1,500 seismic occurrences
    (mostly tremors) every year; tsunamis
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Japan
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered
    Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping,
    Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber
    83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified -
    Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification, Law of the Sea
Note:
    strategic location in northeast Asia
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Japan
                                     People
Population:
    125,506,492 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    16% (female 9,955,603; male 10,542,973)
  15-64 years:
    69% (female 43,377,425; male 43,843,645)
  65 years and over:
    15% (female 10,514,017; male 7,272,829) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.32% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    10.66 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.46 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    4.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    79.44 years
  male:
    76.6 years
  female:
    82.42 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.56 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Japanese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Japanese
Ethnic divisions:
    Japanese 99.4%, other 0.6% (mostly Korean)
Religions:
    observe both Shinto and Buddhist 84%, other 16% (including 0.7% Christian)
Languages:
    Japanese
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1970 est.)
  total population:
    99%
Labor force:
    65.87 million (December 1994)
  by occupation:
    trade and services 54%, manufacturing, mining, and construction 33%,
    agriculture, forestry, and fishing 7%, government 3% (1988)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Japan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Japan
Digraph:
    JA
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Tokyo
Administrative divisions:
    47 prefectures; Aichi, Akita, Aomori, Chiba, Ehime, Fukui, Fukuoka,
    Fukushima, Gifu, Gumma, Hiroshima, Hokkaido, Hyogo, Ibaraki, Ishikawa,
    Iwate, Kagawa, Kagoshima, Kanagawa, Kochi, Kumamoto, Kyoto, Mie, Miyagi,
    Miyazaki, Nagano, Nagasaki, Nara, Niigata, Oita, Okayama, Okinawa, Osaka,
    Saga, Saitama, Shiga, Shimane, Shizuoka, Tochigi, Tokushima, Tokyo, Tottori,
    Toyama, Wakayama, Yamagata, Yamaguchi, Yamanashi
Independence:
    660 BC (traditional founding by Emperor Jimmu)
National holiday:
    Birthday of the Emperor, 23 December (1933)
Constitution:
    3 May 1947
Legal system:
    modeled after European civil law system with English-American influence;
    judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; accepts compulsory
    ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    20 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Emperor AKIHITO (since 7 January 1989)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Tomiichi MURAYAMA (since 30 June 1994); Deputy Prime Minister
    Yohei KONO (since 30 June 1994)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Diet (Kokkai) consists of an upper house or House of Councillors
    and a lower house or House of Representatives
  House of Councillors (Sangi-in):
    half of the members elected every three years to six-year terms; elections
    last held on 26 July 1992 (next set to be held 23 July 1995); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (252 total) LDP 106, SDPJ 73, Komeito
    24, DSP 12, JCP 11, JNP 4, others 16, independents 6; note - the
    distribution of seats as of 1 April 1995 is as follows - LDP 94, SDPJ 68,
    Heisei-kai 47, Shin Ryokufu-kai 16, JCP 11, others 15, vacant 1
  House of Representatives (Shugi-in):
    all members elected every four years to four-year terms; elections last held
    on 18 July 1993 (next to be held by 1997); results - percent of vote by
    party NA; seats - (511 total) LDP 223, SDPJ 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 April 1995 is as follows - LDP 207, Shinshinto
    173, SDPJ 70, Sakigake 21, JCP 15, others 19, vacant 6
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Japan
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Yohei KONO, president and Yoshiro MORI,
    secretary general; Social Democratic Party of Japan (SDPJ), Tomiichi
    MURAYAMA; Japan Communist Party (JCP), Tetsuzo FUWA, Presidium chairman;
    Sakigake (Harbinger), Masayoshi TAKEMURA, chairman; Shinshinto (New Frontier
    Party, NFP), Toshiki KAIFU, chairman and Ichiro OZAWA, secretary general
  note:
    Shinshinto was formed in December 1994 by the merger of Shinseito (Japan
    Renewal Party, JRP), Komeito (Clean Government Party, CGP), Japan New Party
    (JNP), Democratic Socialist Party (DSP), and several minor groups; Shin
    Ryokufu-kai is a parliamentary alliance which exists only in the upper
    house, it includes remnants of Shinseito, JNP, DSP, and a minor labor group;
    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
Member of:
    AfDB, AG (observer), APEC, AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CP, EBRD, ESCAP,
    FAO, G- 2, G- 5, G- 7, G- 8, G-10, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MTCR, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, PCA, UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNITAR, UNOMOZ, UNRWA, UNU, UPU, WFTU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Takakazu KURIYAMA
  chancery:
    2520 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Agana (Guam), Anchorage, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Honolulu,
    Houston, Kansas City (Missouri), Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York,
    Portland (Oregon), San Francisco, and Seattle
  consulate(s):
    Saipan (Northern Mariana Islands)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Walter F. MONDALE
  embassy:
    10-5, Akasaka 1-chome, Minato-ku (107), Tokyo
  mailing address:
    Unit 45004, Box 258, Tokyo; APO AP 96337-0001
  telephone:
    [81] (3) 3224-5000
  FAX:
    [81] (3) 3505-1862
  consulate(s) general:
    Naha (Okinawa), Osaka-Kobe, Sapporo
  consulate(s):
    Fukuoka, Nagoya
Flag:
    white with a large red disk (representing the sun without rays) in the
    center
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Japan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Government-industry cooperation, a strong work ethic, mastery of high
    technology, and a comparatively small defense allocation (roughly 1% of GDP)
    have helped Japan advance with extraordinary rapidity to the rank of second
    most powerful economy in the world. Industry, the most important sector of
    the economy, is heavily dependent on imported raw materials and fuels.
    Usually self-sufficient in rice, Japan must import about 50% of its
    requirements of other grain and fodder crops. Japan maintains one of the
    world's largest fishing fleets and accounts for nearly 15% of the global
    catch. Overall economic growth has been spectacular: a 10% average in the
    1960s, a 5% average in the 1970s and 1980s. Economic growth came to a halt
    in 1992-93 largely because of contractionary domestic policies intended to
    wring speculative excesses from the stock and real estate markets. Growth
    resumed at a 0.6% pace in 1994 largely because of consumer demand. As for
    foreign trade, the stronger yen and slower global growth are containing
    export growth. Unemployment and inflation remain remarkably low in
    comparison with the other industrialized nations. Japan continues to run a
    huge trade surplus - $121 billion in 1994, roughly the same size as in 1993
    - which supports extensive investment in foreign assets. Prime Minister
    MURAYAMA has yet to formalize his government's plans for administrative and
    economic reform, including reduction in the trade surplus. As leader of a
    coalition government, he has softened his own socialist positions. The
    crowding of the habitable land area and the aging of the population are two
    major long-run problems.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $2.5274 trillion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    0.6% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $20,200 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    0.7% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    2.9% (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $569 billion
  expenditures:
    $671 billion, including capital expenditures (public works only) of about
    $126 billion (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $395.5 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    manufactures 97% (including machinery 46%, motor vehicles 20%, consumer
    electronics 10%)
  partners:
    Southeast Asia 33%, US 29%, Western Europe 18%, China 5%
Imports:
    $274.3 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    manufactures 52%, fossil fuels 20%, foodstuffs and raw materials 28%
  partners:
    Southeast Asia 25%, US 23%, Western Europe 15%, China 9%
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate 1% (1994); accounts for 30% of GDP
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Japan
                                     Economy
Electricity:
  capacity:
    205,140,000 kW
  production:
    840 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    6,262 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    steel and non-ferrous metallurgy, heavy electrical equipment, construction
    and mining equipment, motor vehicles and parts, electronic and
    telecommunication equipment and components, machine tools and automated
    production systems, locomotives and railroad rolling stock, shipbuilding,
    chemicals, textiles, food processing
Agriculture:
    accounts for only 2% of GDP; highly subsidized and protected sector, with
    crop yields among highest in world; principal crops - rice, sugar beets,
    vegetables, fruit; animal products include pork, poultry, dairy and eggs;
    about 50% self-sufficient in food production; shortages of wheat, corn,
    soybeans; world's largest fish catch of 10 million metric tons in 1991
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-94), $132 billion
  note:
    ODA outlay of $9.9 billion in 1994 (est.)
Currency:
    yen (Y)
Exchange rates:
    yen (Y) per US$1 - 99.75 (January 1995), 102.21 (1994), 111.20 (1993),
    126.65 (1992), 134.71 (1991), 144.79 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Japan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    27,327 km (5,724 km double track and multitrack sections)
  standard gauge:
    2,012 km 1.435-m gauge (2,012 km electrified)
  narrow gauge:
    25,315 km predominantly 1.067-m gauge (9,038 km electrified) (1987)
Highways:
  total:
    1,111,974 km
  paved:
    754,102 km (including 4,869 km of national expressways)
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, or earth 357,872 km (1991)
Inland waterways:
    about 1,770 km; seagoing craft ply all coastal inland seas
Pipelines:
    crude oil 84 km; petroleum products 322 km; natural gas 1,800 km
Ports:
    Akita, Amagasaki, Chiba, Hachinohe, Hakodate, Higashi-Harima, Himeji,
    Hiroshima, Kawasaki, Kinuura, Kobe, Kushiro, Mizushima, Moji, Nagoya, Osaka,
    Sakai, Sakaide, Shimizu, Tokyo, Tomakomai
Merchant marine:
  total:
    851 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 18,195,386 GRT/27,292,044 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 210, cargo 63, chemical tanker 7, combination ore/oil 7, container 41,
    liquefied gas tanker 41, multifunction large-load carrier 1, oil tanker 264,
    passenger 10, passenger-cargo 5, refrigerated cargo 48, roll-on/roll-off
    cargo 43, short-sea passenger 30, specialized tanker 2, vehicle carrier 79
  note:
    Japan owns an additional 1,537 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 45,490,202
    DWT that operate under Panamanian, Liberian, Vanuatu, Bahamian, Singaporian,
    Cypriot, Philippines, Hong Kong, and Maltese registry
Airports:
  total:
    175
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    6
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    31
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    36
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    30
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    70
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Japan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    64,000,000 telephones; excellent domestic and international service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    5 INTELSAT (4 Pacific Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) earth stations; submarine
    cables to US (via Guam), Philippines, China, and Russia
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 318, FM 58, shortwave 0
  radios:
    95 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    12,350 (1 kW or greater 196)
  televisions:
    100 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Japan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (Army), Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force
    (Navy), Japan Air Self-Defense Force (Air Force)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 31,947,532; males fit for military service 27,494,758; males
    reach military age (18) annually 910,970 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $47.2 billion, 1% of GDP (FY95/96)
Italy
IRELAND - Passport required.  Tourists are not required to obtain visas
for stays under 90 days, but may be asked to show onward/return ticket.
For further information consult Embassy of Ireland, 2234 Mass. Ave., N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/462-3939) or nearest Consulate General:  CA
(415/392-4214), IL (312/337-1868), MA (617/267-9330) or NY
(212/319-2555).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Ireland
============================================================
Ireland - Consular Information Sheet
 October 20, 1995
Country Description:  Ireland is a highly developed stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely
available.
Entry Requirements:  For information concerning entry requirements
for Ireland, travelers can contact the Embassy of Ireland at 2234
Massachusetts Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel: (202)
462-3939, or the nearest Irish Consulate General in Boston, Chicago,
New York or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage, including provision for
medical air evacuation, has proved to be useful.  Further
information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline at
[phone].
Crime Information:  Ireland has a low rate of violent crime.  There
is a high incidence of petty crime, mostly theft, burglary, and
purse-snatching.  Rental cars and tourists, particularly in the
vicinity of tourist attractions, are targeted by thieves.  The loss
or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  U.S.
citizens can refer to the Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe
Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a trouble-free trip.  The pamphlet
is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Terrorist Activities:  Since the cease-fire took effect in August
of 1994, terrorist incidents in Northern Ireland have all but
ceased, and the danger of acts of violence spilling over into the
Republic of Ireland decreased accordingly.  The police and military
security profile in the border areas has also decreased.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling. Penalties for possession, use,
or dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens who register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy can obtain updated information
on travel and security in Ireland.  Travelers to Northern Ireland
may consult the Consular Information Sheet for the United Kingdom.
The U.S. Embassy in Dublin is located at 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge,
Telephone [phone], fax [phone].  The Consular
section is located across the street from the U.S. Embassy in Hume
House, 3rd Floor, Pembroke Road, Ballsbridge.
 No. 95-134
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 20, 1994
to update the decreased threat of terrorist activities.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Ireland
============================================================
Ireland - Consular Information Sheet
 October 20, 1995
Country Description:  Ireland is a highly developed stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely
available.
Entry Requirements:  For information concerning entry requirements
for Ireland, travelers can contact the Embassy of Ireland at 2234
Massachusetts Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel: (202)
462-3939, or the nearest Irish Consulate General in Boston, Chicago,
New York or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage, including provision for
medical air evacuation, has proved to be useful.  Further
information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline at
[phone].
Crime Information:  Ireland has a low rate of violent crime.  There
is a high incidence of petty crime, mostly theft, burglary, and
purse-snatching.  Rental cars and tourists, particularly in the
vicinity of tourist attractions, are targeted by thieves.  The loss
or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  U.S.
citizens can refer to the Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe
Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a trouble-free trip.  The pamphlet
is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Terrorist Activities:  Since the cease-fire took effect in August
of 1994, terrorist incidents in Northern Ireland have all but
ceased, and the danger of acts of violence spilling over into the
Republic of Ireland decreased accordingly.  The police and military
security profile in the border areas has also decreased.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling. Penalties for possession, use,
or dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens who register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy can obtain updated information
on travel and security in Ireland.  Travelers to Northern Ireland
may consult the Consular Information Sheet for the United Kingdom.
The U.S. Embassy in Dublin is located at 42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge,
Telephone [phone], fax [phone].  The Consular
section is located across the street from the U.S. Embassy in Hume
House, 3rd Floor, Pembroke Road, Ballsbridge.
 No. 95-134
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 20, 1994
to update the decreased threat of terrorist activities.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
4                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ireland
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Europe, occupying five-sixths of the island of Ireland in the North
    Atlantic Ocean, west of Great Britain
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    70,280 sq km
  land area:
    68,890 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than West Virginia
Land boundaries:
    total 360 km, UK 360 km
Coastline:
    1,448 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    not specified
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    Northern Ireland question with the UK; Rockall continental shelf dispute
    involving Denmark, Iceland, and the UK (Ireland and the UK have signed a
    boundary agreement in the Rockall area)
Climate:
    temperate maritime; modified by North Atlantic Current; mild winters, cool
    summers; consistently humid; overcast about half the time
Terrain:
    mostly level to rolling interior plain surrounded by rugged hills and low
    mountains; sea cliffs on west coast
Natural resources:
    zinc, lead, natural gas, petroleum, barite, copper, gypsum, limestone,
    dolomite, peat, silver
Land use:
  arable land:
    14%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    71%
  forest and woodland:
    5%
  other:
    10%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution, especially of lakes, from agricultural runoff
  natural hazards:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ireland
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, 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, Biodiversity, Desertification,
    Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation
Note:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ireland
                                     People
Population:
    3,550,448 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    24% (female 415,640; male 440,468)
  15-64 years:
    64% (female 1,125,638; male 1,155,823)
  65 years and over:
    12% (female 237,098; male 175,781) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.33% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    14.04 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.48 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -2.22 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    7.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    75.99 years
  male:
    73.15 years
  female:
    79 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.95 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Irishman(men), Irishwoman(men), Irish (collective plural)
  adjective:
    Irish
Ethnic divisions:
    Celtic, English
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 93%, Anglican 3%, none 1%, unknown 2%, other 1% (1981)
Languages:
    Irish (Gaelic), spoken mainly in areas located along the western seaboard,
    English is the language generally used
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1981 est.)
  total population:
    98%
Labor force:
    1.37 million
  by occupation:
    services 57.0%, manufacturing and construction 28%, agriculture, forestry,
    and fishing 13.5%, energy and mining 1.5% (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ireland
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Ireland
Digraph:
    EI
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Dublin
Administrative divisions:
    26 counties; Carlow, Cavan, Clare, Cork, Donegal, Dublin, Galway, Kerry,
    Kildare, Kilkenny, Laois, Leitrim, Limerick, Longford, Louth, Mayo, Meath,
    Monaghan, Offaly, Roscommon, Sligo, Tipperary, Waterford, Westmeath,
    Wexford, Wicklow
Independence:
    6 December 1921 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Saint Patrick's Day, 17 March
Constitution:
    29 December 1937; adopted 1 July 1937 by plebescite
Legal system:
    based on English common law, substantially modified by indigenous concepts;
    judicial review of legislative acts in Supreme Court; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Mary Bourke ROBINSON (since 9 November 1990); election last held 9
    November 1990 (next to be held November 1997); results - Mary Bourke
    ROBINSON 52.8%, Brian LENIHAN 47.2%
  head of government:
    Prime Minister John BRUTON (since 15 December 1994)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by president with previous nomination of the prime
    minister and approval of the House of Representatives
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Parliament (Oireachtas)
  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 on 25 November 1992 (next to be held by 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    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, Desmond O'MALLEY;
    The Workers' Party, Marion DONNELLY; Green Alliance, Bronwen MAHER
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ireland
                                   Government
  note:
    Prime Minister BRUTON heads a three-party coalition consisting of the Fine
    Gael, the Labor Party, and the Democratic Left
Member of:
    Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE, EBRD, EC, ECE, EIB, ESA, FAO, GATT, IAEA,
    IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, MTCR, NEA, NSG, OECD, ONUSAL, OSCE, UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNFICYP, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNIKOM, UNOMOZ, UNOSOM, UNPROFOR,
    UNTSO, UPU, WEU (observer), WHO, WIPO, WMO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Dermot A. GALLAGHER
  chancery:
    2234 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Boston, Chicago, New York, and San Francisco
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jean Kennedy SMITH
  embassy:
    42 Elgin Road, Ballsbridge, Dublin
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [353] (1) 6687122
  FAX:
    [353] (1) 6689946
Flag:
    three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and orange; similar
    to the flag of the Cote d'Ivoire, which is shorter and has the colors
    reversed - orange (hoist side), white, and green; also similar to the flag
    of Italy, which is shorter and has colors of green (hoist side), white, and
    red
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ireland
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy is small and trade dependent. Agriculture, once the most
    important sector, is now dwarfed by industry, which accounts for 37% 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,
    inflation 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $49.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $14,060 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.7% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    16% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $16 billion
  expenditures:
    $16.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994)
Exports:
    $28 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    chemicals, data processing equipment, industrial machinery, live animals,
    animal products
  partners:
    EU 75% (UK 32%, Germany 13%, France 10%), US 9%
Imports:
    $26 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    food, animal feed, data processing equipment, petroleum and petroleum
    products, machinery, textiles, clothing
  partners:
    EU 66% (UK 41%, Germany 8%, France 4%), US 15%
External debt:
    $20 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 8.5% (1994 est.); accounts for 37% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    3,930,000 kW
  production:
    14.9 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,938 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    food products, brewing, textiles, clothing, chemicals, pharmaceuticals,
    machinery, transportation equipment, glass and crystal
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ireland
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 10% of GDP; principal crops - turnips, barley, potatoes, sugar
    beets, wheat; livestock - meat and dairy products; 85% self-sufficient in
    food; food shortages include bread grain, fruits, vegetables
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for hashish from North Africa to the UK and Netherlands
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA commitments (1980-89), $90 million
Currency:
    1 Irish pound (#Ir) = 100 pence
Exchange rates:
    Irish pounds (#Ir) per US$1 - 0.6420 (January 1995), 0.6676 (1994), 0.6816
    (1993), 0.5864 (1992), 0.6190 (1991), 0.6030 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ireland
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,947 km
  broad gauge:
    1,947 km 1.600-m gauge (36 km electrified; 485 km double track)
Highways:
  total:
    92,327 km
  paved:
    86,787 km (32 km of expressways)
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone 5,540 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    limited for commercial traffic
Pipelines:
    natural gas 225 km
Ports:
    Arklow, Cork, Drogheda, Dublin, Foynes, Galway, Limerick, New Ross,
    Waterford
Merchant marine:
  total:
    47 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 129,996 GRT/160,419 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 4, cargo 33, chemical tanker 2, container 2, oil tanker 1, short-sea
    passenger 3, specialized tanker 2
Airports:
  total:
    44
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    32
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ireland
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    900,000 telephones; modern digital system using cable and microwave radio
    relay
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 9, FM 45, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    86
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ireland
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army (includes Naval Service and Air Corps), National Police (Garda
    Siochana)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 926,831; males fit for military service 749,646; males reach
    military age (17) annually 34,215 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $500 million, 1.3% of GDP (1994)
ims rain:
    volcanic island, partly covered by glaciers; Beerenberg is the highest peak,
    with an elevation of 2,277 meters
Natural resources:
    none
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    dominated by the volcano Beerenberg; volcanic activity resumed in 1970
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    barren volcanic island with some moss and grass
                                    Jan Mayen
                                     People
Population:
    no permanent inhabitants; note - there are personnel who man the LORAN C
    base and the weather and coastal services radio station
                                    Jan Mayen
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Jan Mayen
Digraph:
    JN
Type:
    territory of Norway
Capital:
    none; administered from Oslo, Norway, through a governor (sysselmann)
    resident in Longyearbyen (Svalbard)
Independence:
    none (territory of Norway)
                                    Jan Mayen
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Jan Mayen is a volcanic island with no exploitable natural resources.
    Economic activity is limited to providing services for employees of Norway's
    radio and meteorological stations located on the island.
Electricity:
  capacity:
    15,000 kW
  production:
    40 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    NA kWh (1992)
                                    Jan Mayen
                                 Transportation
Highways:
  total:
    NA
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                                    Jan Mayen
                                 Communications
Monaco
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Midway Islands
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of the US)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Midway Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-third of the way from
    Honolulu to Tokyo
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    5.2 sq km
  land area:
    5.2 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 9 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
  note:
    includes Eastern Island and Sand Island
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    15 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical, but moderated by prevailing easterly winds
Terrain:
    low, nearly level
Natural resources:
    fish, wildlife
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    a coral atoll; closed to the public
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Midway Islands
                                     People
Population:
    no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are 453 US military personnel (July
    1995 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Midway Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Midway Islands
Digraph:
    MQ
Type:
    unincorporated territory of the US administered by the US Navy, under Naval
    Facilities Engineering Command, Pacific Division; this facility has been
    operationally closed since 10 September 1993 and is currently being
    transferred from Pacific Fleet to Naval Facilities Engineering Command via a
    Memorandum of Understanding
Capital:
    none; administered from Washington, DC
Flag:
    the US flag is used
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Midway Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy is based on providing support services for US naval operations
    located on the islands. All food and manufactured goods must be imported.
Electricity:
    supplied by US Military
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Midway Islands
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    32 km
  paved:
    NA
Pipelines:
    7.8 km
Ports:
    Sand Island
Airports:
  total:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Midway Islands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Midway Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
  is the responsibility of the US; visited annually by the US Coast
    Guard
Jamaica
`>_>                                     Israel
Affiliation:
    (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, Syria, and Jordan to
    determine the final status of the occupied territories. On 25 April 1982,
    Israel withdrew from the Sinai 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.
                                     Israel
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Lebanon
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    20,770 sq km
  land area:
    20,330 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than New Jersey
Land boundaries:
    total 1,006 km, Egypt 255 km, Gaza Strip 51 km, Jordan 238 km, Lebanon 79
    km, Syria 76 km, West Bank 307 km
Coastline:
    273 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    to depth of exploitation
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    separated from Lebanon, Syria, and the West Bank by the 1949 Armistice Line;
    the Gaza Strip and Jericho area, formerly occupied by Israel, are now
    administered largely by the Palestinian Authority; other areas of the West
    Bank outside Jericho are administered jointly by Israel and the Palestinian
    Authority; Golan Heights is Israeli occupied; Israeli troops in southern
    Lebanon since June 1982
Climate:
    temperate; hot and dry in southern and eastern desert areas
Terrain:
    Negev desert in the south; low coastal plain; central mountains; Jordan Rift
    Valley
Natural resources:
    copper, phosphates, bromide, potash, clay, sand, sulfur, asphalt, manganese,
    small amounts of natural gas and crude oil
Land use:
  arable land:
    17%
  permanent crops:
    5%
  meadows and pastures:
    40%
  forest and woodland:
    6%
  other:
    32%
Irrigated land:
    2,140 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    limited arable land and natural fresh water resources pose serious
    constraints; desertification; air pollution from industrial and vehicle
    emissions; groundwater pollution from industrial and domestic waste,
    chemical fertilizers, and pesticides
  natural hazards:
    sandstorms may occur during spring and summer
                                     Israel
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test
    Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified -
    Climate Change, Desertification, Marine Life Conservation
Note:
    there are 199 Jewish settlements and civilian land use sites in the West
    Bank, 42 in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, 24 in the Gaza Strip, and 25
    in East Jerusalem (August 1994 est.)
                                     Israel
                                     People
Population:
    5,433,134 (July 1995 est.)
  note:
    includes 122,000 Jewish settlers in the West Bank, 14,500 in the
    Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, 4,800 in the Gaza Strip, and 149,000 in East
    Jerusalem (August 1994 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    29%
  15-64 years:
    61%
  65 years and over:
    10%
Population growth rate:
    1.4% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    20.39 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.38 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    8.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    78.14 years
  male:
    76 years
  female:
    80.39 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.81 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Israeli(s)
  adjective:
    Israeli
Ethnic divisions:
    Jewish 82% (Israel born 50%, Europe/Americas/Oceania born 20%, Africa born
    7%, Asia born 5%), non-Jewish 18% (mostly Arab) (1993 est.)
Religions:
    Judaism 82%, Islam 14% (mostly Sunni Muslim), Christian 2%, Druze and other
    2%
Languages:
    Hebrew (official), Arabic used officially for Arab minority, English most
    commonly used foreign language
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1992)
  total population:
    95%
  male:
    97%
  female:
    93%
Labor force:
    1.9 million (1992)
                                     Israel
                                     People
  by occupation:
    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, forestry, and fishing 3.5%,
    other 0.6% (1992)
                                     Israel
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    State of Israel
  conventional short form:
    Israel
  local long form:
    Medinat Yisra'el
  local short form:
    Yisra'el
Digraph:
    IS
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Jerusalem
  note:
    Israel proclaimed Jerusalem its capital in 1950, but the US, like nearly all
    other countries, does not recognize this status, and maintains its Embassy
    in Tel Aviv
Administrative divisions:
    6 districts (mehozot, singular - mehoz); Central, Haifa, Jerusalem,
    Northern, Southern, Tel Aviv
Independence:
    14 May 1948 (from League of Nations mandate under British administration)
National holiday:
    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)
Constitution:
    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
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Ezer WEIZMAN (since 13 May 1993) election last held 24 March 1993
    (next to be held NA March 1999); results - Ezer WEIZMAN elected by Knesset
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Yitzhak RABIN (since NA July 1992)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; selected from and approved by the Knesset
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  parliament (Knesset):
    elections last held NA June 1992 (next to be held by NA 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 Torah Jewry 4,
    Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (Hadash) 3, Moledet 3, Arab
    Democratic Party 2; note - in 1994 four legislators broke party ranks,
    resulting in the following new distribution of seats - Labor Party 44, Likud
    bloc 32, MERETZ 12, National Religious Party 6, SHAS 6, Tzomet 5, United
    Torah Jewry 4, Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (Hadash) 3, Moledet
    2, Arab Democratic Party 2, independents 4 (1 in coalition, 3 voting with
    opposition)
                                     Israel
                                   Government
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
  members of the government:
    Labor Party, Prime Minister Yitzhak RABIN; MERETZ, Minister of
    Communications Shulamit ALONI; independent, 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 Torah Jewry, Avraham SHAPIRA; Moledet, Rehavam
    ZEEVI; Peace Guard (independent), Shaul GUTMAN; SHAS, Arieh DERI
  note:
    Israel currently has a coalition government comprising 2 parties and an
    independent that hold 57 seats of the Knesset's 120 seats
Other political or pressure groups:
    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 Lebanon policy
Member of:
    AG (observer), CCC, CE (observer), CERN (observer), EBRD, ECE, FAO, GATT,
    IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, IDA, IFAD, IFC, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, OAS (observer), PCA, UN, UNCTAD,
    UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Itamar RABINOVICH
  chancery:
    3514 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York,
    Philadelphia, and San Francisco
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Martin INDYK
  embassy:
    71 Hayarkon Street, Tel Aviv
  mailing address:
    PSC 98, Box 100, Tel Aviv; APO AE 09830
  telephone:
    [972] (3) 517-4338
  FAX:
    [972] (3) 663-449
  consulate(s) general:
    Jerusalem
Flag:
    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
                                     Israel
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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, construction 6.5%,
    agriculture, forestry, and fishing 3.5%, and services most of 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
    United States, 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 450,000
    during the period 1990-94, 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $70.1 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6.8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $13,880 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    14.5% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    7.5% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $42.3 billion
  expenditures:
    $45.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $11.1 billion (FY92/93)
Exports:
    $16.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, cut diamonds, chemicals, textiles and apparel,
    agricultural products, metals
  partners:
    US, EU, Japan
Imports:
    $22.5 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    military equipment, investment goods, rough diamonds, oil, other productive
    inputs, consumer goods
  partners:
    EU, US, Japan
External debt:
    $25.9 billion (November 1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 8% (1994 est.); accounts for about 30% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    4,140,000 kW
  production:
    23 billion kWh
                                     Israel
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    4,290 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    food processing, diamond cutting and polishing, textiles and apparel,
    chemicals, metal products, military equipment, transport equipment,
    electrical equipment, miscellaneous machinery, potash mining,
    high-technology electronics, tourism
Agriculture:
    citrus and other fruits, vegetables, cotton; beef, poultry, dairy products
Illicit drugs:
    increasingly concerned about cocaine and heroin abuse and trafficking
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-90), $18.2 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $2.8 billion
Currency:
    1 new Israeli shekel (NIS) = 100 new agorot
Exchange rates:
    new Israeli shekels (NIS) per US$1 - 3.070 (December 1994), 3.0111 (1994),
    2.8301 (1993), 2.4591 (1992), 2.2791 (1991), 2.0162 (1990), 1.9164 (1989)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year (since 1 January 1992)
                                     Israel
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    520 km (diesel operated; single track)
  standard gauge:
    520 km 1.435-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    13,461 km
  paved:
    13,461 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 708 km; petroleum products 290 km; natural gas 89 km
Ports:
    Ashdod, Ashqelon, Elat, Hadera, Haifa, Tel Aviv-Yafo
Merchant marine:
  total:
    32 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 624,861 GRT/720,765 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 7, container 22, refrigerated cargo 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    57
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    6
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    8
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    7
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    31
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
                                     Israel
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    1,800,000 telephones; most highly developed in the Middle East although not
    the largest
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    good system of coaxial cable and microwave radio relay
  international:
    3 submarine cables; 3 INTELSAT (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) earth
    stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 9, FM 45, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    20
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Israel
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Israel Defense 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
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,309,502; females age 15-49 1,283,923; males fit for
    military service 1,072,501; females fit for military service 1,047,575;
    males reach military age (18) annually 47,950; females reach military age
    (18) annually 45,839 (1995 est.)
  note:
    military service mandatory for men and women
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $6.5 billion, about 10% of GDP (1995)
>e@e@e
Japan
9JAMAICA - Passport (or original birth certificate and photo ID),
onward/return ticket and proof of sufficient funds required.  (Photo ID
is not required for U.S. citizens under 16  using birth certificate.)
Tourist card issued on arrival for stay up to 6 months; must be returned to
immigration authorities on departure.  For business or study, visa must
be obtained in advance, no charge.  Departure tax $15 paid at airport.
Check information with Embassy of Jamaica, Suite 355, 1850 K St., N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20006 (202/452-0660) or nearest Consulate:  CA
(213/380-9471 or 415/886-6061), FL (305/374-8431), GA (404/593-1500),
IL (312/663-0023) or NY (212/935-9000).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Jamaica
============================================================
Jamaica - Consular Information Sheet
 August 24, 1995
Country Description:  Jamaica is a developing nation.  Facilities
for tourism are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  If traveling directly from the U.S., Puerto
Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands, U.S. citizens can enter Jamaica
with proof of U.S. citizenship, photo identification, return ticket
and sufficient funds.  A tourist card is issued on arrival for stays
up to six months.  For further information concerning entry
requirements, travelers can contact the Embassy of Jamaica, 1520 New
Hampshire Avenue, N.W, Washington, D.C. 20036, tel:  [phone]
or the nearest consulate in Los Angeles, Miami, Atlanta, Chicago or
New York.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is often limited.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the U.S.  In some
cases, supplementary medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage, including medical evacuation insurance, has proved useful.
 For additional health information, the traveler may contact the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Crime is a serious problem in Kingston.
Criminal acts can rapidly turn violent.  The U.S. Embassy in
Kingston advises its staff not to use buses, which are often
overcrowded and provide a venue for crime.  Travelers who use
taxicabs should take only licensed taxicabs.
It is dangerous to walk outside in Kingston after dark.  It is also
dangerous for visitors to frequent neighborhoods known for high
crime rates.  In 1995 for example, sporadic gang violence spread
from neighborhoods west of the downtown area to the fringes of
downtown Kingston.  These areas are sometimes subject to curfew.
Tourist areas are usually not affected by curfews, but travelers
should check with local authorities or the U.S. Embassy for details.
The U.S. Embassy advises its staff to exercise caution when
traveling to and from the airport area via Windward and Mountain
View Avenues because of the crime threat.  The U.S. Embassy suggests
that flights in and out of Kingston be scheduled for daylight hours
whenever possible and discourages after dark travel to and from the
Morgan's Harbour/Port Royal area.
The government of Jamaica has taken a number of steps, including
assignment of special tourist security personnel, to enhance
security in the major resort areas on the north and west coasts.
Resorts that feature self-contained facilities offer a higher degree
of security than other facilities.  Particular care is called for at
isolated villas and smaller establishments and at facilities which
have fewer security arrangements because of eco-tourism concerns.
Valuables left unattended on beaches are subject to theft.
There have been recent scams involving relatives of U.S. citizen
visitors and prisoners in Jamaica who have received telephone calls
from people alleging that they are Jamaican police officers or other
public officials.  The callers state that the visitor or prisoner
has had trouble and that money should be sent to the caller, who
will assist the U.S. citizen.  These calls are hoaxes.  The American
Citizens Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy's Consular Section can
assist in confirming the validity of the call.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported to
local police and the U.S. Embassy or Consular Agency.  A U.S. birth
certificate and/or drivers license generally cannot be replaced
outside of the U.S.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of
State's pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," which provides useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad.  Both this pamphlet and "Tips for Travelers
to The Caribbean" are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use and dealing in illegal drugs, including marijuana,
are strict and have recently been increased to include possible life
imprisonment.  Substantial fines plus mandatory sentences of six to
nine months are common.  Departing visitors are thoroughly screened
for drug possession.
Aviation Oversight:  As a result of an assessment conducted by the
U.S. Federal Aviation Administration in November 1994, the FAA has
found the Government of Jamaica's Civil Aviation Authority to not be
in compliance with international aviation safety standards for
oversight of Jamaican air carrier operations.  While consultations
to correct the deficiencies are ongoing, Jamaican air carriers are
permitted to conduct limited operations to the U.S. subject to
heightened FAA surveillance.  The FAA is not providing heightened
surveillance for operations to destinations other than the U.S.  For
further information, travelers may contact the Department of
Transportation at 1-800-322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens may register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Kingston.  The U.S. Embassy
is located on the third floor of the Jamaica Mutual Life Centre, 2
Oxford Road; telephone [phone] through 9859; fax (809)
926-6743.  The Consular Section is located at the Life of Jamaica
Building, 16 Oxford Road; telephone [phone] through 4859;
Consular fax [phone].
There is also a U.S. Consular Agency in Montego Bay at St. James
Place, 2nd floor, Gloucester Avenue; telephone [phone]; fax
[phone]; office hours Monday-Friday 9:00a.m.-12:00p.m.
The U.S. Embassy in Kingston also has consular responsibility for
the Cayman Islands.  A Consular Agency will reopen soon in George
Town, Grand Cayman.  U.S. citizens may obtain updated information
from the U.S. Embassy on travel and security in Jamaica and the
Cayman Islands.
 No. 95-099
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 28, 1995,
to include Aviation Oversight Information and additional Crime
Information
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Jamaica
============================================================
Jamaica - Consular Information Sheet
 August 24, 1995
Country Description:  Jamaica is a developing nation.  Facilities
for tourism are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  If traveling directly from the U.S., Puerto
Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands, U.S. citizens can enter Jamaica
with proof of U.S. citizenship, photo identification, return ticket
and sufficient funds.  A tourist card is issued on arrival for stays
up to six months.  For further information concerning entry
requirements, travelers can contact the Embassy of Jamaica, 1520 New
Hampshire Avenue, N.W, Washington, D.C. 20036, tel:  [phone]
or the nearest consulate in Los Angeles, Miami, Atlanta, Chicago or
New York.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is often limited.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the U.S.  In some
cases, supplementary medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage, including medical evacuation insurance, has proved useful.
 For additional health information, the traveler may contact the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Crime is a serious problem in Kingston.
Criminal acts can rapidly turn violent.  The U.S. Embassy in
Kingston advises its staff not to use buses, which are often
overcrowded and provide a venue for crime.  Travelers who use
taxicabs should take only licensed taxicabs.
It is dangerous to walk outside in Kingston after dark.  It is also
dangerous for visitors to frequent neighborhoods known for high
crime rates.  In 1995 for example, sporadic gang violence spread
from neighborhoods west of the downtown area to the fringes of
downtown Kingston.  These areas are sometimes subject to curfew.
Tourist areas are usually not affected by curfews, but travelers
should check with local authorities or the U.S. Embassy for details.
The U.S. Embassy advises its staff to exercise caution when
traveling to and from the airport area via Windward and Mountain
View Avenues because of the crime threat.  The U.S. Embassy suggests
that flights in and out of Kingston be scheduled for daylight hours
whenever possible and discourages after dark travel to and from the
Morgan's Harbour/Port Royal area.
The government of Jamaica has taken a number of steps, including
assignment of special tourist security personnel, to enhance
security in the major resort areas on the north and west coasts.
Resorts that feature self-contained facilities offer a higher degree
of security than other facilities.  Particular care is called for at
isolated villas and smaller establishments and at facilities which
have fewer security arrangements because of eco-tourism concerns.
Valuables left unattended on beaches are subject to theft.
There have been recent scams involving relatives of U.S. citizen
visitors and prisoners in Jamaica who have received telephone calls
from people alleging that they are Jamaican police officers or other
public officials.  The callers state that the visitor or prisoner
has had trouble and that money should be sent to the caller, who
will assist the U.S. citizen.  These calls are hoaxes.  The American
Citizens Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy's Consular Section can
assist in confirming the validity of the call.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported to
local police and the U.S. Embassy or Consular Agency.  A U.S. birth
certificate and/or drivers license generally cannot be replaced
outside of the U.S.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of
State's pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," which provides useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad.  Both this pamphlet and "Tips for Travelers
to The Caribbean" are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use and dealing in illegal drugs, including marijuana,
are strict and have recently been increased to include possible life
imprisonment.  Substantial fines plus mandatory sentences of six to
nine months are common.  Departing visitors are thoroughly screened
for drug possession.
Aviation Oversight:  As a result of an assessment conducted by the
U.S. Federal Aviation Administration in November 1994, the FAA has
found the Government of Jamaica's Civil Aviation Authority to not be
in compliance with international aviation safety standards for
oversight of Jamaican air carrier operations.  While consultations
to correct the deficiencies are ongoing, Jamaican air carriers are
permitted to conduct limited operations to the U.S. subject to
heightened FAA surveillance.  The FAA is not providing heightened
surveillance for operations to destinations other than the U.S.  For
further information, travelers may contact the Department of
Transportation at 1-800-322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens may register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Kingston.  The U.S. Embassy
is located on the third floor of the Jamaica Mutual Life Centre, 2
Oxford Road; telephone [phone] through 9859; fax (809)
926-6743.  The Consular Section is located at the Life of Jamaica
Building, 16 Oxford Road; telephone [phone] through 4859;
Consular fax [phone].
There is also a U.S. Consular Agency in Montego Bay at St. James
Place, 2nd floor, Gloucester Avenue; telephone [phone]; fax
[phone]; office hours Monday-Friday 9:00a.m.-12:00p.m.
The U.S. Embassy in Kingston also has consular responsibility for
the Cayman Islands.  A Consular Agency will reopen soon in George
Town, Grand Cayman.  U.S. citizens may obtain updated information
from the U.S. Embassy on travel and security in Jamaica and the
Cayman Islands.
 No. 95-099
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 28, 1995,
to include Aviation Oversight Information and additional Crime
Information
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
@)0)                                       Jamaica
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    10,990 sq km
  land area:
    10,830 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Connecticut
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    1,022 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid; temperate interior
Terrain:
    mostly mountains with narrow, discontinuous coastal plain
Natural resources:
    bauxite, gypsum, limestone
Land use:
  arable land:
    19%
  permanent crops:
    6%
  meadows and pastures:
    18%
  forest and woodland:
    28%
  other:
    29%
Irrigated land:
    350 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; coastal waters polluted by industrial waste, sewage, and oil
    spills; damage to coral reefs; air pollution in Kingston results from
    vehicle emissions
  natural hazards:
    hurricanes (especially July to November)
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping,
    Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship
    Pollution
Note:
    strategic location between Cayman Trench and Jamaica Channel, the main sea
    lanes for Panama Canal
                                     Jamaica
                                     People
Population:
    2,574,291 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    33% (female 412,565; male 431,043)
  15-64 years:
    60% (female 786,700; male 770,681)
  65 years and over:
    7% (female 96,348; male 76,954) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.78% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    22.03 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.62 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -8.65 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    16.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    74.65 years
  male:
    72.39 years
  female:
    77.01 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.42 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Jamaican(s)
  adjective:
    Jamaican
Ethnic divisions:
    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%
Religions:
    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)
Languages:
    English, Creole
Literacy:
    age 15 and over has ever attended school (1987)
  total population:
    82%
  male:
    77%
  female:
    86%
Labor force:
    1,062,100
  by occupation:
    services 41%, agriculture 22.5%, industry 19%, unemployed 17.5% (1989)
                                     Jamaica
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Jamaica
Digraph:
    JM
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Kingston
Administrative divisions:
    14 parishes; Clarendon, Hanover, Kingston, Manchester, Portland, Saint
    Andrew, Saint Ann, Saint Catherine, Saint Elizabeth, Saint James, Saint
    Mary, Saint Thomas, Trelawny, Westmoreland
Independence:
    6 August 1962 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day (first Monday in August) (1962)
Constitution:
    6 August 1962
Legal system:
    based on English common law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    Sir Howard COOKE (since 1 August 1991)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister P. J. PATTERSON (since 30 March 1992); Deputy Prime Minister
    Seymour MULLINGS (since NA 1993)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime
    minister
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    People's National Party (PNP) P. J. PATTERSON; Jamaica Labor Party (JLP),
    Edward SEAGA
Other political or pressure groups:
    Rastafarians (black religious/racial cultists, pan-Africanists); New
    Beginnings Movement (NBM)
Member of:
    ACP, C, CARICOM, CCC, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-15, G-19, G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA,
    IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, ISO, ITU, LAES, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UNITAR, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Richard Leighton BERNAL
                                     Jamaica
                                   Government
  chancery:
    1520 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Miami and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador J. Gary COOPER (since October 1994)
  embassy:
    Jamaica Mutual Life Center, 2 Oxford Road, 3rd floor, Kingston
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 4859
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
Flag:
    diagonal yellow cross divides the flag into four triangles - green (top and
    bottom) and black (hoist side and fly side)
                                     Jamaica
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Key sectors in this island economy are bauxite (alumina and bauxite account
    for more than half of exports) and tourism. The government's tight fiscal
    and monetary policies, which have been partially successful in curbing
    inflation, have held growth to 1.2% in 1993 and 2.0% in 1994.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $7.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,050 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    26.7% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    15.7% (1992)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $600 million
  expenditures:
    $736 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY90/91 est.)
Exports:
    $1.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    alumina, bauxite, sugar, bananas, rum
  partners:
    US 47%, UK 11%, Canada 9%, Norway 7%; France 4% (1993)
Imports:
    $2.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment, construction materials, fuel, food,
    chemicals
  partners:
    US 54%, Japan 4.0%, Mexico 6%, UK 4%, Venezuela 3% (1993)
External debt:
    $3.6 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 0.4% (1992); accounts for almost 30% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    730,000 kW
  production:
    2.6 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    988 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    bauxite mining, tourism, textiles, food processing, light manufactures
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 7% of GDP, 22% of work force, and 17% of exports;
    commercial crops - sugarcane, bananas, coffee, citrus, potatoes, vegetables;
    livestock and livestock products include poultry, goats, milk; not
    self-sufficient in grain, meat, and dairy products
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for cocaine from Central and South America to North
    America and Europe; illicit cultivation of cannabis; government has an
    active cannabis eradication program
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1.2 billion; other countries,
    ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.6 billion
                                     Jamaica
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 Jamaican dollar (J$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Jamaican dollars (J$) per US$1 - 33.195 (December 1994), 33.986 (1994),
    24.949 (1993), 22.960 (1992), 12.116 (1991), 7.184 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                                     Jamaica
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    370 km
  standard gauge:
    370 km 1.435-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    18,200 km
  paved:
    12,600 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 3,200 km; improved earth 2,400 km
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 10 km
Ports:
    Alligator Pond, Discovery Bay, Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Port
    Antonio, Longs Wharf, Rocky Point
Merchant marine:
  total:
    3 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,931 GRT/10,545 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 1, oil tanker 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    41
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    31
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
                                     Jamaica
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    127,000 telephones; fully automatic domestic telephone network
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations; 3 coaxial submarine cables
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 10, FM 17, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    8
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Jamaica
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Jamaica Defense Force (includes Ground Forces, Coast Guard and Air Wing),
    Jamaica Constabulary Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 670,958; males fit for military service 475,235; males reach
    military age (18) annually 26,244 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $19.3 million, 1% of GDP (FY91/92)
Jersey
JAPAN - Passport and onward/return ticket required.  Visa not required
for tourist/business stay up to 90 days.  Departure tax $15.50 paid at
airport. For specific information  consult Embassy of Japan, 2520 Mass. Ave.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/939-6800) or nearest Consulate:  AK
(907/279-8428), CA (213/624-8305 or 415/777-3533), FL (305/530-9090),
GA (404/892-2700), Guam (671/646-1290), HI (808/536-2226), IL
(312/280-0400),
LA (504/529-2101), MA (617/973-9772), MI 9313/567-0120), MO
(816/471-0111),
NY (212/371-8222), OR 9503/221-1811), TX (713/652-2977) or WA
(206/682-9107).
Japan - Consular Information Sheet
July 20, 1994
Country Description:  Japan is a highly developed stable parliamentary
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  Passports are required.   Onward/return tickets are
required for visitors arriving on the visa waiver and may be requested for
visitors arriving on other types of visas.  Visas are not required for
tourist/business stays of up to 90 days.  However, anyone arriving under the
terms of the 90-day visa waiver will not be allowed to extend his/her stay
or adjust status.  There are no exceptions to this rule.  For specific
information concerning travel to Japan, travelers may consult the Consular
Section of the Embassy of Japan at 2520 Massachusetts Avenue N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008, Tel: [202] 939-6700, or the nearest consulate in
Anchorage, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Guam, Honolulu, Houston, Kansas City,
Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York, Portland, San Francisco, or Seattle.
Medical Facilities:  Health care facilities in Japan are good.  However,
Japan has a national health insurance system, and it can be very difficult
for foreigners not insured in Japan to receive medical care.  Medical care
clinics do not require deposits, but insist upon payment in full at time of
treatment and may require proof of ability to pay prior to treating a
foreigner.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Supplemental medical insurance which specifically covers treatment
in Japan has proven useful.  The Centers for Disease Controls' international
travelers hotline may be reached at [phone] for additional useful
health information.
Information on Crime:  Crimes against U.S. citizens are rare and those that
occur usually involve petty theft and vandalism.  The loss or theft abroad
of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police, and
the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful information on guarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is
provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad".  It is
available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect
jail sentences and fines.  It is illegal to bring Vicks inhalers, Sudafed,
and other types of over-the-counter medicines containing trace amounts of
amphetamines or amphetamine-like drugs into Japan.  Travelers carrying these
items have been detained by Japanese customs officials and subjected to
investigation, sometimes for several weeks.  Japanese officials may require
travelers in possession of medicines to present copies of prescriptions.
Detention for Minor Offenses:  Persons arrested in Japan, even for a minor
offense, can be held in detention for weeks or months during the
investigation and legal proceedings.
Other Information:  Japan is an extremely expensive country to visit.
Visitors have found it useful to determine in advance what expenses will be
and to make sure they have ample funds for their expected stay.  In Japan,
vehicular traffic moves on the left but turns at red lights are not allowed
unless specifically authorized.  Traffic accidents are automatically
considered to involve professional negligence, and criminal charges can be
brought in any case involving
injury without specific proof of the negligence.  Heavy criminal penalties
are possible in cases involving injury.
Registration:  U. S. citizens who register at the Embassy or a consulate can
obtain updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Japan is located at 10-
5, Akasaka 1-chome, Minato-ku (107), Tokyo, telephone, (81-3) 224-5000.  The
U.S. Consulate General in Naha is located at 2564 Nishihara, Urasoe, Okinawa
901-21 - telephone: [phone].  The U.S. Consulate General in Osaka
Kobe is located at 11-5 Nishitenma 2-chome, Kita-ku, Osaka 530, telephone:
(81-6) 315-5900.  The U.S. Consulate General in Sapporo is located at Kita 1-
jo Nishi 28-chome, Chuo-ku, Sapporo 064, telephone: [phone].  The
U.S. Consulate in Fukuoka is located at 5-26 Ohori 2-chome, Chuo-ku, Fukuoka
810, telephone: [phone].  The U.S. Embassy fax number is (81-3)
3505-1862; for Naha it is (81-98) 876-4243; for Osaka-Kobe it is (81-6) 315-
5930; for Sapporo it is (81-11) 643-1283; for Fukuoka it is (81-92) 713-9222.
No. 94-120
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet of July 9, 1993 and provides
the current fax number for the U.S. Consulate General in Osaka-Kobe.
`?Y?                                          Japan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Asia, island chain between the North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of
    Japan, east of the Korean peninsula
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    377,835 sq km
  land area:
    374,744 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than California
  note:
    includes Bonin Islands (Ogasawara-gunto), Daito-shoto, Minami-jima,
    Okinotori-shima, Ryukyu Islands (Nansei-shoto), and Volcano Islands
    (Kazan-retto)
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    29,751 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    islands of Etorofu, Kunashiri, Shikotan, and the Habomai group occupied by
    the Soviet Union in 1945, now administered by Russia, claimed by Japan;
    Liancourt Rocks disputed with South Korea; Senkaku-shoto (Senkaku Islands)
    claimed by China and Taiwan
Climate:
    varies from tropical in south to cool temperate in north
Terrain:
    mostly rugged and mountainous
Natural resources:
    negligible mineral resources, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    13%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    1%
  forest and woodland:
    67%
  other:
    18%
Irrigated land:
    28,680 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution from power plant emissions results in acid rain; acidification
    of lakes and reservoirs degrading water quality and threatening aquatic
    life; Japan's appetite for fish and tropical timber is contributing to the
    depletion of these resources in Asia and elsewhere
  natural hazards:
    many dormant and some active volcanoes; about 1,500 seismic occurrences
    (mostly tremors) every year; tsunamis
                                      Japan
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered
    Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping,
    Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber
    83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified -
    Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification, Law of the Sea
Note:
    strategic location in northeast Asia
                                      Japan
                                     People
Population:
    125,506,492 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    16% (female 9,955,603; male 10,542,973)
  15-64 years:
    69% (female 43,377,425; male 43,843,645)
  65 years and over:
    15% (female 10,514,017; male 7,272,829) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.32% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    10.66 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.46 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    4.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    79.44 years
  male:
    76.6 years
  female:
    82.42 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.56 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Japanese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Japanese
Ethnic divisions:
    Japanese 99.4%, other 0.6% (mostly Korean)
Religions:
    observe both Shinto and Buddhist 84%, other 16% (including 0.7% Christian)
Languages:
    Japanese
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1970 est.)
  total population:
    99%
Labor force:
    65.87 million (December 1994)
  by occupation:
    trade and services 54%, manufacturing, mining, and construction 33%,
    agriculture, forestry, and fishing 7%, government 3% (1988)
                                      Japan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Japan
Digraph:
    JA
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Tokyo
Administrative divisions:
    47 prefectures; Aichi, Akita, Aomori, Chiba, Ehime, Fukui, Fukuoka,
    Fukushima, Gifu, Gumma, Hiroshima, Hokkaido, Hyogo, Ibaraki, Ishikawa,
    Iwate, Kagawa, Kagoshima, Kanagawa, Kochi, Kumamoto, Kyoto, Mie, Miyagi,
    Miyazaki, Nagano, Nagasaki, Nara, Niigata, Oita, Okayama, Okinawa, Osaka,
    Saga, Saitama, Shiga, Shimane, Shizuoka, Tochigi, Tokushima, Tokyo, Tottori,
    Toyama, Wakayama, Yamagata, Yamaguchi, Yamanashi
Independence:
    660 BC (traditional founding by Emperor Jimmu)
National holiday:
    Birthday of the Emperor, 23 December (1933)
Constitution:
    3 May 1947
Legal system:
    modeled after European civil law system with English-American influence;
    judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; accepts compulsory
    ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    20 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Emperor AKIHITO (since 7 January 1989)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Tomiichi MURAYAMA (since 30 June 1994); Deputy Prime Minister
    Yohei KONO (since 30 June 1994)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Diet (Kokkai) consists of an upper house or House of Councillors
    and a lower house or House of Representatives
  House of Councillors (Sangi-in):
    half of the members elected every three years to six-year terms; elections
    last held on 26 July 1992 (next set to be held 23 July 1995); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (252 total) LDP 106, SDPJ 73, Komeito
    24, DSP 12, JCP 11, JNP 4, others 16, independents 6; note - the
    distribution of seats as of 1 April 1995 is as follows - LDP 94, SDPJ 68,
    Heisei-kai 47, Shin Ryokufu-kai 16, JCP 11, others 15, vacant 1
  House of Representatives (Shugi-in):
    all members elected every four years to four-year terms; elections last held
    on 18 July 1993 (next to be held by 1997); results - percent of vote by
    party NA; seats - (511 total) LDP 223, SDPJ 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 April 1995 is as follows - LDP 207, Shinshinto
    173, SDPJ 70, Sakigake 21, JCP 15, others 19, vacant 6
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                                      Japan
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Yohei KONO, president and Yoshiro MORI,
    secretary general; Social Democratic Party of Japan (SDPJ), Tomiichi
    MURAYAMA; Japan Communist Party (JCP), Tetsuzo FUWA, Presidium chairman;
    Sakigake (Harbinger), Masayoshi TAKEMURA, chairman; Shinshinto (New Frontier
    Party, NFP), Toshiki KAIFU, chairman and Ichiro OZAWA, secretary general
  note:
    Shinshinto was formed in December 1994 by the merger of Shinseito (Japan
    Renewal Party, JRP), Komeito (Clean Government Party, CGP), Japan New Party
    (JNP), Democratic Socialist Party (DSP), and several minor groups; Shin
    Ryokufu-kai is a parliamentary alliance which exists only in the upper
    house, it includes remnants of Shinseito, JNP, DSP, and a minor labor group;
    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
Member of:
    AfDB, AG (observer), APEC, AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CP, EBRD, ESCAP,
    FAO, G- 2, G- 5, G- 7, G- 8, G-10, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MTCR, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, PCA, UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNITAR, UNOMOZ, UNRWA, UNU, UPU, WFTU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Takakazu KURIYAMA
  chancery:
    2520 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Agana (Guam), Anchorage, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Honolulu,
    Houston, Kansas City (Missouri), Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York,
    Portland (Oregon), San Francisco, and Seattle
  consulate(s):
    Saipan (Northern Mariana Islands)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Walter F. MONDALE
  embassy:
    10-5, Akasaka 1-chome, Minato-ku (107), Tokyo
  mailing address:
    Unit 45004, Box 258, Tokyo; APO AP 96337-0001
  telephone:
    [81] (3) 3224-5000
  FAX:
    [81] (3) 3505-1862
  consulate(s) general:
    Naha (Okinawa), Osaka-Kobe, Sapporo
  consulate(s):
    Fukuoka, Nagoya
Flag:
    white with a large red disk (representing the sun without rays) in the
    center
                                      Japan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Government-industry cooperation, a strong work ethic, mastery of high
    technology, and a comparatively small defense allocation (roughly 1% of GDP)
    have helped Japan advance with extraordinary rapidity to the rank of second
    most powerful economy in the world. Industry, the most important sector of
    the economy, is heavily dependent on imported raw materials and fuels.
    Usually self-sufficient in rice, Japan must import about 50% of its
    requirements of other grain and fodder crops. Japan maintains one of the
    world's largest fishing fleets and accounts for nearly 15% of the global
    catch. Overall economic growth has been spectacular: a 10% average in the
    1960s, a 5% average in the 1970s and 1980s. Economic growth came to a halt
    in 1992-93 largely because of contractionary domestic policies intended to
    wring speculative excesses from the stock and real estate markets. Growth
    resumed at a 0.6% pace in 1994 largely because of consumer demand. As for
    foreign trade, the stronger yen and slower global growth are containing
    export growth. Unemployment and inflation remain remarkably low in
    comparison with the other industrialized nations. Japan continues to run a
    huge trade surplus - $121 billion in 1994, roughly the same size as in 1993
    - which supports extensive investment in foreign assets. Prime Minister
    MURAYAMA has yet to formalize his government's plans for administrative and
    economic reform, including reduction in the trade surplus. As leader of a
    coalition government, he has softened his own socialist positions. The
    crowding of the habitable land area and the aging of the population are two
    major long-run problems.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $2.5274 trillion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    0.6% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $20,200 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    0.7% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    2.9% (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $569 billion
  expenditures:
    $671 billion, including capital expenditures (public works only) of about
    $126 billion (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $395.5 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    manufactures 97% (including machinery 46%, motor vehicles 20%, consumer
    electronics 10%)
  partners:
    Southeast Asia 33%, US 29%, Western Europe 18%, China 5%
Imports:
    $274.3 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    manufactures 52%, fossil fuels 20%, foodstuffs and raw materials 28%
  partners:
    Southeast Asia 25%, US 23%, Western Europe 15%, China 9%
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate 1% (1994); accounts for 30% of GDP
                                      Japan
                                     Economy
Electricity:
  capacity:
    205,140,000 kW
  production:
    840 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    6,262 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    steel and non-ferrous metallurgy, heavy electrical equipment, construction
    and mining equipment, motor vehicles and parts, electronic and
    telecommunication equipment and components, machine tools and automated
    production systems, locomotives and railroad rolling stock, shipbuilding,
    chemicals, textiles, food processing
Agriculture:
    accounts for only 2% of GDP; highly subsidized and protected sector, with
    crop yields among highest in world; principal crops - rice, sugar beets,
    vegetables, fruit; animal products include pork, poultry, dairy and eggs;
    about 50% self-sufficient in food production; shortages of wheat, corn,
    soybeans; world's largest fish catch of 10 million metric tons in 1991
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-94), $132 billion
  note:
    ODA outlay of $9.9 billion in 1994 (est.)
Currency:
    yen (Y)
Exchange rates:
    yen (Y) per US$1 - 99.75 (January 1995), 102.21 (1994), 111.20 (1993),
    126.65 (1992), 134.71 (1991), 144.79 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                                      Japan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    27,327 km (5,724 km double track and multitrack sections)
  standard gauge:
    2,012 km 1.435-m gauge (2,012 km electrified)
  narrow gauge:
    25,315 km predominantly 1.067-m gauge (9,038 km electrified) (1987)
Highways:
  total:
    1,111,974 km
  paved:
    754,102 km (including 4,869 km of national expressways)
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, or earth 357,872 km (1991)
Inland waterways:
    about 1,770 km; seagoing craft ply all coastal inland seas
Pipelines:
    crude oil 84 km; petroleum products 322 km; natural gas 1,800 km
Ports:
    Akita, Amagasaki, Chiba, Hachinohe, Hakodate, Higashi-Harima, Himeji,
    Hiroshima, Kawasaki, Kinuura, Kobe, Kushiro, Mizushima, Moji, Nagoya, Osaka,
    Sakai, Sakaide, Shimizu, Tokyo, Tomakomai
Merchant marine:
  total:
    851 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 18,195,386 GRT/27,292,044 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 210, cargo 63, chemical tanker 7, combination ore/oil 7, container 41,
    liquefied gas tanker 41, multifunction large-load carrier 1, oil tanker 264,
    passenger 10, passenger-cargo 5, refrigerated cargo 48, roll-on/roll-off
    cargo 43, short-sea passenger 30, specialized tanker 2, vehicle carrier 79
  note:
    Japan owns an additional 1,537 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 45,490,202
    DWT that operate under Panamanian, Liberian, Vanuatu, Bahamian, Singaporian,
    Cypriot, Philippines, Hong Kong, and Maltese registry
Airports:
  total:
    175
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    6
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    31
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    36
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    30
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    70
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
                                      Japan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    64,000,000 telephones; excellent domestic and international service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    5 INTELSAT (4 Pacific Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) earth stations; submarine
    cables to US (via Guam), Philippines, China, and Russia
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 318, FM 58, shortwave 0
  radios:
    95 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    12,350 (1 kW or greater 196)
  televisions:
    100 million
                                      Japan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Japan Ground Self-Defense Force (Army), Japan Maritime Self-Defense Force
    (Navy), Japan Air Self-Defense Force (Air Force)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 31,947,532; males fit for military service 27,494,758; males
    reach military age (18) annually 910,970 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $47.2 billion, 1% of GDP (FY95/96)
Jordan
                                     Jersey
Affiliation:
    (British crown dependency)
                                         Jersey
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Europe, island in the English Channel, northwest of France
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    117 sq km
  land area:
    117 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.7 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    70 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate; mild winters and cool summers
Terrain:
    gently rolling plain with low, rugged hills along north coast
Natural resources:
    agricultural land
Land use:
  arable land:
    57%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    largest and southernmost of Channel Islands; about 30% of population
    concentrated in Saint Helier
                                     Jersey
                                     People
Population:
    86,649 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    17% (female 7,029; male 7,450)
  15-64 years:
    69% (female 30,156; male 29,916)
  65 years and over:
    14% (female 7,202; male 4,896) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.7% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    12.83 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.97 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    4.11 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    4.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    76.9 years
  male:
    73.81 years
  female:
    80.32 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.44 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Channel Islander(s)
  adjective:
    Channel Islander
Ethnic divisions:
    UK and Norman-French descent
Religions:
    Anglican, Roman Catholic, Baptist, Congregational New Church, Methodist,
    Presbyterian
Languages:
    English (official), French (official), Norman-French dialect spoken in
    country districts
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    NA
                                     Jersey
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Bailiwick of Jersey
  conventional short form:
    Jersey
Digraph:
    JE
Type:
    British crown dependency
Capital:
    Saint Helier
Administrative divisions:
    none (British crown dependency)
Independence:
    none (British crown dependency)
National holiday:
    Liberation Day, 9 May (1945)
Constitution:
    unwritten; partly statutes, partly common law and practice
Legal system:
    English law and local statute
Suffrage:
    NA years of age; universal adult
Executive branch:
  Chief of State:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952)
  Head of Government:
    Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief Air Marshal Sir John SUTTON
    (since NA 1990); Bailiff Sir Peter L. CRILL (since NA)
  cabinet:
    committees; appointed by the States
Legislative branch:
    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) 52
    independents
Judicial branch:
    Royal Court
Political parties and leaders:
    none; all independents
Member of:
    none
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (British crown dependency)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (British crown dependency)
Flag:
    white with the diagonal red cross of Saint Patrick (patron saint of Ireland)
    extending to the corners of the flag
                                     Jersey
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy is based largely on financial services, agriculture, and
    tourism. Potatoes, cauliflower, tomatoes, and especially flowers are
    important export crops, shipped mostly to the UK. The Jersey breed of dairy
    cattle 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 electronics 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.
National product:
    GDP $NA
National product real growth rate:
    8% (1987 est.)
National product per capita:
    $NA
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    8% (1988 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $308 million
  expenditures:
    $284.4 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1985)
Exports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    light industrial and electrical goods, foodstuffs, textiles
  partners:
    UK
Imports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, foodstuffs, mineral
    fuels, chemicals
  partners:
    UK
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    50,000 kW standby
  production:
    power supplied by France
  consumption per capita:
    NA kWh (1992)
Industries:
    tourism, banking and finance, dairy
Agriculture:
    potatoes, cauliflowers, tomatoes; dairy and cattle farming
Economic aid:
    none
Currency:
    1 Jersey pound (#J) = 100 pence
                                     Jersey
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    Jersey pounds (#J) per US$1 - 0.6250 (January 1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658
    (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991), 0.5603 (1990); the Jersey pound is at
    par with the British pound
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                                     Jersey
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    NA
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    Gorey, Saint Aubin, Saint Helier
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
                                     Jersey
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    63,700 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    3 submarine cables
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Jersey
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the UK
Juan de Nova Island
                                 Johnston Atoll
Affiliation:
    (territory of the US)
                                 Johnston Atoll
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-third of the way from
    Hawaii to the Marshall Islands
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    2.8 sq km
  land area:
    2.8 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 4.7 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    10 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical, but generally dry; consistent northeast trade winds with little
    seasonal temperature variation
Terrain:
    mostly flat with a maximum elevation of 4 meters
Natural resources:
    guano (deposits worked until about 1890)
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    no natural fresh water resources
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    strategic location in the North Pacific Ocean; Johnston Island and Sand
    Island are natural islands; North Island (Akau) and East Island (Hikina) are
    manmade islands formed from coral dredging; closed to the public; former
    nuclear weapons test site; site of Johnston Atoll Chemical Agent Disposal
    System (JACADS); some low-growing vegetation
                                 Johnston Atoll
                                     People
Population:
    327 (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    NA
Death rate:
    NA
Net migration rate:
    NA
Infant mortality rate:
    NA
Life expectancy at birth:
    NA
Total fertility rate:
    NA
                                 Johnston Atoll
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Johnston Atoll
Digraph:
    JQ
Type:
    unincorportated territory of the US administered by the US Defense 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
Capital:
    none
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (territory of the US)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (territory of the US)
Flag:
    the flag of the US is used
                                 Johnston Atoll
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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.
Electricity:
    supplied by the management and operations contractor
                                 Johnston Atoll
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    NA
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    Johnston Island
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
                                 Johnston Atoll
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; excellent system including 60-channel submarine cable,
    Autodin/SRT terminal, digital telephone switch, Military Affiliated Radio
    System (MARS station), and UHF/VHF air-ground radio
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    commercial satellite television system
  televisions:
    NA
                                 Johnston Atoll
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
Kazakhstan
JORDAN - Passport and visa required.  Visa requires 1 application form,
1 photo, letter stating purpose of visit and itinerary.  Entry into
Jordan is sometimes denied to persons holding passports with Israeli visas
stamps. (This is especially true when the holders are U.S./Jordanian dual
nationals.)  Send SASE for return of passport by mail.  For details
check Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, 3504 International Dr.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/966-2664).
Jordan - Consular Information Sheet
April 8, 1994
Country Description:  The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a constitutional
monarchy with a developing economy.  While Jordan is modern and Western-
oriented, Islamic ideals and beliefs provide the conservative foundation of
the country's customs, laws and practices.  Tourist facilities are widely
available, although quality may vary depending on price and location.  The
workweek in Jordan is Sunday through Thursday.
Entry Requirements:  Passports are required.  Visitors may obtain a visa for
Jordan at international ports of entry, not including the Allenby Bridge,
upon arrival.  Entry into Jordan is sometimes not granted to persons,
especially U.S.-Jordanian dual nationals, with passports showing an Israeli
visa or exit/entry stamp.  For further information, travelers can contact
the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, 3504 International Drive
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Basic modern medical care and medicines are available
in the principal cities of Jordan, but not necessarily in outlying areas.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved
useful.  The international travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease
Control, telephone [phone], has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Crime is generally not a serious problem for
travelers in Jordan.  However, petty crime is prevalent in the downtown
Amman Hashemiyah Court area and around the Roman amphitheater.  Visiting
these areas during daylight and in groups will reduce the risk of petty
crime.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security,
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to the Middle
East and North Africa."  They are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal practices
of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are severe in Jordan, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Areas of Instability:  There is a risk of violent incidents during
demonstrations, other large public gatherings, or in refugee camps.  Two non-
American tourists were attacked in separate incidents in February in
downtown Amman, following the violence in the West Bank town of Hebron on
February 25.
Land mines are located within two miles of all military installations and
borders, including the popular Dead Sea area.  Mine fields are fenced off
and marked with signs carrying a skull and crossbones, but the fences and
signs may be in poor repair or hard to see.  Avoiding these areas reduces
the risk of accidentally setting off a mine.
Terrorism:  Tension in the region remains high, especially in the wake of
the violence in the West Bank town of Hebron.  Although there is no specific
information on threats to U.S. citizens or U.S. targets in Jordan, terrorism
remains a concern.  U.S. citizens in Jordan can receive more detailed
information from the U.S. Embassy in Amman on reducing the risk of becoming
a target of terrorist attack.
Dual Nationality:  Although no longer subject to immediate conscription, all
U.S.-Jordanian dual national males under the age of thirty-seven are
required to register for service in the Jordanian military.  Those subject
to registration may be prevented from leaving Jordan until permission to do
so is obtained.  This permission is often granted to U.S. citizens, but may
take some time to obtain and is limited to one trip only.  Consular
assistance to dual nationals may be limited in some instances.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy can obtain
updated information on travel and security within Jordan.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Amman, Jordan, is located in Abdoun,
Jabel Amman, P.O. Box 354.  The telephone number is (962) (6) 820-101.
No. 94-044
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 31, 1993, and the
public announcement of March 1, 1994, to add information on areas of
instability, and to update the information on terrorism, crime, and entry
requirements.
4                                     Jordan
Affiliation:
    (also see separate West Bank entry)
                                         Jordan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, northwest of Saudi Arabia
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    89,213 sq km
  land area:
    88,884 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Indiana
Land boundaries:
    total 1,619 km, Iraq 181 km, Israel 238 km, Saudi Arabia 728 km, Syria 375
    km, West Bank 97 km
Coastline:
    26 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    mostly arid desert; rainy season in west (November to April)
Terrain:
    mostly desert plateau in east, highland area in west; Great Rift Valley
    separates East and West Banks of the Jordan River
Natural resources:
    phosphates, potash, shale oil
Land use:
  arable land:
    4%
  permanent crops:
    0.5%
  meadows and pastures:
    1%
  forest and woodland:
    0.5%
  other:
    94%
Irrigated land:
    570 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    limited natural fresh water resources; deforestation; overgrazing; soil
    erosion; desertification
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands
                                     Jordan
                                     People
Population:
    4,100,709 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    44% (female 884,462; male 930,266)
  15-64 years:
    53% (female 1,058,060; male 1,119,347)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 53,709; male 54,865) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.69% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    37.32 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.02 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -6.4 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    32.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    72.27 years
  male:
    70.43 years
  female:
    74.21 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.25 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Jordanian(s)
  adjective:
    Jordanian
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab 98%, Circassian 1%, Armenian 1%
Religions:
    Sunni Muslim 92%, Christian 8%
Languages:
    Arabic (official), English widely understood among upper and middle classes
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1991)
  total population:
    83%
  male:
    91%
  female:
    75%
Labor force:
    600,000 (1992)
  by occupation:
    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)
                                     Jordan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
  conventional short form:
    Jordan
  local long form:
    Al Mamlakah al Urduniyah al Hashimiyah
  local short form:
    Al Urdun
  former:
    Transjordan
Digraph:
    JO
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Amman
Administrative divisions:
    8 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al Balqa', Al Karak, Al
    Mafraq, 'Amman, At Tafilah, Az Zarqa', Irbid, Ma'an
Independence:
    25 May 1946 (from League of Nations mandate under British administration)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 25 May (1946)
Constitution:
    8 January 1952
Legal system:
    based on Islamic law and French codes; judicial review of legislative acts
    in a specially provided High Tribunal; has not accepted compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    20 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    King HUSSEIN Bin Talal Al Hashimi (since 11 August 1952)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Zayd BIN SHAKIR (since 8 January 1995)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet appointed by the monarch
Legislative branch:
    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) Muslim Brotherhood
    (fundamentalist) 16, Independent Islamic bloc (generally traditionalist) 6,
    Radical leftist 3, pro-government 55
  note:
    the House of Representatives has been convened and dissolved by the King
    several times since 1974 and in November 1989 the first parliamentary
    elections in 22 years were held
Judicial branch:
    Court of Cassation
                                     Jordan
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Al-'Ahd (Pledge) Party, Sec. Gen. 'Abd al-Hadi al-MAJALI; Al-Ahrar
    (Liberals) Party, Sec. Gen. Ahmad al-ZU'BI; Al-Hurriyah (Freedom) Party,
    Sec. Gen. Fawwaz al-ZUBI; Al-Watan (Homeland) Party, leader 'Akif al-FAYIZ;
    Al-Yaqazah (Awakening) Party, Sec. Gen. 'Abd al-Ra'uf al-RAWABIDAH;
    Constitutional Jordanian Arab Front Party, leader Milhim al-TALL; Democratic
    Arab Islamic Movement Party-Du'a', Sec. Gen. Yusuf Abu BAKR; Democratic Arab
    Unionist Party-Wad, Sec. Gen. Anis al-MU'ASHIR; Islamic Action Front (IAF),
    Sec. Gen. Ishaq al-FARHAN; Jordanian Arab Democratic Party, Sec. Gen. Mu'nis
    al-RAZZAZ; Jordanian Arab Masses Party, Sec. Gen. 'Abd al-Khaliq SHATAT;
    Jordanian Arab Socialist Ba'th Party, Command First Secretary Taysir
    al-HIMSI; Jordanian Communist Party (JCP), Sec. Gen. Ya'qub ZAYADIN;
    Jordanian Democratic Popular Unity Party, Sec. Gen. 'Azmi al-KHAWAJA;
    Jordanian Democratic Progressive Party, Sec. Gen. 'Ali 'AMIR; Jordanian
    National Alliance Party, Sec. Gen. Mijhim al-KHURAYSHAH; Jordanian People's
    Democratic Party-Hashd, Sec. Gen. Taysir al-ZIBRI; Jordanian Socialist
    Democratic Party, Sec. Gen. 'Isa MADANAT; Pan-Arab Action Front Party, Sec.
    Gen. Muhammad al-ZU'BI; Popular Unity Party-the Unionists, Sec. Gen. Talal
    al-RAMAHI; Progress and Justice Party, Sec. Gen. 'Ali al-SA'D; Progressive
    Arab Ba'th Party, Command Secretary Mahmud al-MA'AYITAH; Al-Mustaqbal
    (Future) Party, Sec. Gen. Sulayman 'ARAR
Member of:
    ABEDA, ACC, AFESD, AL, AMF, CAEU, CCC, ESCWA, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICC, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, IOM (observer), ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OIC, PCA, UN, UNAVEM II,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMIL, UNOMOZ, UNPROFOR, UNRWA, UPU, WFTU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Fayiz A. TARAWNEH
  chancery:
    3504 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Wesley E. EGAN, Jr.
  embassy:
    Jabel Amman, Amman
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 354, Amman 11118 Jordan; APO AE 09892-0200
  telephone:
    [962] (6) 820101
  FAX:
    [962] (6) 820159
Flag:
    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
                                     Jordan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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. 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $17 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,280 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    6% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    16% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $2 billion
  expenditures:
    $2.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $630 million (1995 est.)
Exports:
    $1.4 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    phosphates, fertilizers, potash, agricultural products, manufactures
  partners:
    India, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, EU, Indonesia, UAE
Imports:
    $3.5 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    crude oil, machinery, transport equipment, food, live animals, manufactured
    goods
  partners:
    EU, US, Iraq, Japan, Turkey
External debt:
    $6 billion (March 1995 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3% (1993 est.); accounts for 20% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,050,000 kW
  production:
    4.2 billion kWh
                                     Jordan
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    1,072 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    phosphate mining, petroleum refining, cement, potash, light manufacturing
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 8% of GDP; wheat, barley, citrus fruit, tomatoes, melons,
    olives; sheep, goats, poultry; large net importer of food
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1.7 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.5 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $9.5 billion; Communist countries (1970-89), $44
    million
Currency:
    1 Jordanian dinar (JD) = 1,000 fils
Exchange rates:
    Jordanian dinars (JD) per US$1 - 0.6994 (January 1995), 0.5987 (1994),
    0.6928 (1993), 0.6797 (1992), 0.6808 (1991), 0.6636 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                     Jordan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    789 km
  narrow gauge:
    789 km 1.050-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    7,500 km
  paved:
    asphalt 5,500 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone 2,000 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 209 km
Ports:
    Al'Aqabah
Merchant marine:
  total:
    2 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 61,678 GRT/113,080 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 1, oil tanker 1
Airports:
  total:
    17
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    9
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                                     Jordan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    81,500 telephones; adequate telephone system
  local:
    NA microwave, cable, and radio links
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 ARABSAT earth
    station; coaxial cable and microwave to Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Syria;
    microwave link to Lebanon is inactive; participant in MEDARABTEL, a
    microwave radio relay network linking Syria, Jordan, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia,
    Algeria, and Morocco
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 5, FM 7, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    8 and 1 TV receive-only satellite link
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Jordan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    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)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 981,004; males fit for military service 699,891; males reach
    military age (18) annually 45,494 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $564.2 million, 9.1% of GDP (1995 est.)
Kenya
                                   Juan de Nova Island
Affiliation:
    (possession of France)
                               Juan de Nova Island
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, island in the Mozambique Channel, about one-third of the
    way between Madagascar and Mozambique
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    4.4 sq km
  land area:
    4.4 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 7.5 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    24.1 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    12 nm
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claimed by Madagascar
Climate:
    tropical
Terrain:
    NA
Natural resources:
    guano deposits and other fertilizers
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    90%
  other:
    10%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    periodic cyclones
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    wildlife sanctuary
                               Juan de Nova Island
                                     People
Population:
    uninhabited
                               Juan de Nova Island
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Juan de Nova Island
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Ile Juan de Nova
Digraph:
    JU
Type:
    French possession administered by Commissioner of the Republic, resident in
    Reunion
Capital:
    none; administered by France from Reunion
Independence:
    none (possession of France)
                               Juan de Nova Island
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                               Juan de Nova Island
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    NA km; short line going to a jetty
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                               Juan de Nova Island
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
Kingman Reef
KAZAKHSTAN - Passport and visa required.  For additional information
contact the Embassy of Kazakhstan, 3421 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20007 (202/333-4504 or 07).
Kazakhstan - Consular Information Sheet
February 16, 1994
Country Description:  Kazakhstan is a nation undergoing profound political
and economic change.  It is a new independent state still in the process of
stabilizing its relations with neighboring countries.  Political activities
have been peaceful.  Tourist facilities are not highly developed, and many
of the goods and services taken for granted in other countries are not yet
available.  Internal air travel generally operates but suffers disruptions.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Visas are issued at
the Kazakhstan Embassy (on the basis of a letter of invitation from a
Kazakhstani organization) and at the Almaty Airport.  Visas issued at the
airport without a letter of invitation are only valid for three days.
Kazakhstan immigration officials consider visas for Russia, Uzbekistan,
Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, and Belarus to be valid for transit (up to
three days) through Kazakhstan.  U.S. citizens can contact the Kazakhstan
Embassy, 3421 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Washington D.C. 20007, telephone (202)
333-4507 for current information on visa requirements.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Kazakhstan is limited.  There is a
severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable needles,
anesthetics, and antibiotics.  Incidence of infectious diseases is generally
higher than in the U.S., and immunizations are unavailable.  Drinking only
boiled or bottled water will help guard against cholera, which has been
reported.  Elderly travelers and those with existing health problems may be
at risk due to inadequate medical facilities.  The U.S. Embassy maintains a
list of English speaking physicians in the area.  Doctors and hospitals
often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  Travelers have
found that in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage, including medical evacuation coverage, has proved to be
useful.  Further information on health matters can be obtained from the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers' hotline, tel: (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  Common street crime has increased, especially at night,
and some robbery victims have been assaulted.  Robbers congregate around
hotels that cater to foreigners.  Walking in a group or utilizing an
official metered taxi with door to door service is the best way to traverse
the cities after sunset.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should
be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in
the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Russia."  They are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Kazakhstan is a cash only economy.  Traveler's checks
and credit cards are rarely accepted.  Kazakhstan has its own currency, the
ten'ge.  U.S. dollars can be changed only at official exchange offices or in
banks.  Anyone caught dealing on the black market can expect harsh punishment.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the Consular Section of the U.S.
Embassy may obtain updated information on travel and security within
Kazakhstan.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Almaty, Kazakhstan, is located at
99/97A Furmanova Street, Telephone [phone].
No. 94-012
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 29, 1993 to add
information on visas, include details on street crime and infectious
diseases, and to note the danger of changing U.S. dollars on the black market.
=                                   Kazakhstan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Asia, northwest of China
Map references:
    Commonwealth of Independent States - Central Asian States
Area:
  total area:
    2,717,300 sq km
  land area:
    2,669,800 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than four times the size of Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 12,012 km, China 1,533 km, Kyrgyzstan 1,051 km, Russia 6,846 km,
    Turkmenistan 379 km, Uzbekistan 2,203 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
  note:
    Kazakhstan borders the Aral Sea (1,015 km) and the Caspian Sea (1,894 km)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    Caspian Sea boundaries are not yet determined
Climate:
    continental, cold winters and hot summers, arid and semiarid
Terrain:
    extends from the Volga to the Altai Mountains and from the plains in western
    Siberia to oasis and desert in Central Asia
Natural resources:
    major deposits of petroleum, coal, iron ore, manganese, chrome ore, nickel,
    cobalt, copper, molybdenum, lead, zinc, bauxite, gold, uranium
Land use:
  arable land:
    15%
  permanent crops:
    NEGL%
  meadows and pastures:
    57%
  forest and woodland:
    4%
  other:
    24%
Irrigated land:
    23,080 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    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 pollution 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; pollution in the Caspian
    Sea; soil pollution from overuse of agricultural chemicals and salinization
    from faulty irrigation practices
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Climate
    Change, Desertification
                                   Kazakhstan
                                    Geography
Note:
    landlocked
                                   Kazakhstan
                                     People
Population:
    17,376,615 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    30% (female 2,589,509; male 2,664,952)
  15-64 years:
    63% (female 5,531,519; male 5,371,563)
  65 years and over:
    7% (female 820,900; male 398,172) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.62% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    19.26 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.93 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -5.11 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    40 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    68.25 years
  male:
    63.61 years
  female:
    73.13 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.43 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Kazakhstani(s)
  adjective:
    Kazakhstani
Ethnic divisions:
    Kazakh (Qazaq) 41.9%, Russian 37%, Ukrainian 5.2%, German 4.7%, Uzbek 2.1%,
    Tatar 2%, other 7.1% (1991 official data)
Religions:
    Muslim 47%, Russian Orthodox 44%, Protestant 2%, other 7%
Languages:
    Kazakh (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
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    98%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    96%
Labor force:
    7.356 million
  by occupation:
    industry and construction 31%, agriculture and forestry 26%, other 43%
    (1992)
                                   Kazakhstan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Kazakhstan
  conventional short form:
    Kazakhstan
  local long form:
    Qazaqstan Respublikasy
  local short form:
    none
  former:
    Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic
Digraph:
    KZ
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Almaty
Administrative divisions:
    19 oblystar (singular - oblys) and 1 city (qalalar, singular - qala)*;
    Almaty Qalasy*, Almaty Oblysy, Aqmola Oblysy, Aqtobe Oblysy, Atyrau Oblysy,
    Batys Qazaqstan Oblysy (Oral), Kokshetau Oblysy, Mangghystau Oblysy (Aqtau),
    Ongtustik Qazaqstan Oblysy (Shymkent), Qaraghandy Oblysy, Qostanay Oblysy,
    Qyzylorda Oblysy, Pavlodar Oblysy, Semey Oblysy, Shyghys Qazaqstan Oblysy
    (Oskemen; formerly Ust'-Kamenogorsk), Soltustik Qazaqstan Oblysy
    (Petropavl), Taldyqorghan Oblysy, Torghay Oblysy, Zhambyl Oblysy,
    Zhezqazghan Oblysy
  note:
    names in parentheses are administrative centers when name differs from oblys
    name
Independence:
    16 December 1991 (from the Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 16 December (1991)
Constitution:
    adopted 28 January 1993
Legal system:
    based on civil law system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Nursultan NAZARBAYEV (since NA April 1990); Vice President Yerik
    ASANBAYEV (since 1 December 1991); election last held 1 December 1991 (next
    to be held NA 1996); results - Nursultan A. NAZARBAYEV ran unopposed; note -
    NAZARBAYEV has extended his term to the year 2000 by a nationwide referendum
    held 30 April 1995
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Akezhan KAZHEGELDIN (since 12 October 1994); First Deputy
    Prime Ministers Nigmatzhan ISINGARIN (since 12 October 1994) and Vitalia
    METTE (since March 1995)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
                                   Kazakhstan
                                   Government
  Supreme Council:
    elections last held 7 March 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (177 total) Union Peoples' Unity of
    Kazakhstan 33, Confederation of Trade Unions of the Republic of Kazakhstan
    11, Peoples' Congress of Kazakhstan Party 9, Socialist Party of Kazakhstan
    8, Peasant Union of the Republic Kazakhstan 4, Social Movement LAD 4,
    Organization of Veterans 1, Union of Youth of Kazakhstan 1, Democratic
    Committee for Human Rights 1, Association of Lawyers of Kazakhstan 1,
    International Public Committee "Aral-Asia-Kazakhstan" 1, Congress of
    Entrepreneurs of Kazakhstan 1, Deputies of the 12th Supreme Soviet 40,
    independents 62
  note:
    the Supreme Council disbanded 12 March 1995 following a Constitutional Court
    ruling that the March 1994 elections were invalid
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    People's Unity Party (PUP; was Union of People's Unity), Kuanysh SULTANOV,
    chairman; People's Congress of Kazakhstan (PCK), Olzhas SULEYMENOV,
    chairman; Socialist Party of Kazakhstan (SPK; former Communist Party),
    Yermukhamet YERTYSHBAYEV, co-chairman; Republican Party (Azat), Kamal
    ORMANTAYEV, chairman; Democratic Progress (Russian) Party, Alexandra
    DOKUCHAYEVA, chairman; Confederation of Trade Unions of the Republic of
    Kazakhstan; Peasant Union of the Republic Kazakhstan (KPU); Social Movement
    LAD, V. MIKHAYLOV, chairman; Union of Youth of Kazakhstan; Democratic
    Committee for Human Rights; Association of Lawyers of Kazakhstan;
    International Public Committee "Aral-Asia-Kazakhstan"; Congress of
    Entrepreneurs of Kazakhstan; Deputies of the 12th Supreme Soviet; People's
    Cooperative Party, Umirzak SARSENOV, chairman; Organization of Veterans
Other political or pressure groups:
    Independent Trade Union Center (Birlesu; an association of independent trade
    union and business associations), Leonid SOLOMIN, president
Member of:
    AsDB, CCC, CIS, EBRD, ECO, ESCAP, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFC, ILO, IMF, IMO,
    INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NACC, OIC (observer),
    OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Tuleutai S. SULEYMENOV
  chancery:
    (temporary) 3421 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 4507
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador William H. COURTNEY
  embassy:
    99/97 Furmanova Street, Almaty, Republic of Kazakhstan 480012
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [7] [phone]
  FAX:
    [7] [phone]
Flag:
    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
                                   Kazakhstan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Kazakhstan, 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. Kazakhstan'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 Kazakhstan'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 which is gradually
    lifting state controls over economic activity and shifting assets into the
    private sector. Nevertheless, government control over key sectors of the
    economy remains strong. Sustained economic hardships and continued pressures
    from industrial elites will make it difficult for the government to sustain
    its policies of monetary and fiscal discipline which had brought down
    inflation by the end of 1994. Continued lack of pipeline transportation for
    expanded oil exports has closed off a likely source of economic recovery.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $55.2 billion (1994 estimate as extrapolated
    from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    -25% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,200 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    24% per month (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    1.1% includes only officially registered unemployed; also large numbers of
    underemployed workers (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $3.1 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    oil, ferrous and nonferrous metals, chemicals, grain, wool, meat, coal
  partners:
    Russia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan
Imports:
    $3.5 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and parts, industrial materials, oil and gas
  partners:
    Russia and other former Soviet republics, China
External debt:
    less than $1 billion debt to Russia
Industrial production:
    growth rate -28% (1994)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    17,380,000 kW
  production:
    65.1 billion kWh
                                   Kazakhstan
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    3,750 kWh (1994)
Industries:
    accounts for 26% of net national product; extractive industries (oil, coal,
    iron ore, manganese, chromite, lead, zinc, copper, titanium, bauxite, gold,
    silver, phosphates, sulfur), iron and steel, nonferrous metal, tractors and
    other agricultural machinery, electric motors, construction materials
Agriculture:
    accounts for 20% of GDP; employs about 26% of the labor force; grain, mostly
    spring wheat; meat, cotton, wool
Illicit drugs:
    illicit cultivation of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for CIS consumption;
    limited government eradication program; used as transshipment point for
    illicit drugs to Western Europe and North America from Southwest Asia
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    approximately $1 billion in foreign loans and credits allocated in 1994;
    disbursements projected at $700 billion through 1995
Currency:
    national currency the tenge introduced on 15 November 1993
Exchange rates:
    tenges per US$1 - 54 (yearend 1994)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                   Kazakhstan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    14,460 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines
  broad gauge:
    14,460 km 1.520-m gauge (1990)
Highways:
  total:
    189,000 km
  paved and graveled:
    108,100 km
  unpaved:
    earth 80,900 km (1990)
Inland waterways:
    Syrdariya River, Ertis River
Pipelines:
    crude oil 2,850 km; refined products 1,500 km; natural gas 3,480 km (1992)
Ports:
    Aqtau (Shevchenko), Atyrau (Gur'yev), Oskemen (Ust-Kamenogorsk), Pavlodar,
    Semey (Semipalatinsk)
Airports:
  total:
    352
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    7
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    23
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    11
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    5
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    9
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    9
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    8
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    25
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    65
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    190
                                   Kazakhstan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    2.2 million telephones; telephone service is poor; about 17 telephones/100
    persons in urban areas and 7.6 telephones/100 persons in rural areas; Almaty
    has 184,000 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    land line and microwave radio relay
  international:
    international traffic with other former USSR republics and China carried by
    landline and microwave, and with other countries by satellite and through 8
    international telecommunications circuits at the Moscow international
    gateway switch; INTELSAT earth station; new satellite earth station
    established at Almaty with Turkish financial help (December 1992) with 2500
    channel band width
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    4.088 million (with multiple speakers for program diffusion 6,082,000)
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    Orbita (TV receive only) earth station
  televisions:
    4.75 million
                                   Kazakhstan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Republic National Guard, Republic Security Forces (internal and border
    troops)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 4,513,089; males fit for military service 3,605,584; males
    reach military age (18) annually 154,280 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    69.3 billion rubles, NA% of GDP (forecast for 1993); note - conversion of
    the military budget into US dollars using the current exchange rate could
    produce misleading results
Kiribati
`;N;KENYA - Passport and visa required.  Visa must be obtained in advance.
Single-entry visa for tourist/business stay up to 6 months, $10 (money
order only); requires 1 application form, 2 photos and onward/return
ticket.  Yellow fever  immunization is recommend.  Anti-malaria pills
are recommended for those travelling to the western or coastal regions.
Multiple-entry  business visa valid  for up to 1 year, $50.  Payment by
cashiers check or money order only.  Airport departure tax is $20.
Consult the Embassy of Kenya, 2249 R St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/387-6101) or Consulate General:  Los Angeles (310/274-6635) or New
York (212/486-1300).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Kenya
============================================================
Kenya - Consular Information Sheet
 November 9, 1995
Country Description:  Kenya is a developing east African country.
Tourist facilities are widely available in Nairobi, on the coast,
and in the game parks and reserves.
Entry Requirements:  Entry information (and information about
departure tax) may be obtained from the Embassy of Kenya, 2249 R
Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], or
Consulates General in Los Angeles and New York City.  Overseas,
inquiries may be made at the nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate.
Areas of Instability:  Kenya is in a political transition period,
from a single-party democracy to a multi-party democracy.  From time
to time, political or ethnic tensions, associated with this
transition, increase--resulting in localized areas of instability,
disruption of public services, and sporadic demonstrations.  These
ethnic and political clashes have had no affect on tourism and have
little potential to do so in the future.
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical services are available in
Nairobi.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid outside the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does
not provide for the payment of medical services outside the United
States.  Supplemental insurance with specific overseas coverage,
including air evacuations, has proved useful.  Information on other
health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline, telephone (404)
332-4559.
Information on Crime:  There is a high rate of street crime against
tourists in downtown Nairobi, Mombasa and at coastal beach resorts.
Reports of attacks against tourists by groups of two or more armed
assailants have increased in recent months.  Pickpockets and thieves
also carry out "snatch and run" crimes near crowds.  Visitors have
found it safer not to carry valuables with them, but to store all
valuables in hotel safety deposit boxes or safe rooms.  There have
been reports of thieves snatching jewelry and other objects from
open vehicle windows while motorists are either stopped at a traffic
light or in heavy traffic.  Armed carjackings are increasingly
common in Nairobi, with some ten vehicles stolen by armed robbers
each day.  There is also a high incidence of residential break-ins.
Thieves and con men have been known to impersonate hotel employees,
police officers or government officials.  Tourists who accept candy,
biscuits, or juice from new acquaintances on intercity buses have
been robbed after being drugged by food laced with sedatives.
Highway banditry is common on the roads leading to the Somali
border.  Air travel is the safest means of transportation when
visiting any of the coastal resorts north of Malindi.  Walking alone
or at night in public parks, along footpaths or beaches and in
poorly lit areas can be dangerous.  The Kenyan mail system can be
unreliable, and monetary instruments (credit cards, checks, etc.)
are frequently stolen.  International couriers such as Federal
Express or DHL have proven to be the safest means of shipping
envelopes and packages.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Currency Regulations:  Up to 100,000 Kenyan shillings may be taken
out of the country.  Destruction of Kenyan currency, even in small
amounts, is illegal, and almost always results in arrest and a fine.
Game Park Security:  Highway banditry is occasionally a problem in
or near some game parks or reserves.  In recent months, a number of
tour vehicles ferrying European tourists from beach resorts north of
Mombasa to Tsavo East National Park Have been targets of bandit
activity.  Travelers who do not use the services of reputable travel
firms or knowledgeable guides or drivers are especially at risk.
Safaris are best undertaken with a minimum of two vehicles so that
there is a backup in case of mechanical failure or other emergency.
Solo camping is always risky.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  The penalty
for possession of illegal drugs, including marijuana, is 10 years
imprisonment, with no option of fine.  The penalty for purchasing or
selling illegal drugs, including marijuana, is 20 years
imprisonment, with no option of fine.
Other Information:  Water in Nairobi is potable.  In other parts of
the country, water must be boiled or bottled water used.  Travel by
passenger train may be unsafe, particularly during the rainy season,
because of the lack of routine maintenance and safety checks.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to
register at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi and may obtain updated
information on travel and security in Kenya.  The U.S. Embassy is
located at the intersection of Moi and Haile Selassie Avenues in
Nairobi; the telephone number is (254-2) 334141.  The international
mailing address is P.O. BOX 30137 Nairobi, Kenya.  Mail using
domestic postage may be addressed to Box 21A, Unit 64100, APO AE
09831.
 No. 95-141
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued October 28,
1994, to update information concerning game park security.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Kenya
============================================================
Kenya - Public Announcement
 April 8, 1994
 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release
The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya has issued the following
announcement:
"The U.S. Embassy and several private institutions in Kenya have
recently received bomb threats that profess to be directed against
American interests in Kenya.  To date, none of the threats has
proved real, nor does the Embassy have any information that would
lead us to believe that the threats will actually be carried out.
Nevertheless, we must take these threats seriously.  All Americans
should heighten their security awareness and avoid unnecessary
attention to their person or activities.  The Embassy recommends
that Americans pay particular attention to any indication of
surveillance or other unusual or suspect activity, which should be
reported to appropriate authorities immediately.  The Embassy should
be informed of any threats against private American concerns or
individuals."
 No. 94-ccc
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Kenya
============================================================
Kenya - Consular Information Sheet
 November 9, 1995
Country Description:  Kenya is a developing east African country.
Tourist facilities are widely available in Nairobi, on the coast,
and in the game parks and reserves.
Entry Requirements:  Entry information (and information about
departure tax) may be obtained from the Embassy of Kenya, 2249 R
Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], or
Consulates General in Los Angeles and New York City.  Overseas,
inquiries may be made at the nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate.
Areas of Instability:  Kenya is in a political transition period,
from a single-party democracy to a multi-party democracy.  From time
to time, political or ethnic tensions, associated with this
transition, increase--resulting in localized areas of instability,
disruption of public services, and sporadic demonstrations.  These
ethnic and political clashes have had no affect on tourism and have
little potential to do so in the future.
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical services are available in
Nairobi.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid outside the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does
not provide for the payment of medical services outside the United
States.  Supplemental insurance with specific overseas coverage,
including air evacuations, has proved useful.  Information on other
health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline, telephone (404)
332-4559.
Information on Crime:  There is a high rate of street crime against
tourists in downtown Nairobi, Mombasa and at coastal beach resorts.
Reports of attacks against tourists by groups of two or more armed
assailants have increased in recent months.  Pickpockets and thieves
also carry out "snatch and run" crimes near crowds.  Visitors have
found it safer not to carry valuables with them, but to store all
valuables in hotel safety deposit boxes or safe rooms.  There have
been reports of thieves snatching jewelry and other objects from
open vehicle windows while motorists are either stopped at a traffic
light or in heavy traffic.  Armed carjackings are increasingly
common in Nairobi, with some ten vehicles stolen by armed robbers
each day.  There is also a high incidence of residential break-ins.
Thieves and con men have been known to impersonate hotel employees,
police officers or government officials.  Tourists who accept candy,
biscuits, or juice from new acquaintances on intercity buses have
been robbed after being drugged by food laced with sedatives.
Highway banditry is common on the roads leading to the Somali
border.  Air travel is the safest means of transportation when
visiting any of the coastal resorts north of Malindi.  Walking alone
or at night in public parks, along footpaths or beaches and in
poorly lit areas can be dangerous.  The Kenyan mail system can be
unreliable, and monetary instruments (credit cards, checks, etc.)
are frequently stolen.  International couriers such as Federal
Express or DHL have proven to be the safest means of shipping
envelopes and packages.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Currency Regulations:  Up to 100,000 Kenyan shillings may be taken
out of the country.  Destruction of Kenyan currency, even in small
amounts, is illegal, and almost always results in arrest and a fine.
Game Park Security:  Highway banditry is occasionally a problem in
or near some game parks or reserves.  In recent months, a number of
tour vehicles ferrying European tourists from beach resorts north of
Mombasa to Tsavo East National Park Have been targets of bandit
activity.  Travelers who do not use the services of reputable travel
firms or knowledgeable guides or drivers are especially at risk.
Safaris are best undertaken with a minimum of two vehicles so that
there is a backup in case of mechanical failure or other emergency.
Solo camping is always risky.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  The penalty
for possession of illegal drugs, including marijuana, is 10 years
imprisonment, with no option of fine.  The penalty for purchasing or
selling illegal drugs, including marijuana, is 20 years
imprisonment, with no option of fine.
Other Information:  Water in Nairobi is potable.  In other parts of
the country, water must be boiled or bottled water used.  Travel by
passenger train may be unsafe, particularly during the rainy season,
because of the lack of routine maintenance and safety checks.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to
register at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi and may obtain updated
information on travel and security in Kenya.  The U.S. Embassy is
located at the intersection of Moi and Haile Selassie Avenues in
Nairobi; the telephone number is (254-2) 334141.  The international
mailing address is P.O. BOX 30137 Nairobi, Kenya.  Mail using
domestic postage may be addressed to Box 21A, Unit 64100, APO AE
09831.
 No. 95-141
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued October 28,
1994, to update information concerning game park security.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
/                                         Kenya
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Africa, bordering the Indian Ocean, between Somalia and Tanzania
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    582,650 sq km
  land area:
    569,250 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than twice the size of Nevada
Land boundaries:
    total 3,446 km, Ethiopia 830 km, Somalia 682 km, Sudan 232 km, Tanzania 769
    km, Uganda 933 km
Coastline:
    536 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    administrative boundary with Sudan does not coincide with international
    boundary; possible claim by Somalia based on unification of ethnic Somalis
Climate:
    varies from tropical along coast to arid in interior
Terrain:
    low plains rise to central highlands bisected by Great Rift Valley; fertile
    plateau in west
Natural resources:
    gold, limestone, soda ash, salt barytes, rubies, fluorspar, garnets,
    wildlife
Land use:
  arable land:
    3%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    7%
  forest and woodland:
    4%
  other:
    85%
Irrigated land:
    520 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution from urban and industrial wastes; degradation of water
    quality from increased use of pesticides and fertilizers; deforestation;
    soil erosion; desertification; poaching
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea,
    Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified -
    Desertification
                                      Kenya
                                    Geography
Note:
    the Kenyan Highlands comprise one of the most successful agricultural
    production regions in Africa; glaciers on Mt. Kenya; unique physiography
    supports abundant and varied wildlife of scientific and economic value
                                      Kenya
                                     People
Population:
    28,817,227 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 6,841,235; male 6,957,908)
  15-64 years:
    50% (female 7,277,061; male 7,085,925)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 359,659; male 295,439) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.99% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    41.66 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.04 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -19.69 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    73.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    52.41 years
  male:
    50.72 years
  female:
    54.16 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.76 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Kenyan(s)
  adjective:
    Kenyan
Ethnic divisions:
    Kikuyu 22%, Luhya 14%, Luo 13%, Kalenjin 12%, Kamba 11%, Kisii 6%, Meru 6%,
    Asian, European, and Arab 1%, other 15%
Religions:
    Protestant (including Anglican) 38%, Roman Catholic 28%, indigenous beliefs
    26%, other 8%
Languages:
    English (official), Swahili (official), numerous indigenous languages
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    71%
  male:
    81%
  female:
    62%
Labor force:
  by occupation:
    agriculture 75%-80% (1993 est.), non-agriculture 20%-25% (1993 est.)
                                      Kenya
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Kenya
  conventional short form:
    Kenya
  former:
    British East Africa
Digraph:
    KE
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Nairobi
Administrative divisions:
    7 provinces and 1 area*; Central, Coast, Eastern, Nairobi Area*, North
    Eastern, Nyanza, Rift Valley, Western
Independence:
    12 December 1963 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 12 December (1963)
Constitution:
    12 December 1963, amended as a republic 1964; reissued with amendments 1979,
    1983, 1986, 1988, 1991, and 1992
Legal system:
    based on English common law, tribal law, and Islamic law; judicial review in
    High Court; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations;
    constitutional amendment of 1982 making Kenya a de jure one-party state
    repealed in 1991
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Daniel Toroitich arap MOI (since 14 October 1978); Vice President
    George SAITOTI (since 10 May 1989); election last held on 29 December 1992
    (next to be held NA 1997); results - President Daniel T. arap MOI was
    reelected with 37% of the vote; Kenneth Matiba (FORD-ASILI) 26%; Mwai Kibaki
    (SP) 19%, Oginga Odinga (FORD-Kenya) 17%
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly (Bunge):
    elections last held on 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:
    first multiparty election since repeal of one-party state law in 1991
Judicial branch:
    Court of Appeal, High Court
Political parties and leaders:
    ruling party is Kenya 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 Kenya (DP), Mwai
    KIBAKI
Other political or pressure groups:
    labor unions; Roman Catholic Church
                                      Kenya
                                   Government
Member of:
    ESCAP, FAO, G-77, ICAO, ICRM, IFAD, IFRCS, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory
    user), IOC, ISO, ITU, NAM, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMIL, UNU, UPU,
    WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Benjamin Edgar KIPKORIR
  chancery:
    2249 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Los Angeles and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Aurelia BRAZEAL
  embassy:
    corner of Moi Avenue and Haile Selassie Avenue, Nairobi
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 30137, Unit 64100, Nairobi; APO AE 09831
  telephone:
    [254] (2) 334141
  FAX:
    [254] (2) 340838
Flag:
    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
                                      Kenya
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Kenya 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 infrastructure. In
    industry and services, Nairobi's reluctance to embrace IMF-supported reforms
    had held back investment and growth in 1991-93. Nairobi's push on economic
    reform in 1994, however, helped support a 3.3% increase in output.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $33.1 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3.3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,170 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    30% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    35% urban (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $2.4 billion
  expenditures:
    $2.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $740 million (1990 est.)
Exports:
    $1.45 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    tea 25%, coffee 18%, petroleum products 11% (1990)
  partners:
    EC 47%, Africa 23%, Asia 11%, US 4%, Middle East 3% (1991)
Imports:
    $1.85 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and transportation equipment 29%, petroleum and petroleum products
    15%, iron and steel 7%, raw materials, food and consumer goods (1989)
  partners:
    EC 46%, Asia 23%, Middle East 20%, US 5% (1991)
External debt:
    $7 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3.9% (1991 est.); accounts for 14% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    810,000 kW
  production:
    3.3 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    117 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    small-scale consumer goods (plastic, furniture, batteries, textiles, soap,
    cigarettes, flour), processing agricultural products, oil refining, cement,
    tourism
Agriculture:
    most important sector, accounting for 27% of GDP and 65% of exports; cash
    crops - coffee, tea; food products - corn, wheat, sugarcane, fruit,
    vegetables, dairy products, beef, pork, poultry, eggs
                                      Kenya
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    widespread harvesting of small, wild plots of marijuana and qat; 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
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $839 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $7.49 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $74 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $83
    million
Currency:
    1 Kenyan shilling (KSh) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Kenyan shillings (KSh) per US$1 - 44.478 (January 1995), 56.051 (1994),
    58.001 (1993), 32.217 (1992), 27.508 (1991), 22.915 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                                      Kenya
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,650 km
  narrow gauge:
    2,650 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    64,590 km
  paved:
    7,000 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 4,150 km; improved earth 53,440 km
Inland waterways:
    part of Lake Victoria system is within boundaries of Kenya
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 483 km
Ports:
    Kisumu, Lamu, Mombasa
Merchant marine:
  total:
    2 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 4,883 GRT/6,255 DWT
  ships by type:
    barge carrier 1, oil tanker 1
Airports:
  total:
    246
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    22
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    83
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    14
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    119
                                      Kenya
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    over 260,000 telephones; in top group of African systems
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    consists primarily of microwave radio relay links
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 16, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    6
  televisions:
    NA
                                      Kenya
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary General Service Unit of the Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 6,358,344; males fit for military service 3,932,506 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $136 million, 1.9% of GDP (FY93/94)
Korea North
                                      Kingman Reef
Affiliation:
    (territory of the US)
                                  Kingman Reef
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, reef in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from
    Hawaii to American Samoa
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    1 sq km
  land area:
    1 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 1.7 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    3 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical, but moderated by prevailing winds
Terrain:
    low and nearly level with a maximum elevation of about 1 meter
Natural resources:
    none
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    wet or awash most of the time, maximum elevation of about 1 meter makes this
    a maritime hazard
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    barren coral atoll with deep interior lagoon; closed to the public
                                  Kingman Reef
                                     People
Population:
    uninhabited
                                  Kingman Reef
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Kingman Reef
Digraph:
    KQ
Type:
    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
Capital:
    none; administered from Washington, DC
                                  Kingman Reef
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                                  Kingman Reef
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
Airports:
    lagoon was used as a halfway station between Hawaii and American Samoa by
    Pan American Airways for flying boats in 1937 and 1938
                                  Kingman Reef
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
Korea South
KIRIBATI (formerly Gilbert Islands) - Passport and visa required.  For
&p&                                        Kiribati
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, group of islands in the Pacific Ocean, straddling the equator and
    the International Date Line, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to
    Australia
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    717 sq km
  land area:
    717 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than four times the size of Washington, DC
  note:
    includes three island groups - Gilbert Islands, Line Islands, Phoenix
    Islands
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    1,143 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; marine, hot and humid, moderated by trade winds
Terrain:
    mostly low-lying coral atolls surrounded by extensive reefs
Natural resources:
    phosphate (production discontinued in 1979)
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    51%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    3%
  other:
    46%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    typhoons can occur any time, but usually November to March; occasional
    tornadoes
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer
    Protection; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change
Note:
    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 Polynesia and Nauru
                                    Kiribati
                                     People
Population:
    79,386 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    1.95% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    31.25 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.31 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.56 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    98.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    54.16 years
  male:
    52.56 years
  female:
    55.78 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.73 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    I-Kiribati (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    I-Kiribati
Ethnic divisions:
    Micronesian
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 52.6%, Protestant (Congregational) 40.9%, Seventh-Day
    Adventist, Baha'i, Church of God, Mormon 6% (1985)
Languages:
    English (official), Gilbertese
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    7,870 economically active, not including subsistence farmers (1985 est.)
                                    Kiribati
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Kiribati
  conventional short form:
    Kiribati
  former:
    Gilbert Islands
Digraph:
    KR
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Tarawa
Administrative divisions:
    3 units; Gilbert Islands, Line Islands, Phoenix Islands
  note:
    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,
    Kiritimati, Kuria, Maiana, Makin, Marakei, Nikunau, Nonouti, Onotoa,
    Tabiteuea, Tabuaeran, Tamana, Tarawa, Teraina; note - one council for each
    of the inhabited islands)
Independence:
    12 July 1979 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 12 July (1979)
Constitution:
    12 July 1979
Legal system:
    NA
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President (Beretitenti) Teburoro TITO (since 1 October 1994); Vice President
    (Kauoman-ni-Beretitenti) Tewareka TENTOA (since 12 October 1994); election
    last held on 30 September 1994 (next to be held by NA 1999)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president from an elected parliament
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  House of Assembly (Maneaba Ni Maungatabu):
    elections last held on 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
Judicial branch:
    Court of Appeal, High Court
Political parties and leaders:
    National Progressive Party, Teatao TEANNAKI; Christian Democratic Party,
    Teburoro TITO; New Movement Party, leader NA; Liberal Party, Tewareka
    TENTOA; Maneaba Party, Roniti TEIWAKI; Maneaban Te Mauri, leader NA
  note:
    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
Member of:
    ACP, AsDB, C, ESCAP, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, IDA, IFC, IFRCS (associate), IMF,
    INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, ITU, SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UNESCO,
    UPU, WHO
                                    Kiribati
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
    Kiribati has no mission in the US
US diplomatic representation:
    the ambassador to Fiji is accredited to Kiribati
Flag:
    the upper half is red with a yellow frigate bird flying over a yellow rising
    sun, and the lower half is blue with three horizontal wavy white stripes to
    represent the ocean
                                    Kiribati
                                     Economy
Overview:
    A remote country of 33 scattered coral 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
    declined about 5% in 1987, as the fish catch fell sharply to only one-fourth
    the level of 1986 and copra production was hampered by repeated rains.
    Output rebounded strongly in 1988, with real GDP growing by 10%. The upturn
    in economic growth came from an increase in copra production and a good fish
    catch. GDP then fell by 2.2% in 1989 and by 2.9% in 1990, but has risen by
    about 3% annually in 1991-93. Foreign financial aid, largely from the UK and
    Japan, is a critical supplement to GDP, amounting to 25%-50% of GDP in
    recent years.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $62 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.9% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $800 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    6.5% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    2%; underemployment 70% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $29.6 million
  expenditures:
    $32.8 million, including capital expenditures of $14 million (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $4.2 million (f.o.b., 1992 est.)
  commodities:
    copra 50%, seaweed 16%, fish 15%
  partners:
    Denmark, Fiji, US
Imports:
    $33.1 million (c.i.f., 1992 est.)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, machinery and equipment, miscellaneous manufactured goods, fuel
  partners:
    Australia 40%, Japan 18%, Fiji 17%, NZ 6%, US 4% (1991)
External debt:
    $2 million (December 1989 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 0.7% (1992 est.); accounts for less than 4% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    5,000 kW
  production:
    13 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    131 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    fishing, handicrafts
Agriculture:
    accounts for 23% of GDP (including fishing); copra and fish contribute about
    65% to exports; subsistence farming predominates; food crops - taro,
    breadfruit, sweet potatoes, vegetables; not self-sufficient in food
                                    Kiribati
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89),
    $273 million
Currency:
    1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3058 (January 1995), 1.3667 (1994),
    1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2835 (1991), 1.2799 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    NA
                                    Kiribati
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    640 km
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Inland waterways:
    small network of canals, totaling 5 km, in Line Islands
Ports:
    Banaba, Betio, English Harbor, Kanton
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1 passenger-cargo ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,291 GRT/1,295 DWT
Airports:
    21
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    11
                                    Kiribati
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    1,400 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                                    Kiribati
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Police Force (carries out law enforcement functions and paramilitary duties;
    there are small police posts on all islands); no military force is
    maintained
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
KIRIBATI (formerly Gilbert Islands) - Passport and visa required.  For
additional information consult British Embassy (202/462-1340).
Kuwait
KOREA, DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF (North Korea) - The United
States does not maintain diplomatic or consular relations with North Korea and
has no third country representing U.S. interests there.  Attention:  U.S.
citizens need a Treasury Dept. license in order to engage in any
transactions related to travel to and within North Korea.  Before
planning any travel to North Korea, U.S. citizens should contact the Licensing
Division, Office of Foreign Assets Control, Department of the Treasury,
1331 G St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20220 (202/622-2480).  Visa
information must be obtained from a consulate in a country that maintains
diplomatic relations with North Korea.
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - North Korea
============================================================
North Korea - Travel Warning
 June 21, 1995
U.S. citizens are warned against travel to North Korea.  The United
States does not recognize the government of North Korea and does not
maintain diplomatic or consular relations with North Korean
authorities.  There is no Consular representation for U.S. citizens
and therefore the United States government is unable to accord
normal consular protection to U.S. citizens.
 No. 95-021
This extends the Travel Warning for North Korea dated July 16, 1993.
North Korea - Consular Information Sheet
 June 16, 1995
Warning:  The United States does not recognize the government of
North Korea and does not maintain diplomatic or consular relations
with North Korean authorities.  The United States Government is
unable to accord normal consular protection to U.S. citizens at this
time.
Country Description:  The Democratic People's Republic of Korea
(North Korea) is a developing Communist state under the control of
the Korean Workers Party (KWP).
Embassy Location:  The United States does not have diplomatic
relations with North Korea, and does not maintain a diplomatic
presence there.  Negotiations are under way for the opening of a
U.S. Liaison Office in Pyongyang but it is uncertain when they may
be completed.  The United States government is unable to accord
normal consular protection to U.S. citizens at this time.
Entry Requirements:  Visa information is available only through a
North Korean consulate in a country which maintains diplomatic
relations with North Korea.  U.S. passports are valid for travel to
North Korea; however, a visa is required.
Restricted Financial Transactions:  Travelers do not need U.S.
Government permission to travel to North Korea.  All transactions
related to travel to, from and within North Korea and to maintenance
within North Korea are authorized.  U.S. travel service providers
are authorized to organize group travel to North Korea, including
transactions with North Korean carriers.  However, individuals may
only spend money in North Korea to purchase items ordinarily
incident to travel, such as hotel accommodations, meals, and goods
for personal consumption by the traveler in North Korea.  There is
no longer any per diem restriction on these expenses, and the use of
credit cards for these transactions is also authorized.  Because the
sanctions program prohibits business dealings with North Korea
unless licensed by the U.S. Treasury Department, purchases of other
goods or services unrelated to travel are prohibited.
U.S. Customs Requirements:  A traveler returning from North Korea
may bring into the United States as accompanied baggage $100 worth
of merchandise in non-commercial quantities, as well as
informational materials without limitation.
U.S. Treasury Department Licenses:  A license by the U.S. Treasury
Department is required for all business dealings with North Korea.
Individuals contemplating trade with North Korea may contact the
Department of the Treasury for further information at:
 Licensing Division
 Office of Foreign Assests Control
 Department of Treasury
 1500 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW,
 Treasury Annex
 Washington, D.C. 20220
 Tel: [phone]; fax: [phone]
Dual Citizenship:  U.S. citizens who were born in North Korea or
who were at one time citizens of North Korea, and the children of
such persons, may be considered dual nationals by North Korean
authorities and may, therefore, be subject to North Korean laws.
These laws may impose special obligations upon North Korean
nationals, e.g., military service, taxes.  Specific questions on
dual nationality may be directed to Overseas Citizen Services,
Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520, phone:  [phone].
Travel Documents:  U.S. citizens contemplating travel to North
Korea should carry only U.S. passports with the proper visa affixed.
 Under no condition should U.S. citizens accept travel documents
which identify them as citizens of North Korea.
 No. 95-070
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for North Korea dated
July 9, 1993, updating financial and travel information.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
6                                   Korea, North
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Asia, northern half of the Korean peninsula bordering the Korea Bay
    and the Sea of Japan, between China and Russia
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    120,540 sq km
  land area:
    120,410 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Mississippi
Land boundaries:
    total 1,673 km, China 1,416 km, South Korea 238 km, Russia 19 km
Coastline:
    2,495 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  military boundary line:
    50 nm in the Sea of Japan and the exclusive economic zone limit in the
    Yellow Sea where all foreign vessels and aircraft without permission are
    banned
International disputes:
    short section of boundary with China is indefinite; Demarcation Line with
    South Korea
Climate:
    temperate with rainfall concentrated in summer
Terrain:
    mostly hills and mountains separated by deep, narrow valleys; coastal plains
    wide in west, discontinuous in east
Natural resources:
    coal, lead, tungsten, zinc, graphite, magnesite, iron ore, copper, gold,
    pyrites, salt, fluorspar, hydropower
Land use:
  arable land:
    18%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    74%
  other:
    7%
Irrigated land:
    14,000 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    localized air pollution attributable to inadequate industrial controls;
    water pollution; inadequate supplies of potable water
  natural hazards:
    late spring droughts often followed by severe flooding; occasional typhoons
    during the early fall
                                  Korea, North
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Environmental
    Modification, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not
    ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea
Note:
    strategic location bordering China, South Korea, and Russia; mountainous
    interior is isolated, nearly inaccessible, and sparsely populated
                                  Korea, North
                                     People
Population:
    23,486,550 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    30% (female 3,402,672; male 3,540,313)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 7,840,465; male 7,741,155)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 622,250; male 339,695) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.78% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    23.31 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.47 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    26.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    70.05 years
  male:
    66.96 years
  female:
    73.29 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.34 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Korean(s)
  adjective:
    Korean
Ethnic divisions:
    racially homogeneous
Religions:
    Buddhism and Confucianism, some Christianity and syncretic Chondogyo
  note:
    autonomous religious activities now almost nonexistent; government-sponsored
    religious groups exist to provide illusion of religious freedom
Languages:
    Korean
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write Korean (1990 est.)
  total population:
    99%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    99%
Labor force:
    9.615 million
  by occupation:
    agricultural 36%, nonagricultural 64%
  note:
    shortage of skilled and unskilled labor (mid-1987 est.)
                                  Korea, North
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Democratic People's Republic of Korea
  conventional short form:
    North Korea
  local long form:
    Choson-minjujuui-inmin-konghwaguk
  local short form:
    none
  note:
    the North Koreans generally use the term "Choson" to refer to their country
Abbreviation:
    DPRK
Digraph:
    KN
Type:
    Communist state; Stalinist dictatorship
Capital:
    P'yongyang
Administrative divisions:
    9 provinces (do, singular and plural) and 3 special cities* (jikhalsi,
    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)
Independence:
    9 September 1948
  note:
    15 August 1945, date of independence from the Japanese and celebrated in
    North Korea as National Liberation Day
National holiday:
    DPRK Foundation Day, 9 September (1948)
Constitution:
    adopted 1948, completely revised 27 December 1972, revised again in April
    1992
Legal system:
    based on German civil law system with Japanese influences and Communist
    legal theory; no judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    17 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    KIM Chong-il, is the son of and designated successor to former President KIM
    Il-song (who died 8 July 1994); formal succession has not yet taken place
    (January 1995); election last held 24 May 1990 (next to be held by NA);
    results - President KIM Il-song was reelected without opposition
  head of government:
    Premier KANG Song-san (since December 1992)
  cabinet:
    State Administration Council; appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
                                  Korea, North
                                   Government
  Supreme People's Assembly (Ch'oego Inmin Hoeui):
    elections last held on 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
Judicial branch:
    Central Court
Political parties and leaders:
    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
Member of:
    ESCAP, FAO, G-77, ICAO, IFAD, IFRCS, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), IOC,
    ISO, ITU, NAM, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none
US diplomatic representation:
    none
Flag:
    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
                                  Korea, North
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 3%-5% annually during 1989-92 because of systemic problems and
    disruptions in socialist-style economic relations with the former USSR and
    China. In 1992, output dropped sharply, by perhaps 7%-9%, as the economy
    felt the cumulative effect of the reduction in outside support. The
    leadership 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. Output of the
    extractive industries includes coal, iron ore, magnesite, graphite, copper,
    zinc, lead, and precious metals. 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 collapse of Communism in the former
    Soviet Union and Eastern Europe in 1989-91 has disrupted important
    technological links. North Korea remains far behind South Korea in economic
    development and living standards. GDP is stagnant.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $21.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    0% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $920 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $19.3 billion
  expenditures:
    $19.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $1.02 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    minerals, metallurgical products, agricultural and fishery products,
    manufactures (including armaments)
  partners:
    China, Japan, Russia, South Korea, Germany, Hong Kong
Imports:
    $1.64 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    petroleum, grain, coking coal, machinery and equipment, consumer goods
  partners:
    China, Russia, Japan, Hong Kong, Germany, Singapore
External debt:
    $8 billion (1992 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -7% to -9% (1992 est.)
                                  Korea, North
                                     Economy
Electricity:
  capacity:
    9,500,000 kW
  production:
    50 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,053 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    machine building, military products, electric power, chemicals, mining,
    metallurgy, textiles, food processing
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 25% of GDP and 36% of work force; principal crops - rice,
    corn, potatoes, soybeans, pulses; livestock and livestock products - cattle,
    hogs, pork, eggs; not self-sufficient in grain
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Communist countries, $1.4 billion a year in the 1980s, but very little now
Currency:
    1 North Korean won (Wn) = 100 chon
Exchange rates:
    North Korean won (Wn) per US$1 - 2.15 (May 1994), 2.13 (May 1992), 2.14
    (September 1991), 2.1 (January 1990), 2.3 (December 1989)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                  Korea, North
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    4,915 km
  standard gauge:
    4,250 km 1.435-m gauge (3,397 km electrified; 159 km double track)
  narrow gauge:
    665 km 0.762-m gauge (1989)
Highways:
  total:
    30,000 km
  paved:
    1,861 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, earth 28,139 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    2,253 km; mostly navigable by small craft only
Pipelines:
    crude oil 37 km
Ports:
    Ch'ongjin, Haeju, Hungnam (Hamhung), Kimch'aek, Kosong, Najin, Namp'o,
    Sinuiju, Songnim, Sonbong (formerly Unggi), Ungsang, Wonsan
Merchant marine:
  total:
    87 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 727,631 GRT/1,149,291 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 9, cargo 70, combination bulk 1, oil tanker 3, passenger 2,
    passenger-cargo 1, short-sea passenger 1
  note:
    North Korea owns an additional 4 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling
    approximately 32,405 DWT that operate under Honduran registry
Airports:
  total:
    49
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    15
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    12
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    6
                                  Korea, North
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    telephone system is believed to be available only to government officials
    and not to private individuals
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 earth station near P'yongyang, uses an Indian Ocean INTELSAT satellite;
    other international connections through Moscow and Beijing
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 18, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    3.5 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    11
  televisions:
    350,000 (1989)
                                  Korea, North
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Korean People's Army (includes Army, Navy, Air Force), Civil Security Forces
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 6,753,400; males fit for military service 4,094,854; males
    reach military age (18) annually 193,480 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - about $5 billion, 20%-25% of GDP (1991 est.);
    note - the officially announced but suspect figure is $2.2 billion (1994),
    about 12% of total spending
^u`u`u
Kyrgyzstan
@KOREA, REPUBLIC OF  (South Korea)  - Passport required.  Visa not
required for a tourist stay up to 15 days.  For longer stays and other types of
travel, visa must be obtained in advance.  Tourist visa for longer stay
requires 1 application form and 1 photo.  Business visa requires 1
application form, 1 photo and company letter.  Fine imposed for
overstaying visa and for long-term visa holders not registered within 60 days after
entry.  AIDS test required for anyone staying over 90 days.  U.S. test
accepted.  For further information check Embassy of the Republic of
Korea, (Consular Division), 2600 Virginia Ave., N.W., Suite 208, Washington,
D.C. 20037 (202/939-5660/63) or nearest Consulate General:  AK
(907/561-5488), CA (213/385-9300 and 415/921-2251), FL (305/372-1555), GA
(404/522-1611), Guam (671/472-6109), HI (808/595-6109),  IL (312/822-9485), MA
(617/348-3660), NY (212/752-1700), TX (713/961-0186) or WA
(206/441-1011).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - South Korea
============================================================
South Korea - Consular Information Sheet
 September 20, 1995
Country Description: The Republic of Korea is a highly developed,
stable, democratic republic with powers shared between the president
and the legislature.  It has a modern economy, and tourist
facilities are widely available.  English is not often spoken
outside the main tourist and business centers.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  Visas are not
required for tourist or business stays of up to fifteen days (the
day of arrival counts as day number one).  For longer stays and
other types of travel, visas must be obtained in advance.  Changes
of status from one type of visa to another (from tourism to
teaching, for example) are not normally granted in country.
Applicants must depart and apply for new visas at an embassy or
consulate outside Korea.  Specific requirements are available
through the Embassy of the Republic of Korea at 2320 Massachusetts
Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], or
the nearest consulate in major U.S. cities.
Medical Facilities:  Health care facilities in the Republic of
Korea are good.  Doctors and hospitals are usually unable to bill
foreign health insurance plans for services.  Therefore, cash
payment for health services is often expected.  Some U.S. medical
insurance does not cover services outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage
including provision for medical evacuation has proven useful.  The
U.S. Embassy in Seoul and the U.S. Consulate in Pusan have lists of
hospitals and medical specialists who speak English.  The
International Travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention [phone] has additional useful health
information.
Information on Crime:  Although the crime rate in the Republic of
Korea is low, pickpocketing, purse-snatching, hotel room burglaries,
and residential crime do occur, and foreigners can be targeted.  In
addition, increased incidents of physical attacks on foreigners,
including sexual harassment, molestation and rape, have been
recently reported.  Travelers can reduce the likelihood of
encountering such incidents by taking the same precautions that they
would take in the urban United States.  The loss or theft abroad of
a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police
and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The Korean National
Police (KNP) operate a Central Interpretation Center (CIC) where
foreigners can report incidents of crime.  The CIC is available on a
twenty-four hour, seven-day-a-week basis.  In Seoul, call telephone
number 313-0842; outside of Seoul, call [phone].  The Embassy
has found, however, that English speakers are not often available at
the CIC, so it is best to ask a Korean speaker to place the call.
Useful information on safeguarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad".  It is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington D.C. 20402.
Legal Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect stiff jail sentences and fines.
Travelers should also be careful to adhere to Korean government
regulations on currency exchange and customs declarations.
Passport Seizures/Exit Bans and Commercial Disputes: The Government
of Korea sometimes seizes the passports and blocks the departure
from Korea of foreigners involved in commercial disputes.  In such
circumstances, the U.S. Government will re-issue a passport to an
American citizen who applies for one.  The Korean exit ban, however,
will remain in effect, thereby preventing departure.
Demonstrations:  Demonstrations by dissident groups, sometimes
confrontational and even violent, occasionally occur.  While many
have anti-U.S. themes, it is unlikely that violence would be
directed against individual U.S. citizen travelers.  Individuals can
reduce risk to themselves by avoiding such demonstrations to the
extent possible.
Teaching of English:  The U.S. Embassy in Seoul receives numerous
complaints from Americans who have come to Korea to teach English
under contract with private language academies (hagwons).  These are
profit-oriented businesses unregulated by the Korean government.
Despite contract language promising good salaries, furnished
apartments and other amenities, many teachers find they actually
receive much less than they were promised, and some do not even
receive benefits required by Korean law, such as health insurance
and severance pay.  Teachers' complaints include contract
violations, non-payment of salary for months at a time, sexual
harassment, intimidation, threats of arrest/deportation, and
physical assault.  A comprehensive handout entitled "Teaching
English in Korea:  Opportunities and Pitfalls" may be obtained by
writing to the Embassy.
Dual Citizenship:  The government of the Republic of Korea does not
permit dual citizenship after the age of 18.  Holders of dual
citizenship who work or study in Korea usually find themselves
compelled to choose one or the other nationality soon after that
age.  The Embassy is aware of several instances in which young
Korean-American men who were born and lived all their lives in the
U.S. arrived in Korea for a tourist visit only to find themselves
drafted into the Korean army.  Because dual citizenship is not
permitted, authorities refuse to recognize any but the Korean
citizenship of these men.  This interpretation has been recently
upheld by the Korean court.  When this occurs, the Embassy cannot
intervene.  Korean-Americans may request further information from
the nearest Korean Consulate.
Adoption:  Adoption of Korean children by foreign nationals is
still permitted, and is carefully regulated.  Any non-Korean wishing
to adopt a Korean child is required to work through one of the four
government-licensed adoption agencies.  This includes American
citizens of Korean extraction who wish to adopt the Korean citizen
child of a family member.  Private adoptions are not allowed.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy or
Consulate can obtain updated information on travel and security
within the country.
Embassy Location: The U.S. Embassy in the Republic of Korea (South
Korea) is located at 82 Sejong-Ro, Chongro-ku, Seoul - Telephone
(82-2) 397-4114.  The U.S. Consulate is located in Pusan at 24 2-Ka,
Daechung Dong, Chung-Ku  - Telephone [phone].
 No. 95-116
This replaces the consular information sheet dated March 21, 1995,
and provides updated information on English teaching in Korea.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - South Korea
============================================================
South Korea - Consular Information Sheet
 September 20, 1995
Country Description: The Republic of Korea is a highly developed,
stable, democratic republic with powers shared between the president
and the legislature.  It has a modern economy, and tourist
facilities are widely available.  English is not often spoken
outside the main tourist and business centers.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  Visas are not
required for tourist or business stays of up to fifteen days (the
day of arrival counts as day number one).  For longer stays and
other types of travel, visas must be obtained in advance.  Changes
of status from one type of visa to another (from tourism to
teaching, for example) are not normally granted in country.
Applicants must depart and apply for new visas at an embassy or
consulate outside Korea.  Specific requirements are available
through the Embassy of the Republic of Korea at 2320 Massachusetts
Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], or
the nearest consulate in major U.S. cities.
Medical Facilities:  Health care facilities in the Republic of
Korea are good.  Doctors and hospitals are usually unable to bill
foreign health insurance plans for services.  Therefore, cash
payment for health services is often expected.  Some U.S. medical
insurance does not cover services outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage
including provision for medical evacuation has proven useful.  The
U.S. Embassy in Seoul and the U.S. Consulate in Pusan have lists of
hospitals and medical specialists who speak English.  The
International Travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention [phone] has additional useful health
information.
Information on Crime:  Although the crime rate in the Republic of
Korea is low, pickpocketing, purse-snatching, hotel room burglaries,
and residential crime do occur, and foreigners can be targeted.  In
addition, increased incidents of physical attacks on foreigners,
including sexual harassment, molestation and rape, have been
recently reported.  Travelers can reduce the likelihood of
encountering such incidents by taking the same precautions that they
would take in the urban United States.  The loss or theft abroad of
a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police
and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The Korean National
Police (KNP) operate a Central Interpretation Center (CIC) where
foreigners can report incidents of crime.  The CIC is available on a
twenty-four hour, seven-day-a-week basis.  In Seoul, call telephone
number 313-0842; outside of Seoul, call [phone].  The Embassy
has found, however, that English speakers are not often available at
the CIC, so it is best to ask a Korean speaker to place the call.
Useful information on safeguarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad".  It is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington D.C. 20402.
Legal Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect stiff jail sentences and fines.
Travelers should also be careful to adhere to Korean government
regulations on currency exchange and customs declarations.
Passport Seizures/Exit Bans and Commercial Disputes: The Government
of Korea sometimes seizes the passports and blocks the departure
from Korea of foreigners involved in commercial disputes.  In such
circumstances, the U.S. Government will re-issue a passport to an
American citizen who applies for one.  The Korean exit ban, however,
will remain in effect, thereby preventing departure.
Demonstrations:  Demonstrations by dissident groups, sometimes
confrontational and even violent, occasionally occur.  While many
have anti-U.S. themes, it is unlikely that violence would be
directed against individual U.S. citizen travelers.  Individuals can
reduce risk to themselves by avoiding such demonstrations to the
extent possible.
Teaching of English:  The U.S. Embassy in Seoul receives numerous
complaints from Americans who have come to Korea to teach English
under contract with private language academies (hagwons).  These are
profit-oriented businesses unregulated by the Korean government.
Despite contract language promising good salaries, furnished
apartments and other amenities, many teachers find they actually
receive much less than they were promised, and some do not even
receive benefits required by Korean law, such as health insurance
and severance pay.  Teachers' complaints include contract
violations, non-payment of salary for months at a time, sexual
harassment, intimidation, threats of arrest/deportation, and
physical assault.  A comprehensive handout entitled "Teaching
English in Korea:  Opportunities and Pitfalls" may be obtained by
writing to the Embassy.
Dual Citizenship:  The government of the Republic of Korea does not
permit dual citizenship after the age of 18.  Holders of dual
citizenship who work or study in Korea usually find themselves
compelled to choose one or the other nationality soon after that
age.  The Embassy is aware of several instances in which young
Korean-American men who were born and lived all their lives in the
U.S. arrived in Korea for a tourist visit only to find themselves
drafted into the Korean army.  Because dual citizenship is not
permitted, authorities refuse to recognize any but the Korean
citizenship of these men.  This interpretation has been recently
upheld by the Korean court.  When this occurs, the Embassy cannot
intervene.  Korean-Americans may request further information from
the nearest Korean Consulate.
Adoption:  Adoption of Korean children by foreign nationals is
still permitted, and is carefully regulated.  Any non-Korean wishing
to adopt a Korean child is required to work through one of the four
government-licensed adoption agencies.  This includes American
citizens of Korean extraction who wish to adopt the Korean citizen
child of a family member.  Private adoptions are not allowed.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy or
Consulate can obtain updated information on travel and security
within the country.
Embassy Location: The U.S. Embassy in the Republic of Korea (South
Korea) is located at 82 Sejong-Ro, Chongro-ku, Seoul - Telephone
(82-2) 397-4114.  The U.S. Consulate is located in Pusan at 24 2-Ka,
Daechung Dong, Chung-Ku  - Telephone [phone].
 No. 95-116
This replaces the consular information sheet dated March 21, 1995,
and provides updated information on English teaching in Korea.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
2f2                                   Korea, South
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Asia, southern half of the Korean peninsula bordering the Sea of
    Japan and the Yellow Sea, south of North Korea
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    98,480 sq km
  land area:
    98,190 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Indiana
Land boundaries:
    total 238 km, North Korea 238 km
Coastline:
    2,413 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    not specified
  territorial sea:
    12 nm; 3 nm in the Korea Strait
International disputes:
    Demarcation Line with North Korea; Liancourt Rocks claimed by Japan
Climate:
    temperate, with rainfall heavier in summer than winter
Terrain:
    mostly hills and mountains; wide coastal plains in west and south
Natural resources:
    coal, tungsten, graphite, molybdenum, lead, hydropower
Land use:
  arable land:
    21%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    1%
  forest and woodland:
    67%
  other:
    10%
Irrigated land:
    13,530 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution in large cities; water pollution from the discharge of sewage
    and industrial effluents; driftnet fishing
  natural hazards:
    occasional typhoons bring high winds and floods; earthquakes in southwest
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered
    Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban,
    Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Whaling; signed,
    but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification, Law of
    the Sea
                                  Korea, South
                                     People
Population:
    45,553,882 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    24% (female 5,280,998; male 5,640,789)
  15-64 years:
    71% (female 15,877,182; male 16,291,183)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 1,554,512; male 909,218) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.04% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.63 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.18 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.9 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    20.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    70.89 years
  male:
    67.69 years
  female:
    74.29 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.66 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Korean(s)
  adjective:
    Korean
Ethnic divisions:
    homogeneous (except for about 20,000 Chinese)
Religions:
    Christianity 48.6%, Buddhism 47.4%, Confucianism 3%, pervasive folk religion
    (shamanism), Chondogyo (Religion of the Heavenly Way) 0.2%
Languages:
    Korean, English widely taught in high school
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    96%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    94%
Labor force:
    20 million
  by occupation:
    services and other 52%, mining and manufacturing 27%, agriculture, fishing,
    forestry 21% (1991)
                                  Korea, South
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Korea
  conventional short form:
    South Korea
  local long form:
    Taehan-min'guk
  local short form:
    none
  note:
    the South Koreans generally use the term "Hanguk" to refer to their country
Abbreviation:
    ROK
Digraph:
    KS
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Seoul
Administrative divisions:
    9 provinces (do, singular and plural) and 6 special cities* (jikhalsi,
    singular and plural); Cheju-do, Cholla-bukto, Cholla-namdo,
    Ch'ungch'ong-bukto, Ch'ungch'ong-namdo, Inch'on-jikhalsi*, Kangwon-do,
    Kwangju-jikhalsi*, Kyonggi-do, Kyongsang-bukto, Kyongsang-namdo,
    Pusan-jikhalsi*, Soul-t'ukpyolsi*, Taegu-jikhalsi*, Taejon-jikhalsi*
Independence:
    15 August 1948
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 15 August (1948)
Constitution:
    25 February 1988
Legal system:
    combines elements of continental European civil law systems, Anglo-American
    law, and Chinese classical thought
Suffrage:
    20 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President KIM Yong-sam (since 25 February 1993); election last held on 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%
  head of government:
    Prime Minister YI Hong-ku (since 17 December 1994); Deputy Prime Minister
    HONG Chae-yong (since 4 October 1994) and Deputy Prime Minister KIM Tok
    (since 23 December 1994)
  cabinet:
    State Council; appointed by the president on the prime minister's
    recommendation
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly (Kukhoe):
    elections last held on 24 March 1992; results - DLP 38.5%, DP 29.2%,
    Unification National Party (UNP) 17.3% (name later changed to UPP), other
    15%; seats - (299 total) DLP 149, DP 97, UNP 31, other 22; the distribution
    of seats as of January 1994 was DLP 172, DP 96, UPP 11, other 20
  note:
    the change in the distribution of seats reflects the fluidity of the current
    situation where party members are constantly switching from one party to
    another
                                  Korea, South
                                   Government
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
  majority party:
    Democratic Liberal Party (DLP), KIM Yong-sam, president
  opposition:
    Democratic Party (DP), YI Ki-taek, executive chairman; United People's Party
    (UPP), KIM Tong-kil, chairman; several smaller parties
  note:
    the DLP resulted from a merger of the Democratic Justice Party (DJP),
    Reunification Democratic Party (RDP), and New Democratic Republican Party
    (NDRP) on 9 February 1990
Other political or pressure groups:
    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
Member of:
    AfDB, APEC, AsDB, CCC, CP, EBRD, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, OAS (observer), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UNU, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador PAK Kun-u
  chancery:
    2450 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Agana (Guam), Anchorage, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Honolulu, Houston, Los
    Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco, and Seattle
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador James T. LANEY
  embassy:
    82 Sejong-Ro, Chongro-ku, Seoul
  mailing address:
    American Embassy, Unit 15550, Seoul; APO AP 96205-0001
  telephone:
    [82] (2) 397-4114
  FAX:
    [82] (2) 738-8845
  consulate(s):
    Pusan
Flag:
    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
                                  Korea, South
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The driving force behind the economy's dynamic growth has been the planned
    development of an export-oriented economy in a vigorously entrepreneurial
    society. Real GDP increased more than 10% annually between 1986 and 1991.
    This growth ultimately led to an overheated situation characterized by a
    tight labor market, strong inflationary pressures, and a rapidly rising
    current account deficit. As a result, in 1992, economic policy focused on
    slowing the growth rate of inflation and reducing the deficit. Annual growth
    slowed to 5%, still above the rate in most other countries of the world, and
    recovered to 6.3% in 1993. The economy expanded by 8.3% in 1994, driven by
    booming exports.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $508.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    8.3% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $11,270 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    5.6% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    2% (November 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $63 billion
  expenditures:
    $63 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
Exports:
    $96.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    electronic and electrical equipment, machinery, steel, automobiles, ships,
    textiles, clothing, footwear, fish
  partners:
    US 26%, Japan 17%, EU 14%
Imports:
    $102.3 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery, electronics and electronic equipment, oil, steel, transport
    equipment, textiles, organic chemicals, grains
  partners:
    Japan 26%, US 24%, EU 15%
External debt:
    $44.1 billion (1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 12.1% (1994 est.); accounts for about 45% of GNP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    26,940,000 kW
  production:
    137 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,847 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    electronics, automobile production, chemicals, shipbuilding, steel,
    textiles, clothing, footwear, food processing
                                  Korea, South
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 8% of GDP and employs 21% of work force (including fishing and
    forestry); principal crops - rice, root crops, barley, vegetables, fruit;
    livestock and livestock products - cattle, hogs, chickens, milk, eggs;
    self-sufficient in food, except for wheat; fish catch of 2.9 million metric
    tons, seventh-largest in world
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $3.9 billion; non-US countries
    (1970-89), $3 billion
Currency:
    1 South Korean won (W) = 100 chun (theoretical)
Exchange rates:
    South Korean won (W) per US$1 - 790.48 (January 1995), 803.44 (1994), 802.67
    (1993), 780.65 (1992), 733.35 (1991), 707.76 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                  Korea, South
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    6,763 km
  standard gauge:
    6,716 km 1.435-meter gauge (525 km electrified; 847 km double track)
  narrow gauge:
    47 km 0.610-meter gauge
Highways:
  total:
    63,200 km
  paved:
    expressways 1,550 km
  unpaved:
    NA
  undifferentiated:
    national highway 12,190 km; provincial, local roads 49,460 km (1991)
Inland waterways:
    1,609 km; use restricted to small native craft
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 455 km
Ports:
    Chinhae, Inch'on, Kunsan, Masan, Mokp'o, Pohang, Pusan, Ulsan, Yosu
Merchant marine:
  total:
    412 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 6,129,796 GRT/9,985,197 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 123, cargo 125, chemical tanker 17, combination bulk 1, combination
    ore/oil 1, container 61, liquefied gas tanker 13, multifunction large-load
    carrier 1, oil tanker 51, refrigerated cargo 9, short-sea passenger 1,
    vehicle carrier 9
Airports:
  total:
    114
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    22
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    10
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    14
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    63
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
                                  Korea, South
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    13.3 million telephones; excellent domestic and international services
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    3 INTELSAT (2 Pacific Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 79, FM 46, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    256 (1 kW or greater 57)
  televisions:
    NA
                                  Korea, South
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, National Maritime Police (Coast Guard)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 13,580,832; males fit for military service 8,701,742; males
    reach military age (18) annually 405,290 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $14 billion, 3.3% of GNP (1995 est.)
KUWAIT - Passport and visa required.   AIDS test required for work
visa; U.S. test accepted.  For further information contact the Embassy of the
State of Kuwait, 2940 Tilden St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/966-0702) or Consulate, 321 East 44th St., New York, NY  10017
(212/973-4318).
Kuwait - Consular Information Sheet
September 20, 1994
Country Description:  Kuwait is a constitutional monarchy with a modern
economy.  Day-to-day life has returned to normal after the 1991 Gulf War,
and facilities for travelers are widely available.  The workweek in Kuwait
is Saturday through Wednesday.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required for U.S. citizens
traveling to Kuwait.  For more information concerning entry requirements,
travelers may contact the Embassy of Kuwait at 2940 Tilden St., N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], or the Kuwaiti Consulate
in New York City, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Travel to and near the Iraq-Kuwait border is
hazardous.  In the past, persons found near the border were detained by
Iraqi security forces, and were endangered by occasional exchanges of fire
in the demilitarized zone near Iraq.  U.S. citizens having legitimate work-
related business near the border may receive information updates from the
U.S. Embassy, and may also wish to consult their employer's security
personnel.
Unexploded bombs, mines, booby traps, and other items remain in open areas
and beaches throughout Kuwait.  U.S. Embassy personnel have been forbidden
to travel off paved surfaces outside Kuwait city.  In the past three years,
there have been approximately six fire bombing incidents at movie theaters
and video shops, as well as a shooting at an American company's residential
complex.  No serious casualties resulted from these incidents.
Medical Facilities:  The health care delivery system continues to rebuild,
with many medical facilities, both government and private, available in
Kuwait.  Medical care at government-run clinics and hospitals is generally
provided free of charge or at low cost to residents of Kuwait, while private
physicians and hospitals charge a fee for services.  Non-residents have
found that private doctors, hospitals and clinics expect immediate cash
payment for their services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid
outside the United States.  Medevac insurance, for emergencies requiring
treatment outside Kuwait, and supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage have proven useful.  Specific health questions can be
addressed to the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers
hotline, telephone [phone].
Crime Information:  The crime rate in Kuwait is moderate.  However, weapons
left over from the 1991 Gulf War remain in the hands of the populace, and
shooting incidents have occurred.  Both physical and verbal harassment of
women is a continuing problem.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad
should be reported immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy
or Consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in
the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to the Middle East and North Africa."  They are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington,
D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Travelers checks and credit cards are widely
accepted.  Kuwaiti currency is readily convertible to U.S. dollars.
Drugs and Other Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use, or
dealing in illegal drugs, alcohol, or pornography are severe, and convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.  Religious proselytizing is
not permitted.
Terrorist Activities:  The occasional bombings and shootings over the past
three years have usually been directed against Kuwaiti targets.  The U.S.
Embassy can supply more detailed information to Americans in Kuwait on
reducing the risk of becoming a target of a terrorist attack.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the Consular Section of the
U.S. Embassy may be enrolled in the Embassy's emergency alert network, and
can obtain updated information on travel and security in Kuwait.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait is located on Gulf Road near
the Safir International Hotel in Kuwait City, P.O. Box 77 Safat, 13001
SAFAT, Kuwait, phone [965] 242-4151 through 9.
No. 94-221
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Kuwait dated September 1,
1993, to update information on entry requirements, areas of instability,
medical facilities, terrorist activities, and the address of the U.S. Embassy.
 / /                                        Kuwait
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf, between Iraq and Saudi Arabia
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    17,820 sq km
  land area:
    17,820 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than New Jersey
Land boundaries:
    total 464 km, Iraq 242 km, Saudi Arabia 222 km
Coastline:
    499 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    in November 1994, Iraq formally accepted the UN-demarcated border with
    Kuwait which had been spelled out in Security Council Resolutions 687
    (1991), 773 (1993), and 883 (1993); this formally ends earlier claims to
    Kuwait and to Bubiyan and Warbah islands; ownership of Qaruh and Umm al
    Maradim islands disputed by Saudi Arabia
Climate:
    dry desert; intensely hot summers; short, cool winters
Terrain:
    flat to slightly undulating desert plain
Natural resources:
    petroleum, fish, shrimp, natural gas
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    8%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    92%
Irrigated land:
    20 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    limited natural fresh water resources; some of world's largest and most
    sophisticated desalination facilities provide much of the water; air and
    water pollution; desertification
  natural hazards:
    sudden cloudbursts are common from October to April, they bring inordinate
    amounts of rain which can damage roads and houses; sandstorms and duststorms
    occur throughout the year, but are most common between March and August
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law
    of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not
    ratified - Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping
Note:
    strategic location at head of Persian Gulf
                                     Kuwait
                                     People
Population:
    1,817,397 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    34% (female 302,908; male 319,659)
  15-64 years:
    64% (female 467,163; male 697,849)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 13,476; male 16,342) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    7.46% (1995 est.)
  note:
    this rate reflects the continued post-Gulf crisis return of nationals and
    expatriates
Birth rate:
    21.07 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    2.2 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    55.71 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    11.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    75.64 years
  male:
    73.33 years
  female:
    78.06 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.93 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Kuwaiti(s)
  adjective:
    Kuwaiti
Ethnic divisions:
    Kuwaiti 45%, other Arab 35%, South Asian 9%, Iranian 4%, other 7%
Religions:
    Muslim 85% (Shi'a 30%, Sunni 45%, other 10%), Christian, Hindu, Parsi, and
    other 15%
Languages:
    Arabic (official), English widely spoken
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1985)
  total population:
    74%
  male:
    78%
  female:
    69%
Labor force:
    566,000 (1986)
  by occupation:
    services 45.0%, construction 20.0%, trade 12.0%, manufacturing 8.6%, finance
    and real estate 2.6%, agriculture 1.9%, power and water 1.7%, mining and
    quarrying 1.4%
  note:
    70% of labor force non-Kuwaiti (1986)
                                     Kuwait
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    State of Kuwait
  conventional short form:
    Kuwait
  local long form:
    Dawlat al Kuwayt
  local short form:
    Al Kuwayt
Digraph:
    KU
Type:
    nominal constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Kuwait
Administrative divisions:
    5 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al 'Ahmadi, Al Jahrah, Al
    Kuwayt, Hawalli, Al Farwaniyah
Independence:
    19 June 1961 (from UK)
National holiday:
    National Day, 25 February (1948)
Constitution:
    approved and promulgated 11 November 1962
Legal system:
    civil law system with Islamic law significant in personal matters; has not
    accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    adult males who resided in Kuwait before 1920 and their male descendants at
    age 21
  note:
    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
    thirty years will be eligible to vote
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Amir Shaykh JABIR al-Ahmad al-Jabir Al Sabah (since 31 December 1977)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister and Crown Prince SAAD al-Abdallah al-Salim Al Sabah (since 8
    February 1978); Deputy Prime Minister SABAH al-Ahmad al-Jabir Al Sabah
    (since 17 October 1992)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the Prime Minister and approved by the
    Amir
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly (Majlis al-umma):
    dissolved 3 July 1986; new elections were held on 5 October 1992 with a
    second election in the 14th and 16th constituencies held February 1993
Judicial branch:
    High Court of Appeal
Political parties and leaders:
    none
Other political or pressure groups:
    small, clandestine leftist and Shi'a fundamentalist groups are active;
    several groups critical of government policies are publicly active
                                     Kuwait
                                   Government
Member of:
    ABEDA, AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, BDEAC, CAEU, CCC, ESCWA, FAO, G-77, GATT, GCC,
    IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO,
    INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OAPEC,
    OIC, OPEC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador MUHAMMAD al-Sabah al-Salim Al SABAH
  chancery:
    2940 Tilden Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ryan C. CROCKER
  embassy:
    Bneid al-Gar (opposite the Kuwait International Hotel), Kuwait City
  mailing address:
    P.O. Box 77 SAFAT, 13001 SAFAT, Kuwait; Unit 69000, Kuwait; APO AE
    09880-9000
  telephone:
    [965] 2424151 through 2424159
  FAX:
    [965] 2442855
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and red with a black
    trapezoid based on the hoist side
                                     Kuwait
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Kuwait is a small and relatively open economy with proved crude oil reserves
    of about 94 billion barrels - 10% of world reserves. Kuwait has rebuilt its
    war-ravaged petroleum sector; its crude oil production reached at least 2.0
    million barrels per day by the end of 1993. The government ran a sizable
    fiscal deficit in 1993. Petroleum accounts for nearly half of GDP and 90% of
    export and government revenues. Kuwait 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, Kuwait 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, with the growth in industry and finance, and should see
    further gains in 1995, especially if oil prices go up. The World Bank has
    urged Kuwait to push ahead with privatization, including in the oil
    industry, but the government will move slowly on this front.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $30.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    9.3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $16,900 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3% (1993)
Unemployment rate:
    NEGL% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $9 billion
  expenditures:
    $13 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY92/93)
Exports:
    $10.5 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    oil
  partners:
    France 16%, Italy 15%, Japan 12%, UK 11%
Imports:
    $6.6 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    food, construction materials, vehicles and parts, clothing
  partners:
    US 35%, Japan 12%, UK 9%, Canada 9%
External debt:
    $7.2 billion (December 1989 est.)
  note:
    external debt has grown substantially in 1991 and 1992 to pay for
    restoration of war damage
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%; accounts for NA% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    7,070,000 kW
  production:
    11 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    6,007 kWh (1993)
                                     Kuwait
                                     Economy
Industries:
    petroleum, petrochemicals, desalination, food processing, building
    materials, salt, construction
Agriculture:
    practically none; extensive fishing in territorial waters and Indian Ocean
Economic aid:
  donor:
    pledged bilateral aid to less developed countries (1979-89), $18.3 billion
Currency:
    1 Kuwaiti dinar (KD) = 1,000 fils
Exchange rates:
    Kuwaiti dinars (KD) per US$1 - 0.2991 (January 1995), 0.2976 (1994), 0.3017
    (1993), 0.2934 (1992), 0.2843 (1991), 0.2915 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                                     Kuwait
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    4,270 km
  paved:
    bituminous 3,370 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, sand, earth 900 km (est.)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 877 km; petroleum products 40 km; natural gas 165 km
Ports:
    Ash Shu'aybah, Ash Shuwaykh, Kuwait, Mina' 'Abd Allah, Mina' al Ahmadi,
    Mina' Su'ud
Merchant marine:
  total:
    47 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,202,558 GRT/3,618,527 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 9, container 3, liquefied gas tanker 7, livestock carrier 4, oil
    tanker 24
Airports:
  total:
    8
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                                     Kuwait
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; civil network suffered extensive damage as a result of the
    Gulf war and reconstruction is still under way with some restored
    international and domestic capabilities
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    earth stations destroyed during Gulf war and not rebuilt yet; temporary
    mobile satellite antennae provide international telecommunications; coaxial
    cable and microwave radio relay to Saudi Arabia; service to Iraq is
    nonoperational
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    3
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Kuwait
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, National Police Force, National Guard
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 610,205; males fit for military service 363,735; males reach
    military age (18) annually 16,170 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $3.4 billion, 13.3% of GDP (1995)
Latvia
*KYRGYZ REPUBLIC (Kyrgyzstan) - Passport and visa required.  Visa
requires 1 application form, 2 photos, (a letter of invitation from a Kyrgyz
citizen or organization if  staying more then 21 days).  Multi-entry visa $100
(no personal checks).  Include SASE for return of passport by mail (or
proper fee for express mail service).  For additional information contact the
Embassy of the Kyrgyz  Republic, 1511 K St., N.W., Suite 707,
Washington, D.C.  20005 (202/628-0433).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Kyrgyzstan
============================================================
Kyrgyzstan - Consular Information Sheet
 March 28, 1995
Country Description:  Kyrgyzstan is a newly independent nation
undergoing profound political and economic change.  Tourist
facilities are not highly developed, and many of the goods and
services taken for granted in other countries are not yet available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Visas for
Kyrgyzstan are issued by the Kyrgyz Embassy in Washington, D.C.
United States citizens may contact the Kyrgyz Embassy at 1511 K
Street, N.W., Suite 706, Washington, D.C. 20005, telephone
202-347-3732 for further information.  Valid visas from Russia,
Kazakstan, Tajikistan, Armenia and Belarus allow for temporary stays
in Kyrgyzstan of up to three days.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Kyrgyzstan is limited.  The
U.S. Embassy maintains a list of English speaking physicians in the
area.  There is a severe shortage of basic medical supplies,
including disposable needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics.
Incidents of cholera have been found, but preventative government
measures have limited the number of cases. Elderly travelers and
those with existing health problems may be at risk due to inadequate
medical facilities.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate
cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Travelers have found that
in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proved to be useful.  Further information on health
matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's
international travelers' hotline, tel: [phone].
Air Travel:  With the breakup of Aeroflot into many small airlines,
air travel in the former Soviet Union is often unreliable.
Travelers must often cope with unpredictable schedules and difficult
conditions including deterioration of quality of service and
overloading.  At present, no airline provides dependable regularly
scheduled international air service into Bishkek.  Most
international air travelers fly to Almaty and then travel overland
(approx. 3 hours) to Bishkek.  Train travel in Central Asia is
irregular and arduous.
Crime Information:  Kyrgyzstan has a moderate rate of violent
crime.  Recently, common street crimes and burglaries have
increased, especially at night.  Members of the foreign community
have been singled out as targets.  Traveling in a group, especially
at night, can improve security.  Some incidents of muggings have
occurred outside hotels that cater to foreigners.  The government is
taking steps to reduce the crime level, and has initiated walking
militia patrols throughout the city.  More specific information is
available at the consular section of the U.S. Embassy.  The loss or
theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides
useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad.  Additional information on the
region can be found in the Department of State's brochure "Tips for
Travelers to Russia."  Both publications are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Kyrgyzstan is a cash only economy.  Credit
cards are not accepted.  One or two hotels or banks may, on
occasion, accept travelers checks but the fee is quite high, as much
as 20 percent.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the Consular Section of
the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated information on travel and
security within Kyrgyzstan.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, is
located at Erkindik Prospect No. 66, telephone [phone] and
after hours phone number (7-3312) 22-53-58.  The Embassy fax number
is 22-32-10.
 No. 95-042
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated November 25,
1994 to include additional information on crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Kyrgyzstan
============================================================
Kyrgyzstan - Consular Information Sheet
 March 28, 1995
Country Description:  Kyrgyzstan is a newly independent nation
undergoing profound political and economic change.  Tourist
facilities are not highly developed, and many of the goods and
services taken for granted in other countries are not yet available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Visas for
Kyrgyzstan are issued by the Kyrgyz Embassy in Washington, D.C.
United States citizens may contact the Kyrgyz Embassy at 1511 K
Street, N.W., Suite 706, Washington, D.C. 20005, telephone
202-347-3732 for further information.  Valid visas from Russia,
Kazakstan, Tajikistan, Armenia and Belarus allow for temporary stays
in Kyrgyzstan of up to three days.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Kyrgyzstan is limited.  The
U.S. Embassy maintains a list of English speaking physicians in the
area.  There is a severe shortage of basic medical supplies,
including disposable needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics.
Incidents of cholera have been found, but preventative government
measures have limited the number of cases. Elderly travelers and
those with existing health problems may be at risk due to inadequate
medical facilities.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate
cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Travelers have found that
in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proved to be useful.  Further information on health
matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's
international travelers' hotline, tel: [phone].
Air Travel:  With the breakup of Aeroflot into many small airlines,
air travel in the former Soviet Union is often unreliable.
Travelers must often cope with unpredictable schedules and difficult
conditions including deterioration of quality of service and
overloading.  At present, no airline provides dependable regularly
scheduled international air service into Bishkek.  Most
international air travelers fly to Almaty and then travel overland
(approx. 3 hours) to Bishkek.  Train travel in Central Asia is
irregular and arduous.
Crime Information:  Kyrgyzstan has a moderate rate of violent
crime.  Recently, common street crimes and burglaries have
increased, especially at night.  Members of the foreign community
have been singled out as targets.  Traveling in a group, especially
at night, can improve security.  Some incidents of muggings have
occurred outside hotels that cater to foreigners.  The government is
taking steps to reduce the crime level, and has initiated walking
militia patrols throughout the city.  More specific information is
available at the consular section of the U.S. Embassy.  The loss or
theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides
useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad.  Additional information on the
region can be found in the Department of State's brochure "Tips for
Travelers to Russia."  Both publications are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Kyrgyzstan is a cash only economy.  Credit
cards are not accepted.  One or two hotels or banks may, on
occasion, accept travelers checks but the fee is quite high, as much
as 20 percent.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the Consular Section of
the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated information on travel and
security within Kyrgyzstan.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Bishkek, Kyrgyzstan, is
located at Erkindik Prospect No. 66, telephone [phone] and
after hours phone number (7-3312) 22-53-58.  The Embassy fax number
is 22-32-10.
 No. 95-042
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated November 25,
1994 to include additional information on crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
`2N2                                    Kyrgyzstan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Asia, west of China
Map references:
    Commonwealth of Independent States - Central Asian States
Area:
  total area:
    198,500 sq km
  land area:
    191,300 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than South Dakota
Land boundaries:
    total 3,878 km, China 858 km, Kazakhstan 1,051 km, Tajikistan 870 km,
    Uzbekistan 1,099 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    territorial dispute with Tajikistan on southwestern boundary in Isfara
    Valley area
Climate:
    dry continental to polar in high Tien Shan; subtropical in southwest
    (Fergana Valley); temperate in northern foothill zone
Terrain:
    peaks of Tien Shan rise to 7,000 meters, and associated valleys and basins
    encompass entire nation
Natural resources:
    abundant hydroelectric potential; significant deposits of gold and rare
    earth metals; locally exploitable coal, oil and natural gas; other deposits
    of nepheline, mercury, bismuth, lead, and zinc
Land use:
  arable land:
    7%
  permanent crops:
    NEGL%
  meadows and pastures:
    42%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    51%
Irrigated land:
    10,320 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution; many people get their water directly from contaminated
    streams and wells, as a result, water-borne diseases are prevalent;
    increasing soil salinity from faulty irrigation practices
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    landlocked
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                     People
Population:
    4,769,877 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    37% (female 868,108; male 888,479)
  15-64 years:
    57% (female 1,377,221; male 1,345,990)
  65 years and over:
    6% (female 185,807; male 104,272) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.5% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    25.97 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.32 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -3.66 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    45.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    68.13 years
  male:
    63.92 years
  female:
    72.56 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.31 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Kyrgyz(s)
  adjective:
    Kyrgyz
Ethnic divisions:
    Kirghiz 52.4%, Russian 21.5%, Uzbek 12.9%, Ukrainian 2.5%, German 2.4%,
    other 8.3%
Religions:
    Muslim 70%, Russian Orthodox NA%
Languages:
    Kirghiz (Kyrgyz) - official language, Russian widely used
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    97%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    96%
Labor force:
    1.836 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture and forestry 38%, industry and construction 21%, other 41%
    (1990)
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kyrgyz Republic
  conventional short form:
    Kyrgyzstan
  local long form:
    Kyrgyz Respublikasy
  local short form:
    none
  former:
    Kirghiz Soviet Socialist Republic
Digraph:
    KG
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Bishkek
Administrative divisions:
    6 oblasttar (singular - oblast) and 1 city* (singular - shaar); Bishkek
    Shaary*, Chuy Oblasty (Bishkek), Jalal-Abad Oblasty, Naryn Oblasty, Osh
    Oblasty, Talas Oblasty, Ysyk-Kol Oblasty (Karakol)
  note:
    names in parentheses are administrative centers when name differs from
    oblast name
Independence:
    31 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    National Day, 2 December; Independence Day, 31 August (1991)
Constitution:
    adopted 5 May 1993
Legal system:
    based on civil law system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Askar AKAYEV (since 28 October 1990); election last held 12
    October 1991 (next to be held NA 1996); results - Askar AKAYEV won in
    uncontested election with 95% of vote and with 90% of electorate voting;
    note - president elected by Supreme Soviet 28 October 1990, then by popular
    vote 12 October 1991; AKAYEV won 96% of the vote in a referendum on his
    status as president on 30 January 1994
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Apas DJUMAGULOV (since NA December 1993)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet of Ministers; subordinate to the president
Legislative branch:
    bicameral
  Assembly of Legislatures:
    elections last held 5 February 1995 (next to be held no later than NA 1998);
    35-member house to which 19 members have been elected so far; next round of
    runoffs scheduled for 19 April 1995
  Assembly of Representatives:
    elections last held 5 February 1995 (next to be held no later than NA 1998);
    70-member house to which 60 members have been elected so far; next round of
    runoffs scheduled for 19 April 1995
  note:
    the legislature became bicameral for the 5 February 1995 elections
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                   Government
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Social Democratic Party (SDP), Ishenbai KADYRBEKOV, chairman; Democratic
    Movement of Kyrgyzstan (DMK), Kazat AKHMATOV, chairman; National Unity,
    German KUZNETSOV; Communist Party of Kyrgyzstan (PCK), Sherali SYDYKOV,
    chairman; Democratic Movement of Free Kyrgyzstan (ErK), Topchubek
    TURGUNALIYEV, chairman; Republican Popular Party of Kyrgyzstan; Agrarian
    Party of Kyrgyzstan, A. ALIYEV
Other political or pressure groups:
    National Unity Democratic Movement; Peasant Party; Council of Free Trade
    Unions; Union of Entrepreneurs; Agrarian Party
Member of:
    AsDB, CIS, EBRD, ECE, ECO, ESCAP, FAO, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, ILO,
    IMF, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NACC, OIC, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD,
    UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires ad interim Almas CHUKIN
  chancery:
    (temporary) Suite 705, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 3733, 3718
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Eileen A. MALLOY
  embassy:
    Erkindik Prospekt #66, Bishkek 720002
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [7] [phone], 22-27-77, 22-26-31, 22-24-73
  FAX:
    [7] [phone]
Flag:
    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
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Kyrgyzstan is one of the smallest and poorest states of the former Soviet
    Union. Its economy is heavily agricultural, growing cotton and tobacco on
    irrigated land in the south and grain in the foothills of the north and
    raising sheep and goats on mountain pastures. Its small and obsolescent
    industrial sector, concentrated around Bishkek, has traditionally relied on
    Russia and other CIS countries for customers and industrial inputs,
    including most of its fuel. Since 1990, the economy has contracted by almost
    50% as subsidies from Moscow vanished and trade links with other former
    Soviet republics eroded. At the same time, the Kyrgyz government stuck to
    tight monetary and fiscal policies in 1994 that succeeded in reducing
    inflation from 23% per month in 1993 to 5.4% per month in 1994. Moreover,
    Kyrgyzstan has been the most successful of the Central Asian states in
    reducing state controls over the economy and privatizing state industries.
    Nevertheless, restructuring proved to be a slow and painful process in 1994
    despite relatively large flows of foreign aid and continued progress on
    economic reform. The decline in output in 1995 may be much smaller, perhaps
    5%, compared with an estimated 24% in 1994.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $8.4 billion (1994 estimate as extrapolated
    from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    -24% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,790 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    5.4% per month (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    0.7% includes officially registered unemployed; also large numbers of
    unregistered unemployed and underemployed workers (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $116 million to countries outside the FSU (1994)
  commodities:
    wool, chemicals, cotton, ferrous and nonferrous metals, shoes, machinery,
    tobacco
  partners:
    Russia 70%, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, and others
Imports:
    $92.4 million from countries outside the FSU (1994)
  commodities:
    grain, lumber, industrial products, ferrous metals, fuel, machinery,
    textiles, footwear
  partners:
    other CIS republics
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate -24% (1994 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    3,660,000 kW
  production:
    12.7 billion kWh
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    2,700 kWh (1994)
Industries:
    small machinery, textiles, food-processing industries, cement, shoes, sawn
    logs, refrigerators, furniture, electric motors, gold, and rare earth metals
Agriculture:
    wool, tobacco, cotton, livestock (sheep, goats, cattle), vegetables, meat,
    grapes, fruits and berries, eggs, milk, potatoes
Illicit drugs:
    illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for CIS consumption;
    limited government eradication program; used as transshipment point for
    illicit drugs to Western Europe and North America from Southwest Asia
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    IMF aid commitments were $80 million in 1993 and $400 million in 1994
Currency:
    introduced national currency, the som (10 May 1993)
Exchange rates:
    soms per US$1 - 10.6 (yearend 1994)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    370 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines
  broad gauge:
    370 km 1.520-m gauge (1990)
Highways:
  total:
    30,300 km
  paved and graveled:
    22,600 km
  unpaved:
    earth 7,700 km (1990)
Pipelines:
    natural gas 200 km
Ports:
    Ysyk-Kol (Rybach'ye)
Airports:
  total:
    54
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    9
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    32
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    342,000 telephones (1991); 76 telephones/1,000 persons (December 1991);
    poorly developed; about 100,000 unsatisfied applications for household
    telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    principally by microwave radio relay
  international:
    connections with other CIS countries by landline or microwave and with other
    countries by leased connections with Moscow international gateway switch and
    by satellite; 1 GORIZONT and 1 INTELSAT satellite link through Ankara to 200
    other countries
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    825,000 (radio receiver systems with multiple speakers for program diffusion
    748,000)
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA; note - receives Turkish broadcasts
  televisions:
    875,000
                                   Kyrgyzstan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    National Guard, Security Forces (internal and border troops), Civil Defense
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,154,683; males fit for military service 934,167; males
    reach military age (18) annually 44,526 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Lebanon
)LAOS - Passport and visa required.  Visa requires $35 fee, 3
application forms, 3 photos, onward/return transportation, sufficient funds,
cholera immunization and SASE for return of passport by mail.  Transit visas
for stay up to 5 days requires onward/return ticket and visa for next
destination.  Visitor visa are issued for 1 entry and must be used
within 3 months of issue date.  Period of stay:  1 month, can be extended for
another 30 days (visitor visa application must be accompanied by letter
from relative or friends in Laos).  Tourist visas are issued only to
those who apply through a tourist agency.  Business visa requires letter from
counterpart in Laos and is valid for 1 entry and must be used within 3
months of issue date.  Period of stay:  1 month, can be extended for
another 30 days.  For more information, check with the Embassy of the
Lao People's Democratic Republic, 2222 S St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/332-6416/7).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Laos
============================================================
Laos - Consular Information Sheet
 September 7, 1995
Country Description:  Laos is a poor country with a communist
government that is pursuing economic reform.  Outside of Vientiane,
tourist services and facilities are relatively undeveloped.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Travelers
should contact the Embassy of the Lao People's Democratic Republic,
2222 S St. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel. [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities and services are limited
and do not meet Western standards.  The blood supply is not screened
for HIV or AIDS.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash
payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage, including provision for medical
evacuation, has proven useful.  The international travelers hotline
at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tel. (404)
332-4559, has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Major crime has not been a problem for
travelers, although street crime has been on the increase.  The loss
or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and the U.S. Embassy.  Useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip
Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
In-Country Travel:  Since April 1994, the Lao government no longer
requires permits for travel outside Vientiane except for travel in
unspecified "restricted areas."  Frequently visited tourist
destinations generally are safe.  In December 1993, however, one
U.S. citizen and four U.S. residents were killed in a fatal Lao
aviation airline crash in Xieng Khouang Province, where the Plain of
Jars is located.  Overland travel in some areas, particularly in the
highlands, runs the risk of ambush by insurgents or bandits.
Religious Workers:  Religious proselytizing or distributing
religious material is strictly prohibited.  Foreigners caught
distributing religious material may be arrested or deported.
Marriage to a Lao Citizen:  The Lao government imposes requirements
on foreigners intending to marry Lao citizens.  U.S. citizens may
obtain information about these requirements at the U.S Embassy in
Vientiane.  A marriage certificate will not be issued by the Lao
Government if the correct procedures have not been followed.  Any
attempt to circumvent Lao law governing the marriage of Lao citizens
to foreigners may result in deportation of the foreigner and denial
of permission to re-enter Laos.  Two U.S. citizens cannot marry in
Laos.
Photography Restrictions:  Police and military may confiscate the
cameras of persons taking photographs of military installations or
vehicles, bridges, airfields and government buildings.  Confiscated
cameras are seldom returned to the owners.  Photographers of such
subjects also may be arrested.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the Embassy can obtain
updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at Rue Bartholomie,
B.P. 114, in Vientiane; mail can be addressed to AMEMB Vientiane Box
V, APO AP 96546; the telephone numbers are (856) 21-212581, 212582,
212585; duty officer emergency cellular number (856) 21-130-423; fax
(856) 21-212584.
 No. 95-107
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued on August 4,
1994 to include additional medical information, to update marriage
information and to add the telephone number for the embassy duty
officer.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Laos
============================================================
Laos - Consular Information Sheet
 September 7, 1995
Country Description:  Laos is a poor country with a communist
government that is pursuing economic reform.  Outside of Vientiane,
tourist services and facilities are relatively undeveloped.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Travelers
should contact the Embassy of the Lao People's Democratic Republic,
2222 S St. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel. [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities and services are limited
and do not meet Western standards.  The blood supply is not screened
for HIV or AIDS.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash
payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage, including provision for medical
evacuation, has proven useful.  The international travelers hotline
at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tel. (404)
332-4559, has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Major crime has not been a problem for
travelers, although street crime has been on the increase.  The loss
or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and the U.S. Embassy.  Useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip
Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
In-Country Travel:  Since April 1994, the Lao government no longer
requires permits for travel outside Vientiane except for travel in
unspecified "restricted areas."  Frequently visited tourist
destinations generally are safe.  In December 1993, however, one
U.S. citizen and four U.S. residents were killed in a fatal Lao
aviation airline crash in Xieng Khouang Province, where the Plain of
Jars is located.  Overland travel in some areas, particularly in the
highlands, runs the risk of ambush by insurgents or bandits.
Religious Workers:  Religious proselytizing or distributing
religious material is strictly prohibited.  Foreigners caught
distributing religious material may be arrested or deported.
Marriage to a Lao Citizen:  The Lao government imposes requirements
on foreigners intending to marry Lao citizens.  U.S. citizens may
obtain information about these requirements at the U.S Embassy in
Vientiane.  A marriage certificate will not be issued by the Lao
Government if the correct procedures have not been followed.  Any
attempt to circumvent Lao law governing the marriage of Lao citizens
to foreigners may result in deportation of the foreigner and denial
of permission to re-enter Laos.  Two U.S. citizens cannot marry in
Laos.
Photography Restrictions:  Police and military may confiscate the
cameras of persons taking photographs of military installations or
vehicles, bridges, airfields and government buildings.  Confiscated
cameras are seldom returned to the owners.  Photographers of such
subjects also may be arrested.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the Embassy can obtain
updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at Rue Bartholomie,
B.P. 114, in Vientiane; mail can be addressed to AMEMB Vientiane Box
V, APO AP 96546; the telephone numbers are (856) 21-212581, 212582,
212585; duty officer emergency cellular number (856) 21-130-423; fax
(856) 21-212584.
 No. 95-107
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued on August 4,
1994 to include additional medical information, to update marriage
information and to add the telephone number for the embassy duty
officer.
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+                                           Laos
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, northeast of Thailand
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    236,800 sq km
  land area:
    230,800 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Utah
Land boundaries:
    total 5,083 km, Burma 235 km, Cambodia 541 km, China 423 km, Thailand 1,754
    km, Vietnam 2,130 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    boundary dispute with Thailand
Climate:
    tropical monsoon; rainy season (May to November); dry season (December to
    April)
Terrain:
    mostly rugged mountains; some plains and plateaus
Natural resources:
    timber, hydropower, gypsum, tin, gold, gemstones
Land use:
  arable land:
    4%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    3%
  forest and woodland:
    58%
  other:
    35%
Irrigated land:
    1,554 sq km (1992 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; a majority of the population does not have
    access to potable water
  natural hazards:
    floods, droughts, and blight
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Nuclear Test Ban;
    signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
Note:
    landlocked
                                      Laos
                                     People
Population:
    4,837,237 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    45% (female 1,084,615; male 1,111,928)
  15-64 years:
    51% (female 1,280,142; male 1,199,149)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 86,390; male 75,013) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.84% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    42.64 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    14.28 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    99.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    52.2 years
  male:
    50.66 years
  female:
    53.81 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.98 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Lao(s) or Laotian(s)
  adjective:
    Lao or Laotian
Ethnic divisions:
    Lao Loum (lowland) 68%, Lao Theung (upland) 22%, Lao Soung (highland)
    including the Hmong ("Meo") and the Yao (Mien) 9%, ethnic Vietnamese/Chinese
    1%
Religions:
    Buddhist 60%, animist and other 40%
Languages:
    Lao (official), French, English, and various ethnic languages
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1992)
  total population:
    50%
  male:
    65%
  female:
    35%
Labor force:
    1 million-1.5 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 80% (1992 est.)
                                      Laos
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Lao People's Democratic Republic
  conventional short form:
    Laos
  local long form:
    Sathalanalat Paxathipatai Paxaxon Lao
  local short form:
    none
Digraph:
    LA
Type:
    Communist state
Capital:
    Vientiane
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    19 July 1949 (from France)
National holiday:
    National Day, 2 December (1975) (proclamation of the Lao People's Democratic
    Republic)
Constitution:
    promulgated 14 August 1991
Legal system:
    based on traditional customs, French legal norms and procedures, and
    Socialist practice
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President NOUHAK PHOUMSAVAN (since 25 November 1992)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Gen. KHAMTAI SIPHANDON (since 15 August 1991)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president, approved by the Assembly
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly:
    elections last held on 20 December 1992 (next to be held NA); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (85 total) number of seats by party NA
Judicial branch:
    Supreme People's Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP), KHAMTAI Siphandon, party president;
    other parties proscribed
Other political or pressure groups:
    non-Communist political groups proscribed; most opposition leaders fled the
    country in 1975
Member of:
    ACCT, AsDB, ASEAN (observer), CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA,
    IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC,
    ITU, NAM, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTO
                                      Laos
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador HIEM PHOMMACHANH
  chancery:
    2222 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 6417
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Victor L. TOMSETH
  embassy:
    Rue Bartholonie, Vientiane
  mailing address:
    B. P. 114, Vientiane; American Embassy, Box V, APO AP 96546
  telephone:
    [856] (21) 212581, 212582, 212585
  FAX:
    [856] (21) 212584
Flag:
    three horizontal bands of red (top), blue (double width), and red with a
    large white disk centered in the blue band
                                      Laos
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 infrastructure. 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 drought 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 and 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    8.4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $850 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    6.5% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    21% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA
Exports:
    $277 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    electricity, wood products, coffee, tin, garments
  partners:
    Thailand 57%, Germany 10%, France 10%, Japan 5% (1991)
Imports:
    $528 million (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    food, fuel oil, consumer goods, manufactures
  partners:
    Thailand 55%, Japan 16%, China 8%, Italy 4% (1991)
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate 7.5% (1992 est.); accounts for 18% of GDP (1992 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    260,000 kW
  production:
    870 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    44 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tin and gypsum mining, timber, electric power, agricultural processing,
    construction
                                      Laos
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    principal crops - rice (80% of cultivated land), sweet potatoes, vegetables,
    corn, coffee, sugarcane, cotton; livestock - buffaloes, hogs, cattle,
    poultry
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of cannabis, opium poppy for the international drug trade,
    fourth largest opium producer (85 metric tons in 1994); heroin producer;
    increasingly used as transshipment point for heroin produced in Burma
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-79), $276 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $605 million;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $995 million; international assistance in
    loans and grant aid (1993/94) $217.7 million
Currency:
    1 new kip (NK) = 100 at
Exchange rates:
    new kips (NK) per US$1 - 717 (1994 est.), 720 (July 1993). 710 (May 1992),
    710 (December 1991), 700 (September 1990), 576 (1989)
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                                      Laos
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    14,130 km
  paved:
    2,260 km
  unpaved:
    11,870 km (1992 est.)
Inland waterways:
    about 4,587 km, primarily Mekong and tributaries; 2,897 additional
    kilometers are sectionally navigable by craft drawing less than 0.5 m
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 136 km
Ports:
    none
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1 cargo ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,370 GRT/3,000 DWT
Airports:
    52
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    5
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    25
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    17
                                      Laos
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    7,390 telephones (1986); service to general public very poor; radio
    communications network provides generally erratic service to government
    users
  local:
    16 telephone lines per 1,000 people
  intercity:
    radio communications
  international:
    1 earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 10, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                                      Laos
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Lao People's Army (LPA; includes riverine naval and militia elements), Air
    Force, National Police Department
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,051,105; males fit for military service 567,017; males
    reach military age (18) annually 51,437 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $105 million, 8.1% of GDP (FY92/93)
Lesotho
LATVIA - Passport and visa required.  Tourist/business visa issued at
Embassy or point of entry.  Require 1 application form, 1 photo, and $5
fee.  For further information contact Embassy of Latvia, 4325 17th St.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20011 (202/726-8213).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Latvia
============================================================
Latvia - Consular Information Sheet
 June 27, 1995
Country Description:  Latvia is a nation in the midst of economic
transition.  Tourist facilities are developing; however, many of the
goods and services taken for granted in other countries are not yet
available outside Riga.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  The Latvian
Embassy recommends that travelers obtain a visa in advance from the
Latvian Embassy at 4325 17th Street, Washington, D.C. 20011, tel.
[phone].  It is also possible to obtain a ten-day,
single-entry visa upon arrival at seaports of entry and at Riga
International Airport.  Entry visas are not issued at land border
crossings.  Travelers who plan to enter or transit Latvia by train
or vehicle must first obtain a visa at a Latvian embassy or
consulate abroad.  Travelers who plan to remain in Latvia for more
than 90 days must apply in-country for temporary residency.  While
there is a Russian Embassy in Riga that issues visas, some travelers
have found it difficult or impossible to produce all the
documentation necessary to obtain a Russian visa in Latvia.  Russian
visas obtained on short notice are twice as expensive.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Latvia is limited.  There is a
severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable
needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics.  Elderly travelers and those
with existing health problems may be at risk due to inadequate
medical facilities.   Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate
cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Travelers have found that
in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proved to be useful.  The U.S. Embassy maintains a list
of English speaking physicians in the area.  Incidents of
encephalitis and lyme disease, which are spread by ticks, have been
reported.  Outbreaks of diphtheria have been reported in and around
Riga and in Daugavpils, with isolated cases in Tukums, Ventspils and
Jelgava.  The number of cases in 1994 grew steadily.  Up-to-date
vaccinations for diphtheria are recommended by the Centers for
Disease Control.  Further information on health matters can be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline, tel: [phone].
Crime Information:  Latvia has a relatively high rate of crime.
Street crime has increased, especially at night.  Robberies have
occurred on trains and in train stations.  Burglaries of apartments
and houses are common.  The same precautions taken in an unfamiliar
U.S. urban center are useful in Latvia as well.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad.  This publication is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington  D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  Americans who register at the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated information
on travel and security within Latvia.  The U.S. Embassy in Riga is
located at Raina Boulevard 7; telephone [phone].
 No. 95-074
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated June 22, 1994,
to change information concerning entry requirements and to report on
new medical warnings.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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/                                         Latvia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Estonia and Lithuania
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    64,100 sq km
  land area:
    64,100 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than West Virginia
Land boundaries:
    total 1,078 km, Belarus 141 km, Estonia 267 km, Lithuania 453 km, Russia 217
    km
Coastline:
    531 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
International disputes:
    the Abrene section of border ceded by the Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic
    to Russia in 1944
Climate:
    maritime; wet, moderate winters
Terrain:
    low plain
Natural resources:
    minimal; amber, peat, limestone, dolomite
Land use:
  arable land:
    27%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    13%
  forest and woodland:
    39%
  other:
    21%
Irrigated land:
    160 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air and water pollution because of a lack of waste conversion equipment;
    Gulf of Riga and Daugava River heavily polluted; contamination of soil and
    groundwater with chemicals and petroleum products at military bases
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Hazardous Wastes, Ship Pollution; signed, but not
    ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change
                                     Latvia
                                     People
Population:
    2,762,899 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    22% (female 294,521; male 304,830)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 933,003; male 870,128)
  65 years and over:
    13% (female 247,476; male 112,941) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.5% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    13.71 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.49 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    3.76 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    21 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    69.65 years
  male:
    64.6 years
  female:
    74.95 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.97 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Latvian(s)
  adjective:
    Latvian
Ethnic divisions:
    Latvian 51.8%, Russian 33.8%, Byelorussian 4.5%, Ukrainian 3.4%, Polish
    2.3%, other 4.2%
Religions:
    Lutheran, Roman Catholic, Russian Orthodox
Languages:
    Lettish (official), Lithuanian, Russian, other
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    100%
  male:
    100%
  female:
    99%
Labor force:
    1.407 million
  by occupation:
    industry and construction 41%, agriculture and forestry 16%, other 43%
    (1990)
                                     Latvia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Latvia
  conventional short form:
    Latvia
  local long form:
    Latvijas Republika
  local short form:
    Latvija
  former:
    Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic
Digraph:
    LG
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Riga
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    6 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 18 November (1918)
Constitution:
    newly elected Parliament in 1993 restored the 1933 constitution
Legal system:
    based on civil law system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Guntis ULMANIS (since 7 July 1993); Parliament (Saeima) elected
    President ULMANIS in the third round of balloting on 7 July 1993
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Maris GAILIS (since September 1994)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the Supreme Council
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Parliament (Saeima):
    elections last held 5-6 June 1993 (next to be held NA October 1995); results
    - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (100 total) LC 36, LNNK 15, Concord
    for Latvia 13, LZS 12, Equal Rights 7, LKDS 6, TUB 6, DCP 5
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                                     Latvia
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Latvian Way Union (LC), Valdis BIRKAVS; Latvian Farmers Union (LZS), Alvars
    BERKIS; Latvian National Independence Movement (LNNK), Andrejs KRASTINS,
    Aristids LAMBERGS, cochairmen; Concord for Latvia, Janis JURKANS; Equal
    Rights, Sergejs DIMANIS; Christian Democrat Union (LKDS), Peteris CIMDINS,
    Andris SAULITIS, Janis RUSKO; Fatherland and Freedom (TUB), Maris GRINBLATS,
    Roberts MILBERGS, Oigerts DZENTIS; Democratic Center (DCP), Ints CALITIS;
    Popular Front of Latvia (LTF), Uldis AUGSTKALNS
Member of:
    BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, FAO, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO,
    IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU,
    NACC, OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WEU (associate partner),
    WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ojars Eriks KALNINS
  chancery:
    4325 17th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 8214
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ints M, SILINS
  embassy:
    Raina Boulevard 7, Riga 226050
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [371] (2) 213-962
  FAX:
    [371] 882-0047 (cellular)
Flag:
    two horizontal bands of maroon (top and bottom), white (middle, narrower
    than other two bands)
                                     Latvia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Latvia is rapidly becoming a dynamic market economy, rivaled only by Estonia
    among the former Soviet states in the speed of its transformation. However,
    the transition has been painful; in 1994 the IMF reported a 2% growth in
    GDP, following steep declines in 1992-93. The government's tough monetary
    policies and reform program have kept inflation at less than 2% a month,
    supported a dynamic private sector now accounting for more than half of GDP,
    and spurred the growth of trade ties with the West. Much of agriculture is
    already privatized and the government plans to step up the pace of
    privatization of state enterprises. Latvia thus is in the midst of recovery,
    helped by the country's strategic location on the Baltic Sea, its
    well-educated population, and its diverse - albeit largely obsolete -
    industrial structure.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $12.3 billion (1994 estimate as extrapolated
    from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,480 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.9% (monthly average 1994)
Unemployment rate:
    6.5% (December 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $1 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    oil products, timber, ferrous metals, dairy products, furniture, textiles
  partners:
    Russia, Germany, Sweden, Belarus
Imports:
    $1.2 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    fuels, cars, ferrous metals, chemicals
  partners:
    Russia, Germany, Sweden, Ukraine
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate -9.5% (1994 est.); accounts for 27% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    2,080,000 kW
  production:
    5.5 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,864 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    highly diversified; dependent on imports for energy, raw materials, and
    intermediate products; produces buses, vans, street and railroad cars,
    synthetic fibers, agricultural machinery, fertilizers, washing machines,
    radios, electronics, pharmaceuticals, processed foods, textiles
                                     Latvia
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    principally dairy farming and livestock feeding; products - meat, milk,
    eggs, grain, sugar beets, potatoes, vegetables; fishing and fish packing
Illicit drugs:
    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
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    1 lat = 100 cents; introduced NA March 1993
Exchange rates:
    lats per US$1 - 0.55 (December 1994), 0.5917 (January 1994), 1.32 (March
    1993)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                     Latvia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,400 km
  broad gauge:
    2,400 km 1.520-m gauge (270 km electrified)
Highways:
  total:
    59,500 km
  paved and graveled:
    33,000 km
  unpaved:
    earth 26,500 km (1990)
Inland waterways:
    300 km perennially navigable
Pipelines:
    crude oil 750 km; refined products 780 km; natural gas 560 km (1992)
Ports:
    Daugavpils, Liepaja, Riga, Ventspils
Merchant marine:
  total:
    85 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 774,182 GRT/1,010,517 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 17, oil tanker 37, refrigerated cargo 24, roll-on/roll-off cargo 7
Airports:
  total:
    50
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    6
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    27
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    10
                                     Latvia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    660,000 telephones; 240 telephones/1,000 persons (1993); Latvia is better
    provided with telephone service than most of the other former Soviet
    republics; an NMT-450 analog cellular telephone network covers 75% of
    Latvia's population
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    international traffic carried by leased connection to the Moscow
    international gateway switch and through the new Ericsson AXE local/transit
    digital telephone exchange in Riga and through the Finnish cellular net;
    electronic mail capability by Sprint data network
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Latvia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Security Forces (internal
    and border troops), Border Guard, Home Guard (Zemessardze)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 658,193; males fit for military service 517,896; males reach
    military age (18) annually 18,736 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    176 million rubles, 3% to 5% of GDP (1994); note - conversion of the
    military budget into US dollars using the prevailing exchange rate could
    produce misleading results
Liberia
$LEBANON - Passport and visa required.  AIDS test required for those
seeking residence permits; U.S. test accepted.  Since January 1987, U.S.
passports are not valid for travel in, to, or through Lebanon without
authorization from the Department of State.  Application for exemptions to this
restriction should be submitted in writing to Passport Services, U.S.
Department of State, 1425 K St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20524, Attn:
CA/PPT/C, Room 300.  For further visa information contact Embassy of
Lebanon, 2560 28th St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008  (202/939-6300) or
nearest Consulate General:  Los Angeles (213/467-1253), Detroit
(313/567-0233) or New York (212/744-7905).
Lebanon - Travel Warning
September 6, 1994
The United States Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against travel
to Lebanon.  The situation in Lebanon is so dangerous that no U.S. citizen
can be considered safe from terrorist acts.  While all of the known American
hostages have been released, the organizations which abducted them continue
to operate within the country.  U.S. passports are not valid for travel to,
in or through Lebanon unless special validation has been obtained.  Due to
an extremely limited staff and heightened security, the U.S. Embassy in
Beirut cannot perform normal consular functions.  In addition, local
telephone service is highly unreliable and it is extremely difficult to
contact the Embassy by phone or to place a local call from most of the
country.
Additional details can be found in the Department of State's Consular
Information Sheet for Lebanon.
No. 94-037
This extends the Department of State Travel Warning for Lebanon dated August
31, 1993.
Lebanon - Consular Information Sheet
September 1, 1994
Warning:  The United States Department of State warns all U.S citizens
against travel to Lebanon.  The situation in Lebanon is so dangerous that no
U.S. citizen can be considered safe from terrorist acts.  While all of the
known American hostages have been released, the organizations which abducted
them continue to operate within the country.  U.S. passports are not valid
for travel to, in or through Lebanon unless special validation has been
obtained.  Due to an extremely limited staff and heightened security, the
U.S. Embassy in Beirut cannot perform normal consular functions.  In
addition, local telephone service is highly unreliable and it is extremely
difficult to contact the Embassy by phone or to place a local call from most
of the country.
Intermediate Stops in Beirut:  Several international air carriers are now
making intermediate stops in Beirut.  U.S. citizens are advised not to board
such flights because of the danger of traveling to or transiting Lebanon.
Such stops are not always announced.  Travelers should therefore inquire,
before making travel arrangements in the region, whether a flight will make
a stop in Beirut.  U.S. passports are not valid for travel to, in or through
Lebanon, which includes landing at the Beirut airport, unless specifically
endorsed by the Secretary of State.
Country Description:  The Republic of Lebanon is a parliamentary republic.
The country is emerging from a long period of civil war which has damaged
the economy and the social fabric.  The population is composed of both
Christians and Muslims from a variety of sects.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required.  Without the
requisite validation, use of a U.S. passport for travel to, in or through
Lebanon may constitute a violation of U. S. law and may be punishable by a
fine and/or imprisonment.
The categories of individuals eligible for consideration for a special
passport validation are set forth in 22 C.F.R. 51.74.  Passport validation
requests for Lebanon should be forwarded in writing to the following address:
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Passport Services
U.S. Department of State
1111 19th Street, N.W., Suite 260
Washington, D.C.  20522-1705
Attn:  Office of Passport Policy and Advisory Services
Telephone [phone] and 955-0232
Fax [phone].
The request must be accompanied by supporting documentation according to the
category under which validation is sought.  Currently, the four categories
of persons specified in 22 C.F.R. 51.74 as being eligible for consideration
for passport validation are as follows:
[a]  Professional reporters:  Includes full-time members of the reporting or
writing staff of a newspaper, magazine or broadcasting network whose purpose
for travel is to gather information about Lebanon for dissemination to the
general public.
[b]  American Red Cross:  Applicant establishes that he or she is a
representative of the American Red Cross or International Red Cross
traveling pursuant to an officially sponsored Red Cross mission.
[c]  Humanitarian considerations:  Applicant must establish that his or her
trip is justified by compelling humanitarian considerations or for family
unification.  At this time, "compelling humanitarian considerations" include
situations where the applicant can document that an immediate family member
is critically ill in Lebanon.  Documentation concerning family illness must
include the name and address of the relative, and be from that relative's
physician attesting to the nature and gravity of the illness.  "Family
unification" situations may include cases in which spouses or minor children
are residing in Lebanon, with and dependent on, a Lebanese national spouse
or parent for their support.
[d]  National interest:  The applicant's request is otherwise found to be in
the national interest.
In all requests for passport validation for travel to Lebanon, the name,
date and place of birth for all concerned persons must be given, as well as
the U.S. passport numbers.  Documentation as outlined above should accompany
all requests.  Additional information may be obtained by writing to the
above address or by calling the Office of Passport Policy and Advisory
Services at [phone] or 955-0232.
Areas of Instability:  Although all known Western hostages have been
released, the organizations that abducted them continue to operate within
the country.  The issues that ignited the civil war have not been completely
resolved.  Syrian troops are present in a large area of the country.
Militias still have the capability to operate within Lebanon.  Israel has
established a "security zone" in southern Lebanon, and hostilities occur in
the area without warning.  The Lebanese populace is armed, and incidents of
violence can occur at any time.
Dual Nationality:  U.S. consular protection - when available - is severely
limited for dual nationals traveling on a foreign passport.
Medical Facilities:  In Beirut and the surrounding areas, basic modern
medical care and medicines are widely available.  Such facilities are not
always available in outlying areas.  Doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate cash payment for services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid outside the United States. Supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  The international travelers
hotline at the Centers for Disease Control, telephone [phone], has
additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  While the crime rate in Lebanon is moderate, the
incidence of both car thefts and house break-ins is on the increase.  The
loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately to
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful information
on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security, and other matters
while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlets, "A
Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to the Middle East and North
Africa."  They are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal practices
of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are severe in Lebanon, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.  Individuals charged with drug offenses
are not usually releasable on bail and can expect to remain in jail while
judicial authorities prepare their cases for prosecution.
Consular Services:  Although registration records are maintained at the
Consular Section, the tight security under which the U.S. Embassy operates
mean that assistance is available only in cases of extreme emergency such as
arrest or death.  The Consular Section is not able to replace lost, stolen
or expired passports.  Because of unreliable telephone service in Lebanon,
contacting the Embassy can be difficult.  Access to the Consular Section is
not possible unless prior arrangements have been made.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in Antelias, P.O. Box 70-840,
Beirut, Lebanon.  The telephone number is (961-1) 417-774, 415-802, 415-803,
402-184, 402-200, 403-300.
No. 94-214
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 31, 1993 to show
the new address and phone numbers of the Deputy Assistant Secretary for
Passport Services, U.S. Department of State.
`;[;                                     Lebanon
Note:
    Lebanon 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 three
    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 Sh'ia party, retains most of its weapons.
    Foreign forces still occupy areas of Lebanon. Israel maintains troops in
    southern Lebanon and continues to support a proxy militia, The Army of South
    Lebanon (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 Jazzine. As of December 1993,
    Syria maintained about 30,000-35,000 troops in Lebanon. These troops are
    based mainly in Beirut, North Lebanon, and the Bekaa Valley. Syria's
    deployment was legitimized by the Arab League early in Lebanon's civil war
    and in the Ta'if accord. Citing the continued weakness of the LAF, Beirut'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 Beirut.
                                     Lebanon
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Israel and Syria
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    10,400 sq km
  land area:
    10,230 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.8 times the size of Connecticut
Land boundaries:
    total 454 km, Israel 79 km, Syria 375 km
Coastline:
    225 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    separated from Israel by the 1949 Armistice Line; Israeli troops in southern
    Lebanon since June 1982; Syrian troops in northern, central, and eastern
    Lebanon since October 1976
Climate:
    Mediterranean; mild to cool, wet winters with hot, dry summers; Lebanon
    mountains experience heavy winter snows
Terrain:
    narrow coastal plain; Al Biqa' (Bekaa Valley) separates Lebanon and
    Anti-Lebanon Mountains
Natural resources:
    limestone, iron ore, salt, water-surplus state in a water-deficit region
Land use:
  arable land:
    21%
  permanent crops:
    9%
  meadows and pastures:
    1%
  forest and woodland:
    8%
  other:
    61%
Irrigated land:
    860 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; desertification; air pollution in Beirut from
    vehicular traffic and the burning of industrial wastes; pollution of coastal
    waters from raw sewage and oil spills
  natural hazards:
    duststorms, sandstorms
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea,
    Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not
    ratified - Desertification, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping,
    Marine Life Conservation
Note:
    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 ethnicity
                                     Lebanon
                                     People
Population:
    3,695,921 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    36% (female 657,403; male 682,757)
  15-64 years:
    58% (female 1,131,450; male 1,016,859)
  65 years and over:
    6% (female 111,585; male 95,867) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.15% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    27.9 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.44 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    38 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    69.69 years
  male:
    67.22 years
  female:
    72.28 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.31 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Lebanese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Lebanese
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab 95%, Armenian 4%, other 1%
Religions:
    Islam 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), Judaism NEGL%
Languages:
    Arabic (official), French (official), Armenian, English
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    80%
  male:
    88%
  female:
    73%
Labor force:
    650,000
  by occupation:
    industry, commerce, and services 79%, agriculture 11%, government 10% (1985)
                                     Lebanon
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Lebanon
  conventional short form:
    Lebanon
  local long form:
    Al Jumhuriyah al Lubnaniyah
  local short form:
    none
Digraph:
    LE
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Beirut
Administrative divisions:
    5 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al Biqa, 'Al Janub, Ash
    Shamal, Bayrut, Jabal Lubnan
Independence:
    22 November 1943 (from League of Nations mandate under French
    administration)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 22 November (1943)
Constitution:
    23 May 1926, amended a number of times
Legal system:
    mixture of Ottoman law, canon law, Napoleonic code, and civil law; no
    judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; compulsory for all males; authorized for women at age 21
    with elementary education
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Ilyas HARAWI (since 24 November 1989); 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
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Rafiq HARIRI (since 22 October 1992)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; chosen by the president in consultation with the members of the
    National Assembly
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly:
     (Arabic - Majlis Alnuwab, French - Assemblee Nationale) Lebanon's first
    legislative election in 20 years was held in the summer of 1992; the
    National Assembly is composed of 128 deputies, one-half Christian and
    one-half Muslim; its mandate expires in 1996
Judicial branch:
    four Courts of Cassation (three courts for civil and commercial cases and
    one court for criminal cases)
Political parties and leaders:
    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
                                     Lebanon
                                   Government
Member of:
    ABEDA, ACCT, AFESD, AL, AMF, CCC, ESCWA, FAO, G-24, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OIC, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNRWA,
    UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Riyad TABBARAH
  chancery:
    2560 28th Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Detroit, New York, and Los Angeles
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant)
  embassy:
    Antelias, Beirut
  address:
    P. O. Box 70-840, Beirut; PSC 815, Box 2, Beirut; FPO AE 09836-0002
  telephone:
    [961] (1) 402200, 403300, 416502, 426183, 417774
  FAX:
    [961] (1) 407112
Flag:
    three horizontal bands of red (top), white (double width), and red with a
    green and brown cedar tree centered in the white band
                                     Lebanon
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The 1975-1991 civil war seriously damaged Lebanon's economic infrastructure,
    cut national output by half, and all but ended Lebanon's position as a
    Middle Eastern entrepot and banking hub. A tentative peace has enabled the
    central government to begin restoring control in Beirut, collect taxes, and
    regain access to key port and government facilities. The battered economy
    has also been propped up by a financially sound banking system and resilient
    small- and medium-scale manufacturers. Family remittances, banking
    transactions, manufactured and farm exports, the narcotics trade, and
    international emergency 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 further rebuilding of the
    war-ravaged country was delayed in 1992 because of an upturn in political
    wrangling. In October 1992, Rafiq HARIRI was appointed Prime Minister.
    HARIRI, a wealthy entrepreneur, announced ambitious plans for Lebanon's
    reconstruction which involve a substantial influx of foreign aid and
    investment. Progress on restoring basic services is limited. Since Prime
    Minister HARIRI's appointment, the most significant improvement lies in the
    stabilization of the Lebanese pound, which had gained over 30% in value by
    yearend 1993. The years 1993 and 1994 were marked by efforts of the new
    administration to encourage domestic and foreign investment and to obtain
    additional international assistance. The construction sector led the 8.5%
    advance in real GDP in 1994.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $15.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    8.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,360 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    12% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    35% (1993 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.4 billion
  expenditures:
    $3.2 billion (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $925 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    agricultural products, chemicals, textiles, precious and semiprecious metals
    and jewelry, metals and metal products
  partners:
    Saudi Arabia 21%, Switzerland 9.5%, Jordan 6%, Kuwait 12%, US 5%
Imports:
    $4.1 billion (c.i.f., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    consumer goods, machinery and transport equipment, petroleum products
  partners:
    Italy 14%, France 12%, US 6%, Turkey 5%, Saudi Arabia 3%
External debt:
    $765 million (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 25% (1993 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,220,000 kW
                                     Lebanon
                                     Economy
  production:
    2.5 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    676 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    banking, food processing, textiles, cement, oil refining, chemicals,
    jewelry, some metal fabricating
Agriculture:
    principal products - citrus fruits, vegetables, potatoes, olives, tobacco,
    hemp (hashish), sheep, goats; not self-sufficient in grain
Illicit drugs:
    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; increasingly a key locus of cocaine processing and
    trafficking; a Lebanese/Syrian 1994 eradication campaign eliminated the
    opium crop and caused a 50% decrease in the cannabis crop
Economic aid:
    the government estimates that it has received $1.7 billion in aid and has an
    additional $725 million in commitments to support its $3 billion National
    Emergency Recovery Program
Currency:
    1 Lebanese pound (#L) = 100 piasters
Exchange rates:
    Lebanese pounds (#L) per US$1 - 1,644.6 (January 1995), 1,680.1 (1994),
    1,741.4 (1993), 1,712.8 (1992), 928.23 (1991), 695.09 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                     Lebanon
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    222 km
  standard gauge:
    222 km 1.435-m
  note:
    system in disrepair, considered inoperable
Highways:
  total:
    7,300 km
  paved:
    6,200 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 450 km; improved earth 650 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 72 km (none in operation)
Ports:
    Al Batrun, Al Mina, An Naqurah, Antilyas, Az Zahrani, Beirut, Jubayl,
    Juniyah, Shikka Jadidah, Sidon, Tripoli, Tyre
Merchant marine:
  total:
    64 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 260,383 GRT/381,937 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 4, cargo 41, chemical tanker 1, combination bulk 1, combination ore/oil
    1, container 2, livestock carrier 6, refrigerated cargo 3, roll-on/roll-off
    cargo 2, specialized tanker 1, vehicle carrier 2
Airports:
  total:
    9
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                                     Lebanon
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    325,000 telephones; 95 telephones/1,000 persons; telecommunications system
    severely damaged by civil war; rebuilding still underway
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    primarily microwave radio relay and cable
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean) earth stations (erratic
    operations); coaxial cable to Syria; microwave radio relay to Syria but
    inoperable beyond Syria to Jordan; 3 submarine coaxial cables
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 5, FM 3, shortwave 0; note - numerous AM and FM stations are operated
    sporadically by various factions
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    13
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Lebanon
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF; includes Army, Navy, and Air Force)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 857,698; males fit for military service 533,640 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $278 million, 5.5% of GDP (1994)
Libya
LESOTHO - Passport and visa required.  Visa requires 1 form.
Single-entry visa requires $5 fee and multiple-entry $10.  For more information,
check Embassy of the Kingdom of Lesotho, 2511 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20008 (202/797-5533).
Lesotho - Consular Information Sheet
September 21, 1994
Country Description:  Lesotho is a developing country in southern Africa.
Facilities for tourists are limited.
Entry Requirements:  Visas are required and may be obtained at a Lesotho
diplomatic mission prior to arrival in Lesotho.  Americans arriving without
visas have not been inconvenienced but must obtain a visa at the immigration
and passport office in Maseru after entering the country.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Embassy of the Kingdom of Lesotho,
2511 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone (202) 797-
5533.
Areas of Instability:  In several instances in 1994, the Army and the police
challenged civilian control by going on strike, leading to political
contention and episodes of unrest, such as random gunfire, in and around the
capital, Maseru, as well as in other areas of the country.  During these
periods of heightened insecurity, travelers are especially encouraged to
remain in contact with the U.S. Embassy for up-to-the-minute guidance.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are minimal.  Many medicines are
unavailable.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for
health care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proved useful.  Information on health matters may be obtained
from the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline,
telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Deteriorating economic conditions in the country
aggravated by the return of large numbers of unemployed miners from South
Africa have caused an increase in armed robberies, break-ins and auto
thefts.  This occurs primarily in the capital city of Maseru but can occur
elsewhere as well.  Victims have included foreign diplomats and members of
foreign aid missions.  Traveling alone or at night is particularly dangerous.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The pamphlets
"A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide
useful information on protecting personal security while traveling abroad
and on travel in the region in general.  Both are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington,
D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy may obtain
updated information on travel and security within Lesotho.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 254 Kingsway, Maseru West;
 the mailing address is P.O. Box 333, Maseru 100, Lesotho.  The telephone
number is (266) 312-666.
No. 94-223
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 22, 1994, and
deletes the Travel Warning issued that date.
`)Z)                                        Lesotho
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, an enclave of South Africa
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    30,350 sq km
  land area:
    30,350 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Maryland
Land boundaries:
    total 909 km, South Africa 909 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate; cool to cold, dry winters; hot, wet summers
Terrain:
    mostly highland with plateaus, hills, and mountains
Natural resources:
    water, agricultural and grazing land, some diamonds and other minerals
Land use:
  arable land:
    10%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    66%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    24%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    population pressure forcing settlement in marginal areas results in
    overgrazing, severe soil erosion, soil exhaustion; desertification;
    Highlands Water Project will control, store, and redirect water to South
    Africa
  natural hazards:
    periodic droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection,
    Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, Desertification,
    Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping
Note:
    landlocked; surrounded by South Africa
                                     Lesotho
                                     People
Population:
    1,992,960 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    41% (female 407,213; male 416,709)
  15-64 years:
    54% (female 558,106; male 520,961)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 51,809; male 38,162) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.44% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    33.39 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.96 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    67.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    62.56 years
  male:
    60.74 years
  female:
    64.43 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.41 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Mosotho (singular), Basotho (plural)
  adjective:
    Basotho
Ethnic divisions:
    Sotho 99.7%, Europeans 1,600, Asians 800
Religions:
    Christian 80%, rest indigenous beliefs
Languages:
    Sesotho (southern Sotho), English (official), Zulu, Xhosa
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1966)
  total population:
    59%
  male:
    44%
  female:
    68%
Labor force:
    689,000 economically active
  by occupation:
    86.2% of resident population engaged in subsistence agriculture; roughly 60%
    of the active male wage earners work in South Africa
                                     Lesotho
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of Lesotho
  conventional short form:
    Lesotho
  former:
    Basutoland
Digraph:
    LT
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Maseru
Administrative divisions:
    10 districts; Berea, Butha-Buthe, Leribe, Mafeteng, Maseru, Mohale's Hoek,
    Mokhotlong, Qacha's Nek, Quthing, Thaba-Tseka
Independence:
    4 October 1966 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 4 October (1966)
Constitution:
    2 April 1993
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    King MOSHOESHOE II (since February 1995)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Ntsu MOKHEHLE (since 2 April 1993)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Parliament consisting of the Assembly or lower house whose members
    are chosen by popular election and the Senate or upper house whose members
    consist of the 22 principal chiefs and 11 other members appointed by the
    ruling party; election last held in March 1993 (first since 1971); all 65
    seats in the Assembly were won by the BCP
Judicial branch:
    High Court, Court of Appeal, Magistrate's Court, customary or traditional
    court
Political parties and leaders:
    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 Lesotho (CPL), Jacob M. KENA
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD,
    IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM,
    OAU, SACU, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires ad interim Mokhali A. LITHEBE (since 2 July
    1994)
                                     Lesotho
                                   Government
  chancery:
    2511 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 5536
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Myrick BISMARCK
  embassy:
    address NA, Maseru
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 333, Maseru 100, Lesotho
  telephone:
    [266] 312666
  FAX:
    [266] 310116
Flag:
    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
                                     Lesotho
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Small, landlocked, and mountainous, Lesotho 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 to
    support the milling, canning, leather, and jute industries; other industries
    include textile, clothing, and construction. Although drought 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 allow
    Lesotho's economy to continue its moderate growth.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $2.6 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,340 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    13.9% (1993)
Unemployment rate:
    substantial unemployment and underemployment
Budget:
  revenues:
    $438 million
  expenditures:
    $430 million, including capital expenditures of $155 million (FY93/94 est.)
Exports:
    $109 million (f.o.b., 1992)
  commodities:
    wool, mohair, wheat, cattle, peas, beans, corn, hides, skins, baskets
  partners:
    South Africa 42%, EC 28%, North and South America 25% (1991)
Imports:
    $964 million (c.i.f., 1992)
  commodities:
    mainly corn, building materials, clothing, vehicles, machinery, medicines,
    petroleum
  partners:
    South Africa 94%, Asia 3%, EC 1% (1991)
External debt:
    $512 million (1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 10%; accounts for 17% of GDP (1993 est.)
Electricity:
    power supplied by South Africa
Industries:
    food, beverages, textiles, handicrafts, tourism
Agriculture:
    accounts for 50% of GDP (1993 est.); exceedingly primitive, mostly
    subsistence farming and livestock; principal crops corn, wheat, pulses,
    sorghum, barley
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $268 million; US (1992), $10.3
    million; US (1993 est.), $10.1 million; Western (non-US) countries, ODA and
    OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $819 million; OPEC bilateral aid
    (1979-89), $4 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $14 million
                                     Lesotho
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 loti (L) = 100 lisente
Exchange rates:
    maloti (M) per US$1 - 3.5389 (January 1995), 3.5490 (1994), 3.2636 (1993),
    2.8497 (1992), 2.7563 (1991), 2.5863 (1990); note - the Basotho loti is at
    par with the South African rand
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                                     Lesotho
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    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
Highways:
  total:
    7,215 km
  paved:
    572 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, stabilized earth 2,337 km; improved earth 1,806 km; unimproved earth
    2,500 km (1988)
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    29
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    23
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
                                     Lesotho
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    5,920 telephones; rudimentary system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    consists of a few land lines, a small microwave radio relay system, and a
    minor radio communication system
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Lesotho
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Lesotho Defense Force (LDF; includes Army and Air Wing), Lesotho Mounted
    Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 453,844; males fit for military service 244,767 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $25 million, NA% of GDP (1994)
Liechtenstein
<LIBERIA - Passport and visa required.  Transit visitors with onward
ticket can remain at airport up to 48 hours.  Other travelers must obtain
visas before arrival.  Tourist/business entry visa valid 3 months, no fee,
requires 2 application forms, 2 photos, cholera and yellow fever
vaccinations and medical certificate to confirm that traveler is in
good health and free of any communicable disease.  Company letter needed for
business visa.  Include SASE for return of passport by mail.  Obtain
exit permit from immigration authorities upon arrival, 1 photo required.
For business requirements call Embassy of the Republic of Liberia, 5201
16th St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20011 (202/723-0437) or nearest Consulate:
CA (213/277-7692), GA (404/753-4754), IL (312/643-8635), LA
(504/523-7784), MI (313/342-3900) or NY (212/687-1025).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Liberia
============================================================
Liberia - Travel Warning
 September 15, 1995
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel to
Liberia.  Despite a peace accord signed in August 1995, sporadic
fighting and unsettled conditions continue in many areas of Liberia.
 Although a peacekeeping force is in place in and around Monrovia,
roads outside the capital are not open for regular travel.
Travelers to the interior of Liberia may be in danger of being
detained, harassed, delayed, injured, or killed.  There is a high
rate of armed robberies in the city of Monrovia.  Additional
information can be obtained from the Department's Consular
Information Sheet on Liberia.
 No. 95-029
This replaces the Travel Warning dated October 27, 1994, to update
information on the security situation in Liberia.
Liberia - Consular Information Sheet
 October 24, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against
travel to Liberia.  Despite a peace accord signed in August 1995,
sporadic fighting and unsettled conditions continue in many areas of
Liberia.  Although a peacekeeping force is in place in and around
Monrovia, roads outside the capital are not open for regular travel.
 Travelers to the interior of Liberia may be in danger of being
detained, harassed, delayed, injured, or killed.  There is a high
rate of armed robberies in the city of Monrovia.
Country Description:  Liberia is a developing west African country
which has suffered internal strife for the past several years.
Tourism facilities are poor and, in some cases, non-existent.
Entry Requirements:  Travelers who plan a trip to Liberia despite
this warning are required to have a passport and a visa prior to
arrival.  Evidence of yellow fever vaccinations is required.  An
exit permit must be obtained from Liberian immigration authorities
before departure.  Further information on entry requirements for
Liberia can be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of Liberia,
5201 16th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20011.  The telephone
numbers are [phone] to 723-0440.
Areas of Instability:  The situation in Liberia changes daily.
Sporadic fighting has occurred since the August 1995 peace accords
and tensions remain high in most of the country.  There are only a
few expatriates, who are engaged in relief activities, in areas of
the country outside Monrovia.  They operate only with the consent of
those locally in control.  In recent years and months there have
been serious and frequent incidents of violence against civilians by
partisans of Liberia's warring factions.  It is too early to
determine whether the recent peace accords will lead to the
cessation of all fighting and whether travel to some locations
outside the capital will become safe.  Fatal accidents have occurred
from exploding land mines on roads.
A security buffer, provided by forces of the West African Peace
Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) surrounds Monrovia.  Roads outside of
Monrovia are not generally safe due to robbers, land mines and
unruly elements of the warring factions.  Any person who leaves
Monrovia should return by dusk.  There is a 10:00PM to dawn curfew
in force in the capital.  U.S. Embassy employees are not permitted
to travel outside Monrovia except for official business.
Roberts International Airport, about 30 miles outside of Monrovia,
is closed.  Limited daytime air service exists only to Freetown,
Sierra Leone and Abidjan, Cote D'Ivoire.  No major international
carrier serves Monrovia's Spriggs Payne Airfield.  Overland routes
to neighboring countries are not open.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are poor.  Hospitals have
been looted and are barely able to provide services.  Medicines are
scarce in most areas.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid
outside the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not
provide for payment of medical services outside the United States.
In some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
and medical evacuation coverage has proven useful.  For additional
health information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Monrovia's crime rate is extremely high.
Foreigners, including U.S. citizens, have been targets of street
crime and violent robbery in their homes.  Residential armed
break-ins are common.  The police are ill-equipped and largely
incapable of providing effective protection.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. Embassy or
Consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Country Infrastructure:  Lodging, water, electricity, fuel,
transportation, telephone and postal services continue to be
unevenly available in Monrovia.  Such services are nonexistent or
severely limited in rural areas.  Commercial power is sporadically
available in parts of Monrovia.  Most businesses and facilities rely
upon generators to provide electricity.  Few facilities and even
fewer homes have telephones; disruption of service is common.  Mail
delivery is erratic.  Parcel delivery service is available to
Monrovia.  Courier mail service is available in Monrovia.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens should register upon
arrival in order to obtain updated travel and security information
from the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy at 111 United Nations
Drive, Monrovia, telephone [phone], fax [phone].  The U.S.
Embassy's mailing address is P.O. Box 10-0098, Mamba Point,
Monrovia.  Consular assistance is only available within Monrovia and
the immediate vicinity.
 No. 95-136
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 24,
1994, to include the September 15, 1995 updated travel warning and
to update the sections on areas of instability, medical facilities,
country infrastructure, and embassy location.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Liberia
============================================================
Liberia - Travel Warning
 September 15, 1995
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel to
Liberia.  Despite a peace accord signed in August 1995, sporadic
fighting and unsettled conditions continue in many areas of Liberia.
 Although a peacekeeping force is in place in and around Monrovia,
roads outside the capital are not open for regular travel.
Travelers to the interior of Liberia may be in danger of being
detained, harassed, delayed, injured, or killed.  There is a high
rate of armed robberies in the city of Monrovia.  Additional
information can be obtained from the Department's Consular
Information Sheet on Liberia.
 No. 95-029
This replaces the Travel Warning dated October 27, 1994, to update
information on the security situation in Liberia.
Liberia - Consular Information Sheet
 October 24, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against
travel to Liberia.  Despite a peace accord signed in August 1995,
sporadic fighting and unsettled conditions continue in many areas of
Liberia.  Although a peacekeeping force is in place in and around
Monrovia, roads outside the capital are not open for regular travel.
 Travelers to the interior of Liberia may be in danger of being
detained, harassed, delayed, injured, or killed.  There is a high
rate of armed robberies in the city of Monrovia.
Country Description:  Liberia is a developing west African country
which has suffered internal strife for the past several years.
Tourism facilities are poor and, in some cases, non-existent.
Entry Requirements:  Travelers who plan a trip to Liberia despite
this warning are required to have a passport and a visa prior to
arrival.  Evidence of yellow fever vaccinations is required.  An
exit permit must be obtained from Liberian immigration authorities
before departure.  Further information on entry requirements for
Liberia can be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of Liberia,
5201 16th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20011.  The telephone
numbers are [phone] to 723-0440.
Areas of Instability:  The situation in Liberia changes daily.
Sporadic fighting has occurred since the August 1995 peace accords
and tensions remain high in most of the country.  There are only a
few expatriates, who are engaged in relief activities, in areas of
the country outside Monrovia.  They operate only with the consent of
those locally in control.  In recent years and months there have
been serious and frequent incidents of violence against civilians by
partisans of Liberia's warring factions.  It is too early to
determine whether the recent peace accords will lead to the
cessation of all fighting and whether travel to some locations
outside the capital will become safe.  Fatal accidents have occurred
from exploding land mines on roads.
A security buffer, provided by forces of the West African Peace
Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) surrounds Monrovia.  Roads outside of
Monrovia are not generally safe due to robbers, land mines and
unruly elements of the warring factions.  Any person who leaves
Monrovia should return by dusk.  There is a 10:00PM to dawn curfew
in force in the capital.  U.S. Embassy employees are not permitted
to travel outside Monrovia except for official business.
Roberts International Airport, about 30 miles outside of Monrovia,
is closed.  Limited daytime air service exists only to Freetown,
Sierra Leone and Abidjan, Cote D'Ivoire.  No major international
carrier serves Monrovia's Spriggs Payne Airfield.  Overland routes
to neighboring countries are not open.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are poor.  Hospitals have
been looted and are barely able to provide services.  Medicines are
scarce in most areas.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid
outside the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not
provide for payment of medical services outside the United States.
In some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
and medical evacuation coverage has proven useful.  For additional
health information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Monrovia's crime rate is extremely high.
Foreigners, including U.S. citizens, have been targets of street
crime and violent robbery in their homes.  Residential armed
break-ins are common.  The police are ill-equipped and largely
incapable of providing effective protection.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. Embassy or
Consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Country Infrastructure:  Lodging, water, electricity, fuel,
transportation, telephone and postal services continue to be
unevenly available in Monrovia.  Such services are nonexistent or
severely limited in rural areas.  Commercial power is sporadically
available in parts of Monrovia.  Most businesses and facilities rely
upon generators to provide electricity.  Few facilities and even
fewer homes have telephones; disruption of service is common.  Mail
delivery is erratic.  Parcel delivery service is available to
Monrovia.  Courier mail service is available in Monrovia.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens should register upon
arrival in order to obtain updated travel and security information
from the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy at 111 United Nations
Drive, Monrovia, telephone [phone], fax [phone].  The U.S.
Embassy's mailing address is P.O. Box 10-0098, Mamba Point,
Monrovia.  Consular assistance is only available within Monrovia and
the immediate vicinity.
 No. 95-136
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 24,
1994, to include the September 15, 1995 updated travel warning and
to update the sections on areas of instability, medical facilities,
country infrastructure, and embassy location.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
3                                         Liberia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Cote d'Ivoire
    and Sierra Leone
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    111,370 sq km
  land area:
    96,320 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Tennessee
Land boundaries:
    total 1,585 km, Guinea 563 km, Cote d'Ivoire 716 km, Sierra Leone 306 km
Coastline:
    579 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    200 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid; dry winters with hot days and cool to cold nights;
    wet, cloudy summers with frequent heavy showers
Terrain:
    mostly flat to rolling coastal plains rising to rolling plateau and low
    mountains in northeast
Natural resources:
    iron ore, timber, diamonds, gold
Land use:
  arable land:
    1%
  permanent crops:
    3%
  meadows and pastures:
    2%
  forest and woodland:
    39%
  other:
    55%
Irrigated land:
    20 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    tropical rain forest subject to deforestation; soil erosion; loss of
    biodiversity; pollution of rivers from the dumping of iron ore tailings and
    of coastal waters from oil residue and raw sewage
  natural hazards:
    dust-laden harmattan winds blow from the Sahara (December to March)
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban, Ship Pollution, Tropical
    Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity,
    Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping,
    Marine Life Conservation
                                     Liberia
                                     People
Population:
    3,073,245 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    44% (female 674,155; male 680,952)
  15-64 years:
    52% (female 768,147; male 844,326)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 55,575; male 50,090) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.32% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    43.08 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.05 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    if the Ghanaian-led peace negotiations, under way in 1995, are successful,
    many Liberian refugees may return from exile
Infant mortality rate:
    110.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    58.17 years
  male:
    55.67 years
  female:
    60.75 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.3 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Liberian(s)
  adjective:
    Liberian
Ethnic divisions:
    indigenous African tribes 95% (including Kpelle, Bassa, Gio, Kru, Grebo,
    Mano, Krahn, Gola, Gbandi, Loma, Kissi, Vai, and Bella), Americo-Liberians
    5% (descendants of former slaves)
Religions:
    traditional 70%, Muslim 20%, Christian 10%
Languages:
    English 20% (official), Niger-Congo language group about 20 local languages
    come from this group
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    40%
  male:
    50%
  female:
    29%
Labor force:
    510,000 including 220,000 in the monetary economy
  by occupation:
    agriculture 70.5%, services 10.8%, industry and commerce 4.5%, other 14.2%
                                     Liberia
                                     People
  note:
    non-African foreigners hold about 95% of the top-level management and
    engineering jobs
                                     Liberia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Liberia
  conventional short form:
    Liberia
Digraph:
    LI
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Monrovia
Administrative divisions:
    13 counties; Bomi, Bong, Grand Bassa, Grand Cape Mount, Grand Gedeh, Grand
    Kru, Lofa, Margibi, Maryland, Montserrado, Nimba, River Cess, Sinoe
Independence:
    26 July 1847
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 26 July (1847)
Constitution:
    6 January 1986
Legal system:
    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
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    Chairman of the Council of State David KPOMAKPOR (since March 1994);
    election last held on 15 October 1985; results - Gen. Dr. Samuel Kanyon DOE
    (NDPL) 50.9%, Jackson DOE (LAP) 26.4%, other 22.7%
  note:
    constitutional government ended in September 1990 when President Samuel
    Kanyon DOE was killed by rebel forces; civil war ensued and in July 1993 the
    Cotonou Peace Treaty was negotiated by the major warring factions under UN
    auspices; a transitional coalition government under David KROMAKPOR was
    formed in March 1994 but has been largely ineffective and unable to
    implement the provisions of the peace treaty; Ghanaian-led negotiations are
    now underway to seat a new interim government that would oversee elections
    proposed for late 1995
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; selected by the leaders of the major factions in the civil war
Legislative branch:
    unicameral Transitional Legislative Assembly, the members of which are
    appointed by the leaders of the major factions in the civil war
  note:
    the former bicameral legislature no longer exists and there is no assurance
    that it will be reconstituted very soon
Judicial branch:
     Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    National Democratic Party of Liberia (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
                                     Liberia
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA,
    IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user),
    INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU,
    WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Konah K. BLACKETT
  chancery:
    5201 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d' Affaires William P. TWADDELL
  embassy:
    111 United Nations Drive, Monrovia
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 100098, Mamba Point, Monrovia
  telephone:
    [231] 222991 through 222994
  FAX:
    [231] 223710
Flag:
    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
                                     Liberia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Civil war since 1990 has destroyed much of Liberia's economy, especially the
    infrastructure in and around Monrovia. 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, Liberia 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 political impasse between the interim government and rebel
    leader Charles TAYLOR 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 1994.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $2.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $770 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $242.1 million
  expenditures:
    $435.4 million, including capital expenditures of $29.5 million (1989 est.)
Exports:
    $505 million (f.o.b., 1989 est.)
  commodities:
    iron ore 61%, rubber 20%, timber 11%, coffee
  partners:
    US, EC, Netherlands
Imports:
    $394 million (c.i.f., 1989 est.)
  commodities:
    mineral fuels, chemicals, machinery, transportation equipment, rice and
    other foodstuffs
  partners:
    US, EC, Japan, China, Netherlands, ECOWAS
External debt:
    $2.1 billion (September 1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA% (1993-94); much industrial damage caused by factional
    warfare
Electricity:
  capacity:
    330,000 kW
  production:
    440 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    143 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    rubber processing, food processing, construction materials, furniture, palm
    oil processing, mining (iron ore, diamonds)
                                     Liberia
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 40% of GDP (including fishing and forestry); principal
    products - rubber, timber, coffee, cocoa, rice, cassava, palm oil,
    sugarcane, bananas, sheep, goats; not self-sufficient in food, imports 25%
    of rice consumption
Illicit drugs:
    increasingly a transshipment point for heroin and cocaine
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $665 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $870 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $25 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $77
    million
Currency:
    1 Liberian dollar (L$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Liberian dollars (L$) per US$1 - 1.00 (officially fixed rate since 1940);
    unofficial parallel exchange rate of US$1 - L$7 (January 1992), unofficial
    rate floats against the US dollar
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                     Liberia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    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
  standard gauge:
    345 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    145 km 1.067-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    10,087 km
  paved:
    603 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 5,171 km (includes 2,323 km of private roads of rubber and timber
    firms, open to the public); earth 4,313 km
Ports:
    Buchanan, Greenville, Harper, Monrovia
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1,549 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 56,709,634 GRT/97,038,680 DWT
  ships by type:
    barge carrier 3, bulk 392, cargo 121, chemical tanker 114, combination bulk
    33, combination ore/oil 57, container 124, liquefied gas tanker 75, oil
    tanker 459, passenger 32, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated cargo 58,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 18, short-sea passenger 1, specialized tanker 7,
    vehicle carrier 54
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; includes 53 countries; the 10 major fleet
    flags are: United States 232 ships, Japan 190, Norway 166, Greece 125,
    Germany 125, United Kingdom 102, Hong Kong 95, China 45, Russia 41, and the
    Netherlands 34
Airports:
  total:
    59
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    43
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    11
                                     Liberia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; telephone and telegraph service via radio relay network; main
    center is Monrovia; most telecommunications services inoperable due to
    insurgency movement
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    5
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Liberia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    NA; the ultimate structure of the Liberian military force will depend on who
    is the victor in the ongoing civil war
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 732,063; males fit for military service 390,849 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $30 million, 2% of GDP (1994)
Lithuania
.LIBYA - Passport and visa required.  AIDS test required for those
seeking residence permits; U.S. test accepted.  Since December 1981, U.S.
passports are not valid for travel in, to, or through Libya without authorization
from the Department of State.  Application for exemptions to this
restriction should be submitted in writing to Passport Services, U.S.
Department of State, 1425 K St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20524, Attn:
CA/PPT/C, Room 300.  Attention:  U.S. citizens need a Treasury Dept.
license in order to engage in any transactions related to travel to and
within Libya.  Before planning any travel to Libya, U.S. citizens
should contact the Licensing Division, Office of Foreign Assets Control,
Department of the Treasury, 1331 G St., N.W., Washington, D.C.  20220
(202/622-2480).  Application and inquiries for visas must be made
through a country that maintains diplomatic relations with Libya.
Libya - Travel Warning
August 31, 1993
The United States Department of State warns all U.S. citizens to avoid
travel to Libya and to depart the country immediately if resident of visitor
there.  The U..S. government has determined that due to Libya's long history
of flouting international law and directing terrorist attacks against U.S.
citizens, it is unsafe for Americans to travel there.  U.S. passports are
not valid for travel to, in or through Libya unless a special validation is
obtained from the department of state.   All financial and commercial
transactions with Libya are prohibited, unless licensed by the U.S. Treasury
Department.
There is no U.S. Embassy in Libya.  U.S. government interests ate
represented by the government of Belgium, which as a protecting power can
provide only limited emergency service to U.S. citizens.  Further details
can be obtained in the Department of State's Consular Information
Information Sheet on Libya.
No. 93-034
This extends the Department of State's warning travel warning for Libya
issued January 8, 1993.
Libya - Consular Information Sheet
August 31, 1993
Warning:  The United States Department of State warns all U.S. citizens to
avoid travel to Libya and to depart the country immediately if resident or
visiting there.  The U.S. Government has determined that due to Libya's long
history of flouting international law and directing terrorist attacks
against U.S. citizens, it is unsafe for Americans to travel there.  U.S.
passports are not valid for travel to, in or through Libya unless a special
validation is obtained from the Department of State.  All financial and
commercial transactions with Libya are prohibited, unless licensed by the
U.S. Treasury Department.  There is no U.S. Embassy in Libya.  U.S.
Government interests are represented by the Government of Belgium, which as
a protecting power can provide only limited emergency services to U.S.
citizens.
Country Description:  The Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
considers itself an Islamic Arab Socialist "Mass-State", (i.e., a state run
by the masses).  Libya has a developing economy.  Islamic ideals and beliefs
provide the conservative foundation of the country's customs, laws and
practices.  Tourist facilities are not widely available.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required.  On December 11,
1981, U.S. passports ceased to be valid for travel to, in or through Libya
and may not be used for that purpose without a special validation.  Without
this requisite validation, use of a U.S. passport for travel to, in or
through Libya may constitute a violation of 18 U.S.C. 1544, and may be
punishable by a fine and/or imprisonment.
In addition, the Department of the Treasury prohibits all travel-related
transactions by U.S. persons intending to visit Libya, unless specifically
licensed by the Office of Foreign Assets Control.  There are limited
exceptions to this licensing requirement for Libyan nationals' family
members, and for journalists.
The categories of individuals eligible for consideration for a special
passport validation are set forth in 22 C.F.R. 51.74.  Passport validation
requests for Libya can be forwarded in writing to the following address:
Deputy Assistant Secretary for Passport Services
U.S. Department of State
1425 K Street, N.W.
Washington, D.C.  20522-1705
Attn:  Office of Citizenship Appeals and Legal Assistance (Room 300).
Telephone [phone] or 326-6182.
The request must be accompanied by supporting documentation according to the
category under which validation is sought.  Currently, the four categories
of persons specified in 22 C.F.R. 51.74 as being eligible for consideration
for passport validation are as follows:
[1]  Professional reporters:  includes full-time members of the reporting or
writing staff of a newspaper, magazine or broadcasting network whose purpose
for travel is to gather information about Libya for dissemination to the
general public.
[2]  American Red Cross:  Applicant establishes that he or she is a
representative of the American Red Cross or International Red Cross
traveling pursuant to an officially sponsored Red Cross mission.
[3]  Humanitarian considerations:  Applicant must establish that his or her
trip is justified by compelling humanitarian considerations or for family
unification.  At this time, "compelling humanitarian considerations" include
situations where the applicant can document that an immediate family member
is critically ill in Libya.   Documentation concerning family illness must
include the name and address of the relative, and be from that relative's
physician attesting to the nature and gravity of the illness.  "Family
unification" situations may include cases in which spouses or minor children
are residing in Libya, with and dependent on, a Libyan national spouse or
parent for their support.
[4]  National interest:  The applicant's request is otherwise found to be in
the national interest.
In all requests for passport validation for travel to Libya, the name, date
and place of birth for all concerned persons must be given, as well as the
U.S. passport numbers.  Documentation as outlined above should accompany all
requests.  Additional information may be obtained by writing to the above
address or by calling the Office of Citizenship Appeals and Legal Assistance
at [202] 326-6168 or 326-6182.
U.S. Treasury Restrictions:  In addition to the passport validation, U.S.
Treasury requirements must be met.  Travelers may contact the Treasury
Department at the following address and phone number:
Chief of Licensing
Office of Foreign Assets Control
U.S. Department of the Treasury
1500 Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W.
Washington, D.C. 20220
Telephone [phone]; fax [phone]
U.S. Treasury Sanctions:  On January 7, 1986, the United States imposed
sanctions against Libya, which are administered by the U.S. Treasury
Department, prohibiting all travel-related transactions with respect to
Libya for U.S. citizens and permanent resident aliens.  There are limited
exceptions for Libyan nationals' family members who register with the
Treasury Department's Office of Foreign Assets Control or with the Embassy
of Belgium in Tripoli, and for full-time journalists.  As of February 1,
1986, the President further prohibited transactions by U.S. persons relating
to transportation to or from Libya.  Additionally, all financial and
commercial transactions by U.S. persons anywhere in the world with Libya are
prohibited.  This includes working in Libya, providing a service of any
nature to Libya, or participating in an unauthorized transaction of any kind
involving property in which Libya has an interest.  Violations of the Libyan
sanctions may result in penalties, fines and/or imprisonment.
Under the Libyan Sanctions Regulations and in addition to any passport
validation issued by the Department of State, the U.S. Treasury Department
requires that U.S. citizens and legal permanent residents who wish to travel
to Libya to visit immediate family members in Libya are authorized to visit
Libya only if they file a registration letter prior to their trip with the
Office of Foreign Assets Control or with the Embassy of Belgium in Tripoli.
The registration must contain the following information:
(1)  Name, date and place of birth of the person registering [including the
name under which a registrant's most recent U.S. passport was issued, if
that is different];
(2)  If applicable, place and date of the registrant's naturalization as a
U.S. citizen, and the number of the registrant's naturalization certificate,
or, for permanent resident aliens, the alien registration number of the
registrant's alien registration receipt card;
(3) The name, relationship, and address of the immediate family member in
Libya whose relationship forms the basis for the registrant's eligibility;
(4)  The number and issue date of the registrant's current U.S. passport,
and the most recent date on which the passport was validated by the U.S.
Department of State for travel to Libya.
U.N. Sanctions:  U.N. Security Council sanctions against Libya, including an
air embargo, took effect on April 15, 1992.  U.N. Security Council
Resolution 748, passed on March 31, 1992, imposed sanctions on Libya until
Libya fully complies with the provisions of U.N.  Resolution 731 and 748,
adopted on January 21, 1992.  U.N. Security Council Resolutions 731 and 748
were adopted in response to Libya's responsibility for the bombings of Pan
Am flight 103 and UTA flight 772.  The U.S. cannot predict if or when Libya
will comply with the U.N. demands.  Since April 15, 1992, when air links
were discontinued, it has become difficult to leave Libya.  The sale in the
United States of air transportation including any stop in Libya became
illegal under the International Emergency Economic Powers Act, 50 U.S.C.
1701.
Medical Facilities:  Basic modern medical care and medicines may not be
available in Libya.
Information on Crime:  Crime is generally not a serious problem for
travelers in Libya.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be
reported immediately to local police, the U.S. Interests Section, and the
nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding
valuables, protecting personal security, and other matters while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip
Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to the Middle East or North Africa."  They
are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal practices
of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are severe in Libya, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  There is no U.S. embassy in Libya.  The U.S. government is
not in a position to accord normal consular protective services to U.S.
citizens in Libya.  U.S. Government interests are represented by the
Government of Belgium, which as a protecting power can provide only limited
emergency services to U.S. citizens.
Embassy Location:  There is no U.S. embassy or consulate in Libya.  The U.S.
Interests Section of the Embassy of Belgium is located at Tower 4, That al
Imad complex, in the capital city of Tripoli.  The Belgian Embassy's mailing
address is P.O. 91650, Tripoli, Libya.  The telephone number is (218-21)
33771.
No. 93-220
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated January 8, 1993 to
include new telephone numbers for the Office of Foreign Assets Control and
the U.S. Treasury, and to add information on reporting the loss or theft of
a U.S. passport abroad.
1                                         Libya
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Tunisia
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    1,759,540 sq km
  land area:
    1,759,540 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Alaska
Land boundaries:
    total 4,383 km, Algeria 982 km, Chad 1,055 km, Egypt 1,150 km, Niger 354 km,
    Sudan 383 km, Tunisia 459 km
Coastline:
    1,770 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
  Gulf of Sidra closing line:
    32 degrees 30 minutes north
International disputes:
    the International Court of Justice (ICJ) ruled in February 1994 that the
    100,000 sq km Aozou Strip between Chad and Libya belongs to Chad, and that
    Libya must withdraw from it by 31 May 1994; Libya has withdrawn some its
    forces in response to the ICJ ruling, but still maintains an airfield in the
    disputed area; maritime boundary dispute with Tunisia; claims part of
    northern Niger and part of southeastern Algeria
Climate:
    Mediterranean along coast; dry, extreme desert interior
Terrain:
    mostly barren, flat to undulating plains, plateaus, depressions
Natural resources:
    petroleum, natural gas, gypsum
Land use:
  arable land:
    2%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    8%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    90%
Irrigated land:
    2,420 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    desertification; 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
  natural hazards:
    hot, dry, dust-laden ghibli is a southern wind lasting one to four days in
    spring and fall; duststorms, sandstorms
                                      Libya
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed,
    but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the
    Sea
                                      Libya
                                     People
Population:
    5,248,401 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 1,226,851; male 1,269,813)
  15-64 years:
    49% (female 1,261,424; male 1,331,093)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 76,017; male 83,203) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.7% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    44.89 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.91 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    61.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    64.29 years
  male:
    62.12 years
  female:
    66.57 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.32 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Libyan(s)
  adjective:
    Libyan
Ethnic divisions:
    Berber and Arab 97%, Greeks, Maltese, Italians, Egyptians, Pakistanis,
    Turks, Indians, Tunisians
Religions:
    Sunni Muslim 97%
Languages:
    Arabic, Italian, English, all are widely understood in the major cities
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1984)
  total population:
    60%
  male:
    77%
  female:
    42%
Labor force:
    1 million (includes about 280,000 resident foreigners)
  by occupation:
    industry 31%, services 27%, government 24%, agriculture 18%
                                      Libya
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Socialist People's Libyan Arab Jamahiriya
  conventional short form:
    Libya
  local long form:
    Al Jumahiriyah al Arabiyah al Libiyah ash Shabiyah al Ishirakiyah
  local short form:
    none
Digraph:
    LY
Type:
    Jamahiriya (a state of the masses) in theory, governed by the populace
    through local councils; in fact, a military dictatorship
Capital:
    Tripoli
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    24 December 1951 (from Italy)
National holiday:
    Revolution Day, 1 September (1969)
Constitution:
    11 December 1969, amended 2 March 1977
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Revolutionary Leader Col. Mu'ammar Abu Minyar al-QADHAFI (since 1 September
    1969)
  head of government:
    Chairman of the General People's Committee (Premier) Abd al Majid al-Qa'ud
    (since 29 January 1994)
  cabinet:
    General People's Committee; established by the General People's Congress
  note:
    national elections are indirect through a hierarchy of peoples' committees
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  General People's Congress:
    national elections are indirect through a hierarchy of peoples' committees
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    none
Other political or pressure groups:
    various Arab nationalist movements with almost negligible memberships may be
    functioning clandestinely, as well as some Islamic elements
                                      Libya
                                   Government
Member of:
    ABEDA, AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, AMU, CAEU, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, ISO, ITU, NAM, OAPEC, OAU, OIC, OPEC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UNITAR, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none
US diplomatic representation:
    none
Flag:
    plain green; green is the traditional color of Islam (the state religion)
                                      Libya
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 GDP growth rates have slowed and 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. Windfall revenues from the hike in world oil prices in late 1990
    improved the foreign payments position and resulted in a current account
    surplus through 1992. The nonoil manufacturing and construction sectors,
    which account for about 20% of GDP, have expanded from processing mostly
    agricultural products to include petrochemicals, 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 Libya 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
    Libya's oil revenues generate sufficient foreign exchange which sustains
    imports of food, consumer goods, and equipment for the oil industry and
    ongoing development projects.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $32.9 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -0.9% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $6,510 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    25% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $8.1 billion
  expenditures:
    $9.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $3.1 billion (1989 est.)
Exports:
    $7.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    crude oil, refined petroleum products, natural gas
  partners:
    Italy, Germany, Spain, France, UK, Turkey, Greece, Egypt
Imports:
    $6.9 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery, transport equipment, food, manufactured goods
  partners:
    Italy, Germany, UK, France, Spain, Turkey, Tunisia, Eastern Europe
External debt:
    $3.5 billion excluding military debt (1991 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 10.5% (1990)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    4,600,000 kW
  production:
    16.1 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,078 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum, food processing, textiles, handicrafts, cement
                                      Libya
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    5% of GDP; cash crops - wheat, barley, olives, dates, citrus fruits,
    peanuts; 75% of food is imported
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-87),
    $242 million
  note:
    no longer a recipient
Currency:
    1 Libyan dinar (LD) = 1,000 dirhams
Exchange rates:
    Libyan dinars (LD) per US$1 - 0.3555 (January 1995), 0.3596 (1994), 0.3250
    (1993), 0.3013 (1992), 0.2684 (1991), 0.2699 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                      Libya
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  note:
    Libya 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 Egypt would establish a rail line from As
    Sallum, Egypt, to Tobruk with completion set for mid-1994; no progress has
    been reported
Highways:
  total:
    19,300 km
  paved:
    bituminous 10,800 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, earth 8,500 km
Inland waterways:
    none
Pipelines:
    crude oil 4,383 km; petroleum products 443 km (includes liquified petroleum
    gas 256 km); natural gas 1,947 km
Ports:
    Al Khums, Banghazi, Darnah, Marsa al Burayqah, Misratah, Ra's Lanuf, Tobruk,
    Tripoli, Zuwarah
Merchant marine:
  total:
    30 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 686,136 GRT/1,208,194 DWT
  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
Airports:
  total:
    146
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    24
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    22
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    21
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    17
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    44
                                      Libya
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    370,000 telephones; modern telecommunications system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay, coaxial cable, tropospheric scatter, and 14 domestic
    satellites
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) satellite earth stations;
    submarine cables to France and Italy; microwave radio relay to Tunisia and
    Egypt; tropospheric scatter to Greece; planned ARABSAT and Intersputnik
    satellite earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 17, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    12
  televisions:
    NA
                                      Libya
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Armed Peoples of the Libyan Arab Jamahiriyah (includes Army, Navy, and Air
    and Air Defense Command), Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,131,175; males fit for military service 672,571; males
    reach military age (17) annually 54,676 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $1.4 billion, 6.1% of GDP (1994 est.)
Luxembourg
LIECHTENSTEIN - Passport required.  Visa not required for
tourist/business stay up to 3 months.  For further information consult
the Swiss Embassy (202/745-7900).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Switzerland and Liechtenstein
============================================================
Switzerland and Liechtenstein - Consular Information Sheet
 June 30, 1995
Country Descriptions:  Switzerland is a highly developed democracy
with a modern economy.  Liechtenstein is a stable,
democratically-run constitutional monarchy with a modern economy.
Tourist services are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For both Switzerland and Liechtenstein, a
passport is required; a visa is not required for tourist or business
stays up to three months.  For further information on entry
requirements for both countries, travelers may contact the Embassy
of Switzerland at 2900 Cathedral Avenue N.W., Washington D.C. 20008,
tel [phone], or the nearest Swiss Consulate General in
Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Good medical care is widely available.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Travelers have found that in some cases,
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has
proved to be useful.  Information on specific health matters is
available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
hotline for international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Switzerland has a low rate of violent crime.
However, pickpocketing and purse-snatching do occur during peak
tourist periods (such as summer and Christmas) and when major
conferences, shows, or exhibits are scheduled in major cities.  Most
crime is restricted to specific localities in major cities that are
best avoided by the prudent traveler and residents, such as areas
frequented by drug dealers and users, the general vicinity of train
and bus stations, and some public parks.  Liechtenstein has a low
crime rate.
Travelers may wish to exercise caution on trains, especially on
overnight trains to neighboring countries.  Even locked sleeping
compartments can be entered by thieves who steal from passengers
while they sleep.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more
trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In Switzerland and in
Liechtenstein, the penalties for possession, use, and dealing in
illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail
sentences and fines.
Dual Nationality:  U.S. citizens who are considered to also have
Swiss citizenship may be subject to compulsory military service and
other requirements while in Switzerland.  Those who might be
affected may inquire at a Swiss embassy or consulate regarding their
status.  In some instances, dual nationality may hamper U.S.
government efforts to provide protection abroad.
Registration and Embassy and Consulate Locations:  U.S. citizens
who register in the Consular Section at the below locations may
obtain updated information on travel and security in Switzerland.
The U.S. Embassy in Bern is located at Jubilaeumstrasse 93,
telephone [phone], fax [phone].
The Consulate General in Zurich is located at Zollikerstrasse 141,
telephone [phone], fax [phone].
Limited consular services for U.S. citizens are offered by a
part-time consular agency in Geneva located at the America Center of
Geneva, World Trade Center II, Geneva Airport, Route de Pre-Bois 29,
telephone [phone] or 798-1615, fax [phone].
There is no U.S. Embassy or consulate in Liechtenstein.  For
assistance and information on travel and security in Liechtenstein,
U.S. citizens may contact or register at the U.S. Consulate General
in Zurich at the address above.
 No. 95-077
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 10, 1994, to
include information on Liechtenstein, note the change of fax number
at the Embassy in Bern and the phone number at the Consulate General
in Zurich, and provide the new address and telephone numbers for the
consular agency in Geneva.
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word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
#                                   Liechtenstein
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Europe, between Austria and Switzerland
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    160 sq km
  land area:
    160 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.9 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    total 78 km, Austria 37 km, Switzerland 41 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    claims 1,600 square kilometers of Czech territory confiscated from its royal
    family in 1918; the Czech Republic insists that restitution does not go back
    before February 1948, when the Communists seized power
Climate:
    continental; cold, cloudy winters with frequent snow or rain; cool to
    moderately warm, cloudy, humid summers
Terrain:
    mostly mountainous (Alps) with Rhine Valley in western third
Natural resources:
    hydroelectric potential
Land use:
  arable land:
    25%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    38%
  forest and woodland:
    19%
  other:
    18%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, 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, Biodiversity,
    Law of the Sea
Note:
    landlocked; variety of microclimatic variations based on elevation
                                  Liechtenstein
                                     People
Population:
    30,654 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    19% (female 2,897; male 2,974)
  15-64 years:
    71% (female 10,853; male 10,777)
  65 years and over:
    10% (female 1,930; male 1,223) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.2% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    12.95 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.56 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    5.58 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    5.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.52 years
  male:
    73.86 years
  female:
    81.17 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.47 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Liechtensteiner(s)
  adjective:
    Liechtenstein
Ethnic divisions:
    Alemannic 95%, Italian and other 5%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 87.3%, Protestant 8.3%, unknown 1.6%, other 2.8% (1988)
Languages:
    German (official), Alemannic dialect
Literacy:
    age 10 and over can read and write (1981)
  total population:
    100%
  male:
    100%
  female:
    100%
Labor force:
    19,905 of which 11,933 are foreigners; 6,885 commute from Austria and
    Switzerland to work each day
  by occupation:
    industry, trade, and building 53.2%, services 45%, agriculture, fishing,
    forestry, and horticulture 1.8% (1990)
                                  Liechtenstein
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Principality of Liechtenstein
  conventional short form:
    Liechtenstein
  local long form:
    Furstentum Liechtenstein
  local short form:
    Liechtenstein
Digraph:
    LS
Type:
    hereditary constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Vaduz
Administrative divisions:
    11 communes (gemeinden, singular - gemeinde); Balzers, Eschen, Gamprin,
    Mauren, Planken, Ruggell, Schaan, Schellenberg, Triesen, Triesenberg, Vaduz
Independence:
    23 January 1719 (Imperial Principality of Liechtenstein established)
National holiday:
    Assumption Day, 15 August
Constitution:
    5 October 1921
Legal system:
    local civil and penal codes; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with
    reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Prince Hans ADAM II (since 13 November 1989; assumed executive powers 26
    August 1984); Heir Apparent Prince ALOIS von und zu Liechtenstein (born 11
    June 1968)
  head of government:
    Mario FRICK (since 15 December 1993); Deputy Head of Government Dr. Thomas
    BUECHEL (since 15 December 1993)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; elected by the Diet; confirmed by the sovereign
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Oberster Gerichtshof) for criminal cases, Superior Court
    (Obergericht) for civil cases
Political parties and leaders:
    Fatherland Union (VU), Dr. Oswald KRANTZ; Progressive Citizens' Party (FBP),
    Otmar HASLER; The Free List (FL)
Member of:
    CE, EBRD, ECE, EFTA, GATT, IAEA, ICRM, IFRCS, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ITU,
    OSCE, UN, UNCTAD, UPU, WCL, WIPO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    in routine diplomatic matters, Liechtenstein is represented in the US by the
    Swiss Embassy
                                  Liechtenstein
                                   Government
US diplomatic representation:
    the US has no diplomatic or consular mission in Liechtenstein, but the US
    Consul General at Zurich (Switzerland) has consular accreditation at Vaduz
Flag:
    two equal horizontal bands of blue (top) and red with a gold crown on the
    hoist side of the blue band
                                  Liechtenstein
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Despite its small size and limited natural resources, Liechtenstein has
    developed into a prosperous, highly industrialized, free-enterprise economy
    with a vital service sector and living standards on par with its large
    European neighbors. Low business taxes - the maximum tax rate is 20% - and
    easy incorporation rules have induced about 25,000 holding or so-called
    letter box companies to establish nominal offices in Liechtenstein,
    providing 30% of state revenues. The country participates in a customs union
    with Switzerland and uses the Swiss franc as its national currency.
    Liechtenstein plans to join the European Economic Area (an organization
    serving as a bridge between EFTA and EU) in 1995.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $630 million (1990 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $22,300 (1990 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    5.4% (1990)
Unemployment rate:
    1.5% (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $259 million
  expenditures:
    $292 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1990 est.)
Exports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    small specialty machinery, dental products, stamps, hardware, pottery
  partners:
    EC countries 42.7%, EFTA countries 20.9% (Switzerland 15.4%), other 36.4%
    (1990)
Imports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    machinery, metal goods, textiles, foodstuffs, motor vehicles
  partners:
    NA
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    23,000 kW
  production:
    150 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    5,230 kWh (1992)
Industries:
    electronics, metal manufacturing, textiles, ceramics, pharmaceuticals, food
    products, precision instruments, tourism
Agriculture:
    livestock, vegetables, corn, wheat, potatoes, grapes
Economic aid:
    none
Currency:
    1 Swiss franc, franken, or franco (SwF) = 100 centimes, rappen, or centesimi
                                  Liechtenstein
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    Swiss francs, franken, or franchi (SwF) per US$1 - 1.2880 (January 1995),
    1.3677 (1994), 1.4776 (1993), 1.4062 (1992), 1.4340 (1991), 1.3892 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                  Liechtenstein
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    18.5 km; note - owned, operated, and included in statistics of Austrian
    Federal Railways
  standard gauge:
    18.5 km 1.435-m gauge (electrified)
Highways:
  total:
    322.93 km
  paved:
    322.93 km
Ports:
    none
Airports:
    none
                                  Liechtenstein
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    25,400 telephones; limited, but sufficient automatic telephone system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    linked to Swiss networks by cable and radio relay
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
  note:
    linked to Swiss networks
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
  note:
    linked to Swiss networks
                                  Liechtenstein
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is responsibility of Switzerland
Macau
LITHUANIA - Passport and visa required.  Visa requires 1 application
form and $25 fee.  AIDS  test required for pemanent residence permits.  U.S.
test sometimes accepted.  For further information contact Embassy of
Lithuania, 2622 16th St., N.W., Washington, D.C.  20009 (202/234-5860).
Lithuania - Consular Information Sheet
November 10, 1994
Country Description:  Lithuania is a country undergoing profound political
and economic change.  Tourist facilities continue to be developed.  Most
goods and services are now available in the major cities, but may not be
fully comparable to Western standards.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required, but U.S. citizens are not
required to obtain Lithuanian visas for most stays of 90 days or less.  U.S.
citizens may contact the Lithuanian Embassy at 2622 16th Street, Washington,
D.C. 20009, tel. [phone] for current information on visa
requirements.  Travelers who plan to enter Russia, even in transit, will
need a Russian visa.  Entry by train from Belarus requires a Belarussian
transit visa.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Lithuania is limited.  There is a
severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable needles,
anesthetics, and antibiotics.  Elderly travelers and those with existing
health problems may be at risk due to inadequate medical facilities.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be useful.
Significant outbreaks of diphtheria have occurred during the winter of
1993/94.  The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend up-to-date
diphtheria vaccinations.  Further information on health matters can be
obtained from the CDC's international travelers hotline, tel: [phone].
Crime Information:  Street crime, including purse snatchings and muggings,
can occur, especially at night near major tourist hotels and restaurants.
Auto theft and auto vandalism is common.  Robberies have occurred on trains,
in train stations, and in hotel rooms.  Police forces suffer from a lack of
manpower, resources and equipment.  Local police are not likely to speak
English, and it may be difficult to obtain police assistance.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful
information on guarding valuables and personal security while traveling
abroad.  This publication is available from the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington  D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Lithuania is still primarily a cash economy, though
an increasing number of hotels, restaurants and other businesses now accept
major credit cards.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the Consular Section of the U.S.
Embassy may obtain updated information on travel and security within
Lithuania.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Vilnius, Lithuania, is located at
Akmenu 6;
Telephone [phone].  After hours duty officer: (370-2) 227-240.
No. 94-266
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 29, 1993 to add
information on diphtheria outbreaks and to update information on entry
requirements, crime, currency regulations and new embassy telephone numbers.
5                                      Lithuania
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Latvia and Russia
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    65,200 sq km
  land area:
    65,200 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than West Virginia
Land boundaries:
    total 1,273 km, Belarus 502 km, Latvia 453 km, Poland 91 km, Russia
    (Kaliningrad) 227 km
Coastline:
    108 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    dispute with Russia (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
Climate:
    maritime; wet, moderate winters and summers
Terrain:
    lowland, many scattered small lakes, fertile soil
Natural resources:
    peat
Land use:
  arable land:
    49.1%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    22.2%
  forest and woodland:
    16.3%
  other:
    12.4%
Irrigated land:
    430 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    contamination of soil and groundwater with petroleum products and chemicals
    at military bases
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not
    ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change
                                    Lithuania
                                     People
Population:
    3,876,396 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    23% (female 426,616; male 444,556)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 1,299,052; male 1,227,420)
  65 years and over:
    12% (female 313,217; male 165,535) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.71% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    14.46 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    10.95 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    3.62 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    16.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    71.37 years
  male:
    66.68 years
  female:
    76.3 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Lithuanian(s)
  adjective:
    Lithuanian
Ethnic divisions:
    Lithuanian 80.1%, Russian 8.6%, Polish 7.7%, Byelorussian 1.5%, other 2.1%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic, Lutheran, other
Languages:
    Lithuanian (official), Polish, Russian
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    98%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    98%
Labor force:
    1.836 million
  by occupation:
    industry and construction 42%, agriculture and forestry 18%, other 40%
    (1990)
                                    Lithuania
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Lithuania
  conventional short form:
    Lithuania
  local long form:
    Lietuvos Respublika
  local short form:
    Lietuva
  former:
    Lithuanian Soviet Socialist Republic
Digraph:
    LH
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Vilnius
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    6 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 16 February (1918)
Constitution:
    adopted 25 October 1992
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; no judicial review of legislative acts
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Algirdas Mykolas BRAZAUSKAS (since 25 November 1992; elected
    acting president by Parliament 25 November 1992 and elected by direct vote
    15 February 1993); election last held 14 February 1993 (next to be held NA
    1997); results - Algirdas BRAZAUSKAS was elected; note - on 25 November 1992
    BRAZAUSKAS was elected chairman of Parliament and, as such, acting president
    of the Republic; he was confirmed in office by direct balloting 15 February
    1993
  head of government:
    Premier Adolfas SLEZEVICIUS (since 10 March 1993)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president on the nomination of the
    prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
                                    Lithuania
                                   Government
  Seimas (parliament):
    elections last held 26 October and 25 November 1992 (next to be held NA
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court, Court of Appeals
Political parties and leaders:
    Christian Democratic Party (LKDP), Povilas KATILIUS, chairman; Democratic
    Labor Party of Lithuania (LDDP), Adolfas SLEZEVICIUS, 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;
    Conservative Party, Vytautas LANDSBERGIS, chairman; Lithuanian Polish Union
    (LLS), Rytardas MACIKIANEC, chairman
Other political or pressure groups:
    Homeland Union; Lithuanian Future Forum; Farmers Union
Member of:
    BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, FAO, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF,
    INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NACC,
    OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WEU (associate partner), WHO,
    WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Alfonsas EIDINTAS
  chancery:
    2622 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 2639
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador James W. SWIHART, Jr.
  embassy:
    Akmenu 6, Vilnius 2600
  mailing address:
    APO AE 09723
  telephone:
    [370] (2) 223-031
  FAX:
    [370] (2) 222-779
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of yellow (top), green, and red
                                    Lithuania
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Since independence in September 1991, Lithuania has made steady progress in
    developing a market economy. Almost 50% of state property has been
    privatized and trade is diversifying with a gradual shift away from the
    former Soviet Union to Western markets. In addition, the Lithuanian
    government has adhered to a disciplined budgetary and financial policy which
    has brought inflation down from a monthly average of around 14% in first
    half 1993 to an average of 3.1% in 1994. Nevertheless, the process has been
    painful with industrial output in 1993 less than half the 1991 level. The
    economy appeared to have bottomed out in 1994, and Vilnius's policies have
    laid the groundwork for vigorous recovery over the next few years. Recovery
    will build on Lithuanian's strategic location with its ice-free port at
    Klaipeda and its rail and highway hub in Vilnius connecting it with Eastern
    Europe, Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine, and on its agriculture potential,
    highly skilled labor force, and diversified industrial sector. Lacking
    important natural resources, it will remain dependent on imports of fuels
    and raw materials.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $13.5 billion (1994 estimate as extrapolated
    from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    -0.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,500 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3.1% (monthly average 1994)
Unemployment rate:
    4.5% (January 1995)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $258.5 million
  expenditures:
    $270.2 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $2.2 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    electronics 18%, petroleum products 5%, food 10%, chemicals 6% (1989)
  partners:
    Russia, Ukraine, Germany
Imports:
    $2.7 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    oil 24%, machinery 14%, chemicals 8%, grain NA% (1989)
  partners:
    Russia, Germany, Belarus
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate -52% (1992); accounts for 35% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    6,190,000 kW
  production:
    18.9 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    4,608 kWh (1993)
                                    Lithuania
                                     Economy
Industries:
    industry's share in the economy has been declining substantially over the
    past year, due to the economic crisis and the growth of services in the
    economy; among branches which are still important: metal-cutting machine
    tools 6.6%, electric motors 4.6%, television sets 6.2%, refrigerators and
    freezers 5.4%; other branches: petroleum refining, shipbuilding (small
    ships), furniture making, textiles, food processing, fertilizers,
    agricultural machinery, optical equipment, electronic components, computers,
    and amber
Agriculture:
    employs around 18% of labor force; accounts for 25% of GDP; sugar, grain,
    potatoes, sugar beets, vegetables, meat, milk, dairy products, eggs, fish;
    most developed are the livestock and dairy branches, which depend on
    imported grain; net exporter of meat, milk, and eggs
Illicit drugs:
    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
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (1992), $10 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-86), $NA million;
    Communist countries (1971-86), $NA million
Currency:
    introduced the convertible litas in June 1993
Exchange rates:
    litai per US$1 - 4 (fixed rate 1 May 1994)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                    Lithuania
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,010 km
  broad gauge:
    2,010 km 1.524-m gauge (120 km electrified) (1990)
Highways:
  total:
    44,200 km
  paved:
    35,500 km
  unpaved:
    earth 8,700 km (1990)
Inland waterways:
    600 km perennially navigable
Pipelines:
    crude oil, 105 km; natural gas 760 km (1992)
Ports:
    Kaunas, Klaipeda
Merchant marine:
  total:
    44 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 275,893 GRT/321,440 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 1, cargo 28, combination bulk 11, railcar carrier 3, roll-on/roll-off
    cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    96
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    14
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    63
                                    Lithuania
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    900,000 telephones; 240 telephones/1,000 persons; telecommunications system
    ranks among the most modern of the former Soviet republics
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    land lines and microwave radio relay
  international:
    international connections no longer depend on the Moscow gateway switch, but
    are established by satellite through Oslo from Vilnius and through
    Copenhagen from Kaunas; 1 EUTELSAT and 1 INTELSAT earth station; an NMT-450
    analog cellular network operates in Vilnius and other cities and is linked
    internationally through Copenhagen by EUTELSAT; international electronic
    mail is available; land lines or microwave to former USSR republics
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 13, FM 26, shortwave 1, longwave 1
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    3
  televisions:
    NA
                                    Lithuania
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air Defense Force, Security Forces (internal
    and border troops), National Guard (Skat)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 949,663; males fit for military service 750,386; males reach
    military age (18) annually 27,630 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $30 million, 2% of GDP (1994); note - for 1995
    defense expenditures were $54 million at exchange rate conversion
Macedonia
LUXEMBOURG - Passport required.  Visa not required for tourist/business
stay up to 3 months.  For additional information contact Embassy of
Luxembourg, 2200 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/265-4171) or the nearest Consulate:  CA (415/788-0816), FL (305/373-1300), GA
(404/668-9811), IL (312/726-0355), MO (816/474-4761), NY (212/888-6664)
or OH (312/726-0355).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Luxembourg
============================================================
Luxembourg - Consular Information Sheet
 October 18, 1995
Country Description:  Luxembourg is a highly developed stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely
available.
Entry Requirements:  A visa is not required for tourist or business
stays up to three months out of a 180-day period within the area of
the Schengen countries, i.e., Luxembourg, France, Germany, the
Netherlands, Belgium, Spain and Portugal.  For further information
concerning entry requirements for Luxembourg, travelers can contact
the Embassy of Luxembourg at 2200 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008, tel [phone], or the Luxembourg
Consulates General in New York or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are widely available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.
Information on specific health matters is available through the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for
international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Luxembourg has a low crime rate.  However,
during the tourist season, pickpocketing, theft of unattended
baggage, and theft from vehicles can occur.  U.S. citizens can refer
to the Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways
to promote a more trouble-free voyage.  The pamphlet is available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Penalties for possession, use, and dealing in
illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail
sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  Americans who reside in
Luxembourg can register with the Consular Section of the U.S.
Embassy.  The section has available updated information on travel
and security within the area.  The Embassy is located at 22
Boulevard Emmanuel-Servais in Luxembourg City, telephone (352)
46-01-23.
 No. 95-129
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 18, 1994
issued to update the section on Entry Requirements.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Luxembourg
============================================================
Luxembourg - Consular Information Sheet
 October 18, 1995
Country Description:  Luxembourg is a highly developed stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely
available.
Entry Requirements:  A visa is not required for tourist or business
stays up to three months out of a 180-day period within the area of
the Schengen countries, i.e., Luxembourg, France, Germany, the
Netherlands, Belgium, Spain and Portugal.  For further information
concerning entry requirements for Luxembourg, travelers can contact
the Embassy of Luxembourg at 2200 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008, tel [phone], or the Luxembourg
Consulates General in New York or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are widely available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.
Information on specific health matters is available through the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for
international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Luxembourg has a low crime rate.  However,
during the tourist season, pickpocketing, theft of unattended
baggage, and theft from vehicles can occur.  U.S. citizens can refer
to the Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways
to promote a more trouble-free voyage.  The pamphlet is available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Penalties for possession, use, and dealing in
illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail
sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  Americans who reside in
Luxembourg can register with the Consular Section of the U.S.
Embassy.  The section has available updated information on travel
and security within the area.  The Embassy is located at 22
Boulevard Emmanuel-Servais in Luxembourg City, telephone (352)
46-01-23.
 No. 95-129
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 18, 1994
issued to update the section on Entry Requirements.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
+                                    Luxembourg
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Europe, between France and Germany
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    2,586 sq km
  land area:
    2,586 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Rhode Island
Land boundaries:
    total 359 km, Belgium 148 km, France 73 km, Germany 138 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    modified continental with mild winters, cool summers
Terrain:
    mostly gently rolling uplands with broad, shallow valleys; uplands to
    slightly mountainous in the north; steep slope down to Moselle floodplain in
    the southeast
Natural resources:
    iron ore (no longer exploited)
Land use:
  arable land:
    24%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    20%
  forest and woodland:
    21%
  other:
    34%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; air and water pollution in urban areas
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds,
    Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine
    Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical
    Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94,
    Desertification, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea
Note:
    landlocked
                                   Luxembourg
                                     People
Population:
    404,660 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    18% (female 35,372; male 36,645)
  15-64 years:
    68% (female 136,960; male 137,792)
  65 years and over:
    14% (female 35,774; male 22,117) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.57% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    12.61 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.42 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    2.47 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    6.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    76.95 years
  male:
    73.31 years
  female:
    80.75 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.65 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Luxembourger(s)
  adjective:
    Luxembourg
Ethnic divisions:
    Celtic base (with French and German blend), Portuguese, Italian, and
    European (guest and worker residents)
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 97%, Protestant and Jewish 3%
Languages:
    Luxembourgisch, German, French, English
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
  total population:
    100%
  male:
    100%
  female:
    100%
Labor force:
    177,300 (one-third of labor force is foreign workers, mostly from Portugal,
    Italy, France, Belgium, and Germany)
  by occupation:
    services 65%, industry 31.6%, agriculture 3.4% (1988)
                                   Luxembourg
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Grand Duchy of Luxembourg
  conventional short form:
    Luxembourg
  local long form:
    Grand-Duche de Luxembourg
  local short form:
    Luxembourg
Digraph:
    LU
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Luxembourg
Administrative divisions:
    3 districts; Diekirch, Grevenmacher, Luxembourg
Independence:
    1839
National holiday:
    National Day, 23 June (1921) (public celebration of the Grand Duke's
    birthday)
Constitution:
    17 October 1868, occasional revisions
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Grand Duke JEAN (since 12 November 1964); Heir Apparent Prince HENRI (son of
    Grand Duke JEAN, born 16 April 1955)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Jean-Claude JUNKER (since 1 January 1994); Vice Prime
    Minister Jacques F. POOS (since 21 July 1984)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the sovereign
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Chamber of Deputies (Chambre des Deputes):
    elections last held on 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
  note:
    the Council of State (Conseil d'Etat) is an advisory body whose views are
    considered by the Chamber of Deputies
Judicial branch:
    Superior Court of Justice (Cour Superieure de Justice)
Political parties and leaders:
    Christian Social People's Party (CSV), Erna HENNICOT-SCHOEPGES; Socialist
    Workers Party (LSAP), Ben FAYOT; Democratic Party (DP), Henri GRETHEN;
    Action Committee for Democracy and Pension Rights, Roby MEHLEN; other minor
    parties
Other political or pressure groups:
    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
                                   Luxembourg
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACCT, Australia Group, Benelux, CCC, CE, EBRD, EC, ECE, EIB, FAO, GATT,
    IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF,
    IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ITU, MTCR, NACC, NATO, NEA, NSG, OECD,
    OSCE, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WEU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Alphonse BERNS
  chancery:
    2200 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York and San Francisco
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Clay CONSTANTINOU
  embassy:
    22 Boulevard Emmanuel-Servais, 2535 Luxembourg City
  mailing address:
    PSC 11, Luxembourg City; APO AE 09132-5380
  telephone:
    [352] 46 01 23
  FAX:
    [352] 46 14 01
Flag:
    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 France
                                   Luxembourg
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The stable, prosperous economy features moderate growth, low inflation, 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 Belgium on trade and most
    financial matters, is also closely connected economically to the
    Netherlands, and as a member of the 15-member European Union enjoys the
    advantages of the open European market.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $9.2 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.6% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $22,830 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3.6% (1992)
Unemployment rate:
    2.4% (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $4 billion
  expenditures:
    $4.05 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $6.4 billion (f.o.b., 1991 est.)
  commodities:
    finished steel products, chemicals, rubber products, glass, aluminum, other
    industrial products
  partners:
    EC 76%, US 5%
Imports:
    $8.3 billion (c.i.f., 1991 est.)
  commodities:
    minerals, metals, foodstuffs, quality consumer goods
  partners:
    Belgium 37%, Germany 31%, France 12%, US 2%
External debt:
    $800 million (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -0.5% (1990); accounts for 25% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,238,750 kW
  production:
    1.374 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,395 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    banking, iron and steel, food processing, chemicals, metal products,
    engineering, tires, glass, aluminum
Agriculture:
    accounts for less than 3% of GDP (including forestry); principal products -
    barley, oats, potatoes, wheat, fruits, wine grapes; cattle raising
    widespread
                                   Luxembourg
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
    none
Currency:
    1 Luxembourg franc (LuxF) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Luxembourg francs (LuxF) per US$1 - 31.549 (January 1995), 33,456 (1994),
    34.597 (1993), 32.150 (1992), 34.148 (1991), 33.418 (1990); note - the
    Luxembourg franc is at par with the Belgian franc, which circulates freely
    in Luxembourg
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                   Luxembourg
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    271 km
  standard gauge:
    271 km 1.435-m gauge (243 km electrified; 178 km double track) (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    5,108 km
  paved:
    5,062 km (95 km of limited access divided highway)
  unpaved:
    46 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    37 km; Moselle River
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 48 km
Ports:
    Mertert
Merchant marine:
  total:
    45 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,129,466 GRT/1,790,988 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 6, cargo 2, chemical tanker 4, combination bulk 6, container 2,
    liquefied gas tanker 8, oil tanker 7, passenger 2, refrigerated cargo 6,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 2
Airports:
  total:
    2
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
                                   Luxembourg
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    230,000 telephones; highly developed, completely automated and efficient
    system, mainly buried cables; nationwide mobile phone system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    buried cable
  international:
    3 channels leased on TAT-6 coaxial submarine cable
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    3 and 1 direct-broadcast satellite link
  televisions:
    NA
                                   Luxembourg
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, National Gendarmerie
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 103,990; males fit for military service 85,912; males reach
    military age (19) annually 2,190 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $129 million, 1.2% of GDP (1994)
Madagascar
MACAU - Passport required.  Visa not required for visits up to 60 days.
For further information consult nearest Portuguese Consulate:
Washington, D.C. (202/332-3007),  San Francisco (415/346-3400), New Bedford
(508/997-6151), Newark (201/622-7300), NY (212/246-4580), Providence
(401/272-2003) or Portuguese Consulate in Hong Kong (231-338).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Macau
============================================================
Macau - Consular Information Sheet
 December 5, 1995
Country Description:   Macau is a Chinese territory administered by
Portugal and will return to Chinese sovereignty in 1999.  Facilities
for tourism are well developed.  Macau includes a six-square-mile
area on the mainland of China bordering the South China Sea, and the
small, adjacent islands of Taipa and Coloane.
Entry Requirements:  Information on entry requirements may be
obtained from the Embassy of Portugal at 2125 Kalorama Road N.W.,
Washington D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], or from the
American Consulate General in Hong Kong, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  There are at least two major hospitals in
Macau that have adequate medical facilities and are able to provide
medical care in emergency situations.  Highly developed medical
facilities and trained personnel are available in Hong Kong, which
is about an hour by jetfoil and ten minutes by helicopter from
Macau.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is generally not valid
outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage, including provision for medical
evacuation, has proven useful.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does
not provide payment for medical services outside the United States.
Information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control's international travelers hotline, telephone (404)
332-4559.
Information on Crime:  Petty street crime occasionally occurs in
tourist areas in Macau, including in and around casinos.  The loss
or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and to the nearest U.S. consulate.  Information on
safeguarding valuables and protecting personal safety can be found
in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad".  It can
be obtained from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.
Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section
of the American Consulate General in Hong Kong can obtain updated
information on travel and security conditions in Macau.
Embassy Location:  There is no U.S. diplomatic presence in Macau.
Consular assistance for U.S. citizens is provided by the U.S.
Consulate General in Hong Kong.  The address is 26 Garden Road,
Central District, Hong Kong.  The telephone number in Hong Kong is
(852) 2523-9011; fax [phone].
 No. 95-155
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 29, 1994 to
update information on entry requirements, and  provide updated
telephone and fax numbers of the U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
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Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Macau
============================================================
Macau - Consular Information Sheet
 December 5, 1995
Country Description:   Macau is a Chinese territory administered by
Portugal and will return to Chinese sovereignty in 1999.  Facilities
for tourism are well developed.  Macau includes a six-square-mile
area on the mainland of China bordering the South China Sea, and the
small, adjacent islands of Taipa and Coloane.
Entry Requirements:  Information on entry requirements may be
obtained from the Embassy of Portugal at 2125 Kalorama Road N.W.,
Washington D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], or from the
American Consulate General in Hong Kong, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  There are at least two major hospitals in
Macau that have adequate medical facilities and are able to provide
medical care in emergency situations.  Highly developed medical
facilities and trained personnel are available in Hong Kong, which
is about an hour by jetfoil and ten minutes by helicopter from
Macau.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is generally not valid
outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage, including provision for medical
evacuation, has proven useful.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does
not provide payment for medical services outside the United States.
Information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control's international travelers hotline, telephone (404)
332-4559.
Information on Crime:  Petty street crime occasionally occurs in
tourist areas in Macau, including in and around casinos.  The loss
or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and to the nearest U.S. consulate.  Information on
safeguarding valuables and protecting personal safety can be found
in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad".  It can
be obtained from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.
Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section
of the American Consulate General in Hong Kong can obtain updated
information on travel and security conditions in Macau.
Embassy Location:  There is no U.S. diplomatic presence in Macau.
Consular assistance for U.S. citizens is provided by the U.S.
Consulate General in Hong Kong.  The address is 26 Garden Road,
Central District, Hong Kong.  The telephone number in Hong Kong is
(852) 2523-9011; fax [phone].
 No. 95-155
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 29, 1994 to
update information on entry requirements, and  provide updated
telephone and fax numbers of the U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
"                                         Macau
Affiliation:
    (overseas territory of Portugal)
                                         Macau
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and China
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    16 sq km
  land area:
    16 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.1 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    total 0.34 km, China 0.34 km
Coastline:
    40 km
Maritime claims:
    not specified
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    subtropical; marine with cool winters, warm summers
Terrain:
    generally flat
Natural resources:
    negligible
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Ozone Layer Protection (extended from Portugal)
Note:
    essentially urban; one causeway and one bridge connect the two islands to
    the peninsula on mainland
                                      Macau
                                     People
Population:
    490,901 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    24% (female 56,991; male 60,944)
  15-64 years:
    68% (female 167,366; male 165,168)
  65 years and over:
    8% (female 23,537; male 16,895) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.25% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    14.5 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.21 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    2.24 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    5.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    79.86 years
  male:
    77.41 years
  female:
    82.43 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.49 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Macanese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Macau
Ethnic divisions:
    Chinese 95%, Portuguese 3%, other 2%
Religions:
    Buddhist 45%, Roman Catholic 7%, Protestant 1%, none 45.8%, other 1.2%
    (1981)
Languages:
    Portuguese (official), Cantonese is the language of commerce
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1981)
  total population:
    90%
  male:
    93%
  female:
    86%
Labor force:
    180,000 (1986)
  by occupation:
    NA
                                      Macau
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Macau
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Ilha de Macau
Digraph:
    MC
Type:
    overseas territory of Portugal scheduled to revert to China in 1999
Capital:
    Macau
Administrative divisions:
    2 districts (concelhos, singular - concelho); Ilhas, Macau
Independence:
    none (territory of Portugal; Portugal 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 year after transition)
National holiday:
    Day of Portugal, 10 June (1580)
Constitution:
    17 February 1976, Organic Law of Macau; basic law drafted primarily by
    Beijing awaiting final approval
Legal system:
    Portuguese civil law system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President (of Portugal) Mario Alberto SOARES (since 9 March 1986)
  head of government:
    Governor Gen. Vasco Joachim Rocha VIEIRA (since 20 March 1991)
  cabinet:
    Consultative Council; consists of five members appointed by the governor,
    two nominated by the governor, five members elected for a four-year term (2
    represent administrative bodies, 1 represents moral, cultural, and welfare
    interests, and 2 economic interests), and three statuatory members
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Legislative Assembly:
    elections last held on 10 March 1991 (next to be held NA); results - percent
    of vote by party NA; seats - (23 total, 8 elected by universal suffrage, 8
    by indirect suffrage, and 7 appointed by the governor) number of seats by
    party NA
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Association to Defend the Interests of Macau; Macau Democratic Center; Group
    to Study the Development of Macau; Macau Independent Group
Other political or pressure groups:
    wealthy Macanese and Chinese representing local interests, wealthy
    pro-Communist merchants representing China's interests; in January 1967 the
    Macau Government acceded to Chinese demands that gave China veto power over
    administration
                                      Macau
                                   Government
Member of:
    CCC, ESCAP (associate), GATT, IMO (associate), INTERPOL (subbureau), WTO
    (associate)
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (Chinese territory under Portuguese administration)
US diplomatic representation:
    the US has no offices in Macau, and US interests are monitored by the US
    Consulate General in Hong Kong
Flag:
    the flag of Portugal is used
                                      Macau
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 electronics. 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 represented well
    over 40% of GDP in 1992. Macau depends on China for most of its food, fresh
    water, and energy imports. Japan and Hong Kong are the main suppliers of raw
    materials and capital goods.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4.8 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $10,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    7.7% (1992 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    2% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $305 million
  expenditures:
    $298 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1989 est.)
Exports:
    $1.8 billion (1992 est.)
  commodities:
    textiles, clothing, toys
  partners:
    US 35%, Hong Kong 12.5%, Germany 12%, China 9.9%, France 8% (1992 est.)
Imports:
    $2 billion (1992 est.)
  commodities:
    raw materials, foodstuffs, capital goods
  partners:
    Hong Kong 33%, China 20%, Japan 18% (1992 est.)
External debt:
    $91 million (1985)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    258,000 kW
  production:
    950 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,093 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    clothing, textiles, toys, plastic products, furniture, tourism
Agriculture:
    rice, vegetables; food shortages - rice, vegetables, meat; depends mostly on
    imports for food requirements
Economic aid:
    none
Currency:
    1 pataca (P) = 100 avos
                                      Macau
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    patacas (P) per US$1 - 8.034 (1991-94), 8.024 (1990), 8.030 (1989); note -
    linked to the Hong Kong dollar at the rate of 1.03 patacas per Hong Kong
    dollar
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                      Macau
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    42 km
  paved:
    42 km
Ports:
    Macau
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
    none usable, 1 under construction; 1 seaplane station
                                      Macau
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    52,000 telephones; fairly modern communication facilities maintained for
    domestic and international services
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    high-frequency radio communication facility; access to international
    communications carriers provided via Hong Kong and China; 1 INTELSAT (Indian
    Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 4, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    115,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0; note - TV programs received from Hong Kong
  televisions:
    NA
                                      Macau
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    NA
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 141,160; males fit for military service 78,578 (1995 est.)
Note:
    defense is responsibility of Portugal
Malawi
MACEDONIA, FORMER YUGOSLAV REPUBLIC OF -   Entry permission can be
obtained at border points.  Macedonia does not currently maintain an embassy in
the U.S.  For more information check with the Former Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia's Office, 1015 15th St., N.W., Suite 402, Washington, D.C.
20005 (202/682-0519).
Macedonia - Consular Information Sheet
May 5, 1994
Country Description:  The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) is a
developing nation.  Facilities for tourism are not fully developed.  The use
of the name "The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia" is provisional and
subject to review.
Entry Requirements:  U.S. citizens need a passport and can obtain entry
permission at border points of entry.  The FYROM does not have an embassy or
consulate in the United States, but has a representative office at 1015 15th
Street NW, Suite 402, Washington, DC 20005, telephone [phone], where
further information can be obtained.
Medical Facilities:  Health facilities in the Former Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia are limited.  Medicines are in short supply.  Doctors and
hospitals usually expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  Travelers
have found that in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proved to be useful.  Further information on health
matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers' hotline on [phone].
Crime Information:  Theft and other petty crimes are on the rise in the
FYROM, but are still low by U.S. standards.  Emergency police assistance can
be obtained by dialing 92.  Response time varies, but is generally
considered to be effective.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet "A Safe
Trip Abroad," available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington DC 20402.
Other Information:  Westerners who travel to the Former Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia can expect shortages of fuel, and in some cases, long waits for
processing at the border.  To date, the war in Bosnia-Herzegovina and
tensions in parts of Serbia-Montenegro have not otherwise significantly
affected the FYROM.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in Belgrade,
Serbia-Montenegro or the U.S. Embassy in Sofia, Bulgaria can obtain updated
information on travel and security in the Former Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia.
Embassy Location:  The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia has been
recognized as an independent country by the United States along with several
other Western nations.  However, although officially recognized by the
United States, no full diplomatic relations between the FYROM and the United
States have been established.  In December 1993, the United States opened a
liaison office in Skopje, which provides only emergency services to American
citizens.
The U.S. Liaison Office is located at 27 Mart Street, No 5, Skopje,
Macedonia.  The telephone number is (389-91) 116-180, and the fax is (389-
91) 117-103.
U.S. citizens seeking non-emergency assistance can contact the U.S. Embassy
in Sofia, Bulgaria or the U.S. Embassy in Belgrade, Serbia-Montenegro.  The
U.S. Embassy in Sofia, Bulgaria is located at 1 Saborna, telephone (359-2)
88-48-01 through 88-48-05.  The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy is
located at 1 Kapitan Andreev Street; the telephone numbers are the same.
The U.S. Embassy in Belgrade is located at Kneza Milosa 50; telephone (381-
11) 645-655. It provides limited assistance to U.S. citizens because of
conflict in the general area and reduced U.S. Embassy staffing.
No. 94-068
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 29, 1993, to
reflect the provisional use of the name "The Former Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia," to indicate formal U.S. recognition, and to include the opening
of the U.S. Liaison office in Skopje.
0                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Europe, north of Greece
Map references:
    Ethnic Groups in Eastern Europe, Europe
Area:
  total area:
    25,333 sq km
  land area:
    24,856 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Vermont
Land boundaries:
    total 748 km, Albania 151 km, Bulgaria 148 km, Greece 228 km, Serbia and
    Montenegro 221 km (all with Serbia)
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    dispute with Greece over name, symbols, and certain constitutional
    provisions
Climate:
    hot, dry summers and autumns and relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall
Terrain:
    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
Natural resources:
    chromium, lead, zinc, manganese, tungsten, nickel, low-grade iron ore,
    asbestos, sulphur, timber
Land use:
  arable land:
    5%
  permanent crops:
    5%
  meadows and pastures:
    20%
  forest and woodland:
    30%
  other:
    40%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution from metallurgical plants
  natural hazards:
    high seismic risks
  international agreements:
    party to - Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection
Note:
    landlocked; major transportation corridor from Western and Central Europe to
    Aegean Sea and Southern Europe to Western Europe
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                     People
Population:
    2,159,503 (July 1995 est.)
  note:
    the Macedonian government census of July 1994 put the population at 1.94
    million, but ethnic allocations were likely undercounted
Age structure:
  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.)
Population growth rate:
    0.9% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.82 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.7 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.14 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    24.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    74 years
  male:
    71.87 years
  female:
    76.3 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.02 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Macedonian(s)
  adjective:
    Macedonian
Ethnic divisions:
    Macedonian 65%, Albanian 22%, Turkish 4%, Serb 2%, Gypsies 3%, other 4%
Religions:
    Eastern Orthodox 67%, Muslim 30%, other 3%
Languages:
    Macedonian 70%, Albanian 21%, Turkish 3%, Serbo-Croatian 3%, other 3%
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    591,773 (June 1994)
  by occupation:
    manufacturing and mining 40% (1992)
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
  conventional short form:
    none
  local long form:
    Republika Makedonija
  local short form:
    Makedonija
Abbreviation:
    F.Y.R.O.M.
Digraph:
    MK
Type:
    emerging democracy
Capital:
    Skopje
Administrative divisions:
    34 counties (opstinas, singular - opstina) Berovo, Bitola, Brod, Debar,
    Delcevo, Gevgelija, Gostivar, Kavadarci, Kicevo, Kocani, Kratovo, Kriva
    Palanka, Krusevo, Kumanovo, Murgasevo, Negotino, Ohrid, Prilep, Probistip,
    Radovis, Resen, Skopje-Centar, Skopje-Cair, Skopje-Karpos, Skopje-Kisela
    Voda, Skopje-Gazi Baba, Stip, Struga, Strumica, Sveti Nikole, Tetovo, Titov
    Veles, Valandovo, Vinica
Independence:
    17 September 1991 (from Yugoslavia)
National holiday:
    8 September
Constitution:
    adopted 17 November 1991, effective 20 November 1991
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    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
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Branko CRVENKOVSKI (since 4 September 1992)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; elected by the majority vote of all the deputies in
    the Sobranje
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Constitutional Court, Judicial Court of the Republic
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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)
Member of:
    CCC, CE (guest), CEI, EBRD, ECE, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFAD, IFC, ILO, IMF,
    IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, OSCE (observer), UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    the US recognized The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia on 8 February
    1994
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Victor D. COMRAS
  liaison office:
    ul. 27 Mart No. 5, 9100 Skopje
  mailing address:
    USLO Skopje, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-7120 (pouch)
  telephone:
    [389] (91) 116-180
  FAX:
    [389] (91) 117-103
Flag:
    16-point gold sun (Vergina, Sun) centered on a red field
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 Serbia and
    Montenegro, Albania, Greece, and Bulgaria. 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 Germany 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 Greece 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $1.9 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -15% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $900 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    54% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    30% (1993 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $1.06 billion (1993)
  commodities:
    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 tobacco 4.5%, chemicals 4.7% (1990)
  partners:
    principally Serbia and Montenegro and the other former Yugoslav republics,
    Germany, Greece, Albania
Imports:
    $1.2 billion (1993)
  commodities:
    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 tobacco 3.5%
    (1990)
  partners:
    other former Yugoslav republics, Greece, Albania, Germany, Bulgaria
External debt:
    $840 million (1992)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -14% (1993)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,600,000 kW
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                     Economy
  production:
    NA kWh
  consumption per capita:
    NA kWh (1993)
Industries:
    low levels of technology predominate, such as, oil refining by distillation
    only; produces basic liquid fuels, coal, metallic chromium, lead, zinc, and
    ferronickel; light industry produces basic textiles, wood products, and
    tobacco
Agriculture:
    meets the basic needs for food; principal crops are rice, tobacco, wheat,
    corn, and millet; also grown are cotton, sesame, mulberry leaves, citrus
    fruit, and vegetables; agricultural production is highly labor intensive
Illicit drugs:
    limited illicit opium cultivation; transshipment point for Southwest Asian
    heroin
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US $10 million (for humanitarian and technical assistance)
    EC promised a 100 ECU million economic aid package (1993)
Currency:
    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
Exchange rates:
    denar per US$1 - 39 (November 1994), 865 (October 1992)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    922 km
  standard gauge:
    922 km 1.435-m gauge (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    10,591 km
  paved:
    5,091 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 1,404 km; earth 4,096 km (1991)
Inland waterways:
    none, lake transport only
Pipelines:
    none
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    16
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    11
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    125,000 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    no satellite links
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 6, FM 2, shortwave 0
  radios:
    370,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    5 (relays 2)
  televisions:
    325,000
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 585,403; males fit for military service 474,467; males reach
    military age (19) annually 19,693 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    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
Malaysia
MADAGASCAR - Passport and visa required.  Visa valid 6 months for
single-entry up to 90 days, $22.50; or multiple-entries, $44.15 (no
personal checks).  Requires 4 application forms, 4 photos, yellow fever
and cholera immunizations, proof of onward/return transportation and
sufficient funds for stay.   Include a prepaid envelope for return of
passport by registered mail.  Allow 4 months to process visa for longer stay.  For
additional information contact Embassy of the Democratic Republic of
Madagascar, 2374 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/265-5525/6) or nearest Consulate:  NY (212/986-9491),
PA  (215/893-3067) or CA (1-800/856-2721).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Madagascar
============================================================
Madagascar - Consular Information Sheet
 March 7, 1995
Country Description:  Madagascar is a developing island nation off
the east coast of Africa.  Facilities for tourism are available, but
vary in quality.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required.  Evidence of
yellow fever immunizations must be submitted.  For additional entry
information, the traveler may contact the Embassy of the Republic of
Madagascar, 2374 Massachusetts Avenue,  N.W., Washington, D.C.
20008, telephone [phone].  There is a Madagasy Consulate in
New York, telephone [phone]. Honorary Consuls are located in
Philadelphia [phone] and Palo Alto [phone].
Areas of Instability: Madagascar completed a transition to a
multi-party democracy in 1993, and the capital, major cities and
countryside remain relatively calm.  Foreigners who remain near or
photograph political gatherings or demonstrations, especially in
towns outside Antananarivo, may be at risk.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are minimal.  Many
medicines are unavailable.  Doctors and hospitals often request
immediate cash payment for health care services.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  In some
cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proved useful.  Information on health matters can be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Street crime poses a risk for visitors,
especially in the capital, Antananarivo.  Reported incidents include
muggings and purse snatchings.  These crimes generally occur in or
near public mass transit systems, and against individuals walking at
night in the Antananarivo city center.  The loss or theft abroad of
a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local police and
to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe
Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide
useful information on protecting personal security while traveling
abroad and on travel in the region in general.  Both are available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Air Travel:  Domestic and international air services operate
regularly but they are subject to delays and occasional breakdowns.
Air Madagascar often changes flight schedules with little or no
prior warning to passengers.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in
Antananarivo may obtain updated information on travel and security
within Madagascar.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in the capital city
of Antananarivo, at 14 and 16 Rue Rainitovo, Antsahavola.  The
mailing address is B.P. 620, Antsahavola, Madagascar.  The telephone
number is (261-2) 212-57, 200-89 or 207-18.
 No. 95-037
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 18,
1993, to revise the paragraph on Areas of Instability, to delete the
paragraph on Demonstrations and to add a paragraph on Air Travel.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
4                                   Madagascar
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Mozambique
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    587,040 sq km
  land area:
    581,540 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of Arizona
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    4,828 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    claims Bassas da India, Europa Island, Glorioso Islands, Juan de Nova
    Island, and Tromelin Island (all administered by France)
Climate:
    tropical along coast, temperate inland, arid in south
Terrain:
    narrow coastal plain, high plateau and mountains in center
Natural resources:
    graphite, chromite, coal, bauxite, salt, quartz, tar sands, semiprecious
    stones, mica, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    4%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    58%
  forest and woodland:
    26%
  other:
    11%
Irrigated land:
    9,000 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    soil erosion results from deforestation and overgrazing; desertification;
    surface water contaminated with raw sewage and other organic wastes; several
    species of flora and fauna unique to the island are endangered
  natural hazards:
    periodic cyclones
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban;
    signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification,
    Law of the Sea
                                   Madagascar
                                    Geography
Note:
    world's fourth-largest island; strategic location along Mozambique Channel
                                   Madagascar
                                     People
Population:
    13,862,325 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    47% (female 3,231,647; male 3,265,715)
  15-64 years:
    50% (female 3,511,699; male 3,413,564)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 225,205; male 214,495) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.18% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    44.82 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.99 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    86.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    54.45 years
  male:
    52.47 years
  female:
    56.48 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.62 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Malagasy (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Malagasy
Ethnic divisions:
    Malayo-Indonesian (Merina and related Betsileo), Cotiers (mixed African,
    Malayo-Indonesian, and Arab ancestry - Betsimisaraka, Tsimihety, Antaisaka,
    Sakalava), French, Indian, Creole, Comoran
Religions:
    indigenous beliefs 52%, Christian 41%, Muslim 7%
Languages:
    French (official), Malagasy (official)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    80%
  male:
    88%
  female:
    73%
Labor force:
  total workers:
    4.9 million
  workers not receiving money wages:
    4.7 million (96% of total labor force); note - 4.3 million workers are in
    subsistence agriculture
  wage earners:
    175,000 (3.6% of total work force)
                                   Madagascar
                                     People
  wage earners by occupation:
    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.)
                                   Madagascar
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Madagascar
  conventional short form:
    Madagascar
  local long form:
    Republique de Madagascar
  local short form:
    Madagascar
  former:
    Malagasy Republic
Digraph:
    MA
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Antananarivo
Administrative divisions:
    6 provinces; Antananarivo, Antsiranana, Fianarantsoa, Mahajanga, Toamasina,
    Toliary
Independence:
    26 June 1960 (from France)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 26 June (1960)
Constitution:
    19 August 1992 by national referendum
Legal system:
    based on French civil law system and traditional Malagasy law; has not
    accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Albert ZAFY (since 9 March 1993); election last held on 10
    February 1993 (next to be held 1998); results - Albert ZAFY (UNDD), 67%;
    Didier RATSIRAKA (AREMA), 33%
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Francisque RAVONY (since 9 August 1993)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    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 on 16 June 1993 (next to be held 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Cour Supreme), High Constitutional Court (Haute Cour
    Constitutionnelle)
                                   Madagascar
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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
Other political or pressure groups:
    National Council of Christian Churches (FFKM); Federalist Movement
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ITU,
    NAM, OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNMIH, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Pierrot Jocelyn RAJAONARIVELO
  chancery:
    2374 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 5526
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Dennis P. BARRETT
  embassy:
    14-16 Rue Rainitovo, Antsahavola, Antananarivo
  mailing address:
    B. P. 620, Antananarivo
  telephone:
    [261] (2) 212-57, 200-89, 207-18
  FAX:
    [261] (2) 345-39
Flag:
    two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and green with a vertical white band
    of the same width on hoist side
                                   Madagascar
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in the world, suffering from
    chronic malnutrition, underfunded health and education facilities, a 3%
    annual population growth rate, and severe loss of forest cover, accompanied
    by erosion. Agriculture, including fishing and forestry, is the mainstay of
    the economy, accounting for over 30% of GDP and contributing more than 70%
    of total export earnings. Industry is largely confined to the processing of
    agricultural products and textile manufacturing; in 1991 it accounted for
    only 13% 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 exports, 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 infrastructure 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $10.6 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $790 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    35% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $250 million
  expenditures:
    $265 million, including capital expenditures of $180 million (1991 est.)
Exports:
    $240 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    coffee 45%, vanilla 20%, cloves 11%, shellfish, sugar, petroleum products
  partners:
    France, US, Germany, Japan, Russia
Imports:
    $510 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    intermediate manufactures 30%, capital goods 28%, petroleum 15%, consumer
    goods 14%, food 13%
  partners:
    France, Germany, Japan, UK, Italy, Netherlands
External debt:
    $4.3 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3.8% (1993 est.); accounts for 13% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    220,000 kW
  production:
    560 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    40 kWh (1993)
                                   Madagascar
                                     Economy
Industries:
    agricultural processing (meat canneries, soap factories, breweries,
    tanneries, sugar refining plants), light consumer goods industries
    (textiles, glassware), cement, automobile assembly plant, paper, petroleum
Agriculture:
    accounts for 31% of GDP; cash crops - coffee, vanilla, sugarcane, cloves,
    cocoa; food crops - rice, cassava, beans, bananas, peanuts; cattle raising
    widespread; almost self-sufficient in rice
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of cannabis (cultivated and wild varieties) used mostly for
    domestic consumption
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $136 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $3.125 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $491 million
Currency:
    1 Malagasy franc (FMG) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Malagasy francs (FMG) per US$1 - 3,718.0 (November 1994), 1,913.8 (1993),
    1,864.0 (1992), 1,835.4 (1991), 1,454.6 (December 1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                   Madagascar
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,020 km
  narrow gauge:
    1,020 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    40,000 km
  paved:
    4,694 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, stabilized earth 811 km; other earth 34,495 km (est.)
Inland waterways:
    of local importance only; isolated streams and small portions of Canal des
    Pangalanes
Ports:
    Antsiranana, Mahajanga, Port Saint-Louis, Toamasina, Toliaria
Merchant marine:
  total:
    10 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 20,261 GRT/28,193 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 5, chemical tanker 1, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 1,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 2
Airports:
  total:
    138
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    21
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    42
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    64
                                   Madagascar
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; above average system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    open-wire lines, coaxial cables, microwave radio relay, and tropospheric
    scatter links
  international:
    submarine cable to Bahrain; 1 earth station for Indian Ocean INTELSAT
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 17, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1 (repeaters 36)
  televisions:
    NA
                                   Madagascar
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Popular Armed Forces (includes Intervention Forces, Development Forces,
    Aeronaval Forces - includes Navy and Air Force), Gendarmerie, Presidential
    Security Regiment
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 3,027,156; males fit for military service 1,800,127; males
    reach military age (20) annually 130,071 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $35 million, 1.3% of GDP (1991)
Maldives
MALAWI - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 1 year.
Strict dress codes apply for anyone visiting Malawi.  Women must wear
dresses that cover their shoulders, arms, and knees and may not wear
slacks except in specifically designated areas.  Men with long hair cannot
enter the country.  For further information about this and other
requirements, contact the Embassy of Malawi, 2408 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C.
20008 (202/797-1007) or Malawi Mission to the U.N., 600 3rd Ave., New
York, NY 10016 (212/949-0180).
Malawi - Consular Information Sheet
October 18, 1993
Country Description:  Malawi is a developing African nation.  Facilities for
tourists exist, but are limited.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  Visas are not required for a
stay of up to one year.  Strict dress codes apply to anyone visiting Malawi.
 Women must wear dresses that cover the shoulders, arms and knees and may
not wear slacks except in specifically designated areas.  Men with long hair
cannot enter the country.  For further information, the traveler may contact
the Embassy of Malawi, 2408 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C.
20008, telephone [phone], or the Malawi Mission to the U.N., 600
Third Avenue, New York, N.Y. 10016, telephone, [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Spontaneous civil disturbances are not common in
Malawi, but have occurred.  Strikes and demonstrations in the city of
Blantyre in the southern region of the country and in the capital city of
Lilongwe have become violent at times.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited.  Some medicines are in
short supply.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for
health care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States.  In some cases, supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage has proven useful.  Information on health matters
can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Petty crime, including purse snatching, occurs in
urban areas.  Residential break-ins have increased significantly during the
last six months. The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be
reported immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to
Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on protecting personal
security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region in general.
Both are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, or dealing in illegal
drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy may obtain
updated information on travel and security within Malawi.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in Area 40, City Center, in
the capital city of Lilongwe.  The mailing address is P.O. Box 30016.  The
telephone numbers are (265) 783-166 and 783-342; the fax number is (265) 780-
No. 93-281
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated December 24, 1992, to add
the U.S. Embassy's fax number and information on reporting the loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport.
@+8+                                        Malawi
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, east of Zambia
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    118,480 sq km
  land area:
    94,080 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Pennsylvania
Land boundaries:
    total 2,881 km, Mozambique 1,569 km, Tanzania 475 km, Zambia 837 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    dispute with Tanzania over the boundary in Lake Nyasa (Lake Malawi)
Climate:
    tropical; rainy season (November to May); dry season (May to November)
Terrain:
    narrow elongated plateau with rolling plains, rounded hills, some mountains
Natural resources:
    limestone, unexploited deposits of uranium, coal, and bauxite
Land use:
  arable land:
    25%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    20%
  forest and woodland:
    50%
  other:
    5%
Irrigated land:
    200 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; land degradation; water pollution from agricultural runoff,
    sewage, industrial wastes; siltation of spawning grounds endangers fish
    population
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental
    Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban,
    Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
Note:
    landlocked
                                     Malawi
                                     People
Population:
    9,808,384 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 2,361,309; male 2,384,679)
  15-64 years:
    49% (female 2,479,108; male 2,335,729)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 139,632; male 107,927) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.63% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    49.81 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    23.53 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    the return of refugees to Mozambique is much reduced compared with 1994
Infant mortality rate:
    140.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    39.01 years
  male:
    38.28 years
  female:
    39.76 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    7.36 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Malawian(s)
  adjective:
    Malawian
Ethnic divisions:
    Chewa, Nyanja, Tumbuko, Yao, Lomwe, Sena, Tonga, Ngoni, Ngonde, Asian,
    European
Religions:
    Protestant 55%, Roman Catholic 20%, Muslim 20%, traditional indigenous
    beliefs
Languages:
    English (official), Chichewa (official), other languages important
    regionally
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1987)
  total population:
    48%
  male:
    65%
  female:
    34%
Labor force:
    428,000 wage earners
  by occupation:
    agriculture 43%, manufacturing 16%, personal services 15%, commerce 9%,
    construction 7%, miscellaneous services 4%, other permanently employed 6%
    (1986)
                                     Malawi
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Malawi
  conventional short form:
    Malawi
  former:
    Nyasaland
Digraph:
    MI
Type:
    multiparty democracy following a referendum on 14 June 1993; formerly a
    one-party republic
Capital:
    Lilongwe
Administrative divisions:
    24 districts; Blantyre, Chikwawa, Chiradzulu, Chitipa, Dedza, Dowa, Karonga,
    Kasungu, Lilongwe, Machinga (Kasupe), Mangochi, Mchinji, Mulanje, Mwanza,
    Mzimba, Ntcheu, Nkhata Bay, Nkhotakota, Nsanje, Ntchisi, Rumphi, Salima,
    Thyolo, Zomba
Independence:
    6 July 1964 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 6 July (1964)
Constitution:
    6 July 1966; republished as amended January 1974
Legal system:
    based on English common law and customary law; judicial review of
    legislative acts in the Supreme Court of Appeal; has not accepted compulsory
    ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Bakili MULUZI (since 21 May 1994), leader of the United Democratic
    Front
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; named by the president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly:
    elections last held 17 May 1994 (next to be held 1999); results - percent of
    vote by party NA; seats - (177 total) UDF 84, AFORD 33, MCP 55, others 5
Judicial branch:
    High Court, Supreme Court of Appeal
Political parties and leaders:
  ruling party:
    United Democratic Front (UDF), Bakili MULUZI
  opposition groups:
    Malawi Congress Party (MCP), Gwanda CHAKUAMBA Phiri, secretary general (top
    party position); Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), Chakufwa CHIHANA; Socialist
    League of Malawi (Lesoma), Kapote MWAKUSULA, secretary general; Malawi
    Democratic Union (MDU), Harry BWANAUSI; Congress for the Second Republic
    (CSR), Kanyama CHIUME; Malawi Socialist Labor Party (MSLP), Stanford
    SAMBANEMANJA
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD,
    IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO (correspondent),
    ITU, NAM, OAU, SADC, UN, UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO
                                     Malawi
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires ad interim Patrick NYASULU (since 14 October
    1994)
  chancery:
    2408 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Peter R. CHAVEAS
  embassy:
    address NA, in new capital city development area in Lilongwe
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 30016, Lilongwe 3, Malawi
  telephone:
    [265] 783 166
  FAX:
    [265] 780 471
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of black (top), red, and green with a radiant,
    rising, red sun centered in the black band; similar to the flag of
    Afghanistan, which is longer and has the national coat of arms superimposed
    on the hoist side of the black and red bands
                                     Malawi
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 40% of GDP and 90% of export
    revenues. After two years of weak performance, economic growth improved
    significantly in 1988-91 as a result of good weather and a broadly based
    economic adjustment effort by the government. Drought cut overall output
    sharply in 1992, but the lost ground was recovered in 1993. 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $7.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    9.3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $750 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    30% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $416 million
  expenditures:
    $498 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $311 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    tobacco, tea, sugar, coffee, peanuts, wood products
  partners:
    US, UK, Zambia, South Africa, Germany
Imports:
    $308 million (c.i.f., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    food, petroleum products, semimanufactures, consumer goods, transportation
    equipment
  partners:
    South Africa, Japan, US, UK, Zimbabwe
External debt:
    $1.8 billion (December 1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3.5% accounts for about 15% of GDP (1992 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    190,000 kW
  production:
    820 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    77 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    agricultural processing (tea, tobacco, sugar), sawmilling, cement, consumer
    goods
Agriculture:
    accounts for 40% of GDP; cash crops - tobacco, sugarcane, cotton, tea, and
    corn; subsistence crops - potatoes, cassava, sorghum, pulses; livestock -
    cattle, goats
                                     Malawi
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $215 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $2.15 billion
Currency:
    1 Malawian kwacha (MK) = 100 tambala
Exchange rates:
    Malawian kwacha (MK) per US$1 - 7.8358 (August 1994), 4.4028 (1993), 3.6033
    (1992), 2.8033 (1991), 2.7289 (1990), 2.7595 (1989)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                                     Malawi
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    789 km
  narrow gauge:
    789 km 1.067-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    13,135 km
  paved:
    2,364 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, stabilized earth 251 km; earth, improved earth 10,520
    km
Inland waterways:
    Lake Nyasa (Lake Malawi); Shire River, 144 km
Ports:
    Chipoka, Monkey Bay, Nkhata Bay, Nkotakota
Airports:
  total:
    47
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    25
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    15
                                     Malawi
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    42,250 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    fair system of open-wire lines, radio relay links, and radio communications
    stations
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean ) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 10, FM 17, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Malawi
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army (includes Air Wing and Naval Detachment), Police (includes paramilitary
    Mobile Force Unit), paramilitary Malawi Young Pioneers
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,069,302; males fit for military service 1,056,372 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $13 million, 0.7% of GDP (FY93/94)
MALAYSIA (and the Borneo States, Sarawak and Sabah) - Passport
required. Visa not required for stay up to 3 months.  Yellow fever and cholera
immunizations necessary if arriving from infected areas.  AIDS test
required for work permits.  U.S. test somtimes accepted.  For entry of
pets or other types of visits, consult Embassy of Malaysia, 2401 Mass. Ave.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/328-2700) or nearest Consulate:  Los
Angeles (213/621-2991) or New York (212/490-2722).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Malaysia
============================================================
Malaysia - Consular Information Sheet
 November 30, 1995
Country Description:  Malaysia is a federal parliamentary democracy
with a constitutional monarch.  Tourist facilities and services are
available in major areas of interest.
Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements
travelers may call the Embassy of Malaysia, 2401 Massachusetts
Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities and services are adequate
in the larger cities.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate
cash payment for health services. U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage, including provision for
medical evacuation, has proven useful.  The Medicare/Medicaid
program does not provide payment for medical services outside the
United States.  The international travelers hotline of the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention at [phone] has additional
useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Malaysia has one of the highest rates of
credit card fraud in the world.  Petty crimes such as pickpocketing
and purse-snatching are common in tourist areas.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local
police and to the U.S. Embassy.  Useful information on guarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is
provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."
It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S citizens are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they are traveling.  Malaysia
strictly enforces its drug laws.  Malaysian legislation provides for
a mandatory death penalty for convicted drug traffickers.
Individuals arrested in possession of fifteen grams (1/2 ounce) of
heroin or two hundred grams (7 ounces) of marijuana are presumed by
law to be trafficking in drugs.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy can
obtain updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 376 Jalan Tun
Razak 50400, Kuala Lumpur.  The mailing address is P.O.Box No.
10035,50700 Kuala Lumpur; telephone [phone].  The fax number
for the Embassy is (60-3) 242-2207, the fax number for the Consular
Section is (60-3) 248-5801.
  No. 95-151
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 28, 1994,
to update information on entry requirements and crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Malaysia
============================================================
Malaysia - Consular Information Sheet
 November 30, 1995
Country Description:  Malaysia is a federal parliamentary democracy
with a constitutional monarch.  Tourist facilities and services are
available in major areas of interest.
Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements
travelers may call the Embassy of Malaysia, 2401 Massachusetts
Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities and services are adequate
in the larger cities.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate
cash payment for health services. U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage, including provision for
medical evacuation, has proven useful.  The Medicare/Medicaid
program does not provide payment for medical services outside the
United States.  The international travelers hotline of the Centers
for Disease Control and Prevention at [phone] has additional
useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Malaysia has one of the highest rates of
credit card fraud in the world.  Petty crimes such as pickpocketing
and purse-snatching are common in tourist areas.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local
police and to the U.S. Embassy.  Useful information on guarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is
provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."
It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S citizens are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they are traveling.  Malaysia
strictly enforces its drug laws.  Malaysian legislation provides for
a mandatory death penalty for convicted drug traffickers.
Individuals arrested in possession of fifteen grams (1/2 ounce) of
heroin or two hundred grams (7 ounces) of marijuana are presumed by
law to be trafficking in drugs.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy can
obtain updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 376 Jalan Tun
Razak 50400, Kuala Lumpur.  The mailing address is P.O.Box No.
10035,50700 Kuala Lumpur; telephone [phone].  The fax number
for the Embassy is (60-3) 242-2207, the fax number for the Consular
Section is (60-3) 248-5801.
  No. 95-151
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 28, 1994,
to update information on entry requirements and crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
<r<                                      Malaysia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, peninsula and northern one-third of the island of Borneo
    bordering the Java Sea and the South China Sea, south of Vietnam
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    329,750 sq km
  land area:
    328,550 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than New Mexico
Land boundaries:
    total 2,669 km, Brunei 381 km, Indonesia 1,782 km, Thailand 506 km
Coastline:
    4,675 km (Peninsular Malaysia 2,068 km, East Malaysia 2,607 km)
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to depth of exploitation; specified boundary in the South
    China Sea
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    involved in a complex dispute over the Spratly Islands with China,
    Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam, and possibly Brunei; State of Sabah claimed by
    the Philippines; Brunei may wish to purchase the Malaysian salient that
    divides Brunei into two parts; two islands in dispute with Singapore; two
    islands in dispute with Indonesia
Climate:
    tropical; annual southwest (April to October) and northeast (October to
    February) monsoons
Terrain:
    coastal plains rising to hills and mountains
Natural resources:
    tin, petroleum, timber, copper, iron ore, natural gas, bauxite
Land use:
  arable land:
    3%
  permanent crops:
    10%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    63%
  other:
    24%
Irrigated land:
    3,420 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution from industrial and vehicular emissions; water pollution from
    raw sewage; deforestation
  natural hazards:
    flooding
                                    Malaysia
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection,
    Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
Note:
    strategic location along Strait of Malacca and southern South China Sea
                                    Malaysia
                                     People
Population:
    19,723,587 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    37% (female 3,559,434; male 3,690,310)
  15-64 years:
    59% (female 5,871,131; male 5,844,568)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 423,539; male 334,605) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.24% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    27.95 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.56 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    24.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    69.48 years
  male:
    66.55 years
  female:
    72.56 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.47 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Malaysian(s)
  adjective:
    Malaysian
Ethnic divisions:
    Malay and other indigenous 59%, Chinese 32%, Indian 9%
Religions:
  Peninsular Malaysia:
    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%
Languages:
  Peninsular Malaysia:
    Malay (official), English, Chinese dialects, Tamil
  Sabah:
    English, Malay, numerous tribal dialects, Chinese (Mandarin and Hakka
    dialects predominate)
  Sarawak:
    English, Malay, Mandarin, numerous tribal languages
    *** No data for this item ***
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    78%
  male:
    86%
                                    Malaysia
                                     People
  female:
    70%
Labor force:
    7.627 million (1993)
                                    Malaysia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Malaysia
  former:
    Malayan Union
Digraph:
    MY
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
  note:
    Federation of Malaysia 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; Sabah - self-governing state, holds 20 seats in
    House of Representatives, with foreign affairs, defense, internal security,
    and other powers delegated to federal government; Sarawak - self-governing
    state, holds 27 seats in House of Representatives, with foreign affairs,
    defense, internal security, and other powers delegated to federal government
Capital:
    Kuala Lumpur
Administrative divisions:
    13 states (negeri-negeri, singular - negeri) and 2 federal territories*
    (wilayah-wilayah persekutuan, singular - wilayah persekutuan); Johor, Kedah,
    Kelantan, Labuan*, Melaka, Negeri Sembilan, Pahang, Perak, Perlis, Pulau
    Pinang, Sabah, Sarawak, Selangor, Terengganu, Wilayah Persekutuan*
Independence:
    31 August 1957 (from UK)
National holiday:
    National Day, 31 August (1957)
Constitution:
    31 August 1957, amended 16 September 1963
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Paramount Ruler JA'AFAR ibni Abdul Rahman (since 26 April 1994); Deputy
    Paramount Ruler SALAHUDDIN ibni Hisammuddin Alam Shah (since 26 April 1994)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Dr. MAHATHIR bin Mohamad (since 16 July 1981); Deputy Prime
    Minister ANWAR bin Ibrahim (since 1 December 1993)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the Paramount Ruler from members of parliament
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Parliament (Parlimen)
  Senate (Dewan Negara):
    consists of 58 members, 32 appointed by the paramount ruler and 26 elected
    by the state legislatures (2 from each state) for six-year terms; elections
    last held NA (next to be held NA); results - NA
                                    Malaysia
                                   Government
  House of Representatives (Dewan Rakyat):
    consists of 180 members, elected for five-year terms; elections last held 21
    October 1990 (next to be held by December 1995); results - National Front
    52%, other 48%; seats - (180 total) National Front 127, DAP 20, PAS 7,
    independents 4, other 22; note - within the National Front, UMNO won 71
    seats and MCA won 18 seats
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
  Peninsular Malaysia:
    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
    Malaysia, LIM Keng Yaik; Malaysian Indian Congress (MIC), S. Samy VELLU
  Sabah:
    National Front, SALLEH Said Keruak, Sabah Chief Minister, Sakaran DANDAI,
    head of Sabah State; United Sabah National Organizaton (USNO), leader NA
  Sarawak:
    coalition Sarawak National Front composed of the Party Pesaka Bumiputra
    Bersatu (PBB), Datuk Patinggi Amar Haji Abdul TAIB Mahmud; Sarawak United
    People's Party (SUPP), Datuk Amar James WONG Soon Kai; Sarawak National
    Party (SNAP), Datuk Amar James WONG; Parti Bansa Dayak Sarawak (PBDS), Datuk
    Leo MOGGIE; major opposition parties are Democratic Action Party (DAP), LIM
    Kit Siang and Pan-Malaysian Islamic Party (PAS), Fadzil NOOR
Member of:
    APEC, AsDB, ASEAN, C, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-15, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, NAM, OIC, UN, UNAVEM II, UNCTAD,
    UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNOMIL, UNOMOZ, UNOSOM, UNPROFOR, UPU, WCL, WFTU,
    WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Abdul MAJID bin Mohamed
  chancery:
    2401 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Los Angeles and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador John S. WOLF
  embassy:
    376 Jalan Tun Razak, 50400 Kuala Lumpur
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box No. 10035, 50700 Kuala Lumpur; APO AP 96535-8152
  telephone:
    [60] (3) 2489011
  FAX:
    [60] (3) 2422207
Flag:
    fourteen 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 Islam; the design was based on the flag of
    the US
                                    Malaysia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The Malaysian economy, a mixture of private enterprise and a soundly managed
    public sector, has posted a remarkable record of 9% average annual growth in
    1988-94. The official growth target for 1995 is 8.5%. 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $166.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    8.7% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $8,650 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3.7% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    2.9% (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $18.7 billion
  expenditures:
    $19.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $4.8 billion (1994)
Exports:
    $56.6 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    electronic equipment, petroleum and petroleum products, palm oil, wood and
    wood products, rubber, textiles
  partners:
    Singapore 22%, US 20%, Japan 13%, UK 4%, Germany 4%, Thailand 4% (1993)
Imports:
    $55.2 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, chemicals, food, petroleum products
  partners:
    Japan 27%, US 17%, Singapore 15%, Taiwan 5%, Germany 4%, UK 3%, South Korea
    3% (1993)
External debt:
    $35.5 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 12% (1994); accounts for 38% of GDP (1993 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    6,700,000 kW
  production:
    31 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,528 kWh (1993)
Industries:
  Peninsular Malaysia:
    rubber and oil palm processing and manufacturing, light manufacturing
    industry, electronics, tin mining and smelting, logging and processing
    timber
  Sabah:
    logging, petroleum production
  Sarawak:
    agriculture processing, petroleum production and refining, logging
                                    Malaysia
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 16% of GDP (1993 est.)
  Peninsular Malaysia:
    natural rubber, palm oil, rice
  Sabah:
    mainly subsistence, but also rubber, timber, coconut, rice
  Sarawak:
    rubber, timber, pepper; deficit of rice in all areas
Illicit drugs:
    transit point for Golden Triangle heroin going to the US, Western Europe,
    and the Third World despite severe penalties for drug trafficking;
    increasing indigenous abuse of methamphetamine
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-84), $170 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $4.7 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $42 million
Currency:
    1 ringgit (M$) = 100 sen
Exchange rates:
    ringgits (M$) per US$1 - 2.5542 (January 1995), 2.6242 (1994), 2.5741
    (1993), 2.5474 (1992), 2.7501 (1991), 1.7048 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                    Malaysia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,801 km (Peninsular Malaysia 1,665 km; Sabah 136 km; Sarawak 0 km)
  narrow gauge:
    1,801 km 1.000-m gauge (Peninsular Malaysia 1,665 km; Sabah 136 km)
Highways:
  total:
    29,028 km (Peninsular Malaysia 23,602 km, Sabah 3,782 km, Sarawak 1,644 km)
  paved:
    NA (Peninsular Malaysia 19,354 km mostly bituminous treated)
  unpaved:
    NA (Peninsular Malaysia 4,248 km)
Inland waterways:
  Peninsular Malaysia:
    3,209 km
  Sabah:
    1,569 km
  Sarawak:
    2,518 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 1,307 km; natural gas 379 km
Ports:
    Kota Kinabalu, Kuantan, Kuching, Kudat, Lahad Datu, Labuan, Lumut, Miri,
    Pasir Gudang, Penang, Port Dickson, Port Kelang, Sandakan, Sibu, Tanjong
    Berhala, Tanjong Kidurong, Tawau
Merchant marine:
  total:
    213 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,410,823 GRT/3,635,966 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 34, cargo 73, chemical tanker 11, container 27, liquefied gas tanker 9,
    livestock carrier 1, oil tanker 50, roll-on/roll-off cargo 4, short-sea
    passenger 1, vehicle carrier 3
Airports:
  total:
    115
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    11
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    82
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    7
                                    Malaysia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    994,860 telephones (1984); international service good
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    good intercity service provided on Peninsular Malaysia mainly by microwave
    radio relay; adequate intercity microwave radio relay network between Sabah
    and Sarawak via Brunei; 2 domestic satellite links
  international:
    submarine cables extend to India and Sarawak; SEACOM submarine cable links
    to Hong Kong and Singapore; satellite earth stations - 2 INTELSAT (1 Indian
    Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean)
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 28, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    33
  televisions:
    NA
                                    Malaysia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Malaysian Army, Royal Malaysian Navy, Royal Malaysian Air Force, Royal
    Malaysian Police Force, Marine Police, Sarawak Border Scouts
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 5,041,003; males fit for military service 3,058,445; males
    reach military age (21) annually 183,760 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $2.1 billion, 2.9% of GDP (1994)
Malta
MALDIVES  - Passport required.  Tourist visa issued upon arrival, no
charge.  Visitors must have proof of onward/return transportation and
sufficient funds (minimum of $10 per person per day).  Check with
Embassy of Maldives in Sri Lanka, 25 Melbourne Avenue, Colombo 4, Sri Lanka or
the Maldives Mission to the U.N.  in New York (212/599-6195) for further
information.
Maldives - Consular Information Sheet
August 15, 1994
Country Description:  Maldives is a group of islands west of Sri Lanka, off
the southern tip of India.  Facilities for tourism are relatively well
developed in most beach areas.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  Tourist visas are issued upon
arrival at no charge.  Visitors must have proof of onward/return
transportation and sufficient funds.  For further information the traveler
can contact the Embassy of Maldives in Sri Lanka, at 25 Melbourne Avenue,
Colombo 4, Sri Lanka, or the Maldives Mission to the U.N. in New York,
telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited and some medicine may be
unavailable.  Doctors and clinics often require immediate cash payment for
health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Supplemental coverage which specifically covers overseas
treatment has proven useful.  Information on health matters can be obtained
from the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline,
telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  There is a low rate of crime in Maldives.  However,
petty crime does exist.  Valuables left on beaches are subject to thievery.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately
to local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  There is no U.S.
Embassy in Maldives, but travelers may contact the consular agent in Male,
Maldives.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal
security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers
to South Asia."  They are available from the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced in Maldives.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register with the consular agent in
Maldives, or in the consular section of the U.S. Embassy in Colombo, Sri
Lanka, can obtain updated information on travel and security within Maldives.
Embassy Location:  There is no U.S. Embassy in Maldives.  The U.S.
ambassador to Sri Lanka is also accredited to the Maldives.  There is a U.S.
consular agent in Male, the capital city of Maldives.  The agent's address
is Mandhu Edurruge, 20-05 Violet Magu, Male, Republic of Maldives.  The
local telephone number is 322581 or 325199.  The consular agent works under
the jurisdiction of the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka.
No. 94-161
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 27, 1993, without
change, following an annual review.
`%K%                                       Maldives
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Asia, group of atolls in the Indian Ocean, south-southwest of India
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    300 sq km
  land area:
    300 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than 1.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    644 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    35-310 nm as defined by geographic coordinates; segment of zone coincides
    with maritime boundary with India
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid; dry, northeast monsoon (November to March); rainy,
    southwest monsoon (June to August)
Terrain:
    flat with elevations only as high as 2.5 meters
Natural resources:
    fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    10%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    3%
  forest and woodland:
    3%
  other:
    84%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    depletion of freshwater aquifers threatens water supplies
  natural hazards:
    low level of islands makes them very sensitive to sea level rise
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Ozone Layer
    Protection; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
Note:
    1,190 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls; archipelago of strategic
    location astride and along major sea lanes in Indian Ocean
                                    Maldives
                                     People
Population:
    261,310 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    47% (female 60,038; male 63,042)
  15-64 years:
    50% (female 63,526; male 67,020)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 3,537; male 4,147) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.58% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    42.8 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    50 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    65.49 years
  male:
    63.99 years
  female:
    67.07 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.17 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Maldivian(s)
  adjective:
    Maldivian
Ethnic divisions:
    Sinhalese, Dravidian, Arab, African
Religions:
    Sunni Muslim
Languages:
    Divehi (dialect of Sinhala; script derived from Arabic), English spoken by
    most government officials
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1985)
  total population:
    91%
  male:
    91%
  female:
    92%
Labor force:
    66,000 (est.)
  by occupation:
    fishing industry 25%
                                    Maldives
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Maldives
  conventional short form:
    Maldives
Digraph:
    MV
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Male
Administrative divisions:
    19 districts (atolls); Aliff, Baa, Daalu, Faafu, Gaafu Aliff, Gaafu Daalu,
    Haa Aliff, Haa Daalu, Kaafu, Laamu, Laviyani, Meemu, Naviyani, Noonu, Raa,
    Seenu, Shaviyani, Thaa, Waavu
Independence:
    26 July 1965 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 26 July (1965)
Constitution:
    4 June 1968
Legal system:
    based on Islamic law with admixtures of English common law primarily in
    commercial matters; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Maumoon Abdul GAYOOM (since 11 November 1978); election last held
    1 October 1993 (next to be held 1998); results - President Maumoon Abdul
    GAYOOM was reelected with 92.76% of the vote
  cabinet:
    Ministry of Atolls; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  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
Judicial branch:
    High Court
Political parties and leaders:
    although political parties are not banned, none exist; country governed by
    the Didi clan for the past eight centuries
Member of:
    AsDB, C, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IMF,
    IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OIC, SAARC, UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    Maldives has no embassy in the US, but does have a UN mission in New York;
    Permanent Representative to the UN Ahmed ZAKI
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka is accredited to Maldives and makes periodic
    visits there
  consular agency:
    Midhath Hilmy, Male
  telephone:
    322581
                                    Maldives
                                   Government
Flag:
    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
                                    Maldives
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Fishing is the largest industry, employing 25% of the work force and
    accounting for over 60% of exports. Over 90% of government tax revenue comes
    from import duties and tourism-related taxes. During the 1980s tourism
    became one of the most important and highest growth sectors of the economy.
    In 1993, tourism accounted for 17% of GDP and more than 60% of the Maldives'
    foreign exchange receipts. 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
    cultivatable land and the shortage of domestic labor. Most staple foods must
    be imported. In 1993, industry which consisted mainly of garment production,
    boat building, and handicrafts accounted for about 6% of GDP.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $360 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5.4% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,500 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    20% (1993)
Unemployment rate:
    NEGL%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $95 million (excluding foreign transfers)
  expenditures:
    $143 million, including capital expenditures of $71 million (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $38.5 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    fish, clothing
  partners:
    US, UK, Sri Lanka, Singapore, Germany
Imports:
    $177.8 million (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    consumer goods, intermediate and capital goods, petroleum products
  partners:
    Singapore, Germany, Sri Lanka, India, Japan
External debt:
    $130 million (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 24% (1990); accounts for 6% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    5,000 kW
  production:
    30 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    123 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    fishing and fish processing, tourism, shipping, boat building, some coconut
    processing, garments, woven mats, coir (rope), handicrafts
Agriculture:
    fishing, coconuts, corn, sweet potatoes
                                    Maldives
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-88), $28 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $125 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $14 million
Currency:
    1 rufiyaa (Rf) = 100 laari
Exchange rates:
    rufiyaa (Rf) per US$1 - 11.770 (January 1995), 11.586 (1994), 10.957 (1993),
    10.569 (1992), 10.253 (1991), 9.509 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                    Maldives
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    NA
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA (Male has 9.6 km of coral highways within the city)
Ports:
    Gan, Male
Merchant marine:
  total:
    16 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 50,384 GRT/77,771 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 14, container 1, oil tanker 1
Airports:
  total:
    2
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
                                    Maldives
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    2,804 telephones; minimal domestic and international facilities
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                                    Maldives
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    National Security Service (paramilitary police force)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 57,172; males fit for military service 31,911 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Man Isle of
MALI - Passport and visa required.  Visa must be obtained in advance.
Tourist/business visa for stay up to 4 weeks, may be extended after
arrival, requires $17 fee (cash or money order), 2 application forms, 2
photos, proof of onward/return transportation and yellow fever
vaccination. (Cholera immunization is recommended.)  For business travel, must have
company letter stating purpose of trip.  Send SASE for return of
passport if applying by mail.  Apply Embassy of the Republic of Mali, 2130 R
St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/332-2249).
Mali - Consular Information Sheet
September 21, 1994
Country Description:  Mali is a developing West African nation with a new
democratically elected system of government.  Facilities for tourism are
limited.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  For further
information, the traveler may contact the Embassy of the Republic of Mali,
2130 R Street, N.W., Washington, D.C.  20008, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Attacks by groups of armed bandits, usually focused
on vehicle theft, have occurred in the Timbuktu, Gao and Kidal regions.
Overland travel to the areas north of the Niger River in the Mopti region,
as well as to the areas near the Mauritanian border is also risky.  Tourists
who have traveled by air have not been threatened.  However, travel by river
boat may be dangerous; a river boat was attacked in the summer by bandits,
and several travelers were injured.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited.  Many medicines are
unavailable.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for
health care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage, including medical evacuation, has proved useful.  Information on
health matters may be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's
international travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  While crime in general continues to escalate in Mali,
petty crimes, such as pickpocketing and simple theft, are still most common.
 Less frequent, yet more serious, are the incidents of armed robberies and
banditry that occur in the downtown Bamako area and along major travel
routes, near principal cities.  Victims have included foreigners.  Travelers
who stay alert, remain in groups, avoid poorly lit areas, etc., especially
during the hours of darkness may avoid problems.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to local police and to the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  The pamphlets
"A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide
useful information on protecting personal security while traveling abroad
and in the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Road Conditions:  The roads from Bamako to Mopti, Douentza, Koutiala,
Sikasso, and Bougouni, and a few other roads are paved.  Road conditions on
other routes are poor, particularly in the rainy season which runs from mid-
June to mid-September.  On major roads, stops at customs and police
checkpoints are frequent.  Driving is particularly hazardous after dark, and
nighttime travel may be dangerous.
Photography:  Photography is no longer restricted, except for military
subjects.  However, interpretation of what may be considered off limits
varies.  Other subjects may be considered sensitive from a cultural or
religious viewpoint, and it is helpful to obtain permission before taking
photographs in Mali.
Currency:  The Malian currency is the CFA franc which is exchangeable for
French francs at a fixed rate.  Exchange of dollars in cash or travelers
checks is slow and often involves out-of-date rates.  The U.S. Embassy
cannot provide exchange facilities for non-official Americans.  Use of
credit cards is limited to payment for services at two hotels in Bamako.
Cash advances on credit cards are performed by only one bank in Mali, the
BMCD Bank in Bamako, and only on a "Visa" credit card.
Telephone Service:  International calls are expensive, and collect calls
cannot be made from Mali.  Calls to the United States cost approximately ten
dollars a minute.  Outside Bamako, it is often impossible to obtain an
international telephone line.
Exportation of Artifacts:  In 1993, the U.S. government began providing
emergency protection for Malian cultural property, thereby restricting the
importation of Malian archeological cultural property to the U.S.  While
these U.S. restrictions apply only to archeological items, travelers
planning to export any Malian cultural property are required by Malian law
to obtain an export authorization from the National Museum in Bamako.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in Bamako may
obtain updated informaton on travel and security in Mali.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at the intersection of Rue
Rochester NY and Rue Mohamed V, in Bamako, the capital city.  The mailing
address is B.P. 34, Bamako, Mali.  The telephone number is [phone].
The fax number is [phone].
No. 94-224
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated June 13, 1994, to note
that river boat travel may be risky and to revise the paragraph on crime.
-                                          Mali
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, southwest of Algeria
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    1.24 million sq km
  land area:
    1.22 million sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 7,243 km, Algeria 1,376 km, Burkina 1,000 km, Guinea 858 km, Cote
    d'Ivoire 532 km, Mauritania 2,237 km, Niger 821 km, Senegal 419 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    the disputed international boundary between Burkina 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 and Mali are proceeding with boundary demarcation, including the
    tripoint with Niger
Climate:
    subtropical to arid; hot and dry February to June; rainy, humid, and mild
    June to November; cool and dry November to February
Terrain:
    mostly flat to rolling northern plains covered by sand; savanna in south,
    rugged hills in northeast
Natural resources:
    gold, phosphates, kaolin, salt, limestone, uranium, bauxite, iron ore,
    manganese, tin, and copper deposits are known but not exploited
Land use:
  arable land:
    2%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    25%
  forest and woodland:
    7%
  other:
    66%
Irrigated land:
    50 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; desertification; inadequate supplies of potable
    water; poaching
  natural hazards:
    hot, dust-laden harmattan haze common during dry seasons; recurring droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species, Law of the
    Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified -
    Biodiversity, Nuclear Test Ban
Note:
    landlocked
                                      Mali
                                     People
Population:
    9,375,132 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 2,240,565; male 2,242,373)
  15-64 years:
    49% (female 2,416,952; male 2,165,043)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 162,234; male 147,965) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.89% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    51.88 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    19.93 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -3 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    104.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    46.37 years
  male:
    44.7 years
  female:
    48.09 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    7.33 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Malian(s)
  adjective:
    Malian
Ethnic divisions:
    Mande 50% (Bambara, Malinke, Sarakole), Peul 17%, Voltaic 12%, Songhai 6%,
    Tuareg and Moor 10%, other 5%
Religions:
    Muslim 90%, indigenous beliefs 9%, Christian 1%
Languages:
    French (official), Bambara 80%, numerous African languages
Literacy:
    age 6 and over can read and write (1988)
  total population:
    19%
  male:
    27%
  female:
    12%
Labor force:
    2.666 million (1986 est.)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 80%, services 19%, industry and commerce 1% (1981)
                                      Mali
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Mali
  conventional short form:
    Mali
  local long form:
    Republique de Mali
  local short form:
    Mali
  former:
    French Sudan
Digraph:
    ML
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Bamako
Administrative divisions:
    8 regions (regions, singular - region); Gao, Kayes, Kidal, Koulikoro, Mopti,
    Segou, Sikasso, Tombouctou
Independence:
    22 September 1960 (from France)
National holiday:
    Anniversary of the Proclamation of the Republic, 22 September (1960)
Constitution:
    adopted 12 January 1992
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Alpha Oumar KONARE (since 8 June 1992); election last held in
    April 1992 (next to be held April 1997); Alpha KONARE was elected in runoff
    race against Montaga TALL
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Ibrahima Boubacar KEITA (since March 1994)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly:
    elections last held on 8 March 1992 (next to be held 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
Political parties and leaders:
    Association 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)
                                      Mali
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, CEAO, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, FZ, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, UN, UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WADB, WCL,
    WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ibrahim Siragatou CISSE
  chancery:
    2130 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 939-8950
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant) (Ambassador William H. DAMERON III retired March 1995)
  embassy:
    Rue Rochester NY and Rue Mohamed V, Bamako
  mailing address:
    B. P. 34, Bamako
  telephone:
    [223] 22 54 70
  FAX:
    [223] 22 37 12
Flag:
    three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), yellow, and red; uses the
    popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia
                                      Mali
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 Niger. 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%
    devaluation of January 1994. Post-devaluation inflation appears to have
    peaked at 35% in 1994 and the government appears to be keeping on track with
    its IMF structural adjustment program.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $5.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $600 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    35% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $376 million
  expenditures:
    $697 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $415 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    cotton, livestock, gold
  partners:
    mostly franc zone and Western Europe
Imports:
    $842 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, foodstuffs, construction materials, petroleum,
    textiles
  partners:
    mostly franc zone and Western Europe
External debt:
    $2.6 billion (1991 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -1.4% (1992 est.); accounts for 13.0% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    90,000 kW
  production:
    310 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    33 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    minor local consumer goods production and food processing, construction,
    phosphate and gold mining
Agriculture:
    accounts for 50% of GDP; mostly subsistence farming; cotton and livestock
    products account for over 70% of exports; other crops - millet, rice, corn,
    vegetables, peanuts; livestock - cattle, sheep, goats
                                      Mali
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $349 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $3.02 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $92 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $190
    million
Currency:
    1 CFA franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Communaute Financiere Africaine francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 529.43 (January
    1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991), 272.26
    (1990)
  note:
    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
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                      Mali
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    642 km; note - linked to Senegal's rail system through Kayes
  narrow gauge:
    642 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    15,700 km
  paved:
    1,670 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, improved earth 3,670 km; unimproved earth 10,360 km
Inland waterways:
    1,815 km navigable
Ports:
    Koulikoro
Airports:
  total:
    33
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    10
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    12
                                      Mali
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    11,000 telephones; domestic system poor but improving; provides only minimal
    service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay, wire, and radio communications stations; expansion of
    microwave radio relay in progress
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 2, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                                      Mali
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Air Force, Gendarmerie, Republican Guard, National Guard, National
    Police (Surete Nationale)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,861,977; males fit for military service 1,062,916 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $66 million, 2.2% of GDP (1994)
Marshall Islands
'MALTA - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 3 months
(extendable - extension must be applied for prior to end of 3-month
period or expiration of original visa).  Visa requires 3 application forms, 2
photos, proof of onward/return transportation and $46 fee (check or
money order).  Transit visa available for $31.  For additional information
consult Embassy of Malta, 2017 Conn. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/462-3611/2) or nearest Consulate:  CA (213/939-5011 and
415/468-4321), MA (617/259-1391), MI (313/525-9777), MO (816/833-0033), MN
(612/228-0935), NY (212/725-2345), PA (412/262-8460) or TX (713/497-2100 or
713/999-1812).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Malta
============================================================
Malta - Consular Information Sheet
 November 13, 1995
Country Description:  Malta is a small, developed, democratic
Mediterranean island nation, positioned as a cultural and political
stepping-stone between Europe and North Africa.  Tourist facilities
of all categories are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For information concerning entry requirements
for Malta, travelers can contact the Embassy of Malta at 2017
Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel: (202)
462-3611, or the Maltese Consulate in New York City.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is available. Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be
useful.  Information on specific health matters is available through
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for
international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Malta has a low rate of violent crime.
Incidents of Pickpocketing and purse-snatching are relatively rare;
however, break-ins and thefts from parked vehicles and thefts of
cars are on the increase.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S.
passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to
promote a more trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from
the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In Malta, penalties for
possession, use, and dealing of illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy can obtain updated information on travel and
security in Malta.  The U.S. Embassy in Malta is located on the
third floor of Development House, St. Anne Street, Floriana,
Valletta.  The Consular Section's telephone is
(356) 235-960.
 No. 95-144
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 26, 1994,
without change, following an annual review.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Malta
============================================================
Malta - Consular Information Sheet
 November 13, 1995
Country Description:  Malta is a small, developed, democratic
Mediterranean island nation, positioned as a cultural and political
stepping-stone between Europe and North Africa.  Tourist facilities
of all categories are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For information concerning entry requirements
for Malta, travelers can contact the Embassy of Malta at 2017
Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel: (202)
462-3611, or the Maltese Consulate in New York City.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is available. Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be
useful.  Information on specific health matters is available through
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for
international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Malta has a low rate of violent crime.
Incidents of Pickpocketing and purse-snatching are relatively rare;
however, break-ins and thefts from parked vehicles and thefts of
cars are on the increase.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S.
passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to
promote a more trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from
the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In Malta, penalties for
possession, use, and dealing of illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy can obtain updated information on travel and
security in Malta.  The U.S. Embassy in Malta is located on the
third floor of Development House, St. Anne Street, Floriana,
Valletta.  The Consular Section's telephone is
(356) 235-960.
 No. 95-144
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 26, 1994,
without change, following an annual review.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Malta
============================================================
Malta - Consular Information Sheet
 November 13, 1995
Country Description:  Malta is a small, developed, democratic
Mediterranean island nation, positioned as a cultural and political
stepping-stone between Europe and North Africa.  Tourist facilities
of all categories are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For information concerning entry requirements
for Malta, travelers can contact the Embassy of Malta at 2017
Connecticut Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel: (202)
462-3611, or the Maltese Consulate in New York City.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is available. Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be
useful.  Information on specific health matters is available through
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for
international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Malta has a low rate of violent crime.
Incidents of Pickpocketing and purse-snatching are relatively rare;
however, break-ins and thefts from parked vehicles and thefts of
cars are on the increase.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S.
passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to
promote a more trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from
the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In Malta, penalties for
possession, use, and dealing of illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy can obtain updated information on travel and
security in Malta.  The U.S. Embassy in Malta is located on the
third floor of Development House, St. Anne Street, Floriana,
Valletta.  The Consular Section's telephone is
(356) 235-960.
 No. 95-144
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 26, 1994,
without change, following an annual review.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
`+I+                                          Malta
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Europe, islands in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily (Italy)
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    320 sq km
  land area:
    320 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    140 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive fishing zone:
    25 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    Malta and Tunisia are discussing the commercial exploitation of the
    continental shelf between their countries, particularly for oil exploration
Climate:
    Mediterranean with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers
Terrain:
    mostly low, rocky, flat to dissected plains; many coastal cliffs
Natural resources:
    limestone, salt
Land use:
  arable land:
    38%
  permanent crops:
    3%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    59%
Irrigated land:
    10 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    very limited natural fresh water resources; increasing reliance on
    desalination
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine
    Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands;
    signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Desertification
                                      Malta
                                    Geography
Note:
    the country comprises an archipelago, with only the 3 largest islands
    (Malta, Gozo, and Comino) being inhabited; numerous bays provide good
    harbors
                                      Malta
                                     People
Population:
    369,609 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    22% (female 39,199; male 41,581)
  15-64 years:
    67% (female 123,665; male 124,167)
  65 years and over:
    11% (female 23,597; male 17,400) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.75% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    13.22 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.43 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    1.7 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    7.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.02 years
  male:
    74.75 years
  female:
    79.48 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.92 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Maltese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Maltese
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab, Sicilian, Norman, Spanish, Italian, English
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 98%
Languages:
    Maltese (official), English (official)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1985)
  total population:
    84%
  male:
    86%
  female:
    82%
Labor force:
    127,200
  by occupation:
    government (excluding job corps) 37%, services 26%, manufacturing 22%,
    training programs 9%, construction 4%, agriculture 2% (1990)
                                      Malta
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Malta
  conventional short form:
    Malta
Digraph:
    MT
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Valletta
Administrative divisions:
    none (administration directly from Valletta)
Independence:
    21 September 1964 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 21 September (1964)
Constitution:
    1964 constitution substantially amended on 13 December 1974
Legal system:
    based on English common law and Roman civil law; has accepted compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Ugo MIFSUD BONNICI (since 4 April 1994)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister and Foreign Minister Dr. Edward (Eddie) FENECH ADAMI (since
    12 May 1987); Deputy Prime Minister Dr. Guido DE MARCO (since 14 May 1987)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president on advice of the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    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 total: 69 (MLP 33, NP 36 after
    adjustment)
Judicial branch:
    Constitutional Court, Court of Appeal
Political parties and leaders:
    Nationalist Party (NP), Edward FENECH ADAMI; Malta Labor Party (MLP), Alfred
    SANT
Member of:
    C, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, FAO, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFAD, ILO,
    IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ISO
    (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OSCE, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL,
    WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Albert Borg Olivier DE PUGET
  chancery:
    2017 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 3612
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
                                      Malta
                                   Government
  consulate(s):
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Joseph R. PAOLINO, Jr.
  embassy:
    2nd Floor, Development House, Saint Anne Street, Floriana, Malta
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 535, Valletta
  telephone:
    [356] 235960
  FAX:
    [356] 243229
Flag:
    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
                                      Malta
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Significant resources are limestone, 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 electronics and
    textile industries major contributors and with the state-owned Malta
    drydocks employing about 4,300 people. In 1994, over 1,000,000 tourists
    visited the island. Per capita GDP of $10,760 places Malta in the range of
    the less affluent EU countries.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $3.9 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4.4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $10,760 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    5% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    4.5% (March 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.4 billion
  expenditures:
    $1.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $215 million (FY94/95 est.)
Exports:
    $1.3 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment, clothing and footware, printed matter
  partners:
    Italy 32%, Germany 16%, UK 8%
Imports:
    $2.1 billion (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    food, petroleum, machinery and semimanufactured goods
  partners:
    Italy 27%, Germany 14%, UK 13%, US 9%
External debt:
    $603 million (1992)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5.4% (1992); accounts for 27% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    250,000 kW
  production:
    1.1 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,749 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tourism, electronics, ship repairyard, construction, food manufacturing,
    textiles, footwear, clothing, beverages, tobacco
Agriculture:
    accounts for 3% of GDP and 2% of the work force (1992); overall, 20%
    self-sufficient; main products - potatoes, cauliflower, grapes, wheat,
    barley, tomatoes, citrus, cut flowers, green peppers, hogs, poultry, eggs;
    generally adequate supplies of vegetables, poultry, milk, pork products;
    seasonal or periodic shortages in grain, animal fodder, fruits, other basic
    foodstuffs
                                      Malta
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for hashish from North Africa to Western Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-81), $172 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $336 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $76 million; Communist countries (1970-88), $48
    million
Currency:
    1 Maltese lira (LM) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Maltese liri (LM) per US$1 - 0.3656 (January 1995), 0.3776 (1994), 0.3821
    (1993), 0.3178 (1992), 0.3226 (1991), 0.3172 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                                      Malta
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    1,291 km
  paved:
    asphalt 1,179 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone 77 km; earth 35 km
Ports:
    Marsaxlokk, Valletta
Merchant marine:
  total:
    964 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 15,518,359 GRT/26,604,739 DWT
  ships by type:
    barge carrier 3, bulk 272, cargo 300, chemical tanker 30, combination bulk
    26, combination ore/oil 16, container 33, liquefied gas tanker 3,
    multifunction large-load carrier 3, oil tanker 191, passenger 7,
    passenger-cargo 3, railcar carrier 1, refrigerated cargo 14,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 26, short-sea passenger 20, specialized tanker 5,
    vehicle carrier 11
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; includes 49 countries; the 10 major fleet
    flags are: Greece 351 ships, Russia 66, Croatia 63, Switzerland 31,
    Montenegro 29, Italy 27, Germany 23, Monaco 20, UK 20, and Georgia 10
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
                                      Malta
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    153,000 telephones; automatic system satisfies normal requirements
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    submarine cable and microwave radio relay between islands
  international:
    1 submarine cable and 1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 8, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                                      Malta
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Armed Forces, Maltese Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 98,525; males fit for military service 78,305 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $21.4 million, about 0.9% of GDP (FY92/93)
Martinique
                                    Man, Isle of
Affiliation:
    (British crown dependency)
                                    Man, Isle of
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Europe, island in the Irish Sea, between Great Britain and Ireland
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    588 sq km
  land area:
    588 sq km
  comparative area:
    nearly 3.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    113 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    cool summers and mild winters; humid; overcast about half the time
Terrain:
    hills in north and south bisected by central valley
Natural resources:
    lead, iron ore
Land use:
  arable land:
    NA%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA% (extensive arable land and forests)
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    one small islet, the Calf of Man, lies to the southwest, and is a bird
    sanctuary
                                  Man, Isle of
                                     People
Population:
    72,751 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    18% (female 6,462; male 6,833)
  15-64 years:
    64% (female 23,219; male 23,348)
  65 years and over:
    18% (female 7,759; male 5,130) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.99% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    13.73 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.36 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    8.55 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    76.53 years
  male:
    73.78 years
  female:
    79.48 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.8 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Manxman, Manxwoman
  adjective:
    Manx
Ethnic divisions:
    Manx (Norse-Celtic descent), Briton
Religions:
    Anglican, Roman Catholic, Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian, Society of
    Friends
Languages:
    English, Manx Gaelic
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    25,864 (1981)
  by occupation:
    NA
                                  Man, Isle of
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Isle of Man
Digraph:
    IM
Type:
    British crown dependency
Capital:
    Douglas
Administrative divisions:
    none (British crown dependency)
Independence:
    none (British crown dependency)
National holiday:
    Tynwald Day, 5 July
Constitution:
    1961, Isle of Man Constitution Act
Legal system:
    English law and local statute
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Lord of Mann Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by
    Lieutenant Governor Air Marshal Sir Laurence JONES (since NA 1990)
  head of government:
    President of the Legislative Council Sir Charles KERRUISH (since NA 1990)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
Legislative branch:
    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 1991 (next to be held NA 1996); results - percent of
    vote NA; seats - (24 total) independents 24
Judicial branch:
    Court of Tynwald
Political parties and leaders:
    there is no party system and members sit as independents
Member of:
    none
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (British crown dependency)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (British crown dependency)
Flag:
    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
                                  Man, Isle of
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 European Union markets.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $780 million (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $10,800 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    7% (1992 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    1% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $130.4 million
  expenditures:
    $114.4 million, including capital expenditures of $18.1 million (1985 est.)
Exports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    tweeds, herring, processed shellfish, beef, lamb
  partners:
    UK
Imports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    timber, fertilizers, fish
  partners:
    UK
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    61,000 kW
  production:
    190 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,965 kWh (1992)
Industries:
    financial services, light manufacturing, tourism
Agriculture:
    cereals and vegetables; cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    1 Manx pound (#M) = 100 pence
Exchange rates:
    Manx pounds (#M) per US$1 - 0.6350 (January 1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658
    (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991), 0.5603 (1990); the Manx pound is at
    par with the British pound
                                  Man, Isle of
                                     Economy
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                                  Man, Isle of
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    60 km (36 km electrified)
Highways:
    640 km
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    Castletown, Douglas, Peel, Ramsey
Merchant marine:
  total:
    68 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,810,355 GRT/3,183,773 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 11, cargo 10, chemical tanker 4, container 9, liquefied gas tanker 8,
    oil tanker 15, roll-on/roll-off cargo 9, vehicle carrier 2
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; UK owns 9 ships, Switzerland 2, Denmark 1,
    Netherlands 1
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
                                  Man, Isle of
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    24,435 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    4
  televisions:
    NA
                                  Man, Isle of
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the UK
Mauritania
MARSHALL ISLANDS, REPUBLIC OF THE - Proof of U.S. citizenship,
sufficient funds for stay and onward/return ticket required for stay up to 30 days
(extendable up to 90 days from date of entry).  Entry permit not needed
to bring in sea-going vessel.  Obtain necessary forms from airline or
shipping agent serving Marshall Islands.  Departure fee $10 (those over age 60
exempt).  Health certificate required if arriving from infected areas.
AIDS test may be required for visits over 30 days; U.S. test accepted.
Check information with Representative Office, Suite 1004, 1901
Pennsylvania Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006 (202/234-5414) or the nearest
Consulate General:   CA (714/474-0331) or  HI (808/942-4422).
Marshall Islands - Consular Information Sheet
September 7, 1994
Country Description:  The Republic of the Marshall Islands is a
parliamentary democracy, constitutionally in free association with the
United States.  It has a developing agrarian economy.  Tourist facilities
are not widely available, but adequate.  Small hotels exist in Majuro and on
Ebeye, the second most populous island in the nation.  Rental cars and taxis
are plentiful.
Entry Requirements:  Proof of U.S. citizenship (ie: a U.S. passport, U.S.
birth certificate, Certificate of U.S. Naturalization, Certificate of U.S.
Citizenship, or Report of Birth Abroad of a U.S. citizen), sufficient funds
for the intended stay, and and onward/return ticket are required for a stay
of up to 30 days.  Further specific information is available through the
Embassy of The Republic of the Marshall Islands, 2433 Massachusetts Avenue
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008.  The telephone number is [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Health facilities in the Republic of the Marshall
Islands are adequate for routine medical problems, but are available only on
Majuro and Ebeye.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Supplemental overseas medical insurance, including coverage
for medical evacuation, has proven useful.  The Medicare/Medicaid program
does not provide payment of medical services outside the United States.  The
international travelers hotline of the Centers for Disease Control at (404)
332-4559 has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  The crime rate in the Republic of the Marshall
Islands is low, but rapidly increasing.  Most common crimes are break-ins
and thefts from homes, hotel rooms and vehicles.  The loss or theft abroad
of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police, and
the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is
provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  It is
available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use, or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
jail sentences and fines.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In July 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed the Republic of the Marshall Islands' civil aviation
authority as in compliance with international aviation safety oversight
standards for the Republic of the Marshall Islands' carriers operating to
and from the U.S.  However, during its assessment, the FAA noted that the
Republic of the Marshall Islands' operations to destinations other than the
U.S. are not provided a similar level of safety oversight.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at 1-800-
322-7873.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy in Majuro can
obtain updated information on travel and security within the area.
Embassy Location: The U.S. Embassy is located in Majuro, c/o P.O. Box 1379;
telephone [phone], on the ocean-side of the island's road, near the
Mormon church and "Blue Wall" compound.
No. 94-193
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 17, 1993.  It
provides updated information concerning supplemental medical evacuation
coverage and also adds information regarding aviation oversight.
`$F$                                Marshall Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, group of atolls and reefs in the North Pacific Ocean, about
    one-half of the way from Hawaii to Papua New Guinea
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    181.3 sq km
  land area:
    181.3 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Washington, DC
  note:
    includes the atolls of Bikini, Eniwetak, and Kwajalein
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    370.4 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claims US territory of Wake Island
Climate:
    wet season May to November; hot and humid; islands border typhoon belt
Terrain:
    low coral limestone and sand islands
Natural resources:
    phosphate deposits, marine products, deep seabed minerals
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    60%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    40%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    inadequate supplies of potable water
  natural hazards:
    occasional typhoons
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Ship Pollution
Note:
    two archipelagic island chains of 30 atolls and 1,152 islands; Bikini and
    Eniwetak are former US nuclear test sites; Kwajalein, the famous World War
    II battleground, is now used as a US missile test range
                                Marshall Islands
                                     People
Population:
    56,157 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    51% (female 13,950; male 14,547)
  15-64 years:
    47% (female 12,801; male 13,470)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 740; male 649) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.86% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    46.03 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.48 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    48 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    63.49 years
  male:
    61.94 years
  female:
    65.11 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.89 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Marshallese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Marshallese
Ethnic divisions:
    Micronesian
Religions:
    Christian (mostly Protestant)
Languages:
    English (universally spoken and is the official language), two major
    Marshallese dialects from the Malayo-Polynesian family, Japanese
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980)
  total population:
    93%
  male:
    100%
  female:
    88%
Labor force:
    4,800 (1986)
  by occupation:
    NA
                                Marshall Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of the Marshall Islands
  conventional short form:
    Marshall Islands
  former:
    Marshall Islands District (Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands)
Digraph:
    RM
Type:
    constitutional government in free association with the US; the Compact of
    Free Association entered into force 21 October 1986
Capital:
    Majuro
Administrative divisions:
    none
Independence:
    21 October 1986 (from the US-administered UN trusteeship)
National holiday:
    Proclamation of the Republic of the Marshall Islands, 1 May (1979)
Constitution:
    1 May 1979
Legal system:
    based on adapted Trust Territory laws, acts of the legislature, municipal,
    common, and customary laws
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Amata KABUA (since 1979); election last held 6 January 1992 (next
    to be held NA); results - President Amata KABUA was reelected
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; president selects from the parliament
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Parliament (Nitijela):
    elections last held 18 November 1991 (next to be held November 1995);
    results - percent of vote NA; seats - (33 total) independents 33
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    no formal parties; President KABUA is chief political (and traditional)
    leader
Member of:
    AsDB, ESCAP, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFC, IMF, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user),
    INTERPOL, SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UN, UNCTAD, WHO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Wilfred I. KENDALL
  chancery:
    2433 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Honolulu and Los Angeles
                                Marshall Islands
                                   Government
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador David C. FIELDS
  embassy:
    address NA, Majuro
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 1379, Majuro, Republic of the Marshall Islands 96960-1379
  telephone:
    [692] 247-4011
  FAX:
    [692] 247-4012
Flag:
    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
                                Marshall Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 cattle 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 US
    Government provides about 70% of the budget.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $75 million (1992 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6% (1992)
National product per capita:
    $1,500 (1992 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    7% (1992 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    16% (1991 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $106 million
  expenditures:
    $128.7 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993)
Exports:
    $3.9 million (f.o.b., 1992 est.)
  commodities:
    coconut oil, fish, live animals, trichus shells
  partners:
    US, Japan, Australia
Imports:
    $62.9 million (c.i.f., 1992 est.)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, machinery and equipment, beverages and tobacco, fuels
  partners:
    US, Japan, Australia
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    42,000 kW
  production:
    80 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,840 kWh (1990)
Industries:
    copra, fish, tourism; craft items from shell, wood, and pearls; offshore
    banking (embryonic)
Agriculture:
    coconuts, cacao, taro, breadfruit, fruits, pigs, chickens
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    under the terms of the Compact of Free Association, the US is to provide
    approximately $40 million in aid annually
Currency:
    1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
                                Marshall Islands
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    US currency is used
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                                Marshall Islands
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    NA
  note:
    paved roads on major islands (Majuro, Kwajalein), otherwise stone-, coral-,
    or laterite-surfaced roads and tracks
Ports:
    Majuro
Merchant marine:
  total:
    37 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,205,275 GRT/4,263,247 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk carrier 23, cargo 1, combination ore/oil 1, oil tanker 12
Airports:
  total:
    16
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
                                Marshall Islands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    570 telephones (Majuro) and 186 telephones (Ebeye); telex services
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    islands interconnected by shortwave radio (used mostly for government
    purposes)
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth stations; US Government satellite
    communications system on Kwajalein
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 2, shortwave 1
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                                Marshall Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    no regular military forces; Police
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
Mauritius
'                                     Martinique
Affiliation:
    (overseas department of France)
                                     Martinique
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    1,100 sq km
  land area:
    1,060 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than six times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    290 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; moderated by trade winds; rainy season (June to October)
Terrain:
    mountainous with indented coastline; dormant volcano
Natural resources:
    coastal scenery and beaches, cultivable land
Land use:
  arable land:
    10%
  permanent crops:
    8%
  meadows and pastures:
    30%
  forest and woodland:
    26%
  other:
    26%
Irrigated land:
    60 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    hurricanes, flooding, and volcanic activity (an average of one major natural
    disaster every five years)
  international agreements:
    NA
                                   Martinique
                                     People
Population:
    394,787 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    23% (female 44,960; male 46,512)
  15-64 years:
    67% (female 134,439; male 130,642)
  65 years and over:
    10% (female 22,058; male 16,176) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.1% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    16.92 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.82 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.1 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    7.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    78.67 years
  male:
    75.94 years
  female:
    81.53 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.81 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Martiniquais (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Martiniquais
Ethnic divisions:
    African and African-Caucasian-Indian mixture 90%, Caucasian 5%, East Indian,
    Lebanese, Chinese less than 5%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 95%, Hindu and pagan African 5%
Languages:
    French, Creole patois
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1982)
  total population:
    93%
  male:
    92%
  female:
    93%
Labor force:
    100,000
  by occupation:
    service industry 31.7%, construction and public works 29.4%, agriculture
    13.1%, industry 7.3%, fisheries 2.2%, other 16.3%
                                   Martinique
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Department of Martinique
  conventional short form:
    Martinique
  local long form:
    Departement de la Martinique
  local short form:
    Martinique
Digraph:
    MB
Type:
    overseas department of France
Capital:
    Fort-de-France
Administrative divisions:
    none (overseas department of France)
Independence:
    none (overseas department of France)
National holiday:
    National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
Constitution:
    28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
Legal system:
    French legal system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Francois MITTERRAND (since 21 May 1981)
  head of government:
    Prefect Michel MORIN (since NA); President of the General Council Claude
    LISE (since 22 March 1992); President of the Regional Council Emile CAPGRAS
    (since 22 March 1992)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
Legislative branch:
    unicameral General Council and a unicameral Regional Assembly
  General Council:
    elections last held 25 September and 8 October 1988 (next to be held NA);
    results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (44 total) number of seats by
    party NA; note - a leftist coalition obtained a one-seat margin
  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 NA); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) UDF 1, PPM 1
  French National Assembly:
    elections last held NA June 1993 (next to be held NA June 1998); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (4 total) RPR 3, FSM 1
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                                   Martinique
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Rally for the Republic (RPR), Stephen BAGOE; Union for a Martinique of
    Progress (UMP); Martinique Progressive Party (PPM), Aime CESAIRE; Socialist
    Federation of Martinique (FSM), Michel YOYO; Martinique Communist Party
    (PCM); Martinique Patriots (PM); Union for French Democracy (UDF), Jean
    MARAN; Martinique Independence Movement (MIM), Alfred MARIE-JEANNE;
    Republican Party (PR), Jean BAILLY
Other political or pressure groups:
    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)
Member of:
    FZ, WCL, WFTU
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (overseas department of France)
US diplomatic representation:
    the post closed in August 1993 (overseas department of France)
Flag:
    the flag of France is used
                                   Martinique
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy is based on sugarcane, bananas, tourism, and light industry.
    Agriculture accounts for about 10% of GDP and the small industrial sector
    for 10%. Sugar production has declined, with most of the sugarcane now used
    for the production of rum. Banana exports are increasing, going mostly to
    France. 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 France. 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $3.9 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $10,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3.9% (1990)
Unemployment rate:
    32.1% (1990)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $610 million
  expenditures:
    $1.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1991)
Exports:
    $247 million (f.o.b., 1992)
  commodities:
    refined petroleum products, bananas, rum, pineapples
  partners:
    France 57%, Guadeloupe 31%, French Guiana (1991)
Imports:
    $1.75 billion (c.i.f., 1992)
  commodities:
    petroleum products, crude oil, foodstuffs, construction materials, vehicles,
    clothing and other consumer goods
  partners:
    France 62%, UK, Italy, Germany, Japan, US (1991)
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    113,100 kW
  production:
    700 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,677 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    construction, rum, cement, oil refining, sugar, tourism
Agriculture:
    including fishing and forestry, accounts for about 10% of GDP; principal
    crops - pineapples, avocados, bananas, flowers, vegetables, sugarcane for
    rum; dependent on imported food, particularly meat and vegetables
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for cocaine and marijuana bound for the US and Europe
                                   Martinique
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89),
    $10.1 billion
Currency:
    1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.2943 (January 1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632
    (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991), 5.4453 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                   Martinique
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    1,680 km
  paved:
    1,300 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, earth 380 km
Ports:
    Fort-de-France, La Trinite
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    2
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                                   Martinique
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    68,900 telephones; domestic facilities are adequate
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    interisland microwave radio relay links to Guadeloupe, Dominica, and Saint
    Lucia; 2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 6, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    10
  televisions:
    NA
                                   Martinique
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    French forces (Army, Navy, Air Force), Gendarmerie
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
Mayotte
MAURITANIA - Passport and visa required.  Obtain visa before arrival.
Visa valid 3 months, requires $10 fee (money order only), 2 application
forms, 4 photos, yellow fever and cholera immunizations and proof of
onward/return transportation.  Business travelers must have proof of sufficient funds
(bank statement) or letter from sponsoring company.  For further
information contact Embassy of the Republic of Mauritania, 2129 Leroy
Pl., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/232-5700/01) or Permanent Mission to
the U.N., 211 East 43rd Street, Suite 2000, New York, NY 10017
(212/986-7963).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Mauritania
============================================================
Mauritania - Consular Information Sheet
 February 8, 1995
Country Description:  Mauritania is a developing country in
northwestern Africa.  It is a Muslim country with a conservative
dress code.  Women are expected to wear garments with sleeves, to
have dress lengths that cover the knee and to not wear shorts.
Entry Requirements:  U.S. citizens need a passport and a visa.
Evidence of yellow fever immunization and proof of sufficient funds
are required.  Further information on entry requirements can be
obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of Mauritania, 2129 Leroy
Place, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], or
from the Mauritanian Permanent Mission to the U.N., 6100 Third
Avenue, 37th Floor, New York, N.Y. 10016, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Surface travel between Mauritania and the
former Western Sahara is dangerous, because of the continuing
conflict between Morocco and the Polisario movement.  Although a
ceasefire is presently in place, several violations have occurred,
and the area cannot be considered safe.  Travelers are at risk of
being caught up in hostilities between Morocco and the Polisario
movement.  There are reports of thousands of unexploded mines in the
Western Sahara and in areas of Mauritania adjacent to the Western
Sahara border.  Exploding mines are occasionally reported and have
caused death and injury.  Surface travel between Mali and Mauritania
is dangerous due to a series of violent incidents related to ethnic
conflict, cattle rustling, and the proliferation of weapons.  It is
not possible to get a Malian visa in Mauritania.  Both surface and
air travel between Mauritania and Senegal resumed in April 1992;
however, surface travel is restricted to several designated border
crossing-points, and the possibility of recurring violence is great.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Mauritania are limited.
Medicines are difficult to obtain.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  The
Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment of medical
services outside the United States.  In some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven useful.
 For additional health information, travelers can contact the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline,
telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Petty crime occurs.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  U.S. State
Department pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to
Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on protecting
personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region
in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Local currency may not be imported or
exported.  Credit cards, primarily American Express, can only be
used at a few hotels in Nouakchott and Nouadhibou.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy may
obtain updated information on travel and security in Mauritania.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in the capital city
of Nouakchott between the Presidency Building and the Spanish
Embassy.  The postal address is B.P. 222, Nouakchott, Mauritania.
The phone number is (222-2) 526-60, and the fax number is (222-2)
515-92.
 No. 95-020
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 18,
1993, to provide updated information on medical facilities and
currency regulations.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
/z/                                   Mauritania
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Senegal and
    Western Sahara
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    1,030,700 sq km
  land area:
    1,030,400 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than three times the size of New Mexico
Land boundaries:
    total 5,074 km, Algeria 463 km, Mali 2,237 km, Senegal 813 km, Western
    Sahara 1,561 km
Coastline:
    754 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    boundary with Senegal in dispute
Climate:
    desert; constantly hot, dry, dusty
Terrain:
    mostly barren, flat plains of the Sahara; some central hills
Natural resources:
    iron ore, gypsum, fish, copper, phosphate
Land use:
  arable land:
    1%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    38%
  forest and woodland:
    5%
  other:
    56%
Irrigated land:
    120 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    overgrazing, deforestation, and soil erosion aggravated by drought are
    contributing to desertification; very limited natural fresh water resources
    away from the Senegal which is the only perennial river
  natural hazards:
    hot, dry, dust/sand-laden sirocco wind blows primarily in March and April;
    periodic droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection,
    Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Desertification, Law of
    the Sea
                                   Mauritania
                                    Geography
Note:
    most of the population concentrated along the Senegal River in the southern
    part of the country
                                   Mauritania
                                     People
Population:
    2,263,202 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 544,674; male 551,099)
  15-64 years:
    49% (female 574,282; male 542,762)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 28,955; male 21,430) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.17% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    47.32 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    15.66 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    83.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    48.54 years
  male:
    45.66 years
  female:
    51.54 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.92 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Mauritanian(s)
  adjective:
    Mauritanian
Ethnic divisions:
    mixed Maur/black 40%, Maur 30%, black 30%
Religions:
    Muslim 100%
Languages:
    Hasaniya Arabic (official), Pular, Soninke, Wolof (official)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1988)
  total population:
    35%
  male:
    46%
  female:
    25%
Labor force:
    465,000 (1981 est.); 45,000 wage earners (1980)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 47%, services 29%, industry and commerce 14%, government 10%
                                   Mauritania
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Islamic Republic of Mauritania
  conventional short form:
    Mauritania
  local long form:
    Al Jumhuriyah al Islamiyah al Muritaniyah
  local short form:
    Muritaniyah
Digraph:
    MR
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Nouakchott
Administrative divisions:
    12 regions (regions, singular - region); Adrar, Assaba, Brakna, Dakhlet
    Nouadhibou, Gorgol, Guidimaka, Hodh ech Chargui, Hodh el Gharbi, Inchiri,
    Tagant, Tiris Zemmour, Trarza
  note:
    there may be a new capital district of Nouakchott
Independence:
    28 November 1960 (from France)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 28 November (1960)
Constitution:
    12 July 1991
Legal system:
    three-tier system: Islamic (Shari'a) courts, special courts, state security
    courts (in the process of being eliminated)
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Col. Maaouya Ould Sid'Ahmed TAYA (since 12 December 1984);
    election last held NA January 1992 (next to be held NA January 1998);
    results - President Col. Maaouya Ould Sid 'Ahmed TAYA elected
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
Legislative branch:
    bicameral legislature
  Senate (Majlis al-Shuyukh):
    elections last held 15 April 1994 (nex to be held NA 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
                                   Mauritania
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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
Other political or pressure groups:
    Mauritanian Workers Union (UTM)
Member of:
    ABEDA, ACCT (associate), ACP, AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, AMU, CAEU, CCC, CEAO,
    ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS,
    ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, UN, UNCTAD,
    UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ismail Ould IYAHI (since 22 September 1994)
  chancery:
    2129 Leroy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Dorothy Myers SAMPAS
  embassy:
    address NA, Nouakchott
  mailing address:
    B. P. 222, Nouakchott
  telephone:
    [222] (2) 526-60, 526-63
  FAX:
    [222] (2) 515-92
Flag:
    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 Islam
                                   Mauritania
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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.
    Mauritania 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, drought 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $2.4 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,110 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    10% (1993)
Unemployment rate:
    20% (1991 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $280 million
  expenditures:
    $346 million, including capital expenditures of $61 million (1989 est.)
Exports:
    $401 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    iron ore, fish and fish products
  partners:
    Japan 27%, Italy, Belgium, Luxembourg
Imports:
    $378 million (c.i.f., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, consumer goods, petroleum products, capital goods
  partners:
    Algeria 15%, China 6%, US 3%, France, Germany, Spain, Italy
External debt:
    $1.9 billion (1992 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%; accounts for almost 30% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    110,000 kW
  production:
    135 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    61 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    fish processing, mining of iron ore and gypsum
                                   Mauritania
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 25% of GDP (including fishing); largely subsistence farming and
    nomadic cattle and sheep herding except in Senegal river valley; crops -
    dates, millet, sorghum, root crops; fish products number-one export; large
    food deficit in years of drought
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $168 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.3 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $490 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $277
    million; Arab Development Bank (1991), $20 million
Currency:
    1 ouguiya (UM) = 5 khoums
Exchange rates:
    ouguiyas (UM) per US$1 - 125.910 (January 1995), 123.575 (1994), 120.806
    (1993),87.027 (1992), 81.946 (1991), 80.609 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                   Mauritania
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    690 km (single track); note - owned and operated by government mining
    company
  standard gauge:
    690 km 1.435-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    7,525 km
  paved:
    1,685 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, otherwise improved 1,040 km; unimproved earth 4,800
    km (roads, trails, tracks)
Inland waterways:
    mostly ferry traffic on the Senegal River
Ports:
    Bogue, Kaedi, Nouadhibou, Nouakchott, Rosso
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    28
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    6
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    10
                                   Mauritania
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; poor system of cable and open-wire lines, minor microwave
    radio relay links, and radio communications stations (improvements being
    made)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    mostly cable and open wire lines
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) and 2 ARABSAT earth stations, with six planned
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                                   Mauritania
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, National Guard, National
    Police, Presidential Guard
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 483,916; males fit for military service 236,323
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $36 million, 2.7% of GDP (1994)
Mexico
MAURITIUS - Passport, sufficient funds for stay and onward/return
ticket required.  Visa not required for tourist/business stay up to 3 months.
AIDS test required for permanent residence and work permits.  U.S. test
sometimes accepted.  For further information consult Embassy of
Mauritius, Suite 441, 4301 Conn. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/244-1491/2) or Honorary Consulate in Los Angeles (818/788-3720).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Mauritius
============================================================
Mauritius - Consular Information Sheet
 February 1, 1995
Country Description:  The Republic of Mauritius is a developing
nation with a stable government and growing economy.  Facilities for
tourism are largely available.  Although the spoken languages are
French and Creole, English is the official language.
Entry Requirements:  A passport, an onward/return ticket and
evidence of sufficient funds are required for entrance into
Mauritius.  U.S. citizens do not need visas for a stay of three
months or less for business or tourism.  Further information can be
obtained from the Embassy of Mauritius, Suite 441, 4301 Connecticut
Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone].
Honorary Consulates are located in Los Angeles, telephone (818)
788-3720, and in Atlanta, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are available,but more
limited than in the United States.  Doctors and private clinics
require cash or credit card payment for health care services.
Public hospitals provide limited facilities.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.
Information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control's international travelers hotline, telephone (404)
332-4559.
Information on Crime:  Petty crime is common in Mauritius.  The
loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.  The death penalty
applies for illegal importation of drugs.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in
Port Louis may obtain updated information on travel and security in
Mauritius.  The U.S. Embassy in Port Louis also provides consular
services for U.S. citizens in Comoros.  (The U.S. Embassy in Moroni,
Comoros closed September 27, 1993.)
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at Rogers House
(Fourth Floor) on John F. Kennedy Street in the capital city of Port
Louis.  The telephone numbers are [phone] thru 9769, 208-2347
and 208-2354; fax [phone].
 No. 95-014
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 18,
1993, and is reissued without change, following an annual review.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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,s,                                      Mauritius
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar
Map references:
    World
Area:
  total area:
    1,860 sq km
  land area:
    1,850 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 10.5 times the size of Washington, DC
  note:
    includes Agalega Islands, Cargados Carajos Shoals (Saint Brandon), and
    Rodrigues
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    177 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claims UK-administered Chagos Archipelago, which includes the island of
    Diego Garcia in UK-administered British Indian Ocean Territory; claims
    French-administered Tromelin Island
Climate:
    tropical, modified by southeast trade winds; warm, dry winter (May to
    November); hot, wet, humid summer (November to May)
Terrain:
    small coastal plain rising to discontinuous mountains encircling central
    plateau
Natural resources:
    arable land, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    54%
  permanent crops:
    4%
  meadows and pastures:
    4%
  forest and woodland:
    31%
  other:
    7%
Irrigated land:
    170 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution
  natural hazards:
    cyclones (November to April); almost completely surrounded by reefs that may
    pose maritime hazards
                                    Mauritius
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental
    Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation,
    Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection
                                    Mauritius
                                     People
Population:
    1,127,068 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    28% (female 152,892; male 158,891)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 376,049; male 372,910)
  65 years and over:
    6% (female 39,088; male 27,238) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.89% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    18.91 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.38 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -3.64 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    17.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    70.84 years
  male:
    66.9 years
  female:
    74.95 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.2 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Mauritian(s)
  adjective:
    Mauritian
Ethnic divisions:
    Indo-Mauritian 68%, Creole 27%, Sino-Mauritian 3%, Franco-Mauritian 2%
Religions:
    Hindu 52%, Christian 28.3% (Roman Catholic 26%, Protestant 2.3%), Muslim
    16.6%, other 3.1%
Languages:
    English (official), Creole, French, Hindi, Urdu, Hakka, Bojpoori
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    80%
  male:
    85%
  female:
    75%
Labor force:
    335,000
  by occupation:
    government services 29%, agriculture and fishing 27%, manufacturing 22%,
    other 22%
                                    Mauritius
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Mauritius
  conventional short form:
    Mauritius
Digraph:
    MP
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Port Louis
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    12 March 1968 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 12 March (1968)
Constitution:
    12 March 1968; amended 12 March 1992
Legal system:
    based on French civil law system with elements of English common law in
    certain areas
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Cassam UTEEM (since 1 July 1992); Vice President Rabindranath
    GHURBURRON (since 1 July 1992)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Sir Anerood JUGNAUTH (since 12 June 1982); Deputy Prime
    Minister Prem NABABSING (since 26 September 1990)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president on recommendation of the
    prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Legislative Assembly:
    elections last held on 15 September 1991 (next to be held by 15 September
    1996); results - MSM/MMM 53%, MLP/PMSD 38%; seats - (66 total) MSM/MMM
    alliance 59 (MSM 29, MMM 26, OPR 2, MTD 2), MLP/PMSD 4 (MLP 3, PMSD 1); note
    - the Supreme Court denied the assignment of 3 seats to the MSM
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
  government coalition:
    Militant Socialist Movement (MSM), A. JUGNAUTH; Mauritian Militant
    Resurgence (RMM), Prem NABABSING (less 10 legislators under the leadership
    of Paul BERENGER, now voting with the opposition); Mauritian Social
    Democratic Party (PMSD), X. DUVAL; Organization of the People of Rodrigues
    (OPR), Louis Serge CLAIR; Democratic Labor Movement (MTD), Anil BAICHOO
  opposition:
    Mauritian Labor Party (MLP), Navin RAMGOOLMAN; MMM-Berenger Faction, Paul
    BERENGER; Socialist Workers Front, Sylvio MICHEL
Other political or pressure groups:
    various labor unions
                                    Mauritius
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OAU, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Anund Priyay NEEWOOR
  chancery:
    Suite 441, 4301 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 1492
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Leslie M. ALEXANDER
  embassy:
    4th Floor, Rogers House, John Kennedy Street, Port Louis
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [230] 208-9763 through 9767
  FAX:
    [230] 208-9534
Flag:
    four equal horizontal bands of red (top), blue, yellow, and green
                                    Mauritius
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Since independence in 1968, Mauritius 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 infrastructure. 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $9.3 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4.7% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $8,600 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    9.4% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    2.4% (1991 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $653 million
  expenditures:
    $567 million, including capital expenditures of $143 million (FY92/93 est.)
Exports:
    $1.32 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    textiles 44%, sugar 40%, light manufactures 10%
  partners:
    EC and US have preferential treatment, EC 77%, US 15%
Imports:
    $1.7 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    manufactured goods 50%, capital equipment 17%, foodstuffs 13%, petroleum
    products 8%, chemicals 7%
  partners:
    EC, US, South Africa, Japan
External debt:
    $996.8 million (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5.8% (1992); accounts for 25% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    340,000 kW
  production:
    920 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    777 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    food processing (largely sugar milling), textiles, wearing apparel,
    chemicals, metal products, transport equipment, nonelectrical machinery,
    tourism
Agriculture:
    accounts for 10% of GDP; about 90% of cultivated land in sugarcane; other
    products - tea, corn, potatoes, bananas, pulses, cattle, goats, fish; net
    food importer, especially rice and fish
                                    Mauritius
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; heroin
    consumption and transshipment are growing problems
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $76 million; Western (non-US)
    countries (1970-89), $709 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $54
    million
Currency:
    1 Mauritian rupee (MauR) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Mauritian rupees (MauRs) per US$1 - 17.755 (January 1995), 17.960 (1994),
    17.648 (1993), 15.563 (1992), 15.652 (1991), 14.839 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                                    Mauritius
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    1,800 km
  paved:
    1,640 km
  unpaved:
    earth 160 km
Ports:
    Port Louis
Merchant marine:
  total:
    16 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 191,703 GRT/297,347 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 5, cargo 8, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 1, passenger-cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    5
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                                    Mauritius
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    over 48,000 telephones; small system with good service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    utilizes primarily microwave radio relay
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean) earth station; new microwave link to Reunion;
    high-frequency radio links to several countries
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    4
  televisions:
    NA
                                    Mauritius
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    National Police Force (includes the paramilitary Special Mobile Force or
    SMF, Special Support Units or SSU, and National Coast Guard)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 321,947; males fit for military service 163,904 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $11.2 million, 0.4% of GDP (FY92/93)
Micronesia
                                        Mayotte
Affiliation:
    (territorial collectivity of France)
                                        Mayotte
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, island in the Mozambique Channel, about one-half of the way
    from northern Madagascar to northern Mozambique
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    375 sq km
  land area:
    375 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than twice the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    185.2 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claimed by Comoros
Climate:
    tropical; marine; hot, humid, rainy season during northeastern monsoon
    (November to May); dry season is cooler (May to November)
Terrain:
    generally undulating with ancient volcanic peaks, deep ravines
Natural resources:
    negligible
Land use:
  arable land:
    NA%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    cyclones during rainy season
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    part of Comoro Archipelago
                                     Mayotte
                                     People
Population:
    97,088 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    49% (female 23,910; male 24,120)
  15-64 years:
    48% (female 22,824; male 23,935)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 1,165; male 1,134) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.8% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    48.44 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    10.46 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    77.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    58.27 years
  male:
    56.04 years
  female:
    60.57 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.71 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Mahorais (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Mahoran
Ethnic divisions:
    NA
Religions:
    Muslim 99%, Christian (mostly Roman Catholic)
Languages:
    Mahorian (a Swahili dialect), French
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    NA
                                     Mayotte
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Territorial Collectivity of Mayotte
  conventional short form:
    Mayotte
Digraph:
    MF
Type:
    territorial collectivity of France
Capital:
    Mamoutzou
Administrative divisions:
    none (territorial collectivity of France)
Independence:
    none (territorial collectivity of France)
National holiday:
    National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
Constitution:
    28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
Legal system:
    French law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Francois MITTERRAND (since 21 May 1981)
  head of government:
    Prefect Jean-Jacques DERACQ (since NA); President of the General Council
    Younoussa BAMANA (since NA 1976)
Legislative branch:
    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 on 24 September 1989 (next to be held NA September
    1995); 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Tribunal Superieur d'Appel)
Political parties and leaders:
    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),
Member of:
    FZ
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (territorial collectivity of France)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (territorial collectivity of France)
Flag:
    the flag of France is used
                                     Mayotte
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Economic activity is based primarily on the agricultural sector, including
    fishing and livestock raising. Mayotte is not self-sufficient and must
    import a large portion of its food requirements, mainly from France. The
    economy and future development of the island are heavily dependent on French
    financial assistance. Mayotte's remote location is an obstacle to the
    development of tourism.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $54 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $600 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $37.3 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1985 est.)
Exports:
    $4 million (f.o.b., 1984)
  commodities:
    ylang-ylang, vanilla
  partners:
    France 79%, Comoros 10%, Reunion 9%
Imports:
    $21.8 million (f.o.b., 1984)
  commodities:
    building materials, transportation equipment, rice, clothing, flour
  partners:
    France 57%, Kenya 16%, South Africa 11%, Pakistan 8%
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    NA kW
  production:
    NA kWh
  consumption per capita:
    NA kWh
Industries:
    newly created lobster and shrimp industry
Agriculture:
    most important sector; provides all export earnings; crops - vanilla,
    ylang-ylang, coffee, copra; imports major share of food needs
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89),
    $402 million
Currency:
    1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.2943 (January 1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632
    (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991), 5.4453 (1990)
                                     Mayotte
                                     Economy
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                     Mayotte
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    42 km
  paved:
    bituminous 18 km
  unpaved:
    24 km
Ports:
    Dzaoudzi
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                                     Mayotte
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    450 telephones; small system administered by French Department of Posts and
    Telecommunications
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    radio relay and high-frequency radio communications for links to Comoros and
    international communications
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Mayotte
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
zHqJqJq
Midway Islands
+MEXICO - Passport and visa not required of U.S. citizens for
tourist/transit stay up to 90 days.  Tourist card is required.  Tourist
card valid 3 months for single entry up to 180 days, no charge,
requires proof of U.S. citizenship, photo ID and proof of sufficient funds.
Tourist cards may be obtained in advance from Consulate, Tourism Office, and
most airlines serving Mexico upon arrival.  Departure tax $10 is paid at
airport.  Notarized consent from parent(s) required for children
travelling alone, with one parent or in someone else's custody.  (This permit is
not necessary when a minor is in possession of a valid passport.)  For
other types of travel and details, check Embassy of Mexico's Consular
Section, 2827 16th St., N.W., Washington, DC 20009-4260 (202/736-1000) or
nearest Consulate General:  CA (213/351-6800, 415/392-5554 and 619/231-8414),
CO (303/830-6702), FL (305/441-8780), IL (312/855-1380), LA
(504/522-3596), NY (212/689-0456), PR (809/764-0258) or TX (214/522-9741, 713/463-9426,
512/227-9145 and 915/533-3644).
Mexico - Consular Information Sheet
September 2, 1994
Country Description:  Mexico has a rapidly developing economy.  Luxury
accommodations in major cities and resorts are widely available.  Tourist
facilities in more remote areas may be limited.
Entry Requirements:  Proof of citizenship and photo identification are
required for entry by all U.S. citizens.  A passport and visa are not
required for a tourist/transit stay of up to 180 days.  A tourist card
issued by Mexican consulates and most airlines serving Mexico is required.
Minors traveling without a valid passport require notarized consent from
parent(s) if traveling alone, with one parent, or in someone else's custody.
 Mexican regulations limit the value of goods brought into Mexico by U.S.
citizens arriving by air or sea to $300 per person and by land to $50 per
person.  Other travel-related items may also be brought in duty-free.
Amounts exceeding the duty-free limit are subject to a 32.8 percent tax.
Upon arrival in Mexico, business travelers must complete a form authorizing
the conduct of business, but not employment for a 30 day period.  If the
business traveler departs and re-enters, the 30-day period begins again.
There is no fee for the business pass.  For further information concerning
entry requirements, travelers may contact the Embassy of Mexico at 1911
Pennsylvania Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006, telephone [phone],
or any of the Mexican consulates in major U.S. cities.
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical care can be found in all major cities.
 Health facilities in Mexico City are excellent.  Care in more remote areas
is limited.  Air pollution in Mexico City is severe, especially from
December to May.  For additional health information, travelers may contact
the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline at (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  Street crime is common, especially in urban areas.
Persons driving on some Mexican roads, particularly in isolated regions,
have been targeted by bandits who operate primarily after dark.  Criminals,
particularly in Sinaloa, sometimes represent themselves as Mexican police or
other local officials.  Any U.S. citizen victims of crime in Mexico are
encouraged to report the incident to local police authorities and to the
nearest U.S. consular office.
The U.S. Embassy advises its personnel not to travel on Mexican highways
after dark.  Highway 15 and Express Highway 1 (limited access) in the state
of Sinaloa are particularly dangerous areas where criminal assaults and
murders have occurred, during the day and at night.
Driving Information:  U.S. driver's licenses are valid in Mexico.  Mexican
insurance is required.
All vehicular traffic is restricted in Mexico City in order to reduce air
pollution.  The restriction is based on the last digit of the vehicle
license plate.  (There is no specific provision regarding license plates
with letters only.)
-Monday:  No driving if license plate ends with 5 or 6.
-Tuesday:  No driving if license plate ends with 7 or 8.
-Wednesday:  No driving if license plate ends with 3 or 4.
-Thursday:  No driving if license plate ends with 1 or 2.
-Friday:  No driving if license plate ends with 9 or 0.
Also, no driving of vehicles with temporary license plates or any other
plate that does not conform with the above.
-Saturday and Sunday:  All vehicles may be driven.
Traveling in Baja:  During heavy seasonal rains (January-March), road
conditions can become difficult and travelers can become stranded.  For
current Mexican road conditions between Ensenada and El Rosario, Mexico,
travelers can contact the nearest Mexican consulate or tourism office or the
U.S. Consulate General in Tijuana.
Traveling in Chiapas:  The town of San Cristobal in the state of Chiapas
remains quiet after the disturbances in early January 1994.  The situation
could become unstable in areas of Chiapas state outside of San Cristobal.
U.S. citizens residing or traveling in Mexico may contact the U.S. embassy
or consulates for further security information.
Travel Through Mexico To Central American Countries:  Mexican authorities
require that all international transit of persons (transmigrantes) and
merchandise through Mexico, destined for Central America, from the area from
Ciudad Acuna to Matamoros, be handled by the Lucio Blanco-Los Indios customs
office and by the Colombia, Nuevo Laredo customs office.  Transmigrantes
entering Mexico from areas other than the Ciudad Acuna-Matamoros zone, will
continue to use their regular ports of entry.  Mexican authorities require
that a customs broker handle the temporary entry into Mexico of all non-
personal property of travelers destined for central American countries.
Fees will be processed through the customs broker.  For more detailed
information, travelers can contact the nearest Mexican consulate or tourism
office or the U.S. Consulate in Matamoros prior to departing the U.S.
Bringing Vehicles into Mexico:  The government of Mexico strictly regulates
the entry of vehicles into Mexico.  The owner of an imported vehicle should
be present in the vehicle at all times the vehicle is in operation or the
vehicle may be confiscated.
Travelers are advised to contact the nearest Mexican consulate in the U.S.
for specific, detailed information prior to departing the U.S.
Drug and Firearms Penalties:  Penalties for drug and firearm offenses are
strict, and convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
 Sentences for possession of drugs in Mexico can be as long as 25 years plus
fines.  Just as in the U.S., purchase of controlled medication requires a
doctor's prescription.  The Mexican list of controlled medication differs
from the U.S. list, and Mexican public health laws concerning controlled
medication are unclear.  Possession of excessive amounts of a psychotropic
drug such as valium can result in arrest if the authorities suspect abuse.
A permit from a Mexican consulate in the U.S. is required in order to import
firearms or ammunition into Mexico, whether or not the firearm is legally
registered in the U.S.  Sentences for possession of firearms in Mexico can
be as long as 30 years.  Some Mexican cities have ordinances prohibiting the
possession of knives or anything that might be construed as a weapon.
Travelers should check with the nearest Mexican consulate before traveling
to Mexico with firearms or to purchase medication.
Dual Citizenship:  U.S. citizens who are also considered to be Mexican
citizens could be subject to compulsory military service and other aspects
of Mexican law while in Mexico.  Those who may be affected can inquire at
the Mexican Embassy or a consulate to determine status.  In some instances,
dual nationality may hamper U.S. government efforts to provide protection in
Mexico.
Other Information:  U.S. citizens who become involved in time-share or other
real property purchases should be aware that Mexican laws and practices
regarding real estate are markedly different from those in the U.S.  A list
of local attorneys can be obtained from the U.S. Embassy or nearest
consulate in Mexico.  The U.S.  Embassy strongly recommends the use of
competent local legal assistance for any significant real property or
business purchase.
Tips for Travelers:  Useful information is provided in the Department of
state pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Mexico"
which are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing  Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In May 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Mexico's civil aviation authority as in compliance
with international aviation safety oversight standards for Mexican carriers
operating to and from the U.S.  The same level of safety oversight would
typically be applied to operations to other destinations.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at 1-800-
322-7873.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy or a U.S.
Consulate can obtain updated information on travel and security within Mexico.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy is located in Mexico City
at Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, telephone [phone].
There are also U.S. Consulates General in:
Ciudad Juarez at Avenida Lopez Mateos 924-N, telephone[phone];
Guadalajara at Progreso 175, telephone [phone];
Monterrey at Avenida Constitucion 411 Poniente 64000 Monterrey, telephone
(52-83)45-2120;
Tijuana at Tapachula 96, telephone [phone].
There are U.S. Consulates in:
Hermosillo at Ave. Monterrey 141, telephone [phone];
Matamoros at Ave. Primera 2002, telephone [phone];
Merida at Paseo Montejo 453, telephone [phone] and
Nuevo Laredo at Calle Allende 3330, Col. Jardin, telephone [phone].
There are Consular Agencies in:
Puerto Vallarta at Parian Del Puente Local 12-A, telephone [phone];
Acapulco at Hotel Club Del Sol, telephone [phone];
Cancun at Avenida Nader #40, Edificio Marruecos, third floor office #31,
telephone [phone];
San Luis Potosi at Francisco De P. Mariel 102, Desp. One, telephone (52-
481)2-1528;
Oaxaca at Alcala 201, telephone [phone];
San Miguel de Allende at Dr. Hernandez Macias #72, telephone (52-465)2-
2357/2-0068;
Tampico at Ave. Hidalgo #2000 local 4, telephone [phone];
Veracruz at Victimas del 25 de Junio #388, telephone [phone];
Cabo San Lucas at Blvd. Marina Y Perdregal, Local No. 3 Zona Centro,
telephone [phone] and Mazatlan at Hotel Playa Mazatlan, Rodolfo T.
Loaiza #202, Zona Dorada, 82110, telephone [phone] ext. 285.
No. 94-186
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated June 7, 1994 by adding
information on aviation oversight.
C                                        Mexico
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, between
    Belize and the US and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Guatamala
    and the US
Map references:
    North America
Area:
  total area:
    1,972,550 sq km
  land area:
    1,923,040 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than three times the size of Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 4,538 km, Belize 250 km, Guatemala 962 km, US 3,326 km
Coastline:
    9,330 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    claims Clipperton Island (French possession)
Climate:
    varies from tropical to desert
Terrain:
    high, rugged mountains, low coastal plains, high plateaus, and desert
Natural resources:
    petroleum, silver, copper, gold, lead, zinc, natural gas, timber
Land use:
  arable land:
    12%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    39%
  forest and woodland:
    24%
  other:
    24%
Irrigated land:
    51,500 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    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; desertification; serious air pollution in the national capital and
    urban centers along US-Mexico border
  natural hazards:
    tsunamis along the Pacific coast, destructive earthquakes in the center and
    south, and hurricanes on the Gulf and Caribbean coasts
                                     Mexico
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear
    Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling; signed,
    but not ratified - Desertification
Note:
    strategic location on southern border of US
                                     Mexico
                                     People
Population:
    93,985,848 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    37% (female 17,028,091; male 17,631,110)
  15-64 years:
    59% (female 28,429,663; male 26,866,886)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 2,184,998; male 1,845,100) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.9% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    26.64 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.64 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -3.03 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    26 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    73.34 years
  male:
    69.74 years
  female:
    77.11 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.09 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Mexican(s)
  adjective:
    Mexican
Ethnic divisions:
    mestizo (Indian-Spanish) 60%, Amerindian or predominantly Amerindian 30%,
    Caucasian or predominantly Caucasian 9%, other 1%
Religions:
    nominally Roman Catholic 89%, Protestant 6%
Languages:
    Spanish, various Mayan dialects
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    88%
  male:
    90%
  female:
    85%
Labor force:
    26.2 million (1990)
  by occupation:
    services 31.7%, agriculture, forestry, hunting, and fishing 28%, commerce
    14.6%, manufacturing 11.1%, construction 8.4%, transportation 4.7%, mining
    and quarrying 1.5%
                                     Mexico
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    United Mexican States
  conventional short form:
    Mexico
  local long form:
    Estados Unidos Mexicanos
  local short form:
    Mexico
Digraph:
    MX
Type:
    federal republic operating under a centralized government
Capital:
    Mexico
Administrative divisions:
    31 states (estados, singular - estado) and 1 federal district* (distrito
    federal); Aguascalientes, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Campeche,
    Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila de Zaragoza, Colima, Distrito Federal*,
    Durango, Guanajuato, Guerrero, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Mexico, Michoacan de
    Ocampo, Morelos, Nayarit, Nuevo Leon, Oaxaca, Puebla, Queretaro de Arteaga,
    Quintana Roo, San Luis Potosi, Sinaloa, Sonora, Tabasco, Tamaulipas,
    Tlaxcala, Veracruz-Llave, Yucatan, Zacatecas
Independence:
    16 September 1810 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 16 September (1810)
Constitution:
    5 February 1917
Legal system:
    mixture of US constitutional theory and civil law system; judicial review of
    legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory (but not enforced)
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Ernesto ZEDILLO Ponce de Leon (since 1 December 1994); election
    last held on 21 August 1994 (next to be held NA); 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%
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    bicameral National Congress (Congreso de la Union)
  Senate (Camara de Senadores):
    elections last held on 21 August 1994 (next to be held NA); 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 on 24 August 1994 (next to be held NA); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (500 total) PRI 300, PAN 119, PRD 71,
    PFCRN 10
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia)
                                     Mexico
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    (recognized parties) Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), Maria de los
    Angeles MORENO; 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; Authentic Party of
    the Mexican Revolution (PARM), Rosa Maria MARTINEZ Denagri; Democratic Forum
    Party (PFD), Pablo Emilio MADERO; Mexican Green Ecologist Party (PVEM),
    Jorge GONZALEZ Torres
Other political or pressure groups:
    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)
Member of:
    AG (observer), APEC, BCIE, CARICOM (observer), CCC, CDB, CG, EBRD, ECLAC,
    FAO, G- 6, G-11, G-15, G-19, G-24, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, LAES, LAIA, NAM (observer), OAS, OECD,
    ONUSAL, OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNITAR, UNU, UPU, WCL,
    WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jesus SILVA HERZOG Flores
  chancery:
    1911 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20006
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, El Paso, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New
    Orleans, New York, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, San Juan (Puerto
    Rico)
  consulate(s):
    Albuquerque, Austin, Boston, Brownsville (Texas), Calexico (California),
    Corpus Christi, Del Rio (Texas), Detroit, Eagle Pass (Texas), Fresno
    (California), Loredo, McAllen (Texas), Midland (Texas), Nogales (Arizona),
    Oxnard (California), Philadelphia, Phoenix, Sacramento, St. Louis, Salt Lake
    City, San Bernardino, San Jose, Santa Ana, Seattle
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador James R. JONES
  embassy:
    Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, 06500 Mexico, Distrito Federal
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 3087, Laredo, TX 78044-3087
  telephone:
    [52] (5) 211-0042
  FAX:
    [52] (5) 511-9980, 208-3373
  consulate(s) general:
    Ciudad Juarez, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Tijuana
  consulate(s):
    Hermosillo, Matamoros, Merida, Nuevo Laredo
                                     Mexico
                                   Government
Flag:
    three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and red; the coat
    of arms (an eagle perched on a cactus with a snake in its beak) is centered
    in the white band
                                     Mexico
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Mexico, under the guidance of new President Ernesto ZEDILLO, entered 1995 in
    the midst of a severe financial crisis. Mexico's membership in the North
    American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) with the United States and Canada, its
    solid record of economic reforms, and its strong growth in the second and
    third quarters of 1994 - at an annual rate of 3.8% and 4.5% respectively -
    seemed to augur bright prospects for 1995. However, an overvalued exchange
    rate and widening current account deficits created an imbalance that
    ultimately proved unsustainable. To finance the trade gap, Mexico City had
    become increasingly reliant on volatile portfolio investment. A series of
    political shocks in 1994 - an uprising in the southern state of Chiapas, the
    assassination of a presidential candidate, several high profile kidnappings,
    the killing of a second high-level political figure, and renewed threats
    from the Chiapas rebels - combined with rising international interest rates
    and concerns of a devaluation to undermine investor confidence and prompt
    massive outflows of capital. The dwindling of foreign exchange reserves,
    which the central bank had been using to defend the currency, forced the new
    administration to change the exchange rate policy and allow the currency to
    float freely in the last days of 1994. The adjustment roiled Mexican
    financial markets, leading to a 30% to 40% weakening of the peso relative to
    the dollar. ZEDILLO announced an emergency economic program that included
    federal budget cuts and plans for more privatizations, but it failed to
    restore investor confidence quickly. While the devaluation is likely to help
    Mexican exporters, whose products are now cheaper, it also raises the
    specter of an inflationary spiral if domestic producers increase their
    prices and workers demand wage hikes. Although strong economic fundamentals
    bode well for Mexico's longer-term outlook, prospects for solid growth and
    low inflation have deteriorated considerably, at least through 1995.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $728.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $7,900 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    7.1% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    9.8% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $96.99 billion (1994 est.)
  expenditures:
    $96.51 billion (1994 est.), including capital expenditures of $NA (1994
    est.)
Exports:
    $60.8 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.), includes in-bond industries
  commodities:
    crude oil, oil products, coffee, silver, engines, motor vehicles, cotton,
    consumer electronics
  partners:
    US 82%, Japan 1.4%, EC 5% (1993 est.)
Imports:
    $79.4 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.), includes in-bond industries
  commodities:
    metal-working machines, steel mill products, agricultural machinery,
    electrical equipment, car parts for assembly, repair parts for motor
    vehicles, aircraft, and aircraft parts
  partners:
    US 74%, Japan 4.7%, EC 11% (1993 est.)
                                     Mexico
                                     Economy
External debt:
    $128 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 4.5% (1994 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    28,780,000 kW
  production:
    122 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,239 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    food and beverages, tobacco, chemicals, iron and steel, petroleum, mining,
    textiles, clothing, motor vehicles, consumer durables, tourism
Agriculture:
    accounts for 7% of GDP; large number of small farms at subsistence level;
    major food crops - corn, wheat, rice, beans; cash crops - cotton, coffee,
    fruit, tomatoes
Illicit drugs:
    illicit cultivation of opium poppy and cannabis continues in spite of
    government eradication program; major supplier of heroin and marijuana to
    the US market; continues as the primary transshipment country for US-bound
    cocaine and marijuana from South America; increasingly involved in the
    production and distribution of methamphetamine
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $3.1 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $7.7 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $110 million
Currency:
    1 New Mexican peso (Mex$) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    market rate of Mexican pesos (Mex$) per US$1 - 6.736 (average in March
    1995), 5.5133 (January 1995), 3.3751 (1994), 3.1156 (1993), 3,094.9 (1992),
    3,018.4 (1991), 2,812.6 (1990)
  note:
    the new peso replaced the old peso on 1 January 1993; 1 new peso = 1,000 old
    pesos
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                     Mexico
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    24,500 km
  standard gauge:
    24,410 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    93 km 0.914-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    242,300 km
  paved:
    84,800 km (including 3,166 km of expressways)
  unpaved:
    gravel and earth 157,500 km
Inland waterways:
    2,900 km navigable rivers and coastal canals
Pipelines:
    crude oil 28,200 km; petroleum products 10,150 km; natural gas 13,254 km;
    petrochemical 1,400 km
Ports:
    Acapulco, Altamira, Coatzacoalcos, Ensenada, Guaymas, La Paz, Lazaro
    Cardenas, Manzanillo, Mazatlan, Progreso, Salina Cruz, Tampico, Topolobampo,
    Tuxpan, Veracruz
Merchant marine:
  total:
    59 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 949,271 GRT/1,340,595 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 1, cargo 2, chemical tanker 4, container 7, liquefied gas tanker 7, oil
    tanker 30, refrigerated cargo 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2, short-sea
    passenger 4
Airports:
  total:
    2,055
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    9
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    25
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    82
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    75
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1,262
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    60
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    539
                                     Mexico
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    6,410,000 telephones; highly developed system with extensive microwave radio
    relay links; privatized in December 1990
  local:
    adequate phone service for business and government, but, at a density of
    less than 7 telephones/100 persons, the population is poorly served
  intercity:
    includes 120 domestic satellite terminals and an extensive network of
    microwave radio relay links
  international:
    5 INTELSAT (4 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean) earth stations; connected
    into Central America Microwave System; launched Solidarity I satellite in
    November 1993
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 679, FM 0, shortwave 22
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    238
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Mexico
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    National Defense (includes Army and Air Force), Navy (includes Marines)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 23,354,445; males fit for military service 17,029,788; males
    reach military age (18) annually 1,054,513 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
\2^2^2
Moldova
MICRONESIA, FEDERATED STATES OF (Kosrae, Yap, Ponape, and Truk) - Proof
of citizenship, proof of sufficient funds, and onward/return ticket
required for tourist visit up to 6 months, extendable (up to 12 months from date
of entry) after arrival in Micronesia.  Entry permit may be needed for
other types of travel; obtain forms from airline.  Departure fee $5 (U.S.).
Health certificate may be required if traveling from infected area.
Typhoid and tetanus immunizations are recommended.  AIDS test required
if staying over 1 year.  U.S. test is accepted.  For further information
contact Embassy of the Federated States of Micronesia, 1725 N St.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036 (202/223-4383) or nearest Consulate:  Hawaii
(808/836-4775) or Guam (671/646-9154).
Micronesia - Consular Information Sheet
October 5, 1994
Country Description: The Federated States of Micronesia (including the
islands of Pohnpei, Kosrae, Truk, and Yap) is a constitutional democracy in
free association with the United States.  Its economy is developing, and
tourist facilities are available.
Entry Requirements:  Proof of U.S. citizenship and identity are required for
a tourist visit of up to one year.  Further information concerning specific
requirements is available through the Embassy of the Federated States of
Micronesia, 1725 N Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036, telephone (202) 223-
4383.
Medical Facilities:  Health facilities in the Federated States of Micronesia
are adequate for routine medical problems, but are limited in range and
quality.  Doctors and hospitals may expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Supplemental medical insurance with coverage for specific overseas
treatment and medical evacuation has proven useful.  The Medicaid/Medicare
program does not provide payment of medical services outside the United
States.  The international travelers hotline of the Centers for Disease
Control at [phone] has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime: The crime rate in the Federated States of Micronesia
is low.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police, and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A
Safe Trip Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties: Travelers are subject to the law, and legal practices of the
country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking
in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail
sentences and a fine.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy can obtain updated
information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy Location: The U.S. Embassy in Kolonia has no official street
address, but is located in the lower Pics area across from the Agriculture
Station.  The mailing address is P.O. Box 1286, Pohnpei, Federated States of
Micronesia 96941.  The telephone number is [phone].
No. 94-231
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 9, 1993, and
provides information on supplemental medical evacuation coverage.
"                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, island group in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of
    the way from Hawaii to Indonesia
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    702 sq km
  land area:
    702 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than four times the size of Washington, DC
  note:
    includes Pohnpei (Ponape), Truk (Chuuk), Yap, and Kosrae
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    6,112 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; heavy year-round rainfall, especially in the eastern islands;
    located on southern edge of the typhoon belt with occasional severe damage
Terrain:
    islands vary geologically from high mountainous islands to low, coral
    atolls; volcanic outcroppings on Pohnpei, Kosrae, and Truk
Natural resources:
    forests, marine products, deep-seabed minerals
Land use:
  arable land:
    NA%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    typhoons (June to December)
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
Note:
    four major island groups totaling 607 islands
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                     People
Population:
    122,950 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    3.35% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    28.12 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.3 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    11.65 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    36.52 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    67.81 years
  male:
    65.84 years
  female:
    69.81 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.98 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Micronesian(s)
  adjective:
    Micronesian; Kosrae(s), Pohnpeian(s), Trukese, Yapese
Ethnic divisions:
    nine ethnic Micronesian and Polynesian groups
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 50%, Protestant 47%, other and none 3%
Languages:
    English (official and common language), Trukese, Pohnpeian, Yapese, Kosrean
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980)
  total population:
    89%
  male:
    91%
  female:
    88%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    two-thirds are government employees
  note:
    45,000 people are between the ages of 15 and 65
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Federated States of Micronesia
  conventional short form:
    none
  former:
    Kosrae, Ponape, Truk, and Yap Districts (Trust Territory of the Pacific
    Islands)
Abbreviation:
    FSM
Digraph:
    FM
Type:
    constitutional government in free association with the US; the Compact of
    Free Association entered into force 3 November 1986
Capital:
    Kolonia (on the island of Pohnpei)
  note:
    a new capital is being built about 10 km southwest in the Palikir valley
Administrative divisions:
    4 states; Kosrae, Pohnpei, Chuuk (Truk), Yap
Independence:
    3 November 1986 (from the US-administered UN Trusteeship)
National holiday:
    Proclamation of the Federated States of Micronesia, 10 May (1979)
Constitution:
    10 May 1979
Legal system:
    based on adapted Trust Territory laws, acts of the legislature, municipal,
    common, and customary laws
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Bailey OLTER (since 21 May 1991); Vice President Jacob NENA (since
    21 May 1991); election last held 11 May 1991 (next to be held 7 March 1995);
    results - Bailey OLTER elected president; Jacob NENA elected vice-president
  cabinet:
    Cabinet
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Congress:
    elections last held 5 March 1991 (next to be held 7 March 1995); results -
    percent of vote NA; seats - (14 total) independents 14
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    no formal parties
Member of:
    AsDB, ESCAP, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFC, IMF, ITU, SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UN, UNCTAD,
    WHO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jesse B. MAREHALAU
  chancery:
    1725 N Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                   Government
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Honolulu and Tamuning (Guam)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador March Fong EU
  embassy:
    address NA, Kolonia
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 1286, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia 96941
  telephone:
    [691] 320-2187
  FAX:
    [691] 320-2186
Flag:
    light blue with four white five-pointed stars centered; the stars are
    arranged in a diamond pattern
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 infrastructure are major impediments to
    long-term growth.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $160 million (1990 est.)
  note:
    GDP was supplemented by approximately $100 million in grant aid in 1990
National product real growth rate:
    4% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $1,500 (1990 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    27% (1989)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $45 million
  expenditures:
    $31 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95 est.)
Exports:
    $3.2 million (f.o.b., 1990)
  commodities:
    fish, copra, bananas, black pepper
  partners:
    Japan, US
Imports:
    $91.2 million (c.i.f., 1990)
  commodities:
    food, manufactured goods, machinery and equipment, beverages
  partners:
    US, Japan, Australia
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    18,000 kW
  production:
    40 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    380 kWh (1990)
Industries:
    tourism, construction, fish processing, craft items from shell, wood, and
    pearls
Agriculture:
    mainly a subsistence economy; black pepper; tropical fruits and vegetables,
    coconuts, cassava, sweet potatoes, pigs, chickens
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    under terms of the Compact of Free Association, the US will provide $1.3
    billion in grant aid during the period 1986-2001
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    US currency is used
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    226 km
  paved:
    39 km (on major islands)
  unpaved:
    stone, coral, laterite 187 km
Ports:
    Colonia (Yap), Kolonia (Pohnpei), Lele, Moen
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    6
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    960 telephones on Kolonia and Truk
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    islands interconnected by shortwave radio (used mostly for government
    purposes
  international:
    4 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 5, FM 1, shortwave 1
  radios:
    16,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    6
  televisions:
    1,125 (1987 est.)
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
Monaco
                                 Midway Islands
Affiliation:
    (territory of the US)
                                 Midway Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-third of the way from
    Honolulu to Tokyo
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    5.2 sq km
  land area:
    5.2 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 9 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
  note:
    includes Eastern Island and Sand Island
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    15 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical, but moderated by prevailing easterly winds
Terrain:
    low, nearly level
Natural resources:
    fish, wildlife
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    a coral atoll; closed to the public
                                 Midway Islands
                                     People
Population:
    no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are 453 US military personnel (July
    1995 est.)
                                 Midway Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Midway Islands
Digraph:
    MQ
Type:
    unincorporated territory of the US administered by the US Navy, under Naval
    Facilities Engineering Command, Pacific Division; this facility has been
    operationally closed since 10 September 1993 and is currently being
    transferred from Pacific Fleet to Naval Facilities Engineering Command via a
    Memorandum of Understanding
Capital:
    none; administered from Washington, DC
Flag:
    the US flag is used
                                 Midway Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy is based on providing support services for US naval operations
    located on the islands. All food and manufactured goods must be imported.
Electricity:
    supplied by US Military
                                 Midway Islands
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    32 km
  paved:
    NA
Pipelines:
    7.8 km
Ports:
    Sand Island
Airports:
  total:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                                 Midway Islands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
                                 Midway Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
Mongolia
'MOLDOVA - Passport and visa required.  Visas issued at authorized entry
points at the airport or along the Romanian border.  Moldova does not
currently maintain an Embassy in the United States.
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Moldova
============================================================
Moldova - Consular Information Sheet
 November 13, 1995
Country Description:  Moldova is a nation undergoing profound
political and economic change.  It is a newly independent nation
still in the process of stabilizing its relations with neighboring
countries.  Tourist facilities are not highly developed, and many of
the goods and services taken for granted in other countries are not
yet available.  Internal travel may be disrupted by fuel shortages
and other problems.
Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements, please
contact the Moldovan Embassy, 1511 K Street N.W., Suite 333,
Washington, D.C. 20005, telephone: [phone], fax: (202)
783-3342.  Visas for travel to other former Soviet states are
necessary and difficult to obtain in Moldova.
Areas of Instability:  There are frequent checkpoints in the
Trans-Dniester region, manned by armed, young and inexperienced
paramilitary units who are not under the control of the Moldovan
government and whose members rarely understand English.  Tourists
and truckers may be subject to extortion or robbery at checkpoints.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Moldova is limited.  There is
a severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable
needles, anesthetics, antibiotics, and vaccines.  Elderly travelers
and those with existing health problems may be at risk due to
inadequate medical facilities.  The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of
local doctors who are willing to treat English-speaking patients,
but has yet to identify an English-speaking doctor in Moldova.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for
health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States so supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage and provision for medical evacuation can prove
useful.
Rabies vaccinations may be useful as casual exposure to stray dogs
is common throughout Chisinau.  The Centers for Disease Control
(CDC) recommend Hepatitis B series for certain travelers.  Further
information on health matters can be obtained from the CDC's
international travelers hotline, tel: [phone].
Crime Information:  Moldova has a low rate of crime, but foreigners
have been increasingly targeted for both violent crime and common
street crime, especially after dark.  The loss or theft of a U.S.
passport abroad should be reported immediately to the local police
and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The Department of
State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad.  This publication is available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Internal Travel:  There are no internal flights in Moldova.  Only
Air Moldova, Moldavan Air and Tarom (Romania's national airline)
regularly fly to Moldova.  Air Moldova service is well below Western
standards.  Aircraft appear to be old and cabin areas are in poor
condition.  Train service is also below Western standards and an
increasing number of Americans have been victimized while traveling
on international trains to and from Moldova.
Currency Regulations:  Moldova is a cash only economy.  Traveler's
checks and credit cards are rarely accepted.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  Americans may register at the
consular section of the U.S. Embassy in Chisinau and obtain updated
information on travel and security within Moldova.  The U.S. Embassy
in Chisinau, Moldova, is located at Strada Alexei Mateevici 103;
telephone [phone], after hours telephone [phone].
 No. 95-138
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 24, 1994,
to update the country description, to revise geographic names in the
Areas of Instability, and to update information on Medical
Facilities and Internal Travel.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Moldova
============================================================
Moldova - Consular Information Sheet
 November 13, 1995
Country Description:  Moldova is a nation undergoing profound
political and economic change.  It is a newly independent nation
still in the process of stabilizing its relations with neighboring
countries.  Tourist facilities are not highly developed, and many of
the goods and services taken for granted in other countries are not
yet available.  Internal travel may be disrupted by fuel shortages
and other problems.
Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements, please
contact the Moldovan Embassy, 1511 K Street N.W., Suite 333,
Washington, D.C. 20005, telephone: [phone], fax: (202)
783-3342.  Visas for travel to other former Soviet states are
necessary and difficult to obtain in Moldova.
Areas of Instability:  There are frequent checkpoints in the
Trans-Dniester region, manned by armed, young and inexperienced
paramilitary units who are not under the control of the Moldovan
government and whose members rarely understand English.  Tourists
and truckers may be subject to extortion or robbery at checkpoints.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Moldova is limited.  There is
a severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable
needles, anesthetics, antibiotics, and vaccines.  Elderly travelers
and those with existing health problems may be at risk due to
inadequate medical facilities.  The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of
local doctors who are willing to treat English-speaking patients,
but has yet to identify an English-speaking doctor in Moldova.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for
health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States so supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage and provision for medical evacuation can prove
useful.
Rabies vaccinations may be useful as casual exposure to stray dogs
is common throughout Chisinau.  The Centers for Disease Control
(CDC) recommend Hepatitis B series for certain travelers.  Further
information on health matters can be obtained from the CDC's
international travelers hotline, tel: [phone].
Crime Information:  Moldova has a low rate of crime, but foreigners
have been increasingly targeted for both violent crime and common
street crime, especially after dark.  The loss or theft of a U.S.
passport abroad should be reported immediately to the local police
and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The Department of
State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad.  This publication is available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Internal Travel:  There are no internal flights in Moldova.  Only
Air Moldova, Moldavan Air and Tarom (Romania's national airline)
regularly fly to Moldova.  Air Moldova service is well below Western
standards.  Aircraft appear to be old and cabin areas are in poor
condition.  Train service is also below Western standards and an
increasing number of Americans have been victimized while traveling
on international trains to and from Moldova.
Currency Regulations:  Moldova is a cash only economy.  Traveler's
checks and credit cards are rarely accepted.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  Americans may register at the
consular section of the U.S. Embassy in Chisinau and obtain updated
information on travel and security within Moldova.  The U.S. Embassy
in Chisinau, Moldova, is located at Strada Alexei Mateevici 103;
telephone [phone], after hours telephone [phone].
 No. 95-138
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 24, 1994,
to update the country description, to revise geographic names in the
Areas of Instability, and to update information on Medical
Facilities and Internal Travel.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
`7V7                                       Moldova
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Europe, northeast of Romania
Map references:
    Commonwealth of Independent States - European States
Area:
  total area:
    33,700 sq km
  land area:
    33,700 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than twice the size of Hawaii
Land boundaries:
    total 1,389 km, Romania 450 km, Ukraine 939 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    certain territory of Moldova and Ukraine - including Bessarabia and Northern
    Bukovina - are considered by Bucharest as historically a part of Romania;
    this territory was incorporated into the former Soviet Union following the
    Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact in 1940
Climate:
    moderate winters, warm summers
Terrain:
    rolling steppe, gradual slope south to Black Sea
Natural resources:
    lignite, phosphorites, gypsum
Land use:
  arable land:
    50%
  permanent crops:
    13%
  meadows and pastures:
    9%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    28%
Irrigated land:
    2,920 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    heavy use of agricultural chemicals, including banned pesticides such as
    DDT, has contaminated soil and groundwater; extensive soil erosion from poor
    farming methods
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change
Note:
    landlocked
                                     Moldova
                                     People
Population:
    4,489,657 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    27% (female 588,155; male 609,372)
  15-64 years:
    64% (female 1,487,170; male 1,386,293)
  65 years and over:
    9% (female 258,958; male 159,709) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.36% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.93 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    10.05 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -2.25 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    29.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    68.22 years
  male:
    64.81 years
  female:
    71.8 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.16 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Moldovan(s)
  adjective:
    Moldovan
Ethnic divisions:
    Moldavian/Romanian 64.5%, Ukrainian 13.8%, Russian 13%, Gagauz 3.5%, Jewish
    1.5%, Bulgarian 2%, other 1.7% (1989 figures)
  note:
    internal disputes with ethnic Russians and Ukrainians in the Dniester region
    and Gagauz Turks in the south
Religions:
    Eastern Orthodox 98.5%, Jewish 1.5%, Baptist (only about 1,000 members)
    (1991)
  note:
    the large majority of churchgoers are ethnic Moldavian
Languages:
    Moldovan (official; virtually the same as the Romanian language), Russian,
    Gagauz (a Turkish dialect)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    96%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    94%
Labor force:
    2.03 million (January 1994)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 34.4%, industry 20.1%, other 45.5% (1985 figures)
                                     Moldova
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Moldova
  conventional short form:
    Moldova
  local long form:
    Republica Moldova
  local short form:
    none
  former:
    Soviet Socialist Republic of Moldova; Moldavia
Digraph:
    MD
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Chisinau
Administrative divisions:
    previously divided into 40 rayons; new districts possible under new
    constitution in 1994
Independence:
    27 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 27 August 1991
Constitution:
    new constitution adopted NA July 1994; replaces old Soviet constitution of
    1979
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; no judicial review of legislative acts; does not
    accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction but accepts many UN and OSCE documents
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Mircea SNEGUR (since 3 September 1990); election last held 8
    December 1991 (next to be held NA 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
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Andrei SANGHELI (since 1 July 1992; reappointed 5 April 1994
    after elections for new legislature); First Deputy Prime Minister Ion GUTU
    (since NA)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president on recommendation of the
    prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Parliament:
    elections last held 27 February 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results -
    percent by party NA; seats - (104 total) Agrarian-Democratic Party 56,
    Socialist/Yedinstvo Bloc 28, Peasants and Intellectual Bloc 11, Christian
    Democratic Popular Front 9
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                                     Moldova
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Christian Democratic Popular Front (formerly Moldovan Popular Front), Iurie
    ROSCA, chairman; Yedinstvo Intermovement, Vladimir SOLONARI, chairman;
    Social Democratic Party, Oazu NANTOI, chairman, two other chairmen;
    Agrarian-Democratic Party, Dumitru MOTPAN, chairman; Democratic Party,
    Gheorghe GHIMPU, chairman; Democratic Labor Party, Alexandru ARSENI,
    chairman; Reform Party, Anatol SELARU; Republican Party, Victor PUSCAS;
    Socialist Party, Valeriu SENIC, cochairman; Communist Party, Vladimir
    VORONIN, cochairman; Peasants and Intellectuals Bloc
Other political or pressure groups:
    United Council of Labor Collectives (UCLC), Igor SMIRNOV, chairman; Congress
    of Intellectuals, Alexandru MOSANU; The Ecology 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 People of Moldova (AWPM), G.
    POLOGOV, president; Christian Alliance for Greater Romania; Stefan the Great
    Movement; Liberal Convention of Moldova; Association of Victims of
    Repression; Christian Democratic Youth League
Member of:
    BSEC, CE (guest), CIS, EBRD, ECE, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT
    (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NACC, OSCE, PFP,
    UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Nicolae TAU
  chancery:
    Suites 329, 333, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Mary C. PENDLETON
  embassy:
    Strada Alexei Mateevich #103, Chisinau
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [373] (2) 23-37-72
  FAX:
    [373] (2) 23-30-44
Flag:
    same color scheme as Romania - 3 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
                                     Moldova
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Moldova enjoys a favorable climate and good farmland but has no major
    mineral deposits. As a result, Moldova's economy is primarily based on
    agriculture, featuring fruits, vegetables, wine, and tobacco. Moldova must
    import all of its supplies of oil, coal, and natural gas, and energy
    shortages have contributed to sharp production declines since the breakup of
    the Soviet Union in 1991. The Moldovan government is 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 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 1995. Meanwhile, privatization of medium and
    large enterprises got underway in mid-1994 and is expected to pick up speed
    in 1995. To improve its precarious energy situation, Chisinau reached an
    agreement with Moscow in December 1994 on gas deliveries for 1995. Gazprom,
    Russia's national gas company, has agreed to reduce prices for natural gas
    deliveries to Moldova from the world market price of $80/thousand cubic
    meters (tcm) to $58/tcm in return for part ownership of the Moldovan
    pipeline system.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $11.9 billion (1994 estimate as extrapolated
    from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    -30% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $2,670 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    7.6% per month (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    1% (includes only officially registered unemployed; large numbers of
    underemployed workers)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
  note:
    budget deficit for 1993 approximately 6% of GDP
Exports:
    $144 million to outside the FSU countries (1994); over 70% of exports go to
    FSU countries
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, wine, tobacco, textiles and footwear, machinery, chemicals
    (1991)
  partners:
    Russia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Romania, Germany
Imports:
    $174 million from outside the FSU countries (1994); over 70% of imports are
    from FSU countries
  commodities:
    oil, gas, coal, steel, machinery, foodstuffs, automobiles, and other
    consumer durables
  partners:
    Russia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Romania, Germany
External debt:
    $300 million (as of 11 December 1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -30% (1994 est.)
                                     Moldova
                                     Economy
Electricity:
  capacity:
    3,000,000 kW
  production:
    8.2 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,830 kWh (1994)
Industries:
    key products are canned food, agricultural machinery, foundry equipment,
    refrigerators and freezers, washing machines, hosiery, refined sugar,
    vegetable oil, shoes, textiles
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 40% of GDP; Moldova's principal economic activity;
    products are vegetables, fruits, wine, grain, sugar beets, sunflower seed,
    meat, milk, tobacco
Illicit drugs:
    illicit cultivator of opium poppy and cannabis; mostly for CIS consumption;
    transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    joint EC-US loan (1993), $127 million; IMF STF credit (1993), $64 million;
    IMF stand-by loan (1993), $72 million; US commitments (1992-93), $61 million
    in humanitarian aid, $11 million in technical assistance; World Bank loan
    (1993), $60 million; Russia (1993), 50 billion ruble credit; Romania (1993),
    20 billion lei credit
Currency:
    the leu (plural lei) was introduced in late 1993
Exchange rates:
    lei per US$1 - 4.277 (22 December 1994)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                     Moldova
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,150 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines
  broad gauge:
    1,150 km 1.520-m gauge (1990)
Highways:
  total:
    20,000 km
  paved or graveled:
    13,900 km
  unpaved:
    earth 6,100 km (1990)
Pipelines:
    natural gas 310 km (1992)
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    26
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    8
                                     Moldova
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    577,000 telephones; 134 telephones/1,000 persons; telecommunication system
    not well developed; 215,000 unsatisfied requests for telephone service
    (1991)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    international connections to the other former Soviet republics by land line
    and microwave radio relay through Ukraine, and to other countries by leased
    connections to the Moscow international gateway switch; 1 EUTELSAT and 1
    INTELSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Moldova
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Ground Forces, Air and Air Defense Forces, Republic Security Forces
    (internal and border troops)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,116,912; males fit for military service 881,642; males
    reach military age (18) annually 35,447 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, 2% of GDP (1994)
Montserrat
7MONACO - Passport required.  Visa not required for visit up to 3
months. For further information consult French Embassy (202/944-6000) or
nearest Honorary Consulate of the Principality of Monaco:  CA (213/655-8970 or
415/362-5050), IL (312/642-1242), LA (504/522-5700), NY (212/759-5227)
or PR (809/721-4215).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - France and Monaco
============================================================
France and Monaco - Consular Information Sheet
 December 6, 1995
Country Description:  France is a highly developed and stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Monaco is a constitutional
monarchy and a highly developed European nation.  Tourist facilities
are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements for both
France and Monaco, travelers may contact the Embassy of France at at
4101 Reservoir Road, N.W.  Washington, DC 20007, tel: (202)
944-6000, or the nearest French Consulate General in Boston,
Chicago, Detroit, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New
Orleans, New York, San Francisco or San Juan.  Travelers to Monaco
may also contact the nearest Honorary Consulate of Monaco in Boston,
Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York, Palm Beach,
Florida, Philadelphia, San Francisco, San Juan or Washington, D.C.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is widely available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be useful.
Further information on health matters can be obtained from the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline on [phone].
Crime Information:  France and Monaco both have relatively low
rates of violent crime.  Crimes involving larceny are increasingly
more common.  Pickpocketing, theft of unattended baggage and theft
from rental cars or vehicles with out-of-town or foreign license
plates are daily occurrences.  Criminals often operate around
popular tourist attractions such as museums, monuments, restaurants,
hotels, beaches, and on trains and subways.  Americans in France and
Monaco should be particularly alert to pickpockets on trains and
subways, as well as in train and subway stations.  Travelers are
advised to carry only whatever cash and personal checks are
absolutely necessary, leaving extra cash, credit cards, personal
documents, and passport copies at home or in the hotel safe.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" which provides useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad.  The pamphlet is available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC  20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In France, the penalties for
possession, use, and dealing in illegal drugs are very strict.
Convicted offenders can expect a significant jail sentence and a
heavy customs fine; failure to pay can result in upwards of an
additional two years imprisonment.
Dual Nationality:  U.S. citizens who are considered to have also
acquired French citizenship may be subject to compulsory military
service and other aspects of French law while in France.  Those who
might be affected can inquire at a French Embassy or consulate
regarding their status.  In some instances, dual nationality may
hamper U.S. government efforts to provide protection abroad.
Other Information:  Certain Air France flights between France and
various Middle Eastern points (usually Damascus or Amman) make en
route stops in Beirut.  U.S. passports are not valid for travel to,
in, or through Lebanon unless special validation has been obtained
from the Department of State.
Terrorist Activities:  Civil disorder is rare in France.  However,
over the past year, terrorist groups have committed violent acts in
France, including a few closely-targeted political assassinations.
Recent bombings in Paris also appear to be the work of terrorists,
and have killed or injured French citizens and foreign visitors.
However, there is no indication that these acts are specifically
directed at American citizens, American business or American
interests.  These bombings have resulted in an increased police
presence at airports, metro and train stations, etc.
The Basque Separatist Party (ETA) and the National Front for the
Liberation of Corsica (FLNC), continue to operate in the south of
France and have occasionally bombed local government institutions,
travel agencies, etc.  ETA and FLNC attacks usually occur late in
the evening in an apparent attempt to minimize casualties.  Over the
last year, terrorist groups have committed other terrorist acts,
including a few closely targeted political killings and kidnappings,
but no Americans have been affected.
Registration and Embassy/Consulate Locations:  U.S. citizens may
register at the Consular Section in the U.S. Embassy or one of the
three Consulates, where they may obtain updated information on
travel and security in France.  There is no U.S. embassy or
consulate in Monaco.  For assistance and registration in Monaco,
U.S. citizens can contact the U.S. consulate general in Marseille or
the U.S. Consular agent in Nice.
The U.S. Embassy in Paris is located at 2 Avenue Gabriel, telephone
(33) 1-42-96-12-02, fax [phone].  The Consular Section is
located one block away, across the Place de la Concorde, at 2 Rue
St. Florentin, fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Bordeaux is located at:  22 Cours du Marechal
Foch, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Marseille is located at:  12 Boulevard Paul
Peytral, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Strasbourg is located at:  15 Avenue
d'Alsace, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
There is a Consular Agent in Nice, at 31 Rue du Marechal Joffre,
telephone [phone], fax [phone].
 No. 95-157
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for France dated
September 14, 1995, to add information on Monaco.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - France and Monaco
============================================================
France and Monaco - Consular Information Sheet
 December 6, 1995
Country Description:  France is a highly developed and stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Monaco is a constitutional
monarchy and a highly developed European nation.  Tourist facilities
are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements for both
France and Monaco, travelers may contact the Embassy of France at at
4101 Reservoir Road, N.W.  Washington, DC 20007, tel: (202)
944-6000, or the nearest French Consulate General in Boston,
Chicago, Detroit, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New
Orleans, New York, San Francisco or San Juan.  Travelers to Monaco
may also contact the nearest Honorary Consulate of Monaco in Boston,
Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York, Palm Beach,
Florida, Philadelphia, San Francisco, San Juan or Washington, D.C.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is widely available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be useful.
Further information on health matters can be obtained from the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline on [phone].
Crime Information:  France and Monaco both have relatively low
rates of violent crime.  Crimes involving larceny are increasingly
more common.  Pickpocketing, theft of unattended baggage and theft
from rental cars or vehicles with out-of-town or foreign license
plates are daily occurrences.  Criminals often operate around
popular tourist attractions such as museums, monuments, restaurants,
hotels, beaches, and on trains and subways.  Americans in France and
Monaco should be particularly alert to pickpockets on trains and
subways, as well as in train and subway stations.  Travelers are
advised to carry only whatever cash and personal checks are
absolutely necessary, leaving extra cash, credit cards, personal
documents, and passport copies at home or in the hotel safe.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" which provides useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad.  The pamphlet is available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC  20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In France, the penalties for
possession, use, and dealing in illegal drugs are very strict.
Convicted offenders can expect a significant jail sentence and a
heavy customs fine; failure to pay can result in upwards of an
additional two years imprisonment.
Dual Nationality:  U.S. citizens who are considered to have also
acquired French citizenship may be subject to compulsory military
service and other aspects of French law while in France.  Those who
might be affected can inquire at a French Embassy or consulate
regarding their status.  In some instances, dual nationality may
hamper U.S. government efforts to provide protection abroad.
Other Information:  Certain Air France flights between France and
various Middle Eastern points (usually Damascus or Amman) make en
route stops in Beirut.  U.S. passports are not valid for travel to,
in, or through Lebanon unless special validation has been obtained
from the Department of State.
Terrorist Activities:  Civil disorder is rare in France.  However,
over the past year, terrorist groups have committed violent acts in
France, including a few closely-targeted political assassinations.
Recent bombings in Paris also appear to be the work of terrorists,
and have killed or injured French citizens and foreign visitors.
However, there is no indication that these acts are specifically
directed at American citizens, American business or American
interests.  These bombings have resulted in an increased police
presence at airports, metro and train stations, etc.
The Basque Separatist Party (ETA) and the National Front for the
Liberation of Corsica (FLNC), continue to operate in the south of
France and have occasionally bombed local government institutions,
travel agencies, etc.  ETA and FLNC attacks usually occur late in
the evening in an apparent attempt to minimize casualties.  Over the
last year, terrorist groups have committed other terrorist acts,
including a few closely targeted political killings and kidnappings,
but no Americans have been affected.
Registration and Embassy/Consulate Locations:  U.S. citizens may
register at the Consular Section in the U.S. Embassy or one of the
three Consulates, where they may obtain updated information on
travel and security in France.  There is no U.S. embassy or
consulate in Monaco.  For assistance and registration in Monaco,
U.S. citizens can contact the U.S. consulate general in Marseille or
the U.S. Consular agent in Nice.
The U.S. Embassy in Paris is located at 2 Avenue Gabriel, telephone
(33) 1-42-96-12-02, fax [phone].  The Consular Section is
located one block away, across the Place de la Concorde, at 2 Rue
St. Florentin, fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Bordeaux is located at:  22 Cours du Marechal
Foch, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Marseille is located at:  12 Boulevard Paul
Peytral, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Strasbourg is located at:  15 Avenue
d'Alsace, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
There is a Consular Agent in Nice, at 31 Rue du Marechal Joffre,
telephone [phone], fax [phone].
 No. 95-157
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for France dated
September 14, 1995, to add information on Monaco.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
                                        Monaco
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Europe, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, on the southern coast of
    France, near the border with Italy
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    1.9 sq km
  land area:
    1.9 sq km
  comparative area:
    about three times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    total 4.4 km, France 4.4 km
Coastline:
    4.1 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    Mediterranean with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers
Terrain:
    hilly, rugged, rocky
Natural resources:
    none
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling;
    signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
Note:
    second smallest independent state in world (after Holy See); almost entirely
    urban
                                     Monaco
                                     People
Population:
    31,515 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    17% (female 2,691; male 2,740)
  15-64 years:
    63% (female 10,233; male 9,645)
  65 years and over:
    20% (female 3,939; male 2,267) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.7% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    10.66 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.12 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    8.44 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.9 years
  male:
    74.18 years
  female:
    81.8 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.7 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Monacan(s) or Monegasque(s)
  adjective:
    Monacan or Monegasque
Ethnic divisions:
    French 47%, Monegasque 16%, Italian 16%, other 21%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 95%
Languages:
    French (official), English, Italian, Monegasque
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    NA
                                     Monaco
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Principality of Monaco
  conventional short form:
    Monaco
  local long form:
    Principaute de Monaco
  local short form:
    Monaco
Digraph:
    MN
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Monaco
Administrative divisions:
    4 quarters (quartiers, singular - quartier); Fontvieille, La Condamine,
    Monaco-Ville, Monte-Carlo
Independence:
    1419 (rule by the House of Grimaldi)
National holiday:
    National Day, 19 November
Constitution:
    17 December 1962
Legal system:
    based on French law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    25 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Prince RAINIER III (since NA November 1949); Heir Apparent Prince ALBERT
    Alexandre Louis Pierre (born 14 March 1958)
  head of government:
    Minister of State Paul DIJOUD (since NA)
  cabinet:
     Council of Government; under the authority of the Prince
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Tribunal (Tribunal Supreme)
Political parties and leaders:
    National and Democratic Union (UND); Campora List, Anne-Marie CAMPORA;
    Medecin List, Jean-Louis MEDECIN
Member of:
    ACCT, ECE, IAEA, ICAO, ICRM, IFRCS, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC,
    ITU, OSCE, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WHO, WIPO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  honorary consulate(s) general:
    Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco, San Juan
    (Puerto Rico)
  honorary consulate(s):
    Dallas, Palm Beach, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC
US diplomatic representation:
    no mission in Monaco, but the US Consul General in Marseille, France, is
    accredited to Monaco
                                     Monaco
                                   Government
Flag:
    two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and white; similar to the flag of
    Indonesia which is longer and the flag of Poland which is white (top) and
    red
                                     Monaco
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 50% 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, that is, roughly comparable to those in
    prosperous French metropolitan suburbs.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $558 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $18,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NEGL%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $424 million
  expenditures:
    $376 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1991 est.)
Exports:
    $NA; full customs integration with France, which collects and rebates
    Monacan trade duties; also participates in EU market system through customs
    union with France
Imports:
    $NA; full customs integration with France, which collects and rebates
    Monacan trade duties; also participates in EU market system through customs
    union with France
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    10,000 kW standby; power imported from France
  production:
    NA kWh
  consumption per capita:
    NA kWh (1993)
Agriculture:
    none
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.9243 (January 1995), 5.520 (1994), 5.6632
    (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991), 5.4453 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                     Monaco
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1.7 km
  standard gauge:
    1.7 km 1.435-m gauge
Highways:
    none; city streets
Ports:
    Monaco
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
    linked to airport in Nice, France, by helicopter service
                                     Monaco
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    38,200 telephones; automatic telephone system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    no satellite links; served by cable into the French communications system
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    5
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Monaco
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
|H~H~H
Morocco
MONGOLIA - Passport and visa required.  Transit visa for stay up to 48
hours requires onward ticket, visa for next destination and $15 fee
($30 for double transit).  Tourist visa for up to 90 days requires
confirmation from Mongolian Travel Agency (Zhuulchin) and $25 fee.  Business visa
requires letter from company stating purpose of trip and invitation
from Mongolian organization and $25 fee (multiple-entry $50).  Submit 1
application form, 2 photos, itinerary and prepaid envelope for return
of passport by certified or special delivery mail.  AIDS test required for
students and anyone staying longer than 3 months; U.S. test accepted.
For additional information contact Embassy of Mongolia, 2833 M Street,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20007 (202/333-7117) or the UN Mission of Mongolia, 6
East 77th St., New York, NY 10021 (212/861-9460).
Mongolia - Consular Information Sheet
July 29, 1994
Country Description:  Mongolia is a country undergoing substantial political
and economic changes.  In June 1993, it held democratic elections for the
third time since the resignation of the former government in 1990.  Tourist
facilities and services are not widely available.
Entry Requirements:  Passports, visas, and an invitation from a Mongolian
host are required.   Multiple-entry visas can only be obtained in
Ulaanbaatar with the sponsorship of a Mongolian organization.  Transit visas
for stays of 48 hours or less require an onward ticket, a visa for the next
destination, and a fee of 15 dollars.  Foreign travelers to Mongolia, even
those staying fewer than ten days, are required to register with the police
at the Citizens' Information and Registration Center within ten days of
their arrival.  Visitors who fail to register may be stopped at departure,
denied exit, and fined at least 25 dollars.  A Tourist visa for up to 90
days requires confirmation from the Mongolian Travel Agency Zhuulchin, or
from a private Mongolian travel agency, and a 25 dollar fee.  For more
current information on visa issuance and fees and registration requirements,
the traveler may contact the Embassy of Mongolia at 2833 M Street N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20007, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Mongolia are limited, and some
medicine is unavailable.  Plague, while relatively rare, is endemic to
Mongolia from August to October, and affected areas of the country may be
quarantined for limited periods during that time.  Doctors and hospitals
often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  In some cases,
supplemental medical insurance with specific coverage abroad, including
provision for medical evacuation, has proven useful.  The international
travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control in Atlanta, tel. (404)
332-4559, has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Mongolia, and especially the capital, Ulaanbaatar, is
suffering from a dramatic rise in crime.  Petty thefts, such as
pickpocketing, are common.  Areas such as the Ulaanbaatar local market and
the state-run department store deserve special caution from travelers.  In
addition to theft, there have been reports of more violent assaults on
foreigners.  As the economic situation remains difficult, there is little
possibility that the level of crime will decrease or that the Mongolian
police will be able to deal effectively with the situation.  Thefts continue
aboard international trains between Mongolia and Russia.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police
and the U.S. Embassy.  Useful information on guarding valuables and
protecting personal security while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  It is available from
the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  In Mongolia, penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
jail sentences and fines.
Currency Regulations:  U.S. dollars are often accepted, especially in
tourist locations, but it is also useful to carry some cash in the local
currency, the Tugrik.  Thomas Cook Travelers Checks in U.S. dollars and
American Express Travelers Checks can also be used at the major hotels.  The
American Express card is acceptable in a few locations, as are Visa and
Mastercard.  Cash advances against credit cards are not obtainable, and
there are no international banks.  However, international bank wire
transfers are possible.
Winter Power Shortages:  Severe fuel shortages and problems with the central
heating and electrical systems cause seriously reduced heating levels and
power outages in Ulaanbaatar and the cities of Darhan and Erdenet during the
winter months of November through April.  Smaller towns in the countryside
may have no heat or electricity at all during these months.  The U.S.
Embassy advises all Americans resident in Mongolia to be prepared to
evacuate in case of complete energy systems failure.
Delay in Arrival of Checked Baggage:  Passengers arriving in Ulaanbaatar by
plane from Beijing routinely encounter prolonged delays in the delivery of
their checked luggage ranging from overnight to four days.   Travelers who
include warm clothing and other essentials in carry-on baggage decrease the
inconvenience experienced while waiting for their luggage.
Accommodations:  Hotels are few in number and are often fully booked.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated
information on travel, security and health problems within the country.
Embassy Locations:  The U.S. Embassy is located in Micro Region 11, Big Ring
Road, Ulaanbaatar.  The telephone numbers are (976-1)329-095 and 329-606.
No. 94-140
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 9, 1993 and provides
updated currency information.
.w.                                      Mongolia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Asia, north of China
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    1.565 million sq km
  land area:
    1.565 million sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Alaska
Land boundaries:
    total 8,114 km, China 4,673 km, Russia 3,441 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    desert; continental (large daily and seasonal temperature ranges)
Terrain:
    vast semidesert and desert plains; mountains in west and southwest; Gobi
    Desert in southeast
Natural resources:
    oil, coal, copper, molybdenum, tungsten, phosphates, tin, nickel, zinc,
    wolfram, fluorspar, gold
Land use:
  arable land:
    1%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    79%
  forest and woodland:
    10%
  other:
    10%
Irrigated land:
    770 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    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;
    desertification
  natural hazards:
    duststorms can occur in the spring
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Nuclear
    Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea
Note:
    landlocked; strategic location between China and Russia
                                    Mongolia
                                     People
Population:
    2,493,615 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    40% (female 495,919; male 511,464)
  15-64 years:
    56% (female 693,037; male 693,776)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 54,991; male 44,428) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.58% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    32.65 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.82 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    41.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    66.54 years
  male:
    64.28 years
  female:
    68.92 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.26 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Mongolian(s)
  adjective:
    Mongolian
Ethnic divisions:
    Mongol 90%, Kazakh 4%, Chinese 2%, Russian 2%, other 2%
Religions:
    predominantly Tibetan Buddhist, Muslim 4%
  note:
    previously limited religious activity because of Communist regime
Languages:
    Khalkha Mongol 90%, Turkic, Russian, Chinese
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    primarily herding/agricultural
  note:
    over half the adult population is in the labor force, including a large
    percentage of women; shortage of skilled labor
                                    Mongolia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Mongolia
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Mongol Uls
  former:
    Outer Mongolia
Digraph:
    MG
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Ulaanbaatar
Administrative divisions:
    18 provinces (aymguud, singular - aymag) and 3 municipalities* (hotuud,
    singular - hot); Arhangay, Bayanhongor, Bayan-Olgiy, Bulgan, Darhan*,
    Dornod, Dornogovi, Dundgovi, Dzavhan, Erdenet*, Govi-Altay, Hentiy, Hovd,
    Hovsgol, Omnogovi, Ovorhangay, Selenge, Suhbaatar, Tov, Ulaanbaatar*, Uvs
Independence:
    13 March 1921 (from China)
National holiday:
    National Day, 11 July (1921)
Constitution:
    adopted 13 January 1992
Legal system:
    blend of Russian, Chinese, and Turkish systems of law; no constitutional
    provision for judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Punsalmaagiyn OCHIRBAT (since 3 September 1990); 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)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Putsagiyn JASRAY (since 3 August 1992); Deputy Prime
    Ministers Lhamsuren ENEBISH and Choijilsurengiyn PUREVDORJ (since NA)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the Great Hural
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  State Great Hural:
    elections held for the first time 28 June 1992 (next to be held NA); results
    - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (76 total) MPRP 71, United Party of
    Mongolia 4, MSDP 1
  note:
    the People's Small Hural no longer exists
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court serves as appeals court for people's and provincial courts,
    but to date rarely overturns verdicts of lower courts
                                    Mongolia
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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 Mongolia, leader NA
  note:
    opposition parties were legalized in May 1990
Member of:
    AsDB, CCC, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS,
    ILO, IMF, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ISO, ITU, NAM
    (observer), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Luvsandorj DAWAAGIW
  chancery:
    2833 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20007
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Donald C. JOHNSON
  embassy:
    address NA, Ulaanbaatar
  mailing address:
    c/o American Embassy Beijing, Micro Region 11, Big Ring Road; PSC 461, Box
    300, FPO AP 96521-0002
  telephone:
    [976] (1) 329095, 329606
  FAX:
    [976] (1) 320776
Flag:
    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)
                                    Mongolia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Mongolia'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, tungsten, 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 is soliciting support from
    international financial agencies and foreign investors. The economy,
    however, has still not recovered from the loss of Soviet aid, and the
    country continues to suffer substantial economic hardships, with one-fourth
    of the population below the poverty line.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,800 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    70% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    15% (1991 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA (1991 est.)
  note:
    deficit of $67 million
Exports:
    $360 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    copper, livestock, animal products, cashmere, wool, hides, fluorspar, other
    nonferrous metals
  partners:
    former CMEA countries 62%, China 17%, EC 8% (1992)
Imports:
    $361 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, fuels, food products, industrial consumer goods,
    chemicals, building materials, sugar, tea
  partners:
    USSR 75%, Austria 5%, China 5% (1991)
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate -15% (1992 est.); accounts for about 42% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    900,000 kW
  production:
    3.1 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,267 kWh (1993)
                                    Mongolia
                                     Economy
Industries:
    copper, processing of animal products, building materials, food and
    beverage, mining (particularly coal)
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 35% of GDP and provides livelihood for about 50% of the
    population; livestock raising predominates (primarily sheep and goats, but
    also cattle, camels, and horses); crops - wheat, barley, potatoes, forage
Economic aid:
    NA
Currency:
    1 tughrik (Tug) = 100 mongos
Exchange rates:
    tughriks (Tug) per US$1 - 415.34 (January 1995), 412.72 (1994), 42.56
    (1992), 9.52 (1991), 5.63 (1990)
  note:
    the exchange rate 40 tughriks = 1US$ was introduced June 1991 and was in
    force to the end of 1992; beginning 27 May 1993 the exchange rate is the
    midpoint of the average buying and selling rates that are freely determined
    on the basis of market transactions between commercial banks and the nonbank
    public
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                    Mongolia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,750 km
  broad gauge:
    1,750 km 1.524-m gauge (1988)
Highways:
  total:
    46,700 km
  paved:
    1,000 km
  unpaved:
    45,700 km (1988)
Inland waterways:
    397 km of principal routes (1988)
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    34
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    7
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    10
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    5
                                    Mongolia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    63,000 telephones (1989)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    at least 1 satellite earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 12, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    220,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1 (provincial repeaters - 18)
  televisions:
    120,000
                                    Mongolia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Mongolian People's Army (includes Internal Security Forces and Frontier
    Guards), Air Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 605,633; males fit for military service 394,433; males reach
    military age (18) annually 25,862 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $22.8 million, 1% of GDP (1992)
Mozambique
                                    Montserrat
Affiliation:
    (dependent territory of the UK)
                                    Montserrat
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, southeast of Puerto Rico
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    100 sq km
  land area:
    100 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.6 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    40 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; little daily or seasonal temperature variation
Terrain:
    volcanic islands, mostly mountainous, with small coastal lowland
Natural resources:
    negligible
Land use:
  arable land:
    20%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    10%
  forest and woodland:
    40%
  other:
    30%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    land erosion occurs on slopes that have been cleared for cultivation
  natural hazards:
    severe hurricanes (June to November); volcanic eruptions (there are seven
    active volcanoes on the island)
  international agreements:
    NA
                                   Montserrat
                                     People
Population:
    12,738 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    0.3% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.5 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.81 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -2.65 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    11.69 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    75.69 years
  male:
    73.93 years
  female:
    77.49 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.99 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Montserratian(s)
  adjective:
    Montserratian
Ethnic divisions:
    black, Europeans
Religions:
    Anglican, Methodist, Roman Catholic, Pentecostal, Seventh-Day Adventist,
    other Christian denominations
Languages:
    English
Literacy:
    age 15 and over has ever attended school (1970)
  total population:
    97%
  male:
    97%
  female:
    97%
Labor force:
    5,100
  by occupation:
    community, social, and personal services 40.5%, construction 13.5%, trade,
    restaurants, and hotels 12.3%, manufacturing 10.5%, agriculture, forestry,
    and fishing 8.8%, other 14.4% (1983 est.)
                                   Montserrat
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Montserrat
Digraph:
    MH
Type:
    dependent territory of the UK
Capital:
    Plymouth
Administrative divisions:
    3 parishes; Saint Anthony, Saint Georges, Saint Peter's
Independence:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
National holiday:
    Celebration of the Birthday of the Queen (second Saturday of June)
Constitution:
    present constitution came into force 19 December 1989
Legal system:
    English common law and statute law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor Frank
    SAVAGE (since NA February 1993)
  head of government:
    Chief Minister Reuben T. MEADE (since NA October 1991)
  cabinet:
    Executive Council; consists of the governor, the chief minister, three other
    ministries, the attorney-general, and the finance secretary
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Legislative Council:
    elections last held 8 October 1991; results - percent of vote by party NA;
    seats - (11 total, 7 elected) NPP 4, NDP 1, PLM 1, independent 1
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    National Progressive Party (NPP) Reuben T. MEADE; People's Liberation
    Movement (PLM), Noel TUITT; National Development Party (NDP), Bertrand
    OSBORNE
Member of:
    CARICOM, CDB, ECLAC (associate), ICFTU, INTERPOL (subbureau), OECS, WCL
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
Flag:
    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
                                   Montserrat
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy is small and open with economic activity centered on tourism and
    construction. Tourism is the most important sector and accounts for roughly
    one-fifth of GDP. Agriculture accounts for about 4% of GDP and industry 10%.
    The economy is heavily dependent on imports, making it vulnerable to
    fluctuations in world prices. Exports consist mainly of electronic parts
    sold to the US.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $55.6 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    1% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,380 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.8% (1992)
Unemployment rate:
    NA
Budget:
  revenues:
    $12.1 million
  expenditures:
    $14.3 million, including capital expenditures of $3.2 million (1988 est.)
Exports:
    $2.8 million (f.o.b., 1992)
  commodities:
    electronic parts, plastic bags, apparel, hot peppers, live plants, cattle
  partners:
    NA
Imports:
    $80.6 million (f.o.b., 1992)
  commodities:
    machinery and transportation equipment, foodstuffs, manufactured goods,
    fuels, lubricants, and related materials
  partners:
    NA
External debt:
    $2.05 million (1987)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 8.1% (1986); accounts for 10% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    5,271 kW
  production:
    17 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,106 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tourism; light manufacturing - rum, textiles, electronic appliances
Agriculture:
    accounts for 4% of GDP; small-scale farming; food crops - tomatoes, onions,
    peppers; not self-sufficient in food, especially livestock products
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $90
    million
Currency:
    1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.70 (fixed rate since 1976)
                                   Montserrat
                                     Economy
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                                   Montserrat
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    280 km
  paved:
    200 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, earth 80 km
Ports:
    Plymouth
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                                   Montserrat
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    3,000 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 8, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                                   Montserrat
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Police Force
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the UK
rNtNtN
Namibia
MOROCCO - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 3
months, extendable.  For additional information consult Embassy of Morocco,
1601 21st St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009 (202/462-7979 to 7982) or
Consulate General in New York (212/213-9644).
Morocco - Consular Information Sheet
July 28, 1994
Country Description:  Morocco is a constitutional monarchy with a developing
economy.  Tourist facilities and means of transportation are widely
available, but may vary in quality depending on price and location.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not required for a
stay of up to 90 days.  For further information concerning entry
requirements for Morocco, travelers may contact the Embassy of Morocco at
1601 21st St. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009, telephone [phone] to 82,
or the Moroccan Consulate General in New York, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  The sparsely-settled Western Sahara (formerly Spanish
Sahara) was long the site of armed conflict between the Polisario Front and
Morocco on the issue of independence versus Moroccan sovereignty.  Although
a ceasefire is presently in place, several violations have occurred and the
area cannot be considered safe.  There are reports of thousands of
unexploded mines in the Western Sahara and in areas of Mauritania adjacent
to the Western Sahara border.  Exploding mines are occasionally reported,
and have caused death and injury.  Transit to the Western Sahara remains
restricted; persons planning to travel in the region may obtain information
on clearance requirements from the Moroccan Embassy.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Morocco is available, although not all
facilities meet high quality standards and specialized care or treatment may
not be available.  Travelers planning to drive in the mountains and other
remote areas may wish to carry a medical kit and a Moroccan phone card for
emergencies.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for
health care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proven useful.  Specific health questions may be addressed to
the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline at
telephone [phone].
Crime Information:  Morocco has a moderately high crime rate in urban areas.
 Criminals have targeted tourists for assaults, muggings, thefts,
pickpocketings, and scams of all types.  Commonly-reported crimes include
falsifying credit-card vouchers, and shipping inferior rugs as a substitute
for the rugs purchased by the traveler.  Some travelers have been befriended
by persons of various nationalities who have offered the travelers food,
drink, or cigarettes which are drugged.  Harassment of tourists by
unemployed Moroccans trying to be "guides" is a common problem.  Prudent
travelers hire only official tour guides through hotels and travel agencies.
 Traveling alone in the Rif mountain area is risky.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately
to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security, and
other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State
pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to the Middle East
and North Africa."  They are available from the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Travelers checks and credit cards are accepted at
some establishments in Morocco, mainly in urban areas.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.
Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs are severe,
and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the Consular Section of the
U.S. Embassy or Consulate General can obtain updated information on travel
and security within Morocco.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Rabat is located at 2
Avenue de Marrakech in the capital city of Rabat, telephone [phone]-
65.  The American Consulate General in Casablanca is located at 8 Boulevard
Moulay Youssef, telephone [phone].
No. 94-142
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Morocco issued August 31,
1993 to add information on carrying a medical kit when traveling in remote
areas.
:n:                                       Morocco
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean
    Sea, between Algeria and Western Sahara
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    446,550 sq km
  land area:
    446,300 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than California
Land boundaries:
    total 2,002 km, Algeria 1,559 km, Western Sahara 443 km
Coastline:
    1,835 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claims and administers Western Sahara, but sovereignty is unresolved; the UN
    is attempting to hold a referendum; the UN-administered cease-fire has been
    currently in effect since September 1991; Spain controls five places of
    sovereignty (plazas de soberania) on and off the coast of Morocco - the
    coastal enclaves of Ceuta and Melilla which Morocco contests as well as the
    islands of Penon de Alhucemas, Penon de Velez de la Gomera, and Islas
    Chafarinas
Climate:
    Mediterranean, becoming more extreme in the interior
Terrain:
    northern coast and interior are mountainous with large areas of bordering
    plateaus, intermontane valleys, and rich coastal plains
Natural resources:
    phosphates, iron ore, manganese, lead, zinc, fish, salt
Land use:
  arable land:
    18%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    28%
  forest and woodland:
    12%
  other:
    41%
Irrigated land:
    12,650 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    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 pollution of
    coastal waters
                                     Morocco
                                    Geography
  natural hazards:
    northern mountains geologically unstable and subject to earthquakes;
    periodic droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ship
    Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate
    Change, Desertification, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Ozone
    Layer Protection
Note:
    strategic location along Strait of Gibraltar
                                     Morocco
                                     People
Population:
    29,168,848 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    38% (female 5,486,176; male 5,659,410)
  15-64 years:
    58% (female 8,456,525; male 8,327,560)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 641,236; male 597,941) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.09% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    27.93 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.97 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -1.08 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    45.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    68.98 years
  male:
    67.03 years
  female:
    71.02 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.69 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Moroccan(s)
  adjective:
    Moroccan
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab-Berber 99.1%, other 0.7%, Jewish 0.2%
Religions:
    Muslim 98.7%, Christian 1.1%, Jewish 0.2%
Languages:
    Arabic (official), Berber dialects, French often the language of business,
    government, and diplomacy
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    50%
  male:
    61%
  female:
    38%
Labor force:
    7.4 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 50%, services 26%, industry 15%, other 9% (1985)
                                     Morocco
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of Morocco
  conventional short form:
    Morocco
  local long form:
    Al Mamlakah al Maghribiyah
  local short form:
    Al Maghrib
Digraph:
    MO
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Rabat
Administrative divisions:
    36 provinces and 5 wilayas*; Agadir, Al Hoceima, Assa-Zag, Azilal, Beni
    Mellal, Ben Slimane, Boulemane, Casablanca*, Chaouen, El Jadida, El Kelaa
    des Sraghna, 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
Independence:
    2 March 1956 (from France)
National holiday:
    National Day, 3 March (1961) (anniversary of King Hassan II's accession to
    the throne)
Constitution:
    10 March 1972, revised 4 September 1992
Legal system:
    based on Islamic law and French and Spanish civil law system; judicial
    review of legislative acts in Constitutional Chamber of Supreme Court
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    King HASSAN II (since 3 March 1961)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Abdellatif FILALI (since 29 May 1994)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the King
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                                     Morocco
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
  opposition:
    Socialist Union of Popular Forces (USFP), Mohammad al-YAZGHI; Istiqlal Party
    (IP), M'Hamed BOUCETTA; Party of Progress and Socialism (PPS), Ali YATA;
    Organization of Democratic and Popular Action (OADP), leader NA
  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
Member of:
    ABEDA, ACCT (associate), AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, AMU, CCC, EBRD, ECA, FAO,
    G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS,
    ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NAM, OAS
    (observer), OIC, UN, UNAVEM II, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UPU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Mohamed BENAISSA
  chancery:
    1601 21st Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 7982
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Marc C. GINSBERG
  embassy:
    2 Avenue de Marrakech, Rabat
  mailing address:
    PSC 74, Box 003, APO AE 09718
  telephone:
    [212] (7) 76 22 65
  FAX:
    [212] (7) 76 56 61
  consulate(s) general:
    Casablanca
Flag:
    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 Islam
                                     Morocco
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Morocco faces the typical problems of developing countries - restraining
    government spending, reducing constraints on private activity and foreign
    trade, and keeping inflation 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 drought 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%. Servicing
    the large debt, high unemployment, and vulnerability to external economic
    forces remain long-term problems for Morocco.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $87.5 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,060 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    5.4% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    16% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $8.1 billion
  expenditures:
    $8.9 billion (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $4.1 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    food and beverages 30%, semiprocessed goods 23%, consumer goods 21%,
    phosphates 17%
  partners:
    EU 70%, Japan 5%, US 4%, Libya 3%, India 2% (1993)
Imports:
    $7.5 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    capital goods 24%, semiprocessed goods 22%, raw materials 16%, fuel and
    lubricants 16%, food and beverages 13%, consumer goods 9%
  partners:
    EC 59%, US 8%, Saudi Arabia 5%, UAE 3%, Russia 2% (1993)
External debt:
    $20.5 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 0.1% accounts for 28% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    2,620,000 kW
  production:
    9.9 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    361 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    phosphate rock mining and processing, food processing, leather goods,
    textiles, construction, tourism
                                     Morocco
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 15% of GDP, 50% of employment, and 30% of export value; not
    self-sufficient in food; cereal farming and livestock raising predominate;
    barley, wheat, citrus fruit, wine, vegetables, olives
Illicit drugs:
    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 cocaine from South America destined for
    Western Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1.3 billion; US commitments,
    including Ex-Im (1992), $123.6 million; Western (non-US) countries, ODA and
    OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $7.5 billion; OPEC bilateral aid
    (1979-89), $4.8 billion; Communist countries (1970-89), $2.5 billion
  note:
    $2.8 billion debt canceled by Saudi Arabia (1991); IMF standby agreement
    worth $13 million; World Bank, $450 million (1991)
Currency:
    1 Moroccan dirham (DH) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Moroccan dirhams (DH) per US$1 - 2.892 (January 1995), 9.203 (1994), 9.299
    (1993), 8.538 (1992), 8.707 (1991), 8.242 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                     Morocco
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,893 km
  standard gauge:
    1,893 km 1.435-m gauge (974 km electrified; 246 km double track)
Highways:
  total:
    59,474 km
  paved:
    29,440 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, improved earth, unimproved earth 30,034 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 362 km; petroleum products (abandoned) 491 km; natural gas 241 km
Ports:
    Agadir, Al Jadida, Casablanca, El Jorf Lasfar, Kenitra, Mohammedia, Nador,
    Rabat, Safi, Tangier; also Spanish-controlled Ceuta and Melilla
Merchant marine:
  total:
    38 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 183,951 GRT/273,057 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 6, chemical tanker 9, container 2, oil tanker 4, refrigerated cargo
    10, roll-on/roll-off cargo 6, short-sea passenger 1
Airports:
  total:
    74
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    11
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    8
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    13
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    10
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    24
                                     Morocco
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    280,000 telephones; 10.5 telephones/1,000 persons
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    good system composed of wire lines, cables, and microwave radio relay links;
    principal centers are Casablanca and Rabat; secondary centers are Fes,
    Marrakech, Oujda, Tangier, and Tetouan
  international:
    5 submarine cables; 2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) and 1 ARABSAT earth station;
    microwave radio relay to Gibraltar, Spain, and Western Sahara; coaxial cable
    and microwave radio relay to Algeria; microwave radio relay network linking
    Syria, Jordan, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia, Algeria, and Morocco
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 20, FM 7, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    26 (repeaters 26)
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Morocco
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Royal Moroccan Army, Royal Moroccan Navy, Royal Moroccan Air Force, Royal
    Gendarmerie, Auxiliary Forces
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 7,307,076; males fit for military service 4,637,453; males
    reach military age (18) annually 323,921 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $1.3 billion, 3.8% of GDP (1994)
Nauru
MOZAMBIQUE - Passport and visa required.  Visa must be obtained in
advance. Entry visa valid 30 days from date of issuance,  requires 2 application
forms, 2 photos, immunization for yellow fever and cholera, $20 fee and
letter (from company or individual) giving detailed itinerary.
Visitors may have to exchange $25 at point of entry and declare all foreign
currency.  Apply Embassy of the People's Republic of Mozambique, Suite
570, 1990 M St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036 (202/293-7146).
Mozambique - Consular Information Sheet
October 26, 1994
Country Description:  Mozambique, a less developed country in southern
Africa, ended a 17-year civil war in October 1992 with the signing of a
peace agreement between the government and the rival rebel group.  United
Nations peacekeepers are presently located along major transportation
arteries in the country.  Facilities for tourism are severely limited
outside of Maputo.  Travel by road outside of the major urban areas is
possible; however, road conditions vary greatly.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Visas must be
obtained in advance from a Mozambique embassy or consulate.  Visa fees are
not standardized and vary depending on place of application.  Visitors must
exchange $25.00 at the point of entry and declare all foreign currency.
Visitors must carry passports with them at all times during their stay.
Further information regarding entry into the country may be obtained at the
Mozambique Embassy, Suite 570, 1990 M Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036,
telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  The security situation in Mozambique requires extreme
caution despite the success of the peace process in bringing relative calm
to the country.  Banditry occurs along major highways, and soldiers awaiting
demobilization have threatened the safety of road travelers.  Periodically,
the U.S. Embassy has restricted Embassy personnel from traveling on certain
roads or has imposed certain restrictions on road travel.  This information
is passed to the U.S. community in Mozambique via an announcement on the
Consular Warden network.  Travelers contemplating surface travel may wish to
contact the U.S. Embassy for the most up-to-date information regarding road
travel.
City streets are patrolled by police and soldiers who normally carry
automatic weapons.  Their authority should not be challenged.  In addition,
it has been estimated that up to two million land mines were planted
throughout Mozambique during the last three decades of conflict.  Only a few
have been removed thus far.  Any surface travel can, therefore, be hazardous.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are minimal.  Many medicines are
unavailable.  Maputo's special clinic, which requires payment in hard
currency, can provide general, non-emergency services.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health care services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved
useful.  Information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control's international travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Economic conditions in the country, spotty police
protection, and years of war have caused an increase in violent and armed
robberies, break-ins, and auto thefts.  Victims, including members of the
foreign community, have been killed.  Traveling alone or at night is
particularly risky.  There are certain areas in the city of Maputo where
pedestrian traffic is prohibited.  People walking or jogging, particularly
in isolated areas, such as along the marginal in Maputo, have frequently
been mugged during daylight hours.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported to the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and
"Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the
region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of Documents,
Washington, D.C.  20402.
Currency Information:  Currency can be converted at locations authorized by
the Mozambican Government.  Currency conversions on the black market are
illegal and very risky.  Credit cards are not widely accepted in Mozambique.
 A small number of merchants prefer to be paid in U.S. dollars.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict.  Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and
fines.
Airline Information:  On October 13, 1994, the U.S. Embassy in Maputo
announced that two recent incidents involving Mozambique's national airline,
LAM, have raised concern about LAM's safety practices.  Because of these
concerns and a record of unreliability, the U.S. Embassy reminds travelers
to review all available options for air travel in, to, or through Mozambique.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who will be in Mozambique for more than a few
weeks may register at the U.S. Embassy, where all U.S. citizens may obtain
updated information on travel and security.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 193 Avenida Kenneth Kaunda
in Maputo, the capital of Mozambique.  The Embassy telephone number is (258-
1) 49-27-97.  The after-hours telephone number, for use in emergencies, is
(258-1) 49-00-71.
No. 94-251
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 29, 1994, to
update air travel information.
`.N.                                    Mozambique
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, bordering the Mozambique Channel, between South Africa and
    Tanzania
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    801,590 sq km
  land area:
    784,090 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of California
Land boundaries:
    total 4,571 km, Malawi 1,569 km, South Africa 491 km, Swaziland 105 km,
    Tanzania 756 km, Zambia 419 km, Zimbabwe 1,231 km
Coastline:
    2,470 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical to subtropical
Terrain:
    mostly coastal lowlands, uplands in center, high plateaus in northwest,
    mountains in west
Natural resources:
    coal, titanium
Land use:
  arable land:
    4%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    56%
  forest and woodland:
    20%
  other:
    20%
Irrigated land:
    1,150 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    civil strife and recurrent drought in the hinterlands have resulted in
    increased migration to urban and coastal areas with adverse environmental
    consequences; desertification; pollution of surface and coastal waters
  natural hazards:
    severe droughts and floods occur in central and southern provinces;
    devastating cyclones
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not
    ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
                                   Mozambique
                                     People
Population:
    18,115,250 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    45% (female 4,069,117; male 4,078,429)
  15-64 years:
    53% (female 4,882,292; male 4,630,193)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 260,057; male 195,162) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.87% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    44.6 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    15.94 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    by the end of 1994, an estimated 1.6 million Mozambican refugees, who fled
    to Malawi, Zimbabwa, and South Africa in earlier years from the civil war,
    had returned; an estimated 100,000 refugees remain to be repatriated from
    those countries
Infant mortality rate:
    126 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    48.95 years
  male:
    47.04 years
  female:
    50.92 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.19 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Mozambican(s)
  adjective:
    Mozambican
Ethnic divisions:
    indigenous tribal groups, Europeans about 10,000, Euro-Africans 35,000,
    Indians 15,000
Religions:
    indigenous beliefs 60%, Christian 30%, Muslim 10%
Languages:
    Portuguese (official), indigenous dialects
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    33%
  male:
    45%
  female:
    21%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    90% engaged in agriculture
                                   Mozambique
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Mozambique
  conventional short form:
    Mozambique
  local long form:
    Republica Popular de Mocambique
  local short form:
    Mocambique
Digraph:
    MZ
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Maputo
Administrative divisions:
    10 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Cabo Delgado, Gaza,
    Inhambane, Manica, Maputo, Nampula, Niassa, Sofala, Tete, Zambezia
Independence:
    25 June 1975 (from Portugal)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 25 June (1975)
Constitution:
    30 November 1990
Legal system:
    based on Portuguese civil law system and customary law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Joaquim Alberto CHISSANO (since 6 November 1986)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Pascoal MOCUMBI (since December 1994)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Assembly of the Republic (Assembleia da Republica):
    draft electoral law provides for periodic, direct presidential and Assembly
    elections
  note:
    as called for in the 1992 peace accords, presidential and legislative
    elections took place during 27-29 October 1994; fourteen parties, including
    the Mozambique National Resistance (RENAMO) participated; Joaquim Alberto
    CHISSANO was elected president and his FRELIMO party gathered a slim
    majority in the 250 seat legislature
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (FRELIMO), Joaquim Alberto CHISSANO,
    chairman; the ruling party since independence, FRELIMO was the only legal
    party before 30 November 1990 when the new Constitution went into effect
    establishing a multiparty system
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, CCC, ECA, FAO, FLS, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC,
    IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer),
    ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO
                                   Mozambique
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Hipolito Pereira Zozimo PATRICIO
  chancery:
    Suite 570, 1990 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Dennis Coleman JETT
  embassy:
    Avenida Kenneth Kuanda, 193 Maputo
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 783, Maputo
  telephone:
    [258] (1) 492797
  FAX:
    [258] (1) 490114
Flag:
    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
                                   Mozambique
                                     Economy
Overview:
    One of Africa's poorest countries, Mozambique 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 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 in 1994 was solid and can
    continue into the late 1990s given continued foreign help in meeting debt
    obligations.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $10.6 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5.8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $610 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    50% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    50% (1989 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $252 million
  expenditures:
    $607 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $150 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    shrimp 40%, cashews, cotton, sugar, copra, citrus
  partners:
    Spain, South Africa, US, Portugal, Japan
Imports:
    $1.14 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    food, clothing, farm equipment, petroleum
  partners:
    South Africa, UK, France, Japan, Portugal
External debt:
    $5 billion (1992 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5% (1989 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    2,360,000 kW
  production:
    1.7 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    58 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    food, beverages, chemicals (fertilizer, soap, paints), petroleum products,
    textiles, nonmetallic mineral products (cement, glass, asbestos), tobacco
                                   Mozambique
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 50% of GDP and about 90% of exports; cash crops - cotton,
    cashew nuts, sugarcane, tea, shrimp; other crops - cassava, corn, rice,
    tropical fruits; not self-sufficient in food
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $350 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $4.4 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $37 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $890
    million
Currency:
    1 metical (Mt) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    meticais (Mt) per US$1 - 5,220.63 (1st quarter 1994), 3,874.24 (1993),
    2,550.40 (1992), 1,763.99 (1991), 1,053.09 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                   Mozambique
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,288 km
  narrow gauge:
    3,140 km 1.067-m gauge; 148 km 0.762-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    26,498 km
  paved:
    4,593 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, stabilized earth 829 km; unimproved earth 21,076 km
Inland waterways:
    about 3,750 km of navigable routes
Pipelines:
    crude oil (not operating) 306 km; petroleum products 289 km
Ports:
    Beira, Inhambane, Maputo, Nacala, Pemba
Merchant marine:
  total:
    3 cargo ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 4,533 GRT/8,024 DWT
Airports:
    192
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    11
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    5
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    112
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    15
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    44
Note:
  note:
    highway traffic impeded by land mines not removed at end of civil war
                                   Mozambique
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephone density; fair system of troposcatter, open-wire lines, and
    radio relay
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay and tropospheric scatter
  international:
    5 INTELSAT (2 Atlantic Ocean and 3 Indian Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 29, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                                   Mozambique
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Naval Command, Air and Air Defense Forces, Militia; note - by late
    1994, the army and former RENAMO rebels had demobilized; under UN
    supervision and training, recruits from both the army and rebel forces
    joined an integrated force that is still forming
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 4,061,109; males fit for military service 2,331,793 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $110 million, 7.3% of GDP (1993)
2?4?4?
Navassa Island
NAMIBIA - Passport, onward/return ticket and proof of sufficient funds
required.  Visa not required for tourist or business stay up to 90
days. Consult Embassy of Namibia, 1605 New Hampshire Ave., N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20009 (202/986-0540) for further information on entry requirements.
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Namibia
============================================================
Namibia - Consular Information Sheet
 January 31, 1995
Country Description:  Namibia is a southern African country with a
moderately developed economy.  Facilities for tourism are available.
 Roads are generally very good, although care should be taken to
avoid hitting wandering wildlife, especially at night.
Entry Requirements:  A passport, an onward/return ticket and proof
of sufficient funds are required for entrance into Namibia.  A visa
is not required for tourist or business visits of 90 days or less;
however, visitors must be processed through immigration at a legal
port of entry within 24 hours if the actual point of entry is not
staffed by an immigration official.  The following airports are
considered legal ports of entry for the purpose of complying with
this requirement:  Windhoek International, Eros Suburban,
Keetmanshoop, Oranjemund, Ross Pinah, Ondangwa, Oshakati,
Grootfontein, Mpacha, Rundu, and Rooikop.  Travelers can obtain
further information from the Embassy of Namibia at 1605 New
Hampshire Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009, telephone (202)
986-0540, or from the Permanent Mission of Namibia to the U.N. at
135 E. 36th St., New York, NY 10016, telephone [phone], fax
[phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are relatively modern,
especially in the city of Windhoek.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health care services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment of
medical services outside the United States.  In some cases,
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas and medical
evacuation coverage has proven useful.  For additional health
information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease Control's
international travelers hotline [phone].
Crime Information:  Some petty crime occurs.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local
police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The pamphlets,
"A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa,"
provide useful information on protecting personal security while
traveling abroad and on travel in the region in general.  Both are
available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Driving:  Visitors should refrain from driving off the main roads
in the northern part of the country, where unexploded landmines
continue to pose a threat.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in
Windhoek can obtain updated information on travel and security in
Namibia.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 14 Lossen Street
in Windhoek.  The mailing address is Private Bag 12029, Windhoek
9000, Namibia.  The telephone number is (264-61) 22-1601, and the
fax number is (264-61) 22-9792.
 No. 95-012
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated December 8,
1993, to update
information on entry requirements, medical facilities and driving.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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+                                       Namibia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Angola and
    South Africa
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    825,418 sq km
  land area:
    825,418 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than half the size of Alaska
Land boundaries:
    total 3,824 km, Angola 1,376 km, Botswana 1,360 km, South Africa 855 km,
    Zambia 233 km
Coastline:
    1,572 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    short section of boundary with Botswana is indefinite; quadripoint with
    Botswana, Zambia, and Zimbabwe is in disagreement; dispute with Botswana
    over uninhabited Kasikili ( Sidudu) Island in Linyanti (Chobe) River
    remained unresolved in mid-February 1995 and the parties agreed to refer the
    matter to the International Court of Justice;
Climate:
    desert; hot, dry; rainfall sparse and erratic
Terrain:
    mostly high plateau; Namib Desert along coast; Kalahari Desert in east
Natural resources:
    diamonds, copper, uranium, gold, lead, tin, lithium, cadmium, zinc, salt,
    vanadium, natural gas, fish; suspected deposits of oil, natural gas, coal,
    iron ore
Land use:
  arable land:
    1%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    64%
  forest and woodland:
    22%
  other:
    13%
Irrigated land:
    40 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    very limited natural fresh water resources; desertification
  natural hazards:
    prolonged periods of drought
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection;
    signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change
                                     Namibia
                                     People
Population:
    1,651,545 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    47% (female 384,885; male 394,216)
  15-64 years:
    50% (female 414,283; male 405,938)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 26,783; male 25,440) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.44% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    43.04 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.61 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    59.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    62.1 years
  male:
    59.37 years
  female:
    64.9 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.34 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Namibian(s)
  adjective:
    Namibian
Ethnic divisions:
    black 86%, white 6.6%, mixed 7.4%
  note:
    about 50% of the population belong to the Ovambo tribe and 9% to the
    Kavangos tribe; other ethnic groups include (with approximate share of total
    population): Herero 7%, Damara 7%, Nama 5%, Caprivian 4%, Bushmen 3%, Baster
    2%, Tswana 0.5%
Religions:
    80%-90% Christian (50% Lutheran; at least 30% other Christian denominations)
Languages:
    English 7% (official), Afrikaans common language of most of the population
    and about 60% of the white population, German 32%, indigenous languages:
    Oshivambo, Herero, Nama
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1960)
  total population:
    38%
  male:
    45%
  female:
    31%
Labor force:
    500,000
  by occupation:
    agriculture 60%, industry and commerce 19%, services 8%, government 7%,
    mining 6% (1981 est.)
                                     Namibia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Namibia
  conventional short form:
    Namibia
Digraph:
    WA
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Windhoek
Administrative divisions:
    13 districts; Erongo, Hardap, Karas, Khomas, Kunene, Caprivi (Liambezi),
    Ohangwena, Okavango, Omaheke, Omusati, Oshana, Oshikoto, Otjozondjupa
Independence:
    21 March 1990 (from South African mandate)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 21 March (1990)
Constitution:
    ratified 9 February 1990; effective 12 March 1990
Legal system:
    based on Roman-Dutch law and 1990 constitution
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Sam NUJOMA (since 21 March 1990); election last held 7-8 December
    1994 (next to be held NA); results - Sam NUJOMA elected president by popular
    vote
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president from the National Assembly
Legislative branch:
    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); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (72 total) SWAPO 53, DTA 15, UDF 2, MAG
    1, DCN 1
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    South West Africa People's Organization (SWAPO), Sam NUJOMA; DTA of Namibia
    (formerly Democratic Turnhalle Alliance) (DTA), Mishake MUYONGO; United
    Democratic Front (UDF), Justus GAROEB; Federal Convention of Namibia (FCN),
    Kephics CONRUDIE; Monitor Action Group (MAG), Kosie PRETORIUS; Workers
    Revolutionary Party (WRP); Southwest African National Union (SWANU), Hitjevi
    VEII; Democratic Coalition of Namibia (DCN), Moses KATJIUONGA
Other political or pressure groups:
    NA
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, FLS, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IFAD,
    IFC, IFRCS (associate), ILO, IMF, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL,
    IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM, OAU, SACU, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR,
    UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO
                                     Namibia
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Tuliameni KALOMOH
  chancery:
    1605 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Marshall F. McCALLIE
  embassy:
    Ausplan Building, 14 Lossen St., Windhoek
  mailing address:
    Private Bag 12029 Ausspannplatz, Windhoek
  telephone:
    [264] (61) 221601
  FAX:
    [264] (61) 229792
Flag:
    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
                                     Namibia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy is heavily dependent on the mining industry to extract and
    process minerals for export. Mining accounts for almost 25% of GDP. Namibia
    is the fourth-largest exporter of nonfuel minerals in Africa and the world's
    fifth-largest producer of uranium. Alluvial diamond deposits are among the
    richest in the world, making Namibia a primary source for gem-quality
    diamonds. Namibia also produces large quantities of lead, zinc, tin, silver,
    and tungsten. More than half the population depends on agriculture (largely
    subsistence agriculture) for its livelihood. Namibia must import some of its
    food.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $5.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5.8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,600 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    11% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    35% in urban areas (1993 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $941 million
  expenditures:
    $1.05 billion, including capital expenditures of $157 million (FY93/94)
Exports:
    $1.3 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    diamonds, copper, gold, zinc, lead, uranium, cattle, processed fish, karakul
    skins
  partners:
    Switzerland, South Africa, Germany, Japan
Imports:
    $1.1 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, petroleum products and fuel, machinery and equipment
  partners:
    South Africa, Germany, US, Switzerland
External debt:
    about $385 million (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -14% (1993); accounts for 30% of GDP, including mining
Electricity:
  capacity:
    406,000 kW
  production:
    1.29 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    658 kWh (1991)
Industries:
    meat packing, fish processing, dairy products, mining (copper, lead, zinc,
    diamond, uranium)
Agriculture:
    accounts for 10% of GDP; livestock raising major source of cash income;
    crops - millet, sorghum, peanuts; fish catch potential of over 1 million
    metric tons not being fulfilled
                                     Namibia
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-87),
    $47.2 million
Currency:
    1 South African rand (R) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    South African rand (R) per US$1 - 3.539 (January 1995), 3.5489 (1994),
    3.2678 (1993), 2.8497 (1992), 2.7653 (1991), 2.5863 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                                     Namibia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,341 km (single track)
  narrow gauge:
    2,341 km 1.067-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    54,500 km
  paved:
    4,080 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 2,540 km; earth 47,880 km (roads and tracks)
Ports:
    Luderitz, Walvis Bay
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    135
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    14
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    20
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    23
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    70
                                     Namibia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    62,800 telephones; telephone density - 38/1,000 persons
  local:
    good urban services
  intercity:
    fair rural service; microwave radio relay links major towns; connections to
    other populated places are by open wire
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 4, FM 40, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    3
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Namibia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    National Defense Force (Army), Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 348,380; males fit for military service 206,684 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $54 million, 2% of GDP (FY93/94)
Nepal
NAURU - Passport, visa, onward/return ticket and sponsorship from a
resident in Nauru required.  For more information contact Consulate of
the Republic of Nauru in Guam, P.O. Box Am, Agana, Guam 96910
(671/649-8300).
Nauru - Consular Information Sheet
July 15, 1994
Country Description:  Nauru is a constitutional republic with a
parliamentary system of government.  Its economy is based on the export of
phosphates.  Tourist facilities are available on a limited basis.  Yaren,
the capital, has an international airport.
Entry Requirements:  Passports, visas, and onward/return tickets are
required.  Further specific information is available from the Consulate of
the Republic of Nauru, First Floor, ADA Professional Building, Marine Drive,
in Agana, Guam.  The telephone number is [phone], with the mailing
address P.O. Box A.M., Agana, Guam, 96910.
Medical Facilities:  Health care facilities in the Republic of Nauru are
adequate for routine medical problems.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid outside the United States.  Supplemental Medical insurance which
specifically covers overseas treatment has proven to be useful to travelers.
 The International Travelers' Hotline of the Centers for Disease Control,
telephone number [phone] has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  The crime rate in the Republic of Nauru is low.  The
loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe
Trip Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use, or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy in Suva, Fiji can
obtain up-to-date information on travel and security in Nauru.
Embassy Location:  There is no U.S. Embassy or other diplomatic post in
Nauru.  Assistance for U.S. citizens is available at the U.S. Embassy in
Fiji located at 31 Loftus Street in the capital city of Suva.  The telephone
number is: (679) 314-466.
No. 94-115
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 16, 1993, reissued
without change following an annual review.
                                         Nauru
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, south of the Marshall Islands
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    21 sq km
  land area:
    21 sq km
  comparative area:
    about one-tenth the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    30 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; monsoonal; rainy season (November to February)
Terrain:
    sandy beach rises to fertile ring around raised coral reefs with phosphate
    plateau in center
Natural resources:
    phosphates
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    limited natural fresh water resources, roof storage tanks collect rainwater;
    phosphate mining threatens limited remaining land resources
  natural hazards:
    periodic droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Marine Dumping; signed, but not
    ratified - Law of the Sea
Note:
    Nauru 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
    Polynesia; only 53 km south of Equator
                                      Nauru
                                     People
Population:
    10,149 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    1.33% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    18.03 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.1 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.4 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    40.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    66.68 years
  male:
    64.3 years
  female:
    69.18 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.08 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Nauruan(s)
  adjective:
    Nauruan
Ethnic divisions:
    Nauruan 58%, other Pacific Islander 26%, Chinese 8%, European 8%
Religions:
    Christian (two-thirds Protestant, one-third Roman Catholic)
Languages:
    Nauruan (official; a distinct Pacific Island language), English widely
    understood, spoken, and used for most government and commercial purposes
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
  by occupation:
    NA
                                      Nauru
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Nauru
  conventional short form:
    Nauru
  former:
    Pleasant Island
Digraph:
    NR
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    no official capital; government offices in Yaren District
Administrative divisions:
    14 districts; Aiwo, Anabar, Anetan, Anibare, Baiti, Boe, Buada, Denigomodu,
    Ewa, Ijuw, Meneng, Nibok, Uaboe, Yaren
Independence:
    31 January 1968 (from the Australia, New Zealand, and UK-administered UN
    trusteeship)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 31 January (1968)
Constitution:
    29 January 1968
Legal system:
    own Acts of Parliament and British common law
Suffrage:
    20 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Bernard DOWIYOGO (since 12 December 1989); election last held 19
    November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1995); results - Bernard DOWIYOGO
    elected by Parliament
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president from the parliament
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Parliament:
    elections last held on 14 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1995);
    results - percent of vote NA; seats - (18 total) independents 18
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    none
Member of:
    AsDB, C (special), ESCAP, ICAO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, ITU,
    SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UPU
Diplomatic representation in US:
  consulate(s):
    Agana (Guam)
US diplomatic representation:
    the US Ambassador to Fiji is accredited to Nauru
Flag:
    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 Nauru
                                      Nauru
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Revenues come from the export of phosphates, the reserves of which are
    expected to be exhausted by the year 2000. Phosphates 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 Australia. The rehabilitation of mined land and the replacement of
    income from phosphates are serious long-term problems. Substantial amounts
    of phosphate income are invested in trust funds to help cushion the
    transition.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $100 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $10,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    0%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $69.7 million
  expenditures:
    $51.5 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1986 est.)
Exports:
    $93 million (f.o.b., 1984)
  commodities:
    phosphates
  partners:
    Australia, NZ
Imports:
    $73 million (c.i.f., 1984)
  commodities:
    food, fuel, manufactures, building materials, machinery
  partners:
    Australia, UK, NZ, Japan
External debt:
    $33.3 million
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    14,000 kW
  production:
    30 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,036 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    phosphate mining, financial services, coconut products
Agriculture:
    coconuts; other agricultural activity negligible; almost completely
    dependent on imports for food and water
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries (1970-89), $2 million
Currency:
    1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
                                      Nauru
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3058 (January 1995), 1.3667 (1994),
    1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2834 (1991), 1.2799 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                                      Nauru
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3.9 km; note - used to haul phosphates from the center of the island to
    processing facilities on the southwest coast
Highways:
    27 km
  paved:
    21 km
  unpaved:
    improved earth 6 km
Ports:
    Nauru
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
                                      Nauru
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    1,600 telephones; adequate local and international radio communications
    provided via Australian facilities
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    4,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                                      Nauru
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    no regular armed forces; Directorate of the Nauru Police Force
Defense expenditures:
    $NA; note - no formal defense structure
Netherlands
`    M                                       Navassa Island
Affiliation:
    (territory of the US)
                                   Navassa Island
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, about one-fourth of the way from
    Haiti to Jamaica
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    5.2 sq km
  land area:
    5.2 sq km
  comparative area:
    about nine times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    8 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claimed by Haiti
Climate:
    marine, tropical
Terrain:
    raised coral and limestone plateau, flat to undulating; ringed by vertical
    white cliffs (9 to 15 meters high)
Natural resources:
    guano
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    10%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    90%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    strategic location 160 km south of the US Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay,
    Cuba; mostly exposed rock, but enough grassland to support goat herds; dense
    stands of fig-like trees, scattered cactus
                                 Navassa Island
                                     People
Population:
    uninhabited; note - transient Haitian fishermen and others camp on the
    island
                                 Navassa Island
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Navassa Island
Digraph:
    BQ
Type:
    unincorporated territory of the US administered by the US Coast Guard
Capital:
    none; administered from Washington, DC
                                 Navassa Island
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                                 Navassa Island
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
                                 Navassa Island
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
;^d`d`d
Netherlands Antilles
/NEPAL - Passport and visa required.  Tourist visa for stay up to 30 days
extendable to 3 months.  Single-entry visa  $40, double $70 and
multiple $100 (postal money order), requires 1 application form and 1 photo.
For other types of travel obtain visa in advance.  For additional
information contact Royal Nepalese Embassy, 2131 Leroy Pl., N.W., Washington, D.C.
20008 (202/667-4550) or Consulate General in New York (212/370-4188).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Nepal
============================================================
Nepal - Consular Information Sheet
 December 8, 1995
Country Description:  Nepal is a developing country with extensive
facilities for tourists; facilities vary in quality according to
price and location.
Entry Requirements:  Travelers can obtain information on entry
requirements by contacting the Royal Nepalese Embassy at 2131 Leroy
Place, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone] or the
Consulate General in New York at telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Public demonstrations and strikes are
popular forms of political expression in Nepal and may occur from
time to time on short notice.  These demonstrations are usually
nonviolent and not directed towards foreigners.  During general
strikes, many businesses are closed, and transportation and city
services are sometimes disrupted.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is extremely limited.  Any
serious illness may require evacuation to the nearest adequate
medical facility (usually Bangkok).  Doctors and hospitals expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  In general, U.S.
medical insurance is not valid in Nepal.  Supplemental health
insurance which specifically covers overseas treatment and
evacuation to the nearest adequate medical facility is useful.  The
U.S. Embassy in Nepal warns Embassy employees that some locally
bottled water may be unsafe and suggests drinking only boiled water
or bottled water that has been disinfected (with iodine, chlorine,
etc.).  Additional information on health matters can be obtained
from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international
travelers hotline at [phone].
Information on Crime:  Petty crime, especially theft of personal
property, is common.  While acts of violent crime in Nepal are rare,
several attacks against lone foreign trekkers have been reported.
Sensible precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime include:
traveling in a group, not carrying large sums of cash or leaving
valuable articles unattended, changing money only at
government-sanctioned exchanges, being alert near major tourist
sites and attractions where most pickpocketing incidents occur, and
carrying passports and cash in a protected neck pouch.  The loss or
theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately to
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to South Asia."  They are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the countries in which they are traveling.  Penalties
for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly
enforced.  Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Information on Crime:  In November 1995, unusually severe storms
caused avalanches and landslides that killed foreign trekkers and
their Nepalese guides and stranded hundreds of others.  The U.S.
Embassy in Kathmandu strongly advises all American citizens to
exercise extreme care when trekking at higher altitudes for the
remainder of the season.  Although trails may be clear, trekkers
should be alert to the possibility of avalanches from slopes above.
Many popular trekking routes in Nepal cross passes as high as
18,000 feet.  Trekkers hoping to tackle the Himalaya should have
adequate clothing and equipment (not always available locally) and
should be experienced mountain travelers.  It is not prudent to trek
alone.  Trekking alone has contributed, more than any other factor,
to injuries and deaths.  It is helpful to take an experienced guide
or porter who can communicate in both Nepali and English.  It is
advisable to make sure others know your itinerary and to check in at
police outposts where trekking permits are logged.
Checking on conditions in the high country before leaving Kathmandu
can help to reduce risks.  Both the U.S. Embassy and the Himalayan
Rescue Association are good sources of information about trail
conditions and possible hazards.
Border Areas: There have been sporadic reports of difficulties in
crossing the border from Nepal to Tibet by land.  U.S. citizens
planning to travel into Tibet overland from Nepal may contact the
U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu for current information on the status of
the border crossing points.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens may register at the
U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu and obtain updated information on travel
and security in Nepal.  The Embassy is located at Pani Pokhari in
Kathmandu, telephone [phone], 412718, 410513 or 413836; fax
(977-1) 419963.
 No. 95-159
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 26, 1994,
to add information on periodic strikes and demonstrations and on
health and safety precautions, particularly while trekking.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Nepal
============================================================
Nepal - Consular Information Sheet
 December 8, 1995
Country Description:  Nepal is a developing country with extensive
facilities for tourists; facilities vary in quality according to
price and location.
Entry Requirements:  Travelers can obtain information on entry
requirements by contacting the Royal Nepalese Embassy at 2131 Leroy
Place, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone] or the
Consulate General in New York at telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Public demonstrations and strikes are
popular forms of political expression in Nepal and may occur from
time to time on short notice.  These demonstrations are usually
nonviolent and not directed towards foreigners.  During general
strikes, many businesses are closed, and transportation and city
services are sometimes disrupted.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is extremely limited.  Any
serious illness may require evacuation to the nearest adequate
medical facility (usually Bangkok).  Doctors and hospitals expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  In general, U.S.
medical insurance is not valid in Nepal.  Supplemental health
insurance which specifically covers overseas treatment and
evacuation to the nearest adequate medical facility is useful.  The
U.S. Embassy in Nepal warns Embassy employees that some locally
bottled water may be unsafe and suggests drinking only boiled water
or bottled water that has been disinfected (with iodine, chlorine,
etc.).  Additional information on health matters can be obtained
from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international
travelers hotline at [phone].
Information on Crime:  Petty crime, especially theft of personal
property, is common.  While acts of violent crime in Nepal are rare,
several attacks against lone foreign trekkers have been reported.
Sensible precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime include:
traveling in a group, not carrying large sums of cash or leaving
valuable articles unattended, changing money only at
government-sanctioned exchanges, being alert near major tourist
sites and attractions where most pickpocketing incidents occur, and
carrying passports and cash in a protected neck pouch.  The loss or
theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately to
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to South Asia."  They are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the countries in which they are traveling.  Penalties
for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly
enforced.  Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Information on Crime:  In November 1995, unusually severe storms
caused avalanches and landslides that killed foreign trekkers and
their Nepalese guides and stranded hundreds of others.  The U.S.
Embassy in Kathmandu strongly advises all American citizens to
exercise extreme care when trekking at higher altitudes for the
remainder of the season.  Although trails may be clear, trekkers
should be alert to the possibility of avalanches from slopes above.
Many popular trekking routes in Nepal cross passes as high as
18,000 feet.  Trekkers hoping to tackle the Himalaya should have
adequate clothing and equipment (not always available locally) and
should be experienced mountain travelers.  It is not prudent to trek
alone.  Trekking alone has contributed, more than any other factor,
to injuries and deaths.  It is helpful to take an experienced guide
or porter who can communicate in both Nepali and English.  It is
advisable to make sure others know your itinerary and to check in at
police outposts where trekking permits are logged.
Checking on conditions in the high country before leaving Kathmandu
can help to reduce risks.  Both the U.S. Embassy and the Himalayan
Rescue Association are good sources of information about trail
conditions and possible hazards.
Border Areas: There have been sporadic reports of difficulties in
crossing the border from Nepal to Tibet by land.  U.S. citizens
planning to travel into Tibet overland from Nepal may contact the
U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu for current information on the status of
the border crossing points.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens may register at the
U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu and obtain updated information on travel
and security in Nepal.  The Embassy is located at Pani Pokhari in
Kathmandu, telephone [phone], 412718, 410513 or 413836; fax
(977-1) 419963.
 No. 95-159
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 26, 1994,
to add information on periodic strikes and demonstrations and on
health and safety precautions, particularly while trekking.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
@2*2                                          Nepal
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Asia, between China and India
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    140,800 sq km
  land area:
    136,800 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Arkansas
Land boundaries:
    total 2,926 km, China 1,236 km, India 1,690 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    varies from cool summers and severe winters in north to subtropical summers
    and mild winters in south
Terrain:
    Terai or flat river plain of the Ganges in south, central hill region,
    rugged Himalayas in north
Natural resources:
    quartz, water, timber, hydroelectric potential, scenic beauty, small
    deposits of lignite, copper, cobalt, iron ore
Land use:
  arable land:
    17%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    13%
  forest and woodland:
    33%
  other:
    37%
Irrigated land:
    9,430 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    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 pollution (use of contaminated water
    presents human health risks)
  natural hazards:
    severe thunderstorms, flooding, landslides, drought, and famine depending on
    the timing, intensity, and duration of the summer monsoons
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Nuclear Test
    Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not
    ratified - Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation
Note:
    landlocked; strategic location between China and India; contains eight of
    world's 10 highest peaks
                                      Nepal
                                     People
Population:
    21,560,869 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    43% (female 4,479,950; male 4,692,575)
  15-64 years:
    55% (female 5,778,107; male 5,994,147)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 305,502; male 310,588) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.44% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    37.31 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.9 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    81.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    53.09 years
  male:
    52.86 years
  female:
    53.34 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.15 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Nepalese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Nepalese
Ethnic divisions:
    Newars, Indians, Tibetans, Gurungs, Magars, Tamangs, Bhotias, Rais, Limbus,
    Sherpas
Religions:
    Hindu 90%, Buddhist 5%, Muslim 3%, other 2% (1981)
  note:
    only official Hindu state in world, although no sharp distinction between
    many Hindu and Buddhist groups
Languages:
    Nepali (official), 20 languages divided into numerous dialects
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    26%
  male:
    38%
  female:
    13%
Labor force:
    8.5 million (1991 est.)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 93%, services 5%, industry 2%
  note:
    severe lack of skilled labor
                                      Nepal
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of Nepal
  conventional short form:
    Nepal
Digraph:
    NP
Type:
    parliamentary democracy as of 12 May 1991
Capital:
    Kathmandu
Administrative divisions:
    14 zones (anchal, singular and plural); Bagmati, Bheri, Dhawalagiri,
    Gandaki, Janakpur, Karnali, Kosi, Lumbini, Mahakali, Mechi, Narayani, Rapti,
    Sagarmatha, Seti
Independence:
    1768 (unified by Prithvi Narayan Shah)
National holiday:
    Birthday of His Majesty the King, 28 December (1945)
Constitution:
    9 November 1990
Legal system:
    based on Hindu legal concepts and English common law; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Man Mohan ADHIKARI (since 30 November 1994)
  chief of state:
    King BIRENDRA Bir Bikram Shah Dev (since 31 January 1972, crowned King 24
    February 1985); Heir Apparent Crown Prince DIPENDRA Bir Bikram Shah Dev, son
    of the King (born 21 June 1971)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the king on recommendation of the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Parliament
  National Council:
    consists of a 60-member body, 50 appointed by House of Representatives and
    10 by the King
  House of Representatives:
    elections last held on 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; note - the new Constitution of 9 November 1990 gave
    Nepal a multiparty democracy system for the first time in 32 years
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Sarbochha Adalat)
Political parties and leaders:
    Communist Party of Nepal/United Marxist and Leninist (CPN/UML), Prime
    Minister Man Mohan ADHIKARI, Deputy Prime Minister Madhav Kumar NEPAL;
    Nepali Congress Party (NCP), president Krishna Prasad BHATTARAI, former
    Prime Minister Girija Prasad KOIRALA, Leader of the Opposition Sher Bahadur
    DEUBA; National Democratic Party (NDP), Surya Bahadur THAPA; Terai Rights
    Sadbhavana (Goodwill) Party, Gajendra Narayan SINGH; United People's Front
    (UPF), Niranjan Govinda BAIDYA; Nepal Workers and Peasants Party (NWPP),
    Narayan Man BIJUKCHHE; Communist Party of Nepal (Democratic-Manandhar), B.
    B. MANANDHAR
                                      Nepal
                                   Government
Other political or pressure groups:
    numerous small, left-leaning student groups in the capital; several small,
    radical Nepalese antimonarchist groups
Member of:
    AsDB, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS,
    ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM,
    SAARC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNOSOM, UNPROFOR, UPU, WFTU, WHO,
    WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires ad interim Pradeep KHATIWADA
  chancery:
    2131 Leroy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Sandra L. VOGELGESANG
  embassy:
    Pani Pokhari, Kathmandu
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [977] (1) 411179
  FAX:
    [977] (1) 419963
Flag:
    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
                                      Nepal
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Nepal is among the poorest and least developed countries in the world.
    Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy, providing a livelihood for over
    90% of the population and accounting for half of GDP. Industrial activity is
    limited, mainly involving the processing of agricultural produce (jute,
    sugarcane, tobacco, 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 encouraging trade and foreign investment, e.g., by
    eliminating business licenses and registration requirements in order to
    simplify domestic and foreign investment. The government also has been
    cutting public expenditures by reducing subsidies, privatizing state
    industries, and laying off civil servants. Prospects for foreign trade and
    investment in the 1990s remain poor, however, because of the small size of
    the economy, its technological backwardness, its remoteness, and
    susceptibility to natural disaster. The international community provides
    funding for 70% of Nepal's developmental budget and for 30% of total
    budgetary expenditures. The government, realizing that attempts to reverse
    three years of liberalization would jeopardize this vital support, almost
    certainly will move ahead with its reform program in 1995-96.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $22.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,060 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    9.6% (June 1994)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%; note - there is substantial underemployment (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $455 million
  expenditures:
    $854 million, including capital expenditures of $427 million (FY93/94 est.)
Exports:
    $593 million (f.o.b., 1993) but does not include unrecorded border trade
    with India
  commodities:
    carpets, clothing, leather goods, jute goods, grain
  partners:
    India, US, Germany, UK
Imports:
    $899 million (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    petroleum products 20%, fertilizer 11%, machinery 10%
  partners:
    India, Singapore, Japan, Germany
External debt:
    $2 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    NA
Electricity:
  capacity:
    280,000 kW
                                      Nepal
                                     Economy
  production:
    920 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    41 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    small rice, jute, sugar, and oilseed mills; cigarette, textile, carpet,
    cement, and brick production; tourism
Agriculture:
    rice, corn, wheat, sugarcane, root crops, milk, buffalo meat; not
    self-sufficient in food, particularly in drought years
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of cannabis for the domestic and international drug
    markets; transit point for heroin from Southeast Asia to the West
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $304 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1980-89), $2.23 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $30 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $286
    million
Currency:
    1 Nepalese rupee (NR) = 100 paisa
Exchange rates:
    Nepalese rupees (NRs) per US$1 - 49.884 (January 1995), 49.398 (1994),
    48.607 (1993), 42.742 (1992), 37.255 (1991), 29.370 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    16 July - 15 July
                                      Nepal
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    101 km; note - all in Terai close to Indian border
  narrow gauge:
    101 km 0.762-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    7,400 km
  paved:
    3,000 km
  unpaved:
    4,400 km
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    44
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    28
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    10
                                      Nepal
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    50,000 telephones (1990); poor telephone and telegraph service; fair radio
    communication service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    international radio communication service is fair; 1 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean)
    earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 88, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                                      Nepal
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Royal Nepalese Army, Royal Nepalese Army Air Service, Nepalese Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 5,163,703; males fit for military service 2,682,284; males
    reach military age (17) annually 247,978 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $36 million, 1.2% of GDP (FY92/93)
KRGTGTG
New Caledonia
NETHERLANDS - Passport required.  Visa not required for
tourist/business visit up to 90 days.  Tourists may be asked to show onward/return
ticket or proof of sufficient funds for stay.  For further information contact
Embassy of the Netherlands, 4200 Linnean Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C.
20008  (202/244-5300) or nearest Consulate General:  CA (213/380-3440),
IL (312/856-0110), NY (212/246-1429) or TX (713/622-8000).
Netherlands - Consular Information Sheet
October 24, 1994
Country Description:  The Netherlands is a highly developed, stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not required for
tourist or business stays up to 90 days.  For further information concerning
entry requirements for the Netherlands, travelers can contact the Embassy of
the Netherlands at 4200 Linnean Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel.
[phone], or the nearest Dutch Consulate General in Chicago, Houston,
Los Angeles, or New York.
Customs:  Regulations strictly prohibit the importation of items made from
animals or plants protected under the Convention on International Trade of
Endangered Species.  This includes, for example, clothing made of animal fur
or skin.  Travelers should contact the Embassy of the Netherlands or the
nearest Dutch Consulate General to obtain specific information about
specific items.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are widely available.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  Travelers have
found that in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proved to be useful.  Further information on health
matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline, tel. [phone].
Crime Information:  The Netherlands has a low, but rising, violent crime
rate, little or none of which is directed at tourists.  Nevertheless,
visitors to Amsterdam, Rotterdam, the Hague, and other areas may become
targets of pickpockets, bag snatchers, and other petty thieves.  Thieves in
Amsterdam are most active in and around the central train station, the red
light district, in restaurants, on public transportation, and in other
tourist areas of the city.  Thefts of bicycles and of personal belongings
from automobiles, especially car stereos, are very common throughout the
Netherlands.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  U.S.
citizens can refer to the Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip
Abroad" for ways to promote a more trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is
available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  The Netherlands enforces strict penalties for
drug possession and trafficking.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who intend to remain in the Netherlands for
more than a few weeks may register at the Consulate General in Amsterdam,
where all American citizens can obtain updated information on travel and
security in the Netherlands.  The U.S. Embassy in the Hague provides no
consular services.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in the Netherlands is
located in The Hague, at Lange Voorhout 102; telephone [phone].
All requests for consular assistance should be directed to the Consulate
General in Amsterdam at Museumplein 19, telephone (31) (20) 664-5661 or (31)
(20) 679-0321, and fax (31) (20) 575-5310.  The after-hours emergency
telephone number is (31) (20) 310-9499.
No. 94-244
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 29, 1993 to update
information on crime and the Consulate General telephone numbers.
5                                     Netherlands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Europe, bordering the North Sea, between Belgium and Germany
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    37,330 sq km
  land area:
    33,920 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of New Jersey
Land boundaries:
    total 1,027 km, Belgium 450 km, Germany 577 km
Coastline:
    451 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate; marine; cool summers and mild winters
Terrain:
    mostly coastal lowland and reclaimed land (polders); some hills in southeast
Natural resources:
    natural gas, petroleum, fertile soil
Land use:
  arable land:
    26%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    32%
  forest and woodland:
    9%
  other:
    32%
Irrigated land:
    5,500 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution in the form of heavy metals, organic compounds, and
    nutrients such as nitrates and phosphates; air pollution from vehicles and
    refining activities; acid rain
  natural hazards:
    the extensive system of dikes and dams, protects nearly one-half of the
    total area from being flooded
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds,
    Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate
    Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes,
    Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed,
    but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Biodiversity, Desertification,
    Law of the Sea
                                   Netherlands
                                    Geography
Note:
    located at mouths of three major European rivers (Rhine, Maas or Meuse, and
    Schelde)
                                   Netherlands
                                     People
Population:
    15,452,903 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    18% (female 1,382,057; male 1,445,451)
  15-64 years:
    68% (female 5,184,224; male 5,369,018)
  65 years and over:
    14% (female 1,238,336; male 833,817) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.52% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    12.42 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.48 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    1.29 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.95 years
  male:
    74.9 years
  female:
    81.17 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.56 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Dutchman(men), Dutchwoman(women)
  adjective:
    Dutch
Ethnic divisions:
    Dutch 96%, Moroccans, Turks, and other 4% (1988)
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 34%, Protestant 25%, Muslim 3%, other 2%, unaffiliated 36%
    (1991)
Languages:
    Dutch
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1979 est.)
  total population:
    99%
Labor force:
    6.4 million (1993)
  by occupation:
    services 71.4%, manufacturing and construction 24.6%, agriculture 4.0%
    (1992)
                                   Netherlands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of the Netherlands
  conventional short form:
    Netherlands
  local long form:
    Koninkrijk de Nederlanden
  local short form:
    Nederland
Digraph:
    NL
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Amsterdam; The Hague is the seat of government
Administrative divisions:
    12 provinces (provincien, singular - provincie); Drenthe, Flevoland,
    Friesland, Gelderland, Groningen, Limburg, Noord-Brabant, Noord-Holland,
    Overijssel, Utrecht, Zeeland, Zuid-Holland
Dependent areas:
    Aruba, Netherlands Antilles
Independence:
    1579 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Queen's Day, 30 April (1938)
Constitution:
    17 February 1983
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen BEATRIX Wilhelmina Armgard (since 30 April 1980); Heir Apparent
    WILLEM-ALEXANDER, Prince of Orange, son of Queen Beatrix (born 27 April
    1967)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Willem (Wim) KOK (since 22 August 1994); Vice Prime Minister
    Hans DIJKSTAL and Hans VAN MIERLO (since 22 August 1994)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    bicameral legislature (Staten Generaal)
  First Chamber (Eerste Kamer):
    members indirectly elected by the country's 12 provincial councils for
    four-year terms; elections last held 9 June l991 (next to be held 9 June
    1995); 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 on 3 May
    1994 (next to be held in May 1999); 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (De Hoge Raad)
                                   Netherlands
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA), Hans HELGERS; Labor (PvdA), Wim KOK;
    Liberal (VVD - People's Party for Freedom and Democracy), Frits BOLKESTEIN;
    Democrats '66 (D'66), Hans van MIERLO; a host of minor parties
Other political or pressure groups:
    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)
Member of:
    AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, Benelux, BIS, CCC, CE, CERN,
    EBRD, EC, ECE, ECLAC, EIB, ESA, ESCAP, FAO, G-10, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MTCR, NACC, NAM (guest), NATO, NEA,
    NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OSCE, PCA, UN, UNAVEM II, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR,
    UNIDO, UNITAR, UNOMOZ, UNOMUR, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WEU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Adriaan JACOBOVITS DE SZEGED
  chancery:
    4200 Linnean Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Kirk Terry DORNBUSH
  embassy:
    Lange Voorhout 102, 2514 EJ The Hague
  mailing address:
    PSC 71, Box 1000, the Hague; APO AE 09715
  telephone:
    [31] (70) 310-9209
  FAX:
    [31] (70) 361-4688
  consulate(s) general:
    Amsterdam
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and blue; similar to the
    flag of Luxembourg, which uses a lighter blue and is longer
                                   Netherlands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 France. 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 integration.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $275.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $17,940 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.5% (December 1994)
Unemployment rate:
    8.8% (December 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $109.9 billion
  expenditures:
    $122.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $153 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    metal products, chemicals, processed food and tobacco, agricultural products
  partners:
    EC 77% (Germany 27%, Belgium-Luxembourg 15%, UK 10%), Central and Eastern
    Europe 10%, US 4% (1991)
Imports:
    $137 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    raw materials and semifinished products, consumer goods, transportation
    equipment, crude oil, food products
  partners:
    EC 64% (Germany 26%, Belgium-Luxembourg 14%, UK 8%), US 8% (1991)
External debt:
    $0
Industrial production:
    growth rate -1.5% (1993 est.); accounts for 25% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    17,520,000 kW
  production:
    72.4 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    5,100 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    agroindustries, metal and engineering products, electrical machinery and
    equipment, chemicals, petroleum, fishing, construction, microelectronics
                                   Netherlands
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 4.6% of GDP; animal production predominates; crops - grains,
    potatoes, sugar beets, fruits, vegetables; shortages of grain, fats, and
    oils
Illicit drugs:
    important gateway for cocaine, heroin, and hashish entering Europe; European
    producer of illicit amphetamines and other synthetic drugs
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-89), $19.4 billion
Currency:
    1 Netherlands guilder, gulden, or florin (f.) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Netherlands guilders, gulden, or florins (f.) per US$1 - 1.7178 (January
    1995), 1.8200 (1994), 1.8573 (1993), 1.7585 (1992), 1.8697 (1991), 1.8209
    (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                   Netherlands
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,757 km
  standard gauge:
    2,757 km km 1.435-m gauge (1,991 km electrified; 1,800 km double track)
    (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    104,831 km
  paved:
    92,251 km (2,118 km of expressway)
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone 12,580 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    6,340 km, of which 35% is usable by craft of 1,000 metric ton capacity or
    larger
Pipelines:
    crude oil 418 km; petroleum products 965 km; natural gas 10,230 km
Ports:
    Amsterdam, Delfzijl, Dordrecht, Eemshaven, Groningen, Haarlem, Ijmuiden,
    Maastricht, Rotterdam, Terneuzen, Utrecht
Merchant marine:
  total:
    343 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,629,578 GRT/3,337,307 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 2, cargo 195, chemical tanker 21, combination bulk 3, container 33,
    liquefied gas tanker 12, livestock carrier 1, multifunction large-load
    carrier 1, oil tanker 37, railcar carrier 1, refrigerated cargo 18,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 14, short-sea passenger 3, specialized tanker 2
  note:
    many Dutch-owned ships are also registered on the Netherlands Antilles
    register
Airports:
  total:
    29
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    9
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    5
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    8
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
                                   Netherlands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    9,418,000 telephones; highly developed, well maintained, and integrated;
    extensive redundant system of multiconductor cables, supplemented by
    microwave radio relay links
  local:
    nationwide mobile phone system
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay
  international:
    5 submarine cables; 3 INTELSAT (1 Indian Ocean and 2 Atlantic Ocean) and 1
    EUTELSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3 (relays 3), FM 12 (repeaters 39), shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    8 (repeaters 7)
  televisions:
    NA
                                   Netherlands
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Royal Netherlands Army, Royal Netherlands Navy (includes Naval Air Service
    and Marine Corps), Royal Netherlands Air Force, Royal Constabulary
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 4,177,555; males fit for military service 3,656,529; males
    reach military age (20) annually 94,771 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $7.1 billion, 2.2% of GDP (1994)
New Zealand
NETHERLANDS ANTILLES -  Islands include Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, Statia,
St. Maarten.  Passport or proof of U.S. citizenship required.  Visa not
required for stay up to 14 days, extendable to 90 days after arrival.
Tourists may be asked to show onward/return ticket or proof of
sufficient funds for stay.  Departure tax $10 when leaving Bonaire and Curacao,
$4 in Statia, $10 in St. Maarten.  For further information consult Embassy of
the Netherlands (202/244-5300), or nearest Consulate General:  CA
(213/380-3440), IL (312/856-0110), NY (212/246-1429) or TX
(713/622-8000).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Netherlands Antilles & Aruba
============================================================
Netherlands Antilles & Aruba - Consular Information Sheet
 August 24, 1995
Country Description:  The Netherlands Antilles and Aruba are
autonomous parts of the kingdom of the Netherlands.  The Netherlands
Antilles include the islands of Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, St.
Eustatius (also known as Statia), and St. Maarten (Dutch side).
Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport or proof of U.S. citizenship is
required.  A visa is not required for a stay of up to 14 days,
extendable to 90 days after arrival.  Tourists may be asked to show
an onward/return ticket or proof of sufficient funds for their stay.
 For further information concerning entry requirements, travelers
can consult the Embassy of the Netherlands, 4200 Wisconsin Avenue
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20016, tel: [phone], or the nearest
Dutch consulate in Los Angeles, Chicago, New York or Houston.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is generally good, but may be
limited in more remote areas.  Doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate payment in cash or by a major credit card for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  In some cases, supplementary medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage has proven to be useful.  For additional
health information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline at (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  For details on specific islands, see below.
For all islands, petty street crime occurs.  Valuables left
unattended on beaches are subject to theft.
Aruba:  Failed land development schemes involving time share
investments and financial losses by foreigners are increasing.
Leasees of vehicle rentals may not be fully covered by local
insurance when a vehicle is stolen.
Bonaire:  Potential investors may wish to seek professional advice
regarding investments involving land development projects.
Curacao:  Street crime has increased.  Burglary is commonplace and
armed robbery occurs.  Car theft, including that of rental vehicles
for joy-riding and stripping, occurs frequently.
St. Maarten:  Burglary and the theft of unguarded personal
belongings in cars--including rental cars--at the beach or on
private boats is common.  Armed robbery is on the rise and is
sometimes accompanied by indiscriminate shooting of the victims.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported to
the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  A birth
certificate and/or driver's license generally cannot be replaced
outside the United States.  U.S. citizens can refer to the
Department of State's pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," which provides
useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad.  Both this pamphlet and "Tips for
Travelers to the Caribbean" are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use, and dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences, possibly in a
very overcrowded prison, and fines.
Aviation Oversight - Netherlands Antilles:  In February 1993, the
U.S Federal Aviation Administration assessed the Netherlands
Antilles' civil aviation authority as not in compliance with
international aviation safety oversight standards for Netherlands
Antilles carriers operating to and from the U.S.  While
consultations to correct the deficiencies are ongoing, air carriers
licensed by the Netherlands Antilles are permitted to conduct
limited operations to the U.S. subject to heightened FAA
surveillance.  The FAA is not providing heightened surveillance for
operations to destinations other than the U.S.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation
at 1 [phone].
Aruba:  As a result of an assessment conducted by the U.S. Federal
Aviation Administration in April 1995, the FAA has found the
Government of Aruba's Civil Aviation Authority to not be in
compliance with international aviation safety standards for
oversight of Aruba air carrier operations.  While consultations to
correct the deficiencies are ongoing, Aruban air carriers are
permitted to conduct limited operations to the U.S. subject to
heightened FAA surveillance.  The FAA is not providing heightened
surveillance for operations to destinations other than the U.S.  For
further information, travelers may contact the Department of
Transportation at 1 800 322-7873.
Consulate Locations/Registration:  U.S. citizens may register with
the Consular Section of the U.S. Consulate General serving the
islands of the Netherlands Antilles  and Aruba, located at J.B.
Gorsiraweg #1, Willemstad, Curacao; telephone [phone].  U.S.
citizens may obtain from the Consulate General updated information
on travel and security in the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba.
 No. 95-101
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated November 7,
1994, to include Aviation Oversight information for Aruba.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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@*$*                              Netherlands Antilles
Affiliation:
    (part of the Dutch realm)
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, two island groups in the Caribbean Sea - one includes Curacao and
    Bonaire north of Venezuela and the other is east of the Virgin Islands
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    960 sq km
  land area:
    960 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 5.5 times the size of Washington, DC
  note:
    includes Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, Sint Eustatius, and Sint Maarten (Dutch
    part of the island of Saint Martin)
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    364 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    12 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; ameliorated by northeast trade winds
Terrain:
    generally hilly, volcanic interiors
Natural resources:
    phosphates (Curacao only), salt (Bonaire only)
Land use:
  arable land:
    8%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    92%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    Curacao and Bonaire are south of Caribbean hurricane belt, so rarely
    threatened; Sint Maarten, Saba, and Sint Eustatius are subject to hurricanes
    from July to October
  international agreements:
    party to - Whaling (extended from Netherlands)
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                     People
Population:
    203,505 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    26% (female 25,349; male 26,577)
  15-64 years:
    67% (female 69,273; male 67,485)
  65 years and over:
    7% (female 8,599; male 6,222) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.06% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    16.23 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.26 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.38 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    76.94 years
  male:
    74.67 years
  female:
    79.33 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.9 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Netherlands Antillean(s)
  adjective:
    Netherlands Antillean
Ethnic divisions:
    mixed African 85%, Carib Indian, European, Latin, Oriental
Religions:
    Roman Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Seventh-Day Adventist
Languages:
    Dutch (official), Papiamento a Spanish-Portuguese-Dutch-English dialect
    predominates, English widely spoken, Spanish
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1981)
  total population:
    98%
  male:
    98%
  female:
    99%
Labor force:
    89,000
  by occupation:
    government 65%, industry and commerce 28% (1983)
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Netherlands Antilles
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Nederlandse Antillen
Digraph:
    NT
Type:
    part of the Dutch realm; full autonomy in internal affairs granted in 1954
Capital:
    Willemstad
Administrative divisions:
    none (part of the Dutch realm)
Independence:
    none (part of the Dutch realm)
National holiday:
    Queen's Day, 30 April (1938)
Constitution:
    29 December 1954, Statute of the Realm of the Netherlands, as amended
Legal system:
    based on Dutch civil law system, with some English common law influence
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen BEATRIX Wilhelmina Armgard (since 30 April 1980), represented by
    Governor General Jaime SALEH (since NA October 1989)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Miguel POURIER (since 25 February 1994)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed with the advice and approval of the
    unicameral legislature
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Staten:
    elections last held on 25 February 1994 (next to be held 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
  note:
    the government of Prime Minister Miguel POURIER is a coalition of several
    parties
Judicial branch:
    Joint High Court of Justice
Political parties and leaders:
    political parties are indigenous to each island
  Bonaire:
    Patriotic Union of Bonaire (UPB), Rudy ELLIS; Democratic Party of Bonaire
    (PDB), Franklin CRESTIAN
  Curacao:
    Antillean Restructuring Party (PAR), Miguel POURIER; National People's Party
    (PNP), Maria LIBERIA-PETERS; New Antilles 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
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                   Government
  Saba:
    Windward Islands People's Movement (WIPM Saba), Will JOHNSON; Saba
    Democratic Labor Movement, Vernon HASSELL; Saba Unity Party, Carmen SIMMONDS
  Sint Eustatius:
    Democratic Party of Sint Eustatius (DP-St.E), K. Van PUTTEN; Windward
    Islands People's Movement (WIPM); St. Eustatius Alliance (SEA), Ralph BERKEL
  Sint Maarten:
    Democratic Party of Sint Maarten (DP-St.M), Claude WATHEY; Patriotic
    Movement of Sint Maarten (SPA), Vance JAMES
Member of:
    CARICOM (observer), ECLAC (associate), ICFTU, INTERPOL, IOC, UNESCO
    (associate), UPU, WMO, WTO (associate)
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (self-governing part of the Netherlands)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Consul General Bernard J. WOERZ
  consulate(s) general:
    Saint Anna Boulevard 19, Willemstad, Curacao
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 158, Willemstad, Curacao
  telephone:
    [599] (9) 61-3066
  FAX:
    [599] (9) 61-6489
Flag:
    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 Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, Sint Eustatius, and Sint
    Maarten
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Tourism and offshore finance are the mainstays of the economy. The islands
    enjoy a high per capita income and a well-developed infrastructure 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $1.85 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    1.8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $10,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.5% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    13.4% (1993 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $209 million
  expenditures:
    $232 million, including capital expenditures of $8 million (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $240 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    petroleum products 98%
  partners:
    US 39%, Brazil 9%, Colombia 6%
Imports:
    $1.2 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    crude petroleum 64%, food, manufactures
  partners:
    Venezuela 26%, US 18%, Colombia 6%, Netherlands 6%, Japan 5%
External debt:
    $672 million (December 1991)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    200,000 kW
  production:
    810 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    4,054 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tourism (Curacao and Sint Maarten), petroleum refining (Curacao), petroleum
    transshipment facilities (Curacao and Bonaire), light manufacturing
    (Curacao)
Agriculture:
    chief products - aloes, sorghum, peanuts, vegetables, tropical fruit
Illicit drugs:
    money-laundering center; transshipment point for South American cocaine and
    marijuana bound for the US and Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89),
    $513 million
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 Netherlands Antillean guilder, gulden, or florin (NAf.) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Netherlands Antillean guilders, gulden, or florins (NAf.) per US$1 - 1.79
    (fixed rate since 1989; 1.80 fixed rate 1971-88)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    950 km
  paved:
    300 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, earth 650 km
Ports:
    Kralendijk, Philipsburg, Willemstad
Merchant marine:
  total:
    110 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,044,553 GRT/1,343,842 DWT
  ships by type:
    barge carrier 1, bulk 2, cargo 36, chemical tanker 6, combination ore/oil 1,
    liquefied gas tanker 4, multifunction large-load carrier 20, oil tanker 2,
    passenger 4, refrigerated cargo 27, roll-on/roll-off cargo 7
Airports:
  total:
    5
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; generally adequate facilities
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    extensive interisland microwave radio relay links
  international:
    2 submarine cables; 2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 9, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Royal Netherlands Navy, Marine Corps, Royal Netherlands Air Force, National
    Guard, Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 56,058; males fit for military service 31,558; males reach
    military age (20) annually 1,734 (1995 est.)
Note:
    defense is responsibility of the Netherlands
Nicaragua
$                                 New Caledonia
Affiliation:
    (overseas territory of France)
                                 New Caledonia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Australia
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    19,060 sq km
  land area:
    18,760 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than New Jersey
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    2,254 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; modified by southeast trade winds; hot, humid
Terrain:
    coastal plains with interior mountains
Natural resources:
    nickel, chrome, iron, cobalt, manganese, silver, gold, lead, copper
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    14%
  forest and woodland:
    51%
  other:
    35%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    typhoons most frequent from November to March
  international agreements:
    NA
                                  New Caledonia
                                     People
Population:
    184,552 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    31% (female 27,712; male 28,677)
  15-64 years:
    64% (female 58,462; male 60,169)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 4,997; male 4,535) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.75% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    22.04 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.9 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.4 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    14.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    74.02 years
  male:
    70.73 years
  female:
    77.48 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.57 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    New Caledonian(s)
  adjective:
    New Caledonian
Ethnic divisions:
    Melanesian 42.5%, European 37.1%, Wallisian 8.4%, Polynesian 3.8%,
    Indonesian 3.6%, Vietnamese 1.6%, other 3%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 60%, Protestant 30%, other 10%
Languages:
    French, 28 Melanesian-Polynesian dialects
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1976)
  total population:
    91%
  male:
    92%
  female:
    90%
Labor force:
    50,469 foreign workers for plantations and mines from Wallis and Futuna,
    Vanuatu, and French Polynesia (1980 est.)
  by occupation:
    NA
                                  New Caledonia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Territory of New Caledonia and Dependencies
  conventional short form:
    New Caledonia
  local long form:
    Territoire des Nouvelle-Caledonie et Dependances
  local short form:
    Nouvelle-Caledonie
Digraph:
    NC
Type:
    overseas territory of France since 1956
Capital:
    Noumea
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    none (overseas territory of France; a referendum on independence will be
    held in 1998)
National holiday:
    National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
Constitution:
    28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
Legal system:
    the 1988 Matignon Accords grant substantial autonomy to the islands;
    formerly under French law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Francois MITTERRAND (since 21 May 1981)
  head of government:
    High Commissioner and President of the Council of Government Didier CULTIAUX
    (since NA July 1994; appointed by the French Ministry of the Interior);
    President of the Territorial Congress Simon LOUECKHOTE (since 26 June 1989)
  cabinet:
    Consultative Committee
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Territorial Assembly:
    elections last held 11 June 1989 (next to be held July 1995); results - RPCR
    44.5%, FLNKS 28.5%, FN 7%, CD 5%, UO 4%, other 11%; seats - (54 total) RPCR
    27, FLNKS 19, FN 3, other 5; note - election boycotted by FULK
  French Senate:
    elections last held 27 September 1992 (next to be held 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
Judicial branch:
    Court of Appeal
                                  New Caledonia
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    white-dominated Rassemblement pour la Caledonie dans la Republique (RPCR),
    conservative, Jacques LAFLEUR, president - affiliated to France's
    Rassemblement pour la Republique (RPR; also called South Province Party);
    Melanesian proindependence Kanaka Socialist National Liberation Front
    (FLNKS), Paul NEAOUTYINE; 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
Member of:
    ESCAP (associate), FZ, ICFTU, SPC, WFTU, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (overseas territory of France)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (overseas territory of France)
Flag:
    the flag of France is used
                                  New Caledonia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    New Caledonia has more than 25% 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $1 billion (1991 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.4% (1988)
National product per capita:
    $6,000 (1991 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.4% (1990)
Unemployment rate:
    16% (1989)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $224 million
  expenditures:
    $211 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1985 est.)
Exports:
    $671 million (f.o.b., 1989)
  commodities:
    nickel metal 87%, nickel ore
  partners:
    France 32%, Japan 23.5%, US 3.6%
Imports:
    $764 million (c.i.f., 1989)
  commodities:
    foods, fuels, minerals, machines, electrical equipment
  partners:
    France 44.0%, US 10%, Australia 9%
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    250,000 kW
  production:
    1.2 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    6,178 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    nickel mining and smelting
Agriculture:
    large areas devoted to cattle grazing; coffee, corn, wheat, vegetables; 60%
    self-sufficient in beef
Illicit drugs:
    illicit cannabis cultivation is becoming a principal source of income for
    some families
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89),
    $4.185 billion
Currency:
    1 CFP franc (CFPF) = 100 centimes
                                  New Caledonia
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    Comptoirs Francais du Pacifique francs (CFPF) per US$1 - 96.25 (January
    1995), 100.93 (1994), 102.96 (1993), 96.24 (1992), 102.57 (1991), 99.00
    (1990); note - linked at the rate of 18.18 to the French franc
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                  New Caledonia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    6,340 km
  paved:
    634 km
  unpaved:
    5,706 km (1987)
Ports:
    Mueo, Noumea, Thio
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1 roll-on/roll-off ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 3,079 GRT/724 DWT
Airports:
    36
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    19
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    13
                                  New Caledonia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    32,578 telephones (1987)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) satellite link
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 5, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    7
  televisions:
    NA
                                  New Caledonia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    French Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, Gendarmerie); Police Force
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
{hIjIjI
Niger
NEW ZEALAND - Passport required.  Visa not required for
tourist/business stay up to 3 months, must have onward/return ticket, visa for next
destination and proof of sufficient funds.  For additional information
contact Embassy of New Zealand, 37 Observatory Circle, N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/328-4800) or the Consulate General, Los Angeles
(213/477-8241).
New Zealand - Consular Information Sheet
August 22, 1994
Country Description:  New Zealand is a highly developed stable parliamentary
democracy which recognizes the British monarch as sovereign.  It has a
modern economy and tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not required for
tourist/business stays of up to three months, and visitors must have
onward/return tickets and a visa for the next destination.  Proof of
sufficient funds may also be required with prearranged accommodations.
Specific information is available through the Embassy of New Zealand, 37
Observatory Circle, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 - telephone: [phone]
or the Consulate General of New Zealand in Los Angeles - telephone: (213)
477-8241.
Medical Facilities:  Good medical care is widely available.  Doctors and
hospitals may expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental overseas medical insurance, including coverage for medical
evacuation, has proven useful.  The Medicare/Medicaid Program does not
provide payment of medical services outside the United States.  The
international travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control (404) 332-
4559 has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Crime in New Zealand is comparatively low but has
increased in recent years.  Foreign visitors, including those from the U.S.,
are seldom victims of crime.  The most prevalent incident is occasional
theft or attempted theft.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport
should be reported immediately to the local police, and the nearest U.S.
Embassy or Consulate.  Useful information on guarding valuables and
protecting personal security while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  It is available from
the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use, or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy or Consulate can
obtain updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in New Zealand is located
at 29 Fitzherbert Terrace, Thorndon, Wellington - telephone: (64-4) 472-
2068.  The U.S. Consulate General in Auckland is located on the 4th floor,
Yorkshire General Building, Corner of Shortland and O'Connell Streets, -
telephone: (64) (9) 303-2724.  The U.S. Consular Agent in Christchurch may
be reached c/o Price Waterhouse Center, 119 Armagh Street, tel. (64-3) 379-
0040.
No. 94-168
This replaces the consular information sheet dated July 9, 1993, and
provides information on supplemental medical evacuation coverage.
9                                   New Zealand
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, southeast of Australia
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    268,680 sq km
  land area:
    268,670 sq km
  comparative area:
    about the size of Colorado
  note:
    includes Antipodes Islands, Auckland Islands, Bounty Islands, Campbell
    Island, Chatham Islands, and Kermadec Islands
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    15,134 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    territorial claim in Antarctica (Ross Dependency)
Climate:
    temperate with sharp regional contrasts
Terrain:
    predominately mountainous with some large coastal plains
Natural resources:
    natural gas, iron ore, sand, coal, timber, hydropower, gold, limestone
Land use:
  arable land:
    2%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    53%
  forest and woodland:
    38%
  other:
    7%
Irrigated land:
    2,800 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; native flora and fauna hard-hit by species
    introduced from outside
  natural hazards:
    earthquakes are common, though usually not severe
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity,
    Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous
    Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical
    Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea,
    Marine Life Conservation
                                   New Zealand
                                    Geography
Note:
    about 80% of the population lives in cities
                                   New Zealand
                                     People
Population:
    3,407,277 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    23% (female 381,027; male 401,285)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 1,109,402; male 1,111,079)
  65 years and over:
    12% (female 234,339; male 170,145) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.52% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.14 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.03 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -1.87 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    8.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    76.65 years
  male:
    73.08 years
  female:
    80.42 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.99 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    New Zealander(s)
  adjective:
    New Zealand
Ethnic divisions:
    European 88%, Maori 8.9%, Pacific Islander 2.9%, other 0.2%
Religions:
    Anglican 24%, Presbyterian 18%, Roman Catholic 15%, Methodist 5%, Baptist
    2%, other Protestant 3%, unspecified or none 33% (1986)
Languages:
    English (official), Maori
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
  total population:
    99%
Labor force:
    1,603,500 (June 1991)
  by occupation:
    services 66.6%, industry 22.6%, agriculture 10.8% (1992)
                                   New Zealand
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    New Zealand
Abbreviation:
    NZ
Digraph:
    NZ
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Wellington
Administrative divisions:
    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
  note:
    there may be a new administrative structure of 16 regions (Auckland, Bay of
    Plenty, Canterbury, Gisborne, 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, Gisborne, 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
Independence:
    26 September 1907 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Waitangi Day, 6 February (1840) (Treaty of Waitangi established British
    sovereignty)
Constitution:
    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
                                   New Zealand
                                   Government
Legal system:
    based on English law, with special land legislation and land courts for
    Maoris; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    Dame Catherine TIZARD (since 12 December 1990)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister James BOLGER (since 29 October 1990); Deputy Prime Minister
    Donald McKINNON (since 2 November 1990)
  cabinet:
    Executive Council; appointed by the governor general on recommendation of
    the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  House of Representatives:
     (commonly called Parliament) elections last held 6 November 1993 (next to
    be held NA 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
Judicial branch:
    High Court, Court of Appeal
Political parties and leaders:
    National Party (NP, government), James BOLGER; New Zealand Labor Party
    (NZLP, opposition), Helen CLARK; Alliance, Sandra LEE; Democratic Party,
    Dick RYAN; New Zealand Liberal Party, Hanmish MACINTYRE and Gilbert MYLES;
    Green Party, no official leader; Mana Motuhake, Martin RATA; Socialist Unity
    Party (SUP, pro-Soviet), Kenneth DOUGLAS; New Zealand First, Winston PETERS
  note:
    the New Labor, Democratic, and Mana Motuhake parties formed a coalition
    called the Alliance Party, Sandra LEE, president, in September 1991; the
    Green Party joined the coalition in May 1992
Member of:
    ANZUS (US suspended security obligations to NZ on 11 August 1986), APEC,
    AsDB, Australia Group, C, CCC, CP, EBRD, ESCAP, FAO, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, MTCR, NAM (guest), OECD, PCA,
    SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UN, UNAVEM II, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOSOM, UNPROFOR,
    UNTSO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Lionel John WOOD
  chancery:
    37 Observatory Circle NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Apia (Western Samoa), Los Angeles
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Josiah Horton BEEMAN
  embassy:
    29 Fitzherbert Terrace, Thorndon, Wellington
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 1190, Wellington; PSC 467, Box 1, FPO AP 96531-1001
  telephone:
    [64] (4) 472-2068
                                   New Zealand
                                   Government
  FAX:
    [64] (4) 472-3537
  consulate(s) general:
    Auckland
Flag:
    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 constellation
                                   New Zealand
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Since 1984 the government has been reorienting an agrarian economy dependent
    on a guaranteed British market to 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: inflation 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. Inflation remains among the lowest in the
    industrial world.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $56.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6.2% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $16,640 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.6% (FY93/94)
Unemployment rate:
    7.5% (December 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $18.94 billion
  expenditures:
    $18.82 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95)
  note:
    surplus $120 million (FY94/95)
Exports:
    $11.2 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    wool, lamb, mutton, beef, fish, cheese, chemicals, forestry products, fruits
    and vegetables, manufactures
  partners:
    Australia 20%, Japan 15%, US 12%, UK 6%
Imports:
    $10.4 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, vehicles and aircraft, petroleum, consumer goods
  partners:
    Australia 21%, US 18%, Japan 16%, UK 6%
External debt:
    $38.5 billion (September 1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 1.9% (1990); accounts for about 20% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    7,520,000 kW
  production:
    30.5 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    8,401 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    food processing, wood and paper products, textiles, machinery,
    transportation equipment, banking and insurance, tourism, mining
                                   New Zealand
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 9% of GDP and about 11% of the work force; livestock
    predominates - wool, meat, dairy products all export earners; crops - wheat,
    barley, potatoes, pulses, fruits, vegetables; surplus producer of farm
    products; fish catch reached a record 503,000 metric tons in 1988
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-89), $526 million
Currency:
    1 New Zealand dollar (NZ$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    New Zealand dollars (NZ$) per US$1 - 1.5601 (January 1995), 1.6844 (1994),
    1.8495 (1993), 1.8584 (1992), 1.7265 (1991), 1.6750 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                                   New Zealand
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    4,716 km
  narrow gauge:
    4,716 km 1.067-m gauge (113 km electrified; 274 km double track)
Highways:
  total:
    92,648 km
  paved:
    49,547 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone 43,101 km
Inland waterways:
    1,609 km; of little importance to transportation
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 160 km; natural gas 1,000 km; condensate (liquified
    petroleum gas - LPG) 150 km
Ports:
    Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Tauranga, Wellington
Merchant marine:
  total:
    18 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 165,504 GRT/218,699 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 6, cargo 2, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 3, railcar carrier 1,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 5
Airports:
  total:
    102
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    8
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    28
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    41
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    21
                                   New Zealand
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    2,110,000 telephones; excellent international and domestic systems
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    submarine cables extend to Australia and Fiji; 2 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean)
    earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 64, FM 2, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    14
  televisions:
    NA
                                   New Zealand
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    New Zealand Army, Royal New Zealand Navy, Royal New Zealand Air Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 883,668; males fit for military service 742,871; males reach
    military age (20) annually 27,162 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $792 million, 2% of GDP (FY90/91)
Nigeria
NICARAGUA - Passport and onward/return ticket required.  Check further
information with Embassy of Nicaragua, 1627 New Hampshire Ave., N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20009 (202/939-6531 to 34).
Nicaragua - Consular Information Sheet
October 31, 1994
Country Description:  Nicaragua has a developing economy.  Its tourist
industry is not highly developed.
Entry Requirements:  U. S. citizens need a passport, an onward/return
ticket, and sufficient funds ($200 minimum) to enter Nicaragua.  Passports
must be valid six months beyond duration of stay.  For further information,
travelers can contact the Embassy of Nicaragua at 1627 New Hampshire Avenue
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009, tel. [phone] or [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Occasional flare-ups of armed violence continue
throughout Nicaragua and to a greater extent in the northern parts of the
country.  Incidents involving armed bandits operating in the country have
increased.  Travel by road between Nicaragua and Honduras, even on main
roads, is potentially dangerous.  Because of land mines in certain rural
areas, it can be hazardous to venture off main roads.  Travelers have
experienced harassment at border crossings, especially when crossing the
Gulf of Fonseca by ferry between Potosi, Nicaragua, and La Union, El
Salvador.  Road travel after dark is hazardous in all areas of the country.
Many vehicles operate without lights or are abandoned on main highways.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is limited.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid outside the United States.  In some cases, medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  For additional
health information, the traveler can contact the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Crime is on the increase in Nicaragua.  Many thefts
occur on crowded buses.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should
be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad."  This publication, as well as others, such as
"Tips for Travelers to Central and South America," are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington
D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Most hotels and restaurants do not accept either
credit cards or travelers checks, but travelers checks may be exchanged for
local currency at authorized exchange facilities (casas de cambio).  U.S.
dollars are not always available.  The three largest hotels in Managua
exchange currency and accept payment by certain credit cards or travelers
checks.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties in Nicaragua for possession, use and
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In August 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Nicaragua as not providing oversight in compliance
with international aviation safety standards for Nicaraguan air carrier
operations.  As a result, Nicaraguan carriers arrange to have their flights
conducted by a carrier from a country meeting internationl safety standards
in order to provide commercial passenger service to the United States.  For
further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation
at 1 [phone].
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy during their visit
may obtain current information on travel and security within Nicaragua.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua is located at Kilometer 4
1/2 Carretera Sur in Managua; telephone [phone].
No. 94-258
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 2, 1994 , to
amend the information on aviation oversight.
@</<                                    Nicaragua
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific
    Ocean, between Costa Rica and Honduras
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    129,494 sq km
  land area:
    120,254 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than New York State
Land boundaries:
    total 1,231 km, Costa Rica 309 km, Honduras 922 km
Coastline:
    910 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    25-nm security zone
  continental shelf:
    natural prolongation
  territorial sea:
    200 nm
International disputes:
    territorial disputes with Colombia over the Archipelago de San Andres y
    Providencia 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, Honduras, and Nicaragua
    likely would be required
Climate:
    tropical in lowlands, cooler in highlands
Terrain:
    extensive Atlantic coastal plains rising to central interior mountains;
    narrow Pacific coastal plain interrupted by volcanoes
Natural resources:
    gold, silver, copper, tungsten, lead, zinc, timber, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    9%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    43%
  forest and woodland:
    35%
  other:
    12%
Irrigated land:
    850 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; water pollution
  natural hazards:
    destructive earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, and occasionally severe
    hurricanes
                                    Nicaragua
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection;
    signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Environmental
    Modification, Law of the Sea
                                    Nicaragua
                                     People
Population:
    4,206,353 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    44% (female 921,356; male 930,594)
  15-64 years:
    53% (female 1,146,485; male 1,097,811)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 62,607; male 47,500) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.61% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    33.73 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.45 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -1.19 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    50.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    64.54 years
  male:
    61.67 years
  female:
    67.53 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.17 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Nicaraguan(s)
  adjective:
    Nicaraguan
Ethnic divisions:
    mestizo (mixed Amerindian and Caucasian) 69%, white 17%, black 9%, Indian 5%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 95%, Protestant 5%
Languages:
    Spanish (official)
  note:
    English- and Indian-speaking minorities on Atlantic coast
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1971)
  total population:
    57%
  male:
    57%
  female:
    57%
Labor force:
    1.086 million
  by occupation:
    services 43%, agriculture 44%, industry 13% (1986)
                                    Nicaragua
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Nicaragua
  conventional short form:
    Nicaragua
  local long form:
    Republica de Nicaragua
  local short form:
    Nicaragua
Digraph:
    NU
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Managua
Administrative divisions:
    16 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Boaco, Carazo,
    Chinandega, Chontales, Esteli, Granada, Jinotega, Leon, Madriz, Managua,
    Masaya, Matagalpa, Nueva Segovia, Rio San Juan, Rivas, Zelaya
Independence:
    15 September 1821 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
Constitution:
    9 January 1987
Legal system:
    civil law system; Supreme Court may review administrative acts
Suffrage:
    16 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Violeta Barrios de CHAMORRO (since 25 April 1990); Vice President
    Virgilio GODOY Reyes (since 25 April 1990); election last held 25 February
    1990 (next to be held November 1996); results - Violeta Barrios de CHAMORRO
    (UNO) 54.7%, Daniel ORTEGA Saavedra (FSLN) 40.8%, other 4.5%
  cabinet:
    Cabinet
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly (Asamblea Nacional):
    elections last held 25 February 1990 (next to be held November 1996);
    results - UNO 53.9%, FSLN 40.8%, PSC 1.6%, MUR 1.0%; seats - (92 total) UNO
    41, FSLN 39, "Centrist" (Dissident UNO) 12
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Corte Suprema)
Political parties and leaders:
  far right:
    Liberal Constitutionalist Party* (PLC), Arnold ALEMAN; Conservative Popular
    Alliance Party (APC), Myriam ARGUELLO; Central American Unionist Party
    (PUCA), Blanca ROJAS Echaverry; Independent Liberal Party for National Unity
    (PLUIN), Alfonso MOCADO Guillen; Conservative Party of Nicaragua (PCN -
    formed in 1992 by the merger of the Conservative Social Party (PSC) with the
    Democratic Conservative Party (PCD) and PCL, the Conservative party of
    Labor), Fernando AGUERO; National Justice Party (PJN), Jorge DIAZ Cruz;
    National Conservative Party* (PNC), Adolfo CALERO
  center right:
    Neoliberal Party* (PALI), Adolfo GARCIA Esquivel; National Action Party*
    (PAN), Delvis MONTIEL; Independent Liberal Party* (PLI), Wilfredo NAVARRO
                                    Nicaragua
                                   Government
  center left:
    Christian Democratic Union (UDC), Luis Humberto GUZMAN; Nicaraguan
    Democratic Movement (MDN), Roberto URROZ; Social Democratic Party (PSD),
    Adolfo JARQUIN; Movement of Revolutionary Unity (MUR), Pablo HERNANDEZ;
    Sandinista Renovation Movement (MRS), Sergio RAMIREZ; Democratic Action
    Movement (MAD), Eden PASTORA; Communist Party of Nicaragua* (PCdeN), Eli
    ALTIMIRANO Perez
  far 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
  note:
    parties marked with an asterisk belong to the National Opposition Union
    (UNO), an alliance of moderate parties, which, however, does not always
    follow a unified political agenda
Other political or pressure groups:
    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 Nicaragua (ANDEN); Union of Journalists
    of Nicaragua (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
Member of:
    BCIE, CACM, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM,
    IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ITU,
    LAES, LAIA (observer), NAM, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR,
    UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Roberto Genaro MAYORGA Cortes
  chancery:
    1627 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador John F. MAISTO
  embassy:
    Kilometer 4.5 Carretera Sur., Managua
  mailing address:
    APO AA 34021
  telephone:
    [505] (2) 666010, 666013, 666015 through 18, 666026, 666027, 666032 through
    34
  FAX:
    [505] (2) 666046
                                    Nicaragua
                                   Government
Flag:
    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 NICARAGUA 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
    Honduras, which has five blue stars arranged in an X pattern centered in the
    white band
                                    Nicaragua
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Since March 1991, when President CHAMORRO began an ambitious economic
    stabilization program, Nicaragua has had considerable success in reducing
    inflation and obtaining substantial economic aid from abroad. Annual
    inflation fell from more than 750% in 1991 to less than 5% in 1992.
    Inflation rose again to an estimated 20% in 1993, although this increase was
    due almost entirely to a large currency devaluation in January. As of early
    1994, the government was close to finalizing an enhanced structural
    adjustment facility with the IMF, after the previous standby facility
    expired in early 1993. Despite these successes, achieving overall economic
    growth in an economy scarred by misguided economic values and civil war
    during the 1980s has proved elusive. Economic growth was flat in 1992 and
    slightly negative in 1993. Nicaragua's per capita foreign debt is one of the
    highest in the world; nonetheless, as of late 1993, Nicaragua was current on
    its post-1988 debt as well as on payments to the international financial
    institutions. Definition of property rights remains a problem; ownership
    disputes over large tracts of land, businesses, and homes confiscated by the
    previous government have yet to be resolved. A rise in exports of coffee and
    other products led growth in 1994.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $6.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3.2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,570 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    19.5% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    21.8%; underemployment 50% (1993)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $375 million (1992)
  expenditures:
    $410 million (1992), including capital expenditures of $115 million (1991
    est.)
Exports:
    $329 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    meat, coffee, cotton, sugar, seafood, gold, bananas
  partners:
    US, Central America, Canada, Germany
Imports:
    $786 million (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    consumer goods, machinery and equipment, petroleum products
  partners:
    Central America, US, Venezuela, Japan
External debt:
    $11 billion (1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -0.8% (1993 est.); accounts for 26% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    460,000 kW
  production:
    1.6 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    376 kWh (1993)
                                    Nicaragua
                                     Economy
Industries:
    food processing, chemicals, metal products, textiles, clothing, petroleum
    refining and distribution, beverages, footwear
Agriculture:
    crops account for about 15% of GDP; export crops - coffee, bananas,
    sugarcane, cotton; food crops - rice, corn, cassava, citrus fruit, beans;
    also produces a variety of animal products - beef, veal, pork, poultry,
    dairy products; normally self-sufficient in food
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for cocaine destined for the US
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-92), $620 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.381 billion
Currency:
    1 gold cordoba (C$) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    gold cordobas (C$) per US$1 - 7.08 (December 1994), 6.72 (1994), 5.62
    (1993), 5.00 (1992); note - gold cordoba replaced cordoba as Nicaragua's
    currency in 1991 (exchange rate of old cordoba had reached per US$1 -
    25,000,000 by March 1992)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                    Nicaragua
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    376 km; note - majority of system is nonoperational
  standard gauge:
    3 km 1.435-m gauge line at Puerto Cabezas; note - does not connect with
    mainline
  narrow gauge:
    373 km 1.067-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    15,286 km
  paved:
    1,598 km
  unpaved:
    13,688 km
  note:
    there is a 368.5 km portion of the Pan-American Highway which is not in the
    total
Inland waterways:
    2,220 km, including 2 large lakes
Pipelines:
    crude oil 56 km
Ports:
    Bluefields, Corinto, El Bluff, Puerto Cabezas, Puerto Sandino, Rama, San
    Juan del Sur
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    198
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    149
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    39
                                    Nicaragua
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    60,000 telephones; low-capacity radio relay and wire system being expanded;
    connection into Central American Microwave System
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    wire and radio relay
  international:
    1 Intersputnik and 1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 45, FM 0, shortwave 3
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    7
  televisions:
    NA
                                    Nicaragua
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Ground Forces, Navy, Air Force
  note:
    total strength of all branches - 14,500
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 982,345; males fit for military service 604,721; males reach
    military age (18) annually 47,064 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $32 million, 1.7% of GDP (1994), 8.1% of
    government budget
rHtHtH
NIGER -  Passport and visa required.  Visa valid between 7 and 12
months (from date of issuance), depending on type/category of travelers.
Requires 3 application forms, 3 photos, yellow fever vaccination (cholera
vaccination is  recommended, but not required), proof of onward/return
transportation,  letter of invitation and $56.07 fee.  For further
information and fees contact Embassy of the Republic of Niger, 2204 R
St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/483-4224).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Niger
============================================================
Niger - Consular Information Sheet
 April 28, 1995
Country Description:  Niger is a developing, inland African nation
whose northern area includes a part of the Sahara Desert.  Tourism
facilities are minimal, particularly outside of Niamey.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required for entry
into Niger.  Visas are valid for a period of one week to three
months from the date of issuance, depending on the type of visa and
category of traveler.  Yellow fever and cholera vaccinations are
required for entry into Niger.  Travelers should also consider a
meningitis vaccination.  For further information, travelers may
contact the Embassy of the Republic of Niger, 2204 R Street, N.W.,
Washington D.C. 20008, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Travel remains dangerous in the north of the
country and extreme east of the country above a line connecting
(west to east) Tera, Tillaberi,Ouallam, Filingue, Tahoua, Keita,
Bouza, Dakoro, Tamout, and Nguigmi because of acts of armed
insurrection and banditry by elements of Niger's Tuareg population.
Travel by U.S. government personnel by road north of this line is
restricted and must be approved by the U.S. Embassy's security
office in advance.  Travel by U.S. government personnel to the towns
of Tera, Tillaberi, Ouallam and Filingue is permitted without prior
clearance but employees must notify the Embassy's security office of
their plans.  Travelers should be particularly cautious in
south-east Niger in the area surrounding Diffa due to sporadic
ethnic rivalries.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are poor in Niger,
particularly outside the city of Niamey.  Medicines are in short
supply, and doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash
payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid or accepted outside the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid
program does not provide for payment of medical services outside the
United States.  Travelers have found supplemental medical insurance
with specific overseas and medical evacuation coverage to be useful.
 For additional health information, travelers can contact the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline (404)
332-4559.
Information on Crime:  Niger is considered a high crime country.
Armed bandits operate in northern Niger, and a number of people have
been killed over the last several years.  Care must be taken in
walking city streets anywhere in the country at any time, but
especially at night.  Thieves and pickpockets are especially active
in tourist areas.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Dress Restrictions:  Local culture and Islamic tradition encourage
conservative dress for both men and women.  There have been
incidents of harassment of African women wearing western clothes in
the conservative towns along the southern border with Nigeria.
Although U.S. citizens are not specific targets, travelers should be
careful in choosing their attire.
Photography Restrictions:  Tourists are free to take pictures
anywhere in Niger, except near military installations, radio and
television stations, the Presidency Building, and the airport.
Currency Regulations:  There are no laws restricting currency
transactions in Niger.  Local currency (the CFA Franc) or foreign
currency, up to the equivalent of four  thousand U.S. dollars, can
be taken into or out of Niger without violating local law.
Telephone Service:  Due to poor line quality, callers often
experience delays in getting a line and telefaxes are often garbled.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens who register with the
U.S. Embassy in Niamey on Rue Des Ambassades may obtain updated
information on travel and security in Niger.  The mailing address is
B.P. 11201.  The telephone number is [phone] through
72-26-64. The fax number is [phone].
 No. 95-060
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 22, 1994,
to revise the paragraphs on areas of instability, crime, medical
information and dress restrictions.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
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"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
.                                         Niger
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, southeast of Algeria
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    1.267 million sq km
  land area:
    1,266,700 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 5,697 km, Algeria 956 km, Benin 266 km, Burkina 628 km, Chad 1,175 km,
    Libya 354 km, Mali 821 km, Nigeria 1,497 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    Libya claims about 19,400 sq km in northern Niger; 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 Cameroon,
    Chad, Niger, and Nigeria; Burkina and Mali are proceeding with boundary
    demarcation, including the tripoint with Niger
Climate:
    desert; mostly hot, dry, dusty; tropical in extreme south
Terrain:
    predominately desert plains and sand dunes; flat to rolling plains in south;
    hills in north
Natural resources:
    uranium, coal, iron ore, tin, phosphates
Land use:
  arable land:
    3%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    7%
  forest and woodland:
    2%
  other:
    88%
Irrigated land:
    320 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    overgrazing; soil erosion; deforestation; desertification; wildlife
    populations (such as elephant, hippopotamus, and lion) threatened because of
    poaching and habitat destruction
  natural hazards:
    recurring droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Nuclear Test Ban,
    Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity,
    Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the Sea
Note:
    landlocked
                                      Niger
                                     People
Population:
    9,280,208 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    49% (female 2,275,338; male 2,275,999)
  15-64 years:
    49% (female 2,314,857; male 2,188,938)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 107,432; male 117,644) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.4% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    54.8 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    20.8 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    109.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    45.07 years
  male:
    43.42 years
  female:
    46.77 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    7.35 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Nigerien(s)
  adjective:
    Nigerien
Ethnic divisions:
    Hausa 56%, Djerma 22%, Fula 8.5%, Tuareg 8%, Beri Beri (Kanouri) 4.3%, Arab,
    Toubou, and Gourmantche 1.2%, about 4,000 French expatriates
Religions:
    Muslim 80%, remainder indigenous beliefs and Christians
Languages:
    French (official), Hausa, Djerma
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1988)
  total population:
    11%
  male:
    17%
  female:
    5%
Labor force:
    2.5 million wage earners (1982)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 90%, industry and commerce 6%, government 4%
                                      Niger
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Niger
  conventional short form:
    Niger
  local long form:
    Republique du Niger
  local short form:
    Niger
Digraph:
    NG
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Niamey
Administrative divisions:
    7 departments (departements, singular - departement); Agadez, Diffa, Dosso,
    Maradi, Niamey, Tahoua, Zinder
Independence:
    3 August 1960 (from France)
National holiday:
    Republic Day, 18 December (1958)
Constitution:
    approved by national referendum 16 December 1992; promulgated January 1993
Legal system:
    based on French civil law system and customary law; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Mahamane OUSMANE (since 16 April 1993); election last held 17
    March 1993 (next to be held NA February 1998)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Hama AMADOU (since 21 February 1995)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly:
    elected by proportional representation for 5 year terms; elections last held
    12 January 1995 (next to be held NA); 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
Judicial branch:
    State Court (Cour d'Etat), Court of Appeal (Cour d'Apel)
Political parties and leaders:
    National Movement of the Development Society (MNSD-NASSARA), Mamadou TANDJA,
    chairman; Democratic and Social Convention (CDS), Jacoub SANOUSSI; Nigerien
    Party for Democracy and Socialism (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; Niger Social Democrat Party (PADN), Malam Adji WAZIRI;
    Niger Progressive Party-African Democratic Rally (PPN-RDA), Dori ABDOULAI,
    chairman; Union of Patriots, Democrats, and Progressives (UPDP), Professor
    Andre SALIFOU, chairman
                                      Niger
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, CEAO, ECA, ECOWAS, Entente, FAO, FZ, G-77, GATT, IAEA,
    IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WADB, WCL, WFTU,
    WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Adamou SEYDOU
  chancery:
    2204 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 4227
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador John S. DAVISON
  embassy:
    Rue Des Ambassades, Niamey
  mailing address:
    B. P. 11201, Niamey
  telephone:
    [227] 72 26 61 through 72 26 64
  FAX:
    [227] 73 31 67
Flag:
    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
                                      Niger
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Niger is one of the world's poorest countries, with GDP growth lagging
    behind 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 Nigeria, Niger's largest
    regional trade partner, have improved dramatically since the 50% devaluation
    of the African franc in January 1994; this devaluation boosted exports of
    livestock, peas, onions, and the products of Niger'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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4.6 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    1.4% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $550 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $188 million
  expenditures:
    $400 million, including capital expenditures of $125 million (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $246 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    uranium ore 67%, livestock products 20%, cowpeas, onions
  partners:
    France 77%, Nigeria 8%, Cote d'Ivoire, Italy
Imports:
    $286 million (c.i.f., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    consumer goods, primary materials, machinery, vehicles and parts, petroleum,
    cereals
  partners:
    France 23%, Cote d'Ivoire, Germany, Italy, Japan
External debt:
    $1.2 billion (December 1991 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -2.7% (1992 est.); accounts for 15% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    60,000 kW
  production:
    200 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    42 kWh (1992)
Industries:
    cement, brick, textiles, food processing, chemicals, slaughterhouses, and a
    few other small light industries; uranium mining began in 1971
                                      Niger
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for roughly 40% of GDP and 90% of labor force; cash crops -
    cowpeas, cotton, peanuts; food crops - millet, sorghum, cassava, rice;
    livestock - cattle, sheep, goats; self-sufficient in food except in drought
    years
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $380 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $3.165 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $504 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $61
    million
Currency:
    1 CFA franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Communaute Financiere Africaine francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 529.43 (January
    1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991), 272.26
    (1990)
  note:
    the official rate is pegged to the French franc, and 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
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                                      Niger
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    39,970 km
  paved:
    bituminous 3,170 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, laterite 10,330 km; earth 3,470 km; tracks 23,000 km
Inland waterways:
    Niger River is navigable 300 km from Niamey to Gaya on the Benin frontier
    from mid-December through March
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    29
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    6
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    16
                                      Niger
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    14,260 telephones; small system of wire, radiocommunications, and radio
    relay links concentrated in southwestern area
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    wire, radiocommunications, and radio relay; 3 domestic satellite links, with
    1 planned
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 15, FM 5, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    18
  televisions:
    NA
                                      Niger
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, Republican Guard, National Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,908,767; males fit for military service 1,029,384; males
    reach military age (18) annually 94,506 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $32 million, 1.3% of GDP (FY92/93)
Norfolk Island
jNIGERIA - Passport  and visa required.  Visa, no charge, valid for one
entry within 12 months, requires 1 photo, yellow fever vaccination,
proof of onward/return transportation, and for tourism a  letter of
invitation is required.  Business visa requires letter from counterpart in Nigeria
and letter of introduction from U.S. company.  For further information
contact Embassy of the Republic of Nigeria, 2201 M St., N.W., Washington, D.C.
20037 (202/822-1500 or 1522) or the Consulate General in New York
(212/715-7200).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Nigeria
============================================================
Nigeria - Travel Warning
 June 5, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the
dangers of travel to Nigeria.  Violent crime, practiced by persons
in police and military uniforms, as well as by ordinary criminals,
is an acute problem.  Harassment and shake-downs of foreigners and
Nigerians alike by uniformed personnel and others occur frequently
throughout the country.
Business, charity and other scams target foreigners worldwide and
pose dangers of financial loss and physical harm.  Persons
contemplating business deals are strongly urged to check with the
U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce before
providing any information, making any financial commitments or
traveling to Nigeria.  Under no circumstances should American
citizens travel to Nigeria without a valid visa.  Invitation to
enter Nigeria without a visa is normally indicative of illegal
activity.
 No. 95-018
Nigeria - Consular Information Sheet
 June 16, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the
dangers of travel to Nigeria.  Violent crime, practiced by persons
in police and military uniforms, as well as by ordinary criminals,
is an acute problem.  Harassment and shake-downs of foreigners and
Nigerians alike by uniformed personnel and others occur frequently
throughout the country.
Business, charity and other scams target foreigners worldwide and
pose dangers of financial loss and physical harm.  Persons
contemplating business deals are strongly urged to check with the
U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce before
providing any information, making any financial commitments or
traveling to Nigeria.  Under no circumstances should American
citizens travel to Nigeria without a valid visa.  Invitation to
enter Nigeria without a visa is normally indicative of illegal
activity.
Country Description:  Nigeria, with limited facilities for tourism,
poses considerable risks for travelers.  Violent crime is acute (see
paragraph on Crime and Criminal Violence).  Business scams that
target foreigners are a pervasive problem, and persons contemplating
business deals are strongly urged to check with the U.S. Department
of Commerce or the U.S. Embassy in Lagos before traveling to Nigeria
or making financial commitments (see paragraph on Commercial Fraud).
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Evidence
of yellow fever and cholera vaccinations is also required.  Airport
visas are not available.  Promises of entry into Nigeria without a
visa are credible indicators of a fraudulent commercial scheme in
which the perpetrators seek to exploit the foreign traveler's
illegal presence in Nigeria with threats of extortion or bodily
harm.  Furthermore, U.S. citizens cannot legally depart Nigeria
unless they can prove, by presenting their entry visas, that they
entered Nigeria legally.  Payment of 35 U.S. dollars airport tax is
required upon departure.  Current information on entry requirements
may be obtained at the Embassy of the Republic of Nigeria, 2201 M
Street, N.W., in Washington, D.C. 20037, telephone [phone],
or at the Nigerian Consulate General in New York.
Information on Crime and Criminal Violence:  Violent crime
affecting foreigners is an extremely serious problem, especially in
Lagos and the southern half of the country.  Visitors, as well as
resident Americans, report widespread armed muggings, assault,
burglary, carjackings and extortion, often involving violence.
Carjackings, roadblock robberies and armed break-ins occur often,
with victims sometimes shot by assailants for no apparent reason.
Reports of armed robberies in broad daylight on rural roads in the
northern half of the country appear to be increasing.  Law
enforcement authorities usually respond to crimes slowly, if at all,
and provide little or no investigative support to victims.
Pickpockets and confidence artists, some posing as local immigration
and other government officials, are especially common at Murtala
Muhammad Airport.
In addition to harassment and shake-downs of American citizens by
officials at airports and throughout Nigeria, there have been
isolated but troubling reports of violent attacks by purported
government officials on Americans and other foreigners.  The
Nigerian government has not responded meaningfully to complaints by
the American Embassy in Lagos and the U.S. State Department in
Washington, D.C. concerning these abuses and attacks, nor is there
any indication that the officers involved have been disciplined.
Upon arrival in Nigeria, U.S. citizens are urged to register at the
U.S. Embassy in Lagos where they may obtain current information and
advice on minimizing risks.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Commercial Fraud:  A major and continuing problem is the commercial
scam or sting that targets foreigners, including many U.S. citizens.
 Such scams could involve U.S. citizens in illegal activity,
resulting in extortion or bodily harm.  The scams generally involve
phony offers of either outright money transfers or lucrative sales
or contracts with promises of large commissions or up-front
payments.  Alleged deals frequently invoke the authority of one or
more ministries or offices of the Nigerian government and may even
cite by name the support of a Nigerian government official.  The
apparent use in some scams of actual government stationery, seals,
and offices is grounds for concern that some individual Nigerian
officials may be involved in these activities.  The ability of U.S.
Embassy officers to extricate Americans from unlawful business deals
is extremely limited.  Nigerian police do not always inform the U.S.
Embassy of an American citizen in distress.  The Department of
Commerce has issued advisories to the U.S. business community on
doing business in Nigeria.  Both the Department of Commerce and the
U.S. Embassy in Lagos can provide business travelers with further
details.
The Department of State has issued a brochure for business
travelers to Nigeria; single copies are available at no charge from
the Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management, Room
4811, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520-4818.  Please
enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope.
Airport Safety:  Due to a lack of effective security measures, the
U.S. Secretary of Transportation has ordered that direct air
services between the U.S. and the Murtala Muhammad Airport in Lagos
be suspended.  U.S. travelers may wish to check with their travel
agents or the airlines for alternate routing.  The U.S. Embassy is
concerned by reports that maintenance and operational procedures for
Nigerian airlines may not be adequate to ensure passenger safety.
Periodic strikes may also affect flight scheduling and raise
additional concerns about the reliability and safety of Nigerian
aviation.  The section "Information on Crime and Criminal Violence"
provides information concerning crime at airports.
Areas of Instability:  Nigeria has experienced civil unrest,
violence and strikes.  The causes and locations vary.  Locations
where outbreaks of violence have occurred include the Lagos area,
southwestern Nigeria and parts of Delta, Rivers, Plateau and Kaduna
states.  There has been an increase in the number of unauthorized
automobile checkpoints.  These checkpoints are operated by bands of
police, soldiers, or bandits posing as or operating with police or
soldiers, whose personnel should be considered armed and dangerous.
Many incidents, including murder, illustrate the increasing risks of
road travel in Nigeria.  Reports of threats against firms and
foreign workers in the petroleum sector recur from time to time.
Chadian troop incursions have reportedly occurred at the border area
in the far northeast, near Lake Chad.
Despite labor unrest in various parts of the country and occasional
flare-ups in local markets, U.S. citizens have not been specifically
targetted in such disturbances.  However, they and their vehicles
could inadvertently become caught up in a demonstration or riot.
Heightened tensions resulting from the delayed process of transition
from military rule to an elected government could result in further
unrest and disturbances.  Early June (prior to and during the week
of the June 12 anniversary of the 1993 annulled presidential
election) is a time to be especially mindful of security concerns,
to exercise particular caution and to avoid public gatherings.
Medical Facilities:  A variety of diseases pose a serious health
threat.  The public is not always informed in a timely manner about
outbreaks of typhoid, cholera and yellow fever.  Hepatitis and
malaria, including potentially fatal cerebral malaria, are endemic.
Medical facilities are limited; not all medicines are available.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proven useful.  Information on health matters
can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Photography Restrictions:  Permission is required to take
photographs of government buildings, airports, bridges or
official-looking buildings.  Permission may be obtained from
Nigerian security personnel.
Currency Regulations:  Credit cards are rarely accepted in Nigeria
and, because of the prevalence of credit card fraud in Nigeria, as
well as credit card fraud by Nigerians in the U.S., their use is
generally ill-advised.  It is often necessary to bring travelers
checks or currency in a sufficient amount to cover the period of a
planned visit.  Interbank transfers are often difficult, if not
impossible, to accomplish.  The government of Nigeria has fixed an
artificially high rate for the local currency, the naira (in terms
of its value in exchange for foreign currencies).  Persons seeking
to trade at lower rates on the "black market" could be arrested or
shaken down.  U.S. visitors are strongly urged to exchange dollars
for local currency only at the official rate and at approved
exchange facilities, usually including the major hotels.  For
further information, visitors may wish to contact the U.S. Embassy.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Those
arrested routinely face prolonged detention before trial, and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in
Lagos may obtain updated information on travel and security in
Nigeria.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 2 Eleke Crescent,
Victoria Island in Lagos.  The telephone number is (234) (1)
261-0050.
 No. 95-071
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 20, 1994,
to include the Travel Warning issued  June 5, 1995, and to add
information in the paragraphs on Airport Safety and Areas of
Instability.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Nigeria
============================================================
Nigeria - Public Announcement
 June 9, 1995
 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
 For Immediate Release
The U.S. Embassy in Lagos issued an announcement on June 9 advising
American citizens in Nigeria to exercise particular caution and
avoid public gatherings during the weekend before and the week of
the June 12 anniversary of the 1993 annulled presidential election.
The U.S. Embassy has no information suggesting a likelihood of civil
disturbances, but feels Americans should be especially mindful of
security concerns during this period.
For further information on travel to Nigeria you may consult the
Department's Travel Warning and Consular Information Sheet.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Nigeria
============================================================
Nigeria - Travel Warning
 June 5, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the
dangers of travel to Nigeria.  Violent crime, practiced by persons
in police and military uniforms, as well as by ordinary criminals,
is an acute problem.  Harassment and shake-downs of foreigners and
Nigerians alike by uniformed personnel and others occur frequently
throughout the country.
Business, charity and other scams target foreigners worldwide and
pose dangers of financial loss and physical harm.  Persons
contemplating business deals are strongly urged to check with the
U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce before
providing any information, making any financial commitments or
traveling to Nigeria.  Under no circumstances should American
citizens travel to Nigeria without a valid visa.  Invitation to
enter Nigeria without a visa is normally indicative of illegal
activity.
 No. 95-018
Nigeria - Consular Information Sheet
 June 16, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens of the
dangers of travel to Nigeria.  Violent crime, practiced by persons
in police and military uniforms, as well as by ordinary criminals,
is an acute problem.  Harassment and shake-downs of foreigners and
Nigerians alike by uniformed personnel and others occur frequently
throughout the country.
Business, charity and other scams target foreigners worldwide and
pose dangers of financial loss and physical harm.  Persons
contemplating business deals are strongly urged to check with the
U.S. Department of State or the U.S. Department of Commerce before
providing any information, making any financial commitments or
traveling to Nigeria.  Under no circumstances should American
citizens travel to Nigeria without a valid visa.  Invitation to
enter Nigeria without a visa is normally indicative of illegal
activity.
Country Description:  Nigeria, with limited facilities for tourism,
poses considerable risks for travelers.  Violent crime is acute (see
paragraph on Crime and Criminal Violence).  Business scams that
target foreigners are a pervasive problem, and persons contemplating
business deals are strongly urged to check with the U.S. Department
of Commerce or the U.S. Embassy in Lagos before traveling to Nigeria
or making financial commitments (see paragraph on Commercial Fraud).
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Evidence
of yellow fever and cholera vaccinations is also required.  Airport
visas are not available.  Promises of entry into Nigeria without a
visa are credible indicators of a fraudulent commercial scheme in
which the perpetrators seek to exploit the foreign traveler's
illegal presence in Nigeria with threats of extortion or bodily
harm.  Furthermore, U.S. citizens cannot legally depart Nigeria
unless they can prove, by presenting their entry visas, that they
entered Nigeria legally.  Payment of 35 U.S. dollars airport tax is
required upon departure.  Current information on entry requirements
may be obtained at the Embassy of the Republic of Nigeria, 2201 M
Street, N.W., in Washington, D.C. 20037, telephone [phone],
or at the Nigerian Consulate General in New York.
Information on Crime and Criminal Violence:  Violent crime
affecting foreigners is an extremely serious problem, especially in
Lagos and the southern half of the country.  Visitors, as well as
resident Americans, report widespread armed muggings, assault,
burglary, carjackings and extortion, often involving violence.
Carjackings, roadblock robberies and armed break-ins occur often,
with victims sometimes shot by assailants for no apparent reason.
Reports of armed robberies in broad daylight on rural roads in the
northern half of the country appear to be increasing.  Law
enforcement authorities usually respond to crimes slowly, if at all,
and provide little or no investigative support to victims.
Pickpockets and confidence artists, some posing as local immigration
and other government officials, are especially common at Murtala
Muhammad Airport.
In addition to harassment and shake-downs of American citizens by
officials at airports and throughout Nigeria, there have been
isolated but troubling reports of violent attacks by purported
government officials on Americans and other foreigners.  The
Nigerian government has not responded meaningfully to complaints by
the American Embassy in Lagos and the U.S. State Department in
Washington, D.C. concerning these abuses and attacks, nor is there
any indication that the officers involved have been disciplined.
Upon arrival in Nigeria, U.S. citizens are urged to register at the
U.S. Embassy in Lagos where they may obtain current information and
advice on minimizing risks.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Commercial Fraud:  A major and continuing problem is the commercial
scam or sting that targets foreigners, including many U.S. citizens.
 Such scams could involve U.S. citizens in illegal activity,
resulting in extortion or bodily harm.  The scams generally involve
phony offers of either outright money transfers or lucrative sales
or contracts with promises of large commissions or up-front
payments.  Alleged deals frequently invoke the authority of one or
more ministries or offices of the Nigerian government and may even
cite by name the support of a Nigerian government official.  The
apparent use in some scams of actual government stationery, seals,
and offices is grounds for concern that some individual Nigerian
officials may be involved in these activities.  The ability of U.S.
Embassy officers to extricate Americans from unlawful business deals
is extremely limited.  Nigerian police do not always inform the U.S.
Embassy of an American citizen in distress.  The Department of
Commerce has issued advisories to the U.S. business community on
doing business in Nigeria.  Both the Department of Commerce and the
U.S. Embassy in Lagos can provide business travelers with further
details.
The Department of State has issued a brochure for business
travelers to Nigeria; single copies are available at no charge from
the Office of American Citizens Services and Crisis Management, Room
4811, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520-4818.  Please
enclose a stamped, self-addressed envelope.
Airport Safety:  Due to a lack of effective security measures, the
U.S. Secretary of Transportation has ordered that direct air
services between the U.S. and the Murtala Muhammad Airport in Lagos
be suspended.  U.S. travelers may wish to check with their travel
agents or the airlines for alternate routing.  The U.S. Embassy is
concerned by reports that maintenance and operational procedures for
Nigerian airlines may not be adequate to ensure passenger safety.
Periodic strikes may also affect flight scheduling and raise
additional concerns about the reliability and safety of Nigerian
aviation.  The section "Information on Crime and Criminal Violence"
provides information concerning crime at airports.
Areas of Instability:  Nigeria has experienced civil unrest,
violence and strikes.  The causes and locations vary.  Locations
where outbreaks of violence have occurred include the Lagos area,
southwestern Nigeria and parts of Delta, Rivers, Plateau and Kaduna
states.  There has been an increase in the number of unauthorized
automobile checkpoints.  These checkpoints are operated by bands of
police, soldiers, or bandits posing as or operating with police or
soldiers, whose personnel should be considered armed and dangerous.
Many incidents, including murder, illustrate the increasing risks of
road travel in Nigeria.  Reports of threats against firms and
foreign workers in the petroleum sector recur from time to time.
Chadian troop incursions have reportedly occurred at the border area
in the far northeast, near Lake Chad.
Despite labor unrest in various parts of the country and occasional
flare-ups in local markets, U.S. citizens have not been specifically
targetted in such disturbances.  However, they and their vehicles
could inadvertently become caught up in a demonstration or riot.
Heightened tensions resulting from the delayed process of transition
from military rule to an elected government could result in further
unrest and disturbances.  Early June (prior to and during the week
of the June 12 anniversary of the 1993 annulled presidential
election) is a time to be especially mindful of security concerns,
to exercise particular caution and to avoid public gatherings.
Medical Facilities:  A variety of diseases pose a serious health
threat.  The public is not always informed in a timely manner about
outbreaks of typhoid, cholera and yellow fever.  Hepatitis and
malaria, including potentially fatal cerebral malaria, are endemic.
Medical facilities are limited; not all medicines are available.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proven useful.  Information on health matters
can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Photography Restrictions:  Permission is required to take
photographs of government buildings, airports, bridges or
official-looking buildings.  Permission may be obtained from
Nigerian security personnel.
Currency Regulations:  Credit cards are rarely accepted in Nigeria
and, because of the prevalence of credit card fraud in Nigeria, as
well as credit card fraud by Nigerians in the U.S., their use is
generally ill-advised.  It is often necessary to bring travelers
checks or currency in a sufficient amount to cover the period of a
planned visit.  Interbank transfers are often difficult, if not
impossible, to accomplish.  The government of Nigeria has fixed an
artificially high rate for the local currency, the naira (in terms
of its value in exchange for foreign currencies).  Persons seeking
to trade at lower rates on the "black market" could be arrested or
shaken down.  U.S. visitors are strongly urged to exchange dollars
for local currency only at the official rate and at approved
exchange facilities, usually including the major hotels.  For
further information, visitors may wish to contact the U.S. Embassy.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Those
arrested routinely face prolonged detention before trial, and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in
Lagos may obtain updated information on travel and security in
Nigeria.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 2 Eleke Crescent,
Victoria Island in Lagos.  The telephone number is (234) (1)
261-0050.
 No. 95-071
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 20, 1994,
to include the Travel Warning issued  June 5, 1995, and to add
information in the paragraphs on Airport Safety and Areas of
Instability.
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word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
`0^0                                       Nigeria
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Benin and
    Cameroon
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    923,770 sq km
  land area:
    910,770 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than twice the size of California
Land boundaries:
    total 4,047 km, Benin 773 km, Cameroon 1,690 km, Chad 87 km, Niger 1,497 km
Coastline:
    853 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    30 nm
International disputes:
    demarcation of international boundaries in Lake Chad, the lack of which led
    to border incidents in the past, is completed and awaits ratification by
    Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria; dispute with Cameroon over land and
    maritime boundaries in the vicinity of the Bakasi Peninsula has been
    referred to the International Court of Justice
Climate:
    varies; equatorial in south, tropical in center, arid in north
Terrain:
    southern lowlands merge into central hills and plateaus; mountains in
    southeast, plains in north
Natural resources:
    petroleum, tin, columbite, iron ore, coal, limestone, lead, zinc, natural
    gas
Land use:
  arable land:
    31%
  permanent crops:
    3%
  meadows and pastures:
    23%
  forest and woodland:
    15%
  other:
    28%
Irrigated land:
    8,650 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    soil degradation; rapid deforestation; desertification; recent droughts in
    north severely affecting marginal agricultural activities
  natural hazards:
    periodic droughts
                                     Nigeria
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear
    Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection
                                     Nigeria
                                     People
Population:
    101,232,251 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    45% (female 22,643,026; male 22,850,322)
  15-64 years:
    52% (female 25,842,286; male 26,978,906)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 1,438,392; male 1,479,319) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.16% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    43.26 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.01 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.35 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    72.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    55.98 years
  male:
    54.69 years
  female:
    57.3 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.31 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Nigerian(s)
  adjective:
    Nigerian
Ethnic divisions:
  north:
    Hausa and Fulani
  southwest:
    Yoruba
  southeast:
    Ibos
    non-Africans 27,000
  note:
    Hausa and Fulani, Yoruba, and Ibos together make up 65% of population
Religions:
    Muslim 50%, Christian 40%, indigenous beliefs 10%
Languages:
    English (official), Hausa, Yoruba, Ibo, Fulani
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    51%
  male:
    62%
  female:
    40%
Labor force:
    42.844 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 54%, industry, commerce, and services 19%, government 15%
                                     Nigeria
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Federal Republic of Nigeria
  conventional short form:
    Nigeria
Digraph:
    NI
Type:
    military government since 31 December 1983; plans to institute a
    constitutional conference to prepare for a new transition to civilian rule
    after plans for a transition in 1993 were negated by General BABANGIDA
Capital:
    Abuja
  note:
    on 12 December 1991 the capital was officially moved from Lagos to Abuja;
    many government offices remain in Lagos pending completion of facilities in
    Abuja
Administrative divisions:
    30 states and 1 territory*; Abia, Abuja Capital Territory*, Adamawa, Akwa
    Ibom, Anambra, Bauchi, Benue, Borno, Cross River, Delta, Edo, Enugu, Imo,
    Jigawa, Kaduna, Kano, Katsina, Kebbi, Kogi, Kwara, Lagos, Niger, Ogun, Ondo,
    Osun, Oyo, Plateau, Rivers, Sokoto, Taraba, Yobe
Independence:
    1 October 1960 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 1 October (1960)
Constitution:
    1979 constitution still in force; plan for 1989 constitution to take effect
    in 1993 was not implemented
Legal system:
    based on English common law, Islamic law, and tribal law
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    Chairman of the Provisional Ruling Council and Commander in Chief of Armed
    Forces and Defense Minister Gen. Sani ABACHA (since 17 November 1993);
    Vice-Chairman of the Provisional Ruling Council Oladipo DIYA (since 17
    November 1993)
  cabinet:
    Federal Executive Council
Legislative branch:
    bicameral National Assembly
  Senate:
    suspended after coup of 17 November 1993
  House of Representatives:
    suspended after coup of 17 November 1993
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court, Federal Court of Appeal
Political parties and leaders:
  note:
    two political party system suspended after the coup of 17 November 1993
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, G-15, G-19, G-24, G-77, GATT, IAEA,
    IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, MINURSO, NAM, OAU, OPEC, PCA, UN, UNAMIR,
    UNAVEM II, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNPROFOR, UNU, UPU, WCL,
    WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTO
                                     Nigeria
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Zubair Mahmud KAZAURE
  chancery:
    1333 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Walter C. CARRINGTON
  embassy:
    2 Eleke Crescent, Lagos
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 554, Lagos
  telephone:
    [234] (1) 261-0097
  FAX:
    [234] (1) 261-0257
  branch office:
    Abuja
  consulate(s) general:
    Kaduna
Flag:
    three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and green
                                     Nigeria
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The oil-rich Nigerian economy continues to be hobbled by political
    instability and poor macroeconomic management. Nigeria's unpopular military
    rulers show no sign of wanting to restore democratic civilian rule in the
    near future and appear divided on how to redress fundamental economic
    imbalances that cause troublesome inflation and the steady depreciation of
    the naira. The government's domestic and international arrears continue to
    limit economic growth - even in the oil sector - and prevent an agreement
    with the IMF and bilateral creditors on debt relief. The inefficient
    (largely subsistence) agricultural sector has failed to keep up with rapid
    population growth, and Nigeria, once a large net exporter of food, now must
    import food.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $122.6 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -0.8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,250 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    53% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    28% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $9 billion
  expenditures:
    $10.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $11.9 billion (f.o.b., 1992)
  commodities:
    oil 95%, cocoa, rubber
  partners:
    US 54%, EC 23%
Imports:
    $8.3 billion (c.i.f., 1992)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, manufactured goods, food and animals
  partners:
    EC 64%, US 10%, Japan 7%
External debt:
    $29.5 billion (1992)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 7.7% (1991); accounts for 43% of GDP, including petroleum
Electricity:
  capacity:
    4,570,000 kW
  production:
    11.3 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    109 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    crude oil and mining - coal, tin, columbite; primary processing industries -
    palm oil, peanut, cotton, rubber, wood, hides and skins; manufacturing
    industries - textiles, cement, building materials, food products, footwear,
    chemical, printing, ceramics, steel
                                     Nigeria
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 35% of GDP and half of labor force; cash crops - cocoa,
    peanuts, palm oil, rubber; food crops - corn, rice, sorghum, millet,
    cassava, yams; livestock - cattle, sheep, goats, pigs; fishing and forestry
    resources extensively exploited
Illicit drugs:
    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 cocaine from South America
    intended for West European, East Asian, and North American markets
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $705 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $3 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $2.2 billion
Currency:
    1 naira (N) = 100 kobo
Exchange rates:
    naira (N) per US$1 - 21.996 (January 1995), 21.996 (1994), 22.065 (1993),
    17.298 (1992), 9.909 (1991), 8.038 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                     Nigeria
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,567 km
  narrow gauge:
    3,505 km 1.067-m gauge
  standard gauge:
    62 km 1.435-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    107,990 km
  paved:
    mostly bituminous-surface treatment 30,019 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, improved earth 25,411 km; unimproved earth 52,560 km
Inland waterways:
    8,575 km consisting of Niger and Benue Rivers and smaller rivers and creeks
Pipelines:
    crude oil 2,042 km; petroleum products 3,000 km; natural gas 500 km
Ports:
    Calabar, Lagos, Onne, Port Harcourt, Sapele, Warri
Merchant marine:
  total:
    32 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 404,064 GRT/661,850 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 1, cargo 14, chemical tanker 3, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 12,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    80
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    6
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    10
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    10
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    7
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    25
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    21
                                     Nigeria
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; above-average system limited by poor maintenance; major
    expansion in progress
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay, coaxial cable, and 20 domestic satellite earth
    stations carry intercity traffic
  international:
    3 INTELSAT earth stations (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1
    coaxial submarine cable carry international traffic
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 35, FM 17, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    28
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Nigeria
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 23,167,009; males fit for military service 13,246,223; males
    reach military age (18) annually 1,024,059 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $172 million, about 1% of GDP (1992)
Northern Mariana Islands
NIUE - Passport, onward/return ticket and confirmed hotel
accommodations required.  Visa not required for stay up to 30 days.
                                          Niue
Affiliation:
    (free association with New Zealand)
                                          Niue
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Tonga
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    260 sq km
  land area:
    260 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 1.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    64 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; modified by southeast trade winds
Terrain:
    steep limestone cliffs along coast, central plateau
Natural resources:
    fish, arable land
Land use:
  arable land:
    61%
  permanent crops:
    4%
  meadows and pastures:
    4%
  forest and woodland:
    19%
  other:
    12%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    traditional methods of burning brush and trees to clear land for agriculture
    have threatened soil supplies which naturally are not very abundant
  natural hazards:
    typhoons
  international agreements:
    signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
Note:
    one of world's largest coral islands
                                      Niue
                                     People
Population:
    1,837 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    -3.66% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    NA
Death rate:
    NA
Net migration rate:
    NA
Infant mortality rate:
    NA
Life expectancy at birth:
    NA
Total fertility rate:
    NA
Nationality:
  noun:
    Niuean(s)
  adjective:
    Niuean
Ethnic divisions:
    Polynesian (with some 200 Europeans, Samoans, and Tongans)
Religions:
    Ekalesia Nieue (Niuean Church) 75% - a Protestant church closely related to
    the London Missionary Society, Morman 10%, other  15% (mostly Roman
    Catholic, Jehovah's Witnesses, Seventh-Day Adventist)
Languages:
    Polynesian closely related to Tongan and Samoan, English
Labor force:
    1,000 (1981 est.)
  by occupation:
    most work on family plantations; paid work exists only in government
    service, small industry, and the Niue Development Board
                                      Niue
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Niue
Digraph:
    NE
Type:
    self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand; Niue fully
    responsible for internal affairs; New Zealand retains responsibility for
    external affairs
Capital:
    Alofi
Administrative divisions:
    none
Independence:
    19 October 1974 (became a self-governing territory in free association with
    New Zealand on 19 October 1974)
National holiday:
    Waitangi Day, 6 February (1840) (Treaty of Waitangi established British
    sovereignty)
Constitution:
    19 October 1974 (Niue Constitution Act)
Legal system:
    English common law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by New Zealand
    Representative Kurt MEYER (since NA)
  head of government:
    Premier Frank F. LUI (since 12 March 1993; Acting Premier since December
    1992)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; consists of the premier and three other ministers
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Legislative Assembly:
    elections last held 6 March 1993 (next to be held NA 1996); results -
    percent of vote NA; seats - (20 total, 6 elected)
Judicial branch:
    Appeal Court of New Zealand, High Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Niue Peoples Party (NPP), Young VIVIAN
Member of:
    ESCAP (associate), INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UNESCO,
    WHO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand)
Flag:
    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
                                      Niue
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $2.4 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $1,200 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    5% (1992)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $5.5 million
  expenditures:
    $6.3 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1985 est.)
Exports:
    $117,500 (f.o.b., 1989)
  commodities:
    canned coconut cream, copra, honey, passion fruit products, pawpaw, root
    crops, limes, footballs, stamps, handicrafts
  partners:
    NZ 89%, Fiji, Cook Islands, Australia
Imports:
    $4.1 million (c.i.f., 1989)
  commodities:
    food, live animals, manufactured goods, machinery, fuels, lubricants,
    chemicals, drugs
  partners:
    NZ 59%, Fiji 20%, Japan 13%, Western Samoa, Australia, US
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,500 kW
  production:
    2.7 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,490 kWh (1992)
Industries:
    tourism, handicrafts, food processing
Agriculture:
    coconuts, passion fruit, honey, limes; subsistence crops - taro, yams,
    cassava (tapioca), sweet potatoes; pigs, poultry, beef cattle
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $62
    million
                                      Niue
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 New Zealand dollar (NZ$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    New Zealand dollars (NZ$) per US$1 - 1.5601 (January 1995), 1.6844 (1994),
    1.8495 (1993), 1.8584 (1992), 1.7265 (1991), 1.6750 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                                      Niue
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    229 km
  unpaved:
    all-weather 123 km; plantation access 106 km
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
                                      Niue
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    383 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    single-line telephone system connects all villages on island
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1,000, FM 1, shortwave 0 (1987 est.)
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                                      Niue
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Police Force
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of New Zealand
NIUE - Passport, onward/return ticket and confirmed hotel
accommodations required.  Visa not required for stay up to 30 days.
For additional information consult Embassy of New Zealand (202/328-4800).
Norway
NORFOLK ISLAND - Passport and visa required.  Visa issued upon arrival
for visit up to 30 days, extendable, requires confirmed accommodations and
onward/return ticket.  Australian transit visa must also be obtained in
advance for travel to Norfolk Island.  For both visas consult
Australian Embassy (202/797-3000).
                                 Norfolk Island
Affiliation:
    (territory of Australia)
                                 Norfolk Island
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Australia
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    34.6 sq km
  land area:
    34.6 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.2 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    32 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    subtropical, mild, little seasonal temperature variation
Terrain:
    volcanic formation with mostly rolling plains
Natural resources:
    fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    25%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    75%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    typhoons (especially May to July)
  international agreements:
    NA
                                 Norfolk Island
                                     People
Population:
    2,756 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    1.69% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    NA
Death rate:
    NA
Net migration rate:
    NA
Infant mortality rate:
    NA
Life expectancy at birth:
    NA
Total fertility rate:
    NA
Nationality:
  noun:
    Norfolk Islander(s)
  adjective:
    Norfolk Islander(s)
Ethnic divisions:
    descendants of the Bounty mutineers, Australian, New Zealander
Religions:
    Anglican 39%, Roman Catholic 11.7%, Uniting Church in Australia 16.4%,
    Seventh-Day Adventist 4.4%, none 9.2%, unknown 16.9%, other 2.4% (1986)
Languages:
    English (official), Norfolk a mixture of 18th century English and ancient
    Tahitian
Labor force:
    NA
                                 Norfolk Island
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Territory of Norfolk Island
  conventional short form:
    Norfolk Island
Digraph:
    NF
Type:
    territory of Australia
Capital:
    Kingston (administrative center); Burnt Pine (commercial center)
Administrative divisions:
    none (territory of Australia)
Independence:
    none (territory of Australia)
National holiday:
    Pitcairners Arrival Day Anniversary, 8 June (1856)
Constitution:
    Norfolk Island Act of 1979
Legal system:
    wide legislative and executive responsibility under the Norfolk Island Act
    of 1979; Supreme Court
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Administrator
    Alan Gardner KERR (since NA April 1992), who is appointed by the Governor
    General of Australia
  head of government:
    Assembly President David Ernest BUFFETT (since NA May 1992)
  cabinet:
    Executive Council
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    NA
Member of:
    none
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (territory of Australia)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (territory of Australia)
Flag:
    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
                                 Norfolk Island
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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.
National product:
    GDP $NA
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $NA
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $4.2 million, including capital expenditures of $400,000 (1989 est.)
Exports:
    $1.7 million (f.o.b., FY85/86)
  commodities:
    postage stamps, seeds of the Norfolk Island pine and Kentia palm, small
    quantities of avocados
  partners:
    Australia, Pacific Islands, NZ, Asia, Europe
Imports:
    $15.6 million (c.i.f., FY85/86)
  commodities:
    NA
  partners:
    Australia, Pacific Islands, NZ, Asia, Europe
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    7,000 kW
  production:
    8 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,160 kWh (1990)
Industries:
    tourism
Agriculture:
    Norfolk Island pine seed, Kentia palm seed, cereals, vegetables, fruit,
    cattle, poultry
Economic aid:
    none
Currency:
    1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3058 (January 1995), 1.3667 (1994),
    1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2835 (1991), 1.2799 (1990)
                                 Norfolk Island
                                     Economy
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                                 Norfolk Island
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    80 km
  paved:
    53 km
  unpaved:
    earth, coral 27 km
Ports:
    none; loading jetties at Kingston and Cascade
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
                                 Norfolk Island
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    987 telephones (1983)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    radio link service with Sydney
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    1,000 (1987 est.)
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                                 Norfolk Island
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of Australia
NORFOLK ISLAND - Passport and visa required.  Visa issued upon arrival
for visit up to 30 days, extendable, requires confirmed accommodations and
onward/return ticket.  Australian transit visa must also be obtained in
advance for travel to Norfolk Island.  For both visas consult
Australian Embassy (202/797-3000).
$i$                      Northern Mariana Islands
Affiliation:
    (commonwealth in political union with the US)
                      Northern Mariana Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, islands in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way
    from Hawaii to the Philippines
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    477 sq km
  land area:
    477 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
  note:
    includes 14 islands including Saipan, Rota, and Tinian
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    1,482 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical marine; moderated by northeast trade winds, little seasonal
    temperature variation; dry season December to June, rainy season July to
    October
Terrain:
    southern islands are limestone with level terraces and fringing coral reefs;
    northern islands are volcanic; highest elevation is 471 m (Mt. Okso'
    Takpochao on Saipan)
Natural resources:
    arable land, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    5% on Saipan
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    19%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    contamination of groundwater on Saipan by raw sewage contributes to disease
  natural hazards:
    active volcanoes on Pagan and Agrihan; typhoons (especially August to
    November)
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    strategic location in the North Pacific Ocean
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                     People
Population:
    51,033 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    3.04% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    33.05 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.61 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    37.96 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    67.43 years
  male:
    65.53 years
  female:
    69.48 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.69 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    NA
  adjective:
    NA
Ethnic divisions:
    Chamorro, Carolinians and other Micronesians, Caucasian, Japanese, Chinese,
    Korean
Religions:
    Christian (Roman Catholic majority, although traditional beliefs and taboos
    may still be found)
Languages:
    English, Chamorro, Carolinian
  note:
    86% of population speaks a language other than English at home
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980)
  total population:
    97%
  male:
    97%
  female:
    96%
Labor force:
    7,476 total indigenous labor force, 2,699 unemployed; 21,188 foreign workers
    (1990)
  by occupation:
    NA
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
  conventional short form:
    Northern Mariana Islands
Digraph:
    CQ
Type:
    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
Capital:
    Saipan
Administrative divisions:
    none
Independence:
    none (commonwealth in political union with the US)
National holiday:
    Commonwealth Day, 8 January (1978)
Constitution:
    Covenant Agreement effective 3 November 1986 and the Constitution of the
    Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands
Legal system:
    based on US system except for customs, wages, immigration laws, and taxation
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal; indigenous inhabitants are US citizens but do
    not vote in US presidential elections
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993); Vice President
    Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993)
  head of government:
    Governor Froilan C. TENORIO (since January 1994); Lieutenant Governor Jesus
    C. BORJA (since January 1994); 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
Legislative branch:
    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)
Judicial branch:
    Commonwealth Supreme Court, Superior Court, Federal District Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Republican Party, Benigno R. FITIAL, Leader; Democratic Party, Dr. Carlos S.
    CAMACHO, Chairman
Member of:
    ESCAP (associate), INTERPOL (subbureau), SPC
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                   Government
Flag:
    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
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 cattle ranches and small farms producing coconuts, breadfruit, tomatoes,
    and melons. Industry is small scale, mostly handicrafts, light
    manufacturing, and garment production.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $524 million (1994 est.)
  note:
    GDP numbers reflect US spending
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $10,500 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    6.5% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $190.4 million
  expenditures:
    $190.4 million, including capital expenditures of $19.1 million (FY94/95)
Exports:
    $263.4 million (f.o.b. 1991 est.)
  commodities:
    garments
  partners:
    NA
Imports:
    $392.4 million (c.i.f. 1991 est.)
  commodities:
    food, construction equipment and materials, petroleum products
  partners:
    US, Japan
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    105,000 kW
  production:
    NA kWh
  consumption per capita:
    NA kWh
Industries:
    tourism, construction, light industry, handicrafts
Agriculture:
    coconuts, fruits, cattle, vegetables; food is a major import
Economic aid:
    none
Currency:
    1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    US currency is used
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    381.5 km
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
  undifferentiated:
    primary 134.5 km; secondary 55 km; local 192 km (1991)
Inland waterways:
    none
Ports:
    Saipan, Tinian
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    8
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0 (1984)
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1; note - there are 2 cable TV stations
  televisions:
    NA
                            Northern Mariana Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
Palau
NORWAY - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 3 months.
(Period begins when entering Scandinavian area:  Finland, Sweden,
Denmark, Iceland.)  For further information contact Royal Norwegian Embassy,
2720 34th St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/333-6000) or nearest
Consulate General:  CA (415/986-0766 to 7168 and 213/933-7717), MN
(612/332-3338), NY (212/421-7333) or TX (713/521-2900).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Norway
============================================================
Norway - Consular Information Sheet
 April 4, 1995
Country Description:  Norway is a highly developed stable democracy
with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A tourist or business
visa is not required for stays up to three months (the 90-day period
begins when entering the Nordic area:  Sweden, Norway, Finland,
Denmark, Iceland).  U.S. citizens must have advance authorization
from Norwegian authorities for stays longer than 90 days or stays
involving study or employment.  For further information concerning
entry requirements, travelers can contact the Royal Norwegian
Embassy at 2720 34th Street N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, Tel (202)
333-6000, or the nearest Norwegian Consulate General in Houston, Los
Angeles, Minneapolis, New York, or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities: Medical care is widely available.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  Travelers
have found that in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.  Further
information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control's international travelers hotline, tel: (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  By U.S. standards, Norway has a relatively low
crime rate.  Most crimes involve burglary (which has been on the
rise) or theft of personal property.  Persons who appear affluent
may become targets of pickpockets and purse snatchers.  Violent
crime, additionally, has been rare; weapons are almost never used by
thieves or burglars.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad
should be reported immediately to the local police and to the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  U.S. citizens may refer to the
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to
promote a more trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from
the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.  Mandatory jail sentences are
also routine for driving while intoxicated.
Registration:  Americans who register at the Consular Section of
the U.S. Embassy can obtain updated information on travel and
security in Norway.
Embassy Location: The U.S. Embassy in Oslo is located near the
Royal Palace at Drammensveien 18; Telephone [phone].
 No. 95-045
This replaces the Consular Information sheet dated March 23, 1994,
to update information on entry requirements and crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
:                                         Norway
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Europe, bordering the North Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, west
    of Sweden
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    324,220 sq km
  land area:
    307,860 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than New Mexico
Land boundaries:
    total 2,515 km, Finland 729 km, Sweden 1,619 km, Russia 167 km
Coastline:
    21,925 km (includes mainland 3,419 km, large islands 2,413 km, long fjords,
    numerous small islands, and minor indentations 16,093 km)
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    10 nm
  continental shelf:
    200 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    4 nm
International disputes:
    territorial claim in Antarctica (Queen Maud Land); maritime boundary dispute
    with Russia over portion of Barents Sea
Climate:
    temperate along coast, modified by North Atlantic Current; colder interior;
    rainy year-round on west coast
Terrain:
    glaciated; mostly high plateaus and rugged mountains broken by fertile
    valleys; small, scattered plains; coastline deeply indented by fjords;
    arctic tundra in north
Natural resources:
    petroleum, copper, natural gas, pyrites, nickel, iron ore, zinc, lead, fish,
    timber, hydropower
Land use:
  arable land:
    3%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    27%
  other:
    70%
Irrigated land:
    950 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution; acid rain damaging forests and adversely affecting lakes,
    threatening fish stocks; air pollution from vehicle emissions
  natural hazards:
    NA
                                     Norway
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds,
    Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate
    Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes,
    Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution,
    Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 94, Desertification, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94
Note:
    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; Norway and
    Turkey only NATO members having a land boundary with Russia
                                     Norway
                                     People
Population:
    4,330,951 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    19% (female 390,344; male 444,570)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 1,375,493; male 1,424,027)
  65 years and over:
    16% (female 408,675; male 287,842) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.37% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    12.86 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    10.35 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    1.15 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    6.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.61 years
  male:
    74.26 years
  female:
    81.15 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.76 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Norwegian(s)
  adjective:
    Norwegian
Ethnic divisions:
    Germanic (Nordic, Alpine, Baltic), Lapps (Sami) 20,000
Religions:
    Evangelical Lutheran 87.8% (state church), other Protestant and Roman
    Catholic 3.8%, none 3.2%, unknown 5.2% (1980)
Languages:
    Norwegian (official)
  note:
    small Lapp- and Finnish-speaking minorities
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1976 est.)
  total population:
    99%
Labor force:
    2.13 million
  by occupation:
    services 71%, industry 23%, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 6% (1992)
                                     Norway
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of Norway
  conventional short form:
    Norway
  local long form:
    Kongeriket Norge
  local short form:
    Norge
Digraph:
    NO
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Oslo
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    26 October 1905 (from Sweden)
National holiday:
    Constitution Day, 17 May (1814)
Constitution:
    17 May 1814, modified in 1884
Legal system:
    mixture of customary law, civil law system, and common law traditions;
    Supreme Court renders advisory opinions to legislature when asked; accepts
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    King HARALD V (since 17 January 1991); Heir Apparent Crown Prince HAAKON
    MAGNUS (born 20 July 1973)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Gro Harlem BRUNDTLAND (since 3 November 1990)
  cabinet:
    State Council; appointed by the king in accordance with the will of the
    Storting
Legislative branch:
    modified unicameral Parliament (Storting) which, for certain purposes,
    divides itself into two chambers
  Storting:
    elections last held 13 September 1993 (next to be held 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,
    Consevatives 18, Christian People's 13, Socialist Left 13, Progress 10, Left
    Party 1, Red Electoral Alliance 1, unawarded 10
  note:
    for certain purposes, the Storting divides itself into two chambers and
    elects one-fourth of its membership to an upper house or Lagting
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Hoyesterett)
                                     Norway
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Labor Party, Thorbjorn JAGLUND; Conservative Party, Jan PETERSEN; Center
    Party, Anne ENGER LAHNSTEIN; Christian People's Party, Kjell Magne BONDEVIK;
    Socialist Left, Kjellbjorg LUNDE; Norwegian Communist, Kare Andre NILSEN;
    Progress Party, Carl I. HAGEN; Liberal, Odd Einar DORUM; Left Party; Red
    Electoral Alliance, Erling FOLKVORD
Member of:
    AfDB, AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD, ECE, EFTA, ESA,
    FAO, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC,
    IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU,
    MTCR, NACC, NAM (guest), NATO, NC, NEA, NIB, NSG, OECD, OSCE, PCA, UN,
    UNAVEM II, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMOGIP,
    UNOMOZ, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UPU, WEU (associate), WHO, WIPO, WMO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Kjeld VIBE
  chancery:
    2720 34th Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Houston, Los Angeles, Minneapolis, New York, and San Francisco
  consulate(s):
    Miami
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Thomas A. LOFTUS
  embassy:
    Drammensveien 18, 0244 Oslo
  mailing address:
    PSC 69, Box 1000, APO AE 09707
  telephone:
    [47] 22 44 85 50
  FAX:
    [47] 22 44 33 63
Flag:
    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)
                                     Norway
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Norway has a mixed economy involving a combination of free market activity
    and government intervention. The government controls key areas, such as the
    vital petroleum sector (through large-scale state enterprises) and
    extensively subsidizes agriculture, fishing, and areas with sparse
    resources. Norway also maintains an extensive welfare system that helps
    propel public sector expenditures to slightly more than 50% of the GDP and
    results in one of the highest average tax burdens in the world (54%). A
    small country with a high dependence on international trade, Norway 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 -
    petroleum, hydropower, fish, forests, and minerals - and is highly dependent
    on its oil sector to keep its economy afloat. Norway imports more than half
    its food needs. Although one of the government's main priorities is to
    reduce this dependency, this situation is not likely to improve for years to
    come. The government also hopes to reduce unemployment and strengthen and
    diversify the economy through tax reform and a series of expansionary
    budgets. The budget deficit is expected to hit a record 8% of GDP because of
    welfare spending and bail-outs of the banking system. Unemployment is
    currently running at 8.4% - including those in job programs - because of the
    weakness of the economy outside the oil sector. Economic growth, only 1.6%
    in 1993, moved up to 5.5% in 1994. Oslo opted to stay out of the EU during a
    referendum in November 1994.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $95.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $22,170 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.3% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    8.4% (including people in job-training programs; 1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $50.9 billion
  expenditures:
    $55.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $36.6 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    petroleum and petroleum products 40%, metals and products 10.6%, fish and
    fish products 6.9%, chemicals 6.4%, natural gas 6.0%, ships 5.4%
  partners:
    EC 66.3%, Nordic countries 16.3%, developing countries 8.4%, US 6.0%, Japan
    1.8% (1993)
Imports:
    $29.3 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment 38.9%, chemicals and other industrial inputs 26.6%,
    manufactured consumer goods 17.8%, foodstuffs 6.4%
  partners:
    EC 48.6%, Nordic countries 25.1%, developing countries 9.6%, US 8.1%, Japan
    8.0% (1993)
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate 4.6% (1994); accounts for 14% of GDP
                                     Norway
                                     Economy
Electricity:
  capacity:
    27,280,000 kW
  production:
    118 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    23,735 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum and gas, food processing, shipbuilding, pulp and paper products,
    metals, chemicals, timber, mining, textiles, fishing
Agriculture:
    accounts for 3% of GDP and about 6% of labor force; among world's top 10
    fishing nations; livestock output exceeds value of crops; fish catch of 1.76
    million metric tons in 1989
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for drugs shipped via the CIS and Baltic states for the
    European market
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-89), $4.4 billion
Currency:
    1 Norwegian krone (NKr) = 100 oere
Exchange rates:
    Norwegian kroner (NKr) per US$1 - 6.7014 (January 1995), 7.0469 (1994),
    7.0941 (1993), 6.2145 (1992), 6.4829 (1991), 6.2597 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                     Norway
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    4,026 km
  standard gauge:
    4,026 km 1.435-m gauge (2,422 km electrified; 96 km double track) (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    88,922 km
  paved:
    61,356 km (75 km of expressway)
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, earth 27,566 km (1990)
Inland waterways:
    1,577 km along west coast; 2.4 m draft vessels maximum
Pipelines:
    refined products 53 km
Ports:
    Bergen, Drammen, Flora, Hammerfest, Harstad, Haugesund, Kristiansand,
    Larvik, Narvik, Oslo, Porsgrunn, Stavanger, Tromso, Trondheim
Merchant marine:
  total:
    764 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 20,793,968 GRT/35,409,472 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 159, cargo 92, chemical tanker 85, combination bulk 8, combination
    ore/oil 28, container 17, liquefied gas tanker 81, oil tanker 162, passenger
    13, passenger-cargo 2, railcar carrier 1, refrigerated cargo 13,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 54, short-sea passenger 21, vehicle carrier 28
  note:
    the government has created a captive 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
Airports:
  total:
    104
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    12
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    13
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    10
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    62
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
                                     Norway
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    3,102,000 telephones; high-quality domestic and international telephone,
    telegraph, and telex services
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    domestic earth stations
  international:
    2 buried coaxial cable systems; 4 coaxial submarine cables; EUTELSAT,
    INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean), and MARISAT earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 46, FM 493 (350 private and 143 government), shortwave 0
  radios:
    3.3 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    54 (repeaters 2,100)
  televisions:
    1.5 million
                                     Norway
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Norwegian Army, Royal Norwegian Navy, Royal Norwegian Air Force, Home Guard
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,116,130; males fit for military service 928,774; males
    reach military age (20) annually 29,123 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $3.4 billion, 3.2% of GDP (1994)
2?4?4?
Pacific Ocean
OMAN - Passport and visa required.  Tourist/business visas for
single-entry issued for stay up to 3 weeks.  Requires $21 fee, 1 application form, 1
photo and cholera immunization if arriving from infected area.  AIDS
test required for work permits.  U.S test not accepted.  Allow 1 week to 10
days for processing.   For transit and road travel check Embassy of the
Sultanate of Oman, 2535 Belmont Rd., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/387-1980-2).
Oman - Consular Information Sheet
September 2, 1994
Country Description:  Oman is a monarchy which has developed rapidly in the
last twenty years.  The economy is largely dependent on the production and
export of oil.  Tourist facilities are available in the capital area of
Muscat and in Salalah and are being expanded elsewhere in the country.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required for entry into Oman.
Evidence of yellow fever immunization is required if the traveler enters
from an infected area.  For more details on entry requirements, the traveler
can contact the Embassy of the Sultanate of Oman, 2342 Massachusetts Ave.
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Adequate care and medicines are available in Oman.
Emergency treatment is available at government-run hospitals, and there are
many private clinics.  Doctors and hospitals expect immediate cash payment
for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proven useful.  Information on health matters can also be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers
hotline at tel. [phone].
Information on Crime:  The incidence of street crime is low in Oman and
violent crimes are very rare.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport
should be reported immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy
or consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in
the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to the Middle East and North Africa."  They are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington,
D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict in Oman and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Customs:  Travelers entering Oman may not carry with them or in accompanied
baggage any firearms, ammunition, liquor, or pornography; all are subject to
seizure if found.  Unaccompanied baggage and shipments of household goods
are also subject to inspection.  Books, video tapes, and audio tapes may be
reviewed prior to being released to the owner.  A copy of the packing list
is required to clear effects through customs.
Dress Codes:  Islamic ideals provide the conservative foundation of Oman's
customs, laws and practices.  Foreign visitors are expected to remain
sensitive to the  Islamic culture, and not dress in a revealing or
provocative style.  This includes wearing of sleeveless shirts and blouses,
halter tops and shorts.  Athletic clothing is worn in public only when the
wearer is obviously engaged in athletic activity.  Western bathing attire is
the norm at hotel pools and beaches, however.
Importation of Pets:  Pets entering Oman require an import permit from the
Ministry of Agriculture and Fisheries, Department of Animal Health, before
shipment.  Forms may be obtained from the Ministry by one's sponsor and must
be submitted with a copy of the pet's rabies vaccination record and a health
certificate.  Vaccination against rabies is required no less than one month
and no more than six months before the travel date.  There are additional
vaccination requirements for dogs and cats less than 30 days old.  A second
health certificate dated 48 hours before the pet travels is also a
requirement.  Pets may be subjected to a six month quarantine, although this
is usually not required when importing the pet from a rabies-free country.
Pets must be manifested as cargo on an airway bill when transported by air.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In March 1994, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Oman's civil aviation authority as in compliance
with international aviation safety oversight standards for Omani carriers
operating to and from the U.S.  The same level of safety oversight would
typically be applied to operations to other destinations.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at 1-800-
322-7873.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy can obtain
updated information on travel and security within Oman.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Oman is located on Safaraat Street,
Al-Khawair, in the capital city of Muscat.  The mailing address is P.O. Box
202, Code 115, Muscat, Sultanate of Oman.  The telephone number is (968) 698-
989 and after 4:00 p.m. local time (968) 699-049.  The workweek in Oman is
Saturday through Wednesday.
No. 94-187
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 4, 1994 to add
information on aviation oversight.
'                                          Oman
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, bordering the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, and Persian Gulf,
    between Yemen and the United Arab Emirates
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    212,460 sq km
  land area:
    212,460 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Kansas
Land boundaries:
    total 1,374 km, Saudi Arabia 676 km, UAE 410 km, Yemen 288 km
Coastline:
    2,092 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    no defined boundary with most of UAE; Administrative Line with UAE in far
    north
Climate:
    dry desert; hot, humid along coast; hot, dry interior; strong southwest
    summer monsoon (May to September) in far south
Terrain:
    vast central desert plain, rugged mountains in north and south
Natural resources:
    petroleum, copper, asbestos, some marble, limestone, chromium, gypsum,
    natural gas
Land use:
  arable land:
    less than 2%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    5%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    93%
Irrigated land:
    410 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    rising soil salinity; beach pollution from oil spills; very limited natural
    fresh water resources
  natural hazards:
    summer winds often raise large sandstorms and duststorms in interior;
    periodic droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ship Pollution, Whaling; signed,
    but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change
                                      Oman
                                    Geography
Note:
    strategic location with small foothold on Musandam Peninsula controlling
    Strait of Hormuz, a vital transit point for world crude oil
                                      Oman
                                     People
Population:
    2,125,089 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    46% (female 480,974; male 498,619)
  15-64 years:
    51% (female 493,685; male 593,740)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 31,826; male 26,245) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.71% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    38.05 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    4.09 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    34.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    70.25 years
  male:
    68.31 years
  female:
    72.29 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.16 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Omani(s)
  adjective:
    Omani
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab, Baluchi, South Asian (Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan, Bangladeshi)
Religions:
    Ibadhi Muslim 75%, Sunni Muslim, Shi'a Muslim, Hindu
Languages:
    Arabic (official), English, Baluchi, Urdu, Indian dialects
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    430,000 (est.)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 40% (est.)
                                      Oman
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Sultanate of Oman
  conventional short form:
    Oman
  local long form:
    Saltanat Uman
  local short form:
    Uman
Digraph:
    MU
Type:
    monarchy
Capital:
    Muscat
Administrative divisions:
    6 regions (mintaqah, singular - mintaqat) and 2 governorates* (muhafazah,
    singular - muhafazat) Ad Dakhiliyah, Al Batinah, Al Wusta, Ash Sharqiyah, Az
    Zahirah, Masqat, Musandam*, Zufar*
Independence:
    1650 (expulsion of the Portuguese)
National holiday:
    National Day, 18 November (1940)
Constitution:
    none
Legal system:
    based on English common law and Islamic law; ultimate appeal to the sultan;
    has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    none
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    Sultan and Prime Minister QABOOS bin Said Al Said (since 23 July 1970)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet
Legislative branch:
    unicameral Consultative Council
Judicial branch:
    none; traditional Islamic judges and a nascent civil court system
Political parties and leaders:
    none
Other political or pressure groups:
    NA
Member of:
    ABEDA, AFESD, AL, AMF, ESCWA, FAO, G-77, GCC, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IDB, IFAD,
    IFC, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO (correspondent),
    ITU, NAM, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Abdallah bin Muhammad bin Aqil al-DHAHAB
  chancery:
    2535 Belmont Rd. NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 1982
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador David J. DUNFORD
                                      Oman
                                   Government
  embassy:
    address NA, Muscat
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 202, Code No. 115, Muscat
  telephone:
    [968] 698989
  FAX:
    [968] 699779
Flag:
    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
                                      Oman
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Economic performance is closely tied to the fortunes of the oil industry,
    including trends in international oil prices and the ability of OPEC
    producers to agree on output quotas. Petroleum accounts for more than 85% of
    export earnings, about 80% 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $17 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    0.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $10,020 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.2% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $4.4 billion
  expenditures:
    $5.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $1 billion (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $4.8 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    petroleum 87%, re-exports, fish, processed copper, textiles
  partners:
    UAE 33%, Japan 20%, South Korea 14%, China 7% (1993)
Imports:
    $4.1 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery, transportation equipment, manufactured goods, food, livestock,
    lubricants
  partners:
    UAE 24% (largely re-exports), Japan 21%, UK 12%, US 7%, France 6% (1993)
External debt:
    $3 billion (1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 8.6% (1991); accounts for almost 60% of GDP, including petroleum
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,540,000 kW
  production:
    6 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,407 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    crude oil production and refining, natural gas production, construction,
    cement, copper
Agriculture:
    accounts for 4% of GDP and 40% of the labor force (including fishing); less
    than 2% of land cultivated; largely subsistence farming (dates, limes,
    bananas, alfalfa, vegetables, camels, cattle); not self-sufficient in food;
    annual fish catch averages 100,000 metric tons
                                      Oman
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $137 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $148 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $797 million
Currency:
    1 Omani rial (RO) = 1,000 baiza
Exchange rates:
    Omani rials (RO) per US$1 - 0.3845 (fixed rate since 1986)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                      Oman
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    26,000 km
  paved:
    5,000 km
  unpaved:
    21,000 km (1992 est.)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 1,300 km; natural gas 1,030 km
Ports:
    Mina' al Fahl, Mina' Qabus, Mina' Raysut
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1 passenger ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 4,442 GRT/1,320 DWT
Airports:
    140
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    36
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    61
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    31
                                      Oman
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    50,000 telephones; modern system consisting of open-wire, microwave, and
    radio communications stations; limited coaxial cable
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    open wire, microwave, radio communications, and 8 domestic satellite links
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean) and 1 ARABSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    7
  televisions:
    NA
                                      Oman
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, Royal Oman Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 520,428; males fit for military service 294,993; males reach
    military age (14) annually 26,065 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $1.7 billion, 14.2% of GDP (1995 est.)
Pakistan
                                    Pacific Ocean
                                    Geography
Location:
    body of water between Antarctica, Asia, Australia, and the Western
    Hemisphere
Map references:
    World
Area:
  total area:
    165.384 million sq km
  comparative area:
    about 18 times the size of the US; the largest ocean (followed by the
    Atlantic Ocean, the Indian Ocean, and the Arctic Ocean); covers about
    one-third of the global surface; larger than the total land area of the
    world
  note:
    includes Bali Sea, Bellingshausen Sea, Bering Sea, Bering Strait, Coral Sea,
    East China Sea, Flores Sea, Gulf of Alaska, Gulf of Tonkin, Java Sea,
    Philippine Sea, Ross Sea, Savu Sea, Sea of Japan, Sea of Okhotsk, South
    China Sea, Tasman Sea, Timor Sea, and other tributary water bodies
Coastline:
    135,663 km
International disputes:
    some maritime disputes (see littoral states)
Climate:
    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
Terrain:
    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 Antarctica 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
    world's deepest, the 10,924 meter Marianas Trench
Natural resources:
    oil and gas fields, polymetallic nodules, sand and gravel aggregates, placer
    deposits, fish
Environment:
  current issues:
    endangered marine species include the dugong, sea lion, sea otter, seals,
    turtles, and whales; oil pollution in Philippine Sea and South China Sea
  natural hazards:
    surrounded by a zone of violent volcanic and earthquake 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 Antarctica; occasional El Nino phenomenon occurs off the coast of Peru
    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 their lost 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
                                  Pacific Ocean
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    the major choke points are the Bering Strait, Panama Canal, Luzon Strait,
    and the Singapore Strait; the Equator divides the Pacific Ocean into the
    North Pacific Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean; dotted with low coral
    islands and rugged volcanic islands in the southwestern Pacific Ocean
                                  Pacific Ocean
                                   Government
Digraph:
    ZN
                                  Pacific Ocean
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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
    Australia, NZ, China, US, and Peru. 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.
Industries:
    fishing, oil and gas production
                                  Pacific Ocean
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    Bangkok (Thailand), Hong Kong, Los Angeles (US), Manila (Philippines), Pusan
    (South Korea), San Francisco (US), Seattle (US), Shanghai (China),
    Singapore, Sydney (Australia), Vladivostok (Russia), Wellington (NZ),
    Yokohama (Japan)
                                  Pacific Ocean
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
  international:
    several submarine cables with network nodal points on Guam and Hawaii
Palmyra Atoll
%PAKISTAN - Passport and visa required.  Visa must be obtained before
arrival.  Tourist visa requires 1 application form, 1 photo and proof
of onward/return transportation.  Validity depends on length of visit
(minimum 3 months), multiple entries, no charge.  Need letter from company for
business visa.  Include prepaid envelope for return of passport by
registered mail.  AIDS test required for stays over 1 year.  For
applications and inquiries in Washington area, contact Consular Section
of the Embassy of Pakistan, 2315 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/939-6295).  All other areas apply to Consulate General, 12 East
65th St., New York, NY 10021 (212/879-5800).
Pakistan - Consular Information Sheet
August 3, 1994
Country Description:  Pakistan is a developing country with a parliamentary
democracy.  Tourist facilities are available in the principal population
centers of the country.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  The visa must be
obtained from a Pakistani Embassy or Consulate before arrival at the point
of entry.  Information on entry requirements can be obtained from the
Embassy of Pakistan, 2315 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C.,
20008, telephone [phone].  Travelers may also contact one of the
Consulates General of Pakistan, located at 12 East 65th St., New York, NY
10021, telephone [phone], and 18050 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1100, Los
Angeles, CA 90010, [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Rallies, demonstrations and processions occur from
time to time throughout Pakistan on very short notice, and have occasionally
taken on an anti-American or anti-Western character.  The potential exists
for U.S. citizens to be injured during such events.  During the Islamic
religious observances of Ramadan and Moharram sectarian rivalry and violence
often increase.
Travel in the Northwest Frontier Province:  Because of dangerous security
conditions affecting foreigners, particularly Americans, in the Khyber
Agency, U.S. government officials and their dependents are currently
prohibited from traveling overland through the tribal areas to the Khyber
Pass.  Substantial areas within the Northwest Frontier are designated tribal
areas, outside the normal jurisdiction of government law enforcement
authorities.  Travel within these areas is particularly hazardous.  Tribal
feuds or conflicts between smuggling factions may involve foreigners.  Even
in the settled areas, ethnic, political, or sectarian violence may target
foreigners.  Car hijackings and the abduction of foreigners are occasionally
reported from the tribal areas.  If visitors must enter the tribal areas, a
permit must be obtained from the Home Department, which may require that an
armed escort accompany the visitor.
Travel in  Sindh Province:  In the areas of Karachi and Hyderabad, there
have been recurring outbreaks of ethnic and sectarian violence which have
been characterized by random bombings, shootings and mass demonstrations.
Recent incidents have resulted in several deaths and the imposition of
curfews.  There have also been numerous incidents of kidnapping for ransom.
In rural Sindh Province, the security situation is hazardous, especially in
regard to overland travel.  Foreigners have occasionally been kidnapped, and
in one incident, the foreign kidnap victim was killed in a subsequent
gunfight between police and bandits.  The Pakistan government has
recommended that travelers limit their movements in Sindh Province to the
city of Karachi.  If visitors must go into the interior of Sindh Province,
the Pakistan government requests that travelers inform police authorities
well in advance of the trip so that necessary police security arrangements
can be made.
Travel in Baluchistan Province:  The province of Baluchistan, which borders
both Iran and Afghanistan, is notorious for cross-border smuggling.  Armed
battles between clans are frequent.  Due to a limited provincial police
presence, travelers wishing to visit the interior of Baluchistan should
consult with the province's Home Secretary; advance permission from
provincial authorities is required for travel into some areas.  While
quieter than the interior, Quetta, the provincial capital, has experienced
serious ethnic violence which has led to the imposition of curfews.
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical care is available in major cities in
Pakistan, but may be limited in rural areas.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate payment in cash for treatment.  Supplemental health insurance
which specifically covers overseas treatment has proven useful.  Additional
information on health problems can be obtained from the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers' hotline at [phone].
Information on Crime:  In Karachi, armed robberies are common, and drivers
resisting the theft of their motor vehicles are often shot.  In addition,
petty crime, especially theft of personal property, is common throughout
Pakistan.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to South
Asia."  They are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties: Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in illegal
drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
of several years with heavy fines.  Legislation passed in 1994 makes
trafficking offenses punishable by death.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad
or the Consulates General in Karachi, Lahore or Peshawar may obtain updated
information on travel and security in Pakistan.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in Islamabad, Diplomatic
Enclave, Ramna 5, telephone - 826 161.  The Consular Section is located
separately in the USAID building, 18 Sixth Avenue, Ramna 5.  In Karachi, the
Consulate General is located at 8 Abdullah Haroon Road, telephone - 568-
5170.  In Lahore, the U.S. Consulate General is located on Sharah-E-Abdul
Hamid Bin Badees (50 Empress Road), New Simla Hills, telephone - 636-5530.
In Peshawar, the U.S. Consulate is located at 11 Hospital Road, Peshawar
Cantonment, telephone - 279-801, 279-802, 279-803.
No. 94-149
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated June 15, 1993, to add the
address of the Pakistani Consulate General in Los Angeles; additional
information on potential violence; a section on travel in Baluchistan
province, and new legislation concerning punishment for drug trafficking.
Pakistan - Public Announcement
November 14, 1994
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release
The U.S. Consulate in Karachi, Pakistan released the following announcement
on November 14:
In the wake of the November 10 assassination of the MQM (HAQIQI) deputy
leader, there has been violence in many parts of the city, particularly in
Jacob Lines, Landhi, Shah Faisal Colony, Korangi, Orangi, Malir,
Liaquatabad, Nazimabad, and Gulshan-Iqbal.  In addition, some businesses
remain closed and a general transportation strike has been called.  Various
murders have been reported throughout Karachi, and it is not clear if the
motives are political or criminal.  MQM (HAQIQI) has called for a 'day of
protest' (or "Black Day") on Tuesday, November 15, to mourn the death of
their deputy leader and to protest alleged "American/Indian designs in the
region."
The American Consulate urges all American citizens to exercise greater than
usual caution, avoid unnecessary travel and stay away from affected parts of
the city.  Large crowds or gatherings should also be avoided, as violence
can be quickly sparked.  The U.S. Consulate General will be open for
business on Tuesday, November 15.
No. 94-pak
----------------------------------------------
Pakistan - Public Announcement
November 8, 1994
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release
On November 6, the U.S. Embassy  in Islamabad provided the following
information on civil unrest in the Malakand Division (including the Swat
District) in northern Pakistan:
"Since November 2, a militant group campaigning for the imposition of Sharia
(Islamic) law has occupied numerous towns and at least one airport.  Roads
have been blocked, many hostages taken and several killed.
Police and paramilitary moves against the unrest have begun, and a few towns
seized earlier by the militants are reported to be in government hands.
However, the unrest has spread rapidly, and numerous towns in Swat and
Malakand are known to be under seige or occupied by militant forces.
All U.S. citizens in or planning to enter Pakistan are urged to follow local
media reports and contact the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad or U.S. Consulates
in Peshawar, Lahore, or Karachi before considering travel to Swat or
Malakand."
Additional information may be found in the Department of State's Consular
Information Sheet for Pakistan.
No. 94-pa1
`=K=                                      Pakistan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Asia, bordering the Arabian Sea, between India and Iran
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    803,940 sq km
  land area:
    778,720 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of California
Land boundaries:
    total 6,774 km, Afghanistan 2,430 km, China 523 km, India 2,912 km, Iran 909
    km
Coastline:
    1,046 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    status of Kashmir with India; border question with Afghanistan (Durand
    Line); water-sharing problems (Wular Barrage) over the Indus with upstream
    riparian India
Climate:
    mostly hot, dry desert; temperate in northwest; arctic in north
Terrain:
    flat Indus plain in east; mountains in north and northwest; Balochistan
    plateau in west
Natural resources:
    land, extensive natural gas reserves, limited petroleum, poor quality coal,
    iron ore, copper, salt, limestone
Land use:
  arable land:
    23%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    6%
  forest and woodland:
    4%
  other:
    67% (1993)
Irrigated land:
    170,000 sq km (1992)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution 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; desertification
  natural hazards:
    frequent earthquakes, occasionally severe especially in north and west;
    flooding along the Indus after heavy rains (July and August)
                                    Pakistan
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental
    Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection,
    Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of
    the Sea, Marine Life Conservation
Note:
    controls Khyber Pass and Bolan Pass, traditional invasion routes between
    Central Asia and the Indian Subcontinent
                                    Pakistan
                                     People
Population:
    131,541,920 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    44% (female 28,033,354; male 29,777,818)
  15-64 years:
    52% (female 33,456,410; male 35,109,482)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 2,556,846; male 2,608,010) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.28% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    41.8 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.07 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -16.93 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    99.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    57.86 years
  male:
    57.18 years
  female:
    58.56 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.35 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Pakistani(s)
  adjective:
    Pakistani
Ethnic divisions:
    Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashtun (Pathan), Baloch, Muhajir (immigrants from India
    and their descendents)
Religions:
    Muslim 97% (Sunni 77%, Shi'a 20%), Christian, Hindu, and other 3%
Languages:
    Urdu (official), English (official; lingua franca of Pakistani elite and
    most government ministries), Punjabi 64%, Sindhi 12%, Pashtu 8%, Urdu 7%,
    Balochi and other 9%
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    35%
  male:
    47%
  female:
    21%
Labor force:
    36 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 46%, mining and manufacturing 18%, services 17%, other 19%
  note:
    extensive export of labor
                                    Pakistan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Islamic Republic of Pakistan
  conventional short form:
    Pakistan
  former:
    West Pakistan
Digraph:
    PK
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Islamabad
Administrative divisions:
    4 provinces, 1 territory*, and 1 capital territory**; Balochistan, Federally
    Administered Tribal Areas*, Islamabad Capital Territory**, North-West
    Frontier, Punjab, Sindh
  note:
    the Pakistani-administered portion of the disputed Jammu and Kashmir region
    includes Azad Kashmir and the Northern Areas
Independence:
    14 August 1947 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Pakistan Day, 23 March (1956) (proclamation of the republic)
Constitution:
    10 April 1973, suspended 5 July 1977, restored with amendments 30 December
    1985
Legal system:
    based on English common law with provisions to accommodate Pakistan's
    stature as an Islamic state; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with
    reservations
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal; separate electorates and reserved parliamentary
    seats for non-Muslims
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Sardar Farooq LEGHARI; 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
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Benazir BHUTTO
  cabinet:
    Cabinet
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Parliament (Majlis-e-Shoora)
  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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court, Federal Islamic (Shari'at) Court
                                    Pakistan
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
  government:
    Pakistan People's Party (PPP), Benazir BHUTTO; Pakistan 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), Maulana Kausar NIAZI; Pakhtun
    Quami Party (PKQP), Mohammed AFZAL Khan; Jamhoori Watan Party (JWP), Akbar
    Khan BUGTI
  opposition:
    Pakistan Muslim League, Nawaz Sharif faction (PML/N), Nawaz SHARIF; Awami
    National Party (ANP), Khan Abdul WALI KHAN; Pakistan Islamic Front (PIF),
    Qazi Hussain AHMED; Balochistan National Movement, Mengal Group (BNM/M),
    Sardar Akhtar MENGAL; Mohajir Quami Movement, Altaf faction (MQM/A), Altaf
    HUSSAIN; Jamaat-i-Islami (JI), Qazi Hussain AHMED; Jamiat-al-Hadith (JAH)
  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 Pakistan
    (ASSP); Islami-Jamhoori-Mahaz (IJM-Islamic Democratic Party), the IJM
    includes Jamiat Ulema-i-Islami, Fazlur Rehman group (JUI/F); Jamiat
    Ulema-i-Pakistan, Noorani faction (JUP/NO); Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam,
    Sami-ul-Haq faction (JUI/S); Pakistan Muslim League, Functional Group
    (PML/F); Pakistan National Party (PNP)
  note:
    political alliances in Pakistan can shift frequently
Other political or pressure groups:
    military remains important political force; ulema (clergy), landowners,
    industrialists, and small merchants also influential
Member of:
    AsDB, C, CCC, CP, ECO, ESCAP, FAO, G-19, G-24, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, NAM, OAS (observer), OIC,
    PCA, SAARC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNOMIL,
    UNOSOM, UNPROFOR, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Maleeha LODHI
  chancery:
    2315 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Los Angeles and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador John C. MONJO
  embassy:
    Diplomatic Enclave, Ramna 5, Islamabad
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 1048, PSC 1212, Box 2000, Unit 6220, Islamabad; APO AE 09812-2000
  telephone:
    [92] (51) 826161 through 826179
  FAX:
    [92] (51) 214222
  consulate(s) general:
    Karachi, Lahore
  consulate(s):
    Peshawar
                                    Pakistan
                                   Government
Flag:
    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 Islam
                                    Pakistan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The Pakistani economy has made progress in several key areas since Benazir
    BHUTTO became Prime Minister in October 1993. She has been under pressure
    from international donors and the IMF - which gave Pakistan a $1.3 billion
    structural adjustment credit in February 1994 - to continue the economic
    reforms and austerity measures begun by her predecessor, caretaker Prime
    Minister Moeen QURESHI (July-October 1993). Foreign exchange reserves
    climbed to more than $3 billion in 1994, and the budget deficit was
    substantially reduced. Real GDP growth was 4% in FY93/94, up from 2.3% in
    FY92/93. Foreign direct and portfolio investment also have increased.
    Privatization of large public sector utilities began in 1994 with the sale
    of 12% of the Pakistan Telecommunications Corporation (PTC) and the Water
    and Power Development Authority (WAPDA); the sale of state-owned banks and
    other large units are planned for 1995. Still, the government must cope with
    long-standing economic vulnerabilities - high levels of debt service and
    defense spending, a small tax base, a huge population, and dependence on
    cotton-based exports - which hamper its ability to create a stable economic
    environment. In addition, Pakistan's infrastructure is inadequate and
    deteriorating, low levels of literacy constrain industrial growth, and
    increasing sectarian, ethnic, and tribal violence disrupt production.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $248.5 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,930 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    12% (FY93/94)
Unemployment rate:
    10% (FY90/91 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $10.5 billion
  expenditures:
    $11.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $3.1 billion (FY93/94)
Exports:
    $6.7 billion (1993)
  commodities:
    cotton, textiles, clothing, rice, leather, carpets
  partners:
    US, Japan, Hong Kong, Germany, UK, UAE, France
Imports:
    $9.5 billion (1993)
  commodities:
    petroleum, petroleum products, machinery, transportation equipment,
    vegetable oils, animal fats, chemicals
  partners:
    Japan, US, Germany, UK, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, South Korea
External debt:
    $24 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5.6% (FY93/94); accounts for 18% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    10,800,000 kW (1994)
  production:
    52.4 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    389 kWh (1993)
                                    Pakistan
                                     Economy
Industries:
    textiles, food processing, beverages, construction materials, clothing,
    paper products, shrimp
Agriculture:
    24% of GDP; world's largest contiguous irrigation system; major crops -
    cotton, wheat, rice, sugarcane, fruits, vegetables; livestock products -
    milk, beef, mutton, eggs
Illicit drugs:
    major illicit producer of opium and hashish for the international drug
    trade; remains world's third largest opium producer (160 metric tons in
    1994); major center for processing Afghan heroin and key transit area for
    Southwest Asian heroin moving to Western market
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    $2.5 billion (FY91/92); $2.5 billion (FY92/93); $2.5 billion (FY93/94); no
    US commitments, includes bi- and multilateral aid
Currency:
    1 Pakistani rupee (PRe) = 100 paisa
Exchange rates:
    Pakistani rupees (PRs) per US$1 - 30.860 (January 1995), 30.570 (1994),
    28.107 (1993), 25.083 (1992), 23.801 (1991), 21.707 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                                    Pakistan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    8,773 km
  broad gauge:
    7,718 km 1.676-m gauge (286 km electrified; 1,037 double track)
  narrow gauge:
    445 km 1.000-m gauge; 610 km less than 1.000-m gauge (1985)
Highways:
  total:
    177,410 km
  paved:
    94,027 km
  unpaved:
    83,383 km (1991 est.)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 250 km; petroleum products 885 km; natural gas 4,044 km (1987)
Ports:
    Gwadar, Karachi, Ormaro (under construction), Port Muhammad bin Qasim
Merchant marine:
  total:
    30 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 352,189 GRT/532,782 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 1, cargo 25, oil tanker 1, passenger-cargo 3
Airports:
  total:
    119
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    12
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    21
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    33
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    14
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    24
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    7
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    8
                                    Pakistan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; about 7 telephones/1,000 persons; the domestic telephone
    system is poor, adequate only for government and business use; the system
    for international traffic is better
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay
  international:
    3 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean) earth stations; microwave
    radio relay
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 19, FM 8, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    29
  televisions:
    NA
                                    Pakistan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, Civil Armed Forces, National Guard,
    paramilitary/security forces
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 30,219,551; males fit for military service 18,544,008; males
    reach military age (17) annually 1,429,719 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $3.2 billion, 5.6% of GDP (FY94/95)
Panama
Palau - Consular Information Sheet
July 9, 1993
Country Description: The Republic of Palau is a constitutional democracy
administered by the United States as the Trust Territory of the Pacific
Islands since July 18, 1947, pursuant to a trusteeship agreement approved by
the United Nations.  It has a developing agrarian economy.  Tourist
facilities are available only on a limited basis.
Entry Requirements:  Proof of U.S. citizenship and an onward/return ticket
are required for stays of up to 30 days.  Extensions are available in Palau
for a $50 fee.  Further specific information is available through the Office
of the Palau Representative, 444 North Capitol Street, Suite 208,
Washington, D.C. 20001, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Health facilities in the Republic of Palau are adequate
for routine medical care, but limited in availability and quality.  Doctors
and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance which specifically covers overseas treatment
has proved useful.  The international travelers hotline of the Centers for
Disease Control at [phone] has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  The crime rate in the Republic of Palau is low.  The
loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe
Trip Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use, or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
jail sentences and fines.
Other Penalties:  Firearms of any kind are strictly prohibited in Palau.
The penalty for possession of a firearm is up to fifteen years imprisonment.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Liaison office can obtain
updated information on travel and security within the area.
U.S. Liaison Office Locations:  The U.S. Liaison Office in the Republic of
Palau is located c/o P.O. Box 6028 in Koror, telephone [phone].
No. 93-187
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated November 13, 1992, to
include information on reporting the loss or theft of a U.S. passport.
`&G&                                         Palau
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, group of islands in the North Pacific Ocean, southeast of the
    Philippines
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    458 sq km
  land area:
    458 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    1,519 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to depth of exploitation
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    wet season May to November; hot and humid
Terrain:
    about 200 islands varying geologically from the high, mountainous main
    island of Babelthuap to low, coral islands usually fringed by large barrier
    reefs
Natural resources:
    forests, minerals (especially gold), marine products, deep-seabed minerals
Land use:
  arable land:
    NA%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    inadequate facilities for disposal of solid waste; threats to the marine
    ecosystem from sand and coral dredging and illegal fishing practices that
    involve the use of dynamite
  natural hazards:
    typhoons (June to December)
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    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
                                      Palau
                                     People
Population:
    16,661 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    1.76% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    22.11 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.61 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    2.12 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    25.07 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    71.01 years
  male:
    69.14 years
  female:
    73.02 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.85 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Palauan(s)
  adjective:
    Palauan
Ethnic divisions:
    Palauans are a composite of Polynesian, Malayan, and Melanesian races
Religions:
    Christian (Catholics, Seventh-Day Adventists, Jehovah'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)
Languages:
    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)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980)
  total population:
    92%
  male:
    93%
  female:
    90%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    NA
                                      Palau
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Palau
  conventional short form:
    Palau
  former:
    Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands
Digraph:
    PS
Type:
    self-governing territory in free association with the US pursuant to Compact
    of Free Association which entered into force 1 October 1994; Palau is fully
    responsible for internal affairs; US retains responsibility for external
    affairs
Capital:
    Koror
  note:
    a new capital is being built about 20 km northeast in eastern Babelthuap
Administrative divisions:
    there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US
    Government, but there are 16 states: Aimeliik, Airai, Angaur, Kayangel,
    Koror, Melekeok, Ngaraard, Ngardmau, Ngaremlengui, Ngatpang, Ngchesar,
    Ngerchelong, Ngiwal, Peleliu, Sonsorol, Tobi
Independence:
    1 October 1994 (from the US-administered UN Trusteeship)
National holiday:
    Constitution Day, 9 July (1979)
Constitution:
    1 January 1981
Legal system:
    based on Trust Territory laws, acts of the legislature, municipal, common,
    and customary laws
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Kuniwo NAKAMURA (since 1 January 1993), Vice-President Tommy E.
    REMENGESAU Jr. (since 1 January 1993); election last held 4 November 1992
    (next to be held NA November 1996); results - Kuniwo NAKAMURA 50.7%, Johnson
    TORIBIONG 49.3%
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court, National Court, Court of Common Pleas
Member of:
    ESCAP (associate), SPC, SPF (observer), UN
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Liaison Officer NA
  liaison office:
    444 North Capital Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
                                      Palau
                                   Government
  telephone:
    [phone]
  FAX:
    NA
  note:
    relationship of free association with the US pursuant to compact of free
    association which entered into force 1 October 1994
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Liaison Officer Lloyd W. MOSS
  liaison office:
    Erenguul Street, Koror, Republic of Palau
  mailing address:
    P.O. Box 6028, Republic of Palau 96940
  telephone:
    [680] 488-2920
  FAX:
    [680] 488-2911
  note:
    relationship of free association with the US pursuant to compact of free
    association which entered into force 1 October 1994
Flag:
    light blue with a large yellow disk (representing the moon) shifted slightly
    to the hoist side
                                      Palau
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 compact of "free association" with the
    United States, 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 some military facilities. The population, in effect, enjoys a per
    capita income of $5,000, twice that of the Philippines and much of
    Micronesia. 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $81.8 million (1994 est.)
  note:
    GDP numbers reflect US spending
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $5,000 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    20% (1986)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $6 million
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA (1986 est.)
Exports:
    $600,000 (f.o.b., 1989)
  commodities:
    trochus (type of shellfish), tuna, copra, handicrafts
  partners:
    US, Japan
Imports:
    $24.6 million (c.i.f., 1989)
  commodities:
    NA
  partners:
    US
External debt:
    about $100 million (1989)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    16,000 kW
  production:
    22 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,540 kWh (1990)
Industries:
    tourism, craft items (shell, wood, pearl), some commercial fishing and
    agriculture
Agriculture:
    subsistence-level production of coconut, copra, cassava, sweet potatoes
                                      Palau
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $2.56 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $92 million
Currency:
    1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    US currency is used
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                                      Palau
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    61 km
  paved:
    36 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 25 km
Ports:
    Koror
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
                                      Palau
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                                      Palau
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    NA
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US pursuant to Compact of Free
    Association which entered into force 1 October 1994
Papua New Guinea
`    [                                      Palmyra Atoll
Affiliation:
    (territory of the US)
                                  Palmyra Atoll
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from
    Hawaii to American Samoa
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    11.9 sq km
  land area:
    11.9 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 20 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    14.5 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    equatorial, hot, and very rainy
Terrain:
    low, with maximum elevations of about 2 meters
Natural resources:
    none
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    100%
  other:
    0%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    about 50 islets covered with dense vegetation, coconut trees, and balsa-like
    trees up to 30 meters tall
                                  Palmyra Atoll
                                     People
Population:
    uninhabited
                                  Palmyra Atoll
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Palmyra Atoll
Digraph:
    LQ
Type:
    incorporated territory of the US; privately owned, but administered by the
    Office of Territorial and International Affairs, US Department of the
    Interior
Capital:
    none; administered from Washington, DC
                                  Palmyra Atoll
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                                  Palmyra Atoll
                                 Transportation
Highways:
    much of the road and many causeways built during the war are unserviceable
    and overgrown
Ports:
    West Lagoon
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
                                  Palmyra Atoll
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
Paracel Islands
@/:/PANAMA - Passport, tourist card or visa and onward/return ticket
required. Tourist card valid 30 days, available from airline serving Panama for
$5 fee.  For longer stays and additionall information contact Embassy of
Panama, 2862 McGill Terrace, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/483-1407).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Panama
============================================================
Panama - Consular Information Sheet
 October 20, 1995
Country Description:  Panama has a developing economy.  Outside the
Panama City area, tourist facilities vary in quality.
Entry Requirements:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to obtain a U.S.
passport before traveling to Panama.  Although entry into Panama is
permitted with any proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a certified
birth certificate or a naturalization certificate) and official
photo identification (such as a driver's license), some travelers
have experienced difficulties returning to the U.S. when not in
possession of a valid U.S. passport.  Travelers must either purchase
a tourist card from the airline serving Panama or obtain a visa from
a Panamanian embassy or consulate before traveling to Panama.
Further information may be obtained from the Embassy of Panama, 2862
McGill Terrace, N.W., Washington D.C. 20008, telephone (202)
483-1407.
Areas of Instability:  U.S. citizen missionaries were kidnapped in
early 1993 from an Indian village in the Darien jungle area
bordering Colombia and are still missing.  There is no Panamanian
police presence in much of the Darien area, which is known to be
frequented by Colombian guerrillas, smugglers and illegal aliens.
Travel south of Yaviza to the Colombian border is possible only by
foot and is risky for individual travelers or small groups.
Occasional flare-ups of armed violence continue to occur in
metropolitan areas of Panama.
On July 19, 1994, an ALAS domestic flight traveling between Colon
and Paitilla airport in Panama City exploded in mid flight.
Panamanian authorities have announced that the explosion was caused
by a bomb carried aboard by a passenger.  In the wake of the
bombing, the Panamanian government agreed to take steps to enhance
security at Panama's domestic airports.  Travelers on flights using
Panamanian airports other than Tocumen International may wish to
consider this information when making travel plans.
Medical Facilities:  Although Panama City has some very good
medical facilities, medical facilities outside the capital are
limited.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid
outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage, including provision for medical
evacuation, has proven useful in many emergencies.  For additional
health information, travelers may contact the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline at (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  There is a medium incidence of crime in the
Panama City and Colon areas.  The Consular Section of the U.S.
Embassy regularly receives reports from American tourists and
businesspersons who have been victims of crimes ranging from armed
robberies to muggings, purse-snatchings, and petty theft.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  This publication, as well as
others, such as "Tips for Travelers to Central and South America,"
are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington D.C.  20402.  While in Panama, it is
also helpful to monitor U.S. Southern Command Network (SCN)
television, radio stations, and to contact the local police and the
U.S. Embassy in Panama City for current information and advisories.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties in Panama for
possession, use and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Aviation Oversight:  In January 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Panama's civil aviation authority as in
compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards
for Panamanian carriers operating to and from the U.S.  The same
level of safety oversight would typically be applied to operations
to other destinations.  For further information, travelers may
contact the Department of Transportation at 1 [phone].
Registration/Embassy Location:  Americans who register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Panama may also obtain
updated information on travel and security within Panama.  The
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Panama is located on Panama
Bay in Panama City, at Balboa Avenue and 40th Street.  The
international mailing address is Apartado 6959, Panama 5, Republic
of Panama.  The U.S. mailing address is Unit 0945, APO AA  34002.
The telephone number is [phone].
 No. 95-133
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 2,
1994, to update Entry Requirement and Crime Information, and to
amend the U.S. Embassy telephone number.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Panama
============================================================
Panama - Consular Information Sheet
 October 20, 1995
Country Description:  Panama has a developing economy.  Outside the
Panama City area, tourist facilities vary in quality.
Entry Requirements:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to obtain a U.S.
passport before traveling to Panama.  Although entry into Panama is
permitted with any proof of U.S. citizenship (such as a certified
birth certificate or a naturalization certificate) and official
photo identification (such as a driver's license), some travelers
have experienced difficulties returning to the U.S. when not in
possession of a valid U.S. passport.  Travelers must either purchase
a tourist card from the airline serving Panama or obtain a visa from
a Panamanian embassy or consulate before traveling to Panama.
Further information may be obtained from the Embassy of Panama, 2862
McGill Terrace, N.W., Washington D.C. 20008, telephone (202)
483-1407.
Areas of Instability:  U.S. citizen missionaries were kidnapped in
early 1993 from an Indian village in the Darien jungle area
bordering Colombia and are still missing.  There is no Panamanian
police presence in much of the Darien area, which is known to be
frequented by Colombian guerrillas, smugglers and illegal aliens.
Travel south of Yaviza to the Colombian border is possible only by
foot and is risky for individual travelers or small groups.
Occasional flare-ups of armed violence continue to occur in
metropolitan areas of Panama.
On July 19, 1994, an ALAS domestic flight traveling between Colon
and Paitilla airport in Panama City exploded in mid flight.
Panamanian authorities have announced that the explosion was caused
by a bomb carried aboard by a passenger.  In the wake of the
bombing, the Panamanian government agreed to take steps to enhance
security at Panama's domestic airports.  Travelers on flights using
Panamanian airports other than Tocumen International may wish to
consider this information when making travel plans.
Medical Facilities:  Although Panama City has some very good
medical facilities, medical facilities outside the capital are
limited.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid
outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage, including provision for medical
evacuation, has proven useful in many emergencies.  For additional
health information, travelers may contact the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline at (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  There is a medium incidence of crime in the
Panama City and Colon areas.  The Consular Section of the U.S.
Embassy regularly receives reports from American tourists and
businesspersons who have been victims of crimes ranging from armed
robberies to muggings, purse-snatchings, and petty theft.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  This publication, as well as
others, such as "Tips for Travelers to Central and South America,"
are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington D.C.  20402.  While in Panama, it is
also helpful to monitor U.S. Southern Command Network (SCN)
television, radio stations, and to contact the local police and the
U.S. Embassy in Panama City for current information and advisories.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties in Panama for
possession, use and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Aviation Oversight:  In January 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Panama's civil aviation authority as in
compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards
for Panamanian carriers operating to and from the U.S.  The same
level of safety oversight would typically be applied to operations
to other destinations.  For further information, travelers may
contact the Department of Transportation at 1 [phone].
Registration/Embassy Location:  Americans who register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Panama may also obtain
updated information on travel and security within Panama.  The
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Panama is located on Panama
Bay in Panama City, at Balboa Avenue and 40th Street.  The
international mailing address is Apartado 6959, Panama 5, Republic
of Panama.  The U.S. mailing address is Unit 0945, APO AA  34002.
The telephone number is [phone].
 No. 95-133
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 2,
1994, to update Entry Requirement and Crime Information, and to
amend the U.S. Embassy telephone number.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
6                                       Panama
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific
    Ocean, between Colombia and Costa Rica
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    78,200 sq km
  land area:
    75,990 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than South Carolina
Land boundaries:
    total 555 km, Colombia 225 km, Costa Rica 330 km
Coastline:
    2,490 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    200 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid, cloudy; prolonged rainy season (May to January), short
    dry season (January to May)
Terrain:
    interior mostly steep, rugged mountains and dissected, upland plains;
    coastal areas largely plains and rolling hills
Natural resources:
    copper, mahogany forests, shrimp
Land use:
  arable land:
    6%
  permanent crops:
    2%
  meadows and pastures:
    15%
  forest and woodland:
    54%
  other:
    23%
Irrigated land:
    320 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution from agricultural runoff threatens fishery resources;
    deforestation of tropical rain forest; land degradation
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine
    Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical
    Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, Law of the
    Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Tropical Timber 94
Note:
    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
                                     Panama
                                     People
Population:
    2,680,903 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    34% (female 439,491; male 458,817)
  15-64 years:
    61% (female 812,876; male 823,124)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 74,672; male 71,923) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.9% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    24.12 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.79 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.36 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    15.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    75.2 years
  male:
    72.57 years
  female:
    77.97 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.8 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Panamanian(s)
  adjective:
    Panamanian
Ethnic divisions:
    mestizo (mixed Indian and European ancestry) 70%, West Indian 14%, white
    10%, Indian 6%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 85%, Protestant 15%
Languages:
    Spanish (official), English 14%
  note:
    many Panamanians bilingual
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    89%
  male:
    89%
  female:
    88%
Labor force:
    979,000 (1994 est.)
  by occupation:
    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%
  note:
    shortage of skilled labor, but an oversupply of unskilled labor
                                     Panama
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Panama
  conventional short form:
    Panama
  local long form:
    Republica de Panama
  local short form:
    Panama
Digraph:
    PM
Type:
    constitutional  republic
Capital:
    Panama
Administrative divisions:
    9 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia) and 1 territory* (comarca);
    Bocas del Toro, Chiriqui, Cocle, Colon, Darien, Herrera, Los Santos, Panama,
    San Blas*, Veraguas
Independence:
    3 November 1903 (from Colombia; became independent from Spain 28 November
    1821)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 3 November (1903)
Constitution:
    11 October 1972; major reforms adopted April 1983
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts in the
    Supreme Court of Justice; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with
    reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Ernesto PEREZ BALLADARES Gonzalez Revilla (since 1 September 1994,
    elected 8 May 1994); First Vice President Tomas Gabriel ALTAMIRANO DUQUE
    (since 1 September 1994); Second Vice President Felipe Alejandro VIRZI Lopez
    (since 1 September 1994 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%
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    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, PALA 1, PA 14, MPE 6, MOLIRENA 4, PLA 3,
    PRC 3, PL 2, PDC 1, UDI 1, MORENA 1
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia), 5 superior courts, 3
    courts of appeal
Political parties and leaders:
  governing coalition:
    Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD), Gerardo GONZALEZ; Solidarity Party
    (PS), Samuel LEWIS GALINDO; Liberal Republican Party (PLR), Rodolfo CHIARI;
    Labor Party (PALA), Carlos Lopez GUEVARA
                                     Panama
                                   Government
  other parties:
    Nationalist Republican Liberal Movement (MOLIRENA), Alfredo RAMIREZ;
    Authentic Liberal Party (PLA), Arnulfo ESCALONA; Arnulfista Party (PA),
    Mireya MOSCOSO DE GRUBER; Christian Democratic Party (PDC), Raul OSSA;
    Liberal Party (PL), Roberto ALEMAN Zubieta; Papa Egoro Movement (MPE), Ruben
    BLADES; 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
Other political or pressure groups:
    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)
Member of:
    AG (associate), CG, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM,
    IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC,
    IOM, ITU, LAES, LAIA (observer), NAM, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO,
    UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ricardo Alberto ARIAS
  chancery:
    2862 McGill Terrace NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Atlanta, Houston, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco, San Juan
    (Puerto Rico), Tampa
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Oliver P. GARZA
  embassy:
    Avenida Balboa and Calle 38, Apartado 6959, Panama City 5
  mailing address:
    American Embassy Panama, Unit 0945; APO AA 34002
  telephone:
    [507] 27-1777
  FAX:
    [507] 27-1964
Flag:
    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
                                     Panama
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Because of its key geographic location, Panama's economy is service-based,
    heavily weighted toward banking, commerce, and tourism. Trade and financial
    ties with the US are especially close. GDP grew at 3.6% in 1994, a
    respectable rate, yet below the 7.1% average of the early 1990s. Banking and
    financial services and trade through the Colon Free Zone continued to expand
    rapidly, with the industrial and agricultural sectors experiencing little
    growth. The new administration, inaugurated 1 September 1994, has launched
    an economic plan designed to reverse rising unemployment, attract foreign
    investment, cut back the size of government, and modernize the economy. The
    success of the plan in meeting its goals for 1995 and beyond depends largely
    on the success of the administration in reforming the labor code and
    instituting the reforms necessary to join the GATT.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $12.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3.6% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,670 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.8% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    12.9% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.93 billion
  expenditures:
    $1.93 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994)
Exports:
    $520 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    bananas 43%, shrimp 11%, sugar 4%, clothing 5%, coffee 2%
  partners:
    US 45%, EU, Central America and Caribbean
Imports:
    $2.205 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    capital goods 21%, crude oil 11%, foodstuffs 9%, consumer goods, chemicals
  partners:
    US 40%, EU, Central America and Caribbean, Japan
External debt:
    $6.7 billion (yearend 1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 1.8% (1994 est.); accounts for about 9% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    960,000 kW
  production:
    2.8 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,047 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    manufacturing and construction, petroleum refining, brewing, cement and
    other construction materials, sugar milling
Agriculture:
    accounts for 10% of GDP (1992 est.); crops - bananas, rice, corn, coffee,
    sugarcane; livestock; fishing; importer of food grain, vegetables
Illicit drugs:
    major cocaine transshipment point and drug money laundering center
                                     Panama
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $516 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $582 million;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $4 million
Currency:
    1 balboa (B) = 100 centesimos
Exchange rates:
    balboas (B) per US$1 - 1.000 (fixed rate)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                     Panama
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    238 km
  broad gauge:
    78 km 1.524-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    160 km 0.914-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    8,530 km
  paved:
    2,745 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone 3,270 km; improved, unimproved earth 2,515 km
Inland waterways:
    800 km navigable by shallow draft vessels; 82 km Panama Canal
Pipelines:
    crude oil 130 km
Ports:
    Bahia de las Minas, Balboa, Colon, Cristobal, Panama
Merchant marine:
  total:
    3,526 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 60,748,525 GRT/95,102,552 DWT
  ships by type:
    barge carrier 1, bulk 787, cargo 1,070, chemical tanker 175, combination
    bulk 33, combination ore/oil 25, container 259, liquefied gas tanker 125,
    livestock carrier 8, multifunction large-load carrier 6, oil tanker 465,
    passenger 24, passenger-cargo 3, refrigerated cargo 284, roll-on/roll-off
    cargo 81, short-sea passenger 34, specialized tanker 9, vehicle carrier 137
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; includes 93 countries; the 10 major fleet
    flags are: Japan 1,171 ships, Greece 323, Hong Kong 276, US 212, Taiwan 184,
    Singapore 181, South Korea 172, China 145 ships, UK 102, and Norway 70
Airports:
  total:
    115
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    5
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    14
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    74
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    20
                                     Panama
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    220,000 telephones; domestic and international facilities well developed
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 coaxial submarine cable; 2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations;
    connected to the Central American Microwave System
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 91, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    23
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Panama
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Panamanian Public Forces (PPF; includes the National Police or PNP, Maritime
    Service, National Air Service, and Institutional Protective Service);
    Judicial Branch Technical Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 701,691; males fit for military service 481,927 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    expenditures for the Panamanian security forces amounted to $105 million,
    1.0% of GDP (1993 est.)
Paraguay
PAPUA NEW GUINEA - Passport, onward/return ticket and proof of
sufficient funds required.  Tourist visa not required  for a stay of up to 30
days. Business visa requires 2 application forms, 2 photos,  company letter,
bio-data and $10.25  fee (single entry ) or  $154.00 (multiple entry).
AIDS test required for work and residency permits; U.S. test accepted.
For longer stays and further information contact Embassy of Papua New
Guinea, Suite 300, 1615 New Hampshire Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009
(202/745-3680).
0                                Papua New Guinea
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, group of islands including the eastern half of the island
    of New Guinea between the Coral Sea and the South Pacific Ocean, east of
    Indonesia
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    461,690 sq km
  land area:
    451,710 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than California
Land boundaries:
    total 820 km, Indonesia 820 km
Coastline:
    5,152 km
Maritime claims:
    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
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; northwest monsoon (December to March), southeast monsoon (May to
    October); slight seasonal temperature variation
Terrain:
    mostly mountains with coastal lowlands and rolling foothills
Natural resources:
    gold, copper, silver, natural gas, timber, oil potential
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    71%
  other:
    28%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    rain forest subject to deforestation as a result of growing commercial
    demand for tropical timber; pollution from mining projects
  natural hazards:
    active volcanism; situated along the Pacific "Rim of Fire"; the country is
    subject to frequent and sometimes severe earthquakes; mudslides
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered
    Species, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone
    Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but
    not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea
                                Papua New Guinea
                                    Geography
Note:
    shares island of New Guinea with Indonesia; one of world's largest swamps
    along southwest coast
                                Papua New Guinea
                                     People
Population:
    4,294,750 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    41% (female 847,208; male 892,718)
  15-64 years:
    57% (female 1,161,961; male 1,268,266)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 66,759; male 57,838) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.3% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    33.2 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    10.18 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    61.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    56.85 years
  male:
    56.01 years
  female:
    57.74 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.55 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Papua New Guinean(s)
  adjective:
    Papua New Guinean
Ethnic divisions:
    Melanesian, Papuan, Negrito, Micronesian, Polynesian
Religions:
    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%
Languages:
    English spoken by 1%-2%, pidgin English widespread, Motu spoken in Papua
    region
  note:
    715 indigenous languages
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    52%
  male:
    65%
  female:
    38%
Labor force:
    NA
                                Papua New Guinea
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Independent State of Papua New Guinea
  conventional short form:
    Papua New Guinea
Digraph:
    PP
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Port Moresby
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    16 September 1975 (from the Australian-administered UN trusteeship)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 16 September (1975)
Constitution:
    16 September 1975
Legal system:
    based on English common law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    Wiwa KOROWI (since NA November 1991)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Sir Julius CHAN (since 30 August 1994); Deputy Prime Minister
    Chris HAIVETA (since 7 September 1994)
  cabinet:
    National Executive Council; appointed by the governor on recommendation of
    the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Papua New Guinea United Party (Pangu Party), Jack GENIA; 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
Member of:
    ACP, APEC, AsDB, ASEAN (observer), C, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC,
    ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, NAM (observer), SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Kepas Isimel WATANGIA
                                Papua New Guinea
                                   Government
  chancery:
    3rd floor, 1615 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Richard W. TEARE
  embassy:
    Armit Street, Port Moresby
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 1492, Port Moresby, or APO AE 96553
  telephone:
    [675] 211455, 211594, 211654
  FAX:
    [675] 213423
Flag:
    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 constellation
    centered
                                Papua New Guinea
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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
    infrastructure. Agriculture provides a subsistence livelihood for 85% of the
    population. Mining of numerous deposits, including copper and gold, accounts
    for about 60% of export earnings. Budgetary support from Australia and
    development aid under World Bank auspices have helped sustain the economy.
    Robust growth in 1991-92 was led by the mining sector; the opening of a
    large new gold mine helped the advance. At the start of 1995, Port Moresby
    is looking primarily to the exploitation of mineral and petroleum 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $9.2 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6.1% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $2,200 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.6% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.33 billion
  expenditures:
    $1.36 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
Exports:
    $2.4 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    gold, copper ore, oil, logs, palm oil, coffee, cocoa, lobster
  partners:
    Australia, Japan, US, Singapore, New Zealand
Imports:
    $1.2 billion (c.i.f., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, food, fuels,
    chemicals
  partners:
    Australia, Japan, UK, New Zealand, Netherlands
External debt:
    $3.2 billion (1992)
Industrial production:
    accounts for 32% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    490,000 kW
  production:
    1.8 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    390 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    copra crushing, palm oil processing, plywood production, wood chip
    production, mining of gold, silver, and copper, construction, tourism
                                Papua New Guinea
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    Accounts for 25% of GDP; livelihood for 85% of population; fertile soils and
    favorable climate permits cultivating a wide variety of crops; cash crops -
    coffee, cocoa, coconuts, palm kernels; other products - tea, rubber, sweet
    potatoes, fruit, vegetables, poultry, pork; net importer of food for urban
    centers
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $40.6 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $6.5 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $17 million
Currency:
    1 kina (K) = 100 toea
Exchange rates:
    kina (K) per US$1 - 0.8565 (December 1994), 0.9950 (1994), 1.0221 (1993),
    1.0367 (1992), 1.0504 (1991), 1.0467 (1990); note - the government floated
    the kina on 10 October 1994
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                Papua New Guinea
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    19,200 km
  paved:
    640 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, stabilized earth 10,960 km; unimproved earth 7,600 km
Inland waterways:
    10,940 km
Ports:
    Kieta, Lae, Madang, Port Moresby, Rabaul
Merchant marine:
  total:
    12 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 22,565 GRT/27,071 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 2, cargo 3, combination ore/oil 5, container 1, roll-on/roll-off 1
Airports:
  total:
    505
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    13
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    5
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    411
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    12
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    63
                                Papua New Guinea
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    more than 70,000 telephones (1987); services are adequate and being
    improved; facilities provide radiobroadcast, radiotelephone and telegraph,
    coastal radio, aeronautical radio, and international radiocommunication
    services
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    mostly radio telephone
  international:
    submarine cables extend to Australia and Guam; 1 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean)
    earth station; international radio communication service
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 31, FM 2, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2 (1987)
  televisions:
    NA
                                Papua New Guinea
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Papua New Guinea Defense Force (includes Army, Navy, and Air Force)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,111,661; males fit for military service 618,696 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $55 million, 1.8% of GDP (1993 est.)
                                 Paracel Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    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 Philippines
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    NA sq km
  land area:
    NA sq km
  comparative area:
    NA
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    518 km
Maritime claims:
    NA
International disputes:
    occupied by China, but claimed by Taiwan and Vietnam
Climate:
    tropical
Terrain:
    NA
Natural resources:
    none
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    typhoons
  international agreements:
    NA
                                 Paracel Islands
                                     People
Population:
    no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are scattered Chinese garrisons
                                 Paracel Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Paracel Islands
Digraph:
    PF
                                 Paracel Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                                 Paracel Islands
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    small Chinese port facilities on Woody Island and Duncan Island being
    expanded
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1 (on Woody Island)
                                 Paracel Islands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM, FM, shortwave
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
                                 Paracel Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    occupied by China
|(R*R*R
Philippines
PARAGUAY - Passport required.  Visa not required for tourist/business
stay up to 90 days (extendable).   AIDS  test required for resident visas.
U.S. test sometimes accepted.  For additional information consult Embassy of
Paraguay, 2400 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/483-6960).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Paraguay
============================================================
Paraguay - Public Announcement
 June 17, 1995
 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
 For Immediate Release
The government of Paraguay is considering the extradition to
Argentina of seven people suspected to have ties to the terrorist
group Hizballah and who may be charged with bombings in Buenos
Aires.  Some of the defendants are currently appealing the
Paraguayan court decision to grant extradition.  We are not aware of
any specific threat to U.S. citizens related to these possible
extraditions.  However, groups sympathetic to the seven may
nonetheless attempt to take revenge on U.S. citizens.  U.S. citizens
contemplating travel to Paraguay may wish to consider this when
making their plans and take such security precautions as they deem
appropriate.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Paraguay
============================================================
Paraguay - Consular Information Sheet
 September 2, 1994
Country Description:  Paraguay is a medium income nation with a
developing economy.  Tourist facilities are good in Asuncion, poor
in major cities, and almost nonexistent in remote areas.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  U.S. citizens do not
need a visa for a three-month stay.  Minors (under 20) traveling
alone, with one parent or with a third party must present written
authorization from the absent parent(s) or legal guardian,
specifically granting permission to travel alone, with one parent or
with a third party.  This authorization must be notarized,
authenticated by the Paraguayan embassy or consulate, and translated
into Spanish.  For current information concerning entry and customs
requirements for Paraguay, travelers can contact the Paraguayan
Embassy at 2400 Massachusetts Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008,
tel: [phone] or the nearest consulate in Los Angeles, Miami
or New York.
Medical Facilities:  Facilities for medical care are limited.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for
payment of medical services outside the United States.  In some
cases, medical insurance with specific overseas and medical
evacuation coverage has proved to be useful.  For additional health
information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease Control's
international travelers' hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Armed robberies, car thefts, and burglaries
have increased significantly.  Street crime to include pickpocketing
and muggings is prevalent in the cities, particularly during the
evening hours in the vicinity of hotels and airports.  There have
been incidents of pilferage from checked airline baggage.  Travelers
have found it prudent to put valuables in their carry-on luggage.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," which is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.  Also available from the same address is the
Department of State publication, "Tips for travelers to Central and
South America."
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties in Paraguay for
possession, use and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Adoptions:  Due to serious problems in the international adoption
process in Paraguay, including chronic unpredictability in the
issuance of final decrees and uncertainty over case processing and
prospects for proposed adoption regulations, the U.S. Embassy
strongly urges prospective adopting parents to postpone any
commitment to a Paraguayan prospective child until such time as the
situation at juvenile court is clarified.  Some adoptions have been
put on hold pending court investigations of local lawyers, notaries
and government officials responsible for documentation of birth and
abandonment.  American citizens who have secured court dates with
the judge handling their international adoption petition, should be
aware that prospective parents' stay in Asuncion is often a
prolonged one.  The consular officer is not authorized to act as
agents of behalf of U.S. citizens seeking to adopt Paraguayan
children.  Updated information on Paraguayan adoption proceedings
and U.S. immigrant visa requirements is available from the consular
section of the U.S. Embassy.  Additional information is available by
writing the Office of Citizens Consular Services, CA/OCS/CCS, Room
4817, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520, or by telephoning
[phone].
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In March 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Paraguay's civil aviation authority as not
in compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards
for Paraguay's carriers operating to and from the U.S.  Typically,
the same level of safety oversight is applied to operations to other
destinations.  For further information, travelers may contact the
Department of Transportation at 1-800-322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration:  Americans who register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Asuncion at 1776 Mariscal
Lopez Avenue, telephone:  [phone], may obtain updated
information on travel and security within Paraguay.
 No. 94-211
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 20, 1994  to
add information on aviation oversight.
4                                       Paraguay
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central South America, northeast of Argentina
Map references:
    South America
Area:
  total area:
    406,750 sq km
  land area:
    397,300 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than California
Land boundaries:
    total 3,920 km, Argentina 1,880 km, Bolivia 750 km, Brazil 1,290 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    short section of the boundary with Brazil, just west of Salto del Guaira
    (Guaira Falls) on the Rio Parana, has not been determined
Climate:
    varies from temperate in east to semiarid in far west
Terrain:
    grassy plains and wooded hills east of Rio Paraguay; Gran Chaco region west
    of Rio Paraguay mostly low, marshy plain near the river, and dry forest and
    thorny scrub elsewhere
Natural resources:
    hydropower, timber, iron ore, manganese, limestone
Land use:
  arable land:
    20%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    39%
  forest and woodland:
    35%
  other:
    5%
Irrigated land:
    670 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation (an estimated 2 million hectares of forest land have been lost
    from 1958-1985); water pollution; inadequate means for waste disposal
    present health risks for many urban residents
  natural hazards:
    local flooding in southeast (early September to June); poorly drained plains
    may become boggy (early October to June)
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea,
    Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Nuclear Test Ban
Note:
    landlocked; buffer between Argentina and Brazil
                                    Paraguay
                                     People
Population:
    5,358,198 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    41% (female 1,077,284; male 1,123,776)
  15-64 years:
    55% (female 1,465,147; male 1,468,642)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 120,776; male 102,573) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.71% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    31.48 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.38 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    24.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    73.58 years
  male:
    72.06 years
  female:
    75.18 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.22 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Paraguayan(s)
  adjective:
    Paraguayan
Ethnic divisions:
    mestizo (mixed Spanish and Indian) 95%, Caucasians plus Amerindians 5%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 90%, Mennonite and other Protestant denominations
Languages:
    Spanish (official), Guarani
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    90%
  male:
    92%
  female:
    88%
Labor force:
    1.692 million (1993 est.)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 45%
                                    Paraguay
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Paraguay
  conventional short form:
    Paraguay
  local long form:
    Republica del Paraguay
  local short form:
    Paraguay
Digraph:
    PA
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Asuncion
Administrative divisions:
    19 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Alto Paraguay, Alto
    Parana, Amambay, Boqueron, Caaguazu, Caazapa, Canindeyu, Central, Chaco,
    Concepcion, Cordillera, Guaira, Itapua, Misiones, Neembucu, Nueva Asuncion,
    Paraguari, Presidente Hayes, San Pedro
Independence:
    14 May 1811 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Independence Days, 14-15 May (1811)
Constitution:
    promulgated 20 June 1992
Legal system:
    based on Argentine codes, Roman law, and French codes; judicial review of
    legislative acts in Supreme Court of Justice; does not accept compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory up to age 60
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Juan Carlos WASMOSY (since 15 August 1993); Vice President Roberto
    Angel SEIFART (since 15 August 1993); election last held 9 May 1993 (next to
    be held May 1998); results - Juan Carlos WASMOSY 40.09%, Domingo LAINO
    32.06%, Guillermo CABALLERO VARGAS 23.04%
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; nominated by the president
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Congress (Congreso)
  Chamber of Senators (Camara de Senadores):
    elections last held 9 May 1993 (next to be held May 1998); results - percent
    of vote by party NA; seats - (45 total) Colorado Party 20, PLRA 17, EN 8
  Chamber of Deputies (Camara de Diputados):
    elections last held on 9 May 1993 (next to be held by May 1998); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (80 total) Colorado Party 38, PLRA 33,
    EN 9
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia)
Political parties and leaders:
    Colorado Party, Eugenio SANABRIA CANTERO, president; Authentic Radical
    Liberal Party (PLRA), Domingo LAINO; National Encounter (EN), Guillermo
    CABALLERO VARGAS (the EN party includes the following minor parties:
    Christian Democratic Party (PDC), Jose Angel BURRO; Febrerista Revolutionary
    Party (PRF), Euclides ACEVEDO; Popular Democratic Party (PDP), Hugo RICHER)
Other political or pressure groups:
    Confederation of Workers (CUT); Roman Catholic Church
                                    Paraguay
                                   Government
Member of:
    AG (observer), CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM,
    ITU, LAES, LAIA, MERCOSUR, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jorge Genaro Andres PRIETO CONTI
  chancery:
    2400 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 6962
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Miami, New Orleans, and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Robert SERVICE
  embassy:
    1776 Avenida Mariscal Lopez, Asuncion
  mailing address:
    C. P. 402, Asuncion; Unit 4711, APO AA 34036-0001
  telephone:
    [595] (21) 213-715
  FAX:
    [595] (21) 213-728
Flag:
    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 PARAGUAY, 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 PARAGUAY, all within two circles)
                                    Paraguay
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Agriculture, including forestry, accounts for about 25% of GDP, employs
    about 45% of the labor force, and provides the bulk of exports, in which
    soybeans and cotton are the most important. Paraguay lacks substantial
    mineral or petroleum resources but possesses a large hydropower potential.
    In a major step to increase its economic activity in the region, Paraguay in
    March 1991 joined the Southern Cone Common Market (MERCOSUR), which includes
    Brazil, Argentina, and Uruguay. In 1992, the government, through an
    unorthodox approach, reduced external debt with both commercial and official
    creditors by purchasing a sizable amount of the delinquent commercial debt
    in the secondary market at a substantial discount. The government had paid
    100% of remaining official debt arrears to the US, Germany, France, and
    Spain. All commercial debt arrears have been rescheduled. For the long run,
    the government must press forward with general, market-oriented economic
    reforms. Growth of 3.5% in 1993 was spurred by higher-than-expected
    agricultural output and rising international commodity prices. Inflation
    picked up steam in fourth quarter 1993 because of rises in public sector
    salaries and utility rates. GDP growth continued in 1994 at 3.5%. Although
    inflation declined a bit over 1993, increases in food prices, and crop and
    infrastructure damage from heavy rains at the end of the year, forced
    inflation to 18%, above the government's target of 15%. Paraguay reaffirmed
    its commitment to MERCOSUR on 1 January 1995 by implementing the
    organization's common external tariff.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $15.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $2,950 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    18% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    11.2% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.2 billion
  expenditures:
    $1.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $487 million (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $728 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    cotton, soybeans, timber, vegetable oils, meat products, coffee, tung oil
  partners:
    EC 37%, Brazil 25%, Argentina 10%, Chile 6%, US 6%
Imports:
    $1.38 billion (c.i.f., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    capital goods, foodstuffs, consumer goods, raw materials, fuels
  partners:
    Brazil 30%, EC 20%, US 18%, Argentina 8%, Japan 7%
External debt:
    $1.4 billion (yearend 1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3.6% (1993 est.); accounts for 20% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    6,530,000 kW
  production:
    26.5 billion kWh (1992)
                                    Paraguay
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    NA
  note:
    much of the electricity produced in Paraguay is exported to Brazil and
    domestic consumption cannot be determined
Industries:
    meat packing, oilseed crushing, milling, brewing, textiles, other light
    consumer goods, cement, construction
Agriculture:
    accounts for 26% of GDP; cash crops - cotton, sugarcane, soybeans; other
    crops - corn, wheat, tobacco, cassava, fruits, vegetables; animal products -
    beef, pork, eggs, milk; surplus producer of timber; self-sufficient in most
    foods
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; important
    transshipment point for Bolivian cocaine headed for the US and Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $172 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.1 billion
Currency:
    1 guarani (G) = 100 centimos
Exchange rates:
    guaranies (G) per US$ - 1,949.6 (January 1995), 1,911.5 (1994), 1,744.3
    (1993), 1,500.3 (1992), 1,325.2 (1991), 1,229.8 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                    Paraguay
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    970 km
  standard gauge:
    440 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    60 km 1.000-m gauge
  other:
    470 km various gauges (privately owned)
Highways:
  total:
    28,300 km
  paved:
    2,600 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 500 km; earth 25,200 km
Inland waterways:
    3,100 km
Ports:
    Asuncion, Villeta, San Antonio, Encarnacion
Merchant marine:
  total:
    13 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 16,747 GRT/19,513 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 11, oil tanker 2
  note:
    in addition, 1 naval cargo ship is sometimes used commercially
Airports:
  total:
    929
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    578
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    27
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    314
                                    Paraguay
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    78,300 telephones; 16 telephones/1,000 persons; meager telephone service;
    principal switching center in Asuncion
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    fair microwave radio relay network
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 40, FM 0, shortwave 7
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    5
  televisions:
    NA
                                    Paraguay
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy (includes Naval Air and Marines), Air Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,290,894; males fit for military service 937,054; males
    reach military age (17) annually 55,551 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $100 million, 1.6% of GDP (1994 est.)
Pitcairn Islands
MPERU - Passport required.  Visa not required for tourist stay up to 90
days, extendable after arrival.  Tourists may need onward/return
ticket. For official/diplomatic passport and other travel, visa required and
must be obtained in advance.  Business visa requires company letter stating
purpose of trip and $27 fee.  For further information contact Embassy
of Peru, 1700 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036 (202/833-9860-9) or
nearest Consulate:  CA (213/383-9896 and 415/362-5185), FL (305/374-1407),
IL (312/853-6173), NY (212/644-2850), PR (809/763-0679) or TX
(713/781-5000).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Peru
============================================================
Peru - Consular Information Sheet
 July 28, 1995
Country Description:  Peru is a developing country with significant
tourist and commercial activity.  The quality of tourist facilities
varies depending on cost and location.
Entry Requirements:  U.S. citizens must have a valid passport but
do not need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days.  Visitors
for other purposes must obtain a visa.  Further information
regarding entry requirements is available from the Embassy of Peru,
1700 Massachusetts avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20036, tel. (202)
833-9860, and Peruvian consular offices in California, Florida,
Illinois, New York, Puerto Rico, and Texas.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is adequate in major cities but
is generally less so elsewhere.  Local  health care providers do not
accept U.S. health insurance coverage and require cash payment for
medical services.  Medicare/Medicaid do not pay for medical services
outside the United States.  For information regarding health
conditions and precautions, contact the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline at [phone].
Terrorist Activity:  Peruvian government action has greatly reduced
the effectiveness of the two active terrorist groups, Sendero
Luminoso (Shining Path) and MRTA (Tupac Amaru Revolutionary
Movement).  Terrorist attacks have not been directed against
traditional tourist destinations.  Terrorists do, however, continue
to attempt sporadic attacks against institutional targets including
government offices, embassies and major commercial interests.
Miraflores and other affluent suburbs of Lima have been the site of
serious bombings.  In May 1995, after an interval of several months
without a major bombing in Miraflores, a powerful car bomb was
detonated in front of a hotel killing four persons and injuring
several others.  U.S. visitors to Peru are advised of the potential
risk of collateral damage from terrorist bomb attacks.
The U.S. Embassy restricts official travel of government employees
to several areas because guerrilla groups and narcotics traffickers
there still resort to violence, usually against local security
forces and civilians.  Overland travel in or near these areas,
particularly at night, is risky.  Private U.S. citizens may wish to
take the following U.S. Embassy employee-restricted travel areas
into consideration when making their travel plans:
 -Ancash:  Provinces of Pallasca, Corongo, and Sihuas only
 -Apurimac:  All areas except Abancay city
 -Ayacucho:  Huanta province (except Huanta city) and  Lamar
Province only
 -Cajamarca:  Provinces of Cajabamba, Celendin, Jaen, and San
Ignacio
 -Cuzco:  Area north of Quillabamba
 -Huancavelica:  All
 -Huanuco:  All areas except Tingo Maria by air
 -Junin:  Province of Satipo
 -La Libertad:  Bolivar, Sanchez Carrion, Santiago de Chuco and
Otuzco Provinces
 -Pasco:  Province of Oxapampa
 -Piura:  Province of Huancabamba
 -Puno:  Sandia and Azangaro provinces
 -San Martin:  All rural areas.  Travel by air is permitted to the
cities of Tarapoto, Juanji, Lamas, Saposoa, Rioja and Moyobamba
 -Ucayali:  Padre Abad and Coronel Portillo Provinces
This list is under constant review.  For updated information
regarding U.S. Embassy-designated restricted travel areas, contact
the U.S. Embassy in Lima.  (Note:  these "restricted travel areas"
do not in all cases correspond to existing Peruvian
government-designated "emergency zones" which still encompass nearly
half of the country, including metropolitan Lima.  Certain
constitutional rights are suspended in these "emergency zones,
giving security forces extraordinary powers to detain and question
individuals.)
Peru-Ecuador Border:  Due to recent hostilities, there is a
continuing military presence in the border area.  Border crossings
may be restricted.  It is important that travelers obey the
instructions of authorities.
Crime Information:  Peru is relatively safe for the group tourist
who takes appropriate precautions and does not stray from the
confines of organized tour packages.  The risk of street crime in
downtown Lima is high. Nonviolent street crime such as petty theft
also occurs in most other urban areas.
Violent crimes include assault and armed robbery.  Resistance to
violent crime usually provokes greater  violence.  Travel in groups
and with experienced guides is safer.  Walking alone, especially
late at night or early in the morning, can be dangerous.
It is important that trail hikers register at Ministry of Tourism
trail checkpoints and register admission to national parks.  It is
also essential for visitors to the remote Aguaruna/Huambisa tribal
area (where two U.S. citizens were attacked, one of whom was killed
in January 1995) to obtain permission to visit from the tribal
council, and to not visit villages without advance permission.
Visitors to Peru should immediately report any criminal activity
against them to the nearest police station or tourism police office
and to the U.S. Embassy in Lima or the consular agent in Cuzco.
Immediate action often results in detaining the thieves and
recovering stolen property.  Tourism police in Cuzco have upgraded
and expanded coverage of areas frequented by visitors.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting
personal security while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  This
publication, as well as others such as, "Tips for Travelers to
Central and South America," are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC  20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties in Peru for
possession, use, and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Prison conditions are poor.
Other Information:  Updated information on Peruvian adoption
procedures and the U.S. immigrant visa application process is
available from the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy, as well as
from the Office of Children's Issues, Room 4811, Department of
State, Washington, D.C.  20520, tel. [phone].
Civil marriage in Peru of U.S.-citizen non-residents to Peruvians
is difficult, if not impossible.  Non-residents are required to
present a "Certificado de Solteria" (Certificate of
Marriageability).  The U.S. Embassy does not issue such documents.
The U.S. Embassy also does not authenticate U.S. civil documents for
local use.  U.S. citizens may wish to have a Peruvian consular
official in the U.S. authenticate relevant U.S. civil documents
before traveling to Peru.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In February 1992, the U.S. Federal
Aviation Administration assessed Peru's civil aviation authority as
in compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards
for Peruvian carriers operating to and from the United States.  The
same level of safety oversight would typically be applied to
operations to other destinations.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at
1-800-322-7873.
Registration/Embassy and Consular Agency Locations:  U.S. citizens
may register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Lima,
and may also obtain updated information on travel and security
within Peru.  The U.S. Embassy in Lima is located at Avenida de la
Encalada (no number), Monterrico, Lima, tel. [phone].  The
Consular Agency in Cuzco is located at Avenida Tullumayo 125, tel.
(51-84) 23-3541.
 No. 95-085
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Peru dated
September 2, 1994, to remove the Travel Warning, provide updated
crime and security information, add information on civil marriage,
and provide the new U.S. Embassy address and phone number.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Peru
============================================================
Peru - Public Announcement
 July 21, 1995
 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
 For Immediate Release
The United States Embassy in Lima, Peru, warns that the Shining
Path (Sendero Luminoso) may increase terrorist activities from now
through the remainder of July in conjunction with Peruvian
Independence Day and the inauguration of President Alberto Fujimori
on July 28.  U.S. citizens in Peru are encouraged to exercise
caution during this period and to avoid Peruvian government
installations, diplomatic missions and high-density commercial
areas, particularly after dark.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Peru
============================================================
Peru - Consular Information Sheet
 July 28, 1995
Country Description:  Peru is a developing country with significant
tourist and commercial activity.  The quality of tourist facilities
varies depending on cost and location.
Entry Requirements:  U.S. citizens must have a valid passport but
do not need a visa for tourist visits of up to 90 days.  Visitors
for other purposes must obtain a visa.  Further information
regarding entry requirements is available from the Embassy of Peru,
1700 Massachusetts avenue, N.W., Washington, DC 20036, tel. (202)
833-9860, and Peruvian consular offices in California, Florida,
Illinois, New York, Puerto Rico, and Texas.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is adequate in major cities but
is generally less so elsewhere.  Local  health care providers do not
accept U.S. health insurance coverage and require cash payment for
medical services.  Medicare/Medicaid do not pay for medical services
outside the United States.  For information regarding health
conditions and precautions, contact the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline at [phone].
Terrorist Activity:  Peruvian government action has greatly reduced
the effectiveness of the two active terrorist groups, Sendero
Luminoso (Shining Path) and MRTA (Tupac Amaru Revolutionary
Movement).  Terrorist attacks have not been directed against
traditional tourist destinations.  Terrorists do, however, continue
to attempt sporadic attacks against institutional targets including
government offices, embassies and major commercial interests.
Miraflores and other affluent suburbs of Lima have been the site of
serious bombings.  In May 1995, after an interval of several months
without a major bombing in Miraflores, a powerful car bomb was
detonated in front of a hotel killing four persons and injuring
several others.  U.S. visitors to Peru are advised of the potential
risk of collateral damage from terrorist bomb attacks.
The U.S. Embassy restricts official travel of government employees
to several areas because guerrilla groups and narcotics traffickers
there still resort to violence, usually against local security
forces and civilians.  Overland travel in or near these areas,
particularly at night, is risky.  Private U.S. citizens may wish to
take the following U.S. Embassy employee-restricted travel areas
into consideration when making their travel plans:
 -Ancash:  Provinces of Pallasca, Corongo, and Sihuas only
 -Apurimac:  All areas except Abancay city
 -Ayacucho:  Huanta province (except Huanta city) and  Lamar
Province only
 -Cajamarca:  Provinces of Cajabamba, Celendin, Jaen, and San
Ignacio
 -Cuzco:  Area north of Quillabamba
 -Huancavelica:  All
 -Huanuco:  All areas except Tingo Maria by air
 -Junin:  Province of Satipo
 -La Libertad:  Bolivar, Sanchez Carrion, Santiago de Chuco and
Otuzco Provinces
 -Pasco:  Province of Oxapampa
 -Piura:  Province of Huancabamba
 -Puno:  Sandia and Azangaro provinces
 -San Martin:  All rural areas.  Travel by air is permitted to the
cities of Tarapoto, Juanji, Lamas, Saposoa, Rioja and Moyobamba
 -Ucayali:  Padre Abad and Coronel Portillo Provinces
This list is under constant review.  For updated information
regarding U.S. Embassy-designated restricted travel areas, contact
the U.S. Embassy in Lima.  (Note:  these "restricted travel areas"
do not in all cases correspond to existing Peruvian
government-designated "emergency zones" which still encompass nearly
half of the country, including metropolitan Lima.  Certain
constitutional rights are suspended in these "emergency zones,
giving security forces extraordinary powers to detain and question
individuals.)
Peru-Ecuador Border:  Due to recent hostilities, there is a
continuing military presence in the border area.  Border crossings
may be restricted.  It is important that travelers obey the
instructions of authorities.
Crime Information:  Peru is relatively safe for the group tourist
who takes appropriate precautions and does not stray from the
confines of organized tour packages.  The risk of street crime in
downtown Lima is high. Nonviolent street crime such as petty theft
also occurs in most other urban areas.
Violent crimes include assault and armed robbery.  Resistance to
violent crime usually provokes greater  violence.  Travel in groups
and with experienced guides is safer.  Walking alone, especially
late at night or early in the morning, can be dangerous.
It is important that trail hikers register at Ministry of Tourism
trail checkpoints and register admission to national parks.  It is
also essential for visitors to the remote Aguaruna/Huambisa tribal
area (where two U.S. citizens were attacked, one of whom was killed
in January 1995) to obtain permission to visit from the tribal
council, and to not visit villages without advance permission.
Visitors to Peru should immediately report any criminal activity
against them to the nearest police station or tourism police office
and to the U.S. Embassy in Lima or the consular agent in Cuzco.
Immediate action often results in detaining the thieves and
recovering stolen property.  Tourism police in Cuzco have upgraded
and expanded coverage of areas frequented by visitors.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting
personal security while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  This
publication, as well as others such as, "Tips for Travelers to
Central and South America," are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC  20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties in Peru for
possession, use, and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Prison conditions are poor.
Other Information:  Updated information on Peruvian adoption
procedures and the U.S. immigrant visa application process is
available from the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy, as well as
from the Office of Children's Issues, Room 4811, Department of
State, Washington, D.C.  20520, tel. [phone].
Civil marriage in Peru of U.S.-citizen non-residents to Peruvians
is difficult, if not impossible.  Non-residents are required to
present a "Certificado de Solteria" (Certificate of
Marriageability).  The U.S. Embassy does not issue such documents.
The U.S. Embassy also does not authenticate U.S. civil documents for
local use.  U.S. citizens may wish to have a Peruvian consular
official in the U.S. authenticate relevant U.S. civil documents
before traveling to Peru.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In February 1992, the U.S. Federal
Aviation Administration assessed Peru's civil aviation authority as
in compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards
for Peruvian carriers operating to and from the United States.  The
same level of safety oversight would typically be applied to
operations to other destinations.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at
1-800-322-7873.
Registration/Embassy and Consular Agency Locations:  U.S. citizens
may register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Lima,
and may also obtain updated information on travel and security
within Peru.  The U.S. Embassy in Lima is located at Avenida de la
Encalada (no number), Monterrico, Lima, tel. [phone].  The
Consular Agency in Cuzco is located at Avenida Tullumayo 125, tel.
(51-84) 23-3541.
 No. 95-085
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Peru dated
September 2, 1994, to remove the Travel Warning, provide updated
crime and security information, add information on civil marriage,
and provide the new U.S. Embassy address and phone number.
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=                                          Peru
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western South America, bordering the South Pacific Ocean, between Chile and
    Ecuador
Map references:
    South America
Area:
  total area:
    1,285,220 sq km
  land area:
    1.28 million sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Alaska
Land boundaries:
    total 6,940 km, Bolivia 900 km, Brazil 1,560 km, Chile 160 km, Colombia
    2,900 km, Ecuador 1,420 km
Coastline:
    2,414 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    200 nm
International disputes:
    three sections of the boundary with Ecuador are in dispute
Climate:
    varies from tropical in east to dry desert in west
Terrain:
    western coastal plain (costa), high and rugged Andes in center (sierra),
    eastern lowland jungle of Amazon Basin (selva)
Natural resources:
    copper, silver, gold, petroleum, timber, fish, iron ore, coal, phosphate,
    potash
Land use:
  arable land:
    3%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    21%
  forest and woodland:
    55%
  other:
    21%
Irrigated land:
    12,500 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; overgrazing of the slopes of the costa and sierra leading to
    soil erosion; desertification; air pollution in Lima; pollution of rivers
    and coastal waters from municipal and mining wastes
  natural hazards:
    earthquakes, tsunamis, flooding, landslides, mild volcanic activity
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity,
    Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban,
    Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands,
    Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Tropical Timber 94
                                      Peru
                                    Geography
Note:
    shares control of Lago Titicaca, world's highest navigable lake, with
    Bolivia
                                      Peru
                                     People
Population:
    24,087,372 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    35% (female 4,152,520; male 4,296,293)
  15-64 years:
    61% (female 7,280,287; male 7,378,227)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 535,156; male 444,889) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.8% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    24.88 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.84 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    52.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    66.07 years
  male:
    63.86 years
  female:
    68.38 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Peruvian(s)
  adjective:
    Peruvian
Ethnic divisions:
    Indian 45%, mestizo (mixed Indian and European ancestry) 37%, white 15%,
    black, Japanese, Chinese, and other 3%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic
Languages:
    Spanish (official), Quechua (official), Aymara
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    82%
  male:
    92%
  female:
    74%
Labor force:
    8 million (1992)
  by occupation:
    government and other services 44%, agriculture 37%, industry 19% (1988 est.)
                                      Peru
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Peru
  conventional short form:
    Peru
  local long form:
    Republica del Peru
  local short form:
    Peru
Digraph:
    PE
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Lima
Administrative divisions:
    24 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento) and 1 constitutional
    province* (provincia constitucional); Amazonas, Ancash, Apurimac, Arequipa,
    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
  note:
    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), Arequipa (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.
Independence:
    28 July 1821 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 28 July (1821)
Constitution:
    31 December 1993
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Alberto Kenyo FUJIMORI Fujimori (since 28 July 1990); 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%
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president
  note:
    Prime Minister Efrain GOLDENBERG Schreiber (since NA February 1994) does not
    exercise executive power; this power is in the hands of the president
                                      Peru
                                   Government
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Congress:
    elections last held 9 April 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - C90/NM
    52.1% of the total vote, UPP 14%, eleven 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia)
Political parties and leaders:
    Change 90-New Majority (C90/NM), Alberto FUJIMORI; Union for Peru (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; Peru 2000-National Front of Workers and Peasants (FRENATRACA),
    Roger CACARES; Popular Agricultural Front (FREPAP), Ezequiel ATAUCUSI
Other political or pressure groups:
    leftist guerrilla groups include Shining Path, Abimael GUZMAN Reynoso
    (imprisoned); Tupac Amaru Revolutionary Movement, Nestor SERPA and Victor
    POLAY (imprisoned)
Member of:
    AG, CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-11, G-15, G-19, G-24, G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO (correspondent), ITU, LAES, LAIA, NAM, OAS, OPANAL,
    PCA, RG (suspended), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO,
    WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ricardo V. LUNA Mendoza
  chancery:
    1700 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 9869
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Paterson (New Jersey), and
    San Francisco
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Alvin P. ADAMS, Jr.
  embassy:
    corner of Avenida Inca Garcilaso de la Vega and Avenida Espana, Lima
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 1995, Lima 1; American Embassy (Lima), APO AA 34031
  telephone:
    [51] (14) 338000
  FAX:
    [51] (14) 316682
Flag:
    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 llama, cinchona tree (the source of quinine), and a yellow
    cornucopia spilling out gold coins, all framed by a green wreath
                                      Peru
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The Peruvian economy has become increasingly market-oriented, with major
    privatizations completed in 1994 in the mining and telecommunications
    industries. In the 1980s the economy suffered from hyperinflation, declining
    per capita output, and mounting external debt. Peru 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 inflation 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 had fallen 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 and 8.6% in
    1994.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $73.6 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    8.6% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,110 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    15% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    15%; extensive underemployment (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $2 billion
  expenditures:
    $1.7 billion, including capital expenditures of $300 million (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $4.1 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    copper, zinc, fishmeal, crude petroleum and byproducts, lead, refined
    silver, coffee, cotton
  partners:
    US 19%, Japan 9%, Italy, Germany
Imports:
    $5.1 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery, transport equipment, foodstuffs, petroleum, iron and steel,
    chemicals, pharmaceuticals
  partners:
    US 21%, Colombia, Argentina, Japan, Germany, Brazil
External debt:
    $22.4 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    NA
Electricity:
  capacity:
    4,190,000 kW
  production:
    11.2 billion kWh
                                      Peru
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    448 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    mining of metals, petroleum, fishing, textiles, clothing, food processing,
    cement, auto assembly, steel, shipbuilding, metal fabrication
Agriculture:
    accounts for 12% of GDP, about 35% of labor force; commercial crops -
    coffee, cotton, sugarcane; other crops - rice, wheat, potatoes, plantains,
    coca; animal products - poultry, red meats, dairy, wool; not self-sufficient
    in grain or vegetable oil; fish catch of 6.9 million metric tons (1990)
Illicit drugs:
    world's largest coca leaf producer with about 108,600 hectares under
    cultivation in 1994; source of supply for most of the world's coca paste and
    cocaine base; at least 85% of coca cultivation is for illicit production;
    most of cocaine base is shipped to Colombian drug dealers for processing
    into cocaine for the international drug market, but exports of finished
    cocaine are increasing
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1.7 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $4.3 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $577 million
Currency:
    1 nuevo sol (S/.) = 100 centimos
Exchange rates:
    nuevo sol (S/.) per US$1 - 2.20 (February 1995), 2.195 (1994),1.988 (1993),
    1.245 (1992), 0.772 (1991), 0.187 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                      Peru
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,801 km
  standard gauge:
    1,501 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    300 km 0.914-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    69,942 km
  paved:
    7,459 km
  unpaved:
    improved earth 13,538 km; unimproved earth 48,945 km
Inland waterways:
    8,600 km of navigable tributaries of Amazon system and 208 km of Lago
    Titicaca
Pipelines:
    crude oil 800 km; natural gas and natural gas liquids 64 km
Ports:
    Callao, Chimbote, Ilo, Iquitos, Matarani, Paita, Pucallpa, Salaverry, San
    Martin, Talara, Yurimaguas
  note:
    Iquitos, Pucallpa, and Yurimaguas are all on the upper reaches of the Amazon
    and its tributaries
Merchant marine:
  total:
    10 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 90,501 GRT/144,913 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 3, cargo 6, refrigerated cargo 1
  note:
    in addition, 4 naval tankers and 1 naval cargo are sometimes used
    commercially
Airports:
  total:
    236
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    6
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    16
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    11
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    5
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    97
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    21
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    77
                                      Peru
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    544,000 telephones; fairly adequate for most requirements
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    nationwide microwave radio relay system and 12 domestic satellite links
  international:
    2 Atlantic Ocean INTELSAT earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 273, FM 0, shortwave 144
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    140
  televisions:
    NA
                                      Peru
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army (Ejercito Peruano), Navy (Marina de Guerra del Peru), Air Force (Fuerza
    Aerea del Peru), National Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 6,369,157; males fit for military service 4,300,772; males
    reach military age (20) annually 251,798 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $810 million, about 2.7% of GDP (1994)
Poland
PHILIPPINES - Passport and onward/return ticket required.  For entry by
Manila International Airport, visa not required for transit/tourist
stay up to 21 days.  Visa required for longer stay, maximum of 59 days, 1
application form, 1 photo, no charge.  Company letter needed for
business visa.  AIDS test required for permanent residency; U.S. test accepted.
For more information contact the Embassy of the Philippines, 1600 Mass.
Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036 (202/467-9300) or nearest Consulate
General: CA (213/387-5321 and 415/433-6666), HI (808/595-6316), IL
(312/332-6458), NY (212/764-1330), TX (713/621-8609) or WA (206/441-1640).
Philippines - Consular Information Sheet
August 12, 1994
Country Description:  The Philippines is a developing democratic republic.
Tourist facilities are available within the population centers and main
tourist sites.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and onward/return tickets are required for
entry through the international airports in Manila, Cebu, Davao, and Laoag.
A visa is not required of U.S. citizens transit or for tourist visits of up
to 21 days.  Current information concerning specific requirements is
available through the Embassy of the Philippines, 1600 Massachusetts Avenue,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036, telephone: [phone], or Philippine
consulates general in Chicago, Honolulu, Los Angeles, New York, or San
Francisco.
Security Concerns:  The government of the Philippines is engaged in
negotiations with communist, Muslim, and military rebels, and the security
situation has improved in most areas of the country in recent years.
Nevertheless, rebel presence and/or activity in certain areas of the
Philippines pose potential or real security concerns.  Most likely to be at
risk are U.S. government employees, missionaries, military personnel, and
resident Americans associated with organizations identified with the United
States.  In Northern Luzon, the presence of New People's Army (NPA)
guerrillas and armed bandits makes travel in the provinces of Abra, Aurora,
Cagayan, Isabela, Kalinga-Apayao and Mountain Province (including Sagada and
Bontoc) potentially dangerous.  NPA units are also active in Southern Luzon,
and travel is potentially dangerous in Quezon Province and the Bicol region,
except Catanduanes.
In the Visayas regions, there are small numbers of NPA rebels sporadically
active in the interior areas of Panay, Negros, and Samar Islands, making
travel to these areas potentially dangerous.
In the Mindanao Region, continuing crime and insurgency problems make travel
to and within the autonomous regions of Muslim Mindanao (ARMM), Basilan
Island, Zamboanga City, and Cotabato City dangerous.  (The ARMM consists of
the provinces of Tawi-Tawi, Sulu, Maguindanao, and Lanao del Sur.)  In June
1994, government troops launched a military offensive against the Muslim
fundamentalist Abu Sayyaf Group (ASG) in the Philippines' remote,
southernmost province, Sulu Province.  In retaliation, fifteen Filipino
Christians were abducted and murdered by ASG sympathizers in Basilan.
Subsequently, Christians in Basilan waylaid a jeepney, killing several
Muslims.  The ASG has also been implicated in bombings in Davao City in
December 1993 and General Santos City in 1993 and 1994.
There were several kidnappings of foreigners in Sulu and Basilan in 1992 and
1993, and credible threats continue.  While all those foreigners kidnapped
eventually escaped or were released, travelers should be aware of the danger
and take appropriate precautions.  Although Filipino Christians and Muslims
have been the primary victims of this cycle of violence, American citizens -
especially religious workers - resident in all the areas of Mindanao noted
above are at increased risk.  Communist NPA guerrillas continue to be
present and sporadically active in the provinces of Agusan del Sur and
Surigao del Sur, and in the border areas of the provinces of Davao del Norte
and Davao del Sur, making travel to these areas potentially dangerous.
Americans who anticipate travel to the above regions should obtain current,
detailed information from the U.S. Embassy in Manila or the Consulate in Cebu.
Volcanic Eruptions:  The June 1991 eruption of Mt. Pinatubo deposited large
amounts of volcanic ash in a wide area around the volcano (located sixty
miles northwest of Manila).  The principal danger now comes from "lahars",
or mudflows, which can inundate low-lying areas and wash away bridges.
These conditions will persist for several years, especially during the rainy
season (May to November).
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical care is available in major cities, but
is limited in rural and  more remote areas.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health care services.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  The
Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide payment of medical services
outside the United States.   In some cases, supplemental overseas medical
insurance, including coverage for medical evacuation, has proven useful.
The international travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control at
[phone] has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Crime is of serious concern in the Philippines.
Homicides, kidnapping, other crimes of violence, confidence games,
pickpocketing and credit card fraud are common.  Foreign tourists are often
victims of petty crimes.  Travel by public conveyance as well as private
vehicle may be risky; travel off the national highways and paved roads,
especially at night, is particularly dangerous.  Lost or stolen U.S.
passports should be reported immediately to local police and to  the U.S.
Embassy in Manila or to the Consulate in Cebu.  Useful information on
safeguarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip
Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  In the Philippines, penalties for
possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.  Capital punishment can be
applied in cases of heinous crimes.
Registration:  U.S. citizens living in or visiting the Philippines can
register with the U.S. Embassy in Manila or the U.S. Consulate in Cebu and
obtain updated information on travel and security in the Philippines.
Information for Americans contemplating road travel within the Philippines
is also available at the Embassy or Consulate.  A recorded message of the
Embassy's latest travel information may be heard by telephoning (63-2) 521-
9261.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Manila is located at
1201 Roxas Boulevard, telephone: [phone].  The U.S. Consulate is
located in Cebu on the 3rd Floor, PCI Bank, Gorordo Avenue, Lahug,
telephone: [phone].
No. 94-159
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated February 14, 1994.  It
provides updated information concerning continuing threats to security in
Mindanao,  mentions capital punishment as applicable for heinous crimes,
provides updated information concerning supplemental medical evacuation
coverage, and provides the current address and telephone number of the
Embassy of the Philippines in Washington, D.C.  Information concerning the
1993 eruption of Mt. Mayon has been deleted.
:                                     Philippines
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, archipelago between the Philippine Sea and the South
    China Sea, east of Vietnam
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    300,000 sq km
  land area:
    298,170 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Arizona
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    36,289 km
Maritime claims:
    measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
  continental shelf:
    to depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    irregular polygon 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
International disputes:
    involved in a complex dispute over the Spratly Islands with China, Malaysia,
    Taiwan, Vietnam, and possibly Brunei; claims Malaysian state of Sabah
Climate:
    tropical marine; northeast monsoon (November to April); southwest monsoon
    (May to October)
Terrain:
    mostly mountains with narrow to extensive coastal lowlands
Natural resources:
    timber, petroleum, nickel, cobalt, silver, gold, salt, copper
Land use:
  arable land:
    26%
  permanent crops:
    11%
  meadows and pastures:
    4%
  forest and woodland:
    40%
  other:
    19%
Irrigated land:
    16,200 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    uncontrolled deforestation in watershed areas; soil erosion; air and water
    pollution in Manila; increasing pollution of coastal mangrove swamps which
    are important fish breeding grounds
  natural hazards:
    astride typhoon belt, usually affected by 15 and struck by five to six
    cyclonic storms per year; landslides, active volcanoes, destructive
    earthquakes, tsunamis
                                   Philippines
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands
                                   Philippines
                                     People
Population:
    73,265,584 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    38% (female 13,841,552; male 14,214,234)
  15-64 years:
    58% (female 21,603,818; male 20,923,307)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 1,425,706; male 1,256,967) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.23% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    30.42 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.97 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -1.14 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    49.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    65.65 years
  male:
    63.16 years
  female:
    68.25 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.81 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Filipino(s)
  adjective:
    Philippine
Ethnic divisions:
    Christian Malay 91.5%, Muslim Malay 4%, Chinese 1.5%, other 3%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 83%, Protestant 9%, Muslim 5%, Buddhist and other 3%
Languages:
    Pilipino (official; based on Tagalog), English (official)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    94%
  male:
    94%
  female:
    93%
Labor force:
    24.12 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 46%, industry and commerce 16%, services 18.5%, government 10%,
    other 9.5% (1989)
                                   Philippines
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of the Philippines
  conventional short form:
    Philippines
  local long form:
    Republika ng Pilipinas
  local short form:
    Pilipinas
Digraph:
    RP
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Manila
Administrative divisions:
    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, Mindoro
    Occidental, Mindoro Oriental, Misamis Occidental, Misamis Oriental,
    Mountain, Naga*, Negros Occidental, Negros Oriental, North Cotabato,
    Northern Samar, Nueva Ecija, Nueva Vizcaya, Olongapo*, Ormoc*, Oroquieta*,
    Ozamis*, Pagadian*, Palawan, 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
Independence:
    4 July 1946 (from US)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 12 June (1898) (from Spain)
Constitution:
    2 February 1987, effective 11 February 1987
Legal system:
    based on Spanish and Anglo-American law; accepts compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    15 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Fidel Valdes RAMOS (since 30 June 1992); Vice President Joseph
    Ejercito ESTRADA (since 30 June 1992); 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
  cabinet:
    Executive Secretary; appointed by the president with the consent of the
    Commission of Appointments
                                   Philippines
                                   Government
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Congress (Kongreso)
  Senate (Senado):
    elections last held 11 May 1992 (next to be held NA May 1995); results - LDP
    66%, NPC 20%, Lakas/NUCD 8%, Liberal 6%; seats - (24 total) LDP 15, NPC 5,
    Lakas/NUCD 2, Liberal 1, independent 1
  House of Representatives (Kapulungan Ng Mga Kinatawan):
    elections last held 11 May 1992 (next to be held NA May 1995); results - LDP
    43.5%; Lakas/NUCD 25%, NPC 23.5%, Liberal 5%, KBL 3%; seats - (200 total)
    LDP 87, NPC 45, Lakas/NUCD 41, Liberal 15, NP 6, KBL 3, independents 3
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Democratic Filipino Struggle (Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipinas, LDP),
    Edgardo ESPIRITU; People Power-National Union of Christian Democrats (Lakas
    ng Edsa, NUCD and Partido Lakas Tao, Lakas/NUCD); Fidel V. RAMOS, President
    of the Republic, Raul MANGLAPUS, Jose DE VENECIA, secretary general;
    Nationalist People's Coalition (NPC), Eduardo COJUANGCO; Liberal Party,
    Jovito SALONGA; People's Reform Party (PRP), Miriam DEFENSOR-SANTIAGO; New
    Society Movement (Kilusan Bagong Lipunan; KBL), Imelda MARCOS; Nacionalista
    Party (NP), Salvador H. LAUREL, president
Member of:
    APEC, AsDB, ASEAN, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-24, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, NAM, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNU,
    UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Raul Chaves RABE
  chancery:
    1600 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Agana (Guam), Chicago, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, San
    Francisco, and Seattle
  consulate(s):
    San Diego and San Jose (Saipan)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador John D. NEGROPONTE
  embassy:
    1201 Roxas Boulevard, Ermita Manila 1000
  mailing address:
    APO AP 96440
  telephone:
    [63] (2) 521-71-16
  FAX:
    [63] (2) 522-43-61
  consulate(s):
    Cebu
Flag:
    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
                                   Philippines
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Domestic output in this primarily agricultural economy failed to grow in
    1992 and rose only slightly in 1993. Drought and power supply problems
    hampered production, while inadequate revenues prevented government pump
    priming. Worker remittances helped to supplement GDP. A marked increase in
    capital goods imports, particularly power generating equipment,
    telecommunications equipment, and electronic data processors, contributed to
    20% annual import growth in 1992-94. Provided the government can cope with
    the substantial trade deficit and meet the fiscal targets agreed to with the
    IMF, the Philippines should duplicate the strong growth performance of 1994
    in 1995-96.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $161.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4.3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $2,310 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    7.1% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    9% (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $14 billion
  expenditures:
    $15.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95 est.)
Exports:
    $13.4 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    electronics, textiles, coconut products, copper, fish
  partners:
    US 39%, Japan 16%, Germany 5%, Hong Kong 5%, UK 4% (1993)
Imports:
    $21.3 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    raw materials 40%, capital goods 25%, petroleum products 10%
  partners:
    Japan 23%, US 20%, Taiwan 6%, Singapore 5%, South Korea 5% (1993)
External debt:
    $40 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 1.4% (1993); accounts for 28% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    6,770,000 kW
  production:
    20.4 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    278 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    textiles, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, wood products, food processing,
    electronics assembly, petroleum refining, fishing
Agriculture:
    accounts for 22% of GDP and about 45% of labor force; major crops - rice,
    coconuts, corn, sugarcane, bananas, pineapples, mangos; animal products -
    pork, eggs, beef; net exporter of farm products; fish catch of 2 million
    metric tons annually
                                   Philippines
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    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 heroin bound for the US
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $3.6 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-88), $7.9 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $5 million; Communist countries (1975-89), $123
    million
Currency:
    1 Philippine peso (P) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    Philippine pesos (P) per US$1 - 24.622 (January 1995), 26.417 (1994), 22.120
    (1993), 25.512 (1992), 27.479 (1991), 24.311 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                   Philippines
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    800 km (est.); note - including about 390 km in Luzon
  narrow gauge:
    800 km 1.067-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    160,700 km
  paved:
    29,000 km
  unpaved:
    131,700 km
Inland waterways:
    3,219 km; limited to shallow-draft (less than 1.5 m) vessels
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 357 km
Ports:
    Batangas, Cagayan de Oro, Cebu, Davao, Guimaras, Iligan, Iloilo, Jolo,
    Legaspi, Manila, Masao, Puerto Princesa, San Fernando, Subic Bay, Zamboanga
Merchant marine:
  total:
    552 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 8,748,083 GRT/14,373,730 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 237, cargo 134, chemical tanker 4, combination bulk 10, combination
    ore/oil 1, container 10, liquefied gas tanker 6, livestock carrier 9, oil
    tanker 46, passenger 1, passenger-cargo 11, refrigerated cargo 24,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 13, short-sea passenger 17, vehicle carrier 29
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; Japan owns 13 ships, Norway 2, Switzerland
    1, Taiwan 1, and South Korea 1
Airports:
  total:
    269
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    7
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    24
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    32
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    133
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    67
                                   Philippines
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    872,900 telephones; good international radio and submarine cable services;
    domestic and interisland service adequate
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    11 domestic satellite links
  international:
    submarine cables extended to Hong Kong, Guam, Singapore, Taiwan, and Japan;
    3 INTELSAT (1 Indian Ocean and 2 Pacific Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 267 (including 6 US), FM 55, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    33 (including 4 US)
  televisions:
    NA
                                   Philippines
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy (includes Coast Guard and Marine Corps), Air Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 18,238,568; males fit for military service 12,876,771; males
    reach military age (20) annually 752,622 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $731 million, 1.4% of GNP (1992)
Portugal
                                Pitcairn Islands
Affiliation:
    (dependent territory of the UK)
                                Pitcairn Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from
    Peru to New Zealand
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    47 sq km
  land area:
    47 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.3 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    51 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical, hot, humid, modified by southeast trade winds; rainy season
    (November to March)
Terrain:
    rugged volcanic formation; rocky coastline with cliffs
Natural resources:
    miro trees (used for handicrafts), fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    NA%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation (only a small portion of the original forest remains because
    of burning and clearing for settlement)
  natural hazards:
    typhoons (especially November to March)
  international agreements:
    NA
                                Pitcairn Islands
                                     People
Population:
    73 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    2.8% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    NA births/1,000 population
Death rate:
    NA deaths/1,000 population
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population
Infant mortality rate:
    NA deaths/1,000 live births
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    NA years
  male:
    NA years
  female:
    NA years
Total fertility rate:
    NA children born/woman
Nationality:
  noun:
    Pitcairn Islander(s)
  adjective:
    Pitcairn Islander
Ethnic divisions:
    descendants of the Bounty mutineers
Religions:
    Seventh-Day Adventist 100%
Languages:
    English (official), Tahitian/English dialect
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    no business community in the usual sense; some public works; subsistence
    farming and fishing
                                Pitcairn Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie, and Oeno Islands
  conventional short form:
    Pitcairn Islands
Digraph:
    PC
Type:
    dependent territory of the UK
Capital:
    Adamstown
Administrative divisions:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
Independence:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
National holiday:
    Celebration of the Birthday of the Queen (second Saturday in June)
Constitution:
    Local Government Ordinance of 1964
Legal system:
    local island by-laws
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal with three years residency
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by UK High
    Commissioner to New Zealand and Governor (non-resident) of the Pitcairn
    Islands Robert John ALSTON (since NA); Commissioner (non-resident) G.D.
    HARRAWAY (since NA; is the liaison person between the governor and the
    Island Council)
  head of government:
    Island Magistrate and Chairman of the Island Council Jay WARREN (since NA)
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Island Council:
    elections take place each December; last held NA December 1994 (next to be
    held NA December 1995); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (11 total, 5
    elected) all independents
Judicial branch:
    Island Court
Political parties and leaders:
    none
Other political or pressure groups:
    NA
Member of:
    SPC
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
Flag:
    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
                                Pitcairn Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The inhabitants exist on fishing and subsistence farming. The fertile soil
    of the valleys produces a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, including
    citrus, 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.
National product:
    GDP $NA
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $NA
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $430,000
  expenditures:
    $429,000, including capital expenditures of $NA (1987 est.)
Exports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    fruits, vegetables, curios
  partners:
    NA
Imports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    fuel oil, machinery, building materials, flour, sugar, other foodstuffs
  partners:
    NA
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    110 kW
  production:
    300,000 kWh
  consumption per capita:
    5,360 kWh (1990)
Industries:
    postage stamps, handicrafts
Agriculture:
    based on subsistence fishing and farming; wide variety of fruits and
    vegetables; must import grain products
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    ODA bilateral commitments (1992-93), $84,000
Currency:
    1 New Zealand dollar (NZ$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    New Zealand dollars (NZ$) per US$1 - 1.5601 (January 1995), 1.6844 (1994),
    1.8495 (1993), 1.8584 (1992), 1.7265 (1991), 1.6750 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                                Pitcairn Islands
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    6.4 km
  unpaved:
    earth 6.4 km
Ports:
    Bounty Bay
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
    none
                                Pitcairn Islands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    24 telephones; party line telephone service on the island
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                                Pitcairn Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the UK
Puerto Rico
POLAND - Passport (must be valid at least 12 months past date of entry)
required.  Visa not required for stay up to 90 days.  Visitors must
register at hotel or with local authorities within 48 hours after
arrival. Check with the Embassy of the Republic of Poland (Consular Division),
2224 Wyoming Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/232-4517) or nearest
Consulate General:  Chicago, IL, 1530 Lakeshore Dr.,  60610
(312/337-8816), Los Angeles, CA, 3460 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1200, 90010
(213/365-7900) or New York, NY, 233 Madison Ave., 10016
(212/889-8360).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Poland
============================================================
Poland - Consular Information Sheet
 March 7, 1995
Country Description:  Poland is a moderately developed European
nation working to build a new political system and a market economy.
 Tourist facilities are not highly developed in all areas, and many
of the goods and services taken for granted in other European
countries can be difficult to find.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not
required for stays up to 90 days.  Visitors must register at a hotel
or with local authorities within 48 hours of arrival.  An AIDS test
is required for student visas; U.S. test results are accepted.
Further information on entry requirements may be obtained from the
Embassy of the Republic of Poland, Consular Section at 2224 Wyoming
Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20008, tel.: [phone] or 4528 or the
nearest Polish consulate in Chicago, Los Angeles, or New York.
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical care is available in Poland,
but generally does not meet Western standards.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be
useful.  Further information on health matters can be obtained from
the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline,
tel.: [phone].
Crime Information:  Crime is a serious problem throughout Poland
and is on the rise, particularly in large cities such as Warsaw,
Krakow, Poznan, Wroclaw and Gdansk.  Organized groups of thieves and
pickpockets appear to be operating in the train stations, and on
trains, trams, and buses in major cities.  A number of thefts have
occurred on the overnight trains, including thefts from passengers
in closed compartments.  In Warsaw, car thefts and break-ins, street
crime, and residential burglaries are increasingly prevalent.  There
have also been incidents of harassment and threats of violence
directed against African-Americans by so-called "skinheads" in
several Polish cities.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The Department of State's pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad"
 is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.   It provides information
on travel to the region and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad.
Currency Information:  Polish law prohibits the import or export of
Polish currency (zlotys).  Upon entry into Poland visitors must
declare in writing all money and valuable items they are bringing
in.  The declaration form should be stamped by Polish customs and
retained by the traveler for presentation on departure.  Undeclared
cash may be confiscated upon departure if the customs declaration is
unavailable.  Throughout Poland, particularly outside Warsaw, it is
difficult to cash traveler's checks or obtain cash advances on
credit cards.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
and dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens planning to be in Poland for longer
than a brief visit are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy
or the nearest U.S. consulate after arriving in Poland.  All offices
maintain updated information on travel and security within Poland
and the region.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Warsaw is
located at Aleje Ujazdowskie 29/31.  The consular entrance is
located around the corner at Ulica, Piekna 12,  tel. (48) (2)
628-3041; fax [phone].  There are also U.S. Consulates in Krakow,
at Ulica Stolarska 9, tel. (48) (12) 221-400; fax 218-292; and in
Poznan, at Ulica Chopina 4, tel.:  (48) (61) 551-088; fax 530-053.
 No. 95-036
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 28, 1994,
to update information on crime in Poland and to reflect new
telephone numbers for the U.S. Consulate in Krakow.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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A                                         Poland
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Europe, east of Germany
Map references:
    Ethnic Groups in Eastern Europe, Europe
Area:
  total area:
    312,680 sq km
  land area:
    304,510 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than New Mexico
Land boundaries:
    total 3,114 km, Belarus 605 km, Czech Republic 658 km, Germany 456 km,
    Lithuania 91 km, Russia (Kaliningrad Oblast) 432 km, Slovakia 444 km,
    Ukraine 428 km
Coastline:
    491 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    defined by international treaties
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate with cold, cloudy, moderately severe winters with frequent
    precipitation; mild summers with frequent showers and thundershowers
Terrain:
    mostly flat plain; mountains along southern border
Natural resources:
    coal, sulfur, copper, natural gas, silver, lead, salt
Land use:
  arable land:
    46%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    13%
  forest and woodland:
    28%
  other:
    12%
Irrigated land:
    1,000 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    forest damage due to air pollution and resulting acid rain; improper means
    for disposal of large amounts of hazardous and industrial waste; severe
    water pollution from industrial and municipal sources; severe air pollution
    results from emissions of sulfur dioxide from coal-fired power plants, which
    also drifts into Germany and the Netherlands
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Antarctic Treaty, Climate Change, Endangered
    Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping,
    Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed,
    but not ratified - Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94,
    Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Biodiversity, Law of the Sea
                                     Poland
                                    Geography
Note:
    historically, an area of conflict because of flat terrain and the lack of
    natural barriers on the North European Plain
                                     Poland
                                     People
Population:
    38,792,442 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    23% (female 4,349,467; male 4,559,536)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 12,849,300; male 12,698,179)
  65 years and over:
    11% (female 2,693,407; male 1,642,553) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.36% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    13.34 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.23 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.52 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    12.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    73.13 years
  male:
    69.15 years
  female:
    77.33 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.92 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Pole(s)
  adjective:
    Polish
Ethnic divisions:
    Polish 97.6%, German 1.3%, Ukrainian 0.6%, Byelorussian 0.5% (1990 est.)
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 95% (about 75% practicing), Eastern Orthodox, Protestant, and
    other 5%
Languages:
    Polish
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1978)
  total population:
    99%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    98%
Labor force:
    17.321 million (1993 annual average)
  by occupation:
    industry and construction 32.0%, agriculture 27.6%, trade, transport, and
    communications 14.7%, government and other 25.7% (1992)
                                     Poland
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Poland
  conventional short form:
    Poland
  local long form:
    Rzeczpospolita Polska
  local short form:
    Polska
Digraph:
    PL
Type:
    democratic state
Capital:
    Warsaw
Administrative divisions:
    49 provinces (wojewodztwa, singular - wojewodztwo); Biala Podlaska,
    Bialystok, Bielsko Biala, Bydgoszcz, Chelm, Ciechanow, Czestochowa, Elblag,
    Gdansk, Gorzow, Jelenia Gora, Kalisz, Katowice, Kielce, Konin, Koszalin,
    Krakow, Krosno, Legnica, Leszno, Lodz, Lomza, Lublin, Nowy Sacz, Olsztyn,
    Opole, Ostroleka, Pila, Piotrkow, Plock, Poznan, Przemysl, Radom, Rzeszow,
    Siedlce, Sieradz, Skierniewice, Slupsk, Suwalki, Szczecin, Tarnobrzeg,
    Tarnow, Torun, Walbrzych, Warszawa, Wloclawek, Wroclaw, Zamosc, Zielona Gora
Independence:
    11 November 1918 (independent republic proclaimed)
National holiday:
    Constitution Day, 3 May (1791)
Constitution:
    interim "small constitution" came into effect in December 1992 replacing the
    Communist-imposed constitution of 22 July 1952; new democratic constitution
    being drafted
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Lech WALESA (since 22 December 1990); election first round held 25
    November 1990, second round held 9 December 1990 (next to be held NA
    November 1995); results - second round Lech WALESA 74.7%, Stanislaw TYMINSKI
    25.3%
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Jozef OLEKSY (since 6 March 1995); Deputy Prime Ministers
    Roman JAGIELINSKI, Grzegorz KOLODKO, and Aleksander LUCZAK (since NA)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; responsible to the president and the Sejm
Legislative branch:
    bicameral National Assembly (Zgromadzenie Narodowe)
  Senate (Senat):
    elections last held 19 September 1993 (next to be held no later than NA
    October 1997); seats - (100 total)
    Communist origin or linked (PSL 34, SLD 37), post-Solidarity parties (UW 6,
    NSZZ 12, BBWR 2),  non-Communist, non-Solidarity (independents 7,
    unaffiliated 1, vacant 1)
                                     Poland
                                   Government
  Diet (Sejm):
    elections last held 19 September 1993 (next to be held no later than NA
    October 1997); seats - (460 total)
    Communist origin or linked (SLD 171, PSL 132), post-Solidarity parties (UW
    74, UP 41, BBWR 16),  non-Communist, non-Solidarity (KPN 22)
  note:
    4 seats are constitutionally assigned to ethnic German parties
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
  post-Solidarity parties:
    Freedom Union (UW; Democratic Union and Liberal Democratic Congress merged
    to form Freedom Union), Leszek BALCEROWICZ; Christian-National Union (ZCHN),
    Ryszard CZARNECKI; Centrum (PC), Jaroslaw KACZYNSKI; Peasant Alliance (PL),
    Gabriel JANOWSKI; Solidarity Trade Union (NSZZ), Marian KRZAKLEWSKI; Union
    of Labor (UP), Ryszard BUGAJ; Christian-Democratic Party (PCHD), Pawel
    LACZKOWSKI; Conservative Party, Alexander HALL; Nonparty Bloc for the
    Support of the Reforms (BBWR)
  non-Communist, non-Solidarity:
    Confederation for an Independent Poland (KPN), Leszek MOCZULSKI; Polish
    Economic Program (PPG), Janusz REWINSKI; Christian Democrats (CHD), Andrzej
    OWSINSKI; German Minority (MN), Henryk KROL; Union of Real Politics (UPR),
    Janusz KORWIN-MIKKE; Democratic Party (SD), Antoni MACKIEWICZ
  Communist origin:
    Polish Peasant Party (PSL), Waldemar PAWLAK; Democratic Left Alliance (SLD),
    Aleksander KWASNIEWSKI
Other political or pressure groups:
    powerful Roman Catholic Church; Solidarity (trade union); All Poland Trade
    Union Alliance (OPZZ), populist program
Member of:
    Australia Group, BIS, BSEC (observer), CBSS, CCC, CE, CEI, CERN, EBRD, ECE,
    FAO, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO,
    INMARSAT, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU,
    MINURSO, NACC, NAM (guest), NSG, OAS (observer), OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNAMIR,
    UNCTAD, UNDOF, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNIKOM, UNOMIG, UNPROFOR, UPU, WCL,
    WEU (associate partner), WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jerzy KOZMINSKI
  chancery:
    2640 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 3802
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Nicholas Andrew REY
  embassy:
    Aleje Ujazdowskie 29/31, Warsaw
  mailing address:
    American Embassy Warsaw, Box 5010, Unit 1340, APO AE 09213-1340
  telephone:
    [48] (2) 628-30-41
  FAX:
    [48] (2) 628-82-98
  consulate(s) general:
    Krakow, Poznan
                                     Poland
                                   Government
Flag:
    two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red; similar to the flags of
    Indonesia and Monaco which are red (top) and white
                                     Poland
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Poland continues 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. Real GDP fell sharply
    in 1990 and 1991, but in 1992 Poland became the first country in the region
    to resume economic growth with a 2.6% increase. Growth increased to 3.8% in
    1993 and 5.5% in 1994 - the highest rate in Europe except for Albania. All
    of the growth since 1991 has come from the booming private sector, which now
    accounts for at least 55% of GDP, even though privatization of the
    state-owned enterprises is proceeding slowly and most industry remains in
    state hands. Industrial production increased 12% in 1994 - led by 50% jumps
    in the output of motor vehicles, radios and televisions, and pulp and paper
    - and is now well above the 1990 level. Inflation, which had approached
    1,200% annually in early 1990, was down to about 30% in 1994, as the
    government held the budget deficit to 1.5% of GDP. After five years of
    steady increases, unemployment has leveled off at about 16% nationwide,
    although it approaches 30% in some regions. The trade deficit was sharply
    reduced in 1994, due mainly to increased exports to Western Europe, Poland's
    main customer. The leftist government elected in September 1993 gets
    generally good marks from foreign observers for its management of the budget
    but is often criticized for not moving faster on privatization.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $191.1 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,920 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    30% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    16.1% (November 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $27.1 billion
  expenditures:
    $30 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $16.3 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    intermediate goods 26.5%, machinery and transport equipment 18.1%,
    miscellaneous manufactures 16.7%, foodstuffs 9.4%, fuels 8.4% (1993)
  partners:
    Germany 33.4%, Russia 10.2%, Italy 5.3%, UK 4.3% (1993)
Imports:
    $18.1 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment 29.6%, intermediate goods 18.5%, chemicals
    13.3%, fuels 12.5%, miscellaneous manufactures 10.1%
  partners:
    Germany 35.8%, Italy 9.2%, Russia 8.5%, UK 6.6% (1993)
External debt:
    $47 billion (1993); note - Poland's Western government creditors promised in
    1991 to forgive 30% of Warsaw's $35 billion official debt immediately and to
    forgive another 20% in 1994; foreign banks agreed in early 1994 to forgive
    45% of their $12 billion debt claim
Industrial production:
    growth rate 12% (1994 est.)
                                     Poland
                                     Economy
Electricity:
  capacity:
    31,120,000 kW
  production:
    124 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,908 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    machine building, iron and steel, extractive industries, chemicals,
    shipbuilding, food processing, glass, beverages, textiles
Agriculture:
    accounts for 7% of GDP; 75% of output from private farms, 25% from state
    farms; productivity remains low by European standards; leading European
    producer of rye, rapeseed, and potatoes; wide variety of other crops and
    livestock; major exporter of pork products; normally self-sufficient in food
Illicit drugs:
    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
Economic aid:
  donor:
     bilateral aid to non-Communist less developed countries (1954-89), $2.2
    billion
  recipient:
    Western governments and institutions have pledged $8 billion in grants and
    loans since 1989, but most of the money has not been disbursed
Currency:
    1 zloty (Zl) = 100 groszy
Exchange rates:
    zlotych (Zl) per US$1 - 2.45 (January 1995; 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), 9,500 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                     Poland
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    25,528 km
  broad gauge:
    659 km 1.520-m gauge
  standard gauge:
    23,014 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
    (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    367,000 km (excluding farm, factory and forest roads)
  paved:
    235,247 km (257 km of which are limited access expressways)
  unpaved:
    131,753 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    3,997 km navigable rivers and canals (1991)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 1,986 km; petroleum products 360 km; natural gas 4,600 km (1992)
Ports:
    Gdansk, Gdynia, Gliwice, Kolobrzeg, Szczecin, Swinoujscie, Ustka, Warsaw,
    Wrocaw
Merchant marine:
  total:
    152 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,186,405 GRT/3,270,914 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 89, cargo 38, chemical tanker 4, container 7, oil tanker 1, passenger
    1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 8, short-sea passenger 4
  note:
    in addition, Poland owns 9 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 76,501 DWT
    that operate under Bahamian, Liberian, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines,
    Vanuatu, Panamanian, and Cypriot registry
Airports:
  total:
    134
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    30
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    27
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    7
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    10
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    32
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    18
                                     Poland
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    4.9 million telephones; 12.7 phones/100 residents (1994); severely
    underdeveloped and outmoded system; exchanges are 86% automatic (1991)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    cable, open wire, and microwave
  international:
    INTELSAT, EUTELSAT, INMARSAT, and Intersputnik earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 27, FM 27, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    40 (Russian repeaters 5)
  televisions:
    9.6 million
                                     Poland
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 10,181,069; males fit for military service 7,940,634; males
    reach military age (19) annually 323,133 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    50.7 billion zlotych, NA% of GNP (1994 est.); note - conversion of defense
    expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce
    misleading results
Qatar
PORTUGAL - (Includes travel to the Azores and Madeira Islands.)
Passport required.  Visa not required for visit up to 60 days (extendable).
For travel with pets and other information consult nearest Consulate:
Washington., D.C. (202/332-3007, CA (415/346-3400), MA (617/536-8740
and 508/997-6151), NJ (201/622-7300), NY (212/246-4580) or RI
(401/272-2003).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Portugal
============================================================
Portugal - Consular Information Sheet
 December 4, 1995
Country Description:  Portugal is a moderately developed and stable
democracy.  Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not
required for tourist stays up to sixty days.  For further
information concerning entry requirements for Portugal, travelers
can contact the Embassy of Portugal at 2125 Kalorama Road N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008, tel. [phone], or the nearest
Portuguese Consulate in Boston, New Bedford, Providence, New York,
Newark, or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are available.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be
useful.  Information on specific health matters is available through
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for
international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Portugal has a low but increasing rate of
violent crime.  Travelers, especially those who appear to be
affluent, may become targets of pickpockets and purse snatchers.
Automobile break-ins, particularly from rental cars, and car thefts
are common.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be
reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S.
embassy or consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of
State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more
trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
and dealing in illegal drugs are high.  Convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate can obtain updated information on
travel and security within Portugal.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Portugal is
located on Avenida das Forcas Armadas in Lisbon; telephone (351-1)
727-3300.  A Consulate is located in the Azores, on the island of
San Miguel, in Ponta Delgada.  The address is Avenida D. Henrique,
tel: [phone].  There is also a Consular Agency located
in Funchal, Madeira, on Avenida Luis de Camoes, telephone (351-091)
743-429.  It is open from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 noon.
 No. 95-154
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 26, 1994,
to reflect the Embassy's new telephone number.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Portugal
============================================================
Portugal - Consular Information Sheet
 December 4, 1995
Country Description:  Portugal is a moderately developed and stable
democracy.  Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not
required for tourist stays up to sixty days.  For further
information concerning entry requirements for Portugal, travelers
can contact the Embassy of Portugal at 2125 Kalorama Road N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008, tel. [phone], or the nearest
Portuguese Consulate in Boston, New Bedford, Providence, New York,
Newark, or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are available.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be
useful.  Information on specific health matters is available through
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for
international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Portugal has a low but increasing rate of
violent crime.  Travelers, especially those who appear to be
affluent, may become targets of pickpockets and purse snatchers.
Automobile break-ins, particularly from rental cars, and car thefts
are common.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be
reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S.
embassy or consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of
State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more
trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
and dealing in illegal drugs are high.  Convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate can obtain updated information on
travel and security within Portugal.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Portugal is
located on Avenida das Forcas Armadas in Lisbon; telephone (351-1)
727-3300.  A Consulate is located in the Azores, on the island of
San Miguel, in Ponta Delgada.  The address is Avenida D. Henrique,
tel: [phone].  There is also a Consular Agency located
in Funchal, Madeira, on Avenida Luis de Camoes, telephone (351-091)
743-429.  It is open from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 noon.
 No. 95-154
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 26, 1994,
to reflect the Embassy's new telephone number.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
7                                      Portugal
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southwestern Europe, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Spain
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    92,080 sq km
  land area:
    91,640 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Indiana
  note:
    includes Azores and Madeira Islands
Land boundaries:
    total 1,214 km, Spain 1,214 km
Coastline:
    1,793 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    sovereignty over Timor Timur (East Timor Province) disputed with Indonesia
Climate:
    maritime temperate; cool and rainy in north, warmer and drier in south
Terrain:
    mountainous north of the Tagus, rolling plains in south
Natural resources:
    fish, forests (cork), tungsten, iron ore, uranium ore, marble
Land use:
  arable land:
    32%
  permanent crops:
    6%
  meadows and pastures:
    6%
  forest and woodland:
    40%
  other:
    16%
Irrigated land:
    6,340 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    soil erosion; air pollution caused by industrial and vehicle emissions;
    water pollution, especially in coastal areas
  natural hazards:
    Azores subject to severe earthquakes
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species,
    Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not
    ratified - Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Desertification,
    Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
                                    Portugal
                                    Geography
Note:
    Azores and Madeira Islands occupy strategic locations along western sea
    approaches to Strait of Gibraltar
                                    Portugal
                                     People
Population:
    10,562,388 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    18% (female 943,412; male 1,000,971)
  15-64 years:
    68% (female 3,625,086; male 3,499,176)
  65 years and over:
    14% (female 889,142; male 604,601) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.36% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    11.72 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.65 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    1.55 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    9.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    75.53 years
  male:
    72.11 years
  female:
    79.16 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.47 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Portuguese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Portuguese
Ethnic divisions:
    homogeneous Mediterranean stock in mainland, Azores, Madeira Islands;
    citizens of black African descent who immigrated to mainland during
    decolonization number less than 100,000
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 97%, Protestant denominations 1%, other 2%
Languages:
    Portuguese
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    85%
  male:
    89%
  female:
    82%
Labor force:
    4.24 million (1994 est.)
  by occupation:
    services 54.5%, manufacturing 24.4%, agriculture, forestry, fisheries 11.2%,
    construction 8.3%, utilites 1.0%, mining 0.5% (1992)
                                    Portugal
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Portuguese Republic
  conventional short form:
    Portugal
  local long form:
    Republica Portuguesa
  local short form:
    Portugal
Digraph:
    PO
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Lisbon
Administrative divisions:
    18 districts (distritos, singular - distrito) and 2 autonomous regions*
    (regioes autonomas, singular - regiao autonoma); Aveiro, Acores (Azores)*,
    Beja, Braga, Braganca, Castelo Branco, Coimbra, Evora, Faro, Guarda, Leiria,
    Lisboa, Madeira*, Portalegre, Porto, Santarem, Setubal, Viana do Castelo,
    Vila Real, Viseu
Dependent areas:
    Macau (scheduled to become a Special Administrative Region of China on 20
    December 1999)
Independence:
    1140 (independent republic proclaimed 5 October 1910)
National holiday:
    Day of Portugal, 10 June (1580)
Constitution:
    25 April 1976, revised 30 October 1982 and 1 June 1989
Legal system:
    civil law system; the Constitutional Tribunal reviews the constitutionality
    of legislation; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Dr. Mario Alberto Nobre Lopes SOARES (since 9 March 1986);
    election last held 13 February 1991 (next to be held NA February 1996);
    results - Dr. Mario Lopes SOARES 70%, Basilio HORTA 14%, Carlos CARVALHAS
    13%, Carlos MARQUES 3%; note - SOARES is finishing his second term and by
    law cannot run for a third consecutive term
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Anibal CAVACO SILVA (since 6 November 1985); note - will be
    replaced in the October 1995 elections
  Council of State:
    acts as a consultative body to the president
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president on recommendation of the
    prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Assembly of the Republic (Assembleia da Republica):
    elections last held 6 October 1991 (next to be held NA October 1995);
    results - PSD 50.4%, PS 29.3%, CDU 8.8%, CDS 4.4%, PSN 1.7%, PRD 0.6%, other
    4.8%; seats - (230 total) PSD 136, PS 71, CDU 17, CDS 5, PSN 1
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Tribunal of Justice (Supremo Tribunal de Justica)
                                    Portugal
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Social Democratic Party (PSD), Fernando NOGUEIRA; 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)
Member of:
    AfDB, Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD, EC, ECE, ECLAC, EIB, FAO,
    GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS,
    ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, LAIA
    (observer), MTCR, NACC, NAM (guest), NATO, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD,
    OSCE, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMOZ, UNPROFOR, UPU, WCL, WEU, WFTU,
    WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Francisco Jose Laco Treichler KNOPFLI
  chancery:
    2125 Kalorama Road NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Boston, New York, Newark (New Jersey), and San Francisco
  consulate(s):
    Los Angeles, New Bedford (Massachusetts), Providence (Rhode Island), and
    Washington, DC
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Elizabeth Frawley BAGLEY
  embassy:
    Avenida das Forcas Armadas, 1600 Lisbon
  mailing address:
    PSC 83, Lisbon; APO AE 09726
  telephone:
    [351] (1) 7266600, 7266659, 7268670, 7268880
  FAX:
    [351] (1) 7269109
  consulate(s):
    Ponta Delgada (Azores)
Flag:
    two vertical bands of green (hoist side, two-fifths) and red (three-fifths)
    with the Portuguese coat of arms centered on the dividing line
                                    Portugal
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Portugal's economy contracted 0.4% in 1993 but registered a 1.4% growth in
    1994, with 3% growth expected in 1995 and 1996. This comeback rests on high
    levels of public investment, continuing strong export growth, and a gradual
    recovery in consumer spending. The government's long-run economic goal is
    the modernization of Portuguese markets, industry, infrastructure, and work
    force in order to catch up with productivity and income levels of the more
    advanced EU countries. Per capita income now equals only 55% of the EU
    average. Economic policy in 1994 focused on reducing inflationary pressures
    by lowering the fiscal deficit, maintaining a stable escudo, moderating wage
    increases, and encouraging increased competition. The government's
    medium-term objective is to be in the first tier of the EU countries
    eligible to join the economic and monetary union (EMU) as early as 1997. To
    this end, the 1995 budget posits a cut in total deficit to 5.8% of GDP.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $107.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    1.4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $10,190 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    6.1% (May 1994)
Unemployment rate:
    6.7% (May 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $31 billion
  expenditures:
    $41 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994)
Exports:
    $15.4 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    clothing and footwear, machinery, cork and paper products, hides and skins
  partners:
    EU 75.5%, other developed countries 12.4%, US 4.3% (1994)
Imports:
    $24.3 billion (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment, agricultural products, chemicals,
    petroleum, textiles
  partners:
    EC 72%, other developed countries 10.9%, less developed countries 12.9%, US
    3.4%
External debt:
    $20 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 1.5% (1994 est.); accounts for 30.6% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    8,220,000 kW
  production:
    29.5 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,642 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    textiles and footwear; wood pulp, paper, and cork; metalworking; oil
    refining; chemicals; fish canning; wine; tourism
                                    Portugal
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 5% of GDP; small, inefficient farms; imports more than half of
    food needs; major crops - grain, potatoes, olives, grapes; livestock sector
    - sheep, cattle, goats, poultry, meat, dairy products
Illicit drugs:
    increasingly important gateway country for Latin American cocaine entering
    the European market; transshipment point for hashish from North Africa to
    Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1.8 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.2 billion
Currency:
    1 Portuguese escudo (Esc) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    Portuguese escudos (Esc) per US$1 - 158.02 (January 1995), 165.99 (1994),
    160.80 (1993), 135.00 (1992), 144.48 (1991), 142.55 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                    Portugal
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,068 km
  broad gauge:
    2,761 km 1.668-m gauge (439 km electrified; 426 km double track)
  narrow gauge:
    307 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    70,176 km
  paved and graveled:
    60,351 km (519 km of expressways)
  unpaved:
    earth 9,825 km
Inland waterways:
    820 km navigable; relatively unimportant to national economy, used by
    shallow-draft craft limited to 300 metric-ton cargo capacity
Pipelines:
    crude oil 22 km; petroleum products 58 km
Ports:
    Aveiro, Funchal (Madeira Islands), Horta (Azores), Leixoes, Lisbon, Porto,
    Ponta Delgada (Azores), Praia da Vitoria (Azores), Setubal, Viana do Castelo
Merchant marine:
  total:
    65 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 852,785 GRT/1,545,804 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 5, cargo 28, chemical tanker 5, container 4, liquefied gas tanker 2,
    oil tanker 17, refrigerated cargo 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1, short-sea
    passenger 1
  note:
    Portugal 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; in addition, Portugal owns 25 ships
    (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 155,776 DWT that operate under Panamanian and
    Maltese registry
Airports:
  total:
    65
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    8
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    18
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    29
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
                                    Portugal
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    2,690,000 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    generally adequate integrated network of coaxial cables, open wire and
    microwave radio relay, domestic satellite earth stations
  international:
    6 submarine cables; 3 INTELSAT (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean),
    EUTELSAT earth stations; tropospheric link to Azores
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 57, FM 66 (repeaters 22), shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    66 (repeaters 23)
  televisions:
    NA
                                    Portugal
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy (includes Marines), Air Force, National Republican Guard, Fiscal
    Guard, Public Security Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,747,357; males fit for military service 2,223,299; males
    reach military age (20) annually 90,402 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $2.4 billion, 2.9% of GDP (1994)
Reunion
(                                    Puerto Rico
Affiliation:
    (commonwealth associated with the US)
                                    Puerto Rico
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean,
    east of the Dominican Republic
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    9,104 sq km
  land area:
    8,959 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than three times the size of Rhode Island
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    501 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical marine, mild, little seasonal temperature variation
Terrain:
    mostly mountains with coastal plain belt in north; mountains precipitous to
    sea on west coast; sandy beaches along most coastal areas
Natural resources:
    some copper and nickel, potential for onshore and offshore crude oil
Land use:
  arable land:
    8%
  permanent crops:
    9%
  meadows and pastures:
    41%
  forest and woodland:
    20%
  other:
    22%
Irrigated land:
    390 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    the recent drought has caused water levels in reservoirs to drop and
    prompted water rationing for more than one-half of the population
  natural hazards:
    periodic droughts
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    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
                                   Puerto Rico
                                     People
Population:
    3,812,569 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    25% (female 466,596; male 489,127)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 1,274,765; male 1,195,785)
  65 years and over:
    10% (female 213,716; male 172,580) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.16% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.92 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.47 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -6.81 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    12.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    75.1 years
  male:
    70.78 years
  female:
    79.66 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.98 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Puerto Rican(s) (US citizens)
  adjective:
    Puerto Rican
Ethnic divisions:
    Hispanic
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 85%, Protestant denominations and other 15%
Languages:
    Spanish, English
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980)
  total population:
    89%
  male:
    90%
  female:
    88%
Labor force:
    1.2 million (1993)
  by occupation:
    government 22%, manufacturing 17%, trade 20%, construction 6%,
    communications and transportation 5%, other 30% (1993)
                                   Puerto Rico
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Commonwealth of Puerto Rico
  conventional short form:
    Puerto Rico
Digraph:
    RQ
Type:
    commonwealth associated with the US
Capital:
    San Juan
Administrative divisions:
    none (commonwealth associated with the US); note - there are 78
    municipalities
Independence:
    none (commonwealth associated with the US)
National holiday:
    US Independence Day, 4 July (1776)
Constitution:
    ratified 3 March 1952; approved by US Congress 3 July 1952; effective 25
    July 1952
Legal system:
    based on Spanish civil code
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal; indigenous inhabitants are US citizens but do
    not vote in US presidential elections
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993); Vice President
    Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993)
  head of government:
    Governor Pedro ROSSELLO (since 2 January 1993); 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%
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Legislative Assembly
  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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court, Superior Courts, Municipal Courts
Political parties and leaders:
    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
                                   Puerto Rico
                                   Government
Other political or pressure groups:
    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
Member of:
    CARICOM (observer), ECLAC (associate), FAO (associate), ICFTU, INTERPOL
    (subbureau), IOC, WCL, WFTU, WHO (associate), WTO (associate)
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (commonwealth associated with the US)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (commonwealth associated with the US)
Flag:
    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
                                   Puerto Rico
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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,
    electronics, textiles, petrochemicals, 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $26.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.6% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $7,050 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.9% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    16% (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $5.1 billion
  expenditures:
    $5.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95)
Exports:
    $21.8 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    pharmaceuticals, electronics, apparel, canned tuna, rum, beverage
    concentrates, medical equipment, instruments
  partners:
    US 86.2% (1993)
Imports:
    $16.7 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    chemicals, clothing, food, fish, petroleum products
  partners:
    US 69.2% (1993)
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5% (1994 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    4.230,000 kW
  production:
    15.6 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,819 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    manufacturing accounts for 39.4% of GDP; manufacturing of pharmaceuticals,
    electronics, apparel, food products, instruments; tourism
Agriculture:
    accounts for only 3% of labor force and just over 1% of GDP; crops -
    sugarcane, coffee, pineapples, plantains, bananas; livestock - cattle,
    chickens; imports a large share of food needs (1993)
Economic aid:
    none
                                   Puerto Rico
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    US currency is used
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                                   Puerto Rico
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    96 km rural narrow-gauge system for hauling sugarcane; note - no passenger
    railroads
Highways:
    13,762 km
  paved:
    13,762 km (1982)
Ports:
    Guanica, Guayanilla, Guayama, Playa de Ponce, San Juan
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    31
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    9
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    14
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
                                   Puerto Rico
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; modern system, integrated with that of the US by high
    capacity submarine cable and INTELSAT with high-speed data capability;
    digital telephone system with about 1 million lines; cellular telephone
    service (1990)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT earth station and submarine cable
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 50, FM 63, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    9; note - cable television available with US programs (1990)
  televisions:
    NA
                                   Puerto Rico
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    paramilitary National Guard, Police Force
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
<2>2>2
Romania
QATAR - Passport and visa required.  Single-entry visa $33;
multiple-entry visa, valid 3-6 months for $60 fee or 12 months for $115 fee; transit
visa $6.  Visas require No Objection Certificate from Qatar Ministry of
Interior, 2 application forms, 2 photos and SASE for return of passport
by mail.  Business visa must be obtained through sponsor in Qatar.  AIDS
test required for work and student visas; U.S. test accepted if within 3
months of visit.  For specific information contact Embassy of the State of
Qatar, Suite 1180, 600 New Hampshire Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20037
(202/338-0111).
Qatar - Consular Information Sheet
August 1, 1994
Country Description:  Qatar is a traditional emirate, governed by the Al-
Thani family in consultation with a Council of Ministers and a legislative
Advisory Council.  Islamic ideals and beliefs provide the conservative
foundation of the country's customs, laws and practices.  Qatar is a modern,
developed country, and tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required.  Visitors must have a
business or personal sponsor.  For further entry information, travelers can
contact the Embassy of the State of Qatar, Suite 1180, 600 New Hampshire
Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20037, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Basic modern medical care and medicines are available
in several hospitals and health centers in Qatar.  U.S. medical insurance is
not always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage has proven useful.  The international
travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control, telephone (404) 332-
4559, has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Crime is generally not a problem for travelers in
Qatar.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security,
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to the Middle
East and North Africa."  They are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict in Qatar and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy can obtain
updated information on travel and security within Qatar.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 149 Ali Bin Ahmed St.,
Farig Bin Omran, in Doha, Qatar (opposite the TV station), P.O. Box 2399.
The telephone number is (974) 864-701/702/703.  The workweek in Qatar is
Saturday through Wednesday.
No. 94-146
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 31, 1993, without
change, following an annual review.
$                                          Qatar
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, peninsula bordering the Persian Gulf and Saudi Arabia
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    11,000 sq km
  land area:
    11,000 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Connecticut
Land boundaries:
    total 60 km, Saudi Arabia 60 km
Coastline:
    563 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    territorial dispute with Bahrain over the Hawar Islands; maritime boundary
    with Bahrain
Climate:
    desert; hot, dry; humid and sultry in summer
Terrain:
    mostly flat and barren desert covered with loose sand and gravel
Natural resources:
    petroleum, natural gas, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    5%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    95%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    limited natural fresh water resources are increasing dependence on
    large-scale desalination facilities
  natural hazards:
    haze, dust storms, sandstorms common
  international agreements:
    signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Law of the Sea
Note:
    strategic location in central Persian Gulf near major petroleum deposits
                                      Qatar
                                     People
Population:
    533,916 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    30% (female 81,443; male 80,591)
  15-64 years:
    68% (female 104,921; male 258,135)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 2,941; male 5,885) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.74% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    22.72 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    3.59 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    8.25 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    20.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    73.03 years
  male:
    70.45 years
  female:
    75.5 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.63 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Qatari(s)
  adjective:
    Qatari
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab 40%, Pakistani 18%, Indian 18%, Iranian 10%, other 14%
Religions:
    Muslim 95%
Languages:
    Arabic (official), English commonly used as a second language
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1986)
  total population:
    76%
  male:
    77%
  female:
    72%
Labor force:
    NA
                                      Qatar
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    State of Qatar
  conventional short form:
    Qatar
  local long form:
    Dawlat Qatar
  local short form:
    Qatar
Digraph:
    QA
Type:
    traditional monarchy
Capital:
    Doha
Administrative divisions:
    9 municipalities (baladiyat, singular - baladiyah); Ad Dawhah, Al
    Ghuwayriyah, Al Jumayliyah, Al Khawr, Al Wakrah, Ar Rayyan, Jarayan al
    Batinah, Madinat ash Shamal, Umm Salal
Independence:
    3 September 1971 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 3 September (1971)
Constitution:
    provisional constitution enacted 2 April 1970
Legal system:
    discretionary system of law controlled by the amir, although civil codes are
    being implemented; Islamic law is significant in personal matters
Suffrage:
    none
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    Amir and Prime Minister KHALIFA bin Hamad Al Thani (since 22 February 1972);
    Crown Prince HAMAD bin Khalifa Al Thani (appointed 31 May 1977; son of Amir
    and Minister of Defense)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the amir
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Advisory Council (Majlis al-Shura):
    constitution calls for elections for part of this consultative body, but no
    elections have been held; seats - (30 total)
Judicial branch:
    Court of Appeal
Political parties and leaders:
    none
Member of:
    ABEDA, AFESD, AL, AMF, CCC, ESCWA, FAO, G-77, GATT, GCC, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICRM, IDB, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC,
    ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OAPEC, OIC, OPEC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador ABD AL-RAHMAN bin Saud bin Fahd Al Thani
  chancery:
    Suite 1180, 600 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20037
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
                                      Qatar
                                   Government
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Kenton W. KEITH
  embassy:
    149 Ali Bin Ahmed St., Farig Bin Omran (opposite the television station),
    Doha
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 2399, Doha
  telephone:
    [974] 864701 through 864703
  FAX:
    [974] 861669
Flag:
    maroon with a broad white serrated band (nine white points) on the hoist
    side
                                      Qatar
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 Qatar 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 oil and the diversification of the economy.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $10.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -1% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $20,820 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $2.5 billion
  expenditures:
    $3 billion, including capital expenditures of $440 million (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $3.13 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    petroleum products 75%, steel, fertilizers
  partners:
    Japan 57%, South Korea 9%, Brazil 4%, UAE 4%, Singapore 3% (1992)
Imports:
    $1.75 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, consumer goods, food, chemicals
  partners:
    Japan 16%, UK 11%, US 11%, Germany 7%, France 5% (1992)
External debt:
    $1.5 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    accounts for 50% of GDP, including oil
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,520,000 kW
  production:
    4.5 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    8,415 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    crude oil production and refining, fertilizers, petrochemicals, steel (rolls
    reinforcing bars for concrete construction), cement
Agriculture:
    farming and grazing on small scale, less than 2% of GDP; agricultural area
    is small and government-owned; commercial fishing increasing in importance;
    most food imported
Economic aid:
  donor:
    pledged in ODA to less developed countries (1979-88), $2.7 billion
Currency:
    1 Qatari riyal (QR) = 100 dirhams
                                      Qatar
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    Qatari riyals (QR) per US$1 - 3.6400 riyals (fixed rate)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                                      Qatar
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    1,190 km
  paved:
    1,030 km
  unpaved:
    160 km (1988 est.)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 235 km; natural gas 400 km
Ports:
    Doha, Halul Island, Umm Sa'id
Merchant marine:
  total:
    19 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 463,227 GRT/763,507 DWT
  ships by type:
    combination ore/oil 1, container 3, cargo 11, oil tanker 3, refrigerated
    cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    6
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
                                      Qatar
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    110,000 telephones; modern system centered in Doha
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    tropospheric scatter to Bahrain; microwave radio relay to Saudi Arabia and
    UAE; submarine cable to Bahrain and UAE; 2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1
    Indian Ocean) and 1 ARABSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    3
  televisions:
    NA
                                      Qatar
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, Public Security
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 219,442; males fit for military service 115,103; males reach
    military age (18) annually 3,915 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA%, of GDP
Russia
$                                      Reunion
Affiliation:
    (overseas department of France)
                                       Reunion
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar
Map references:
    World
Area:
  total area:
    2,510 sq km
  land area:
    2,500 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Rhode Island
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    201 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical, but moderates with elevation; cool and dry from May to November,
    hot and rainy from November to April
Terrain:
    mostly rugged and mountainous; fertile lowlands along coast
Natural resources:
    fish, arable land
Land use:
  arable land:
    20%
  permanent crops:
    2%
  meadows and pastures:
    4%
  forest and woodland:
    35%
  other:
    39%
Irrigated land:
    60 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    periodic, devastating cyclones (December to April); Piton de la Fournaise on
    the southeastern coast is an active volcano
  international agreements:
    NA
                                     Reunion
                                     People
Population:
    666,067 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    32% (female 104,924; male 109,972)
  15-64 years:
    62% (female 210,762; male 203,774)
  65 years and over:
    6% (female 21,606; male 15,029) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.98% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    24.59 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.79 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    7.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    74.46 years
  male:
    71.39 years
  female:
    77.67 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.75 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Reunionese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Reunionese
Ethnic divisions:
    French, African, Malagasy, Chinese, Pakistani, Indian
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 94%
Languages:
    French (official), Creole widely used
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1982)
  total population:
    79%
  male:
    76%
  female:
    80%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    agriculture 30%, industry 21%, services 49% (1981)
                                     Reunion
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Department of Reunion
  conventional short form:
    Reunion
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Ile de la Reunion
Digraph:
    RE
Type:
    overseas department of France
Capital:
    Saint-Denis
Administrative divisions:
    none (overseas department of France)
Independence:
    none (overseas department of France)
National holiday:
    National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
Constitution:
    28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
Legal system:
    French law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Francois MITTERRAND (since 21 May 1981)
  head of government:
    Prefect of Reunion Island Hubert FOURNIER (since NA)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
Legislative branch:
    unicameral General Council and unicameral Regional Council
  General Council:
    elections last held 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
Judicial branch:
    Court of Appeals (Cour d'Appel)
Political parties and leaders:
    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 France
    (UPF - including RPR and UDF); Free-Dom Movement, Marguerite SUDRE
                                     Reunion
                                   Government
Member of:
    FZ, WFTU
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (overseas department of France)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (overseas department of France)
Flag:
    the flag of France is used
                                     Reunion
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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
    France.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $2.5 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $3,900 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    35% (February 1991)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $358 million
  expenditures:
    $914 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1986 est.)
Exports:
    $166 million (f.o.b., 1988)
  commodities:
    sugar 75%, rum and molasses 4%, perfume essences 4%, lobster 3%, vanilla and
    tea 1%
  partners:
    France, Mauritius, Bahrain, South Africa, Italy
Imports:
    $1.7 billion (c.i.f., 1988)
  commodities:
    manufactured goods, food, beverages, tobacco, machinery and transportation
    equipment, raw materials, and petroleum products
  partners:
    France, Mauritius, Bahrain, South Africa, Italy
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%; about 25% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    180,000 kW
  production:
    1 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,454 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    sugar, rum, cigarettes, several small shops producing handicraft items
                                     Reunion
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 30% of labor force; dominant sector of economy; cash crops -
    sugarcane, vanilla, tobacco; food crops - tropical fruits, vegetables, corn;
    imports large share of food needs
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89),
    $14.8 billion
Currency:
    1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.2943 (January 1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632
    (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991), 5.4453 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                     Reunion
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    2,800 km
  paved:
    2,200 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, stabilized earth 600 km
Ports:
    Le Port, Pointe des Galets
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                                     Reunion
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    85,900 telephones; adequate system; principal center Saint-Denis
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    modern open-wire and microwave network
  international:
    radiocommunication to Comoros, France, Madagascar; new microwave route to
    Mauritius; 1 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 13, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1 (repeaters 18)
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Reunion
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    French forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, and Gendarmerie)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 173,693; males fit for military service 89,438; males reach
    military age (18) annually 5,781 (1995 est.)
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
rNtNtN
Rwanda
ROMANIA - Passport and visa required.  Transit and tourist visa may be
obtained at border in Romania or from the Romanian Embassy or Consulate
before departure.  Transit visa for stay up to 4 days, single-entry $21
or double-entry $31.  Tourist/business visa, single-entry valid 6 months
for stay up to 60 days, $31 (multiple-entry $68).  No application or photos
needed.  Provide SASE for return of passport by mail.  Allow 1 to 3
days for processing.  For additional information consult Embassy of Romania,
1607 23rd St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008  (202/232-4747-9) or the
Consulate General, New York (212/682-9120, 9121, 9122).
Romania - Consular Information Sheet
November 4, 1994
Country Description:  Romania has undergone profound political and economic
changes since the 1989 revolution and is in a period of economic transition.
 Most tourist facilities, while being upgraded, have not yet reached Western
European standards.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Transit and tourist
visas may be obtained on arrival at Romanian border points or the
international airport in Bucharest.  Prior to departure, travelers can
obtain a visa and other information regarding entry requirements from the
Romanian Embassy at 1607 23rd Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008,
telephone [phone] or the Romanian Consulate in New York City,
telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Romania is limited.  There is a severe
shortage of basic medical supplies.  Doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Travelers have found supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage useful.  There have been a
number of confirmed cases of cholera, mainly in the Constanta region.
Further information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control's international travelers hotline on [phone].
Crime Information:  Crimes against tourists (robbery, mugging,
pickpocketing, and confidence scams perpetrated by black-market money
changers) are a growing problem in Romania.  Presently thefts are most
likely to occur on trains and at railroad stations.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police
and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful information on guarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is
provided in the pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" which is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington,
D.C. 20402.
Currency Information:  Credit cards and travelers checks are of limited
utility in Romania.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use, or sale of illegal
drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Adoptions:  Recent changes in the U.S. Immigration and Naturalization
Service's definition of an orphan are having a widespread effect on
international adoptions.  Before traveling to Romania, prospective parents
may wish to obtain information about both American visa requirements and
Romanian adoption law from the U.S. Embassy in Bucharest.  Romanian adoption
law mandates criminal penalties for offering money or goods to obtain the
release of children for adoption.  An information packet on Romanian
adoptions is available by writing the Office of Overseas Citizens Services,
Room 4817, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520, or by telephoning
[phone].
Other Information:  Customs regulations prohibit the export of some items
from Romania.  At the time of departure, tourists may need all receipts for
presentation to customs authorities.  Persons who participate in or
photograph demonstrations risk arrest.
Registration:  U.S. citizens may register in the Consular Section of the
U.S. Embassy and obtain updated information on travel and security within
Romania.
Embassy Locatio
L&L&L&
Saudi Arabia
SAN MARINO - Passport required.  Visa not required for tourist stay up
to 3 months.  For additional information contact the nearest Honorary
Consulate of the Republic of San Marino:  Washington (1899 L St., N.W., Suite
500, Washington, D.C. 20036, 202/223-3517), Detroit (313/528-1190) or New
York (516/242-2212).
#                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   San Marino
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Europe, an enclave in central Italy
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    60 sq km
  land area:
    60 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.3 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    total 39 km, Italy 39 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    Mediterranean; mild to cool winters; warm, sunny summers
Terrain:
    rugged mountains
Natural resources:
    building stone
Land use:
  arable land:
    17%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    83%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  international agreements:
    NA
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not
    ratified - Air Pollution
Note:
    landlocked; smallest independent state in Europe after the Holy See and
    Monaco; dominated by the Apennines
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   San Marino
                                     People
Population:
    24,313 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    16% (female 1,944; male 1,962)
  15-64 years:
    68% (female 8,243; male 8,354)
  65 years and over:
    16% (female 2,198; male 1,612) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.88% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    10.98 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.61 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    5.47 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    5.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    81.27 years
  male:
    77.26 years
  female:
    85.29 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.52 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Sammarinese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Sammarinese
Ethnic divisions:
    Sammarinese, Italian
Religions:
    Roman Catholic
Languages:
    Italian
Literacy:
    age 10 and over can read and write (1976)
  total population:
    96%
  male:
    97%
  female:
    95%
Labor force:
    4,300 (est.)
  by occupation:
    industry 42%, agriculture 3%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   San Marino
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of San Marino
  conventional short form:
    San Marino
  local long form:
    Repubblica di San Marino
  local short form:
    San Marino
Digraph:
    SM
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    San Marino
Administrative divisions:
    9 municipalities (castelli, singular - castello); Acquaviva, Borgo Maggiore,
    Chiesanuova, Domagnano, Faetano, Fiorentino, Monte Giardino, San Marino,
    Serravalle
Independence:
    301 AD (by tradition)
National holiday:
    Anniversary of the Foundation of the Republic, 3 September
Constitution:
    8 October 1600; electoral law of 1926 serves some of the functions of a
    constitution
Legal system:
    based on civil law system with Italian law influences; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  co-chiefs of state:
    Captain Regent Marino BOLLINI and Captain Regent Settimio LONFERNINI (for
    the period 1 April 1995-30 September 1995)
  head of government:
    Secretary of State Gabriele GATTI (since July 1986)
  cabinet:
    Congress of State
  note:
    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 come to assume many of the prerogatives of a prime minister
Legislative branch:
    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%, ADP 7.7%,
    MD 5.3%, RC 3.3%; seats - (60 total) PDCS 26, PSS 14, PDP 11, ADP 4, MD 3,
    RC 2
Judicial branch:
    Council of Twelve (Consiglio dei XII)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   San Marino
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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), Emilio Della
    BALDA; Popular Democratic Alliance (ADP); Communist Refoundation (RC),
    Guiseppe AMICHI, Renato FABBRI; Moderate Group, Alvaro SELVA; Social
    Democratic Party
Member of:
    CE, ECE, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM
    (guest), OSCE, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  honorary consulate(s) general:
    Washington and New York
  honorary consulate(s):
    Detroit
US diplomatic representation:
    no mission in San Marino, but the Consul General in Florence (Italy) is
    accredited to San Marino
Flag:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   San Marino
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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, electronics, and ceramics. Main agricultural products are wine and
    cheeses. The per capita level of output and standard of living are
    comparable to those of Italy, which supplies much of its food.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $380 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.4% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $15,800 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    5.5% (1993)
Unemployment rate:
    4.9% (December 1993)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $275 million
  expenditures:
    $275 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    trade data are included with the statistics for Italy; commodities: building
    stone, lime, wood, chestnuts, wheat, wine, baked goods, hides, and ceramics
Imports:
    wide variety of consumer manufactures, food
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%; accounts for 42% of labor force
Electricity:
    supplied by Italy
Industries:
    tourism, textiles, electronics, ceramics, cement, wine
Agriculture:
    employs 3% of labor force; products - wheat, grapes, maize, olives, meat,
    cheese, hides; small numbers of cattle, pigs, horses
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    1 Italian lire (Lit) = 100 centesimi; note - also mints its own coins
Exchange rates:
    Italian lire (Lit) per US$1 - 1,609.5 (January 1995), 1,612.4 (1994),
    1,573.7 (1993), 1,232.4 (1992), 1,240.6 (1991), 1,198.1 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   San Marino
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    104 km
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    none
Airports:
    none
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   San Marino
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    11,700 telephones; automatic telephone system completely integrated into
    Italian system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    microwave and cable links into Italian networks; no communication satellite
    facilities
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA; note - receives broadcasts from Italy
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   San Marino
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    public security or police force
Defense expenditures:
    $3.7 million (1992 est.), 1% of GDP
onr command
    system, the Romanian economy seems to have bottomed out in 1993-94. Market
    oriented reforms have been introduced fitfully since the downfall of
    CEAUSESCU in December 1989, with the result a growing private sector,
    especially in services. The slow pace of structural reform, however, has
    exacerbated Romania's high inflation rate and eroded real wages.
    Agricultural production rebounded in 1993 from the drought-reduced harvest
    of 1992. The economy continued its recovery in 1994, further gains bei
Virgin Islands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Wake Island
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of the US)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Wake Island
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, island in the North Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from
    Hawaii to the Northern Mariana Islands
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    6.5 sq km
  land area:
    6.5 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 11 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    19.3 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claimed by the Republic of the Marshall Islands
Climate:
    tropical
Terrain:
    atoll of three coral islands built up on an underwater volcano; central
    lagoon is former crater, islands are part of the rim; average elevation less
    than 4 meters
Natural resources:
    none
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    occasional typhoons
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    strategic location in the North Pacific Ocean; emergency landing location
    for transpacific flights
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Wake Island
                                     People
Population:
    302 (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    NA births/1,000 population
Death rate:
    NA deaths/1,000 population
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population
Infant mortality rate:
    NA deaths/1,000 live births
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    NA years
  male:
    NA years
  female:
    NA years
Total fertility rate:
    NA children born/woman
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Wake Island
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Wake Island
Digraph:
    WQ
Type:
    unincorporated territory of the US administered by the US Army and Strategic
    Defense Command since 1 October 1994
Capital:
    none; administered from Washington, DC
Independence:
    none (territory of the US)
Flag:
    the US flag is used
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Wake Island
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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.
Electricity:
    supplied by US military
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Wake Island
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Ports:
    none; two offshore anchorages for large ships
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
Note:
    formerly an important commercial aviation base, now used by US military,
    some commercial cargo planes, as well as the US Army Space and Strategic
    Defense Command for missile launches
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Wake Island
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; satellite communications; 1 Autovon circuit off the Overseas
    Telephone System (OTS)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
  note:
    Armed Forces Radio/Television Service (AFRTS) radio and television service
    provided by satellite
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 0, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
  note:
    Armed Forces Radio/Television Service (AFRTS) radio and television service
    provided by satellite
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
  note:
    Armed Forces Radio/Television Service (AFRTS) radio and television service
    provided by satellite
Note:
    formerly an important commercial aviation base, now used by US military, as
    well as the US Army Space and Strategic Defense Command for missile launches
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Wake Island
                                 Defense Forces
    defense is the responsibility of the US
 (1994); note - conversion of defense
    expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce
    misleading results
Saint Helena
:RUSSIA  - Passport and visa required.  Tourist visa, no charge,
requires 1 application form, 3 photos, confirmation from tourist agency in the
Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and processing fee (visa
processing fee is $20 for 2 weeks, $30 for one week, and $60 for three
days processing time).  Business visa requires 1 application, 3 photos, and
letter of invitation from a CIS company.  Multiple-entry business visa
$120 plus processing fee.  Fee paid by money order or company check only.
AIDS test required for anyone staying over 3 months; U.S. test accepted.
For additional information contact the Consular Section of the Embassy of
Russia, 1825 Phelps Pl., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/939-8907,
8911 or 8913) or the nearest Consulate General:  San Francisco
(415/202-9800) or Seattle (206/728-1910).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Russia
============================================================
Russia - Consular Information Sheet
 June 30, 1995
Country Description: Russia is a nation undergoing profound
political and economic change.  Travel to the Caucasus region in
southern Russia is considered dangerous due to the ongoing conflict
and political tension in the area.  While tourist facilities exist
in Moscow and some other large cities, they are not developed in
most of Russia and many of the goods and services taken for granted
in other countries are not yet available.  Travelers may need to
cross great distances, especially in Siberia and the Far East, to
obtain services from Russian government organizations or from the
U.S. Embassy or its consulates.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and Russian visa are required for
all U.S. citizens traveling to, or transiting through, Russia by any
means of transportation, including train, car or airplane.
Travelers who arrive without an entry visa may be subject to large
fines, days of processing requirements by Russian officials, and/or
immediate departure by route of entry (at traveler's expense).
Carrying a photocopy of passports and visas will facilitate
replacement should either be stolen.
Visas are issued on the basis of support from a Russian individual
or organization - the sponsor.  Transit visas, however, do not
require a sponsor.  It is important to know who your sponsor is and
how they can be contacted, as Russian law requires that the sponsor
apply for replacement, extension or changes to your visa.  The U.S.
Embassy cannot act as your sponsor.  Tourists should contact in
advance their tour company or hotel for information on visa
sponsorship.
All foreigners must have an exit visa to depart Russia.  For short
stays, the exit visa is issued along with the entry visa; for longer
stays, the exit visa must be obtained by the sponsor after the
traveler's arrival.  All travelers who spend more than three days in
Russia must register their visas through their hotel or sponsor.
Visitors who stay in Russia for weeks may be prevented from leaving
if they have not registered their visas.  Errors in dates or other
information on the visa can occur and it is helpful to have someone
who reads Russian check the visa before departing the U.S.  U.S.
citizens can contact the Russian Embassy Consular Division, 1825
Phelps Place, NW, Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone],
or the Consulates in New York, San Francisco or Seattle for current
information on visa requirements.
Air Travel:  Air travel within Russia is often unreliable, with
unpredictable schedules and difficult conditions including
deterioration of airplane maintenance and quality of service.  The
U.S. Federal Aviation Administration and Russian Civil Air
Authorities recently concluded a joint safety evaluation of Russia's
civil aviation.  As a result of their findings, the U.S. Embassy in
Moscow removed restrictions on travel by U.S. government personnel
on certain airlines.  Travel by U.S. Government personnel is now
permitted on airlines certified for international air service by the
Russian Department of Air Transport.  It has provided a list,
available from the U.S. Embassy in Moscow, of those airlines
certified by Russia for international operations.  Airlines
certified to operate internationally meet higher standards than
domestic-only air carriers yet also fly to most domestic
destinations.  Safety certification of the Airlines on this list is
provided solely by the Russian Department of Air Transport.  The
Federal Aviation Administration only provides safety certification
of U.S. airlines.
Areas of Instability:  Travel to the Caucasus region in southern
Russia (near the Georgian border) is considered dangerous due to
armed conflict and political tension in the area.  Chechen nationals
recently took hostages in the town of Budennovsk, to the north of
Chechnya.  Security forces remain in the neighboring republics of
Ingushetia, North Ossetia, Kabardino-Balkaria, and Dagestan.
Security in Moscow has been tightened, particularly in the metro
system, at government facilities, and at entry and exit points from
the city.  U.S. citizens are advised to carry their passport and
visa with them at all times and to remain patient when delayed by
security checks.  While there have been no specific threats made
against U.S. citizens, travelers should exercise caution because of
the possibility of street demonstrations or acts of terrorism.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is usually far below Western
standards, with severe shortages of basic medical supplies.  Access
to the few quality facilities that exist in major cities usually
requires cash, dollar payment at Western rates upon admission.  The
U.S. Embassy and consulates maintain lists of such facilities and
English-speaking doctors.  Many resident Americans travel to the
West for virtually all their medical needs; such travel can be very
expensive if undertaken under emergency conditions.  Travelers may
wish to check their insurance coverage and consider supplemental
coverage for medical evacuation.  Elderly travelers and those with
existing health problems may be at particular risk.
Health Concerns:  Diphtheria outbreaks have been reported in
Moscow, St. Petersburg, and other parts of Russia.  The Centers for
Disease Control recommend diphtheria immunizations before traveling.
 Typhoid can be a concern for those planning to travel extensively.
Drinking only boiled or bottled water will help guard against
cholera, which has been reported, as well as other diseases.  More
complete information on health matters can be obtained from the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline, tel:
[phone].
Crime Information:  Crime against foreigners continues to increase,
especially in major cities.  Pickpocketings, assaults and robberies
occur day and night, most frequently on city streets, in underground
walkways and the subway; on intercity trains, especially the Moscow
- St. Petersburg overnight train; in train stations and airports; at
markets, tourist attractions and restaurants; and in hotel rooms and
residences, even when locked or occupied.  Members of religious and
missionary groups have been robbed by people pretending to be
interested in their beliefs.  Groups of children are known to
assault and rob foreigners on city streets or underground walkways.
Foreigners who have been drinking alcohol are especially vulnerable
to assault and robbery in or around night clubs or bars, or on their
way home.  Robberies may occur in taxis shared with strangers.
Traffic police sometimes stop motorists to extract cash "fines" and
bandits prey on travelers on the highway between St. Petersburg and
Vyborg.  Travelers have found it safer to travel in groups organized
by reputable tour agencies as solo travelers are more vulnerable to
crime.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  If you receive a replacement for your lost or stolen
U.S. passport from the U.S. Embassy or a consulate in Russia, your
exit visa must also be replaced, with assistance from your sponsor,
so that the passport number written on the visa matches your new
passport.  This requires a Russian police report.  Useful
information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security,
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," which is
available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Crime Against Foreign Businesses:  Extortion and corruption
permeate the business environment.  Organized criminal groups target
foreign businesses in many cities and reportedly demand protection
money under threat of serious violence.  Many Western firms hire
security services, but this has not always proven effective in
avoiding armed extortion attempts.
Currency Exchange:  Travelers checks and credit cards are not
widely accepted; credit cards are only accepted at establishments
catering to Westerners.  Old or very worn dollar bills are often not
accepted, even at banks.  Major hotels or the American Express
offices in Moscow or St. Petersburg may be able to suggest locations
for cashing travelers checks or obtaining cash advances on credit
cards.  Western Union has agents in Moscow, St. Petersburg, and some
other large cities which can disburse money wired from the U.S.
Customs Regulations:  Customs laws and regulations are in flux and
are not consistently enforced.  A 600 percent duty is required to
export any item with a value exceeding 300,000 rubles.  All items
which may appear to have historical or cultural value -- icons, art,
rugs, antiques, etc. -- may be taken out of Russia only with prior
written approval of the Ministry of Culture and payment of 100
percent duty.  Caviar may only be taken out with a receipt
indicating it was bought in a store licensed to sell to foreigners.
Failure to follow the customs regulations may result in confiscation
of the property in question.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling. Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  All Americans who reside in
Russia for three months or longer are encouraged to register at the
U.S. Embassy or at one of the U.S. consulates.  Americans who will
remain for shorter periods may also register and inquire about
updated travel and security information.  Registration allows for
quicker replacement of a lost or stolen passport, as well as contact
in case of emergency.
U.S. Embassy and Consulate Locations:
Moscow:  Novinskiy Bulvar 19/23; tel. [phone].  After
hours emergencies: tel. [phone] or 255-5123.
U.S. Consulates General are located at:
St. Petersburg:  Ulitsa Furshtadskaya 15; tel. [phone].
After hours emergencies: (7-812) 274-8692.
Vladivostok:  12 Mordovtseva; tel. [phone] or 267-117.
Yekaterinburg:  tel. [phone].  The Consulate General in
Yekaterinburg provides emergency services for American citizens.
Questions regarding U.S. visas should be directed to the Embassy in
Moscow.
 No. 95-076
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated December 16,
1994, to update information on the country description and areas of
instability, which include Chechnya and the surrounding republics,
and increased security in Moscow.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Russia
============================================================
Russia - Public Announcement
 December 16, 1994
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release
The U.S. Embassy in Moscow is issuing the following statement for
Americans traveling in Russia.
"As a result of heightened tensions over the Chechnya situation,
there is the possibility that demonstrations could take place in
Moscow.  Threats of possible terrorist acts have also been reported.
 There is also the potential for spontaneous gatherings near
government buildings or other gathering places throughout the city.
As a matter of routine, U.S. citizens are advised to avoid crowds
and exercise caution while traveling about the city to ensure that
you do not inadvertently become caught up in any demonstration.
While we do not have any information about specific threats to the
American community, U.S. citizens should be aware of the potential
for provacative incidents aimed at Russian targets and should
maintain an appropriate security profile."
The Department of State notes that travel to the Caucasus Region of
Russia, namely the Ingush Republic, the North Ossetian Republic, and
particularly the Chechen Republic (Chechnya) is considered dangerous
due to ongoing armed conflict between Russian military forces and
Chechen nationalists in Chechnya.  U.S. citizens requiring further
information should contact the U.S. Embassy in Moscow.
 No. 94-rus
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Russia
 June 30, 1995
Country Description: Russia is a nation undergoing profound
political and economic change.  Travel to the Caucasus region in
southern Russia is considered dangerous due to the ongoing conflict
U.S. Embassy or its consulates.
sponsorship.
`oOo                                        Russia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Asia (that part west of the Urals is sometimes included with
    Europe), bordering the Arctic Ocean, between Europe and the North Pacific
    Ocean
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    17,075,200 sq km
  land area:
    16,995,800 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than 1.8 times the size of the US
Land boundaries:
    total 20,139 km, Azerbaijan 284 km, Belarus 959 km, China (southeast) 3,605
    km, China (south) 40 km, Estonia 290 km, Finland 1,313 km, Georgia 723 km,
    Kazakhstan 6,846 km, North Korea 19 km, Latvia 217 km, Lithuania
    (Kaliningrad Oblast) 227 km, Mongolia 3,441 km, Norway 167 km, Poland
    (Kaliningrad Oblast) 432 km, Ukraine 1,576 km
Coastline:
    37,653 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    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 Russia, claimed by
    Japan; maritime dispute with Norway over portion of the Barents Sea; Caspian
    Sea boundaries are not yet determined; potential dispute with Ukraine over
    Crimea; Estonia claims over 2,000 sq km of Russian territory in the Narva
    and Pechora regions; the Abrene section of the border ceded by the Latvian
    Soviet Socialist Republic to Russia in 1944; has made no territorial claim
    in Antarctica (but has reserved the right to do so) and does not recognize
    the claims of any other nation
Climate:
    ranges from steppes in the south through humid continental in much of
    European Russia; subarctic in Siberia to tundra climate in the polar north;
    winters vary from cool along Black Sea coast to frigid in Siberia; summers
    vary from warm in the steppes to cool along Arctic coast
Terrain:
    broad plain with low hills west of Urals; vast coniferous forest and tundra
    in Siberia; uplands and mountains along southern border regions
Natural resources:
    wide natural resource base including major deposits of oil, natural gas,
    coal, and many strategic minerals, timber
  note:
    formidable obstacles of climate, terrain, and distance hinder exploitation
    of natural resources
Land use:
  arable land:
    8%
  permanent crops:
    NEGL%
                                     Russia
                                    Geography
  meadows and pastures:
    5%
  forest and woodland:
    45%
  other:
    42%
Irrigated land:
    56,000 sq km (1992)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution from heavy industry, emissions of coal-fired electric plants,
    and transportation in major cities; industrial and agricultural pollution of
    inland waterways and sea coasts; deforestation; soil erosion; soil
    contamination from improper application of agricultural chemicals; scattered
    areas of sometimes intense radioactive contamination
  natural hazards:
    permafrost over much of Siberia is a major impediment to development;
    volcanic activity in the Kuril Islands; volcanoes and earthquakes on the
    Kamchatka Peninsula
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, Climate Change, Endangered Species,
    Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test
    Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands,
    Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94,
    Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Biodiversity, Law of the Sea
Note:
    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
                                     Russia
                                     People
Population:
    149,909,089 (July 1995 est.)
  note:
    official Russian statistics put the population at 148,200,000 for 1994
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    22% (female 16,208,640; male 16,784,017)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 50,711,209; male 48,247,101)
  65 years and over:
    12% (female 12,557,447; male 5,400,675) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.2% (1995 est.)
  note:
    official Russian statistics put the population growth rate at -6.0% for 1994
Birth rate:
    12.64 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    official Russian statistics put the birth rate at 9.5 births per l,000
    population for 1994
Death rate:
    11.36 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    official Russian statistics put the death rate at 15.5 deaths per l,000
    population in 1994
Net migration rate:
    0.7 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    26.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
  note:
    official Russian statistics put the infant mortality rate at 19.9 deaths per
    l,000 live births in 1994
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    69.1 years
  male:
    64.1 years
  female:
    74.35 years (1995 est.)
  note:
    official Russian statistics put life expectancy at birth as 64 years for
    total population in 1994
Total fertility rate:
    1.82 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Russian(s)
  adjective:
    Russian
Ethnic divisions:
    Russian 81.5%, Tatar 3.8%, Ukrainian 3%, Chuvash 1.2%, Bashkir 0.9%,
    Byelorussian 0.8%, Moldavian 0.7%, other 8.1%
Religions:
    Russian Orthodox, Muslim, other
Languages:
    Russian, other
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
                                     Russia
                                     People
  total population:
    98%
  male:
    100%
  female:
    97%
Labor force:
    85 million (1993)
  by occupation:
    production and economic services 83.9%, government 16.1%
                                     Russia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Russian Federation
  conventional short form:
    Russia
  local long form:
    Rossiyskaya Federatsiya
  local short form:
    Rossiya
  former:
    Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic
Digraph:
    RS
Type:
    federation
Capital:
    Moscow
Administrative divisions:
    21 autonomous republics (avtomnykh respublik, singular - avtomnaya
    respublika); Adygea (Maykop), Bashkortostan (Ufa), Buryatia (Ulan-Ude),
    Chechnya (Groznyy), Chuvashia (Cheboksary), Dagestan (Makhachkala),
    Gorno-Altay (Gorno-Altaysk), Ingushetia (Nazran'), Kabardino-Balkaria
    (Nal'chik), Kalmykia (Elista), Karachay-Cherkessia (Cherkessk), Karelia
    (Petrozavodsk), Khakassia (Abakan), Komi (Syktyvkar), Mari El (Yoshkar-Ola),
    Mordovia (Saransk), North Ossetia (Vladikavkaz), Tatarstan (Kazan'), Tuva
    (Kyzyl), Udmurtia (Izhevsk), Yakutia - also known as Sakha (Yakutsk); 49
    oblasts (oblastey, singular - oblast'); Amur (Blagoveshchensk),
    Arkhangel'sk, Astrakhan', Belgorod, Bryansk, Chelyabinsk, Chita, Irkutsk,
    Ivanovo, Kaliningrad, Kaluga, Kamchatka (Petropavlovsk-Kamchatskiy),
    Kemerovo, Kirov, Kostroma, Kurgan, Kursk, Leningrad (St. Petersburg),
    Lipetsk, Magadan, Moscow, Murmansk, Nizhniy Novgorod, Novgorod, Novosibirsk,
    Omsk, Orel, Orenburg, Penza, Perm', Pskov, Rostov, Ryazan', Sakhalin
    (Yuzhno-Sakhalinsk), Samara, Saratov, Smolensk, Sverdlovsk (Yekaterinburg),
    Tambov, Tomsk, Tula, Tver', Tyumen', Ul'yanovsk, Vladimir, Volgograd,
    Vologda, Voronezh, Yaroslavl'; 6 krays (krayev, singular - kray); Altay
    (Barnaul), Khabarovsk, Krasnodar, Krasnoyarsk, Primorskiy (Vladivostok),
    Stavropol'; 10 autonomous okrugs; Aga (Aginskoye), Chukotka (Anadyr'),
    Evenkia (Tura), Khantia-Mansia (Khanty-Mansiysk), Koryakia (Palana),
    Nenetsia (Nar'yan-Mar), Permyakia (Kudymkar), Taymyria (Dudinka), Ust'-Onda
    (Ust'-Ordynskiy), Yamalia (Salekhard); 1 autonomous oblast (avtomnykh
    oblast'); Birobijan
  note:
    the autonomous republics of Chechnya and Ingushetia were formerly the
    autonomous republic of Checheno-Ingushetia (the boundary between Chechenia
    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)
Independence:
    24 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, June 12 (1990)
Constitution:
    adopted 12 December 1993
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
                                     Russia
                                   Government
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Boris Nikolayevich YEL'TSIN (since 12 June 1991); election last
    held 12 June 1991 (next to be held NA 1996); results - percent of vote by
    party 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
  head of government:
    Premier and Chairman of the Council of Ministers Viktor Stepanovich
    CHERNOMYRDIN (since 14 December 1992); First Deputy Chairmen of the Council
    of Ministers Oleg SOSKOVETS (since 30 April 1993) and Anatoliy CHUBAYS
    (since 5 November 1994)
  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
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; 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
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Federal Assembly
  Federation Council:
    elections last held 12 December 1993 (next to be held NA); results - two
    members elected from each of Russia's 89 territorial units for a total of
    176 deputies; 2 seats unfilled as of 15 May 1994 (Chechnya did not
    participate in the election); Speaker Vladimir SHUMEYKO (Russia's Democratic
    Choice)
  State Duma:
    elections last held 12 December 1993 (next to be held NA December 1995);
    results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (450 total) Russia's
    Democratic Choice 78, New Regional Policy 66, Liberal Democrats 63, Agrarian
    Party 55, Communist Party of the Russian Federation 45, Unity and Accord 30,
    Yavlinskiy-Boldyrev-Lukin Bloc (Yabloko) 27, Women of Russia 23, Democratic
    Party of Russia 15, Russia's Path 12, other parties 23, affiliation unknown
    12, unfilled (as of 13 March 1994; Chechnya did not participate in the
    election) 1; Speaker Ivan RYBKIN (Agrarian Party); note - as of 11 April
    1995, seats were as follows: Russia's Democratic Choice 54, New Regional
    Policy 32, Liberal Democrats 54, Agrarian Party 51, Communist Party of the
    Russian Federation 45, Unity and Accord 25, Yavlinskiy-Boldyrev-Lukin Bloc
    (Yabloko) 28, Liberal Democratic Union of 12 December 9, Women of Russia 22,
    Democratic Party of Russia 10, Russia's Path 12, Duma 96 23, Russia 35,
    Stability 36, affiliation unknown 14
Judicial branch:
    Constitutional Court, Supreme Court (highest court for criminal, civil, and
    administrative cases), Superior Court of Arbitration (highest court that
    resolves economic disputes)
                                     Russia
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
  pro-market democrats:
    Party of Russian Unity and Accord, Sergey SHAKHRAY; Russia's Democratic
    Choice Party, Yegor GAYDAR; Russian Movement for Democratic Reforms,
    Anatoliy SOBCHAK; Yavlinskiy-Boldyrev-Lukin Bloc (Yabloko), Grigoriy
    YAVLINSKIY; Liberal Democratic Union of 12 December, Boris FEDOROV
  centrists/special interest parties:
    Civic Union for Stability, Justice, and Progress, Arkadiy VOL'SKIY;
    Democratic Party of Russia, Sergey GLAZ'YEV; Women of Russia, Alevtina
    FEDULOVA; Social Democratic Peoples' Party, Vasiliy LIPITSKIY; New Regional
    Policy (NRP), Vladimir MEDVEDEV
  anti-market and/or ultranationalist parties:
    Agrarian Party, Mikhail LAPSHIN; Communist Party of the Russian Federation,
    Gennadiy ZYUGANOV; Liberal Democratic Party of Russia, Vladimir
    ZHIRINOVSKIY; Derzhava, Aleksandr RUTSKOY
  note:
    more than 20 political parties and associations tried to gather enough
    signatures to run slates of candidates in the 12 December 1993 legislative
    elections, but only 13 succeeded
Other political or pressure groups:
    NA
Member of:
    BSEC, CBSS, CCC, CE (guest), CERN (observer), CIS, EBRD, ECE, ESCAP, IAEA,
    IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, MINURSO, NACC, NSG, OAS (observer),
    OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UN Security Council, UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMIH, UNOMOZ, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Sergey LAVROV
  chancery:
    2650 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 5704
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York, San Francisco, and Seattle
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Thomas R. PICKERING
  embassy:
    Novinskiy Bul'var 19/23, Moscow
  mailing address:
    APO AE 09721
  telephone:
    [7] [phone] through 59
  FAX:
    [7] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    St. Petersburg, Vladivostok, Yekaterinburg
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of white (top), blue, and red
                                     Russia
                                     Economy
                                     Russia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Russia, 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. 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, establishing
    private financial institutions, and decentralizing foreign trade. Russia,
    however, 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.
    Financial stabilization has remained elusive, with wide swings in monthly
    inflation rates. Only limited restructuring of industry has occurred so far
    because of a scarcity of investment funds and the failure of enterprise
    managers to make hard cost-cutting decisions. 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 and has been slow to develop the legal framework necessary to fully
    support a market economy and to encourage foreign investment. As a result,
    output has continued to fall. According to Russian official data, which
    probably overstate the fall, GDP declined by 15% in 1994 compared with a 12%
    decline in 1993. Industrial output in 1994 fell 21% with all major sectors
    taking a hit. Agricultural production in 1994 was down 9%. The grain harvest
    totaled 81 million tons, some 15 million tons less than in 1993.
    Unemployment climbed to an estimated 6.6 million or about 7% of the work
    force by yearend 1994. Floundering Russian firms have already had to put
    another 4.8 million workers on involuntary, unpaid leave or shortened
    workweeks. Government fears of large-scale unemployment continued to hamper
    industrial restructuring efforts. According to official Russian data, real
    per capita income was up nearly 18% in 1994 compared with 1993, in part
    because many Russians are working second jobs. Most Russians perceive that
    they are worse off now because of growing crime and health problems and
    mounting wage arrears. Russia has made significant headway in privatizing
    state assets, completing its voucher privatization program at midyear 1994.
    At least a portion of about 110,000 state enterprises were transferred to
    private hands by the end of 1994. Including partially privatized firms, the
    private sector accounted for roughly half of GDP in 1994. Financial
    stabilization continued to remain a challenge for the government. Moscow
    tightened financial policies in late 1993 and early 1994, including
    postponing planned budget spending, and succeeded in reducing monthly
    inflation from 18% in January to about 5% in July and August. At midyear,
    however, the government relaxed austerity measures in the face of mounting
    pressure from industry and agriculture, sparking a new round of inflation;
    the monthly inflation rate jumped to roughly 15% per month during the fourth
    quarter. In response, Moscow announced a fairly tight government budget for
    1995 designed to bring monthly inflation down to around 1% by the end of
    1995. According to official statistics, Russia's 1994 trade with nations
    outside the former Soviet Union produced a $12.3 billion surplus, up from
    $11.3 billion in 1993. Foreign sales - comprised largely of oil, natural
    gas, and other raw materials - grew more than 8%. Imports also were up 8% as
    demand for food and other consumer goods surged. Russian trade with other
    former Soviet republics continued to decline. At the same time, Russia paid
    only a fraction of the roughly $20 billion in debt that came due in 1994,
    and by the end of the year, Russia's hard currency foreign debt had risen to
    nearly $100 billion. Moscow reached agreement to restructure debts with
    Paris Club official creditors in mid-1994 and concluded a preliminary deal
    with its commercial bank creditors late in the year to reschedule debts owed
    them in early 1995. Capital flight continued to be a serious problem in
    1994, with billions of additional dollars in assets being moved abroad,
                                     Russia
                                     Economy
    primarily to bank accounts in Europe. Russia's physical plant continues to
    deteriorate because of insufficient maintenance and new construction. Plant
    and equipment on average are twice the age of the West's. Many years will
    pass before Russia can take full advantage of its natural resources and its
    human assets.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $721.2 billion (1994 estimate as
    extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    -15% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,820 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    10% per month (average 1994)
Unemployment rate:
    7.1% (December 1994) with considerable additional underemployment
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $48 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    petroleum and petroleum products, natural gas, wood and wood products,
    metals, chemicals, and a wide variety of civilian and military manufactures
  partners:
    Europe, North America, Japan, Third World countries, Cuba
Imports:
    $35.7 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, consumer goods, medicines, meat, grain, sugar,
    semifinished metal products
  partners:
    Europe, North America, Japan, Third World countries, Cuba
External debt:
    $95 billion-$100 billion (yearend 1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -21% (1994)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    213,100,000 KW
  production:
    876 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    5,800 kWh (1994)
Industries:
    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 aircraft and space vehicles; ship- building; 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
Agriculture:
    grain, sugar beets, sunflower seeds, meat, milk, vegetables, fruits; because
    of its northern location does not grow citrus, cotton, tea, and other warm
    climate products
                                     Russia
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    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
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (1990-94), $15 billion; other countries, ODA
    and OOF bilateral commitments (1990-93), $120 billion
Currency:
    1 ruble (R) = 100 kopeks
Exchange rates:
    rubles per US$1 - 3,550 (29 December 1994), 1,247 (27 December 1993);
    nominal exchange rate still deteriorating but real exchange rate holding
    steady
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                     Russia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    154,000 km; note - 87,000 km in common carrier service (49,000 km diesel;
    and 38,000 km electrified); 67,000 km serve specific industries and are not
    available for common carrier use
  broad gauge:
    154,000 km 1.520-m gauge (1 January 1994)
Highways:
  total:
    934,000 km (445,000 km serve specific industries or farms and are not
    available for common carrier use)
  paved and graveled:
    725,000 km
  unpaved:
    209,000 km (1 January 1994)
Inland waterways:
    total navigable routes in general use 101,000 km; routes with navigation
    guides serving the Russian River Fleet 95,900 km; of which routes with night
    navigational aids 60,400 km; man-made navigable routes 16,900 km (1 January
    1994)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 48,000 km; petroleum products 15,000 km; natural gas 140,000 km
    (30 June 1993)
Ports:
    Arkhangel'sk, Astrakhan', Kaliningrad, Kazan', Khabarovsk, Kholmsk,
    Krasnoyarsk, Moscow, Murmansk, Nakhodka, Nevel'sk, Novorossiysk,
    Petropavlovsk, St. Petersburg, Rostov, Sochi, Tuapse, Vladivostok,
    Volgograd, Vostochnyy, Vyborg
Merchant marine:
  total:
    800 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 7,295,109 GRT/10,128,579 DWT
  ships by type:
    barge carrier 2, bulk cargo 26, cargo 424, chemical tanker 7, combination
    bulk 22, combination ore/oil 16, container 81, multifunction large-load
    carrier 3, oil tanker 111, passenger 4, passenger-cargo 5, refrigerated
    cargo 19, roll-on/roll-off cargo 62, short-sea passenger 16, specialized
    tanker 2
  note:
    in addition, Russia owns 235 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,084,439
    DWT that operate under Maltese, Cypriot, Liberian, Panamanian, Saint Vincent
    and the Grenadines, Honduran, Marshall Islands, Bahamian, and Vanuatu
    registry
Airports:
  total:
    2,517
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    54
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    202
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    108
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    115
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    151
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    25
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    45
                                     Russia
                                 Transportation
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    134
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    291
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    1,392
                                     Russia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    24,400,000 telephones; 20,900,000 telephones in urban areas and 3,500,000
    telephones in rural areas; of these, total installed in homes 15,400,000;
    total pay phones for long distant calls 34,100; about 164 telephones/1,000
    persons; Russia is 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 E-mail service available via
    Sprint network; the inadequacy of Russian telecommunications is a severe
    handicap to the economy, especially with respect to international
    connections
  local:
    NMT-450 analog cellular telephone networks are operational and growing in
    Moscow and St. Petersburg
  intercity:
    intercity fiberoptic cable installation remains limited
  international:
    international traffic is handled by an inadequate system of satellites, land
    lines, microwave radio relay and outdated submarine cables; 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 Raduga satellite will link Moscow and St.
    Petersburg with Rome from whence calls will be relayed to destinations in
    Europe and overseas; satellite earth stations - INTELSAT, Intersputnik,
    Eutelsat (Moscow), INMARSAT, Orbita
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1,050, FM 1,050, shortwave 1,050
  radios:
    48.8 million (radio receivers with multiple speaker systems for program
    diffusion 74,300,000)
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    7,183
  televisions:
    54.2 million
                                     Russia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Ground Forces, Navy, Air Forces, Air Defense Forces, Strategic Rocket Forces
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 38,264,699; males fit for military service 29,951,977; males
    reach military age (18) annually 1,106,176 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
  note:
    the Intelligence Community estimates that defense spending in Russia fell
    about 15% in real terms in 1994, reducing Russian defense outlays to about
    one-fourth of peak Soviet levels in the late 1980s; although Russia may
    still spend as much as 10% of its GDP on defense, this is significantly
    below the 15% to 17% burden the former USSR carried during much of the
    1980s; conversion of military expenditures into US dollars using the current
    exchange rate could produce misleading results
st stay up to 21
Liechtenstein
<LIBERIA - Passport and visa required.  Transit visitors with onward
ticket can remain at airport up to 48 hours.  Other travelers must obtain
visas before arrival.  Tourist/business entry visa valid 3 months, no fee,
requires 2 application forms, 2 photos, cholera and yellow fever
vaccinations and medical certificate to confirm that traveler is in
good health and free of any communicable disease.  Company letter needed for
business visa.  Include SASE for return of passport by mail.  Obtain
exit permit from immigration authorities upon arrival, 1 photo required.
For business requirements call Embassy of the Republic of Liberia, 5201
16th St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20011 (202/723-0437) or nearest Consulate:
CA (213/277-7692), GA (404/753-4754), IL (312/643-8635), LA
(504/523-7784), MI (313/342-3900) or NY (212/687-1025).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Liberia
============================================================
Liberia - Travel Warning
 September 15, 1995
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel to
Liberia.  Despite a peace accord signed in August 1995, sporadic
fighting and unsettled conditions continue in many areas of Liberia.
 Although a peacekeeping force is in place in and around Monrovia,
roads outside the capital are not open for regular travel.
Travelers to the interior of Liberia may be in danger of being
detained, harassed, delayed, injured, or killed.  There is a high
rate of armed robberies in the city of Monrovia.  Additional
information can be obtained from the Department's Consular
Information Sheet on Liberia.
 No. 95-029
This replaces the Travel Warning dated October 27, 1994, to update
information on the security situation in Liberia.
Liberia - Consular Information Sheet
 October 24, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against
travel to Liberia.  Despite a peace accord signed in August 1995,
sporadic fighting and unsettled conditions continue in many areas of
Liberia.  Although a peacekeeping force is in place in and around
Monrovia, roads outside the capital are not open for regular travel.
 Travelers to the interior of Liberia may be in danger of being
detained, harassed, delayed, injured, or killed.  There is a high
rate of armed robberies in the city of Monrovia.
Country Description:  Liberia is a developing west African country
which has suffered internal strife for the past several years.
Tourism facilities are poor and, in some cases, non-existent.
Entry Requirements:  Travelers who plan a trip to Liberia despite
this warning are required to have a passport and a visa prior to
arrival.  Evidence of yellow fever vaccinations is required.  An
exit permit must be obtained from Liberian immigration authorities
before departure.  Further information on entry requirements for
Liberia can be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of Liberia,
5201 16th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20011.  The telephone
numbers are [phone] to 723-0440.
Areas of Instability:  The situation in Liberia changes daily.
Sporadic fighting has occurred since the August 1995 peace accords
and tensions remain high in most of the country.  There are only a
few expatriates, who are engaged in relief activities, in areas of
the country outside Monrovia.  They operate only with the consent of
those locally in control.  In recent years and months there have
been serious and frequent incidents of violence against civilians by
partisans of Liberia's warring factions.  It is too early to
determine whether the recent peace accords will lead to the
cessation of all fighting and whether travel to some locations
outside the capital will become safe.  Fatal accidents have occurred
from exploding land mines on roads.
A security buffer, provided by forces of the West African Peace
Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) surrounds Monrovia.  Roads outside of
Monrovia are not generally safe due to robbers, land mines and
unruly elements of the warring factions.  Any person who leaves
Monrovia should return by dusk.  There is a 10:00PM to dawn curfew
in force in the capital.  U.S. Embassy employees are not permitted
to travel outside Monrovia except for official business.
Roberts International Airport, about 30 miles outside of Monrovia,
is closed.  Limited daytime air service exists only to Freetown,
Sierra Leone and Abidjan, Cote D'Ivoire.  No major international
carrier serves Monrovia's Spriggs Payne Airfield.  Overland routes
to neighboring countries are not open.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are poor.  Hospitals have
been looted and are barely able to provide services.  Medicines are
scarce in most areas.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid
outside the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not
provide for payment of medical services outside the United States.
In some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
and medical evacuation coverage has proven useful.  For additional
health information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Monrovia's crime rate is extremely high.
Foreigners, including U.S. citizens, have been targets of street
crime and violent robbery in their homes.  Residential armed
break-ins are common.  The police are ill-equipped and largely
incapable of providing effective protection.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. Embassy or
Consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Country Infrastructure:  Lodging, water, electricity, fuel,
transportation, telephone and postal services continue to be
unevenly available in Monrovia.  Such services are nonexistent or
severely limited in rural areas.  Commercial power is sporadically
available in parts of Monrovia.  Most businesses and facilities rely
upon generators to provide electricity.  Few facilities and even
fewer homes have telephones; disruption of service is common.  Mail
delivery is erratic.  Parcel delivery service is available to
Monrovia.  Courier mail service is available in Monrovia.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens should register upon
arrival in order to obtain updated travel and security information
from the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy at 111 United Nations
Drive, Monrovia, telephone [phone], fax [phone].  The U.S.
Embassy's mailing address is P.O. Box 10-0098, Mamba Point,
Monrovia.  Consular assistance is only available within Monrovia and
the immediate vicinity.
 No. 95-136
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 24,
1994, to include the September 15, 1995 updated travel warning and
to update the sections on areas of instability, medical facilities,
country infrastructure, and embassy location.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Liberia
============================================================
Liberia - Travel Warning
 September 15, 1995
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against travel to
Liberia.  Despite a peace accord signed in August 1995, sporadic
fighting and unsettled conditions continue in many areas of Liberia.
 Although a peacekeeping force is in place in and around Monrovia,
roads outside the capital are not open for regular travel.
Travelers to the interior of Liberia may be in danger of being
detained, harassed, delayed, injured, or killed.  There is a high
rate of armed robberies in the city of Monrovia.  Additional
information can be obtained from the Department's Consular
Information Sheet on Liberia.
 No. 95-029
This replaces the Travel Warning dated October 27, 1994, to update
information on the security situation in Liberia.
Liberia - Consular Information Sheet
 October 24, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against
travel to Liberia.  Despite a peace accord signed in August 1995,
sporadic fighting and unsettled conditions continue in many areas of
Liberia.  Although a peacekeeping force is in place in and around
Monrovia, roads outside the capital are not open for regular travel.
 Travelers to the interior of Liberia may be in danger of being
detained, harassed, delayed, injured, or killed.  There is a high
rate of armed robberies in the city of Monrovia.
Country Description:  Liberia is a developing west African country
which has suffered internal strife for the past several years.
Tourism facilities are poor and, in some cases, non-existent.
Entry Requirements:  Travelers who plan a trip to Liberia despite
this warning are required to have a passport and a visa prior to
arrival.  Evidence of yellow fever vaccinations is required.  An
exit permit must be obtained from Liberian immigration authorities
before departure.  Further information on entry requirements for
Liberia can be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of Liberia,
5201 16th Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20011.  The telephone
numbers are [phone] to 723-0440.
Areas of Instability:  The situation in Liberia changes daily.
Sporadic fighting has occurred since the August 1995 peace accords
and tensions remain high in most of the country.  There are only a
few expatriates, who are engaged in relief activities, in areas of
the country outside Monrovia.  They operate only with the consent of
those locally in control.  In recent years and months there have
been serious and frequent incidents of violence against civilians by
partisans of Liberia's warring factions.  It is too early to
determine whether the recent peace accords will lead to the
cessation of all fighting and whether travel to some locations
outside the capital will become safe.  Fatal accidents have occurred
from exploding land mines on roads.
A security buffer, provided by forces of the West African Peace
Monitoring Group (ECOMOG) surrounds Monrovia.  Roads outside of
Monrovia are not generally safe due to robbers, land mines and
unruly elements of the warring factions.  Any person who leaves
Monrovia should return by dusk.  There is a 10:00PM to dawn curfew
in force in the capital.  U.S. Embassy employees are not permitted
to travel outside Monrovia except for official business.
Roberts International Airport, about 30 miles outside of Monrovia,
is closed.  Limited daytime air service exists only to Freetown,
Sierra Leone and Abidjan, Cote D'Ivoire.  No major international
carrier serves Monrovia's Spriggs Payne Airfield.  Overland routes
to neighboring countries are not open.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are poor.  Hospitals have
been looted and are barely able to provide services.  Medicines are
scarce in most areas.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid
outside the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not
provide for payment of medical services outside the United States.
In some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
and medical evacuation coverage has proven useful.  For additional
health information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Monrovia's crime rate is extremely high.
Foreigners, including U.S. citizens, have been targets of street
crime and violent robbery in their homes.  Residential armed
break-ins are common.  The police are ill-equipped and largely
incapable of providing effective protection.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. Embassy or
Consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Country Infrastructure:  Lodging, water, electricity, fuel,
transportation, telephone and postal services continue to be
unevenly available in Monrovia.  Such services are nonexistent or
severely limited in rural areas.  Commercial power is sporadically
available in parts of Monrovia.  Most businesses and facilities rely
upon generators to provide electricity.  Few facilities and even
fewer homes have telephones; disruption of service is common.  Mail
delivery is erratic.  Parcel delivery service is available to
Monrovia.  Courier mail service is available in Monrovia.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens should register upon
arrival in order to obtain updated travel and security information
from the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy at 111 United Nations
Drive, Monrovia, telephone [phone], fax [phone].  The U.S.
Embassy's mailing address is P.O. Box 10-0098, Mamba Point,
Monrovia.  Consular assistance is only available within Monrovia and
the immediate vicinity.
 No. 95-136
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 24,
1994, to include the September 15, 1995 updated travel warning and
to update the sections on areas of instability, medical facilities,
country infrastructure, and embassy location.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
5                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Liberia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Cote d'Ivoire
    and Sierra Leone
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    111,370 sq km
  land area:
    96,320 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Tennessee
Land boundaries:
    total 1,585 km, Guinea 563 km, Cote d'Ivoire 716 km, Sierra Leone 306 km
Coastline:
    579 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    200 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid; dry winters with hot days and cool to cold nights;
    wet, cloudy summers with frequent heavy showers
Terrain:
    mostly flat to rolling coastal plains rising to rolling plateau and low
    mountains in northeast
Natural resources:
    iron ore, timber, diamonds, gold
Land use:
  arable land:
    1%
  permanent crops:
    3%
  meadows and pastures:
    2%
  forest and woodland:
    39%
  other:
    55%
Irrigated land:
    20 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    tropical rain forest subject to deforestation; soil erosion; loss of
    biodiversity; pollution of rivers from the dumping of iron ore tailings and
    of coastal waters from oil residue and raw sewage
  natural hazards:
    dust-laden harmattan winds blow from the Sahara (December to March)
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban, Ship Pollution, Tropical
    Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity,
    Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping,
    Marine Life Conservation
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Liberia
                                     People
Population:
    3,073,245 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    44% (female 674,155; male 680,952)
  15-64 years:
    52% (female 768,147; male 844,326)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 55,575; male 50,090) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.32% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    43.08 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.05 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    if the Ghanaian-led peace negotiations, under way in 1995, are successful,
    many Liberian refugees may return from exile
Infant mortality rate:
    110.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    58.17 years
  male:
    55.67 years
  female:
    60.75 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.3 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Liberian(s)
  adjective:
    Liberian
Ethnic divisions:
    indigenous African tribes 95% (including Kpelle, Bassa, Gio, Kru, Grebo,
    Mano, Krahn, Gola, Gbandi, Loma, Kissi, Vai, and Bella), Americo-Liberians
    5% (descendants of former slaves)
Religions:
    traditional 70%, Muslim 20%, Christian 10%
Languages:
    English 20% (official), Niger-Congo language group about 20 local languages
    come from this group
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    40%
  male:
    50%
  female:
    29%
Labor force:
    510,000 including 220,000 in the monetary economy
  by occupation:
    agriculture 70.5%, services 10.8%, industry and commerce 4.5%, other 14.2%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Liberia
                                     People
  note:
    non-African foreigners hold about 95% of the top-level management and
    engineering jobs
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Liberia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Liberia
  conventional short form:
    Liberia
Digraph:
    LI
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Monrovia
Administrative divisions:
    13 counties; Bomi, Bong, Grand Bassa, Grand Cape Mount, Grand Gedeh, Grand
    Kru, Lofa, Margibi, Maryland, Montserrado, Nimba, River Cess, Sinoe
Independence:
    26 July 1847
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 26 July (1847)
Constitution:
    6 January 1986
Legal system:
    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
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    Chairman of the Council of State David KPOMAKPOR (since March 1994);
    election last held on 15 October 1985; results - Gen. Dr. Samuel Kanyon DOE
    (NDPL) 50.9%, Jackson DOE (LAP) 26.4%, other 22.7%
  note:
    constitutional government ended in September 1990 when President Samuel
    Kanyon DOE was killed by rebel forces; civil war ensued and in July 1993 the
    Cotonou Peace Treaty was negotiated by the major warring factions under UN
    auspices; a transitional coalition government under David KROMAKPOR was
    formed in March 1994 but has been largely ineffective and unable to
    implement the provisions of the peace treaty; Ghanaian-led negotiations are
    now underway to seat a new interim government that would oversee elections
    proposed for late 1995
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; selected by the leaders of the major factions in the civil war
Legislative branch:
    unicameral Transitional Legislative Assembly, the members of which are
    appointed by the leaders of the major factions in the civil war
  note:
    the former bicameral legislature no longer exists and there is no assurance
    that it will be reconstituted very soon
Judicial branch:
     Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    National Democratic Party of Liberia (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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Liberia
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA,
    IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user),
    INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU,
    WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Konah K. BLACKETT
  chancery:
    5201 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d' Affaires William P. TWADDELL
  embassy:
    111 United Nations Drive, Monrovia
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 100098, Mamba Point, Monrovia
  telephone:
    [231] 222991 through 222994
  FAX:
    [231] 223710
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Liberia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Civil war since 1990 has destroyed much of Liberia's economy, especially the
    infrastructure in and around Monrovia. 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, Liberia 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 political impasse between the interim government and rebel
    leader Charles TAYLOR 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 1994.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $2.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $770 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $242.1 million
  expenditures:
    $435.4 million, including capital expenditures of $29.5 million (1989 est.)
Exports:
    $505 million (f.o.b., 1989 est.)
  commodities:
    iron ore 61%, rubber 20%, timber 11%, coffee
  partners:
    US, EC, Netherlands
Imports:
    $394 million (c.i.f., 1989 est.)
  commodities:
    mineral fuels, chemicals, machinery, transportation equipment, rice and
    other foodstuffs
  partners:
    US, EC, Japan, China, Netherlands, ECOWAS
External debt:
    $2.1 billion (September 1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA% (1993-94); much industrial damage caused by factional
    warfare
Electricity:
  capacity:
    330,000 kW
  production:
    440 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    143 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    rubber processing, food processing, construction materials, furniture, palm
    oil processing, mining (iron ore, diamonds)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Liberia
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 40% of GDP (including fishing and forestry); principal
    products - rubber, timber, coffee, cocoa, rice, cassava, palm oil,
    sugarcane, bananas, sheep, goats; not self-sufficient in food, imports 25%
    of rice consumption
Illicit drugs:
    increasingly a transshipment point for heroin and cocaine
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $665 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $870 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $25 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $77
    million
Currency:
    1 Liberian dollar (L$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Liberian dollars (L$) per US$1 - 1.00 (officially fixed rate since 1940);
    unofficial parallel exchange rate of US$1 - L$7 (January 1992), unofficial
    rate floats against the US dollar
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Liberia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    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
  standard gauge:
    345 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    145 km 1.067-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    10,087 km
  paved:
    603 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 5,171 km (includes 2,323 km of private roads of rubber and timber
    firms, open to the public); earth 4,313 km
Ports:
    Buchanan, Greenville, Harper, Monrovia
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1,549 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 56,709,634 GRT/97,038,680 DWT
  ships by type:
    barge carrier 3, bulk 392, cargo 121, chemical tanker 114, combination bulk
    33, combination ore/oil 57, container 124, liquefied gas tanker 75, oil
    tanker 459, passenger 32, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated cargo 58,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 18, short-sea passenger 1, specialized tanker 7,
    vehicle carrier 54
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; includes 53 countries; the 10 major fleet
    flags are: United States 232 ships, Japan 190, Norway 166, Greece 125,
    Germany 125, United Kingdom 102, Hong Kong 95, China 45, Russia 41, and the
    Netherlands 34
Airports:
  total:
    59
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    43
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    11
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Liberia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; telephone and telegraph service via radio relay network; main
    center is Monrovia; most telecommunications services inoperable due to
    insurgency movement
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    5
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Liberia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    NA; the ultimate structure of the Liberian military force will depend on who
    is the victor in the ongoing civil war
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 732,063; males fit for military service 390,849 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $30 million, 2% of GDP (1994)
Libya
LESOTHO - Passport and visa required.  Visa requires 1 form.
Single-entry visa requires $5 fee and multiple-entry $10.  For more information,
check Embassy of the Kingdom of Lesotho, 2511 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20008 (202/797-5533).
Lesotho - Consular Information Sheet
September 21, 1994
Country Description:  Lesotho is a developing country in southern Africa.
Facilities for tourists are limited.
Entry Requirements:  Visas are required and may be obtained at a Lesotho
diplomatic mission prior to arrival in Lesotho.  Americans arriving without
visas have not been inconvenienced but must obtain a visa at the immigration
and passport office in Maseru after entering the country.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Embassy of the Kingdom of Lesotho,
2511 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone (202) 797-
5533.
Areas of Instability:  In several instances in 1994, the Army and the police
challenged civilian control by going on strike, leading to political
contention and episodes of unrest, such as random gunfire, in and around the
capital, Maseru, as well as in other areas of the country.  During these
periods of heightened insecurity, travelers are especially encouraged to
remain in contact with the U.S. Embassy for up-to-the-minute guidance.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are minimal.  Many medicines are
unavailable.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for
health care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proved useful.  Information on health matters may be obtained
from the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline,
telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Deteriorating economic conditions in the country
aggravated by the return of large numbers of unemployed miners from South
Africa have caused an increase in armed robberies, break-ins and auto
thefts.  This occurs primarily in the capital city of Maseru but can occur
elsewhere as well.  Victims have included foreign diplomats and members of
foreign aid missions.  Traveling alone or at night is particularly dangerous.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The pamphlets
"A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide
useful information on protecting personal security while traveling abroad
and on travel in the region in general.  Both are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington,
D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy may obtain
updated information on travel and security within Lesotho.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 254 Kingsway, Maseru West;
 the mailing address is P.O. Box 333, Maseru 100, Lesotho.  The telephone
number is (266) 312-666.
No. 94-223
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 22, 1994, and
deletes the Travel Warning issued that date.
+                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lesotho
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, an enclave of South Africa
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    30,350 sq km
  land area:
    30,350 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Maryland
Land boundaries:
    total 909 km, South Africa 909 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate; cool to cold, dry winters; hot, wet summers
Terrain:
    mostly highland with plateaus, hills, and mountains
Natural resources:
    water, agricultural and grazing land, some diamonds and other minerals
Land use:
  arable land:
    10%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    66%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    24%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    population pressure forcing settlement in marginal areas results in
    overgrazing, severe soil erosion, soil exhaustion; desertification;
    Highlands Water Project will control, store, and redirect water to South
    Africa
  natural hazards:
    periodic droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection,
    Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, Desertification,
    Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping
Note:
    landlocked; surrounded by South Africa
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lesotho
                                     People
Population:
    1,992,960 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    41% (female 407,213; male 416,709)
  15-64 years:
    54% (female 558,106; male 520,961)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 51,809; male 38,162) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.44% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    33.39 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.96 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    67.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    62.56 years
  male:
    60.74 years
  female:
    64.43 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.41 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Mosotho (singular), Basotho (plural)
  adjective:
    Basotho
Ethnic divisions:
    Sotho 99.7%, Europeans 1,600, Asians 800
Religions:
    Christian 80%, rest indigenous beliefs
Languages:
    Sesotho (southern Sotho), English (official), Zulu, Xhosa
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1966)
  total population:
    59%
  male:
    44%
  female:
    68%
Labor force:
    689,000 economically active
  by occupation:
    86.2% of resident population engaged in subsistence agriculture; roughly 60%
    of the active male wage earners work in South Africa
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lesotho
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of Lesotho
  conventional short form:
    Lesotho
  former:
    Basutoland
Digraph:
    LT
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Maseru
Administrative divisions:
    10 districts; Berea, Butha-Buthe, Leribe, Mafeteng, Maseru, Mohale's Hoek,
    Mokhotlong, Qacha's Nek, Quthing, Thaba-Tseka
Independence:
    4 October 1966 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 4 October (1966)
Constitution:
    2 April 1993
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    King MOSHOESHOE II (since February 1995)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Ntsu MOKHEHLE (since 2 April 1993)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Parliament consisting of the Assembly or lower house whose members
    are chosen by popular election and the Senate or upper house whose members
    consist of the 22 principal chiefs and 11 other members appointed by the
    ruling party; election last held in March 1993 (first since 1971); all 65
    seats in the Assembly were won by the BCP
Judicial branch:
    High Court, Court of Appeal, Magistrate's Court, customary or traditional
    court
Political parties and leaders:
    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 Lesotho (CPL), Jacob M. KENA
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD,
    IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM,
    OAU, SACU, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires ad interim Mokhali A. LITHEBE (since 2 July
    1994)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lesotho
                                   Government
  chancery:
    2511 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 5536
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Myrick BISMARCK
  embassy:
    address NA, Maseru
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 333, Maseru 100, Lesotho
  telephone:
    [266] 312666
  FAX:
    [266] 310116
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lesotho
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Small, landlocked, and mountainous, Lesotho 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 to
    support the milling, canning, leather, and jute industries; other industries
    include textile, clothing, and construction. Although drought 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 allow
    Lesotho's economy to continue its moderate growth.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $2.6 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,340 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    13.9% (1993)
Unemployment rate:
    substantial unemployment and underemployment
Budget:
  revenues:
    $438 million
  expenditures:
    $430 million, including capital expenditures of $155 million (FY93/94 est.)
Exports:
    $109 million (f.o.b., 1992)
  commodities:
    wool, mohair, wheat, cattle, peas, beans, corn, hides, skins, baskets
  partners:
    South Africa 42%, EC 28%, North and South America 25% (1991)
Imports:
    $964 million (c.i.f., 1992)
  commodities:
    mainly corn, building materials, clothing, vehicles, machinery, medicines,
    petroleum
  partners:
    South Africa 94%, Asia 3%, EC 1% (1991)
External debt:
    $512 million (1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 10%; accounts for 17% of GDP (1993 est.)
Electricity:
    power supplied by South Africa
Industries:
    food, beverages, textiles, handicrafts, tourism
Agriculture:
    accounts for 50% of GDP (1993 est.); exceedingly primitive, mostly
    subsistence farming and livestock; principal crops corn, wheat, pulses,
    sorghum, barley
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $268 million; US (1992), $10.3
    million; US (1993 est.), $10.1 million; Western (non-US) countries, ODA and
    OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $819 million; OPEC bilateral aid
    (1979-89), $4 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $14 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lesotho
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 loti (L) = 100 lisente
Exchange rates:
    maloti (M) per US$1 - 3.5389 (January 1995), 3.5490 (1994), 3.2636 (1993),
    2.8497 (1992), 2.7563 (1991), 2.5863 (1990); note - the Basotho loti is at
    par with the South African rand
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lesotho
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    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
Highways:
  total:
    7,215 km
  paved:
    572 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, stabilized earth 2,337 km; improved earth 1,806 km; unimproved earth
    2,500 km (1988)
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    29
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    23
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lesotho
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    5,920 telephones; rudimentary system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    consists of a few land lines, a small microwave radio relay system, and a
    minor radio communication system
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Lesotho
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Lesotho Defense Force (LDF; includes Army and Air Wing), Lesotho Mounted
    Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 453,844; males fit for military service 244,767 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $25 million, NA% of GDP (1994)
Lesotho
LATVIA - Passport and visa required.  Tourist/business visa issued at
Embassy or point of entry.  Require 1 application form, 1 photo, and $5
fee.  For further information contact Embassy of Latvia, 4325 17th St.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20011 (202/726-8213).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Latvia
============================================================
Latvia - Consular Information Sheet
 June 27, 1995
Country Description:  Latvia is a nation in the midst of economic
transition.  Tourist facilities are developing; however, many of the
goods and services taken for granted in other countries are not yet
available outside Riga.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  The Latvian
Embassy recommends that travelers obtain a visa in advance from the
Latvian Embassy at 4325 17th Street, Washington, D.C. 20011, tel.
[phone].  It is also possible to obtain a ten-day,
single-entry visa upon arrival at seaports of entry and at Riga
International Airport.  Entry visas are not issued at land border
crossings.  Travelers who plan to enter or transit Latvia by train
or vehicle must first obtain a visa at a Latvian embassy or
consulate abroad.  Travelers who plan to remain in Latvia for more
than 90 days must apply in-country for temporary residency.  While
there is a Russian Embassy in Riga that issues visas, some travelers
have found it difficult or impossible to produce all the
documentation necessary to obtain a Russian visa in Latvia.  Russian
visas obtained on short notice are twice as expensive.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Latvia is limited.  There is a
severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable
needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics.  Elderly travelers and those
with existing health problems may be at risk due to inadequate
medical facilities.   Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate
cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Travelers have found that
in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proved to be useful.  The U.S. Embassy maintains a list
of English speaking physicians in the area.  Incidents of
encephalitis and lyme disease, which are spread by ticks, have been
reported.  Outbreaks of diphtheria have been reported in and around
Riga and in Daugavpils, with isolated cases in Tukums, Ventspils and
Jelgava.  The number of cases in 1994 grew steadily.  Up-to-date
vaccinations for diphtheria are recommended by the Centers for
Disease Control.  Further information on health matters can be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline, tel: [phone].
Crime Information:  Latvia has a relatively high rate of crime.
Street crime has increased, especially at night.  Robberies have
occurred on trains and in train stations.  Burglaries of apartments
and houses are common.  The same precautions taken in an unfamiliar
U.S. urban center are useful in Latvia as well.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad.  This publication is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington  D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  Americans who register at the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated information
on travel and security within Latvia.  The U.S. Embassy in Riga is
located at Raina Boulevard 7; telephone [phone].
 No. 95-074
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated June 22, 1994,
to change information concerning entry requirements and to report on
new medical warnings.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
0                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Latvia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Estonia and Lithuania
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    64,100 sq km
  land area:
    64,100 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than West Virginia
Land boundaries:
    total 1,078 km, Belarus 141 km, Estonia 267 km, Lithuania 453 km, Russia 217
    km
Coastline:
    531 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
International disputes:
    the Abrene section of border ceded by the Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic
    to Russia in 1944
Climate:
    maritime; wet, moderate winters
Terrain:
    low plain
Natural resources:
    minimal; amber, peat, limestone, dolomite
Land use:
  arable land:
    27%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    13%
  forest and woodland:
    39%
  other:
    21%
Irrigated land:
    160 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air and water pollution because of a lack of waste conversion equipment;
    Gulf of Riga and Daugava River heavily polluted; contamination of soil and
    groundwater with chemicals and petroleum products at military bases
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Hazardous Wastes, Ship Pollution; signed, but not
    ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Latvia
                                     People
Population:
    2,762,899 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    22% (female 294,521; male 304,830)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 933,003; male 870,128)
  65 years and over:
    13% (female 247,476; male 112,941) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.5% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    13.71 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.49 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    3.76 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    21 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    69.65 years
  male:
    64.6 years
  female:
    74.95 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.97 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Latvian(s)
  adjective:
    Latvian
Ethnic divisions:
    Latvian 51.8%, Russian 33.8%, Byelorussian 4.5%, Ukrainian 3.4%, Polish
    2.3%, other 4.2%
Religions:
    Lutheran, Roman Catholic, Russian Orthodox
Languages:
    Lettish (official), Lithuanian, Russian, other
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    100%
  male:
    100%
  female:
    99%
Labor force:
    1.407 million
  by occupation:
    industry and construction 41%, agriculture and forestry 16%, other 43%
    (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Latvia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Latvia
  conventional short form:
    Latvia
  local long form:
    Latvijas Republika
  local short form:
    Latvija
  former:
    Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic
Digraph:
    LG
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Riga
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    6 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 18 November (1918)
Constitution:
    newly elected Parliament in 1993 restored the 1933 constitution
Legal system:
    based on civil law system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Guntis ULMANIS (since 7 July 1993); Parliament (Saeima) elected
    President ULMANIS in the third round of balloting on 7 July 1993
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Maris GAILIS (since September 1994)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the Supreme Council
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Parliament (Saeima):
    elections last held 5-6 June 1993 (next to be held NA October 1995); results
    - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (100 total) LC 36, LNNK 15, Concord
    for Latvia 13, LZS 12, Equal Rights 7, LKDS 6, TUB 6, DCP 5
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Latvia
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Latvian Way Union (LC), Valdis BIRKAVS; Latvian Farmers Union (LZS), Alvars
    BERKIS; Latvian National Independence Movement (LNNK), Andrejs KRASTINS,
    Aristids LAMBERGS, cochairmen; Concord for Latvia, Janis JURKANS; Equal
    Rights, Sergejs DIMANIS; Christian Democrat Union (LKDS), Peteris CIMDINS,
    Andris SAULITIS, Janis RUSKO; Fatherland and Freedom (TUB), Maris GRINBLATS,
    Roberts MILBERGS, Oigerts DZENTIS; Democratic Center (DCP), Ints CALITIS;
    Popular Front of Latvia (LTF), Uldis AUGSTKALNS
Member of:
    BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, FAO, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO,
    IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU,
    NACC, OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WEU (associate partner),
    WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ojars Eriks KALNINS
  chancery:
    4325 17th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 8214
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ints M, SILINS
  embassy:
    Raina Boulevard 7, Riga 226050
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [371] (2) 213-962
  FAX:
    [371] 882-0047 (cellular)
Flag:
    two horizontal bands of maroon (top and bottom), white (middle, narrower
    than other two bands)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Latvia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Latvia is rapidly becoming a dynamic market economy, rivaled only by Estonia
    among the former Soviet states in the speed of its transformation. However,
    the transition has been painful; in 1994 the IMF reported a 2% growth in
    GDP, following steep declines in 1992-93. The government's tough monetary
    policies and reform program have kept inflation at less than 2% a month,
    supported a dynamic private sector now accounting for more than half of GDP,
    and spurred the growth of trade ties with the West. Much of agriculture is
    already privatized and the government plans to step up the pace of
    privatization of state enterprises. Latvia thus is in the midst of recovery,
    helped by the country's strategic location on the Baltic Sea, its
    well-educated population, and its diverse - albeit largely obsolete -
    industrial structure.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $12.3 billion (1994 estimate as extrapolated
    from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,480 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.9% (monthly average 1994)
Unemployment rate:
    6.5% (December 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $1 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    oil products, timber, ferrous metals, dairy products, furniture, textiles
  partners:
    Russia, Germany, Sweden, Belarus
Imports:
    $1.2 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    fuels, cars, ferrous metals, chemicals
  partners:
    Russia, Germany, Sweden, Ukraine
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate -9.5% (1994 est.); accounts for 27% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    2,080,000 kW
  production:
    5.5 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,864 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    highly diversified; dependent on imports for energy, raw materials, and
    intermediate products; produces buses, vans, street and railroad cars,
    synthetic fibers, agricultural machinery, fertilizers, washing machines,
    radios, electronics, pharmaceuticals, processed foods, textiles
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Latvia
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    principally dairy farming and livestock feeding; products - meat, milk,
    eggs, grain, sugar beets, potatoes, vegetables; fishing and fish packing
Illicit drugs:
    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
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    1 lat = 100 cents; introduced NA March 1993
Exchange rates:
    lats per US$1 - 0.55 (December 1994), 0.5917 (January 1994), 1.32 (March
    1993)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Latvia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,400 km
  broad gauge:
    2,400 km 1.520-m gauge (270 km electrified)
Highways:
  total:
    59,500 km
  paved and graveled:
    33,000 km
  unpaved:
    earth 26,500 km (1990)
Inland waterways:
    300 km perennially navigable
Pipelines:
    crude oil 750 km; refined products 780 km; natural gas 560 km (1992)
Ports:
    Daugavpils, Liepaja, Riga, Ventspils
Merchant marine:
  total:
    85 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 774,182 GRT/1,010,517 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 17, oil tanker 37, refrigerated cargo 24, roll-on/roll-off cargo 7
Airports:
  total:
    50
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    6
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    27
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    10
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Latvia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    660,000 telephones; 240 telephones/1,000 persons (1993); Latvia is better
    provided with telephone service than most of the other former Soviet
    republics; an NMT-450 analog cellular telephone network covers 75% of
    Latvia's population
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    international traffic carried by leased connection to the Moscow
    international gateway switch and through the new Ericsson AXE local/transit
    digital telephone exchange in Riga and through the Finnish cellular net;
    electronic mail capability by Sprint data network
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Latvia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Security Forces (internal
    and border troops), Border Guard, Home Guard (Zemessardze)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 658,193; males fit for military service 517,896; males reach
    military age (18) annually 18,736 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    176 million rubles, 3% to 5% of GDP (1994); note - conversion of the
    military budget into US dollars using the prevailing exchange rate could
    produce misleading results
Lebanon
)LAOS - Passport and visa required.  Visa requires $35 fee, 3
application forms, 3 photos, onward/return transportation, sufficient funds,
cholera immunization and SASE for return of passport by mail.  Transit visas
for stay up to 5 days requires onward/return ticket and visa for next
destination.  Visitor visa are issued for 1 entry and must be used
within 3 months of issue date.  Period of stay:  1 month, can be extended for
another 30 days (visitor visa application must be accompanied by letter
from relative or friends in Laos).  Tourist visas are issued only to
those who apply through a tourist agency.  Business visa requires letter from
counterpart in Laos and is valid for 1 entry and must be used within 3
months of issue date.  Period of stay:  1 month, can be extended for
another 30 days.  For more information, check with the Embassy of the
Lao People's Democratic Republic, 2222 S St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/332-6416/7).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Laos
============================================================
Laos - Consular Information Sheet
 September 7, 1995
Country Description:  Laos is a poor country with a communist
government that is pursuing economic reform.  Outside of Vientiane,
tourist services and facilities are relatively undeveloped.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Travelers
should contact the Embassy of the Lao People's Democratic Republic,
2222 S St. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel. [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities and services are limited
and do not meet Western standards.  The blood supply is not screened
for HIV or AIDS.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash
payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage, including provision for medical
evacuation, has proven useful.  The international travelers hotline
at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tel. (404)
332-4559, has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Major crime has not been a problem for
travelers, although street crime has been on the increase.  The loss
or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and the U.S. Embassy.  Useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip
Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
In-Country Travel:  Since April 1994, the Lao government no longer
requires permits for travel outside Vientiane except for travel in
unspecified "restricted areas."  Frequently visited tourist
destinations generally are safe.  In December 1993, however, one
U.S. citizen and four U.S. residents were killed in a fatal Lao
aviation airline crash in Xieng Khouang Province, where the Plain of
Jars is located.  Overland travel in some areas, particularly in the
highlands, runs the risk of ambush by insurgents or bandits.
Religious Workers:  Religious proselytizing or distributing
religious material is strictly prohibited.  Foreigners caught
distributing religious material may be arrested or deported.
Marriage to a Lao Citizen:  The Lao government imposes requirements
on foreigners intending to marry Lao citizens.  U.S. citizens may
obtain information about these requirements at the U.S Embassy in
Vientiane.  A marriage certificate will not be issued by the Lao
Government if the correct procedures have not been followed.  Any
attempt to circumvent Lao law governing the marriage of Lao citizens
to foreigners may result in deportation of the foreigner and denial
of permission to re-enter Laos.  Two U.S. citizens cannot marry in
Laos.
Photography Restrictions:  Police and military may confiscate the
cameras of persons taking photographs of military installations or
vehicles, bridges, airfields and government buildings.  Confiscated
cameras are seldom returned to the owners.  Photographers of such
subjects also may be arrested.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the Embassy can obtain
updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at Rue Bartholomie,
B.P. 114, in Vientiane; mail can be addressed to AMEMB Vientiane Box
V, APO AP 96546; the telephone numbers are (856) 21-212581, 212582,
212585; duty officer emergency cellular number (856) 21-130-423; fax
(856) 21-212584.
 No. 95-107
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued on August 4,
1994 to include additional medical information, to update marriage
information and to add the telephone number for the embassy duty
officer.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Laos
============================================================
Laos - Consular Information Sheet
 September 7, 1995
Country Description:  Laos is a poor country with a communist
government that is pursuing economic reform.  Outside of Vientiane,
tourist services and facilities are relatively undeveloped.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Travelers
should contact the Embassy of the Lao People's Democratic Republic,
2222 S St. N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel. [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities and services are limited
and do not meet Western standards.  The blood supply is not screened
for HIV or AIDS.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash
payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage, including provision for medical
evacuation, has proven useful.  The international travelers hotline
at the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, tel. (404)
332-4559, has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Major crime has not been a problem for
travelers, although street crime has been on the increase.  The loss
or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and the U.S. Embassy.  Useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip
Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
In-Country Travel:  Since April 1994, the Lao government no longer
requires permits for travel outside Vientiane except for travel in
unspecified "restricted areas."  Frequently visited tourist
destinations generally are safe.  In December 1993, however, one
U.S. citizen and four U.S. residents were killed in a fatal Lao
aviation airline crash in Xieng Khouang Province, where the Plain of
Jars is located.  Overland travel in some areas, particularly in the
highlands, runs the risk of ambush by insurgents or bandits.
Religious Workers:  Religious proselytizing or distributing
religious material is strictly prohibited.  Foreigners caught
distributing religious material may be arrested or deported.
Marriage to a Lao Citizen:  The Lao government imposes requirements
on foreigners intending to marry Lao citizens.  U.S. citizens may
obtain information about these requirements at the U.S Embassy in
Vientiane.  A marriage certificate will not be issued by the Lao
Government if the correct procedures have not been followed.  Any
attempt to circumvent Lao law governing the marriage of Lao citizens
to foreigners may result in deportation of the foreigner and denial
of permission to re-enter Laos.  Two U.S. citizens cannot marry in
Laos.
Photography Restrictions:  Police and military may confiscate the
cameras of persons taking photographs of military installations or
vehicles, bridges, airfields and government buildings.  Confiscated
cameras are seldom returned to the owners.  Photographers of such
subjects also may be arrested.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the Embassy can obtain
updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at Rue Bartholomie,
B.P. 114, in Vientiane; mail can be addressed to AMEMB Vientiane Box
V, APO AP 96546; the telephone numbers are (856) 21-212581, 212582,
212585; duty officer emergency cellular number (856) 21-130-423; fax
(856) 21-212584.
 No. 95-107
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued on August 4,
1994 to include additional medical information, to update marriage
information and to add the telephone number for the embassy duty
officer.
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
,                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Laos
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, northeast of Thailand
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    236,800 sq km
  land area:
    230,800 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Utah
Land boundaries:
    total 5,083 km, Burma 235 km, Cambodia 541 km, China 423 km, Thailand 1,754
    km, Vietnam 2,130 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    boundary dispute with Thailand
Climate:
    tropical monsoon; rainy season (May to November); dry season (December to
    April)
Terrain:
    mostly rugged mountains; some plains and plateaus
Natural resources:
    timber, hydropower, gypsum, tin, gold, gemstones
Land use:
  arable land:
    4%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    3%
  forest and woodland:
    58%
  other:
    35%
Irrigated land:
    1,554 sq km (1992 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; a majority of the population does not have
    access to potable water
  natural hazards:
    floods, droughts, and blight
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Nuclear Test Ban;
    signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Laos
                                     People
Population:
    4,837,237 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    45% (female 1,084,615; male 1,111,928)
  15-64 years:
    51% (female 1,280,142; male 1,199,149)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 86,390; male 75,013) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.84% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    42.64 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    14.28 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    99.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    52.2 years
  male:
    50.66 years
  female:
    53.81 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.98 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Lao(s) or Laotian(s)
  adjective:
    Lao or Laotian
Ethnic divisions:
    Lao Loum (lowland) 68%, Lao Theung (upland) 22%, Lao Soung (highland)
    including the Hmong ("Meo") and the Yao (Mien) 9%, ethnic Vietnamese/Chinese
    1%
Religions:
    Buddhist 60%, animist and other 40%
Languages:
    Lao (official), French, English, and various ethnic languages
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1992)
  total population:
    50%
  male:
    65%
  female:
    35%
Labor force:
    1 million-1.5 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 80% (1992 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Laos
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Lao People's Democratic Republic
  conventional short form:
    Laos
  local long form:
    Sathalanalat Paxathipatai Paxaxon Lao
  local short form:
    none
Digraph:
    LA
Type:
    Communist state
Capital:
    Vientiane
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    19 July 1949 (from France)
National holiday:
    National Day, 2 December (1975) (proclamation of the Lao People's Democratic
    Republic)
Constitution:
    promulgated 14 August 1991
Legal system:
    based on traditional customs, French legal norms and procedures, and
    Socialist practice
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President NOUHAK PHOUMSAVAN (since 25 November 1992)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Gen. KHAMTAI SIPHANDON (since 15 August 1991)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president, approved by the Assembly
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly:
    elections last held on 20 December 1992 (next to be held NA); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (85 total) number of seats by party NA
Judicial branch:
    Supreme People's Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP), KHAMTAI Siphandon, party president;
    other parties proscribed
Other political or pressure groups:
    non-Communist political groups proscribed; most opposition leaders fled the
    country in 1975
Member of:
    ACCT, AsDB, ASEAN (observer), CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA,
    IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC,
    ITU, NAM, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTO
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Laos
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador HIEM PHOMMACHANH
  chancery:
    2222 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 6417
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Victor L. TOMSETH
  embassy:
    Rue Bartholonie, Vientiane
  mailing address:
    B. P. 114, Vientiane; American Embassy, Box V, APO AP 96546
  telephone:
    [856] (21) 212581, 212582, 212585
  FAX:
    [856] (21) 212584
Flag:
    three horizontal bands of red (top), blue (double width), and red with a
    large white disk centered in the blue band
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Laos
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 infrastructure. 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 drought 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 and 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    8.4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $850 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    6.5% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    21% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA
Exports:
    $277 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    electricity, wood products, coffee, tin, garments
  partners:
    Thailand 57%, Germany 10%, France 10%, Japan 5% (1991)
Imports:
    $528 million (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    food, fuel oil, consumer goods, manufactures
  partners:
    Thailand 55%, Japan 16%, China 8%, Italy 4% (1991)
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate 7.5% (1992 est.); accounts for 18% of GDP (1992 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    260,000 kW
  production:
    870 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    44 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tin and gypsum mining, timber, electric power, agricultural processing,
    construction
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Laos
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    principal crops - rice (80% of cultivated land), sweet potatoes, vegetables,
    corn, coffee, sugarcane, cotton; livestock - buffaloes, hogs, cattle,
    poultry
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of cannabis, opium poppy for the international drug trade,
    fourth largest opium producer (85 metric tons in 1994); heroin producer;
    increasingly used as transshipment point for heroin produced in Burma
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-79), $276 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $605 million;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $995 million; international assistance in
    loans and grant aid (1993/94) $217.7 million
Currency:
    1 new kip (NK) = 100 at
Exchange rates:
    new kips (NK) per US$1 - 717 (1994 est.), 720 (July 1993). 710 (May 1992),
    710 (December 1991), 700 (September 1990), 576 (1989)
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Laos
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    14,130 km
  paved:
    2,260 km
  unpaved:
    11,870 km (1992 est.)
Inland waterways:
    about 4,587 km, primarily Mekong and tributaries; 2,897 additional
    kilometers are sectionally navigable by craft drawing less than 0.5 m
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 136 km
Ports:
    none
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1 cargo ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,370 GRT/3,000 DWT
Airports:
    52
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    5
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    25
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    17
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Laos
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    7,390 telephones (1986); service to general public very poor; radio
    communications network provides generally erratic service to government
    users
  local:
    16 telephone lines per 1,000 people
  intercity:
    radio communications
  international:
    1 earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 10, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Laos
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Lao People's Army (LPA; includes riverine naval and militia elements), Air
    Force, National Police Department
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,051,105; males fit for military service 567,017; males
    reach military age (18) annually 51,437 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $105 million, 8.1% of GDP (FY92/93)
KUWAIT - Passport and visa required.   AIDS test required for work
visa; U.S. test accepted.  For further information contact the Embassy of the
State of Kuwait, 2940 Tilden St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/966-0702) or Consulate, 321 East 44th St., New York, NY  10017
(212/973-4318).
Kuwait - Consular Information Sheet
September 20, 1994
Country Description:  Kuwait is a constitutional monarchy with a modern
economy.  Day-to-day life has returned to normal after the 1991 Gulf War,
and facilities for travelers are widely available.  The workweek in Kuwait
is Saturday through Wednesday.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required for U.S. citizens
traveling to Kuwait.  For more information concerning entry requirements,
travelers may contact the Embassy of Kuwait at 2940 Tilden St., N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], or the Kuwaiti Consulate
in New York City, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Travel to and near the Iraq-Kuwait border is
hazardous.  In the past, persons found near the border were detained by
Iraqi security forces, and were endangered by occasional exchanges of fire
in the demilitarized zone near Iraq.  U.S. citizens having legitimate work-
related business near the border may receive information updates from the
U.S. Embassy, and may also wish to consult their employer's security
personnel.
Unexploded bombs, mines, booby traps, and other items remain in open areas
and beaches throughout Kuwait.  U.S. Embassy personnel have been forbidden
to travel off paved surfaces outside Kuwait city.  In the past three years,
there have been approximately six fire bombing incidents at movie theaters
and video shops, as well as a shooting at an American company's residential
complex.  No serious casualties resulted from these incidents.
Medical Facilities:  The health care delivery system continues to rebuild,
with many medical facilities, both government and private, available in
Kuwait.  Medical care at government-run clinics and hospitals is generally
provided free of charge or at low cost to residents of Kuwait, while private
physicians and hospitals charge a fee for services.  Non-residents have
found that private doctors, hospitals and clinics expect immediate cash
payment for their services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid
outside the United States.  Medevac insurance, for emergencies requiring
treatment outside Kuwait, and supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage have proven useful.  Specific health questions can be
addressed to the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers
hotline, telephone [phone].
Crime Information:  The crime rate in Kuwait is moderate.  However, weapons
left over from the 1991 Gulf War remain in the hands of the populace, and
shooting incidents have occurred.  Both physical and verbal harassment of
women is a continuing problem.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad
should be reported immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy
or Consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in
the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to the Middle East and North Africa."  They are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington,
D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Travelers checks and credit cards are widely
accepted.  Kuwaiti currency is readily convertible to U.S. dollars.
Drugs and Other Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use, or
dealing in illegal drugs, alcohol, or pornography are severe, and convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.  Religious proselytizing is
not permitted.
Terrorist Activities:  The occasional bombings and shootings over the past
three years have usually been directed against Kuwaiti targets.  The U.S.
Embassy can supply more detailed information to Americans in Kuwait on
reducing the risk of becoming a target of a terrorist attack.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the Consular Section of the
U.S. Embassy may be enrolled in the Embassy's emergency alert network, and
can obtain updated information on travel and security in Kuwait.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Kuwait is located on Gulf Road near
the Safir International Hotel in Kuwait City, P.O. Box 77 Safat, 13001
SAFAT, Kuwait, phone [965] 242-4151 through 9.
No. 94-221
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Kuwait dated September 1,
1993, to update information on entry requirements, areas of instability,
medical facilities, terrorist activities, and the address of the U.S. Embassy.
0                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Kuwait
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf, between Iraq and Saudi Arabia
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    17,820 sq km
  land area:
    17,820 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than New Jersey
Land boundaries:
    total 464 km, Iraq 242 km, Saudi Arabia 222 km
Coastline:
    499 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    in November 1994, Iraq formally accepted the UN-demarcated border with
    Kuwait which had been spelled out in Security Council Resolutions 687
    (1991), 773 (1993), and 883 (1993); this formally ends earlier claims to
    Kuwait and to Bubiyan and Warbah islands; ownership of Qaruh and Umm al
    Maradim islands disputed by Saudi Arabia
Climate:
    dry desert; intensely hot summers; short, cool winters
Terrain:
    flat to slightly undulating desert plain
Natural resources:
    petroleum, fish, shrimp, natural gas
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    8%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    92%
Irrigated land:
    20 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    limited natural fresh water resources; some of world's largest and most
    sophisticated desalination facilities provide much of the water; air and
    water pollution; desertification
  natural hazards:
    sudden cloudbursts are common from October to April, they bring inordinate
    amounts of rain which can damage roads and houses; sandstorms and duststorms
    occur throughout the year, but are most common between March and August
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law
    of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not
    ratified - Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping
Note:
    strategic location at head of Persian Gulf
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Kuwait
                                     People
Population:
    1,817,397 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    34% (female 302,908; male 319,659)
  15-64 years:
    64% (female 467,163; male 697,849)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 13,476; male 16,342) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    7.46% (1995 est.)
  note:
    this rate reflects the continued post-Gulf crisis return of nationals and
    expatriates
Birth rate:
    21.07 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    2.2 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    55.71 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    11.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    75.64 years
  male:
    73.33 years
  female:
    78.06 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.93 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Kuwaiti(s)
  adjective:
    Kuwaiti
Ethnic divisions:
    Kuwaiti 45%, other Arab 35%, South Asian 9%, Iranian 4%, other 7%
Religions:
    Muslim 85% (Shi'a 30%, Sunni 45%, other 10%), Christian, Hindu, Parsi, and
    other 15%
Languages:
    Arabic (official), English widely spoken
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1985)
  total population:
    74%
  male:
    78%
  female:
    69%
Labor force:
    566,000 (1986)
  by occupation:
    services 45.0%, construction 20.0%, trade 12.0%, manufacturing 8.6%, finance
    and real estate 2.6%, agriculture 1.9%, power and water 1.7%, mining and
    quarrying 1.4%
  note:
    70% of labor force non-Kuwaiti (1986)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Kuwait
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    State of Kuwait
  conventional short form:
    Kuwait
  local long form:
    Dawlat al Kuwayt
  local short form:
    Al Kuwayt
Digraph:
    KU
Type:
    nominal constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Kuwait
Administrative divisions:
    5 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al 'Ahmadi, Al Jahrah, Al
    Kuwayt, Hawalli, Al Farwaniyah
Independence:
    19 June 1961 (from UK)
National holiday:
    National Day, 25 February (1948)
Constitution:
    approved and promulgated 11 November 1962
Legal system:
    civil law system with Islamic law significant in personal matters; has not
    accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    adult males who resided in Kuwait before 1920 and their male descendants at
    age 21
  note:
    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
    thirty years will be eligible to vote
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Amir Shaykh JABIR al-Ahmad al-Jabir Al Sabah (since 31 December 1977)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister and Crown Prince SAAD al-Abdallah al-Salim Al Sabah (since 8
    February 1978); Deputy Prime Minister SABAH al-Ahmad al-Jabir Al Sabah
    (since 17 October 1992)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the Prime Minister and approved by the
    Amir
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly (Majlis al-umma):
    dissolved 3 July 1986; new elections were held on 5 October 1992 with a
    second election in the 14th and 16th constituencies held February 1993
Judicial branch:
    High Court of Appeal
Political parties and leaders:
    none
Other political or pressure groups:
    small, clandestine leftist and Shi'a fundamentalist groups are active;
    several groups critical of government policies are publicly active
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Kuwait
                                   Government
Member of:
    ABEDA, AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, BDEAC, CAEU, CCC, ESCWA, FAO, G-77, GATT, GCC,
    IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO,
    INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OAPEC,
    OIC, OPEC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador MUHAMMAD al-Sabah al-Salim Al SABAH
  chancery:
    2940 Tilden Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ryan C. CROCKER
  embassy:
    Bneid al-Gar (opposite the Kuwait International Hotel), Kuwait City
  mailing address:
    P.O. Box 77 SAFAT, 13001 SAFAT, Kuwait; Unit 69000, Kuwait; APO AE
    09880-9000
  telephone:
    [965] 2424151 through 2424159
  FAX:
    [965] 2442855
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and red with a black
    trapezoid based on the hoist side
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Kuwait
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Kuwait is a small and relatively open economy with proved crude oil reserves
    of about 94 billion barrels - 10% of world reserves. Kuwait has rebuilt its
    war-ravaged petroleum sector; its crude oil production reached at least 2.0
    million barrels per day by the end of 1993. The government ran a sizable
    fiscal deficit in 1993. Petroleum accounts for nearly half of GDP and 90% of
    export and government revenues. Kuwait 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, Kuwait 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, with the growth in industry and finance, and should see
    further gains in 1995, especially if oil prices go up. The World Bank has
    urged Kuwait to push ahead with privatization, including in the oil
    industry, but the government will move slowly on this front.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $30.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    9.3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $16,900 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3% (1993)
Unemployment rate:
    NEGL% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $9 billion
  expenditures:
    $13 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY92/93)
Exports:
    $10.5 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    oil
  partners:
    France 16%, Italy 15%, Japan 12%, UK 11%
Imports:
    $6.6 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    food, construction materials, vehicles and parts, clothing
  partners:
    US 35%, Japan 12%, UK 9%, Canada 9%
External debt:
    $7.2 billion (December 1989 est.)
  note:
    external debt has grown substantially in 1991 and 1992 to pay for
    restoration of war damage
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%; accounts for NA% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    7,070,000 kW
  production:
    11 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    6,007 kWh (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Kuwait
                                     Economy
Industries:
    petroleum, petrochemicals, desalination, food processing, building
    materials, salt, construction
Agriculture:
    practically none; extensive fishing in territorial waters and Indian Ocean
Economic aid:
  donor:
    pledged bilateral aid to less developed countries (1979-89), $18.3 billion
Currency:
    1 Kuwaiti dinar (KD) = 1,000 fils
Exchange rates:
    Kuwaiti dinars (KD) per US$1 - 0.2991 (January 1995), 0.2976 (1994), 0.3017
    (1993), 0.2934 (1992), 0.2843 (1991), 0.2915 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Kuwait
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    4,270 km
  paved:
    bituminous 3,370 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, sand, earth 900 km (est.)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 877 km; petroleum products 40 km; natural gas 165 km
Ports:
    Ash Shu'aybah, Ash Shuwaykh, Kuwait, Mina' 'Abd Allah, Mina' al Ahmadi,
    Mina' Su'ud
Merchant marine:
  total:
    47 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,202,558 GRT/3,618,527 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 9, container 3, liquefied gas tanker 7, livestock carrier 4, oil
    tanker 24
Airports:
  total:
    8
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Kuwait
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; civil network suffered extensive damage as a result of the
    Gulf war and reconstruction is still under way with some restored
    international and domestic capabilities
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    earth stations destroyed during Gulf war and not rebuilt yet; temporary
    mobile satellite antennae provide international telecommunications; coaxial
    cable and microwave radio relay to Saudi Arabia; service to Iraq is
    nonoperational
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    3
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Kuwait
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, National Police Force, National Guard
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 610,205; males fit for military service 363,735; males reach
    military age (18) annually 16,170 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $3.4 billion, 13.3% of GDP (1995)
Kyrgyzstan
@KOREA, REPUBLIC OF  (South Korea)  - Passport required.  Visa not
required for a tourist stay up to 15 days.  For longer stays and other types of
travel, visa must be obtained in advance.  Tourist visa for longer stay
requires 1 application form and 1 photo.  Business visa requires 1
application form, 1 photo and company letter.  Fine imposed for
overstaying visa and for long-term visa holders not registered within 60 days after
entry.  AIDS test required for anyone staying over 90 days.  U.S. test
accepted.  For further information check Embassy of the Republic of
Korea, (Consular Division), 2600 Virginia Ave., N.W., Suite 208, Washington,
D.C. 20037 (202/939-5660/63) or nearest Consulate General:  AK
(907/561-5488), CA (213/385-9300 and 415/921-2251), FL (305/372-1555), GA
(404/522-1611), Guam (671/472-6109), HI (808/595-6109),  IL (312/822-9485), MA
(617/348-3660), NY (212/752-1700), TX (713/961-0186) or WA
(206/441-1011).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - South Korea
============================================================
South Korea - Consular Information Sheet
 September 20, 1995
Country Description: The Republic of Korea is a highly developed,
stable, democratic republic with powers shared between the president
and the legislature.  It has a modern economy, and tourist
facilities are widely available.  English is not often spoken
outside the main tourist and business centers.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  Visas are not
required for tourist or business stays of up to fifteen days (the
day of arrival counts as day number one).  For longer stays and
other types of travel, visas must be obtained in advance.  Changes
of status from one type of visa to another (from tourism to
teaching, for example) are not normally granted in country.
Applicants must depart and apply for new visas at an embassy or
consulate outside Korea.  Specific requirements are available
through the Embassy of the Republic of Korea at 2320 Massachusetts
Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], or
the nearest consulate in major U.S. cities.
Medical Facilities:  Health care facilities in the Republic of
Korea are good.  Doctors and hospitals are usually unable to bill
foreign health insurance plans for services.  Therefore, cash
payment for health services is often expected.  Some U.S. medical
insurance does not cover services outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage
including provision for medical evacuation has proven useful.  The
U.S. Embassy in Seoul and the U.S. Consulate in Pusan have lists of
hospitals and medical specialists who speak English.  The
International Travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention [phone] has additional useful health
information.
Information on Crime:  Although the crime rate in the Republic of
Korea is low, pickpocketing, purse-snatching, hotel room burglaries,
and residential crime do occur, and foreigners can be targeted.  In
addition, increased incidents of physical attacks on foreigners,
including sexual harassment, molestation and rape, have been
recently reported.  Travelers can reduce the likelihood of
encountering such incidents by taking the same precautions that they
would take in the urban United States.  The loss or theft abroad of
a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police
and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The Korean National
Police (KNP) operate a Central Interpretation Center (CIC) where
foreigners can report incidents of crime.  The CIC is available on a
twenty-four hour, seven-day-a-week basis.  In Seoul, call telephone
number 313-0842; outside of Seoul, call [phone].  The Embassy
has found, however, that English speakers are not often available at
the CIC, so it is best to ask a Korean speaker to place the call.
Useful information on safeguarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad".  It is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington D.C. 20402.
Legal Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect stiff jail sentences and fines.
Travelers should also be careful to adhere to Korean government
regulations on currency exchange and customs declarations.
Passport Seizures/Exit Bans and Commercial Disputes: The Government
of Korea sometimes seizes the passports and blocks the departure
from Korea of foreigners involved in commercial disputes.  In such
circumstances, the U.S. Government will re-issue a passport to an
American citizen who applies for one.  The Korean exit ban, however,
will remain in effect, thereby preventing departure.
Demonstrations:  Demonstrations by dissident groups, sometimes
confrontational and even violent, occasionally occur.  While many
have anti-U.S. themes, it is unlikely that violence would be
directed against individual U.S. citizen travelers.  Individuals can
reduce risk to themselves by avoiding such demonstrations to the
extent possible.
Teaching of English:  The U.S. Embassy in Seoul receives numerous
complaints from Americans who have come to Korea to teach English
under contract with private language academies (hagwons).  These are
profit-oriented businesses unregulated by the Korean government.
Despite contract language promising good salaries, furnished
apartments and other amenities, many teachers find they actually
receive much less than they were promised, and some do not even
receive benefits required by Korean law, such as health insurance
and severance pay.  Teachers' complaints include contract
violations, non-payment of salary for months at a time, sexual
harassment, intimidation, threats of arrest/deportation, and
physical assault.  A comprehensive handout entitled "Teaching
English in Korea:  Opportunities and Pitfalls" may be obtained by
writing to the Embassy.
Dual Citizenship:  The government of the Republic of Korea does not
permit dual citizenship after the age of 18.  Holders of dual
citizenship who work or study in Korea usually find themselves
compelled to choose one or the other nationality soon after that
age.  The Embassy is aware of several instances in which young
Korean-American men who were born and lived all their lives in the
U.S. arrived in Korea for a tourist visit only to find themselves
drafted into the Korean army.  Because dual citizenship is not
permitted, authorities refuse to recognize any but the Korean
citizenship of these men.  This interpretation has been recently
upheld by the Korean court.  When this occurs, the Embassy cannot
intervene.  Korean-Americans may request further information from
the nearest Korean Consulate.
Adoption:  Adoption of Korean children by foreign nationals is
still permitted, and is carefully regulated.  Any non-Korean wishing
to adopt a Korean child is required to work through one of the four
government-licensed adoption agencies.  This includes American
citizens of Korean extraction who wish to adopt the Korean citizen
child of a family member.  Private adoptions are not allowed.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy or
Consulate can obtain updated information on travel and security
within the country.
Embassy Location: The U.S. Embassy in the Republic of Korea (South
Korea) is located at 82 Sejong-Ro, Chongro-ku, Seoul - Telephone
(82-2) 397-4114.  The U.S. Consulate is located in Pusan at 24 2-Ka,
Daechung Dong, Chung-Ku  - Telephone [phone].
 No. 95-116
This replaces the consular information sheet dated March 21, 1995,
and provides updated information on English teaching in Korea.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - South Korea
============================================================
South Korea - Consular Information Sheet
 September 20, 1995
Country Description: The Republic of Korea is a highly developed,
stable, democratic republic with powers shared between the president
and the legislature.  It has a modern economy, and tourist
facilities are widely available.  English is not often spoken
outside the main tourist and business centers.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  Visas are not
required for tourist or business stays of up to fifteen days (the
day of arrival counts as day number one).  For longer stays and
other types of travel, visas must be obtained in advance.  Changes
of status from one type of visa to another (from tourism to
teaching, for example) are not normally granted in country.
Applicants must depart and apply for new visas at an embassy or
consulate outside Korea.  Specific requirements are available
through the Embassy of the Republic of Korea at 2320 Massachusetts
Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], or
the nearest consulate in major U.S. cities.
Medical Facilities:  Health care facilities in the Republic of
Korea are good.  Doctors and hospitals are usually unable to bill
foreign health insurance plans for services.  Therefore, cash
payment for health services is often expected.  Some U.S. medical
insurance does not cover services outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage
including provision for medical evacuation has proven useful.  The
U.S. Embassy in Seoul and the U.S. Consulate in Pusan have lists of
hospitals and medical specialists who speak English.  The
International Travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention [phone] has additional useful health
information.
Information on Crime:  Although the crime rate in the Republic of
Korea is low, pickpocketing, purse-snatching, hotel room burglaries,
and residential crime do occur, and foreigners can be targeted.  In
addition, increased incidents of physical attacks on foreigners,
including sexual harassment, molestation and rape, have been
recently reported.  Travelers can reduce the likelihood of
encountering such incidents by taking the same precautions that they
would take in the urban United States.  The loss or theft abroad of
a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police
and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The Korean National
Police (KNP) operate a Central Interpretation Center (CIC) where
foreigners can report incidents of crime.  The CIC is available on a
twenty-four hour, seven-day-a-week basis.  In Seoul, call telephone
number 313-0842; outside of Seoul, call [phone].  The Embassy
has found, however, that English speakers are not often available at
the CIC, so it is best to ask a Korean speaker to place the call.
Useful information on safeguarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad".  It is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington D.C. 20402.
Legal Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect stiff jail sentences and fines.
Travelers should also be careful to adhere to Korean government
regulations on currency exchange and customs declarations.
Passport Seizures/Exit Bans and Commercial Disputes: The Government
of Korea sometimes seizes the passports and blocks the departure
from Korea of foreigners involved in commercial disputes.  In such
circumstances, the U.S. Government will re-issue a passport to an
American citizen who applies for one.  The Korean exit ban, however,
will remain in effect, thereby preventing departure.
Demonstrations:  Demonstrations by dissident groups, sometimes
confrontational and even violent, occasionally occur.  While many
have anti-U.S. themes, it is unlikely that violence would be
directed against individual U.S. citizen travelers.  Individuals can
reduce risk to themselves by avoiding such demonstrations to the
extent possible.
Teaching of English:  The U.S. Embassy in Seoul receives numerous
complaints from Americans who have come to Korea to teach English
under contract with private language academies (hagwons).  These are
profit-oriented businesses unregulated by the Korean government.
Despite contract language promising good salaries, furnished
apartments and other amenities, many teachers find they actually
receive much less than they were promised, and some do not even
receive benefits required by Korean law, such as health insurance
and severance pay.  Teachers' complaints include contract
violations, non-payment of salary for months at a time, sexual
harassment, intimidation, threats of arrest/deportation, and
physical assault.  A comprehensive handout entitled "Teaching
English in Korea:  Opportunities and Pitfalls" may be obtained by
writing to the Embassy.
Dual Citizenship:  The government of the Republic of Korea does not
permit dual citizenship after the age of 18.  Holders of dual
citizenship who work or study in Korea usually find themselves
compelled to choose one or the other nationality soon after that
age.  The Embassy is aware of several instances in which young
Korean-American men who were born and lived all their lives in the
U.S. arrived in Korea for a tourist visit only to find themselves
drafted into the Korean army.  Because dual citizenship is not
permitted, authorities refuse to recognize any but the Korean
citizenship of these men.  This interpretation has been recently
upheld by the Korean court.  When this occurs, the Embassy cannot
intervene.  Korean-Americans may request further information from
the nearest Korean Consulate.
Adoption:  Adoption of Korean children by foreign nationals is
still permitted, and is carefully regulated.  Any non-Korean wishing
to adopt a Korean child is required to work through one of the four
government-licensed adoption agencies.  This includes American
citizens of Korean extraction who wish to adopt the Korean citizen
child of a family member.  Private adoptions are not allowed.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy or
Consulate can obtain updated information on travel and security
within the country.
Embassy Location: The U.S. Embassy in the Republic of Korea (South
Korea) is located at 82 Sejong-Ro, Chongro-ku, Seoul - Telephone
(82-2) 397-4114.  The U.S. Consulate is located in Pusan at 24 2-Ka,
Daechung Dong, Chung-Ku  - Telephone [phone].
 No. 95-116
This replaces the consular information sheet dated March 21, 1995,
and provides updated information on English teaching in Korea.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
4                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, South
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Asia, southern half of the Korean peninsula bordering the Sea of
    Japan and the Yellow Sea, south of North Korea
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    98,480 sq km
  land area:
    98,190 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Indiana
Land boundaries:
    total 238 km, North Korea 238 km
Coastline:
    2,413 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    not specified
  territorial sea:
    12 nm; 3 nm in the Korea Strait
International disputes:
    Demarcation Line with North Korea; Liancourt Rocks claimed by Japan
Climate:
    temperate, with rainfall heavier in summer than winter
Terrain:
    mostly hills and mountains; wide coastal plains in west and south
Natural resources:
    coal, tungsten, graphite, molybdenum, lead, hydropower
Land use:
  arable land:
    21%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    1%
  forest and woodland:
    67%
  other:
    10%
Irrigated land:
    13,530 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution in large cities; water pollution from the discharge of sewage
    and industrial effluents; driftnet fishing
  natural hazards:
    occasional typhoons bring high winds and floods; earthquakes in southwest
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered
    Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban,
    Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Whaling; signed,
    but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification, Law of
    the Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, South
                                     People
Population:
    45,553,882 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    24% (female 5,280,998; male 5,640,789)
  15-64 years:
    71% (female 15,877,182; male 16,291,183)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 1,554,512; male 909,218) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.04% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.63 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.18 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.9 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    20.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    70.89 years
  male:
    67.69 years
  female:
    74.29 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.66 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Korean(s)
  adjective:
    Korean
Ethnic divisions:
    homogeneous (except for about 20,000 Chinese)
Religions:
    Christianity 48.6%, Buddhism 47.4%, Confucianism 3%, pervasive folk religion
    (shamanism), Chondogyo (Religion of the Heavenly Way) 0.2%
Languages:
    Korean, English widely taught in high school
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    96%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    94%
Labor force:
    20 million
  by occupation:
    services and other 52%, mining and manufacturing 27%, agriculture, fishing,
    forestry 21% (1991)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, South
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Korea
  conventional short form:
    South Korea
  local long form:
    Taehan-min'guk
  local short form:
    none
  note:
    the South Koreans generally use the term "Hanguk" to refer to their country
Abbreviation:
    ROK
Digraph:
    KS
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Seoul
Administrative divisions:
    9 provinces (do, singular and plural) and 6 special cities* (jikhalsi,
    singular and plural); Cheju-do, Cholla-bukto, Cholla-namdo,
    Ch'ungch'ong-bukto, Ch'ungch'ong-namdo, Inch'on-jikhalsi*, Kangwon-do,
    Kwangju-jikhalsi*, Kyonggi-do, Kyongsang-bukto, Kyongsang-namdo,
    Pusan-jikhalsi*, Soul-t'ukpyolsi*, Taegu-jikhalsi*, Taejon-jikhalsi*
Independence:
    15 August 1948
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 15 August (1948)
Constitution:
    25 February 1988
Legal system:
    combines elements of continental European civil law systems, Anglo-American
    law, and Chinese classical thought
Suffrage:
    20 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President KIM Yong-sam (since 25 February 1993); election last held on 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%
  head of government:
    Prime Minister YI Hong-ku (since 17 December 1994); Deputy Prime Minister
    HONG Chae-yong (since 4 October 1994) and Deputy Prime Minister KIM Tok
    (since 23 December 1994)
  cabinet:
    State Council; appointed by the president on the prime minister's
    recommendation
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly (Kukhoe):
    elections last held on 24 March 1992; results - DLP 38.5%, DP 29.2%,
    Unification National Party (UNP) 17.3% (name later changed to UPP), other
    15%; seats - (299 total) DLP 149, DP 97, UNP 31, other 22; the distribution
    of seats as of January 1994 was DLP 172, DP 96, UPP 11, other 20
  note:
    the change in the distribution of seats reflects the fluidity of the current
    situation where party members are constantly switching from one party to
    another
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, South
                                   Government
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
  majority party:
    Democratic Liberal Party (DLP), KIM Yong-sam, president
  opposition:
    Democratic Party (DP), YI Ki-taek, executive chairman; United People's Party
    (UPP), KIM Tong-kil, chairman; several smaller parties
  note:
    the DLP resulted from a merger of the Democratic Justice Party (DJP),
    Reunification Democratic Party (RDP), and New Democratic Republican Party
    (NDRP) on 9 February 1990
Other political or pressure groups:
    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
Member of:
    AfDB, APEC, AsDB, CCC, CP, EBRD, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, OAS (observer), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UNU, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador PAK Kun-u
  chancery:
    2450 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Agana (Guam), Anchorage, Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Honolulu, Houston, Los
    Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco, and Seattle
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador James T. LANEY
  embassy:
    82 Sejong-Ro, Chongro-ku, Seoul
  mailing address:
    American Embassy, Unit 15550, Seoul; APO AP 96205-0001
  telephone:
    [82] (2) 397-4114
  FAX:
    [82] (2) 738-8845
  consulate(s):
    Pusan
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, South
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The driving force behind the economy's dynamic growth has been the planned
    development of an export-oriented economy in a vigorously entrepreneurial
    society. Real GDP increased more than 10% annually between 1986 and 1991.
    This growth ultimately led to an overheated situation characterized by a
    tight labor market, strong inflationary pressures, and a rapidly rising
    current account deficit. As a result, in 1992, economic policy focused on
    slowing the growth rate of inflation and reducing the deficit. Annual growth
    slowed to 5%, still above the rate in most other countries of the world, and
    recovered to 6.3% in 1993. The economy expanded by 8.3% in 1994, driven by
    booming exports.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $508.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    8.3% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $11,270 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    5.6% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    2% (November 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $63 billion
  expenditures:
    $63 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
Exports:
    $96.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    electronic and electrical equipment, machinery, steel, automobiles, ships,
    textiles, clothing, footwear, fish
  partners:
    US 26%, Japan 17%, EU 14%
Imports:
    $102.3 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery, electronics and electronic equipment, oil, steel, transport
    equipment, textiles, organic chemicals, grains
  partners:
    Japan 26%, US 24%, EU 15%
External debt:
    $44.1 billion (1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 12.1% (1994 est.); accounts for about 45% of GNP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    26,940,000 kW
  production:
    137 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,847 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    electronics, automobile production, chemicals, shipbuilding, steel,
    textiles, clothing, footwear, food processing
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, South
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 8% of GDP and employs 21% of work force (including fishing and
    forestry); principal crops - rice, root crops, barley, vegetables, fruit;
    livestock and livestock products - cattle, hogs, chickens, milk, eggs;
    self-sufficient in food, except for wheat; fish catch of 2.9 million metric
    tons, seventh-largest in world
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $3.9 billion; non-US countries
    (1970-89), $3 billion
Currency:
    1 South Korean won (W) = 100 chun (theoretical)
Exchange rates:
    South Korean won (W) per US$1 - 790.48 (January 1995), 803.44 (1994), 802.67
    (1993), 780.65 (1992), 733.35 (1991), 707.76 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, South
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    6,763 km
  standard gauge:
    6,716 km 1.435-meter gauge (525 km electrified; 847 km double track)
  narrow gauge:
    47 km 0.610-meter gauge
Highways:
  total:
    63,200 km
  paved:
    expressways 1,550 km
  unpaved:
    NA
  undifferentiated:
    national highway 12,190 km; provincial, local roads 49,460 km (1991)
Inland waterways:
    1,609 km; use restricted to small native craft
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 455 km
Ports:
    Chinhae, Inch'on, Kunsan, Masan, Mokp'o, Pohang, Pusan, Ulsan, Yosu
Merchant marine:
  total:
    412 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 6,129,796 GRT/9,985,197 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 123, cargo 125, chemical tanker 17, combination bulk 1, combination
    ore/oil 1, container 61, liquefied gas tanker 13, multifunction large-load
    carrier 1, oil tanker 51, refrigerated cargo 9, short-sea passenger 1,
    vehicle carrier 9
Airports:
  total:
    114
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    22
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    10
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    14
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    63
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, South
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    13.3 million telephones; excellent domestic and international services
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    3 INTELSAT (2 Pacific Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 79, FM 46, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    256 (1 kW or greater 57)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, South
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, National Maritime Police (Coast Guard)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 13,580,832; males fit for military service 8,701,742; males
    reach military age (18) annually 405,290 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $14 billion, 3.3% of GNP (1995 est.)
Kuwait
KOREA, DEMOCRATIC PEOPLE'S REPUBLIC OF (North Korea) - The United
States does not maintain diplomatic or consular relations with North Korea and
has no third country representing U.S. interests there.  Attention:  U.S.
citizens need a Treasury Dept. license in order to engage in any
transactions related to travel to and within North Korea.  Before
planning any travel to North Korea, U.S. citizens should contact the Licensing
Division, Office of Foreign Assets Control, Department of the Treasury,
1331 G St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20220 (202/622-2480).  Visa
information must be obtained from a consulate in a country that maintains
diplomatic relations with North Korea.
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - North Korea
============================================================
North Korea - Travel Warning
 June 21, 1995
U.S. citizens are warned against travel to North Korea.  The United
States does not recognize the government of North Korea and does not
maintain diplomatic or consular relations with North Korean
authorities.  There is no Consular representation for U.S. citizens
and therefore the United States government is unable to accord
normal consular protection to U.S. citizens.
 No. 95-021
This extends the Travel Warning for North Korea dated July 16, 1993.
North Korea - Consular Information Sheet
 June 16, 1995
Warning:  The United States does not recognize the government of
North Korea and does not maintain diplomatic or consular relations
with North Korean authorities.  The United States Government is
unable to accord normal consular protection to U.S. citizens at this
time.
Country Description:  The Democratic People's Republic of Korea
(North Korea) is a developing Communist state under the control of
the Korean Workers Party (KWP).
Embassy Location:  The United States does not have diplomatic
relations with North Korea, and does not maintain a diplomatic
presence there.  Negotiations are under way for the opening of a
U.S. Liaison Office in Pyongyang but it is uncertain when they may
be completed.  The United States government is unable to accord
normal consular protection to U.S. citizens at this time.
Entry Requirements:  Visa information is available only through a
North Korean consulate in a country which maintains diplomatic
relations with North Korea.  U.S. passports are valid for travel to
North Korea; however, a visa is required.
Restricted Financial Transactions:  Travelers do not need U.S.
Government permission to travel to North Korea.  All transactions
related to travel to, from and within North Korea and to maintenance
within North Korea are authorized.  U.S. travel service providers
are authorized to organize group travel to North Korea, including
transactions with North Korean carriers.  However, individuals may
only spend money in North Korea to purchase items ordinarily
incident to travel, such as hotel accommodations, meals, and goods
for personal consumption by the traveler in North Korea.  There is
no longer any per diem restriction on these expenses, and the use of
credit cards for these transactions is also authorized.  Because the
sanctions program prohibits business dealings with North Korea
unless licensed by the U.S. Treasury Department, purchases of other
goods or services unrelated to travel are prohibited.
U.S. Customs Requirements:  A traveler returning from North Korea
may bring into the United States as accompanied baggage $100 worth
of merchandise in non-commercial quantities, as well as
informational materials without limitation.
U.S. Treasury Department Licenses:  A license by the U.S. Treasury
Department is required for all business dealings with North Korea.
Individuals contemplating trade with North Korea may contact the
Department of the Treasury for further information at:
 Licensing Division
 Office of Foreign Assests Control
 Department of Treasury
 1500 Pennsylvania Avenue, NW,
 Treasury Annex
 Washington, D.C. 20220
 Tel: [phone]; fax: [phone]
Dual Citizenship:  U.S. citizens who were born in North Korea or
who were at one time citizens of North Korea, and the children of
such persons, may be considered dual nationals by North Korean
authorities and may, therefore, be subject to North Korean laws.
These laws may impose special obligations upon North Korean
nationals, e.g., military service, taxes.  Specific questions on
dual nationality may be directed to Overseas Citizen Services,
Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520, phone:  [phone].
Travel Documents:  U.S. citizens contemplating travel to North
Korea should carry only U.S. passports with the proper visa affixed.
 Under no condition should U.S. citizens accept travel documents
which identify them as citizens of North Korea.
 No. 95-070
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for North Korea dated
July 9, 1993, updating financial and travel information.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
7                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, North
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Asia, northern half of the Korean peninsula bordering the Korea Bay
    and the Sea of Japan, between China and Russia
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    120,540 sq km
  land area:
    120,410 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Mississippi
Land boundaries:
    total 1,673 km, China 1,416 km, South Korea 238 km, Russia 19 km
Coastline:
    2,495 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  military boundary line:
    50 nm in the Sea of Japan and the exclusive economic zone limit in the
    Yellow Sea where all foreign vessels and aircraft without permission are
    banned
International disputes:
    short section of boundary with China is indefinite; Demarcation Line with
    South Korea
Climate:
    temperate with rainfall concentrated in summer
Terrain:
    mostly hills and mountains separated by deep, narrow valleys; coastal plains
    wide in west, discontinuous in east
Natural resources:
    coal, lead, tungsten, zinc, graphite, magnesite, iron ore, copper, gold,
    pyrites, salt, fluorspar, hydropower
Land use:
  arable land:
    18%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    74%
  other:
    7%
Irrigated land:
    14,000 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    localized air pollution attributable to inadequate industrial controls;
    water pollution; inadequate supplies of potable water
  natural hazards:
    late spring droughts often followed by severe flooding; occasional typhoons
    during the early fall
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, North
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Environmental
    Modification, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not
    ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea
Note:
    strategic location bordering China, South Korea, and Russia; mountainous
    interior is isolated, nearly inaccessible, and sparsely populated
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, North
                                     People
Population:
    23,486,550 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    30% (female 3,402,672; male 3,540,313)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 7,840,465; male 7,741,155)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 622,250; male 339,695) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.78% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    23.31 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.47 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    26.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    70.05 years
  male:
    66.96 years
  female:
    73.29 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.34 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Korean(s)
  adjective:
    Korean
Ethnic divisions:
    racially homogeneous
Religions:
    Buddhism and Confucianism, some Christianity and syncretic Chondogyo
  note:
    autonomous religious activities now almost nonexistent; government-sponsored
    religious groups exist to provide illusion of religious freedom
Languages:
    Korean
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write Korean (1990 est.)
  total population:
    99%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    99%
Labor force:
    9.615 million
  by occupation:
    agricultural 36%, nonagricultural 64%
  note:
    shortage of skilled and unskilled labor (mid-1987 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, North
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Democratic People's Republic of Korea
  conventional short form:
    North Korea
  local long form:
    Choson-minjujuui-inmin-konghwaguk
  local short form:
    none
  note:
    the North Koreans generally use the term "Choson" to refer to their country
Abbreviation:
    DPRK
Digraph:
    KN
Type:
    Communist state; Stalinist dictatorship
Capital:
    P'yongyang
Administrative divisions:
    9 provinces (do, singular and plural) and 3 special cities* (jikhalsi,
    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)
Independence:
    9 September 1948
  note:
    15 August 1945, date of independence from the Japanese and celebrated in
    North Korea as National Liberation Day
National holiday:
    DPRK Foundation Day, 9 September (1948)
Constitution:
    adopted 1948, completely revised 27 December 1972, revised again in April
    1992
Legal system:
    based on German civil law system with Japanese influences and Communist
    legal theory; no judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    17 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    KIM Chong-il, is the son of and designated successor to former President KIM
    Il-song (who died 8 July 1994); formal succession has not yet taken place
    (January 1995); election last held 24 May 1990 (next to be held by NA);
    results - President KIM Il-song was reelected without opposition
  head of government:
    Premier KANG Song-san (since December 1992)
  cabinet:
    State Administration Council; appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, North
                                   Government
  Supreme People's Assembly (Ch'oego Inmin Hoeui):
    elections last held on 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
Judicial branch:
    Central Court
Political parties and leaders:
    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
Member of:
    ESCAP, FAO, G-77, ICAO, IFAD, IFRCS, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), IOC,
    ISO, ITU, NAM, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none
US diplomatic representation:
    none
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, North
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 3%-5% annually during 1989-92 because of systemic problems and
    disruptions in socialist-style economic relations with the former USSR and
    China. In 1992, output dropped sharply, by perhaps 7%-9%, as the economy
    felt the cumulative effect of the reduction in outside support. The
    leadership 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. Output of the
    extractive industries includes coal, iron ore, magnesite, graphite, copper,
    zinc, lead, and precious metals. 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 collapse of Communism in the former
    Soviet Union and Eastern Europe in 1989-91 has disrupted important
    technological links. North Korea remains far behind South Korea in economic
    development and living standards. GDP is stagnant.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $21.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    0% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $920 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $19.3 billion
  expenditures:
    $19.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $1.02 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    minerals, metallurgical products, agricultural and fishery products,
    manufactures (including armaments)
  partners:
    China, Japan, Russia, South Korea, Germany, Hong Kong
Imports:
    $1.64 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    petroleum, grain, coking coal, machinery and equipment, consumer goods
  partners:
    China, Russia, Japan, Hong Kong, Germany, Singapore
External debt:
    $8 billion (1992 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -7% to -9% (1992 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, North
                                     Economy
Electricity:
  capacity:
    9,500,000 kW
  production:
    50 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,053 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    machine building, military products, electric power, chemicals, mining,
    metallurgy, textiles, food processing
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 25% of GDP and 36% of work force; principal crops - rice,
    corn, potatoes, soybeans, pulses; livestock and livestock products - cattle,
    hogs, pork, eggs; not self-sufficient in grain
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Communist countries, $1.4 billion a year in the 1980s, but very little now
Currency:
    1 North Korean won (Wn) = 100 chon
Exchange rates:
    North Korean won (Wn) per US$1 - 2.15 (May 1994), 2.13 (May 1992), 2.14
    (September 1991), 2.1 (January 1990), 2.3 (December 1989)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, North
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    4,915 km
  standard gauge:
    4,250 km 1.435-m gauge (3,397 km electrified; 159 km double track)
  narrow gauge:
    665 km 0.762-m gauge (1989)
Highways:
  total:
    30,000 km
  paved:
    1,861 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, earth 28,139 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    2,253 km; mostly navigable by small craft only
Pipelines:
    crude oil 37 km
Ports:
    Ch'ongjin, Haeju, Hungnam (Hamhung), Kimch'aek, Kosong, Najin, Namp'o,
    Sinuiju, Songnim, Sonbong (formerly Unggi), Ungsang, Wonsan
Merchant marine:
  total:
    87 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 727,631 GRT/1,149,291 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 9, cargo 70, combination bulk 1, oil tanker 3, passenger 2,
    passenger-cargo 1, short-sea passenger 1
  note:
    North Korea owns an additional 4 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling
    approximately 32,405 DWT that operate under Honduran registry
Airports:
  total:
    49
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    15
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    12
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    6
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, North
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    telephone system is believed to be available only to government officials
    and not to private individuals
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 earth station near P'yongyang, uses an Indian Ocean INTELSAT satellite;
    other international connections through Moscow and Beijing
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 18, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    3.5 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    11
  televisions:
    350,000 (1989)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Korea, North
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Korean People's Army (includes Army, Navy, Air Force), Civil Security Forces
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 6,753,400; males fit for military service 4,094,854; males
    reach military age (18) annually 193,480 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - about $5 billion, 20%-25% of GDP (1991 est.);
    note - the officially announced but suspect figure is $2.2 billion (1994),
    about 12% of total spending
Kiribati
`;N;KENYA - Passport and visa required.  Visa must be obtained in advance.
Single-entry visa for tourist/business stay up to 6 months, $10 (money
order only); requires 1 application form, 2 photos and onward/return
ticket.  Yellow fever  immunization is recommend.  Anti-malaria pills
are recommended for those travelling to the western or coastal regions.
Multiple-entry  business visa valid  for up to 1 year, $50.  Payment by
cashiers check or money order only.  Airport departure tax is $20.
Consult the Embassy of Kenya, 2249 R St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/387-6101) or Consulate General:  Los Angeles (310/274-6635) or New
York (212/486-1300).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Kenya
============================================================
Kenya - Consular Information Sheet
 November 9, 1995
Country Description:  Kenya is a developing east African country.
Tourist facilities are widely available in Nairobi, on the coast,
and in the game parks and reserves.
Entry Requirements:  Entry information (and information about
departure tax) may be obtained from the Embassy of Kenya, 2249 R
Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], or
Consulates General in Los Angeles and New York City.  Overseas,
inquiries may be made at the nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate.
Areas of Instability:  Kenya is in a political transition period,
from a single-party democracy to a multi-party democracy.  From time
to time, political or ethnic tensions, associated with this
transition, increase--resulting in localized areas of instability,
disruption of public services, and sporadic demonstrations.  These
ethnic and political clashes have had no affect on tourism and have
little potential to do so in the future.
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical services are available in
Nairobi.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid outside the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does
not provide for the payment of medical services outside the United
States.  Supplemental insurance with specific overseas coverage,
including air evacuations, has proved useful.  Information on other
health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline, telephone (404)
332-4559.
Information on Crime:  There is a high rate of street crime against
tourists in downtown Nairobi, Mombasa and at coastal beach resorts.
Reports of attacks against tourists by groups of two or more armed
assailants have increased in recent months.  Pickpockets and thieves
also carry out "snatch and run" crimes near crowds.  Visitors have
found it safer not to carry valuables with them, but to store all
valuables in hotel safety deposit boxes or safe rooms.  There have
been reports of thieves snatching jewelry and other objects from
open vehicle windows while motorists are either stopped at a traffic
light or in heavy traffic.  Armed carjackings are increasingly
common in Nairobi, with some ten vehicles stolen by armed robbers
each day.  There is also a high incidence of residential break-ins.
Thieves and con men have been known to impersonate hotel employees,
police officers or government officials.  Tourists who accept candy,
biscuits, or juice from new acquaintances on intercity buses have
been robbed after being drugged by food laced with sedatives.
Highway banditry is common on the roads leading to the Somali
border.  Air travel is the safest means of transportation when
visiting any of the coastal resorts north of Malindi.  Walking alone
or at night in public parks, along footpaths or beaches and in
poorly lit areas can be dangerous.  The Kenyan mail system can be
unreliable, and monetary instruments (credit cards, checks, etc.)
are frequently stolen.  International couriers such as Federal
Express or DHL have proven to be the safest means of shipping
envelopes and packages.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Currency Regulations:  Up to 100,000 Kenyan shillings may be taken
out of the country.  Destruction of Kenyan currency, even in small
amounts, is illegal, and almost always results in arrest and a fine.
Game Park Security:  Highway banditry is occasionally a problem in
or near some game parks or reserves.  In recent months, a number of
tour vehicles ferrying European tourists from beach resorts north of
Mombasa to Tsavo East National Park Have been targets of bandit
activity.  Travelers who do not use the services of reputable travel
firms or knowledgeable guides or drivers are especially at risk.
Safaris are best undertaken with a minimum of two vehicles so that
there is a backup in case of mechanical failure or other emergency.
Solo camping is always risky.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  The penalty
for possession of illegal drugs, including marijuana, is 10 years
imprisonment, with no option of fine.  The penalty for purchasing or
selling illegal drugs, including marijuana, is 20 years
imprisonment, with no option of fine.
Other Information:  Water in Nairobi is potable.  In other parts of
the country, water must be boiled or bottled water used.  Travel by
passenger train may be unsafe, particularly during the rainy season,
because of the lack of routine maintenance and safety checks.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to
register at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi and may obtain updated
information on travel and security in Kenya.  The U.S. Embassy is
located at the intersection of Moi and Haile Selassie Avenues in
Nairobi; the telephone number is (254-2) 334141.  The international
mailing address is P.O. BOX 30137 Nairobi, Kenya.  Mail using
domestic postage may be addressed to Box 21A, Unit 64100, APO AE
09831.
 No. 95-141
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued October 28,
1994, to update information concerning game park security.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Kenya
============================================================
Kenya - Public Announcement
 April 8, 1994
 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release
The U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya has issued the following
announcement:
"The U.S. Embassy and several private institutions in Kenya have
recently received bomb threats that profess to be directed against
American interests in Kenya.  To date, none of the threats has
proved real, nor does the Embassy have any information that would
lead us to believe that the threats will actually be carried out.
Nevertheless, we must take these threats seriously.  All Americans
should heighten their security awareness and avoid unnecessary
attention to their person or activities.  The Embassy recommends
that Americans pay particular attention to any indication of
surveillance or other unusual or suspect activity, which should be
reported to appropriate authorities immediately.  The Embassy should
be informed of any threats against private American concerns or
individuals."
 No. 94-ccc
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Kenya
============================================================
Kenya - Consular Information Sheet
 November 9, 1995
Country Description:  Kenya is a developing east African country.
Tourist facilities are widely available in Nairobi, on the coast,
and in the game parks and reserves.
Entry Requirements:  Entry information (and information about
departure tax) may be obtained from the Embassy of Kenya, 2249 R
Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], or
Consulates General in Los Angeles and New York City.  Overseas,
inquiries may be made at the nearest Kenyan embassy or consulate.
Areas of Instability:  Kenya is in a political transition period,
from a single-party democracy to a multi-party democracy.  From time
to time, political or ethnic tensions, associated with this
transition, increase--resulting in localized areas of instability,
disruption of public services, and sporadic demonstrations.  These
ethnic and political clashes have had no affect on tourism and have
little potential to do so in the future.
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical services are available in
Nairobi.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid outside the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does
not provide for the payment of medical services outside the United
States.  Supplemental insurance with specific overseas coverage,
including air evacuations, has proved useful.  Information on other
health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline, telephone (404)
332-4559.
Information on Crime:  There is a high rate of street crime against
tourists in downtown Nairobi, Mombasa and at coastal beach resorts.
Reports of attacks against tourists by groups of two or more armed
assailants have increased in recent months.  Pickpockets and thieves
also carry out "snatch and run" crimes near crowds.  Visitors have
found it safer not to carry valuables with them, but to store all
valuables in hotel safety deposit boxes or safe rooms.  There have
been reports of thieves snatching jewelry and other objects from
open vehicle windows while motorists are either stopped at a traffic
light or in heavy traffic.  Armed carjackings are increasingly
common in Nairobi, with some ten vehicles stolen by armed robbers
each day.  There is also a high incidence of residential break-ins.
Thieves and con men have been known to impersonate hotel employees,
police officers or government officials.  Tourists who accept candy,
biscuits, or juice from new acquaintances on intercity buses have
been robbed after being drugged by food laced with sedatives.
Highway banditry is common on the roads leading to the Somali
border.  Air travel is the safest means of transportation when
visiting any of the coastal resorts north of Malindi.  Walking alone
or at night in public parks, along footpaths or beaches and in
poorly lit areas can be dangerous.  The Kenyan mail system can be
unreliable, and monetary instruments (credit cards, checks, etc.)
are frequently stolen.  International couriers such as Federal
Express or DHL have proven to be the safest means of shipping
envelopes and packages.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Currency Regulations:  Up to 100,000 Kenyan shillings may be taken
out of the country.  Destruction of Kenyan currency, even in small
amounts, is illegal, and almost always results in arrest and a fine.
Game Park Security:  Highway banditry is occasionally a problem in
or near some game parks or reserves.  In recent months, a number of
tour vehicles ferrying European tourists from beach resorts north of
Mombasa to Tsavo East National Park Have been targets of bandit
activity.  Travelers who do not use the services of reputable travel
firms or knowledgeable guides or drivers are especially at risk.
Safaris are best undertaken with a minimum of two vehicles so that
there is a backup in case of mechanical failure or other emergency.
Solo camping is always risky.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  The penalty
for possession of illegal drugs, including marijuana, is 10 years
imprisonment, with no option of fine.  The penalty for purchasing or
selling illegal drugs, including marijuana, is 20 years
imprisonment, with no option of fine.
Other Information:  Water in Nairobi is potable.  In other parts of
the country, water must be boiled or bottled water used.  Travel by
passenger train may be unsafe, particularly during the rainy season,
because of the lack of routine maintenance and safety checks.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to
register at the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi and may obtain updated
information on travel and security in Kenya.  The U.S. Embassy is
located at the intersection of Moi and Haile Selassie Avenues in
Nairobi; the telephone number is (254-2) 334141.  The international
mailing address is P.O. BOX 30137 Nairobi, Kenya.  Mail using
domestic postage may be addressed to Box 21A, Unit 64100, APO AE
09831.
 No. 95-141
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued October 28,
1994, to update information concerning game park security.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
1                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Kenya
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Africa, bordering the Indian Ocean, between Somalia and Tanzania
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    582,650 sq km
  land area:
    569,250 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than twice the size of Nevada
Land boundaries:
    total 3,446 km, Ethiopia 830 km, Somalia 682 km, Sudan 232 km, Tanzania 769
    km, Uganda 933 km
Coastline:
    536 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    administrative boundary with Sudan does not coincide with international
    boundary; possible claim by Somalia based on unification of ethnic Somalis
Climate:
    varies from tropical along coast to arid in interior
Terrain:
    low plains rise to central highlands bisected by Great Rift Valley; fertile
    plateau in west
Natural resources:
    gold, limestone, soda ash, salt barytes, rubies, fluorspar, garnets,
    wildlife
Land use:
  arable land:
    3%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    7%
  forest and woodland:
    4%
  other:
    85%
Irrigated land:
    520 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution from urban and industrial wastes; degradation of water
    quality from increased use of pesticides and fertilizers; deforestation;
    soil erosion; desertification; poaching
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea,
    Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified -
    Desertification
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Kenya
                                    Geography
Note:
    the Kenyan Highlands comprise one of the most successful agricultural
    production regions in Africa; glaciers on Mt. Kenya; unique physiography
    supports abundant and varied wildlife of scientific and economic value
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Kenya
                                     People
Population:
    28,817,227 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 6,841,235; male 6,957,908)
  15-64 years:
    50% (female 7,277,061; male 7,085,925)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 359,659; male 295,439) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.99% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    41.66 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.04 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -19.69 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    73.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    52.41 years
  male:
    50.72 years
  female:
    54.16 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.76 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Kenyan(s)
  adjective:
    Kenyan
Ethnic divisions:
    Kikuyu 22%, Luhya 14%, Luo 13%, Kalenjin 12%, Kamba 11%, Kisii 6%, Meru 6%,
    Asian, European, and Arab 1%, other 15%
Religions:
    Protestant (including Anglican) 38%, Roman Catholic 28%, indigenous beliefs
    26%, other 8%
Languages:
    English (official), Swahili (official), numerous indigenous languages
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    71%
  male:
    81%
  female:
    62%
Labor force:
  by occupation:
    agriculture 75%-80% (1993 est.), non-agriculture 20%-25% (1993 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Kenya
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Kenya
  conventional short form:
    Kenya
  former:
    British East Africa
Digraph:
    KE
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Nairobi
Administrative divisions:
    7 provinces and 1 area*; Central, Coast, Eastern, Nairobi Area*, North
    Eastern, Nyanza, Rift Valley, Western
Independence:
    12 December 1963 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 12 December (1963)
Constitution:
    12 December 1963, amended as a republic 1964; reissued with amendments 1979,
    1983, 1986, 1988, 1991, and 1992
Legal system:
    based on English common law, tribal law, and Islamic law; judicial review in
    High Court; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations;
    constitutional amendment of 1982 making Kenya a de jure one-party state
    repealed in 1991
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Daniel Toroitich arap MOI (since 14 October 1978); Vice President
    George SAITOTI (since 10 May 1989); election last held on 29 December 1992
    (next to be held NA 1997); results - President Daniel T. arap MOI was
    reelected with 37% of the vote; Kenneth Matiba (FORD-ASILI) 26%; Mwai Kibaki
    (SP) 19%, Oginga Odinga (FORD-Kenya) 17%
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly (Bunge):
    elections last held on 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:
    first multiparty election since repeal of one-party state law in 1991
Judicial branch:
    Court of Appeal, High Court
Political parties and leaders:
    ruling party is Kenya 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 Kenya (DP), Mwai
    KIBAKI
Other political or pressure groups:
    labor unions; Roman Catholic Church
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Kenya
                                   Government
Member of:
    ESCAP, FAO, G-77, ICAO, ICRM, IFAD, IFRCS, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory
    user), IOC, ISO, ITU, NAM, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMIL, UNU, UPU,
    WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Benjamin Edgar KIPKORIR
  chancery:
    2249 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Los Angeles and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Aurelia BRAZEAL
  embassy:
    corner of Moi Avenue and Haile Selassie Avenue, Nairobi
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 30137, Unit 64100, Nairobi; APO AE 09831
  telephone:
    [254] (2) 334141
  FAX:
    [254] (2) 340838
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Kenya
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Kenya 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 infrastructure. In
    industry and services, Nairobi's reluctance to embrace IMF-supported reforms
    had held back investment and growth in 1991-93. Nairobi's push on economic
    reform in 1994, however, helped support a 3.3% increase in output.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $33.1 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3.3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,170 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    30% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    35% urban (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $2.4 billion
  expenditures:
    $2.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $740 million (1990 est.)
Exports:
    $1.45 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    tea 25%, coffee 18%, petroleum products 11% (1990)
  partners:
    EC 47%, Africa 23%, Asia 11%, US 4%, Middle East 3% (1991)
Imports:
    $1.85 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and transportation equipment 29%, petroleum and petroleum products
    15%, iron and steel 7%, raw materials, food and consumer goods (1989)
  partners:
    EC 46%, Asia 23%, Middle East 20%, US 5% (1991)
External debt:
    $7 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3.9% (1991 est.); accounts for 14% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    810,000 kW
  production:
    3.3 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    117 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    small-scale consumer goods (plastic, furniture, batteries, textiles, soap,
    cigarettes, flour), processing agricultural products, oil refining, cement,
    tourism
Agriculture:
    most important sector, accounting for 27% of GDP and 65% of exports; cash
    crops - coffee, tea; food products - corn, wheat, sugarcane, fruit,
    vegetables, dairy products, beef, pork, poultry, eggs
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Kenya
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    widespread harvesting of small, wild plots of marijuana and qat; 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
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $839 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $7.49 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $74 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $83
    million
Currency:
    1 Kenyan shilling (KSh) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Kenyan shillings (KSh) per US$1 - 44.478 (January 1995), 56.051 (1994),
    58.001 (1993), 32.217 (1992), 27.508 (1991), 22.915 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Kenya
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,650 km
  narrow gauge:
    2,650 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    64,590 km
  paved:
    7,000 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 4,150 km; improved earth 53,440 km
Inland waterways:
    part of Lake Victoria system is within boundaries of Kenya
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 483 km
Ports:
    Kisumu, Lamu, Mombasa
Merchant marine:
  total:
    2 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 4,883 GRT/6,255 DWT
  ships by type:
    barge carrier 1, oil tanker 1
Airports:
  total:
    246
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    22
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    83
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    14
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    119
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Kenya
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    over 260,000 telephones; in top group of African systems
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    consists primarily of microwave radio relay links
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 16, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    6
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Kenya
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary General Service Unit of the Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 6,358,344; males fit for military service 3,932,506 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $136 million, 1.9% of GDP (FY93/94)
Japan
9JAMAICA - Passport (or original birth certificate and photo ID),
onward/return ticket and proof of sufficient funds required.  (Photo ID
is not required for U.S. citizens under 16  using birth certificate.)
Tourist card issued on arrival for stay up to 6 months; must be returned to
immigration authorities on departure.  For business or study, visa must
be obtained in advance, no charge.  Departure tax $15 paid at airport.
Check information with Embassy of Jamaica, Suite 355, 1850 K St., N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20006 (202/452-0660) or nearest Consulate:  CA
(213/380-9471 or 415/886-6061), FL (305/374-8431), GA (404/593-1500),
IL (312/663-0023) or NY (212/935-9000).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Jamaica
============================================================
Jamaica - Consular Information Sheet
 August 24, 1995
Country Description:  Jamaica is a developing nation.  Facilities
for tourism are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  If traveling directly from the U.S., Puerto
Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands, U.S. citizens can enter Jamaica
with proof of U.S. citizenship, photo identification, return ticket
and sufficient funds.  A tourist card is issued on arrival for stays
up to six months.  For further information concerning entry
requirements, travelers can contact the Embassy of Jamaica, 1520 New
Hampshire Avenue, N.W, Washington, D.C. 20036, tel:  [phone]
or the nearest consulate in Los Angeles, Miami, Atlanta, Chicago or
New York.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is often limited.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the U.S.  In some
cases, supplementary medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage, including medical evacuation insurance, has proved useful.
 For additional health information, the traveler may contact the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Crime is a serious problem in Kingston.
Criminal acts can rapidly turn violent.  The U.S. Embassy in
Kingston advises its staff not to use buses, which are often
overcrowded and provide a venue for crime.  Travelers who use
taxicabs should take only licensed taxicabs.
It is dangerous to walk outside in Kingston after dark.  It is also
dangerous for visitors to frequent neighborhoods known for high
crime rates.  In 1995 for example, sporadic gang violence spread
from neighborhoods west of the downtown area to the fringes of
downtown Kingston.  These areas are sometimes subject to curfew.
Tourist areas are usually not affected by curfews, but travelers
should check with local authorities or the U.S. Embassy for details.
The U.S. Embassy advises its staff to exercise caution when
traveling to and from the airport area via Windward and Mountain
View Avenues because of the crime threat.  The U.S. Embassy suggests
that flights in and out of Kingston be scheduled for daylight hours
whenever possible and discourages after dark travel to and from the
Morgan's Harbour/Port Royal area.
The government of Jamaica has taken a number of steps, including
assignment of special tourist security personnel, to enhance
security in the major resort areas on the north and west coasts.
Resorts that feature self-contained facilities offer a higher degree
of security than other facilities.  Particular care is called for at
isolated villas and smaller establishments and at facilities which
have fewer security arrangements because of eco-tourism concerns.
Valuables left unattended on beaches are subject to theft.
There have been recent scams involving relatives of U.S. citizen
visitors and prisoners in Jamaica who have received telephone calls
from people alleging that they are Jamaican police officers or other
public officials.  The callers state that the visitor or prisoner
has had trouble and that money should be sent to the caller, who
will assist the U.S. citizen.  These calls are hoaxes.  The American
Citizens Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy's Consular Section can
assist in confirming the validity of the call.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported to
local police and the U.S. Embassy or Consular Agency.  A U.S. birth
certificate and/or drivers license generally cannot be replaced
outside of the U.S.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of
State's pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," which provides useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad.  Both this pamphlet and "Tips for Travelers
to The Caribbean" are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use and dealing in illegal drugs, including marijuana,
are strict and have recently been increased to include possible life
imprisonment.  Substantial fines plus mandatory sentences of six to
nine months are common.  Departing visitors are thoroughly screened
for drug possession.
Aviation Oversight:  As a result of an assessment conducted by the
U.S. Federal Aviation Administration in November 1994, the FAA has
found the Government of Jamaica's Civil Aviation Authority to not be
in compliance with international aviation safety standards for
oversight of Jamaican air carrier operations.  While consultations
to correct the deficiencies are ongoing, Jamaican air carriers are
permitted to conduct limited operations to the U.S. subject to
heightened FAA surveillance.  The FAA is not providing heightened
surveillance for operations to destinations other than the U.S.  For
further information, travelers may contact the Department of
Transportation at 1-800-322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens may register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Kingston.  The U.S. Embassy
is located on the third floor of the Jamaica Mutual Life Centre, 2
Oxford Road; telephone [phone] through 9859; fax (809)
926-6743.  The Consular Section is located at the Life of Jamaica
Building, 16 Oxford Road; telephone [phone] through 4859;
Consular fax [phone].
There is also a U.S. Consular Agency in Montego Bay at St. James
Place, 2nd floor, Gloucester Avenue; telephone [phone]; fax
[phone]; office hours Monday-Friday 9:00a.m.-12:00p.m.
The U.S. Embassy in Kingston also has consular responsibility for
the Cayman Islands.  A Consular Agency will reopen soon in George
Town, Grand Cayman.  U.S. citizens may obtain updated information
from the U.S. Embassy on travel and security in Jamaica and the
Cayman Islands.
 No. 95-099
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 28, 1995,
to include Aviation Oversight Information and additional Crime
Information
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Jamaica
============================================================
Jamaica - Consular Information Sheet
 August 24, 1995
Country Description:  Jamaica is a developing nation.  Facilities
for tourism are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  If traveling directly from the U.S., Puerto
Rico or the U.S. Virgin Islands, U.S. citizens can enter Jamaica
with proof of U.S. citizenship, photo identification, return ticket
and sufficient funds.  A tourist card is issued on arrival for stays
up to six months.  For further information concerning entry
requirements, travelers can contact the Embassy of Jamaica, 1520 New
Hampshire Avenue, N.W, Washington, D.C. 20036, tel:  [phone]
or the nearest consulate in Los Angeles, Miami, Atlanta, Chicago or
New York.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is often limited.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the U.S.  In some
cases, supplementary medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage, including medical evacuation insurance, has proved useful.
 For additional health information, the traveler may contact the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Crime is a serious problem in Kingston.
Criminal acts can rapidly turn violent.  The U.S. Embassy in
Kingston advises its staff not to use buses, which are often
overcrowded and provide a venue for crime.  Travelers who use
taxicabs should take only licensed taxicabs.
It is dangerous to walk outside in Kingston after dark.  It is also
dangerous for visitors to frequent neighborhoods known for high
crime rates.  In 1995 for example, sporadic gang violence spread
from neighborhoods west of the downtown area to the fringes of
downtown Kingston.  These areas are sometimes subject to curfew.
Tourist areas are usually not affected by curfews, but travelers
should check with local authorities or the U.S. Embassy for details.
The U.S. Embassy advises its staff to exercise caution when
traveling to and from the airport area via Windward and Mountain
View Avenues because of the crime threat.  The U.S. Embassy suggests
that flights in and out of Kingston be scheduled for daylight hours
whenever possible and discourages after dark travel to and from the
Morgan's Harbour/Port Royal area.
The government of Jamaica has taken a number of steps, including
assignment of special tourist security personnel, to enhance
security in the major resort areas on the north and west coasts.
Resorts that feature self-contained facilities offer a higher degree
of security than other facilities.  Particular care is called for at
isolated villas and smaller establishments and at facilities which
have fewer security arrangements because of eco-tourism concerns.
Valuables left unattended on beaches are subject to theft.
There have been recent scams involving relatives of U.S. citizen
visitors and prisoners in Jamaica who have received telephone calls
from people alleging that they are Jamaican police officers or other
public officials.  The callers state that the visitor or prisoner
has had trouble and that money should be sent to the caller, who
will assist the U.S. citizen.  These calls are hoaxes.  The American
Citizens Services Unit of the U.S. Embassy's Consular Section can
assist in confirming the validity of the call.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported to
local police and the U.S. Embassy or Consular Agency.  A U.S. birth
certificate and/or drivers license generally cannot be replaced
outside of the U.S.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of
State's pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," which provides useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad.  Both this pamphlet and "Tips for Travelers
to The Caribbean" are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use and dealing in illegal drugs, including marijuana,
are strict and have recently been increased to include possible life
imprisonment.  Substantial fines plus mandatory sentences of six to
nine months are common.  Departing visitors are thoroughly screened
for drug possession.
Aviation Oversight:  As a result of an assessment conducted by the
U.S. Federal Aviation Administration in November 1994, the FAA has
found the Government of Jamaica's Civil Aviation Authority to not be
in compliance with international aviation safety standards for
oversight of Jamaican air carrier operations.  While consultations
to correct the deficiencies are ongoing, Jamaican air carriers are
permitted to conduct limited operations to the U.S. subject to
heightened FAA surveillance.  The FAA is not providing heightened
surveillance for operations to destinations other than the U.S.  For
further information, travelers may contact the Department of
Transportation at 1-800-322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens may register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Kingston.  The U.S. Embassy
is located on the third floor of the Jamaica Mutual Life Centre, 2
Oxford Road; telephone [phone] through 9859; fax (809)
926-6743.  The Consular Section is located at the Life of Jamaica
Building, 16 Oxford Road; telephone [phone] through 4859;
Consular fax [phone].
There is also a U.S. Consular Agency in Montego Bay at St. James
Place, 2nd floor, Gloucester Avenue; telephone [phone]; fax
[phone]; office hours Monday-Friday 9:00a.m.-12:00p.m.
The U.S. Embassy in Kingston also has consular responsibility for
the Cayman Islands.  A Consular Agency will reopen soon in George
Town, Grand Cayman.  U.S. citizens may obtain updated information
from the U.S. Embassy on travel and security in Jamaica and the
Cayman Islands.
 No. 95-099
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 28, 1995,
to include Aviation Oversight Information and additional Crime
Information
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*                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jamaica
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    10,990 sq km
  land area:
    10,830 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Connecticut
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    1,022 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid; temperate interior
Terrain:
    mostly mountains with narrow, discontinuous coastal plain
Natural resources:
    bauxite, gypsum, limestone
Land use:
  arable land:
    19%
  permanent crops:
    6%
  meadows and pastures:
    18%
  forest and woodland:
    28%
  other:
    29%
Irrigated land:
    350 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; coastal waters polluted by industrial waste, sewage, and oil
    spills; damage to coral reefs; air pollution in Kingston results from
    vehicle emissions
  natural hazards:
    hurricanes (especially July to November)
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping,
    Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship
    Pollution
Note:
    strategic location between Cayman Trench and Jamaica Channel, the main sea
    lanes for Panama Canal
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jamaica
                                     People
Population:
    2,574,291 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    33% (female 412,565; male 431,043)
  15-64 years:
    60% (female 786,700; male 770,681)
  65 years and over:
    7% (female 96,348; male 76,954) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.78% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    22.03 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.62 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -8.65 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    16.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    74.65 years
  male:
    72.39 years
  female:
    77.01 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.42 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Jamaican(s)
  adjective:
    Jamaican
Ethnic divisions:
    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%
Religions:
    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)
Languages:
    English, Creole
Literacy:
    age 15 and over has ever attended school (1987)
  total population:
    82%
  male:
    77%
  female:
    86%
Labor force:
    1,062,100
  by occupation:
    services 41%, agriculture 22.5%, industry 19%, unemployed 17.5% (1989)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jamaica
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Jamaica
Digraph:
    JM
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Kingston
Administrative divisions:
    14 parishes; Clarendon, Hanover, Kingston, Manchester, Portland, Saint
    Andrew, Saint Ann, Saint Catherine, Saint Elizabeth, Saint James, Saint
    Mary, Saint Thomas, Trelawny, Westmoreland
Independence:
    6 August 1962 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day (first Monday in August) (1962)
Constitution:
    6 August 1962
Legal system:
    based on English common law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    Sir Howard COOKE (since 1 August 1991)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister P. J. PATTERSON (since 30 March 1992); Deputy Prime Minister
    Seymour MULLINGS (since NA 1993)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime
    minister
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    People's National Party (PNP) P. J. PATTERSON; Jamaica Labor Party (JLP),
    Edward SEAGA
Other political or pressure groups:
    Rastafarians (black religious/racial cultists, pan-Africanists); New
    Beginnings Movement (NBM)
Member of:
    ACP, C, CARICOM, CCC, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-15, G-19, G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA,
    IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, ISO, ITU, LAES, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UNITAR, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Richard Leighton BERNAL
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jamaica
                                   Government
  chancery:
    1520 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Miami and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador J. Gary COOPER (since October 1994)
  embassy:
    Jamaica Mutual Life Center, 2 Oxford Road, 3rd floor, Kingston
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 4859
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
Flag:
    diagonal yellow cross divides the flag into four triangles - green (top and
    bottom) and black (hoist side and fly side)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jamaica
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Key sectors in this island economy are bauxite (alumina and bauxite account
    for more than half of exports) and tourism. The government's tight fiscal
    and monetary policies, which have been partially successful in curbing
    inflation, have held growth to 1.2% in 1993 and 2.0% in 1994.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $7.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,050 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    26.7% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    15.7% (1992)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $600 million
  expenditures:
    $736 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY90/91 est.)
Exports:
    $1.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    alumina, bauxite, sugar, bananas, rum
  partners:
    US 47%, UK 11%, Canada 9%, Norway 7%; France 4% (1993)
Imports:
    $2.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment, construction materials, fuel, food,
    chemicals
  partners:
    US 54%, Japan 4.0%, Mexico 6%, UK 4%, Venezuela 3% (1993)
External debt:
    $3.6 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 0.4% (1992); accounts for almost 30% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    730,000 kW
  production:
    2.6 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    988 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    bauxite mining, tourism, textiles, food processing, light manufactures
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 7% of GDP, 22% of work force, and 17% of exports;
    commercial crops - sugarcane, bananas, coffee, citrus, potatoes, vegetables;
    livestock and livestock products include poultry, goats, milk; not
    self-sufficient in grain, meat, and dairy products
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for cocaine from Central and South America to North
    America and Europe; illicit cultivation of cannabis; government has an
    active cannabis eradication program
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1.2 billion; other countries,
    ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.6 billion
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jamaica
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 Jamaican dollar (J$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Jamaican dollars (J$) per US$1 - 33.195 (December 1994), 33.986 (1994),
    24.949 (1993), 22.960 (1992), 12.116 (1991), 7.184 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jamaica
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    370 km
  standard gauge:
    370 km 1.435-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    18,200 km
  paved:
    12,600 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 3,200 km; improved earth 2,400 km
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 10 km
Ports:
    Alligator Pond, Discovery Bay, Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Port
    Antonio, Longs Wharf, Rocky Point
Merchant marine:
  total:
    3 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,931 GRT/10,545 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 1, oil tanker 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    41
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    31
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jamaica
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    127,000 telephones; fully automatic domestic telephone network
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations; 3 coaxial submarine cables
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 10, FM 17, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    8
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jamaica
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Jamaica Defense Force (includes Ground Forces, Coast Guard and Air Wing),
    Jamaica Constabulary Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 670,958; males fit for military service 475,235; males reach
    military age (18) annually 26,244 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $19.3 million, 1% of GDP (FY91/92)
e Ka:
    2%
  meadows and pastures:
    31%
  forest and woodland:
    29%
  other:
    13%
Irrigated land:
    340 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    rapid population growth pressuring the environment; overharvesting of
    timber, expansion of cattle grazing, and slash-and-burn agriculture have
    resulted in deforestation and soil exhaustion; civil war depleting natural
    resources; overfishing
  natural hazards:
    dry, sand-laden harmattan winds blow from the Sahara (November to May);
    sandstorms, dust storms
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Life
    Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change,
    Environmental Modification
                                  Sierra Leone
                                     People
Population:
    4,753,120 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    44% (female 1,054,826; male 1,020,943)
  15-64 years:
    53% (female 1,310,506; male 1,216,510)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 72,982; male 77,353) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.63% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    44.65 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    18.38 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    thousands of refugees, fleeing the civil strife in Sierra Leone, are taking
    refuge in Guinea
Infant mortality rate:
    138.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    46.94 years
  male:
    44.07 years
  female:
    49.89 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.9 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Sierra Leonean(s)
  adjective:
    Sierra Leonean
Ethnic divisions:
    13 native African tribes 99% (Temne 30%, Mende 30%, other 39%), Creole,
    European, Lebanese, and Asian 1%
Religions:
    Muslim 60%, indigenous beliefs 30%, Christian 10%
Languages:
    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
    Freetown area and is lingua franca)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write English, Mende, Temne, or Arabic (1990
    est.)
  total population:
    21%
  male:
    31%
  female:
    11%
Labor force:
    1.369 million (1981 est.)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 65%, industry 19%, services 16% (1981 est.)
                                  Sierra Leone
                                     People
  note:
    only about 65,000 wage earners (1985)
                                  Sierra Leone
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Sierra Leone
  conventional short form:
    Sierra Leone
Digraph:
    SL
Type:
    military government
Capital:
    Freetown
Administrative divisions:
    3 provinces and 1 area*; Eastern, Northern, Southern, Western*
Independence:
    27 April 1961 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Republic Day, 27 April (1961)
Constitution:
    1 October 1991; suspended following 19 April 1992 coup
Legal system:
    based on English law and customary laws indigenous to local tribes; has not
    accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    Chairman of the Supreme Council of State Capt. Valentine E. M. STRASSER
    (since 29 April 1992)
  cabinet:
    Council of Secretaries; responsible to the Supreme Council of State (SCS)
Legislative branch:
    unicameral House of Representatives (suspended after coup of 29 April 1992);
    Chairman STRASSER promises multi-party elections sometime in 1995
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (suspended after coup of 29 April 1992)
Political parties and leaders:
    status of existing political parties is unknown following 29 April 1992 coup
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory
    user), INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU,
    WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Thomas Kahota KARGBO
  chancery:
    1701 19th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Lauralee M. PETERS
  embassy:
    Corner of Walpole and Siaka Stevens Streets, Freetown
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [232] (22) 226481 trough 226485
                                  Sierra Leone
                                   Government
  FAX:
    [232] (22) 225471
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of light green (top), white, and light blue
                                  Sierra Leone
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Sierra Leone has substantial mineral, agricultural, and fishery resources,
    but the economic and social infrastructure is not well developed.
    Agriculture generates about 40% of GDP and employs about two-thirds of the
    working population, with subsistence agriculture dominating the sector.
    Manufacturing, which accounts for roughly 10% of GDP, consists mainly of the
    processing of raw materials and of light manufacturing for the domestic
    market. Diamond mining provides an important source of hard currency. Since
    1990, the government has been able to meet its IMF- and World Bank-mandated
    stabilization targets, holding down fiscal deficits, increasing foreign
    exchange reserves, and retiring much of its domestic debt - but at a steep
    cost in terms of capital investments and social spending. Moreover, the
    economic infrastructure has nearly collapsed due to neglect and war-related
    disruptions in the mining and agricultural export sectors. The continuing
    civil war in Liberia has led to a large influx of refugees, who place
    additional burdens on Sierra Leon's fragile economy.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4.5 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    0.7% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    22% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $68 million
  expenditures:
    $118 million, including capital expenditures of $28 million (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $149 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    rutile 48%, bauxite 25%, diamonds 16%, coffee, cocoa, fish
  partners:
    US, UK, Belgium, Germany, other Western Europe
Imports:
    $149 million (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs 48%, machinery and equipment 32%, fuels 9%
  partners:
    US, EC countries, Japan, China, Nigeria
External debt:
    $1.15 billion (yearend 1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -1.5% (FY91/92); accounts for 11% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    130,000 kW
  production:
    220 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    44 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    mining (diamonds, bauxite, rutile), small-scale manufacturing (beverages,
    textiles, cigarettes, footwear), petroleum refinery
                                  Sierra Leone
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    largely subsistence farming; cash crops - coffee, cocoa, palm kernels;
    harvests of food staple rice meets 80% of domestic needs; annual fish catch
    averages 53,000 metric tons
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $161 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $848 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $18 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $101
    million
Currency:
    1 leone (Le) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    leones (Le) per US$1 - 617.67 (January 1995), 586.74 (1994), 567.46 (1993),
    499.44 (1992), 295.34 (1991), 144.9275 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                                  Sierra Leone
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    84 km mineral line is used on a limited basis because the mine at Marampa is
    closed
  narrow gauge:
    84 km 1.067-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    7,400 km
  paved:
    1,150 km
  unpaved:
    crushed stone, gravel 490 km; improved earth 5,760 km
Inland waterways:
    800 km; 600 km navigable year round
Ports:
    Bonthe, Freetown, Pepel
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    11
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
                                  Sierra Leone
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    23,650 telephones; telephone density - 5 telephones/1,000 persons; marginal
    telephone and telegraph service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    national microwave radio relay system made unserviceable by military
    activities
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                                  Sierra Leone
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Police, Security Forces
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,030,332; males fit for military service 498,945 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $14 million, 2.6% of GDP (FY92/93)
Slovenia
SINGAPORE - Passport and onward/return ticket required.  Visa not
required for tourist/business stay up to 2 weeks, extendable to 3 months
maximum. AIDS test required for some work visas.  U.S. test is not accepted.
For additional information contact Embassy of Singapore, 3501 Int'l Place,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/537-3100).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Singapore
============================================================
Singapore - Consular Information Sheet
 June 16, 1995
Country Description:  Singapore is a small, highly developed
parliamentary democracy.  Tourist facilities are modern and widely
available.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and onward/return tickets are
required. Visas are not required for tourist/business stays of up to
two weeks.  For more current information, travelers can contact the
Embassy of Singapore, 3501 International Place, N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20008, tel. [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities and services are good and
widely available in Singapore.  Doctors and hospitals may expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  The
international traveler's hotline at the Centers for Disease Control
can be reached at [phone] for additional useful health
information.
Information on Crime:  Major crimes against tourists are not
common. Petty crimes such as pickpocketing do occur in tourist
areas.  Visitors should be aware of Singapore's strict laws and
penalties for a variety of offenses that might be considered minor
in the United States, including jaywalking, littering, spitting, as
well as the importation and sale of chewing gum.  Singapore imposes
a mandatory caning sentence on males for vandalism offenses.  Caning
may also be imposed for immigration violations and other offenses.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police, and the U.S. Embassy.  Useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State
pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  It is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect, at least, a jail sentence and fine.
Singapore has a mandatory death penalty for many narcotics offenses.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy can
obtain updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 30 Hill Street,
Singapore 0617; the mailing address is American Embassy Singapore,
FPO AP 96534; telephone [phone].
 No. 95-072
This is a reissuance of the Consular Information Sheet dated May 9,
1994.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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+                                     Singapore
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, islands between Malaysia and Indonesia
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    632.6 sq km
  land area:
    622.6 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 3.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    193 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    within and beyond territorial sea, as defined in treaties and practice
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    two islands in dispute with Malaysia
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid, rainy; no pronounced rainy or dry seasons;
    thunderstorms occur on 40% of all days (67% of days in April)
Terrain:
    lowland; gently undulating central plateau contains water catchment area and
    nature preserve
Natural resources:
    fish, deepwater ports
Land use:
  arable land:
    4%
  permanent crops:
    7%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    5%
  other:
    84%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    industrial pollution; limited natural fresh water resources; limited land
    availability presents waste disposal problems
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate
    Change
Note:
    focal point for Southeast Asian sea routes
                                    Singapore
                                     People
Population:
    2,890,468 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    23% (female 327,417; male 348,345)
  15-64 years:
    70% (female 991,015; male 1,030,668)
  65 years and over:
    7% (female 105,081; male 87,942) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.06% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.93 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.35 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    5.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    76.16 years
  male:
    73.28 years
  female:
    79.25 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.87 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Singaporean(s)
  adjective:
    Singapore
Ethnic divisions:
    Chinese 76.4%, Malay 14.9%, Indian 6.4%, other 2.3%
Religions:
    Buddhist (Chinese), Muslim (Malays), Christian, Hindu, Sikh, Taoist,
    Confucianist
Languages:
    Chinese (official), Malay (official and national), Tamil (official), English
    (official)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    89%
  male:
    95%
  female:
    83%
Labor force:
    1.649 million (1994)
  by occupation:
    financial, business, and other services 33.5%, manufacturing 25.6%, commerce
    22.9%, construction 6.6%, other 11.4% (1994)
                                    Singapore
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Singapore
  conventional short form:
    Singapore
Digraph:
    SN
Type:
    republic within Commonwealth
Capital:
    Singapore
Administrative divisions:
    none
Independence:
    9 August 1965 (from Malaysia)
National holiday:
    National Day, 9 August (1965)
Constitution:
    3 June 1959, amended 1965 (based on preindependence State of Singapore
    Constitution)
Legal system:
    based on English common law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    20 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President ONG Teng Cheong (since 1 September 1993); election last held 28
    August 1993 (next to be held NA August 1997); results - ONG Teng Cheong was
    elected with 59% of the vote in the country's first popular election for
    president
  head of government:
    Prime Minister GOH Chok Tong (since 28 November 1990); Deputy Prime Minister
    LEE Hsien Loong (since 28 November 1990)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president, responsible to parliament
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
  government:
    People's Action Party (PAP), GOH Chok Tong, secretary general
  opposition:
    Workers' Party (WP), J. B. JEYARETNAM; Singapore Democratic Party (SDP),
    CHEE Soon Juan; National Solidarity Party (NSP), leader NA; Barisan Sosialis
    (BS, Socialist Front), leader NA; Singapore People's Party (SPP), SIN Kek
    Tong
Member of:
    APEC, AsDB, ASEAN, C, CCC, CP, ESCAP, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC,
    ICFTU, ICRM, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC,
    ISO, ITU, NAM, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNIKOM, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Sellapan Rama NATHAN
                                    Singapore
                                   Government
  chancery:
    3501 International Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Timothy A. CHORBA
  embassy:
    30 Hill Street, Singapore 0617
  mailing address:
    FPO AP 96534
  telephone:
    [65] 3380251
  FAX:
    [65] 3384550
Flag:
    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
                                    Singapore
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Singapore has an open entrepreneurial economy with strong service and
    manufacturing sectors and excellent international trading links derived from
    its entrepot history. The economy registered 10.1% growth in 1994, with
    prospects for 7.5%-8.5% growth in 1995. In 1994, the manufacturing and
    financial and business services sectors have led economic growth. Exports
    boomed, led by the electronics sector, particularly US demand for disk
    drives. Rising labor costs continue to be a threat to Singapore's
    competitiveness, but there are indications that productivity is keeping up.
    In applied technology, per capita output, investment, and labor discipline,
    Singapore has key attributes of a developed country.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $57 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    10.1% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $19,940 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3.6% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    2.6% (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $11.9 billion
  expenditures:
    $10.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $3.9 billion (FY93/94 est.)
Exports:
    $96.4 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    computer equipment, rubber and rubber products, petroleum products,
    telecommunications equipment
  partners:
    Malaysia 20%, US 19%, Hong Kong 9%, Japan 7%, Thailand 6% (1994)
Imports:
    $102.4 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    aircraft, petroleum, chemicals, foodstuffs
  partners:
    Japan 22%, Malaysia 16%, US 15%, Taiwan 4%, Saudi Arabia 4% (1994)
External debt:
    $20 million (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 13% (1994 est.); accounts for 28% of GDP (1993)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    4,510,000 kW
  production:
    17 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    5,590 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum refining, electronics, oil drilling equipment, rubber processing
    and rubber products, processed food and beverages, ship repair, entrepot
    trade, financial services, biotechnology
Agriculture:
    minor importance in the economy; self-sufficient in poultry and eggs; must
    import much of other food; major crops - rubber, copra, fruit, vegetables
                                    Singapore
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    transit point for Golden Triangle heroin going to the US, Western Europe,
    and the Third World; also a major money-laundering center
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-83), $590 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1 billion
Currency:
    1 Singapore dollar (S$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Singapore dollars (S$) per US$1 - 1.4524 (January 1995), 1.5275 (1994),
    1.6158 (1993), 1.6290 (1992), 1.7276 (1991), 1.8125 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                                    Singapore
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    38.6 km
  narrow gauge:
    38.6 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    2,883 km
  paved:
    2,796 km
  unpaved:
    87 km (1991 est.)
Ports:
    Singapore
Merchant marine:
  total:
    563 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 11,167,596 GRT/17,845,687 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 96, cargo 121, chemical tanker 16, combination bulk 2, combination
    ore/oil 7, container 78, liquefied gas tanker 6, oil tanker 198,
    refrigerated cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 12, short-sea passenger 1,
    specialized tanker 3, vehicle carrier 22
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; includes 20 countries among which are Japan
    35 ships, Denmark 21, Germany 21, Hong Kong 18, Belgium 14, Thailand 11,
    Sweden 8, US 7, Indonesia 6, and Norway 5; Singapore owns 1 ship under
    Malaysia registry
Airports:
  total:
    10
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                                    Singapore
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    1,110,000 telephones; good domestic facilities; good international service;
    good radio and television broadcast coverage
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    submarine cables extend to Malaysia (Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia),
    Indonesia, and the Philippines; 2 INTELSAT (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific
    Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 13, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                                    Singapore
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, People's Defense Force, Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 860,437; males fit for military service 629,973 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $2.7 billion, 6% of GDP (1993 est.)
Solomon Islands
SLOVAK REPUBLIC - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to
30 days.  For longer stays and other types of travel contact Embassy of
the Slovak Republic, 2201 Wisconsin Ave., N.W., Suite 380, Washington, D.C.
20007 (202/965-5164).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Slovak Republic
============================================================
Slovak Republic - Consular Information Sheet
 November 9, 1995
Country Description:  The Slovak Republic is a moderately developed
European nation undergoing profound economic and political changes.
Tourist facilities are not as developed as those found in western
Europe and many of the goods and services taken for granted in other
European countries are not yet available.
Entry Requirements:  Travelers to the Slovak Republic can obtain
entry information at the Embassy of the Slovak Republic at 2201
Wisconsin Avenue N.W., Suite 380, Washington, DC 20007, telephone
[phone]/1.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are available.  However
only a limited number of doctors are English speakers.  Doctors and
hospitals expect cash payment for health services unless the patient
can present an insurance number from the Slovak National Insurance
Company.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Travelers have found that in some cases,
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has
proven to be useful.  Further information on health matters can be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
international travelers hotline at [phone].
Information on Crime:  The Slovak Republic has a low rate of
violent crime.  However, particularly in the summer, there has been
an increase in street crime such as pickpocketing in shopping
centers, in the vicinity of major hotels where foreigners stay, near
major tourist sites, and on night trains, especially
Prague-Bratislava-Budapest or Budapest-Warsaw.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" is available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, DC 20402.  It provides useful information on
safeguarding valuables and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling. Penalties for possession, use
and dealing in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens may register at
the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Bratislava and obtain
updated information on travel and security in the Slovak Republic.
The U.S. Embassy in Bratislava is located at Hviezdoslavovo Namestie
4, telephone [phone].
 No. 95-142
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May, 11, 1994 to
update information on crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Slovak Republic
============================================================
Slovak Republic - Consular Information Sheet
 November 9, 1995
Country Description:  The Slovak Republic is a moderately developed
European nation undergoing profound economic and political changes.
Tourist facilities are not as developed as those found in western
Europe and many of the goods and services taken for granted in other
European countries are not yet available.
Entry Requirements:  Travelers to the Slovak Republic can obtain
entry information at the Embassy of the Slovak Republic at 2201
Wisconsin Avenue N.W., Suite 380, Washington, DC 20007, telephone
[phone]/1.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are available.  However
only a limited number of doctors are English speakers.  Doctors and
hospitals expect cash payment for health services unless the patient
can present an insurance number from the Slovak National Insurance
Company.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Travelers have found that in some cases,
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has
proven to be useful.  Further information on health matters can be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
international travelers hotline at [phone].
Information on Crime:  The Slovak Republic has a low rate of
violent crime.  However, particularly in the summer, there has been
an increase in street crime such as pickpocketing in shopping
centers, in the vicinity of major hotels where foreigners stay, near
major tourist sites, and on night trains, especially
Prague-Bratislava-Budapest or Budapest-Warsaw.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" is available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, DC 20402.  It provides useful information on
safeguarding valuables and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling. Penalties for possession, use
and dealing in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens may register at
the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Bratislava and obtain
updated information on travel and security in the Slovak Republic.
The U.S. Embassy in Bratislava is located at Hviezdoslavovo Namestie
4, telephone [phone].
 No. 95-142
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May, 11, 1994 to
update information on crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
6h6                                      Slovakia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Europe, south of Poland
Map references:
    Ethnic Groups in Eastern Europe, Europe
Area:
  total area:
    48,845 sq km
  land area:
    48,800 sq km
  comparative area:
    about twice the size of New Hampshire
Land boundaries:
    total 1,355 km, Austria 91 km, Czech Republic 215 km, Hungary 515 km, Poland
    444 km, Ukraine 90 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    Gabcikovo Dam dispute with Hungary; unresolved property issues with Czech
    Republic over redistribution of former Czechoslovak federal property
Climate:
    temperate; cool summers; cold, cloudy, humid winters
Terrain:
    rugged mountains in the central and northern part and lowlands in the south
Natural resources:
    brown coal and lignite; small amounts of iron ore, copper and manganese ore;
    salt
Land use:
  arable land:
    NA%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution from metallurgical plants presents human health risks; acid
    rain damaging forests
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change,
    Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear
    Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not
    ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law
    of the Sea
Note:
    landlocked
                                    Slovakia
                                     People
Population:
    5,432,383 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    23% (female 609,795; male 638,346)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 1,807,312; male 1,778,712)
  65 years and over:
    11% (female 364,610; male 233,608) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.54% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    14.51 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.12 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    10 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    73.24 years
  male:
    69.15 years
  female:
    77.57 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.93 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Slovak(s)
  adjective:
    Slovak
Ethnic divisions:
    Slovak 85.7%, Hungarian 10.7%, Gypsy 1.5% (the 1992 census 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%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 60.3%, atheist 9.7%, Protestant 8.4%, Orthodox 4.1%, other
    17.5%
Languages:
    Slovak (official), Hungarian
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    2.484 million
  by occupation:
    industry 33.2%, agriculture 12.2%, construction 10.3%, communication and
    other 44.3% (1990)
                                    Slovakia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Slovak Republic
  conventional short form:
    Slovakia
  local long form:
    Slovenska Republika
  local short form:
    Slovensko
Digraph:
    LO
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Bratislava
Administrative divisions:
    4 departments (kraje, singular - kraj) Bratislava, Zapadoslovensky,
    Stredoslovensky, Vychodoslovensky
Independence:
    1 January 1993 (from Czechoslovakia)
National holiday:
    Anniversary of Slovak National Uprising, August 29 (1944)
Constitution:
    ratified 1 September 1992, fully effective 1 January 1993
Legal system:
    civil law system based on Austro-Hungarian codes; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction; legal code modified to comply with the
    obligations of Organization on Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and
    to expunge Marxist-Leninist legal theory
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Michal KOVAC (since 8 February 1993); election last held 8
    February 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - Michal KOVAC elected by
    the National Council
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Vladimir MECIAR (since 12 December 1994)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Council (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)
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Movement for a Democratic Slovakia (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
                                    Slovakia
                                   Government
Other political or pressure groups:
    Green Party; Social Democratic Party of Slovakia; Slovak Christian Union
Member of:
    Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE (guest), CEI, CERN, EBRD, ECE, FAO, GATT,
    IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC,
    NSG, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNAVEM II, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMIL, UNOMUR,
    UNPROFOR, UPU, WEU (associate partner), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Branislav LICHARDUS
  chancery:
    (temporary) Suite 380, 2201 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Theodore E. RUSSELL
  embassy:
    Hviezdoslavovo Namestie 4, 81102 Bratislava
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [42] (7) 330-861, 333-338
  FAX:
    [42] (7) 330-096
Flag:
    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
                                    Slovakia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    In 1994 macroeconomic performance improved steadily but privatization
    progressed only in fits and starts. Most of Slovakia's IMF-approved targets
    were met by an interim government that lasted 9 months. Annual inflation
    fell from 23% in 1993 to 12%; unemployment at 14.6% was still well below
    forecasts of 17%; and the budget deficit was around half that in 1993.
    Slovakia's nearly $200 million trade surplus also compares favorably with a
    more than $800 million deficit in 1993. Furthermore, after contracting
    almost 25% in the three years following 1990, GDP grew 4.3% in 1994,
    according to official statistics. Bratislava in June qualified for a $254
    million IMF stand-by loan and the second $90 million tranche of its Systemic
    Transformation Facility and, in December, received approval for a European
    Union loan worth about $160 million. By the end of September 1994, the
    Central Bank's foreign currency reserves had tripled since the end of 1993.
    Slovakia continued to have difficulty attracting foreign investment,
    however, because of perceived political instability and halting progress in
    privatization. The interim government prepared property worth nearly $2
    billion for the second wave of coupon privatization and sold participation
    in the program to over 80% of Slovakia's eligible citizens. Parties
    controlling the new Parliament in November 1994, however, put the second
    wave of coupon privatization on hold and suspended sales of 38 firms until
    the new government could evaluate the interim government's decisions in
    early 1995. The new government's targets for 1995 include GDP growth of 3%,
    inflation of 8%-10%, unemployment of 15%, and a budget deficit under 3% of
    GDP. Continuing economic recovery in western Europe should boost Slovak
    exports and production, but Slovakia's image with foreign creditors and
    investors could suffer setbacks in 1995 if progress on privatization stalls
    or budget deficits mount beyond IMF-recommended levels.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $32.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4.3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $6,070 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    12% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    14.6% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $4.4 billion
  expenditures:
    $4.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $350 million (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $6.3 billion (f.o.b., January-November 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment; chemicals; fuels, minerals, and metals;
    agricultural products
  partners:
    Czech Republic 37.7%, Germany 17.1%, Hungary 5.3%, Austria 5.3%, Italy 4.6%,
    Russia 4.0%, Poland 2.6%, Ukraine 1.8%, US 1.6% (January-September 1994)
Imports:
    $6.1 billion (f.o.b., January-November 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment; fuels and lubricants; manufactured goods;
    raw materials; chemicals; agricultural products
  partners:
    Czech Republic 29.9%, Russia 19.0%, Germany 13.2%, Austria 5.8%, Italy 4.3%,
    US 2.6%, Poland 2.4%, Ukraine 1.9%, Hungary 1.6% (January-September 1994)
                                    Slovakia
                                     Economy
External debt:
    $4.2 billion hard currency indebtedness (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    6,300,000 kW
  production:
    20.9 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,609 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    metal and metal products; food and beverages; electricity, gas, and water;
    coking, oil production, and nuclear fuel production; chemicals and manmade
    fibers; machinery; paper and printing; earthenware and ceramics; transport
    vehicles; textiles; electrical and optical apparatus; rubber products
Agriculture:
    largely self-sufficient in food production; diversified crop and livestock
    production, including grains, potatoes, sugar beets, hops, fruit, hogs,
    cattle, and poultry; exporter of forest products
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin bound for Western Europe
Economic aid:
  donor:
    the former Czechoslovakia was a donor - $4.2 billion in bilateral aid to
    non-Communist less developed countries (1954-89)
Currency:
    1 koruna (Sk) = 100 halierov
Exchange rates:
    koruny (Sk) per US$1 - 31.14 (September 1994), 32.9 (December 1993), 28.59
    (December 1992), 28.26 (1992), 29.53 (1991), 17.95 (1990), 15.05 (1989);
    note - values before 1993 reflect Czechoslovak exchange rate
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                    Slovakia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,660 km (electrified 635 km)
  broad gauge:
    102 km 1.520-m gauge
  standard gauge:
    3,511 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    47 km (35 km 1,000-m gauge; 12 km 0.750-m gauge) (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    17,650 km (1990)
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Inland waterways:
    NA km
Pipelines:
    petroleum products NA km; natural gas 2,700 km
Ports:
    Bratislava, Komarno
Merchant marine:
  total:
    2 cargo ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 4,160 GRT/6,163 DWT
Airports:
    37
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    10
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    11
                                    Slovakia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
                                    Slovakia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Air and Air Defense Forces, Civil Defense, Railroad Units
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,443,719; males fit for military service 1,107,453; males
    reach military age (18) annually 49,045 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    9.59 billion koruny, 3.1% of GDP (1994 est.); note - conversion of defense
    expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce
    misleading results
rBtBtB
Somalia
SLOVENIA - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay of up to 90
days. Additional information can be obtained from the Embassy of Slovenia,
1300 19th St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036 (202/828-1650).
Slovenia - Consular Information Sheet
October 24, 1994
Country Description:  Slovenia, independent from Yugoslavia since 1991, is a
moderately developed European nation which enjoys the highest per capita GNP
of the former Communist countries.  Essentially unaffected by the war in
Bosnia-Herzegovina, tourist facilities are available but may be limited,
especially in the more rural parts of the country.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is necessary but no visa is required for
stays of up to three months.  Persons staying longer than three months must
obtain residence permits from the Ministry of the Interior offices serving
the area where they reside.  Additional information may be obtained from the
Embassy of Slovenia at 1525 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20036,
telephone:  [phone], fax:  [phone].  Information may also be
obtained at the Slovenian consulate in New York, telephone: [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical care is readily available.  Doctors
and hospitals often expect immediate payment in cash for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States; hence,
travelers have found supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage useful.  Information about English-speaking doctors is available at
the U.S. Embassy.  Further information on health matters can be obtained
from the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline,
tel.: [phone].
Crime Information:  Crime in Slovenia is rare, but has increased since the
onset of civil unrest in neighboring countries.  As in any country,
travelers, especially those who appear affluent, can become targets of
pickpockets and purse snatchers, especially at railroad stations and airports.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
Department of State's pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington,
D.C. 20402.  It provides useful information on travel and protecting
personal security while traveling abroad.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use, and trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens may register and obtain updated information on
travel and security within Slovenia at the U.S. Embassy.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Ljubljana is located at Prazakova 4,
61000 Ljubljana, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
No. 94-250
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 8, 1993, to
update the country description, add the residence permit requirements and
update the address of Slovenian Embassy.
4                                      Slovenia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea, between Croatia and Italy
Map references:
    Ethnic Groups in Eastern Europe, Europe
Area:
  total area:
    20,296 sq km
  land area:
    20,296 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than New Jersey
Land boundaries:
    total 1,045 km, Austria 262 km, Croatia 501 km, Italy 199 km, Hungary 83 km
Coastline:
    32 km
Maritime claims:
    NA
International disputes:
    dispute with Croatia over fishing rights in the Adriatic and over some
    border areas; the border issue is currently under negotiation
Climate:
    Mediterranean climate on the coast, continental climate with mild to hot
    summers and cold winters in the plateaus and valleys to the east
Terrain:
    a short coastal strip on the Adriatic, an alpine mountain region adjacent to
    Italy, mixed mountain and valleys with numerous rivers to the east
Natural resources:
    lignite coal, lead, zinc, mercury, uranium, silver
Land use:
  arable land:
    10%
  permanent crops:
    2%
  meadows and pastures:
    20%
  forest and woodland:
    45%
  other:
    23%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    Sava River polluted with domestic and industrial waste; pollution of coastal
    waters with heavy metals and toxic chemicals; forest damage near Koper from
    air pollution (originating at metallurgical and chemical plants) and
    resulting acid rain
  natural hazards:
    flooding and earthquakes
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test
    Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not
    ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Biodiversity, Climate Change
                                    Slovenia
                                     People
Population:
    2,051,522 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    19% (female 191,318; male 200,957)
  15-64 years:
    69% (female 701,082; male 708,482)
  65 years and over:
    12% (female 160,662; male 89,021) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.24% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    11.85 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.27 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.19 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    7.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    74.73 years
  male:
    70.91 years
  female:
    78.76 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.64 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Slovene(s)
  adjective:
    Slovenian
Ethnic divisions:
    Slovene 91%, Croat 3%, Serb 2%, Muslim 1%, other 3%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 96% (including 2% Uniate), Muslim 1%, other 3%
Languages:
    Slovenian 91%, Serbo-Croatian 7%, other 2%
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    786,036
  by occupation:
    agriculture 2%, manufacturing and mining 46%
                                    Slovenia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Slovenia
  conventional short form:
    Slovenia
  local long form:
    Republika Slovenije
  local short form:
    Slovenija
Digraph:
    SI
Type:
    emerging democracy
Capital:
    Ljubljana
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    25 June 1991 (from Yugoslavia)
National holiday:
    Statehood Day, 25 June (1991)
Constitution:
    adopted 23 December 1991, effective 23 December 1991
Legal system:
    based on civil law system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal (16 years of age, if employed)
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Milan KUCAN (since 22 April 1990); election last held 6 December
    1992 (next to be held NA 1996); results - Milan KUCAN reelected by direct
    popular vote
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Janez DRNOVSEK (since 14 May 1992)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
Legislative branch:
    bicameral National Assembly
  State Assembly:
    elections last held 6 December 1992 (next to be held NA 1996); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (90 total) LDS 22, SKD 15, United List
    (former Communists and allies) 14, Slovene National Party 12, SLS 10,
    Democratic Party 6, ZS 5, SDSS 4, Hungarian minority 1, Italian minority 1
  State Council:
    will become operational after next election in 1996; in the election of 6
    December 1992, 40 members were elected to represent local and socioeconomic
    interests
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court, Constitutional Court
                                    Slovenia
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Liberal Democratic (LDS), Janez DRNOVSEK, chairman; Slovene Christian
    Democrats (SKD), Lozje PETERLE, chairman; Social Democratic Party of
    Slovenia (SDSS), Janez JANSA, chairman; Slovene People's National Party,
    Marjan PODOBNIK, chairman; United List (former Communists and allies), Janez
    KOCJANCIC, chairman; Slovene People's Party (SLS), Ivan OMAN, chairman;
    Democratic Party, Igor BAVCAR, chairman; Greens of Slovenia (ZS), Dusan
    PLUT, chairman
  note:
    parties have changed as of the December 1992 elections
Other political or pressure groups:
    none
Member of:
    CCC, CE, CEI, EBRD, ECE, FAO, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFC, ILO,
    IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO,
    ITU, NAM (guest), OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO,
    WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ernest PETRIC
  chancery:
    1525 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador E. Allan WENDT
  embassy:
    P.O. Box 254, Prazakova 4, 61000 Ljubljana
  mailing address:
    American Embassy, Ljubljana, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-7140
  telephone:
    [386] (61) 301-427, 472, 485
  FAX:
    [386] (61) 301-401
Flag:
    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
                                    Slovenia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Slovenia appears to be making a solid economic recovery, fulfilling the
    promise it showed at the time of Yugoslavia's breakup. It was by far the
    most prosperous of the former Yugoslav republics, with a per capita income
    more than twice the national average. It also benefited from strong ties to
    Western Europe and suffered comparatively small physical damage in the
    dismemberment process. The beginning was difficult, however. Real GDP fell
    15% during 1991-92, while inflation jumped to 247% in 1991 and unemployment
    topped 8% - nearly three times the 1989 level. The turning point came in
    1993 when real GDP grew 1%, unemployment leveled off at about 9%, and
    inflation slowed dramatically to 23%. In 1994, the rate of growth of GDP
    rose to 4%, unemployment remained stable, and inflation dropped to 20%. This
    was accomplished, moreover, without balance-of-payments problems. The
    government gets generally good economic marks from foreign observers,
    particularly with regard to fiscal policy - the budget deficit in 1994 was
    only about 1% of GDP, following several years of small surpluses. Prospects
    for 1995 appear good, with economic growth expected to remain strong while
    unemployment and inflation may decline slightly. Privatization, sluggish to
    date, is expected to pick up in 1995.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $16 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $8,110 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    20% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    9% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $9.9 billion
  expenditures:
    $9.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993)
Exports:
    $6.5 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment 27%, intermediate manufactured goods 26%,
    chemicals 9%, food 4.8%, raw materials 3%, consumer goods 26% (1993)
  partners:
    Germany 29.5%, former Yugoslavia 15.8%, Italy 12.4%, France 8.7%, Austria
    5.0% (1993)
Imports:
    $6.5 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment 30%, intermediate manufactured goods
    17.6%, chemicals 11.5%, raw materials 5.3%, fuels and lubricants 10.8%, food
    8.4% (1993)
  partners:
    Germany 25.0%, Italy 16.1%, former Yugoslavia 10.7%, France 8.0%, Austria
    8.5% (1993)
External debt:
    $2.1 billion (1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 6% (1994 est.); accounts for 37% of GDP (1993)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    2,700,000 kW
                                    Slovenia
                                     Economy
  production:
    8.9 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    4,470 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    ferrous metallurgy and rolling mill products, aluminum reduction and rolled
    products, lead and zinc smelting, electronics (including military
    electronics), trucks, electric power equipment, wood products, textiles,
    chemicals, machine tools
Agriculture:
    accounts for 4.8% of GDP (1993); dominated by stock breeding (sheep and
    cattle) and dairy farming; main crops - potatoes, hops, hemp, flax; an
    export surplus in these commodities; Slovenia must import many other
    agricultural products and has a negative overall trade balance in this
    sector
Illicit drugs:
    NA
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    1 tolar (SlT) = 100 stotins
Exchange rates:
    tolars (SIT) per US$1 - 127 (January 1995), 112 (June 1993), 28 (January
    1992)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                    Slovenia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,201 km
  standard gauge:
    1,201 km 1.435-m gauge (electrified 499 km) (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    14,726 km
  paved:
    11,046 km (187 km expressways)
  unpaved:
    gravel 3,680 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    NA
Pipelines:
    crude oil 290 km; natural gas 305 km
Ports:
    Izola, Koper, Piran
Merchant marine:
  total:
    17 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 265,937 GRT/449,205 DWT (controlled by
    Slovenian owners)
  ships by type:
    bulk 11, cargo 6
  note:
    ships under the flag of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Singapore,
    Liberia; no ships remain under the Slovenian flag
Airports:
  total:
    14
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
                                    Slovenia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    130,000 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 6, FM 5, shortwave 0
  radios:
    370,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    7
  televisions:
    330,000
                                    Slovenia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Slovene Defense Forces
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 542,815; males fit for military service 434,302; males reach
    military age (19) annually 15,350 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    13.5 billion tolars, 4.5% of GDP (1993 est.); note - conversion of the
    military budget into US dollars using the current exchange rate could
    produce misleading results
.|3~3~3
South Africa
SOLOMON ISLANDS - Passport, onward/return ticket and proof of
sufficient funds required.  Visitors permit issued on arrival for stay up to 2
months in 1-year period.  For further information consult British Embassy
(202/986-0205).
Solomon Islands - Consular Information Sheet
July 9, 1993
Country Description:  The Solomon Islands form an archipelago in the
southwest Pacific about 1200 miles northeast of Australia. The capital is
Honiara on the island of Guadalcanal.  The Solomon Islands is a
parliamentary democracy within the British Commonwealth.  Tourism facilities
are limited, and outside of Honiara may be of poor quality.
Passports, onward/return tickets and proof of sufficient funds are required.
 Visitors' permits are issued on arrival for stays of up to two months in a
one-year period.  For further information travelers may consult the British
Embassy at 3100 Massachusetts Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel.
[phone] or British consulates in other cities.
Medical Facilities: Medical facilities are generally adequate.  Hospitals
and pharmacies are limited to population centers and missions.  The
incidence of malaria is extremely high.  Many visitors begin taking malarial
suppressants before arrival.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate
cash payments for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.  Information on health
matters is available from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline at [phone].
Information on Crime:  Major crimes against travelers are not common, though
petty crimes against property frequently occur in the capital city, Honiara.
 The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police, and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet "A Safe
Trip Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use and
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect
lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated
information on travel and security within the area.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located on Mud Alley in Honiara.  The
mailing address is P.O. Box 561 Honiara, the Solomon Islands.  The telephone
number is (677) 23-890.  There is a consul/charge d'affaires resident in
Honiara who performs consular services for U.S. citizens.  The U.S.
Ambassador is resident in Port Moresby, New Guinea.
No. 93-191
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated November 23, 1992 to
include information on reporting the loss or theft of a U.S. passport.
@%#%                                 Solomon Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Papua New
    Guinea
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    28,450 sq km
  land area:
    27,540 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Maryland
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    5,313 km
Maritime claims:
    measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
  continental shelf:
    200 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical monsoon; few extremes of temperature and weather
Terrain:
    mostly rugged mountains with some low coral atolls
Natural resources:
    fish, forests, gold, bauxite, phosphates, lead, zinc, nickel
Land use:
  arable land:
    1%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    1%
  forest and woodland:
    93%
  other:
    4%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; much of the surrounding coral reefs are dead or
    dying
  natural hazards:
    typhoons, but they are rarely destructive; geologically active region with
    frequent earth tremors; volcanic activity
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping,
    Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling; signed, but not
    ratified - Biodiversity, Law of the Sea
                                 Solomon Islands
                                     People
Population:
    399,206 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    46% (female 90,293; male 93,695)
  15-64 years:
    51% (female 100,183; male 103,374)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 5,738; male 5,923) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.4% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    38.48 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.51 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    26.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    70.84 years
  male:
    68.38 years
  female:
    73.41 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.59 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Solomon Islander(s)
  adjective:
    Solomon Islander
Ethnic divisions:
    Melanesian 93%, Polynesian 4%, Micronesian 1.5%, European 0.8%, Chinese
    0.3%, other 0.4%
Religions:
    Anglican 34%, Roman Catholic 19%, Baptist 17%, United
    (Methodist/Presbyterian) 11%, Seventh-Day Adventist 10%, other Protestant
    5%, traditional beliefs 4%
Languages:
    Melanesian pidgin in much of the country is lingua franca, English spoken by
    1%-2% of population
  note:
    120 indigenous languages
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    agriculture, forestry, and fishing 32.4%, services 25%, construction,
    manufacturing, and mining 7.0%, commerce, transport, and finance 4.7% (1984)
                                 Solomon Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Solomon Islands
  former:
    British Solomon Islands
Digraph:
    BP
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Honiara
Administrative divisions:
    7 provinces and 1 town*; Central, Guadalcanal, Honiara*, Isabel, Makira,
    Malaita, Temotu, Western
Independence:
    7 July 1978 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 7 July (1978)
Constitution:
    7 July 1978
Legal system:
    common law
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    Moses PITAKAKA (since 10 June 1994)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Solomon MAMALONI (since 7 November 1994); Deputy Prime
    Minister Dennis LULEI (since 10 November 1994)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister
    from members of parliament
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Parliament:
    elections last held NA November 1994 (next to be held NA 1997); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (47 total) number of seats by party NA
Judicial branch:
    High Court
Political parties and leaders:
    People's Alliance Party (PAP); United Party (UP), leader NA; Solomon Islands
    Liberal Party (SILP), Bartholemew ULUFA'ALU; Nationalist Front for Progress
    (NFP), Andrew NORI; Labor Party (LP), Joses TUHANUKU; National Action Party,
    leader NA; Christian Fellowship, leader NA; National Unity Group, Solomon
    MAMALONI
Member of:
    ACP, AsDB, C, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS,
    ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), IOC, ITU, SPARTECA, SPC, SPF,
    UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    ambassador traditionally resides in Honiara (Solomon Islands)
US diplomatic representation:
    embassy closed July 1993; the ambassador to Papua New Guinea is accredited
    to the Solomon Islands
                                 Solomon Islands
                                   Government
Flag:
    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
                                 Solomon Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The bulk of the population depend on subsistence agriculture, fishing, and
    forestry for at least part of their livelihood. Most manufactured goods and
    petroleum products must be imported. The islands are rich in undeveloped
    mineral resources such as lead, zinc, nickel, and gold. The economy suffered
    from a severe cyclone in mid-1986 that caused widespread damage to the
    infrastructure. In 1993, the government was working with the IMF to develop
    a structural adjustment program to address the country's fiscal deficit.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $1 billion (1992 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    8% (1992)
National product per capita:
    $2,590 (1992 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    13% (1992 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $48 million
  expenditures:
    $107 million, including capital expenditures of $45 million (1991 est.)
Exports:
    $84 million (f.o.b., 1991)
  commodities:
    fish 46%, timber 31%, palm oil 5%, cocoa, copra
  partners:
    Japan 39%, UK 23%, Thailand 9%, Australia 5%, US 2% (1991)
Imports:
    $110 million (c.i.f., 1991)
  commodities:
    plant and machinery, manufactured goods, food and live animals, fuel
  partners:
    Australia 34%, Japan 16%, Singapore 14%, NZ 9%
External debt:
    $128 million (1988 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -3.8% (1991 est.); accounts for 5% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    21,000 kW
  production:
    30 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    80 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    copra, fish (tuna)
Agriculture:
    including fishing and forestry, accounts for 31% of GDP; mostly subsistence
    farming; cash crops - cocoa, beans, coconuts, palm kernels, timber; other
    products - rice, potatoes, vegetables, fruit, cattle, pigs; not
    self-sufficient in food grains; 90% of the total fish catch of 44,500 metric
    tons was exported (1988)
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1980-89),
    $250 million
                                 Solomon Islands
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 Solomon Islands dollar (SI$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Solomon Islands dollars (SI$) per US$1 - 3.3113 (September 1994), 3.1877
    (1993), 2.9281 (1992), 2.7148 (1991), 2.5288 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                 Solomon Islands
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    1,300 km
  paved:
    30 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 290 km; earth 980 km
  note:
    in addition, there are 800 km of private logging and plantation roads of
    varied construction (1982)
Ports:
    Aola Bay, Honiara, Lofung, Noro, Viru Harbor, Yandina
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    31
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    19
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    9
                                 Solomon Islands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    3,000 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 4, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                                 Solomon Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    no military forces; Royal Solomon Islands Police (RSIP)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
South Georgia
SOMALIA - Passport required.  For further information contact Consulate
of the Somali Democratic Republic in New York (212/688-9410).
Message-ID: <[e-mail]>
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Somalia
============================================================
Somalia - Travel Warning
 August 26, 1994
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against all travel to
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Somalia
============================================================
Somalia - Travel Warning
 April 6, 1995
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against all travel to
Somalia.  The United States Liaison Office in Mogadishu relocated to
Nairobi, Kenya, in September 1994; there is no way of providing any
consular assistance to U.S. citizens in Somalia.  U.S. citizens in
Somalia were advised to depart the country.
All United Nations peacekeeping forces departed Somalia in March
1995.  There is a serious risk of renewed fighting in Mogadishu, the
capital, as well as throughout Somalia.
 No. 95-009
This replaces the Travel Warning dated February 17, 1995, to note
that UN peacekeeping forces are no longer in Somalia.  JJ
Somalia - Consular Information Sheet
 April 27, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens against all
travel to Somalia.  The United States Liaison Office in Mogadishu
relocated to Nairobi, Kenya in September 1994; there is no way of
providing any consular assistance to U.S. citizens in Somalia.  U.S.
citizens in Somalia were advised to depart the country.
All United Nations peacekeeping forces departed Somalia in March
1995.  There is a serious risk of renewed fighting in Mogadishu, the
capital, as well as throughout Somalia.
Areas of Instability:  Looting, banditry, and all forms of violent
crime are common in Somalia, particularly in the capital city of
Mogadishu.  While banditry and inter-clan tension are major problems
in many areas of Somalia, these difficulties are less severe in the
northern parts of the country.  There is no functioning national
government, and no U.S. protective service is available.  There is
no functioning Somali Embassy in Washington D.C.
Medical Information:  Anyone entering Somalia must receive
immunization against cholera, typhoid, and yellow fever, and obtain
a doctor's advice regarding any other immunizations that might be
necessary.  There are virtually no health facilities or medicines
available in Somalia.  Information on health matters may be obtained
from the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers
hotline, telephone [phone].  Electricity, water, food and
lodging are unobtainable on a regular basis.  Travelers must be
completely self-sufficient.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who plan to enter Somalia may register
at the U.S. Liaison Office (USLO) for Somalia, which is located with
the U.S. Embassy in Nairobi, Kenya, at the intersection of Moi and
Haile Selassie Avenues.  The telephone number is (254-2) 334141.
The mailing address is the United States Liaison Office for Somalia,
P.O. Box 30137, or Unit 64100, APO AE 09831.
 No. 95-057
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated February 23,
1995, to revise the Travel Warning for Somalia.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
,                                       Somalia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Africa, bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, east of
    Ethiopia
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    637,660 sq km
  land area:
    627,340 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 2,366 km, Djibouti 58 km, Ethiopia 1,626 km, Kenya 682 km
Coastline:
    3,025 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    200 nm
International disputes:
    southern half of boundary with Ethiopia is a Provisional Administrative
    Line; territorial dispute with Ethiopia over the Ogaden
Climate:
    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
Terrain:
    mostly flat to undulating plateau rising to hills in north
Natural resources:
    uranium and largely unexploited reserves of iron ore, tin, gypsum, bauxite,
    copper, salt
Land use:
  arable land:
    2%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    46%
  forest and woodland:
    14%
  other:
    38%
Irrigated land:
    1,600 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    famine; use of contaminated water contributes to human health problems;
    deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification
  natural hazards:
    recurring droughts; frequent dust storms over eastern plains in summer
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Law of the Sea; signed, but not ratified -
    Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban
Note:
    strategic location on Horn of Africa along southern approaches to Bab el
    Mandeb and route through Red Sea and Suez Canal
                                     Somalia
                                     People
Population:
    7,347,554 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    45% (female 1,653,175; male 1,650,377)
  15-64 years:
    51% (female 1,845,886; male 1,932,012)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 138,264; male 127,840) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    15.58% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    45.53 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    13.3 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    123.62 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    119.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    55.74 years
  male:
    55.48 years
  female:
    56 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    7.13 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Somali(s)
  adjective:
    Somali
Ethnic divisions:
    Somali 85%, Bantu, Arabs 30,000
Religions:
    Sunni Muslim
Languages:
    Somali (official), Arabic, Italian, English
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    24%
  male:
    36%
  female:
    14%
Labor force:
    2.2 million (very few are skilled laborers)
  by occupation:
    pastoral nomad 70%, agriculture, government, trading, fishing, handicrafts,
    and other 30%
                                     Somalia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Somalia
  former:
    Somali Republic
Digraph:
    SO
Type:
    none
Capital:
    Mogadishu
Administrative divisions:
    18 regions (plural - NA, singular - gobolka); Awdal, Bakool, Banaadir, Bari,
    Bay, Galguduud, Gedo, Hiiraan, Jubbada Dhexe, Jubbada Hoose, Mudug, Nugaal,
    Sanaag, Shabeellaha Dhexe, Shabeellaha Hoose, Sool, Togdheer, Woqooyi
    Galbeed
Independence:
    1 July 1960 (from a merger of British Somaliland, which became independent
    from the UK on 26 June 1960, and Italian Somaliland, whi
Sri Lanka
0SPAIN - Passport required.  Visa not required for tourist stay up to 6
months. For additional information check with Embassy of Spain, 2700
15th St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009 (202/265-0190/1) or nearest Consulate
General:  CA (415/922-2995 and 213/658-6050), FL (305/446-5511), IL
(312/782-4588), LA (504/525-4951), MA (617/536-2506), NY
(212/355-4080), PR (809/758-6090) or TX (713/783-6200).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Spain and Andorra
============================================================
Spain and Andorra - Consular Information Sheet
 December 4, 1995
Country Descriptions:  Spain and Andorra are both highly developed
and stable democracies with modern economies.  Tourist facilities
are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is necessary but a visa is not
required for tourist or business stays of up to three months.  In
Spain, visitors may subsequently apply for an extension of stay at a
Spanish immigration office.  For further information concerning
entry requirements for Spain, travelers may contact the Embassy of
Spain at 2375 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20037 tel:
[phone], or the nearest Spanish consulate in Boston, Chicago,
Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco,
or San Juan.  Further information on Andorra can also be obtained
from the Andorran Mission to the U.N., 2 U.N. Plaza, 25th Floor, New
York NY 10018, tel. [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Good medical care is available.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  Travelers
have found that supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proven to be useful.  Further information on
health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline on [phone]
Crime Information:  Spain has a very low rate of violent crime.
Nevertheless, minor crimes such as pickpocketing, robbery, and theft
from cars are frequent, and are often directed against unwary
tourists.  Thieves often attempt to distract their victims by
squirting mustard on their clothing, asking for directions on the
street, or otherwise diverting attention from an accomplice.  Thefts
of small items like radios, luggage, cameras, briefcases, and even
cigarettes from parked cars are a common problem.  The American
Embassy in Madrid has issued a notice to U.S. citizens stating that
it frequently receives reports of roadside thieves posing as "Good
Samaritans" to persons experiencing car and tire problems.  The
thieves typically attempt to divert the driver's attention by
pointing out a mechanical problem and then steal items from the
vehicle while the driver is looking elsewhere.  The problem is
particularly acute with vehicles rented at Madrid's Barajas airport.
 The Embassy notice advises drivers to be extremely cautious about
accepting help from anyone other than a uniformed Spanish police
officer or Civil Guard.  Travelers who accept unofficial assistance
are advised to protect their valuables by keeping them in sight or
locking them in the vehicle.  Bags or other articles left unattended
in Spain are likely to disappear.  Andorra has a low rate of crime.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.   U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more
trouble-free journey.  It is available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In Spain, penalties for
possession, use, or dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Terrorist Activities:  Civil disorder in Spain is rare.  Although a
few small terrorist groups, including ETA (Basque separatists) and
GRAPO (a Marxist group), are still active, their efforts are
primarily directed against police, military, and other Spanish
government targets.  Americans have not been targets of these
attacks.
Registration and Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Madrid is
located at Serrano 75; telephone [phone].  U.S. citizens who
register in the Consular Section at the U.S. embassy or consulates
listed below may obtain updated information on travel and security
within Spain.  There are U.S. Consulates in Barcelona, at Paseo
Reina Elisenda 23-25, telephone [phone]; and in Bilbao, at
Lehendakari Aguirre 11-3, telephone [phone].
There are also Consular Agencies in these locations:
Malaga, at Centro Comercial "Las Rampas", Fase 2, Planta 1, Locales
 12-G-7 and 12-G-8, Fuengirola, telephone [phone], hours
10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.;
La Coruna, at Canton Grande 16-17, telephone [phone],
hours 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.;
Las Palmas, at Franchy y Roca 5-5', No. 13, telephone (34-928)
222-552, hours 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.;
Palma de Mallorca, at Av. Jaime 111, 26 Entresuelo, 2-H-1 (97),
telephone [phone], hours 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.;
Seville, at Paseo de Las Delicias 7, telephone [phone],
hours 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m to 4:30 p.m.;
Valencia, at Cl. de La Paz 6-5, Local 5, telephone
(34-96)-351-6973, hours 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
For Andorra, contact the Consulate in Barcelona.
 No. 95-153
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 26, 1994,
to update information on crime, and to merge the Consular
Information Sheets on Spain and Andorra.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Spain and Andorra
============================================================
Spain and Andorra - Consular Information Sheet
 December 4, 1995
Country Descriptions:  Spain and Andorra are both highly developed
and stable democracies with modern economies.  Tourist facilities
are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is necessary but a visa is not
required for tourist or business stays of up to three months.  In
Spain, visitors may subsequently apply for an extension of stay at a
Spanish immigration office.  For further information concerning
entry requirements for Spain, travelers may contact the Embassy of
Spain at 2375 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20037 tel:
[phone], or the nearest Spanish consulate in Boston, Chicago,
Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco,
or San Juan.  Further information on Andorra can also be obtained
from the Andorran Mission to the U.N., 2 U.N. Plaza, 25th Floor, New
York NY 10018, tel. [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Good medical care is available.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  Travelers
have found that supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proven to be useful.  Further information on
health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline on [phone]
Crime Information:  Spain has a very low rate of violent crime.
Nevertheless, minor crimes such as pickpocketing, robbery, and theft
from cars are frequent, and are often directed against unwary
tourists.  Thieves often attempt to distract their victims by
squirting mustard on their clothing, asking for directions on the
street, or otherwise diverting attention from an accomplice.  Thefts
of small items like radios, luggage, cameras, briefcases, and even
cigarettes from parked cars are a common problem.  The American
Embassy in Madrid has issued a notice to U.S. citizens stating that
it frequently receives reports of roadside thieves posing as "Good
Samaritans" to persons experiencing car and tire problems.  The
thieves typically attempt to divert the driver's attention by
pointing out a mechanical problem and then steal items from the
vehicle while the driver is looking elsewhere.  The problem is
particularly acute with vehicles rented at Madrid's Barajas airport.
 The Embassy notice advises drivers to be extremely cautious about
accepting help from anyone other than a uniformed Spanish police
officer or Civil Guard.  Travelers who accept unofficial assistance
are advised to protect their valuables by keeping them in sight or
locking them in the vehicle.  Bags or other articles left unattended
in Spain are likely to disappear.  Andorra has a low rate of crime.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.   U.S. citizens may refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more
trouble-free journey.  It is available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In Spain, penalties for
possession, use, or dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Terrorist Activities:  Civil disorder in Spain is rare.  Although a
few small terrorist groups, including ETA (Basque separatists) and
GRAPO (a Marxist group), are still active, their efforts are
primarily directed against police, military, and other Spanish
government targets.  Americans have not been targets of these
attacks.
Registration and Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Madrid is
located at Serrano 75; telephone [phone].  U.S. citizens who
register in the Consular Section at the U.S. embassy or consulates
listed below may obtain updated information on travel and security
within Spain.  There are U.S. Consulates in Barcelona, at Paseo
Reina Elisenda 23-25, telephone [phone]; and in Bilbao, at
Lehendakari Aguirre 11-3, telephone [phone].
There are also Consular Agencies in these locations:
Malaga, at Centro Comercial "Las Rampas", Fase 2, Planta 1, Locales
 12-G-7 and 12-G-8, Fuengirola, telephone [phone], hours
10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.;
La Coruna, at Canton Grande 16-17, telephone [phone],
hours 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.;
Las Palmas, at Franchy y Roca 5-5', No. 13, telephone (34-928)
222-552, hours 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.;
Palma de Mallorca, at Av. Jaime 111, 26 Entresuelo, 2-H-1 (97),
telephone [phone], hours 4:00 p.m. to 7:00 p.m.;
Seville, at Paseo de Las Delicias 7, telephone [phone],
hours 8:30 a.m. to 1:30 p.m. and 2:30 p.m to 4:30 p.m.;
Valencia, at Cl. de La Paz 6-5, Local 5, telephone
(34-96)-351-6973, hours 10:00 a.m. to 1:00 p.m.
For Andorra, contact the Consulate in Barcelona.
 No. 95-153
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 26, 1994,
to update information on crime, and to merge the Consular
Information Sheets on Spain and Andorra.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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`@S@                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Spain
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southwestern Europe, bordering the Bay of Biscay, Mediterranean Sea, and
    North Atlantic Ocean, southwest of France
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    504,750 sq km
  land area:
    499,400 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than twice the size of Oregon
  note:
    includes Balearic Islands, Canary Islands, and five places of sovereignty
    (plazas de soberania) on and off the coast of Morocco - Ceuta, Mellila,
    Islas Chafarinas, Penon de Alhucemas, and Penon de Velez de la Gomera
Land boundaries:
    total 1,903.2 km, Andorra 65 km, France 623 km, Gibraltar 1.2 km, Portugal
    1,214 km
Coastline:
    4,964 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    Gibraltar question with UK; Spain controls five places of sovereignty
    (plazas de soberania) on and off the coast of Morocco - the coastal enclaves
    of Ceuta and Melilla, which Morocco contests, as well as the islands of
    Penon de Alhucemas, Penon de Velez de la Gomera, and Islas Chafarinas
Climate:
    temperate; clear, hot summers in interior, more moderate and cloudy along
    coast; cloudy, cold winters in interior, partly cloudy and cool along coast
Terrain:
    large, flat to dissected plateau surrounded by rugged hills; Pyrenees in
    north
Natural resources:
    coal, lignite, iron ore, uranium, mercury, pyrites, fluorspar, gypsum, zinc,
    lead, tungsten, copper, kaolin, potash, hydropower
Land use:
  arable land:
    31%
  permanent crops:
    10%
  meadows and pastures:
    21%
  forest and woodland:
    31%
  other:
    7%
Irrigated land:
    33,600 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    pollution of the Mediterranean Sea from raw sewage and effluents from the
    offshore production of oil and gas; air pollution; deforestation;
    desertification
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Spain
                                    Geography
  natural hazards:
    periodic droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol,
    Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species,
    Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life
    Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution,
    Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 94, Desertification, Law of the Sea
Note:
    strategic location along approaches to Strait of Gibraltar
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Spain
                                     People
Population:
    39,404,348 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    17% (female 3,214,606; male 3,446,643)
  15-64 years:
    68% (female 13,377,839; male 13,457,683)
  65 years and over:
    15% (female 3,461,367; male 2,446,210) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.27% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    11.21 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.86 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.31 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    6.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.91 years
  male:
    74.67 years
  female:
    81.39 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.41 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Spaniard(s)
  adjective:
    Spanish
Ethnic divisions:
    composite of Mediterranean and Nordic types
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 99%, other sects 1%
Languages:
    Castilian Spanish, Catalan 17%, Galician 7%, Basque 2%
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1986)
  total population:
    96%
  male:
    98%
  female:
    94%
Labor force:
    14.621 million
  by occupation:
    services 53%, industry 24%, agriculture 14%, construction 9% (1988)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Spain
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of Spain
  conventional short form:
    Spain
  local short form:
    Espana
Digraph:
    SP
Type:
    parliamentary monarchy
Capital:
    Madrid
Administrative divisions:
    17 autonomous communities (comunidades autonomas, singular - comunidad
    autonoma); Andalucia, Aragon, Asturias, Canarias, Cantabria, Castilla-La
    Mancha, Castilla y Leon, Cataluna, Communidad Valencia, Extremadura,
    Galicia, Islas Baleares, La Rioja, Madrid, Murcia, Navarra, Pais Vasco
  note:
    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
Independence:
    1492 (expulsion of the Moors and unification)
National holiday:
    National Day, 12 October
Constitution:
    6 December 1978, effective 29 December 1978
Legal system:
    civil law system, with regional applications; does not accept compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    King JUAN CARLOS I (since 22 November 1975)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Felipe GONZALEZ Marquez (since 2 December 1982); Deputy Prime
    Minister Narcis SERRA y Serra (since 13 March 1991)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; designated by the prime minister
  Council of State:
    is the supreme consultative organ of the government
Legislative branch:
    bicameral The General Courts or National Assembly (Las Cortes Generales)
  Senate (Senado):
    elections last held 6 June 1993 (next to be held by June 1997); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (255 total) PSOE 117, PP 107, CiU 15,
    PNV 5, IU 2, other 9
  Congress of Deputies (Congreso de los Diputados):
    elections last held 6 June 1993 (next to be held by June 1997); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (350 total) PSOE 159, PP 141, IU 18,
    CiU 17, PNV 5, CC 4, HB 2, other 4
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Tribunal Supremo)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Spain
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
  principal national parties, from right to left:
    Popular Party (PP), Jose Maria AZNAR Lopez; Democratic Social Center (CDS),
    Rafael CALVO Ortega; Spanish Socialist Workers Party (PSOE), Felipe GONZALEZ
    Marquez, secretary general; Socialist Democracy Party (DS), Ricardo GARCIA
    Damborenea; 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), Miquel ROCA i Junyent, secretary general;
    Basque Nationalist Party (PNV), Xabier ARZALLUS Antia and Jose Antonio
    ARDANZA; Basque United People (HB), Jon IDIGORAS Guerricabeitia and Inaki
    ESNAOLA; Canarian Coalition (CC), a coalition of five parties
Other political or pressure groups:
    on the extreme left, the Basque Fatherland and Liberty (ETA) and the First
    of October Antifascist Resistance Group (GRAPO) use terrorism to oppose the
    government; free labor unions (authorized in April 1977) include the
    Communist-dominated Workers Commissions (CCOO); 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
Member of:
    AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD, EC,
    ECE, ECLAC, EIB, ESA, FAO, G- 8, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, LAIA (observer), MTCR, NACC, NAM
    (guest), NATO, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, ONUSAL, OSCE, PCA, UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNMIH, UNOMOZ, UNPROFOR, UNU, UPU, WCL, WEU,
    WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jaime De OJEDA Eiseley
  chancery:
    2375 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20037
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 728-2340
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San
    Francisco, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Richard N. GARDNER
  embassy:
    Serrano 75, 28006 Madrid
  mailing address:
    APO AE 09642
  telephone:
    [34] (1) 577-4000
  FAX:
    [34] (1) 577-5735
  consulate(s) general:
    Barcelona
  consulate(s):
    Bilbao
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Spain
                                   Government
Flag:
    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 Gibraltar
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Spain
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Spain, with a per capita output approximately two-thirds that of the four
    leading economies of Western Europe, has shared with these countries the
    recession of the early 1990s and the upturn of their economic fortunes in
    1994. But whereas unemployment in these countries has hovered just above
    10%, Spain has been forced to cope with a 25% unemployment rate. Continued
    political turmoil has complicated the establishment of stable government
    policies toward budgetary restraint, interest rates, labor law reform, and
    Spain's role in the evolving economic integration of Western Europe. Because
    the recession has been so deep, the growth in industrial output, tourism,
    and other sectors in 1994, while welcome, falls far short of the growth
    required to bring unemployment down to, say, 10%. The recovery in the
    economies of major trade partners, the comparatively low inflation rate,
    lower interest rates, and prospects in the tourist sector suggest that Spain
    can make substantial progress in 1995.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $515.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    1.8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $13,120 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    4.9% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    24.5% (yearend 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $97.7 billion
  expenditures:
    $128 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $72.8 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    cars and trucks, semifinished manufactured goods, foodstuffs, machinery
  partners:
    EC 71.2%, US 4.8%, other developed countries 7.9% (1992)
Imports:
    $92.5 billion (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    machinery, transport equipment, fuels, semifinished goods, foodstuffs,
    consumer goods, chemicals
  partners:
    EC 60.7%, US 7.4%, other developed countries 11.5%, Middle East 5.9% (1992)
External debt:
    $90 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 4% (1994 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    43,800,000 kW
  production:
    148 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,545 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    textiles and apparel (including footwear), food and beverages, metals and
    metal manufactures, chemicals, shipbuilding, automobiles, machine tools,
    tourism
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Spain
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 5% of GDP and 14% of labor force; major products - grain,
    vegetables, olives, wine grapes, sugar beets, citrus fruit, beef, pork,
    poultry, dairy; largely self-sufficient in food; fish catch of 1.4 million
    metric tons is among top 20 nations
Illicit drugs:
    key European gateway country for Latin American cocaine and North African
    hashish entering the European market; transshipment point for Southwest
    Asian heroin
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-87), $1.9 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-79), $545 million
  note:
    not currently a recipient
Currency:
    1 peseta (Pta) = 100 centimos
Exchange rates:
    pesetas (Ptas) per US$1 - 132.61 (January 1995), 133.96 (1994), 127.26
    (1993), 102.38 (1992), 103.91 (1991), 101.93 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Spain
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    14,400 km
  broad gauge:
    12,111 km 1.668-m gauge (6,404 km electrified; 2,295 km double track)
  standard gauge:
    515 km 1.435-m gauge (515 km electrified)
  narrow gauge:
    1,774 km (privately owned: 1,727 km 1.000-m gauge, 560 km electrified; 28 km
    0.914-m gauge, 28 km electrified; government owned: 19 km 1.000-m gauge, all
    electrified)
Highways:
  total:
    331,961 km
  paved:
    328,641 km (2,700 km of expressways)
  unpaved:
    3,320 km (1991)
Inland waterways:
    1,045 km, but of minor economic importance
Pipelines:
    crude oil 265 km; petroleum products 1,794 km; natural gas 1,666 km
Ports:
    Aviles, Barcelona, Bilbao, Cadiz, Cartagena, Castellon de la Plana, Ceuta,
    Huelva, La Coruna, Las Palmas (Canary Islands), Malaga, Melilla, Pasajes,
    Puerto de Gijon, Santa Cruz de Tenerife (Canary Islands), Santander,
    Tarragona, Valencia, Vigo
Merchant marine:
  total:
    157 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 868,326 GRT/1,382,335 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 12, cargo 41, chemical tanker 11, container 9, liquefied gas tanker 4,
    oil tanker 25, passenger 2, refrigerated cargo 12, roll-on/roll-off cargo
    34, short-sea passenger 5, specialized tanker 2
Airports:
  total:
    106
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    15
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    11
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    16
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    12
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    34
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    16
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Spain
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    15,350,464 telephones; generally adequate, modern facilities
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    22 coaxial submarine cables; 2 earth stations for INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean
    and 1 Indian Ocean); earth stations for working the EUTELSAT, INMARSAT, and
    MARECS satellite communications systems; microwave tropospheric scatter
    links to adjacent countries
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 190, FM 406 (repeaters 134), shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    100 (repeaters 1,297)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Spain
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Civil Guard, National Police, Coastal Civil
    Guard
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 10,435,970; males fit for military service 8,434,460; males
    reach military age (20) annually 335,967 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $8 billion, 1.6% of GDP (1994)
Solomon Islands
SLOVAK REPUBLIC - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to
30 days.  For longer stays and other types of travel contact Embassy of
the Slovak Republic, 2201 Wisconsin Ave., N.W., Suite 380, Washington, D.C.
20007 (202/965-5164).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Slovak Republic
============================================================
Slovak Republic - Consular Information Sheet
 November 9, 1995
Country Description:  The Slovak Republic is a moderately developed
European nation undergoing profound economic and political changes.
Tourist facilities are not as developed as those found in western
Europe and many of the goods and services taken for granted in other
European countries are not yet available.
Entry Requirements:  Travelers to the Slovak Republic can obtain
entry information at the Embassy of the Slovak Republic at 2201
Wisconsin Avenue N.W., Suite 380, Washington, DC 20007, telephone
[phone]/1.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are available.  However
only a limited number of doctors are English speakers.  Doctors and
hospitals expect cash payment for health services unless the patient
can present an insurance number from the Slovak National Insurance
Company.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Travelers have found that in some cases,
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has
proven to be useful.  Further information on health matters can be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
international travelers hotline at [phone].
Information on Crime:  The Slovak Republic has a low rate of
violent crime.  However, particularly in the summer, there has been
an increase in street crime such as pickpocketing in shopping
centers, in the vicinity of major hotels where foreigners stay, near
major tourist sites, and on night trains, especially
Prague-Bratislava-Budapest or Budapest-Warsaw.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" is available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, DC 20402.  It provides useful information on
safeguarding valuables and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling. Penalties for possession, use
and dealing in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens may register at
the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Bratislava and obtain
updated information on travel and security in the Slovak Republic.
The U.S. Embassy in Bratislava is located at Hviezdoslavovo Namestie
4, telephone [phone].
 No. 95-142
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May, 11, 1994 to
update information on crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Slovak Republic
============================================================
Slovak Republic - Consular Information Sheet
 November 9, 1995
Country Description:  The Slovak Republic is a moderately developed
European nation undergoing profound economic and political changes.
Tourist facilities are not as developed as those found in western
Europe and many of the goods and services taken for granted in other
European countries are not yet available.
Entry Requirements:  Travelers to the Slovak Republic can obtain
entry information at the Embassy of the Slovak Republic at 2201
Wisconsin Avenue N.W., Suite 380, Washington, DC 20007, telephone
[phone]/1.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are available.  However
only a limited number of doctors are English speakers.  Doctors and
hospitals expect cash payment for health services unless the patient
can present an insurance number from the Slovak National Insurance
Company.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Travelers have found that in some cases,
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has
proven to be useful.  Further information on health matters can be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
international travelers hotline at [phone].
Information on Crime:  The Slovak Republic has a low rate of
violent crime.  However, particularly in the summer, there has been
an increase in street crime such as pickpocketing in shopping
centers, in the vicinity of major hotels where foreigners stay, near
major tourist sites, and on night trains, especially
Prague-Bratislava-Budapest or Budapest-Warsaw.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" is available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, DC 20402.  It provides useful information on
safeguarding valuables and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling. Penalties for possession, use
and dealing in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens may register at
the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Bratislava and obtain
updated information on travel and security in the Slovak Republic.
The U.S. Embassy in Bratislava is located at Hviezdoslavovo Namestie
4, telephone [phone].
 No. 95-142
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May, 11, 1994 to
update information on crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
8                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovakia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Europe, south of Poland
Map references:
    Ethnic Groups in Eastern Europe, Europe
Area:
  total area:
    48,845 sq km
  land area:
    48,800 sq km
  comparative area:
    about twice the size of New Hampshire
Land boundaries:
    total 1,355 km, Austria 91 km, Czech Republic 215 km, Hungary 515 km, Poland
    444 km, Ukraine 90 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    Gabcikovo Dam dispute with Hungary; unresolved property issues with Czech
    Republic over redistribution of former Czechoslovak federal property
Climate:
    temperate; cool summers; cold, cloudy, humid winters
Terrain:
    rugged mountains in the central and northern part and lowlands in the south
Natural resources:
    brown coal and lignite; small amounts of iron ore, copper and manganese ore;
    salt
Land use:
  arable land:
    NA%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution from metallurgical plants presents human health risks; acid
    rain damaging forests
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change,
    Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear
    Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not
    ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law
    of the Sea
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovakia
                                     People
Population:
    5,432,383 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    23% (female 609,795; male 638,346)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 1,807,312; male 1,778,712)
  65 years and over:
    11% (female 364,610; male 233,608) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.54% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    14.51 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.12 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    10 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    73.24 years
  male:
    69.15 years
  female:
    77.57 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.93 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Slovak(s)
  adjective:
    Slovak
Ethnic divisions:
    Slovak 85.7%, Hungarian 10.7%, Gypsy 1.5% (the 1992 census 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%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 60.3%, atheist 9.7%, Protestant 8.4%, Orthodox 4.1%, other
    17.5%
Languages:
    Slovak (official), Hungarian
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    2.484 million
  by occupation:
    industry 33.2%, agriculture 12.2%, construction 10.3%, communication and
    other 44.3% (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovakia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Slovak Republic
  conventional short form:
    Slovakia
  local long form:
    Slovenska Republika
  local short form:
    Slovensko
Digraph:
    LO
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Bratislava
Administrative divisions:
    4 departments (kraje, singular - kraj) Bratislava, Zapadoslovensky,
    Stredoslovensky, Vychodoslovensky
Independence:
    1 January 1993 (from Czechoslovakia)
National holiday:
    Anniversary of Slovak National Uprising, August 29 (1944)
Constitution:
    ratified 1 September 1992, fully effective 1 January 1993
Legal system:
    civil law system based on Austro-Hungarian codes; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction; legal code modified to comply with the
    obligations of Organization on Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) and
    to expunge Marxist-Leninist legal theory
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Michal KOVAC (since 8 February 1993); election last held 8
    February 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - Michal KOVAC elected by
    the National Council
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Vladimir MECIAR (since 12 December 1994)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Council (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)
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Movement for a Democratic Slovakia (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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovakia
                                   Government
Other political or pressure groups:
    Green Party; Social Democratic Party of Slovakia; Slovak Christian Union
Member of:
    Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE (guest), CEI, CERN, EBRD, ECE, FAO, GATT,
    IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC,
    NSG, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNAVEM II, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMIL, UNOMUR,
    UNPROFOR, UPU, WEU (associate partner), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Branislav LICHARDUS
  chancery:
    (temporary) Suite 380, 2201 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Theodore E. RUSSELL
  embassy:
    Hviezdoslavovo Namestie 4, 81102 Bratislava
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [42] (7) 330-861, 333-338
  FAX:
    [42] (7) 330-096
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovakia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    In 1994 macroeconomic performance improved steadily but privatization
    progressed only in fits and starts. Most of Slovakia's IMF-approved targets
    were met by an interim government that lasted 9 months. Annual inflation
    fell from 23% in 1993 to 12%; unemployment at 14.6% was still well below
    forecasts of 17%; and the budget deficit was around half that in 1993.
    Slovakia's nearly $200 million trade surplus also compares favorably with a
    more than $800 million deficit in 1993. Furthermore, after contracting
    almost 25% in the three years following 1990, GDP grew 4.3% in 1994,
    according to official statistics. Bratislava in June qualified for a $254
    million IMF stand-by loan and the second $90 million tranche of its Systemic
    Transformation Facility and, in December, received approval for a European
    Union loan worth about $160 million. By the end of September 1994, the
    Central Bank's foreign currency reserves had tripled since the end of 1993.
    Slovakia continued to have difficulty attracting foreign investment,
    however, because of perceived political instability and halting progress in
    privatization. The interim government prepared property worth nearly $2
    billion for the second wave of coupon privatization and sold participation
    in the program to over 80% of Slovakia's eligible citizens. Parties
    controlling the new Parliament in November 1994, however, put the second
    wave of coupon privatization on hold and suspended sales of 38 firms until
    the new government could evaluate the interim government's decisions in
    early 1995. The new government's targets for 1995 include GDP growth of 3%,
    inflation of 8%-10%, unemployment of 15%, and a budget deficit under 3% of
    GDP. Continuing economic recovery in western Europe should boost Slovak
    exports and production, but Slovakia's image with foreign creditors and
    investors could suffer setbacks in 1995 if progress on privatization stalls
    or budget deficits mount beyond IMF-recommended levels.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $32.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4.3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $6,070 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    12% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    14.6% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $4.4 billion
  expenditures:
    $4.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $350 million (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $6.3 billion (f.o.b., January-November 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment; chemicals; fuels, minerals, and metals;
    agricultural products
  partners:
    Czech Republic 37.7%, Germany 17.1%, Hungary 5.3%, Austria 5.3%, Italy 4.6%,
    Russia 4.0%, Poland 2.6%, Ukraine 1.8%, US 1.6% (January-September 1994)
Imports:
    $6.1 billion (f.o.b., January-November 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment; fuels and lubricants; manufactured goods;
    raw materials; chemicals; agricultural products
  partners:
    Czech Republic 29.9%, Russia 19.0%, Germany 13.2%, Austria 5.8%, Italy 4.3%,
    US 2.6%, Poland 2.4%, Ukraine 1.9%, Hungary 1.6% (January-September 1994)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovakia
                                     Economy
External debt:
    $4.2 billion hard currency indebtedness (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    6,300,000 kW
  production:
    20.9 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,609 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    metal and metal products; food and beverages; electricity, gas, and water;
    coking, oil production, and nuclear fuel production; chemicals and manmade
    fibers; machinery; paper and printing; earthenware and ceramics; transport
    vehicles; textiles; electrical and optical apparatus; rubber products
Agriculture:
    largely self-sufficient in food production; diversified crop and livestock
    production, including grains, potatoes, sugar beets, hops, fruit, hogs,
    cattle, and poultry; exporter of forest products
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin bound for Western Europe
Economic aid:
  donor:
    the former Czechoslovakia was a donor - $4.2 billion in bilateral aid to
    non-Communist less developed countries (1954-89)
Currency:
    1 koruna (Sk) = 100 halierov
Exchange rates:
    koruny (Sk) per US$1 - 31.14 (September 1994), 32.9 (December 1993), 28.59
    (December 1992), 28.26 (1992), 29.53 (1991), 17.95 (1990), 15.05 (1989);
    note - values before 1993 reflect Czechoslovak exchange rate
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovakia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,660 km (electrified 635 km)
  broad gauge:
    102 km 1.520-m gauge
  standard gauge:
    3,511 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    47 km (35 km 1,000-m gauge; 12 km 0.750-m gauge) (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    17,650 km (1990)
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Inland waterways:
    NA km
Pipelines:
    petroleum products NA km; natural gas 2,700 km
Ports:
    Bratislava, Komarno
Merchant marine:
  total:
    2 cargo ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 4,160 GRT/6,163 DWT
Airports:
    37
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    10
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    11
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovakia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovakia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Air and Air Defense Forces, Civil Defense, Railroad Units
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,443,719; males fit for military service 1,107,453; males
    reach military age (18) annually 49,045 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    9.59 billion koruny, 3.1% of GDP (1994 est.); note - conversion of defense
    expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce
    misleading results
 The/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Spain and Andorra
============================================================
Spain and Andorra - Consular Information Sheet
 December 4, 1995
Country Descriptions:  Spain and Andorra are both highly developed
and stable democracies with modern economies.  Tourist facilities
are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is necessary but a visa is not
required for tourist or business stays of up to three months.  In
Spain, visitors may subsequently apply for an extension of stay at a
Spanish immigration office.  For further information concerning
entry requirements for Spain, travelers may contact the Embassy of
Spain at 2375 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, D.C. 20037 tel:
[phone], or the nearest Spanish consulate in Boston, Chicago,
Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco,
or San Juan.  Further information on Andorra can also be obtained
from the Andorran Mission to the U.N., 2 U.N. Plaza, 25th Floor, New
York NY 10018, tel. [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Good medical care is available.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  Travelers
have found that supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proven to be useful.  Further information on
health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline on (404
Suriname
<SRI LANKA - Passport, onward/return ticket and proof of sufficient
funds ($15 per day) required.  Tourist visa not required for stay up to 90
days. For business or travel on official/diplomatic passport, visa required
and must be obtained in advance.  Business visa valid 1 month, requires 1
application form, 2 photos, a company letter, a letter from sponsoring
agency in Sri Lanka, a copy of an onward/return ticket, and $5 fee.
Include $6 postage for return of passport by registered mail.  Yellow
fever and cholera immunizations needed if arriving from infected area.  For
further information contact Embassy of the Democratic Socialist
Republic of Sri Lanka, 2148 Wyoming Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/483-4025) or nearest Consulate:  CA (805/323-8975 and 504/362-3232), HI
(808/373-2040), NJ (201/627-7855) or NY (212/986-7040).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Sri Lanka
============================================================
Sri Lanka - Consular Information Sheet
 September 26, 1995
Country Description:  Sri Lanka is a parliamentary democracy with a
developing economy.  Tourist facilities outside the capital and
major tourist areas may be limited.
Entry and Registration Requirements:  A passport and onward/return
ticket and proof of sufficient funds (15 U.S. dollars per day) are
required.  A tourist visa can be granted at the time of entry into
Sri Lanka, and may be valid for a maximum period of 90 days.
Business travelers may be granted a landing endorsement at the port
of entry for a one month period under certain circumstances.  Yellow
fever and cholera immunizations are needed if arriving from an
infected area.  Further information can be obtained by contacting
the Embassy of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, 2148
Wyoming Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone (202)
483-4025 through 8, or the Sri Lankan Consulate in New York.  There
are also honorary Sri Lankan consuls in Los Angeles, Honolulu, New
Orleans and Newark.  Sri Lankan law requires all persons, including
foreigners, who are guests in private households to register in
person at the nearest local police station.  Individuals who stay in
private households without registering with the local authorities
may be temporarily detained for questioning.  This requirement does
not apply to individuals staying in hotels or guest houses.
Areas of Instability:  There is a long-standing armed conflict
between the Sri Lankan government and a Tamil separatist group, the
Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).  A cease fire which had
been agreed to between the government and the LTTE in November of
1994 was abrogated by the LTTE in April of 1995.  As of September
1995, fighting between government security forces and the LTTE
continues in Northern and Eastern areas of the island.  Sri Lankan
defense regulations restrict travel to much of the island's Northern
area.  Areas such as Wilpattu and Gal-oya national parks are
considered especially unsafe.
Random terrorist bombings continue to occur, in or near the capital
city of Colombo.  While foreign nationals have not been targeted in
the on-going conflict thus far, a little known group called the
Qellalan Force which claimed responsibility for a June 1995 car bomb
at Colombo's Katunayake International Airport has threatened to
target foreigners in the future.  Since the LTTE apparently has the
ability to down military aircraft, commercial commuter flights
operating between military airports in Sri Lanka may be at risk.
Although foreign travelers have not specifically been the targets
of terrorist attacks, there is some risk that tourists or business
representatives traveling in Sri Lanka could be inadvertently caught
up in random acts of violence.  Travelers are advised to keep this
risk to a minimum by avoiding travel to the northern and eastern
areas of the country, avoiding attending political rallies or other
mass gatherings, staying clear of military installations and by
using caution when traveling on public buses or trains.  Street and
highway checkpoints staffed by security personnel are common;
travelers should closely follow any instructions given.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited.  Doctors and
hospitals often require immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  A serious illness or injury may require evacuation to the
nearest country where adequate medical facilities or treatment are
available, usually Thailand or Singapore.  Supplemental medical
insurance which would cover medical evacuation expenses is highly
recommended.  For further information, travelers may contact the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Petty street crime such as purse snatching and
pickpocketing is common especially on crowded local transportation.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security and other matters while traveling abroad is
provided in the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad"
and "Tips for Travelers to South Asia."  They are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
and trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced in Sri Lanka.
 Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location and Registration:  Updated information on travel
and security within Sri Lanka is available at the U.S. Embassy in
Colombo.  The mailing address is P.O. Box 106, 210 Galle Road,
Colombo 3, Sri Lanka.  The Embassy's telephone number during normal
business hours, Monday through Friday, is (94) (1) 448-007.  The
Embassy's after-hours and emergency telephone number is (94)(1)
447-355.  The embassy in Colombo also covers the Republic of the
Maldives.  The consular agency in Male closed on August 9, 1995.
U.S. citizens are encouraged to register at the Embassy upon arrival
in Sri Lanka.
 No. 95-118
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Sri Lanka dated
April 22, 1994, to update information on entry requirements, areas
of instability, medical facilities, and the closing of the Consular
Agency in the Maldives.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Sri Lanka
============================================================
Sri Lanka - Public Announcement
 June 15, 1995
 U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
 For Immediate Release
On June 13, 1995, the U.S. Embassy in Sri Lanka issued the
following notice:
"In light of the June 5 attempted car bombing at Katunayake
International Airport, the U.S. Embassy believes it is important
that American citizens be fully informed of security developments.
On June 13, the U.S. Embassy and several commercial organizations
received a copy of a message from the Ellalan Force in which that
group claimed responsibility for the June 5 bomb which partially
exploded at Katunayake.  The Ellalan Force in its most recent
message threatened further bomb attacks against the Airport and
called for tourists not to use the facility.  Following the failed
car bombing on June 5, the authorities have implemented tighter
security measures at Katunayake which remain in effect."
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Sri Lanka
============================================================
Sri Lanka - Consular Information Sheet
 September 26, 1995
Country Description:  Sri Lanka is a parliamentary democracy with a
developing economy.  Tourist facilities outside the capital and
major tourist areas may be limited.
Entry and Registration Requirements:  A passport and onward/return
ticket and proof of sufficient funds (15 U.S. dollars per day) are
required.  A tourist visa can be granted at the time of entry into
Sri Lanka, and may be valid for a maximum period of 90 days.
Business travelers may be granted a landing endorsement at the port
of entry for a one month period under certain circumstances.  Yellow
fever and cholera immunizations are needed if arriving from an
infected area.  Further information can be obtained by contacting
the Embassy of the Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka, 2148
Wyoming Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone (202)
483-4025 through 8, or the Sri Lankan Consulate in New York.  There
are also honorary Sri Lankan consuls in Los Angeles, Honolulu, New
Orleans and Newark.  Sri Lankan law requires all persons, including
foreigners, who are guests in private households to register in
person at the nearest local police station.  Individuals who stay in
private households without registering with the local authorities
may be temporarily detained for questioning.  This requirement does
not apply to individuals staying in hotels or guest houses.
Areas of Instability:  There is a long-standing armed conflict
between the Sri Lankan government and a Tamil separatist group, the
Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE).  A cease fire which had
been agreed to between the government and the LTTE in November of
1994 was abrogated by the LTTE in April of 1995.  As of September
1995, fighting between government security forces and the LTTE
continues in Northern and Eastern areas of the island.  Sri Lankan
defense regulations restrict travel to much of the island's Northern
area.  Areas such as Wilpattu and Gal-oya national parks are
considered especially unsafe.
Random terrorist bombings continue to occur, in or near the capital
city of Colombo.  While foreign nationals have not been targeted in
the on-going conflict thus far, a little known group called the
Qellalan Force which claimed responsibility for a June 1995 car bomb
at Colombo's Katunayake International Airport has threatened to
target foreigners in the future.  Since the LTTE apparently has the
ability to down military aircraft, commercial commuter flights
operating between military airports in Sri Lanka may be at risk.
Although foreign travelers have not specifically been the targets
of terrorist attacks, there is some risk that tourists or business
representatives traveling in Sri Lanka could be inadvertently caught
up in random acts of violence.  Travelers are advised to keep this
risk to a minimum by avoiding travel to the northern and eastern
areas of the country, avoiding attending political rallies or other
mass gatherings, staying clear of military installations and by
using caution when traveling on public buses or trains.  Street and
highway checkpoints staffed by security personnel are common;
travelers should closely follow any instructions given.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited.  Doctors and
hospitals often require immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  A serious illness or injury may require evacuation to the
nearest country where adequate medical facilities or treatment are
available, usually Thailand or Singapore.  Supplemental medical
insurance which would cover medical evacuation expenses is highly
recommended.  For further information, travelers may contact the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Petty street crime such as purse snatching and
pickpocketing is common especially on crowded local transportation.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security and other matters while traveling abroad is
provided in the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad"
and "Tips for Travelers to South Asia."  They are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
and trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced in Sri Lanka.
 Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location and Registration:  Updated information on travel
and security within Sri Lanka is available at the U.S. Embassy in
Colombo.  The mailing address is P.O. Box 106, 210 Galle Road,
Colombo 3, Sri Lanka.  The Embassy's telephone number during normal
business hours, Monday through Friday, is (94) (1) 448-007.  The
Embassy's after-hours and emergency telephone number is (94)(1)
447-355.  The embassy in Colombo also covers the Republic of the
Maldives.  The consular agency in Male closed on August 9, 1995.
U.S. citizens are encouraged to register at the Embassy upon arrival
in Sri Lanka.
 No. 95-118
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Sri Lanka dated
April 22, 1994, to update information on entry requirements, areas
of instability, medical facilities, and the closing of the Consular
Agency in the Maldives.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
9                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Sri Lanka
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Asia, island in the Indian Ocean, south of India
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    65,610 sq km
  land area:
    64,740 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than West Virginia
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    1,340 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical monsoon; northeast monsoon (December to March); southwest monsoon
    (June to October)
Terrain:
    mostly low, flat to rolling plain; mountains in south-central interior
Natural resources:
    limestone, graphite, mineral sands, gems, phosphates, clay
Land use:
  arable land:
    16%
  permanent crops:
    17%
  meadows and pastures:
    7%
  forest and woodland:
    37%
  other:
    23%
Irrigated land:
    5,600 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; wildlife populations threatened by poaching;
    coastal degradation from mining activities and increased pollution;
    freshwater resources being polluted by industrial wastes and sewage runoff
  natural hazards:
    occasional cyclones and tornadoes
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental
    Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone
    Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Marine Life
    Conservation
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Sri Lanka
                                    Geography
Note:
    strategic location near major Indian Ocean sea lanes
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Sri Lanka
                                     People
Population:
    18,342,660 (July 1995 est.)
  note:
    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
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    29% (female 2,597,969; male 2,713,696)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 6,042,228; male 5,902,343)
  65 years and over:
    6% (female 547,715; male 538,709) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.15% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    18.13 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.78 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.84 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    21.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    72.14 years
  male:
    69.58 years
  female:
    74.82 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.08 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Sri Lankan(s)
  adjective:
    Sri Lankan
Ethnic divisions:
    Sinhalese 74%, Tamil 18%, Moor 7%, Burgher, Malay, and Vedda 1%
Religions:
    Buddhist 69%, Hindu 15%, Christian 8%, Muslim 8%
Languages:
    Sinhala (official and national language) 74%, Tamil (national language) 18%
  note:
    English is commonly used in government and is spoken by about 10% of the
    population
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    88%
  male:
    93%
  female:
    84%
Labor force:
    6.6 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Sri Lanka
                                     People
  by occupation:
    agriculture 45.9%, mining and manufacturing 13.3%, trade and transport
    12.4%, services and other 28.4% (1985 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Sri Lanka
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka
  conventional short form:
    Sri Lanka
  former:
    Ceylon
Digraph:
    CE
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Colombo
Administrative divisions:
    8 provinces; Central, North Central, North Eastern, North Western,
    Sabaragamuwa, Southern, Uva, Western
Independence:
    4 February 1948 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence and National Day, 4 February (1948)
Constitution:
    adopted 16 August 1978
Legal system:
    a highly complex mixture of English common law, Roman-Dutch, Muslim,
    Sinhalese, and customary law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Chandrika Bandaranaike KUMARATUNGA (since 12 November 1994); 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%
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president in consultation with the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Sri Lanka
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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), Ranil
    WICKREMANSINGHE; Upcountry People's Front (UPF), leader NA; several ethnic
    Tamil and Muslim parties, represented in either parliament or provincial
    councils
  note:
    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)
Other political or pressure groups:
    Liberation Tigers of Tamil Eelam (LTTE) and other smaller Tamil separatist
    groups; other radical chauvinist Sinhalese groups; Buddhist clergy;
    Sinhalese Buddhist lay groups; labor unions
Member of:
    AsDB, C, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-24, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC,
    ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, NAM, PCA, SAARC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jayantha DHANAPALA
  chancery:
    2148 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 4028
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s):
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Teresita C. SCHAFFER
  embassy:
    210 Galle Road, Colombo 3
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 106, Colombo
  telephone:
    [94] (1) 448007
  FAX:
    [94] (1) 437345
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Sri Lanka
                                   Government
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Sri Lanka
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Industry - dominated by the fast-growing apparel industry - has surpassed
    agriculture as the main source of export earnings and accounts for over 16%
    of GDP. The economy has been plagued by high rates of unemployment since the
    late 1970s. Economic growth, which has been depressed by ethnic unrest,
    accelerated in 1991-94 as domestic conditions began to improve and
    conditions for foreign investment brightened. Currently, however, the new
    government's emphasis on populist measures has clouded Sri Lanka's economic
    prospects.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $57.6 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,190 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    12% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    13.6% (1993 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $2.3 billion
  expenditures:
    $3.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $1.5 billion (1993)
Exports:
    $2.9 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    garments and textiles, teas, diamonds, other gems, petroleum products,
    rubber products, other agricultural products, marine products, graphite
  partners:
    US 35.2%, Germany, UK, Belgium-Luxembourg, Japan, Netherlands, France (1993)
Imports:
    $4 billion (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    textiles and textile materials, machinery and equipment, transport
    equipment, petroleum, building materials
  partners:
    Japan, India, Hong Kong, South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, China (1993)
External debt:
    $7.2 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 9% (1993 est.); accounts for 16% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,410,000 kW
  production:
    3.2 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    168 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    processing of rubber, tea, coconuts, and other agricultural commodities;
    clothing, cement, petroleum refining, textiles, tobacco
Agriculture:
    accounts for one-fourth of GDP; field crops - rice, sugarcane, grains,
    pulses, oilseeds, roots, spices; cash crops - tea, rubber, coconuts; animal
    products - milk, eggs, hides, meat; not self-sufficient in rice production
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Sri Lanka
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1980-89), $5.1 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $169 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $369
    million
Currency:
    1 Sri Lankan rupee (SLRe) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Sri Lankan rupees (SLRes) per US$1 - 50.115 (January 1995), 49.415 (1994),
    48.322 (1993), 43.830 (1992), 41.372 (1991), 40.063 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Sri Lanka
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,948 km
  broad gauge:
    1,948 km 1.868-m gauge (102 km double track) (1990)
Highways:
  total:
    75,263 km
  paved:
    mostly bituminous treated 27,637 km
  unpaved:
    crushed stone, gravel 32,887 km; improved, unimproved earth 14,739 km
Inland waterways:
    430 km; navigable by shallow-draft craft
Pipelines:
    crude oil and petroleum products 62 km (1987)
Ports:
    Colombo, Galle, Jaffna, Trincomalee
Merchant marine:
  total:
    26 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 289,115 GRT/453,609 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 2, cargo 12, container 1, oil tanker 3, refrigerated cargo 8
Airports:
  total:
    14
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    5
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    7
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Sri Lanka
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    114,000 telephones (1982); very inadequate domestic service, good
    international service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    submarine cables extend to Indonesia and Djibouti; 2 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean)
    earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 12, FM 5, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    5
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Sri Lanka
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 4,990,661; males fit for military service 3,888,372; males
    reach military age (18) annually 178,926 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $412 million, 3.6% of GDP (1994)
Slovakia
SIERRA LEONE - Passport and visa required.  Single-entry visa valid 3
months, requires 1 application form, 1 photo, return/onward ticket and
proof of financial support from bank or employer.  Cholera and yellow
fever immunizations required and malarial suppressants recommended.  Adult
travelers (over age 16) must exchange $100 minimum upon arrival and
declare other foreign currency on an exchange control form (M), certified and
stamped at the port of entry.  For further information consult Embassy
of Sierra Leone, 1701 19th St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009
(202/939-9261).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Sierra Leone
============================================================
Sierra Leone - Travel Warning
 February 1, 1995
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to defer travel to
Sierra Leone.  Travel within Sierra Leone should be considered
extremely hazardous due to random and sporadic attacks by
insurgents.  Additional information may be found in the Department
of State's Consular Information Sheet on Sierra Leone.
 No. 95-004
Sierra Leone - Consular Information Sheet
 February 8, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to defer
travel to Sierra Leone.  Travel within Sierra Leone should be
considered extremely hazardous due to random and sporadic attacks by
insurgents.
Country Description:  Sierra Leone is a developing country which
has few facilities for tourism and poses considerable risks for
travelers.  Military activity and banditry affect large parts of the
country outside Freetown and the western peninsula. Telephone
service is unreliable.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Visas
must be obtained in advance from a Sierra Leonean embassy or
consulate.  Yellow fever immunizations are required and malaria
suppressants are recommended.   For current entry information,
contact the Embassy of Sierra Leone, 1701 19th Street, N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20009, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  The random and unpredictable nature of
military activity makes travel outside Freetown and the tourist
areas of the Western Peninsula extremely hazardous.  There have been
armed attacks on roads and villages in many parts of the country,
and as close as within 40 miles of Freetown.  Foreigners have been
taken hostage during several recent incidents.  In addition,
foreigners traveling in rural areas and certain areas of Freetown
are at risk from neighborhood patrols and committees on the lookout
for suspicious strangers.  Travelers in rural areas run the risk of
being detained, injured or killed.  Because many Sierra Leoneans do
not speak English, it can be difficult for a foreigner to
communicate his or her identity.  Travelers may also encounter
difficulties at the numerous roadblocks and military checkpoints
outside Freetown.  The U.S. Embassy has warned Americans not to
travel or reside outside Freetown unless directly involved in
essential emergency relief work.  Only two major European air
carriers currently service Lungi Airport.  The ferry service between
the airport and Freetown is unreliable.  In emergencies, the
overland route to the airport might be closed by fighting.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities fall far short of U.S.
standards.  Persons with medical conditions that may require
treatment or medications are discouraged from traveling to Sierra
Leone.  Medicines are in short supply, sterility of equipment is
questionable, and treatment is unreliable.  Many primary health care
workers, especially in rural areas, lack professional training.
Instances of misdiagnosis, improper treatment and administration of
improper drugs have been reported.  International air carriers are
reluctant to assist with medical evacuations from Sierra Leone.
Private charter evacuations, costing thousands of dollars, may be
necessary.  Doctors and hospitals often require immediate payment
for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid
outside the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not
provide payment of medical services outside the United States.  In
some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage and medical evacuation coverage has proven to be useful.
Information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control's international travelers hotline, telephone (404)
332-4559.
Information on Crime:  Petty crime and theft of wallets and
passports are common.  Requests for payments at military roadblocks
are common.  Robberies and burglaries of residences also occur.  The
loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Curfew:  Localized changes in the security situation in specific
areas can lead, without warning, to imposition of a curfew.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Photography Restrictions:  Permission is required to photograph
government buildings, airports, bridges or official-looking
buildings.  Areas forbidding photography are not marked or defined.
Dual Nationality:  Dual nationals who are bearers of Sierra Leone
passports are required to present proof of payment of taxes before
being granted departure clearance from Sierra Leone.  U.S. consular
assistance to persons of dual nationality may be extremely limited.
Registration:  U.S. citizens may register at the U.S. Embassy, at
which time they may obtain updated information on travel and
security in Sierra Leone.  In the event of civil disorder or crisis,
U.S. citizens are asked to contact the U.S. Embassy.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at the corner of
Walpole and Siaka Stevens streets in the capital city of Freetown.
The telephone number is (232-22) 226-481.  U.S. consular services
are limited to areas under government control; personnel constraints
imposed on the U.S. Embassy limit the assistance which can be
provided even in those areas.
 No. 94-128
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 25, 1994,
to add a travel warning; to revise the paragraphs on Areas of
Instability and Medical Facilities; and to delete information on
currency regulations.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
,                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Sierra Leone
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea and
    Liberia
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    71,740 sq km
  land area:
    71,620 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than South Carolina
Land boundaries:
    total 958 km, Guinea 652 km, Liberia 306 km
Coastline:
    402 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    200 nm
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid; summer rainy season (May to December); winter dry
    season (December to April)
Terrain:
    coastal belt of mangrove swamps, wooded hill country, upland plateau,
    mountains in east
Natural resources:
    diamonds, titanium ore, bauxite, iron ore, gold, chromite
Land use:
  arable land:
    25%
  permanent crops:
    2%
  meadows and pastures:
    31%
  forest and woodland:
    29%
  other:
    13%
Irrigated land:
    340 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    rapid population growth pressuring the environment; overharvesting of
    timber, expansion of cattle grazing, and slash-and-burn agriculture have
    resulted in deforestation and soil exhaustion; civil war depleting natural
    resources; overfishing
  natural hazards:
    dry, sand-laden harmattan winds blow from the Sahara (November to May);
    sandstorms, dust storms
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Life
    Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change,
    Environmental Modification
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Sierra Leone
                                     People
Population:
    4,753,120 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    44% (female 1,054,826; male 1,020,943)
  15-64 years:
    53% (female 1,310,506; male 1,216,510)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 72,982; male 77,353) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.63% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    44.65 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    18.38 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    thousands of refugees, fleeing the civil strife in Sierra Leone, are taking
    refuge in Guinea
Infant mortality rate:
    138.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    46.94 years
  male:
    44.07 years
  female:
    49.89 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.9 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Sierra Leonean(s)
  adjective:
    Sierra Leonean
Ethnic divisions:
    13 native African tribes 99% (Temne 30%, Mende 30%, other 39%), Creole,
    European, Lebanese, and Asian 1%
Religions:
    Muslim 60%, indigenous beliefs 30%, Christian 10%
Languages:
    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
    Freetown area and is lingua franca)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write English, Mende, Temne, or Arabic (1990
    est.)
  total population:
    21%
  male:
    31%
  female:
    11%
Labor force:
    1.369 million (1981 est.)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 65%, industry 19%, services 16% (1981 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Sierra Leone
                                     People
  note:
    only about 65,000 wage earners (1985)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Sierra Leone
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Sierra Leone
  conventional short form:
    Sierra Leone
Digraph:
    SL
Type:
    military government
Capital:
    Freetown
Administrative divisions:
    3 provinces and 1 area*; Eastern, Northern, Southern, Western*
Independence:
    27 April 1961 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Republic Day, 27 April (1961)
Constitution:
    1 October 1991; suspended following 19 April 1992 coup
Legal system:
    based on English law and customary laws indigenous to local tribes; has not
    accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    Chairman of the Supreme Council of State Capt. Valentine E. M. STRASSER
    (since 29 April 1992)
  cabinet:
    Council of Secretaries; responsible to the Supreme Council of State (SCS)
Legislative branch:
    unicameral House of Representatives (suspended after coup of 29 April 1992);
    Chairman STRASSER promises multi-party elections sometime in 1995
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (suspended after coup of 29 April 1992)
Political parties and leaders:
    status of existing political parties is unknown following 29 April 1992 coup
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory
    user), INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU,
    WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Thomas Kahota KARGBO
  chancery:
    1701 19th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Lauralee M. PETERS
  embassy:
    Corner of Walpole and Siaka Stevens Streets, Freetown
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [232] (22) 226481 trough 226485
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Sierra Leone
                                   Government
  FAX:
    [232] (22) 225471
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of light green (top), white, and light blue
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Sierra Leone
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Sierra Leone has substantial mineral, agricultural, and fishery resources,
    but the economic and social infrastructure is not well developed.
    Agriculture generates about 40% of GDP and employs about two-thirds of the
    working population, with subsistence agriculture dominating the sector.
    Manufacturing, which accounts for roughly 10% of GDP, consists mainly of the
    processing of raw materials and of light manufacturing for the domestic
    market. Diamond mining provides an important source of hard currency. Since
    1990, the government has been able to meet its IMF- and World Bank-mandated
    stabilization targets, holding down fiscal deficits, increasing foreign
    exchange reserves, and retiring much of its domestic debt - but at a steep
    cost in terms of capital investments and social spending. Moreover, the
    economic infrastructure has nearly collapsed due to neglect and war-related
    disruptions in the mining and agricultural export sectors. The continuing
    civil war in Liberia has led to a large influx of refugees, who place
    additional burdens on Sierra Leon's fragile economy.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4.5 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    0.7% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    22% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $68 million
  expenditures:
    $118 million, including capital expenditures of $28 million (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $149 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    rutile 48%, bauxite 25%, diamonds 16%, coffee, cocoa, fish
  partners:
    US, UK, Belgium, Germany, other Western Europe
Imports:
    $149 million (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs 48%, machinery and equipment 32%, fuels 9%
  partners:
    US, EC countries, Japan, China, Nigeria
External debt:
    $1.15 billion (yearend 1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -1.5% (FY91/92); accounts for 11% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    130,000 kW
  production:
    220 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    44 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    mining (diamonds, bauxite, rutile), small-scale manufacturing (beverages,
    textiles, cigarettes, footwear), petroleum refinery
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Sierra Leone
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    largely subsistence farming; cash crops - coffee, cocoa, palm kernels;
    harvests of food staple rice meets 80% of domestic needs; annual fish catch
    averages 53,000 metric tons
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $161 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $848 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $18 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $101
    million
Currency:
    1 leone (Le) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    leones (Le) per US$1 - 617.67 (January 1995), 586.74 (1994), 567.46 (1993),
    499.44 (1992), 295.34 (1991), 144.9275 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Sierra Leone
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    84 km mineral line is used on a limited basis because the mine at Marampa is
    closed
  narrow gauge:
    84 km 1.067-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    7,400 km
  paved:
    1,150 km
  unpaved:
    crushed stone, gravel 490 km; improved earth 5,760 km
Inland waterways:
    800 km; 600 km navigable year round
Ports:
    Bonthe, Freetown, Pepel
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    11
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Sierra Leone
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    23,650 telephones; telephone density - 5 telephones/1,000 persons; marginal
    telephone and telegraph service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    national microwave radio relay system made unserviceable by military
    activities
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Sierra Leone
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Police, Security Forces
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,030,332; males fit for military service 498,945 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $14 million, 2.6% of GDP (FY92/93)
Singapore
&{&SEYCHELLES - Passport, onward/return ticket and proof of sufficient
funds required.  Visa issued upon arrival for stay up to 1 month, no charge,
extendable up to 1 year.  Consult Permanent Mission of Seychelles to
the U.N., 820 Second Ave., Suite 203, New York, NY 10017 (212/687-9766) for
further information.
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Seychelles
============================================================
Seychelles - Consular Information Sheet
 September 18, 1995
Country Description:  Seychelles is an island nation in the Indian
Ocean off the east coast of Africa.  The principal island of Mahe
has a population of about 50,000.  The two other islands with
significant permanent populations are Praslin and La Digue.
Facilities for tourism are generally well developed.
Entry Requirements:  With a passport, onward/return ticket and
proof of sufficient funds for the intended visit, travelers can
obtain a Seychelles entry visa valid for a one-month stay upon
arrival.  There is no charge and the visa may be extended for a
period of up to one year.  An airport tax must be paid upon
departure.  For further information, the traveler may consult the
Permanent Mission of Seychelles to the United Nations, 820 Second
Avenue, Suite 203, New York, N.Y. 10017.  The telephone number is
[phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Seychelles are limited,
especially in the isolated outer islands, where doctors are often
unavailable.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash
payment for health services.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not
provide for payment of medical services outside the United States.
Not all U.S. medical insurance is valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has
proven useful.  Information on health matters can be obtained from
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international
travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Petty crime occurs, although violent crime
against tourists is considered to be rare.  Travelers who keep
valuables in hotel safes and who close and lock hotel windows at
night, even while the room is occupied, are less likely to be at
risk.  It is dangerous, particularly for women, to swim alone at
isolated beaches.  Boats left unlocked while in Victoria Harbor may
be targeted by thieves.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Other Information:  The outer islands of Seychelles are extremely
isolated, and travel by ship to these areas, including for rescue
attempts, may be impossible in stormy weather.  The outer islands
often have no airstrips for accommodating air traffic.
Import Prohibitions:  Firearms and spearfishing equipment cannot be
imported into Seychelles.  Fruits and vegetables cannot be imported
by casual travelers.  Dogs must undergo a minimum quarantine of six
months, which is strictly enforced, before being allowed entry into
Seychelles.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the
U.S. Embassy in Victoria may obtain updated information on travel
and security in Seychelles and vicinity.  The U.S. Embassy is
located on the fourth floor of Victoria House, in the capital city
of Victoria.  The mailing address from the United States is, Unit
62501, Box 148, APO AE 09815.  The international mailing address is
Victoria House, Box 251, Victoria Mahe, Seychelles.  The telephone
number is (248) 225-256; the fax number is (248) 225-189.
 No. 95-115
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated June 23, 1994 to
amend the sections on entry requirements, medical facilities, and
embassy location.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Seychelles
============================================================
Seychelles - Consular Information Sheet
 September 18, 1995
Country Description:  Seychelles is an island nation in the Indian
Ocean off the east coast of Africa.  The principal island of Mahe
has a population of about 50,000.  The two other islands with
significant permanent populations are Praslin and La Digue.
Facilities for tourism are generally well developed.
Entry Requirements:  With a passport, onward/return ticket and
proof of sufficient funds for the intended visit, travelers can
obtain a Seychelles entry visa valid for a one-month stay upon
arrival.  There is no charge and the visa may be extended for a
period of up to one year.  An airport tax must be paid upon
departure.  For further information, the traveler may consult the
Permanent Mission of Seychelles to the United Nations, 820 Second
Avenue, Suite 203, New York, N.Y. 10017.  The telephone number is
[phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Seychelles are limited,
especially in the isolated outer islands, where doctors are often
unavailable.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash
payment for health services.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not
provide for payment of medical services outside the United States.
Not all U.S. medical insurance is valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has
proven useful.  Information on health matters can be obtained from
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international
travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Petty crime occurs, although violent crime
against tourists is considered to be rare.  Travelers who keep
valuables in hotel safes and who close and lock hotel windows at
night, even while the room is occupied, are less likely to be at
risk.  It is dangerous, particularly for women, to swim alone at
isolated beaches.  Boats left unlocked while in Victoria Harbor may
be targeted by thieves.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Other Information:  The outer islands of Seychelles are extremely
isolated, and travel by ship to these areas, including for rescue
attempts, may be impossible in stormy weather.  The outer islands
often have no airstrips for accommodating air traffic.
Import Prohibitions:  Firearms and spearfishing equipment cannot be
imported into Seychelles.  Fruits and vegetables cannot be imported
by casual travelers.  Dogs must undergo a minimum quarantine of six
months, which is strictly enforced, before being allowed entry into
Seychelles.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the
U.S. Embassy in Victoria may obtain updated information on travel
and security in Seychelles and vicinity.  The U.S. Embassy is
located on the fourth floor of Victoria House, in the capital city
of Victoria.  The mailing address from the United States is, Unit
62501, Box 148, APO AE 09815.  The international mailing address is
Victoria House, Box 251, Victoria Mahe, Seychelles.  The telephone
number is (248) 225-256; the fax number is (248) 225-189.
 No. 95-115
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated June 23, 1994 to
amend the sections on entry requirements, medical facilities, and
embassy location.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
,m,                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Seychelles
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Africa, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, northeast of
    Madagascar
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    455 sq km
  land area:
    455 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    491 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claims Tromelin Island
Climate:
    tropical marine; humid; cooler season during southeast monsoon (late May to
    September); warmer season during northwest monsoon (March to May)
Terrain:
    Mahe Group is granitic, narrow coastal strip, rocky, hilly; others are
    coral, flat, elevated reefs
Natural resources:
    fish, copra, cinnamon trees
Land use:
  arable land:
    4%
  permanent crops:
    18%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    18%
  other:
    60%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    no natural fresh water resources, catchments collect rain water
  natural hazards:
    lies outside the cyclone belt, so severe storms are rare; short droughts
    possible
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling; signed, but not ratified -
    Desertification
Note:
    40 granitic and about 50 coralline islands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Seychelles
                                     People
Population:
    72,709 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    32% (female 11,630; male 11,811)
  15-64 years:
    62% (female 23,229; male 21,679)
  65 years and over:
    6% (female 2,875; male 1,485) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.81% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    21.35 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.7 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -6.6 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    11.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    70.08 years
  male:
    66.54 years
  female:
    73.73 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.16 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Seychellois (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Seychelles
Ethnic divisions:
    Seychellois (mixture of Asians, Africans, Europeans)
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 90%, Anglican 8%, other 2%
Languages:
    English (official), French (official), Creole
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1971)
  total population:
    58%
  male:
    56%
  female:
    60%
Labor force:
    27,700 (1985)
  by occupation:
    industry and commerce 31%, services 21%, government 20%, agriculture,
    forestry, and fishing 12%, other 16% (1985)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Seychelles
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Seychelles
  conventional short form:
    Seychelles
Digraph:
    SE
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Victoria
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    29 June 1976 (from UK)
National holiday:
    National Day, 18 June (1993) (adoption of new constitution)
Constitution:
    18 June 1993
Legal system:
    based on English common law, French civil law, and customary law
Suffrage:
    17 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President France Albert RENE (since 5 June 1977); election last held 20-23
    July 1993 (next to be held NA); results - President France Albert RENE
    (SPPF) reelected with 59.5% of the vote, Sir James MANCHAM (DP) 36.72%
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    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; total seats by party -
    SPPF 27, DP 5, UO 1
  note:
    the 11 awarded seats are apportioned according to the share of each party in
    the total vote
Judicial branch:
    Court of Appeal, Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    ruling party - Seychelles People's Progressive Front (SPPF), France Albert
    RENE; Democratic Party (DP), Sir James MANCHAM; United Opposition (UO),
    Annette GEORGES - a coalition of the following parties: Seychelles Party
    (PS), Wavel RAMKALAWAN; Seychelles Democratic Movement (MSPD), Jacques
    HONDOUL; Seychelles Liberal Party (SLP), Ogilvie BERLOUIS;;
Other political or pressure groups:
    trade unions; Roman Catholic Church
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, C, ECA, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFAD, IFC,
    IFRCS (associate), ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL,
    IOC, NAM, OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WMO, WTO
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Seychelles
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Marc R. MARENGO
  chancery:
    (temporary) 820 Second Avenue, Suite 900F, New York, NY 10017
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 9767
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Carl Burton STOKES
  embassy:
    4th Floor, Victoria House, Box 251, Victoria, Mahe
  mailing address:
    Box 148, Unit 62501, Victoria, Seychelles; APO AE 09815-2501
  telephone:
    [248] 225256
  FAX:
    [248] 225189
Flag:
    three horizontal bands of red (top), white (wavy), and green; the white band
    is the thinnest, the red band is the thickest
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Seychelles
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $430 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -2% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $6,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3.9% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    9% (1987)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $227.4 million
  expenditures:
    $263 million, including capital expenditures of $54 million (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $50 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    fish, cinnamon bark, copra, petroleum products (re-exports)
  partners:
    France 43%, UK 22%, Reunion 11%, (1992)
Imports:
    $261 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    manufactured goods, food, petroleum products, tobacco, beverages, machinery
    and transportation equipment
  partners:
    Singapore 16%, Bahrain 16%, South Africa, 14%, UK 13% (1992)
External debt:
    $181 million (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 4% (1992); accounts for 12% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    30,000 kW
  production:
    110 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,399 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tourism, processing of coconut and vanilla, fishing, coir rope factory, boat
    building, printing, furniture, beverage
Agriculture:
    accounts for 5% of GDP, mostly subsistence farming; cash crops - coconuts,
    cinnamon, vanilla; other products - sweet potatoes, cassava, bananas;
    broiler chickens; large share of food needs imported; expansion of tuna
    fishing under way
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Seychelles
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY78-89), $26 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1978-89), $315 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $5 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $60
    million
Currency:
    1 Seychelles rupee (SRe) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Seychelles rupees (SRe) per US$1 - 4.9371 (January 1995), 5.0559 (1994),
    5.1815 (1993), 5.1220 (1992), 5.2893 (1991), 5.3369 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Seychelles
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    260 km
  paved:
    160 km
  unpaved:
    crushed stone, earth 100 km
Ports:
    Victoria
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    14
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    5
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    6
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Seychelles
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    13,000 telephones; direct radio communications with adjacent islands and
    African coastal countries
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    radio communications
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Seychelles
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Coast Guard, Marines, National Guard, Presidential Protection Unit,
    Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 19,829; males fit for military service 10,099 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $12 million, 4% of GDP (1990 est.)
Qatar
PORTUGAL - (Includes travel to the Azores and Madeira Islands.)
Passport required.  Visa not required for visit up to 60 days (extendable).
For travel with pets and other information consult nearest Consulate:
Washington., D.C. (202/332-3007, CA (415/346-3400), MA (617/536-8740
and 508/997-6151), NJ (201/622-7300), NY (212/246-4580) or RI
(401/272-2003).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Portugal
============================================================
Portugal - Consular Information Sheet
 December 4, 1995
Country Description:  Portugal is a moderately developed and stable
democracy.  Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not
required for tourist stays up to sixty days.  For further
information concerning entry requirements for Portugal, travelers
can contact the Embassy of Portugal at 2125 Kalorama Road N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008, tel. [phone], or the nearest
Portuguese Consulate in Boston, New Bedford, Providence, New York,
Newark, or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are available.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be
useful.  Information on specific health matters is available through
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for
international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Portugal has a low but increasing rate of
violent crime.  Travelers, especially those who appear to be
affluent, may become targets of pickpockets and purse snatchers.
Automobile break-ins, particularly from rental cars, and car thefts
are common.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be
reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S.
embassy or consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of
State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more
trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
and dealing in illegal drugs are high.  Convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate can obtain updated information on
travel and security within Portugal.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Portugal is
located on Avenida das Forcas Armadas in Lisbon; telephone (351-1)
727-3300.  A Consulate is located in the Azores, on the island of
San Miguel, in Ponta Delgada.  The address is Avenida D. Henrique,
tel: [phone].  There is also a Consular Agency located
in Funchal, Madeira, on Avenida Luis de Camoes, telephone (351-091)
743-429.  It is open from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 noon.
 No. 95-154
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 26, 1994,
to reflect the Embassy's new telephone number.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Portugal
============================================================
Portugal - Consular Information Sheet
 December 4, 1995
Country Description:  Portugal is a moderately developed and stable
democracy.  Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not
required for tourist stays up to sixty days.  For further
information concerning entry requirements for Portugal, travelers
can contact the Embassy of Portugal at 2125 Kalorama Road N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008, tel. [phone], or the nearest
Portuguese Consulate in Boston, New Bedford, Providence, New York,
Newark, or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are available.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be
useful.  Information on specific health matters is available through
the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for
international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Portugal has a low but increasing rate of
violent crime.  Travelers, especially those who appear to be
affluent, may become targets of pickpockets and purse snatchers.
Automobile break-ins, particularly from rental cars, and car thefts
are common.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be
reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S.
embassy or consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of
State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more
trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
and dealing in illegal drugs are high.  Convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy or Consulate can obtain updated information on
travel and security within Portugal.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Portugal is
located on Avenida das Forcas Armadas in Lisbon; telephone (351-1)
727-3300.  A Consulate is located in the Azores, on the island of
San Miguel, in Ponta Delgada.  The address is Avenida D. Henrique,
tel: [phone].  There is also a Consular Agency located
in Funchal, Madeira, on Avenida Luis de Camoes, telephone (351-091)
743-429.  It is open from 10:00 A.M. to 12:00 noon.
 No. 95-154
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 26, 1994,
to reflect the Embassy's new telephone number.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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9                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Portugal
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southwestern Europe, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Spain
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    92,080 sq km
  land area:
    91,640 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Indiana
  note:
    includes Azores and Madeira Islands
Land boundaries:
    total 1,214 km, Spain 1,214 km
Coastline:
    1,793 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    sovereignty over Timor Timur (East Timor Province) disputed with Indonesia
Climate:
    maritime temperate; cool and rainy in north, warmer and drier in south
Terrain:
    mountainous north of the Tagus, rolling plains in south
Natural resources:
    fish, forests (cork), tungsten, iron ore, uranium ore, marble
Land use:
  arable land:
    32%
  permanent crops:
    6%
  meadows and pastures:
    6%
  forest and woodland:
    40%
  other:
    16%
Irrigated land:
    6,340 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    soil erosion; air pollution caused by industrial and vehicle emissions;
    water pollution, especially in coastal areas
  natural hazards:
    Azores subject to severe earthquakes
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species,
    Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not
    ratified - Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Desertification,
    Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Portugal
                                    Geography
Note:
    Azores and Madeira Islands occupy strategic locations along western sea
    approaches to Strait of Gibraltar
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Portugal
                                     People
Population:
    10,562,388 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    18% (female 943,412; male 1,000,971)
  15-64 years:
    68% (female 3,625,086; male 3,499,176)
  65 years and over:
    14% (female 889,142; male 604,601) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.36% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    11.72 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.65 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    1.55 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    9.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    75.53 years
  male:
    72.11 years
  female:
    79.16 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.47 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Portuguese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Portuguese
Ethnic divisions:
    homogeneous Mediterranean stock in mainland, Azores, Madeira Islands;
    citizens of black African descent who immigrated to mainland during
    decolonization number less than 100,000
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 97%, Protestant denominations 1%, other 2%
Languages:
    Portuguese
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    85%
  male:
    89%
  female:
    82%
Labor force:
    4.24 million (1994 est.)
  by occupation:
    services 54.5%, manufacturing 24.4%, agriculture, forestry, fisheries 11.2%,
    construction 8.3%, utilites 1.0%, mining 0.5% (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Portugal
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Portuguese Republic
  conventional short form:
    Portugal
  local long form:
    Republica Portuguesa
  local short form:
    Portugal
Digraph:
    PO
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Lisbon
Administrative divisions:
    18 districts (distritos, singular - distrito) and 2 autonomous regions*
    (regioes autonomas, singular - regiao autonoma); Aveiro, Acores (Azores)*,
    Beja, Braga, Braganca, Castelo Branco, Coimbra, Evora, Faro, Guarda, Leiria,
    Lisboa, Madeira*, Portalegre, Porto, Santarem, Setubal, Viana do Castelo,
    Vila Real, Viseu
Dependent areas:
    Macau (scheduled to become a Special Administrative Region of China on 20
    December 1999)
Independence:
    1140 (independent republic proclaimed 5 October 1910)
National holiday:
    Day of Portugal, 10 June (1580)
Constitution:
    25 April 1976, revised 30 October 1982 and 1 June 1989
Legal system:
    civil law system; the Constitutional Tribunal reviews the constitutionality
    of legislation; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Dr. Mario Alberto Nobre Lopes SOARES (since 9 March 1986);
    election last held 13 February 1991 (next to be held NA February 1996);
    results - Dr. Mario Lopes SOARES 70%, Basilio HORTA 14%, Carlos CARVALHAS
    13%, Carlos MARQUES 3%; note - SOARES is finishing his second term and by
    law cannot run for a third consecutive term
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Anibal CAVACO SILVA (since 6 November 1985); note - will be
    replaced in the October 1995 elections
  Council of State:
    acts as a consultative body to the president
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president on recommendation of the
    prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Assembly of the Republic (Assembleia da Republica):
    elections last held 6 October 1991 (next to be held NA October 1995);
    results - PSD 50.4%, PS 29.3%, CDU 8.8%, CDS 4.4%, PSN 1.7%, PRD 0.6%, other
    4.8%; seats - (230 total) PSD 136, PS 71, CDU 17, CDS 5, PSN 1
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Tribunal of Justice (Supremo Tribunal de Justica)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Portugal
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Social Democratic Party (PSD), Fernando NOGUEIRA; 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)
Member of:
    AfDB, Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD, EC, ECE, ECLAC, EIB, FAO,
    GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS,
    ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, LAIA
    (observer), MTCR, NACC, NAM (guest), NATO, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD,
    OSCE, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMOZ, UNPROFOR, UPU, WCL, WEU, WFTU,
    WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Francisco Jose Laco Treichler KNOPFLI
  chancery:
    2125 Kalorama Road NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Boston, New York, Newark (New Jersey), and San Francisco
  consulate(s):
    Los Angeles, New Bedford (Massachusetts), Providence (Rhode Island), and
    Washington, DC
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Elizabeth Frawley BAGLEY
  embassy:
    Avenida das Forcas Armadas, 1600 Lisbon
  mailing address:
    PSC 83, Lisbon; APO AE 09726
  telephone:
    [351] (1) 7266600, 7266659, 7268670, 7268880
  FAX:
    [351] (1) 7269109
  consulate(s):
    Ponta Delgada (Azores)
Flag:
    two vertical bands of green (hoist side, two-fifths) and red (three-fifths)
    with the Portuguese coat of arms centered on the dividing line
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Portugal
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Portugal's economy contracted 0.4% in 1993 but registered a 1.4% growth in
    1994, with 3% growth expected in 1995 and 1996. This comeback rests on high
    levels of public investment, continuing strong export growth, and a gradual
    recovery in consumer spending. The government's long-run economic goal is
    the modernization of Portuguese markets, industry, infrastructure, and work
    force in order to catch up with productivity and income levels of the more
    advanced EU countries. Per capita income now equals only 55% of the EU
    average. Economic policy in 1994 focused on reducing inflationary pressures
    by lowering the fiscal deficit, maintaining a stable escudo, moderating wage
    increases, and encouraging increased competition. The government's
    medium-term objective is to be in the first tier of the EU countries
    eligible to join the economic and monetary union (EMU) as early as 1997. To
    this end, the 1995 budget posits a cut in total deficit to 5.8% of GDP.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $107.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    1.4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $10,190 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    6.1% (May 1994)
Unemployment rate:
    6.7% (May 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $31 billion
  expenditures:
    $41 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994)
Exports:
    $15.4 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    clothing and footwear, machinery, cork and paper products, hides and skins
  partners:
    EU 75.5%, other developed countries 12.4%, US 4.3% (1994)
Imports:
    $24.3 billion (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment, agricultural products, chemicals,
    petroleum, textiles
  partners:
    EC 72%, other developed countries 10.9%, less developed countries 12.9%, US
    3.4%
External debt:
    $20 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 1.5% (1994 est.); accounts for 30.6% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    8,220,000 kW
  production:
    29.5 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,642 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    textiles and footwear; wood pulp, paper, and cork; metalworking; oil
    refining; chemicals; fish canning; wine; tourism
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Portugal
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 5% of GDP; small, inefficient farms; imports more than half of
    food needs; major crops - grain, potatoes, olives, grapes; livestock sector
    - sheep, cattle, goats, poultry, meat, dairy products
Illicit drugs:
    increasingly important gateway country for Latin American cocaine entering
    the European market; transshipment point for hashish from North Africa to
    Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1.8 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.2 billion
Currency:
    1 Portuguese escudo (Esc) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    Portuguese escudos (Esc) per US$1 - 158.02 (January 1995), 165.99 (1994),
    160.80 (1993), 135.00 (1992), 144.48 (1991), 142.55 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Portugal
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,068 km
  broad gauge:
    2,761 km 1.668-m gauge (439 km electrified; 426 km double track)
  narrow gauge:
    307 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    70,176 km
  paved and graveled:
    60,351 km (519 km of expressways)
  unpaved:
    earth 9,825 km
Inland waterways:
    820 km navigable; relatively unimportant to national economy, used by
    shallow-draft craft limited to 300 metric-ton cargo capacity
Pipelines:
    crude oil 22 km; petroleum products 58 km
Ports:
    Aveiro, Funchal (Madeira Islands), Horta (Azores), Leixoes, Lisbon, Porto,
    Ponta Delgada (Azores), Praia da Vitoria (Azores), Setubal, Viana do Castelo
Merchant marine:
  total:
    65 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 852,785 GRT/1,545,804 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 5, cargo 28, chemical tanker 5, container 4, liquefied gas tanker 2,
    oil tanker 17, refrigerated cargo 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1, short-sea
    passenger 1
  note:
    Portugal 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; in addition, Portugal owns 25 ships
    (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 155,776 DWT that operate under Panamanian and
    Maltese registry
Airports:
  total:
    65
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    8
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    18
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    29
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Portugal
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    2,690,000 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    generally adequate integrated network of coaxial cables, open wire and
    microwave radio relay, domestic satellite earth stations
  international:
    6 submarine cables; 3 INTELSAT (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean),
    EUTELSAT earth stations; tropospheric link to Azores
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 57, FM 66 (repeaters 22), shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    66 (repeaters 23)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Portugal
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy (includes Marines), Air Force, National Republican Guard, Fiscal
    Guard, Public Security Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,747,357; males fit for military service 2,223,299; males
    reach military age (20) annually 90,402 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $2.4 billion, 2.9% of GDP (1994)
Puerto Rico
POLAND - Passport (must be valid at least 12 months past date of entry)
required.  Visa not required for stay up to 90 days.  Visitors must
register at hotel or with local authorities within 48 hours after
arrival. Check with the Embassy of the Republic of Poland (Consular Division),
2224 Wyoming Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/232-4517) or nearest
Consulate General:  Chicago, IL, 1530 Lakeshore Dr.,  60610
(312/337-8816), Los Angeles, CA, 3460 Wilshire Blvd., Suite 1200, 90010
(213/365-7900) or New York, NY, 233 Madison Ave., 10016
(212/889-8360).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Poland
============================================================
Poland - Consular Information Sheet
 March 7, 1995
Country Description:  Poland is a moderately developed European
nation working to build a new political system and a market economy.
 Tourist facilities are not highly developed in all areas, and many
of the goods and services taken for granted in other European
countries can be difficult to find.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not
required for stays up to 90 days.  Visitors must register at a hotel
or with local authorities within 48 hours of arrival.  An AIDS test
is required for student visas; U.S. test results are accepted.
Further information on entry requirements may be obtained from the
Embassy of the Republic of Poland, Consular Section at 2224 Wyoming
Ave. NW, Washington, D.C. 20008, tel.: [phone] or 4528 or the
nearest Polish consulate in Chicago, Los Angeles, or New York.
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical care is available in Poland,
but generally does not meet Western standards.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be
useful.  Further information on health matters can be obtained from
the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline,
tel.: [phone].
Crime Information:  Crime is a serious problem throughout Poland
and is on the rise, particularly in large cities such as Warsaw,
Krakow, Poznan, Wroclaw and Gdansk.  Organized groups of thieves and
pickpockets appear to be operating in the train stations, and on
trains, trams, and buses in major cities.  A number of thefts have
occurred on the overnight trains, including thefts from passengers
in closed compartments.  In Warsaw, car thefts and break-ins, street
crime, and residential burglaries are increasingly prevalent.  There
have also been incidents of harassment and threats of violence
directed against African-Americans by so-called "skinheads" in
several Polish cities.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The Department of State's pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad"
 is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.   It provides information
on travel to the region and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad.
Currency Information:  Polish law prohibits the import or export of
Polish currency (zlotys).  Upon entry into Poland visitors must
declare in writing all money and valuable items they are bringing
in.  The declaration form should be stamped by Polish customs and
retained by the traveler for presentation on departure.  Undeclared
cash may be confiscated upon departure if the customs declaration is
unavailable.  Throughout Poland, particularly outside Warsaw, it is
difficult to cash traveler's checks or obtain cash advances on
credit cards.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
and dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and heavy fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens planning to be in Poland for longer
than a brief visit are encouraged to register with the U.S. Embassy
or the nearest U.S. consulate after arriving in Poland.  All offices
maintain updated information on travel and security within Poland
and the region.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Warsaw is
located at Aleje Ujazdowskie 29/31.  The consular entrance is
located around the corner at Ulica, Piekna 12,  tel. (48) (2)
628-3041; fax [phone].  There are also U.S. Consulates in Krakow,
at Ulica Stolarska 9, tel. (48) (12) 221-400; fax 218-292; and in
Poznan, at Ulica Chopina 4, tel.:  (48) (61) 551-088; fax 530-053.
 No. 95-036
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 28, 1994,
to update information on crime in Poland and to reflect new
telephone numbers for the U.S. Consulate in Krakow.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
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word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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C                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Poland
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Europe, east of Germany
Map references:
    Ethnic Groups in Eastern Europe, Europe
Area:
  total area:
    312,680 sq km
  land area:
    304,510 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than New Mexico
Land boundaries:
    total 3,114 km, Belarus 605 km, Czech Republic 658 km, Germany 456 km,
    Lithuania 91 km, Russia (Kaliningrad Oblast) 432 km, Slovakia 444 km,
    Ukraine 428 km
Coastline:
    491 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    defined by international treaties
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate with cold, cloudy, moderately severe winters with frequent
    precipitation; mild summers with frequent showers and thundershowers
Terrain:
    mostly flat plain; mountains along southern border
Natural resources:
    coal, sulfur, copper, natural gas, silver, lead, salt
Land use:
  arable land:
    46%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    13%
  forest and woodland:
    28%
  other:
    12%
Irrigated land:
    1,000 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    forest damage due to air pollution and resulting acid rain; improper means
    for disposal of large amounts of hazardous and industrial waste; severe
    water pollution from industrial and municipal sources; severe air pollution
    results from emissions of sulfur dioxide from coal-fired power plants, which
    also drifts into Germany and the Netherlands
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Antarctic Treaty, Climate Change, Endangered
    Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping,
    Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed,
    but not ratified - Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94,
    Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Biodiversity, Law of the Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Poland
                                    Geography
Note:
    historically, an area of conflict because of flat terrain and the lack of
    natural barriers on the North European Plain
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Poland
                                     People
Population:
    38,792,442 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    23% (female 4,349,467; male 4,559,536)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 12,849,300; male 12,698,179)
  65 years and over:
    11% (female 2,693,407; male 1,642,553) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.36% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    13.34 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.23 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.52 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    12.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    73.13 years
  male:
    69.15 years
  female:
    77.33 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.92 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Pole(s)
  adjective:
    Polish
Ethnic divisions:
    Polish 97.6%, German 1.3%, Ukrainian 0.6%, Byelorussian 0.5% (1990 est.)
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 95% (about 75% practicing), Eastern Orthodox, Protestant, and
    other 5%
Languages:
    Polish
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1978)
  total population:
    99%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    98%
Labor force:
    17.321 million (1993 annual average)
  by occupation:
    industry and construction 32.0%, agriculture 27.6%, trade, transport, and
    communications 14.7%, government and other 25.7% (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Poland
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Poland
  conventional short form:
    Poland
  local long form:
    Rzeczpospolita Polska
  local short form:
    Polska
Digraph:
    PL
Type:
    democratic state
Capital:
    Warsaw
Administrative divisions:
    49 provinces (wojewodztwa, singular - wojewodztwo); Biala Podlaska,
    Bialystok, Bielsko Biala, Bydgoszcz, Chelm, Ciechanow, Czestochowa, Elblag,
    Gdansk, Gorzow, Jelenia Gora, Kalisz, Katowice, Kielce, Konin, Koszalin,
    Krakow, Krosno, Legnica, Leszno, Lodz, Lomza, Lublin, Nowy Sacz, Olsztyn,
    Opole, Ostroleka, Pila, Piotrkow, Plock, Poznan, Przemysl, Radom, Rzeszow,
    Siedlce, Sieradz, Skierniewice, Slupsk, Suwalki, Szczecin, Tarnobrzeg,
    Tarnow, Torun, Walbrzych, Warszawa, Wloclawek, Wroclaw, Zamosc, Zielona Gora
Independence:
    11 November 1918 (independent republic proclaimed)
National holiday:
    Constitution Day, 3 May (1791)
Constitution:
    interim "small constitution" came into effect in December 1992 replacing the
    Communist-imposed constitution of 22 July 1952; new democratic constitution
    being drafted
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Lech WALESA (since 22 December 1990); election first round held 25
    November 1990, second round held 9 December 1990 (next to be held NA
    November 1995); results - second round Lech WALESA 74.7%, Stanislaw TYMINSKI
    25.3%
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Jozef OLEKSY (since 6 March 1995); Deputy Prime Ministers
    Roman JAGIELINSKI, Grzegorz KOLODKO, and Aleksander LUCZAK (since NA)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; responsible to the president and the Sejm
Legislative branch:
    bicameral National Assembly (Zgromadzenie Narodowe)
  Senate (Senat):
    elections last held 19 September 1993 (next to be held no later than NA
    October 1997); seats - (100 total)
    Communist origin or linked (PSL 34, SLD 37), post-Solidarity parties (UW 6,
    NSZZ 12, BBWR 2),  non-Communist, non-Solidarity (independents 7,
    unaffiliated 1, vacant 1)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Poland
                                   Government
  Diet (Sejm):
    elections last held 19 September 1993 (next to be held no later than NA
    October 1997); seats - (460 total)
    Communist origin or linked (SLD 171, PSL 132), post-Solidarity parties (UW
    74, UP 41, BBWR 16),  non-Communist, non-Solidarity (KPN 22)
  note:
    4 seats are constitutionally assigned to ethnic German parties
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
  post-Solidarity parties:
    Freedom Union (UW; Democratic Union and Liberal Democratic Congress merged
    to form Freedom Union), Leszek BALCEROWICZ; Christian-National Union (ZCHN),
    Ryszard CZARNECKI; Centrum (PC), Jaroslaw KACZYNSKI; Peasant Alliance (PL),
    Gabriel JANOWSKI; Solidarity Trade Union (NSZZ), Marian KRZAKLEWSKI; Union
    of Labor (UP), Ryszard BUGAJ; Christian-Democratic Party (PCHD), Pawel
    LACZKOWSKI; Conservative Party, Alexander HALL; Nonparty Bloc for the
    Support of the Reforms (BBWR)
  non-Communist, non-Solidarity:
    Confederation for an Independent Poland (KPN), Leszek MOCZULSKI; Polish
    Economic Program (PPG), Janusz REWINSKI; Christian Democrats (CHD), Andrzej
    OWSINSKI; German Minority (MN), Henryk KROL; Union of Real Politics (UPR),
    Janusz KORWIN-MIKKE; Democratic Party (SD), Antoni MACKIEWICZ
  Communist origin:
    Polish Peasant Party (PSL), Waldemar PAWLAK; Democratic Left Alliance (SLD),
    Aleksander KWASNIEWSKI
Other political or pressure groups:
    powerful Roman Catholic Church; Solidarity (trade union); All Poland Trade
    Union Alliance (OPZZ), populist program
Member of:
    Australia Group, BIS, BSEC (observer), CBSS, CCC, CE, CEI, CERN, EBRD, ECE,
    FAO, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO,
    INMARSAT, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU,
    MINURSO, NACC, NAM (guest), NSG, OAS (observer), OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNAMIR,
    UNCTAD, UNDOF, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNIKOM, UNOMIG, UNPROFOR, UPU, WCL,
    WEU (associate partner), WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jerzy KOZMINSKI
  chancery:
    2640 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 3802
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Nicholas Andrew REY
  embassy:
    Aleje Ujazdowskie 29/31, Warsaw
  mailing address:
    American Embassy Warsaw, Box 5010, Unit 1340, APO AE 09213-1340
  telephone:
    [48] (2) 628-30-41
  FAX:
    [48] (2) 628-82-98
  consulate(s) general:
    Krakow, Poznan
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Poland
                                   Government
Flag:
    two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red; similar to the flags of
    Indonesia and Monaco which are red (top) and white
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Poland
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Poland continues 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. Real GDP fell sharply
    in 1990 and 1991, but in 1992 Poland became the first country in the region
    to resume economic growth with a 2.6% increase. Growth increased to 3.8% in
    1993 and 5.5% in 1994 - the highest rate in Europe except for Albania. All
    of the growth since 1991 has come from the booming private sector, which now
    accounts for at least 55% of GDP, even though privatization of the
    state-owned enterprises is proceeding slowly and most industry remains in
    state hands. Industrial production increased 12% in 1994 - led by 50% jumps
    in the output of motor vehicles, radios and televisions, and pulp and paper
    - and is now well above the 1990 level. Inflation, which had approached
    1,200% annually in early 1990, was down to about 30% in 1994, as the
    government held the budget deficit to 1.5% of GDP. After five years of
    steady increases, unemployment has leveled off at about 16% nationwide,
    although it approaches 30% in some regions. The trade deficit was sharply
    reduced in 1994, due mainly to increased exports to Western Europe, Poland's
    main customer. The leftist government elected in September 1993 gets
    generally good marks from foreign observers for its management of the budget
    but is often criticized for not moving faster on privatization.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $191.1 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,920 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    30% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    16.1% (November 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $27.1 billion
  expenditures:
    $30 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $16.3 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    intermediate goods 26.5%, machinery and transport equipment 18.1%,
    miscellaneous manufactures 16.7%, foodstuffs 9.4%, fuels 8.4% (1993)
  partners:
    Germany 33.4%, Russia 10.2%, Italy 5.3%, UK 4.3% (1993)
Imports:
    $18.1 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment 29.6%, intermediate goods 18.5%, chemicals
    13.3%, fuels 12.5%, miscellaneous manufactures 10.1%
  partners:
    Germany 35.8%, Italy 9.2%, Russia 8.5%, UK 6.6% (1993)
External debt:
    $47 billion (1993); note - Poland's Western government creditors promised in
    1991 to forgive 30% of Warsaw's $35 billion official debt immediately and to
    forgive another 20% in 1994; foreign banks agreed in early 1994 to forgive
    45% of their $12 billion debt claim
Industrial production:
    growth rate 12% (1994 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Poland
                                     Economy
Electricity:
  capacity:
    31,120,000 kW
  production:
    124 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,908 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    machine building, iron and steel, extractive industries, chemicals,
    shipbuilding, food processing, glass, beverages, textiles
Agriculture:
    accounts for 7% of GDP; 75% of output from private farms, 25% from state
    farms; productivity remains low by European standards; leading European
    producer of rye, rapeseed, and potatoes; wide variety of other crops and
    livestock; major exporter of pork products; normally self-sufficient in food
Illicit drugs:
    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
Economic aid:
  donor:
     bilateral aid to non-Communist less developed countries (1954-89), $2.2
    billion
  recipient:
    Western governments and institutions have pledged $8 billion in grants and
    loans since 1989, but most of the money has not been disbursed
Currency:
    1 zloty (Zl) = 100 groszy
Exchange rates:
    zlotych (Zl) per US$1 - 2.45 (January 1995; 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), 9,500 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Poland
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    25,528 km
  broad gauge:
    659 km 1.520-m gauge
  standard gauge:
    23,014 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
    (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    367,000 km (excluding farm, factory and forest roads)
  paved:
    235,247 km (257 km of which are limited access expressways)
  unpaved:
    131,753 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    3,997 km navigable rivers and canals (1991)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 1,986 km; petroleum products 360 km; natural gas 4,600 km (1992)
Ports:
    Gdansk, Gdynia, Gliwice, Kolobrzeg, Szczecin, Swinoujscie, Ustka, Warsaw,
    Wrocaw
Merchant marine:
  total:
    152 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,186,405 GRT/3,270,914 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 89, cargo 38, chemical tanker 4, container 7, oil tanker 1, passenger
    1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 8, short-sea passenger 4
  note:
    in addition, Poland owns 9 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 76,501 DWT
    that operate under Bahamian, Liberian, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines,
    Vanuatu, Panamanian, and Cypriot registry
Airports:
  total:
    134
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    30
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    27
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    7
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    10
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    32
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    18
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Poland
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    4.9 million telephones; 12.7 phones/100 residents (1994); severely
    underdeveloped and outmoded system; exchanges are 86% automatic (1991)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    cable, open wire, and microwave
  international:
    INTELSAT, EUTELSAT, INMARSAT, and Intersputnik earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 27, FM 27, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    40 (Russian repeaters 5)
  televisions:
    9.6 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Poland
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 10,181,069; males fit for military service 7,940,634; males
    reach military age (19) annually 323,133 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    50.7 billion zlotych, NA% of GNP (1994 est.); note - conversion of defense
    expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce
    misleading results
Portugal
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Pitcairn Islands
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (dependent territory of the UK)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Pitcairn Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from
    Peru to New Zealand
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    47 sq km
  land area:
    47 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.3 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    51 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical, hot, humid, modified by southeast trade winds; rainy season
    (November to March)
Terrain:
    rugged volcanic formation; rocky coastline with cliffs
Natural resources:
    miro trees (used for handicrafts), fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    NA%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation (only a small portion of the original forest remains because
    of burning and clearing for settlement)
  natural hazards:
    typhoons (especially November to March)
  international agreements:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Pitcairn Islands
                                     People
Population:
    73 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    2.8% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    NA births/1,000 population
Death rate:
    NA deaths/1,000 population
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population
Infant mortality rate:
    NA deaths/1,000 live births
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    NA years
  male:
    NA years
  female:
    NA years
Total fertility rate:
    NA children born/woman
Nationality:
  noun:
    Pitcairn Islander(s)
  adjective:
    Pitcairn Islander
Ethnic divisions:
    descendants of the Bounty mutineers
Religions:
    Seventh-Day Adventist 100%
Languages:
    English (official), Tahitian/English dialect
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    no business community in the usual sense; some public works; subsistence
    farming and fishing
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Pitcairn Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie, and Oeno Islands
  conventional short form:
    Pitcairn Islands
Digraph:
    PC
Type:
    dependent territory of the UK
Capital:
    Adamstown
Administrative divisions:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
Independence:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
National holiday:
    Celebration of the Birthday of the Queen (second Saturday in June)
Constitution:
    Local Government Ordinance of 1964
Legal system:
    local island by-laws
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal with three years residency
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by UK High
    Commissioner to New Zealand and Governor (non-resident) of the Pitcairn
    Islands Robert John ALSTON (since NA); Commissioner (non-resident) G.D.
    HARRAWAY (since NA; is the liaison person between the governor and the
    Island Council)
  head of government:
    Island Magistrate and Chairman of the Island Council Jay WARREN (since NA)
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Island Council:
    elections take place each December; last held NA December 1994 (next to be
    held NA December 1995); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (11 total, 5
    elected) all independents
Judicial branch:
    Island Court
Political parties and leaders:
    none
Other political or pressure groups:
    NA
Member of:
    SPC
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Pitcairn Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The inhabitants exist on fishing and subsistence farming. The fertile soil
    of the valleys produces a wide variety of fruits and vegetables, including
    citrus, 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.
National product:
    GDP $NA
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $NA
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $430,000
  expenditures:
    $429,000, including capital expenditures of $NA (1987 est.)
Exports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    fruits, vegetables, curios
  partners:
    NA
Imports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    fuel oil, machinery, building materials, flour, sugar, other foodstuffs
  partners:
    NA
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    110 kW
  production:
    300,000 kWh
  consumption per capita:
    5,360 kWh (1990)
Industries:
    postage stamps, handicrafts
Agriculture:
    based on subsistence fishing and farming; wide variety of fruits and
    vegetables; must import grain products
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    ODA bilateral commitments (1992-93), $84,000
Currency:
    1 New Zealand dollar (NZ$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    New Zealand dollars (NZ$) per US$1 - 1.5601 (January 1995), 1.6844 (1994),
    1.8495 (1993), 1.8584 (1992), 1.7265 (1991), 1.6750 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Pitcairn Islands
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    6.4 km
  unpaved:
    earth 6.4 km
Ports:
    Bounty Bay
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
    none
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Pitcairn Islands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    24 telephones; party line telephone service on the island
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Pitcairn Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the UK
aved in use
  narrow gauge:
    297 km 1.067-m gauge (single track)
Highways:
  total:
    2,853 km
  paved:
    510 km
  unpaved:
    crushed stone, gravel, stabilized earth 1,230 km; improved earth 1,113 km
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    18
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    9
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1
Tajikistan
SYRIA - Passport and visa required.  Obtain visa in advance.
Single-entry visa valid 6 months or double-entry for 3 months, $15; multiple-entry
visa valid 6 months, $30.  Submit 2 application forms, 2 photos (signed) and
fee (payment must be money order only).  Enclose prepaid envelope (with
correct postage) for return of passport by mail.  AIDS test required for
students and others staying over 1 year; U.S. test sometimes accepted.  For
group visas and other information contact Embassy of the Syrian Arab
Republic, 2215 Wyoming Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/232-6313).
Syria - Consular Information Sheet
October 5, 1993
Country Description:  The Syrian Arab Republic has a developing, mixed-
sector economy.  The ruling Ba'th party espouses a largely secular ideology,
but Islamic traditions and beliefs provide a conservative foundation for the
country's customs and practices.  The constitution refers to Islamic
jurisprudence as a principal source of legislation, but the legal system
remains influenced by French practice.  Tourist facilities are widely
available, but vary in quality depending on price and location.  The work
week in Syria is Saturday through Thursday.  The U.S. Embassy is open Sunday
through Thursday.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required.  Visas must be
obtained prior to arrival in Syria.  Travelers who arrive without valid
Syrian visas will be denied entry by Syrian immigration officials.
According to the Syrian Foreign Ministry, an AIDS test is not required for
foreigners prior to arrival in Syria.  However, tests are mandatory for
foreigners wishing to reside in Syria.  A residence permit will not be
issued until the absence of the HIV virus has been determined.  Foreigners
wishing to marry Syrian nationals must also be tested for HIV.  Entry to
Syria is not granted to persons with passports showing an Israeli visa or
entry/exit stamps.  For further entry information, travelers may contact the
Embassy of the Syrian Arab Republic, 2215 Wyoming Ave. N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20008, tel. [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Basic modern medical care and medicines are available
in the principal cities of Syria, but not necessarily in outlying areas.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health care
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has
proved useful.  The international travelers hotline at the Centers for
Disease Control, telephone [phone], has additional useful health
information.
Information on Crime:  Crime is generally not a serious problem for
travelers in Syria.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be
reported immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in
the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to the Middle East and North Africa."  They are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington,
D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal practices
of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession of even small
amounts of illegal drugs for personal use, drug trafficking, or drug
smuggling are severe in Syria.  In addition to steep fines, convicted
offenders can expect jail terms of three years to life for possession or
trafficking.  Drug smuggling can be punishable by death.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy can obtain
updated information on travel and security within Syria.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Damascus, Syria, is located in Abu
Roumaneh, Al-Mansur St. No. 2; P.O. Box 29.  The telephone numbers are (963-
11) 333-2814, 771-4108, or 333-0788.  The fax number is (963-11) 224-7938.
No. 93-257
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Syria dated August 31, 1993
to add information on the work week in Syria and the days the U.S. Embassy
is open for business, and to note new phone numbers for the U.S. Embassy.
`8M8                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Syria
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Lebanon and Turkey
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    185,180 sq km
  land area:
    184,050 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than North Dakota
  note:
    includes 1,295 sq km of Israeli-occupied territory
Land boundaries:
    total 2,253 km, Iraq 605 km, Israel 76 km, Jordan 375 km, Lebanon 375 km,
    Turkey 822 km
Coastline:
    193 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    41 nm
  territorial sea:
    35 nm
International disputes:
    separated from Israel by the 1949 Armistice Line; Golan Heights is Israeli
    occupied; Hatay question with Turkey; ongoing dispute over water development
    plans by Turkey for the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers; Syrian troops in
    northern Lebanon since October 1976
Climate:
    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 hits Damascus
Terrain:
    primarily semiarid and desert plateau; narrow coastal plain; mountains in
    west
Natural resources:
    petroleum, phosphates, chrome and manganese ores, asphalt, iron ore, rock
    salt, marble, gypsum
Land use:
  arable land:
    28%
  permanent crops:
    3%
  meadows and pastures:
    46%
  forest and woodland:
    3%
  other:
    20%
Irrigated land:
    10,000 sq km (1992)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification; water pollution
    from dumping of raw sewage and wastes from petroleum refining; inadequate
    supplies of potable water
  natural hazards:
    dust storms, sandstorms
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Syria
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship
    Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Desertification,
    Environmental Modification
Note:
    there are 42 Jewish settlements and civilian land use sites in the
    Israeli-occupied Golan Heights (August 1994 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Syria
                                     People
Population:
    15,451,917 (July 1995 est.)
  note:
    in addition, there are 31,000 people living in the Israeli-occupied Golan
    Heights - 16,500 Arabs (15,000 Druze and 1,500 Alawites) and 14,500 Jewish
    settlers (August 1994 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 3,639,776; male 3,826,154)
  15-64 years:
    49% (female 3,691,862; male 3,854,989)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 219,251; male 219,885) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.71% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    43.21 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.07 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    41.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    66.81 years
  male:
    65.67 years
  female:
    68.01 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.55 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Syrian(s)
  adjective:
    Syrian
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab 90.3%, Kurds, Armenians, and other 9.7%
Religions:
    Sunni Muslim 74%, Alawite, Druze, and other Muslim sects 16%, Christian
    (various sects) 10%, Jewish (tiny communities in Damascus, Al Qamishli, and
    Aleppo)
Languages:
    Arabic (official), Kurdish, Armenian, Aramaic, Circassian, French widely
    understood
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    64%
  male:
    78%
  female:
    51%
Labor force:
    4.3 million (1994 est.)
  by occupation:
    miscellaneous and government services 36%, agriculture 32%, industry and
    construction 32%; note - shortage of skilled labor (1984)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Syria
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Syrian Arab Republic
  conventional short form:
    Syria
  local long form:
    Al Jumhuriyah al Arabiyah as Suriyah
  local short form:
    Suriyah
  former:
    United Arab Republic (with Egypt)
Digraph:
    SY
Type:
    republic under leftwing military regime since March 1963
Capital:
    Damascus
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    17 April 1946 (from League of Nations mandate under French administration)
National holiday:
    National Day, 17 April (1946)
Constitution:
    13 March 1973
Legal system:
    based on Islamic law and civil law system; special religious courts; has not
    accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Hafiz al-ASAD (since 22 February 1971 see note); Vice Presidents
    'Abd al-Halim ibn Said KHADDAM, Rif'at al-ASAD, and Muhammad Zuhayr
    MASHARIQA (since 11 March 1984); 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
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Mahmud ZU'BI (since 1 November 1987); Deputy Prime Minister
    Lt. Gen. Mustafa TALAS (since 11 March 1984); Deputy Prime Minister Salim
    YASIN (since NA December 1981); Deputy Prime Minister Rashid AKHTARINI
    (since 4 July 1992)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  People's Council (Majlis al-Chaab):
    elections last held 24-25 August 1994 (next to be held NA); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (250 total) National Progressive Front
    167, independents 83
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Constitutional Court, High Judicial Council, Court of Cassation,
    State Security Courts
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Syria
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
  National Progressive Front includes:
    the ruling Arab Socialist Resurrectionist (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), Khalid BAKDASH; Arab Socialist Unionist Movement, Sami SOUFAN;
    and Democratic Socialist Union Party, leader NA
Other political or pressure groups:
    non-Ba'th parties have little effective political influence; Communist party
    ineffective; conservative religious leaders; Muslim Brotherhood
Member of:
    ABEDA, AFESD, AL, AMF, CAEU, CCC, ESCWA, FAO, G-24, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICC, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, ISO, ITU, NAM, OAPEC, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNRWA, UPU, WFTU,
    WHO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Walid MUALEM
  chancery:
    2215 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Christopher W. S. ROSS
  embassy:
    Abou Roumaneh, Al-Mansur Street No. 2, Damascus
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 29, Damascus
  telephone:
    [963] (11) 333-2814, 714-108, 333-3788
  FAX:
    [963] (11) 224-7938
Flag:
    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 Iraq,
    which has three green stars (plus an Arabic inscription) in a horizontal
    line centered in the white band; also similar to the flag of Egypt, which
    has a symbolic eagle centered in the white band
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Syria
                                     Economy
Overview:
    In 1990-93 Syria's state-dominated Ba'thist economy benefited from the Gulf
    war, increased oil production, good weather, and economic deregulation.
    Economic growth averaged roughly 10%. The Gulf war provided Syria an aid
    windfall of nearly $5 billion dollars from Arab, European, and Japanese
    donors. However, the benefits of the 1990-93 boom were not evenly
    distributed and the gap between rich and poor is widening. A nationwide
    financial scandal and increasing inflation were accompanied by a decline in
    GDP growth to 4% in 1994. For the long run, Syria's economy is still saddled
    with a large number of poorly performing public sector firms, and industrial
    productivity remains to be improved. Oil production is likely to fall off
    dramatically by the end of the decade. Unemployment will become a problem
    for the government when the more than 60% of the population under the age of
    20 enter the labor force.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $74.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $5,000 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    16.3% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    7.5% (1993 est.)
Budget:
    NA
Exports:
    $3.6 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    petroleum 53%, textiles 22%, cotton, fruits and vegetables, wheat, barley,
    chickens
  partners:
    EC 48%, former CEMA countries 24%, Arab countries 18% (1991)
Imports:
    $4 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs 21%, metal products 17%, machinery 15%
  partners:
    EC 37%, former CEMA countries 15%, US and Canada 10% (1991)
External debt:
    $19.4 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    4,160,000 kW
  production:
    13.2 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    865 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    textiles, food processing, beverages, tobacco, phosphate rock mining,
    petroleum
Agriculture:
    accounts for 30% of GDP and one-third of labor force; all major crops
    (wheat, barley, cotton, lentils, chickpeas) grown mainly on rain-watered
    land causing wide swings in production; animal products - beef, lamb, eggs,
    poultry, milk; not self-sufficient in grain or livestock products
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Syria
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    a transit country for Lebanese and Turkish refined cocaine going to Europe
    and heroin and hashish bound for regional and Western markets
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    no US aid; about $4.2 billion in loans and grants from Arab and Western
    donors 1990-92 as a result of Gulf war stance
Currency:
    1 Syrian pound (#S) = 100 piastres
Exchange rates:
    Syrian pounds (#S) per US$1 - 11.2 (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), 46.0 - 53.0 (offshore rate)
    (yearend 1993)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Syria
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,998 km
  broad gauge:
    1,766 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    232 km 1.050-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    31,569 km
  paved:
    24,308 km (including 670 km of expressways)
  unpaved:
    7,261 km
Inland waterways:
    870 km; minimal economic importance
Pipelines:
    crude oil 1,304 km; petroleum products 515 km
Ports:
    Baniyas, Jablah, Latakia, Tartus
Merchant marine:
  total:
    80 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 233,701 GRT/364,714 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 10, cargo 68, vehicle carrier 2
Airports:
  total:
    107
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    16
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    67
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    15
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Syria
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    512,600 telephones; 37 telephones/1,000 persons; fair system currently
    undergoing significant improvement and digital upgrades, including fiber
    optic technology
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    coaxial cable and microwave radio relay network
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean) and 1 Intersputnik earth station; 1 submarine
    cable; coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and
    Turkey
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 9, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    17
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Syria
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Syrian Arab Army, Syrian Arab Navy, Syrian Arab Air Force, Syrian Arab Air
    Defense Forces, Police and Security Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 3,440,030; males fit for military service 1,927,930; males
    reach military age (19) annually 159,942 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $2.2 billion, 6% of GDP (1992)
Swaziland
8~8SURINAME - Passport and visa required.  Multiple-entry visa requires 2
application forms and 2 photos.  Business visa requires letter from
sponsoring company.  For return of passport by mail, send $5 for
registered mail or $9.95 for Express Mail.  For additional requirements contact
Embassy of the Republic of Suriname, Suite 108, 4301 Conn. Ave., N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/244-7488 and 7490) or the Consulate:
Miami (305/593-2163).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Suriname
============================================================
Suriname - Consular Information Sheet
 August 2, 1995
Country Description:  Suriname is a developing nation.
Transportation, communications and other infrastructure elements do
not meet U.S. standards.  Roads in the interior are poorly
maintained and often unpassable.  Tourist facilities vary, depending
on price and area.  The government of Suriname and private tourism
companies have expanded tourism in the interior by establishing
several guest houses and tour packages.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required for travel to
Suriname.  A business visa requires a letter from the sponsoring
company.  The Surinamese government has implemented a requirement
that visitors exchange a certain amount of money, currently the
equivalent of 300 Dutch Guilders (approximately $180.00).  The
exchange may be made at the office of the Central Bank or at
commercial banks in Paramaribo.  Visitors will receive a receipt for
the exchange, which must be presented at the airport or border when
departing Suriname.  For further information concerning entry
requirements, including up to date information on the exchange
requirements, travelers can contact the Embassy of the Republic of
Suriname, 4301 Connecticut Avenue N.W., Suite 108, Washington, D.C.
20008, tel: [phone] or the Suriname Consulate in Miami.
Areas on Instability:  While the situation in the countryside is at
present stable, there is insufficient police authority over much of
the interior of Suriname to offer assistance in an emergency.
Unaccompanied travel to the interior, particularly the East-West
Highway between Paramaribo and Albina, is considered risky due to
the high incidence of robberies and assaults along this route.
Isolated acts of violence, particularly in, but not limited to the
interior, may occur.  Travelers to remote areas of the interior of
Suriname should be aware that they may encounter difficulties
because of the lack of government authority throughout the interior
and inadequate medical facilities in some areas.  The ability of the
U.S. Embassy to assist in an emergency situation may be hampered by
limited transportation and communications in some areas.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is limited and does not meet U.S.
standards.  Americans visiting Suriname who are injured or become
ill during their visit will not be admitted to the only hospital
with emergency and intensive care facilities unless they pay an
advance deposit equal to ten days stay (payable only in U.S.
dollars) or provide proof of adequate insurance coverage in a form
acceptable to the hospital.  Daily room charges currently range from
675 to 1,130 U.S. dollars.  Comparable fees are imposed by all other
hospitals in Suriname.  Some health insurance policies limit or
exclude reimbursement for medical expenses incurred outside of the
U.S.  Travelers can consult their health insurance company for
information about reimbursement for medical expenses incurred
outside of the U.S.  In some cases, supplementary medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  For additional
health information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline at (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  The rate of violent crime has increased.
Burglary and armed robbery are increasingly common in the capital
city of Paramaribo, as well as in the outlying areas.  Banditry
occurs along routes in the interior of the country where police
protection is inadequate.  An increasing number of tourists report
being attacked and robbed.  Visitors may wish to exercise caution
when traveling to the interior without an organized tour group, and
secure their belongings carefully while staying in Paramaribo.
Visitors may find it useful to carry photocopies of their passport,
drivers license, credit cards and other important papers and leave
the originals in a safe place.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported to
the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  U.S.
citizens should be aware that birth certificates and/or drivers
licenses generally cannot be replaced outside of the United States.
U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's pamphlet, "A
Safe Trip Abroad," which provides useful information on guarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad.
Both this pamphlet and "Tips for Travelers to Central and South
America" are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Other Information:  Travelers to Suriname may experience
disruptions in travel plans because of the unreliability of
scheduled airline service to and from that country.  Suriname
Airways (SLM), operating in conjunction with Antillean Airways,
serves as the only direct air link between the United States and
Suriname.  Limited flight schedules and ongoing technical problems
commonly result in delays.  Additionally, transportation to the
interior is unreliable.  Interior flights are often delayed,
sometimes for days, because of mechanical difficulties, fuel
shortages, and runway conditions.  Dutch is the official language of
Suriname; however, English is widely used, and most tourist
arrangements can be made in English.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use and dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens may register at the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Suriname, located at Dr.
Sophie Redmondstraat 129 in Paramaribo; telephone [phone].  At
the U.S. Embassy, U.S. citizens can obtain updated information on
travel and security in Suriname.  This Embassy is also responsible
for U.S. interests in French Guiana.
 No. 95-086
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 18,
1994, to update information on Medical Facilities.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Suriname
============================================================
Suriname - Consular Information Sheet
 August 2, 1995
Country Description:  Suriname is a developing nation.
Transportation, communications and other infrastructure elements do
not meet U.S. standards.  Roads in the interior are poorly
maintained and often unpassable.  Tourist facilities vary, depending
on price and area.  The government of Suriname and private tourism
companies have expanded tourism in the interior by establishing
several guest houses and tour packages.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required for travel to
Suriname.  A business visa requires a letter from the sponsoring
company.  The Surinamese government has implemented a requirement
that visitors exchange a certain amount of money, currently the
equivalent of 300 Dutch Guilders (approximately $180.00).  The
exchange may be made at the office of the Central Bank or at
commercial banks in Paramaribo.  Visitors will receive a receipt for
the exchange, which must be presented at the airport or border when
departing Suriname.  For further information concerning entry
requirements, including up to date information on the exchange
requirements, travelers can contact the Embassy of the Republic of
Suriname, 4301 Connecticut Avenue N.W., Suite 108, Washington, D.C.
20008, tel: [phone] or the Suriname Consulate in Miami.
Areas on Instability:  While the situation in the countryside is at
present stable, there is insufficient police authority over much of
the interior of Suriname to offer assistance in an emergency.
Unaccompanied travel to the interior, particularly the East-West
Highway between Paramaribo and Albina, is considered risky due to
the high incidence of robberies and assaults along this route.
Isolated acts of violence, particularly in, but not limited to the
interior, may occur.  Travelers to remote areas of the interior of
Suriname should be aware that they may encounter difficulties
because of the lack of government authority throughout the interior
and inadequate medical facilities in some areas.  The ability of the
U.S. Embassy to assist in an emergency situation may be hampered by
limited transportation and communications in some areas.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is limited and does not meet U.S.
standards.  Americans visiting Suriname who are injured or become
ill during their visit will not be admitted to the only hospital
with emergency and intensive care facilities unless they pay an
advance deposit equal to ten days stay (payable only in U.S.
dollars) or provide proof of adequate insurance coverage in a form
acceptable to the hospital.  Daily room charges currently range from
675 to 1,130 U.S. dollars.  Comparable fees are imposed by all other
hospitals in Suriname.  Some health insurance policies limit or
exclude reimbursement for medical expenses incurred outside of the
U.S.  Travelers can consult their health insurance company for
information about reimbursement for medical expenses incurred
outside of the U.S.  In some cases, supplementary medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  For additional
health information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline at (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  The rate of violent crime has increased.
Burglary and armed robbery are increasingly common in the capital
city of Paramaribo, as well as in the outlying areas.  Banditry
occurs along routes in the interior of the country where police
protection is inadequate.  An increasing number of tourists report
being attacked and robbed.  Visitors may wish to exercise caution
when traveling to the interior without an organized tour group, and
secure their belongings carefully while staying in Paramaribo.
Visitors may find it useful to carry photocopies of their passport,
drivers license, credit cards and other important papers and leave
the originals in a safe place.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported to
the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  U.S.
citizens should be aware that birth certificates and/or drivers
licenses generally cannot be replaced outside of the United States.
U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's pamphlet, "A
Safe Trip Abroad," which provides useful information on guarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad.
Both this pamphlet and "Tips for Travelers to Central and South
America" are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Other Information:  Travelers to Suriname may experience
disruptions in travel plans because of the unreliability of
scheduled airline service to and from that country.  Suriname
Airways (SLM), operating in conjunction with Antillean Airways,
serves as the only direct air link between the United States and
Suriname.  Limited flight schedules and ongoing technical problems
commonly result in delays.  Additionally, transportation to the
interior is unreliable.  Interior flights are often delayed,
sometimes for days, because of mechanical difficulties, fuel
shortages, and runway conditions.  Dutch is the official language of
Suriname; however, English is widely used, and most tourist
arrangements can be made in English.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use and dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens may register at the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Suriname, located at Dr.
Sophie Redmondstraat 129 in Paramaribo; telephone [phone].  At
the U.S. Embassy, U.S. citizens can obtain updated information on
travel and security in Suriname.  This Embassy is also responsible
for U.S. interests in French Guiana.
 No. 95-086
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 18,
1994, to update information on Medical Facilities.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
1                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Suriname
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between French
    Guiana and Guyana
Map references:
    South America
Area:
  total area:
    163,270 sq km
  land area:
    161,470 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Georgia
Land boundaries:
    total 1,707 km, Brazil 597 km, French Guiana 510 km, Guyana 600 km
Coastline:
    386 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claims area in French Guiana between Litani Rivier and Riviere Marouini
    (both headwaters of the Lawa Rivier); claims area in Guyana between New
    (Upper Courantyne) and Courantyne/Koetari Rivers (all headwaters of the
    Courantyne)
Climate:
    tropical; moderated by trade winds
Terrain:
    mostly rolling hills; narrow coastal plain with swamps
Natural resources:
    timber, hydropower potential, fish, shrimp, bauxite, iron ore, and small
    amounts of nickel, copper, platinum, gold
Land use:
  arable land:
    NEGL%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    97%
  other:
    3%
Irrigated land:
    590 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation as foreign producers obtain timber concessions
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ship
    Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate
    Change, Law of the Sea
Note:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Suriname
                                     People
Population:
    429,544 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    34% (female 70,845; male 74,330)
  15-64 years:
    61% (female 130,153; male 133,693)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 10,897; male 9,626) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.58% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    24.72 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.91 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -3 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    30.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    69.76 years
  male:
    67.24 years
  female:
    72.41 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.73 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Surinamer(s)
  adjective:
    Surinamese
Ethnic divisions:
    Hindustani (also known locally as "East" Indians; their ancestors emigrated
    from northern India in the latter part of the 19th century) 37%, Creole
    (mixed European and African ancestry) 31%, Javanese 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%
Religions:
    Hindu 27.4%, Muslim 19.6%, Roman Catholic 22.8%, Protestant 25.2%
    (predominantly Moravian), indigenous beliefs 5%
Languages:
    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 dialect
    of Hindi), Javanese
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    95%
  male:
    95%
  female:
    95%
Labor force:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Suriname
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Suriname
  conventional short form:
    Suriname
  local long form:
    Republiek Suriname
  local short form:
    Suriname
  former:
    Netherlands Guiana, Dutch Guiana
Digraph:
    NS
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Paramaribo
Administrative divisions:
    10 districts (distrikten, singular - distrikt); Brokopondo, Commewijne,
    Coronie, Marowijne, Nickerie, Para, Paramaribo, Saramacca, Sipaliwini,
    Wanica
Independence:
    25 November 1975 (from Netherlands)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 25 November (1975)
Constitution:
    ratified 30 September 1987
Legal system:
    NA
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Ronald R. VENETIAAN (since 16 September 1991); Prime Minister
    Jules R. AJODHIA (since 16 September 1991); 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)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet of Ministers; appointed by the president from members of the
    National Assembly
  note:
    Commander in Chief of the National Army maintains significant power
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Suriname
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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), Winston JESSURUN, a
    coalition of four parties (AF, HPP, Pendawa Lima, BEP) formed in January
    1991; Alternative Forum (AF), Gerard BRUNINGS, Winston JESSURUN; Reformed
    Progressive Party (HPP), Panalal PARMESSAR; 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, chairman;
Other political or pressure groups:
    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
Member of:
    ACP, CARICOM, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, GATT, IADB, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFAD,
    IFRCS (associate), ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL,
    IOC, ITU, LAES, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL,
    WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Willem A. UDENHOUT
  chancery:
    Suite 108, 4301 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 7490 through 7492
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Miami
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Roger R. GAMBLE
  embassy:
    Dr. Sophie Redmondstraat 129, Paramaribo
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 1821, Paramaribo
  telephone:
    [597] 472900, 477881, 476459
  FAX:
    [597] 410025
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Suriname
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy is dominated by the bauxite industry, which accounts for 15% of
    GDP and about 70% of export earnings. Paramaribo has failed to initiate the
    economic reforms necessary to stabilize the economy or win renewed Dutch aid
    disbursements. The government continues to finance deficit spending with
    monetary emissions. As a result, high inflation, high unemployment,
    widespread black market activity, and hard currency shortfalls continue to
    mark the economy.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $1.2 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -0.8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $2,800 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    225% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA
Budget:
  revenues:
    $300 million
  expenditures:
    $700 million, including capital expenditures of $70 million (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $443.3 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    alumina, aluminum, shrimp and fish, rice, bananas
  partners:
    Norway 33%, Netherlands 26%, US 13%, Japan 6%, Brazil 6%, UK 3% (1992)
Imports:
    $520.5 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    capital equipment, petroleum, foodstuffs, cotton, consumer goods
  partners:
    US 42%, Netherlands 22%, Trinidad and Tobago 10%, Brazil 5% (1992)
External debt:
    $180 million (March 1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3.5% (1992 est.); accounts for 18% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    420,000 kW
  production:
    1.4 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,123 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    bauxite mining, alumina and aluminum production, lumbering, food processing,
    fishing
Agriculture:
    accounts for 15% of GDP and 25% of export earnings; paddy rice planted on
    85% of arable land and represents 60% of total farm output; other products -
    bananas, palm kernels, coconuts, plantains, peanuts, beef, chicken; shrimp
    and forestry products of increasing importance; self-sufficient in most
    foods
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for South American drugs destined for the US and Europe
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Suriname
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-83), $2.5 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.5 billion
Currency:
    1 Surinamese guilder, gulden, or florin (Sf.) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Surinamese guilders, gulden, or florins (Sf.) per US$1 - 1.7850 (fixed
    rate); parallel rate 510 (December 1994), 109 (January 1994)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Suriname
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    166 km (single track)
  standard gauge:
    80 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    86 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    8,800 km
  paved:
    500 km
  unpaved:
    bauxite, gravel, crushed stone 5,400 km; improved and unimproved earth 2,900
    km
Inland waterways:
    1,200 km; most important means of transport; oceangoing vessels with drafts
    ranging up to 7 m can navigate many of the principal waterways
Ports:
    Albina, Moengo, Nieuw Nickerie, Paramaribo, Paranam, Wageningen
Merchant marine:
  total:
    2 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,421 GRT/2,990 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 1, container 1
Airports:
  total:
    46
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    38
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    7
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Suriname
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    27,500 telephones; international facilities good
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay network
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 5, FM 14, shortwave 1
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    6
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Suriname
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    National Army (includes small Navy and Air Force elements), Civil Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 116,456; males fit for military service 69,011 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Somalia
SLOVENIA - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay of up to 90
days. Additional information can be obtained from the Embassy of Slovenia,
1300 19th St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036 (202/828-1650).
Slovenia - Consular Information Sheet
October 24, 1994
Country Description:  Slovenia, independent from Yugoslavia since 1991, is a
moderately developed European nation which enjoys the highest per capita GNP
of the former Communist countries.  Essentially unaffected by the war in
Bosnia-Herzegovina, tourist facilities are available but may be limited,
especially in the more rural parts of the country.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is necessary but no visa is required for
stays of up to three months.  Persons staying longer than three months must
obtain residence permits from the Ministry of the Interior offices serving
the area where they reside.  Additional information may be obtained from the
Embassy of Slovenia at 1525 New Hampshire Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20036,
telephone:  [phone], fax:  [phone].  Information may also be
obtained at the Slovenian consulate in New York, telephone: [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical care is readily available.  Doctors
and hospitals often expect immediate payment in cash for health services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States; hence,
travelers have found supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage useful.  Information about English-speaking doctors is available at
the U.S. Embassy.  Further information on health matters can be obtained
from the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline,
tel.: [phone].
Crime Information:  Crime in Slovenia is rare, but has increased since the
onset of civil unrest in neighboring countries.  As in any country,
travelers, especially those who appear affluent, can become targets of
pickpockets and purse snatchers, especially at railroad stations and airports.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
Department of State's pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington,
D.C. 20402.  It provides useful information on travel and protecting
personal security while traveling abroad.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use, and trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens may register and obtain updated information on
travel and security within Slovenia at the U.S. Embassy.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Ljubljana is located at Prazakova 4,
61000 Ljubljana, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
No. 94-250
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 8, 1993, to
update the country description, add the residence permit requirements and
update the address of Slovenian Embassy.
5                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovenia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea, between Croatia and Italy
Map references:
    Ethnic Groups in Eastern Europe, Europe
Area:
  total area:
    20,296 sq km
  land area:
    20,296 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than New Jersey
Land boundaries:
    total 1,045 km, Austria 262 km, Croatia 501 km, Italy 199 km, Hungary 83 km
Coastline:
    32 km
Maritime claims:
    NA
International disputes:
    dispute with Croatia over fishing rights in the Adriatic and over some
    border areas; the border issue is currently under negotiation
Climate:
    Mediterranean climate on the coast, continental climate with mild to hot
    summers and cold winters in the plateaus and valleys to the east
Terrain:
    a short coastal strip on the Adriatic, an alpine mountain region adjacent to
    Italy, mixed mountain and valleys with numerous rivers to the east
Natural resources:
    lignite coal, lead, zinc, mercury, uranium, silver
Land use:
  arable land:
    10%
  permanent crops:
    2%
  meadows and pastures:
    20%
  forest and woodland:
    45%
  other:
    23%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    Sava River polluted with domestic and industrial waste; pollution of coastal
    waters with heavy metals and toxic chemicals; forest damage near Koper from
    air pollution (originating at metallurgical and chemical plants) and
    resulting acid rain
  natural hazards:
    flooding and earthquakes
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test
    Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not
    ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Biodiversity, Climate Change
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovenia
                                     People
Population:
    2,051,522 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    19% (female 191,318; male 200,957)
  15-64 years:
    69% (female 701,082; male 708,482)
  65 years and over:
    12% (female 160,662; male 89,021) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.24% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    11.85 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.27 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.19 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    7.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    74.73 years
  male:
    70.91 years
  female:
    78.76 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.64 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Slovene(s)
  adjective:
    Slovenian
Ethnic divisions:
    Slovene 91%, Croat 3%, Serb 2%, Muslim 1%, other 3%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 96% (including 2% Uniate), Muslim 1%, other 3%
Languages:
    Slovenian 91%, Serbo-Croatian 7%, other 2%
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    786,036
  by occupation:
    agriculture 2%, manufacturing and mining 46%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovenia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Slovenia
  conventional short form:
    Slovenia
  local long form:
    Republika Slovenije
  local short form:
    Slovenija
Digraph:
    SI
Type:
    emerging democracy
Capital:
    Ljubljana
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    25 June 1991 (from Yugoslavia)
National holiday:
    Statehood Day, 25 June (1991)
Constitution:
    adopted 23 December 1991, effective 23 December 1991
Legal system:
    based on civil law system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal (16 years of age, if employed)
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Milan KUCAN (since 22 April 1990); election last held 6 December
    1992 (next to be held NA 1996); results - Milan KUCAN reelected by direct
    popular vote
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Janez DRNOVSEK (since 14 May 1992)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
Legislative branch:
    bicameral National Assembly
  State Assembly:
    elections last held 6 December 1992 (next to be held NA 1996); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (90 total) LDS 22, SKD 15, United List
    (former Communists and allies) 14, Slovene National Party 12, SLS 10,
    Democratic Party 6, ZS 5, SDSS 4, Hungarian minority 1, Italian minority 1
  State Council:
    will become operational after next election in 1996; in the election of 6
    December 1992, 40 members were elected to represent local and socioeconomic
    interests
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court, Constitutional Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovenia
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Liberal Democratic (LDS), Janez DRNOVSEK, chairman; Slovene Christian
    Democrats (SKD), Lozje PETERLE, chairman; Social Democratic Party of
    Slovenia (SDSS), Janez JANSA, chairman; Slovene People's National Party,
    Marjan PODOBNIK, chairman; United List (former Communists and allies), Janez
    KOCJANCIC, chairman; Slovene People's Party (SLS), Ivan OMAN, chairman;
    Democratic Party, Igor BAVCAR, chairman; Greens of Slovenia (ZS), Dusan
    PLUT, chairman
  note:
    parties have changed as of the December 1992 elections
Other political or pressure groups:
    none
Member of:
    CCC, CE, CEI, EBRD, ECE, FAO, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFC, ILO,
    IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO,
    ITU, NAM (guest), OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO,
    WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ernest PETRIC
  chancery:
    1525 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador E. Allan WENDT
  embassy:
    P.O. Box 254, Prazakova 4, 61000 Ljubljana
  mailing address:
    American Embassy, Ljubljana, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-7140
  telephone:
    [386] (61) 301-427, 472, 485
  FAX:
    [386] (61) 301-401
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovenia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Slovenia appears to be making a solid economic recovery, fulfilling the
    promise it showed at the time of Yugoslavia's breakup. It was by far the
    most prosperous of the former Yugoslav republics, with a per capita income
    more than twice the national average. It also benefited from strong ties to
    Western Europe and suffered comparatively small physical damage in the
    dismemberment process. The beginning was difficult, however. Real GDP fell
    15% during 1991-92, while inflation jumped to 247% in 1991 and unemployment
    topped 8% - nearly three times the 1989 level. The turning point came in
    1993 when real GDP grew 1%, unemployment leveled off at about 9%, and
    inflation slowed dramatically to 23%. In 1994, the rate of growth of GDP
    rose to 4%, unemployment remained stable, and inflation dropped to 20%. This
    was accomplished, moreover, without balance-of-payments problems. The
    government gets generally good economic marks from foreign observers,
    particularly with regard to fiscal policy - the budget deficit in 1994 was
    only about 1% of GDP, following several years of small surpluses. Prospects
    for 1995 appear good, with economic growth expected to remain strong while
    unemployment and inflation may decline slightly. Privatization, sluggish to
    date, is expected to pick up in 1995.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $16 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $8,110 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    20% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    9% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $9.9 billion
  expenditures:
    $9.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993)
Exports:
    $6.5 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment 27%, intermediate manufactured goods 26%,
    chemicals 9%, food 4.8%, raw materials 3%, consumer goods 26% (1993)
  partners:
    Germany 29.5%, former Yugoslavia 15.8%, Italy 12.4%, France 8.7%, Austria
    5.0% (1993)
Imports:
    $6.5 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment 30%, intermediate manufactured goods
    17.6%, chemicals 11.5%, raw materials 5.3%, fuels and lubricants 10.8%, food
    8.4% (1993)
  partners:
    Germany 25.0%, Italy 16.1%, former Yugoslavia 10.7%, France 8.0%, Austria
    8.5% (1993)
External debt:
    $2.1 billion (1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 6% (1994 est.); accounts for 37% of GDP (1993)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    2,700,000 kW
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovenia
                                     Economy
  production:
    8.9 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    4,470 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    ferrous metallurgy and rolling mill products, aluminum reduction and rolled
    products, lead and zinc smelting, electronics (including military
    electronics), trucks, electric power equipment, wood products, textiles,
    chemicals, machine tools
Agriculture:
    accounts for 4.8% of GDP (1993); dominated by stock breeding (sheep and
    cattle) and dairy farming; main crops - potatoes, hops, hemp, flax; an
    export surplus in these commodities; Slovenia must import many other
    agricultural products and has a negative overall trade balance in this
    sector
Illicit drugs:
    NA
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    1 tolar (SlT) = 100 stotins
Exchange rates:
    tolars (SIT) per US$1 - 127 (January 1995), 112 (June 1993), 28 (January
    1992)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovenia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,201 km
  standard gauge:
    1,201 km 1.435-m gauge (electrified 499 km) (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    14,726 km
  paved:
    11,046 km (187 km expressways)
  unpaved:
    gravel 3,680 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    NA
Pipelines:
    crude oil 290 km; natural gas 305 km
Ports:
    Izola, Koper, Piran
Merchant marine:
  total:
    17 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 265,937 GRT/449,205 DWT (controlled by
    Slovenian owners)
  ships by type:
    bulk 11, cargo 6
  note:
    ships under the flag of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Singapore,
    Liberia; no ships remain under the Slovenian flag
Airports:
  total:
    14
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovenia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    130,000 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 6, FM 5, shortwave 0
  radios:
    370,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    7
  televisions:
    330,000
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Slovenia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Slovene Defense Forces
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 542,815; males fit for military service 434,302; males reach
    military age (19) annually 15,350 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    13.5 billion tolars, 4.5% of GDP (1993 est.); note - conversion of the
    military budget into US dollars using the current exchange rate could
    produce misleading results
f ofcant disease outbreaks because
of massive population displacements and a partial breakdown in immunization
activities.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.  Further information on
health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's
international travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Crime Information:  There have been serious attacks against foreign
diplomats and individuals on main thoroughfares, in broad daylight.  Cars
have been stolen and houses robbed.  The disintegration of local economic
conditions, widespread unemployment in Tajikistan, and a less than effective
police force are in a large part to blame.  The loss or theft abroad of a
U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local police and the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The Department of State's pamphlet "A
Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful information on guarding valuables and
protecting personal security while traveling abroad.  Additional information
on the region can be found in the brochure, "Tips for Travelers to Russia."
Both publications are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington  D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Tajikistan is a cash-only economy.  International
banking services are not available.  Major credit cards and travelers checks
are rarely accepted.  Traveling in Tajikistan with large amounts of cash can
be dangerous.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling. Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who visit or remain in Tajikistan despite the
travel warning, can register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy and
obtain updated information on travel and security within Tajikistan.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Dushanbe, Tajikistan, is temporarily
located on the fourth floor of the Hotel Independence, (formerly known as
the Hotel October), 105A Rudaki Prospect; telephone [phone].  The
U.S. Embassy resumed operation in April, but is providing only emergency
consular services.
No.  93-106
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for  Tajikistan dated October
7, 1992, to note the resumption of operations at the U.S. Embassy in
Tajikistan, to add information on areas of instability and medical
facilities, and to add information on reporting the loss or theft abroad of
a U.S. passport.
5                                   Tajikistan
Note:
    Tajikistan has experienced three changes of government since it gained
    independence in September 1991. The current president, Emomali RAKHMONOV,
    was elected to the presidency in November 1994, yet has been in power since
    1992. The country is suffering through its third year of a civil war, 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. Russian-led peacekeeping
    troops are deployed throughout the country, and Russian border guards are
    stationed along the Tajik-Afghan border.
                                   Tajikistan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Asia, west of China
Map references:
    Commonwealth of Independent States - Central Asian States
Area:
  total area:
    143,100 sq km
  land area:
    142,700 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Wisconsin
Land boundaries:
    total 3,651 km, Afghanistan 1,206 km, China 414 km, Kyrgyzstan 870 km,
    Uzbekistan 1,161 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    boundary with China in dispute; territorial dispute with Kyrgyzstan on
    northern boundary in Isfara Valley area; Afghanistan's and other foreign
    support to Taj
The Bahamas
@D>DTHAILAND - Passport and onward/return ticket required.  Visa not needed
for stay up to 15 days if arrive and depart from Don Muang Airport in
Bangkok. For longer stays obtain visa in advance.  Transit visa, for stay up to
30 days, $10 fee; or tourist visa for stay up to 60 days, $15 fee.  For
business visa valid up to 90 days, need $20 fee and company letter
stating purpose of visit.  Submit 1 application form, 2 photos and postage for
return of passport by mail.  Apply Embassy of Thailand, 2300 Kalorama
Rd., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/234-5052) or nearest Consulate
General: CA (213/937-1894), IL (312/236-2447) or NY (212/754-1770).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Thailand
============================================================
Thailand - Consular Information Sheet
 August 15, 1995
Country Description:  Thailand is a constitutional monarchy. It is
a popular travel destination, and tourist facilities and services
are available throughout the country.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and onward/return tickets are
required.  Visas are not needed for stays of up to 30 days, but
permission to enter Thailand under this provision may only be
granted at the international airports in Bangkok, Phuket, Hat Yai,
and Chiang Mai.  This airport permit to stay may not be extended.
For longer stays, or overland entry, travelers can obtain visas in
advance from a Thai Embassy or Consulate.  For stays of 30 to 60
days a tourist visa is required, the fee for which is 15 U.S.
dollars.  For more current information travelers may contact the
Royal Thai Embassy, 1024 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C.
20007, tel. [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical treatment, especially in Bangkok, is
good.  While the general level of health is good, hepatitis is
endemic.  Malaria is a problem in rural border areas, but not in
Bangkok or other major tourist destinations.  Doctors and hospitals
often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage,
including provision for medical evacuation, has proven useful in
many emergencies.  The international travelers Hotline at the
Centers for Disease Control, tel. [phone], has additional
useful health information.
HIV Virus:  Thailand is experiencing a dramatic epidemic of HIV
infection and AIDS.  The majority of HIV infections in Thailand has
resulted from heterosexual transmission.  Homosexual contact,
however, accounts for a substantial number of HIV infections, along
with the use of intravenous drugs.  HIV infection is common among
prostitutes, who are generally not subject to regular screening for
sexually transmitted diseases.
Information on Crime and Safety:  Petty crimes are common in areas
where tourists gather.  Many tourists fall victim to gem scams, in
which a friendly stranger offers to serve as an informal tour guide.
 The "guide"  offers to show the tourist where to buy gems for
resale in the U.S. at a huge profit.  The gems turn out to be
overpriced and money back guarantees are not honored.  Some
travelers report being robbed after they were drugged in night clubs
or in their hotel rooms by bar girls.  Trekking is a popular
activity for tourists in Thailand's mountainous areas.  The use of
licensed, reliable tour guides will enhance security for trekkers.
In Bangkok, heavy traffic is constant.  Motorist and pedestrian
accidents are common.  Credit card fraud has also been increasing.
Travelers should protect their credit cards and use them only with
known or established businesses.  Useful information on guarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is
provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."
It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Border Problems:  Tourists should cross into neighboring countries
only at designated official crossing points.  Outside official
crossing points, the border is often not clearly marked.  Reliable
guides will assure that trekkers do not cross into another country
inadvertently.  In December 1994, fighting broke out between Karen
factions in Burma across from Thailand's Mae Hong Son and Tax
provinces.  As a result of the fighting, travel by boat along the
Salween and Moei Rivers, which form the border in this area, is
considered dangerous.  Fighting between the Burmese army and Karen
insurgent groups spilled into areas of Tax and Mae Hong Son
provinces adjacent to the Thai/Burma border in the spring of 1995.
By late May, the incursions had halted; nevertheless, tourists who
wish to travel along the border road from Mar Sot, Tax province, to
Mae Sariang, Mae Hong Son province, should travel with a licensed,
reputable tour company.  Prospective travelers may also wish to
check with local Thai police and/or the American Consulate General
in Chiang Mai.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Thailand strictly
enforces its drug laws, including making arrests for possession of
small quantities of marijuana.  Thailand has not signed the Vienna
Consular Convention, and consequently the U.S. Embassy frequently
does not learn of the arrest of American Citizens for minor drug
offenses.  Prison conditions in Thailand are extremely harsh, and
Americans convicted of drug trafficking have received long
sentences, often in excess of 50 years.  Most Americans serving
lengthy sentences have been arrested attempting to depart Thailand
with heroin secreted in their suitcases or in carry-on packages.  A
ruse sometimes used to get American citizens to transport drugs out
of the country, knowingly or not, involves offering the American a
free vacation to Thailand, then requesting the American's assistance
in transporting excess "luggage" or "gifts" back to the U.S.  A lack
of knowledge that drugs were in a suitcase in the traveler's
possession is not considered a sufficient legal defense in Thailand.
 Thai law bars the transfer of prisoners convicted of serious
offenses until the prisoners have served between four and eight
years of their sentences in Thailand.  American citizens convicted
of offenses involving one kilogram or more of heroin are not
eligible to benefit from the U.S. - Thailand Prisoner Transfer
Treaty.
Registration:  Americans may wish to register at the U.S Embassy or
a Consulate, where they may obtain updated information on travel and
security within the country.  Lost or stolen passports abroad should
be reported immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S.
Embassy or U.S. consulate.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 95 Wireless Road
in Bangkok.  The mailing address is APO AP 96546.  The telephone
number is (66-2) 252-5040.  The U.S. Consulate General in Chiang Mai
is located at 387 Vidhayanond Road; the mailing address is Box C,
APO AP 96546.  The telephone number is (66-53) 252-629.  The U.S.
Consulate in Udorn is located at 35/6 Supakitjanya Road.  The
mailing address is Box UD, APO AP 96546.  The telephone number is
(66-42)244-270.  The U.S. Consulate in Songkhla was closed in June
1993.
 No. 95-091
This replaces the Consular Information sheet of December 21, 1994
to include new information on travel along the border with Burma and
the extended validity of airport visas.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Thailand
============================================================
Thailand - Public Announcement
 January 6, 1995
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release
As a result of the recent arrests of several leading drug
traffickers in Thailand, the State Department is concerned about
possible reprisals against American citizens travelling in certain
parts of northern Thailand.  The areas of greatest concern are Mae
Hong Son province and northern Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces.
Travellers may refer to the Consular  Information Sheet dated
December 21, 1994, for additional information on travel in Thailand.
  American citizens in Thailand  may wish to contact the U.S.
Embassy or the nearest consulate for updated security information.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Thailand
============================================================
Thailand - Consular Information Sheet
 August 15, 1995
Country Description:  Thailand is a constitutional monarchy. It is
a popular travel destination, and tourist facilities and services
are available throughout the country.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and onward/return tickets are
required.  Visas are not needed for stays of up to 30 days, but
permission to enter Thailand under this provision may only be
granted at the international airports in Bangkok, Phuket, Hat Yai,
and Chiang Mai.  This airport permit to stay may not be extended.
For longer stays, or overland entry, travelers can obtain visas in
advance from a Thai Embassy or Consulate.  For stays of 30 to 60
days a tourist visa is required, the fee for which is 15 U.S.
dollars.  For more current information travelers may contact the
Royal Thai Embassy, 1024 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C.
20007, tel. [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical treatment, especially in Bangkok, is
good.  While the general level of health is good, hepatitis is
endemic.  Malaria is a problem in rural border areas, but not in
Bangkok or other major tourist destinations.  Doctors and hospitals
often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage,
including provision for medical evacuation, has proven useful in
many emergencies.  The international travelers Hotline at the
Centers for Disease Control, tel. [phone], has additional
useful health information.
HIV Virus:  Thailand is experiencing a dramatic epidemic of HIV
infection and AIDS.  The majority of HIV infections in Thailand has
resulted from heterosexual transmission.  Homosexual contact,
however, accounts for a substantial number of HIV infections, along
with the use of intravenous drugs.  HIV infection is common among
prostitutes, who are generally not subject to regular screening for
sexually transmitted diseases.
Information on Crime and Safety:  Petty crimes are common in areas
where tourists gather.  Many tourists fall victim to gem scams, in
which a friendly stranger offers to serve as an informal tour guide.
 The "guide"  offers to show the tourist where to buy gems for
resale in the U.S. at a huge profit.  The gems turn out to be
overpriced and money back guarantees are not honored.  Some
travelers report being robbed after they were drugged in night clubs
or in their hotel rooms by bar girls.  Trekking is a popular
activity for tourists in Thailand's mountainous areas.  The use of
licensed, reliable tour guides will enhance security for trekkers.
In Bangkok, heavy traffic is constant.  Motorist and pedestrian
accidents are common.  Credit card fraud has also been increasing.
Travelers should protect their credit cards and use them only with
known or established businesses.  Useful information on guarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is
provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."
It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Border Problems:  Tourists should cross into neighboring countries
only at designated official crossing points.  Outside official
crossing points, the border is often not clearly marked.  Reliable
guides will assure that trekkers do not cross into another country
inadvertently.  In December 1994, fighting broke out between Karen
factions in Burma across from Thailand's Mae Hong Son and Tax
provinces.  As a result of the fighting, travel by boat along the
Salween and Moei Rivers, which form the border in this area, is
considered dangerous.  Fighting between the Burmese army and Karen
insurgent groups spilled into areas of Tax and Mae Hong Son
provinces adjacent to the Thai/Burma border in the spring of 1995.
By late May, the incursions had halted; nevertheless, tourists who
wish to travel along the border road from Mar Sot, Tax province, to
Mae Sariang, Mae Hong Son province, should travel with a licensed,
reputable tour company.  Prospective travelers may also wish to
check with local Thai police and/or the American Consulate General
in Chiang Mai.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Thailand strictly
enforces its drug laws, including making arrests for possession of
small quantities of marijuana.  Thailand has not signed the Vienna
Consular Convention, and consequently the U.S. Embassy frequently
does not learn of the arrest of American Citizens for minor drug
offenses.  Prison conditions in Thailand are extremely harsh, and
Americans convicted of drug trafficking have received long
sentences, often in excess of 50 years.  Most Americans serving
lengthy sentences have been arrested attempting to depart Thailand
with heroin secreted in their suitcases or in carry-on packages.  A
ruse sometimes used to get American citizens to transport drugs out
of the country, knowingly or not, involves offering the American a
free vacation to Thailand, then requesting the American's assistance
in transporting excess "luggage" or "gifts" back to the U.S.  A lack
of knowledge that drugs were in a suitcase in the traveler's
possession is not considered a sufficient legal defense in Thailand.
 Thai law bars the transfer of prisoners convicted of serious
offenses until the prisoners have served between four and eight
years of their sentences in Thailand.  American citizens convicted
of offenses involving one kilogram or more of heroin are not
eligible to benefit from the U.S. - Thailand Prisoner Transfer
Treaty.
Registration:  Americans may wish to register at the U.S Embassy or
a Consulate, where they may obtain updated information on travel and
security within the country.  Lost or stolen passports abroad should
be reported immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S.
Embassy or U.S. consulate.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 95 Wireless Road
in Bangkok.  The mailing address is APO AP 96546.  The telephone
number is (66-2) 252-5040.  The U.S. Consulate General in Chiang Mai
is located at 387 Vidhayanond Road; the mailing address is Box C,
APO AP 96546.  The telephone number is (66-53) 252-629.  The U.S.
Consulate in Udorn is located at 35/6 Supakitjanya Road.  The
mailing address is Box UD, APO AP 96546.  The telephone number is
(66-42)244-270.  The U.S. Consulate in Songkhla was closed in June
1993.
 No. 95-091
This replaces the Consular Information sheet of December 21, 1994
to include new information on travel along the border with Burma and
the extended validity of airport visas.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
<                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Thailand
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, bordering the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand,
    southeast of Burma
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    514,000 sq km
  land area:
    511,770 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than twice the size of Wyoming
Land boundaries:
    total 4,863 km, Burma 1,800 km, Cambodia 803 km, Laos 1,754 km, Malaysia 506
    km
Coastline:
    3,219 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    boundary dispute with Laos; unresolved maritime boundary with Vietnam; parts
    of border with Thailand in dispute; maritime boundary with Thailand not
    clearly defined
Climate:
    tropical; rainy, warm, cloudy southwest monsoon (mid-May to September); dry,
    cool northeast monsoon (November to mid-March); southern isthmus always hot
    and humid
Terrain:
    central plain; Khorat plateau in the east; mountains elsewhere
Natural resources:
    tin, rubber, natural gas, tungsten, tantalum, timber, lead, fish, gypsum,
    lignite, fluorite
Land use:
  arable land:
    34%
  permanent crops:
    4%
  meadows and pastures:
    1%
  forest and woodland:
    30%
  other:
    31%
Irrigated land:
    42,300 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution from vehicle emissions; water pollution from organic and
    factory wastes; deforestation; soil erosion; wildlife populations threatened
    by illegal hunting
  natural hazards:
    land subsidence in Bangkok area resulting from the depletion of the water
    table; droughts
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Thailand
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Life Conservation,
    Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but
    not ratified - Biodiversity, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea
Note:
    controls only land route from Asia to Malaysia and Singapore
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Thailand
                                     People
Population:
    60,271,300 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    29% (female 8,545,362; male 8,866,271)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 19,733,773; male 20,185,392)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 1,636,426; male 1,304,076) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.24% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    18.87 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.48 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    35.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    68.42 years
  male:
    64.94 years
  female:
    72.08 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.04 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Thai (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Thai
Ethnic divisions:
    Thai 75%, Chinese 14%, other 11%
Religions:
    Buddhism 95%, Muslim 3.8%, Christianity 0.5%, Hinduism 0.1%, other 0.6%
    (1991)
Languages:
    Thai, English the secondary language of the elite, ethnic and regional
    dialects
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    93%
  male:
    96%
  female:
    91%
Labor force:
    30.87 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 62%, industry 13%, commerce 11%, services (including government)
    14% (1989 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Thailand
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of Thailand
  conventional short form:
    Thailand
Digraph:
    TH
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Bangkok
Administrative divisions:
    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, 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, Surat Thani, Surin, Tak, Trang, Trat, Ubon
    Ratchathani, Udon Thani, Uthai Thani, Uttaradit, Yala, Yasothon
Independence:
    1238 (traditional founding date; never colonized)
National holiday:
    Birthday of His Majesty the King, 5 December (1927)
Constitution:
    new constitution approved 7 December 1991; amended 10 June 1992
Legal system:
    based on civil law system, with influences of common law; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction; martial law in effect since 23 February 1991
    military coup
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    King PHUMIPHON Adunyadet (since 9 June 1946); Heir Apparent Crown Prince
    WACHIRALONGKON (born 28 July 1952)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister CHUAN Likphai (since 23 September 1992)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
  Privy Council:
    NA
Legislative branch:
    bicameral National Assembly (Rathasatha)
  Senate (Vuthisatha):
    consists of a 270-member appointed body
  House of Representatives (Saphaphoothan-Rajsadhorn):
    elections last held 13 September 1992 (next to be held NA); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (360 total) DP 79, TNP 77, NDP 60, NAP
    51, Phalang Tham 47, SAP 22, LDP 8, SP 8, Mass Party 4, Thai Citizen's Party
    3, People's Party 1, People's Force Party 0
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Sarndika)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Thailand
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Democrat Party (DP), CHUAN Likphai; Thai Nation Party (TNP or Chat Thai
    Party), Banhan SINLAPA-ACHA; National Development Party (NDP or Chat
    Phattana), Chatchai CHUNHAWAN; New Aspiration Party (NAP), Gen. Chawalit
    YONGCHAIYUT; Phalang Tham (Palang Dharma), CHAMLONG Simuang; Social Action
    Party (SAP), Montri PHONGPHANIT; Liberal Democratic Party (LDP or Seri
    Tham), Athit URAIRAT; Solidarity Party (SP), Uthai PHIMCHAICHON; Mass Party
    (Muanchon), Pol. Cpt. Choem YUBAMRUNG; Thai Citizen's Party (Prachakon
    Thai), Samak SUNTHONWET; People's Party (Ratsadon), Chaiphak SIRIWAT;
    People's Force Party (Phalang Prachachon), Col. Sophon HANCHAREON
Member of:
    APEC, AsDB, ASEAN, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM,
    ISO, ITU, NAM, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNU, UPU, WCL,
    WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador MANATPHAT Chuto
  chancery:
    1024 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador David F. LAMBERTSON
  embassy:
    95 Wireless Road, Bangkok
  mailing address:
    APO AP 96546
  telephone:
    [66] (2) 252-5040
  FAX:
    [66] (2) 254-2990
  consulate(s) general:
    Chiang Mai
  consulate(s):
    Udorn (Udon Thani)
Flag:
    five horizontal bands of red (top), white, blue (double width), white, and
    red
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Thailand
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Thailand's economy recovered rapidly from the political unrest in May 1992
    to post an impressive 7.5% growth rate for the year, 7.8% in 1993, and 8% in
    1994. One of the more advanced developing countries in Asia, Thailand
    depends on exports of manufactures and the development of the service sector
    to fuel the country's rapid growth. Much of Thailand's recent imports have
    been for capital equipment, suggesting that the export sector is poised for
    further growth. With foreign investment slowing, Bangkok is working to
    increase the generation of domestic capital. Prime Minister CHUAN's
    government - Thailand's fifth government in less than three years - is
    pledged to continue Bangkok's probusiness policies, and the return of a
    democratically elected government has improved business confidence. Even so,
    CHUAN must overcome divisions within his ruling coalition to complete much
    needed infrastructure development programs if Thailand is to remain an
    attractive place for business investment. Over the longer-term, Bangkok must
    produce more college graduates with technical training and upgrade workers'
    skills to continue its rapid economic development.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $355.2 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $5,970 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    5% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    3.2% (1993 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $28.4 billion
  expenditures:
    $28.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $9.6 billion (FY94/95 est.)
Exports:
    $46 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and manufactures 83%, agricultural products and fisheries 16%,
    others 1% (1994 est.)
  partners:
    US 22%, Japan 17%, Singapore 12%, Hong Kong 5%, Germany 4% (1993)
Imports:
    $52.6 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    capital goods 44%, intermediate goods and raw materials 37%, consumer goods
    16%, other 3% (1994 est.)
  partners:
    Japan 30%, US 12%, Singapore 6%, Germany 5%, Taiwan 5% (1993)
External debt:
    $64.3 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 11.5% (1993 est.); accounts for about 26% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    12,810,000 kW
  production:
    56.8 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    909 kWh (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Thailand
                                     Economy
Industries:
    tourism is the largest source of foreign exchange; textiles and garments,
    agricultural processing, beverages, tobacco, cement, light manufacturing,
    such as jewelry; electric appliances and components, integrated circuits,
    furniture, plastics; world's second-largest tungsten producer and
    third-largest tin producer
Agriculture:
    accounts for 11% of GDP and 62% of labor force; leading producer and
    exporter of rice and cassava (tapioca); other crops - rubber, corn,
    sugarcane, coconuts, soybeans; except for wheat, self-sufficient in food
Illicit drugs:
    a minor producer of opium and marijuana; major illicit transit point for
    heroin, particularly from Burma and Laos, for the international drug market;
    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 major drug money laundering
    center; rapidly growing role in amphetamine production for regional
    consumption; increasing indigenous abuse of heroin and cocaine
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $870 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $8.6 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $19 million
Currency:
    1 baht (B) = 100 satang
Exchange rates:
    baht (B) per US$1 - 25.074 (January 1995), 25.150 (1994), 25.319 (1993),
    25.400 (1992), 25.517 (1991), 25.585 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Thailand
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,940 km
  narrow gauge:
    3,940 km 1.000-m gauge (99 km double track)
Highways:
  total:
    77,697 km
  paved:
    35,855 km (including 88 km of expressways)
  unpaved:
    gravel, other stabilization 14,092 km; earth 27,750 km (1988)
Inland waterways:
    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
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 67 km; natural gas 350 km
Ports:
    Bangkok, Laem Chabang, Pattani, Phuket, Sattahip, Si Racha, Songkhla
Merchant marine:
  total:
    229 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,231,172 GRT/1,931,117 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 22, cargo 122, chemical tanker 3, combination bulk 1, container 15,
    liquefied gas tanker 9, oil tanker 45, passenger 1, refrigerated cargo 7,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 2, short-sea passenger 1, specialized tanker 1
Airports:
  total:
    105
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    6
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    9
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    10
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    23
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    42
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    14
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Thailand
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    739,500 telephones (1987); service to general public inadequate; bulk of
    service to government activities provided by multichannel cable and
    microwave radio relay network
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay and multichannel cable; domestic satellite system
    being developed
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 200 (in government-controlled network), FM 100 (in government-controlled
    network), shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    11 (in government-controlled network)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Thailand
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Royal Thai Army, Royal Thai Navy (includes Royal Thai Marine Corps), Royal
    Thai Air Force, Paramilitary Forces
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 17,297,854; males fit for military service 10,489,564; males
    reach military age (18) annually 585,009 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $4.0 billion, 2.5% of GNP (FY94/95)
Northern Mariana Islands
NIUE - Passport, onward/return ticket and confirmed hotel
accommodations required.  Visa not required for stay up to 30 days.
For additional information consult Embassy of New Zealand (202/328-4800).
                              THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niue
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (free association with New Zealand)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niue
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Tonga
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    260 sq km
  land area:
    260 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 1.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    64 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; modified by southeast trade winds
Terrain:
    steep limestone cliffs along coast, central plateau
Natural resources:
    fish, arable land
Land use:
  arable land:
    61%
  permanent crops:
    4%
  meadows and pastures:
    4%
  forest and woodland:
    19%
  other:
    12%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    traditional methods of burning brush and trees to clear land for agriculture
    have threatened soil supplies which naturally are not very abundant
  natural hazards:
    typhoons
  international agreements:
    signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
Note:
    one of world's largest coral islands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niue
                                     People
Population:
    1,837 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    -3.66% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    NA
Death rate:
    NA
Net migration rate:
    NA
Infant mortality rate:
    NA
Life expectancy at birth:
    NA
Total fertility rate:
    NA
Nationality:
  noun:
    Niuean(s)
  adjective:
    Niuean
Ethnic divisions:
    Polynesian (with some 200 Europeans, Samoans, and Tongans)
Religions:
    Ekalesia Nieue (Niuean Church) 75% - a Protestant church closely related to
    the London Missionary Society, Morman 10%, other  15% (mostly Roman
    Catholic, Jehovah's Witnesses, Seventh-Day Adventist)
Languages:
    Polynesian closely related to Tongan and Samoan, English
Labor force:
    1,000 (1981 est.)
  by occupation:
    most work on family plantations; paid work exists only in government
    service, small industry, and the Niue Development Board
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niue
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Niue
Digraph:
    NE
Type:
    self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand; Niue fully
    responsible for internal affairs; New Zealand retains responsibility for
    external affairs
Capital:
    Alofi
Administrative divisions:
    none
Independence:
    19 October 1974 (became a self-governing territory in free association with
    New Zealand on 19 October 1974)
National holiday:
    Waitangi Day, 6 February (1840) (Treaty of Waitangi established British
    sovereignty)
Constitution:
    19 October 1974 (Niue Constitution Act)
Legal system:
    English common law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by New Zealand
    Representative Kurt MEYER (since NA)
  head of government:
    Premier Frank F. LUI (since 12 March 1993; Acting Premier since December
    1992)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; consists of the premier and three other ministers
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Legislative Assembly:
    elections last held 6 March 1993 (next to be held NA 1996); results -
    percent of vote NA; seats - (20 total, 6 elected)
Judicial branch:
    Appeal Court of New Zealand, High Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Niue Peoples Party (NPP), Young VIVIAN
Member of:
    ESCAP (associate), INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UNESCO,
    WHO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (self-governing territory in free association with New Zealand)
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niue
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $2.4 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $1,200 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    5% (1992)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $5.5 million
  expenditures:
    $6.3 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1985 est.)
Exports:
    $117,500 (f.o.b., 1989)
  commodities:
    canned coconut cream, copra, honey, passion fruit products, pawpaw, root
    crops, limes, footballs, stamps, handicrafts
  partners:
    NZ 89%, Fiji, Cook Islands, Australia
Imports:
    $4.1 million (c.i.f., 1989)
  commodities:
    food, live animals, manufactured goods, machinery, fuels, lubricants,
    chemicals, drugs
  partners:
    NZ 59%, Fiji 20%, Japan 13%, Western Samoa, Australia, US
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,500 kW
  production:
    2.7 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,490 kWh (1992)
Industries:
    tourism, handicrafts, food processing
Agriculture:
    coconuts, passion fruit, honey, limes; subsistence crops - taro, yams,
    cassava (tapioca), sweet potatoes; pigs, poultry, beef cattle
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $62
    million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niue
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 New Zealand dollar (NZ$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    New Zealand dollars (NZ$) per US$1 - 1.5601 (January 1995), 1.6844 (1994),
    1.8495 (1993), 1.8584 (1992), 1.7265 (1991), 1.6750 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niue
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    229 km
  unpaved:
    all-weather 123 km; plantation access 106 km
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niue
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    383 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    single-line telephone system connects all villages on island
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1,000, FM 1, shortwave 0 (1987 est.)
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Niue
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Police Force
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of New Zealand
istats of northern Thailand.  The areas of greatest concern are Mae
Hong Son province and northern Chiang Mai and Chiang Rai provinces.
Travellers may refer to the Consular  Information Sheet dated
December 21, 1994, for additional information on travel in Thailand.
  American citizens in Thailand  may wish to contact the U.S.
Embassy or the nearest consulate for updated security information.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Thailand
============================================================
Thailand - Consular Information Sheet
 August 15, 1995
Country Description:  Thailand is a constitutional monarchy. It is
a popular travel destination, and tourist facilities and services
are available throughout the country.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and onward/return tickets are
required.  Visas are not needed for stays of up to 30 days, but
permission to enter Thailand under this provision may only be
granted at the international airports in Bangkok, Phuket, Hat Yai,
and Chiang Mai.  This airport permit to stay may not be extended.
For longer stays, or overland entry, travelers can obtain visas in
advance from a Thai Embassy or Consulate.  For stays of 30 to 60
days a tourist visa is required, the fee for which is 15 U.S.
dollars.  For more current information travelers may contact the
Royal Thai Embassy, 1024 Wisconsin Avenue, NW, Washington, D.C.
20007, tel. [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical treatment, especially in Bangkok, is
good.  While the general level of health is good, hepatitis is
endemic.  Malaria is a problem in rural border areas, but not in
Bangkok or other major tourist destinations.  Doctors and hospitals
often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage,
including provision for medical evacuation, has proven useful in
many emergencies.  The international travelers Hotline at the
Centers for Disease Control, tel. [phone], has additional
useful health information.
HIV Virus:  Thailand is experiencing a dramatic epidemic of HIV
infection and AIDS.  The majority of HIV infections in Thailand has
resulted from heterosexual transmission.  Homosexual contact,
however, accounts for a substantial number of HIV infections, along
with the use of intravenous drugs.  HIV infection is common among
prostitutes, who are generally not subject to regular screening for
sexually transmitted diseases.
Information on Crime and Safety:  Petty crimes are common in areas
where tourists gather.  Many tourists fall victim to gem scams, in
which a friendly stranger offers to serve as an informal tour guide.
 The "guide"  offers to show the tourist where to buy gems for
resale in the U.S. at a huge profit.  The gems turn out to be
overpriced and money back guarantees are not honored.  Some
travelers report being robbed after they were drugged in night clubs
or in their hotel rooms by bar girls.  Trekking is a popular
activity for tourists in Thailand's mountainous areas.  The use of
licensed, reliable tour guides will enhance security for trekkers.
In Bangkok, heavy traffic is constant.  Motorist and pedestrian
accidents are common.  Credit card fraud has also been increasing.
Travelers should protect their credit cards and use them only with
known or established businesses.  Useful information on guarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is
provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."
It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Border Problems:  Tourists should cross into neighboring countries
only at designated official crossing points.  Outside official
crossing points, the border is often not clearly marked.  Reliable
guides will assure that trekkers do not cross into another country
inadvertently.  In December 1994, fighting broke out between Karen
factions in Burma across from Thailand's Mae Hong Son and Tax
provinces.  As a result of the fighting, travel by boat along the
Salween and Moei Rivers, which form the border in this area, is
considered dangerous.  Fighting between the Burmese army and Karen
insurgent groups spilled into areas of Tax and Mae Hong Son
provinces adjacent to the Thai/Burma border in the spring of 1995.
By late May, the incursions had halted; nevertheless, tourists who
wish to travel along the border road from Mar Sot, Tax province, to
Mae Sariang, Mae Hong Son province, should travel with a licensed,
reputable tour company.  Prospective travelers may also wish to
check with local Thai police and/or the American Consulate General
in Chiang Mai.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Thailand strictly
enforces its drug laws, including making arrests for possession of
small quantities of marijuana.  Thailand has not signed the Vienna
Consular Convention, and consequently the U.S. Embassy frequently
does not learn of the arrest of American Citizens for minor drug
offenses.  Prison conditions in Thailand are extremely harsh, and
Americans convicted of drug trafficking have received long
sentences, often in excess of 50 years.  Most Americans serving
lengthy sentences have been arrested attempting to depart Thailand
with heroin secreted in their suitcases or in carry-on packages.  A
ruse sometimes used to get American citizens to transport drugs out
of the country, knowingly or not, involves offering the American a
free vacation to Thailand, then requesting the American's assistance
in transporting excess "luggage" or "gifts" back to the U.S.  A lack
of knowledge that dr
The Gambia
.TOGO - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 3 months.
Americans travelling in remote areas in Togo occasionally require
visas. Yellow fever and cholera vaccinations are required.  Check further
information with Embassy of the Republic of Togo, 2208 Mass. Ave.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/234-4212/3).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Togo
============================================================
CORRECTED COPY
Togo - Consular Information Sheet
 August 29, 1995
Country Description:  Togo is a small West African nation with a
developing economy.  Tourism facilities are limited, especially
outside the capital city.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  No visa is required
for a stay of less than three months.  Yellow fever immunizations
are required.  Further information regarding entry requirements may
be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of Togo, 2208
Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008.  The telephone
number is [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Togo has experienced periodic violence and
strikes over the past five years.  Although the situation is calm,
the potential exists for unsettled political conditions.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Togo are limited.  Some
medicines are available through local pharmacies.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health care
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for
payment of medical services outside the United States.  In some
cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas and
medical evacuation coverage has proven useful.  For additional
health information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers hotline [phone].
Information on Crime:  Petty crime, including pickpocketing, has
increased.  Business fraud stemming from Nigerian scam operations
target Americans and pose dangers of financial loss and physical
harm.  Persons contemplating business deals in Togo with individuals
promoting investment in Nigeria, especially the Central Bank of
Nigeria or the Nigerian National Petroleum Company, are strongly
urged to check with the U.S. Department of State before providing
any information, making financial commitments, or traveling to Togo.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In Togo, the penalties for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly
enforced.  Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens who register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy at the intersection of Rue
Pelletier Caventou and Rue Vauban, Lome, telephone [phone]
thru 94, may obtain updated information on travel and security
within Togo.  The U.S. Embassy's fax is [phone] and the
mailing address is B.P. 852, Lome.
 No. 95-105
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated February 9,
1995, to include information on the prevalence of Nigerian business
scams operating in Togo.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Togo
============================================================
Togo - Consular Information Sheet
 August 29, 1995
Country Description:  Togo is a small West African nation with a
developing economy.  Tourism facilities are limited, especially
outside the capital city.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  No visa is required
for a stay of less than three months.  Yellow fever immunizations
are required.  Further information regarding entry requirements may
be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of Togo, 2208
Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008.  The telephone
number is [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Togo has experienced periodic violence and
strikes over the past five years.  Although the situation is calm,
the potential exists for unsettled political conditions.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Togo are limited.  Some
medicines are available through local pharmacies.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health care
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for
payment of medical services outside the United States.  In some
cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas and
medical evacuation coverage has proven useful.  For additional
health information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers hotline at [phone].
Information on Crime:  Petty crime, including pickpocketing, has
increased.  Business fraud stemming from Nigerian scam operations
target Americans and pose dangers of financial loss and physical
harm.  Persons contemplating business deals in Togo with individuals
promoting investment in Nigeria, especially the Central Bank of
Nigeria or the Nigerian National Petroleum Company, are strongly
urged to check with the U.S. Department of State before providing
any information, making financial commitments, or traveling to Togo.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In Togo, the penalties for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly
enforced.  Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens who register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy at the intersection of Rue
Pelletier Caventou and Rue Vauban, Lome, telephone [phone]
thru 94, may obtain updated information on travel and security
within Togo.  The U.S. Embassy's fax is [phone] and the
mailing address is B.P. 852, Lome.
 No. 95-105
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated February 9,
1995, to include information on the prevalence of Nigerian business
scams operating in Togo.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Togo
============================================================
CORRECTED COPY
Togo - Consular Information Sheet
 August 29, 1995
Country Description:  Togo is a small West African nation with a
developing economy.  Tourism facilities are limited, especially
outside the capital city.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  No visa is required
for a stay of less than three months.  Yellow fever immunizations
are required.  Further information regarding entry requirements may
be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of Togo, 2208
Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008.  The telephone
number is [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Togo has experienced periodic violence and
strikes over the past five years.  Although the situation is calm,
the potential exists for unsettled political conditions.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Togo are limited.  Some
medicines are available through local pharmacies.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health care
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for
payment of medical services outside the United States.  In some
cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas and
medical evacuation coverage has proven useful.  For additional
health information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers hotline [phone].
Information on Crime:  Petty crime, including pickpocketing, has
increased.  Business fraud stemming from Nigerian scam operations
target Americans and pose dangers of financial loss and physical
harm.  Persons contemplating business deals in Togo with individuals
promoting investment in Nigeria, especially the Central Bank of
Nigeria or the Nigerian National Petroleum Company, are strongly
urged to check with the U.S. Department of State before providing
any information, making financial commitments, or traveling to Togo.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In Togo, the penalties for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly
enforced.  Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens who register with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy at the intersection of Rue
Pelletier Caventou and Rue Vauban, Lome, telephone [phone]
thru 94, may obtain updated information on travel and security
within Togo.  The U.S. Embassy's fax is [phone] and the
mailing address is B.P. 852, Lome.
 No. 95-105
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated February 9,
1995, to include information on the prevalence of Nigerian business
scams operating in Togo.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
4                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Togo
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Benin and Ghana
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    56,790 sq km
  land area:
    54,390 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than West Virginia
Land boundaries:
    total 1,647 km, Benin 644 km, Burkina 126 km, Ghana 877 km
Coastline:
    56 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    30 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid in south; semiarid in north
Terrain:
    gently rolling savanna in north; central hills; southern plateau; low
    coastal plain with extensive lagoons and marshes
Natural resources:
    phosphates, limestone, marble
Land use:
  arable land:
    25%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    4%
  forest and woodland:
    28%
  other:
    42%
Irrigated land:
    70 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation attributable to slash-and-burn agriculture and the use of wood
    for fuel; recent droughts affecting agriculture
  natural hazards:
    hot, dry harmattan wind can reduce visibility in north during winter;
    periodic droughts
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified -
    Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Tropical Timber 94
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Togo
                                     People
Population:
    4,410,370 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    49% (female 1,069,171; male 1,079,999)
  15-64 years:
    49% (female 1,121,685; male 1,043,000)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 51,392; male 45,123) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.58% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    46.78 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    11.01 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    86.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    57.42 years
  male:
    55.29 years
  female:
    59.6 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.83 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Togolese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Togolese
Ethnic divisions:
    37 tribes; largest and most important are Ewe, Mina, and Kabye, European and
    Syrian-Lebanese under 1%
Religions:
    indigenous beliefs 70%, Christian 20%, Muslim 10%
Languages:
    French (official and the language of commerce), Ewe and Mina (the two major
    African languages in the south), Dagomba and Kabye (the two major African
    languages in the north)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    43%
  male:
    56%
  female:
    31%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    agriculture 80%
  note:
    about 88,600 wage earners, evenly divided between public and private sectors
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Togo
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Togo
  conventional short form:
    Togo
  local long form:
    Republique Togolaise
  local short form:
    none
  former:
    French Togo
Digraph:
    TO
Type:
    republic under transition to multiparty democratic rule
Capital:
    Lome
Administrative divisions:
    23 circumscriptions (circonscriptions, singular - circonscription); Amlame
    (Amou), Aneho (Lacs), Atakpame (Ogou), Badou (Wawa), Bafilo (Assoli), Bassar
    (Bassari), Dapango (Tone), Kande (Keran), Klouto (Kloto), Pagouda (Binah),
    Lama-Kara (Kozah), Lome (Golfe), Mango (Oti), Niamtougou (Doufelgou), Notse
    (Haho), Pagouda, Sotouboua, Tabligbo (Yoto), Tchamba, Nyala, Tchaoudjo,
    Tsevie (Zio), Vogan (Vo)
  note:
    the 23 units may now be called prefectures (singular - prefecture) and
    reported name changes for individual units are included in parentheses
Independence:
    27 April 1960 (from French-administered UN trusteeship)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 27 April (1960)
Constitution:
    multiparty draft constitution approved by High Council of the Republic 1
    July 1992; adopted by public referendum 27 September 1992
Legal system:
    French-based court system
Suffrage:
    NA years of age; universal adult
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Gen. Gnassingbe EYADEMA (since 14 April 1967); election last held
    25 August 1993 (next election to be held NA 1998); all major opposition
    parties boycotted the election; Gen. EYADEMA won 96.5% of the vote
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Edem KODJO (since April 1994)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president and the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    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
  note:
    the Supreme Court ordered new elections for 3 seats of the Action Committee
    for Renewal (CAR) and the Togolese Union for Democracy (UTD), lowering their
    total to 34 and 6 seats, respectively; the remaining 3 seats have not been
    filled
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Togo
                                   Government
Judicial branch:
    Court of Appeal (Cour d'Appel), Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
Political parties and leaders:
    Rally of the Togolese People (RPT), President Gen. Gnassingbe EYADEMA;
    Coordination des Forces Nouvelles (CFN), Joseph KOFFIGOH; The Togolese Union
    for Democracy (UTD), Edem KODJO; The Action Committee for Renewal (CAR), Yao
    AGBOYIBOR; The Union for Democracy and Solidarity (UDS), Antoine FOLLY; The
    Pan-African Sociodemocrats Group (GSP), an alliance of three radical
    parties: The Democratic Convention of African Peoples (CDPA), Leopold
    GNININVI; The Party for Democracy and Renewal (PDR), Zarifou AYEVA; The
    Pan-African Social Party (PSP), Francis AGBAGLI; The Union of Forces for
    Change (UFC), Gilchrist OLYMPIO (in exile); Union of Justice and Democracy
    (UJD), Lal TAXPANDJAN
  note:
    Rally of the Togolese People (RPT) led by President EYADEMA was the only
    party until the formation of multiple parties was legalized 12 April 1991
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, CEAO (observer), ECA, ECOWAS, Entente, FAO, FZ, G-77,
    GATT, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, MINURSO, NAM, OAU, UN, UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNESCO,
    UNIDO, UPU, WADB, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Charge d'Affaires Edem Frederic HEGBE
  chancery:
    2208 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Johnny YOUNG (since September 1994)
  embassy:
    Rue Pelletier Caventou and Rue Vauban, Lome
  mailing address:
    B. P. 852, Lome
  telephone:
    [228] 21 77 17, 21 29 91 through 21 29 94
  FAX:
    [228] 21 79 52
Flag:
    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 Ethiopia
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Togo
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy is heavily dependent on subsistence agriculture, which accounts
    for about half of GDP and provides employment for 80% of the labor force.
    Primary agricultural exports are cocoa, coffee, and cotton, which together
    generate about 30% of total export earnings. Togo 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. Togo serves as a regional commercial and trade center. The
    government's decade-long IMF and World Bank supported effort to implement
    economic reform measures to 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
    devaluation of 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $3.3 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $800 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    0.5% (1991 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $284 million
  expenditures:
    $407 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1991 est.)
Exports:
    $221 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    phosphates, cotton, cocoa, coffee
  partners:
    EC 40%, Africa 16%, US 1% (1990)
Imports:
    $292 million (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, consumer goods, food, chemical products
  partners:
    EC 57%, Africa 17%, US 5%, Japan 4% (1990)
External debt:
    $1.3 billion (1991)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 9% (1991 est.); accounts for 20% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    30,000 kW
  production:
    60 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    83 kWh (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Togo
                                     Economy
Industries:
    phosphate mining, agricultural processing, cement, handicrafts, textiles,
    beverages
Agriculture:
    accounts for 49% of GDP; cash crops - coffee, cocoa, cotton; food crops -
    yams, cassava, corn, beans, rice, millet, sorghum; livestock production not
    significant; annual fish catch of 10,000-14,000 tons
Illicit drugs:
    increasingly used as transit hub by heroin traffickers
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-90), $142 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-90), $2 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $35 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $51
    million
Currency:
    1 CFA franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Communaute Financiere Africaine francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 529.43 (January
    1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991), 272.26
    (1990)
  note:
    the official rate is pegged to the French franc, and 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
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Togo
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    532 km
  narrow gauge:
    532 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    6,462 km
  paved:
    1,762 km
  unpaved:
    unimproved earth 4,700 km
Inland waterways:
    50 km Mono River
Ports:
    Kpeme, Lome
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    9
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    5
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Togo
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; fair system based on network of radio relay routes
    supplemented by open wire lines
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay and open wire lines
  international:
    1 Atlantic Ocean INTELSAT and 1 SYMPHONIE earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    3 (relays 2)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Togo
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, Gendarmerie
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 936,270; males fit for military service 491,578 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $48 million, 2.9% of GDP (1993)
Nigeria
NICARAGUA - Passport and onward/return ticket required.  Check further
information with Embassy of Nicaragua, 1627 New Hampshire Ave., N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20009 (202/939-6531 to 34).
Nicaragua - Consular Information Sheet
October 31, 1994
Country Description:  Nicaragua has a developing economy.  Its tourist
industry is not highly developed.
Entry Requirements:  U. S. citizens need a passport, an onward/return
ticket, and sufficient funds ($200 minimum) to enter Nicaragua.  Passports
must be valid six months beyond duration of stay.  For further information,
travelers can contact the Embassy of Nicaragua at 1627 New Hampshire Avenue
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009, tel. [phone] or [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Occasional flare-ups of armed violence continue
throughout Nicaragua and to a greater extent in the northern parts of the
country.  Incidents involving armed bandits operating in the country have
increased.  Travel by road between Nicaragua and Honduras, even on main
roads, is potentially dangerous.  Because of land mines in certain rural
areas, it can be hazardous to venture off main roads.  Travelers have
experienced harassment at border crossings, especially when crossing the
Gulf of Fonseca by ferry between Potosi, Nicaragua, and La Union, El
Salvador.  Road travel after dark is hazardous in all areas of the country.
Many vehicles operate without lights or are abandoned on main highways.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is limited.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid outside the United States.  In some cases, medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  For additional
health information, the traveler can contact the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Crime is on the increase in Nicaragua.  Many thefts
occur on crowded buses.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should
be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad."  This publication, as well as others, such as
"Tips for Travelers to Central and South America," are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington
D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Most hotels and restaurants do not accept either
credit cards or travelers checks, but travelers checks may be exchanged for
local currency at authorized exchange facilities (casas de cambio).  U.S.
dollars are not always available.  The three largest hotels in Managua
exchange currency and accept payment by certain credit cards or travelers
checks.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties in Nicaragua for possession, use and
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In August 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Nicaragua as not providing oversight in compliance
with international aviation safety standards for Nicaraguan air carrier
operations.  As a result, Nicaraguan carriers arrange to have their flights
conducted by a carrier from a country meeting internationl safety standards
in order to provide commercial passenger service to the United States.  For
further information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation
at 1 [phone].
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy during their visit
may obtain current information on travel and security within Nicaragua.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Nicaragua is located at Kilometer 4
1/2 Carretera Sur in Managua; telephone [phone].
No. 94-258
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 2, 1994 , to
amend the information on aviation oversight.
`>K>                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Nicaragua
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific
    Ocean, between Costa Rica and Honduras
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    129,494 sq km
  land area:
    120,254 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than New York State
Land boundaries:
    total 1,231 km, Costa Rica 309 km, Honduras 922 km
Coastline:
    910 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    25-nm security zone
  continental shelf:
    natural prolongation
  territorial sea:
    200 nm
International disputes:
    territorial disputes with Colombia over the Archipelago de San Andres y
    Providencia 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, Honduras, and Nicaragua
    likely would be required
Climate:
    tropical in lowlands, cooler in highlands
Terrain:
    extensive Atlantic coastal plains rising to central interior mountains;
    narrow Pacific coastal plain interrupted by volcanoes
Natural resources:
    gold, silver, copper, tungsten, lead, zinc, timber, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    9%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    43%
  forest and woodland:
    35%
  other:
    12%
Irrigated land:
    850 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; water pollution
  natural hazards:
    destructive earthquakes, volcanoes, landslides, and occasionally severe
    hurricanes
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Nicaragua
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection;
    signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Environmental
    Modification, Law of the Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Nicaragua
                                     People
Population:
    4,206,353 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    44% (female 921,356; male 930,594)
  15-64 years:
    53% (female 1,146,485; male 1,097,811)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 62,607; male 47,500) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.61% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    33.73 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.45 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -1.19 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    50.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    64.54 years
  male:
    61.67 years
  female:
    67.53 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.17 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Nicaraguan(s)
  adjective:
    Nicaraguan
Ethnic divisions:
    mestizo (mixed Amerindian and Caucasian) 69%, white 17%, black 9%, Indian 5%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 95%, Protestant 5%
Languages:
    Spanish (official)
  note:
    English- and Indian-speaking minorities on Atlantic coast
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1971)
  total population:
    57%
  male:
    57%
  female:
    57%
Labor force:
    1.086 million
  by occupation:
    services 43%, agriculture 44%, industry 13% (1986)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Nicaragua
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Nicaragua
  conventional short form:
    Nicaragua
  local long form:
    Republica de Nicaragua
  local short form:
    Nicaragua
Digraph:
    NU
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Managua
Administrative divisions:
    16 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Boaco, Carazo,
    Chinandega, Chontales, Esteli, Granada, Jinotega, Leon, Madriz, Managua,
    Masaya, Matagalpa, Nueva Segovia, Rio San Juan, Rivas, Zelaya
Independence:
    15 September 1821 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
Constitution:
    9 January 1987
Legal system:
    civil law system; Supreme Court may review administrative acts
Suffrage:
    16 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Violeta Barrios de CHAMORRO (since 25 April 1990); Vice President
    Virgilio GODOY Reyes (since 25 April 1990); election last held 25 February
    1990 (next to be held November 1996); results - Violeta Barrios de CHAMORRO
    (UNO) 54.7%, Daniel ORTEGA Saavedra (FSLN) 40.8%, other 4.5%
  cabinet:
    Cabinet
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly (Asamblea Nacional):
    elections last held 25 February 1990 (next to be held November 1996);
    results - UNO 53.9%, FSLN 40.8%, PSC 1.6%, MUR 1.0%; seats - (92 total) UNO
    41, FSLN 39, "Centrist" (Dissident UNO) 12
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Corte Suprema)
Political parties and leaders:
  far right:
    Liberal Constitutionalist Party* (PLC), Arnold ALEMAN; Conservative Popular
    Alliance Party (APC), Myriam ARGUELLO; Central American Unionist Party
    (PUCA), Blanca ROJAS Echaverry; Independent Liberal Party for National Unity
    (PLUIN), Alfonso MOCADO Guillen; Conservative Party of Nicaragua (PCN -
    formed in 1992 by the merger of the Conservative Social Party (PSC) with the
    Democratic Conservative Party (PCD) and PCL, the Conservative party of
    Labor), Fernando AGUERO; National Justice Party (PJN), Jorge DIAZ Cruz;
    National Conservative Party* (PNC), Adolfo CALERO
  center right:
    Neoliberal Party* (PALI), Adolfo GARCIA Esquivel; National Action Party*
    (PAN), Delvis MONTIEL; Independent Liberal Party* (PLI), Wilfredo NAVARRO
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Nicaragua
                                   Government
  center left:
    Christian Democratic Union (UDC), Luis Humberto GUZMAN; Nicaraguan
    Democratic Movement (MDN), Roberto URROZ; Social Democratic Party (PSD),
    Adolfo JARQUIN; Movement of Revolutionary Unity (MUR), Pablo HERNANDEZ;
    Sandinista Renovation Movement (MRS), Sergio RAMIREZ; Democratic Action
    Movement (MAD), Eden PASTORA; Communist Party of Nicaragua* (PCdeN), Eli
    ALTIMIRANO Perez
  far 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
  note:
    parties marked with an asterisk belong to the National Opposition Union
    (UNO), an alliance of moderate parties, which, however, does not always
    follow a unified political agenda
Other political or pressure groups:
    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 Nicaragua (ANDEN); Union of Journalists
    of Nicaragua (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
Member of:
    BCIE, CACM, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM,
    IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ITU,
    LAES, LAIA (observer), NAM, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR,
    UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Roberto Genaro MAYORGA Cortes
  chancery:
    1627 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador John F. MAISTO
  embassy:
    Kilometer 4.5 Carretera Sur., Managua
  mailing address:
    APO AA 34021
  telephone:
    [505] (2) 666010, 666013, 666015 through 18, 666026, 666027, 666032 through
    34
  FAX:
    [505] (2) 666046
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Nicaragua
                                   Government
Flag:
    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 NICARAGUA 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
    Honduras, which has five blue stars arranged in an X pattern centered in the
    white band
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Nicaragua
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Since March 1991, when President CHAMORRO began an ambitious economic
    stabilization program, Nicaragua has had considerable success in reducing
    inflation and obtaining substantial economic aid from abroad. Annual
    inflation fell from more than 750% in 1991 to less than 5% in 1992.
    Inflation rose again to an estimated 20% in 1993, although this increase was
    due almost entirely to a large currency devaluation in January. As of early
    1994, the government was close to finalizing an enhanced structural
    adjustment facility with the IMF, after the previous standby facility
    expired in early 1993. Despite these successes, achieving overall economic
    growth in an economy scarred by misguided economic values and civil war
    during the 1980s has proved elusive. Economic growth was flat in 1992 and
    slightly negative in 1993. Nicaragua's per capita foreign debt is one of the
    highest in the world; nonetheless, as of late 1993, Nicaragua was current on
    its post-1988 debt as well as on payments to the international financial
    institutions. Definition of property rights remains a problem; ownership
    disputes over large tracts of land, businesses, and homes confiscated by the
    previous government have yet to be resolved. A rise in exports of coffee and
    other products led growth in 1994.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $6.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3.2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,570 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    19.5% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    21.8%; underemployment 50% (1993)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $375 million (1992)
  expenditures:
    $410 million (1992), including capital expenditures of $115 million (1991
    est.)
Exports:
    $329 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    meat, coffee, cotton, sugar, seafood, gold, bananas
  partners:
    US, Central America, Canada, Germany
Imports:
    $786 million (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    consumer goods, machinery and equipment, petroleum products
  partners:
    Central America, US, Venezuela, Japan
External debt:
    $11 billion (1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -0.8% (1993 est.); accounts for 26% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    460,000 kW
  production:
    1.6 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    376 kWh (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Nicaragua
                                     Economy
Industries:
    food processing, chemicals, metal products, textiles, clothing, petroleum
    refining and distribution, beverages, footwear
Agriculture:
    crops account for about 15% of GDP; export crops - coffee, bananas,
    sugarcane, cotton; food crops - rice, corn, cassava, citrus fruit, beans;
    also produces a variety of animal products - beef, veal, pork, poultry,
    dairy products; normally self-sufficient in food
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for cocaine destined for the US
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-92), $620 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.381 billion
Currency:
    1 gold cordoba (C$) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    gold cordobas (C$) per US$1 - 7.08 (December 1994), 6.72 (1994), 5.62
    (1993), 5.00 (1992); note - gold cordoba replaced cordoba as Nicaragua's
    currency in 1991 (exchange rate of old cordoba had reached per US$1 -
    25,000,000 by March 1992)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Nicaragua
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    376 km; note - majority of system is nonoperational
  standard gauge:
    3 km 1.435-m gauge line at Puerto Cabezas; note - does not connect with
    mainline
  narrow gauge:
    373 km 1.067-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    15,286 km
  paved:
    1,598 km
  unpaved:
    13,688 km
  note:
    there is a 368.5 km portion of the Pan-American Highway which is not in the
    total
Inland waterways:
    2,220 km, including 2 large lakes
Pipelines:
    crude oil 56 km
Ports:
    Bluefields, Corinto, El Bluff, Puerto Cabezas, Puerto Sandino, Rama, San
    Juan del Sur
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    198
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    149
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    39
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Nicaragua
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    60,000 telephones; low-capacity radio relay and wire system being expanded;
    connection into Central American Microwave System
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    wire and radio relay
  international:
    1 Intersputnik and 1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 45, FM 0, shortwave 3
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    7
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Nicaragua
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Ground Forces, Navy, Air Force
  note:
    total strength of all branches - 14,500
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 982,345; males fit for military service 604,721; males reach
    military age (18) annually 47,064 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $32 million, 1.7% of GDP (1994), 8.1% of
    government budget
[JGLGLG
New Zealand
NETHERLANDS ANTILLES -  Islands include Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, Statia,
St. Maarten.  Passport or proof of U.S. citizenship required.  Visa not
required for stay up to 14 days, extendable to 90 days after arrival.
Tourists may be asked to show onward/return ticket or proof of
sufficient funds for stay.  Departure tax $10 when leaving Bonaire and Curacao,
$4 in Statia, $10 in St. Maarten.  For further information consult Embassy of
the Netherlands (202/244-5300), or nearest Consulate General:  CA
(213/380-3440), IL (312/856-0110), NY (212/246-1429) or TX
(713/622-8000).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Netherlands Antilles & Aruba
============================================================
Netherlands Antilles & Aruba - Consular Information Sheet
 August 24, 1995
Country Description:  The Netherlands Antilles and Aruba are
autonomous parts of the kingdom of the Netherlands.  The Netherlands
Antilles include the islands of Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, St.
Eustatius (also known as Statia), and St. Maarten (Dutch side).
Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport or proof of U.S. citizenship is
required.  A visa is not required for a stay of up to 14 days,
extendable to 90 days after arrival.  Tourists may be asked to show
an onward/return ticket or proof of sufficient funds for their stay.
 For further information concerning entry requirements, travelers
can consult the Embassy of the Netherlands, 4200 Wisconsin Avenue
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20016, tel: [phone], or the nearest
Dutch consulate in Los Angeles, Chicago, New York or Houston.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is generally good, but may be
limited in more remote areas.  Doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate payment in cash or by a major credit card for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  In some cases, supplementary medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage has proven to be useful.  For additional
health information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline at (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  For details on specific islands, see below.
For all islands, petty street crime occurs.  Valuables left
unattended on beaches are subject to theft.
Aruba:  Failed land development schemes involving time share
investments and financial losses by foreigners are increasing.
Leasees of vehicle rentals may not be fully covered by local
insurance when a vehicle is stolen.
Bonaire:  Potential investors may wish to seek professional advice
regarding investments involving land development projects.
Curacao:  Street crime has increased.  Burglary is commonplace and
armed robbery occurs.  Car theft, including that of rental vehicles
for joy-riding and stripping, occurs frequently.
St. Maarten:  Burglary and the theft of unguarded personal
belongings in cars--including rental cars--at the beach or on
private boats is common.  Armed robbery is on the rise and is
sometimes accompanied by indiscriminate shooting of the victims.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported to
the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  A birth
certificate and/or driver's license generally cannot be replaced
outside the United States.  U.S. citizens can refer to the
Department of State's pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad," which provides
useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad.  Both this pamphlet and "Tips for
Travelers to the Caribbean" are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use, and dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences, possibly in a
very overcrowded prison, and fines.
Aviation Oversight - Netherlands Antilles:  In February 1993, the
U.S Federal Aviation Administration assessed the Netherlands
Antilles' civil aviation authority as not in compliance with
international aviation safety oversight standards for Netherlands
Antilles carriers operating to and from the U.S.  While
consultations to correct the deficiencies are ongoing, air carriers
licensed by the Netherlands Antilles are permitted to conduct
limited operations to the U.S. subject to heightened FAA
surveillance.  The FAA is not providing heightened surveillance for
operations to destinations other than the U.S.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation
at 1 [phone].
Aruba:  As a result of an assessment conducted by the U.S. Federal
Aviation Administration in April 1995, the FAA has found the
Government of Aruba's Civil Aviation Authority to not be in
compliance with international aviation safety standards for
oversight of Aruba air carrier operations.  While consultations to
correct the deficiencies are ongoing, Aruban air carriers are
permitted to conduct limited operations to the U.S. subject to
heightened FAA surveillance.  The FAA is not providing heightened
surveillance for operations to destinations other than the U.S.  For
further information, travelers may contact the Department of
Transportation at 1 800 322-7873.
Consulate Locations/Registration:  U.S. citizens may register with
the Consular Section of the U.S. Consulate General serving the
islands of the Netherlands Antilles  and Aruba, located at J.B.
Gorsiraweg #1, Willemstad, Curacao; telephone [phone].  U.S.
citizens may obtain from the Consulate General updated information
on travel and security in the Netherlands Antilles and Aruba.
 No. 95-101
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated November 7,
1994, to include Aviation Oversight information for Aruba.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
@,9,                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (part of the Dutch realm)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, two island groups in the Caribbean Sea - one includes Curacao and
    Bonaire north of Venezuela and the other is east of the Virgin Islands
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    960 sq km
  land area:
    960 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 5.5 times the size of Washington, DC
  note:
    includes Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, Sint Eustatius, and Sint Maarten (Dutch
    part of the island of Saint Martin)
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    364 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    12 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; ameliorated by northeast trade winds
Terrain:
    generally hilly, volcanic interiors
Natural resources:
    phosphates (Curacao only), salt (Bonaire only)
Land use:
  arable land:
    8%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    92%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    Curacao and Bonaire are south of Caribbean hurricane belt, so rarely
    threatened; Sint Maarten, Saba, and Sint Eustatius are subject to hurricanes
    from July to October
  international agreements:
    party to - Whaling (extended from Netherlands)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                     People
Population:
    203,505 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    26% (female 25,349; male 26,577)
  15-64 years:
    67% (female 69,273; male 67,485)
  65 years and over:
    7% (female 8,599; male 6,222) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.06% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    16.23 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.26 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.38 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    76.94 years
  male:
    74.67 years
  female:
    79.33 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.9 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Netherlands Antillean(s)
  adjective:
    Netherlands Antillean
Ethnic divisions:
    mixed African 85%, Carib Indian, European, Latin, Oriental
Religions:
    Roman Catholic, Protestant, Jewish, Seventh-Day Adventist
Languages:
    Dutch (official), Papiamento a Spanish-Portuguese-Dutch-English dialect
    predominates, English widely spoken, Spanish
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1981)
  total population:
    98%
  male:
    98%
  female:
    99%
Labor force:
    89,000
  by occupation:
    government 65%, industry and commerce 28% (1983)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Netherlands Antilles
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Nederlandse Antillen
Digraph:
    NT
Type:
    part of the Dutch realm; full autonomy in internal affairs granted in 1954
Capital:
    Willemstad
Administrative divisions:
    none (part of the Dutch realm)
Independence:
    none (part of the Dutch realm)
National holiday:
    Queen's Day, 30 April (1938)
Constitution:
    29 December 1954, Statute of the Realm of the Netherlands, as amended
Legal system:
    based on Dutch civil law system, with some English common law influence
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen BEATRIX Wilhelmina Armgard (since 30 April 1980), represented by
    Governor General Jaime SALEH (since NA October 1989)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Miguel POURIER (since 25 February 1994)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed with the advice and approval of the
    unicameral legislature
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Staten:
    elections last held on 25 February 1994 (next to be held 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
  note:
    the government of Prime Minister Miguel POURIER is a coalition of several
    parties
Judicial branch:
    Joint High Court of Justice
Political parties and leaders:
    political parties are indigenous to each island
  Bonaire:
    Patriotic Union of Bonaire (UPB), Rudy ELLIS; Democratic Party of Bonaire
    (PDB), Franklin CRESTIAN
  Curacao:
    Antillean Restructuring Party (PAR), Miguel POURIER; National People's Party
    (PNP), Maria LIBERIA-PETERS; New Antilles 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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                   Government
  Saba:
    Windward Islands People's Movement (WIPM Saba), Will JOHNSON; Saba
    Democratic Labor Movement, Vernon HASSELL; Saba Unity Party, Carmen SIMMONDS
  Sint Eustatius:
    Democratic Party of Sint Eustatius (DP-St.E), K. Van PUTTEN; Windward
    Islands People's Movement (WIPM); St. Eustatius Alliance (SEA), Ralph BERKEL
  Sint Maarten:
    Democratic Party of Sint Maarten (DP-St.M), Claude WATHEY; Patriotic
    Movement of Sint Maarten (SPA), Vance JAMES
Member of:
    CARICOM (observer), ECLAC (associate), ICFTU, INTERPOL, IOC, UNESCO
    (associate), UPU, WMO, WTO (associate)
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (self-governing part of the Netherlands)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Consul General Bernard J. WOERZ
  consulate(s) general:
    Saint Anna Boulevard 19, Willemstad, Curacao
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 158, Willemstad, Curacao
  telephone:
    [599] (9) 61-3066
  FAX:
    [599] (9) 61-6489
Flag:
    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 Bonaire, Curacao, Saba, Sint Eustatius, and Sint
    Maarten
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Tourism and offshore finance are the mainstays of the economy. The islands
    enjoy a high per capita income and a well-developed infrastructure 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $1.85 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    1.8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $10,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1.5% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    13.4% (1993 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $209 million
  expenditures:
    $232 million, including capital expenditures of $8 million (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $240 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    petroleum products 98%
  partners:
    US 39%, Brazil 9%, Colombia 6%
Imports:
    $1.2 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    crude petroleum 64%, food, manufactures
  partners:
    Venezuela 26%, US 18%, Colombia 6%, Netherlands 6%, Japan 5%
External debt:
    $672 million (December 1991)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    200,000 kW
  production:
    810 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    4,054 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tourism (Curacao and Sint Maarten), petroleum refining (Curacao), petroleum
    transshipment facilities (Curacao and Bonaire), light manufacturing
    (Curacao)
Agriculture:
    chief products - aloes, sorghum, peanuts, vegetables, tropical fruit
Illicit drugs:
    money-laundering center; transshipment point for South American cocaine and
    marijuana bound for the US and Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89),
    $513 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 Netherlands Antillean guilder, gulden, or florin (NAf.) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Netherlands Antillean guilders, gulden, or florins (NAf.) per US$1 - 1.79
    (fixed rate since 1989; 1.80 fixed rate 1971-88)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    950 km
  paved:
    300 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, earth 650 km
Ports:
    Kralendijk, Philipsburg, Willemstad
Merchant marine:
  total:
    110 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,044,553 GRT/1,343,842 DWT
  ships by type:
    barge carrier 1, bulk 2, cargo 36, chemical tanker 6, combination ore/oil 1,
    liquefied gas tanker 4, multifunction large-load carrier 20, oil tanker 2,
    passenger 4, refrigerated cargo 27, roll-on/roll-off cargo 7
Airports:
  total:
    5
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; generally adequate facilities
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    extensive interisland microwave radio relay links
  international:
    2 submarine cables; 2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 9, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                              Netherlands Antilles
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Royal Netherlands Navy, Marine Corps, Royal Netherlands Air Force, National
    Guard, Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 56,058; males fit for military service 31,558; males reach
    military age (20) annually 1,734 (1995 est.)
Note:
    defense is responsibility of the Netherlands
Netherlands Antilles
/NEPAL - Passport and visa required.  Tourist visa for stay up to 30 days
extendable to 3 months.  Single-entry visa  $40, double $70 and
multiple $100 (postal money order), requires 1 application form and 1 photo.
For other types of travel obtain visa in advance.  For additional
information contact Royal Nepalese Embassy, 2131 Leroy Pl., N.W., Washington, D.C.
20008 (202/667-4550) or Consulate General in New York (212/370-4188).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Nepal
============================================================
Nepal - Consular Information Sheet
 December 8, 1995
Country Description:  Nepal is a developing country with extensive
facilities for tourists; facilities vary in quality according to
price and location.
Entry Requirements:  Travelers can obtain information on entry
requirements by contacting the Royal Nepalese Embassy at 2131 Leroy
Place, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone] or the
Consulate General in New York at telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Public demonstrations and strikes are
popular forms of political expression in Nepal and may occur from
time to time on short notice.  These demonstrations are usually
nonviolent and not directed towards foreigners.  During general
strikes, many businesses are closed, and transportation and city
services are sometimes disrupted.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is extremely limited.  Any
serious illness may require evacuation to the nearest adequate
medical facility (usually Bangkok).  Doctors and hospitals expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  In general, U.S.
medical insurance is not valid in Nepal.  Supplemental health
insurance which specifically covers overseas treatment and
evacuation to the nearest adequate medical facility is useful.  The
U.S. Embassy in Nepal warns Embassy employees that some locally
bottled water may be unsafe and suggests drinking only boiled water
or bottled water that has been disinfected (with iodine, chlorine,
etc.).  Additional information on health matters can be obtained
from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international
travelers hotline at [phone].
Information on Crime:  Petty crime, especially theft of personal
property, is common.  While acts of violent crime in Nepal are rare,
several attacks against lone foreign trekkers have been reported.
Sensible precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime include:
traveling in a group, not carrying large sums of cash or leaving
valuable articles unattended, changing money only at
government-sanctioned exchanges, being alert near major tourist
sites and attractions where most pickpocketing incidents occur, and
carrying passports and cash in a protected neck pouch.  The loss or
theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately to
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to South Asia."  They are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the countries in which they are traveling.  Penalties
for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly
enforced.  Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Information on Crime:  In November 1995, unusually severe storms
caused avalanches and landslides that killed foreign trekkers and
their Nepalese guides and stranded hundreds of others.  The U.S.
Embassy in Kathmandu strongly advises all American citizens to
exercise extreme care when trekking at higher altitudes for the
remainder of the season.  Although trails may be clear, trekkers
should be alert to the possibility of avalanches from slopes above.
Many popular trekking routes in Nepal cross passes as high as
18,000 feet.  Trekkers hoping to tackle the Himalaya should have
adequate clothing and equipment (not always available locally) and
should be experienced mountain travelers.  It is not prudent to trek
alone.  Trekking alone has contributed, more than any other factor,
to injuries and deaths.  It is helpful to take an experienced guide
or porter who can communicate in both Nepali and English.  It is
advisable to make sure others know your itinerary and to check in at
police outposts where trekking permits are logged.
Checking on conditions in the high country before leaving Kathmandu
can help to reduce risks.  Both the U.S. Embassy and the Himalayan
Rescue Association are good sources of information about trail
conditions and possible hazards.
Border Areas: There have been sporadic reports of difficulties in
crossing the border from Nepal to Tibet by land.  U.S. citizens
planning to travel into Tibet overland from Nepal may contact the
U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu for current information on the status of
the border crossing points.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens may register at the
U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu and obtain updated information on travel
and security in Nepal.  The Embassy is located at Pani Pokhari in
Kathmandu, telephone [phone], 412718, 410513 or 413836; fax
(977-1) 419963.
 No. 95-159
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 26, 1994,
to add information on periodic strikes and demonstrations and on
health and safety precautions, particularly while trekking.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
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STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Nepal
============================================================
Nepal - Consular Information Sheet
 December 8, 1995
Country Description:  Nepal is a developing country with extensive
facilities for tourists; facilities vary in quality according to
price and location.
Entry Requirements:  Travelers can obtain information on entry
requirements by contacting the Royal Nepalese Embassy at 2131 Leroy
Place, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone] or the
Consulate General in New York at telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Public demonstrations and strikes are
popular forms of political expression in Nepal and may occur from
time to time on short notice.  These demonstrations are usually
nonviolent and not directed towards foreigners.  During general
strikes, many businesses are closed, and transportation and city
services are sometimes disrupted.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is extremely limited.  Any
serious illness may require evacuation to the nearest adequate
medical facility (usually Bangkok).  Doctors and hospitals expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  In general, U.S.
medical insurance is not valid in Nepal.  Supplemental health
insurance which specifically covers overseas treatment and
evacuation to the nearest adequate medical facility is useful.  The
U.S. Embassy in Nepal warns Embassy employees that some locally
bottled water may be unsafe and suggests drinking only boiled water
or bottled water that has been disinfected (with iodine, chlorine,
etc.).  Additional information on health matters can be obtained
from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international
travelers hotline at [phone].
Information on Crime:  Petty crime, especially theft of personal
property, is common.  While acts of violent crime in Nepal are rare,
several attacks against lone foreign trekkers have been reported.
Sensible precautions to avoid becoming a victim of crime include:
traveling in a group, not carrying large sums of cash or leaving
valuable articles unattended, changing money only at
government-sanctioned exchanges, being alert near major tourist
sites and attractions where most pickpocketing incidents occur, and
carrying passports and cash in a protected neck pouch.  The loss or
theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately to
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to South Asia."  They are available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the countries in which they are traveling.  Penalties
for possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly
enforced.  Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Information on Crime:  In November 1995, unusually severe storms
caused avalanches and landslides that killed foreign trekkers and
their Nepalese guides and stranded hundreds of others.  The U.S.
Embassy in Kathmandu strongly advises all American citizens to
exercise extreme care when trekking at higher altitudes for the
remainder of the season.  Although trails may be clear, trekkers
should be alert to the possibility of avalanches from slopes above.
Many popular trekking routes in Nepal cross passes as high as
18,000 feet.  Trekkers hoping to tackle the Himalaya should have
adequate clothing and equipment (not always available locally) and
should be experienced mountain travelers.  It is not prudent to trek
alone.  Trekking alone has contributed, more than any other factor,
to injuries and deaths.  It is helpful to take an experienced guide
or porter who can communicate in both Nepali and English.  It is
advisable to make sure others know your itinerary and to check in at
police outposts where trekking permits are logged.
Checking on conditions in the high country before leaving Kathmandu
can help to reduce risks.  Both the U.S. Embassy and the Himalayan
Rescue Association are good sources of information about trail
conditions and possible hazards.
Border Areas: There have been sporadic reports of difficulties in
crossing the border from Nepal to Tibet by land.  U.S. citizens
planning to travel into Tibet overland from Nepal may contact the
U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu for current information on the status of
the border crossing points.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens may register at the
U.S. Embassy in Kathmandu and obtain updated information on travel
and security in Nepal.  The Embassy is located at Pani Pokhari in
Kathmandu, telephone [phone], 412718, 410513 or 413836; fax
(977-1) 419963.
 No. 95-159
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 26, 1994,
to add information on periodic strikes and demonstrations and on
health and safety precautions, particularly while trekking.
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3                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nepal
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Asia, between China and India
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    140,800 sq km
  land area:
    136,800 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Arkansas
Land boundaries:
    total 2,926 km, China 1,236 km, India 1,690 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    varies from cool summers and severe winters in north to subtropical summers
    and mild winters in south
Terrain:
    Terai or flat river plain of the Ganges in south, central hill region,
    rugged Himalayas in north
Natural resources:
    quartz, water, timber, hydroelectric potential, scenic beauty, small
    deposits of lignite, copper, cobalt, iron ore
Land use:
  arable land:
    17%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    13%
  forest and woodland:
    33%
  other:
    37%
Irrigated land:
    9,430 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    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 pollution (use of contaminated water
    presents human health risks)
  natural hazards:
    severe thunderstorms, flooding, landslides, drought, and famine depending on
    the timing, intensity, and duration of the summer monsoons
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Nuclear Test
    Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not
    ratified - Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation
Note:
    landlocked; strategic location between China and India; contains eight of
    world's 10 highest peaks
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nepal
                                     People
Population:
    21,560,869 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    43% (female 4,479,950; male 4,692,575)
  15-64 years:
    55% (female 5,778,107; male 5,994,147)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 305,502; male 310,588) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.44% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    37.31 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.9 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    81.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    53.09 years
  male:
    52.86 years
  female:
    53.34 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.15 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Nepalese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Nepalese
Ethnic divisions:
    Newars, Indians, Tibetans, Gurungs, Magars, Tamangs, Bhotias, Rais, Limbus,
    Sherpas
Religions:
    Hindu 90%, Buddhist 5%, Muslim 3%, other 2% (1981)
  note:
    only official Hindu state in world, although no sharp distinction between
    many Hindu and Buddhist groups
Languages:
    Nepali (official), 20 languages divided into numerous dialects
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    26%
  male:
    38%
  female:
    13%
Labor force:
    8.5 million (1991 est.)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 93%, services 5%, industry 2%
  note:
    severe lack of skilled labor
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nepal
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of Nepal
  conventional short form:
    Nepal
Digraph:
    NP
Type:
    parliamentary democracy as of 12 May 1991
Capital:
    Kathmandu
Administrative divisions:
    14 zones (anchal, singular and plural); Bagmati, Bheri, Dhawalagiri,
    Gandaki, Janakpur, Karnali, Kosi, Lumbini, Mahakali, Mechi, Narayani, Rapti,
    Sagarmatha, Seti
Independence:
    1768 (unified by Prithvi Narayan Shah)
National holiday:
    Birthday of His Majesty the King, 28 December (1945)
Constitution:
    9 November 1990
Legal system:
    based on Hindu legal concepts and English common law; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Man Mohan ADHIKARI (since 30 November 1994)
  chief of state:
    King BIRENDRA Bir Bikram Shah Dev (since 31 January 1972, crowned King 24
    February 1985); Heir Apparent Crown Prince DIPENDRA Bir Bikram Shah Dev, son
    of the King (born 21 June 1971)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the king on recommendation of the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Parliament
  National Council:
    consists of a 60-member body, 50 appointed by House of Representatives and
    10 by the King
  House of Representatives:
    elections last held on 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; note - the new Constitution of 9 November 1990 gave
    Nepal a multiparty democracy system for the first time in 32 years
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Sarbochha Adalat)
Political parties and leaders:
    Communist Party of Nepal/United Marxist and Leninist (CPN/UML), Prime
    Minister Man Mohan ADHIKARI, Deputy Prime Minister Madhav Kumar NEPAL;
    Nepali Congress Party (NCP), president Krishna Prasad BHATTARAI, former
    Prime Minister Girija Prasad KOIRALA, Leader of the Opposition Sher Bahadur
    DEUBA; National Democratic Party (NDP), Surya Bahadur THAPA; Terai Rights
    Sadbhavana (Goodwill) Party, Gajendra Narayan SINGH; United People's Front
    (UPF), Niranjan Govinda BAIDYA; Nepal Workers and Peasants Party (NWPP),
    Narayan Man BIJUKCHHE; Communist Party of Nepal (Democratic-Manandhar), B.
    B. MANANDHAR
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nepal
                                   Government
Other political or pressure groups:
    numerous small, left-leaning student groups in the capital; several small,
    radical Nepalese antimonarchist groups
Member of:
    AsDB, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS,
    ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM,
    SAARC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNOSOM, UNPROFOR, UPU, WFTU, WHO,
    WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires ad interim Pradeep KHATIWADA
  chancery:
    2131 Leroy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Sandra L. VOGELGESANG
  embassy:
    Pani Pokhari, Kathmandu
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [977] (1) 411179
  FAX:
    [977] (1) 419963
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nepal
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Nepal is among the poorest and least developed countries in the world.
    Agriculture is the mainstay of the economy, providing a livelihood for over
    90% of the population and accounting for half of GDP. Industrial activity is
    limited, mainly involving the processing of agricultural produce (jute,
    sugarcane, tobacco, 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 encouraging trade and foreign investment, e.g., by
    eliminating business licenses and registration requirements in order to
    simplify domestic and foreign investment. The government also has been
    cutting public expenditures by reducing subsidies, privatizing state
    industries, and laying off civil servants. Prospects for foreign trade and
    investment in the 1990s remain poor, however, because of the small size of
    the economy, its technological backwardness, its remoteness, and
    susceptibility to natural disaster. The international community provides
    funding for 70% of Nepal's developmental budget and for 30% of total
    budgetary expenditures. The government, realizing that attempts to reverse
    three years of liberalization would jeopardize this vital support, almost
    certainly will move ahead with its reform program in 1995-96.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $22.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,060 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    9.6% (June 1994)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%; note - there is substantial underemployment (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $455 million
  expenditures:
    $854 million, including capital expenditures of $427 million (FY93/94 est.)
Exports:
    $593 million (f.o.b., 1993) but does not include unrecorded border trade
    with India
  commodities:
    carpets, clothing, leather goods, jute goods, grain
  partners:
    India, US, Germany, UK
Imports:
    $899 million (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    petroleum products 20%, fertilizer 11%, machinery 10%
  partners:
    India, Singapore, Japan, Germany
External debt:
    $2 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    NA
Electricity:
  capacity:
    280,000 kW
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nepal
                                     Economy
  production:
    920 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    41 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    small rice, jute, sugar, and oilseed mills; cigarette, textile, carpet,
    cement, and brick production; tourism
Agriculture:
    rice, corn, wheat, sugarcane, root crops, milk, buffalo meat; not
    self-sufficient in food, particularly in drought years
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of cannabis for the domestic and international drug
    markets; transit point for heroin from Southeast Asia to the West
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $304 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1980-89), $2.23 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $30 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $286
    million
Currency:
    1 Nepalese rupee (NR) = 100 paisa
Exchange rates:
    Nepalese rupees (NRs) per US$1 - 49.884 (January 1995), 49.398 (1994),
    48.607 (1993), 42.742 (1992), 37.255 (1991), 29.370 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    16 July - 15 July
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nepal
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    101 km; note - all in Terai close to Indian border
  narrow gauge:
    101 km 0.762-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    7,400 km
  paved:
    3,000 km
  unpaved:
    4,400 km
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    44
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    28
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    10
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nepal
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    50,000 telephones (1990); poor telephone and telegraph service; fair radio
    communication service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    international radio communication service is fair; 1 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean)
    earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 88, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Nepal
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Royal Nepalese Army, Royal Nepalese Army Air Service, Nepalese Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 5,163,703; males fit for military service 2,682,284; males
    reach military age (17) annually 247,978 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $36 million, 1.2% of GDP (FY92/93)
Nauru
MOZAMBIQUE - Passport and visa required.  Visa must be obtained in
advance. Entry visa valid 30 days from date of issuance,  requires 2 application
forms, 2 photos, immunization for yellow fever and cholera, $20 fee and
letter (from company or individual) giving detailed itinerary.
Visitors may have to exchange $25 at point of entry and declare all foreign
currency.  Apply Embassy of the People's Republic of Mozambique, Suite
570, 1990 M St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036 (202/293-7146).
Mozambique - Consular Information Sheet
October 26, 1994
Country Description:  Mozambique, a less developed country in southern
Africa, ended a 17-year civil war in October 1992 with the signing of a
peace agreement between the government and the rival rebel group.  United
Nations peacekeepers are presently located along major transportation
arteries in the country.  Facilities for tourism are severely limited
outside of Maputo.  Travel by road outside of the major urban areas is
possible; however, road conditions vary greatly.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Visas must be
obtained in advance from a Mozambique embassy or consulate.  Visa fees are
not standardized and vary depending on place of application.  Visitors must
exchange $25.00 at the point of entry and declare all foreign currency.
Visitors must carry passports with them at all times during their stay.
Further information regarding entry into the country may be obtained at the
Mozambique Embassy, Suite 570, 1990 M Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036,
telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  The security situation in Mozambique requires extreme
caution despite the success of the peace process in bringing relative calm
to the country.  Banditry occurs along major highways, and soldiers awaiting
demobilization have threatened the safety of road travelers.  Periodically,
the U.S. Embassy has restricted Embassy personnel from traveling on certain
roads or has imposed certain restrictions on road travel.  This information
is passed to the U.S. community in Mozambique via an announcement on the
Consular Warden network.  Travelers contemplating surface travel may wish to
contact the U.S. Embassy for the most up-to-date information regarding road
travel.
City streets are patrolled by police and soldiers who normally carry
automatic weapons.  Their authority should not be challenged.  In addition,
it has been estimated that up to two million land mines were planted
throughout Mozambique during the last three decades of conflict.  Only a few
have been removed thus far.  Any surface travel can, therefore, be hazardous.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are minimal.  Many medicines are
unavailable.  Maputo's special clinic, which requires payment in hard
currency, can provide general, non-emergency services.  Doctors and
hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health care services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved
useful.  Information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control's international travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Economic conditions in the country, spotty police
protection, and years of war have caused an increase in violent and armed
robberies, break-ins, and auto thefts.  Victims, including members of the
foreign community, have been killed.  Traveling alone or at night is
particularly risky.  There are certain areas in the city of Maputo where
pedestrian traffic is prohibited.  People walking or jogging, particularly
in isolated areas, such as along the marginal in Maputo, have frequently
been mugged during daylight hours.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported to the
nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and
"Tips for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the
region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of Documents,
Washington, D.C.  20402.
Currency Information:  Currency can be converted at locations authorized by
the Mozambican Government.  Currency conversions on the black market are
illegal and very risky.  Credit cards are not widely accepted in Mozambique.
 A small number of merchants prefer to be paid in U.S. dollars.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict.  Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and
fines.
Airline Information:  On October 13, 1994, the U.S. Embassy in Maputo
announced that two recent incidents involving Mozambique's national airline,
LAM, have raised concern about LAM's safety practices.  Because of these
concerns and a record of unreliability, the U.S. Embassy reminds travelers
to review all available options for air travel in, to, or through Mozambique.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who will be in Mozambique for more than a few
weeks may register at the U.S. Embassy, where all U.S. citizens may obtain
updated information on travel and security.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 193 Avenida Kenneth Kaunda
in Maputo, the capital of Mozambique.  The Embassy telephone number is (258-
1) 49-27-97.  The after-hours telephone number, for use in emergencies, is
(258-1) 49-00-71.
No. 94-251
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 29, 1994, to
update air travel information.
0                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mozambique
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, bordering the Mozambique Channel, between South Africa and
    Tanzania
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    801,590 sq km
  land area:
    784,090 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of California
Land boundaries:
    total 4,571 km, Malawi 1,569 km, South Africa 491 km, Swaziland 105 km,
    Tanzania 756 km, Zambia 419 km, Zimbabwe 1,231 km
Coastline:
    2,470 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical to subtropical
Terrain:
    mostly coastal lowlands, uplands in center, high plateaus in northwest,
    mountains in west
Natural resources:
    coal, titanium
Land use:
  arable land:
    4%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    56%
  forest and woodland:
    20%
  other:
    20%
Irrigated land:
    1,150 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    civil strife and recurrent drought in the hinterlands have resulted in
    increased migration to urban and coastal areas with adverse environmental
    consequences; desertification; pollution of surface and coastal waters
  natural hazards:
    severe droughts and floods occur in central and southern provinces;
    devastating cyclones
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not
    ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mozambique
                                     People
Population:
    18,115,250 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    45% (female 4,069,117; male 4,078,429)
  15-64 years:
    53% (female 4,882,292; male 4,630,193)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 260,057; male 195,162) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.87% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    44.6 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    15.94 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    by the end of 1994, an estimated 1.6 million Mozambican refugees, who fled
    to Malawi, Zimbabwa, and South Africa in earlier years from the civil war,
    had returned; an estimated 100,000 refugees remain to be repatriated from
    those countries
Infant mortality rate:
    126 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    48.95 years
  male:
    47.04 years
  female:
    50.92 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.19 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Mozambican(s)
  adjective:
    Mozambican
Ethnic divisions:
    indigenous tribal groups, Europeans about 10,000, Euro-Africans 35,000,
    Indians 15,000
Religions:
    indigenous beliefs 60%, Christian 30%, Muslim 10%
Languages:
    Portuguese (official), indigenous dialects
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    33%
  male:
    45%
  female:
    21%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    90% engaged in agriculture
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mozambique
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Mozambique
  conventional short form:
    Mozambique
  local long form:
    Republica Popular de Mocambique
  local short form:
    Mocambique
Digraph:
    MZ
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Maputo
Administrative divisions:
    10 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Cabo Delgado, Gaza,
    Inhambane, Manica, Maputo, Nampula, Niassa, Sofala, Tete, Zambezia
Independence:
    25 June 1975 (from Portugal)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 25 June (1975)
Constitution:
    30 November 1990
Legal system:
    based on Portuguese civil law system and customary law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Joaquim Alberto CHISSANO (since 6 November 1986)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Pascoal MOCUMBI (since December 1994)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Assembly of the Republic (Assembleia da Republica):
    draft electoral law provides for periodic, direct presidential and Assembly
    elections
  note:
    as called for in the 1992 peace accords, presidential and legislative
    elections took place during 27-29 October 1994; fourteen parties, including
    the Mozambique National Resistance (RENAMO) participated; Joaquim Alberto
    CHISSANO was elected president and his FRELIMO party gathered a slim
    majority in the 250 seat legislature
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (FRELIMO), Joaquim Alberto CHISSANO,
    chairman; the ruling party since independence, FRELIMO was the only legal
    party before 30 November 1990 when the new Constitution went into effect
    establishing a multiparty system
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, CCC, ECA, FAO, FLS, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC,
    IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer),
    ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mozambique
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Hipolito Pereira Zozimo PATRICIO
  chancery:
    Suite 570, 1990 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Dennis Coleman JETT
  embassy:
    Avenida Kenneth Kuanda, 193 Maputo
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 783, Maputo
  telephone:
    [258] (1) 492797
  FAX:
    [258] (1) 490114
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mozambique
                                     Economy
Overview:
    One of Africa's poorest countries, Mozambique 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 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 in 1994 was solid and can
    continue into the late 1990s given continued foreign help in meeting debt
    obligations.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $10.6 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5.8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $610 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    50% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    50% (1989 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $252 million
  expenditures:
    $607 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $150 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    shrimp 40%, cashews, cotton, sugar, copra, citrus
  partners:
    Spain, South Africa, US, Portugal, Japan
Imports:
    $1.14 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    food, clothing, farm equipment, petroleum
  partners:
    South Africa, UK, France, Japan, Portugal
External debt:
    $5 billion (1992 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5% (1989 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    2,360,000 kW
  production:
    1.7 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    58 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    food, beverages, chemicals (fertilizer, soap, paints), petroleum products,
    textiles, nonmetallic mineral products (cement, glass, asbestos), tobacco
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mozambique
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 50% of GDP and about 90% of exports; cash crops - cotton,
    cashew nuts, sugarcane, tea, shrimp; other crops - cassava, corn, rice,
    tropical fruits; not self-sufficient in food
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $350 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $4.4 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $37 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $890
    million
Currency:
    1 metical (Mt) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    meticais (Mt) per US$1 - 5,220.63 (1st quarter 1994), 3,874.24 (1993),
    2,550.40 (1992), 1,763.99 (1991), 1,053.09 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mozambique
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,288 km
  narrow gauge:
    3,140 km 1.067-m gauge; 148 km 0.762-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    26,498 km
  paved:
    4,593 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, stabilized earth 829 km; unimproved earth 21,076 km
Inland waterways:
    about 3,750 km of navigable routes
Pipelines:
    crude oil (not operating) 306 km; petroleum products 289 km
Ports:
    Beira, Inhambane, Maputo, Nacala, Pemba
Merchant marine:
  total:
    3 cargo ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 4,533 GRT/8,024 DWT
Airports:
    192
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    11
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    5
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    112
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    15
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    44
Note:
  note:
    highway traffic impeded by land mines not removed at end of civil war
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mozambique
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephone density; fair system of troposcatter, open-wire lines, and
    radio relay
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay and tropospheric scatter
  international:
    5 INTELSAT (2 Atlantic Ocean and 3 Indian Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 29, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Mozambique
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Naval Command, Air and Air Defense Forces, Militia; note - by late
    1994, the army and former RENAMO rebels had demobilized; under UN
    supervision and training, recruits from both the army and rebel forces
    joined an integrated force that is still forming
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 4,061,109; males fit for military service 2,331,793 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $110 million, 7.3% of GDP (1993)
Montserrat
7MONACO - Passport required.  Visa not required for visit up to 3
months. For further information consult French Embassy (202/944-6000) or
nearest Honorary Consulate of the Principality of Monaco:  CA (213/655-8970 or
415/362-5050), IL (312/642-1242), LA (504/522-5700), NY (212/759-5227)
or PR (809/721-4215).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - France and Monaco
============================================================
France and Monaco - Consular Information Sheet
 December 6, 1995
Country Description:  France is a highly developed and stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Monaco is a constitutional
monarchy and a highly developed European nation.  Tourist facilities
are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements for both
France and Monaco, travelers may contact the Embassy of France at at
4101 Reservoir Road, N.W.  Washington, DC 20007, tel: (202)
944-6000, or the nearest French Consulate General in Boston,
Chicago, Detroit, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New
Orleans, New York, San Francisco or San Juan.  Travelers to Monaco
may also contact the nearest Honorary Consulate of Monaco in Boston,
Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York, Palm Beach,
Florida, Philadelphia, San Francisco, San Juan or Washington, D.C.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is widely available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be useful.
Further information on health matters can be obtained from the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline on [phone].
Crime Information:  France and Monaco both have relatively low
rates of violent crime.  Crimes involving larceny are increasingly
more common.  Pickpocketing, theft of unattended baggage and theft
from rental cars or vehicles with out-of-town or foreign license
plates are daily occurrences.  Criminals often operate around
popular tourist attractions such as museums, monuments, restaurants,
hotels, beaches, and on trains and subways.  Americans in France and
Monaco should be particularly alert to pickpockets on trains and
subways, as well as in train and subway stations.  Travelers are
advised to carry only whatever cash and personal checks are
absolutely necessary, leaving extra cash, credit cards, personal
documents, and passport copies at home or in the hotel safe.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" which provides useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad.  The pamphlet is available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC  20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In France, the penalties for
possession, use, and dealing in illegal drugs are very strict.
Convicted offenders can expect a significant jail sentence and a
heavy customs fine; failure to pay can result in upwards of an
additional two years imprisonment.
Dual Nationality:  U.S. citizens who are considered to have also
acquired French citizenship may be subject to compulsory military
service and other aspects of French law while in France.  Those who
might be affected can inquire at a French Embassy or consulate
regarding their status.  In some instances, dual nationality may
hamper U.S. government efforts to provide protection abroad.
Other Information:  Certain Air France flights between France and
various Middle Eastern points (usually Damascus or Amman) make en
route stops in Beirut.  U.S. passports are not valid for travel to,
in, or through Lebanon unless special validation has been obtained
from the Department of State.
Terrorist Activities:  Civil disorder is rare in France.  However,
over the past year, terrorist groups have committed violent acts in
France, including a few closely-targeted political assassinations.
Recent bombings in Paris also appear to be the work of terrorists,
and have killed or injured French citizens and foreign visitors.
However, there is no indication that these acts are specifically
directed at American citizens, American business or American
interests.  These bombings have resulted in an increased police
presence at airports, metro and train stations, etc.
The Basque Separatist Party (ETA) and the National Front for the
Liberation of Corsica (FLNC), continue to operate in the south of
France and have occasionally bombed local government institutions,
travel agencies, etc.  ETA and FLNC attacks usually occur late in
the evening in an apparent attempt to minimize casualties.  Over the
last year, terrorist groups have committed other terrorist acts,
including a few closely targeted political killings and kidnappings,
but no Americans have been affected.
Registration and Embassy/Consulate Locations:  U.S. citizens may
register at the Consular Section in the U.S. Embassy or one of the
three Consulates, where they may obtain updated information on
travel and security in France.  There is no U.S. embassy or
consulate in Monaco.  For assistance and registration in Monaco,
U.S. citizens can contact the U.S. consulate general in Marseille or
the U.S. Consular agent in Nice.
The U.S. Embassy in Paris is located at 2 Avenue Gabriel, telephone
(33) 1-42-96-12-02, fax [phone].  The Consular Section is
located one block away, across the Place de la Concorde, at 2 Rue
St. Florentin, fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Bordeaux is located at:  22 Cours du Marechal
Foch, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Marseille is located at:  12 Boulevard Paul
Peytral, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Strasbourg is located at:  15 Avenue
d'Alsace, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
There is a Consular Agent in Nice, at 31 Rue du Marechal Joffre,
telephone [phone], fax [phone].
 No. 95-157
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for France dated
September 14, 1995, to add information on Monaco.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - France and Monaco
============================================================
France and Monaco - Consular Information Sheet
 December 6, 1995
Country Description:  France is a highly developed and stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Monaco is a constitutional
monarchy and a highly developed European nation.  Tourist facilities
are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements for both
France and Monaco, travelers may contact the Embassy of France at at
4101 Reservoir Road, N.W.  Washington, DC 20007, tel: (202)
944-6000, or the nearest French Consulate General in Boston,
Chicago, Detroit, Honolulu, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New
Orleans, New York, San Francisco or San Juan.  Travelers to Monaco
may also contact the nearest Honorary Consulate of Monaco in Boston,
Chicago, Dallas, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York, Palm Beach,
Florida, Philadelphia, San Francisco, San Juan or Washington, D.C.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is widely available.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be useful.
Further information on health matters can be obtained from the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline on [phone].
Crime Information:  France and Monaco both have relatively low
rates of violent crime.  Crimes involving larceny are increasingly
more common.  Pickpocketing, theft of unattended baggage and theft
from rental cars or vehicles with out-of-town or foreign license
plates are daily occurrences.  Criminals often operate around
popular tourist attractions such as museums, monuments, restaurants,
hotels, beaches, and on trains and subways.  Americans in France and
Monaco should be particularly alert to pickpockets on trains and
subways, as well as in train and subway stations.  Travelers are
advised to carry only whatever cash and personal checks are
absolutely necessary, leaving extra cash, credit cards, personal
documents, and passport copies at home or in the hotel safe.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" which provides useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad.  The pamphlet is available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC  20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In France, the penalties for
possession, use, and dealing in illegal drugs are very strict.
Convicted offenders can expect a significant jail sentence and a
heavy customs fine; failure to pay can result in upwards of an
additional two years imprisonment.
Dual Nationality:  U.S. citizens who are considered to have also
acquired French citizenship may be subject to compulsory military
service and other aspects of French law while in France.  Those who
might be affected can inquire at a French Embassy or consulate
regarding their status.  In some instances, dual nationality may
hamper U.S. government efforts to provide protection abroad.
Other Information:  Certain Air France flights between France and
various Middle Eastern points (usually Damascus or Amman) make en
route stops in Beirut.  U.S. passports are not valid for travel to,
in, or through Lebanon unless special validation has been obtained
from the Department of State.
Terrorist Activities:  Civil disorder is rare in France.  However,
over the past year, terrorist groups have committed violent acts in
France, including a few closely-targeted political assassinations.
Recent bombings in Paris also appear to be the work of terrorists,
and have killed or injured French citizens and foreign visitors.
However, there is no indication that these acts are specifically
directed at American citizens, American business or American
interests.  These bombings have resulted in an increased police
presence at airports, metro and train stations, etc.
The Basque Separatist Party (ETA) and the National Front for the
Liberation of Corsica (FLNC), continue to operate in the south of
France and have occasionally bombed local government institutions,
travel agencies, etc.  ETA and FLNC attacks usually occur late in
the evening in an apparent attempt to minimize casualties.  Over the
last year, terrorist groups have committed other terrorist acts,
including a few closely targeted political killings and kidnappings,
but no Americans have been affected.
Registration and Embassy/Consulate Locations:  U.S. citizens may
register at the Consular Section in the U.S. Embassy or one of the
three Consulates, where they may obtain updated information on
travel and security in France.  There is no U.S. embassy or
consulate in Monaco.  For assistance and registration in Monaco,
U.S. citizens can contact the U.S. consulate general in Marseille or
the U.S. Consular agent in Nice.
The U.S. Embassy in Paris is located at 2 Avenue Gabriel, telephone
(33) 1-42-96-12-02, fax [phone].  The Consular Section is
located one block away, across the Place de la Concorde, at 2 Rue
St. Florentin, fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Bordeaux is located at:  22 Cours du Marechal
Foch, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Marseille is located at:  12 Boulevard Paul
Peytral, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
The U.S. Consulate in Strasbourg is located at:  15 Avenue
d'Alsace, telephone [phone], fax [phone].
There is a Consular Agent in Nice, at 31 Rue du Marechal Joffre,
telephone [phone], fax [phone].
 No. 95-157
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for France dated
September 14, 1995, to add information on Monaco.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
                              THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Monaco
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Europe, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, on the southern coast of
    France, near the border with Italy
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    1.9 sq km
  land area:
    1.9 sq km
  comparative area:
    about three times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    total 4.4 km, France 4.4 km
Coastline:
    4.1 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    Mediterranean with mild, wet winters and hot, dry summers
Terrain:
    hilly, rugged, rocky
Natural resources:
    none
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling;
    signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
Note:
    second smallest independent state in world (after Holy See); almost entirely
    urban
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Monaco
                                     People
Population:
    31,515 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    17% (female 2,691; male 2,740)
  15-64 years:
    63% (female 10,233; male 9,645)
  65 years and over:
    20% (female 3,939; male 2,267) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.7% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    10.66 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.12 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    8.44 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.9 years
  male:
    74.18 years
  female:
    81.8 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.7 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Monacan(s) or Monegasque(s)
  adjective:
    Monacan or Monegasque
Ethnic divisions:
    French 47%, Monegasque 16%, Italian 16%, other 21%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 95%
Languages:
    French (official), English, Italian, Monegasque
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Monaco
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Principality of Monaco
  conventional short form:
    Monaco
  local long form:
    Principaute de Monaco
  local short form:
    Monaco
Digraph:
    MN
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Monaco
Administrative divisions:
    4 quarters (quartiers, singular - quartier); Fontvieille, La Condamine,
    Monaco-Ville, Monte-Carlo
Independence:
    1419 (rule by the House of Grimaldi)
National holiday:
    National Day, 19 November
Constitution:
    17 December 1962
Legal system:
    based on French law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    25 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Prince RAINIER III (since NA November 1949); Heir Apparent Prince ALBERT
    Alexandre Louis Pierre (born 14 March 1958)
  head of government:
    Minister of State Paul DIJOUD (since NA)
  cabinet:
     Council of Government; under the authority of the Prince
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Tribunal (Tribunal Supreme)
Political parties and leaders:
    National and Democratic Union (UND); Campora List, Anne-Marie CAMPORA;
    Medecin List, Jean-Louis MEDECIN
Member of:
    ACCT, ECE, IAEA, ICAO, ICRM, IFRCS, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC,
    ITU, OSCE, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WHO, WIPO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  honorary consulate(s) general:
    Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco, San Juan
    (Puerto Rico)
  honorary consulate(s):
    Dallas, Palm Beach, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC
US diplomatic representation:
    no mission in Monaco, but the US Consul General in Marseille, France, is
    accredited to Monaco
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Monaco
                                   Government
Flag:
    two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and white; similar to the flag of
    Indonesia which is longer and the flag of Poland which is white (top) and
    red
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Monaco
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 50% 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, that is, roughly comparable to those in
    prosperous French metropolitan suburbs.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $558 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $18,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NEGL%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $424 million
  expenditures:
    $376 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1991 est.)
Exports:
    $NA; full customs integration with France, which collects and rebates
    Monacan trade duties; also participates in EU market system through customs
    union with France
Imports:
    $NA; full customs integration with France, which collects and rebates
    Monacan trade duties; also participates in EU market system through customs
    union with France
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    10,000 kW standby; power imported from France
  production:
    NA kWh
  consumption per capita:
    NA kWh (1993)
Agriculture:
    none
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.9243 (January 1995), 5.520 (1994), 5.6632
    (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991), 5.4453 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Monaco
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1.7 km
  standard gauge:
    1.7 km 1.435-m gauge
Highways:
    none; city streets
Ports:
    Monaco
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
    linked to airport in Nice, France, by helicopter service
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Monaco
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    38,200 telephones; automatic telephone system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    no satellite links; served by cable into the French communications system
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    5
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Monaco
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
Mongolia
'MOLDOVA - Passport and visa required.  Visas issued at authorized entry
points at the airport or along the Romanian border.  Moldova does not
currently maintain an Embassy in the United States.
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Moldova
============================================================
Moldova - Consular Information Sheet
 November 13, 1995
Country Description:  Moldova is a nation undergoing profound
political and economic change.  It is a newly independent nation
still in the process of stabilizing its relations with neighboring
countries.  Tourist facilities are not highly developed, and many of
the goods and services taken for granted in other countries are not
yet available.  Internal travel may be disrupted by fuel shortages
and other problems.
Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements, please
contact the Moldovan Embassy, 1511 K Street N.W., Suite 333,
Washington, D.C. 20005, telephone: [phone], fax: (202)
783-3342.  Visas for travel to other former Soviet states are
necessary and difficult to obtain in Moldova.
Areas of Instability:  There are frequent checkpoints in the
Trans-Dniester region, manned by armed, young and inexperienced
paramilitary units who are not under the control of the Moldovan
government and whose members rarely understand English.  Tourists
and truckers may be subject to extortion or robbery at checkpoints.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Moldova is limited.  There is
a severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable
needles, anesthetics, antibiotics, and vaccines.  Elderly travelers
and those with existing health problems may be at risk due to
inadequate medical facilities.  The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of
local doctors who are willing to treat English-speaking patients,
but has yet to identify an English-speaking doctor in Moldova.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for
health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States so supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage and provision for medical evacuation can prove
useful.
Rabies vaccinations may be useful as casual exposure to stray dogs
is common throughout Chisinau.  The Centers for Disease Control
(CDC) recommend Hepatitis B series for certain travelers.  Further
information on health matters can be obtained from the CDC's
international travelers hotline, tel: [phone].
Crime Information:  Moldova has a low rate of crime, but foreigners
have been increasingly targeted for both violent crime and common
street crime, especially after dark.  The loss or theft of a U.S.
passport abroad should be reported immediately to the local police
and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The Department of
State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad.  This publication is available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Internal Travel:  There are no internal flights in Moldova.  Only
Air Moldova, Moldavan Air and Tarom (Romania's national airline)
regularly fly to Moldova.  Air Moldova service is well below Western
standards.  Aircraft appear to be old and cabin areas are in poor
condition.  Train service is also below Western standards and an
increasing number of Americans have been victimized while traveling
on international trains to and from Moldova.
Currency Regulations:  Moldova is a cash only economy.  Traveler's
checks and credit cards are rarely accepted.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  Americans may register at the
consular section of the U.S. Embassy in Chisinau and obtain updated
information on travel and security within Moldova.  The U.S. Embassy
in Chisinau, Moldova, is located at Strada Alexei Mateevici 103;
telephone [phone], after hours telephone [phone].
 No. 95-138
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 24, 1994,
to update the country description, to revise geographic names in the
Areas of Instability, and to update information on Medical
Facilities and Internal Travel.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Moldova
============================================================
Moldova - Consular Information Sheet
 November 13, 1995
Country Description:  Moldova is a nation undergoing profound
political and economic change.  It is a newly independent nation
still in the process of stabilizing its relations with neighboring
countries.  Tourist facilities are not highly developed, and many of
the goods and services taken for granted in other countries are not
yet available.  Internal travel may be disrupted by fuel shortages
and other problems.
Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements, please
contact the Moldovan Embassy, 1511 K Street N.W., Suite 333,
Washington, D.C. 20005, telephone: [phone], fax: (202)
783-3342.  Visas for travel to other former Soviet states are
necessary and difficult to obtain in Moldova.
Areas of Instability:  There are frequent checkpoints in the
Trans-Dniester region, manned by armed, young and inexperienced
paramilitary units who are not under the control of the Moldovan
government and whose members rarely understand English.  Tourists
and truckers may be subject to extortion or robbery at checkpoints.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Moldova is limited.  There is
a severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable
needles, anesthetics, antibiotics, and vaccines.  Elderly travelers
and those with existing health problems may be at risk due to
inadequate medical facilities.  The U.S. Embassy maintains a list of
local doctors who are willing to treat English-speaking patients,
but has yet to identify an English-speaking doctor in Moldova.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for
health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States so supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage and provision for medical evacuation can prove
useful.
Rabies vaccinations may be useful as casual exposure to stray dogs
is common throughout Chisinau.  The Centers for Disease Control
(CDC) recommend Hepatitis B series for certain travelers.  Further
information on health matters can be obtained from the CDC's
international travelers hotline, tel: [phone].
Crime Information:  Moldova has a low rate of crime, but foreigners
have been increasingly targeted for both violent crime and common
street crime, especially after dark.  The loss or theft of a U.S.
passport abroad should be reported immediately to the local police
and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The Department of
State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad.  This publication is available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Internal Travel:  There are no internal flights in Moldova.  Only
Air Moldova, Moldavan Air and Tarom (Romania's national airline)
regularly fly to Moldova.  Air Moldova service is well below Western
standards.  Aircraft appear to be old and cabin areas are in poor
condition.  Train service is also below Western standards and an
increasing number of Americans have been victimized while traveling
on international trains to and from Moldova.
Currency Regulations:  Moldova is a cash only economy.  Traveler's
checks and credit cards are rarely accepted.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  Americans may register at the
consular section of the U.S. Embassy in Chisinau and obtain updated
information on travel and security within Moldova.  The U.S. Embassy
in Chisinau, Moldova, is located at Strada Alexei Mateevici 103;
telephone [phone], after hours telephone [phone].
 No. 95-138
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 24, 1994,
to update the country description, to revise geographic names in the
Areas of Instability, and to update information on Medical
Facilities and Internal Travel.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
9                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Moldova
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Europe, northeast of Romania
Map references:
    Commonwealth of Independent States - European States
Area:
  total area:
    33,700 sq km
  land area:
    33,700 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than twice the size of Hawaii
Land boundaries:
    total 1,389 km, Romania 450 km, Ukraine 939 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    certain territory of Moldova and Ukraine - including Bessarabia and Northern
    Bukovina - are considered by Bucharest as historically a part of Romania;
    this territory was incorporated into the former Soviet Union following the
    Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact in 1940
Climate:
    moderate winters, warm summers
Terrain:
    rolling steppe, gradual slope south to Black Sea
Natural resources:
    lignite, phosphorites, gypsum
Land use:
  arable land:
    50%
  permanent crops:
    13%
  meadows and pastures:
    9%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    28%
Irrigated land:
    2,920 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    heavy use of agricultural chemicals, including banned pesticides such as
    DDT, has contaminated soil and groundwater; extensive soil erosion from poor
    farming methods
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Moldova
                                     People
Population:
    4,489,657 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    27% (female 588,155; male 609,372)
  15-64 years:
    64% (female 1,487,170; male 1,386,293)
  65 years and over:
    9% (female 258,958; male 159,709) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.36% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.93 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    10.05 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -2.25 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    29.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    68.22 years
  male:
    64.81 years
  female:
    71.8 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.16 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Moldovan(s)
  adjective:
    Moldovan
Ethnic divisions:
    Moldavian/Romanian 64.5%, Ukrainian 13.8%, Russian 13%, Gagauz 3.5%, Jewish
    1.5%, Bulgarian 2%, other 1.7% (1989 figures)
  note:
    internal disputes with ethnic Russians and Ukrainians in the Dniester region
    and Gagauz Turks in the south
Religions:
    Eastern Orthodox 98.5%, Jewish 1.5%, Baptist (only about 1,000 members)
    (1991)
  note:
    the large majority of churchgoers are ethnic Moldavian
Languages:
    Moldovan (official; virtually the same as the Romanian language), Russian,
    Gagauz (a Turkish dialect)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    96%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    94%
Labor force:
    2.03 million (January 1994)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 34.4%, industry 20.1%, other 45.5% (1985 figures)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Moldova
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Moldova
  conventional short form:
    Moldova
  local long form:
    Republica Moldova
  local short form:
    none
  former:
    Soviet Socialist Republic of Moldova; Moldavia
Digraph:
    MD
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Chisinau
Administrative divisions:
    previously divided into 40 rayons; new districts possible under new
    constitution in 1994
Independence:
    27 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 27 August 1991
Constitution:
    new constitution adopted NA July 1994; replaces old Soviet constitution of
    1979
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; no judicial review of legislative acts; does not
    accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction but accepts many UN and OSCE documents
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Mircea SNEGUR (since 3 September 1990); election last held 8
    December 1991 (next to be held NA 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
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Andrei SANGHELI (since 1 July 1992; reappointed 5 April 1994
    after elections for new legislature); First Deputy Prime Minister Ion GUTU
    (since NA)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president on recommendation of the
    prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Parliament:
    elections last held 27 February 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results -
    percent by party NA; seats - (104 total) Agrarian-Democratic Party 56,
    Socialist/Yedinstvo Bloc 28, Peasants and Intellectual Bloc 11, Christian
    Democratic Popular Front 9
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Moldova
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Christian Democratic Popular Front (formerly Moldovan Popular Front), Iurie
    ROSCA, chairman; Yedinstvo Intermovement, Vladimir SOLONARI, chairman;
    Social Democratic Party, Oazu NANTOI, chairman, two other chairmen;
    Agrarian-Democratic Party, Dumitru MOTPAN, chairman; Democratic Party,
    Gheorghe GHIMPU, chairman; Democratic Labor Party, Alexandru ARSENI,
    chairman; Reform Party, Anatol SELARU; Republican Party, Victor PUSCAS;
    Socialist Party, Valeriu SENIC, cochairman; Communist Party, Vladimir
    VORONIN, cochairman; Peasants and Intellectuals Bloc
Other political or pressure groups:
    United Council of Labor Collectives (UCLC), Igor SMIRNOV, chairman; Congress
    of Intellectuals, Alexandru MOSANU; The Ecology 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 People of Moldova (AWPM), G.
    POLOGOV, president; Christian Alliance for Greater Romania; Stefan the Great
    Movement; Liberal Convention of Moldova; Association of Victims of
    Repression; Christian Democratic Youth League
Member of:
    BSEC, CE (guest), CIS, EBRD, ECE, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT
    (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NACC, OSCE, PFP,
    UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Nicolae TAU
  chancery:
    Suites 329, 333, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Mary C. PENDLETON
  embassy:
    Strada Alexei Mateevich #103, Chisinau
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [373] (2) 23-37-72
  FAX:
    [373] (2) 23-30-44
Flag:
    same color scheme as Romania - 3 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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Moldova
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Moldova enjoys a favorable climate and good farmland but has no major
    mineral deposits. As a result, Moldova's economy is primarily based on
    agriculture, featuring fruits, vegetables, wine, and tobacco. Moldova must
    import all of its supplies of oil, coal, and natural gas, and energy
    shortages have contributed to sharp production declines since the breakup of
    the Soviet Union in 1991. The Moldovan government is 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 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 1995. Meanwhile, privatization of medium and
    large enterprises got underway in mid-1994 and is expected to pick up speed
    in 1995. To improve its precarious energy situation, Chisinau reached an
    agreement with Moscow in December 1994 on gas deliveries for 1995. Gazprom,
    Russia's national gas company, has agreed to reduce prices for natural gas
    deliveries to Moldova from the world market price of $80/thousand cubic
    meters (tcm) to $58/tcm in return for part ownership of the Moldovan
    pipeline system.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $11.9 billion (1994 estimate as extrapolated
    from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    -30% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $2,670 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    7.6% per month (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    1% (includes only officially registered unemployed; large numbers of
    underemployed workers)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
  note:
    budget deficit for 1993 approximately 6% of GDP
Exports:
    $144 million to outside the FSU countries (1994); over 70% of exports go to
    FSU countries
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, wine, tobacco, textiles and footwear, machinery, chemicals
    (1991)
  partners:
    Russia, Kazakhstan, Ukraine, Romania, Germany
Imports:
    $174 million from outside the FSU countries (1994); over 70% of imports are
    from FSU countries
  commodities:
    oil, gas, coal, steel, machinery, foodstuffs, automobiles, and other
    consumer durables
  partners:
    Russia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Romania, Germany
External debt:
    $300 million (as of 11 December 1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -30% (1994 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Moldova
                                     Economy
Electricity:
  capacity:
    3,000,000 kW
  production:
    8.2 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,830 kWh (1994)
Industries:
    key products are canned food, agricultural machinery, foundry equipment,
    refrigerators and freezers, washing machines, hosiery, refined sugar,
    vegetable oil, shoes, textiles
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 40% of GDP; Moldova's principal economic activity;
    products are vegetables, fruits, wine, grain, sugar beets, sunflower seed,
    meat, milk, tobacco
Illicit drugs:
    illicit cultivator of opium poppy and cannabis; mostly for CIS consumption;
    transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    joint EC-US loan (1993), $127 million; IMF STF credit (1993), $64 million;
    IMF stand-by loan (1993), $72 million; US commitments (1992-93), $61 million
    in humanitarian aid, $11 million in technical assistance; World Bank loan
    (1993), $60 million; Russia (1993), 50 billion ruble credit; Romania (1993),
    20 billion lei credit
Currency:
    the leu (plural lei) was introduced in late 1993
Exchange rates:
    lei per US$1 - 4.277 (22 December 1994)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Moldova
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,150 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines
  broad gauge:
    1,150 km 1.520-m gauge (1990)
Highways:
  total:
    20,000 km
  paved or graveled:
    13,900 km
  unpaved:
    earth 6,100 km (1990)
Pipelines:
    natural gas 310 km (1992)
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    26
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    8
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Moldova
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    577,000 telephones; 134 telephones/1,000 persons; telecommunication system
    not well developed; 215,000 unsatisfied requests for telephone service
    (1991)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    international connections to the other former Soviet republics by land line
    and microwave radio relay through Ukraine, and to other countries by leased
    connections to the Moscow international gateway switch; 1 EUTELSAT and 1
    INTELSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Moldova
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Ground Forces, Air and Air Defense Forces, Republic Security Forces
    (internal and border troops)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,116,912; males fit for military service 881,642; males
    reach military age (18) annually 35,447 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, 2% of GDP (1994)
Midway Islands
+MEXICO - Passport and visa not required of U.S. citizens for
tourist/transit stay up to 90 days.  Tourist card is required.  Tourist
card valid 3 months for single entry up to 180 days, no charge,
requires proof of U.S. citizenship, photo ID and proof of sufficient funds.
Tourist cards may be obtained in advance from Consulate, Tourism Office, and
most airlines serving Mexico upon arrival.  Departure tax $10 is paid at
airport.  Notarized consent from parent(s) required for children
travelling alone, with one parent or in someone else's custody.  (This permit is
not necessary when a minor is in possession of a valid passport.)  For
other types of travel and details, check Embassy of Mexico's Consular
Section, 2827 16th St., N.W., Washington, DC 20009-4260 (202/736-1000) or
nearest Consulate General:  CA (213/351-6800, 415/392-5554 and 619/231-8414),
CO (303/830-6702), FL (305/441-8780), IL (312/855-1380), LA
(504/522-3596), NY (212/689-0456), PR (809/764-0258) or TX (214/522-9741, 713/463-9426,
512/227-9145 and 915/533-3644).
Mexico - Consular Information Sheet
September 2, 1994
Country Description:  Mexico has a rapidly developing economy.  Luxury
accommodations in major cities and resorts are widely available.  Tourist
facilities in more remote areas may be limited.
Entry Requirements:  Proof of citizenship and photo identification are
required for entry by all U.S. citizens.  A passport and visa are not
required for a tourist/transit stay of up to 180 days.  A tourist card
issued by Mexican consulates and most airlines serving Mexico is required.
Minors traveling without a valid passport require notarized consent from
parent(s) if traveling alone, with one parent, or in someone else's custody.
 Mexican regulations limit the value of goods brought into Mexico by U.S.
citizens arriving by air or sea to $300 per person and by land to $50 per
person.  Other travel-related items may also be brought in duty-free.
Amounts exceeding the duty-free limit are subject to a 32.8 percent tax.
Upon arrival in Mexico, business travelers must complete a form authorizing
the conduct of business, but not employment for a 30 day period.  If the
business traveler departs and re-enters, the 30-day period begins again.
There is no fee for the business pass.  For further information concerning
entry requirements, travelers may contact the Embassy of Mexico at 1911
Pennsylvania Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20006, telephone [phone],
or any of the Mexican consulates in major U.S. cities.
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical care can be found in all major cities.
 Health facilities in Mexico City are excellent.  Care in more remote areas
is limited.  Air pollution in Mexico City is severe, especially from
December to May.  For additional health information, travelers may contact
the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline at (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  Street crime is common, especially in urban areas.
Persons driving on some Mexican roads, particularly in isolated regions,
have been targeted by bandits who operate primarily after dark.  Criminals,
particularly in Sinaloa, sometimes represent themselves as Mexican police or
other local officials.  Any U.S. citizen victims of crime in Mexico are
encouraged to report the incident to local police authorities and to the
nearest U.S. consular office.
The U.S. Embassy advises its personnel not to travel on Mexican highways
after dark.  Highway 15 and Express Highway 1 (limited access) in the state
of Sinaloa are particularly dangerous areas where criminal assaults and
murders have occurred, during the day and at night.
Driving Information:  U.S. driver's licenses are valid in Mexico.  Mexican
insurance is required.
All vehicular traffic is restricted in Mexico City in order to reduce air
pollution.  The restriction is based on the last digit of the vehicle
license plate.  (There is no specific provision regarding license plates
with letters only.)
-Monday:  No driving if license plate ends with 5 or 6.
-Tuesday:  No driving if license plate ends with 7 or 8.
-Wednesday:  No driving if license plate ends with 3 or 4.
-Thursday:  No driving if license plate ends with 1 or 2.
-Friday:  No driving if license plate ends with 9 or 0.
Also, no driving of vehicles with temporary license plates or any other
plate that does not conform with the above.
-Saturday and Sunday:  All vehicles may be driven.
Traveling in Baja:  During heavy seasonal rains (January-March), road
conditions can become difficult and travelers can become stranded.  For
current Mexican road conditions between Ensenada and El Rosario, Mexico,
travelers can contact the nearest Mexican consulate or tourism office or the
U.S. Consulate General in Tijuana.
Traveling in Chiapas:  The town of San Cristobal in the state of Chiapas
remains quiet after the disturbances in early January 1994.  The situation
could become unstable in areas of Chiapas state outside of San Cristobal.
U.S. citizens residing or traveling in Mexico may contact the U.S. embassy
or consulates for further security information.
Travel Through Mexico To Central American Countries:  Mexican authorities
require that all international transit of persons (transmigrantes) and
merchandise through Mexico, destined for Central America, from the area from
Ciudad Acuna to Matamoros, be handled by the Lucio Blanco-Los Indios customs
office and by the Colombia, Nuevo Laredo customs office.  Transmigrantes
entering Mexico from areas other than the Ciudad Acuna-Matamoros zone, will
continue to use their regular ports of entry.  Mexican authorities require
that a customs broker handle the temporary entry into Mexico of all non-
personal property of travelers destined for central American countries.
Fees will be processed through the customs broker.  For more detailed
information, travelers can contact the nearest Mexican consulate or tourism
office or the U.S. Consulate in Matamoros prior to departing the U.S.
Bringing Vehicles into Mexico:  The government of Mexico strictly regulates
the entry of vehicles into Mexico.  The owner of an imported vehicle should
be present in the vehicle at all times the vehicle is in operation or the
vehicle may be confiscated.
Travelers are advised to contact the nearest Mexican consulate in the U.S.
for specific, detailed information prior to departing the U.S.
Drug and Firearms Penalties:  Penalties for drug and firearm offenses are
strict, and convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
 Sentences for possession of drugs in Mexico can be as long as 25 years plus
fines.  Just as in the U.S., purchase of controlled medication requires a
doctor's prescription.  The Mexican list of controlled medication differs
from the U.S. list, and Mexican public health laws concerning controlled
medication are unclear.  Possession of excessive amounts of a psychotropic
drug such as valium can result in arrest if the authorities suspect abuse.
A permit from a Mexican consulate in the U.S. is required in order to import
firearms or ammunition into Mexico, whether or not the firearm is legally
registered in the U.S.  Sentences for possession of firearms in Mexico can
be as long as 30 years.  Some Mexican cities have ordinances prohibiting the
possession of knives or anything that might be construed as a weapon.
Travelers should check with the nearest Mexican consulate before traveling
to Mexico with firearms or to purchase medication.
Dual Citizenship:  U.S. citizens who are also considered to be Mexican
citizens could be subject to compulsory military service and other aspects
of Mexican law while in Mexico.  Those who may be affected can inquire at
the Mexican Embassy or a consulate to determine status.  In some instances,
dual nationality may hamper U.S. government efforts to provide protection in
Mexico.
Other Information:  U.S. citizens who become involved in time-share or other
real property purchases should be aware that Mexican laws and practices
regarding real estate are markedly different from those in the U.S.  A list
of local attorneys can be obtained from the U.S. Embassy or nearest
consulate in Mexico.  The U.S.  Embassy strongly recommends the use of
competent local legal assistance for any significant real property or
business purchase.
Tips for Travelers:  Useful information is provided in the Department of
state pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to Mexico"
which are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing  Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In May 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Mexico's civil aviation authority as in compliance
with international aviation safety oversight standards for Mexican carriers
operating to and from the U.S.  The same level of safety oversight would
typically be applied to operations to other destinations.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at 1-800-
322-7873.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy or a U.S.
Consulate can obtain updated information on travel and security within Mexico.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy is located in Mexico City
at Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, telephone [phone].
There are also U.S. Consulates General in:
Ciudad Juarez at Avenida Lopez Mateos 924-N, telephone[phone];
Guadalajara at Progreso 175, telephone [phone];
Monterrey at Avenida Constitucion 411 Poniente 64000 Monterrey, telephone
(52-83)45-2120;
Tijuana at Tapachula 96, telephone [phone].
There are U.S. Consulates in:
Hermosillo at Ave. Monterrey 141, telephone [phone];
Matamoros at Ave. Primera 2002, telephone [phone];
Merida at Paseo Montejo 453, telephone [phone] and
Nuevo Laredo at Calle Allende 3330, Col. Jardin, telephone [phone].
There are Consular Agencies in:
Puerto Vallarta at Parian Del Puente Local 12-A, telephone [phone];
Acapulco at Hotel Club Del Sol, telephone [phone];
Cancun at Avenida Nader #40, Edificio Marruecos, third floor office #31,
telephone [phone];
San Luis Potosi at Francisco De P. Mariel 102, Desp. One, telephone (52-
481)2-1528;
Oaxaca at Alcala 201, telephone [phone];
San Miguel de Allende at Dr. Hernandez Macias #72, telephone (52-465)2-
2357/2-0068;
Tampico at Ave. Hidalgo #2000 local 4, telephone [phone];
Veracruz at Victimas del 25 de Junio #388, telephone [phone];
Cabo San Lucas at Blvd. Marina Y Perdregal, Local No. 3 Zona Centro,
telephone [phone] and Mazatlan at Hotel Playa Mazatlan, Rodolfo T.
Loaiza #202, Zona Dorada, 82110, telephone [phone] ext. 285.
No. 94-186
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated June 7, 1994 by adding
information on aviation oversight.
E                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mexico
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, between
    Belize and the US and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Guatamala
    and the US
Map references:
    North America
Area:
  total area:
    1,972,550 sq km
  land area:
    1,923,040 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than three times the size of Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 4,538 km, Belize 250 km, Guatemala 962 km, US 3,326 km
Coastline:
    9,330 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    claims Clipperton Island (French possession)
Climate:
    varies from tropical to desert
Terrain:
    high, rugged mountains, low coastal plains, high plateaus, and desert
Natural resources:
    petroleum, silver, copper, gold, lead, zinc, natural gas, timber
Land use:
  arable land:
    12%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    39%
  forest and woodland:
    24%
  other:
    24%
Irrigated land:
    51,500 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    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; desertification; serious air pollution in the national capital and
    urban centers along US-Mexico border
  natural hazards:
    tsunamis along the Pacific coast, destructive earthquakes in the center and
    south, and hurricanes on the Gulf and Caribbean coasts
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mexico
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear
    Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling; signed,
    but not ratified - Desertification
Note:
    strategic location on southern border of US
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mexico
                                     People
Population:
    93,985,848 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    37% (female 17,028,091; male 17,631,110)
  15-64 years:
    59% (female 28,429,663; male 26,866,886)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 2,184,998; male 1,845,100) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.9% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    26.64 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.64 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -3.03 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    26 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    73.34 years
  male:
    69.74 years
  female:
    77.11 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.09 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Mexican(s)
  adjective:
    Mexican
Ethnic divisions:
    mestizo (Indian-Spanish) 60%, Amerindian or predominantly Amerindian 30%,
    Caucasian or predominantly Caucasian 9%, other 1%
Religions:
    nominally Roman Catholic 89%, Protestant 6%
Languages:
    Spanish, various Mayan dialects
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    88%
  male:
    90%
  female:
    85%
Labor force:
    26.2 million (1990)
  by occupation:
    services 31.7%, agriculture, forestry, hunting, and fishing 28%, commerce
    14.6%, manufacturing 11.1%, construction 8.4%, transportation 4.7%, mining
    and quarrying 1.5%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mexico
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    United Mexican States
  conventional short form:
    Mexico
  local long form:
    Estados Unidos Mexicanos
  local short form:
    Mexico
Digraph:
    MX
Type:
    federal republic operating under a centralized government
Capital:
    Mexico
Administrative divisions:
    31 states (estados, singular - estado) and 1 federal district* (distrito
    federal); Aguascalientes, Baja California, Baja California Sur, Campeche,
    Chiapas, Chihuahua, Coahuila de Zaragoza, Colima, Distrito Federal*,
    Durango, Guanajuato, Guerrero, Hidalgo, Jalisco, Mexico, Michoacan de
    Ocampo, Morelos, Nayarit, Nuevo Leon, Oaxaca, Puebla, Queretaro de Arteaga,
    Quintana Roo, San Luis Potosi, Sinaloa, Sonora, Tabasco, Tamaulipas,
    Tlaxcala, Veracruz-Llave, Yucatan, Zacatecas
Independence:
    16 September 1810 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 16 September (1810)
Constitution:
    5 February 1917
Legal system:
    mixture of US constitutional theory and civil law system; judicial review of
    legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory (but not enforced)
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Ernesto ZEDILLO Ponce de Leon (since 1 December 1994); election
    last held on 21 August 1994 (next to be held NA); 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%
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    bicameral National Congress (Congreso de la Union)
  Senate (Camara de Senadores):
    elections last held on 21 August 1994 (next to be held NA); 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 on 24 August 1994 (next to be held NA); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (500 total) PRI 300, PAN 119, PRD 71,
    PFCRN 10
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mexico
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    (recognized parties) Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), Maria de los
    Angeles MORENO; 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; Authentic Party of
    the Mexican Revolution (PARM), Rosa Maria MARTINEZ Denagri; Democratic Forum
    Party (PFD), Pablo Emilio MADERO; Mexican Green Ecologist Party (PVEM),
    Jorge GONZALEZ Torres
Other political or pressure groups:
    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)
Member of:
    AG (observer), APEC, BCIE, CARICOM (observer), CCC, CDB, CG, EBRD, ECLAC,
    FAO, G- 6, G-11, G-15, G-19, G-24, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, LAES, LAIA, NAM (observer), OAS, OECD,
    ONUSAL, OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNITAR, UNU, UPU, WCL,
    WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jesus SILVA HERZOG Flores
  chancery:
    1911 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20006
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, El Paso, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New
    Orleans, New York, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, San Juan (Puerto
    Rico)
  consulate(s):
    Albuquerque, Austin, Boston, Brownsville (Texas), Calexico (California),
    Corpus Christi, Del Rio (Texas), Detroit, Eagle Pass (Texas), Fresno
    (California), Loredo, McAllen (Texas), Midland (Texas), Nogales (Arizona),
    Oxnard (California), Philadelphia, Phoenix, Sacramento, St. Louis, Salt Lake
    City, San Bernardino, San Jose, Santa Ana, Seattle
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador James R. JONES
  embassy:
    Paseo de la Reforma 305, Colonia Cuauhtemoc, 06500 Mexico, Distrito Federal
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 3087, Laredo, TX 78044-3087
  telephone:
    [52] (5) 211-0042
  FAX:
    [52] (5) 511-9980, 208-3373
  consulate(s) general:
    Ciudad Juarez, Guadalajara, Monterrey, Tijuana
  consulate(s):
    Hermosillo, Matamoros, Merida, Nuevo Laredo
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mexico
                                   Government
Flag:
    three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and red; the coat
    of arms (an eagle perched on a cactus with a snake in its beak) is centered
    in the white band
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mexico
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Mexico, under the guidance of new President Ernesto ZEDILLO, entered 1995 in
    the midst of a severe financial crisis. Mexico's membership in the North
    American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA) with the United States and Canada, its
    solid record of economic reforms, and its strong growth in the second and
    third quarters of 1994 - at an annual rate of 3.8% and 4.5% respectively -
    seemed to augur bright prospects for 1995. However, an overvalued exchange
    rate and widening current account deficits created an imbalance that
    ultimately proved unsustainable. To finance the trade gap, Mexico City had
    become increasingly reliant on volatile portfolio investment. A series of
    political shocks in 1994 - an uprising in the southern state of Chiapas, the
    assassination of a presidential candidate, several high profile kidnappings,
    the killing of a second high-level political figure, and renewed threats
    from the Chiapas rebels - combined with rising international interest rates
    and concerns of a devaluation to undermine investor confidence and prompt
    massive outflows of capital. The dwindling of foreign exchange reserves,
    which the central bank had been using to defend the currency, forced the new
    administration to change the exchange rate policy and allow the currency to
    float freely in the last days of 1994. The adjustment roiled Mexican
    financial markets, leading to a 30% to 40% weakening of the peso relative to
    the dollar. ZEDILLO announced an emergency economic program that included
    federal budget cuts and plans for more privatizations, but it failed to
    restore investor confidence quickly. While the devaluation is likely to help
    Mexican exporters, whose products are now cheaper, it also raises the
    specter of an inflationary spiral if domestic producers increase their
    prices and workers demand wage hikes. Although strong economic fundamentals
    bode well for Mexico's longer-term outlook, prospects for solid growth and
    low inflation have deteriorated considerably, at least through 1995.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $728.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $7,900 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    7.1% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    9.8% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $96.99 billion (1994 est.)
  expenditures:
    $96.51 billion (1994 est.), including capital expenditures of $NA (1994
    est.)
Exports:
    $60.8 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.), includes in-bond industries
  commodities:
    crude oil, oil products, coffee, silver, engines, motor vehicles, cotton,
    consumer electronics
  partners:
    US 82%, Japan 1.4%, EC 5% (1993 est.)
Imports:
    $79.4 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.), includes in-bond industries
  commodities:
    metal-working machines, steel mill products, agricultural machinery,
    electrical equipment, car parts for assembly, repair parts for motor
    vehicles, aircraft, and aircraft parts
  partners:
    US 74%, Japan 4.7%, EC 11% (1993 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mexico
                                     Economy
External debt:
    $128 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 4.5% (1994 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    28,780,000 kW
  production:
    122 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,239 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    food and beverages, tobacco, chemicals, iron and steel, petroleum, mining,
    textiles, clothing, motor vehicles, consumer durables, tourism
Agriculture:
    accounts for 7% of GDP; large number of small farms at subsistence level;
    major food crops - corn, wheat, rice, beans; cash crops - cotton, coffee,
    fruit, tomatoes
Illicit drugs:
    illicit cultivation of opium poppy and cannabis continues in spite of
    government eradication program; major supplier of heroin and marijuana to
    the US market; continues as the primary transshipment country for US-bound
    cocaine and marijuana from South America; increasingly involved in the
    production and distribution of methamphetamine
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $3.1 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $7.7 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $110 million
Currency:
    1 New Mexican peso (Mex$) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    market rate of Mexican pesos (Mex$) per US$1 - 6.736 (average in March
    1995), 5.5133 (January 1995), 3.3751 (1994), 3.1156 (1993), 3,094.9 (1992),
    3,018.4 (1991), 2,812.6 (1990)
  note:
    the new peso replaced the old peso on 1 January 1993; 1 new peso = 1,000 old
    pesos
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mexico
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    24,500 km
  standard gauge:
    24,410 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    93 km 0.914-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    242,300 km
  paved:
    84,800 km (including 3,166 km of expressways)
  unpaved:
    gravel and earth 157,500 km
Inland waterways:
    2,900 km navigable rivers and coastal canals
Pipelines:
    crude oil 28,200 km; petroleum products 10,150 km; natural gas 13,254 km;
    petrochemical 1,400 km
Ports:
    Acapulco, Altamira, Coatzacoalcos, Ensenada, Guaymas, La Paz, Lazaro
    Cardenas, Manzanillo, Mazatlan, Progreso, Salina Cruz, Tampico, Topolobampo,
    Tuxpan, Veracruz
Merchant marine:
  total:
    59 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 949,271 GRT/1,340,595 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 1, cargo 2, chemical tanker 4, container 7, liquefied gas tanker 7, oil
    tanker 30, refrigerated cargo 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2, short-sea
    passenger 4
Airports:
  total:
    2,055
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    9
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    25
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    82
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    75
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1,262
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    60
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    539
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mexico
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    6,410,000 telephones; highly developed system with extensive microwave radio
    relay links; privatized in December 1990
  local:
    adequate phone service for business and government, but, at a density of
    less than 7 telephones/100 persons, the population is poorly served
  intercity:
    includes 120 domestic satellite terminals and an extensive network of
    microwave radio relay links
  international:
    5 INTELSAT (4 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean) earth stations; connected
    into Central America Microwave System; launched Solidarity I satellite in
    November 1993
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 679, FM 0, shortwave 22
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    238
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Mexico
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    National Defense (includes Army and Air Force), Navy (includes Marines)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 23,354,445; males fit for military service 17,029,788; males
    reach military age (18) annually 1,054,513 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Malawi
MACEDONIA, FORMER YUGOSLAV REPUBLIC OF -   Entry permission can be
obtained at border points.  Macedonia does not currently maintain an embassy in
the U.S.  For more information check with the Former Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia's Office, 1015 15th St., N.W., Suite 402, Washington, D.C.
20005 (202/682-0519).
Macedonia - Consular Information Sheet
May 5, 1994
Country Description:  The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia (FYROM) is a
developing nation.  Facilities for tourism are not fully developed.  The use
of the name "The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia" is provisional and
subject to review.
Entry Requirements:  U.S. citizens need a passport and can obtain entry
permission at border points of entry.  The FYROM does not have an embassy or
consulate in the United States, but has a representative office at 1015 15th
Street NW, Suite 402, Washington, DC 20005, telephone [phone], where
further information can be obtained.
Medical Facilities:  Health facilities in the Former Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia are limited.  Medicines are in short supply.  Doctors and
hospitals usually expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  Travelers
have found that in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proved to be useful.  Further information on health
matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers' hotline on [phone].
Crime Information:  Theft and other petty crimes are on the rise in the
FYROM, but are still low by U.S. standards.  Emergency police assistance can
be obtained by dialing 92.  Response time varies, but is generally
considered to be effective.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet "A Safe
Trip Abroad," available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington DC 20402.
Other Information:  Westerners who travel to the Former Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia can expect shortages of fuel, and in some cases, long waits for
processing at the border.  To date, the war in Bosnia-Herzegovina and
tensions in parts of Serbia-Montenegro have not otherwise significantly
affected the FYROM.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in Belgrade,
Serbia-Montenegro or the U.S. Embassy in Sofia, Bulgaria can obtain updated
information on travel and security in the Former Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia.
Embassy Location:  The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia has been
recognized as an independent country by the United States along with several
other Western nations.  However, although officially recognized by the
United States, no full diplomatic relations between the FYROM and the United
States have been established.  In December 1993, the United States opened a
liaison office in Skopje, which provides only emergency services to American
citizens.
The U.S. Liaison Office is located at 27 Mart Street, No 5, Skopje,
Macedonia.  The telephone number is (389-91) 116-180, and the fax is (389-
91) 117-103.
U.S. citizens seeking non-emergency assistance can contact the U.S. Embassy
in Sofia, Bulgaria or the U.S. Embassy in Belgrade, Serbia-Montenegro.  The
U.S. Embassy in Sofia, Bulgaria is located at 1 Saborna, telephone (359-2)
88-48-01 through 88-48-05.  The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy is
located at 1 Kapitan Andreev Street; the telephone numbers are the same.
The U.S. Embassy in Belgrade is located at Kneza Milosa 50; telephone (381-
11) 645-655. It provides limited assistance to U.S. citizens because of
conflict in the general area and reduced U.S. Embassy staffing.
No. 94-068
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 29, 1993, to
reflect the provisional use of the name "The Former Yugoslav Republic of
Macedonia," to indicate formal U.S. recognition, and to include the opening
of the U.S. Liaison office in Skopje.
`2M2                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Europe, north of Greece
Map references:
    Ethnic Groups in Eastern Europe, Europe
Area:
  total area:
    25,333 sq km
  land area:
    24,856 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Vermont
Land boundaries:
    total 748 km, Albania 151 km, Bulgaria 148 km, Greece 228 km, Serbia and
    Montenegro 221 km (all with Serbia)
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    dispute with Greece over name, symbols, and certain constitutional
    provisions
Climate:
    hot, dry summers and autumns and relatively cold winters with heavy snowfall
Terrain:
    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
Natural resources:
    chromium, lead, zinc, manganese, tungsten, nickel, low-grade iron ore,
    asbestos, sulphur, timber
Land use:
  arable land:
    5%
  permanent crops:
    5%
  meadows and pastures:
    20%
  forest and woodland:
    30%
  other:
    40%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution from metallurgical plants
  natural hazards:
    high seismic risks
  international agreements:
    party to - Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection
Note:
    landlocked; major transportation corridor from Western and Central Europe to
    Aegean Sea and Southern Europe to Western Europe
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                     People
Population:
    2,159,503 (July 1995 est.)
  note:
    the Macedonian government census of July 1994 put the population at 1.94
    million, but ethnic allocations were likely undercounted
Age structure:
  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.)
Population growth rate:
    0.9% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.82 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.7 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.14 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    24.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    74 years
  male:
    71.87 years
  female:
    76.3 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.02 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Macedonian(s)
  adjective:
    Macedonian
Ethnic divisions:
    Macedonian 65%, Albanian 22%, Turkish 4%, Serb 2%, Gypsies 3%, other 4%
Religions:
    Eastern Orthodox 67%, Muslim 30%, other 3%
Languages:
    Macedonian 70%, Albanian 21%, Turkish 3%, Serbo-Croatian 3%, other 3%
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    591,773 (June 1994)
  by occupation:
    manufacturing and mining 40% (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia
  conventional short form:
    none
  local long form:
    Republika Makedonija
  local short form:
    Makedonija
Abbreviation:
    F.Y.R.O.M.
Digraph:
    MK
Type:
    emerging democracy
Capital:
    Skopje
Administrative divisions:
    34 counties (opstinas, singular - opstina) Berovo, Bitola, Brod, Debar,
    Delcevo, Gevgelija, Gostivar, Kavadarci, Kicevo, Kocani, Kratovo, Kriva
    Palanka, Krusevo, Kumanovo, Murgasevo, Negotino, Ohrid, Prilep, Probistip,
    Radovis, Resen, Skopje-Centar, Skopje-Cair, Skopje-Karpos, Skopje-Kisela
    Voda, Skopje-Gazi Baba, Stip, Struga, Strumica, Sveti Nikole, Tetovo, Titov
    Veles, Valandovo, Vinica
Independence:
    17 September 1991 (from Yugoslavia)
National holiday:
    8 September
Constitution:
    adopted 17 November 1991, effective 20 November 1991
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    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
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Branko CRVENKOVSKI (since 4 September 1992)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; elected by the majority vote of all the deputies in
    the Sobranje
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Constitutional Court, Judicial Court of the Republic
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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)
Member of:
    CCC, CE (guest), CEI, EBRD, ECE, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFAD, IFC, ILO, IMF,
    IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, OSCE (observer), UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    the US recognized The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia on 8 February
    1994
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Victor D. COMRAS
  liaison office:
    ul. 27 Mart No. 5, 9100 Skopje
  mailing address:
    USLO Skopje, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-7120 (pouch)
  telephone:
    [389] (91) 116-180
  FAX:
    [389] (91) 117-103
Flag:
    16-point gold sun (Vergina, Sun) centered on a red field
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 Serbia and
    Montenegro, Albania, Greece, and Bulgaria. 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 Germany 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 Greece 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $1.9 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -15% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $900 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    54% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    30% (1993 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $1.06 billion (1993)
  commodities:
    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 tobacco 4.5%, chemicals 4.7% (1990)
  partners:
    principally Serbia and Montenegro and the other former Yugoslav republics,
    Germany, Greece, Albania
Imports:
    $1.2 billion (1993)
  commodities:
    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 tobacco 3.5%
    (1990)
  partners:
    other former Yugoslav republics, Greece, Albania, Germany, Bulgaria
External debt:
    $840 million (1992)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -14% (1993)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,600,000 kW
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                     Economy
  production:
    NA kWh
  consumption per capita:
    NA kWh (1993)
Industries:
    low levels of technology predominate, such as, oil refining by distillation
    only; produces basic liquid fuels, coal, metallic chromium, lead, zinc, and
    ferronickel; light industry produces basic textiles, wood products, and
    tobacco
Agriculture:
    meets the basic needs for food; principal crops are rice, tobacco, wheat,
    corn, and millet; also grown are cotton, sesame, mulberry leaves, citrus
    fruit, and vegetables; agricultural production is highly labor intensive
Illicit drugs:
    limited illicit opium cultivation; transshipment point for Southwest Asian
    heroin
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US $10 million (for humanitarian and technical assistance)
    EC promised a 100 ECU million economic aid package (1993)
Currency:
    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
Exchange rates:
    denar per US$1 - 39 (November 1994), 865 (October 1992)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    922 km
  standard gauge:
    922 km 1.435-m gauge (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    10,591 km
  paved:
    5,091 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 1,404 km; earth 4,096 km (1991)
Inland waterways:
    none, lake transport only
Pipelines:
    none
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    16
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    11
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    125,000 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    no satellite links
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 6, FM 2, shortwave 0
  radios:
    370,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    5 (relays 2)
  televisions:
    325,000
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                   Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 585,403; males fit for military service 474,467; males reach
    military age (19) annually 19,693 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    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
Madagascar
MACAU - Passport required.  Visa not required for visits up to 60 days.
For further information consult nearest Portuguese Consulate:
Washington, D.C. (202/332-3007),  San Francisco (415/346-3400), New Bedford
(508/997-6151), Newark (201/622-7300), NY (212/246-4580), Providence
(401/272-2003) or Portuguese Consulate in Hong Kong (231-338).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Macau
============================================================
Macau - Consular Information Sheet
 December 5, 1995
Country Description:   Macau is a Chinese territory administered by
Portugal and will return to Chinese sovereignty in 1999.  Facilities
for tourism are well developed.  Macau includes a six-square-mile
area on the mainland of China bordering the South China Sea, and the
small, adjacent islands of Taipa and Coloane.
Entry Requirements:  Information on entry requirements may be
obtained from the Embassy of Portugal at 2125 Kalorama Road N.W.,
Washington D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], or from the
American Consulate General in Hong Kong, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  There are at least two major hospitals in
Macau that have adequate medical facilities and are able to provide
medical care in emergency situations.  Highly developed medical
facilities and trained personnel are available in Hong Kong, which
is about an hour by jetfoil and ten minutes by helicopter from
Macau.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is generally not valid
outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage, including provision for medical
evacuation, has proven useful.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does
not provide payment for medical services outside the United States.
Information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control's international travelers hotline, telephone (404)
332-4559.
Information on Crime:  Petty street crime occasionally occurs in
tourist areas in Macau, including in and around casinos.  The loss
or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and to the nearest U.S. consulate.  Information on
safeguarding valuables and protecting personal safety can be found
in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad".  It can
be obtained from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.
Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section
of the American Consulate General in Hong Kong can obtain updated
information on travel and security conditions in Macau.
Embassy Location:  There is no U.S. diplomatic presence in Macau.
Consular assistance for U.S. citizens is provided by the U.S.
Consulate General in Hong Kong.  The address is 26 Garden Road,
Central District, Hong Kong.  The telephone number in Hong Kong is
(852) 2523-9011; fax [phone].
 No. 95-155
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 29, 1994 to
update information on entry requirements, and  provide updated
telephone and fax numbers of the U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Macau
============================================================
Macau - Consular Information Sheet
 December 5, 1995
Country Description:   Macau is a Chinese territory administered by
Portugal and will return to Chinese sovereignty in 1999.  Facilities
for tourism are well developed.  Macau includes a six-square-mile
area on the mainland of China bordering the South China Sea, and the
small, adjacent islands of Taipa and Coloane.
Entry Requirements:  Information on entry requirements may be
obtained from the Embassy of Portugal at 2125 Kalorama Road N.W.,
Washington D.C. 20008, telephone [phone], or from the
American Consulate General in Hong Kong, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  There are at least two major hospitals in
Macau that have adequate medical facilities and are able to provide
medical care in emergency situations.  Highly developed medical
facilities and trained personnel are available in Hong Kong, which
is about an hour by jetfoil and ten minutes by helicopter from
Macau.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is generally not valid
outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage, including provision for medical
evacuation, has proven useful.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does
not provide payment for medical services outside the United States.
Information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control's international travelers hotline, telephone (404)
332-4559.
Information on Crime:  Petty street crime occasionally occurs in
tourist areas in Macau, including in and around casinos.  The loss
or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and to the nearest U.S. consulate.  Information on
safeguarding valuables and protecting personal safety can be found
in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad".  It can
be obtained from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.
Convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section
of the American Consulate General in Hong Kong can obtain updated
information on travel and security conditions in Macau.
Embassy Location:  There is no U.S. diplomatic presence in Macau.
Consular assistance for U.S. citizens is provided by the U.S.
Consulate General in Hong Kong.  The address is 26 Garden Road,
Central District, Hong Kong.  The telephone number in Hong Kong is
(852) 2523-9011; fax [phone].
 No. 95-155
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 29, 1994 to
update information on entry requirements, and  provide updated
telephone and fax numbers of the U.S. Consulate General in Hong Kong.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
$                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Macau
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (overseas territory of Portugal)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Macau
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and China
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    16 sq km
  land area:
    16 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.1 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    total 0.34 km, China 0.34 km
Coastline:
    40 km
Maritime claims:
    not specified
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    subtropical; marine with cool winters, warm summers
Terrain:
    generally flat
Natural resources:
    negligible
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Ozone Layer Protection (extended from Portugal)
Note:
    essentially urban; one causeway and one bridge connect the two islands to
    the peninsula on mainland
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Macau
                                     People
Population:
    490,901 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    24% (female 56,991; male 60,944)
  15-64 years:
    68% (female 167,366; male 165,168)
  65 years and over:
    8% (female 23,537; male 16,895) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.25% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    14.5 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.21 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    2.24 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    5.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    79.86 years
  male:
    77.41 years
  female:
    82.43 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.49 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Macanese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Macau
Ethnic divisions:
    Chinese 95%, Portuguese 3%, other 2%
Religions:
    Buddhist 45%, Roman Catholic 7%, Protestant 1%, none 45.8%, other 1.2%
    (1981)
Languages:
    Portuguese (official), Cantonese is the language of commerce
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1981)
  total population:
    90%
  male:
    93%
  female:
    86%
Labor force:
    180,000 (1986)
  by occupation:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Macau
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Macau
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Ilha de Macau
Digraph:
    MC
Type:
    overseas territory of Portugal scheduled to revert to China in 1999
Capital:
    Macau
Administrative divisions:
    2 districts (concelhos, singular - concelho); Ilhas, Macau
Independence:
    none (territory of Portugal; Portugal 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 year after transition)
National holiday:
    Day of Portugal, 10 June (1580)
Constitution:
    17 February 1976, Organic Law of Macau; basic law drafted primarily by
    Beijing awaiting final approval
Legal system:
    Portuguese civil law system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President (of Portugal) Mario Alberto SOARES (since 9 March 1986)
  head of government:
    Governor Gen. Vasco Joachim Rocha VIEIRA (since 20 March 1991)
  cabinet:
    Consultative Council; consists of five members appointed by the governor,
    two nominated by the governor, five members elected for a four-year term (2
    represent administrative bodies, 1 represents moral, cultural, and welfare
    interests, and 2 economic interests), and three statuatory members
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Legislative Assembly:
    elections last held on 10 March 1991 (next to be held NA); results - percent
    of vote by party NA; seats - (23 total, 8 elected by universal suffrage, 8
    by indirect suffrage, and 7 appointed by the governor) number of seats by
    party NA
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Association to Defend the Interests of Macau; Macau Democratic Center; Group
    to Study the Development of Macau; Macau Independent Group
Other political or pressure groups:
    wealthy Macanese and Chinese representing local interests, wealthy
    pro-Communist merchants representing China's interests; in January 1967 the
    Macau Government acceded to Chinese demands that gave China veto power over
    administration
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Macau
                                   Government
Member of:
    CCC, ESCAP (associate), GATT, IMO (associate), INTERPOL (subbureau), WTO
    (associate)
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (Chinese territory under Portuguese administration)
US diplomatic representation:
    the US has no offices in Macau, and US interests are monitored by the US
    Consulate General in Hong Kong
Flag:
    the flag of Portugal is used
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Macau
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 electronics. 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 represented well
    over 40% of GDP in 1992. Macau depends on China for most of its food, fresh
    water, and energy imports. Japan and Hong Kong are the main suppliers of raw
    materials and capital goods.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4.8 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $10,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    7.7% (1992 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    2% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $305 million
  expenditures:
    $298 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1989 est.)
Exports:
    $1.8 billion (1992 est.)
  commodities:
    textiles, clothing, toys
  partners:
    US 35%, Hong Kong 12.5%, Germany 12%, China 9.9%, France 8% (1992 est.)
Imports:
    $2 billion (1992 est.)
  commodities:
    raw materials, foodstuffs, capital goods
  partners:
    Hong Kong 33%, China 20%, Japan 18% (1992 est.)
External debt:
    $91 million (1985)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    258,000 kW
  production:
    950 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,093 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    clothing, textiles, toys, plastic products, furniture, tourism
Agriculture:
    rice, vegetables; food shortages - rice, vegetables, meat; depends mostly on
    imports for food requirements
Economic aid:
    none
Currency:
    1 pataca (P) = 100 avos
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Macau
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    patacas (P) per US$1 - 8.034 (1991-94), 8.024 (1990), 8.030 (1989); note -
    linked to the Hong Kong dollar at the rate of 1.03 patacas per Hong Kong
    dollar
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Macau
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    42 km
  paved:
    42 km
Ports:
    Macau
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
    none usable, 1 under construction; 1 seaplane station
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Macau
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    52,000 telephones; fairly modern communication facilities maintained for
    domestic and international services
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    high-frequency radio communication facility; access to international
    communications carriers provided via Hong Kong and China; 1 INTELSAT (Indian
    Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 4, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    115,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0; note - TV programs received from Hong Kong
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Macau
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    NA
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 141,160; males fit for military service 78,578 (1995 est.)
Note:
    defense is responsibility of Portugal
Macau
LITHUANIA - Passport and visa required.  Visa requires 1 application
form and $25 fee.  AIDS  test required for pemanent residence permits.  U.S.
test sometimes accepted.  For further information contact Embassy of
Lithuania, 2622 16th St., N.W., Washington, D.C.  20009 (202/234-5860).
Lithuania - Consular Information Sheet
November 10, 1994
Country Description:  Lithuania is a country undergoing profound political
and economic change.  Tourist facilities continue to be developed.  Most
goods and services are now available in the major cities, but may not be
fully comparable to Western standards.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required, but U.S. citizens are not
required to obtain Lithuanian visas for most stays of 90 days or less.  U.S.
citizens may contact the Lithuanian Embassy at 2622 16th Street, Washington,
D.C. 20009, tel. [phone] for current information on visa
requirements.  Travelers who plan to enter Russia, even in transit, will
need a Russian visa.  Entry by train from Belarus requires a Belarussian
transit visa.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Lithuania is limited.  There is a
severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable needles,
anesthetics, and antibiotics.  Elderly travelers and those with existing
health problems may be at risk due to inadequate medical facilities.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proven to be useful.
Significant outbreaks of diphtheria have occurred during the winter of
1993/94.  The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) recommend up-to-date
diphtheria vaccinations.  Further information on health matters can be
obtained from the CDC's international travelers hotline, tel: [phone].
Crime Information:  Street crime, including purse snatchings and muggings,
can occur, especially at night near major tourist hotels and restaurants.
Auto theft and auto vandalism is common.  Robberies have occurred on trains,
in train stations, and in hotel rooms.  Police forces suffer from a lack of
manpower, resources and equipment.  Local police are not likely to speak
English, and it may be difficult to obtain police assistance.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful
information on guarding valuables and personal security while traveling
abroad.  This publication is available from the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington  D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Lithuania is still primarily a cash economy, though
an increasing number of hotels, restaurants and other businesses now accept
major credit cards.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the Consular Section of the U.S.
Embassy may obtain updated information on travel and security within
Lithuania.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Vilnius, Lithuania, is located at
Akmenu 6;
Telephone [phone].  After hours duty officer: (370-2) 227-240.
No. 94-266
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 29, 1993 to add
information on diphtheria outbreaks and to update information on entry
requirements, crime, currency regulations and new embassy telephone numbers.
7                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Lithuania
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Latvia and Russia
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    65,200 sq km
  land area:
    65,200 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than West Virginia
Land boundaries:
    total 1,273 km, Belarus 502 km, Latvia 453 km, Poland 91 km, Russia
    (Kaliningrad) 227 km
Coastline:
    108 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    dispute with Russia (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
Climate:
    maritime; wet, moderate winters and summers
Terrain:
    lowland, many scattered small lakes, fertile soil
Natural resources:
    peat
Land use:
  arable land:
    49.1%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    22.2%
  forest and woodland:
    16.3%
  other:
    12.4%
Irrigated land:
    430 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    contamination of soil and groundwater with petroleum products and chemicals
    at military bases
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not
    ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Lithuania
                                     People
Population:
    3,876,396 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    23% (female 426,616; male 444,556)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 1,299,052; male 1,227,420)
  65 years and over:
    12% (female 313,217; male 165,535) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.71% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    14.46 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    10.95 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    3.62 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    16.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    71.37 years
  male:
    66.68 years
  female:
    76.3 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Lithuanian(s)
  adjective:
    Lithuanian
Ethnic divisions:
    Lithuanian 80.1%, Russian 8.6%, Polish 7.7%, Byelorussian 1.5%, other 2.1%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic, Lutheran, other
Languages:
    Lithuanian (official), Polish, Russian
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    98%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    98%
Labor force:
    1.836 million
  by occupation:
    industry and construction 42%, agriculture and forestry 18%, other 40%
    (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Lithuania
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Lithuania
  conventional short form:
    Lithuania
  local long form:
    Lietuvos Respublika
  local short form:
    Lietuva
  former:
    Lithuanian Soviet Socialist Republic
Digraph:
    LH
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Vilnius
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    6 September 1991 (from Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 16 February (1918)
Constitution:
    adopted 25 October 1992
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; no judicial review of legislative acts
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Algirdas Mykolas BRAZAUSKAS (since 25 November 1992; elected
    acting president by Parliament 25 November 1992 and elected by direct vote
    15 February 1993); election last held 14 February 1993 (next to be held NA
    1997); results - Algirdas BRAZAUSKAS was elected; note - on 25 November 1992
    BRAZAUSKAS was elected chairman of Parliament and, as such, acting president
    of the Republic; he was confirmed in office by direct balloting 15 February
    1993
  head of government:
    Premier Adolfas SLEZEVICIUS (since 10 March 1993)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president on the nomination of the
    prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Lithuania
                                   Government
  Seimas (parliament):
    elections last held 26 October and 25 November 1992 (next to be held NA
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court, Court of Appeals
Political parties and leaders:
    Christian Democratic Party (LKDP), Povilas KATILIUS, chairman; Democratic
    Labor Party of Lithuania (LDDP), Adolfas SLEZEVICIUS, 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;
    Conservative Party, Vytautas LANDSBERGIS, chairman; Lithuanian Polish Union
    (LLS), Rytardas MACIKIANEC, chairman
Other political or pressure groups:
    Homeland Union; Lithuanian Future Forum; Farmers Union
Member of:
    BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, FAO, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF,
    INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NACC,
    OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WEU (associate partner), WHO,
    WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Alfonsas EIDINTAS
  chancery:
    2622 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 2639
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador James W. SWIHART, Jr.
  embassy:
    Akmenu 6, Vilnius 2600
  mailing address:
    APO AE 09723
  telephone:
    [370] (2) 223-031
  FAX:
    [370] (2) 222-779
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of yellow (top), green, and red
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Lithuania
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Since independence in September 1991, Lithuania has made steady progress in
    developing a market economy. Almost 50% of state property has been
    privatized and trade is diversifying with a gradual shift away from the
    former Soviet Union to Western markets. In addition, the Lithuanian
    government has adhered to a disciplined budgetary and financial policy which
    has brought inflation down from a monthly average of around 14% in first
    half 1993 to an average of 3.1% in 1994. Nevertheless, the process has been
    painful with industrial output in 1993 less than half the 1991 level. The
    economy appeared to have bottomed out in 1994, and Vilnius's policies have
    laid the groundwork for vigorous recovery over the next few years. Recovery
    will build on Lithuanian's strategic location with its ice-free port at
    Klaipeda and its rail and highway hub in Vilnius connecting it with Eastern
    Europe, Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine, and on its agriculture potential,
    highly skilled labor force, and diversified industrial sector. Lacking
    important natural resources, it will remain dependent on imports of fuels
    and raw materials.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $13.5 billion (1994 estimate as extrapolated
    from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    -0.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,500 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3.1% (monthly average 1994)
Unemployment rate:
    4.5% (January 1995)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $258.5 million
  expenditures:
    $270.2 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $2.2 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    electronics 18%, petroleum products 5%, food 10%, chemicals 6% (1989)
  partners:
    Russia, Ukraine, Germany
Imports:
    $2.7 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    oil 24%, machinery 14%, chemicals 8%, grain NA% (1989)
  partners:
    Russia, Germany, Belarus
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate -52% (1992); accounts for 35% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    6,190,000 kW
  production:
    18.9 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    4,608 kWh (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Lithuania
                                     Economy
Industries:
    industry's share in the economy has been declining substantially over the
    past year, due to the economic crisis and the growth of services in the
    economy; among branches which are still important: metal-cutting machine
    tools 6.6%, electric motors 4.6%, television sets 6.2%, refrigerators and
    freezers 5.4%; other branches: petroleum refining, shipbuilding (small
    ships), furniture making, textiles, food processing, fertilizers,
    agricultural machinery, optical equipment, electronic components, computers,
    and amber
Agriculture:
    employs around 18% of labor force; accounts for 25% of GDP; sugar, grain,
    potatoes, sugar beets, vegetables, meat, milk, dairy products, eggs, fish;
    most developed are the livestock and dairy branches, which depend on
    imported grain; net exporter of meat, milk, and eggs
Illicit drugs:
    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
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (1992), $10 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-86), $NA million;
    Communist countries (1971-86), $NA million
Currency:
    introduced the convertible litas in June 1993
Exchange rates:
    litai per US$1 - 4 (fixed rate 1 May 1994)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Lithuania
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,010 km
  broad gauge:
    2,010 km 1.524-m gauge (120 km electrified) (1990)
Highways:
  total:
    44,200 km
  paved:
    35,500 km
  unpaved:
    earth 8,700 km (1990)
Inland waterways:
    600 km perennially navigable
Pipelines:
    crude oil, 105 km; natural gas 760 km (1992)
Ports:
    Kaunas, Klaipeda
Merchant marine:
  total:
    44 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 275,893 GRT/321,440 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 1, cargo 28, combination bulk 11, railcar carrier 3, roll-on/roll-off
    cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    96
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    14
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    63
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Lithuania
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    900,000 telephones; 240 telephones/1,000 persons; telecommunications system
    ranks among the most modern of the former Soviet republics
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    land lines and microwave radio relay
  international:
    international connections no longer depend on the Moscow gateway switch, but
    are established by satellite through Oslo from Vilnius and through
    Copenhagen from Kaunas; 1 EUTELSAT and 1 INTELSAT earth station; an NMT-450
    analog cellular network operates in Vilnius and other cities and is linked
    internationally through Copenhagen by EUTELSAT; international electronic
    mail is available; land lines or microwave to former USSR republics
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 13, FM 26, shortwave 1, longwave 1
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    3
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Lithuania
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air Defense Force, Security Forces (internal
    and border troops), National Guard (Skat)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 949,663; males fit for military service 750,386; males reach
    military age (18) annually 27,630 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $30 million, 2% of GDP (1994); note - for 1995
    defense expenditures were $54 million at exchange rate conversion
Luxembourg
LIECHTENSTEIN - Passport required.  Visa not required for
tourist/business stay up to 3 months.  For further information consult
the Swiss Embassy (202/745-7900).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Switzerland and Liechtenstein
============================================================
Switzerland and Liechtenstein - Consular Information Sheet
 June 30, 1995
Country Descriptions:  Switzerland is a highly developed democracy
with a modern economy.  Liechtenstein is a stable,
democratically-run constitutional monarchy with a modern economy.
Tourist services are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  For both Switzerland and Liechtenstein, a
passport is required; a visa is not required for tourist or business
stays up to three months.  For further information on entry
requirements for both countries, travelers may contact the Embassy
of Switzerland at 2900 Cathedral Avenue N.W., Washington D.C. 20008,
tel [phone], or the nearest Swiss Consulate General in
Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Good medical care is widely available.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Travelers have found that in some cases,
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has
proved to be useful.  Information on specific health matters is
available through the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
hotline for international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Switzerland has a low rate of violent crime.
However, pickpocketing and purse-snatching do occur during peak
tourist periods (such as summer and Christmas) and when major
conferences, shows, or exhibits are scheduled in major cities.  Most
crime is restricted to specific localities in major cities that are
best avoided by the prudent traveler and residents, such as areas
frequented by drug dealers and users, the general vicinity of train
and bus stations, and some public parks.  Liechtenstein has a low
crime rate.
Travelers may wish to exercise caution on trains, especially on
overnight trains to neighboring countries.  Even locked sleeping
compartments can be entered by thieves who steal from passengers
while they sleep.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more
trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In Switzerland and in
Liechtenstein, the penalties for possession, use, and dealing in
illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail
sentences and fines.
Dual Nationality:  U.S. citizens who are considered to also have
Swiss citizenship may be subject to compulsory military service and
other requirements while in Switzerland.  Those who might be
affected may inquire at a Swiss embassy or consulate regarding their
status.  In some instances, dual nationality may hamper U.S.
government efforts to provide protection abroad.
Registration and Embassy and Consulate Locations:  U.S. citizens
who register in the Consular Section at the below locations may
obtain updated information on travel and security in Switzerland.
The U.S. Embassy in Bern is located at Jubilaeumstrasse 93,
telephone [phone], fax [phone].
The Consulate General in Zurich is located at Zollikerstrasse 141,
telephone [phone], fax [phone].
Limited consular services for U.S. citizens are offered by a
part-time consular agency in Geneva located at the America Center of
Geneva, World Trade Center II, Geneva Airport, Route de Pre-Bois 29,
telephone [phone] or 798-1615, fax [phone].
There is no U.S. Embassy or consulate in Liechtenstein.  For
assistance and information on travel and security in Liechtenstein,
U.S. citizens may contact or register at the U.S. Consulate General
in Zurich at the address above.
 No. 95-077
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 10, 1994, to
include information on Liechtenstein, note the change of fax number
at the Embassy in Bern and the phone number at the Consulate General
in Zurich, and provide the new address and telephone numbers for the
consular agency in Geneva.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
%                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Liechtenstein
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Europe, between Austria and Switzerland
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    160 sq km
  land area:
    160 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.9 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    total 78 km, Austria 37 km, Switzerland 41 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    claims 1,600 square kilometers of Czech territory confiscated from its royal
    family in 1918; the Czech Republic insists that restitution does not go back
    before February 1948, when the Communists seized power
Climate:
    continental; cold, cloudy winters with frequent snow or rain; cool to
    moderately warm, cloudy, humid summers
Terrain:
    mostly mountainous (Alps) with Rhine Valley in western third
Natural resources:
    hydroelectric potential
Land use:
  arable land:
    25%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    38%
  forest and woodland:
    19%
  other:
    18%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, 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, Biodiversity,
    Law of the Sea
Note:
    landlocked; variety of microclimatic variations based on elevation
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Liechtenstein
                                     People
Population:
    30,654 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    19% (female 2,897; male 2,974)
  15-64 years:
    71% (female 10,853; male 10,777)
  65 years and over:
    10% (female 1,930; male 1,223) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.2% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    12.95 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.56 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    5.58 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    5.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.52 years
  male:
    73.86 years
  female:
    81.17 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.47 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Liechtensteiner(s)
  adjective:
    Liechtenstein
Ethnic divisions:
    Alemannic 95%, Italian and other 5%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 87.3%, Protestant 8.3%, unknown 1.6%, other 2.8% (1988)
Languages:
    German (official), Alemannic dialect
Literacy:
    age 10 and over can read and write (1981)
  total population:
    100%
  male:
    100%
  female:
    100%
Labor force:
    19,905 of which 11,933 are foreigners; 6,885 commute from Austria and
    Switzerland to work each day
  by occupation:
    industry, trade, and building 53.2%, services 45%, agriculture, fishing,
    forestry, and horticulture 1.8% (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Liechtenstein
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Principality of Liechtenstein
  conventional short form:
    Liechtenstein
  local long form:
    Furstentum Liechtenstein
  local short form:
    Liechtenstein
Digraph:
    LS
Type:
    hereditary constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Vaduz
Administrative divisions:
    11 communes (gemeinden, singular - gemeinde); Balzers, Eschen, Gamprin,
    Mauren, Planken, Ruggell, Schaan, Schellenberg, Triesen, Triesenberg, Vaduz
Independence:
    23 January 1719 (Imperial Principality of Liechtenstein established)
National holiday:
    Assumption Day, 15 August
Constitution:
    5 October 1921
Legal system:
    local civil and penal codes; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with
    reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Prince Hans ADAM II (since 13 November 1989; assumed executive powers 26
    August 1984); Heir Apparent Prince ALOIS von und zu Liechtenstein (born 11
    June 1968)
  head of government:
    Mario FRICK (since 15 December 1993); Deputy Head of Government Dr. Thomas
    BUECHEL (since 15 December 1993)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; elected by the Diet; confirmed by the sovereign
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Oberster Gerichtshof) for criminal cases, Superior Court
    (Obergericht) for civil cases
Political parties and leaders:
    Fatherland Union (VU), Dr. Oswald KRANTZ; Progressive Citizens' Party (FBP),
    Otmar HASLER; The Free List (FL)
Member of:
    CE, EBRD, ECE, EFTA, GATT, IAEA, ICRM, IFRCS, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ITU,
    OSCE, UN, UNCTAD, UPU, WCL, WIPO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    in routine diplomatic matters, Liechtenstein is represented in the US by the
    Swiss Embassy
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Liechtenstein
                                   Government
US diplomatic representation:
    the US has no diplomatic or consular mission in Liechtenstein, but the US
    Consul General at Zurich (Switzerland) has consular accreditation at Vaduz
Flag:
    two equal horizontal bands of blue (top) and red with a gold crown on the
    hoist side of the blue band
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Liechtenstein
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Despite its small size and limited natural resources, Liechtenstein has
    developed into a prosperous, highly industrialized, free-enterprise economy
    with a vital service sector and living standards on par with its large
    European neighbors. Low business taxes - the maximum tax rate is 20% - and
    easy incorporation rules have induced about 25,000 holding or so-called
    letter box companies to establish nominal offices in Liechtenstein,
    providing 30% of state revenues. The country participates in a customs union
    with Switzerland and uses the Swiss franc as its national currency.
    Liechtenstein plans to join the European Economic Area (an organization
    serving as a bridge between EFTA and EU) in 1995.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $630 million (1990 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $22,300 (1990 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    5.4% (1990)
Unemployment rate:
    1.5% (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $259 million
  expenditures:
    $292 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1990 est.)
Exports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    small specialty machinery, dental products, stamps, hardware, pottery
  partners:
    EC countries 42.7%, EFTA countries 20.9% (Switzerland 15.4%), other 36.4%
    (1990)
Imports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    machinery, metal goods, textiles, foodstuffs, motor vehicles
  partners:
    NA
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    23,000 kW
  production:
    150 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    5,230 kWh (1992)
Industries:
    electronics, metal manufacturing, textiles, ceramics, pharmaceuticals, food
    products, precision instruments, tourism
Agriculture:
    livestock, vegetables, corn, wheat, potatoes, grapes
Economic aid:
    none
Currency:
    1 Swiss franc, franken, or franco (SwF) = 100 centimes, rappen, or centesimi
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Liechtenstein
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    Swiss francs, franken, or franchi (SwF) per US$1 - 1.2880 (January 1995),
    1.3677 (1994), 1.4776 (1993), 1.4062 (1992), 1.4340 (1991), 1.3892 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Liechtenstein
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    18.5 km; note - owned, operated, and included in statistics of Austrian
    Federal Railways
  standard gauge:
    18.5 km 1.435-m gauge (electrified)
Highways:
  total:
    322.93 km
  paved:
    322.93 km
Ports:
    none
Airports:
    none
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Liechtenstein
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    25,400 telephones; limited, but sufficient automatic telephone system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    linked to Swiss networks by cable and radio relay
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
  note:
    linked to Swiss networks
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
  note:
    linked to Swiss networks
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Liechtenstein
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is responsibility of Switzerland
Kenya
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Juan de Nova Island
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (possession of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Juan de Nova Island
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, island in the Mozambique Channel, about one-third of the
    way between Madagascar and Mozambique
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    4.4 sq km
  land area:
    4.4 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 7.5 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    24.1 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    12 nm
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claimed by Madagascar
Climate:
    tropical
Terrain:
    NA
Natural resources:
    guano deposits and other fertilizers
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    90%
  other:
    10%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    periodic cyclones
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    wildlife sanctuary
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Juan de Nova Island
                                     People
Population:
    uninhabited
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Juan de Nova Island
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Juan de Nova Island
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Ile Juan de Nova
Digraph:
    JU
Type:
    French possession administered by Commissioner of the Republic, resident in
    Reunion
Capital:
    none; administered by France from Reunion
Independence:
    none (possession of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Juan de Nova Island
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Juan de Nova Island
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    NA km; short line going to a jetty
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                               Juan de Nova Island
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
ior  level to rolling plains in east and
    southeast
Natural resources:
    coal, petroleum, natural gas, tin, limestone, iron ore, salt, clay, chalk,
    gypsum, lead, silica
Land use:
  arable land:
    29%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    48%
  forest and woodland:
    9%
  other:
    14%
Irrigated
United Kingdom
G                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  United States
                                    Geography
Location:
    North America, bordering both the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Pacific
    Ocean, between Canada and Mexico
Map references:
    North America
Area:
  total area:
    9,372,610 sq km
  land area:
    9,166,600 sq km
  comparative area:
    about half the size of Russia; 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
  note:
    includes only the 50 states and District of Columbia
Land boundaries:
    total 12,248 km, Canada 8,893 km (including 2,477 km with Alaska), Cuba 29
    km (US Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay), Mexico 3,326 km
Coastline:
    19,924 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    12 nm
  continental shelf:
    not specified
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    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 Cuba and only mutual agreement or US abandonment of the area can
    terminate the lease; Haiti claims Navassa Island; US has made no territorial
    claim in Antarctica (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
Climate:
    mostly temperate, but tropical in Hawaii and Florida and arctic in Alaska,
    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
Terrain:
    vast central plain, mountains in west, hills and low mountains in east;
    rugged mountains and broad river valleys in Alaska; rugged, volcanic
    topography in Hawaii
Natural resources:
    coal, copper, lead, molybdenum, phosphates, uranium, bauxite, gold, iron,
    mercury, nickel, potash, silver, tungsten, zinc, petroleum, natural gas,
    timber
Land use:
  arable land:
    20%
  permanent crops:
    0%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  United States
                                    Geography
  meadows and pastures:
    26%
  forest and woodland:
    29%
  other:
    25%
Irrigated land:
    181,020 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution 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 pollution from runoff of pesticides and fertilizers; very
    limited natural fresh water resources in much of the western part of the
    country require careful management; desertification
  natural hazards:
    tsunamis, volcanoes, and earthquake activity around Pacific Basin;
    hurricanes along the Atlantic coast; tornadoes in the midwest; mudslides in
    California; forest fires in the west; flooding; permafrost in northern
    Alaska is a major impediment to development
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Antarctic Treaty,
    Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Marine
    Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection,
    Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not
    ratified - Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental
    Protocol, Biodiversity, Desertification, Hazardous Wastes, Tropical Timber
    94
Note:
    world's fourth-largest country (after Russia, Canada, and China)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  United States
                                     People
Population:
    263,814,032 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    22% (female 28,391,451; male 29,845,630)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 86,454,415; male 85,474,002)
  65 years and over:
    13% (female 19,949,978; male 13,698,559) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.02% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.25 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.38 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    3.34 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    7.88 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    75.99 years
  male:
    72.8 years
  female:
    79.7 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.08 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    American(s)
  adjective:
    American
Ethnic divisions:
    white 83.4%, black 12.4%, Asian 3.3%, Native American 0.8% (1992)
Religions:
    Protestant 56%, Roman Catholic 28%, Jewish 2%, other 4%, none 10% (1989)
Languages:
    English, Spanish (spoken by a sizable minority)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over has completed five or more years of schooling (1979)
  total population:
    97%
  male:
    97%
  female:
    97%
Labor force:
    131.056 million (includes unemployed) (1994)
  by occupation:
    managerial and professional 27.5%, technical, sales and administrative
    support 30.3%, services 13.7%, manufacturing, mining, transportation, and
    crafts 25.5%, farming, forestry, and fishing 2.9%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  United States
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    United States of America
  conventional short form:
    United States
Abbreviation:
    US or USA
Digraph:
    US
Type:
    federal republic; strong democratic tradition
Capital:
    Washington, DC
Administrative divisions:
    50 states and 1 district*; Alabama, Alaska, Arizona, Arkansas, California,
    Colorado, Connecticut, Delaware, District of Columbia*, Florida, Georgia,
    Hawaii, Idaho, Illinois, Indiana, Iowa, Kansas, Kentucky, Louisiana, Maine,
    Maryland, Massachusetts, Michigan, Minnesota, Mississippi, Missouri,
    Montana, Nebraska, Nevada, New Hampshire, New Jersey, New Mexico, New York,
    North Carolina, North Dakota, Ohio, Oklahoma, Oregon, Pennsylvania, Rhode
    Island, South Carolina, South Dakota, Tennessee, Texas, Utah, Vermont,
    Virginia, Washington, West Virginia, Wisconsin, Wyoming
Dependent areas:
    American Samoa, Baker Island, Guam, Howland Island, Jarvis Island, Johnston
    Atoll, Kingman Reef, Midway Islands, Navassa Island, Northern Mariana
    Islands, Palmyra Atoll, Puerto Rico, Virgin Islands, Wake Island
  note:
    from 18 July 1947 until 1 October 1994, the US has 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 Micronesia 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)
Independence:
    4 July 1776 (from England)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 4 July (1776)
Constitution:
    17 September 1787, effective 4 March 1789
Legal system:
    based on English common law; judicial review of legislative acts; accepts
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993); Vice President
    Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993); 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%
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president with Senate approval
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Congress
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  United States
                                   Government
  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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Republican Party, Haley BARBOUR, national committee chairman; Jeanie AUSTIN,
    co-chairman; Democratic Party, David C. WILHELM, national committee
    chairman; several other groups or parties of minor political significance
Member of:
    AfDB, AG (observer), ANZUS, APEC, AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CP, EBRD,
    ECE, ECLAC, ESCAP, FAO, G- 2, G- 5, G- 7, G- 8, G-10, GATT, IADB, IAEA,
    IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO,
    INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, MTCR, NACC, NATO,
    NEA, NSG, OAS, OECD, OSCE, PCA, SPC, UN, UN Security Council, UNCTAD, UNHCR,
    UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMIH, UNOMOZ, UNPROFOR, UNRWA, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WCL,
    WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Flag:
    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 Chile, Liberia, Malaysia, and Puerto Rico
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  United States
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The US has the most powerful, diverse, and technologically advanced economy
    in the world, with a per capita GDP of $25,850, the largest among major
    industrial nations. The economy is market oriented with most decisions made
    by private individuals and business firms and with government purchases of
    goods and services made predominantly in the marketplace. In 1989 the
    economy enjoyed its seventh successive year of substantial growth, the
    longest in peacetime history. The expansion featured moderation in wage and
    consumer price increases and a steady reduction in unemployment to 5.2% of
    the labor force. In 1990, however, growth slowed to 1% because of a
    combination of factors, such as the worldwide increase in interest rates,
    Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in August, the subsequent spurt in oil prices, and
    a general decline in business and consumer confidence. In 1991 output fell
    by 0.6%, unemployment grew, and signs of recovery proved premature. Growth
    picked up to 2.3% in 1992 and to 3.1% in 1993. Unemployment, however,
    declined only gradually, the increase in GDP being mainly attributable to
    gains in output per worker. The year 1994 witnessed a solid 4% gain in real
    output, a low inflation rate of 2.6%, and a drop in unemployment below 6%.
    The capture of both houses of Congress by the Republicans in the elections
    of 8 November 1994 means substantial changes are likely in US economic
    policy, including changes in the ways the US will address its major economic
    problems in 1995-96. These problems include inadequate investment in
    economic infrastructure, rapidly rising medical costs of an aging
    population, and sizable budget and trade deficits.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $6.7384 trillion (1994)
National product real growth rate:
    4.1% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $25,850 (1994)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.6% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    5.5% (March 1995)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.258 trillion
  expenditures:
    $1.461 trillion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994)
Exports:
    $513 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    capital goods, automobiles, industrial supplies and raw materials, consumer
    goods, agricultural products
  partners:
    Western Europe 24.3%, Canada 22.1%, Japan 10.5% (1993)
Imports:
    $664 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    crude oil and refined petroleum products, machinery, automobiles, consumer
    goods, industrial raw materials, food and beverages
  partners:
    Canada, 19.3%, Western Europe 18.1%, Japan 18.1% (1993)
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5.4% (1994 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  United States
                                     Economy
Electricity:
  capacity:
    695,120,000 kW
  production:
    3.1 trillion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    11,236 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    leading industrial power in the world, highly diversified and
    technologically advanced; petroleum, steel, motor vehicles, aerospace,
    telecommunications, chemicals, electronics, food processing, consumer goods,
    lumber, mining
Agriculture:
    accounts for 2% of GDP and 2.9% of labor force; favorable climate and soils
    support a wide variety of crops and livestock production; world's second
    largest producer and number one exporter of grain; surplus food producer;
    fish catch of 4.4 million metric tons (1990)
Illicit drugs:
    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
Economic aid:
  donor:
    commitments, including ODA and OOF, (FY80-89), $115.7 billion
Currency:
    1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
  British pounds:
    (#) per US$ - 0.6350 (January 1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6033 (1993), 0.5664
    (1992), 0.5652 (1991), 0.5603 (1990)
  Canadian dollars:
    (Can$) per US$ - 1.4129 (January 1995), 1.3656 (1994), 1.2901 (1993), 1.2087
    (1992), 1.1457 (1991), 1.1668 (1990)
  French francs:
    (F) per US$ - 5.2943 (January 1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632 (1993), 5.2938
    (1992), 5.6421 (1991), 5.4453 (1990)
  Italian lire:
    (Lit) per US$ - 1,609.5 (January 1995), 1,612.4 (1994), 1,573.7 (1993),
    1,232.4 (1992), 1,240.6 (1991), 1,198.1 (1990)
  Japanese yen:
    (Y) per US$ - 99.75 (January 1995), 102.21 (1994), 111.20 (1993), 126.65
    (1992), 134.71 (1991), 144.79 (1990)
  German deutsche marks:
    (DM) per US$ - 1.5313 (January 1995), 1.6228 (1994), 1.6533 (1993), 1.5617
    (1992), 1.6595 (1991), 1.6157 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  United States
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    240,000 km mainline routes (nongovernment owned)
  standard gauge:
    240,000 km 1.435-m gauge (1989)
Highways:
  total:
    6,243,163 km
  paved:
    3,633,520 km (including 84,865 km of expressways)
  unpaved:
    2,609,643 km (1990)
Inland waterways:
    41,009 km of navigable inland channels, exclusive of the Great Lakes (est.)
Pipelines:
    petroleum 276,000 km; natural gas 331,000 km (1991)
Ports:
    Anchorage, Baltimore, Boston, Charleston, Chicago, Duluth, Hampton Roads,
    Honolulu, Houston, Jacksonville, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York,
    Philadelphia, Port Canaveral, Portland (Oregon), Prudhoe Bay, San Francisco,
    Savannah, Seattle, Tampa, Toledo
Merchant marine:
  total:
    354 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 11,462,000 GRT/16,477,000 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 22, cargo 28, chemical tanker 16, intermodal 130, liquefied gas tanker
    13, passenger-cargo 2, tanker 130, tanker tug-barge 13
  note:
    in addition, there are 189 government-owned vessels
Airports:
  total:
    15,032
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    181
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    208
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1,242
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2,489
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    8,994
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    7
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    180
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1,730
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  United States
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    126,000,000 telephones; 7,557,000 cellular telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    large system of fiber-optic cable, microwave radio relay, coaxial cable, and
    domestic satellites
  international:
    16 satellites and 24 ocean cable systems in use; 61 INTELSAT (45 Atlantic
    Ocean and 16 Pacific Ocean) earth stations (1990)
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 4,987, FM 4,932, shortwave 0
  radios:
    530 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1,092 (about 9,000 cable TV systems)
  televisions:
    193 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  United States
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Department of the Army, Department of the Navy (includes Marine Corps),
    Department of the Air Force
Defense expenditures:
    $284.4 billion, 4.2% of GDP (1994 est.)
Turks and Caicos Islands
TUVALU - Passport and onward/return ticket and proof of sufficient
funds required.  Visitors permit issued on arrival.  For further information
consult British Embassy (202/986-0205).
                              THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tuvalu
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, island group consisting of nine coral atolls in the South Pacific
    Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to Australia
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    26 sq km
  land area:
    26 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.1 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    24 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; moderated by easterly trade winds (March to November); westerly
    gales and heavy rain (November to March)
Terrain:
    very low-lying and narrow coral atolls
Natural resources:
    fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
  note:
    Tuvalu's nine coral atolls have enough soil to grow coconuts and support
    subsistence agriculture
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    since there are no streams or rivers and groundwater 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 coral
    reefs from the spread of the crown of thorns starfish
  natural hazards:
    severe tropical storms are rare
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tuvalu
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Law of
    the Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tuvalu
                                     People
Population:
    9,991 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    36% (female 1,787; male 1,852)
  15-64 years:
    59% (female 3,105; male 2,764)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 258; male 225) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.58% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    24.82 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.01 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    27.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    63.15 years
  male:
    61.87 years
  female:
    64.34 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.11 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Tuvaluans(s)
  adjective:
    Tuvaluan
Ethnic divisions:
    Polynesian 96%
Religions:
    Church of Tuvalu (Congregationalist) 97%, Seventh-Day Adventist 1.4%, Baha'i
    1%, other 0.6%
Languages:
    Tuvaluan, English
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tuvalu
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Tuvalu
  former:
    Ellice Islands
Digraph:
    TV
Type:
    democracy; began debating republic status in 1992
Capital:
    Funafuti
Administrative divisions:
    none
Independence:
    1 October 1978 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 1 October (1978)
Constitution:
    1 October 1978
Legal system:
    NA
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    Tulaga MANUELLA (since NA June 1994)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Kamuta LATASI (since 10 December 1993); Deputy Prime Minister
    Otinielu TAUSI (since 10 December 1993)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the governor general on recommendation of the prime
    minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Parliament (Palamene):
    elections last held 25 November 1993 (next to be held by NA 1997); results -
    percent of vote NA; seats - (12 total)
Judicial branch:
    High Court
Political parties and leaders:
    none
Member of:
    ACP, AsDB, C (special), ESCAP, IFRCS (associate), INTELSAT (nonsignatory
    user), SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UNESCO, UPU, WHO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    Tuvalu has no mission in the US
US diplomatic representation:
    none
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tuvalu
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Tuvalu consists of a scattered group of nine coral 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 Australia, NZ, and the UK and supported
    also by Japan and South Korea.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $7.8 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $800 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.9% (1989)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $4.3 million
  expenditures:
    $4.3 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1989 est.)
Exports:
    $165,000 (f.o.b., 1989)
  commodities:
    copra
  partners:
    Fiji, Australia, NZ
Imports:
    $4.4 million (c.i.f., 1989)
  commodities:
    food, animals, mineral fuels, machinery, manufactured goods
  partners:
    Fiji, Australia, NZ
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    2,600 kW
  production:
    3 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    330 kWh (1990)
Industries:
    fishing, tourism, copra
Agriculture:
    coconuts and fish
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-87), $1 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89),  $101 million
Currency:
    1 Tuvaluan dollar ($T) or 1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tuvalu
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    Tuvaluan dollars ($T) or Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3058 (January
    1995), 1.3667 (1994), 1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2835 (1991), 1.2799
    (1990)
Fiscal year:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tuvalu
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    8 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 8 km
Ports:
    Funafuti, Nukufetau
Merchant marine:
  total:
    8 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 44,473 GRT/73,652 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 1, chemical tanker 4, oil tanker 1, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated
    cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tuvalu
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    108 telephones; 300 radiotelephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    4,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tuvalu
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    no military forces; Police Force
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
r,o 1% because of a
    combination of factors, such as the worldwide increase in interest rates,
    Iraq's invasion of Kuwait in August, the subsequent spurt in oil prices, and
    a general decline in business and consumer confidence. In 1991 output fell
    by 0.6%, unemployment grew, and signs of recovery proved premature. Growth
    picked up to 2.3% in 1992 and to 3.1% in 1993. Unemployment, however,
    declined only gradually, the increase in GDP being mainly attributable to
    gains in output per worker. The year 1994 witnessed a solid 4% gain in real
    output, a low inflation rate of 2.6%, and a drop in unemployment below 6%.
    The capture of both houses of Congress by the Republicans in the elections
    of 8 November 1994 means substantial changes are likely in US economic
    policy, including changes in the ways the US will address its major economic
    problems in 1995-96. These problems include inadequate investment in
    economic infrastructure, rapidly rising medical costs of an aging
    population, and sizable budget and trade deficits.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $6.7384 trillion (1994)
National product real growth rate:
    4.1% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $25,850 (1994)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.6% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    5.5% (March 1995)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.258 trillion
  expenditures:
    $1.461 trillion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994)
Exports:
    $513 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    capital goods, automobiles, industrial supplies and raw materials, consumer
    goods, agricultural products
  partners:
    Western Europe 24.3%, Canada 22.1%, Japan 10.5% (1993)
Imports:
    $664 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    crude oil and refined petroleum products, machinery, automobiles, consumer
    goods, industrial raw materials, food and beverages
  partners:
    Canada, 19.3%, Western Europe 18.1%, Japan 18.1% (1993)
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5.4% (1994 est.)
                                  United States
                                     Economy
Electricity:
  capacity:
    695,120,000 kW
  production:
    3.1 trillion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    11,236 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    leading industrial power in the world, highly diversified and
    technologically advanced; petroleum, steel, motor vehicles, aerospace,
    telecommunications, chemicals, electronics, food processing, consumer goods,
    lumber, mining
Agriculture:
    accounts for 2% of GDP and 2.9% of
Uruguay
;UZBEKISTAN - Passport and visa required.  Apply Uzbekistan Consulate,
866 United Nations Plaza, Suite 326, New York, NY 10017 (212/486-7570).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Uzbekistan
============================================================
Uzbekistan - Consular Information Sheet
 July 28, 1995
Country Description:  Uzbekistan is a newly independent nation in
the midst of profound political and economic change.  Tourist
facilities are not highly developed, and many of the goods and
services taken for granted in other countries are not yet available.
 Internal travel and travel to other countries of the Commonwealth
of Independent States (CIS), including both air and land routes, can
be erratic and disrupted by fuel shortages, overcrowding and other
problems.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Private
travel must be arranged through a travel agency which has a
relationship with Uzbektourism or via an invitation from a private
Uzbekistani citizen, business, or organization which requests visa
issuance through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at least one month
in advance.  Visas are issued at Uzbekistani embassies and
consulates abroad or, in countries where Uzbekistan does not have
diplomatic representation, at Russian embassies and consulates.
Visas also are issued upon arrival at Tashkent Airport, but only
through the prior arrangement of the sponsoring Uzbekistani citizen
or organization.  The U.S. Embassy cannot act as a sponsor for
private American travelers.  Travelers with CIS visas are permitted
entry to Uzbekistan for genuine transit only, with proof of onward
transportation within 72 hours.  Travelers without a proper visa
cannot register in hotels and will be fined and required to leave
the country immediately.  Visas for U.S. citizens are valid for
travel to all cities within Uzbekistan.  Further visa information is
available at the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan, 1511 K
Street, NW, Suite 619, Washington, D.C.  20005; telephone (202)
638-4266.
Registration Requirements:  All travelers present in Uzbekistan for
even one day must register with OVIR, the Office of Visas and
Registration.  Hotel guests are registered automatically, but all
other travelers are responsible for registering themselves.
Visitors without proper registration are subjected to fines and
possible harassment by local authorities.  Visitors are required to
carry a medical certificate proving they are not HIV infected, but
this requirement is only sporadically enforced.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Uzbekistan is below Western
standards, with severe shortages of basic medical supplies,
including disposable needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics.  Most
resident Americans travel to the West for their medical needs; such
travel can be very expensive if undertaken under emergency
conditions.  Therefore, travelers may want to purchase supplemental
overseas medical insurance which includes coverage for medical
evacuations.  Elderly travelers and those with existing health
problems may be at particular risk due to inadequate medical
facilities.
Health Concerns:  Diseases contracted by foreigners include
salmonella, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, rabies and meningitis.
Other food and waterborn diseases are common.  Recommended
vaccinations include basic DT, MMR, OPV/PV, gamma globulin,
hepatitis, typhoid, rabies and meningitis.  Travelers are advised to
drink only boiled water and to peel all fruits and vegetables, and
to avoid undercooked meat.  Due to inappropriate sanitation
conditions, travelers should avoid eating dairy products and most
food sold in the streets.  Further information on health matters can
be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
international travelers hotline, Telephone [phone].
Crime Information:  Uzbekistan has a low rate of violent crime, but
common street crime has increased, especially at night.  In urban
areas, travelers are urged to take the same precautions against
crime that they would take in a large American city.  The loss or
theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local
police and to the U.S. Embassy.  The Department of State's phamphlet
"A Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful information on safeguarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad.
Additional information on the region can be found in the Department
of State's brochure "Tips for Travelers to Russia."  Both
publications are available from the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Most transactions are conducted on a
cash-only, local currency (SOM) basis. Credit cards are accepted
only at the main hotel in Tashkent; traveler's checks can be cashed
only into SOM at the National Bank of Uzbekistan.  Travelers may
wish to bring plenty of dollars to exchange into SOM to cover their
expenses.  Old bills (prior to 1990)and those in poor condition
(with tears, writing, or stamps) are not accepted.  Although payment
in U.S. dollars is required for certain hotel charges, plane
tickets, and visa fees, other dollar transactions, as well as black
market currency exchanges, are prohibited.
General Standards of Conduct:  Uzbekistan is an Islamic nation.
Although modest Western-style clothing is appropriate in Tashkent,
women should be prepared to dress conservatively in areas outside
the capital.  In rural areas, women in shorts, pants, short skirts,
or sleeveless blouses risk harassment.  Men do not wear shorts or
sleeveless shirts in public.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Aviation Oversight:  As a result of an assessment conducted by the
U.S. Federal Aviation Administration in December 1994, the FAA has
found the Government of Uzbekistan's Civil Aviation Authority to be
in compliance with international aviation safety standards for
oversight of Uzbekistani air carrier operations.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation
at 1 [phone].
Registration:  Americans are encouraged to register at the Consular
Section of the U.S. Embassy to obtain updated information on travel
and security within Uzbekistan.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Tashkent, Uzbekistan is
located at  Ulitsa Chilanzarskaya, 82 in Tashkent.  The main Embassy
telephone number is (7-3712) 77-14-07; the consular section's direct
line is (7-3712) 77-22-31.
 No. 95-081
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 29, 1994,
to add information on Country Description, Entry Requirements,
Aviation Oversight, and to update currency data.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Uzbekistan
============================================================
Uzbekistan - Consular Information Sheet
 July 28, 1995
Country Description:  Uzbekistan is a newly independent nation in
the midst of profound political and economic change.  Tourist
facilities are not highly developed, and many of the goods and
services taken for granted in other countries are not yet available.
 Internal travel and travel to other countries of the Commonwealth
of Independent States (CIS), including both air and land routes, can
be erratic and disrupted by fuel shortages, overcrowding and other
problems.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Private
travel must be arranged through a travel agency which has a
relationship with Uzbektourism or via an invitation from a private
Uzbekistani citizen, business, or organization which requests visa
issuance through the Ministry of Foreign Affairs at least one month
in advance.  Visas are issued at Uzbekistani embassies and
consulates abroad or, in countries where Uzbekistan does not have
diplomatic representation, at Russian embassies and consulates.
Visas also are issued upon arrival at Tashkent Airport, but only
through the prior arrangement of the sponsoring Uzbekistani citizen
or organization.  The U.S. Embassy cannot act as a sponsor for
private American travelers.  Travelers with CIS visas are permitted
entry to Uzbekistan for genuine transit only, with proof of onward
transportation within 72 hours.  Travelers without a proper visa
cannot register in hotels and will be fined and required to leave
the country immediately.  Visas for U.S. citizens are valid for
travel to all cities within Uzbekistan.  Further visa information is
available at the Embassy of the Republic of Uzbekistan, 1511 K
Street, NW, Suite 619, Washington, D.C.  20005; telephone (202)
638-4266.
Registration Requirements:  All travelers present in Uzbekistan for
even one day must register with OVIR, the Office of Visas and
Registration.  Hotel guests are registered automatically, but all
other travelers are responsible for registering themselves.
Visitors without proper registration are subjected to fines and
possible harassment by local authorities.  Visitors are required to
carry a medical certificate proving they are not HIV infected, but
this requirement is only sporadically enforced.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Uzbekistan is below Western
standards, with severe shortages of basic medical supplies,
including disposable needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics.  Most
resident Americans travel to the West for their medical needs; such
travel can be very expensive if undertaken under emergency
conditions.  Therefore, travelers may want to purchase supplemental
overseas medical insurance which includes coverage for medical
evacuations.  Elderly travelers and those with existing health
problems may be at particular risk due to inadequate medical
facilities.
Health Concerns:  Diseases contracted by foreigners include
salmonella, hepatitis A and B, typhoid, rabies and meningitis.
Other food and waterborn diseases are common.  Recommended
vaccinations include basic DT, MMR, OPV/PV, gamma globulin,
hepatitis, typhoid, rabies and meningitis.  Travelers are advised to
drink only boiled water and to peel all fruits and vegetables, and
to avoid undercooked meat.  Due to inappropriate sanitation
conditions, travelers should avoid eating dairy products and most
food sold in the streets.  Further information on health matters can
be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
international travelers hotline, Telephone [phone].
Crime Information:  Uzbekistan has a low rate of violent crime, but
common street crime has increased, especially at night.  In urban
areas, travelers are urged to take the same precautions against
crime that they would take in a large American city.  The loss or
theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the local
police and to the U.S. Embassy.  The Department of State's phamphlet
"A Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful information on safeguarding
valuables and protecting personal security while traveling abroad.
Additional information on the region can be found in the Department
of State's brochure "Tips for Travelers to Russia."  Both
publications are available from the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Most transactions are conducted on a
cash-only, local currency (SOM) basis. Credit cards are accepted
only at the main hotel in Tashkent; traveler's checks can be cashed
only into SOM at the National Bank of Uzbekistan.  Travelers may
wish to bring plenty of dollars to exchange into SOM to cover their
expenses.  Old bills (prior to 1990)and those in poor condition
(with tears, writing, or stamps) are not accepted.  Although payment
in U.S. dollars is required for certain hotel charges, plane
tickets, and visa fees, other dollar transactions, as well as black
market currency exchanges, are prohibited.
General Standards of Conduct:  Uzbekistan is an Islamic nation.
Although modest Western-style clothing is appropriate in Tashkent,
women should be prepared to dress conservatively in areas outside
the capital.  In rural areas, women in shorts, pants, short skirts,
or sleeveless blouses risk harassment.  Men do not wear shorts or
sleeveless shirts in public.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Aviation Oversight:  As a result of an assessment conducted by the
U.S. Federal Aviation Administration in December 1994, the FAA has
found the Government of Uzbekistan's Civil Aviation Authority to be
in compliance with international aviation safety standards for
oversight of Uzbekistani air carrier operations.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation
at 1 [phone].
Registration:  Americans are encouraged to register at the Consular
Section of the U.S. Embassy to obtain updated information on travel
and security within Uzbekistan.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Tashkent, Uzbekistan is
located at  Ulitsa Chilanzarskaya, 82 in Tashkent.  The main Embassy
telephone number is (7-3712) 77-14-07; the consular section's direct
line is (7-3712) 77-22-31.
 No. 95-081
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 29, 1994,
to add information on Country Description, Entry Requirements,
Aviation Oversight, and to update currency data.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
7                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Uzbekistan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Asia, north of Afghanistan
Map references:
    Commonwealth of Independent States - Central Asian States
Area:
  total area:
    447,400 sq km
  land area:
    425,400 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than California
Land boundaries:
    total 6,221 km, Afghanistan 137 km, Kazakhstan 2,203 km, Kyrgyzstan 1,099
    km, Tajikistan 1,161 km, Turkmenistan 1,621 km
Coastline:
    0 km
  note:
    Uzbekistan borders the Aral Sea (420 km)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    mostly midlatitude desert, long, hot summers, mild winters; semiarid
    grassland in east
Terrain:
    mostly flat-to-rolling sandy desert with dunes; broad, flat intensely
    irrigated river valleys along course of Amu Darya and Sirdaryo Rivers;
    Fergana Valley in east surrounded by mountainous Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan;
    shrinking Aral Sea in west
Natural resources:
    natural gas, petroleum, coal, gold, uranium, silver, copper, lead and zinc,
    tungsten, molybdenum
Land use:
  arable land:
    10%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    47%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    42%
Irrigated land:
    41,550 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    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 desertification; water
    pollution 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
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Ozone Layer
    Protection
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Uzbekistan
                                    Geography
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Uzbekistan
                                     People
Population:
    23,089,261 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    40% (female 4,553,432; male 4,670,496)
  15-64 years:
    55% (female 6,400,578; male 6,384,862)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 656,933; male 422,960) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.08% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    29.45 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.44 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -2.23 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    52 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    68.79 years
  male:
    65.5 years
  female:
    72.24 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.67 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Uzbek(s)
  adjective:
    Uzbek
Ethnic divisions:
    Uzbek 71.4%, Russian 8.3%, Tajik 4.7%, Kazakh 4.1%, Tatar 2.4%, Karakalpak
    2.1%, other 7%
Religions:
    Muslim 88% (mostly Sunnis), Eastern Orthodox 9%, other 3%
Languages:
    Uzbek 74.3%, Russian 14.2%, Tajik 4.4%, other 7.1%
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    97%
  male:
    98%
  female:
    96%
Labor force:
    8.234 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture and forestry 43%, industry and construction 22%, other 35%
    (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Uzbekistan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Uzbekistan
  conventional short form:
    Uzbekistan
  local long form:
    Uzbekiston Respublikasi
  local short form:
    none
  former:
    Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic
Digraph:
    UZ
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Tashkent (Toshkent)
Administrative divisions:
    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
  note:
    an administrative division has the same name as its administrative center
    (exceptions have the administrative center name following in parentheses)
Independence:
    31 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 1 September (1991)
Constitution:
    new constitution adopted 8 December 1992
Legal system:
    evolution of Soviet civil law; still lacks independent judicial system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Islam KARIMOV (since NA March 1990); election last held 29
    December 1991 (next to be held NA); results - Islam KARIMOV 86%, Mukhammad
    SOLIKH 12%, other 2%; note - a 26 March 1995 referendum extended KARIMOV's
    term until 2000 (99.6% approval)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Abdulhashim MUTALOV (since 13 January 1992), First Deputy
    Prime Minister Ismail DJURABEKOV (since NA); Deputy Prime Ministers Viktor
    CHIZHEN, Bakhtiyar HAMIDOV, Kayim KHAKKULOV, Yuriy PAYGIN, Saidmukhtar
    SAIDKASYMOV, Utkur SULTANOV, Mirabror USMANOV, Murat SHARIFKHOJAYEV (since
    NA)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet of Ministers; appointed by the president with approval of the
    Supreme Assembly
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Uzbekistan
                                   Government
  Supreme Council:
    elections last held 25 December 1994 (next to be held NA); 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    People's Democratic Party (PDP; formerly Communist Party), Islam A. KARIMOV,
    chairman; Fatherland Progress Party (FPP), Anwar YULDASHEV, chairman; Social
    Democratic Party, Anvar JORABAYEV, chairman; Erk (Freedom) Democratic Party
    (EDP), Muhammad SOLIKH, chairman (in exile); note - EDP was banned 9
    December 1992
Other political or pressure groups:
    Birlik (Unity) People's Movement (BPM), Abdul Rakhim PULATOV, chairman (in
    exile); Islamic Rebirth Party (IRP), Abdullah UTAYEV, chairman; Adolat-94
    (formed by former Vice President Shukhrat MIRSAIDOV and Ibragim BURIEV
  note:
    PULATOV (BPM) is in exile in the West; UTAYEV (IRP) is either in prison or
    in exile
Member of:
    AsDB, CCC, CIS, EBRD, ECE, ECO, ESCAP, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFC, ILO, IMF,
    INTERPOL, IOC, ISO, ITU, NACC, NAM, OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Fatikh TESHABAYEV
  chancery:
    (temporary) Suites 619 and 623, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 4267
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Henry L. CLARKE
  embassy:
    82 Chilanzarskaya, Tashkent
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [7] [phone], 77-10-81
  FAX:
    [7] [phone]
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Uzbekistan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Uzbekistan is a dry, landlocked country of which 10% consists of intensely
    cultivated, irrigated river valleys. It is one of the poorest states of the
    former USSR with 60% of its population living in overpopulated rural
    communities. Nevertheless, 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. Since independence, the
    government has sought to prop up the Soviet-style command economy with
    subsidies and tight controls on prices and production. Such policies have
    buffered the economy from the sharp declines in output and high inflation
    experienced by many other former Soviet republics. They had become
    increasingly unsustainable, however, as inflation moves along at 14% per
    month and as Russia has forced the Uzbek government to introduce its own
    currency. Faced with mounting economic problems, the government has begun to
    move on a reform agenda and cooperate with international financial
    institutions, announced an acceleration of privatization, and stepped up
    efforts to attract foreign investors. Nevertheless, the regime is likely to
    find it difficult to sustain its drive for economic reform.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $54.5 billion (1994 estimate as extrapolated
    from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    -4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $2,400 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    14% per month (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    0.3% includes only officially registered unemployed; large numbers of
    underemployed workers (December 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $943.7 million to outside the FSU countries (1994)
  commodities:
    cotton, gold, natural gas, mineral fertilizers, ferrous metals, textiles,
    food products
  partners:
    Russia, Ukraine, Eastern Europe, US
Imports:
    $1.15 billion from outside the FSU countries (1994)
  commodities:
    grain, machinery and parts, consumer durables, other foods
  partners:
    principally other FSU countries, Czech Republic
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate 1% (1994 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    11,690,000 kW
  production:
    47.5 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,130 kWh (1994)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Uzbekistan
                                     Economy
Industries:
    textiles, food processing, machine building, metallurgy, natural gas
Agriculture:
    cotton, vegetables, fruits, grain, livestock
Illicit drugs:
    illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for CIS consumption;
    limited government eradication programs; used as transshipment point for
    illicit drugs to Western Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    the IMF has established a Systemic Transformation Facility of $74 million
    and the World Bank has made a rehabilitation loan of $160 million with other
    project loans pending; estimated annual external financing requirements for
    1995-96 of $600 million to $700 million
Currency:
    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
Exchange rates:
    soms per US$1 - 25 (yearend 1994)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Uzbekistan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,460 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines
  broad gauge:
    3,460 km 1.520-m gauge (1990)
Highways:
  total:
    78,400 km
  paved and graveled:
    67,000 km
  unpaved:
    earth 11,400 km (1990)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 250 km; petroleum products 40 km; natural gas 810 km (1992)
Ports:
    Termiz
Airports:
  total:
    261
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    6
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    14
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    8
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    7
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    216
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Uzbekistan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    1,458,000 telephones; 63 telephones/1,000 persons (1995); poorly developed
  local:
    NMT-450 analog cellular network established in Tashkent
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    linked by landline or microwave with CIS member states and by leased
    connection via the Moscow international gateway switch to other countries;
    new INTELSAT links to Tokyo and Ankara give Uzbekistan international access
    independent of Russian facilities; Orbita and INTELSAT earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Uzbekistan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Air and Air Defense, Republic Security Forces (internal and border
    troops), National Guard
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 5,567,580; males fit for military service 4,537,455; males
    reach military age (18) annually 222,506 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
South Africa
SOLOMON ISLANDS - Passport, onward/return ticket and proof of
sufficient funds required.  Visitors permit issued on arrival for stay up to 2
months in 1-year period.  For further information consult British Embassy
(202/986-0205).
Solomon Islands - Consular Information Sheet
July 9, 1993
Country Description:  The Solomon Islands form an archipelago in the
southwest Pacific about 1200 miles northeast of Australia. The capital is
Honiara on the island of Guadalcanal.  The Solomon Islands is a
parliamentary democracy within the British Commonwealth.  Tourism facilities
are limited, and outside of Honiara may be of poor quality.
Passports, onward/return tickets and proof of sufficient funds are required.
 Visitors' permits are issued on arrival for stays of up to two months in a
one-year period.  For further information travelers may consult the British
Embassy at 3100 Massachusetts Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel.
[phone] or British consulates in other cities.
Medical Facilities: Medical facilities are generally adequate.  Hospitals
and pharmacies are limited to population centers and missions.  The
incidence of malaria is extremely high.  Many visitors begin taking malarial
suppressants before arrival.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate
cash payments for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.  Information on health
matters is available from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline at [phone].
Information on Crime:  Major crimes against travelers are not common, though
petty crimes against property frequently occur in the capital city, Honiara.
 The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police, and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet "A Safe
Trip Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal practices of
the country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use and
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect
lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated
information on travel and security within the area.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located on Mud Alley in Honiara.  The
mailing address is P.O. Box 561 Honiara, the Solomon Islands.  The telephone
number is (677) 23-890.  There is a consul/charge d'affaires resident in
Honiara who performs consular services for U.S. citizens.  The U.S.
Ambassador is resident in Port Moresby, New Guinea.
No. 93-191
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated November 23, 1992 to
include information on reporting the loss or theft of a U.S. passport.
&                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Solomon Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Papua New
    Guinea
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    28,450 sq km
  land area:
    27,540 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Maryland
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    5,313 km
Maritime claims:
    measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
  continental shelf:
    200 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical monsoon; few extremes of temperature and weather
Terrain:
    mostly rugged mountains with some low coral atolls
Natural resources:
    fish, forests, gold, bauxite, phosphates, lead, zinc, nickel
Land use:
  arable land:
    1%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    1%
  forest and woodland:
    93%
  other:
    4%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; much of the surrounding coral reefs are dead or
    dying
  natural hazards:
    typhoons, but they are rarely destructive; geologically active region with
    frequent earth tremors; volcanic activity
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping,
    Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling; signed, but not
    ratified - Biodiversity, Law of the Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Solomon Islands
                                     People
Population:
    399,206 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    46% (female 90,293; male 93,695)
  15-64 years:
    51% (female 100,183; male 103,374)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 5,738; male 5,923) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.4% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    38.48 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.51 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    26.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    70.84 years
  male:
    68.38 years
  female:
    73.41 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.59 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Solomon Islander(s)
  adjective:
    Solomon Islander
Ethnic divisions:
    Melanesian 93%, Polynesian 4%, Micronesian 1.5%, European 0.8%, Chinese
    0.3%, other 0.4%
Religions:
    Anglican 34%, Roman Catholic 19%, Baptist 17%, United
    (Methodist/Presbyterian) 11%, Seventh-Day Adventist 10%, other Protestant
    5%, traditional beliefs 4%
Languages:
    Melanesian pidgin in much of the country is lingua franca, English spoken by
    1%-2% of population
  note:
    120 indigenous languages
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    agriculture, forestry, and fishing 32.4%, services 25%, construction,
    manufacturing, and mining 7.0%, commerce, transport, and finance 4.7% (1984)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Solomon Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Solomon Islands
  former:
    British Solomon Islands
Digraph:
    BP
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Honiara
Administrative divisions:
    7 provinces and 1 town*; Central, Guadalcanal, Honiara*, Isabel, Makira,
    Malaita, Temotu, Western
Independence:
    7 July 1978 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 7 July (1978)
Constitution:
    7 July 1978
Legal system:
    common law
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    Moses PITAKAKA (since 10 June 1994)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Solomon MAMALONI (since 7 November 1994); Deputy Prime
    Minister Dennis LULEI (since 10 November 1994)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister
    from members of parliament
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Parliament:
    elections last held NA November 1994 (next to be held NA 1997); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (47 total) number of seats by party NA
Judicial branch:
    High Court
Political parties and leaders:
    People's Alliance Party (PAP); United Party (UP), leader NA; Solomon Islands
    Liberal Party (SILP), Bartholemew ULUFA'ALU; Nationalist Front for Progress
    (NFP), Andrew NORI; Labor Party (LP), Joses TUHANUKU; National Action Party,
    leader NA; Christian Fellowship, leader NA; National Unity Group, Solomon
    MAMALONI
Member of:
    ACP, AsDB, C, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS,
    ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), IOC, ITU, SPARTECA, SPC, SPF,
    UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    ambassador traditionally resides in Honiara (Solomon Islands)
US diplomatic representation:
    embassy closed July 1993; the ambassador to Papua New Guinea is accredited
    to the Solomon Islands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Solomon Islands
                                   Government
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Solomon Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The bulk of the population depend on subsistence agriculture, fishing, and
    forestry for at least part of their livelihood. Most manufactured goods and
    petroleum products must be imported. The islands are rich in undeveloped
    mineral resources such as lead, zinc, nickel, and gold. The economy suffered
    from a severe cyclone in mid-1986 that caused widespread damage to the
    infrastructure. In 1993, the government was working with the IMF to develop
    a structural adjustment program to address the country's fiscal deficit.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $1 billion (1992 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    8% (1992)
National product per capita:
    $2,590 (1992 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    13% (1992 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $48 million
  expenditures:
    $107 million, including capital expenditures of $45 million (1991 est.)
Exports:
    $84 million (f.o.b., 1991)
  commodities:
    fish 46%, timber 31%, palm oil 5%, cocoa, copra
  partners:
    Japan 39%, UK 23%, Thailand 9%, Australia 5%, US 2% (1991)
Imports:
    $110 million (c.i.f., 1991)
  commodities:
    plant and machinery, manufactured goods, food and live animals, fuel
  partners:
    Australia 34%, Japan 16%, Singapore 14%, NZ 9%
External debt:
    $128 million (1988 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -3.8% (1991 est.); accounts for 5% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    21,000 kW
  production:
    30 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    80 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    copra, fish (tuna)
Agriculture:
    including fishing and forestry, accounts for 31% of GDP; mostly subsistence
    farming; cash crops - cocoa, beans, coconuts, palm kernels, timber; other
    products - rice, potatoes, vegetables, fruit, cattle, pigs; not
    self-sufficient in food grains; 90% of the total fish catch of 44,500 metric
    tons was exported (1988)
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1980-89),
    $250 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Solomon Islands
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 Solomon Islands dollar (SI$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Solomon Islands dollars (SI$) per US$1 - 3.3113 (September 1994), 3.1877
    (1993), 2.9281 (1992), 2.7148 (1991), 2.5288 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Solomon Islands
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    1,300 km
  paved:
    30 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 290 km; earth 980 km
  note:
    in addition, there are 800 km of private logging and plantation roads of
    varied construction (1982)
Ports:
    Aola Bay, Honiara, Lofung, Noro, Viru Harbor, Yandina
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    31
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    19
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    9
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Solomon Islands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    3,000 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 4, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Solomon Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    no military forces; Royal Solomon Islands Police (RSIP)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
and leaders:
    People's Democratic Party (PDP; formerly Communist Party), Islam A. KARIMOV,
    chairman; Fatherland Progress Party (FPP), Anwar YULDASHEV, chairman; Social
    Democratic Party, Anvar JORABAYEV, chairman; Erk (Freedom) Democratic Party
    (EDP), Muhammad SOLIKH, chairman (in exile); note - EDP was banned 9
    December 1992
Other political or pressure groups:
    Birlik (Unity) People's Movement (BPM), Abdul Rakhim PULATOV, chairman (in
    exile); Islamic Rebirth Party (IRP), Abdullah UTAYEV, chairman; Adolat-94
    (formed by former Vice President Shukhrat MIRSAIDOV and Ibragim BURIEV
  note:
    PULATOV (BPM) is in exile in the West; UTAYEV (IRP) is either in prison or
    in exile
Member of:
    AsDB, CCC, CIS, EBRD, ECE, ECO, ESCAP, IAEA, IBRD,
Vanuatu
IVENEZUELA - Passport and tourist card required.  Tourist card can be
obtained from airlines serving Venezuela, no charge, valid 60 days,
cannot be extended.  Multiple-entry visa valid up to 1 year, extendable,
available from any Venezuelan Consulate, requires $30 fee (money order or company
check), 1 application form, 1 photo, onward/return ticket, proof of
sufficient funds and certification of employment.  For business visa,
need letter from company stating purpose of trip, responsibility for
traveler, name and address of companies to be visited in Venezuela and $60 fee.
All travelers must pay departure tax ($12) at airport.  Business travelers
must present a Declaration of Income Tax in the Ministerio de Hacienda
(Treasury Department).  For additional information contact the Consular Section
of the Embassy of Venezuela, 1099 30th Street, N.W., Washington, DC 20007
(202/342-2214) or the nearest Consulate:  CA (415/512-8340), FL
(305/577-3834), IL (312/236-9655), LA (504/522-3284), MA
(617/266-9355), NY (212/826-1660), PR (809/766-4250) or TX (713/961-5141).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Venezuela
============================================================
Venezuela - Consular Information Sheet
 November 22, 1995
Country Description:  Venezuela is a middle-income country with a
well-developed transportation infrastructure.  Scheduled air service
and good all-weather roads, some poorly marked and congested around
urban centers, connect major cities and all regions of the country.
Its tourism infrastructure varies in quality according to location
and price.
Entry requirements:  A valid passport and a visa or tourist card
are required.  Tourist cards are issued on flights from the U.S. to
Venezuela.  For current information concerning entry, tax, and
customs requirements for Venezuela, contact the Venezuelan Embassy
at 1099 30th St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20007; tel: [phone],
or the consulates in New York, Miami, Chicago, New Orleans, Boston,
Houston, San Francisco, and San Juan.
Areas of Instability:  Cross-border violence occurs frequently in
remote areas along the Colombian border in Zulia, Tachira, Apure and
Amazonas states.  U.S. citizens should consult the U.S. Embassy if
they plan to visit these areas.  There have been no recent terrorist
actions against visitors.  In July 1995, however, the U.S. Embassy
received information indicating that U.S. citizens in the region
bordering Colombia may be targets for kidnapping by Colombian
guerrillas.
Health and Medical facilities:  Medical care in Caracas is very
good at private hospitals and clinics.  Cash payment is usually
demanded.  Most hospitals and clinics, however, accept credit cards.
 In rural areas outside Caracas, physicians and medical supplies may
be minimal.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Medicare/Medicaid do not provide payment of medical
services outside the United States.  In some cases, medical
insurance with specific overseas and medical evacuation coverage has
proven useful.  For additional health information, travelers can
contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
international travelers' hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Most crime is economically motivated.
Pickpockets concentrate in and around crowded bus and subway
stations, along with the area around "Parque Simon Bolivar" near the
"Capitolio" in downtown Caracas.  There have been cases of theft
from hotel safe deposit boxes.  The "Barrios" (the poor
neighborhoods that cover the hills around Caracas) and isolated
urban parks such as "El Calvario" in the "El Silencio" area of
Caracas can be very dangerous.  Most criminals are armed with guns
or knives, and will use force.  There is potential for theft of
unattended valuables on the beach, and from rental cars parked in
isolated areas or on city streets.  A guarded garage is not always a
guarantee against theft.
Highway Travel:  Outside the major cities, night driving can be
dangerous because of unmarked road damage or repairs in progress,
unlighted vehicles, and livestock.  Stops at national guard and
local police checkpoints ("Alcabalas") are mandatory.  Drivers
should follow all national guard instructions and be prepared to
show vehicle and insurance papers and passports.  Vehicles may be
searched.  Very economical but less safe bus service is available to
most locations.
Currency Restrictions:  In July 1994, currency restrictions were
imposed.  Foreign exchange transactions must take place through
commercial banks and exchange houses at the official rate.  There
are limits on the amount of local currency that can be exchanged for
dollars when leaving the country.  Credit cards are accepted at most
upscale tourist establishments.  Outside the major cities, a good
supply of Venezuelan currency is necessary.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
and trafficking in illegal drugs in Venezuela are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Prison conditions are abject.
Other Information:  Sporadic political demonstrations occur in
urban centers.  These tend to focus primarily on or near university
campuses or secondary schools, and sometimes turn violent.  Most
tourist destinations, however, remain unaffected.  The number and
intensity of demonstrations have fluctuated widely.  Merida, a major
tourist destination in the Andes, is traditionally the scene of
regular student demonstrations.
Travelers may keep informed of local developments by following the
local press (including "The Daily Journal," an English language
newspaper), radio and TV, and consulting their local hosts,
including U.S. and Venezuelan business contacts, hotels, tour
guides, and travel organizers for current information on
demonstrations, the purpose and location of which are usually
announced in advance.
U.S. citizens visiting certain areas along the border with Colombia
may be subject to search and seizure, as well as restrictions as to
where they may travel in those areas, due to the suspension of
several constitutional guarantees in order to permit the military to
act expeditiously against potential cross-border guerrilla
incursions.  Constitutional guarantees have been restored in other
parts of the country, however.  For further information regarding
travel to these areas, contact the U.S. Embassy in Caracas.  A
number of U.S. citizens have reported that Venezuelan officials at
airports, immigration offices, and police stations have demanded
bribes.  U.S. citizens should report immediately to the U.S. Embassy
any such demand.
U.S. citizens who do not have Venezuelan cedulas (national identity
cards) must carry their passports with them at all times.
Photocopies of passports prove valuable in facilitating their
replacement if lost or stolen.
Information on Venezuelan adoption procedures and the U.S.
immigrant visa application process is available from the Consular
Section of the U.S. Embassy, or the Office of Children's Issues,
CA/OCS/CI, Room 4811, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520,
[phone].
Civil Aviation Oversight:  As a result of an assessment conducted
by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in May 1995, the
FAA has found the government of Venezuela's Civil Aviation Authority
not to be in compliance with international aviation safety standards
for oversight of Venezuelan air carrier operations.  While
consultations to correct the deficiencies are ongoing, Venezuelan
air carriers are permitted to conduct operations to the U.S. subject
to heightened FAA surveillance.  For further information, travelers
may contact the Department of Transportation at 1-800-322-7873.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens may register at the
consular section of the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, and may also obtain
updated information on travel and security within Venezuela.  The
U.S. Embassy is located at Calle Suspure and Calle F, Colinas de
Valle Arriba, tel. [phone].  A part-time Consular Agent has
been approved for western Venezuela to replace services lost when
the Consulate in Maracaibo was closed in February 1994.  The U.S.
Embassy anticipates that the Consular Agent will begin providing
services during the first quarter of calendar year 1996.
 No. 95-149
This replaces the consular information sheet dated September 2,
1994 to update information on aviation oversight, crime, areas of
instability, health and medical facilities, currency restrictions,
and the location of the U.S. Embassy.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Venezuela
============================================================
Venezuela - Public Announcement
 May 12, 1994
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release
The U. S. Embassy in Caracas issued a notice informing U.S.
citizens that there are demonstrations and some looting in various
sections of Caracas.  U.S. citizens should avoid known trouble spots
such as the University and "Centro" areas.  Travelers should be
alert to their surroundings and turn around and go the other way if
they see a demonstration forming or in progress.  It is anticipated
that these demonstrations will continue.  Travelers may contact the
U.S. Embassy in Caracas for up-to-date information.
 No. 94-vvv
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Venezuela
============================================================
Venezuela - Consular Information Sheet
 November 22, 1995
Country Description:  Venezuela is a middle-income country with a
well-developed transportation infrastructure.  Scheduled air service
and good all-weather roads, some poorly marked and congested around
urban centers, connect major cities and all regions of the country.
Its tourism infrastructure varies in quality according to location
and price.
Entry requirements:  A valid passport and a visa or tourist card
are required.  Tourist cards are issued on flights from the U.S. to
Venezuela.  For current information concerning entry, tax, and
customs requirements for Venezuela, contact the Venezuelan Embassy
at 1099 30th St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20007; tel: [phone],
or the consulates in New York, Miami, Chicago, New Orleans, Boston,
Houston, San Francisco, and San Juan.
Areas of Instability:  Cross-border violence occurs frequently in
remote areas along the Colombian border in Zulia, Tachira, Apure and
Amazonas states.  U.S. citizens should consult the U.S. Embassy if
they plan to visit these areas.  There have been no recent terrorist
actions against visitors.  In July 1995, however, the U.S. Embassy
received information indicating that U.S. citizens in the region
bordering Colombia may be targets for kidnapping by Colombian
guerrillas.
Health and Medical facilities:  Medical care in Caracas is very
good at private hospitals and clinics.  Cash payment is usually
demanded.  Most hospitals and clinics, however, accept credit cards.
 In rural areas outside Caracas, physicians and medical supplies may
be minimal.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Medicare/Medicaid do not provide payment of medical
services outside the United States.  In some cases, medical
insurance with specific overseas and medical evacuation coverage has
proven useful.  For additional health information, travelers can
contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
international travelers' hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Most crime is economically motivated.
Pickpockets concentrate in and around crowded bus and subway
stations, along with the area around "Parque Simon Bolivar" near the
"Capitolio" in downtown Caracas.  There have been cases of theft
from hotel safe deposit boxes.  The "Barrios" (the poor
neighborhoods that cover the hills around Caracas) and isolated
urban parks such as "El Calvario" in the "El Silencio" area of
Caracas can be very dangerous.  Most criminals are armed with guns
or knives, and will use force.  There is potential for theft of
unattended valuables on the beach, and from rental cars parked in
isolated areas or on city streets.  A guarded garage is not always a
guarantee against theft.
Highway Travel:  Outside the major cities, night driving can be
dangerous because of unmarked road damage or repairs in progress,
unlighted vehicles, and livestock.  Stops at national guard and
local police checkpoints ("Alcabalas") are mandatory.  Drivers
should follow all national guard instructions and be prepared to
show vehicle and insurance papers and passports.  Vehicles may be
searched.  Very economical but less safe bus service is available to
most locations.
Currency Restrictions:  In July 1994, currency restrictions were
imposed.  Foreign exchange transactions must take place through
commercial banks and exchange houses at the official rate.  There
are limits on the amount of local currency that can be exchanged for
dollars when leaving the country.  Credit cards are accepted at most
upscale tourist establishments.  Outside the major cities, a good
supply of Venezuelan currency is necessary.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
and trafficking in illegal drugs in Venezuela are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Prison conditions are abject.
Other Information:  Sporadic political demonstrations occur in
urban centers.  These tend to focus primarily on or near university
campuses or secondary schools, and sometimes turn violent.  Most
tourist destinations, however, remain unaffected.  The number and
intensity of demonstrations have fluctuated widely.  Merida, a major
tourist destination in the Andes, is traditionally the scene of
regular student demonstrations.
Travelers may keep informed of local developments by following the
local press (including "The Daily Journal," an English language
newspaper), radio and TV, and consulting their local hosts,
including U.S. and Venezuelan business contacts, hotels, tour
guides, and travel organizers for current information on
demonstrations, the purpose and location of which are usually
announced in advance.
U.S. citizens visiting certain areas along the border with Colombia
may be subject to search and seizure, as well as restrictions as to
where they may travel in those areas, due to the suspension of
several constitutional guarantees in order to permit the military to
act expeditiously against potential cross-border guerrilla
incursions.  Constitutional guarantees have been restored in other
parts of the country, however.  For further information regarding
travel to these areas, contact the U.S. Embassy in Caracas.  A
number of U.S. citizens have reported that Venezuelan officials at
airports, immigration offices, and police stations have demanded
bribes.  U.S. citizens should report immediately to the U.S. Embassy
any such demand.
U.S. citizens who do not have Venezuelan cedulas (national identity
cards) must carry their passports with them at all times.
Photocopies of passports prove valuable in facilitating their
replacement if lost or stolen.
Information on Venezuelan adoption procedures and the U.S.
immigrant visa application process is available from the Consular
Section of the U.S. Embassy, or the Office of Children's Issues,
CA/OCS/CI, Room 4811, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520,
[phone].
Civil Aviation Oversight:  As a result of an assessment conducted
by the U.S. Federal Aviation Administration (FAA) in May 1995, the
FAA has found the government of Venezuela's Civil Aviation Authority
not to be in compliance with international aviation safety standards
for oversight of Venezuelan air carrier operations.  While
consultations to correct the deficiencies are ongoing, Venezuelan
air carriers are permitted to conduct operations to the U.S. subject
to heightened FAA surveillance.  For further information, travelers
may contact the Department of Transportation at 1-800-322-7873.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens may register at the
consular section of the U.S. Embassy in Caracas, and may also obtain
updated information on travel and security within Venezuela.  The
U.S. Embassy is located at Calle Suspure and Calle F, Colinas de
Valle Arriba, tel. [phone].  A part-time Consular Agent has
been approved for western Venezuela to replace services lost when
the Consulate in Maracaibo was closed in February 1994.  The U.S.
Embassy anticipates that the Consular Agent will begin providing
services during the first quarter of calendar year 1996.
 No. 95-149
This replaces the consular information sheet dated September 2,
1994 to update information on aviation oversight, crime, areas of
instability, health and medical facilities, currency restrictions,
and the location of the U.S. Embassy.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
8                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Venezuela
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern South America, bordering the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic
    Ocean, between Colombia and Guyana
Map references:
    South America
Area:
  total area:
    912,050 sq km
  land area:
    882,050 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than twice the size of California
Land boundaries:
    total 4,993 km, Brazil 2,200 km, Colombia 2,050 km, Guyana 743 km
Coastline:
    2,800 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    15 nm
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claims all of Guyana west of the Essequibo River; maritime boundary dispute
    with Colombia in the Gulf of Venezuela
Climate:
    tropical; hot, humid; more moderate in highlands
Terrain:
    Andes Mountains and Maracaibo Lowlands in northwest; central plains
    (llanos); Guiana Highlands in southeast
Natural resources:
    petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, gold, bauxite, other minerals, hydropower,
    diamonds
Land use:
  arable land:
    3%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    20%
  forest and woodland:
    39%
  other:
    37%
Irrigated land:
    2,640 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    sewage pollution of Lago de Valencia; oil and urban pollution of Lago de
    Maracaibo; deforestation; soil degradation; urban and industrial pollution,
    especially along the Caribbean coast
  natural hazards:
    subject to floods, rockslides, mudslides; periodic droughts
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Venezuela
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Life
    Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution,
    Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Hazardous Wastes, Marine
    Dumping
Note:
    on major sea and air routes linking North and South America
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Venezuela
                                     People
Population:
    21,004,773 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    35% (female 3,650,705; male 3,795,032)
  15-64 years:
    60% (female 6,350,466; male 6,313,887)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 486,020; male 408,663) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.1% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    25.11 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.57 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.46 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    26.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    73.31 years
  male:
    70.48 years
  female:
    76.29 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.97 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Venezuelan(s)
  adjective:
    Venezuelan
Ethnic divisions:
    mestizo 67%, white 21%, black 10%, Amerindian 2%
Religions:
    nominally Roman Catholic 96%, Protestant 2%
Languages:
    Spanish (official), native dialects spoken by about 200,000 Amerindians in
    the remote interior
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    90%
  male:
    91%
  female:
    89%
Labor force:
    7.6 million
  by occupation:
    services 63%, industry 25%, agriculture 12% (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Venezuela
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Venezuela
  conventional short form:
    Venezuela
  local long form:
    Republica de Venezuela
  local short form:
    Venezuela
Digraph:
    VE
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Caracas
Administrative divisions:
    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
  note:
    the federal dependency consists of 11 federally controlled island groups
    with a total of 72 individual islands
Independence:
    5 July 1811 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 5 July (1811)
Constitution:
    23 January 1961
Legal system:
    based on Napoleonic code; judicial review of legislative acts in Cassation
    Court only; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Rafael CALDERA Rodriguez (since 2 February 1994); 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%
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia) Roberto YEPES,
    President
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Venezuela
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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 Socialism (MAS), Gustavo MARQUEZ,
    president, and Enrique OCHOA Antich, secretary general; Radical Cause (La
    Causa R), Pablo MEDINA, secretary general
Other political or pressure groups:
    FEDECAMARAS, a conservative business group; Venezuelan Confederation of
    Workers (CTV, labor organization dominated by the Democratic Action);
    VECINOS groups
Member of:
    AG, BCIE, CARICOM (observer), CDB, CG, ECLAC, FAO, G-11, G-15, G-19, G-24,
    G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO,
    IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, LAES, LAIA, MINURSO, NAM,
    OAS, ONUSAL, OPANAL, OPEC, PCA, RG, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO,
    UNIKOM, UNMIH, UNPROFOR, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Pedro Luis ECHEVERRIA
  chancery:
    1099 30th Street NW, Washington, DC 20007
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Boston, Chicago, Houston, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco, and
    San Juan (Puerto Rico)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jeffrey DAVIDOW
  embassy:
    Avenida Francisco de Miranda and Avenida Principal de la Floresta, Caracas
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 62291, Caracas 1060-A; APO AA 34037
  telephone:
    [58] (2) 285-2222, 3111
  FAX:
    [58] (2) 285-0366
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Venezuela
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Despite efforts to broaden the base of the economy, petroleum continues to
    play a dominant role. In 1994, as GDP declined 3.3%, the oil sector - which
    accounts for 24% of the total - enjoyed a 6% expansion, provided 45% of the
    budget revenues, and generated 70% of the export earnings. President
    CALDERA, who assumed office in February 1994, has used an interventionist,
    reactive approach to managing the economy, instituting price and foreign
    exchange controls in mid-year to slow inflation and stop the loss of foreign
    exchange reserves. The government claims it will remove these controls once
    inflationary pressures abate, but the $8 billion bailout of the banking
    sector in 1994 has made it difficult for the government to make good on its
    promise. Economic controls, coupled with political uncertainty driven by
    recurrent coup rumors, continue to deter foreign and domestic investment;
    private forecasters see the recession persisting for a third year in 1995.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $178.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -3.3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $8,670 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    71% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    9% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $10.3 billion
  expenditures:
    $14.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $103 million (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $15.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    petroleum 72%, bauxite and aluminum, steel, chemicals, agricultural
    products, basic manufactures
  partners:
    US and Puerto Rico 55%, Japan, Netherlands, Italy
Imports:
    $7.6 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    raw materials, machinery and equipment, transport equipment, construction
    materials
  partners:
    US 40%, Germany, Japan, Netherlands, Canada
External debt:
    $40.1 billion (1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -1.4% (1993 est.); accounts for 41% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    18,740,000 kW
  production:
    72 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,311 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum, iron-ore mining, construction materials, food processing,
    textiles, steel, aluminum, motor vehicle assembly
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Venezuela
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 6% of GDP; products - corn, sorghum, sugarcane, rice, bananas,
    vegetables, coffee, beef, pork, milk, eggs, fish; not self-sufficient in
    food other than meat
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of cannabis, opium, and coca leaf for the international
    drug trade on a small scale; however, large quantities of cocaine and heroin
    transit the country from Colombia; important money-laundering hub
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-86), $488 million; Communist countries
    (1970-89), $10 million
Currency:
    1 bolivar (Bs) = 100 centimos
Exchange rates:
    bolivares (Bs) per US$1 - 169.570 (January 1995), 148.503 (1994), 90.826
    (1993), 68.38 (1992), 56.82 (1991), 46.90 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Venezuela
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    542 km (363 km single track; 179 km privately owned)
  standard gauge:
    542 km 1.435-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    81,000 km
  paved:
    31,200 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 24,800 km; earth and unimproved earth 25,000 km
Inland waterways:
    7,100 km; Rio Orinoco and Lago de Maracaibo accept oceangoing vessels
Pipelines:
    crude oil 6,370 km; petroleum products 480 km; natural gas 4,010 km
Ports:
    Amuay, Bajo Grande, El Tablazo, La Guaira, La Salina, Maracaibo, Matanzas,
    Palua, Puerto Cabello, Puerto la Cruz, Puerto Ordaz, Puerto Sucre, Punta
    Cardon
Merchant marine:
  total:
    39 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 686,811 GRT/1,110,829 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 4, cargo 11, combination bulk 1, liquefied gas tanker 2, oil tanker 15,
    passenger-cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 4, short-sea passenger 1
Airports:
  total:
    431
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    11
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    34
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    65
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    191
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    12
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    114
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Venezuela
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    1,440,000 telephones; modern and expanding
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    3 domestic satellite earth stations
  international:
    3 submarine coaxial cables; 1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 181, FM 0, shortwave 26
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    59
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Venezuela
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    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 Cooperation or Guardia
    Nacional)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 5,491,524; males fit for military service 3,981,190; males
    reach military age (18) annually 227,292 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $1.95 billion, 4% of GDP (1991)
Uganda
$UKRAINE - Passport and visa required.  Visas may be obtained at the
Ukraine Embassy in the U.S. (visas limited to 3  days may be obtained at
airports in Ukraine, or at any border crossing point).  Visa requires 1 form, 1
photo and $30-100 fee, depending upon processing time (company check or
money order only).  AIDS test may be required for anyone staying over 3
months.  U.S. test is sometimes accepted.  For additional information
contact Embassy of Ukraine, 3350 M St., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20007
(202/333-7507) or the nearest Consulate:  IL (312/384-6632) or NY
(212/505-1409).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Ukraine
============================================================
Ukraine - Consular Information Sheet
 February 3, 1995
Country Description:  Ukraine is a nation undergoing profound
political and economic change.  It is a newly independent nation
still in the process of stabilizing its relations with neighboring
countries.  Tourist facilities are not highly developed, and many of
the goods and services taken for granted in other countries are not
yet available.  Except for the cities of Sevastopol and Balaklava,
which remain formally closed to foreigners and non-residents, travel
within Ukraine is unrestricted.  Internal travel, especially by air,
may be disrupted by fuel shortages and other problems.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Visas can
be obtained in advance from the Embassy of Ukraine, located at 3350
M Street NW, Washington D.C. 20007, tel.[phone] or 333-7507,
or fax [phone].  Visas are also available from the Ukrainian
Consulates in Chicago and New York.  A letter of invitation from a
person, company, or organization in Ukraine or a tour company
voucher, is currently required to obtain a visa.  Travelers who
arrive without a visa must obtain one either at the border point or
within 24 hours of arrival.  Visas valid for 72 hours only are
issued at Kiev's Borispil Airport, at the airports of Lviv,
Simferopol and Odesa, and at the following border checkpoints:
Chop, Uzhhorod, Mostyska, Yalta, and Vadul-Syret.  Travelers who
cannot obtain visas as they enter Ukraine must apply within 24 hours
at a local "Visas, Permits and Passport Department" office of the
Ministry of Internal Affairs (VVIR).  Visas obtained in Ukraine cost
substantially more than visas obtained prior to travel--as much as
$150.00 U.S. dollars for a single entry visa. The duration of stay
will be determined by the traveler's letter of invitation.
Note: Travelers who intend to visit Russia from Ukraine must have a
Russian visa.  The Russian Embassy in Ukraine is located at Prospekt
Kutuzova 8, Kiev, tel: [phone].
Ukraine Registration:  All foreigners visiting Ukraine are required
to register their passports with local law enforcement authorities.
Visitors who do not register may experience delays when leaving
Ukraine, or difficulty when trying to extend visas.  The
registration requirement is automatically met when foreigners stay
in hotels, or when resident business persons register their
businesses, or when students register under established exchange
programs.  Private visitors must have their hosts, relatives or
landlords register their U.S. passport at the local "Visas, Permits
and Passport Department" office of the Ministry of Internal Affairs
(VVIR) office.  Foreigners staying three working days or less need
not register.  A fee of 10 U.S. dollars or the Ukrainian equivalent
is usually charged for visa extensions or passport registration.
Since December, 1993, foreign missionaries with expired Ukrainian
visas may only renew them with the support of the committee on
religious affairs of the city administration of the city in which
their sponsoring organization is registered.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Ukraine is limited.  The U.S.
Embassy maintains a list of English speaking physicians in the area.
 There is a severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including
disposable needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics.  Elderly travelers
and those with existing health problems may be at risk due to
inadequate medical facilities.  There have been isolated cases of
diphtheria, typhoid and cholera in Ukraine.  Adequate vaccination
usually protects against these diseases.  Doctors and hospitals
often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.
Some travelers, for instance, the elderly, may wish to purchase
insurance that covers the cost of medical air evacuation.  Further
information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control's international travelers hotline, tel: (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  The deteriorated state of the Ukrainian economy
has led to an increase in economically motivated crimes.  Inflation,
unemployment, and the breakdown of the country's social fabric have
contributed to an ever increasing and violent crime rate.
Westerners and their residences are increasingly being viewed by the
local criminal element as a target-rich environment.  The loss or
theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate. The
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad.  Additional information on the region can be
found in the brochure "Tips for Travelers to Russia".  Both
publications are available from the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Internal Travel:  Roads in Ukraine are in generally poor condition.
 Gasoline and diesel fuel may be very difficult to obtain and repair
services are often unsatisfactory.  Many Westerners who choose to
travel by automobile often rent a car and driver, although some
self-drive rental cars are available.  A few isolated cases of
carjackings of Western-made or foreign-registered cars in particular
have been reported in western Ukraine near the Polish border.
Recently, there has been an increase in the number of documented
reports of criminal acts occurring on Ukrainian trains; these acts
include gassings and robberies.  Make sure passenger compartment
doors are shut at night.
Aviation Oversight:  In March 1993, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Ukraine's civil aviation authority as in
compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards
for Ukraine carriers operating to and from the U.S.  The same level
of safety oversight would typically be applied to operations to
other destinations.  For further information, travelers may contact
the Department of Transportation at 1-800-322-7873.
Currency Regulations:  Ukraine is a cash economy.  Travelers'
checks and credit cards are rarely accepted, including for major
purchases such as airline tickets.  Customs regulations prohibit
sending money through the international mail system to Ukraine.
Money sent through the mail is subject to confiscation.  In Ukraine,
changing U.S. dollars for Ukrainian coupons or another currency is
legal only at banks, currency exchange desks at hotels and at
licensed exchange booths.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the Consular Section of
the U.S. Embassy may obtain updated information on travel and
security within Ukraine.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Kiev, Ukraine is located at
Yuria Kotsubinskoho 10,  telephone [phone].  The U.S.
Embassy's 24-hour emergency number (answered only in English after
working hours) is (7-044) 244-7345.
 No. 95-018
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Ukraine dated
September 7, 1994, to delete information on the winter energy crisis
and information on radiation levels.  Added information includes,
Ukraine registration requirements, internal travel, local crime
information, and notes a new after-hours phone number for the U.S.
Embassy.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
`JWJ                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ukraine
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Poland and Russia
Map references:
    Commonwealth of Independent States - European States
Area:
  total area:
    603,700 sq km
  land area:
    603,700 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 4,558 km, Belarus 891 km, Hungary 103 km, Moldova 939 km, Poland 428
    km, Romania (southwest) 169 km, Romania (west) 362 km, Russia 1,576 km,
    Slovakia 90 km
Coastline:
    2,782 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive economic zone:
    undefined
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    certain territory of Moldova and Ukraine - including Bessarabia and Northern
    Bukovina - are considered by Bucharest as historically a part of Romania;
    this territory was incorporated into the former Soviet Union following the
    Molotov-Ribbentrop Pact in 1940; potential dispute with Russia over Crimea;
    has made no territorial claim in Antarctica (but has reserved the right to
    do so) and does not recognize the claims of any other nation
Climate:
    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
Terrain:
    most of Ukraine 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
Natural resources:
    iron ore, coal, manganese, natural gas, oil, salt, sulphur, graphite,
    titanium, magnesium, kaolin, nickel, mercury, timber
Land use:
  arable land:
    56%
  permanent crops:
    2%
  meadows and pastures:
    12%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    30%
Irrigated land:
    26,000 sq km (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ukraine
                                    Geography
Environment:
  current issues:
    inadequate supplies of potable water; air and water pollution;
    deforestation; radiation contamination in the northeast from 1986 accident
    at Chornobyl' Nuclear Power Plant
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, Environmental Modification, Marine
    Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution; signed,
    but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic
    Compounds, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
Note:
    strategic position at the crossroads between Europe and Asia; second largest
    country in Europe
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ukraine
                                     People
Population:
    51,867,828 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    21% (female 5,217,850; male 5,407,450)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 17,563,924; male 16,334,299)
  65 years and over:
    14% (female 4,976,893; male 2,367,412) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.04% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    12.31 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.67 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.71 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    20.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    70.11 years
  male:
    65.59 years
  female:
    74.87 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.81 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Ukrainian(s)
  adjective:
    Ukrainian
Ethnic divisions:
    Ukrainian 73%, Russian 22%, Jewish 1%, other 4%
Religions:
    Ukrainian Orthodox - Moscow Patriarchate, Ukrainian Orthodox - Kiev
    Patriarchate, Ukrainian Autocephalous Orthodox, Ukrainian Catholic (Uniate),
    Protestant, Jewish
Languages:
    Ukrainian, Russian, Romanian, Polish, Hungarian
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    98%
  male:
    100%
  female:
    97%
Labor force:
    23.55 million (January 1994)
  by occupation:
    industry and construction 33%, agriculture and forestry 21%, health,
    education, and culture 16%, trade and distribution 7%, transport and
    communication 7%, other 16% (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ukraine
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Ukraine
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Ukrayina
  former:
    Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic
Digraph:
    UP
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Kiev (Kyyiv)
Administrative divisions:
    24 oblasti (singular - oblast'), 1 autonomous republic* (avtomnaya
    respublika), and 2 municipalites (mista, singular - misto) with oblast
    status**; Cherkas'ka (Cherkasy), Chernihivs'ka (Chernihiv), Chernivets'ka
    (Chernivtsi), Dnipropetrovs'ka (Dnipropetrovs'k), Donets'ka (Donets'k),
    Ivano-Frankivs'ka (Ivano-Frankivs'k), Kharkivs'ka (Kharkiv), Khersons'ka
    (Kherson), Khmel'nyts'ka (Khmel'nyts'kyy), Kirovohrads'ka (Kirovohrad),
    Kyyiv**, Kyyivs'ka (Kiev), Luhans'ka (Luhans'k), L'vivs'ka (L'viv),
    Mykolayivs'ka (Mykolayiv), Odes'ka (Odesa), Poltavs'ka (Poltava), Respublika
    Krym* (Simferopol'), Rivnens'ka (Rivne), Sevastopol'**, Sums'ka
    (Sevastopol'), Ternopil's'ka (Ternopil'), Vinnyts'ka (Vinnytsya), Volyns'ka
    (Luts'k), Zakarpats'ka (Uzhhorod), Zaporiz'ka (Zaporizhzhya), Zhytomyrs'ka
    (Zhytomyr)
  note:
    names in parentheses are administrative centers when name differs from
    oblast' name
Independence:
    1 December 1991 (from Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 24 August (1991)
Constitution:
    using 1978 pre-independence constitution; new constitution currently being
    drafted
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; no judicial review of legislative acts
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Leonid D. KUCHMA (since 19 July 1994); election last held 26 June
    and 10 July 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - Leonid KUCHMA 52.15%,
    Leonid KRAVCHUK 45.06%
  head of government:
    Acting Prime Minister Yeuben MARCHUK (since 3 March 1995); First Deputy
    Prime Ministers Yevhen MARCHUK and Viktor PYNZENYK (since 31 October 1994)
    and six deputy prime ministers
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president and approved by the Supreme
    Council
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ukraine
                                   Government
  National Security Council:
    originally created in 1992, but signficantly 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 Kiev and Sevastopol City Supreme Councils
Legislative branch:
    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 Crimea
    1, Christian Democrats 1, independents 225; note - 405 deputies have been
    elected; run-off elections for the remaining 45 seats to be held by December
    1998
Judicial branch:
    joint commission formed in April 1995 to define a program of judicial reform
    by year-end
Political parties and leaders:
    Green Party of Ukraine, Vitaliy KONONOV, leader; Liberal Party of Ukraine;
    Liberal Democratic Party of Ukraine, Volodymyr KLYMCHUK, chairman;
    Democratic Party of Ukraine, Volodymyr Oleksandrovych YAVORIVSKIY, chairman;
    People's Party of Ukraine, Leopol'd TABURYANSKYY, chairman; Peasants' Party
    of Ukraine, Serhiy DOVHRAN', chairman; Party of Democratic Rebirth (Revival)
    of Ukraine, Volodymyr FILENKO, chairman; Social Democratic Party of Ukraine,
    Yuriy VUZDUHAN, chairman; Socialist Party of Ukraine, 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, Mykhaylo HRECHKO, chairman; Ukrainian Peasants' Democratic Party,
    Serhiy PLACHINDA, chairman; Ukrainian Republican Party, Mykhaylo HORYN',
    chairman; Ukrainian National Conservative Party, Viktor RADIONOV, chairman;
    Ukrainian People's Movement for Restructuring (Rukh), Vyacheslav CHORNOVIL,
    chairman; Ukrainian Communist Party, Petr SYMONENKO; Agrarian Party;
    Congress of Ukrainian Nationalists, S. STESTKO; Civil Congress, O. BAZYLUK;
    Party of Economic Revival of Crimea; Democratic Party Of Ukraine, Serhiy
    DOVMAN', chairman
Other political or pressure groups:
    New Ukraine (Nova Ukrayina); Congress of National Democratic Forces
Member of:
    BSEC, CCC, CE (guest), CEI (associate members), CIS, EBRD, ECE, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICRM, IFC, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user),
    INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD,
    UNESCO, UNIDO, UNPROFOR, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Yuriy SHCHERBAK
  chancery:
    3350 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20007
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ukraine
                                   Government
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Chicago and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador William Green MILLER
  embassy:
    10 Yuria Kotsyubinskovo, 252053 Kiev 53
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [7] [phone], 244-37-45
  FAX:
    [7] [phone]
Flag:
    two equal horizontal bands of azure (top) and golden yellow represent
    grainfields under a blue sky
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ukraine
                                     Economy
Overview:
    After Russia, the Ukrainian republic was far and away the most important
    economic component of the former Soviet Union, producing more than three
    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 and fiscal policies
    pushed inflation to hyperinflationary levels in late 1993. Greater monetary
    and fiscal restraint lowered inflation in 1994, but also contributed to an
    accelerated decline in industrial output. Since his election in July 1994,
    President KUCHMA has developed - and parliament has approved - a
    comprehensive economic reform program, maintained financial discipline, and
    reduced state controls over prices, the exchange rate, and foreign trade.
    Implementation of KUCHMA's economic agenda will encounter considerable
    resistance from parliament, entrenched bureaucrats, and industrial interests
    and will contribute to further declines in output and rising unemployment
    which will sorely test the government's ability to stay the course on reform
    in 1995.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $189.2 billion (1994 estimate as
    extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    -19% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,650 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    14% per month (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    0.4% officially registered; large number of unregistered or underemployed
    workers
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $11.8 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    coal, electric power, ferrous and nonferrous metals, chemicals, machinery
    and transport equipment, grain, meat
  partners:
    FSU countries, China, Italy, Switzerland
Imports:
    $14.2 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    energy, machinery and parts, transportation equipment, chemicals, textiles
  partners:
    FSU countries, Germany, Poland, Czech Republic
External debt:
    $7.5 billion (yearend 1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -28% (1994 est.); accounts for 50% of GDP
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ukraine
                                     Economy
Electricity:
  capacity:
    54,380,000 kW
  production:
    182 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,200 kWh (1994)
Industries:
    coal, electric power, ferrous and nonferrous metals, machinery and transport
    equipment, chemicals, food-processing (especially sugar)
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 25% of GDP; grain, vegetables, meat, milk, sugar beets
Illicit drugs:
    illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for CIS consumption;
    limited government eradication program; used as transshipment point for
    illicit drugs to Western Europe
Economic aid:
    $550 million economic aid and $350 million to help disassemble the atomic
    weapons from the US in 1994
Currency:
    Ukraine withdrew the Russian ruble from circulation on 12 November 1992 and
    declared the karbovanets (plural karbovantsi) sole legal tender in Ukrainian
    markets; Ukrainian officials claim this is an interim move toward
    introducing a new currency - the hryvnya - possibly in mid-1995
Exchange rates:
    karbovantsi per 1$US - 107,900 (end December 1994), 130,000 (April 1994)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ukraine
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    23,350 km
  broad gauge:
    23,350 km 1.524-m gauge (8,600 km electrified)
Highways:
  total:
    273,700 km
  paved and graveled:
    236,400 km
  unpaved:
    earth 37,300 km
Inland waterways:
    1,672 km perennially navigable (Pryp''yat' and Dnipro Rivers)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 2,010 km; petroleum products 1,920 km; natural gas 7,800 km (1992)
Ports:
    Berdyans'k, Illichivs'k, Izmayil, Kerch, Kherson, Kiev (Kyyiv), Mariupol',
    Mykolayiv, Odesa, Pivdenne, Reni
Merchant marine:
  total:
    379 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 3,799,253 GRT/5,071,175 DWT
  ships by type:
    barge carrier 7, bulk 55, cargo 221, chemical tanker 2, container 20,
    multifunction large-load carrier 1, oil tanker 10, passenger 12,
    passenger-cargo 5, railcar carrier 2, refrigerated cargo 5, roll-on/roll-off
    cargo 32, short-sea passenger 7
Airports:
  total:
    706
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    14
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    55
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    34
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    57
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    7
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    7
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    16
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    37
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    476
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ukraine
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    7,886,000 telephone circuits; about 151.4 telephone circuits/1,000 persons
    (1991); the telephone system is inadequate 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 Kiev, Odesa, and Luhans'k by Sprint
  local:
    an NMT-450 analog cellular telephone network operates in Kiev (Kyyiv) and
    allows direct dialing of international calls through Kiev's EWSD digital
    exchange
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    calls to other CIS countries are carried by land line or microwave; other
    international calls to 167 countries are carried by satellite or by the 150
    leased lines through the Moscow gateway switch; INTELSAT, INMARSAT, and
    Intersputnik earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    15 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    20 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Ukraine
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Republic Security Forces (internal
    and border troops), National Guard
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 12,324,832; males fit for military service 9,667,642; males
    reach military age (18) annually 359,546 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    544.3 billion karbovantsi, less than 4% of GDP (forecast for 1993); note -
    conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current
    exchange rate could produce misleading results
Turkey
+TURKMENISTAN - Passport and visa required.  At the time of publication,
visa issuances are being handled by the Russian Consulate.  The visa
process must be  initiated in Turkmenistan by the sponsoring agency or
by the travel agent involved; no visa request is initiated at the Russian
Consulate.  Visas are not issued until an approval cable arrives from
the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Turkmenistan to the Russian Consulate.
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Turkmenistan
============================================================
Turkmenistan - Consular Information Sheet
 July 28, 1995
Country Description:  Smallest in population of the former Soviet
Republics, Turkmenistan in many ways remains unchanged from the old
regime.  It is a country where tourist facilities are not highly
developed and many of the goods and services taken for granted in
other European countries are not yet available.  Internal travel,
especially by air, may be disrupted unexpectedly and on short notice.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Without a
visa, travelers cannot register at hotels and will be required to
leave the country immediately via the route by which they entered.
Visas for Turkmenistan are issued at the Embassy of Turkmenistan,
1511 K Street, N.W., Suite 412, Washington, D.C. 20005, telephone
[phone].  Visas may also be obtained on arrival at the
airport for approximately 20 dollars for a ten day stay, without
presenting an invitation letter.  Extensions may be authorized by
applying at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  A letter of invitation
should then be furnished by the traveler's host to support the
application.  American citizens who arrive in Turkmenistan without
visas by car or train at the land border crossing points should
obtain the visas at the Velayat Hiakimliks (regional mayor's
offices).  Americans arriving in Turkmenistan from Azerbaijan on a
ferry should find a Ministry of Foreign Affairs representative at
the seaport of Turkmenbashi.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Turkmenistan is limited.  The
U.S. Embassy maintains a list of English speaking physicians in the
area.  There is a severe shortage of basic medical supplies,
including disposable needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics.  Elderly
travelers and those with existing health problems may be at risk due
to inadequate medical facilities.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  Travelers
have found that in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.  Further
information on health matters can be obtained from the Center for
Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline,
tel: [phone].
Crime Information:  Turkmenistan has a low rate of violent crime,
but common street crime has increased, especially at night.  The
U.S. Embassy recommends that westerners, especially women, not walk
or take public transportation or taxis alone, especially after dark.
 The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad"
provides useful information on guarding valuables and protecting
personal security while traveling abroad.  Additional information on
the region can be found in the brochure, "Tips for Travelers to
Russia."  Both publications are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington  D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Turkmenistan is a cash only economy,
although several new hotels accept credit cards.  Vneshekonombank
accepts travelers checks.  Commercial and other checks require from
one to two months to clear.  Vnesheconombank accepts Mastercard,
Visa and Eurocards for cash advances.  Travelers are advised to take
only new, clean dollar bills with them (1990 and newer).  Banks
frequently do not have small bills for change.  More detailed
information is available at the U.S. Embassy.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  There is no allowable blood
alcohol content for drivers.  A driver who has taken one detectable
drink may be fined or jailed.  Penalties for possession, use, or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  Americans are encouraged to
register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy where they can
obtain updated information on travel and security within
Turkmenistan.  The U.S. Embassy is located in Ashgabat at Pushkin
Street, No. 9, telephones:  (7-3632) 35-00-45, (7-3632) 35-00-46.
 No. 95-083
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Turkmenistan dated
July 29, 1994 to add information on entry requirements, currency
regulations, drug penalties and U.S. Embassy location and telephone
numbers.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
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Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Turkmenistan
============================================================
Turkmenistan - Consular Information Sheet
 July 28, 1995
Country Description:  Smallest in population of the former Soviet
Republics, Turkmenistan in many ways remains unchanged from the old
regime.  It is a country where tourist facilities are not highly
developed and many of the goods and services taken for granted in
other European countries are not yet available.  Internal travel,
especially by air, may be disrupted unexpectedly and on short notice.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Without a
visa, travelers cannot register at hotels and will be required to
leave the country immediately via the route by which they entered.
Visas for Turkmenistan are issued at the Embassy of Turkmenistan,
1511 K Street, N.W., Suite 412, Washington, D.C. 20005, telephone
[phone].  Visas may also be obtained on arrival at the
airport for approximately 20 dollars for a ten day stay, without
presenting an invitation letter.  Extensions may be authorized by
applying at the Ministry of Foreign Affairs.  A letter of invitation
should then be furnished by the traveler's host to support the
application.  American citizens who arrive in Turkmenistan without
visas by car or train at the land border crossing points should
obtain the visas at the Velayat Hiakimliks (regional mayor's
offices).  Americans arriving in Turkmenistan from Azerbaijan on a
ferry should find a Ministry of Foreign Affairs representative at
the seaport of Turkmenbashi.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Turkmenistan is limited.  The
U.S. Embassy maintains a list of English speaking physicians in the
area.  There is a severe shortage of basic medical supplies,
including disposable needles, anesthetics, and antibiotics.  Elderly
travelers and those with existing health problems may be at risk due
to inadequate medical facilities.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  Travelers
have found that in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with
specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.  Further
information on health matters can be obtained from the Center for
Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline,
tel: [phone].
Crime Information:  Turkmenistan has a low rate of violent crime,
but common street crime has increased, especially at night.  The
U.S. Embassy recommends that westerners, especially women, not walk
or take public transportation or taxis alone, especially after dark.
 The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad"
provides useful information on guarding valuables and protecting
personal security while traveling abroad.  Additional information on
the region can be found in the brochure, "Tips for Travelers to
Russia."  Both publications are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington  D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Turkmenistan is a cash only economy,
although several new hotels accept credit cards.  Vneshekonombank
accepts travelers checks.  Commercial and other checks require from
one to two months to clear.  Vnesheconombank accepts Mastercard,
Visa and Eurocards for cash advances.  Travelers are advised to take
only new, clean dollar bills with them (1990 and newer).  Banks
frequently do not have small bills for change.  More detailed
information is available at the U.S. Embassy.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  There is no allowable blood
alcohol content for drivers.  A driver who has taken one detectable
drink may be fined or jailed.  Penalties for possession, use, or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy Location:  Americans are encouraged to
register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy where they can
obtain updated information on travel and security within
Turkmenistan.  The U.S. Embassy is located in Ashgabat at Pushkin
Street, No. 9, telephones:  (7-3632) 35-00-45, (7-3632) 35-00-46.
 No. 95-083
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Turkmenistan dated
July 29, 1994 to add information on entry requirements, currency
regulations, drug penalties and U.S. Embassy location and telephone
numbers.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
2                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Turkmenistan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Asia, bordering the Caspian Sea, between Iran and Kazakhstan
Map references:
    Commonwealth of Independent States - Central Asian States
Area:
  total area:
    488,100 sq km
  land area:
    488,100 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than California
Land boundaries:
    total 3,736 km, Afghanistan 744 km, Iran 992 km, Kazakhstan 379 km,
    Uzbekistan 1,621 km
Coastline:
    0 km
  note:
    Turkmenistan borders the Caspian Sea (1,768 km)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    Caspian Sea boundaries are not yet determined
Climate:
    subtropical desert
Terrain:
    flat-to-rolling sandy desert with dunes rising to mountains in the south;
    low mountains along border with Iran; borders Caspian Sea in west
Natural resources:
    petroleum, natural gas, coal, sulphur, salt
Land use:
  arable land:
    2%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    69%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    29%
Irrigated land:
    12,450 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    contamination of soil and groundwater with agricultural chemicals,
    pesticides; salinization, water-logging of soil due to poor irrigation
    methods; Caspian Sea pollution; 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; desertification
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Ozone Layer Protection
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Turkmenistan
                                     People
Population:
    4,075,316 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    40% (female 798,620; male 821,550)
  15-64 years:
    56% (female 1,155,392; male 1,128,844)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 105,424; male 65,486) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.97% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    29.93 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.34 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -2.92 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    68.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    65.35 years
  male:
    61.85 years
  female:
    69.02 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.72 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Turkmen(s)
  adjective:
    Turkmen
Ethnic divisions:
    Turkmen 73.3%, Russian 9.8%, Uzbek 9%, Kazakh 2%, other 5.9%
Religions:
    Muslim 87%, Eastern Orthodox 11%, unknown 2%
Languages:
    Turkmen 72%, Russian 12%, Uzbek 9%, other 7%
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    98%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    97%
Labor force:
    1.642 million (January 1994)
  by occupation:
    agriculture and forestry 44%, industry and construction 20%, other 36%
    (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Turkmenistan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Turkmenistan
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    Turkmenistan
  former:
    Turkmen Soviet Socialist Republic
Digraph:
    TX
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Ashgabat
Administrative divisions:
    5 welayatlar (singular - welayat): Ahal Welayaty (Ashgabat), Balkan Welayaty
    (Nebitdag), Dashhowuz Welayaty (formerly Tashauz), Lebap Welayaty (Charjew),
    Mary Welayaty
  note:
    names in parentheses are administrative centers when name differs from
    welayat name
Independence:
    27 October 1991 (from the Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 27 October (1991)
Constitution:
    adopted 18 May 1992
Legal system:
    based on civil law system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Saparmurad NIYAZOV (since NA October 1990); 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)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister (vacant); Deputy Prime Ministers Orazgeldi AYDOGDIYEV (since
    NA), Babamurad BAZAROV (since NA), Khekim ISHANOV (since NA), Valeriy
    OTCHERTSOV (since NA), Yagmur OVEZOV (since NA), Matkarim RAJAPOV (since
    NA), Abad RIZAYEVA (since NA), Rejep SAPAROV (since NA), Boris SHIKHMURADOV
    (since NA), Batyr SARJAYEV (since NA)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
Legislative branch:
    under 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); results - percent
    of vote by party NA; seats - (50 total) Democratic Party 45, other 5; note -
    all 50 preapproved by President NIYAZOV
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Turkmenistan
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Democratic Party of Turkmenistan, Saparmurad NIYAZOV; Party for Democratic
    Development, Durdymurat HOJA-MUKHAMMED, chairman; Agzybirlik, Nurberdy
    NURMAMEDOV, cochairman, Hubayberdi HALLIYEV, cochairman
  note:
    formal opposition parties are outlawed; unofficial, small opposition
    movements exist underground or in foreign countries
Member of:
    CCC, CIS, EBRD, ECE, ECO, ESCAP, IBRD, ICAO, IDB, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT
    (nonsignatory user), IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NACC, OIC, OSCE, PFP,
    UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WHO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Khalil UGUR
  chancery:
    1511 K Street NW, Suite 412, Washington, DC 20005
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Joseph S. HULINGS III
  embassy:
    6 Teheran Street, Yubilenaya Hotel, Ashgabat
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [7] [phone], 24-49-22
  FAX:
    [7] [phone]
Flag:
    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 assymetrical 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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Turkmenistan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Turkmenistan is largely desert country with nomadic cattle raising,
    intensive agriculture in irrigated oases, and huge gas and oil resources.
    Half 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 significant 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, Russia'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. 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. With the onset of economic hard times, even
    cautious moves toward economic restructuring and privatization have slowed
    down. For 1995, Turkmenistan will face continuing constraints on its
    earnings because of its customers' inability to pay for their gas and a low
    average cotton crop in 1994. Turkmenistan is working hard to open new gas
    export channels through Iran and Turkey, but these may take many years to
    realize.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $13.1 billion (1994 estimate as extrapolated
    from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    -24% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,280 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    25% per month (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    NA
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $382 million to states outside the FSU (1994)
  commodities:
    natural gas, cotton, petroleum products, electricity, textiles, carpets
  partners:
    Ukraine, Russia, Kazakhstan, Uzbekistan, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Armenia,
    Eastern Europe, Turkey, Argentina
Imports:
    $304 million from states outside the FSU (1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and parts, grain and food, plastics and rubber, consumer durables,
    textiles
  partners:
    Russia, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kazakhstan, Turkey
External debt:
    NEGL
Industrial production:
    growth rate -25% (1994)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    2,480,000 kW
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Turkmenistan
                                     Economy
  production:
    10.5 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,600 kWh (1994)
Industries:
    natural gas, oil, petroleum products, textiles, food processing
Agriculture:
    cotton, grain, animal husbandry
Illicit drugs:
    illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for CIS consumption;
    limited government eradication program; used as transshipment point for
    illicit drugs from Southwest Asia to Western Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Turkmenistan has received about $200 million in bilateral aid credits
Currency:
    Turkmenistan introduced its national currency, the manat, on 1 November 1993
Exchange rates:
    manats per US$1 - multiple rate system: 10 (official) and 230 (permitted in
    transactions between the government and individuals)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Turkmenistan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,120 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines
  broad gauge:
    2,120 km 1.520-m gauge (1990)
Highways:
  total:
    23,000 km
  paved and graveled:
    18,300 km
  unpaved:
    earth 4,700 km (1990)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 250 km; natural gas 4,400 km
Ports:
    Turkmenbashi (formerly Krasnowodsk)
Airports:
  total:
    64
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    13
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    8
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    7
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    35
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Turkmenistan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; only 7.5 telephones/100 persons (1991); poorly developed
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    linked by cable and microwave to other CIS republics and to other countries
    by leased connections to the Moscow international gateway switch; a new
    telephone link from Ashgabat to Iran has been established; a new exchange in
    Ashgabat switches international traffic through Turkey via INTELSAT; 1
    Orbita and 1 INTELSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Turkmenistan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    National Guard, Republic Security Forces (internal and border troops), Joint
    Command Turkmenistan/Russia (Ground, Air, and Air Defense)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 993,321; males fit for military service 810,392; males reach
    military age (18) annually 40,430 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Tromelin Island
TUNISIA - Passport and onward/return ticket required.  Visas not
required for tourist/business stay up to 4 months.  For further information
consult Embassy of Tunisia, 1515 Mass.  Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20005
(202/862-1850) or nearest Consulate:  San Francisco (415/922-9222) or
New York (212/272-6962).
Tunisia - Consular Information Sheet
August 31, 1993
Country Description:  Tunisia is a presidential republic with a developing
economy.  Tourist facilities and means of transportation are widely
available, but vary in quality depending on price and location.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not required for a
stay of up to four months.  For further information concerning entry
requirements for Tunisia, travelers may contact the Embassy of Tunisia at
1515 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. [phone], or the
Tunisian Consulate General in New York, telephone [phone], or in San
Francisco, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Tunisia is available, but limited;
specialized care or treatment may not be available.  Doctors and hospitals
expect immediate cash payment for health care services.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States. Supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage, including medical
evacuation, has proved useful.  Specific health questions can be addressed
to the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline,
telephone [phone].
Crime Information:  Tunisia has a moderate crime rate in urban areas.
Criminals have targeted tourists for thefts, pickpocketings, and scams,
though crimes are usually non-confrontational in nature.  The loss or theft
of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately to local police and
the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding
valuables, protecting personal security, and other matters while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip
Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to the Middle East and North Africa."  They
are available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Travelers checks and credit cards are accepted at
some establishments in Tunisia, mainly in urban or tourist areas.  The
Tunisian dinar is not yet a fully convertible currency.  Tunisian law
prohibits the export or import of Tunisian banknotes or coins.  Tourists are
expected to make foreign exchange transactions at authorized banks or
dealers and to retain receipts for dinars obtained.  Under new foreign
currency exchange regulations, a tourist can reconvert to foreign currency
30 percent of what has been exchanged into dinars, up to a maximum of $100.
Declaring currency upon entering Tunisia and obtaining a receipt for dinars
purchased thereafter will facilitate reconverting dinars to U.S. dollars.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal practices
of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use, or
trafficking in illegal drugs are severe in Tunisia, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Security Concerns:  Tunisia has open borders with Libya and Algeria.
(Please refer to Consular Information Sheets for those countries.)  The
presence of the headquarters of the Palestinian Liberation Organization in
Tunis makes the possibility of terrorism a concern.  However, there have
been no instances where U.S. citizens or facilities in Tunisia have been
subject to terrorist attacks.  The government of Tunisia takes many security
measures for the benefit of the many tourists who visit Tunisia.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the Consular Section of the
U.S. Embassy may be enrolled in the Embassy's emergency alert network, and
can obtain updated information on travel and security within Tunisia.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Tunisia is located at 144 Avenue de
la Liberte, 1002 Tunis-Belvedere, in the capital city of Tunis, telephone
(216-1) 782-566, fax [phone].
No. 93-226
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Tunisia dated January 8,
1993 to update the section on security, to include new Tunisian currency
regulations, and to add information on reporting the loss or theft of a U.S.
passport abroad.
0                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tunisia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Algeria and Libya
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    163,610 sq km
  land area:
    155,360 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Georgia
Land boundaries:
    total 1,424 km, Algeria 965 km, Libya 459 km
Coastline:
    1,148 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    maritime boundary dispute with Libya; land boundary dispute with Algeria
    settled in 1993; Malta and Tunisia are discussing the commercial
    exploitation of the continental shelf between their countries, particularly
    for oil exploration
Climate:
    temperate in north with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers; desert in
    south
Terrain:
    mountains in north; hot, dry central plain; semiarid south merges into the
    Sahara
Natural resources:
    petroleum, phosphates, iron ore, lead, zinc, salt
Land use:
  arable land:
    20%
  permanent crops:
    10%
  meadows and pastures:
    19%
  forest and woodland:
    4%
  other:
    47%
Irrigated land:
    2,750 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    toxic and hazardous waste disposal is ineffective and presents human health
    risks; water pollution from raw sewage; limited natural fresh water
    resources; deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental
    Modification, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified -
    Desertification, Marine Life Conservation
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tunisia
                                    Geography
Note:
    strategic location in central Mediterranean
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tunisia
                                     People
Population:
    8,879,845 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    35% (female 1,507,866; male 1,563,411)
  15-64 years:
    60% (female 2,665,586; male 2,672,712)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 226,201; male 244,069) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.69% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    22.52 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.86 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.74 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    32.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    73.25 years
  male:
    71.16 years
  female:
    75.44 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.73 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Tunisian(s)
  adjective:
    Tunisian
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab-Berber 98%, European 1%, Jewish less than 1%
Religions:
    Muslim 98%, Christian 1%, Jewish 1%
Languages:
    Arabic (official and one of the languages of commerce), French (commerce)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    57%
  male:
    69%
  female:
    45%
Labor force:
    2.25 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 32%
  note:
    shortage of skilled labor
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tunisia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Tunisia
  conventional short form:
    Tunisia
  local long form:
    Al Jumhuriyah at Tunisiyah
  local short form:
    Tunis
Digraph:
    TS
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Tunis
Administrative divisions:
    23 governorates; Beja, Ben Arous, Bizerte, Gabes, Gafsa, Jendouba, Kairouan,
    Kasserine, Kebili, L'Ariana, Le Kef, Mahdia, Medenine, Monastir, Nabeul,
    Sfax, Sidi Bou Zid, Siliana, Sousse, Tataouine, Tozeur, Tunis, Zaghouan
Independence:
    20 March 1956 (from France)
National holiday:
    National Day, 20 March (1956)
Constitution:
    1 June 1959; amended 12 July 1988
Legal system:
    based on French civil law system and Islamic law; some judicial review of
    legislative acts in the Supreme Court in joint session
Suffrage:
    20 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Zine el Abidine BEN ALI (since 7 November 1987); election last
    held 20 March 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - President Zine el
    Abidine BEN ALI was reelected without opposition
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Hamed KAROUI (since 26 September 1989)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Court of Cassation (Cour de Cassation)
Political parties and leaders:
    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
Other political or pressure groups:
    the Islamic fundamentalist party, An Nahda (Rebirth), is outlawed
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tunisia
                                   Government
Member of:
    ABEDA, ACCT, AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, AMU, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, GATT, IAEA,
    IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO,
    INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, NAM, OAPEC (withdrew
    from active membership in 1986), OAS (observer), OAU, OIC, UN, UNAMIR,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNITAR, UNMIH, UNPROFOR, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO,
    WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Mohamed Azzouz ENNAIFER
  chancery:
    1515 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Mary Ann CASEY
  embassy:
    144 Avenue de la Liberte, 1002 Tunis-Belvedere
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [216] (1) 782-566
  FAX:
    [216] (1) 789-719
Flag:
    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
    Islam
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tunisia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Tunisia 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 roughly
    5% in 1991-94, and inflation has been moderate. Growth in tourism and IMF
    support have been key elements in this solid record. Further privatization
    and further improvements in government administrative efficiency are among
    the challenges for the future.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $37.1 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4.4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,250 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    4.5% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    16.2% (1993 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $4.3 billion
  expenditures:
    $5.5 billion, including capital expenditures to $NA (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $4.6 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    hydrocarbons, agricultural products, phosphates and chemicals
  partners:
    EC countries 75%, Middle East 10%, Algeria 2%, India 2%, US 1%
Imports:
    $6.5 billion (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    industrial goods and equipment 57%, hydrocarbons 13%, food 12%, consumer
    goods
  partners:
    EC countries 70%, US 5%, Middle East 2%, Japan 2%, Switzerland 1%, Algeria
    1%
External debt:
    $7.7 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5% (1989); accounts for 22% of GDP, including petroleum
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,410,000 kW
  production:
    5.4 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    595 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum, mining (particularly phosphate and iron ore), tourism, textiles,
    footwear, food, beverages
Agriculture:
    accounts for 16% of GDP and one-third of labor force; output subject to
    severe fluctuations because of frequent droughts; export crops - olives,
    dates, oranges, almonds; other products - grain, sugar beets, wine grapes,
    poultry, beef, dairy; not self-sufficient in food
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tunisia
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $730 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89) $52 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $684 million; Communist countries (1970-89),  $410
    million
Currency:
    1 Tunisian dinar (TD) = 1,000 millimes
Exchange rates:
    Tunisian dinars (TD) per US$1 - 0.9849 (January 1995), 1.0116 (1994), 1.0037
    (1993), 0.8844 (1992), 0.9246 (1991), 0.8783 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tunisia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,260 km
  standard gauge:
    492 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    1,758 km 1.000-m gauge
  dual gauge:
    10 km 1.000-m and 1.435-m gauges
Highways:
  total:
    29,183 km
  paved:
    bituminous 17,510 km
  unpaved:
    improved, unimproved earth 11,673 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 797 km; petroleum products 86 km; natural gas 742 km
Ports:
    Bizerte, Gabes, La Goulette, Sfax, Sousse, Tunis, Zarzis
Merchant marine:
  total:
    19 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 129,035 GRT/168,032 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 6, cargo 5, chemical tanker 4, oil tanker 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2,
    short-sea passenger 1
Airports:
  total:
    31
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    6
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    8
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    7
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tunisia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    233,000 telephones; 28 telephones/1,000 persons; the system is above the
    African average; key centers are Sfax, Sousse, Bizerte, and Tunis
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    facilities consist of open-wire lines, coaxial cable, and microwave radio
    relay
  international:
    5 submarine cables; 1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) and 1 ARABSAT earth station
    with back-up control station; coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to
    Algeria and Libya
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 7, FM 8, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    19
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Tunisia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary forces, National Guard
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,294,912; males fit for military service 1,317,642; males
    reach military age (20) annually 93,601 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $549 million, 3% of GDP (1994)
San Marino
ST. PIERRE - Proof of U.S. citizenship and photo ID required for visit
up to 3 months.  For specific information consult Embassy of France
(202/944-6000).
!                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Saint Pierre and Miquelon
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territorial collectivity of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Saint Pierre and Miquelon
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern North America, islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, south of
    Newfoundland (Canada)
Map references:
    North America
Area:
  total area:
    242 sq km
  land area:
    242 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 1.5 times the size of Washington, DC
  note:
    includes eight small islands in the Saint Pierre and the Miquelon groups
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    120 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    focus of maritime boundary dispute between Canada and France
Climate:
    cold and wet, with much mist and fog; spring and autumn are windy
Terrain:
    mostly barren rock
Natural resources:
    fish, deepwater ports
Land use:
  arable land:
    13%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    4%
  other:
    83%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    persistent fog throughout the year can be a maritime hazard
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    vegetation scanty
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Saint Pierre and Miquelon
                                     People
Population:
    6,757 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    0.78% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    13.02 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.83 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.59 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    10.77 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    76 years
  male:
    74.4 years
  female:
    77.92 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.67 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Frenchman(men), Frenchwoman(women)
  adjective:
    French
Ethnic divisions:
    Basques and Bretons (French fishermen)
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 98%
Languages:
    French
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1982)
  total population:
    99%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    99%
Labor force:
    2,850 (1988)
  by occupation:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Saint Pierre and Miquelon
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Territorial Collectivity of Saint Pierre and Miquelon
  conventional short form:
    Saint Pierre and Miquelon
  local long form:
    Departement de Saint-Pierre et Miquelon
  local short form:
    Saint-Pierre et Miquelon
Digraph:
    SB
Type:
    territorial collectivity of France
Capital:
    Saint-Pierre
Administrative divisions:
    none (territorial collectivity of France)
Independence:
    none (territorial collectivity of France; has been under French control
    since 1763)
National holiday:
    National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July
Constitution:
    28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
Legal system:
    French law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Francois MITTERRAND (since 21 May 1981)
  head of government:
    Commissioner of the Republic Yves HENRY (since NA December 1993); President
    of the General Council Gerard GRIGNON (since NA April 1994)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
Legislative branch:
    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) seats by party NA
  French Senate:
    elections last held NA September 1986 (next to be held NA September 1995);
    results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) PS 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
Judicial branch:
    Superior Tribunal of Appeals (Tribunal Superieur d'Appel)
Political parties and leaders:
    Socialist Party (PS), Albert PEN; Union for French Democracy (UDF/CDS),
    Gerard GRIGNON
Member of:
    FZ, WFTU
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (territorial collectivity of France)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (territorial collectivity of France)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Saint Pierre and Miquelon
                                   Government
Flag:
    the flag of France is used
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Saint Pierre and Miquelon
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 March 1989, an
    agreement between France and Canada set fish quotas for Saint Pierre's
    trawlers fishing in Canadian and Canadian-claimed waters for three years.
    The agreement settles a longstanding dispute that had virtually brought fish
    exports to a halt. The islands are heavily subsidized by France. Imports
    come primarily from Canada and France.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $66 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $10,000 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    9.6% (1990)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $18.3 million
  expenditures:
    $18.3 million, including capital expenditures of $5.5 million (1989 est.)
Exports:
    $30 million (f.o.b., 1991 est.)
  commodities:
    fish and fish products, fox and mink pelts
  partners:
    US 58%, France 17%, UK 11%, Canada, Portugal (1990)
Imports:
    $82 million (c.i.f., 1991 est.)
  commodities:
    meat, clothing, fuel, electrical equipment, machinery, building materials
  partners:
    Canada, France, US, Netherlands, UK
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    10,000 kW
  production:
    50 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    6,013 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    fish processing and supply base for fishing fleets; tourism
Agriculture:
    vegetables, cattle, sheep, pigs for local consumption; fish catch of 20,500
    metric tons (1989)
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89),
    $500 million
Currency:
    1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Saint Pierre and Miquelon
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.2943 (January 1995), 5.520 (1994), 5.6632
    (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991), 5.4453 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Saint Pierre and Miquelon
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    120 km
  paved:
    60 km
  unpaved:
    earth 60 km (1985)
Ports:
    Saint Pierre
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Saint Pierre and Miquelon
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    3,601 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    radio communication with most countries in the world; 1 satellite link in
    French domestic satellite system
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                            Saint Pierre and Miquelon
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France
                             West Bank
                                     People
Population:
    1,319,991 (July 1995 est.)
  note:
    in addition, there are 122,000 Jewish settlers in the West Bank and 149,000
    in East Jerusalem (August 1994 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    46% (female 293,269; male 308,775)
  15-64 years:
    51% (female 335,193; male 337,722)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 25,759; male 19,273) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.5% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    39.83 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.84 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    29.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    71.42 years
  male:
    69.91 years
  female:
    73 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.34 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    NA
  adjective:
    NA
Ethnic divisions:
    Palestinian Arab and other 83%, Jewish 17%
Religions:
    Muslim 75% (predominantly Sunni), Jewish 17%, Christian and other 8%
Languages:
    Arabic, Hebrew (spoken by Israeli settlers), English (widely understood)
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    construction 28.2%, agriculture 21.8%, industry 14.5%, commerce,
    restaurants, and hotels 12.6%, other services 22.9% (1991)
  note:
    excluding Jewish settlers
                                    West Bank
                                   Government
Note:
    Under the Israeli-PLO Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government
    Arragements ("the DOP"), Israel agreed to transfer certain powers and
    responsibilities to the Palestinian Authority, and subsequently to an
    elected Palestinian Council, 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 Cairo 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. The DOP provides that
    Israel will retain responsibility during the transitional period for
    external security and for
Yemen
HZAIRE  Passport and visa required.  Visa must be obtained before
arrival. Transit visa for stay up to 8 days, single-entry $45; double-entry $70.
Tourist/business visa, valid 1 month $75-120, 2 months $140-180, 3
months $190-220 and 6 months $264-360, requires 3 photos, 3 applications,
yellow fever immunization and onward/return ticket.  Business visa also
requires company letter accepting financial responsibility for traveler.  No
personal checks, send money order and enclose SASE for return of
passport by mail.  Apply Embassy of the Republic of Zaire, 1800 New Hampshire
Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009 (202/234-7690/1) or Permanent Mission to
the U.N., 747 Third Ave., New York, NY 10017 (212/754-1966).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Zaire
============================================================
Zaire - Consular Information Sheet
 November 9, 1995
Country Description:  Zaire is the largest Sub-Saharan African
country.  Despite plentiful human and natural resources, it is in a
deep political and economic crisis which has resulted in the
dramatic deterioration of its physical infrastructure, insecurity
and increased crime in cities, occasional official hostility to U.S.
citizens and other expatriates, periodic shortages of basic items
such as gasoline, chronic shortages of medical supplies, high
inflation, corruption, and in some areas, serious malnutrition.
Tourism facilities are minimal and only essential travel is
recommended.
Entry Requirements:  A visa must be obtained in advance.  Travelers
should obtain the latest information from the Zairan Embassy, 1800
New Hampshire Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009 at [phone]
or 234-7691, or Zaire's Permanent Mission to the U.N. at 2 Henry
Avenue, North Caldwell, New Jersey 07006, telephone [phone].
Overseas, inquiries should be made at the nearest Zarian Embassy or
Consulate.
Areas of Instability:
(North and South Kivu Provinces) - Rwandan refugees near the cities
of Goma and Bukavu still number in the hundreds of thousands.
Foreigners have been the subject of attacks by armed bandits, some
of which have resulted in fatalities.  Explosive incidents in the
Goma region, many involving landmines, have increased dramatically
in recent months.
(Urban Areas) - Military mutinies in 1991 and 1993 caused many
deaths and major property loss, damage, and destruction in Kinshasa
and elsewhere.  The underlying causes of these mutinies -- the
inability of the Zairan government to pay the military enough to
support themselves and their families -- have not been resolved.
Civil disturbances, including looting and the possibility of
physical harm, can occur without warning in all urban areas.
Corrupt Zairan security personnel may seek bribes to perform their
duties, or single out foreigners and stop them on the street for
proof of immigration status.  Travelers are advised not to be
belligerent if confronted with these situations and to contact the
U.S. Embassy if taken into custody.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited and medicine is
in short supply.  Doctors and hospitals expect immediate cash
payment in full for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid or accepted outside the United States.  The
Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment of medical
services outside the United States.  In some cases, supplemental
medical insurance, with specific overseas and medical evacuation
coverage, has proven useful.  For additional information, travelers
can contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
International Travelers hotline [phone].
Information on Crime:  The deterioration of Zaire's economy has led
to an increase in crime.  Vehicle thefts, including armed
carjackings, occur, as do burglaries and other crimes.  The loss or
theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to
Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on protecting
personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region
in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20420.
In Country Travel:  Intercity roads are difficult at all times and
often impassable in the rainy season.  When driving in cities,
individuals should keep windows up and doors locked.  At roadblocks
or checkpoints, documents are shown through closed windows.
Visitors to the interior may be required to obtain a "mining permit"
in Kinshasa before continuing the trip, regardless of the purpose of
the trip.
(Zaire/Congo Border Crossing) - A special exit permit from Zaire's
immigration department and a visa from an embassy of the Congo are
required to cross the Congo River from Kinshasa to Brazzaville.
(Zaire/Central African Republic Border Crossing) - Ferry service to
the Central African Republic is not reliable.
Currency Regulations:  The foreign exchange office at N'Djili
airport in Kinshasa is closed.  U.S. dollars and travelers checks
can, in theory, be exchanged for local currency (New Zaire's) at
banks, but there is often insufficient new Zaire cash on hand to
make transactions.  Visitors may be given an unfavorable rate of
exchange, making any daily necessities extremely expensive.  Credit
cards are not widely accepted outside of a few major hotels.  Taking
Zairan currency out of the country is illegal.  With the continued
devaluation of the new Zaire currency, U.S. dollar cash has become a
popular means for unofficial transactions greater than 100 dollars.
Participating in unofficial money exchanges, however, is illegal.
Foreigners have been picked up for infractions and had their money
confiscated.  Large denominations of U.S. currency may not be widely
accepted.
Photography Restrictions:  Photography of public buildings,
military installations, and the banks of the Congo River is
forbidden.  Offenders can expect to be arrested, held for at least
several hours, and fined.  Film and cameras may also be confiscated.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
and trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In November 1992, the U.S. Federal
Aviation Administration assessed Zaire's civil aviation authority as
not in compliance with international aviation safety oversight
standards for Zaire's carriers operating to and from the U.S.
Typically, the same level of safety oversight is applied to
operations to other destinations.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at
1-800-322-7873.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to
register at the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa and to obtain updated
information on travel and security within Zaire.  The U.S. Embassy
is at 310 Avenue des Aviateurs, Kinshasa.  The telephone number is
(243-12) 21532 or 21628.  The Consular section of the Embassy is
located at Avenue d'Isiro, Mobil Building; the telephone number is
(243-12) 21532, extension 2376.  Telephone service is often
unreliable and cellular phones are becoming increasing popular.  The
Embassy's cellular switchboard phone number is (243-88) 43608.
American staff left the Consulate General in Lubumbashi in 1991;
the caretaker staff at the Consulate cannot provide consular
assistance.
 No. 95-145
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 2,
1994 to update paragraphs on entry requirements, areas of
instability, crime information, in country travel and Embassy phone
numbers.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Zaire
============================================================
Zaire - Public Announcement
 May 11, 1995
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
 For Immediate Release
The U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa has updated the information on the
Public Announcement issued May 8, 1995, regarding the possible
outbreak of a hemorrhagic fever in Zaire.  The Embassy reports the
cause of the hemorrhagic fever outbreak in the Kikwit area of
Bandundu Province, Zaire, is a strain of the Ebola virus,  as
confirmed by the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention,
Atlanta.  The Ebola virus is communicable and fatal to a high
percentage of those infected.  No known cure is available at this
time.  In addition, there is an ongoing outbreak of bloody diarrhea,
which is treatable but has also caused several deaths.  Zairian
authorities, assisted by international health organizations, are
working to contain the outbreak.  The area is now reportedly under
quarantine by the Zairian military.  Anyone planning to travel to or
near the affected area should postpone such travel.  The U.S.
Embassy will continue to monitor the situation and report new
developments as necessary.
Individuals requiring additional information on the Ebola virus may
contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta at
[phone] or
[phone].
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STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Zaire
============================================================
Zaire - Consular Information Sheet
 November 9, 1995
Country Description:  Zaire is the largest Sub-Saharan African
country.  Despite plentiful human and natural resources, it is in a
deep political and economic crisis which has resulted in the
dramatic deterioration of its physical infrastructure, insecurity
and increased crime in cities, occasional official hostility to U.S.
citizens and other expatriates, periodic shortages of basic items
such as gasoline, chronic shortages of medical supplies, high
inflation, corruption, and in some areas, serious malnutrition.
Tourism facilities are minimal and only essential travel is
recommended.
Entry Requirements:  A visa must be obtained in advance.  Travelers
should obtain the latest information from the Zairan Embassy, 1800
New Hampshire Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009 at [phone]
or 234-7691, or Zaire's Permanent Mission to the U.N. at 2 Henry
Avenue, North Caldwell, New Jersey 07006, telephone [phone].
Overseas, inquiries should be made at the nearest Zarian Embassy or
Consulate.
Areas of Instability:
(North and South Kivu Provinces) - Rwandan refugees near the cities
of Goma and Bukavu still number in the hundreds of thousands.
Foreigners have been the subject of attacks by armed bandits, some
of which have resulted in fatalities.  Explosive incidents in the
Goma region, many involving landmines, have increased dramatically
in recent months.
(Urban Areas) - Military mutinies in 1991 and 1993 caused many
deaths and major property loss, damage, and destruction in Kinshasa
and elsewhere.  The underlying causes of these mutinies -- the
inability of the Zairan government to pay the military enough to
support themselves and their families -- have not been resolved.
Civil disturbances, including looting and the possibility of
physical harm, can occur without warning in all urban areas.
Corrupt Zairan security personnel may seek bribes to perform their
duties, or single out foreigners and stop them on the street for
proof of immigration status.  Travelers are advised not to be
belligerent if confronted with these situations and to contact the
U.S. Embassy if taken into custody.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited and medicine is
in short supply.  Doctors and hospitals expect immediate cash
payment in full for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid or accepted outside the United States.  The
Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment of medical
services outside the United States.  In some cases, supplemental
medical insurance, with specific overseas and medical evacuation
coverage, has proven useful.  For additional information, travelers
can contact the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
International Travelers hotline [phone].
Information on Crime:  The deterioration of Zaire's economy has led
to an increase in crime.  Vehicle thefts, including armed
carjackings, occur, as do burglaries and other crimes.  The loss or
theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to
Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on protecting
personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region
in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20420.
In Country Travel:  Intercity roads are difficult at all times and
often impassable in the rainy season.  When driving in cities,
individuals should keep windows up and doors locked.  At roadblocks
or checkpoints, documents are shown through closed windows.
Visitors to the interior may be required to obtain a "mining permit"
in Kinshasa before continuing the trip, regardless of the purpose of
the trip.
(Zaire/Congo Border Crossing) - A special exit permit from Zaire's
immigration department and a visa from an embassy of the Congo are
required to cross the Congo River from Kinshasa to Brazzaville.
(Zaire/Central African Republic Border Crossing) - Ferry service to
the Central African Republic is not reliable.
Currency Regulations:  The foreign exchange office at N'Djili
airport in Kinshasa is closed.  U.S. dollars and travelers checks
can, in theory, be exchanged for local currency (New Zaire's) at
banks, but there is often insufficient new Zaire cash on hand to
make transactions.  Visitors may be given an unfavorable rate of
exchange, making any daily necessities extremely expensive.  Credit
cards are not widely accepted outside of a few major hotels.  Taking
Zairan currency out of the country is illegal.  With the continued
devaluation of the new Zaire currency, U.S. dollar cash has become a
popular means for unofficial transactions greater than 100 dollars.
Participating in unofficial money exchanges, however, is illegal.
Foreigners have been picked up for infractions and had their money
confiscated.  Large denominations of U.S. currency may not be widely
accepted.
Photography Restrictions:  Photography of public buildings,
military installations, and the banks of the Congo River is
forbidden.  Offenders can expect to be arrested, held for at least
several hours, and fined.  Film and cameras may also be confiscated.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
and trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In November 1992, the U.S. Federal
Aviation Administration assessed Zaire's civil aviation authority as
not in compliance with international aviation safety oversight
standards for Zaire's carriers operating to and from the U.S.
Typically, the same level of safety oversight is applied to
operations to other destinations.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at
1-800-322-7873.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens are encouraged to
register at the U.S. Embassy in Kinshasa and to obtain updated
information on travel and security within Zaire.  The U.S. Embassy
is at 310 Avenue des Aviateurs, Kinshasa.  The telephone number is
(243-12) 21532 or 21628.  The Consular section of the Embassy is
located at Avenue d'Isiro, Mobil Building; the telephone number is
(243-12) 21532, extension 2376.  Telephone service is often
unreliable and cellular phones are becoming increasing popular.  The
Embassy's cellular switchboard phone number is (243-88) 43608.
American staff left the Consulate General in Lubumbashi in 1991;
the caretaker staff at the Consulate cannot provide consular
assistance.
 No. 95-145
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 2,
1994 to update paragraphs on entry requirements, areas of
instability, crime information, in country travel and Embassy phone
numbers.
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8o8                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Zaire
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Africa, northeast of Angola
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    2,345,410 sq km
  land area:
    2,267,600 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than one-quarter the size of US
Land boundaries:
    total 10,271 km, Angola 2,511 km, Burundi 233 km, Central African Republic
    1,577 km, Congo 2,410 km, Rwanda 217 km, Sudan 628 km, Uganda 765 km, Zambia
    1,930 km
Coastline:
    37 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    boundaries with neighbors
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    Tanzania-Zaire-Zambia tripoint in Lake Tanganyika may no longer be
    indefinite since it is reported that the indefinite section of the
    Zaire-Zambia boundary has been settled; long section with Congo along the
    Congo River is indefinite (no division of the river or its islands has been
    made)
Climate:
    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
Terrain:
    vast central basin is a low-lying plateau; mountains in east
Natural resources:
    cobalt, copper, cadmium, petroleum, industrial and gem diamonds, gold,
    silver, zinc, manganese, tin, germanium, uranium, radium, bauxite, iron ore,
    coal, hydropower potential
Land use:
  arable land:
    3%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    4%
  forest and woodland:
    78%
  other:
    15%
Irrigated land:
    100 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    poaching threatens wildlife populations; water pollution; deforestation; 1.2
    million Rwandan refugees are responsible for significant deforestation, soil
    erosion, and wildlife poaching in eastern Zaire
  natural hazards:
    periodic droughts in south; volcanic activity
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Zaire
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, 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 - Desertification,
    Environmental Modification
Note:
    straddles Equator; very narrow strip of land that controls the lower Congo
    River and is only outlet to South Atlantic Ocean; dense tropical rain forest
    in central river basin and eastern highlands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Zaire
                                     People
Population:
    44,060,636 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 10,522,368; male 10,527,451)
  15-64 years:
    50% (female 11,211,353; male 10,630,118)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 647,307; male 522,039) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.18% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    48.33 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    16.57 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    in 1994, more than one million refugees fled into Zaire to escape the
    fighting between the Hutus and the Tutsis in Rwanda and Burundi; a small
    number of these are returning to their homes in 1995 despite fear of the
    ongoing violence; additionally, Zaire is host to 105,000 Angolan, more than
    250,000 Burundian and 100,000 Sudanese refugees; repatriation of Angolan
    refugees was suspended in May 1994 because of the recurrence of fighting in
    Angola; if present peace accords hold, repatriation of Angolans may
    recommence
Infant mortality rate:
    108.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    47.54 years
  male:
    45.68 years
  female:
    49.46 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.7 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Zairian(s)
  adjective:
    Zairian
Ethnic divisions:
    over 200 African ethnic groups, the majority are Bantu; four largest tribes
    - Mongo, Luba, Kongo (all Bantu), and the Mangbetu-Azande (Hamitic) make up
    about 45% of the population
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 50%, Protestant 20%, Kimbanguist 10%, Muslim 10%, other
    syncretic sects and traditional beliefs 10%
Languages:
    French, Lingala, Swahili, Kingwana, Kikongo, Tshiluba
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    72%
  male:
    84%
  female:
    61%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Zaire
                                     People
Labor force:
    15 million (25% of the labor force comprises wage earners)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 75%, industry 13%, services 12% (1985)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Zaire
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Zaire
  conventional short form:
    Zaire
  local long form:
    Republique du Zaire
  local short form:
    Zaire
  former:
    Belgian Congo Congo/Leopoldville  Congo/Kinshasa
Digraph:
    CG
Type:
    republic with a strong presidential system
Capital:
    Kinshasa
Administrative divisions:
    10 regions (regions, singular - region) and 1 town* (ville); Bandundu,
    Bas-Zaire, Equateur, Haut-Zaire, Kasai-Occidental, Kasai-Oriental,
    Kinshasa*, Maniema, Nord-Kivu, Shaba, Sud-Kivu
Independence:
    30 June 1960 (from Belgium)
National holiday:
    Anniversary of the Regime (Second Republic), 24 November (1965)
Constitution:
    24 June 1967, amended August 1974, revised 15 February 1978; amended April
    1990; new transitional constitution promulgated in April 1994
Legal system:
    based on Belgian civil law system and tribal law; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Marshal MOBUTU Sese Seko Kuku Ngbendu wa Za Banga (since 24
    November 1965) election last held 29 July 1984 (next to be held by 9 July
    1995); results - President MOBUTU was reelected without opposition
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Leon KENGO wa Dondo (since 14 June 1994)
  cabinet:
    National Executive Council; appointed by mutual agreement of the president
    and the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
Political parties and leaders:
    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), Leon
    KENGO wa Dondo
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Zaire
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, CEEAC, CEPGL, ECA, FAO, G-19, G-24, G-77, GATT, IAEA,
    IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT,
    INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UPU,
    WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador TATANENE Manata
  chancery:
    1800 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 7691
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires John M. YATES
  embassy:
    310 Avenue des Aviateurs, Kinshasa
  mailing address:
    Unit 31550, Kinshasha; APO AE 09828
  telephone:
    [243] (12) 21532, 21628
  FAX:
    [243] (12) 21534 ext. 2308, 21535 ext. 2308; (88) 43805, 43467
Flag:
    light green with a yellow disk in the center bearing a black arm holding a
    red flaming torch; the flames of the torch are blowing away from the hoist
    side; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Zaire
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 International Monetary Fund or put in
    place the financial measures advocated by the IMF. Although short-term
    prospects for improvement are dim, improved political stability would boost
    Zaire's long-term potential to effectively exploit its vast wealth of
    mineral and agricultural resources.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $18.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $440 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    40% per month (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $362 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    copper, coffee, diamonds, cobalt, crude oil
  partners:
    US, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, UK, Japan, South Africa
Imports:
    $356 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    consumer goods, foodstuffs, mining and other machinery, transport equipment,
    fuels
  partners:
    South Africa, US, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, UK
External debt:
    $9.2 billion (May 1992 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -20% (1993); accounts for 16% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    2,830,000 kW
  production:
    6.2 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    133 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    mining, mineral processing, consumer products (including textiles, footwear,
    cigarettes, processed foods and beverages), cement, diamonds
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Zaire
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    cash crops - coffee, palm oil, rubber, quinine; food crops - cassava,
    bananas, root crops, corn
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of cannabis, mostly for domestic consumption
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1.1 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $6.9 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $35 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $263
    million
  note:
    except for humanitarian aid to private organizations, no US assistance has
    been given to Zaire since 1992
Currency:
    1 zaire (Z) = 100 makuta
Exchange rates:
    new zaires (Z) per US$1 - 3,275.71 (December 1994), 1,194.12 (1994), 2.51
    (1993); zaire (Z) per US$1 - 645,549 (1992), 15,587 (1991), 719 (1990)
  note:
    on 22 October 1993 the new zaire, equal to 3,000,000 old zaires, was
    introduced
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Zaire
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    5,138 km; note - severely reduced trackage in use because of civil strife
  narrow gauge:
    3,987 km 1.067-m gauge (858 km electrified); 125 km 1.000-m gauge; 1,026 km
    0.600-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    146,500 km
  paved:
    2,800 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, improved earth 46,200 km; unimproved earth 97,500 km
Inland waterways:
    15,000 km including the Congo, its tributaries, and unconnected lakes
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 390 km
Ports:
    Banana, Boma, Bukavu, Bumba, Goma, Kalemie, Kindu, Kinshasa, Kisangani,
    Matadi, Mbandaka
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    270
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    15
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    97
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    22
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    127
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Zaire
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA barely adequate wire and microwave service in and between urban areas; 14
    domestic earth stations
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 10, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    18
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Zaire
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, paramilitary Civil Guard,
    Special Presidential Division
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 9,479,245; males fit for military service 4,828,367 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $46 million, 1.5% of GDP (1990)
Western Samoa
2                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      World
                                    Geography
Map references:
    World, Time Zones
Area:
  total area:
    510.072 million sq km
  land area:
    148.94 million sq km
  water area:
    361.132 million sq km
  comparative area:
    land area about 16 times the size of the US
  note:
    70.8% of the world is water, 29.2% is land
Land boundaries:
    the land boundaries in the world total 250,883.64 km (not counting shared
    boundaries twice)
Coastline:
    356,000 km
Maritime claims:
  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
  note:
    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 Afghanistan, Andorra, Armenia,
    Austria, Azerbaijan, Belarus, Bhutan, Bolivia, Botswana, Burkina, Burundi,
    Central African Republic, Chad, Czech Republic, Ethiopia, Holy See (Vatican
    City), Hungary, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Laos, Lesotho, Liechtenstein,
    Luxembourg, Malawi, Mali, Moldova, Mongolia, Nepal, Niger, Paraguay, Rwanda,
    San Marino, Slovakia, Swaziland, Switzerland, Tajikistan, The Former
    Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Turkmenistan, Uganda, Uzbekistan, West Bank,
    Zambia, Zimbabwe
Climate:
    two large areas of polar climates separated by two rather narrow temperate
    zones from a wide equatorial band of tropical to subtropical climates
Terrain:
    highest elevation is Mt. Everest at 8,848 meters and lowest depression is
    the Dead Sea at 392 meters below sea level; greatest ocean depth is the
    Marianas Trench at 10,924 meters
Natural resources:
    the rapid using up of nonrenewable mineral resources, the depletion of
    forest areas and wetlands, the extinction 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
Land use:
  arable land:
    10%
  permanent crops:
    1%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      World
                                    Geography
  meadows and pastures:
    24%
  forest and woodland:
    31%
  other:
    34%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    large areas subject to overpopulation, industrial disasters, pollution (air,
    water, acid rain, toxic substances), loss of vegetation (overgrazing,
    deforestation, desertification), loss of wildlife, soil degradation, soil
    depletion, erosion
  natural hazards:
    large areas subject to severe weather (tropical cyclones), natural disasters
    (earthquakes, landslides, tsunamis, volcanic eruptions)
  international agreements:
    23 selected international environmental agreements included under the
    Environment entry for each country and in Appendix E: Selected International
    Environmental Agreements
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      World
                                     People
Population:
    5,733,687,096 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    31.6% (female 882,809,689; male 928,121,801)
  15-64 years:
    62% (female 1,752,393,539; male 1,802,004,124)
  65 years and over:
    6.4% (female 209,437,234; male 158,246,581) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.5% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    24 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    64 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    62 years
  male:
    61 years
  female:
    64 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.1 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Labor force:
    2.24 billion (1992)
  by occupation:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      World
                                   Government
Digraph:
    XX
Administrative divisions:
    265 nations, dependent areas, other, and miscellaneous entries
Legal system:
    varies by individual country; 186 (note including Yugoslavia) are parties to
    the United Nations International Court of Justice (ICJ or World Court)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      World
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Led by recovery in Western Europe and strong performances by the US, Canada,
    and key Third World countries, real global output - gross world product
    (GWP) - rose 3% in 1994 compared with 2% in 1993. Results varied widely
    among regions and countries. Average growth of 3% in the GDP of
    industrialized countries (60% of GWP in 1994) and average growth of 6% in
    the GDP of less developed countries (34% of GWP) were partly offset by a
    further 11% drop in the GDP of the former USSR/Eastern Europe area (now only
    6% of GWP). With the notable exception of Japan at 2.9%, unemployment was
    typically 5%-12% in the industrial world. The US accounted for 22% of GWP in
    1994; Western Europe accounted for another 22%; and Japan accounted for 8%.
    These are the three "economic superpowers" which are 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, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore - once again posted records of 5%
    growth or better; however, many other countries, especially in Africa,
    continued to suffer from drought, rapid population growth, inflation, and
    civil strife. Central Europe made considerable progress in moving toward
    "market-friendly" economies, whereas the 15 ex-Soviet countries (with the
    notable exceptions of the three Baltic states) typically experienced further
    declines in output, sometimes as high as 30%. 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 ethnicity - gain
    momentum, e.g., in the successor states of the former Soviet Union, in the
    former Yugoslavia, and in India. 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 pollution,
    desertification, underemployment, epidemics, and famine. 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.
    (For the specific economic problems of each country, see the individual
    country entries in this volume.)
National product:
    GWP (gross world product) - purchasing power parity - $30.7 trillion (1994
    est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3.2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $5,400 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
  all countries:
    25%
  developed countries:
    5%
  developing countries:
    50% (1994 est.)
  note:
    national inflation rates vary widely in individual cases, from stable prices
    to hyperinflation
Unemployment rate:
    30% combined unemployment and underemployment in many non-industrialized
    countries; developed countries typically 5%-12% unemployment
Exports:
    $4 trillion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      World
                                     Economy
  commodities:
    the whole range of industrial and agricultural goods and services
  partners:
    in value, about 75% of exports from the developed countries
Imports:
    $4.1 trillion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    the whole range of industrial and agricultural goods and services
  partners:
    in value, about 75% of imports by the developed countries
External debt:
    $1 trillion for less developed countries (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5% (1994 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    2,773,000,000 kW
  production:
    11.601 trillion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,937 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    industry worldwide is 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, and the technological gap between the industrial
    nations and the less-developed countries continues to widen; the rapid
    development of new industrial (and agricultural) technology is complicating
    already grim environmental problems
Agriculture:
    the production of major food crops has increased substantially in the last
    20 years; the annual production of cereals, for instance, has risen by 50%,
    from about 1.2 billion metric tons to about 1.8 billion metric tons;
    production increases have resulted mainly from increased yields rather than
    increases in planted areas; while global production is sufficient for
    aggregate demand, about one-fifth of the world's population remains
    malnourished, primarily because local production cannot adequately provide
    for large and rapidly growing populations, which are too poor to pay for
    food imports; conditions are especially bad in Africa where drought in
    recent years has intensified the consequences of overpopulation
Economic aid:
    $NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      World
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    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 France's SNCF
    TGV-Atlantique line
  broad gauge:
    251,153 km
  standard gauge:
    710,754 km
  narrow gauge:
    239,430 km
Highways:
  total:
    NA
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    Chiba, Houston, Kawasaki, Kobe, Marseille, Mina' al Ahmadi (Kuwait), New
    Orleans, New York, Rotterdam, Yokohama
Merchant marine:
  total:
    25,364 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 435,458,296 GRT/697,171,651 DWT
  ships by type:
    barge carrier 39, bulk 5,202, cargo 8,121, chemical tanker 911, combination
    bulk 293, combination ore/oil 290, container 1,903, liquefied gas 675,
    livestock carrier 48, multifunction large-load carrier 53, oil tanker 4,332,
    passenger 287, passenger-cargo 114, railcar carrier 24, refrigerated cargo
    1,023, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1,047, short-sea passenger 465, specialized
    tanker 77, vehicle carrier 460 (April 1995)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      World
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      World
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    ground, maritime, and air forces at all levels of technology
Defense expenditures:
    a further decline in 1994, by perhaps 5%-10%, to roughly three-quarters of a
    trillion dollars, or 2.5% of gross world product (1994 est.)
-4                  Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (1970-89), $4.8 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $4.8 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $60 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $533
    million
Currency:
    1 Zambian kwacha (ZK) = 100 ngwee
Exchange rates:
    Zambian kwacha (ZK) per US$1 - 672.8 (September 1994), 434.78 (1993), 156.25
    (1992), 61.7284 (1991), 28.9855 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                                     Zambia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,273 km
  narrow gauge:
    1,273 km 1.067-m gauge (13 km double track)
  note:
    not a part of Zambia Railways is 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 Zambia Railways
    system; 891 km of the TAZARA line transit Zambia
Highways:
  total:
    36,370 km
  paved:
    6,500 km
  unpaved:
    crushed stone, gravel, stabilized earth 7,000 km; improved, unimproved earth
    22,870 km
Inland waterways:
    2,250 km, including Zambezi and Luapula Rivers, Lake Tanganyika
Pipelines:
    crude oil 1,724 km
Ports:
    Mpulungu
Airports:
  total:
    113
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    39
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    57
                                     Zambia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; facilities are among the best in Sub-Saharan Africa
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    high capacity micrwave radio relay connects most larger towns and cities
  international:
    2 INTELSAT earth stations (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean)
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 11, FM 5, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    9
  televisions:
    NA
                                     Zambia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Air Force, Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,953,967; males fit for military service 1,028,113 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $45 million, 1.4% of GDP (1994)
Algeria
@S1SALGERIA - Passport and visa required.  Obtain visa before arrival.  Visa
valid up to 90 days, requires 2 application forms, 2 photos, proof of
onward/return transportation, sufficient funds and $22 fee (money order or
certified check).  Company letter (+ 1 copy) required for business visa.
Visa not granted to passports showing Israeli visas.  Enclose prepaid
self-addressed envelope for return of passport by registered, certified or
express mail.  For currency regulations and other information contact the
Consular Section of the Embassy of the Democratic and Popular Republic of
Algeria, 2137 Wyoming Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/265-2800).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Algeria
============================================================
Algeria - Travel Warning
 May 22, 1995
The United States Department of State warns U.S. citizens to avoid
travel to Algeria.  The Department recommends that those Americans
who choose to be in Algeria despite this warning have substantial
armed protection while traveling overland, on their work sites or in
their accommodations;  other Americans in Algeria should depart.
Armed protection is not a guarantee of safety.  Continuing attacks
against foreigners indicate that the level of risk in Algeria is
extremely high.  The U.S. Embassy in Algiers also specifically
identifies ports and airline terminals as terrorist targets and
warns against traveling on regularly scheduled commercial
transports.  Embassy personnel have suspended their use of regularly
scheduled commercial flights.  American citizens who remain in
Algeria despite this warning are urged to exercise extreme caution
and to evaluate regularly their personal security practices.
 No. 95-016
This replaces the Travel Warning issued February 1,1995, to warn
Americans in Algeria whose circumstances do not afford them
substantial armed protection while traveling overland, on their work
sites, or in their accommodations that they should leave Algeria.
Algeria - Consular Information Sheet
 September 15, 1995
Warning:  The United States Department of State warns U.S. citizens
to avoid travel to Algeria.  The Department recommends that those
Americans who choose to be in Algeria despite this warning have
substantial armed protection while traveling overland, on their work
sites or in their accommodations; other Americans in Algeria should
depart.  Armed protection is not a guarantee of safety.  Continuing
attacks against foreigners indicate that the level of risk in
Algeria is extremely high.  the U.S. Embassy in Algiers also
specifically identifies ports and airline terminals as terrorist
targets and warns against traveling on regularly scheduled
commercial transport.  Embassy personnel have suspended their use of
regularly scheduled commercial flights.  American citizens who
remain in Algeria despite this warning are urged to exercise maximum
caution and to evaluate regularly their personal security practices.
 For more detailed information please see paragraphs four and five
below.
Country Description:  Algeria is a republic with a developing
economy.  Facilities for travelers are widely available, but
sometimes limited in quality.  The workweek in Algeria is Saturday
through Wednesday.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required for U.S.
citizens traveling to Algeria.  Algeria does not give visas to
persons whose passports indicate travel to Israel.  For more
information concerning entry requirements, travelers may contact the
Embassy of the Democratic and Popular Republic of Algeria at 2137
Wyoming Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone (202)
265-2800.
Areas of Instability:  Political, social, and economic problems
have created a climate of violent unrest in Algeria.  A state of
emergency has been in effect since early 1992.  Since September
1993, a terrorist campaign against foreigners has resulted in the
deaths of dozens of foreigners.  Assassinations of Algerian
intellectuals, government officials, journalists, and military
officers occur frequently.  Sporadic bombings, gun battles between
government forces and insurgents, and other violence occurs almost
daily.  Currently, Algerian military and other security personnel
are unable to offer adequate protection.
The government of Algeria has imposed a rigorously enforced
late-night curfew in the central region around Algiers.  Roadblocks
are located at many major intersections.  Security personnel at
roadblocks and intersections expect full cooperation with their
instructions.  In response, terrorist groups have set up false
roadblocks as ambushes.
Numerous incidents of banditry and assault involving foreigners
have been reported in the far southern region of Algeria near the
border with Niger.  Bandits have robbed, assaulted, kidnapped, and
killed travelers in Algeria south of Tamanrasset.
Travel overland is considered to be treacherous and Algerian
military have indicated an unwillingness to offer protection because
they feel there is a security risk.  The Department of State
recommends that American citizens in Algeria have substantial armed
protection while traveling overland, on their work sites or in their
accommodations.
Terrorist Activities:  Over one hundred foreigners have been
kidnapped and murdered since September 1993, sometimes in assaults
involving dozens of attackers.  For example, a terrorist attack at a
pipeline facility located approximately 200 miles south of Algiers
resulted in the death of 5 expatriates.  None of these individuals
were American citizens.  Nonetheless, terrorists have threatened to
kill all foreigners who do not leave Algeria.  In response to these
threats, the U.S. Embassy in Algiers has substantially reduced the
number of u.s. government personnel in Algeria.  Dependents of U.S.
Government personnel may not accompany employees to Algeria.  Travel
overland in Algeria is considered to be dangerous because the
government of Algeria is reluctant to provide security based on
their assessment of the risk to Algerian personnel.  An Air France
flight was hijacked at Algiers Airport on December 24, 1994 by
heavily armed terrorists who threatened to blow up the aircraft.
The U.S. Embassy at Algiers has identified ports and airline
terminals as terrorist targets and warns against traveling on
regularly scheduled commercial transport.  In addition, Embassy
personnel have suspended their use of regularly scheduled commercial
flights.
Medical Facilities:  Hospitals and clinics in Algeria are
available, but limited in quality.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for services.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  The
international travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control,
telephone [404] 332-4559, has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  The crime rate in Algeria is moderately
high, and is increasing.  Very serious crimes have been reported in
which armed men posing as police have entered homes of foreigners,
held the occupants at gunpoint, and robbed them.  Armed carjacking
is also a serious problem.  Petty theft and home burglary occur
frequently.  Theft of contents and parts from parked cars,
pickpocketing and other theft on trains and buses, theft of anything
left in a hotel room, and purse snatching are common.  Most
residences of foreigners are protected by alarms, grills, watchdogs,
and/or guards.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should
be reported to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is
provided in the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad"
and "Tips for Travelers to the Middle East and North Africa."  They
are available from the Superintendent of documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Travelers checks and credit cards are
acceptable in only a few establishments in urban areas.  Currently,
the Government of Algeria requires all foreigners entering the
country to exchange $200 into local currency.  Documentary proof of
legal exchange of currency is needed when departing Algeria.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or dealing in illegal drugs are severe, and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Algeria is located at 4
Chemin Cheikh Bachir El-Ibrahimi, B.P. 549 (Alger-gare) 16000, in
the capital city of Algiers.  The telephone number is (213-2)
691-425/255/186.  The former U.S. Consulate in Oran is closed.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy may be enrolled in the Embassy's emergency alert
network, and can obtain updated information on travel and security
within Algeria.
 No. 95-114
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated February 13,
1995, to include information contained in the Travel Warning dated
May 25, 1995, to recommend that Americans who choose to remain in
Algeria despite the travel warning have substantial armed protection
while traveling overland, on their work sites or in their
accommodations; to note that other Americans in Algeria should
depart; and to warn that armed protection is not a guarantee of
safety.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Algeria
============================================================
Algeria - Public Announcement
 August 5, 1994
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
 Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release
On August 5, the U.S. Embassy in Algiers issued the following
security advisory to Americans in Algeria:
The August 3 attempted car bomb attack against the guarded French
residential compound at Ain Allah resulted in the death of five
Frenchmen, including three French security officials.  The U.S.
Embassy believes that this attack demonstrates that the security
situation for the foreign community has deteriorated further.  As a
consequence, the U.S. Embassy is reevaluating its security measures.
 We urge American citizens and companies to do so as well in order
to take into account this development.
The U.S. Embassy also reminds all Americans that the State
Department's Travel Warning for Algeria recommends that Americans in
Algeria whose circumstances do not offer effective protection depart
Algeria.
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Algeria
============================================================
Algeria - Travel Warning
 May 22, 1995
The United States Department of State warns U.S. citizens to avoid
travel to Algeria.  The Department recommends that those Americans
who choose to be in Algeria despite this warning have substantial
armed protection while traveling overland, on their work sites or in
their accommodations;  other Americans in Algeria should depart.
Armed protection is not a guarantee of safety.  Continuing attacks
against foreigners indicate that the level of risk in Algeria is
extremely high.  The U.S. Embassy in Algiers also specifically
identifies ports and airline terminals as terrorist targets and
warns against traveling on regularly scheduled commercial
transports.  Embassy personnel have suspended their use of regularly
scheduled commercial flights.  American citizens who remain in
Algeria despite this warning are urged to exercise extreme caution
and to evaluate regularly their personal security practices.
 No. 95-016
This replaces the Travel Warning issued February 1,1995, to warn
Americans in Algeria whose circumstances do not afford them
substantial armed protection while traveling overland, on their work
sites, or in their accommodations that they should leave Algeria.
Algeria - Consular Information Sheet
 September 15, 1995
Warning:  The United States Department of State warns U.S. citizens
to avoid travel to Algeria.  The Department recommends that those
Americans who choose to be in Algeria despite this warning have
substantial armed protection while traveling overland, on their work
sites or in their accommodations; other Americans in Algeria should
depart.  Armed protection is not a guarantee of safety.  Continuing
attacks against foreigners indicate that the level of risk in
Algeria is extremely high.  the U.S. Embassy in Algiers also
specifically identifies ports and airline terminals as terrorist
targets and warns against traveling on regularly scheduled
commercial transport.  Embassy personnel have suspended their use of
regularly scheduled commercial flights.  American citizens who
remain in Algeria despite this warning are urged to exercise maximum
caution and to evaluate regularly their personal security practices.
 For more detailed information please see paragraphs four and five
below.
Country Description:  Algeria is a republic with a developing
economy.  Facilities for travelers are widely available, but
sometimes limited in quality.  The workweek in Algeria is Saturday
through Wednesday.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required for U.S.
citizens traveling to Algeria.  Algeria does not give visas to
persons whose passports indicate travel to Israel.  For more
information concerning entry requirements, travelers may contact the
Embassy of the Democratic and Popular Republic of Algeria at 2137
Wyoming Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone (202)
265-2800.
Areas of Instability:  Political, social, and economic problems
have created a climate of violent unrest in Algeria.  A state of
emergency has been in effect since early 1992.  Since September
1993, a terrorist campaign against foreigners has resulted in the
deaths of dozens of foreigners.  Assassinations of Algerian
intellectuals, government officials, journalists, and military
officers occur frequently.  Sporadic bombings, gun battles between
government forces and insurgents, and other violence occurs almost
daily.  Currently, Algerian military and other security personnel
are unable to offer adequate protection.
The government of Algeria has imposed a rigorously enforced
late-night curfew in the central region around Algiers.  Roadblocks
are located at many major intersections.  Security personnel at
roadblocks and intersections expect full cooperation with their
instructions.  In response, terrorist groups have set up false
roadblocks as ambushes.
Numerous incidents of banditry and assault involving foreigners
have been reported in the far southern region of Algeria near the
border with Niger.  Bandits have robbed, assaulted, kidnapped, and
killed travelers in Algeria south of Tamanrasset.
Travel overland is considered to be treacherous and Algerian
military have indicated an unwillingness to offer protection because
they feel there is a security risk.  The Department of State
recommends that American citizens in Algeria have substantial armed
protection while traveling overland, on their work sites or in their
accommodations.
Terrorist Activities:  Over one hundred foreigners have been
kidnapped and murdered since September 1993, sometimes in assaults
involving dozens of attackers.  For example, a terrorist attack at a
pipeline facility located approximately 200 miles south of Algiers
resulted in the death of 5 expatriates.  None of these individuals
were American citizens.  Nonetheless, terrorists have threatened to
kill all foreigners who do not leave Algeria.  In response to these
threats, the U.S. Embassy in Algiers has substantially reduced the
number of u.s. government personnel in Algeria.  Dependents of U.S.
Government personnel may not accompany employees to Algeria.  Travel
overland in Algeria is considered to be dangerous because the
government of Algeria is reluctant to provide security based on
their assessment of the risk to Algerian personnel.  An Air France
flight was hijacked at Algiers Airport on December 24, 1994 by
heavily armed terrorists who threatened to blow up the aircraft.
The U.S. Embassy at Algiers has identified ports and airline
terminals as terrorist targets and warns against traveling on
regularly scheduled commercial transport.  In addition, Embassy
personnel have suspended their use of regularly scheduled commercial
flights.
Medical Facilities:  Hospitals and clinics in Algeria are
available, but limited in quality.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for services.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  The
international travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control,
telephone [404] 332-4559, has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  The crime rate in Algeria is moderately
high, and is increasing.  Very serious crimes have been reported in
which armed men posing as police have entered homes of foreigners,
held the occupants at gunpoint, and robbed them.  Armed carjacking
is also a serious problem.  Petty theft and home burglary occur
frequently.  Theft of contents and parts from parked cars,
pickpocketing and other theft on trains and buses, theft of anything
left in a hotel room, and purse snatching are common.  Most
residences of foreigners are protected by alarms, grills, watchdogs,
and/or guards.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should
be reported to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is
provided in the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad"
and "Tips for Travelers to the Middle East and North Africa."  They
are available from the Superintendent of documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Travelers checks and credit cards are
acceptable in only a few establishments in urban areas.  Currently,
the Government of Algeria requires all foreigners entering the
country to exchange $200 into local currency.  Documentary proof of
legal exchange of currency is needed when departing Algeria.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or dealing in illegal drugs are severe, and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Algeria is located at 4
Chemin Cheikh Bachir El-Ibrahimi, B.P. 549 (Alger-gare) 16000, in
the capital city of Algiers.  The telephone number is (213-2)
691-425/255/186.  The former U.S. Consulate in Oran is closed.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the Consular Section
of the U.S. Embassy may be enrolled in the Embassy's emergency alert
network, and can obtain updated information on travel and security
within Algeria.
 No. 95-114
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated February 13,
1995, to include information contained in the Travel Warning dated
May 25, 1995, to recommend that Americans who choose to remain in
Algeria despite the travel warning have substantial armed protection
while traveling overland, on their work sites or in their
accommodations; to note that other Americans in Algeria should
depart; and to warn that armed protection is not a guarantee of
safety.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
7                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Algeria
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Morocco and
    Tunisia
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    2,381,740 sq km
  land area:
    2,381,740 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 3.5 times the size of Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 6,343 km, Libya 982 km, Mali 1,376 km, Mauritania 463 km, Morocco
    1,559 km, Niger 956 km, Tunisia 965 km, Western Sahara 42 km
Coastline:
    998 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    32-52 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    Libya claims part of southeastern Algeria; land boundary dispute with
    Tunisia settled in 1993
Climate:
    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
Terrain:
    mostly high plateau and desert; some mountains; narrow, discontinuous
    coastal plain
Natural resources:
    petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, phosphates, uranium, lead, zinc
Land use:
  arable land:
    3%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    13%
  forest and woodland:
    2%
  other:
    82%
Irrigated land:
    3,360 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    soil erosion from overgrazing and other poor farming practices;
    desertification; dumping of raw sewage, petroleum refining wastes, and other
    industrial effluents is leading to the pollution of rivers and coastal
    waters; Mediterranean Sea, in particular, becoming polluted from oil wastes,
    soil erosion, and fertilizer runoff; inadequate supplies of potable water
  natural hazards:
    mountainous areas subject to severe earthquakes; mudslides
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Algeria
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification,
    Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified -
    Biodiversity, Desertification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
Note:
    second-largest country in Africa (after Sudan)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Algeria
                                     People
Population:
    28,539,321 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    41% (female 5,678,879; male 5,885,246)
  15-64 years:
    56% (female 7,887,885; male 8,033,508)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 557,636; male 496,167) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.25% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    29.02 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.05 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.49 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    50.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    68.01 years
  male:
    66.94 years
  female:
    69.13 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.7 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Algerian(s)
  adjective:
    Algerian
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab-Berber 99%, European less than 1%
Religions:
    Sunni Muslim (state religion) 99%, Christian and Jewish 1%
Languages:
    Arabic (official), French, Berber dialects
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    57%
  male:
    70%
  female:
    46%
Labor force:
    6.2 million (1992 est.)
  by occupation:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Algeria
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Democratic and Popular Republic of Algeria
  conventional short form:
    Algeria
  local long form:
    Al Jumhuriyah al Jaza'iriyah ad Dimuqratiyah ash Shabiyah
  local short form:
    Al Jaza'ir
Digraph:
    AG
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Algiers
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    5 July 1962 (from France)
National holiday:
    Anniversary of the Revolution, 1 November (1954)
Constitution:
    19 November 1976, effective 22 November 1976; revised 3 November 1988 and 23
    February 1989
Legal system:
    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
    jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Lamine ZEROUAL (since 31 January 1994); next election to be held
    by the end of 1995
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Mokdad SIFI (since 11 April 1994)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral; note - suspended since 1992
  National People's Assembly (Al-Majlis Ech-Chaabi Al-Watani):
    elections first round held on 26 December 1991 (second round canceled by the
    military after President BENDJEDID resigned 11 January 1992, effectively
    suspending the Assembly); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats -
    (281 total); the fundamentalist FIS won 188 of the 231 seats contested in
    the first round; note - elections (provincial and municipal) were held in
    June 1990, the first in Algerian history; results - FIS 55%, FLN 27.5%,
    other 17.5%, with 65% of the voters participating
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Algeria
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Islamic Salvation Front (FIS, outlawed April 1992), Ali BELHADJ, Dr. Abassi
    MADANI, Abdelkader HACHANI (all under arrest), Rabeh KEBIR (self-exile in
    Germany); National Liberation Front (FLN), Abdelhamid MEHRI, Secretary
    General; Socialist Forces Front (FFS), Hocine Ait AHMED, Secretary General
  note:
    the government established a multiparty system in September 1989 and, as of
    31 December 1990, over 50 legal parties existed
Member of:
    ABEDA, AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, AMU, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-15, G-19, G-24, G-77,
    IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO, ITU, NAM, OAPEC, OAS (observer), OAU, OIC,
    OPEC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNMIH, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Osmane BENCHERIF
  chancery:
    2118 Kalorama Road NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Ronald E. NEUMANN
  embassy:
    4 Chemin Cheikh Bachir El-Ibrahimi, Algiers
  mailing address:
    B. P. Box 549, Alger-Gare, 16000 Algiers
  telephone:
    [213] (2) 69-11-86, 69-18-54, 69-38-75
  FAX:
    [213] (2) 69-39-79
  consulate(s):
    none (Oran closed June 1993)
Flag:
    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 Islam (the state religion)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Algeria
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The hydrocarbons sector is the backbone of the economy, accounting for
    roughly 57% of government revenues, 25% of GDP, and almost all export
    earnings; Algeria has the fifth largest reserves of natural gas in the world
    and ranks fourteenth for oil. Algiers' 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
    macroeconomic stabilization and to introduce market mechanisms into the
    economy. Despite substantial progress toward macroeconomic adjustment, in
    1992 the reform drive stalled as Algiers 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, Algiers concluded a one-year standby arrangement with the IMF in April
    1994.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $97.1 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    0.2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,480 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    30% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    30% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $14.3 billion
  expenditures:
    $17.9 billion (1995 est.)
Exports:
    $9.1 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    petroleum and natural gas 97%
  partners:
    Italy 21%, France 16%, US 14%, Germany 13%, Spain 9%
Imports:
    $9.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    capital goods 39.7%, food and beverages 21.7%, consumer goods 11.8% (1990)
  partners:
    France 29%, Italy 14%, Spain 9%, US 9%, Germany 7%
External debt:
    $26 billion (1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%; accounts for 35% of GDP (including hydrocarbons)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    5,370,000 kW
  production:
    18.3 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    587 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum, light industries, natural gas, mining, electrical, petrochemical,
    food processing
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Algeria
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 12% of GDP (1993) and employs 22% of labor force; products-
    wheat, barley, oats, grapes, olives, citrus, fruits, sheep, cattle; net
    importer of food - grain, vegetable oil, sugar
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-85), $1.4 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $925 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $1.8 billion; Communist countries (1970-89), $2.7
    billion; net official disbursements (1985-89), $375 million
Currency:
    1 Algerian dinar (DA) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Algerian dinars (DA) per US$1 - 42.710 (January 1995), 35.059 (1994), 23.345
    (1993), 21.836 (1992), 18.473 (1991), 8.958 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Algeria
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    4,733 km
  standard gauge:
    3,576 km 1.435-m gauge (299 km electrified; 215 km double track)
  narrow gauge:
    1,157 km 1.055-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    95,576 km
  paved:
    concrete, bituminous 57,346 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, earth 38,230 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 6,612 km; petroleum products 298 km; natural gas 2,948 km
Ports:
    Algiers, Annaba, Arzew, Bejaia, Beni Saf, Dellys, Djendjene, Ghazaouet,
    Jijel, Mostaganem, Oran, Skikda, Tenes
Merchant marine:
  total:
    75 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 903,179 GRT/1,064,211 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 9, cargo 27, chemical tanker 7, liquefied gas tanker 9, oil tanker 5,
    roll-on/roll-off cargo 12, short-sea passenger 5, specialized tanker 1
Airports:
  total:
    139
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    9
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    23
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    14
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    5
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    20
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    24
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    41
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Algeria
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    822,000 telephones; excellent domestic and international service in the
    north, sparse in the south
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    12 domestic satellite links; 20 additional satellite links are planned
  international:
    5 submarine cables; microwave radio relay to Italy, France, Spain, Morocco,
    and Tunisia; coaxial cable to Morocco and Tunisia; 2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic
    Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 Intersputnik, 1 ARABSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 26, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    5.2 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    18
  televisions:
    1.6 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Algeria
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    National Popular Army, Navy, Air Force, Territorial Air Defense, National
    Gendarmerie
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 7,124,894; males fit for military service 4,373,272; males
    reach military age (19) annually 313,707 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $1.3 billion, 2.7% of GDP (1994)
emale 257,329; male 244,947)
  65 years and over:
    2% (
Andorra
ANDORRA - (See France.)
Andorra - Consular Information Sheet
April 26, 1994
Country Description:  Andorra is a highly developed stable democracy with a
modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  Visas are not required for a
tourist or business stay of up to three months.  For further information,
travelers can contact either the Embassy of Spain or the Embassy of France
or the nearest French or Spanish consulate in Boston, Chicago, Detroit
(France only), Honolulu (France only), Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New
Orleans, New York, or San Juan.  The Spanish Embassy is located at 2375
Pennsylvania Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009, tel. [phone].  The
French Embassy is at 4101 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, D.C. 20007, tel
[phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is available.  U.S. medical insurance is
not always valid outside the United States.  Travelers have found that in
some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage
has proved to be useful.  Information on specific health matters is
available through the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers
hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Andorra has a low crime rate.  However, during the
summer tourist season, pickpocketing, theft of unattended baggage, and theft
from vehicles can occur.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should
be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's pamphlet "A
Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more trouble free journey.  The
pamphlet is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use, or dealing in
illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Consulate General in
Barcelona, Spain can obtain updated information on travel and security
within Andorra.
Embassy Location:  Andorra is a sovereign nation but, has no U.S. embassy or
consulate.  For assistance, U.S. citizens can contact the U.S. Consulate
General in Barcelona, Spain at Paseo Reina Elisenda 23-25, telephone (34-3)
280-2227.
No. 94-061
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 29, 1993, to
reflect the fact that Andorra is now a sovereign state.
`%C%                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Andorra
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southwestern Europe, between France and Spain
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    450 sq km
  land area:
    450 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    total 125 km, France 60 km, Spain 65 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate; snowy, cold winters and warm, dry summers
Terrain:
    rugged mountains dissected by narrow valleys
Natural resources:
    hydropower, mineral water, timber, iron ore, lead
Land use:
  arable land:
    2%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    56%
  forest and woodland:
    22%
  other:
    20%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; overgrazing of mountain meadows contributes to soil erosion
  natural hazards:
    snowslides, avalanches
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Andorra
                                     People
Population:
    65,780 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    18% (female 5,503; male 5,985)
  15-64 years:
    70% (female 21,873; male 24,334)
  65 years and over:
    12% (female 4,020; male 4,065) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.72% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    12.92 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.25 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    21.53 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    7.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    78.52 years
  male:
    75.65 years
  female:
    81.66 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.72 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Andorran(s)
  adjective:
    Andorran
Ethnic divisions:
    Spanish 61%, Andorran 30%, French 6%, other 3%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic (predominant)
Languages:
    Catalan (official), French, Castilian
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Andorra
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Principality of Andorra
  conventional short form:
    Andorra
  local long form:
    Principat d'Andorra
  local short form:
    Andorra
Digraph:
    AN
Type:
    parliamentary democracy (since March 1993) that retains as its heads of
    state a co-principality; the two princes are the president of France and
    Spanish bishop of Seo de Urgel, who are represented locally by officials
    called veguers
Capital:
    Andorra la Vella
Administrative divisions:
    7 parishes (parroquies, singular - parroquia); Andorra, Canillo, Encamp, La
    Massana, Les Escaldes, Ordino, Sant Julia de Loria
Independence:
    1278
National holiday:
    Mare de Deu de Meritxell, 8 September
Constitution:
    Andorra's first written constitution was drafted in 1991; adopted 14 March
    1993
Legal system:
    based on French and Spanish civil codes; no judicial review of legislative
    acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chiefs of state:
    French Co-Prince Francois MITTERRAND (since 21 May 1981), represented by
    Veguer de Franca Jean Pierre COURTOIS (since NA); note - COURTOIS is to
    become French ambassador to Libreville and his replacement has not been
    announced; Spanish Episcopal Co-Prince Mgr. Juan MARTI Alanis (since 31
    January 1971), represented by Veguer Episcopal Francesc BADIA Bata (since
    NA); two permanent delegates (French Prefect Pierre STEINMETZ for the
    department of Pyrenees-Orientales, since NA, and Spanish Vicar General
    Nemesi MARQUES Oste for the Seo de Urgel diocese, since NA)
  head of government:
    Executive Council President Marc FORNE (since 21 December 1994) elected by
    Parliament, following resignation of Oscar RIBAS Reig
  cabinet:
    Executive Council; designated by the executive council president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  General Council of the Valleys:
    (Consell General de las Valls); elections last held 12 December 1993 (next
    to be held NA); yielded no clear winner; results - percent of vote by party
    NA; seats - (28 total) number of seats by party NA
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court of Andorra at Perpignan (France) for civil cases, the
    Ecclesiastical Court of the bishop of Seo de Urgel (Spain) for civil cases,
    Tribunal of the Courts (Tribunal des Cortes) for criminal cases
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Andorra
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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
  note:
    there are two other small parties
Member of:
    ECE, IFRCS (associate), INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, UN, UNESCO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    Andorra has no mission in the US
US diplomatic representation:
    Andorra is included within the Barcelona (Spain) Consular District, and the
    US Consul General visits Andorra periodically
Flag:
    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 Romania that do not
    have a national coat of arms in the center
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     A
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Paracel Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    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 Philippines
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    NA sq km
  land area:
    NA sq km
  comparative area:
    NA
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    518 km
Maritime claims:
    NA
International disputes:
    occupied by China, but claimed by Taiwan and Vietnam
Climate:
    tropical
Terrain:
    NA
Natural resources:
    none
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    typhoons
  international agreements:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Paracel Islands
                                     People
Population:
    no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are scattered Chinese garrisons
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Paracel Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Paracel Islands
Digraph:
    PF
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Paracel Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Paracel Islands
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    small Chinese port facilities on Woody Island and Duncan Island being
    expanded
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1 (on Woody Island)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Paracel Islands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM, FM, shortwave
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Paracel Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    occupied by China
 S        Communications
Telephone system:
    17,700 telephones; digital microwave network
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    landline circuits to France and Spain
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Andorra
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of France and Spain
Arctic Ocean

Clipperton Island
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Christmas Island
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of Australia)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Christmas Island
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, island in the Indian Ocean, south of Indonesia
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    135 sq km
  land area:
    135 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.8 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    138.9 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    12 nm
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; heat and humidity moderated by trade winds
Terrain:
    steep cliffs along coast rise abruptly to central plateau
Natural resources:
    phosphate
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    almost completely surrounded by a reef which can be a maritime hazard
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    located along major sea lanes of Indian Ocean
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Christmas Island
                                     People
Population:
    889 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    -9% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    NA
Death rate:
    NA
Net migration rate:
    NA
Infant mortality rate:
    NA
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    NA
  male:
    NA
  female:
    NA
Total fertility rate:
    NA
Nationality:
  noun:
    Christmas Islander(s)
  adjective:
    Christmas Island
Ethnic divisions:
    Chinese 61%, Malay 25%, European 11%, other 3%, no indigenous population
Religions:
    Buddhist 36.1%, Muslim 25.4%, Christian 17.7% (Roman Catholic 8.2%, Church
    of England 3.2%, Presbyterian 0.9%, Uniting Church 0.4%, Methodist 0.2%,
    Baptist 0.1%, and other 4.7%), none 12.7%, unknown 4.6%, other 3.5% (1981)
Languages:
    English
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    all workers are employees of the Phosphate Mining Company of Christmas
    Island, Ltd.
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Christmas Island
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Territory of Christmas Island
  conventional short form:
    Christmas Island
Digraph:
    KT
Type:
    territory of Australia
Capital:
    The Settlement
Administrative divisions:
    none (territory of Australia)
Independence:
    none (territory of Australia)
National holiday:
    NA
Constitution:
    Christmas Island Act of 1958
Legal system:
    under the authority of the governor general of Australia
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952)
  head of government:
    Administrator M. J. GRIMES (since NA)
  cabinet:
    Advisory Council
Legislative branch:
    none
Judicial branch:
    none
Political parties and leaders:
    none
Member of:
    none
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (territory of Australia)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (territory of Australia)
Flag:
    the flag of Australia is used
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Christmas Island
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Phosphate mining had been the only significant economic activity, but in
    December 1987 the Australian Government closed the mine as no longer
    economically viable. Plans have been under way to reopen the mine and also
    to build a casino and hotel to develop tourism.
National product:
    GDP $NA
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $NA
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    phosphate
  partners:
    Australia, NZ
Imports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    consumer goods
  partners:
    principally Australia
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    11,000 kW
  production:
    30 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    17,800 kWh (1990)
Industries:
    phosphate extraction (near depletion)
Agriculture:
    NA
Economic aid:
    none
Currency:
    1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3058 (January 1995), 1.3667 (1994),
    1.4704, (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2836 (1991), 1.2799 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Christmas Island
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    NA km
  paved:
    NA km
  unpaved:
    NA km
Ports:
    Flying Fish Cove
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Christmas Island
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                Christmas Island
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of Australia
94 telephones; modern telephone system using fiber-optic cable,
    submarine cable, microwave radio, and satellite facilities
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 4, FM 8, shortwave 0 (1988)
  radios:
    98,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    4 (1988)
  televisions:
    63,000
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Virgin Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
West Bank
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Western Sahara
                                    Geography
Location:
    Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Mauritania and
    Morocco
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    266,000 sq km
  land area:
    266,000 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Colorado
Land boundaries:
    total 2,046 km, Algeria 42 km, Mauritania 1,561 km, Morocco 443 km
Coastline:
    1,110 km
Maritime claims:
    contingent upon resolution of sovereignty issue
International disputes:
    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 currently in effect since September 1991
Climate:
    hot, dry desert; rain is rare; cold offshore air currents produce fog and
    heavy dew
Terrain:
    mostly low, flat desert with large areas of rocky or sandy surfaces rising
    to small mountains in south and northeast
Natural resources:
    phosphates, iron ore
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    19%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    81%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    sparse water and arable land
  natural hazards:
    hot, dry, dust/sand-laden sirocco wind can occur during winter and spring;
    widespread harmattan haze exists 60% of time, often severely restricting
    visibility
  international agreements:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Western Sahara
                                     People
Population:
    217,211 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    2.48% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    46.9 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    18.52 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -3.62 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    148.95 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    46.31 years
  male:
    45.34 years
  female:
    47.59 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.91 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Sahrawi(s), Sahraoui(s)
  adjective:
    Sahrawian, Sahraouian
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab, Berber
Religions:
    Muslim
Languages:
    Hassaniya Arabic, Moroccan Arabic
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    12,000
  by occupation:
    animal husbandry and subsistence farming 50%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Western Sahara
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Western Sahara
Digraph:
    WI
Type:
    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 Mauritania in April 1976,
    with Morocco acquiring northern two-thirds; Mauritania, 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
Capital:
    none
Administrative divisions:
    none (under de facto control of Morocco)
Executive branch:
    none
Member of:
    none
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none
US diplomatic representation:
    none
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Western Sahara
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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.
National product:
    GDP $NA
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $NA
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $8 million (f.o.b., 1982 est.)
  commodities:
    phosphates 62%
  partners:
    Morocco claims and administers Western Sahara, so trade partners are
    included in overall Moroccan accounts
Imports:
    $30 million (c.i.f., 1982 est.)
  commodities:
    fuel for fishing fleet, foodstuffs
  partners:
    Morocco claims and administers Western Sahara, so trade partners are
    included in overall Moroccan accounts
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    60,000 kW
  production:
    79 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    339 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    phosphate mining, handicrafts
Agriculture:
    limited largely to subsistence agriculture and fishing; some barley is grown
    in nondrought years; fruit and vegetables are grown in the few oases; food
    imports are essential; camels, sheep, and goats are kept by the nomadic
    natives; cash economy exists largely for the garrison forces
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    1 Moroccan dirham (DH) = 100 centimes
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Western Sahara
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    Moroccan dirhams (DH) per US$1 - 8.892 (January 1995), 9.203 (1994), 9.299
    (1993), 8.538 (1992), 8.707 (1991), 8.242 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Western Sahara
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    6,200 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 1,450 km; improved, unimproved earth, tracks 4,750 km
Ports:
    Ad Dakhla, Cabo Bojador, El Aaiun
Airports:
  total:
    14
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    7
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Western Sahara
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    2,000 telephones; sparse and limited system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    tied into Morocco's system by microwave radio relay, troposcatter, and 2
    INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations linked to Rabat, Morocco
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 Western Sahara
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    NA
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Wallis and Futuna
@'5'                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    West Bank
                                     Header
    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. Under the DOP,
    final status negotiations are to begin no later than the beginning of the
    third year of the transitional period.
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    West Bank
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, west of Jordan
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    5,860 sq km
  land area:
    5,640 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Delaware
  note:
    includes West Bank, Latrun Salient, and the northwest quarter of the Dead
    Sea, but excludes Mt. Scopus; East Jerusalem and Jerusalem No Man's Land are
    also included only as a means of depicting the entire area occupied by
    Israel in 1967
Land boundaries:
    total 404 km, Israel 307 km, Jordan 97 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    West Bank and Gaza Strip are Israeli occupied with interim status subject to
    Israeli/Palestinian negotiations - final status to be determined
Climate:
    temperate, temperature and precipitation vary with altitude, warm to hot
    summers, cool to mild winters
Terrain:
    mostly rugged dissected upland, some vegetation in west, but barren in east
Natural resources:
    negligible
Land use:
  arable land:
    27%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    32%
  forest and woodland:
    1%
  other:
    40%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    landlocked; highlands are main recharge area for Israel's coastal aquifers;
    there are 199 Jewish settlements and civilian land use sites in the West
    Bank and 25 in East Jerusalem (August 1994 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    West Bank
                                     People
Population:
    1,319,991 (July 1995 est.)
  note:
    in addition, there are 122,000 Jewish settlers in the West Bank and 149,000
    in East Jerusalem (August 1994 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    46% (female 293,269; male 308,775)
  15-64 years:
    51% (female 335,193; male 337,722)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 25,759; male 19,273) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    3.5% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    39.83 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.84 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    29.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    71.42 years
  male:
    69.91 years
  female:
    73 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.34 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    NA
  adjective:
    NA
Ethnic divisions:
    Palestinian Arab and other 83%, Jewish 17%
Religions:
    Muslim 75% (predominantly Sunni), Jewish 17%, Christian and other 8%
Languages:
    Arabic, Hebrew (spoken by Israeli settlers), English (widely understood)
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    construction 28.2%, agriculture 21.8%, industry 14.5%, commerce,
    restaurants, and hotels 12.6%, other services 22.9% (1991)
  note:
    excluding Jewish settlers
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    West Bank
                                   Government
Note:
    Under the Israeli-PLO Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government
    Arragements ("the DOP"), Israel agreed to transfer certain powers and
    responsibilities to the Palestinian Authority, and subsequently to an
    elected Palestinian Council, 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 Cairo 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. 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. Final status is to be determined through direct negotiations
    within five years.
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    West Bank
Digraph:
    WE
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
Overview:
    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 Iraq invaded Kuwait 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. Israeli measures to
    curtail the intifadah also have added to unemployment and lowered living
    standards. The area's economic situation has worsened since Israel's partial
    closure of the territories in 1993.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $2,800 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    6.8% (1993)
Unemployment rate:
    35% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $43.4 million
  expenditures:
    $43.7 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY89/90)
Exports:
    $217 million (f.o.b., 1992)
  commodities:
    olives, fruit, vegetables
  partners:
    Jordan, Israel
Imports:
    $867 million (c.i.f., 1992)
  commodities:
    food, consumer goods, construction materials
  partners:
    Jordan, Israel
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    NA kW
  production:
    NA kWh
  consumption per capita:
    NA kWh
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    West Bank
                                     Economy
  note:
    most electricity imported from Israel; East Jerusalem Electric Company buys
    and distributes electricity to Palestinians in East Jerusalem 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
Industries:
    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
Agriculture:
    olives, citrus and other fruits, vegetables, beef, and dairy products
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    1 new Israeli shekel (NIS) = 100 new agorot; 1 Jordanian dinar (JD) = 1,000
    fils
Exchange rates:
    new Israeli shekels (NIS) per US$1 - 3.0270 (December 1994), 3.0111 (1994),
    2.8301 (1993), 2.4591 (1992), 2.2791 (1991), 2.0162 (1990); Jordanian dinars
    (JD) per US$1 - 0.6995 (January 1995), 0.6987 (1994), 0.6928 (1993), 0.6797
    (1992), 0.6808 (1991), 0.6636 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year (since 1 January 1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    West Bank
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    NA
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
  note:
    small road network; Israelis have developed many highways to service Jewish
    settlements
Ports:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    West Bank
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; note - 8% of Palestinian households have telephones (1992
    est.)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
  note:
    Israeli company BEZEK is responsible for communication services in the West
    Bank
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA; note - 82% of Palestinian households have radios (1992 est.)
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0; note - 1 planned for Jericho
  televisions:
    NA; note - 54% of Palestinian households have televisions (1992 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    West Bank
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    NA
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Spratly Islands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                  South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (dependent territory of the UK)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                  South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern South America, islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, east of the tip
    of South America
Map references:
    Antarctic Region
Area:
  total area:
    4,066 sq km
  land area:
    4,066 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Rhode Island
  note:
    includes Shag Rocks, Clerke Rocks, Bird Island
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    NA km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    administered by the UK, claimed by Argentina
Climate:
    variable, with mostly westerly winds throughout the year, interspersed with
    periods of calm; nearly all precipitation falls as snow
Terrain:
    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
Natural resources:
    fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100% (largely covered by permanent ice and snow with some sparse vegetation
    consisting of grass, moss, and lichen)
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    the South Sandwich Islands have prevailing weather conditions that generally
    make them difficult to approach by ship; they are also subject to active
    volcanism
  international agreements:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                  South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
                                    Geography
Note:
    the north coast of South Georgia has several large bays, which provide good
    anchorage; reindeer, introduced early in this century, live on South Georgia
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                  South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
                                     People
Population:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                  South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
  conventional short form:
    none
Digraph:
    SX
Type:
    dependent territory of the UK
Capital:
    none; Grytviken on South Georgia is the garrison town
Administrative divisions:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
Independence:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
National holiday:
    Liberation Day, 14 June (1982)
Constitution:
    3 October 1985
Legal system:
    English common law
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Commissioner
    David Everard TATHAM (since August 1992; resident at Stanley, Falkland
    Islands)
Legislative branch:
    no elections
Judicial branch:
    none
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                  South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Some fishing takes place in adjacent waters. There is a potential source of
    income from harvesting fin fish and krill. The islands receive income from
    postage stamps produced in the UK.
Budget:
  revenues:
    $291,777
  expenditures:
    $451,000, including capital expenditures of $NA (1988 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    900 kW
  production:
    2 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    NA kWh (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                  South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
                                 Transportation
Highways:
  total:
    NA
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    Grytviken
Airports:
    none
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                  South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; coastal radio station at Grytviken
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 0, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                  South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the UK
    stern Europe accounted for another 22%; and Japan accounted for 8%.
    These are the three "economic superpowers" which are 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, Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Singapore - once again posted records of 5%
    growth or better; however, many other countries, especially in Africa,
    continued to suffer from drought, rapid population growth, inflation, and
    civil strife. Central Europe made considerable progress in moving toward
    "market-friendly" economies, whereas the 15 ex-Soviet countries (with the
    notable exceptions of the three Baltic states) typically experienced further
    declines in output, sometimes as high as 30%. 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 ethnicity - gain
    momentum, e.g., in the successor states of the former Soviet Union, in the
    former Yugoslavia, and in India. 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 pollution,
    desertification, underemployment, epidemics, and famine. 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.
    (For the specific economic problems of each
Zaire
&ZAMBIA - Passport and visa required.  Obtain visa in advance.  Visa
valid up to 6 months, requires $10 fee (no personal checks),  2 application
forms and 2 photos.  Business visa also requires company letter.  Yellow
fever and cholera immunizations recommended.  Apply Embassy of the Republic
of Zambia, 2419 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/265-9717-21).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Zambia
============================================================
Zambia - Consular Information Sheet
 June 16, 1995
Country Description:  Zambia is a developing African country.
Tourist facilities outside of well-known game parks are not fully
developed.
Entry Requirements:  U.S. citizens must have a passport and a
Zambia visa prior to entering the country.  Further entry
information can be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of
Zambia, 2419 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008,
telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Tourist destinations, including national
parks located in eastern Zambia, are visited without incident by
large numbers of tourists, including Americans.  However, visitors'
security is uncertain in border areas, especially on the Great East
Road along the Mozambique border, the northern border with Zaire,
and in the west near Angola.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited.  Cholera and
yellow fever are endemic.  Malaria is widespread.  U.S. medical
insurance does not always provide coverage outside of the United
States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment
of medical services outside of the United States.  Travelers have
found supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage
to be useful.  Additional information on health matters can be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
international travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Crime is prevalent in Zambia.  Armed
carjackings, muggings and petty theft are commonplace in Lusaka,
especially on Cairo Road, in other commercial areas, and housing
compounds.  Armed residential break-ins are frequent occurrences in
many neighborhoods.  Travel at night is considered particularly
risky, both in Lusaka and on roads outside of the city.  The loss or
theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to
Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on protecting
personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region
in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Other Information:  Zambia Airways, the country's national airline,
suspended all flight operations and went into liquidation in
December 1994.  Other international air carriers service Lusaka, and
another domestic airline flies between some Zambia cities.  Public
ground transportation is generally unreliable and unsafe.
Travel to military areas and photographing military facilities are
prohibited.  Photography of any area other than tourist attractions
may be challenged by authorities.  Wearing of apparel that could be
mistaken for a military uniform can cause problems for visitors.
Foreigners are sometimes detained by Zambia police and security
forces for no apparent reason.  In arrest cases, Zambia authorities
are often slow in informing embassies of their citizens' detention.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy upon
arrival in Lusaka may obtain updated information on travel and
security in the country.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at the corner of
Independence and United Nations Avenues in the capital city of
Lusaka.  The mailing address is
P.O. Box 31617, Lusaka, Zambia.  The telephone number is (260-1)
250-955; the fax number is (260-1) 252-225.
 No. 95-072
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated December 14,
1994, to update the sections on medical facilities and information
on crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Zambia
============================================================
Zambia - Consular Information Sheet
 June 16, 1995
Country Description:  Zambia is a developing African country.
Tourist facilities outside of well-known game parks are not fully
developed.
Entry Requirements:  U.S. citizens must have a passport and a
Zambia visa prior to entering the country.  Further entry
information can be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of
Zambia, 2419 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008,
telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Tourist destinations, including national
parks located in eastern Zambia, are visited without incident by
large numbers of tourists, including Americans.  However, visitors'
security is uncertain in border areas, especially on the Great East
Road along the Mozambique border, the northern border with Zaire,
and in the west near Angola.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited.  Cholera and
yellow fever are endemic.  Malaria is widespread.  U.S. medical
insurance does not always provide coverage outside of the United
States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment
of medical services outside of the United States.  Travelers have
found supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage
to be useful.  Additional information on health matters can be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's
international travelers hotline, telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Crime is prevalent in Zambia.  Armed
carjackings, muggings and petty theft are commonplace in Lusaka,
especially on Cairo Road, in other commercial areas, and housing
compounds.  Armed residential break-ins are frequent occurrences in
many neighborhoods.  Travel at night is considered particularly
risky, both in Lusaka and on roads outside of the city.  The loss or
theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to
Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on protecting
personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region
in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Other Information:  Zambia Airways, the country's national airline,
suspended all flight operations and went into liquidation in
December 1994.  Other international air carriers service Lusaka, and
another domestic airline flies between some Zambia cities.  Public
ground transportation is generally unreliable and unsafe.
Travel to military areas and photographing military facilities are
prohibited.  Photography of any area other than tourist attractions
may be challenged by authorities.  Wearing of apparel that could be
mistaken for a military uniform can cause problems for visitors.
Foreigners are sometimes detained by Zambia police and security
forces for no apparent reason.  In arrest cases, Zambia authorities
are often slow in informing embassies of their citizens' detention.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy upon
arrival in Lusaka may obtain updated information on travel and
security in the country.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at the corner of
Independence and United Nations Avenues in the capital city of
Lusaka.  The mailing address is
P.O. Box 31617, Lusaka, Zambia.  The telephone number is (260-1)
250-955; the fax number is (260-1) 252-225.
 No. 95-072
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated December 14,
1994, to update the sections on medical facilities and information
on crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Zambia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, east of Angola
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    752,610 sq km
  land area:
    740,720 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 5,664 km, Angola 1,110 km, Malawi 837 km, Mozambique 419 km, Namibia
    233 km, Tanzania 338 km, Zaire 1,930 km, Zimbabwe 797 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    quadripoint with Botswana, Namibia, and Zimbabwe is in disagreement;
    Tanzania-Zaire-Zambia tripoint in Lake Tanganyika may no longer be
    indefinite since it is reported that the indefinite section of the
    Zaire-Zambia boundary has been settled
Climate:
    tropical; modified by altitude; rainy season (October to April)
Terrain:
    mostly high plateau with some hills and mountains
Natural resources:
    copper, cobalt, zinc, lead, coal, emeralds, gold, silver, uranium,
    hydropower potential
Land use:
  arable land:
    7%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    47%
  forest and woodland:
    27%
  other:
    19%
Irrigated land:
    320 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution and resulting acid rain in the mineral extraction and refining
    region; poaching seriously threatens rhinoceros and elephant populations;
    deforestation; soil erosion; desertification; lack of adequate water
    treatment presents human health risks
  natural hazards:
    tropical storms (November to April)
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands;
    signed, but not ratified - Desertification
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Zambia
                                     People
Population:
    9,445,723 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    50% (female 2,331,820; male 2,363,319)
  15-64 years:
    48% (female 2,332,798; male 2,193,363)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 112,484; male 111,939) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.7% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    45.47 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    18.42 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.04 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    86 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    42.88 years
  male:
    42.74 years
  female:
    43.03 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.62 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Zambian(s)
  adjective:
    Zambian
Ethnic divisions:
    African 98.7%, European 1.1%, other 0.2%
Religions:
    Christian 50%-75%, Muslim and Hindu 24%-49%, indigenous beliefs 1%
Languages:
    English (official)
  note:
    about 70 indigenous languages
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    73%
  male:
    81%
  female:
    65%
Labor force:
    3.4 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 85%, mining, manufacturing, and construction 6%, transport and
    services 9%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Zambia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Zambia
  conventional short form:
    Zambia
  former:
    Northern Rhodesia
Digraph:
    ZA
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Lusaka
Administrative divisions:
    9 provinces; Central, Copperbelt, Eastern, Luapula, Lusaka, Northern,
    North-Western, Southern, Western
Independence:
    24 October 1964 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 24 October (1964)
Constitution:
    2 August 1991
Legal system:
    based on English common law and customary law; judicial review of
    legislative acts in an ad hoc constitutional council; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Frederick CHILUBA (since 31 October 1991); Vice President General
    Godfrey MIYANDA (since NA August 1994; he replaced Levy MWANAWASA who was
    elected 31 October 1991 and resigned in NA August 1994) election last held
    31 October 1991 (next to be held NA 1996); results - Frederick CHILUBA 84%,
    Kenneth KAUNDA 16%
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president from members of the National Assembly
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly:
    elections last held 31 October 1991 (next to be held NA 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 4 of the resulting
    by-elections
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD), Frederick CHILUBA; United National
    Independence Party (UNIP), Kebby MUSOKATWANE; National Party (NP), Inonge
    MBIKUSITA-LEWANIKA;
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, FLS, G-19, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ITU,
    NAM, OAU, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMOZ, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO,
    WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Dunstan Weston KAMANA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Zambia
                                   Government
  chancery:
    2419 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 9719
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Roland K. KUCHEL
  embassy:
    corner of Independence Avenue and United Nations Avenue, Lusaka
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 31617, Lusaka
  telephone:
    [260] (1) 228595, 228601, 228602, 228603
  FAX:
    [260] (1) 261538
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Zambia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Prior to 1993 the economy had been in decline for more than a decade with
    falling imports and growing foreign debt. Economic difficulties stemmed
    largely from a chronically depressed level of copper production and weak
    copper prices, generally ineffective economic policies, and high inflation.
    An annual population growth of 3% brought a decline in per capita GDP of 50%
    over the decade. However, economic reforms enacted since 1992 have helped
    reduce inflation, have begun to strengthen the social safety net, and have
    been accompanied by GDP growth at an estimated 6.8% in 1993 and 4% in 1994.
    The huge external debt remains a key problem.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $7.9 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $860 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    89% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $665 million
  expenditures:
    $767 million, including capital expenditures of $300 million (1991 est.)
Exports:
    $1.01 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    copper, zinc, cobalt, lead, tobacco
  partners:
    EC countries, Japan, South Africa, US, India
Imports:
    $1.13 billion (c.i.f., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery, transportation equipment, foodstuffs, fuels, manufactures
  partners:
    EC countries, Japan, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, US
External debt:
    $7.3 billion (1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -1% (1992); accounts for 42% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    2,440,000 kW
  production:
    7.8 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    650 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    copper mining and processing, construction, foodstuffs, beverages,
    chemicals, textiles, and fertilizer
Agriculture:
    accounts for 12% of GDP and 85% of labor force; crops - corn (food staple),
    sorghum, rice, peanuts, sunflower, tobacco, cotton, sugarcane, cassava;
    cattle, goats, beef, eggs
Illicit drugs:
    increasingly a regional transshipment center for methaqualone and heroin
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Zambia
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (1970-89), $4.8 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $4.8 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $60 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $533
    million
Currency:
    1 Zambian kwacha (ZK) = 100 ngwee
Exchange rates:
    Zambian kwacha (ZK) per US$1 - 672.8 (September 1994), 434.78 (1993), 156.25
    (1992), 61.7284 (1991), 28.9855 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Zambia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    1,273 km
  narrow gauge:
    1,273 km 1.067-m gauge (13 km double track)
  note:
    not a part of Zambia Railways is 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 Zambia Railways
    system; 891 km of the TAZARA line transit Zambia
Highways:
  total:
    36,370 km
  paved:
    6,500 km
  unpaved:
    crushed stone, gravel, stabilized earth 7,000 km; improved, unimproved earth
    22,870 km
Inland waterways:
    2,250 km, including Zambezi and Luapula Rivers, Lake Tanganyika
Pipelines:
    crude oil 1,724 km
Ports:
    Mpulungu
Airports:
  total:
    113
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    4
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    39
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    57
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Zambia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; facilities are among the best in Sub-Saharan Africa
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    high capacity micrwave radio relay connects most larger towns and cities
  international:
    2 INTELSAT earth stations (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean)
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 11, FM 5, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    9
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Zambia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Air Force, Police
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,953,967; males fit for military service 1,028,113 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $45 million, 1.4% of GDP (1994)
Western Sahara
WESTERN SAMOA - Passport and onward/return ticket required.  Visa not
required for stay up to 30 days.  For longer stays contact the Western
Samoa Mission to the U.N., 820 2nd Avenue, Suite 800, New York, NY
(212/599-6196).
%                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Western Samoa
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the
    way from Hawaii to New Zealand
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    2,860 sq km
  land area:
    2,850 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Rhode Island
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    403 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; rainy season (October to March), dry season (May to October)
Terrain:
    narrow coastal plain with volcanic, rocky, rugged mountains in interior
Natural resources:
    hardwood forests, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    19%
  permanent crops:
    24%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    47%
  other:
    10%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    soil erosion
  natural hazards:
    occasional typhoons; active volcanism
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer
    Protection; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Western Samoa
                                     People
Population:
    209,360 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    40% (female 41,503; male 42,844)
  15-64 years:
    56% (female 55,683; male 61,065)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 4,323; male 3,942) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.37% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    31.74 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.88 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -2.14 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    35.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    68.38 years
  male:
    65.99 years
  female:
    70.88 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.04 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Western Samoan(s)
  adjective:
    Western Samoan
Ethnic divisions:
    Samoan 92.6%, Euronesians 7% (persons of European and Polynesian blood),
    Europeans 0.4%
Religions:
    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)
Languages:
    Samoan (Polynesian), English
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1971)
  total population:
    97%
  male:
    97%
  female:
    97%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    agriculture 60%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Western Samoa
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Independent State of Western Samoa
  conventional short form:
    Western Samoa
Digraph:
    WS
Type:
    constitutional monarchy under native chief
Capital:
    Apia
Administrative divisions:
    11 districts; A'ana, Aiga-i-le-Tai, Atua, Fa'asaleleaga, Gaga'emauga,
    Gagaifomauga, Palauli, Satupa'itea, Tuamasaga, Va'a-o-Fonoti, Vaisigano
Independence:
    1 January 1962 (from UN trusteeship administered by New Zealand)
National holiday:
    National Day, 1 June (1962)
Constitution:
    1 January 1962
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Chief Susuga Malietoa TANUMAFILI II (Co-Chief of State from 1 January 1962
    until becoming sole Chief of State on 5 April 1963)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister TOFILAU Eti Alesana (since 7 April 1988)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the head of state with the prime minister's advice
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Legislative Assembly (Fono):
    elections last held 5 April 1991 (next to be held by NA 1996); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (47 total) HRPP 28, SNDP 18,
    independents 1
  note:
    only matai (head of family) are able to run for the Legislative Assembly
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court, Court of Appeal
Political parties and leaders:
    Human Rights Protection Party (HRPP), TOFILAU Eti Alesana, chairman; Samoan
    National Development Party (SNDP), TAPUA Tamasese Efi, chairman
Member of:
    ACP, AsDB, C, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS,
    IMF, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), IOC, ITU, SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UN, UNCTAD,
    UNESCO, UPU, WHO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Tuiloma Neroni SLADE
  chancery:
    820 Second Avenue, Suite 800, New York, NY 10017
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 6197
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Western Samoa
                                   Government
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    the ambassador to New Zealand is accredited to Western Samoa
  embassy:
    5th floor, Beach Road, Apia
  mailing address:
    P.O. Box 3430, Apia
  telephone:
    [685] 21631
  FAX:
    [685] 22030
Flag:
    red with a blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side quadrant bearing five
    white five-pointed stars representing the Southern Cross constellation
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Western Samoa
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Agriculture employs more than 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 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 taro, the primary food export crop, has dropped
    97% since a fungal disease struck the crop in 1993. The rapid growth in 1994
    of the giant African snail population in Western Samoa is also threatening
    the country's basic food crops, such as bananas and coconuts.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $400 million (1992 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -4.3% (1992 est.)
National product per capita:
    $2,000 (1992 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    14% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $95.3 million
  expenditures:
    $76.7 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $6.4 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    coconut oil and cream, taro, copra, cocoa
  partners:
    New Zealand 34%, American Samoa 21%, Germany 18%, Australia 11%
Imports:
    $11.5 million (c.i.f., 1992 est.)
  commodities:
    intermediate goods 58%, food 17%, capital goods 12%
  partners:
    New Zealand 37%, Australia 25%, Japan 11%, Fiji 9%
External debt:
    $141 million (June 1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -0.3% (1992 est.); accounts for 16% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    29,000 kW
  production:
    50 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    200 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    timber, tourism, food processing, fishing
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 50% of GDP; coconuts, fruit (including bananas, taro,
    yams)
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $18 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $306 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $4 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Western Samoa
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 tala (WS$) = 100 sene
Exchange rates:
    tala (WS$) per US$1 - 2.4600 (January 1995), 2.5349 (1994), 2.5681 (1993),
    2.4655 (1992), 2.3975 (1991), 2.3095 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Western Samoa
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    2,042 km
  paved:
    375 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone, earth 1,667 km
Ports:
    Apia, Asau, Mulifanua, Salelologa
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1 roll-on/roll-off cargo ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 3,838 GRT/5,536
    DWT
Airports:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Western Samoa
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    7,500 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    70,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Western Samoa
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    no regular armed services; Western Samoa Police Force
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
n ] [phone], 7691
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires John M. YATES
  embassy:
    310 Avenue des Aviateurs, Kinshasa
  mailing address:
    Unit 31550, Kinshasha; APO AE 09828
  telephone:
    [243] (12) 21532, 21628
  FAX:
    [243] (12) 21534 ext. 2308, 21535 ext. 2308; (88) 43805, 43467
Flag:
    light green with a yellow disk in the center bearing a black arm holding a
    red flaming torch; the flames of the torch are blowing away from the hoist
    side; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia
                                      Zaire
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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
Zimbabwe
TAIWAN - Passport required.  Visa not required for stay up to 5 days.
AIDS test mandatory for anyone staying over 3 months; U.S. test sometimes
accepted.  For business travel, longer stays  or other information
contact Coordination Council for North American Affairs (CCNAA), 4201 Wisconsin
Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20016-2137 (202/895-1800).  Additional
offices are in Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Guam, Honolulu, Houston,
Kansas City, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco, and Seattle.
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Taiwan
============================================================
Taiwan - Consular Information Sheet
 February 27, 1995
Country Description:  Taiwan is continuing its transition toward
democracy and has a strong and well-developed economy.  Tourist
facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  Visas are not
required for stays up to fourteen days, provided that the traveler's
passport is valid for at least six months from the date of arrival,
and the traveler is in possession of a return air ticket.  Visas for
stays of up to two months are free of charge and must be obtained
prior to entry.  For specific visa information, travelers may
contact the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office
(TECRO), 4201 Wisconsin Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20016-2137;
telephone: [phone].  TECRO also has offices in Atlanta,
Boston, Chicago, Guam, Honolulu, Houston, Kansas City, Los Angeles,
Miami, New York, San Francisco, and Seattle.
Medical Facilities:  Health facilities in Taiwan are fully adequate
for routine medical treatment.  Doctors and hospitals may expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental
overseas medical insurance, including coverage for medical
evacuation, has proven useful.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does
not provide payment of medical services outside the United States.
The international traveler's hotline at the Centers for Disease
Control [phone] has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  The overall crime rate on Taiwan is low.
Residential burglaries and thefts are the predominant types of
crimes which affect foreigners on Taiwan, but other more serious
street crimes do occasionally occur.  Generally, U.S. citizen
visitors to Taiwan should follow the basic security precautions that
they would follow in a large city.  Local police assistance
throughout Taiwan is considered to be good.  Local police
departments all have foreign affairs sections which are normally
staffed by English-speaking officers.  Police contact numbers for
the major cities on Taiwan are as follows:  Taipei - [phone],
Kaohsiung - [phone],  Tainan - [phone],  Taichung - (04)
220-3032.  Some foreign businesses have also been the victims of
criminal extortion attempts.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S.
passport should be reported immediately to the local police, and to
the American Institute in Taiwan, in either the Taipei or the
Kaohsiung office.  Useful information on guarding valuables and
protecting personal security while traveling abroad is provided in
the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad".  It is
available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country or area in which they travel.  Penalties
for possession, use, or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and/or large
fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the American Institute in
Taiwan may obtain updated information on travel and security within
Taiwan.  The American Institute in Taiwan does not issue U.S.
passports directly; passport applications are sent to the American
Consulate General in Hong Kong for processing.  Processing time for
U.S. passports takes three weeks.  If immediate travel is necessary,
the American Institute in Taiwan can issue a travel letter for
travel to Hong Kong or the U.S., but not for any other destination.
Embassy Location:  Unofficial relations with the people of Taiwan
are conducted through the American Institute in Taiwan whose offices
are authorized by law to perform American citizen services.  For
assistance, U.S. citizen travelers can contact the American
Institute in Taiwan at No. 7 Lane 134, Hsin Yi Road Section 3
Taipei, Taiwan; Telephone: [phone] or the American
Institute in Taiwan at No. 2 Chung Cheng 3rd Road, 5th floor,
Kaohsiung, Taiwan, telephone: [886-7] 224-0154.  In case of
emergencies after working hours, the duty officer at Taipei can be
contacted at (886-2) 709-2013.
 No. 95-033
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 19,
1994, provides current requirements for entry into Taiwan, and
introduces the Taipei Economic and Cultural Representative Office
(TECRO), formerly known as the Coordination Council for North
American Affairs (CCNAA).
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
I                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Taiwan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Asia, islands bordering the East China Sea, Philippine Sea, South
    China Sea, and Taiwan Strait, north of the Philippines, off the southeastern
    coast of China
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    35,980 sq km
  land area:
    32,260 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Maryland and Delaware combined
  note:
    includes the Pescadores, Matsu, and Quemoy
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    1,448 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    involved in complex dispute over the Spratly Islands with China, Malaysia,
    Philippines, Vietnam, and possibly Brunei; Paracel Islands occupied by
    China, but claimed by Vietnam and Taiwan; Japanese-administered
    Senkaku-shoto (Senkaku Islands/Diaoyu Tai) claimed by China and Taiwan
Climate:
    tropical; marine; rainy season during southwest monsoon (June to August);
    cloudiness is persistent and extensive all year
Terrain:
    eastern two-thirds mostly rugged mountains; flat to gently rolling plains in
    west
Natural resources:
    small deposits of coal, natural gas, limestone, marble, and asbestos
Land use:
  arable land:
    24%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    5%
  forest and woodland:
    55%
  other:
    15%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution from industrial emissions, raw sewage; air pollution;
    contamination of drinking water supplies; trade in endangered species
  natural hazards:
    earthquakes and typhoons
  international agreements:
    signed, but not ratified - Marine Life Conservation
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Taiwan
                                     People
Population:
    21,500,583 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    24% (female 2,543,134; male 2,665,878)
  15-64 years:
    68% (female 7,191,964; male 7,482,814)
  65 years and over:
    8% (female 734,535; male 882,258) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.93% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.33 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.71 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.37 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    5.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    75.47 years
  male:
    72.17 years
  female:
    78.93 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.81 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Chinese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Chinese
Ethnic divisions:
    Taiwanese 84%, mainland Chinese 14%, aborigine 2%
Religions:
    mixture of Buddhist, Confucian, and Taoist 93%, Christian 4.5%, other 2.5%
Languages:
    Mandarin Chinese (official), Taiwanese (Min), Hakka dialects
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980)
  total population:
    86%
  male:
    93%
  female:
    79%
Labor force:
    7.9 million
  by occupation:
    industry and commerce 53%, services 22%, agriculture 15.6%, civil
    administration 7% (1989)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Taiwan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Taiwan
  local long form:
    none
  local short form:
    T'ai-wan
Digraph:
    TW
Type:
    multiparty democratic regime; opposition political parties legalized in
    March, 1989
Capital:
    Taipei
Administrative divisions:
    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 Taiwan (the island
    of Taiwan and the Pescadores islands); the more commonly referenced
    administrative divisions are those of Taiwan 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
  note:
    Taiwan uses the Wade-Giles system for romanization
National holiday:
    National Day, 10 October (1911) (Anniversary of the Revolution)
Constitution:
    1 January 1947, amended in 1992, presently undergoing revision
Legal system:
    based on civil law system; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with
    reservations
Suffrage:
    20 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President LI Teng-hui (since 13 January 1988); Vice President LI Yuan-zu
    (since 20 May 1990)
  head of government:
    Premier (President of the Executive Yuan) LIEN Chan (since 23 February
    1993); Vice Premier (Vice President of the Executive Yuan) HSU Li-teh (since
    23 February 1993); presidential election last held 21 March 1990 (next
    election will probably be a direct popular election and will be held NA
    March 1996); results - President LI Teng-hui was reelected by the National
    Assembly; vice presidential election last held 21 March 1990; results - LI
    Yuan-zu was elected by the National Assembly
  cabinet:
    Executive Yuan; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral Legislative Yuan and unicameral National Assembly
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Taiwan
                                   Government
  Legislative Yuan:
    elections last held 19 December 1992 (next to be held NA December 1995);
    results - KMT 60%, DPP 31%, independents 9%; seats - (304 total, 161
    elected) KMT 96, DPP 50, independents 15
  National Assembly:
    first National Assembly elected in November 1946 with a supplementary
    election in December 1986; second and present National Assembly elected in
    December 1991; seats - (403 total) KMT 318, DPP 75, other 10; (next election
    to be held probably in 1996 and will be a direct popular election)
Judicial branch:
    Judicial Yuan
Political parties and leaders:
    Kuomintang (KMT, Nationalist Party), LI Teng-hui, chairman; Democratic
    Progressive Party (DPP), SHIH Ming-teh, chairman; Chinese New Party (CNP);
    Labor Party (LP)
Other political or pressure groups:
    Taiwan independence movement, various environmental groups
  note:
    debate on Taiwan independence has become acceptable within the mainstream of
    domestic politics on Taiwan; political liberalization and the increased
    representation of the opposition Democratic Progressive Party in Taiwan's
    legislature have opened public debate on the island's national identity;
    advocates of Taiwan 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 Taiwan independence
    movement include establishing a sovereign nation on Taiwan and entering the
    UN; other organizations supporting Taiwan independence include the World
    United Formosans for Independence and the Organization for Taiwan Nation
    Building
Member of:
    expelled from UN General Assembly and Security Council on 25 October 1971
    and withdrew on same date from other charter-designated subsidiary organs;
    expelled from IMF/World Bank group April/May 1980; seeking to join GATT;
    attempting to retain membership in INTELSAT; suspended from IAEA in 1972,
    but still allows IAEA controls over extensive atomic development, APEC,
    AsDB, BCIE, ICC, IOC, WCL
Diplomatic representation in US:
    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
US diplomatic representation:
    unofficial commercial and cultural relations with the people of Taiwan are
    maintained through a private institution, the American Institute in Taiwan
    (AIT), which has offices in Taipei at #7, Lane 134, Hsin Yi Road, Section 3,
    telephone [886] (2) 709-2000, and in Kao-hsiung at #2 Chung Cheng 3d Road,
    telephone [886] (7) 224-0154 through 0157, and the American Trade Center at
    Room 3207 International Trade Building, Taipei World Trade Center, 333
    Keelung Road Section 1, Taipei 10548, telephone [886] (2) 720-1550
Flag:
    red with a dark blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner bearing a
    white sun with 12 triangular rays
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Taiwan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Taiwan 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 GNP has averaged about
    9% a year during the past three decades. Export growth has been even faster
    and has provided the impetus for industrialization. Inflation and
    unemployment are remarkably low. Agriculture contributes about 4% to GDP,
    down from 35% in 1952. Taiwan currently ranks as number 13 among major
    trading countries. Traditional labor-intensive industries are steadily being
    replaced with more capital- and technology-intensive industries. Taiwan has
    become a major investor in China, Thailand, Indonesia, the Philippines,
    Malaysia, and Vietnam. The tightening of labor markets has led to an influx
    of foreign workers, both legal and illegal.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $257 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $12,070 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    5.2% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    1.6% (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $30.3 billion
  expenditures:
    $30.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1991 est.)
Exports:
    $93 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    electrical machinery 19.7%, electronic products 19.6%, textiles 10.9%,
    footwear 3.3%, foodstuffs 1.0%, plywood and wood products 0.9% (1993 est.)
  partners:
    US 27.6%, Hong Kong 21.7%, EC countries 15.2%, Japan 10.5% (1994 est.)
Imports:
    $85.1 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment 15.7%, electronic products 15.6%, chemicals 9.8%,
    iron and steel 8.5%, crude oil 3.9%, foodstuffs 2.1% (1993 est.)
  partners:
    Japan 30.1%, US 21.7%, EC countries 17.6% (1993 est.)
External debt:
    $620 million (1992 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 4.5% (1994 est.); accounts for more than 40% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    21,460,000 kW
  production:
    108 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    4,789 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    electronics, textiles, chemicals, clothing, food processing, plywood, sugar
    milling, cement, shipbuilding, petroleum refining
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Taiwan
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 4% of GDP and 16% of labor force (includes part-time farmers);
    heavily subsidized sector; major crops - vegetables, rice, fruit, tea;
    livestock - hogs, poultry, beef, milk; not self-sufficient in wheat,
    soybeans, corn; fish catch increasing, reached 1.4 million metric tons in
    1988
Illicit drugs:
    an important heroin transit point; also a major drug money laundering center
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US, including Ex-Im (FY46-82), $4.6 billion; Western (non-US) countries, ODA
    and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $500 million
Currency:
    1 New Taiwan dollar (NT$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    New Taiwan dollars per US$1 - 26.2 (1994), 26.6 (1993), 25.4 (1992), 25.748
    (1991), 27.108 (1990), 26.407 (1989)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Taiwan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    4,600 km; note - 1,075 km in common carrier service and about 3,525 km is
    dedicated to industrial use
  narrow gauge:
    4,600 km 1.067-m
Highways:
  total:
    20,041 km
  paved:
    bituminous, concrete pavement 17,095 km
  unpaved:
    crushed stone, gravel 2,371 km; graded earth 575 km
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 615 km; natural gas 97 km
Ports:
    Chi-lung (Keelung), Hua-lien, Kao-hsiung, Su-ao, T'ai-chung
Merchant marine:
  total:
    198 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,635,682 GRT/8,652,111 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 55, cargo 30, chemical tanker 1, combination bulk 2, combination
    ore/oil 1, container 78, oil tanker 17, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated
    cargo 12, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    41
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    8
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    11
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    6
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    8
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Taiwan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    7,800,000 telephones; best developed system in Asia outside of Japan
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    extensive microwave radio relay links on east and west coasts
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Pacific Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) earth stations; submarine
    cable links to Japan (Okinawa), Philippines, Guam, Singapore, Hong Kong,
    Indonesia, Australia, Middle East, and Western Europe
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 91, FM 23, shortwave 0
  radios:
    8.62 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    15 (repeaters 13)
  televisions:
    6.386 million (color 5,680,000, monochrome 706,000)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Taiwan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy (includes Marines), Air Force, Coastal Patrol and Defense
    Command, Armed Forces Reserve Command, Military Police Command
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 6,293,884; males fit for military service 4,863,014; males
    reach military age (19) annually 201,191 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $9.8 billion, 3.4% of GDP (FY94/95); $9.77
    billion proposed for FY95/96 budget
    billion proposed for FY95/96 budget
Afghanis.0
Albania.1
Algeria.2
American.3
Andorra.4
Angola.5
Anguilla.6
Antarcti.7
Antigua_.8
Arctic_O.9
Argentin.10
Armenia.11
Aruba.12
Ashmore_.13
Atlantic.14
Australi.15
Austria.16
Azerbaij.17
The_Baha.18
Bahrain.19
Baker_Is.20
Banglade.21
Barbados.22
Bassas_d.23
Belarus.24
Belgium.25
Belize.26
Benin.27
Bermuda.28
Bhutan.29
Bolivia.30
Bosnia_a.31
Botswana.32
Bouvet_I.33
Brazil.34
British_.35
Brunei.36
Bulgaria.37
Burkina.38
Burma.39
Burundi.40
Cambodia.41
Cameroon.42
Canada.43
Cape_Ver.44
Cayman_I.45
Central_.46
Chad.47
Chile.48
China.49
Christma.50
Clippert.51
Cocos__K.52
Colombia.53
Comoros.54
Congo.55
Cook_Isl.56
Coral_Se.57
Costa_Ri.58
Cote_d'I.59
Croatia.60
Cuba.61
Cyprus.62
Czech_Re.63
Denmark.64
Djibouti.65
Dominica.66
Ecuador.67
Egypt.68
El_Salva.69
Equatori.70
Eritrea.71
Estonia.72
Ethiopia.73
Europa_I.74
Falkland.75
Faroe_Is.76
Fiji.77
Finland.78
France.79
French_G.80
French_P.81
French_S.82
Gabon.83
The_Gamb.84
Gaza_Str.85
Georgia.86
Germany.87
Ghana.88
Gibralta.89
Glorioso.90
Greece.91
Greenlan.92
Grenada.93
Guadelou.94
Guam.95
Guatemal.96
Guernsey.97
Guinea.98
Guinea_B.99
Guyana.100
Haiti.101
Heard_Is.102
Holy_See.103
Honduras.104
Hong_Kon.105
Howland_.106
Hungary.107
Iceland.108
India.109
Indian_O.110
Indonesi.111
Iran.112
Iraq.113
Ireland.114
Israel.115
Italy.116
Jamaica.117
Jan_Maye.118
Japan.119
Jarvis_I.120
Jersey.121
Johnston.122
Jordan.123
Juan_de_.124
Kazakhst.125
Kenya.126
Kingman_.127
Kiribati.128
Korea__N.129
Korea__S.130
Kuwait.131
Kyrgyzst.132
Laos.133
Latvia.134
Lebanon.135
Lesotho.136
Liberia.137
Libya.138
Liechten.139
Lithuani.140
Luxembou.141
Macau.142
Macedoni.143
Madagasc.144
Malawi.145
Malaysia.146
Maldives.147
Mali.148
Malta.149
Man__Isl.150
Marshall.151
Martiniq.152
Mauritan.153
Mauritiu.154
Mayotte.155
Mexico.156
Micrones.157
Midway_I.158
Moldova.159
Monaco.160
Mongolia.161
Montserr.162
Morocco.163
Mozambiq.164
Namibia.165
Nauru.166
Navassa_.167
Nepal.168
Netherla.169
New_Cale.170
New_Zeal.171
Nicaragu.172
Niger.173
Nigeria.174
Niue.175
Norfolk_.176
Northern.177
Norway.178
Oman.179
Pacific_.180
Pakistan.181
Palau.182
Palmyra_.183
Panama.184
Papua_Ne.185
Paracel_.186
Paraguay.187
Peru.188
Philippi.189
Pitcairn.190
Poland.191
Portugal.192
Puerto_R.193
Qatar.194
Reunion.195
Romania.196
Russia.197
Rwanda.198
Saint_He.199
Saint_Ki.200
Saint_Lu.201
Saint_Pi.202
Saint_Vi.203
San_Mari.204
Sao_Tome.205
Saudi_Ar.206
Senegal.207
Serbia_a.208
Seychell.209
Sierra_L.210
Singapor.211
Slovakia.212
Slovenia.213
Solomon_.214
Somalia.215
South_Af.216
South_Ge.217
Spain.218
Spratly_.219
Sri_Lank.220
Sudan.221
Suriname.222
Svalbard.223
Swazilan.224
Sweden.225
Switzerl.226
Syria.227
Tajikist.228
Tanzania.229
Thailand.230
Togo.231
Tokelau.232
Tonga.233
Trinidad.234
Tromelin.235
Tunisia.236
Turkey.237
Turkmeni.238
Turks_an.239
Tuvalu.240
Uganda.241
Ukraine.242
United_A.243
United_K.244
United_S.245
Uruguay.246
Uzbekist.247
Vanuatu.248
Venezuel.249
Vietnam.250
Virgin_I.251
Wake_Isl.252
Wallis_a.253
West_Ban.254
Western_.255
World.256
Yemen.257
Zaire.258
Zambia.259
Zimbabwe.260
Taiwan.261
Zambia
ZIMBABWE - Passport, onward/return ticket and proof of sufficient funds
required.  Visitors must declare currency upon arrival.  For
regulations check with Embassy of Zimbabwe, 1608 New Hampshire Ave., N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20009 (202/332-7100)
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Zimbabwe
============================================================
Zimbabwe - Consular Information Sheet
 January 20, 1995
Country Description:  Zimbabwe is a landlocked southern African
country with extensive tourist facilities.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  Although no visa is
required to enter Zimbabwe, immigration authorities require a firm
itinerary, sufficient funds to support the visit, and a return
ticket to the United States.  Onward tickets to non-U.S.
destinations may not suffice.  If these requirements are not met,
immigration authorities may order departure by the next available
flight.  Departing air travelers must pay a $20 departure tax.
Travelers may obtain further information regarding entry
requirements by contacting the Embassy of Zimbabwe, 1608 New
Hampshire Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009, telephone (202)
332-7100.
Areas of Instability:  Land mines along the Mozambique border,
which is outside the main tourist areas, make travel to the border
area potentially hazardous.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Zimbabwe are limited.
Some medicine is in short supply.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  The
Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide for payment of medical
services outside the United States.  In some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas and medical evacuation
coverage has proven useful.  Zimbabwe is suffering greatly from the
AIDS pandemic.  Information on health matters can be obtained from
the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline,
telephone [phone].
Information on Crime:  Muggings, purse snatchings and break-ins are
an increasing problem in Harare and Bulawayo.  Thieves often operate
in downtown Harare, especially in crowded areas, and on public
transportation.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should
be reported immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S.
Embassy or Consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips
for Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
In-Country Travel:  Intercity bus travel can be dangerous due to
overloaded buses, inadequate maintenance, unskilled drivers and
occasional cases of drivers operating buses while intoxicated.  When
driving in cities, individuals generally keep windows rolled up and
doors locked.  Scheduled air travel is available to several cities
and tourist destinations throughout Zimbabwe.
Currency Regulations:  Travelers to Zimbabwe are required to pay
for all lodging with foreign currency or credit cards.  Zimbabwe
currency, even if obtained by exchanging foreign cash or travelers'
checks in Zimbabwe, will not be accepted for payment of hotel bills.
Restrictions on Photography:  Zimbabwean authorities are extremely
sensitive about photographing certain locations and buildings,
including government offices, airports, military installations,
official residences and embassies.
Arrest or Detention:  U.S. consular officials are not always
granted quick access to Americans detained by Zimbabwean police.
Embassy protests to the Government of Zimbabwe have not improved
this situation.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the Embassy may obtain
updated information on travel and security in Zimbabwe.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 172 Herbert
Chitepo Avenue, P.O. Box 3340, in the capital city of Harare.  The
telephone number is (263-4) 794-521.  In emergency situations during
non-working hours, a duty officer can be contacted through the
Marine Security Guard on duty at the Embassy.
 No. 95-006
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated  October 18,
1993, to revise information concerning medical facilities and
currency regulations.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
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word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Zimbabwe
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, northeast of Botswana
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    390,580 sq km
  land area:
    386,670 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Montana
Land boundaries:
    total 3,066 km, Botswana 813 km, Mozambique 1,231 km, South Africa 225 km,
    Zambia 797 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    quadripoint with Botswana, Namibia, and Zambia is in disagreement
Climate:
    tropical; moderated by altitude; rainy season (November to March)
Terrain:
    mostly high plateau with higher central plateau (high veld); mountains in
    east
Natural resources:
    coal, chromium ore, asbestos, gold, nickel, copper, iron ore, vanadium,
    lithium, tin, platinum group metals
Land use:
  arable land:
    7.25%
  permanent crops:
    0.25% (coffee is a permanent crop)
  meadows and pastures:
    12.5%
  forest and woodland:
    49%
  other:
    31%
Irrigated land:
    2,250 sq km (1993 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; land degradation; air and water pollution; the
    black rhinoceros herd - once the largest concentration of the species in the
    world - has been significantly reduced by poaching
  natural hazards:
    recurring droughts; floods and severe storms are rare
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea,
    Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Desertification
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Zimbabwe
                                     People
Population:
    11,139,961 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    47% (female 2,588,193; male 2,617,485)
  15-64 years:
    51% (female 2,915,697; male 2,723,511)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 151,635; male 143,440) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.78% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    36.35 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    18.54 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    following the settlement of hostilities in Mozambique in 1992, refugees from
    the fighting there began to return to their homes; this process continues at
    a lesser rate in 1995; there is a small but steady flow of Zimbabweans into
    South Africa in search of better paid employment
Infant mortality rate:
    72.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    41.35 years
  male:
    39.73 years
  female:
    43.01 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.93 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Zimbabwean(s)
  adjective:
    Zimbabwean
Ethnic divisions:
    African 98% (Shona 71%, Ndebele 16%, other 11%), white 1%, mixed and Asian
    1%
Religions:
    syncretic (part Christian, part indigenous beliefs) 50%, Christian 25%,
    indigenous beliefs 24%, Muslim and other 1%
Languages:
    English (official), Shona, Sindebele
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1982)
  total population:
    78%
  male:
    84%
  female:
    72%
Labor force:
    3.1 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 74%, transport and services 16%, mining, manufacturing,
    construction 10% (1987)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Zimbabwe
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Zimbabwe
  conventional short form:
    Zimbabwe
  former:
    Southern Rhodesia
Digraph:
    ZI
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Harare
Administrative divisions:
    8 provinces; Manicaland, Mashonaland Central, Mashonaland East, Mashonaland
    West, Masvingo (Victoria), Matabeleland North, Matabeleland South, Midlands
Independence:
    18 April 1980 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 18 April (1980)
Constitution:
    21 December 1979
Legal system:
    mixture of Roman-Dutch and English common law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    Executive President Robert Gabriel MUGABE (since 31 December 1987); Co-Vice
    President Simon Vengai MUZENDA (since 31 December 1987); Co-Vice President
    Joshua M. NKOMO (since 6 August 1990); election last held 28-30 March 1990
    (next to be held NA March 1996); results - Robert MUGABE 78.3%, Edgar TEKERE
    21.7%
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president; responsible to Parliament
Legislative branch:
    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-S 2
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), Robert MUGABE;
    Zimbabwe African National Union-Sithole (ZANU-S), Ndabaningi SITHOLE;
    Zimbabwe Unity Movement (ZUM), Edgar TEKERE; Democratic Party (DP), Emmanuel
    MAGOCHE; Forum Party of Zimbabwe, Enock DUMBUTSHENA; United Parties, Abel
    MUZOREWA
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, FLS, G-15, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM
    (observer), ISO, ITU, NAM, OAU, PCA, SADC, UN, UNAMIR, UNAVEM II, UNCTAD,
    UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMUR, UNOSOM, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Amos Bernard Muvengwa MIDZI
  chancery:
    1608 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Zimbabwe
                                   Government
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Johnny CARSON
  embassy:
    172 Herbert Chitepo Avenue, Harare
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 3340, Harare
  telephone:
    [263] (4) 794521
  FAX:
    [263] (4) 796488
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Zimbabwe
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Agriculture employs three-fourths of the labor force and supplies almost 40%
    of exports. The manufacturing sector, based on agriculture and mining,
    produces a variety of goods and contributes 35% to GDP. Mining accounts for
    only 5% of both GDP and employment, but minerals and metals account for
    about 40% of exports. Severe drought caused GDP to drop 8% in 1992, with
    growth rebounding to 2% in 1993 and 3.5% in 1994. Despite the lingering
    effects of the drought on economic and social conditions, the government is
    continuing to push its IMF/World Bank structural adjustment program aimed at
    encouraging exports and foreign investment.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $17.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,580 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    22% (December 1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    at least 45% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.7 billion
  expenditures:
    $2.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $253 million (FY92/93)
Exports:
    $1.8 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    agricultural 35% (tobacco 30%, other 5%), manufactures 25%, gold 12%,
    ferrochrome 10%, textiles 8% (1992)
  partners:
    UK 14%, Germany 11%, South Africa 10%, Japan 7%, US 5% (1991)
Imports:
    $1.8 billion (c.i.f., 1992 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and transportation equipment 41%, other manufactures 23%,
    chemicals 16%, fuels 12% (1991)
  partners:
    South Africa 25%, UK 15%, Germany 9%, US 6%, Japan 5% (1991)
External debt:
    $3.5 billion (December 1992 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 2.3% (1992); accounts for 35% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    2,040,000 kW
  production:
    9 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    913 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    mining, steel, clothing and footwear, chemicals, foodstuffs, fertilizer,
    beverage, transportation equipment, wood products
Agriculture:
    accounts for 20% of GDP; 40% of land area divided into 4,500 large
    commercial farms and 42% in communal lands; crops - corn (food staple),
    cotton, tobacco, wheat, coffee, sugarcane, peanuts; livestock - cattle,
    sheep, goats, pigs; self-sufficient in food
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Zimbabwe
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
    NA
Currency:
    1 Zimbabwean dollar (Z$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Zimbabwean dollars (Z$) per US$1 - 8.3752 (January 1995), 8.1500 (1994),
    6.4725 (1993), 5.1046 (1992), 3.4282 (1991), 2.4480 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Zimbabwe
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,745 km
  narrow gauge:
    2,745 km 1.067-m gauge (355 km electrified; 42 km double track)
Highways:
  total:
    85,237 km
  paved:
    15,800 km
  unpaved:
    crushed stone, gravel, stabilized earth 39,090 km; improved earth 23,097 km;
    unimproved earth 7,250 km
Inland waterways:
    Lake Kariba is a potential line of communication
Pipelines:
    petroleum products 212 km
Ports:
    Binga, Kariba
Airports:
  total:
    471
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    6
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    13
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    222
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    223
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Zimbabwe
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    247,000 telephones; system was once one of the best in Africa, but now
    suffers from poor maintenance
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    consists of microwave links, open-wire lines, and radio communications
    stations
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 8, FM 18, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    8
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Zimbabwe
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Zimbabwe National Army, Air Force of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Republic Police
    (includes Police Support Unit, Paramilitary Police)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,435,931; males fit for military service 1,514,068 (1995
    est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $175 million, 3.1% of GDP (FY94/95)
rmed Indian Ocean) earth stations; submarine
    cable links to Japan (Okinawa), Philippines, Guam, Singapore, Hong Kong,
    Indonesia, Australia, Middle East, and Western Europe
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 91, FM 23, shortwave 0
  radios:
    8.62 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    15 (repeaters 13)
  televisions:
    6.386 million (color 5,680,000, monochrome 706,000)
                                     Taiwan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy (includes Marines), Air Force, Coastal Patrol and Defense
    Command, Armed Forces Reserve Command, Military Police Command
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 6,293,884; males fit for military service 4,863,014; males
    reach military age (19) annually 201,191 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $9.8 billion, 3.4% of GDP (FY94/95); $9.77
    billion proposed for FY95/96 budget
    billion proposed for FY95/96 budget
Afghanis.0
Albania.1
Algeria.2
American.3
Andorra.4
Angola.5
Anguilla.6
Antarcti.7
Antigua_.8
Arctic_O.9
Argentin.10
Armenia.11
Aruba.12
Ashmore_.13
Atlantic.14
Australi.15
Austria.16
Azerbaij.17
The_Baha.18
Bahrain.19
Baker_Is.20
Banglade.21
Barbados.22
Bassas_d.23
Belarus.24
Belgium.25
Belize.26
Benin.27
Bermuda.28
Bhutan.29
Bolivia.30
Bosnia_a.31
Botswana.32
Bouvet_I.33
Brazil.34
British_.35
Brunei.36
Bulgaria.37
Burkina.38
Burma.39
Burundi.40
Cambodia.41
Cameroon.42
Canada.43
Cape_Ver.44
Cayman_I.45
Central_.46
Chad.47
Chile.48
China.49
Christma.50
Clippert.51
Cocos__K.52
Colombia.53
Comoros.54
Congo.55
Cook_Isl.56
Coral_Se.57
Costa_Ri.58
Cote_d'I.59
Croatia.60
Cuba.61
Cyprus.62
Czech_Re.63
Denmark.64
Djibouti.65
Dominica.66
Ecuador.67
Egypt.68
El_Salva.69
Equatori.70
Eritrea.71
Estonia.72
Ethiopia.73
Europa_I.74
Falkland.75
Faroe_Is.76
Fiji.77
Finland.78
France.79
French_G.80
French_P.81
French_S.82
Gabon.83
The_Gamb.84
Gaza_Str.85
Georgia.86
Germany.87
Ghana.88
Gibralta.89
Glorioso.90
Greece.91
Greenlan.92
Grenada.93
Guadelou.94
Guam.95
Guatemal.96
Guernsey.97
Guinea.98
Guinea_B.99
Guyana.100
Haiti.101
Heard_Is.102
Holy_See.103
Honduras.104
Hong_Kon.105
Howland_.106
Hungary.107
Iceland.108
India.109
Indian_O.110
Indonesi.111
Iran.112
Iraq.113
Ireland.114
Israel.115
Italy.116
Jamaica.117
Jan_Maye.118
Japan.119
Jarvis_I.120
Jersey.121
Johnston.122
Jordan.123
Juan_de_.124
Kazakhst.125
Kenya.126
Kingman_.127
Kiribati.128
Korea__N.129
Korea__S.130
Kuwait.131
Kyrgyzst.132
Laos.133
Latvia.134
Lebanon.135
Lesotho.136
Liberia.137
Libya.138
Liechten.139
Lithuani.140
Luxembou.141
Macau.142
Macedoni.143
Madagasc.144
Malawi.145
Malaysia.146
Maldives.147
Mali.148
Malta.149
Man__Isl.150
Marshall.151
Martiniq.152
Mauritan.153
Mauritiu.154
Mayotte.155
Mexico.156
Micrones.157
Midway_I.158
Moldova.159
Monaco.160
Mongolia.161
Montserr.162
Morocco.163
Mozambiq.164
Namibia.165
Nauru.166
Navassa_.167
Nepal.168
Netherla.169
New_Cale.170
New_Zeal.171
Nicaragu.172
Niger.173
Nigeria.174
Niue.175
Norfolk_.176
Northern.177
Norway.178
Oman.179
Pacific_.180
Pakistan.181
Palau.182
Palmyra_.183
Panama.184
Papua_Ne.185
Paracel_.186
Paraguay.187
Peru.188
Philippi.189
Pitcairn.190
Poland.191
Portugal.192
Puerto_R.193
Qatar.194
Reunion.195
Romania.196
Russia.197
Rwanda.198
Saint_He.199
Saint_Ki.200
Saint_Lu.201
Saint_Pi.202
Saint_Vi.203
San_Mari.204
Sao_Tome.205
Saudi_Ar.206
Senegal.207
Serbia_a.208
Seychell.209
Sierra_L.210
Singapor.211
Slovakia.212
Slovenia.213
Solomon_.214
Somalia.215
South_Af.216
South_Ge.217
Spain.218
Spratly_.219
Sri_Lank.220
Sudan.221
Suriname.222
Svalbard.223
Swazilan.224
Sweden.225
Switzerl.226
Syria.227
Tajikist.228
Tanzania.229
Thailand.230
Togo.231
Tokelau.232
Tonga.233
Trinidad.234
Tromelin.235
Tunisia.236
Turkey.237
Turkmeni.238
Turks_an.239
Tuvalu.240
Uganda.241
Ukraine.242
United_A.243
United_K.244
United_S.245
Uruguay.246
Uzbekist.247
Vanuatu.248
Venezuel.249
Vietnam.250
Virgin_I.251
Wake_Isl.252
Wallis_a.253
West_Ban.254
Western_.255
World.256
Yemen.257
Zaire.258
Zambia.259
Zimbabwe.260
Taiwan.261
Albania
ALBANIA - Passport required.  For further information contact the Embassy
of the Republic of Albania at 1150 18th Street N.W., Washington, D.C.
20036 (202/223-4942).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Albania
============================================================
Albania - Consular Information Sheet
 August 18, 1995
Country Description:  Albania has undergone profound political
change and continues to see significant economic change.  Facilities
for tourism are not well developed, and many of the goods and
services taken for granted in other European countries are not yet
available.  Hotel accommodations are limited outside of Tirana.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required but a visa is not
necessary for a tourist stay of up to 30 days.  An extension may be
granted by applying at the local police station.  A tax is levied
upon departure.  Americans planning to travel to Albania may contact
the Embassy of the Republic of Albania at 1150 18th Street, N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20005, tel: [phone], for additional visa
information.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited and medicine is
in short supply.  Doctors and hospitals generally expect immediate
cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Travelers have found that
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage is
useful.  Further information on health matters can be obtained from
the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline at
[phone].
Crime Information:  Albania has a relatively low rate of violent
crime.  However, street crime is common and occurs against tourists
both day and night.  Crime is generally directed at targets of
opportunity, not at Americans in particular.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad"
is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.  It provides useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad.
Currency Regulations:  Credit cards and traveler's checks are not
accepted in Albania except at the major new hotels in Tirana.
Personal checks are not accepted anywhere.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
and dealing of illegal drugs are severe, and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens may register at the U.S. Embassy and
obtain updated information on travel and security within Albania.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Tirana, Albania is located
at Rruga E Elbasanit 103; Telephone [phone].
 No. 95-095
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 26, 1994,
to delete information on adoptions, add currency information and
update information on crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Albania
============================================================
Albania - Consular Information Sheet
 August 18, 1995
Country Description:  Albania has undergone profound political
change and continues to see significant economic change.  Facilities
for tourism are not well developed, and many of the goods and
services taken for granted in other European countries are not yet
available.  Hotel accommodations are limited outside of Tirana.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required but a visa is not
necessary for a tourist stay of up to 30 days.  An extension may be
granted by applying at the local police station.  A tax is levied
upon departure.  Americans planning to travel to Albania may contact
the Embassy of the Republic of Albania at 1150 18th Street, N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20005, tel: [phone], for additional visa
information.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited and medicine is
in short supply.  Doctors and hospitals generally expect immediate
cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not
always valid outside the United States.  Travelers have found that
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage is
useful.  Further information on health matters can be obtained from
the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline at
[phone].
Crime Information:  Albania has a relatively low rate of violent
crime.  However, street crime is common and occurs against tourists
both day and night.  Crime is generally directed at targets of
opportunity, not at Americans in particular.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad"
is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government
Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.  It provides useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad.
Currency Regulations:  Credit cards and traveler's checks are not
accepted in Albania except at the major new hotels in Tirana.
Personal checks are not accepted anywhere.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
and dealing of illegal drugs are severe, and convicted offenders can
expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens may register at the U.S. Embassy and
obtain updated information on travel and security within Albania.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Tirana, Albania is located
at Rruga E Elbasanit 103; Telephone [phone].
 No. 95-095
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 26, 1994,
to delete information on adoptions, add currency information and
update information on crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
`7[7                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Albania
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and Ionian Sea, between
    Greece and Serbia and Montenegro
Map references:
    Ethnic Groups in Eastern Europe, Europe
Area:
  total area:
    28,750 sq km
  land area:
    27,400 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Maryland
Land boundaries:
    total 720 km, Greece 282 km, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 151
    km, Serbia and Montenegro 287 km (114 km with Serbia, 173 km with
    Montenegro)
Coastline:
    362 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    the Albanian Government supports protection of the rights of ethnic
    Albanians outside of its borders; Albanian majority in Kosovo seeks
    independence from Serbian Republic; Albanians in Macedonia claim
    discrimination in education, access to public sector jobs and representation
    in government; Albania is involved in a bilaterlal dispute with Greece over
    border demarcation, the treatment of Albania's ethnic Greek minority, and
    migrant Albanian workers in Greece
Climate:
    mild temperate; cool, cloudy, wet winters; hot, clear, dry summers; interior
    is cooler and wetter
Terrain:
    mostly mountains and hills; small plains along coast
Natural resources:
    petroleum, natural gas, coal, chromium, copper, timber, nickel
Land use:
  arable land:
    21%
  permanent crops:
    4%
  meadows and pastures:
    15%
  forest and woodland:
    38%
  other:
    22%
Irrigated land:
    4,230 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; soil erosion; water pollution from industrial and domestic
    effluents
  natural hazards:
    destructive earthquakes; tsunami occur along southwestern coast
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Albania
                                    Geography
Note:
    strategic location along Strait of Otranto (links Adriatic Sea to Ionian Sea
    and Mediterranean Sea)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Albania
                                     People
Population:
    3,413,904 (July 1995 est.)
  note:
    IMF, working with Albanian government figures, estimates the population at
    3,120,000 in 1993 and that the population has fallen since 1990
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    32% (female 520,186; male 563,953)
  15-64 years:
    62% (female 1,026,321; male 1,104,371)
  65 years and over:
    6% (female 112,252; male 86,821) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.16% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    21.7 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.22 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -4.88 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    28.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    73.81 years
  male:
    70.83 years
  female:
    77.02 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.71 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Albanian(s)
  adjective:
    Albanian
Ethnic divisions:
    Albanian 95%, Greeks 3%, other 2% (Vlachs, Gypsies, Serbs, and Bulgarians)
    (1989 est.)
Religions:
    Muslim 70%, Albanian Orthodox 20%, Roman Catholic 10%
  note:
    all mosques and churches were closed in 1967 and religious observances
    prohibited; in November 1990, Albania began allowing private religious
    practice
Languages:
    Albanian (Tosk is the official dialect), Greek
Literacy:
    age 9 and over can read and write (1955)
  total population:
    72%
  male:
    80%
  female:
    63%
Labor force:
    1.5 million (1987)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 60%, industry and commerce 40% (1986)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Albania
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Albania
  conventional short form:
    Albania
  local long form:
    Republika e Shqiperise
  local short form:
    Shqiperia
  former:
    People's Socialist Republic of Albania
Digraph:
    AL
Type:
    emerging democracy
Capital:
    Tirane
Administrative divisions:
    26 districts (rrethe, singular - rreth); Berat, Dibre, Durres, Elbasan,
    Fier, Gjirokaster, Gramsh, Kolonje, Korce, Kruje, Kukes, Lezhe, Librazhd,
    Lushnje, Mat, Mirdite, Permet, Pogradec, Puke, Sarande, Shkoder, Skrapar,
    Tepelene, Tirane, Tropoje, Vlore
Independence:
    28 November 1912 (from Ottoman Empire)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 28 November (1912)
Constitution:
    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
Legal system:
    has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President of the Republic Sali BERISHA (since 9 April 1992)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister of the Council of Ministers Aleksander Gabriel MEKSI (since
    10 April 1992)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    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
  note:
    6 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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Albania
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    there are at least 28 political parties; most prominent are the Albanian
    Socialist Party (ASP; formerly the Albania Workers Party), Fatos NANO, first
    secretary; Democratic Party (DP); Albanian 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; Ecology Party (EP), Namik HOTI, chairman
Member of:
    BSEC, CCC, CE (guest), EBRD, ECE, FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB,
    IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL,
    IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, NACC, OIC, OSCE, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU,
    WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Lublin Hasan DILJA
  chancery:
    Suite 1010, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 8187
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Joseph E. LAKE
  embassy:
    Rruga E. Elbansanit 103, Tirane
  mailing address:
    PSC 59, Box 100 (A), APO AE 09624
  telephone:
    [355] (42) 328-75, 335-20
  FAX:
    [355] (42) 322-22
Flag:
    red with a black two-headed eagle in the center
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Albania
                                     Economy
Overview:
    An extremely poor country by European standards, Albania is making the
    difficult transition to a more open-market economy. The economy rebounded in
    1993-94 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 inflation. The recovery was spurred by the remittances of some 20%
    of the population which works abroad, mostly in Greece and Italy. 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. Albania's limited industrial sector, now less than one-sixth of
    GDP, continued to decline in 1994. A sharp fall in chromium prices 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.
    Growth is expected to continue in 1995, but could falter if Albania becomes
    involved in the conflict in the former Yugoslavia, workers' remittances from
    Greece are reduced, or foreign assistance declines.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $3.8 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    11% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,110 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    16% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    18% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.1 billion
  expenditures:
    $1.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $70 million (1991 est.)
Exports:
    $112 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    asphalt, metals and metallic ores, electricity, crude oil, vegetables,
    fruits, tobacco
  partners:
    Italy, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Germany, Greece, Czech
    Republic, Slovakia, Poland, Romania, Bulgaria, Hungary
Imports:
    $621 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    machinery, consumer goods, grains
  partners:
    Italy, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia, Germany, Czech Republic,
    Slovakia, Romania, Poland, Hungary, Bulgaria, Greece
External debt:
    $920 million (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -10% (1993 est.); accounts for 16% of GDP (1993 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    770,000 kW
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Albania
                                     Economy
  production:
    4 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,200 kWh (1994)
Industries:
    food processing, textiles and clothing, lumber, oil, cement, chemicals,
    mining, basic metals, hydropower
Agriculture:
    accounts for 55% of GDP; arable land per capita among lowest in Europe; 80%
    of arable land now in private hands; 60% of the work force engaged in
    farming; produces wide range of temperate-zone crops and livestock
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin transiting the Balkan route
    and cocaine from South America destined for Western Europe; limited opium
    production
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    $303 million (1993)
Currency:
    1 lek (L) = 100 qintars
Exchange rates:
    leke (L) per US$1 - 100 (January 1995), 99 (January 1994), 97 (January
    1993), 50 (January 1992), 25 (September 1991)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Albania
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    543 km line connecting Podgorica (Serbia and Montenegro) and Shkoder
    completed August 1986
  standard gauge:
    509 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    34 km 0.950-m gauge (1990)
Highways:
  total:
    18,450 km
  paved:
    17,450 km
  unpaved:
    earth 1,000 km (1991)
Inland waterways:
    43 km plus Albanian sections of Lake Scutari, Lake Ohrid, and Lake Prespa
    (1990)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 145 km; petroleum products 55 km; natural gas 64 km (1991)
Ports:
    Durres, Sarande, Shergjin, Vlore
Merchant marine:
  total:
    11 cargo ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 52,967 GRT/76,887 DWT
Airports:
    11
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    2
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Albania
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    about 55,000 telephones; about 15 telephones/1,000 persons
  local:
    primitive; about 11,000 telephones in Tirane, the capital city
  intercity:
    obsolete wire system; no longer provides a telephone 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
  international:
    inadequate; carried through the Tirane exchange and transmitted through
    Italy on 240 microwave radio relay circuits and through Greece on 150
    microwave radio relay circuits
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 17, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    515,000 (1987 est.)
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    9
  televisions:
    255,000 (1987 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Albania
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Interior Ministry Troops, Border
    Guards
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 919,085; males fit for military service 755,574; males reach
    military age (19) annually 33,323 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    330 million leke, NA% of GNP (1993); note - conversion of defense
    expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce
    misleading results
American Samoa
%k%                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of the US)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the
    way from Hawaii to New Zealand
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    199 sq km
  land area:
    199 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Washington, DC
  note:
    includes Rose Island and Swains Island
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    116 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    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
Terrain:
    five volcanic islands with rugged peaks and limited coastal plains, two
    coral atolls (Rose Island, Swains Island)
Natural resources:
    pumice, pumicite
Land use:
  arable land:
    10%
  permanent crops:
    5%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    75%
  other:
    10%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    limited natural fresh water resources; in many areas of the island water
    supplies come from roof catchments
  natural hazards:
    typhoons common from December to March
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                     People
Population:
    57,366 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    3.82% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    36.21 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.01 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    6 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    18.78 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    72.91 years
  male:
    71.03 years
  female:
    74.85 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.3 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    American Samoan(s)
  adjective:
    American Samoan
Ethnic divisions:
    Samoan (Polynesian) 89%, Caucasian 2%, Tongan 4%, other 5%
Religions:
    Christian Congregationalist 50%, Roman Catholic 20%, Protestant
    denominations and other 30%
Languages:
    Samoan (closely related to Hawaiian and other Polynesian languages),
    English; most people are bilingual
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980)
  total population:
    97%
  male:
    98%
  female:
    97%
Labor force:
    14,400 (1990)
  by occupation:
    government 33%, tuna canneries 34%, other 33% (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Territory of American Samoa
  conventional short form:
    American Samoa
Abbreviation:
    AS
Digraph:
    AQ
Type:
    unincorporated and unorganized territory of the US; administered by the US
    Department of Interior, Office of Territorial and International Affairs
Capital:
    Pago Pago
Administrative divisions:
    none (territory of the US)
Independence:
    none (territory of the US)
National holiday:
    Territorial Flag Day, 17 April (1900)
Constitution:
    ratified 1966, in effect 1967
Legal system:
    NA
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993); Vice President
    Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993)
  head of government:
    Governor A. P. LUTALI (since 3 January 1993); Lieutenant Governor Tauese P.
    SUNIA (since 3 January 1993); election last held 3 November 1992 (next to be
    held NA November 1996); results - A. P. LUTALI (Democrat) 53%, Peter Tali
    COLEMAN (Republican) 36%
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Legislative Assembly (Fono)
  House of Representatives:
    elections last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1994);
    results - representatives popularly elected from 17 house districts; seats -
    (21 total, 20 elected, and 1 nonvoting delegate from Swains Island)
  Senate:
    elections last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1996);
    results - senators elected by village chiefs from 12 senate districts; seats
    - (18 total) number of seats by party NA
  US House of Representatives:
    elections last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1994);
    results - Eni R. F. H. FALEOMAVAEGA reelected as delegate
Judicial branch:
    High Court
Political parties and leaders:
    NA
Member of:
    ESCAP (associate), INTERPOL (subbureau), IOC, SPC
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (territory of the US)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (territory of the US)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                   Government
Flag:
    blue with a white triangle edged in red that is based on the fly 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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Economic activity is strongly linked to the US, with which American Samoa
    conducts 80%-90% of its foreign trade. Tuna fishing and tuna processing
    plants are the backbone of the private sector, with canned tuna the primary
    export. The tuna 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
    Samoa's economic well-being.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $128 million (1991 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $2,600 (1991)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    7% (1990)
Unemployment rate:
    12% (1991)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $97 million (includes $43,000,000 in local revenue and $54,000,000 in grant
    revenue);
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY90/91)
Exports:
    $306 million (f.o.b., 1989)
  commodities:
    canned tuna 93%
  partners:
    US 99.6%
Imports:
    $360.3 million (c.i.f., 1989)
  commodities:
    materials for canneries 56%, food 8%, petroleum products 7%, machinery and
    parts 6%
  partners:
    US 62%, Japan 9%, NZ 7%, Australia 11%, Fiji 4%, other 7%
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    30,000 kW
  production:
    90 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,505 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tuna canneries (largely dependent on foreign fishing vessels), meat canning,
    handicrafts
Agriculture:
    bananas, coconuts, vegetables, taro, breadfruit, yams, copra, pineapples,
    papayas, dairy farming
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    $21,042,650 in operational funds and $1,227,000 in construction funds for
    capital improvement projects from the US Department of Interior (1991)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 United States dollar = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    US currency is used
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    350 km
  paved:
    150 km
  unpaved:
    200 km
Ports:
    Aanu'u (new construction), Auasi, Faleosao, Ofu, Pago Pago, Ta'u
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    4
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    3
  note:
    small airstrips on Fituita and Ofu
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    8,399 telephones; good telex, telegraph, and facsimile services
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) and 1 COMSAT earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                 American Samoa
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
Anguilla
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Anguilla
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (dependent territory of the UK)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Anguilla
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, east of Puerto Rico
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    91 sq km
  land area:
    91 sq km
  comparative area:
    about half the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    61 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; moderated by northeast trade winds
Terrain:
    flat and low-lying island of coral and limestone
Natural resources:
    negligible; salt, fish, lobster
Land use:
  arable land:
    NA%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA% (mostly rock with sparse scrub oak, few trees, some commercial salt
    ponds)
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    supplies of potable water sometimes cannot meet increasing demand largely
    because of poor distribution system
  natural hazards:
    frequent hurricanes and other tropical storms (July to October)
  international agreements:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Anguilla
                                     People
Population:
    7,099 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    32% (female 1,129; male 1,115)
  15-64 years:
    60% (female 2,101; male 2,126)
  65 years and over:
    8% (female 362; male 266) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.66% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    24.09 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.03 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -9.44 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    17.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    74.1 years
  male:
    71.32 years
  female:
    76.91 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.05 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Anguillan(s)
  adjective:
    Anguillan
Ethnic divisions:
    black African
Religions:
    Anglican 40%, Methodist 33%, Seventh-Day Adventist 7%, Baptist 5%, Roman
    Catholic 3%, other 12%
Languages:
    English (official)
Literacy:
    age 12 and over can read and write (1984)
  total population:
    95%
  male:
    95%
  female:
    95%
Labor force:
    4,400 (1992)
  by occupation:
    commerce 36%, services 29%, construction 18%, transportation and utilities
    10%, manufacturing 3%, agriculture/fishing/forestry/mining 4%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Anguilla
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Anguilla
Digraph:
    AV
Type:
    dependent territory of the UK
Capital:
    The Valley
Administrative divisions:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
Independence:
    none (dependent territory of the UK)
National holiday:
    Anguilla Day, 30 May
Constitution:
    Anguilla Constitutional Orders 1 April 1982; amended 1990
Legal system:
    based on English common law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor Alan W.
    SHAVE (s
Arctic Ocean
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Arctic Ocean
                                    Geography
Location:
    body of water mostly north of the Arctic Circle
Map references:
    Arctic Region
Area:
  total area:
    14.056 million sq km
  comparative area:
    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)
  note:
    includes Baffin Bay, Barents Sea, Beaufort Sea, Chukchi Sea, East Siberian
    Sea, Greenland Sea, Hudson Bay, Hudson Strait, Kara Sea, Laptev Sea,
    Northwest Passage, and other tributary water bodies
Coastline:
    45,389 km
International disputes:
    some maritime disputes (see littoral states); Svalbard is the focus of a
    maritime boundary dispute between Norway and Russia
Climate:
    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
Terrain:
    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 Greenland and Iceland); the ice pack 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); maximum depth is 4,665 meters in the
    Fram Basin
Natural resources:
    sand and gravel aggregates, placer deposits, polymetallic nodules, oil and
    gas fields, fish, marine mammals (seals and whales)
Environment:
  current issues:
    endangered marine species include walruses and whales; fragile ecosystem
    slow to change and slow to recover from disruptions or damage
  natural hazards:
    ice islands occasionally break away from northern Ellesmere Island; icebergs
    calved from glaciers in western Greenland and extreme northeastern Canada;
    permafrost in islands; virtually icelocked from October to June; ships
    subject to superstructure icing from October to May
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    major chokepoint is the southern Chukchi Sea (northern access to the Pacific
    Ocean via the Bering Strait); strategic location between North America and
    Russia; shortest marine link between the extremes of eastern and western
    Russia, floating research stations operated by the US and Russia; maximum
    snow cover in March or April about 20 to 50 centimeters over the frozen
    ocean and lasts about 10 months
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Arctic Ocean
                                   Government
Digraph:
    XQ
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Arctic Ocean
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Economic activity is limited to the exploitation of natural resources,
    including petroleum, natural gas, fish, and seals.
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Arctic Ocean
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    Churchill (Canada), Murmansk (Russia), Prudhoe Bay (US)
Note:
    sparse network of air, ocean, river, and land routes; the Northwest Passage
    (North America) and Northern Sea Route (Eurasia) are important seasonal
    waterways
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Arctic Ocean
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
  international:
    no submarine cables
                     THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                           Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of Australia)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                           Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, islands in the Indian Ocean, northwest of Australia
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    5 sq km
  land area:
    5 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 8.5 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
  note:
    includes Ashmore Reef (West, Middle, and East Islets) and Cartier Island
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    74.1 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    12 nm
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to depth of exploitation
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical
Terrain:
    low with sand and coral
Natural resources:
    fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100% (all grass and sand)
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    surrounded by shoals and reefs which can pose maritime hazards
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    Ashmore Reef National Nature Reserve established in August 1983
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                           Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                                     People
Population:
    no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are only seasonal caretakers
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                           Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Territory of Ashmore and Cartier Islands
  conventional short form:
    Ashmore and Cartier Islands
Digraph:
    AT
Type:
    territory of Australia administered by the Australian Ministry for the
    Environment, Sport, and Territories
Capital:
    none; administered from Canberra, Australia
Administrative divisions:
    none (territory of Australia)
Independence:
    none (territory of Australia)
Legal system:
    relevant laws of the Northern Territory of Australia
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (territory of Australia)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (territory of Australia)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                           Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                           Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                           Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of Australia; periodic visits by the Royal
    Australian Navy and Royal Australian Air Force
Overview:
    no economic activity
                           Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
                           Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of Australia; periodic visits by the Royal
    Australian Navy and Royal Australian Air Force
Sheet dated  October 18,
1993, to revise information concerning medical facilities and
currency regulations.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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Arctic Ocean
Canada
Congo
Cyprus
Marshall Islands
Mozambique
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Paracel Islands
Netherlands Antilles
Saudi Arabia
Uganda
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Antarctica
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Nepal
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BRUNEI
France
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Burkina
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Gibraltar
Greenland
Panama
Moldova
Reunion
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Syria
Yemen
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Belgium
Cayman Islands
Croatia
Ecuador
New Zealand
Korea North
Solomon Islands
Saint Pierre and Miquelon
Zimbabwe
Bhutan
Dominican Republic
Georgia
Kyrgyzstan
Saint Kitts and Nevis
Uruguay
San Marino
Czech Republic
Haiti
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Saint Lucia
Zaire
United States
Belarus
Bermuda
Denmark
Jersey
Liberia
Juan de Nova Island
Western Sahara
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BULGARIA
Mayotte
Midway Islands
Nigeria
Namibia
Swaziland
Benin
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Howland Island
Kazakhstan
Man Isle of
Norfolk Island
Somalia
Saint Helena
World
Central African Republic
Europa Island
Ghana
Guadeloupe
India
Lebanon
Latvia
Liechtenstein
Libya
Qatar
Martinique
South Africa
Sudan
Seychelles
Svalbard
Tuvalu
Atlantic Ocean
Iceland
Netherlands
Taiwan
Trinidad and Tobago
Argentina
Guinea
Johnston Atoll
Monaco
Tunisia
Montserrat
Western Samoa
Ashmore and Cartier Islands
Australia
Baker Island
Cambodia
Colombia
The Gambia
Turks and Caicos Islands
American Samoa
Belize
Clipperton Island
Falkland Islands
Gabon
Nauru
Mauritius
Tromelin Island
Serbia and Montenegro
United Arab Emirates
Turkmenistan
Bolivia
Eritrea
Honduras
Navassa Island
Antigua and Barbuda
Armenia
Bangladesh
El Salvador
Malawi
Holy See (Vatican City)
Mexico
Finland
Guernsey
Indonesia
Jordan
Suriname
Luxembourg
Andorra
Bahrain
Bosnia and Herzegovina
Burundi
China
Mauritania
Spain
Sao Tome and Principe
China
Mauritania
Afghanistan
AFGHANISTAN - Passport and visa required.No tourist or business visas are
AFGHANISTAN - Passport and visa required.No tourist or business visas are
being issued at this time.  For further information contact Embassy of the
AFGHANISTAN - Passport and visa required.No tourist or business visas are
being issued at this time.  For further information contact Embassy of the
Republic of Afghanistan, 2341 Wyoming Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/234-3770/1).
AFGHANISTAN - Passport and visa required.No tourist or business visas are
being issued at this time.  For further information contact Embassy of the
Republic of Afghanistan, 2341 Wyoming Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/234-3770/1).
Afghanistan - Travel Warning
AFGHANISTAN - Passport and visa required.No tourist or business visas are
being issued at this time.  For further information contact Embassy of the
Republic of Afghanistan, 2341 Wyoming Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/234-3770/1).
Afghanistan - Travel Warning
January 12, 1994
AFGHANISTAN - Passport and visa required.No tourist or business visas are
being issued at this time.  For further information contact Embassy of the
Republic of Afghanistan, 2341 Wyoming Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/234-3770/1).
Afghanistan - Travel Warning
January 12, 1994
The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against travel to
AFGHANISTAN - Passport and visa required.No tourist or business visas are
being issued at this time.  For further information contact Embassy of the
Republic of Afghanistan, 2341 Wyoming Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/234-3770/1).
Afghanistan - Travel Warning
January 12, 1994
The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against travel to
Afghanistan.  Fighting continues between opposing factions in the civil war
and indiscriminate rocket attacks, aerial bombardments, and other violence
can occur without warning.  Land mines are prevalent throughout the
countryside.  Westerners are vulnerable to politically and criminally-
motivated attacks, including robbery, kidnapping and hostage-taking.  All
U.S. personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul were evacuated on January 31,
1989, and no other diplomatic mission represents U.S. interests or provides
consular services.
No. 94-002
This replaces the Department of State Travel Warning of February 12, 1993,
to add information on dangers due to fighting between opposing factions in
the civil war.
Afghanistan - Consular Information Sheet
January 19, 1994
Warning:  The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against travel to
Afghanistan.  Fighting continues between opposing factions in the civil war
and indiscriminate rocket attacks, aerial bombardments, and other violence
can occur without warning.  Land mines are prevalent throughout the
countryside.  Westerners are vulnerable to politically and criminally-
motivated attacks, including robbery, kidnapping and hostage-taking.  All
U.S. personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul were evacuated on January 31,
1989, and no other diplomatic mission represents U.S. interests or provides
consular services.
Country Description:  Afghanistan is a developing, Islamic country trying to
emerge from a long period of civil war.  Tourism facilities are minimal.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  For further
information, the traveler can contact the Embassy of the Republic of
Afghanistan, 2341 Wyoming Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone
[phone]/1.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is limited.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  For further information,
the traveler can contact the centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline at [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Significant military encounters, including artillery
shelling, occur sporadically and unpredictably in Kabul and elsewhere in
Afghanistan.
Information on Crime:  Politically and criminally-motivated attacks and
violence, including robbery, kidnapping and hostage-taking are widespread.
Petty crime also exists.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should
be reported immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in
the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to South Asia."  They are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D. C. 20402.
AFGHANISTAN - Passport and visa required.No tourist or business visas are
being issued at this time.  For further information contact Embassy of the
Republic of Afghanistan, 2341 Wyoming Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/234-3770/1).
Afghanistan - Travel Warning
January 12, 1994
The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against travel to
Afghanistan.  Fighting continues between opposing factions in the civil war
and indiscriminate rocket attacks, aerial bombardments, and other violence
can occur without warning.  Land mines are prevalent throughout the
countryside.  Westerners are vulnerable to politically and criminally-
motivated attacks, including robbery, kidnapping and hostage-taking.  All
U.S. personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul were evacuated on January 31,
1989, and no other diplomatic mission represents U.S. interests or provides
consular services.
No. 94-002
This replaces the Department of State Travel Warning of February 12, 1993,
to add information on dangers due to fighting between opposing factions in
the civil war.
Afghanistan - Consular Information Sheet
January 19, 1994
Warning:  The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against travel to
Afghanistan.  Fighting continues between opposing factions in the civil war
and indiscriminate rocket attacks, aerial bombardments, and other violence
can occur without warning.  Land mines are prevalent throughout the
countryside.  Westerners are vulnerable to politically and criminally-
motivated attacks, including robbery, kidnapping and hostage-taking.  All
U.S. personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul were evacuated on January 31,
1989, and no other diplomatic mission represents U.S. interests or provides
consular services.
Country Description:  Afghanistan is a developing, Islamic country trying to
emerge from a long period of civil war.  Tourism facilities are minimal.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  For further
information, the traveler can contact the Embassy of the Republic of
Afghanistan, 2341 Wyoming Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone
[phone]/1.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is limited.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  For further information,
the traveler can contact the centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline at [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Significant military encounters, including artillery
shelling, occur sporadically and unpredictably in Kabul and elsewhere in
Afghanistan.
Information on Crime:  Politically and criminally-motivated attacks and
violence, including robbery, kidnapping and hostage-taking are widespread.
Petty crime also exists.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should
be reported immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in
the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to South Asia."  They are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D. C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal practices
of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict in Afghanistan and convicted
offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at U.S. Embassies in Pakistan,
India, Tajikistan, or Uzbekistan can obtain updated information on security
in Afghanistan.
Embassy Location:  Because no third country represents United States
interest in Afghanistan, the United States Government is unable to accord
normal consular protective services to U.S..citizens in Afghanistan.  The
nearest U.S. embassies and consulates are in Pakistan and Tajikistan.  The
telephone number for the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan is (92-51)826-
161 through 826-179.  In Peshawar, Pakistan, the U.S. Consulate telephone is
(92-521) 279-801/2/3.
The telephone number for the U.S. Embassy in Tashkent, Uzbekistan is (7-
3712) 771-407.
In Dushanbe, Tajikistan, the phone number of the U.S. Embassy is (7-3772)21-
0356/0360/0457.
The telephone number of the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, India is (91-11) 600-
No. 94-005
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 31, 1993 to add
information on dangers due to fighting between opposing factions in the
civil war, and to include information on contacting the U.S. Embassies in
Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
Fviolence
can occur without warning.  Land mines are prevalent throughout the
countryside.  Westerners are vulnerable to politically and criminally-
motivated attacks, including robbery, kidnapping and hostage-taking.  All
U.S. personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul were evacuated on January 31,
1989, and no other diplomatic mission represents U.S. interests or provides
consular services.
Country Description:  Afghanistan is a developing, Islamic country trying to
emerge from a long period of civil war.  Tourism facilities are minimal.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  For further
information, the traveler can contact the Embassy of the Republic of
Afghanistan, 2341 Wyoming Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone
[phone]/1.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is limited.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  For further information,
the traveler can contact the centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline at [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Significant military encounters, including artillery
shelling, occur sporadically and unpredictably in Kabul and elsewhere in
Afghanistan.
Information on Crime:  Politically and criminally-motivated attacks and
violence, including robbery, kidnapping and hostage-taking are widespread.
Petty crime also exists.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should
be reported immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in
the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to South Asia."  They are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D. C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal practices
of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict in Afghanistan and convicted
offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at U.S. Embassies in Pakistan,
India, Tajikistan, or Uzbekistan can obtain updated information on security
in Afghanistan.
Embassy Location:  Because no third country represents United States
interest in Afghanistan, the United States Government is unable to accord
normal consular protective services to U.S..citizens in Afghanistan.  The
nearest U.S. embassies and consulates are in Pakistan and Tajikistan.  The
telephone number for the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan is (92-51)826-
161 through 826-179.  In Peshawar, Pakistan, the U.S. Consulate telephone is
(92-521) 279-801/2/3.
The telephone number for the U.S. Embassy in Tashkent, Uzbekistan is (7-
3712) 771-407.
In Dushanbe, Tajikistan, the phone number of the U.S. Embassy is (7-3772)21-
0356/0360/0457.
The telephone number of the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, India is (91-11) 600-
AFGHANISTAN - Passport and visa required.No tourist or business visas are
being issued at this time.  For further information contact Embassy of the
Republic of Afghanistan, 2341 Wyoming Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/234-3770/1).
Afghanistan - Travel Warning
January 12, 1994
The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against travel to
Afghanistan.  Fighting continues between opposing factions in the civil war
and indiscriminate rocket attacks, aerial bombardments, and other violence
can occur without warning.  Land mines are prevalent throughout the
countryside.  Westerners are vulnerable to politically and criminally-
motivated attacks, including robbery, kidnapping and hostage-taking.  All
U.S. personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul were evacuated on January 31,
1989, and no other diplomatic mission represents U.S. interests or provides
consular services.
No. 94-002
This replaces the Department of State Travel Warning of February 12, 1993,
to add information on dangers due to fighting between opposing factions in
the civil war.
Afghanistan - Consular Information Sheet
January 19, 1994
Warning:  The Department of State warns all U.S. citizens against travel to
Afghanistan.  Fighting continues between opposing factions in the civil war
and indiscriminate rocket attacks, aerial bombardments, and other violence
can occur without warning.  Land mines are prevalent throughout the
countryside.  Westerners are vulnerable to politically and criminally-
motivated attacks, including robbery, kidnapping and hostage-taking.  All
U.S. personnel at the U.S. Embassy in Kabul were evacuated on January 31,
1989, and no other diplomatic mission represents U.S. interests or provides
consular services.
Country Description:  Afghanistan is a developing, Islamic country trying to
emerge from a long period of civil war.  Tourism facilities are minimal.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  For further
information, the traveler can contact the Embassy of the Republic of
Afghanistan, 2341 Wyoming Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone
[phone]/1.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is limited.  Doctors and hospitals often
expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  For further information,
the traveler can contact the centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline at [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Significant military encounters, including artillery
shelling, occur sporadically and unpredictably in Kabul and elsewhere in
Afghanistan.
Information on Crime:  Politically and criminally-motivated attacks and
violence, including robbery, kidnapping and hostage-taking are widespread.
Petty crime also exists.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should
be reported immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in
the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to South Asia."  They are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D. C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal practices
of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict in Afghanistan and convicted
offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at U.S. Embassies in Pakistan,
India, Tajikistan, or Uzbekistan can obtain updated information on security
in Afghanistan.
Embassy Location:  Because no third country represents United States
interest in Afghanistan, the United States Government is unable to accord
normal consular protective services to U.S..citizens in Afghanistan.  The
nearest U.S. embassies and consulates are in Pakistan and Tajikistan.  The
telephone number for the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan is (92-51)826-
161 through 826-179.  In Peshawar, Pakistan, the U.S. Consulate telephone is
(92-521) 279-801/2/3.
The telephone number for the U.S. Embassy in Tashkent, Uzbekistan is (7-
3712) 771-407.
In Dushanbe, Tajikistan, the phone number of the U.S. Embassy is (7-3772)21-
0356/0360/0457.
The telephone number of the U.S. Embassy in New Delhi, India is (91-11) 600-
No. 94-005
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 31, 1993 to add
information on dangers due to fighting between opposing factions in the
civil war, and to include information on contacting the U.S. Embassies in
Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
l insurance
with specific overseas coverage has proved useful.  For further information,
the traveler can contact the centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline at [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Significant military encounters, including artillery
shelling, occur sporadically and unpredictably in Kabul and elsewhere in
Afghanistan.
Information on Crime:  Politically and criminally-motivated attacks and
violence, including robbery, kidnapping and hostage-taking are widespread.
Petty crime also exists.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should
be reported immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in
the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to South Asia."  They are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D. C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal practices
of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict in Afghanistan and convicted
offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at U.S. Embassies in Pakistan,
India, Tajikistan, or Uzbekistan can obtain updated information on security
in Afghanistan.
Embassy Location:  Because no third country represents United States
interest in Afghanistan, the United States Government is unable to accord
normal consular protective services to U.S..citizens in Afghanistan.  The
nearest U.S. embassies and consulates are in Pakistan and Tajikistan.  The
telephone number for the U.S. Embassy in Islamabad, Pakistan is (92-51)826-
161 through 826-179.  In Peshawar, Pakistan, the U.S. Consulate telephone is
(92-521) 279-801/2/3.
The telephone number for the U.S. Embassy in Tashkent, Uzbekistan is (7-
3712) 771-407.
In Dushanbe, Tajikistan, the phone number of the U.S. Embassy is (7-3772)21-
0356/0360/0457.
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:                            THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Asia, north of Pakistan
Map references:
    Asia
Area:
  total area:
    647,500 sq km
  land area:
    647,500 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 5,529 km, China 76 km, Iran 936 km, Pakistan 2,430 km, Tajikistan
    1,206 km, Turkmenistan 744 km, Uzbekistan 137 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    periodic disputes with Iran over Helmand water rights; Iran 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 Pakistan
    (Durand Line); support to Islamic militants worldwide by some factions
Climate:
    arid to semiarid; cold winters and hot summers
Terrain:
    mostly rugged mountains; plains in north and southwest
Natural resources:
    natural gas, petroleum, coal, copper, talc, barites, sulphur, lead, zinc,
    iron ore, salt, precious and semiprecious stones
Land use:
  arable land:
    12%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    46%
  forest and woodland:
    3%
  other:
    39%
Irrigated land:
    26,600 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    soil degradation; overgrazing; deforestation (much of the remaining forests
    are being cut down for fuel and building materials); desertification
  natural hazards:
    damaging earthquakes occur in Hindu Kush mountains; flooding
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping,
    Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change,
    Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                     People
Population:
    21,251,821 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    42% (female 4,342,218; male 4,507,141)
  15-64 years:
    56% (female 5,406,675; male 6,443,734)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 256,443; male 295,610) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    14.47% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    42.69 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    18.53 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    120.5 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    152.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    45.37 years
  male:
    45.98 years
  female:
    44.72 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.21 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Afghan(s)
  adjective:
    Afghan
Ethnic divisions:
    Pashtun 38%, Tajik 25%, Uzbek 6%, Hazara 19%, minor ethnic groups (Chahar
    Aimaks, Turkmen, Baloch, and others)
Religions:
    Sunni Muslim 84%, Shi'a Muslim 15%, other 1%
Languages:
    Pashtu 35%, Afghan Persian (Dari) 50%, Turkic languages (primarily Uzbek and
    Turkmen) 11%, 30 minor languages (primarily Balochi and Pashai) 4%, much
    bilingualism
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    29%
  male:
    44%
  female:
    14%
Labor force:
    4.98 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture and animal husbandry 67.8%, industry 10.2%, construction 6.3%,
    commerce 5.0%, services and other 10.7% (1980 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Islamic State of Afghanistan
  conventional short form:
    Afghanistan
  local long form:
    Dowlat-e Eslami-ye Afghanestan
  local short form:
    Afghanestan
  former:
    Republic of Afghanistan
Digraph:
    AF
Type:
    transitional government
Capital:
    Kabul
Administrative divisions:
    30 provinces (velayat, singular - velayat); Badakhshan, Badghis, Baghlan,
    Balkh, Bamian, Farah, Faryab, Ghazni, Ghowr, Helmand, Herat, Jowzjan, Kabol,
    Kandahar, Kapisa, Konar, Kondoz, Laghman, Lowgar, Nangarhar, Nimruz,
    Oruzgan, Paktia, Paktika, Parvan, Samangan, Sar-e Pol, Takhar, Vardak, Zabol
  note:
    there may be two new provinces of Nurestan (Nuristan) and Khowst
Independence:
    19 August 1919 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Victory of the Muslim Nation, 28 April; Remembrance Day for Martyrs and
    Disabled, 4 May; Independence Day, 19 August
Constitution:
    none
Legal system:
    a new legal system has not been adopted but the transitional government has
    declared it will follow Islamic law (Shari'a)
Suffrage:
    undetermined; previously males 15-50 years of age, universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Burhanuddin RABBANI (Interim President July-December 1992;
    President since 2 January 1993); Vice President Mohammad NABI MOHAMMADI
    (since NA); election last held 31 December 1992 (next to be held NA);
    results - Burhanuddin RABBANI was elected to a two-year term by a national
    shura, later amended by multi-party agreement to 18 months; note - in June
    1994 failure to agree on a transfer mechanism resulted in RABBANI's
    extending the 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
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Gulbuddin HIKMATYAR (since 17 March 1993); note - Prime
    Minister HIKMATYAR is the nominal head of government and does not have any
    real authority; First Deputy Prime Minister Qutbuddin HELAL (since 17 March
    1993); Deputy Prime Minister Arsala RAHMANI (since 17 March 1993)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                   Government
  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
Legislative branch:
    a unicameral parliament consisting of 205 members was chosen by the shura in
    January 1993; non-functioning as of June 1993
Judicial branch:
    an interim Chief Justice of the Supreme Court has been appointed, but a new
    court system has not yet been organized
Political parties and leaders:
    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 Afghanistan (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 Afghanistan (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
  note:
    the former ruling Watan Party has been disbanded
Other political or pressure groups:
    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)
Member of:
    AsDB, CP, ECO, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD,
    IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT, IOC, ITU, NAM, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO,
    UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Abdul RAHIM
  chancery:
    2341 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 3771
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
  consulate(s):
    Washington, DC
US diplomatic representation:
    none; embassy was closed in January 1989
Flag:
    NA; note - the flag has changed at least twice since 1992
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Afghanistan 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 15 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 Pakistan sheltering more
    than 3 million refugees and Iran about 3 million. About 1.4 million Afghan
    refugees remain in Pakistan and about 2 million in Iran. Another 1 million
    probably moved into and around urban areas within Afghanistan. Although
    reliable data are unavailable, gross domestic product is lower than 13 years
    ago because of the loss of labor and capital and the disruption of trade and
    transport.
National product:
    GDP $NA
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $NA
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    56.7% (1991)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $188.2 million (f.o.b., 1991)
  commodities:
    fruits and nuts, handwoven carpets, wool, cotton, hides and pelts, precious
    and semi-precious gems
  partners:
    FSU countries, Pakistan, Iran, Germany, India, UK, Belgium, Luxembourg,
    Czechoslovakia
Imports:
    $616.4 million (c.i.f., 1991)
  commodities:
    food and petroleum products; most consumer goods
  partners:
    FSU countries, Pakistan, Iran, Japan, Singapore, India, South Korea, Germany
External debt:
    $2.3 billion (March 1991 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 2.3% (FY90/91 est.); accounts for about 25% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    480,000 kW
  production:
    550 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    39 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    small-scale production of textiles, soap, furniture, shoes, fertilizer, and
    cement; handwoven carpets; natural gas, oil, coal, copper
Agriculture:
    largely subsistence farming and nomadic animal husbandry; cash products -
    wheat, fruits, nuts, karakul pelts, wool, mutton
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    an illicit cultivator of opium poppy and cannabis for the international drug
    trade; world's second-largest opium producer after Burma (950 metric tons in
    1994) and a major source of hashish
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    $450 million US assistance provided 1985-1993; the UN provides assistance in
    the form of food aid, immunization, land mine removal, and a wide range of
    aid to refugees and displaced persons
Currency:
    1 afghani (AF) = 100 puls
Exchange rates:
    afghanis (Af) per US$1 - 1,900 (January 1994), 1,019 (March 1993), 850
    (1991), 700 (1989-90), 220 (1988-89); note - these rates reflect the free
    market exchange rates rather than the official exchange rates
Fiscal year:
    21 March - 20 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    24.6 km
  broad gauge:
    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
Highways:
  total:
    21,000 km
  paved:
    2,800 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 1,650 km; earth 16,550 km (1984)
Inland waterways:
    total navigability 1,200 km; chiefly Amu Darya, which handles vessels up to
    about 500 metric tons
Pipelines:
    petroleum products - Uzbekistan to Bagram and Turkmenistan to Shindand;
    natural gas 180 km
Ports:
    Keleft, Kheyrabad, Shir Khan
Airports:
  total:
    48
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    15
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    14
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    31,200 telephones; limited telephone, telegraph, and radiobroadcast
    services; 1 public telephone in Kabul
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    one link between western Afghanistan and Iran (via satellite)
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 5, FM 0, shortwave 2
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    several television stations run by factions and local councils which provide
    intermittent service
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Afghanistan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    the military still does not exist on a national scale; some elements of the
    former Army, Air and Air Defense 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
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 5,646,789; males fit for military service 3,011,777; males
    reach military age (22) annually 200,264 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $450 million, 15% of GDP (1990 est.); the new
    government has not yet adopted a defense budget
;==,#
"(b&                                    Kiribati
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, group of islands in the Pacific Ocean, straddling the equator and
    the International Date Line, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to
    Australia
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    717 sq km
  land area:
    717 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly more than four times the size of Washington, DC
  note:
    includes three island groups - Gilbert Islands, Line Islands, Phoenix
    Islands
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    1,143 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; marine, hot and humid, moderated by trade winds
Terrain:
    mostly low-lying coral atolls surrounded by extensive reefs
Natural resources:
    phosphate (production discontinued in 1979)
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    51%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    3%
  other:
    46%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    typhoons can occur any time, but usually November to March; occasional
    tornadoes
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer
    Protection; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change
Note:
    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 Polynesia and Nauru
                                    Kiribati
                                     People
Population:
    79,386 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    1.95% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    31.25 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.31 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.56 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    98.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    54.16 years
  male:
    52.56 years
  female:
    55.78 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.73 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    I-Kiribati (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    I-Kiribati
Ethnic divisions:
    Micronesian
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 52.6%, Protestant (Congregational) 40.9%, Seventh-Day
    Adventist, Baha'i, Church of God, Mormon 6% (1985)
Languages:
    English (official), Gilbertese
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    7,870 economically active, not including subsistence farmers (1985 est.)
                                    Kiribati
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Kiribati
  conventional short form:
    Kiribati
  former:
    Gilbert Islands
Digraph:
    KR
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Tarawa
Administrative divisions:
    3 units; Gilbert Islands, Line Islands, Phoenix Islands
  note:
    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,
    Kiritimati, Kuria, Maiana, Makin, Marakei, Nikunau, Nonouti, Onotoa,
    Tabiteuea, Tabuaeran, Tamana, Tarawa, Teraina; note - one council for each
    of the inhabited islands)
Independence:
    12 July 1979 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 12 July (1979)
Constitution:
    12 July 1979
Legal system:
    NA
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President (Beretitenti) Teburoro TITO (since 1 October 1994); Vice President
    (Kauoman-ni-Beretitenti) Tewareka TENTOA (since 12 October 1994); election
    last held on 30 September 1994 (next to be held by NA 1999)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president from an elected parliament
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  House of Assembly (Maneaba Ni Maungatabu):
    elections last held on 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
Judicial branch:
    Court of Appeal, High Court
Political parties and leaders:
    National Progressive Party, Teatao TEANNAKI; Christian Democratic Party,
    Teburoro TITO; New Movement Party, leader NA; Liberal Party, Tewareka
    TENTOA; Maneaba Party, Roniti TEIWAKI; Maneaban Te Mauri, leader NA
  note:
    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
Member of:
    ACP, AsDB, C, ESCAP, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, IDA, IFC, IFRCS (associate), IMF,
    INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, ITU, SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UNESCO,
    UPU, WHO
                                    Kiribati
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
    Kiribati has no mission in the US
US diplomatic representation:
    the ambassador to Fiji is accredited to Kiribati
Flag:
    the upper half is red with a yellow frigate bird flying over a yellow rising
    sun, and the lower half is blue with three horizontal wavy white stripes to
    represent the ocean
                                    Kiribati
                                     Economy
Overview:
    A remote country of 33 scattered coral 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
    declined about 5% in 1987, as the fish catch fell sharply to only one-fourth
    the level of 1986 and copra production was hampered by repeated rains.
    Output rebounded strongly in 1988, with real GDP growing by 10%. The upturn
    in economic growth came from an increase in copra production and a good fish
    catch. GDP then fell by 2.2% in 1989 and by 2.9% in 1990, but has risen by
    about 3% annually in 1991-93. Foreign financial aid, largely from the UK and
    Japan, is a critical supplement to GDP, amounting to 25%-50% of GDP in
    recent years.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $62 million (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.9% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $800 (1993 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    6.5% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    2%; underemployment 70% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $29.6 million
  expenditures:
    $32.8 million, including capital expenditures of $14 million (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $4.2 million (f.o.b., 1992 est.)
  commodities:
    copra 50%, seaweed 16%, fish 15%
  partners:
    Denmark, Fiji, US
Imports:
    $33.1 million (c.i.f., 1992 est.)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, machinery and equipment, miscellaneous manufactured goods, fuel
  partners:
    Australia 40%, Japan 18%, Fiji 17%, NZ 6%, US 4% (1991)
External debt:
    $2 million (December 1989 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 0.7% (1992 est.); accounts for less than 4% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    5,000 kW
  production:
    13 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    131 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    fishing, handicrafts
Agriculture:
    accounts for 23% of GDP (including fishing); copra and fish contribute about
    65% to exports; subsistence farming predominates; food crops - taro,
    breadfruit, sweet potatoes, vegetables; not self-sufficient in food
                                    Kiribati
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    Western (non-US) countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89),
    $273 million
Currency:
    1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3058 (January 1995), 1.3667 (1994),
    1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2835 (1991), 1.2799 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    NA
                                    Kiribati
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    640 km
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Inland waterways:
    small network of canals, totaling 5 km, in Line Islands
Ports:
    Banaba, Betio, English Harbor, Kanton
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1 passenger-cargo ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,291 GRT/1,295 DWT
Airports:
    21
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    11
                                    Kiribati
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    1,400 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    0
  televisions:
    NA
                                    Kiribati
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Police Force (carries out law enforcement functions and paramilitary duties;
    there are small police posts on all islands); no military force is
    maintained
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
KIRIBATI (formerly Gilbert Islands) - Passport and visa required.  For
additional information consult British Embassy (202/462-1340).
Show Map
x8dot3
English (British)
Num_Background
Num_Economics
Num_HumanRights
KIRIBATI
*868{G
h8T8M
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Angola
7u7ANGOLA - Passport and visa required.  Tourist/business visas  require an
application form, letter stating purpose of travel, and two color photos.
Applications by mail require prepaid return envelope.  Yellow fever and
cholera immunizations required.  For additional information contact
Embassy of Angola, 1899 L Street, N.W., 6th Floor, Washington, D.C. 20036
(202/785-1156) or the Permanent Mission of the Republic of Angola  to the
U.N., 125 East 73rd Street,  New York, NY 10021 (212/861-5656).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Angola
============================================================
Angola - Travel Warning
 September 20, 1995
U.S. citizens are warned against travel to Angola because of
continued unsettled conditions and political-military instability.
Travel within Angola remains unsafe due to the presence of
undisciplined armed troops, unexploded landmines, hostile actions
against aircraft and widespread banditry.  Travelers are especially
urged to avoid Lunda Norte and Lunda Sul provinces.  The rising rate
of banditry there makes these provinces particularly unsafe for
foreigners.  Additional information can be found in the Department
of State's Consular Information Sheet on Angola.
 No. 95-030
This replaces the Travel Warning dated April 25, 1995, to update
information on the security situation in Angola.
Angola - Consular Information Sheet
 September 22, 1995
Warning:  U.S. citizens are warned against travel to Angola because
of continued unsettled conditions and political-military
instability.  Travel within Angola remains unsafe due to the
presence of undisciplined armed troops, unexploded landmines,
hostile actions against aircraft and widespread banditry.  Travelers
are especially urged to avoid Lunda Norte and Lunda Sul provinces.
The rising rate of banditry there makes these provinces particularly
unsafe for foreigners.
Country Description:  Angola is a large, developing African country
which has been engulfed in war and civil strife since independence
from Portugal in 1975.  A peace accord signed in November 1994 may
bring an end to Angola's civil war.  However, unstable
political-military conditions continue to make travel to and within
Angola unsafe.  Facilities for tourism are virtually non-existent.
In addition, there are severe shortages of lodging, transportation,
food, water and utilities in Luanda and other cities.  Shortages
result in a lack of sanitary conditions in many areas, including
Luanda.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required for travel to
Angola.  Persons arriving without visas are subject to possible
arrest or deportation.  Evidence of yellow fever vaccination may
also be required to depart the country.  Further information on
entry requirements may be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic
of Angola at 1899 L Street, N.W., Suite 500, Washington, D.C. 20036,
[phone].
Areas of Instability:  Despite recent positive developments, the
security situation in Angola remains extremely volatile.  Large
crowds and demonstrations should be avoided.  Travel in the interior
is unsafe because of the presence of armed troops, sporadic armed
clashes, occasional hostile actions against aircraft, and other
minor cease-fire violations.  Most destinations in the interior are
accessible only by air.  Civilians have recently been injured and
killed by landmines exploding on roads and in bandit attacks.
Overland routes to neighboring countries are generally not open.
Crime Information:  Armed and violent crime occurs throughout
Angola.  Street crime is common in all areas of Luanda, at all
hours.  Foreigners, including U.S. citizens, have been the targets
of violent robberies in their homes.  City streets are patrolled by
police and soldiers who normally carry automatic weapons.  They are
unpredictable and their authority should not be challenged.  Police
checkpoints after dark also contribute to unsafe nighttime travel.
Travel within Luanda is becoming more dangerous, particularly at
night, because of the increased incidence of armed robberies and
carjackings.  The U.S. Embassy cautions against airport arrivals
after dark because of a series of evening carjackings perpetrated
against foreigners enroute from the airport.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported to
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips For Travelers to
Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on protecting
personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region
in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing office, Washington, D.C., 20402.
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical facilities are virtually
non-existent throughout Angola, and most medicine is not available.
Chloroquine-resistant and cerebral malaria are endemic to the
region.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid or accepted
outside the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not
provide for payment of medical services outside the United States.
In some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
and medical evacuation coverage has proven useful.  For additional
health information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline (404)
332-4559.
Currency Restrictions:  U.S. dollars can be converted to local
currency at exchange houses authorized by the Angolan government.
Large denominations of U.S. currency may not be widely accepted.
Currency conversions on the parallel (black) market are illegal and
participants may be subject to arrest.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens may obtain updated
information on travel and security in Angola and register at the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy located downtown at Casa
Inglesa, First Floor, Rua Major Kahangulo No. 132/136, Luanda,
telephone [phone]; fax [phone].  The U.S. Embassy
is located on Rua Houari Boumedienne in the Miramar area of Luanda,
P.O. Box 6468, telephone [phone] (24-hour number); fax
(244-2) 34-78-84.
 No. 95-117
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 25, 1995,
to update the Travel Warning.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Angola
============================================================
Angola - Travel Warning
 September 20, 1995
U.S. citizens are warned against travel to Angola because of
continued unsettled conditions and political-military instability.
Travel within Angola remains unsafe due to the presence of
undisciplined armed troops, unexploded landmines, hostile actions
against aircraft and widespread banditry.  Travelers are especially
urged to avoid Lunda Norte and Lunda Sul provinces.  The rising rate
of banditry there makes these provinces particularly unsafe for
foreigners.  Additional information can be found in the Department
of State's Consular Information Sheet on Angola.
 No. 95-030
This replaces the Travel Warning dated April 25, 1995, to update
information on the security situation in Angola.
Angola - Consular Information Sheet
 September 22, 1995
Warning:  U.S. citizens are warned against travel to Angola because
of continued unsettled conditions and political-military
instability.  Travel within Angola remains unsafe due to the
presence of undisciplined armed troops, unexploded landmines,
hostile actions against aircraft and widespread banditry.  Travelers
are especially urged to avoid Lunda Norte and Lunda Sul provinces.
The rising rate of banditry there makes these provinces particularly
unsafe for foreigners.
Country Description:  Angola is a large, developing African country
which has been engulfed in war and civil strife since independence
from Portugal in 1975.  A peace accord signed in November 1994 may
bring an end to Angola's civil war.  However, unstable
political-military conditions continue to make travel to and within
Angola unsafe.  Facilities for tourism are virtually non-existent.
In addition, there are severe shortages of lodging, transportation,
food, water and utilities in Luanda and other cities.  Shortages
result in a lack of sanitary conditions in many areas, including
Luanda.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required for travel to
Angola.  Persons arriving without visas are subject to possible
arrest or deportation.  Evidence of yellow fever vaccination may
also be required to depart the country.  Further information on
entry requirements may be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic
of Angola at 1899 L Street, N.W., Suite 500, Washington, D.C. 20036,
[phone].
Areas of Instability:  Despite recent positive developments, the
security situation in Angola remains extremely volatile.  Large
crowds and demonstrations should be avoided.  Travel in the interior
is unsafe because of the presence of armed troops, sporadic armed
clashes, occasional hostile actions against aircraft, and other
minor cease-fire violations.  Most destinations in the interior are
accessible only by air.  Civilians have recently been injured and
killed by landmines exploding on roads and in bandit attacks.
Overland routes to neighboring countries are generally not open.
Crime Information:  Armed and violent crime occurs throughout
Angola.  Street crime is common in all areas of Luanda, at all
hours.  Foreigners, including U.S. citizens, have been the targets
of violent robberies in their homes.  City streets are patrolled by
police and soldiers who normally carry automatic weapons.  They are
unpredictable and their authority should not be challenged.  Police
checkpoints after dark also contribute to unsafe nighttime travel.
Travel within Luanda is becoming more dangerous, particularly at
night, because of the increased incidence of armed robberies and
carjackings.  The U.S. Embassy cautions against airport arrivals
after dark because of a series of evening carjackings perpetrated
against foreigners enroute from the airport.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported to
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips For Travelers to
Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on protecting
personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in the region
in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing office, Washington, D.C., 20402.
Medical Facilities:  Adequate medical facilities are virtually
non-existent throughout Angola, and most medicine is not available.
Chloroquine-resistant and cerebral malaria are endemic to the
region.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid or accepted
outside the United States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not
provide for payment of medical services outside the United States.
In some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
and medical evacuation coverage has proven useful.  For additional
health information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease
Control and Prevention's international travelers hotline (404)
332-4559.
Currency Restrictions:  U.S. dollars can be converted to local
currency at exchange houses authorized by the Angolan government.
Large denominations of U.S. currency may not be widely accepted.
Currency conversions on the parallel (black) market are illegal and
participants may be subject to arrest.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens may obtain updated
information on travel and security in Angola and register at the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy located downtown at Casa
Inglesa, First Floor, Rua Major Kahangulo No. 132/136, Luanda,
telephone [phone]; fax [phone].  The U.S. Embassy
is located on Rua Houari Boumedienne in the Miramar area of Luanda,
P.O. Box 6468, telephone [phone] (24-hour number); fax
(244-2) 34-78-84.
 No. 95-117
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 25, 1995,
to update the Travel Warning.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
6                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Angola
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Namibia and
    Zaire
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    1,246,700 sq km
  land area:
    1,246,700 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than twice the size of Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 5,198 km, Congo 201 km, Namibia 1,376 km, Zaire 2,511 km, Zambia 1,110
    km
Coastline:
    1,600 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    20 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    semiarid in south and along coast to Luanda; north has cool, dry season (May
    to October) and hot, rainy season (November to April)
Terrain:
    narrow coastal plain rises abruptly to vast interior plateau
Natural resources:
    petroleum, diamonds, iron ore, phosphates, copper, feldspar, gold, bauxite,
    uranium
Land use:
  arable land:
    2%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    23%
  forest and woodland:
    43%
  other:
    32%
Irrigated land:
    NA km2
Environment:
  current issues:
    population pressures contributing to overuse of pastures and subsequent soil
    erosion; desertification; deforestation of tropical rain forest attributable
    to the international demand for tropical timber and domestic use as a fuel;
    deforestation contributing to loss of biodiversity; soil erosion
    contributing to water pollution and siltation of rivers and dams; inadequate
    supplies of potable water
  natural hazards:
    locally heavy rainfall causes periodic flooding on the plateau
  international agreements:
    party to - Law of the Sea; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate
    Change, Desertification
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Angola
                                    Geography
Note:
    Cabinda is separated from rest of country by Zaire
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Angola
                                     People
Population:
    10,069,501 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    45% (female 2,208,307; male 2,274,533)
  15-64 years:
    53% (female 2,641,259; male 2,685,543)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 136,573; male 123,286) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.68% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    45.05 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    18.1 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -0.15 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    142.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    46.28 years
  male:
    44.18 years
  female:
    48.49 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.42 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Angolan(s)
  adjective:
    Angolan
Ethnic divisions:
    Ovimbundu 37%, Kimbundu 25%, Bakongo 13%, mestico (mixed European and Native
    African) 2%, European 1%, other 22%
Religions:
    indigenous beliefs 47%, Roman Catholic 38%, Protestant 15% (est.)
Languages:
    Portuguese (official), Bantu and other African languages
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    42%
  male:
    56%
  female:
    28%
Labor force:
    2.783 million economically active
  by occupation:
    agriculture 85%, industry 15% (1985 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Angola
                                   Government
Note:
    Civil war has been the norm since independence from Portugal 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 Angola (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.
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Angola
  conventional short form:
    Angola
  local long form:
    Republica de Angola
  local short form:
    Angola
  former:
    People's Republic of Angola
Digraph:
    AO
Type:
    transitional government nominally a multiparty democracy with a strong
    presidential system
Capital:
    Luanda
Administrative divisions:
    18 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Bengo, Benguela, Bie,
    Cabinda, Cuando Cubango, Cuanza Norte, Cuanza Sul, Cunene, Huambo, Huila,
    Luanda, Lunda Norte, Lunda Sul, Malanje, Moxico, Namibe, Uige, Zaire
Independence:
    11 November 1975 (from Portugal)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 11 November (1975)
Constitution:
    11 November 1975; revised 7 January 1978, 11 August 1980, 6 March 1991, and
    26 August 1992
Legal system:
    based on Portuguese civil law system and customary law; recently modified to
    accommodate political pluralism and increased use of free markets
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Jose Eduardo DOS SANTOS (since 21 September 1979)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Marcolino Jose Carlos MOCO (since 2 December 1992)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly (Assembleia Nacional):
    first nationwide, multiparty elections were held 29-30 September 1992 with
    disputed results
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Tribunal da Relacao)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Angola
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Popular Movement for the Liberation of Angola (MPLA), led by Jose Eduardo
    DOS SANTOS, is the ruling party and has been in power since 1975; National
    Union for the Total Independence of Angola (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
Other political or pressure groups:
    Cabindan State Liberation Front (FLEC), N'ZITA Tiago, leader of largest
    faction (FLEC-FAC)
  note:
    FLEC is waging a small-scale, highly factionalized, armed struggle for the
    independence of Cabinda Province
Member of:
    ACP, AfDB, CCC, CEEAC (observer), ECA, FAO, FLS, G-77, GATT, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM,
    ITU, NAM, OAS (observer), OAU, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL,
    WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jose Goncalves Martins PATRICIO
  embassy:
    1819 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20036, Suite 400
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Edmund T. DE JARNETTE
  embassy:
    32 Rua Houari Boumedienne, Miramar, Luanda
  mailing address:
    C.P. 6484, Luanda; American Embassy, Luanda, Department of State,
    Washington, D.C. 20521-2550 (pouch)
  telephone:
    [244] (2) 345-481, 346-418
  FAX:
    [244] (2) 347-884
Flag:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Angola
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Subsistence agriculture provides the main livelihood for 80%-90% of the
    population but accounts for less than 15% of GDP. Oil production is vital to
    the economy, contributing about 60% to GDP. Despite the signing of a peace
    accord in November 1994 between the Angola 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 requirements
    must still be imported. Angola has rich natural resources - notably gold,
    diamonds, and arable land, in addition to large oil deposits - but will need
    to observe the cease-fire, implement the peace agreement, and reform
    government policies if it is to achieve its potential.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $6.1 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -1% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $620 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    20% average per month (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    15% with considerable underemployment (1993 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $928 million
  expenditures:
    $2.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $963 million (1992 est.)
Exports:
    $3 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    oil, diamonds, refined petroleum products, gas, coffee, sisal, fish and fish
    products, timber, cotton
  partners:
    US, France, Germany, Netherlands, Brazil
Imports:
    $1.6 billion (f.o.b., 1992 est.)
  commodities:
    capital equipment (machinery and electrical equipment), food, vehicles and
    spare parts, textiles and clothing, medicines, substantial military
    deliveries
  partners:
    Portugal, Brazil, US, France, Spain
External debt:
    $11.7 billion (1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%; accounts for about 60% of GDP, including petroleum output
Electricity:
  capacity:
    620,000 kW
  production:
    1.9 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    189 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum; mining - diamonds, iron ore, phosphates, feldspar, bauxite,
    uranium, and gold; fish processing; food processing; brewing; tobacco;
    sugar; textiles; cement; basic metal products
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Angola
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    cash crops - bananas, sugarcane, coffee, sisal, corn, cotton, cane, manioc,
    tobacco; food crops - cassava, corn, vegetables, plantains; livestock
    production accounts for 20%, fishing 4%, forestry 2% of total agricultural
    output
Illicit drugs:
    increasingly used as a transshipment point for cocaine destined for Western
    Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $265 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.105 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $1.3 billion; net official disbursements
    (1985-89), $750 million
Currency:
    1 new kwanza (NKz) = 100 lwei
Exchange rates:
    new kwanza (NKz) per US$1 - 900,000 (official rate 25 April 1995), 1,900,000
    (black market rate 6 April 1995), 600,000 (official rate 10 January 1995),
    90,000 (official rate 1 June 1994), 180,000 (black market rate 1 June 1994);
    7,000 (official rate 16 December 1993), 50,000 (black market rate 16
    December 1993); 3,884 (July 1993); 550 (April 1992); 90 (November 1991); 60
    (October 1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Angola
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,189 km; note - limited trackage in use because of landmines still in place
    from the civil war; majority of the Benguela Railroad also closed because of
    civil war
  narrow gauge:
    2,879 km 1.067-m gauge; 310 km 0.600-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    73,828 km
  paved:
    bituminous-surface 8,577 km
  unpaved:
    crushed stone, gravel, improved earth 29,350 km; unimproved earth 35,901 km
Inland waterways:
    1,295 km navigable
Pipelines:
    crude oil 179 km
Ports:
    Ambriz, Cabinda, Lobito, Luanda, Malogo, Namibe, Porto Amboim, Soyo
Merchant marine:
  total:
    12 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 63,776 GRT/99,863 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 11, oil tanker 1
Airports:
  total:
    289
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    9
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    12
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    6
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    93
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    33
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    126
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Angola
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    40,300 telephones; 4.1 telephones/1,000 persons; high frequency radio used
    extensively for military links; telephone service limited mostly to
    government and business use
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    limited system of wire, microwave radio relay, and troposcatter routes
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 17, FM 13, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    6
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Angola
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, National Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,315,717; males fit for military service 1,166,082; males
    reach military age (18) annually 100,273 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $1.1 billion, 31% of GDP (1993)
Jan Mayen
!j!ITALY - Passport required.  Visa not required for tourist stay up to 3
months.  For longer stays, employment or study, obtain visa in advance.
For additional information consult Embassy of Italy, 1601 Fuller St.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009 (202/328-5500) or nearest Consulate General:  CA
(310/820-0622 or 415/931-4924), FL (305/374-6322), IL (312/467-1550),
LA (504/524-2272), MA (617/542-0483/4), MI (313/963-8560), NJ
(201/643-1448),
NY (212/737-9100), PA (215/592-7329) or TX (713/850-7520).
Italy - Consular Information Sheet
October 24, 1994
Country Description:  Italy is a developed democracy with a modern economy.
Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is required to work or
study in Italy, but not for business or tourist stays of up to three months.
 For further information concerning entry requirements for Italy, travelers
can contact the Embassy of Italy at 1601 Fuller Street, NW, Washington, DC
20009, telephone: [phone], or the Italian Consulates General in
Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New Orleans, New York, Philadelphia,
or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in Italy are adequate for most
emergencies.  Many hospitals in major cities have at least some personnel
who speak English.  Public hospitals sometimes do not maintain the same
standards as hospitals in the U.S., so travellers may wish to obtain
insurance that would cover a stay in a private Italian hospital or clinic.
In public hospitals, patients are billed sometime after discharge.  Private
hospitals usually require cash payment before discharge; neither credit
cards nor foreign medical coverage is generally accepted.  Travelers may
wish to purchase supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage.  Further information on health matters can be obtained from the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline on (404) 332-
4559.
Crime Information:  Italy has a very low rate of violent crime, little of
which is directed toward tourists.  Petty crimes such as pickpocketing,
theft from parked cars, and purse snatching, however, are serious problems,
especially in large cities.  Most reported thefts occur at crowded tourist
sites, on public buses, or at the major railway stations, including Rome's
Termini, Milan's Centrale, Florence's Santa Maria Novella, and the Centrale
in Naples.  Consular officers report cases of elderly tourists who sought to
resist petty thieves on motor scooters and have suffered broken arms and
collarbones.  Carrying wallets or purses should be avoided when possible.
When carried, shoulder bags should be held tightly under the arm with the
clasp facing the body.  Waist packs may be worn in the front, although they
can unobtrusively be opened.  Extra cash, credit cards and personal
documents are better left in a hotel safe.  Travelers should only carry what
cash or checks are necessary.  Copies of passports and financial documents
should be carried separately from those items.
Thieves in Italy often work in groups or pairs.  In most cases, one thief
distracts a victim while an accomplice performs the robbery.  Groups of
street urchins are known to poke tourists with newspapers or pieces of
cardboard to divert their attention so that another urchin can pickpocket
them.  In one popular routine, one thief throws trash or waste at a victim;
a second thief assists the victim in cleaning up the mess; and the third
discreetly takes the victim's belongings.  Criminals on crowded public
transportation slit the bottoms of purses or bags with a razor or sharp
knife, then remove the contents through the bottom.
Theft of small items such as radios, luggage, cameras, briefcases, and even
cigarettes from parked cars is a major problem.  Robbers in southern Italy
take items from cars at gas stations (often by smashing car windows).
Tourists should immediately report thefts or other crimes to the local
police station.
In a scam practiced on the highway running between Rome and Naples, one
thief punctures the tire of a rental or out-of-town car.  An accomplice
signals the flat tire to the driver and encourages the driver to pull over.
When the driver stops, one thief helps change the tire, while the other
helps himself to the driver's belongings.  Highway robberies have occurred
on the super highway between Salerno and Reggio Calabria in Sicily.  A U.S.
citizen was killed by gunshot during a random nighttime robbery attempt in
1994.
In a scam practiced on trains, primarily in northern Italy, one or more
persons will befriend a traveller and offer a drink.  The drink will be
drugged, and the traveller awakens to find he has been robbed.  Thieves have
been known to impersonate police officers to gain the confidence of
tourists.  The thief shows the prospective victim a circular plastic sign
with the words "police" or "international police."  If this happens, the
tourist should insist on seeing the officer's identification card
(documento), as impersonators tend not to carry forged documents.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. Embassy or Consulate.  U.S.
citizens can refer to the Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip
Abroad" for ways to promote a more trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is
available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, DC  20402.
Terrorist Activities:  In May 1993, bombs exploded on separate occasions in
Rome and in Florence.  The explosions resulted in the death of five people,
more than 40 injuries, and extensive property damage.  In July 1993 three
separate car bombings, two in Rome and one in Milan, left five people dead
and 28 injured.  In September 1993 a hand grenade was thrown and 12 shots
were fired at the air base in Aviano.  Between October 1993 and January 1994
four bombs exploded in public offices in Padova, and in February 1994 in
Rome, the vehicle of a Spanish military officer exploded, causing light
injuries to the driver.  Most of the bombs were placed near public buildings
(e.g. churches, museums) and all exploded during non-business hours.
Officials of the Italian government have indicated their belief that the
bombs are the work of criminal elements or international terrorists.  U.S.
citizens have not been the targets of these attacks.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Those convicted of drug-related crimes in Italy
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Dual Nationality:  U.S. citizens who are also considered to be Italian
citizens may be subject to compulsory military service and other Italian
laws while in Italy.  Those who might be affected can inquire at an Italian
Embassy or Consulate regarding their status.  In some instances, dual
nationality may hamper U.S. Government efforts to provide protection abroad.
Other Information:  U.S. citizens are reminded that certain Alitalia flights
between Italy and various Middle Eastern points (usually Damascus or Amman)
make en route stops in Beirut.  The State Department warns U.S. citizens to
avoid all travel to or through Lebanon.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who plan to be in Italy for more than a few
weeks, or who have friends or relatives who may wish to contact them, should
register at the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Rome or at one of
the three U.S. Consulates, where they may obtain updated information on
travel and security in Italy.
Embassy and Consulate Locations:  The U.S. Embassy in Rome is located at Via
Veneto 119/A, telephone:  (39) (6) 46741, fax: (39) (6) 46742217.
There are U.S. Consulates at the following locations:
Florence, at Lungarno Amerigo Vespucci 38, telephone [phone],
or 217-605; fax [phone];
Milan, at Via Principe Amedeo 2/10, telephone (39) (2) 290351; fax (2)
29001165;
Naples, at Piazza Della Repubblica, telephone (39) (81) 5838111; fax (81)
7611869.
U.S. Consular Agents are located at:
Genoa, Via Dante 2, telephone (39) [phone];
Palermo, 18/BIS Via Re Frederico, telephone (39) [phone]; and
Trieste, at Via Roma 15, telephone (39) [phone], fax [phone].
No. 94-252
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 28, 1994, to
add information on crime in Italy.
@C/C                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Italy
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Europe, a peninsula extending into the central Mediterranean Sea,
    northeast of Tunisia
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    301,230 sq km
  land area:
    294,020 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Arizona
  note:
    includes Sardinia and Sicily
Land boundaries:
    total 1,899.2 km, Austria 430 km, France 488 km, Holy See (Vatican City) 3.2
    km, San Marino 39 km, Slovenia 199 km, Switzerland 740 km
Coastline:
    4,996 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    predominantly Mediterranean; Alpine in far north; hot, dry in south
Terrain:
    mostly rugged and mountainous; some plains, coastal lowlands
Natural resources:
    mercury, potash, marble, sulfur, dwindling natural gas and crude oil
    reserves, fish, coal
Land use:
  arable land:
    32%
  permanent crops:
    10%
  meadows and pastures:
    17%
  forest and woodland:
    22%
  other:
    19%
Irrigated land:
    31,000 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution from industrial emissions such as sulfur dioxide; coastal and
    inland rivers polluted from industrial and agricultural effluents; acid rain
    damaging lakes; inadequate industrial waste treatment and disposal
    facilities
  natural hazards:
    regional risks include landslides, mudflows, avalanches, earthquakes,
    volcanic eruptions, flooding; land subsidence in Venice
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Italy
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change,
    Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the
    Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship
    Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds,
    Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification
Note:
    strategic location dominating central Mediterranean as well as southern sea
    and air approaches to Western Europe
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Italy
                                     People
Population:
    58,261,971 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  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.)
Population growth rate:
    0.21% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    10.89 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.78 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    1.03 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    7.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.85 years
  male:
    74.67 years
  female:
    81.23 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.41 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Italian(s)
  adjective:
    Italian
Ethnic divisions:
    Italian (includes small clusters of German-, French-, and Slovene-Italians
    in the north and Albanian-Italians and Greek-Italians in the south),
    Sicilians, Sardinians
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 98%, other 2%
Languages:
    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)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    97%
  male:
    98%
  female:
    96%
Labor force:
    23.988 million
  by occupation:
    services 58%, industry 32.2%, agriculture 9.8% (1988)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Italy
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Italian Republic
  conventional short form:
    Italy
  local long form:
    Repubblica Italiana
  local short form:
    Italia
  former:
    Kingdom of Italy
Digraph:
    IT
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Rome
Administrative divisions:
    20 regions (regioni, singular - regione); Abruzzi, Basilicata, Calabria,
    Campania, Emilia-Romagna, Friuli-Venezia Giulia, Lazio, Liguria, Lombardia,
    Marche, Molise, Piemonte, Puglia, Sardegna, Sicilia, Toscana, Trentino-Alto
    Adige, Umbria, Valle d'Aosta, Veneto
Independence:
    17 March 1861 (Kingdom of Italy proclaimed)
National holiday:
    Anniversary of the Republic, 2 June (1946)
Constitution:
    1 January 1948
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal (except in senatorial elections, where minimum
    age is 25)
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Oscar Luigi SCALFARO (since 28 May 1992)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister (referred to in Italy as the President of the Council of
    Ministers) Lamberto DINI (since 1 February 1995)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; nominated by the President of the Council (i.e., Prime
    Minister) and approved by the President of the Republic
Legislative branch:
    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 Italy 4, Radical Party (Pannella List) 1, others 5
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Italy
                                   Government
  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 Italy 13, Christian Socialists 5
Judicial branch:
    Constitutional Court (Corte Costituzionale)
Political parties and leaders:
    Forza Italia (FI), Silvio BERLUSCONI; National Alliance, Gianfranco FINI,
    party secretary; Northern League - Federal Italy (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 Italy, 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)
Member of:
    AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CDB (non-regional),
    CE, CEI, CERN, EBRD, EC, ECE, ECLAC, EIB, ESA, FAO, G- 7, G-10, GATT, IADB,
    IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF,
    IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, LAIA (observer),
    MINURSO, MTCR, NACC, NATO, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, ONUSAL, OSCE,
    PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMOGIP,
    UNOMOZ, UNTSO, UPU, WCL, WEU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Boris BIANCHERI-CHIAPPORI
  chancery:
    1601 Fuller Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Boston, Chicago, Houston, Miami, New York, Los Angeles, Philadelphia, San
    Francisco
  consulate(s):
    Detroit and New Orleans
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Reginald BARTHOLOMEW
  embassy:
    Via Veneto 119/A, 00187-Rome
  mailing address:
    PSC 59, Box 100, Rome; APO AE 09624
  telephone:
    [39] (6) 46741
  FAX:
    [39] (6) 4882672
  consulate(s) general:
    Florence, Milan, Naples
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Italy
                                   Government
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Italy
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 France 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, Rome 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, Italy faces the problems of
    pushing ahead with fiscal reform, refurbishing a tottering communications
    system, curbing pollution in major industrial centers, and adjusting to the
    new competitive forces accompanying the ongoing expansion and economic
    integration of the European Union.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $998.9 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $17,180 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    3.9% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    12.2% (January 1995)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $339 billion
  expenditures:
    $431 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $190.8 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    metals, textiles and clothing, production machinery, motor vehicles,
    transportation equipment, chemicals, other
  partners:
    EU 53.4%, US 7.8%, OPEC 3.8% (1994)
Imports:
    $168.7 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    industrial machinery, chemicals, transport equipment, petroleum, metals,
    food, agricultural products
  partners:
    EU 56.3%, OPEC 5.3%, US 4.6% (1994)
External debt:
    $67 billion (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 4.3% (1994 est.); accounts for 35% of GDP
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Italy
                                     Economy
Electricity:
  capacity:
    61,630,000 kW
  production:
    209 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    4,033 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    machinery, iron and steel, chemicals, food processing, textiles, motor
    vehicles, clothing, footwear, ceramics
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 4% of GDP; self-sufficient in foods other than meat,
    dairy products, and cereals; principal crops - fruits, vegetables, grapes,
    potatoes, sugar beets, soybeans, grain, olives; fish catch of 525,000 metric
    tons in 1990
Illicit drugs:
    important gateway country for Latin American cocaine and Southwest Asian
    heroin entering the European market
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-89), $25.9 billion
Currency:
    1 Italian lira (Lit) = 100 centesimi
Exchange rates:
    Italian lire (Lit) per US$1 - 1,609.5 (January 1995), 1,612.4 (1994),
    1,573.7 (1993), 1,232.4 (1992), 1,240.6 (1991), 1,198.1 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Italy
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    19,503 km
  standard gauge:
    18,230 km 1.435-m gauge (10,499 km electrified; 2,112 km privately owned)
  narrow gauge:
    1,273 km 0.950-m to 1.000-m gauge (224 km electrified; 1,273 km privately
    owned)
Highways:
  total:
    305,388 km
  paved:
    277,388 km (6,940 km of expressways)
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone 23,000 km; earth 5,000 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    2,400 km for various types of commercial traffic, although of limited
    overall value
Pipelines:
    crude oil 1,703 km; petroleum products 2,148 km; natural gas 19,400 km
Ports:
    Ancona, Augusta, Bari, Cagliari (Sardinia), Catania, Gaeta, Genoa, La
    Spezia, Livorno, Naples, Oristano (Sardinia), Palermo (Sicily), Piombino,
    Porto Torres (Sardinia), Ravenna, Savona, Trieste, Venice
Merchant marine:
  total:
    441 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,767,969 GRT/8,547,221 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 40, cargo 62, chemical tanker 34, combination ore/oil 3, container 18,
    liquefied gas tanker 37, multifunction large-load carrier 1, oil tanker 136,
    passenger 7, roll-on/roll-off cargo 54, short-sea passenger 30, specialized
    tanker 11, vehicle carrier 8
Airports:
  total:
    138
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    34
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    15
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    26
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    34
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    22
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Italy
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    25,600,000 telephones; modern, well-developed, fast; fully automated
    telephone, 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
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 135, FM 28 (repeaters 1,840), shortwave 0
  radios:
    16 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    83 (repeaters 1,000)
  televisions:
    18 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Italy
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, Carabinieri
Manpower availability:
    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.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $21.5 billion, 2% of GDP (1994)
Jamaica
@                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Israel
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (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, Syria, and Jordan to
    determine the final status of the occupied territories. On 25 April 1982,
    Israel withdrew from the Sinai 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.
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Israel
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Lebanon
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    20,770 sq km
  land area:
    20,330 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than New Jersey
Land boundaries:
    total 1,006 km, Egypt 255 km, Gaza Strip 51 km, Jordan 238 km, Lebanon 79
    km, Syria 76 km, West Bank 307 km
Coastline:
    273 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    to depth of exploitation
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    separated from Lebanon, Syria, and the West Bank by the 1949 Armistice Line;
    the Gaza Strip and Jericho area, formerly occupied by Israel, are now
    administered largely by the Palestinian Authority; other areas of the West
    Bank outside Jericho are administered jointly by Israel and the Palestinian
    Authority; Golan Heights is Israeli occupied; Israeli troops in southern
    Lebanon since June 1982
Climate:
    temperate; hot and dry in southern and eastern desert areas
Terrain:
    Negev desert in the south; low coastal plain; central mountains; Jordan Rift
    Valley
Natural resources:
    copper, phosphates, bromide, potash, clay, sand, sulfur, asphalt, manganese,
    small amounts of natural gas and crude oil
Land use:
  arable land:
    17%
  permanent crops:
    5%
  meadows and pastures:
    40%
  forest and woodland:
    6%
  other:
    32%
Irrigated land:
    2,140 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    limited arable land and natural fresh water resources pose serious
    constraints; desertification; air pollution from industrial and vehicle
    emissions; groundwater pollution from industrial and domestic waste,
    chemical fertilizers, and pesticides
  natural hazards:
    sandstorms may occur during spring and summer
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Israel
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test
    Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified -
    Climate Change, Desertification, Marine Life Conservation
Note:
    there are 199 Jewish settlements and civilian land use sites in the West
    Bank, 42 in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, 24 in the Gaza Strip, and 25
    in East Jerusalem (August 1994 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Israel
                                     People
Population:
    5,433,134 (July 1995 est.)
  note:
    includes 122,000 Jewish settlers in the West Bank, 14,500 in the
    Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, 4,800 in the Gaza Strip, and 149,000 in East
    Jerusalem (August 1994 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    29%
  15-64 years:
    61%
  65 years and over:
    10%
Population growth rate:
    1.4% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    20.39 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.38 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    8.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    78.14 years
  male:
    76 years
  female:
    80.39 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.81 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Israeli(s)
  adjective:
    Israeli
Ethnic divisions:
    Jewish 82% (Israel born 50%, Europe/Americas/Oceania born 20%, Africa born
    7%, Asia born 5%), non-Jewish 18% (mostly Arab) (1993 est.)
Religions:
    Judaism 82%, Islam 14% (mostly Sunni Muslim), Christian 2%, Druze and other
    2%
Languages:
    Hebrew (official), Arabic used officially for Arab minority, English most
    commonly used foreign language
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1992)
  total population:
    95%
  male:
    97%
  female:
    93%
Labor force:
    1.9 million (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Israel
                                     People
  by occupation:
    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, forestry, and fishing 3.5%,
    other 0.6% (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Israel
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    State of Israel
  conventional short form:
    Israel
  local long form:
    Medinat Yisra'el
  local short form:
    Yisra'el
Digraph:
    IS
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Jerusalem
  note:
    Israel proclaimed Jerusalem its capital in 1950, but the US, like nearly all
    other countries, does not recognize this status, and maintains its Embassy
    in Tel Aviv
Administrative divisions:
    6 districts (mehozot, singular - mehoz); Central, Haifa, Jerusalem,
    Northern, Southern, Tel Aviv
Independence:
    14 May 1948 (from League of Nations mandate under British administration)
National holiday:
    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)
Constitution:
    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
Legal system:
    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 jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Ezer WEIZMAN (since 13 May 1993) election last held 24 March 1993
    (next to be held NA March 1999); results - Ezer WEIZMAN elected by Knesset
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Yitzhak RABIN (since NA July 1992)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; selected from and approved by the Knesset
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  parliament (Knesset):
    elections last held NA June 1992 (next to be held by NA 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 Torah Jewry 4,
    Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (Hadash) 3, Moledet 3, Arab
    Democratic Party 2; note - in 1994 four legislators broke party ranks,
    resulting in the following new distribution of seats - Labor Party 44, Likud
    bloc 32, MERETZ 12, National Religious Party 6, SHAS 6, Tzomet 5, United
    Torah Jewry 4, Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (Hadash) 3, Moledet
    2, Arab Democratic Party 2, independents 4 (1 in coalition, 3 voting with
    opposition)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Israel
                                   Government
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
  members of the government:
    Labor Party, Prime Minister Yitzhak RABIN; MERETZ, Minister of
    Communications Shulamit ALONI; independent, 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 Torah Jewry, Avraham SHAPIRA; Moledet, Rehavam
    ZEEVI; Peace Guard (independent), Shaul GUTMAN; SHAS, Arieh DERI
  note:
    Israel currently has a coalition government comprising 2 parties and an
    independent that hold 57 seats of the Knesset's 120 seats
Other political or pressure groups:
    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 Lebanon policy
Member of:
    AG (observer), CCC, CE (observer), CERN (observer), EBRD, ECE, FAO, GATT,
    IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, IDA, IFAD, IFC, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, OAS (observer), PCA, UN, UNCTAD,
    UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Itamar RABINOVICH
  chancery:
    3514 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York,
    Philadelphia, and San Francisco
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Martin INDYK
  embassy:
    71 Hayarkon Street, Tel Aviv
  mailing address:
    PSC 98, Box 100, Tel Aviv; APO AE 09830
  telephone:
    [972] (3) 517-4338
  FAX:
    [972] (3) 663-449
  consulate(s) general:
    Jerusalem
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Israel
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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, construction 6.5%,
    agriculture, forestry, and fishing 3.5%, and services most of 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
    United States, 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 450,000
    during the period 1990-94, 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $70.1 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6.8% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $13,880 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    14.5% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    7.5% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $42.3 billion
  expenditures:
    $45.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $11.1 billion (FY92/93)
Exports:
    $16.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment, cut diamonds, chemicals, textiles and apparel,
    agricultural products, metals
  partners:
    US, EU, Japan
Imports:
    $22.5 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    military equipment, investment goods, rough diamonds, oil, other productive
    inputs, consumer goods
  partners:
    EU, US, Japan
External debt:
    $25.9 billion (November 1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 8% (1994 est.); accounts for about 30% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    4,140,000 kW
  production:
    23 billion kWh
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Israel
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    4,290 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    food processing, diamond cutting and polishing, textiles and apparel,
    chemicals, metal products, military equipment, transport equipment,
    electrical equipment, miscellaneous machinery, potash mining,
    high-technology electronics, tourism
Agriculture:
    citrus and other fruits, vegetables, cotton; beef, poultry, dairy products
Illicit drugs:
    increasingly concerned about cocaine and heroin abuse and trafficking
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-90), $18.2 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $2.8 billion
Currency:
    1 new Israeli shekel (NIS) = 100 new agorot
Exchange rates:
    new Israeli shekels (NIS) per US$1 - 3.070 (December 1994), 3.0111 (1994),
    2.8301 (1993), 2.4591 (1992), 2.2791 (1991), 2.0162 (1990), 1.9164 (1989)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year (since 1 January 1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Israel
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    520 km (diesel operated; single track)
  standard gauge:
    520 km 1.435-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    13,461 km
  paved:
    13,461 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 708 km; petroleum products 290 km; natural gas 89 km
Ports:
    Ashdod, Ashqelon, Elat, Hadera, Haifa, Tel Aviv-Yafo
Merchant marine:
  total:
    32 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 624,861 GRT/720,765 DWT
  ships by type:
    cargo 7, container 22, refrigerated cargo 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    57
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    6
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    8
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    7
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    31
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Israel
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    1,800,000 telephones; most highly developed in the Middle East although not
    the largest
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    good system of coaxial cable and microwave radio relay
  international:
    3 submarine cables; 3 INTELSAT (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) earth
    stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 9, FM 45, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    20
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Israel
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Israel Defense 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
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,309,502; females age 15-49 1,283,923; males fit for
    military service 1,072,501; females fit for military service 1,047,575;
    males reach military age (18) annually 47,950; females reach military age
    (18) annually 45,839 (1995 est.)
  note:
    military service mandatory for men and women
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $6.5 billion, about 10% of GDP (1995)
    accounts for 65% of GDP and 65% of employment (including fishing, animal
    husbandry, and forestry); self-sufficient in food; principal crops - paddy
    rice,
Kazakhstan
JORDAN - Passport and visa required.  Visa requires 1 application form,
1 photo, letter stating purpose of visit and itinerary.  Entry into
Jordan is sometimes denied to persons holding passports with Israeli visas
stamps. (This is especially true when the holders are U.S./Jordanian dual
nationals.)  Send SASE for return of passport by mail.  For details
check Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, 3504 International Dr.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/966-2664).
Jordan - Consular Information Sheet
April 8, 1994
Country Description:  The Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan is a constitutional
monarchy with a developing economy.  While Jordan is modern and Western-
oriented, Islamic ideals and beliefs provide the conservative foundation of
the country's customs, laws and practices.  Tourist facilities are widely
available, although quality may vary depending on price and location.  The
workweek in Jordan is Sunday through Thursday.
Entry Requirements:  Passports are required.  Visitors may obtain a visa for
Jordan at international ports of entry, not including the Allenby Bridge,
upon arrival.  Entry into Jordan is sometimes not granted to persons,
especially U.S.-Jordanian dual nationals, with passports showing an Israeli
visa or exit/entry stamp.  For further information, travelers can contact
the Embassy of the Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan, 3504 International Drive
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Basic modern medical care and medicines are available
in the principal cities of Jordan, but not necessarily in outlying areas.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for services.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved
useful.  The international travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease
Control, telephone [phone], has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Crime is generally not a serious problem for
travelers in Jordan.  However, petty crime is prevalent in the downtown
Amman Hashemiyah Court area and around the Roman amphitheater.  Visiting
these areas during daylight and in groups will reduce the risk of petty
crime.  The loss or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported
immediately to local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security,
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of
State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for Travelers to the Middle
East and North Africa."  They are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws and legal practices
of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use or
trafficking in illegal drugs are severe in Jordan, and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Areas of Instability:  There is a risk of violent incidents during
demonstrations, other large public gatherings, or in refugee camps.  Two non-
American tourists were attacked in separate incidents in February in
downtown Amman, following the violence in the West Bank town of Hebron on
February 25.
Land mines are located within two miles of all military installations and
borders, including the popular Dead Sea area.  Mine fields are fenced off
and marked with signs carrying a skull and crossbones, but the fences and
signs may be in poor repair or hard to see.  Avoiding these areas reduces
the risk of accidentally setting off a mine.
Terrorism:  Tension in the region remains high, especially in the wake of
the violence in the West Bank town of Hebron.  Although there is no specific
information on threats to U.S. citizens or U.S. targets in Jordan, terrorism
remains a concern.  U.S. citizens in Jordan can receive more detailed
information from the U.S. Embassy in Amman on reducing the risk of becoming
a target of terrorist attack.
Dual Nationality:  Although no longer subject to immediate conscription, all
U.S.-Jordanian dual national males under the age of thirty-seven are
required to register for service in the Jordanian military.  Those subject
to registration may be prevented from leaving Jordan until permission to do
so is obtained.  This permission is often granted to U.S. citizens, but may
take some time to obtain and is limited to one trip only.  Consular
assistance to dual nationals may be limited in some instances.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy can obtain
updated information on travel and security within Jordan.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Amman, Jordan, is located in Abdoun,
Jabel Amman, P.O. Box 354.  The telephone number is (962) (6) 820-101.
No. 94-044
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 31, 1993, and the
public announcement of March 1, 1994, to add information on areas of
instability, and to update the information on terrorism, crime, and entry
requirements.
6                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jordan
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (also see separate West Bank entry)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jordan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, northwest of Saudi Arabia
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    89,213 sq km
  land area:
    88,884 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Indiana
Land boundaries:
    total 1,619 km, Iraq 181 km, Israel 238 km, Saudi Arabia 728 km, Syria 375
    km, West Bank 97 km
Coastline:
    26 km
Maritime claims:
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    mostly arid desert; rainy season in west (November to April)
Terrain:
    mostly desert plateau in east, highland area in west; Great Rift Valley
    separates East and West Banks of the Jordan River
Natural resources:
    phosphates, potash, shale oil
Land use:
  arable land:
    4%
  permanent crops:
    0.5%
  meadows and pastures:
    1%
  forest and woodland:
    0.5%
  other:
    94%
Irrigated land:
    570 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    limited natural fresh water resources; deforestation; overgrazing; soil
    erosion; desertification
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jordan
                                     People
Population:
    4,100,709 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    44% (female 884,462; male 930,266)
  15-64 years:
    53% (female 1,058,060; male 1,119,347)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 53,709; male 54,865) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.69% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    37.32 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    4.02 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -6.4 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    32.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    72.27 years
  male:
    70.43 years
  female:
    74.21 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.25 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Jordanian(s)
  adjective:
    Jordanian
Ethnic divisions:
    Arab 98%, Circassian 1%, Armenian 1%
Religions:
    Sunni Muslim 92%, Christian 8%
Languages:
    Arabic (official), English widely understood among upper and middle classes
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1991)
  total population:
    83%
  male:
    91%
  female:
    75%
Labor force:
    600,000 (1992)
  by occupation:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jordan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Hashemite Kingdom of Jordan
  conventional short form:
    Jordan
  local long form:
    Al Mamlakah al Urduniyah al Hashimiyah
  local short form:
    Al Urdun
  former:
    Transjordan
Digraph:
    JO
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Amman
Administrative divisions:
    8 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Al Balqa', Al Karak, Al
    Mafraq, 'Amman, At Tafilah, Az Zarqa', Irbid, Ma'an
Independence:
    25 May 1946 (from League of Nations mandate under British administration)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 25 May (1946)
Constitution:
    8 January 1952
Legal system:
    based on Islamic law and French codes; judicial review of legislative acts
    in a specially provided High Tribunal; has not accepted compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    20 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    King HUSSEIN Bin Talal Al Hashimi (since 11 August 1952)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Zayd BIN SHAKIR (since 8 January 1995)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet appointed by the monarch
Legislative branch:
    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) Muslim Brotherhood
    (fundamentalist) 16, Independent Islamic bloc (generally traditionalist) 6,
    Radical leftist 3, pro-government 55
  note:
    the House of Representatives has been convened and dissolved by the King
    several times since 1974 and in November 1989 the first parliamentary
    elections in 22 years were held
Judicial branch:
    Court of Cassation
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jordan
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Al-'Ahd (Pledge) Party, Sec. Gen. 'Abd al-Hadi al-MAJALI; Al-Ahrar
    (Liberals) Party, Sec. Gen. Ahmad al-ZU'BI; Al-Hurriyah (Freedom) Party,
    Sec. Gen. Fawwaz al-ZUBI; Al-Watan (Homeland) Party, leader 'Akif al-FAYIZ;
    Al-Yaqazah (Awakening) Party, Sec. Gen. 'Abd al-Ra'uf al-RAWABIDAH;
    Constitutional Jordanian Arab Front Party, leader Milhim al-TALL; Democratic
    Arab Islamic Movement Party-Du'a', Sec. Gen. Yusuf Abu BAKR; Democratic Arab
    Unionist Party-Wad, Sec. Gen. Anis al-MU'ASHIR; Islamic Action Front (IAF),
    Sec. Gen. Ishaq al-FARHAN; Jordanian Arab Democratic Party, Sec. Gen. Mu'nis
    al-RAZZAZ; Jordanian Arab Masses Party, Sec. Gen. 'Abd al-Khaliq SHATAT;
    Jordanian Arab Socialist Ba'th Party, Command First Secretary Taysir
    al-HIMSI; Jordanian Communist Party (JCP), Sec. Gen. Ya'qub ZAYADIN;
    Jordanian Democratic Popular Unity Party, Sec. Gen. 'Azmi al-KHAWAJA;
    Jordanian Democratic Progressive Party, Sec. Gen. 'Ali 'AMIR; Jordanian
    National Alliance Party, Sec. Gen. Mijhim al-KHURAYSHAH; Jordanian People's
    Democratic Party-Hashd, Sec. Gen. Taysir al-ZIBRI; Jordanian Socialist
    Democratic Party, Sec. Gen. 'Isa MADANAT; Pan-Arab Action Front Party, Sec.
    Gen. Muhammad al-ZU'BI; Popular Unity Party-the Unionists, Sec. Gen. Talal
    al-RAMAHI; Progress and Justice Party, Sec. Gen. 'Ali al-SA'D; Progressive
    Arab Ba'th Party, Command Secretary Mahmud al-MA'AYITAH; Al-Mustaqbal
    (Future) Party, Sec. Gen. Sulayman 'ARAR
Member of:
    ABEDA, ACC, AFESD, AL, AMF, CAEU, CCC, ESCWA, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    ICC, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, IOM (observer), ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OIC, PCA, UN, UNAVEM II,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMIL, UNOMOZ, UNPROFOR, UNRWA, UPU, WFTU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Fayiz A. TARAWNEH
  chancery:
    3504 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Wesley E. EGAN, Jr.
  embassy:
    Jabel Amman, Amman
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 354, Amman 11118 Jordan; APO AE 09892-0200
  telephone:
    [962] (6) 820101
  FAX:
    [962] (6) 820159
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jordan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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. 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $17 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $4,280 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    6% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    16% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $2 billion
  expenditures:
    $2.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $630 million (1995 est.)
Exports:
    $1.4 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    phosphates, fertilizers, potash, agricultural products, manufactures
  partners:
    India, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, EU, Indonesia, UAE
Imports:
    $3.5 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    crude oil, machinery, transport equipment, food, live animals, manufactured
    goods
  partners:
    EU, US, Iraq, Japan, Turkey
External debt:
    $6 billion (March 1995 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3% (1993 est.); accounts for 20% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,050,000 kW
  production:
    4.2 billion kWh
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jordan
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    1,072 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    phosphate mining, petroleum refining, cement, potash, light manufacturing
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 8% of GDP; wheat, barley, citrus fruit, tomatoes, melons,
    olives; sheep, goats, poultry; large net importer of food
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1.7 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $1.5 billion; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $9.5 billion; Communist countries (1970-89), $44
    million
Currency:
    1 Jordanian dinar (JD) = 1,000 fils
Exchange rates:
    Jordanian dinars (JD) per US$1 - 0.6994 (January 1995), 0.5987 (1994),
    0.6928 (1993), 0.6797 (1992), 0.6808 (1991), 0.6636 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jordan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    789 km
  narrow gauge:
    789 km 1.050-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    7,500 km
  paved:
    asphalt 5,500 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, crushed stone 2,000 km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 209 km
Ports:
    Al'Aqabah
Merchant marine:
  total:
    2 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 61,678 GRT/113,080 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 1, oil tanker 1
Airports:
  total:
    17
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    9
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jordan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    81,500 telephones; adequate telephone system
  local:
    NA microwave, cable, and radio links
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 ARABSAT earth
    station; coaxial cable and microwave to Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Syria;
    microwave link to Lebanon is inactive; participant in MEDARABTEL, a
    microwave radio relay network linking Syria, Jordan, Egypt, Libya, Tunisia,
    Algeria, and Morocco
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 5, FM 7, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    8 and 1 TV receive-only satellite link
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jordan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    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)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 981,004; males fit for military service 699,891; males reach
    military age (18) annually 45,494 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $564.2 million, 9.1% of GDP (1995 est.)
Travel:  Given the fragile security situation, travelers
should check with the U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura before traveling out
of the capital.  Burundi has a good network of roads between the
major towns and border posts.  Travel on other roads is difficult,
particularly in the rainy season.  Public transportation to border
points is often difficult and frequently unavailable.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens who register at the
U.S. Embassy may obtain updated information on travel and security
in Burundi.  The U.S. Embassy is located on the Avenue des
Etats-Unis in the capital city of Bujumbura.  The mailing address is
B.P. 34, 1720 Bujumbura.  The telephone number is (257) 223-454.
 No. 95-124
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 12,
1995, to reflect the designation of Bujumbura as an unaccompanied
post for U.S. government employees.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
*Burundi
Geography
Location:
    Central Africa, east of Zaire
Area:
  total area:
    27,830 sq km
  land area:
    25,650 sq km
    slightly larger than Maryland
Land boundaries:
    total 974 km, Rwanda 290 km, Tanzania 451 km, Zaire 233 km
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate; warm; occasional frost in uplands; dry season from June to
    September
Terrain:
    hilly and mountainous, dropping to a plateau in east, some plains
Natural resources:
    nickel, uranium, rare earth oxide, peat, cobalt, copper, platinum (not yet
    exploited), vanadium
Land use:
  arable land:
    43%
  permanent crops:
    8%
  meadows and pastures:
    35%
  forest and woodland:
    2%
  other:
    12%
Irrigated land:
    720 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    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
  natural hazards:
    flooding, landslides
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity,
    Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
Note:
    landlocked; straddles crest of the Nile-Congo watershed
People
Population:
    6,262,429 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 1,489,721; male 1,494,730)
  15-64 years:
    50% (female 1,606,307; male 1,498,021)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 105,446; male 68,204) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.18% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    43.35 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    21.51 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    in a number of waves since April 1994, hundreds of thousands of refugees
    have fled the civil strife between the Hutu and Tutsi factions in Burundi
    and crossed into Rwanda, Tanzania, and Zaire; the refugee flows are
    continuing in 1995 as the ethnic violence has persisted
Infant mortality rate:
    111.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:    39.86 years
  male:
    37.84 years
Total fertility rate:
    6.63 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Burundian(s)
  adjective:
    Burundi
Ethnic divisions:
  Africans:
    Hutu (Bantu) 85%, Tutsi (Hamitic) 14%, Twa (Pygmy) 1%
  non-Africans:
    Europeans 3,000, South Asians 2,000
Religions:
    Christian 67% (Roman Catholic 62%, Protestant 5%), indigenous beliefs 32%,
    Muslim 1%
Languages:
    Kirundi (official), French (official), Swahili (along Lake Tanganyika and in
    the Bujumbura area)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    50%
  male:
    61%
  female:
    40%
Labor force:
    1.9 million (1983 est.)
People
  by occupation:
    agriculture 93.0%, government 4.0%, industry and commerce 1.5%, services
    1.5%
Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Burundi
  conventional short form:
    Burundi
  local long form:
    Republika y'u Burundi
  local short form:
    Burundi
Digraph:
    BY
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Bujumbura
Administrative divisions:
    15 provinces; Bubanza, Bujumbura, Bururi, Cankuzo, Cibitoke, Gitega, Karuzi,
    Kayanza, Kirundo, Makamba, Muramvya, Muyinga, Ngozi, Rutana, Ruyigi
Independence:
    1 July 1962 (from UN trusteeship under Belgian administration)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 1 July (1962)
Constitution:
    13 March 1992; provides for establishment of a plural political system
Legal system:
    based on German and Belgian civil codes and customary law; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    universal adult at age NA
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Sylvestre NTIBANTUNGANYA (since September 1994)
  note:
    President Melchior NDADAYE, Burundi's first democratically elected
    president, died in the military coup of 21 October 1993 and was succeeded on
    5 February 1994 by President Cyprien NTARYAMIRA, who was killed in a
    mysterious airplane explosion on 6 April 1994
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Antoine NDUWAYO (since February 1995); selected by President
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale):
    elections 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
  note:
    The National Unity Charter outlining the principles for constitutional
    government was adopted by a national referendum on 5 February 1991
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Unity for National Progress (UPRONA); Burundi Democratic Front (FRODEBU);
    Organization of the People of Burundi (RBP); Socialist Party of Burundi
    (PSB); People's Reconciliation Party (PRP); opposition parties, legalized in
    March 1992, include Burundi African Alliance for the Salvation (ABASA);
    Rally for Democracy and Economic and Social Development (RADDES); and Party
Other political or pressure groups:
    NA;
    IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL,
    IOC, ISO (subscriber), ITU, NAM, OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    post vacant since recall of Ambassador Jacques BACAMURWANKO in November 1994
  chancery:
    Suite 212, 2233 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Robert C. KRUEGER
  embassy:
    Avenue des Etats-Unis, Bujumbura
  mailing address:
    B. P. 1720, Bujumbura
  telephone:
    [257] (2) 23454
  FAX:
    [257] (2) 22926
Flag:
    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)
Economy
Overview:
    A landlocked, resource-poor country in an early stage of economic
    development, Burundi since October 1993 has suffered from massive
    ethnic-based violence that has displaced an estimated million people,
    disrupted production, and set back needed reform programs. Burundi is
    predominately agricultural with roughly 90% of the population dependent on
    subsistence agriculture. Its economic health depends on the coffee crop,
    which accounts for 80% of foreign exchange earnings. The ability to pay for
    imports therefore continues to rest largely on the vagaries of the climate
    and the international coffee market. As part of its economic reform agenda,
    launched in February 1991 with IMF and World Bank support, Burundi is trying
    to diversify its agricultural exports, attract foreign investment in
    industry, and modernize government budgetary practices. Although the
    government remains committed to reforms, it fears new austerity measures
    would add to ethnic tensions.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $3.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    -13.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $600 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    10% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $318 million
  expenditures:
    $326 million, including capital expenditures of $150 million (1991 est.)
Exports:
    $68 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    coffee 81%, tea, cotton, hides, and skins
  partners:
    EC 57%, US 19%, Asia 1%
Imports:
    $203 million (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    capital goods 31%, petroleum products 15%, foodstuffs, consumer goods
  partners:
    EC 45%, Asia 29%, US 2%
External debt:
    $
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remote or rural areas, remains.  The U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh
advises its personnel to avoid traveling alone and in remote areas
of the city, especially after dark.  Some organizations in Phnom
Penh encourage their staffs to observe a self-imposed curfew.  The
U.S. Embassy advises its personnel to carry photocopies and not
their U.S. passport, driver's license or other important documents
while sightseeing as these may be confiscated.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local
police and to the U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh.  Useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "a Safe Trip
Abroad".  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Lifting of Sanction:  Sanction against Cambodia was lifted on
January 3, 1992, in conjunction with the implementation of the
Comprehensive Political Settlement of the Cambodia conflict.  This
removes all mandatory restrictions on exports, imports, financial
transactions, telecommunications, and travel.  The lifting of the
embargo permits U.S. travel agents to book travel to Cambodia.
Exporters are still required to apply to the Department of Commerce
for authorization to export certain high technology products which
can be diverted for military use.
Financial Transactions:  Personal checks and credit cards are not
widely accepted within Cambodia.
Adoptions:  The former government of Cambodia banned adoption of
Cambodian orphans by foreign citizens.  The Royal Cambodian
government has confirmed this policy.
Dual Nationality:  The Royal Cambodian government has not yet
adopted laws on dual nationality.  In practical terms, the United
States Embassy is aware of no naturalized Americans of Cambodian
birth who have encountered problems relating to taxes, military
service, etc.  Specific questions on dual nationality can be
directed to a Cambodian embassy or consulate, to the Office of
Overseas Citizens Services, Department of State, Washington, D.C.
20520-4818, or to the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Phnom
Penh.
Registration:  Americans can register at the U.S. Embassy in Phnom
Penh and obtain updated information on travel and security within
Cambodia.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 27, Street
Angphanouvong Street 240, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.  The telephone
number is (855) 23-26436 or 23-26438.  The consular entrance to the
U.S. Embassy
Kingman Reef
KAZAKHSTAN - Passport and visa required.  For additional information
contact the Embassy of Kazakhstan, 3421 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20007 (202/333-4504 or 07).
Kazakhstan - Consular Information Sheet
February 16, 1994
Country Description:  Kazakhstan is a nation undergoing profound political
and economic change.  It is a new independent state still in the process of
stabilizing its relations with neighboring countries.  Political activities
have been peaceful.  Tourist facilities are not highly developed, and many
of the goods and services taken for granted in other countries are not yet
available.  Internal air travel generally operates but suffers disruptions.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Visas are issued at
the Kazakhstan Embassy (on the basis of a letter of invitation from a
Kazakhstani organization) and at the Almaty Airport.  Visas issued at the
airport without a letter of invitation are only valid for three days.
Kazakhstan immigration officials consider visas for Russia, Uzbekistan,
Tajikistan, Kyrgyzstan, Armenia, and Belarus to be valid for transit (up to
three days) through Kazakhstan.  U.S. citizens can contact the Kazakhstan
Embassy, 3421 Massachusetts Ave., NW, Washington D.C. 20007, telephone (202)
333-4507 for current information on visa requirements.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Kazakhstan is limited.  There is a
severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable needles,
anesthetics, and antibiotics.  Incidence of infectious diseases is generally
higher than in the U.S., and immunizations are unavailable.  Drinking only
boiled or bottled water will help guard against cholera, which has been
reported.  Elderly travelers and those with existing health problems may be
at risk due to inadequate medical facilities.  The U.S. Embassy maintains a
list of English speaking physicians in the area.  Doctors and hospitals
often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical
insurance is not always valid outside the United States.  Travelers have
found that in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage, including medical evacuation coverage, has proved to be
useful.  Further information on health matters can be obtained from the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers' hotline, tel: (404)
332-4559.
Crime Information:  Common street crime has increased, especially at night,
and some robbery victims have been assaulted.  Robbers congregate around
hotels that cater to foreigners.  Walking in a group or utilizing an
official metered taxi with door to door service is the best way to traverse
the cities after sunset.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should
be reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  Useful information on safeguarding valuables, protecting
personal security, and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in
the Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Russia."  They are available from the Superintendent of
Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Kazakhstan is a cash only economy.  Traveler's checks
and credit cards are rarely accepted.  Kazakhstan has its own currency, the
ten'ge.  U.S. dollars can be changed only at official exchange offices or in
banks.  Anyone caught dealing on the black market can expect harsh punishment.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking in
illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences
and fines.
Registration:  Americans who register at the Consular Section of the U.S.
Embassy may obtain updated information on travel and security within
Kazakhstan.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Almaty, Kazakhstan, is located at
99/97A Furmanova Street, Telephone [phone].
No. 94-012
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 29, 1993 to add
information on visas, include details on street crime and infectious
diseases, and to note the danger of changing U.S. dollars on the black market.
?                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kazakhstan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Asia, northwest of China
Map references:
    Commonwealth of Independent States - Central Asian States
Area:
  total area:
    2,717,300 sq km
  land area:
    2,669,800 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than four times the size of Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 12,012 km, China 1,533 km, Kyrgyzstan 1,051 km, Russia 6,846 km,
    Turkmenistan 379 km, Uzbekistan 2,203 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
  note:
    Kazakhstan borders the Aral Sea (1,015 km) and the Caspian Sea (1,894 km)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    Caspian Sea boundaries are not yet determined
Climate:
    continental, cold winters and hot summers, arid and semiarid
Terrain:
    extends from the Volga to the Altai Mountains and from the plains in western
    Siberia to oasis and desert in Central Asia
Natural resources:
    major deposits of petroleum, coal, iron ore, manganese, chrome ore, nickel,
    cobalt, copper, molybdenum, lead, zinc, bauxite, gold, uranium
Land use:
  arable land:
    15%
  permanent crops:
    NEGL%
  meadows and pastures:
    57%
  forest and woodland:
    4%
  other:
    24%
Irrigated land:
    23,080 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    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 pollution 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; pollution in the Caspian
    Sea; soil pollution from overuse of agricultural chemicals and salinization
    from faulty irrigation practices
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Climate
    Change, Desertification
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kazakhstan
                                    Geography
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kazakhstan
                                     People
Population:
    17,376,615 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    30% (female 2,589,509; male 2,664,952)
  15-64 years:
    63% (female 5,531,519; male 5,371,563)
  65 years and over:
    7% (female 820,900; male 398,172) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.62% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    19.26 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    7.93 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -5.11 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    40 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    68.25 years
  male:
    63.61 years
  female:
    73.13 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.43 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Kazakhstani(s)
  adjective:
    Kazakhstani
Ethnic divisions:
    Kazakh (Qazaq) 41.9%, Russian 37%, Ukrainian 5.2%, German 4.7%, Uzbek 2.1%,
    Tatar 2%, other 7.1% (1991 official data)
Religions:
    Muslim 47%, Russian Orthodox 44%, Protestant 2%, other 7%
Languages:
    Kazakh (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
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    98%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    96%
Labor force:
    7.356 million
  by occupation:
    industry and construction 31%, agriculture and forestry 26%, other 43%
    (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kazakhstan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Kazakhstan
  conventional short form:
    Kazakhstan
  local long form:
    Qazaqstan Respublikasy
  local short form:
    none
  former:
    Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic
Digraph:
    KZ
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Almaty
Administrative divisions:
    19 oblystar (singular - oblys) and 1 city (qalalar, singular - qala)*;
    Almaty Qalasy*, Almaty Oblysy, Aqmola Oblysy, Aqtobe Oblysy, Atyrau Oblysy,
    Batys Qazaqstan Oblysy (Oral), Kokshetau Oblysy, Mangghystau Oblysy (Aqtau),
    Ongtustik Qazaqstan Oblysy (Shymkent), Qaraghandy Oblysy, Qostanay Oblysy,
    Qyzylorda Oblysy, Pavlodar Oblysy, Semey Oblysy, Shyghys Qazaqstan Oblysy
    (Oskemen; formerly Ust'-Kamenogorsk), Soltustik Qazaqstan Oblysy
    (Petropavl), Taldyqorghan Oblysy, Torghay Oblysy, Zhambyl Oblysy,
    Zhezqazghan Oblysy
  note:
    names in parentheses are administrative centers when name differs from oblys
    name
Independence:
    16 December 1991 (from the Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 16 December (1991)
Constitution:
    adopted 28 January 1993
Legal system:
    based on civil law system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Nursultan NAZARBAYEV (since NA April 1990); Vice President Yerik
    ASANBAYEV (since 1 December 1991); election last held 1 December 1991 (next
    to be held NA 1996); results - Nursultan A. NAZARBAYEV ran unopposed; note -
    NAZARBAYEV has extended his term to the year 2000 by a nationwide referendum
    held 30 April 1995
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Akezhan KAZHEGELDIN (since 12 October 1994); First Deputy
    Prime Ministers Nigmatzhan ISINGARIN (since 12 October 1994) and Vitalia
    METTE (since March 1995)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kazakhstan
                                   Government
  Supreme Council:
    elections last held 7 March 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (177 total) Union Peoples' Unity of
    Kazakhstan 33, Confederation of Trade Unions of the Republic of Kazakhstan
    11, Peoples' Congress of Kazakhstan Party 9, Socialist Party of Kazakhstan
    8, Peasant Union of the Republic Kazakhstan 4, Social Movement LAD 4,
    Organization of Veterans 1, Union of Youth of Kazakhstan 1, Democratic
    Committee for Human Rights 1, Association of Lawyers of Kazakhstan 1,
    International Public Committee "Aral-Asia-Kazakhstan" 1, Congress of
    Entrepreneurs of Kazakhstan 1, Deputies of the 12th Supreme Soviet 40,
    independents 62
  note:
    the Supreme Council disbanded 12 March 1995 following a Constitutional Court
    ruling that the March 1994 elections were invalid
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    People's Unity Party (PUP; was Union of People's Unity), Kuanysh SULTANOV,
    chairman; People's Congress of Kazakhstan (PCK), Olzhas SULEYMENOV,
    chairman; Socialist Party of Kazakhstan (SPK; former Communist Party),
    Yermukhamet YERTYSHBAYEV, co-chairman; Republican Party (Azat), Kamal
    ORMANTAYEV, chairman; Democratic Progress (Russian) Party, Alexandra
    DOKUCHAYEVA, chairman; Confederation of Trade Unions of the Republic of
    Kazakhstan; Peasant Union of the Republic Kazakhstan (KPU); Social Movement
    LAD, V. MIKHAYLOV, chairman; Union of Youth of Kazakhstan; Democratic
    Committee for Human Rights; Association of Lawyers of Kazakhstan;
    International Public Committee "Aral-Asia-Kazakhstan"; Congress of
    Entrepreneurs of Kazakhstan; Deputies of the 12th Supreme Soviet; People's
    Cooperative Party, Umirzak SARSENOV, chairman; Organization of Veterans
Other political or pressure groups:
    Independent Trade Union Center (Birlesu; an association of independent trade
    union and business associations), Leonid SOLOMIN, president
Member of:
    AsDB, CCC, CIS, EBRD, ECO, ESCAP, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFC, ILO, IMF, IMO,
    INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NACC, OIC (observer),
    OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Tuleutai S. SULEYMENOV
  chancery:
    (temporary) 3421 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 4507
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador William H. COURTNEY
  embassy:
    99/97 Furmanova Street, Almaty, Republic of Kazakhstan 480012
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [7] [phone]
  FAX:
    [7] [phone]
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kazakhstan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Kazakhstan, 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. Kazakhstan'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 Kazakhstan'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 which is gradually
    lifting state controls over economic activity and shifting assets into the
    private sector. Nevertheless, government control over key sectors of the
    economy remains strong. Sustained economic hardships and continued pressures
    from industrial elites will make it difficult for the government to sustain
    its policies of monetary and fiscal discipline which had brought down
    inflation by the end of 1994. Continued lack of pipeline transportation for
    expanded oil exports has closed off a likely source of economic recovery.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $55.2 billion (1994 estimate as extrapolated
    from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    -25% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,200 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    24% per month (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    1.1% includes only officially registered unemployed; also large numbers of
    underemployed workers (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $3.1 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    oil, ferrous and nonferrous metals, chemicals, grain, wool, meat, coal
  partners:
    Russia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan
Imports:
    $3.5 billion (1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and parts, industrial materials, oil and gas
  partners:
    Russia and other former Soviet republics, China
External debt:
    less than $1 billion debt to Russia
Industrial production:
    growth rate -28% (1994)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    17,380,000 kW
  production:
    65.1 billion kWh
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kazakhstan
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    3,750 kWh (1994)
Industries:
    accounts for 26% of net national product; extractive industries (oil, coal,
    iron ore, manganese, chromite, lead, zinc, copper, titanium, bauxite, gold,
    silver, phosphates, sulfur), iron and steel, nonferrous metal, tractors and
    other agricultural machinery, electric motors, construction materials
Agriculture:
    accounts for 20% of GDP; employs about 26% of the labor force; grain, mostly
    spring wheat; meat, cotton, wool
Illicit drugs:
    illicit cultivation of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for CIS consumption;
    limited government eradication program; used as transshipment point for
    illicit drugs to Western Europe and North America from Southwest Asia
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    approximately $1 billion in foreign loans and credits allocated in 1994;
    disbursements projected at $700 billion through 1995
Currency:
    national currency the tenge introduced on 15 November 1993
Exchange rates:
    tenges per US$1 - 54 (yearend 1994)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kazakhstan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    14,460 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines
  broad gauge:
    14,460 km 1.520-m gauge (1990)
Highways:
  total:
    189,000 km
  paved and graveled:
    108,100 km
  unpaved:
    earth 80,900 km (1990)
Inland waterways:
    Syrdariya River, Ertis River
Pipelines:
    crude oil 2,850 km; refined products 1,500 km; natural gas 3,480 km (1992)
Ports:
    Aqtau (Shevchenko), Atyrau (Gur'yev), Oskemen (Ust-Kamenogorsk), Pavlodar,
    Semey (Semipalatinsk)
Airports:
  total:
    352
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    7
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    23
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    11
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    5
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    9
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    9
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    8
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    25
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    65
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    190
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kazakhstan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    2.2 million telephones; telephone service is poor; about 17 telephones/100
    persons in urban areas and 7.6 telephones/100 persons in rural areas; Almaty
    has 184,000 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    land line and microwave radio relay
  international:
    international traffic with other former USSR republics and China carried by
    landline and microwave, and with other countries by satellite and through 8
    international telecommunications circuits at the Moscow international
    gateway switch; INTELSAT earth station; new satellite earth station
    established at Almaty with Turkish financial help (December 1992) with 2500
    channel band width
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    4.088 million (with multiple speakers for program diffusion 6,082,000)
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    Orbita (TV receive only) earth station
  televisions:
    4.75 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Kazakhstan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Republic National Guard, Republic Security Forces (internal and border
    troops)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 4,513,089; males fit for military service 3,605,584; males
    reach military age (18) annually 154,280 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    69.3 billion rubles, NA% of GDP (forecast for 1993); note - conversion of
    the military budget into US dollars using the current exchange rate could
    produce misleading results
g is telephone number is
(237) 234-014; the Embassy fax number is (237) 230-753.
 No. 95-106
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated February 17,
1995, to update the information on medical facilities and crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Cameroon
============================================================
Cameroon - Consular Information Sheet
 September 6, 1995
Country Description:  Cameroon is a developing African country.
Facilities for tourism are limited.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Travelers
who do not obtain a visa for Cameroon in advance of their departure
from the U.S. may encounter difficulties upon arrival.  Evidence of
a yellow fever immunization must be presented.  Additional entry
information can be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of
Cameroon, 2349 Massachusetts Avenue, N.W., Washington D.C. 20008,
telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Continuing political tensions and social
consequences of Cameroon's severe economic downturn have sparked
isolated incidents of violence in s
Azerbaijan
AZERBAIJAN - Passport and visa required.  Visa (no charge)  requires 1
application  form, 1 photo, and a letter of invitation.   For additional
information contact the Embassy of the Federal Republic of Azerbaijan, 927
15th Street, N.W., Suite 700, Washington, D.C. 20005 (202/842-0001).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Azerbaijan
============================================================
Azerbaijan - Consular Information Sheet
 May 11, 1995
Country Description:  Azerbaijan is a nation undergoing profound
political and economic change.  Tourist facilities are not highly
developed, and hotel space in Baku is limited.  Many goods and
services taken for granted in other countries are not yet available.
 Public disturbances may occur without warning.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required to enter
Azerbaijan.  Business persons who apply for their visas more than
five days in advance and tourists who apply more than ten days in
advance will not be charged for their visas.  Individuals requesting
visas in less than this amount of time or arriving in Baku without a
valid Azerbaijani visa will be charged a fee ranging from US $40 to
US $250 for their visa.  Passports without visas are retained by
immigration authorities at the airport.  Visitors must apply to the
Consular Department of the Ministry of Foreign Affairs the next
working day to retrieve their passport.  All  visitors to Azerbaijan
are strongly urged to obtain a visa prior to their arrival.
Travelers with valid Georgian visas are permitted to enter
Azerbaijan for five days.  Thereafter they must obtain an
Azerbaijani visa.  Visa applicants must include a letter of
invitation from an individual or organization in Azerbaijan when
applying for a visa.  Outside the United States, visas may be
obtained from Azerbaijani embassies in Germany, Turkey, and the
United Kingdom.  For additional information on visa requirements,
contact the Embassy of Azerbaijan, 927 15th Street, N.W., Suite 700,
Washington, DC  20005; telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  Following a political crisis in Azerbaijan
in mid-March 1995, the situation in the capital, Baku, remains
unsettled.  Government tanks and armed troops continue to patrol
certain areas of the city, in particular around the parliament and
presidency buildings.  A state of emergency and midnight to 5:00
a.m. curfew first established in October 1994 remains in effect for
Baku.  There are numerous roadblocks and checkpoints throughout the
capital.  Visitors to Azerbaijan are encouraged to exercise extreme
caution.  Armed conflict is taking place in and around the
Armenian-populated area of Nagorno-Karabakh located inside
Azerbaijan and along the borders with Armenia and Iran.  Travelers
may be stopped at roadblocks while vehicles and travel documents are
inspected.  Internal travel to several regions is restricted;
travelers must obtain special permission from the Ministry of the
Interior to visit these areas.
Travel Information:  Train travel in the Caucasus region is not
secure.  Travelers on airlines between the countries of the former
Soviet Union may experience prolonged delays and sudden
cancellations of flights.  Air travel to Azerbaijan on international
carriers via Turkey is generally more reliable.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Azerbaijan is limited.  There
is a severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable
needles, anesthetics, and vaccines against communicable diseases.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Further information on health matters can be
obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline, tel: [phone].
Crime Information:  Although Azerbaijan has a low rate of violent
crime, incidents of street crime and assaults on foreigners are
increasing.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be
reported immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S.
embassy or consulate.
The Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides
useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal
security while traveling abroad and is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington DC 20402.  The Consular Section of the Embassy in Baku
can provide additional information on the crime situation including
safety tips and contact numbers for the local police.
Currency Regulations:  Azerbaijan is a cash only economy.
Traveler's checks and credit cards are not accepted.  The local
currency is the manat.  U.S. dollars are required in most hotels and
preferred in many restaurants.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  Americans may register at the Consular Section of
the U.S. Embassy in Baku and obtain updated information on travel
and security within Azerbaijan.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Baku, Azerbaijan, is located
at prospect Azadlig 83.  The telephone numbers are (9-9412)
98-03-35, (9-9412) 98-03-36, or (9-9412) 98-03-37.
 No. 95-064
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet for Azerbaijan dated
March 23, 1994, noting an update to entry requirements, crime
information and telephone numbers for the U.S. Embassy.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
C                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Azerbaijan
                                     Header
Note:
    Azerbaijan continues to be plagued by an unresolved seven-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 displaced persons 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 fourth year. Nevertheless, Baku and Xankandi (Stepanakert) 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.
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Azerbaijan
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southwestern Asia, bordering the Caspian Sea, between Iran and Russia
Map references:
    Commonwealth of Independent States - European States
Area:
  total area:
    86,600 sq km
  land area:
    86,100 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Maine
  note:
    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
Land boundaries:
    total 2,013 km, Armenia (west) 566 km, Armenia (southwest) 221 km, Georgia
    322 km, Iran (south) 432 km, Iran (southwest) 179 km, Russia 284 km, Turkey
    9 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
  note:
    Azerbaijan borders the Caspian Sea (800 km, est.)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    violent and longstanding dispute with ethnic Armenians of Nagorno-Karabakh
    over its status; Caspian Sea boundaries are not yet determined
Climate:
    dry, semiarid steppe
Terrain:
    large, flat Kur-Araz Lowland (much of it below sea level) with Great
    Caucasus Mountains to the north, Qarabag (Karabakh) Upland in west; Baku
    lies on Abseron (Apsheron) Peninsula that juts into Caspian Sea
Natural resources:
    petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, nonferrous metals, alumina
Land use:
  arable land:
    18%
  permanent crops:
    4%
  meadows and pastures:
    25%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    53%
Irrigated land:
    14,010 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    local scientists consider the Abseron (Apsheron) Peninsula (including Baku
    and Sumqayit) and the Caspian Sea to be the ecologically most devastated
    area in the world because of severe air, water, and soil pollution; soil
    pollution results from the use of DDT as a pesticide and also from toxic
    defoliants used in the production of cotton
  natural hazards:
    droughts; some lowland areas threatened by rising levels of the Caspian Sea
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Azerbaijan
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Azerbaijan
                                     People
Population:
    7,789,886 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    33% (female 1,241,952; male 1,315,313)
  15-64 years:
    61% (female 2,437,810; male 2,307,496)
  65 years and over:
    6% (female 303,926; male 183,389) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.32% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    22.05 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.56 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -2.32 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    33.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    71.09 years
  male:
    67.4 years
  female:
    74.97 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.64 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Azerbaijani(s)
  adjective:
    Azerbaijani
Ethnic divisions:
    Azeri 90%, Dagestani Peoples 3.2%, Russian 2.5%, Armenian 2.3%, other 2%
    (1995 est.)
  note:
    almost all Armenians live in the separatist Nagorno-Karabakh region
Religions:
    Muslim 93.4%, Russian Orthodox 2.5%, Armenian Orthodox 2.3%, other 1.8%
    (1995 est.)
  note:
    religious affiliation is still nominal in Azerbaijan; actual practicing
    adherents are much lower
Languages:
    Azeri 89%, Russian 3%, Armenian 2%, other 6% (1995 est.)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    97%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    96%
Labor force:
    2.789 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture and forestry 32%, industry and construction 26%, other 42%
    (1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Azerbaijan
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Azerbaijani Republic
  conventional short form:
    Azerbaijan
  local long form:
    Azarbaycan Respublikasi
  local short form:
    none
  former:
    Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic
Digraph:
    AJ
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Baku (Baki)
Administrative divisions:
    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, Saki
    Rayonu, Saki Sahari*, Salyan Rayonu, Samaxi Rayonu, Samkir Rayonu, Samux
    Rayonu, Siyazan Rayonu, Sumqayit Sahari*, Susa Rayonu, Susa Sahari*, Tartar
    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
Independence:
    30 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 28 May
Constitution:
    adopted NA April 1978; writing a new constitution
Legal system:
    based on civil law system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Heydar ALIYEV (since 18 June 1993); election last held 3 October
    1993 (next to be held NA); results - Heydar ALIYEV won 97% of vote
  head of government:
    Acting Prime Minister Fuad QULIYEV (since 9 October 1994); First Deputy
    Prime Ministers Abbas ABBASOV, Samed SADYKOV, Vahid AKHMEDOV (since NA)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president and confirmed by the Mejlis
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Azerbaijan
                                   Government
  National Assembly (Milli Mejlis):
    elections last held 30 September and 14 October 1990 for the Supreme Soviet
    (next expected to be held September 1995 for the National Assembly); seats
    for Supreme Soviet - (360 total) Communists 280, Democratic Bloc 45
    (grouping of opposition parties), other 15, vacant 20; note - on 19 May 1992
    the Supreme Soviet was prorogued in favor of a Popular Front-dominated
    National Council; seats - (50 total) Popular Front 25, opposition elements
    25
  note:
    since June 1993 ALIYEV has rotated in several supporters to replace Popular
    Front adherents
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Azerbaijan 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 Azerbaijan Party, Heydar ALIYEV, chairman; Boz Gurd Party,
    Iskander HAMIDOV, chairman; Azerbaijan Democratic Independence Party, Qabil
    HUSEYNLI, chairman; Islamic Party of Azerbaijan, Ali Akram, chairman; Ana
    Veten Party, Fazail AGAMALIYEV; Azerbaijan Democratic Party, Sardar
    Jalaloglu MAMEDOV; Azerbaijan Democratic Party of Proprietors (DPOP),
    Makhmud MAMEDOV; Azerbaijan Patriotic Solidarity Party, Sabir RUSTAMHANLI;
    Azerbaijan Republic Reform Party, Fuad ASADOV; Communist Party of Azerbaijan
    (unregistered), Sayad SAYADOV; Equality of the Peoples Party, Faukhraddin
    AYDAYEV; Independent Azerbaijan Party, Nizami SULEYMANOV; Labor Party of
    Azerbaijan, Sabutai HAJIYEV; Liberal-Democratic Party of Azerbaijan,
    Lyudmila NIKOLAYEVNA; National Enlightenment Party, Hajy Osman EFENDIYEV;
    National Liberation Party, Panak SHAKHSEVEV; Peasant Party, Firuz
    MUSTAFAYEV; Radical Party of Azerbaijan, Malik SHARIFOV; United Azerbaijan
    Party, Kerrar ABILOV; Vetan Adzhagy Party, Zakir TAGIYEV
Other political or pressure groups:
    self-proclaimed Armenian Nagorno-Karabakh Republic; Talysh independence
    movement
Member of:
    BSEC, CCC, CIS, EBRD, ECE, ECO, ESCAP, IBRD, ICAO, IDB, IFAD, ILO, IMF,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NACC, OIC, OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU,
    WHO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Hafiz Mir Jalal PASHAYEV
  chancery:
    (temporary) Suite 700, 927 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Richard D. KAUZLARICH
  embassy:
    Azadliq Prospect 83, Baku
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [9] [phone], 98-03-37
  FAX:
    [9] [phone]
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Azerbaijan
                                   Government
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), red, and green; a crescent and
    eight-pointed star in white are centered in red band
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Azerbaijan
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Azerbaijan 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. Azerbaijan accounted for
    1.5% to 2% of the capital stock and output of the former Soviet Union.
    Azerbaijan 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. Baku has
    only recently begun making progress on economic reform, and old economic
    ties and structures have yet to be replaced.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $13.8 billion (1994 estimate as extrapolated
    from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    -22% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $1,790 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    28% monthly average (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    0.9% includes officially registered unemployed; also large numbers of other
    unemployed and underemployed workers (December 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $167.5 million
  expenditures:
    $234.6 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994)
Exports:
    $366 million to non-FSU countries (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    oil and gas, chemicals, oilfield equipment, textiles, cotton (1991)
  partners:
    mostly CIS and European countries
Imports:
    $296 million from non-FSU countries (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and parts, consumer durables, foodstuffs, textiles (1991)
  partners:
    European countries
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate -25% (1994)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    4,900,000 kW
  production:
    17.5 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,270 kWh (1994)
Industries:
    petroleum and natural gas, petroleum products, oilfield equipment; steel,
    iron ore, cement; chemicals and petrochemicals; textiles
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Azerbaijan
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    cotton, grain, rice, grapes, fruit, vegetables, tea, tobacco; cattle, pigs,
    sheep and goats
Illicit drugs:
    illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for CIS consumption;
    limited government eradication program; transshipment point for illicit
    drugs to Western Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    wheat from Turkey
Currency:
    1 manat = 100 gopik
Exchange rates:
    manats per US$1 - 4500 (April 1995), 4168 (end of December 1994)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Azerbaijan
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    2,090 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines
  broad gauge:
    2,090 km 1.520-m gauge (1990)
Highways:
  total:
    36,700 km
  paved or graveled:
    31,800 km
  unpaved:
    earth 4,900 km (1990)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 1,130 km; petroleum products 630 km; natural gas 1,240 km
Ports:
    Baku (Baki)
Airports:
  total:
    69
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    6
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    17
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    7
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    33
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Azerbaijan
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    710,000 telephones; 90 telephones/1,000 persons (1991); 202,000 persons
    waiting for telephone installations (January 1991); domestic telephone
    service is of poor quality and inadequate
  local:
    a joint venture to establish a cellular telephone system (Bakcel) in the
    Baku area is supposed to become operational in 1994
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    connections to other former USSR republics by cable and microwave and to
    other countries via the Moscow international gateway switch; INTELSAT link
    installed in late 1992 in Baku with Turkish financial assistance with access
    to 200 countries through Turkey; since August 1993 an earth station near
    Baku has provided direct communications with New York through Russia's
    Stationar-11 satellite
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA; 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
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Azerbaijan
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Air Force, Navy, Maritime Border Guard, National Guard, Security
    Forces (internal and border troops)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,927,955; males fit for military service 1,553,736; males
    reach military age (18) annually 68,407 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    70.5 billion rubles, 10% of GDP (1993 budget allocation); note - conversion
    of the military budget into US dollars using the current exchange rate could
    produce misleading results
Martinique
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Man, Isle of
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (British crown dependency)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Man, Isle of
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Europe, island in the Irish Sea, between Great Britain and Ireland
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    588 sq km
  land area:
    588 sq km
  comparative area:
    nearly 3.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    113 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    cool summers and mild winters; humid; overcast about half the time
Terrain:
    hills in north and south bisected by central valley
Natural resources:
    lead, iron ore
Land use:
  arable land:
    NA%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA% (extensive arable land and forests)
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    one small islet, the Calf of Man, lies to the southwest, and is a bird
    sanctuary
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Man, Isle of
                                     People
Population:
    72,751 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    18% (female 6,462; male 6,833)
  15-64 years:
    64% (female 23,219; male 23,348)
  65 years and over:
    18% (female 7,759; male 5,130) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.99% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    13.73 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    12.36 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    8.55 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    76.53 years
  male:
    73.78 years
  female:
    79.48 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.8 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Manxman, Manxwoman
  adjective:
    Manx
Ethnic divisions:
    Manx (Norse-Celtic descent), Briton
Religions:
    Anglican, Roman Catholic, Methodist, Baptist, Presbyterian, Society of
    Friends
Languages:
    English, Manx Gaelic
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    25,864 (1981)
  by occupation:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Man, Isle of
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Isle of Man
Digraph:
    IM
Type:
    British crown dependency
Capital:
    Douglas
Administrative divisions:
    none (British crown dependency)
Independence:
    none (British crown dependency)
National holiday:
    Tynwald Day, 5 July
Constitution:
    1961, Isle of Man Constitution Act
Legal system:
    English law and local statute
Suffrage:
    21 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Lord of Mann Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by
    Lieutenant Governor Air Marshal Sir Laurence JONES (since NA 1990)
  head of government:
    President of the Legislative Council Sir Charles KERRUISH (since NA 1990)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
Legislative branch:
    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 1991 (next to be held NA 1996); results - percent of
    vote NA; seats - (24 total) independents 24
Judicial branch:
    Court of Tynwald
Political parties and leaders:
    there is no party system and members sit as independents
Member of:
    none
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (British crown dependency)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (British crown dependency)
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Man, Isle of
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 European Union markets.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $780 million (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    NA%
National product per capita:
    $10,800 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    7% (1992 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    1% (1992 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $130.4 million
  expenditures:
    $114.4 million, including capital expenditures of $18.1 million (1985 est.)
Exports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    tweeds, herring, processed shellfish, beef, lamb
  partners:
    UK
Imports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    timber, fertilizers, fish
  partners:
    UK
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    61,000 kW
  production:
    190 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    2,965 kWh (1992)
Industries:
    financial services, light manufacturing, tourism
Agriculture:
    cereals and vegetables; cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    1 Manx pound (#M) = 100 pence
Exchange rates:
    Manx pounds (#M) per US$1 - 0.6350 (January 1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658
    (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991), 0.5603 (1990); the Manx pound is at
    par with the British pound
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Man, Isle of
                                     Economy
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Man, Isle of
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    60 km (36 km electrified)
Highways:
    640 km
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    Castletown, Douglas, Peel, Ramsey
Merchant marine:
  total:
    68 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,810,355 GRT/3,183,773 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 11, cargo 10, chemical tanker 4, container 9, liquefied gas tanker 8,
    oil tanker 15, roll-on/roll-off cargo 9, vehicle carrier 2
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; UK owns 9 ships, Switzerland 2, Denmark 1,
    Netherlands 1
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Man, Isle of
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    24,435 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 4, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    4
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                  Man, Isle of
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the UK
Jordan
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jersey
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (British crown dependency)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jersey
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Europe, island in the English Channel, northwest of France
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    117 sq km
  land area:
    117 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 0.7 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    70 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate; mild winters and cool summers
Terrain:
    gently rolling plain with low, rugged hills along north coast
Natural resources:
    agricultural land
Land use:
  arable land:
    57%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    largest and southernmost of Channel Islands; about 30% of population
    concentrated in Saint Helier
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jersey
                                     People
Population:
    86,649 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    17% (female 7,029; male 7,450)
  15-64 years:
    69% (female 30,156; male 29,916)
  65 years and over:
    14% (female 7,202; male 4,896) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.7% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    12.83 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.97 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    4.11 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    4.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    76.9 years
  male:
    73.81 years
  female:
    80.32 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.44 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Channel Islander(s)
  adjective:
    Channel Islander
Ethnic divisions:
    UK and Norman-French descent
Religions:
    Anglican, Roman Catholic, Baptist, Congregational New Church, Methodist,
    Presbyterian
Languages:
    English (official), French (official), Norman-French dialect spoken in
    country districts
Literacy:
    NA%
Labor force:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jersey
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Bailiwick of Jersey
  conventional short form:
    Jersey
Digraph:
    JE
Type:
    British crown dependency
Capital:
    Saint Helier
Administrative divisions:
    none (British crown dependency)
Independence:
    none (British crown dependency)
National holiday:
    Liberation Day, 9 May (1945)
Constitution:
    unwritten; partly statutes, partly common law and practice
Legal system:
    English law and local statute
Suffrage:
    NA years of age; universal adult
Executive branch:
  Chief of State:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952)
  Head of Government:
    Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief Air Marshal Sir John SUTTON
    (since NA 1990); Bailiff Sir Peter L. CRILL (since NA)
  cabinet:
    committees; appointed by the States
Legislative branch:
    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) 52
    independents
Judicial branch:
    Royal Court
Political parties and leaders:
    none; all independents
Member of:
    none
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (British crown dependency)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (British crown dependency)
Flag:
    white with the diagonal red cross of Saint Patrick (patron saint of Ireland)
    extending to the corners of the flag
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jersey
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy is based largely on financial services, agriculture, and
    tourism. Potatoes, cauliflower, tomatoes, and especially flowers are
    important export crops, shipped mostly to the UK. The Jersey breed of dairy
    cattle 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 electronics 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.
National product:
    GDP $NA
National product real growth rate:
    8% (1987 est.)
National product per capita:
    $NA
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    8% (1988 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $308 million
  expenditures:
    $284.4 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1985)
Exports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    light industrial and electrical goods, foodstuffs, textiles
  partners:
    UK
Imports:
    $NA
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, foodstuffs, mineral
    fuels, chemicals
  partners:
    UK
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    50,000 kW standby
  production:
    power supplied by France
  consumption per capita:
    NA kWh (1992)
Industries:
    tourism, banking and finance, dairy
Agriculture:
    potatoes, cauliflowers, tomatoes; dairy and cattle farming
Economic aid:
    none
Currency:
    1 Jersey pound (#J) = 100 pence
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jersey
                                     Economy
Exchange rates:
    Jersey pounds (#J) per US$1 - 0.6250 (January 1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658
    (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991), 0.5603 (1990); the Jersey pound is at
    par with the British pound
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jersey
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    NA
  paved:
    NA
  unpaved:
    NA
Ports:
    Gorey, Saint Aubin, Saint Helier
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jersey
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    63,700 telephones
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    3 submarine cables
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Jersey
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the UK
    B__TTF
WERWB__FOT
WODSITYTTF
WODSITYFOT
ASET___TTF
Baker Island
$BAHRAIN - Passport and visa required.  No tourist visas issued at this
time.  Transit visa available upon arrival for stay up to 72 hours, must
have return/onward ticket.  Business, work, or resident visas valid for 3
months, single-entry, require 1 application form, 1 photo, letter from
company or No Objection Certificate (NOC) from Immigration Dept. in Bahrain
and $30 fee ($20 for bearer of NOC).  Yellow fever vaccination needed if
arriving from infected area.  Send SASE for return of passport by mail.
For departure tax and other information, contact Embassy of the State of
Bahrain, 3502 International Drive, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/342-0741); or the Permanent Mission to the U.N., 2 United Nations
Plaza, East 44th Street, New York, NY 10017 (212/223-6200).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Bahrain
============================================================
Bahrain - Consular Information Sheet
 February 8, 1995
Country Description:  Bahrain is an emirate, governed by the
Al-Khalifa family in consultation with a Council of Ministers.
Islamic ideals and beliefs provide the conservative foundation of
the country's customs, laws and practices.  Bahrain is a modern,
developed country, and tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required.  For further
information on entry requirements, travelers can contact the Embassy
of the State of Bahrain, 3502 International Drive, N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20008, telephone [phone]; or the Bahrain Permanent
Mission to the U.N., 2 United Nations Plaza, East 44th St., New
York, N.Y. 10017, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Basic modern medical care and medicines are
available in several hospitals and health centers in Bahrain.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proven useful.  The international travelers
hotline at the Centers for Disease Control, telephone (404)
332-4559, has additional health information.
Information on Crime:  Although crime is generally not a problem
for travelers in Bahrain, there have been demonstrations in and
around Manama in which property owned by American citizens, such as
vehicles, has been damaged by acts of arson or vandalism.  The loss
or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately to
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security,
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to the Middle East or North Africa".  They are available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict in
Bahrain, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy can
obtain updated information on travel and security within Bahrain.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in Manama, at Bldg.
979, Road No. 3119, Zinj District (next to Al Ahli Sports Club),
P.O. Box 26431.  The telephone number is (973) 273-300.  The
workweek in Bahrain is Saturday through Wednesday.
 No. 95-021
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 26, 1994 to
update the section on Information on Crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Bahrain
============================================================
Bahrain - Public Announcement
June 27, 1995
U.S. DEPARTMENT OF STATE
Office of the Spokesman
For Immediate Release
PUBLIC ANNOUNCEMENT - BAHRAIN
The American Embassy in Manama reports a significant decrease in
the number and level of civil disturbances in Bahrain.  Travelers to
Bahrain should be aware, however, that sporadic acts of arson and
vandalism continue to be directed against property, including
property owned by foreigners.  The Embassy has seen no indication
that foreign- or American-owned property is being targeted in
particular.  Travelers to Bahrain may contact the Embassy's Consular
Section at (973)273-300 for more information.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
-----
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Bahrain
============================================================
Bahrain - Consular Information Sheet
 February 8, 1995
Country Description:  Bahrain is an emirate, governed by the
Al-Khalifa family in consultation with a Council of Ministers.
Islamic ideals and beliefs provide the conservative foundation of
the country's customs, laws and practices.  Bahrain is a modern,
developed country, and tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  Passports and visas are required.  For further
information on entry requirements, travelers can contact the Embassy
of the State of Bahrain, 3502 International Drive, N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20008, telephone [phone]; or the Bahrain Permanent
Mission to the U.N., 2 United Nations Plaza, East 44th St., New
York, N.Y. 10017, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Basic modern medical care and medicines are
available in several hospitals and health centers in Bahrain.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the
United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proven useful.  The international travelers
hotline at the Centers for Disease Control, telephone (404)
332-4559, has additional health information.
Information on Crime:  Although crime is generally not a problem
for travelers in Bahrain, there have been demonstrations in and
around Manama in which property owned by American citizens, such as
vehicles, has been damaged by acts of arson or vandalism.  The loss
or theft of a U.S. passport abroad should be reported immediately to
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful
information on safeguarding valuables, protecting personal security,
and other matters while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlets, "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to the Middle East or North Africa".  They are available
from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing
Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they travel.  Penalties for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict in
Bahrain, and convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy can
obtain updated information on travel and security within Bahrain.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located in Manama, at Bldg.
979, Road No. 3119, Zinj District (next to Al Ahli Sports Club),
P.O. Box 26431.  The telephone number is (973) 273-300.  The
workweek in Bahrain is Saturday through Wednesday.
 No. 95-021
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 26, 1994 to
update the section on Information on Crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
+                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bahrain
                                    Geography
Location:
    Middle East, archipelago in the Persian Gulf, east of Saudi Arabia
Map references:
    Middle East
Area:
  total area:
    620 sq km
  land area:
    620 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 3.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    161 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  continental shelf:
    extending to boundaries to be determined
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    territorial dispute with Qatar over the Hawar Islands; maritime boundary
    with Qatar
Climate:
    arid; mild, pleasant winters; very hot, humid summers
Terrain:
    mostly low desert plain rising gently to low central escarpment
Natural resources:
    oil, associated and nonassociated natural gas, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    2%
  permanent crops:
    2%
  meadows and pastures:
    6%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    90%
Irrigated land:
    10 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    desertification resulting from the degradation of limited arable land,
    periods of drought, and dust storms; coastal degradation (damage to
    coastlines, coral 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 groundwater and sea water
    are the only sources for all water needs
  natural hazards:
    periodic droughts; dust storms
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer
    Protection; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bahrain
                                    Geography
Note:
    close to primary Middle Eastern petroleum sources; strategic location in
    Persian Gulf through which much of Western world's petroleum must transit to
    reach open ocean
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bahrain
                                     People
Population:
    575,925 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    31% (female 87,398; male 89,976)
  15-64 years:
    67% (female 152,363; male 231,586)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 7,051; male 7,551) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.58% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    24.12 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    3.31 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    4.95 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    18 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    73.94 years
  male:
    71.46 years
  female:
    76.49 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.12 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Bahraini(s)
  adjective:
    Bahraini
Ethnic divisions:
    Bahraini 63%, Asian 13%, other Arab 10%, Iranian 8%, other 6%
Religions:
    Shi'a Muslim 70%, Sunni Muslim 30%
Languages:
    Arabic, English, Farsi, Urdu
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1991)
  total population:
    84%
  male:
    89%
  female:
    77%
Labor force:
    140,000
  by occupation:
    industry and commerce 85%, agriculture 5%, services 5%, government 3% (1982)
  note:
    42% of labor force is Bahraini
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bahrain
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    State of Bahrain
  conventional short form:
    Bahrain
  local long form:
    Dawlat al Bahrayn
  local short form:
    Al Bahrayn
Digraph:
    BA
Type:
    traditional monarchy
Capital:
    Manama
Administrative divisions:
    12 districts (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, Mintaqat Juzur Hawar, Sitrah
Independence:
    15 August 1971 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 16 December (1961)
Constitution:
    26 May 1973, effective 6 December 1973
Legal system:
    based on Islamic law and English common law
Suffrage:
    none
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Amir ISA bin Salman Al Khalifa (since 2 November 1961); Heir Apparent HAMAD
    bin Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa (son of the Amir, born 28 January 1950)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister KHALIFA bin Salman Al Khalifa (since 19 January 1970)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet
Legislative branch:
    unicameral National Assembly was dissolved 26 August 1975 and legislative
    powers were assumed by the Cabinet; appointed Advisory Council established
    16 December 1992
Judicial branch:
    High Civil Appeals Court
Political parties and leaders:
    political parties prohibited; several small, clandestine leftist and Islamic
    fundamentalist groups are active
Member of:
    ABEDA, AFESD, AL, AMF, ESCWA, FAO, G-77, GATT, GCC, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDB,
    IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO
    (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OAPEC, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU,
    WHO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Muhammad ABD AL-GHAFFAR al-Abdallah
  chancery:
    3502 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 342-0742
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bahrain
                                   Government
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador David M. RANSOM
  embassy:
    Building No. 979, Road 3119 (next to Ahli Sports Club), Zinj District,
    Manama
  mailing address:
    FPO AE 09834-5100; P.O. Box 26431, Manama (International Mail)
  telephone:
    [973] 273300; afterhours [973] 275-126
  FAX:
    [973] 272594
Flag:
    red with a white serrated band (eight white points) on the hoist side
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bahrain
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Tiny in area, Bahrain is well-to-do in economic resources and per capita
    income. Petroleum 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 Bahrain is home to numerous
    multinational firms with business in the Gulf. A large share of exports
    consists of petroleum products made from imported crude. Prospects for 1995
    are good, with private enterprise the main driving force, e.g., in banking
    and construction. Unemployment, especially among the young, and the
    depletion of both oil and underground water resources are major long-term
    economic problems.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $7.1 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $12,100 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    15% (1991 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $1.2 billion (1989)
  expenditures:
    $1.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992)
Exports:
    $3.69 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    petroleum and petroleum products 80%, aluminum 7%
  partners:
    Japan 11%, UAE 5%, South Korea 4%, India 4%, Saudi Arabia 3% (1992)
Imports:
    $3.83 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    nonoil 59%, crude oil 41%
  partners:
    Saudi Arabia 47%, UK 7%, Japan 7%, US 6%, Germany 5% (1992)
External debt:
    $2.6 billion (1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 13% (1992); accounts for 38% of GDP, including petroleum
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,050,000 kW
  production:
    3.3 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    5,453 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    petroleum processing and refining, aluminum smelting, offshore banking, ship
    repairing
Agriculture:
    including fishing, accounts for less than 2% of GDP; not self-sufficient in
    food production; heavily subsidized sector produces fruit, vegetables,
    poultry, dairy products, shrimp, fish
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bahrain
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-79), $24 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $45 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $9.8 billion
Currency:
    1 Bahraini dinar (BD) = 1,000 fils
Exchange rates:
    Bahraini dinars (BD) per US$1 - 0.3760 (fixed rate)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bahrain
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    2,670 km
  paved:
    2,010 km
  unpaved:
    660 km (1991 est.)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 56 km; petroleum products 16 km; natural gas 32 km
Ports:
    Manama, Mina' Salman, Sitrah
Merchant marine:
  total:
    6 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 79,949 GRT/120,900 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 1, cargo 4, chemical tanker 1
Airports:
  total:
    4
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bahrain
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    98,000 telephones; 170 telephones/1,000 persons; modern system; good
    domestic services; excellent international connections
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    2 INTELSAT (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 ARABSAT earth
    station; tropospheric scatter to Qatar, UAE; microwave radio relay to Saudi
    Arabia; submarine cable to Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0
  radios:
    60 million
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2
  televisions:
    21 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bahrain
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, Air Defense, Coast Guard, Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 210,725; males fit for military service 117,414; males reach
    military age (15) annually 4,346 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $247 million, 5.5% of GDP (1994)
Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                           Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                                     Header
Affiliation:
    (territory of Australia)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                           Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, islands in the Indian Ocean, northwest of Australia
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    5 sq km
  land area:
    5 sq km
  comparative area:
    about 8.5 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
  note:
    includes Ashmore Reef (West, Middle, and East Islets) and Cartier Island
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    74.1 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    12 nm
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to depth of exploitation
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical
Terrain:
    low with sand and coral
Natural resources:
    fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100% (all grass and sand)
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    surrounded by shoals and reefs which can pose maritime hazards
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    Ashmore Reef National Nature Reserve established in August 1983
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                           Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                                     People
Population:
    no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are only seasonal caretakers
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                           Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Territory of Ashmore and Cartier Islands
  conventional short form:
    Ashmore and Cartier Islands
Digraph:
    AT
Type:
    territory of Australia administered by the Australian Ministry for the
    Environment, Sport, and Territories
Capital:
    none; administered from Canberra, Australia
Administrative divisions:
    none (territory of Australia)
Independence:
    none (territory of Australia)
Legal system:
    relevant laws of the Northern Territory of Australia
Diplomatic representation in US:
    none (territory of Australia)
US diplomatic representation:
    none (territory of Australia)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                           Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                                     Economy
Overview:
    no economic activity
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                           Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage only
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                           Ashmore and Cartier Islands
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of Australia; periodic visits by the Royal
    Australian Navy and Royal Australian Air Force
e  African Republic
============================================================
Central African Republic - Consular Information Sheet
 February 17, 1995
Country Description:  The Central African Republic is a developing
African country.  Facilities for tourism are limited.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  For
further information on entry requirements, travelers may contact the
Embassy of the Central African Republic, 1618 22nd Street, N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  While the atmosphere has improved since
democratic elections in 1993, political demonstrations in the
capital city of Bangui have occasionally led to violence and
looting, although no specific threats have been directed against
U.S. citizens.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities in the Central African
Republic are limited.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate
",Y,Y,Y
Belize
BELGIUM - Passport required.  Visa not required for business/tourist stay
up to 90 days.  Temporary residence permit required for longer stays.  For
residence authorization, consult Embassy of Belgium, 3330 Garfield St.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/333-6900) or nearest Consulate General:
Los Angeles (213/857-1244), Atlanta (404/659-2150), Chicago (312/263-6624)
or New York (212/586-5110).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Belgium
============================================================
Belgium - Consular Information Sheet
 November 13, 1995
Country Description:  Belgium is a highly developed and stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely
available.
Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements, contact
the Embassy of Belgium at 3330 Garfield Street N.W., Washington D.C.
20008, tel. [phone], or the Consulate General in Atlanta,
Chicago, Los Angeles, or New York.
Medical Information:  Medical facilities are widely available.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage, including
provision for medical evacuation, has proved to be useful.
Information on specific health matters is available through the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for
international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Belgium has a relatively low crime rate in most
regions, but U.S. citizens visiting major cities can become targets
for pickpockets and purse snatchers, especially while traveling by
metro (subway) and at tourist attractions.  Theft of and from
vehicles is the most common crime in Belgium, and the usual
precautions apply.  Crime victims themselves must make the report to
the police in the district where the crime occurred, as third party
notification of a crime is not accepted.  As the police have a high
recovery rate for stolen property, victims are encouraged to report
all crimes.
Belgian law requires that everyone carry some form of official
identification with them at all times which must be displayed upon
request to any police official.  A U.S. passport suffices, and
police are almost always satisfied if they see a photocopy of the
photo page of the passport.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more
trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In Belgium, the penalties for
possession, use, or dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy location:  U.S. citizens who reside in
Belgium can register with the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy.
The section has available updated information on travel and security
in Belgium.  The U.S. Embassy in Brussels is located at 27 Boulevard
du Regent, telephone [phone].
 No. 95-139
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued May 19, 1994 to
show the U.S. Embassy's new telephone number.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
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------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Belgium
============================================================
Belgium - Consular Information Sheet
 November 13, 1995
Country Description:  Belgium is a highly developed and stable
democracy with a modern economy.  Tourist facilities are widely
available.
Entry Requirements:  For information on entry requirements, contact
the Embassy of Belgium at 3330 Garfield Street N.W., Washington D.C.
20008, tel. [phone], or the Consulate General in Atlanta,
Chicago, Los Angeles, or New York.
Medical Information:  Medical facilities are widely available.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Travelers have found that in some cases, supplemental
medical insurance with specific overseas coverage, including
provision for medical evacuation, has proved to be useful.
Information on specific health matters is available through the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's hotline for
international travelers at [phone].
Crime Information:  Belgium has a relatively low crime rate in most
regions, but U.S. citizens visiting major cities can become targets
for pickpockets and purse snatchers, especially while traveling by
metro (subway) and at tourist attractions.  Theft of and from
vehicles is the most common crime in Belgium, and the usual
precautions apply.  Crime victims themselves must make the report to
the police in the district where the crime occurred, as third party
notification of a crime is not accepted.  As the police have a high
recovery rate for stolen property, victims are encouraged to report
all crimes.
Belgian law requires that everyone carry some form of official
identification with them at all times which must be displayed upon
request to any police official.  A U.S. passport suffices, and
police are almost always satisfied if they see a photocopy of the
photo page of the passport.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  U.S. citizens can refer to the Department of State's
pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" for ways to promote a more
trouble-free journey.  The pamphlet is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  In Belgium, the penalties for
possession, use, or dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration and Embassy location:  U.S. citizens who reside in
Belgium can register with the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy.
The section has available updated information on travel and security
in Belgium.  The U.S. Embassy in Brussels is located at 27 Boulevard
du Regent, telephone [phone].
 No. 95-139
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued May 19, 1994 to
show the U.S. Embassy's new telephone number.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
`9I9                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belgium
                                    Geography
Location:
    Western Europe, bordering the North Sea, between France and the Netherlands
Map references:
    Europe
Area:
  total area:
    30,510 sq km
  land area:
    30,230 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Maryland
Land boundaries:
    total 1,385 km, France 620 km, Germany 167 km, Luxembourg 148 km,
    Netherlands 450 km
Coastline:
    64 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    median line with neighbors
  exclusive fishing zone:
    median line with neighbors (extends about 68 km from coast)
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate; mild winters, cool summers; rainy, humid, cloudy
Terrain:
    flat coastal plains in northwest, central rolling hills, rugged mountains of
    Ardennes Forest in southeast
Natural resources:
    coal, natural gas
Land use:
  arable land:
    24%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    20%
  forest and woodland:
    21%
  other:
    34%
Irrigated land:
    10 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    Meuse River, a major source of drinking water, polluted from steel
    production wastes; other rivers polluted by animal wastes and fertilizers;
    industrial air pollution contributes to acid rain in neighboring countries
  natural hazards:
    flooding is a threat in areas of reclaimed coastal land, protected from the
    sea by concrete dikes
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belgium
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty,
    Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine
    Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection,
    Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air
    Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile
    Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Biodiversity, Climate
    Change, Law of the Sea
Note:
    crossroads of Western Europe; majority of West European capitals within
    1,000 km of Brussels which is the seat of the EU
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belgium
                                     People
Population:
    10,081,880 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    18% (female 875,079; male 919,939)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 3,303,219; male 3,363,250)
  65 years and over:
    16% (female 969,966; male 650,427) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.17% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    11.46 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    10.22 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0.5 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    7 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    77.21 years
  male:
    73.94 years
  female:
    80.67 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.62 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Belgian(s)
  adjective:
    Belgian
Ethnic divisions:
    Fleming 55%, Walloon 33%, mixed or other 12%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 75%, Protestant or other 25%
Languages:
    Dutch 56%, French 32%, German 1%, legally bilingual 11% divided along ethnic
    lines
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.)
  total population:
    99%
Labor force:
    4.126 million
  by occupation:
    services 63.6%, industry 28%, construction 6.1%, agriculture 2.3% (1988)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belgium
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of Belgium
  conventional short form:
    Belgium
  local long form:
    Royaume de Belgique
  local short form:
    Belgique
Digraph:
    BE
Type:
    constitutional monarchy
Capital:
    Brussels
Administrative divisions:
    9 provinces (French: provinces, singular - province; Flemish: provincien,
    singular - provincie); Antwerpen, Brabant, Hainaut, Liege, Limburg,
    Luxembourg, Namur, Oost-Vlaanderen, West-Vlaanderen
Independence:
    4 October 1830 (from the Netherlands)
National holiday:
    National Day, 21 July (ascension of King Leopold to the throne in 1831)
Constitution:
    7 February 1831, last revised 14 July 1993; parliament approved a
    constitutional package creating a federal state
Legal system:
    civil law system influenced by English constitutional theory; judicial
    review of legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with
    reservations
Suffrage:
    18 years of age, universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    King ALBERT II (since 9 August 1993)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Jean-Luc DEHAENE (since 6 March 1992)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; the king appoints the ministers who are approved by the legislature
Legislative branch:
    bicameral Parliament
  Senate:
     (Flemish - Senaat, French - Senat); elections last held 24 November 1991
    (next to be held by the end of 1995); results - percent of vote by party NA;
    seats - (184 total; of which 106 are directly elected; in the 1995
    elections, seats will decrease to 71) CVP 20, SP 14, VLD 13, VU 5, AGALEV 5,
    VB 5, ROSSEN 1, PS 18, PRL 9, PSC 9, ECOLO 6, FDF 1
  Chamber of Deputies:
     (Flemish - Kamer van Volksvertegenwoordigers, French - Chambre des
    Representants); elections last held 24 November 1991 (next to be held by 21
    May 1995); results - CVP 16.7%, PS 13.6%, SP 12.0%, VLD 11.9%, PRL 8.2%, PSC
    7.8%, VB 6.6%, VU 5.9%, ECOLO 5.1%, AGALEV 4.9%, FDF 2.6%, ROSSEM 3.2%, FN
    1.5%; seats - (212 total; in 1995 elections, seats will decrease to 150) CVP
    39, PS 35, SP 28, VLD 26, PRL 20, PSC 18, VB 12, VU 10, ECOLO 10, AGALEV 7,
    FDF 3, ROSSEM 3, FN 1
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court of Justice (Flemish - Hof van Cassatie, French - Cour de
    Cassation)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belgium
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    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), Guy VERHOFSTADT, president;
    Francophone Liberal Reform Party (PRL), Jean GOL, president; Francophone
    Democratic Front (FDF), Georges CLERFAYT, president; Volksunie (VU), Bert
    ANCIAUX, president; Vlaams Blok (VB), Karel DILLEN, chairman; ROSSEM, Jean
    Pierre VAN ROSSEM; National Front (FN), Daniel FERET, president; AGALEV
    (Flemish Greens), no president; ECOLO (Francophone Ecologists), no
    president; other minor parties
Other political or pressure groups:
    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
Member of:
    ACCT, AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, Benelux, BIS, CCC, CE,
    CERN, EBRD, EC, ECE, EIB, ESA, FAO, G- 9, G-10, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD,
    ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT,
    INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, MTCR, NACC, NATO, NEA, NSG,
    OAS (observer), OECD, OSCE, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNITAR,
    UNMOGIP, UNPROFOR, UNRWA, UNTSO, UPU, WCL, WEU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Andre ADAM (appointed 3 October 1994)
  chancery:
    3330 Garfield Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Atlanta, Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Alan J. BLINKEN
  embassy:
    27 Boulevard du Regent, B-1000 Brussels
  mailing address:
    APO AE 09724; PSC 82, Box 002, Brussels
  telephone:
    [32] (2) 513 38 30
  FAX:
    [32] (2) 511 27 25
Flag:
    three equal vertical bands of black (hoist side), yellow, and red; the
    design was based on the flag of France
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belgium
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 Walloon. With few natural resources
    Belgium 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. Three-fourths of its trade is with other EU
    countries. The economy grew at a strong 4% pace during the period 1988-90,
    slowed to 1% in 1991-92, dropped by 1.5% in 1993, and recovered with 2.3%
    growth in 1994. Belgium'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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $181.5 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    2.3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $18,040 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.5% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    14.1% (December 1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $97.8 billion
  expenditures:
    $109.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1989)
Exports:
    $117 billion (f.o.b., 1992) Belgium-Luxembourg Economic Union
  commodities:
    iron and steel, transportation equipment, tractors, diamonds, petroleum
    products
  partners:
    EC 75.5%, US 3.7%, former Communist countries 1.4% (1991)
Imports:
    $120 billion (c.i.f., 1992) Belgium-Luxembourg Economic Union
  commodities:
    fuels, grains, chemicals, foodstuffs
  partners:
    EC 73%, US 4.8%, oil-exporting less developed countries 4%, former Communist
    countries 1.8% (1991)
External debt:
    $31.3 billion (1992 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -0.1% (1993 est.); accounts for 25% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    14,040,000 kW
  production:
    66 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    6,334 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    engineering and metal products, motor vehicle assembly, processed food and
    beverages, chemicals, basic metals, textiles, glass, petroleum, coal
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belgium
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 2.0% of GDP; emphasis on livestock production - beef, veal,
    pork, milk; major crops are sugar beets, fresh vegetables, fruits, grain,
    tobacco; net importer of farm products
Illicit drugs:
    source of precursor chemicals for South American cocaine processors;
    transshipment point for cocaine entering the European market
Economic aid:
  donor:
    ODA and OOF commitments (1970-89), $5.8 billion
Currency:
    1 Belgian franc (BF) = 100 centimes
Exchange rates:
    Belgian francs (BF) per US$1 - 31.549 (January 1995), 33.456 (1994), 34.597
    (1993), 32.150 (1992), 34.148 (1991), 33.418 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belgium
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,410 km (2,362 km electrified; 2,563 km double track)
  standard gauge:
    3,410 km 1.435-m gauge (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    137,912 km
  paved:
    129,639 km (including 1,667 km of limited access divided highway)
  unpaved:
    8,273 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    2,043 km (1,528 km in regular commercial use)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 161 km; petroleum products 1,167 km; natural gas 3,300 km
Ports:
    Antwerp, Brugge, Gent, Hasselt, Liege, Mons, Namur, Oostende, Zeebrugge
Merchant marine:
  total:
    23 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 42,055 GRT/56,842 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 1, cargo 9, chemical tanker 6, liquefied gas 2, oil tanker 5
Airports:
  total:
    43
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    6
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    9
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    22
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belgium
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    4,720,000 telephones; highly developed, technologically advanced, and
    completely automated domestic and international telephone and telegraph
    facilities
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    extensive cable network; limited microwave radio relay network; nationwide
    mobile phone system
  international:
    5 submarine cables; 2 Atlantic Ocean INTELSAT earth stations and 1 EUTELSAT
    earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 39, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    32
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belgium
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force, National Gendarmerie
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,559,077; males fit for military service 2,126,875; males
    reach military age (19) annually 61,488 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $3.9 billion, 1.8% of GDP (1994)
Belgium
BELARUS - Passport and visa required.  Visa requires 1 application form and
1 photo.  The visa processing fee is $30 for 7 working days, $60 for next
day, and $100 for same day processing.   (No charge for official
travelers.)  Transit visa is required when travelling through Belarus
($20).  For additional information contact Embassy of Belarus, 1619 New
Hampshire Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20009 (202/986-1604).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Belarus
============================================================
Belarus - Consular Information Sheet
 March 28, 1995
Country Description:  Belarus is a nation undergoing profound
political and economic change.  It is a newly independent nation
still in the process of stabilizing its relations with neighboring
countries.  Tourist facilities are not highly developed, and many of
the goods and services taken for granted in other countries are not
yet available.  Internal travel, especially by air, may be disrupted
by fuel shortages and other problems.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Visas are
issued by the Belarus Embassy located at 1619 New Hampshire Ave.,
Washington, D.C. 20009, Tel. [phone].  Travelers who do not
have a visa cannot register at hotels and may be required to leave
the country immediately via the route by which they entered.  As of
April 1, 1995, visas will no longer be issued at Minsk-2
International Airport or at the border crossings at Brest and
Grodno.  All U.S. citizens must receive visas at Belarusian
Embassies and consulates abroad in order to enter the country.  U.S.
citizens residing in Belarus are required to register with the local
office of Visas and Registration (OVIR).  Failure to do so can
result in fines and frequent visits from local militia.  U.S.
citizens residing in hotels are automatically registered.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in Belarus is limited.  There is
a severe shortage of basic medical supplies, including disposable
needles, anesthetics, vaccines and antibiotics.  Elderly travelers
and those with existing health problems may be at risk due to
inadequate medical facilities.  Doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid outside the United States.  Travelers have found
that in some cases, supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage has proven to be useful.  The number of reported
diphtheria cases in Belarus has quadrupled in the past three years.
The Centers for Disease control recommends immunization against
diphtheria.  Further information on health matters can be obtained
from the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers'
hotline, tel: [phone].
Crime Information:  Belarus has a medium rate of violent crime, but
common street crime is continuing to increase, especially at night
and in or near hotels frequented by foreigners.  Foreigners and
particularly foreign cars tend to be targets of crime.  The loss or
theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to
the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" provides useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad.  This publication is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Currency Regulations:  Traveler's checks are not accepted in
Belarus.  Most Intourist hotels accept either American Express or
Visa credit cards.  In addition, one hotel in Minsk, the Planeta,
provides cash from visa credit cards, during normal business hours.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use,
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders
can expect jail sentences and fines.
Registration: U.S citizens who register at the Consular Section of
the U.S. Embassy in Minsk may obtain updated information on travel
and security within Belarus.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Minsk, Belarus, is located
at 46 Starovilenskaya Ulitsa; telephone [phone].  Fax no.
34-78-53.
 No. 95-041
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated August 16, 1994,
to note new visa requirements and a change in the level of crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
6                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belarus
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern Europe, east of Poland
Map references:
    Commonwealth of Independent States - European States
Area:
  total area:
    207,600 sq km
  land area:
    207,600 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Kansas
Land boundaries:
    total 3,098 km, Latvia 141 km, Lithuania 502 km, Poland 605 km, Russia 959
    km, Ukraine 891 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    cold winters, cool and moist summers; transitional between continental and
    maritime
Terrain:
    generally flat and contains much marshland
Natural resources:
    forest land, peat deposits, small quantities of oil and natural gas
Land use:
  arable land:
    29%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    15%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    55%
Irrigated land:
    1,490 sq km (1990)
Environment:
  current issues:
    soil pollution from pesticide use; southern part of the country contaminated
    with fallout from 1986 nuclear reactor accident at Chornobyl'
  natural hazards:
    NA
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Biodiversity, Environmental Modification, Marine
    Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified
    - Climate Change, Law of the Sea
Note:
    landlocked
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belarus
                                     People
Population:
    10,437,418 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    22% (female 1,126,062; male 1,166,439)
  15-64 years:
    65% (female 3,494,891; male 3,293,196)
  65 years and over:
    13% (female 913,508; male 443,322) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.3% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    12.98 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    11.23 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    1.27 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    18.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    71.03 years
  male:
    66.36 years
  female:
    75.93 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.87 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Belarusian(s)
  adjective:
    Belarusian
Ethnic divisions:
    Byelorussian 77.9%, Russian 13.2%, Polish 4.1%, Ukrainian 2.9%, other 1.9%
Religions:
    Eastern Orthodox, other
Languages:
    Byelorussian, Russian, other
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1989)
  total population:
    97%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    96%
Labor force:
    4.887 million
  by occupation:
    industry and construction 40%, agriculture and forestry 21%, other 39%
    (1992)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belarus
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Belarus
  conventional short form:
    Belarus
  local long form:
    Respublika Byelarus'
  local short form:
    none
  former:
    Belorussian (Byelorussian) Soviet Socialist Republic
Digraph:
    BO
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Minsk
Administrative divisions:
    6 voblastsi (singular - voblasts') and one municipality* (harady, singular -
    horad); Brestskaya (Brest), Homyel'skaya (Homyel'), Horad Minsk*,
    Hrodzyenskaya (Hrodna), Mahilyowskaya (Mahilyow), Minskaya, Vitsyebskaya
    (Vitsyebsk)
  note:
    the administrative centers of the voblastsi are included in parentheses
Independence:
    25 August 1991 (from Soviet Union)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 27 July (1990)
Constitution:
    adopted 15 March 1994; replaces constitution of April 1978
Legal system:
    based on civil law system
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Aleksandr LUKASHENKO (since 20 July 1994); election held June 24
    and 10 July 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); Aleksandr LUKASHENKO 80%,
    Vyacheslav KEBICH 14%
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Mikhail CHIGIR (since July 1994); Deputy Prime Ministers
    Vladimir GARKUN, Viktor GONCHAR, Sergey LING, Mikhail MYASNIKOVICH, Valeriy
    KOKAREV (since NA)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers
  note:
    first presidential elections took place in June-July 1994
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Supreme Soviet:
    elections last held 4 April 1990 (next to be held 14 May 1995); results -
    Communists 87%; seats - (360 total) number of seats by party NA; note - 50
    seats are for public bodies; the Communist Party obtained an overwhelming
    majority
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belarus
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    Belarusian Popular Front (BPF), Zenon POZNYAK, chairman; Party of Popular
    Accord, Gennadiy KARPENKO; Union of Belarusian Entreprenuers, V. N.
    KARYAGIN; Belarusian Party of Communists, Vasiliy NOVIKOV, Viktor CHIKIN,
    chairmen; Belarus Peasant Party, Yevgeniy LUGIN, chairman; Belarusian
    Socialist Party, Vyacheslav KUZNETSOV, chairman; Belarusian Social Democrat
    Party (SDBP), Oleg TRUSOV, Stanislav SHUSHKEVICH, chairmen; Agrarian Party
    of Belarus, Aleksandr DUBKO; United Democratic Party of Belarus (UDPB),
    Aleksandr DOBROVOLSKIY, chairman; Independent Trade Unions, Sergey
    ANTONCHIK, chairman
Member of:
    CCC, CE (guest), CEI (associate members), CIS, EBRD, ECE, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO,
    IFC, ILO, IMF, INMARSAT, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ISO,
    ITU, NACC, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Sergey Nikolayevich MARTYNOV
  chancery:
    1619 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Kenneth Spencer YALOWITZ
  embassy:
    Starovilenskaya #46, Minsk
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [7] [phone]
Flag:
    three horizontal bands of white (top), red, and white
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belarus
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Belarus ranks among the most developed of the former Soviet states, with a
    relatively modern - by Soviet standards - and diverse machine building
    sector and a robust agriculture sector. It also serves as a transport link
    for Russian oil exports to the Baltic states and Eastern and Western Europe.
    The breakup of the Soviet Union and its command economy has resulted in a
    sharp economic contraction as traditional trade ties have collapsed. The
    Belarusian government has lagged behind the governments of most other former
    Soviet states in economic reform, with privatization almost nonexistent. The
    system of state orders and distribution persists. In mid-1994, the
    Belarusian government embarked on an austerity program with IMF support to
    slash state credits and consumer subsidies in order to bring down the budget
    deficit and reduce inflation. However, despite its promising start, the
    regime's drive to reinvigorate the economy has fallen short, and the IMF has
    criticized its failure to implement the reforms that the Fund had
    negotiated. As a result, the IMF has suspended talks on introducing a
    stand-by arrangement. Economic relations with Russia, which will have an
    important bearing on the future course of the economy, will be strengthened
    if Minsk adopts the necessary legislation to implement a customs union
    agreed to in January 1995.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $53.4 billion (1994 estimate as extrapolated
    from World Bank estimate for 1992)
National product real growth rate:
    -20% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $5,130 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    29% per month (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    1.4% officially registered unemployed (December 1993); large numbers of
    underemployed workers
Budget:
  revenues:
    $NA
  expenditures:
    $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
Exports:
    $968 million to outside of the FSU countries (f.o.b., 1994)
  commodities:
    machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, foodstuffs
  partners:
    Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Bulgaria
Imports:
    $534 million from outside the FSU countries (c.i.f., 1994)
  commodities:
    fuel, natural gas, industrial raw materials, textiles, sugar
  partners:
    Russia, Ukraine, Poland
External debt:
    $1.5 billion (July 1994 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate -19% (1994); accounts for about 40% of GDP (1992)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    7,010,000 kW
  production:
    31.4 billion kWh
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belarus
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    3,010 kWh (1994)
Industries:
    employ about 40% of labor force and produced a wide variety of products
    including (in percent share of total output of former Soviet Union):
    tractors (12%); metal-cutting machine tools (11%); off-highway dump trucks
    up to 110-metric-ton load capacity (100%); wheel-type earthmovers for
    construction and mining (100%); eight-wheel-drive, high-flotation trucks
    with cargo capacity of 25 metric tons for use in tundra and roadless areas
    (100%); equipment for animal husbandry and livestock feeding (25%);
    motorcycles (21.3%); television sets (11%); chemical fibers (28%);
    fertilizer (18%); linen fabric (11%); wool fabric (7%); radios;
    refrigerators; and other consumer goods
Agriculture:
    accounts for almost 25% of GDP and 5.7% of total agricultural output of
    former Soviet Union; employs 21% of the labor force; in 1988 produced the
    following (in percent of total Soviet production): grain (3.6%), potatoes
    (12.2%), vegetables (3.0%), meat (6.0%), milk (7.0%); net exporter of meat,
    milk, eggs, flour, potatoes
Illicit drugs:
    illicit cultivator of opium poppy and cannabis; mostly for the domestic
    market; transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe
Economic aid:
    $NA
Currency:
    Belarusian rubel (BR)
Exchange rates:
    Belarusian rubels per US$1 - 10,600 (end December 1994)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belarus
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    5,570 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines
  broad gauge:
    5,570 km 1.520-m gauge (1990)
Highways:
  total:
    98,200 km
  paved:
    66,100 km
  unpaved:
    earth 32,100 km (1990)
Inland waterways:
    NA km
Pipelines:
    crude oil 1,470 km; refined products 1,100 km; natural gas 1,980 km (1992)
Ports:
    Mazyr
Merchant marine:
  note:
    claims 5% of former Soviet fleet
Airports:
  total:
    118
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    18
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    5
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    11
  with unpaved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    6
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    4
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    9
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    62
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belarus
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    1,849,000 telephones (December 1991); 18 telephones/100 persons; telephone
    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); new investment centers
    on international connections and business needs; the new BelCel NMT 450
    cellular system (a joint venture) is now operating in Minsk
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    international traffic is carried by the Moscow international gateway switch
    and also by 2 satellite earth stations near Minsk - INTELSAT (through
    Canada) and EUTELSAT (through the UK)
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave 0
  radios:
    3.14 million (5,615,000 with multiple speaker systems for program diffusion)
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    3.538 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Belarus
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Air Force, Air Defense Force, Republic Security Forces (internal and
    border troops)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,550,500; males fit for military service 1,999,138; males
    reach military age (18) annually 71,808 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    56.5 billion rubles, NA% of GDP (1993 est.); note - conversion of the
    military budget into US dollars using the current exchange rate could
    produce misleading results
Mexico
MAURITIUS - Passport, sufficient funds for stay and onward/return
ticket required.  Visa not required for tourist/business stay up to 3 months.
AIDS test required for permanent residence and work permits.  U.S. test
sometimes accepted.  For further information consult Embassy of
Mauritius, Suite 441, 4301 Conn. Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008
(202/244-1491/2) or Honorary Consulate in Los Angeles (818/788-3720).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Mauritius
============================================================
Mauritius - Consular Information Sheet
 February 1, 1995
Country Description:  The Republic of Mauritius is a developing
nation with a stable government and growing economy.  Facilities for
tourism are largely available.  Although the spoken languages are
French and Creole, English is the official language.
Entry Requirements:  A passport, an onward/return ticket and
evidence of sufficient funds are required for entrance into
Mauritius.  U.S. citizens do not need visas for a stay of three
months or less for business or tourism.  Further information can be
obtained from the Embassy of Mauritius, Suite 441, 4301 Connecticut
Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, telephone [phone].
Honorary Consulates are located in Los Angeles, telephone (818)
788-3720, and in Atlanta, telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are available,but more
limited than in the United States.  Doctors and private clinics
require cash or credit card payment for health care services.
Public hospitals provide limited facilities.  U.S. medical insurance
is not always valid outside the United States.  Supplemental medical
insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to be useful.
Information on health matters can be obtained from the Centers for
Disease Control's international travelers hotline, telephone (404)
332-4559.
Information on Crime:  Petty crime is common in Mauritius.  The
loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.  The death penalty
applies for illegal importation of drugs.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register at the U.S. Embassy in
Port Louis may obtain updated information on travel and security in
Mauritius.  The U.S. Embassy in Port Louis also provides consular
services for U.S. citizens in Comoros.  (The U.S. Embassy in Moroni,
Comoros closed September 27, 1993.)
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at Rogers House
(Fourth Floor) on John F. Kennedy Street in the capital city of Port
Louis.  The telephone numbers are [phone] thru 9769, 208-2347
and 208-2354; fax [phone].
 No. 95-014
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated October 18,
1993, and is reissued without change, following an annual review.
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gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
`.Y.                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mauritius
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar
Map references:
    World
Area:
  total area:
    1,860 sq km
  land area:
    1,850 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 10.5 times the size of Washington, DC
  note:
    includes Agalega Islands, Cargados Carajos Shoals (Saint Brandon), and
    Rodrigues
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    177 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    claims UK-administered Chagos Archipelago, which includes the island of
    Diego Garcia in UK-administered British Indian Ocean Territory; claims
    French-administered Tromelin Island
Climate:
    tropical, modified by southeast trade winds; warm, dry winter (May to
    November); hot, wet, humid summer (November to May)
Terrain:
    small coastal plain rising to discontinuous mountains encircling central
    plateau
Natural resources:
    arable land, fish
Land use:
  arable land:
    54%
  permanent crops:
    4%
  meadows and pastures:
    4%
  forest and woodland:
    31%
  other:
    7%
Irrigated land:
    170 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    water pollution
  natural hazards:
    cyclones (November to April); almost completely surrounded by reefs that may
    pose maritime hazards
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mauritius
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental
    Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation,
    Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mauritius
                                     People
Population:
    1,127,068 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    28% (female 152,892; male 158,891)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 376,049; male 372,910)
  65 years and over:
    6% (female 39,088; male 27,238) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.89% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    18.91 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.38 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -3.64 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    17.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    70.84 years
  male:
    66.9 years
  female:
    74.95 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.2 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Mauritian(s)
  adjective:
    Mauritian
Ethnic divisions:
    Indo-Mauritian 68%, Creole 27%, Sino-Mauritian 3%, Franco-Mauritian 2%
Religions:
    Hindu 52%, Christian 28.3% (Roman Catholic 26%, Protestant 2.3%), Muslim
    16.6%, other 3.1%
Languages:
    English (official), Creole, French, Hindi, Urdu, Hakka, Bojpoori
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990)
  total population:
    80%
  male:
    85%
  female:
    75%
Labor force:
    335,000
  by occupation:
    government services 29%, agriculture and fishing 27%, manufacturing 22%,
    other 22%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mauritius
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Mauritius
  conventional short form:
    Mauritius
Digraph:
    MP
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Port Louis
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    12 March 1968 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 12 March (1968)
Constitution:
    12 March 1968; amended 12 March 1992
Legal system:
    based on French civil law system with elements of English common law in
    certain areas
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Cassam UTEEM (since 1 July 1992); Vice President Rabindranath
    GHURBURRON (since 1 July 1992)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Sir Anerood JUGNAUTH (since 12 June 1982); Deputy Prime
    Minister Prem NABABSING (since 26 September 1990)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; appointed by the president on recommendation of the
    prime minister
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Legislative Assembly:
    elections last held on 15 September 1991 (next to be held by 15 September
    1996); results - MSM/MMM 53%, MLP/PMSD 38%; seats - (66 total) MSM/MMM
    alliance 59 (MSM 29, MMM 26, OPR 2, MTD 2), MLP/PMSD 4 (MLP 3, PMSD 1); note
    - the Supreme Court denied the assignment of 3 seats to the MSM
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
  government coalition:
    Militant Socialist Movement (MSM), A. JUGNAUTH; Mauritian Militant
    Resurgence (RMM), Prem NABABSING (less 10 legislators under the leadership
    of Paul BERENGER, now voting with the opposition); Mauritian Social
    Democratic Party (PMSD), X. DUVAL; Organization of the People of Rodrigues
    (OPR), Louis Serge CLAIR; Democratic Labor Movement (MTD), Anil BAICHOO
  opposition:
    Mauritian Labor Party (MLP), Navin RAMGOOLMAN; MMM-Berenger Faction, Paul
    BERENGER; Socialist Workers Front, Sylvio MICHEL
Other political or pressure groups:
    various labor unions
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mauritius
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACCT, ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU,
    ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL,
    IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OAU, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Anund Priyay NEEWOOR
  chancery:
    Suite 441, 4301 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 1492
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Leslie M. ALEXANDER
  embassy:
    4th Floor, Rogers House, John Kennedy Street, Port Louis
  mailing address:
    use embassy street address
  telephone:
    [230] 208-9763 through 9767
  FAX:
    [230] 208-9534
Flag:
    four equal horizontal bands of red (top), blue, yellow, and green
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mauritius
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Since independence in 1968, Mauritius 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 infrastructure. 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.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $9.3 billion (1993 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4.7% (1993 est.)
National product per capita:
    $8,600 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    9.4% (1993 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    2.4% (1991 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $653 million
  expenditures:
    $567 million, including capital expenditures of $143 million (FY92/93 est.)
Exports:
    $1.32 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    textiles 44%, sugar 40%, light manufactures 10%
  partners:
    EC and US have preferential treatment, EC 77%, US 15%
Imports:
    $1.7 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    manufactured goods 50%, capital equipment 17%, foodstuffs 13%, petroleum
    products 8%, chemicals 7%
  partners:
    EC, US, South Africa, Japan
External debt:
    $996.8 million (1993 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5.8% (1992); accounts for 25% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    340,000 kW
  production:
    920 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    777 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    food processing (largely sugar milling), textiles, wearing apparel,
    chemicals, metal products, transport equipment, nonelectrical machinery,
    tourism
Agriculture:
    accounts for 10% of GDP; about 90% of cultivated land in sugarcane; other
    products - tea, corn, potatoes, bananas, pulses, cattle, goats, fish; net
    food importer, especially rice and fish
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mauritius
                                     Economy
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; heroin
    consumption and transshipment are growing problems
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $76 million; Western (non-US)
    countries (1970-89), $709 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $54
    million
Currency:
    1 Mauritian rupee (MauR) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Mauritian rupees (MauRs) per US$1 - 17.755 (January 1995), 17.960 (1994),
    17.648 (1993), 15.563 (1992), 15.652 (1991), 14.839 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mauritius
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    1,800 km
  paved:
    1,640 km
  unpaved:
    earth 160 km
Ports:
    Port Louis
Merchant marine:
  total:
    16 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 191,703 GRT/297,347 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 5, cargo 8, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 1, passenger-cargo 1
Airports:
  total:
    5
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mauritius
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    over 48,000 telephones; small system with good service
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    utilizes primarily microwave radio relay
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean) earth station; new microwave link to Reunion;
    high-frequency radio links to several countries
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    4
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Mauritius
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    National Police Force (includes the paramilitary Special Mobile Force or
    SMF, Special Support Units or SSU, and National Coast Guard)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 321,947; males fit for military service 163,904 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $11.2 million, 0.4% of GDP (FY92/93)
Abbcultural output; climate and soils
    permit a wide variety of crops, such as coffee, rice, tobacco, corn,
    sugarcane, cocoa beans, oilseeds, vegetables; forest products and shrimp
    farming are becoming more important
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of coca, opium poppies, and cannabis; about 45,000 hectares
    of coca under cultivation; the world's largest processor of coca derivatives
    into cocaine; supplier of cocaine to the US and other international drug
    markets; active eradication program against narcotics crop
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $1.6 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $3.3 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89),  $399 million
Currency:
    1 Colombian peso (Col$) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    Colombian pesos (Col$) per US$1 - 846.67 (January 1995), 844.84 (1994),
    863.06 (1993), 759.28 (1992), 633.05 (1991), 502.26 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,386 km
  standard gauge:
    150 km 1.435-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    3,236 km 0.914-m gauge (2,611 km in use)
Highways:
  total:
    107,377 km (1991)
  paved:
    12,778 km
  unpaved:
    gravel/earth 94,599 km
Inland waterways:
    14,300 km, navigable by river boats
Pipelines:
    crude oil 3,585 km; petroleum products 1,350 km; natural gas 830 km; natural
    gas liquids 125 km
Ports:
    Barranquilla, Buenaventura, Cartagena, Leticia, Puerto Bolivar, San Andres,
    Santa Marta, Tumaco, Turbo
Merchant marine:
  total:
    22 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 104,577 GRT/142,617 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 6, cargo 9, container 4, oil tanker 3
Airports:
  total:
    1,307
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    7
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    34
rlXlXlX
Bosnia and Herzegovina
BOLIVIA - Passport required.  Visa not required for tourist stay  up to 30
days.  Business visa requires $50 fee and company letter explaining purpose
of trip.  Send SASE for return of passport by mail.  AIDS test required for
resident visa.  U.S. test sometimes accepted.  For more information contact
Embassy of Bolivia (Consular Section), 3014 Mass. Ave., N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20008 (202/232-4828 or 483-4410) or nearest Consulate General:  San
Francisco (415/495-5173), Miami (305/358-3450), New York (212/687-0530) or
Houston (713/780-8001).  (Check special requirements for pets.)
Bolivia - Consular Information Sheet
September 2, 1994
Country Description:  Bolivia is a developing nation with a slowly growing
economy.  Facilities for tourism are adequate but vary greatly in quality.
Roads outside the major cities are frequently unpaved.  Rail transportation
is below standard.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  U.S. citizens do not need a
visa for a one-month stay.  For current information concerning entry and
customs requirements for Bolivia, travelers can contact the Bolivian Embassy
at 3014 Massachusetts Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel: (202) 483-
4410 or the nearest consulate in Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Houston, New
Orleans or San Francisco.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care in large cities is adequate but of varying
quality.  Doctors and hospitals usually expect immediate cash payment for
health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not valid in Bolivia.  The
Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide payment of medical services
outside the United States.  In some cases, medical insurance with specific
overseas and medical evacuation coverage has proven useful.  Cholera is
present in Bolivia.  Visitors who follow proper precautions about food and
drink are not usually at risk.  For additional health information, travelers
can contact the Centers for Disease Control's international travelers'
hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Street crime such as pickpocketing and theft from parked
vehicles is common.  Violent crimes or crimes involving weapons are rare.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the
local police and the U.S. Embassy.  Useful information on guarding valuables
and protecting personal security while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" which is available from
the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.  Also available from the same address is the
Department of State publication "Tips for Travelers to Central and South
America."
Areas of Instability:  Because of anti-narcotics activities in the Chapare
region between Santa Cruz and Cochabamba the potential for security risks
exists in this area.  Travelers to this area should consult with the
Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy prior to travel.
Terrorist Activities:  There have been isolated terrorist incidents against
American official installations and resident missionaries over the past four
years.  There were two incidents in 1993, involving a U.S. Agency for
International Development (USAID) facility in La Paz and a Mormon church in
El Alto.  No incidents occurred in the first half of 1994.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties in Bolivia for possession, use and
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and convicted offenders can expect
lengthy jail sentences and fines.  Arrested persons can expect to wait in
prison for up to two years before being sentenced.
Adoptions:  Adoptions or the granting of legal custody for subsequent
adoption abroad is possible for foreigners.  Selection of a reputable
attorney and agency is essential.  Processing can take weeks or months and
must conform with both Bolivian and U.S. law.  Bolivian laws governing
adoptions by foreigners has changed in the past year but has not yet been
fully implemented awaiting the appointment of new judges to handle these
cases.  The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy is unable to intervene on
behalf of adoptive parents to bypass legal requirements and bureaucratic
obstacles.  Updated information on adoption processing in Bolivia is
available from the Consular Section of the Embassy.  Additional information
is available by writing the Office of Citizens Consular Services,
CA/OCS/CCS, Room 4817, Department of State, Washington, D.C. 20520 or by
telephoning [phone].
Other Information:  La Paz and other cities have been the scene of frequent
demonstrations by various local groups.  Although not specifically directed
at foreigners, these demonstrations have resulted in occasional
confrontations between police and demonstrators in which tear gas and force
have been used.  Visitors to Bolivia are advised to avoid any area in which
demonstrations are in progress.  Strikes and various kinds of civic actions
can occur at any time and may result in disruption of transportation on a
local or national level.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In January 1994, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Bolivia's civil aviation authority as not in
compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards for
Bolivia's carriers operating to and from the U.S.  While consultations to
correct the deficiencies are ongoing, air carriers licensed by Bolivia are
permitted to conduct limited operations to the U.S. subject to heightened
FAA surveillance.  The FAA is not providing heightened surveillance for
operations to destinations other than the U.S.  For further information,
travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at 1-800-322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration:  Americans are encouraged to register with
the Consular Section of the American Embassy located in the Edificio Tobia,
Calle Potosi, corner with Calle Colon.  This is one block above the U.S.
Embassy which is located on Calle Colon.  The Consular Section telephone
number is (591-2) 356685.  There are also U.S. consular agencies in Santa
Cruz and Cochabamba which are open mornings only.  The agency in Santa Cruz
is located in the Edificio Oriente, Room 313, telephone [phone].
The agency in Cochabamba is located on Ave. Libertador Bolivar, Number 1724
Cala-Cala, telephone [phone].
No. 94-201
This updates the Consular Information Sheet dated June 24, 1994 by providing
information on aviation oversight.
=                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bolivia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central South America, southwest of Brazil
Map references:
    South America
Area:
  total area:
    1,098,580 sq km
  land area:
    1,084,390 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than three times the size of Montana
Land boundaries:
    total 6,743 km, Argentina 832 km, Brazil 3,400 km, Chile 861 km, Paraguay
    750 km, Peru 900 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    has wanted a sovereign corridor to the South Pacific Ocean since the Atacama
    area was lost to Chile in 1884; dispute with Chile over Rio Lauca water
    rights
Climate:
    varies with altitude; humid and tropical to cold and semiarid
Terrain:
    rugged Andes Mountains with a highland plateau (Altiplano), hills, lowland
    plains of the Amazon Basin
Natural resources:
    tin, natural gas, petroleum, zinc, tungsten, antimony, silver, iron, lead,
    gold, timber
Land use:
  arable land:
    3%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    25%
  forest and woodland:
    52%
  other:
    20%
Irrigated land:
    1,650 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    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); desertification; loss of biodiversity; industrial pollution of
    water supplies used for drinking and irrigation
  natural hazards:
    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 to April)
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Nuclear Test
    Ban, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified -
    Desertification, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the
    Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bolivia
                                    Geography
Note:
    landlocked; shares control of Lago Titicaca, world's highest navigable lake
    (elevation 3,805 m), with Peru
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bolivia
                                     People
Population:
    7,896,254 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    39% (female 1,542,931; male 1,565,624)
  15-64 years:
    57% (female 2,276,308; male 2,188,100)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 174,419; male 148,872) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.25% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    31.61 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.12 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -1.01 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    70.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    63.85 years
  male:
    61.39 years
  female:
    66.43 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    4.1 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Bolivian(s)
  adjective:
    Bolivian
Ethnic divisions:
    Quechua 30%, Aymara 25%, mestizo (mixed European and Indian ancestry)
    25%-30%, European 5%-15%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 95%, Protestant (Evangelical Methodist)
Languages:
    Spanish (official), Quechua (official), Aymara (official)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1992)
  total population:
    80%
  male:
    88%
  female:
    72%
Labor force:
    3.54 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture NA, services and utilities 20%, manufacturing, mining and
    construction 7% (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bolivia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Bolivia
  conventional short form:
    Bolivia
  local long form:
    Republica de Bolivia
  local short form:
    Bolivia
Digraph:
    BL
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    La Paz (seat of government); Sucre (legal capital and seat of judiciary)
Administrative divisions:
    9 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Chuquisaca,
    Cochabamba, Beni, La Paz, Oruro, Pando, Potosi, Santa Cruz, Tarija
Independence:
    6 August 1825 (from Spain)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 6 August (1825)
Constitution:
    2 February 1967
Legal system:
    based on Spanish law and Code Napoleon; has not accepted compulsory ICJ
    jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age, universal and compulsory (married);  21 years of age,
    universal and compulsory (single)
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Gonzalo SANCHEZ DE LOZADA Bustamente (since 6 August 1993); Vice
    President Victor Hugo CARDENAS Conde (since 6 August 1993); election last
    held 6 June 1993 (next to be held May 1997); results - Gonzalo SANCHEZ DE
    LOZADA (MNR) 34%, Hugo BANZER Suarez (ADN/MIR alliance) 20%, Carlos PALENQUE
    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 left the coalition in 1994
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president from panel proposed by the Senate
Legislative branch:
    bicameral National Congress (Congreso Nacional)
  Chamber of Deputies (Camara de Diputados):
    elections last held 6 June 1993 (next to be held 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 May 1997); results -
    percent of vote by party NA; seats - (27 total) MNR 17, ADN 4, MIR 4,
    CONDEPA 1, UCS 1
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court (Corte Suprema)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bolivia
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
  Left parties:
    Free Bolivia Movement (MBL), Antonio ARANIBAR; April 9 Revolutionary
    Vanguard (VR-9), Carlos SERRATE; Alternative of Democratic Socialism (ASD),
    Jerjes JUSTIANO; Revolutionary Front of the Left (FRI), Oscar ZAMORA;
    Bolivian Socialist Falange (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), Max FERNANDEZ Rojas; Conscience of the
    Fatherland (CONDEPA), Carlos PALENQUE 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
Member of:
    AG, ECLAC, FAO, G-11, G-77, GATT, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD,
    IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM, ITU, LAES, LAIA,
    NAM, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO,
    WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Andres PETRICEVIC Raznatovic
  chancery:
    3014 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone] through 4412
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Miami, New York, and San Francisco
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Curt Warren KAMMAN
  embassy:
    Avenida Arce 2780, San Jorge, La Paz
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 425, La Paz; APO AA 34032
  telephone:
    [591] (2) 430251
  FAX:
    [591] (2) 4339000
Flag:
    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 Ghana, which has
    a large black five-pointed star centered in the yellow band
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bolivia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    With its long history of semifeudal social controls, dependence on volatile
    prices for its mineral exports, and bouts of hyperinflation, Bolivia has
    remained one of the poorest and least developed Latin American countries.
    However, Bolivia has experienced generally improving economic conditions
    since the PAZ Estenssoro administration (1985-89) introduced market-oriented
    policies which reduced inflation 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 Bolivia's once powerful labor movement. By
    maintaining fiscal discipline, PAZ Zamora helped reduce inflation 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 an inflation rate that
    continues to decrease - the 1994 rate of 8.5% was the lowest in ten years -
    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. Related laws - one that establishes
    SIRESE, the regulatory agency that will oversee the privatizations, and
    another that outlines the rules for privatization in the electricity sector
    - were approved later in the year.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $18.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    4.2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $2,370 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    8.5% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    6.2% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $3.75 billion
  expenditures:
    $3.75 billion, including capital expenditures of $556.2 million (1995 est.)
Exports:
    $1.1 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    metals 39%, natural gas 9%, soybeans 11%, jewelry 11%, wood 8%
  partners:
    US 26%, Argentina 15% (1993 est.)
Imports:
    $1.21 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    capital goods 48%, chemicals 11%, petroleum 5%, food 5% (1993 est.)
  partners:
    US 24%, Argentina 13%, Brazil 11%, Japan 11% (1993 est.)
External debt:
    $4.2 billion (January 1995)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 5% (1994 est.)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    756,200 kW
  production:
    2.116 billion kWh
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bolivia
                                     Economy
  consumption per capita:
    367 kWh (1994)
Industries:
    mining, smelting, petroleum, food and beverage, tobacco, handicrafts,
    clothing; illicit drug industry reportedly produces 15% of its revenues
Agriculture:
    accounts for about 21% of GDP (including forestry and fisheries); principal
    commodities - coffee, coca, cotton, corn, sugarcane, rice, potatoes, timber;
    self-sufficient in food
Illicit drugs:
    world's second-largest producer of coca (after Peru) with an estimated
    48,100 hectares under cultivation in 1994; voluntary and forced eradication
    programs unable to prevent production from rising to 89,800 metric tons in
    1994 from 84,400 tons in 1993; government considers all but 12,000 hectares
    illicit; intermediate coca products and cocaine exported to or through
    Colombia and Brazil to the US and other international drug markets;
    alternative crop program aims to reduce illicit coca cultivation
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $990 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $2.025 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89), $340 million
Currency:
    1 boliviano ($B) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    bolivianos ($B) per US$1 - 4.72 (January 1995), 4.6205 (1994), 4.2651
    (1993), 3.9005 (1992), 3.5806 (1991), 3.1727 (1990)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bolivia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,684 km (single track)
  narrow gauge:
    3,652 km 1.000-m gauge; 32 km 0.760-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    42,815 km
  paved:
    1,865 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 12,000 km; improved/unimproved earth 28,950 km
Inland waterways:
    10,000 km of commercially navigable waterways
Pipelines:
    crude oil 1,800 km; petroleum products 580 km; natural gas 1,495 km
Ports:
    none; however, Bolivia has free port privileges in the maritime ports of
    Argentina, Brazil, Chile, and Paraguay
Merchant marine:
  total:
    1 cargo ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 4,214 GRT/6,390 DWT
Airports:
    1,382
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    3
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1,016
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    77
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    275
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bolivia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    about 150,000 telephones; about 2.0 telephones/100 persons; new subscribers
    face bureaucratic difficulties; most telephones in La Paz and other cities;
    microwave radio relay system being expanded; improved international services
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    microwave radio relay system
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 129, FM 0, shortwave 68
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    43
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Bolivia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army (Ejercito Boliviano), Navy (Fuerza Naval Boliviana, includes Marines),
    Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Boliviana), National Police Force  (Policia Nacional
    de Bolivia)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 1,885,485; males fit for military service 1,226,218; males
    reach military age (19) annually 81,065 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $134 million; 1.9% of GDP (1994)
Bassas da India
BARBADOS - U.S. tourists traveling directly from the U.S. to Barbados may
enter for up to 3 months stay with proof of U.S. citizenship (original or
certified copy of birth certificate), photo ID and onward/return ticket.
Passport required for longer visits and other types of travel.  Business
visas $25, single-entry and $30 multiple-entry (may require work permit).
Departure tax of $25 is paid at airport.  Check information with Embassy of
Barbados, 2144 Wyoming Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/939-9200) or
Consulate General in New York (212/867-8435).
Barbados - Consular Information Sheet
September 28, 1993
Country Description:  Barbados has a moderately developed economy.
Facilities for tourism are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  U.S. citizens may enter Barbados for up to three months
without a passport, but must carry an original document proving U.S.
citizenship, photo identification, and an onward/return ticket.  A passport
is required for longer visits and other types of travel.  For further
information concerning entry requirements for Barbados, travelers may
contact the Embassy of Barbados at 2144 Wyoming Avenue N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20008, tel: [phone] or the Consulate General in New York.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is generally good but may be limited in
outlying areas.  Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment
for health services.  In some cases, supplementary medical insurance
specifically for use overseas may be useful.  For additional health
information, contact the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Street crime, sometimes involving assault, occurs.
Valuables left unattended on the beach are subject to theft.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported to the
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  A  lost or stolen
U.S. birth certificate and/or driver's license generally cannot be replaced
outside of the United States.  Useful information on guarding valuables and
protecting personal security while traveling abroad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  Both this pamphlet and
"Tips for Travelers to the Caribbean" are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for possession, use, or
dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
lengthy jail sentences and heavy fines.
Embassy Location/Registration: U.S. citizens may register at the Consular
Section of the U.S. Embassy in Barbados.  The U.S. Embassy is located in
Bridgetown in the Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Building on Broad
Street; telephone [phone].  The Consular Section is located in the
American Life Insurance Company (ALICO) Building, Cheapside; telephone (809)
431-0225.  This Embassy is also responsible for U.S. interests in Dominica,
St. Lucia, St. Vincent and the Grenadines, and the islands of the French
West Indies including Martinique, Guadalupe and French St. Martin.  U.S.
citizens may call the U.S. Embassy to obtain updated information on travel
and security in Barbados.
No. 93-253
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated May 27, 1992 to include
the French West Indies in the U.S. Embassy's area of responsibility.
@*!*                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Barbados
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean,
    northeast of Venezuela
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    430 sq km
  land area:
    430 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    97 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; rainy season (June to October)
Terrain:
    relatively flat; rises gently to central highland region
Natural resources:
    petroleum, fishing, natural gas
Land use:
  arable land:
    77%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    9%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    14%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    pollution of coastal waters from waste disposal by ships; soil erosion;
    illegal solid waste disposal threatens contamination of aquifers
  natural hazards:
    hurricanes (especially June to October); periodic landslides
  international agreements:
    party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine
    Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified -
    Biodiversity
Note:
    easternmost Caribbean island
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Barbados
                                     People
Population:
    256,395 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    24% (female 30,175; male 31,507)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 86,103; male 82,727)
  65 years and over:
    10% (female 15,849; male 10,034) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    0.24% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    15.45 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.27 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -4.82 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    19.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    74.16 years
  male:
    71.47 years
  female:
    77.06 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.78 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Barbadian(s)
  adjective:
    Barbadian
Ethnic divisions:
    African 80%, European 4%, other 16%
Religions:
    Protestant 67% (Anglican 40%, Pentecostal 8%, Methodist 7%, other 12%),
    Roman Catholic 4%, none 17%, unknown 3%, other 9% (1980)
Languages:
    English
Literacy:
    age 15 and over has ever attended school (1970)
  total population:
    99%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    99%
Labor force:
    124,800 (1992)
  by occupation:
    services and government 41%, commerce 15%, manufacturing and construction
    18%, transportation, storage, communications, and financial institutions 8%,
    agriculture 6%, utilities 2% (1992 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Barbados
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Barbados
Digraph:
    BB
Type:
    parliamentary democracy
Capital:
    Bridgetown
Administrative divisions:
    11 parishes; Christ Church, Saint Andrew, Saint George, Saint James, Saint
    John, Saint Joseph, Saint Lucy, Saint Michael, Saint Peter, Saint Philip,
    Saint Thomas
  note:
    the new city of Bridgetown may be given parish status
Independence:
    30 November 1966 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 30 November (1966)
Constitution:
    30 November 1966
Legal system:
    English common law; no judicial review of legislative acts
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    Dame Nita BARROW (since 6 June 1990)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Owen Seymour ARTHUR (since 6 September 1994); Deputy Prime
    Minister Billie MILLER (since 6 September 1994)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister
Legislative branch:
    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) DLP 8, BLP 19, NDP
    1
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court of Judicature
Political parties and leaders:
    Democratic Labor Party (DLP),David THOMPSON; Barbados Labor Party (BLP),
    Owen ARTHUR; National Democratic Party (NDP), Richard HAYNES
Other political or pressure groups:
    Barbados Workers Union, Leroy TROTMAN; People's Progressive Movement, Eric
    SEALY; Workers' Party of Barbados, Dr. George BELLE; Clement Payne Labor
    Union, David COMMISSIONG
Member of:
    ACP, C, CARICOM, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, GATT, IADB, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM,
    IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ISO
    (correspondent), ITU, LAES, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO,
    UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Barbados
                                   Government
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Courtney BLACKMAN
  chancery:
    2144 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 9219
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Miami and New York
  consulate(s):
    Los Angeles
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jeanette W. HYDE
  embassy:
    Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Building, Broad Street, Bridgetown
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 302, Bridgetown; FPO AA 34055
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
Flag:
    three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), yellow, 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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Barbados
                                     Economy
Overview:
    A per capita income of $9,200 gives Barbados one of the highest standards of
    living of all the small island states of the eastern Caribbean.
    Historically, the economy was based on the cultivation of sugarcane and
    related activities. In recent years, however, the economy has diversified
    into manufacturing and tourism. A moderate recovery that began in late 1993
    after 3 years of contraction is mainly due to increased tourism and
    expansion in the construction sector. Economic prospects for 1995 depend
    mostly on continued growth in the industrialized countries, especially in
    Europe, which would spur further expansion in tourism.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $2.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $9,200 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    20.5% (1994 est.)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $509 million
  expenditures:
    $636 million, including capital expenditures of $86 million (FY94/95 est.)
Exports:
    $161 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    sugar and molasses, rum, other foods and beverages, chemicals, electrical
    components, clothing
  partners:
    US 13%, UK 10%, Trinidad and Tobago 9%, Windward Islands 8%
Imports:
    $703 million (c.i.f., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    consumer goods, machinery, foodstuffs, construction materials, chemicals,
    fuel, electrical components
  partners:
    US 36%, UK 11%, Trinidad and Tobago 11%, Japan 3%
External debt:
    $652 million (1991 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 2% (FY93/94 est.); accounts for about 10% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    152,100 kW
  production:
    510 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,841 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tourism, sugar, light manufacturing, component assembly for export
Agriculture:
    accounts for 6% of GDP; major cash crop is sugarcane; other crops -
    vegetables, cotton; not self-sufficient in food
Illicit drugs:
    one of many Caribbean transshipment points for narcotics bound for the US
    and Europe
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Barbados
                                     Economy
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $15 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $171 million
Currency:
    1 Barbadian dollar (Bds$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Barbadian dollars (Bds$) per US$1 - 2.0113 (fixed rate)
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Barbados
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    1,570 km
  paved:
    1,475 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, earth 95 km
Ports:
    Bridgetown
Merchant marine:
  total:
    12 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 61,563 GRT/103,632 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 4, cargo 6, oil tanker 2
Airports:
  total:
    1
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Barbados
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    89,000 telephones
  local:
    island wide automatic telephone system;
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station; tropospheric scatter link to
    Trinidad and Saint Lucia
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 2, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    2 (1 pay)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Barbados
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Royal Barbados Defense Force (includes the Ground Forces and Coast Guard),
    Royal Barbados Police Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 71,153; males fit for military service 49,488 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $NA, NA% of GDP
EQUATORIAL GUINEA - Passport and visa required.  Obtain visa in
advance. For further information contact the residence of the Ambassador of
Equatorial Guinea at 57 Magnolia Ave., Mount Vernon, NY (914/667-9664).
Equatorial Guinea - Consular Information Sheet
November 4, 1994
Country Description:  Equatorial Guinea is a developing country in West
Africa.  Tourism facilities are minimal.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa, obtained in advance, are
required.  For entry information, travelers may contact the residence of the
Ambassador of Equatorial Guinea, 57 Magnolia Avenue, Mount Vernon, New York,
telephone [phone].
Airline Safety:  It is reported that the government-owned Equatorial Guinean
Airlines (EGA) does not meet any internationally accepted standards for
airworthiness.  U.S. government employees are prohibited from flying on this
airline.  Acceptable means of travel from Equatorial Guinea to the rest of
Africa is by charter air service, by Cameroon Airlines from Malabo to
Douala, Cameroon, by Iberia Airlines from Malabo to Madrid, Spain, or
overland through another country.
L`L`L`
British Virgin Islands
BRAZIL - Passport and visa required.  Visa must be obtained in advance.
Multiple-entry visa valid up to 90 days (extendable), requires 1
application form, 1 photo, proof of onward/return transportation, and
yellow fever vaccination if arriving from infected area.  No charge if you
apply in person; $10 service fee if you apply by mail.  Provide SASE for
return of passport by mail.  For travel with children or business visa
contact Brazilian Embassy (Consular Section), 3009 Whitehaven St., N.W.,
Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/745-2828) or nearest Consulate:  CA
(213/651-2664), FL (305/285-6200), IL (312/464-0244), LA (504/588-9187) or
NY (212/757-3080).
Brazil - Consular Information Sheet
September 2, 1994
Country Description:  Brazil has a developing economy.  Facilities for
tourism are good in the major cities, but vary in quality in remote areas.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and visa are required.  Brazilian visas must
be obtained in advance as immigration authorities will not allow entry into
Brazil without a valid visa.  Minors (under 18) traveling alone, with one
parent or with a third party must present written authorization by the
absent parent(s) or legal guardian, specifically granting permission to
travel alone, with one parent or with a third party.  This authorization
must be notarized, authenticated by the Brazilian Embassy or Consulate, and
translated into Portuguese.  For current information concerning entry and
customs requirements for Brazil, travelers can contact the Brazilian Embassy
at 3006 Massachusetts Avenue N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, Tel: (202) 745-
2700 or the nearest Consulate in Los Angeles, San Francisco, Boston, Miami,
New York, Chicago or San Juan.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care varies in quality, particularly in remote
areas.  Cholera has been reported in the Amazon basin region, northeastern
Brazil and major cities.  Visitors who follow proper precautions about food
and drink are not usually at risk.  Malaria is making a dramatic comeback in
the Amazon River basin, including the city of Manaus and neighboring
municipalities.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  The Medicare/Medicaid program does not provide payment of medical
services outside the United States.  In some cases, medical insurance with
specific overseas and medical evacuation coverage has proven useful.  For
additional health information, travelers can contact the Centers for Disease
Control's international travelers' hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  The incidence of crime against tourists tends to be
greater in areas surrounding discotheques, bars, nightclubs and other
similar establishments, especially at dusk and during the evening hours.
Several Brazilian cities have established specialized tourist police units
to patrol areas frequented by tourists.
Rio de Janeiro, Brazil's most popular tourist destination, understandably
experiences a proportionately greater amount of crime against tourists.
While still very serious, there has been some reduction in the crime rate
since the 1992 deployment of a tourist police unit.  With some exceptions,
U.S. government personnel and official visitors are not housed in the
troublesome Copacabana and Leme neighborhoods.  Although U.S. tourists have
not been targeted, there is an upsurge of kidnappings of wealthy Brazilians
in Rio.
Sao Paulo has noted a recent increase in street crime where guns are
involved.  Additionally, Sao Paulo has reported thefts at its international
airport (Guarulhos), involving carry on luggage or briefcases which had been
set down, sometimes for a moment.  Arriving and departing travelers should
be especially vigilant and take the necessary precautions at this and other
Brazilian airports.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to the
local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  Useful information
on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip
Abroad," which is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C. 20402.  Also available from the
same address is the Department of State publication, "Tips for Travelers to
Central and South America."
Adoptions:  The adoption process in Brazil is often lengthy and costly.  It
is not unusual to encounter serious unforeseen problems, particularly in the
northeastern states of Ceara, Paraiba, and Pernambuco.  Updated information
on Brazilian adoption proceedings is available from the consular section of
the U.S. Consulate having jurisdiction over the locality where the adoption
will take place.  Information on U.S. immigrant visa requirements is
available from the Consular Section of the U.S. Consulate General in Rio de
Janeiro, where all immigrant visa cases for Brazil are processed.
Additional information is available by writing the Office of Citizens
Consular Services, CA/OCS/CCS, Room 4817, Department of State, Washington,
D.C. 20520, or by telephoning [phone].
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Penalties in Brazil for possession, use and
trafficking in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect
lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In November 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Brazil's civil aviation authority as in compliance
with international aviation safety oversight standards for Brazilian
carriers operating to and from the U.S.  The same level of safety oversight
would typically be applied to operations to other destinations.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at 1-800-
322-7873.
Embassy Location/Registration:  Americans who register with the Consular
Section of the U.S. Embassy or consulates may obtain updated information on
travel and security within Brazil.
The U.S. Embassy is located in Brasilia at Avenida das Nacoes, Lote 3,
telephone: [phone].
There are consulates in:
Rio de Janeiro at Avenida Presidente Wilson 147, telephone: [phone]
Sao Paulo at Rua Padre Joao Manoel 933, telephone: [phone]
Porto Alegre at Rua Coronel Genuino 421 (9th flr.), telephone: [phone]-
Recife at Rua Goncalves Maia 163, telephone: [phone].
There are also consular agencies in:
Belem at Travessa Padre Eutiquio 1309, telephone: [phone]
Manaus at Rua Recife 1010, Adrianopolis, telephone: [phone]
Salvador de Bahia at Avenida Antonio Carlos Magalhaes S/N Edificio Cidadella
Center, Suite 410, Candeal, telephone: [phone],
Fortaleza at the Instituto Brasil-Estados Unidos (IBEU), Rua Nogueira
Acioly, 891, Aldeota, telephone: [phone].
No. 94-181
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated June 24, 1994 to add
information on aviation oversight.
@C/C                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brazil
                                    Geography
Location:
    Eastern South America, bordering the Atlantic Ocean
Map references:
    South America
Area:
  total area:
    8,511,965 sq km
  land area:
    8,456,510 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than the US
  note:
    includes Arquipelago de Fernando de Noronha, Atol das Rocas, Ilha da
    Trindade, Ilhas Martin Vaz, and Penedos de Sao Pedro e Sao Paulo
Land boundaries:
    total 14,691 km, Argentina 1,224 km, Bolivia 3,400 km, Colombia 1,643 km,
    French Guiana 673 km, Guyana 1,119 km, Paraguay 1,290 km, Peru 1,560 km,
    Suriname 597 km, Uruguay 985 km, Venezuela 2,200 km
Coastline:
    7,491 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  continental shelf:
    200 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    short section of the boundary with Paraguay, 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
Climate:
    mostly tropical, but temperate in south
Terrain:
    mostly flat to rolling lowlands in north; some plains, hills, mountains, and
    narrow coastal belt
Natural resources:
    bauxite, gold, iron ore, manganese, nickel, phosphates, platinum, tin,
    uranium, petroleum, hydropower, timber
Land use:
  arable land:
    7%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    19%
  forest and woodland:
    67%
  other:
    6%
Irrigated land:
    27,000 sq km (1989 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brazil
                                    Geography
Environment:
  current issues:
    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 pollution in Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo, and several other
    large cities; land degradation and water pollution caused by improper mining
    activities
  natural hazards:
    recurring droughts in northeast; floods and occasional frost in south
  international agreements:
    party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered
    Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea,
    Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution,
    Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified -
    Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification
Note:
    largest country in South America; shares common boundaries with every South
    American country except Chile and Ecuador
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brazil
                                     People
Population:
    160,737,489 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    31% (female 24,641,868; male 25,515,775)
  15-64 years:
    64% (female 51,966,272; male 51,254,165)
  65 years and over:
    5% (female 4,393,530; male 2,965,879) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.22% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    21.16 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    8.98 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    57.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    61.82 years
  male:
    56.57 years
  female:
    67.32 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.39 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Brazilian(s)
  adjective:
    Brazilian
Ethnic divisions:
    Caucasion (includes Portuguese, German, Italian, Spanish, Polish) 55%, mixed
    Caucasion and African 38%, African 6%, other (includes Japanese, Arab,
    Amerindian) 1%
Religions:
    Roman Catholic (nominal) 70%
Languages:
    Portuguese (official), Spanish, English, French
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1991)
  total population:
    80%
  male:
    80%
  female:
    80%
Labor force:
    57 million (1989 est.)
  by occupation:
    services 42%, agriculture 31%, industry 27%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brazil
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Federative Republic of Brazil
  conventional short form:
    Brazil
  local long form:
    Republica Federativa do Brasil
  local short form:
    Brasil
Digraph:
    BR
Type:
    federal republic
Capital:
    Brasilia
Administrative divisions:
    26 states (estados, singular - estado) and 1 federal district* (distrito
    federal); Acre, Alagoas, Amapa, Amazonas, Bahia, 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
Independence:
    7 September 1822 (from Portugal)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 7 September (1822)
Constitution:
    5 October 1988
Legal system:
    based on Roman codes; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    voluntary between 16 and 18 years of age and over 70; compulsory over 18 and
    under 70 years of age
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Fernando Henrique CARDOSO (since 1 January 1995) 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
    free, direct presidential election since 1960
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the president
Legislative branch:
    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%
  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%
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Federal Tribunal
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brazil
                                   Government
Political parties and leaders:
    National Reconstruction Party (PRN), Daniel TOURINHO, president; Brazilian
    Democratic Movement Party (PMDB), Luiz HENRIQUE da Silveira, president;
    Liberal Front Party (PFL), Jorge BORNHAUSEN, president; Workers' Party (PT),
    Rui Goethe da Costa FALCAO, president; Brazilian Workers' Party (PTB), Jose
    Eduardo ANDRADE VIEIRA, president; Democratic Workers' Party (PDT), Anthony
    GAROTINHO, president; Progressive Renewal Party (PPR), Espiridiao AMIN,
    president; Brazilian Social Democracy Party (PSDB), Artur DA TAVOLA,
    president; Popular Socialist Party (PPS), Roberto FREIRE, president;
    Communist Party of Brazil (PCdoB), Joao AMAZONAS, secretary general; Liberal
    Party (PL), Alvero VALLE, president
Other political or pressure groups:
    left wing of the Catholic Church and labor unions allied to leftist Workers'
    Party are critical of government's social and economic policies
Member of:
    AfDB, AG (observer), CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-11, G-15, G-19, G-24, G-77, GATT,
    IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF,
    IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, LAES,
    LAIA, MERCOSUR, NAM (observer), OAS, ONUSAL, OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UNAVEM II,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNOMOZ, UNOMUR, UNPROFOR, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU,
    WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Paulo Tarso FLECHA de LIMA
  chancery:
    3006 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Juan (Puerto Rico), and
    San Francisco
  consulate(s):
    Houston
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Melvyn LEVITSKY
  embassy:
    Avenida das Nacoes, Lote 3, Brasilia, Distrito Federal
  mailing address:
    Unit 3500; APO AA 34030
  telephone:
    [55] (61) 321-7272
  FAX:
    [55] (61) 225-9136
  consulate(s) general:
    Rio de Janeiro, Sao Paulo
  consulate(s):
    Porto Alegre, Recife
Flag:
    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 Brazil; the
    globe has a white equatorial band with the motto ORDEM E PROGRESSO (Order
    and Progress)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brazil
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The economy, with large agrarian, mining, and manufacturing sectors, entered
    the 1990s with declining real growth, runaway inflation, an unserviceable
    foreign debt of $122 billion, and a lack of policy direction. In addition,
    the economy remained highly regulated, inward-looking, and protected by
    substantial trade and investment barriers. Ownership of major industrial and
    mining facilities is divided among private interests - including several
    multinationals - and the government. Most large agricultural holdings are
    private, with the government channeling financing to this sector. Conflicts
    between large landholders and landless peasants have produced intermittent
    violence. The COLLOR government, which assumed office in March 1990,
    launched an ambitious reform program that sought to modernize and
    reinvigorate the economy by stabilizing prices, deregulating the economy,
    and opening it to increased foreign competition. Itamar FRANCO, who assumed
    the presidency following President COLLOR's resignation in December 1992,
    was out of step with COLLOR's reform agenda; initiatives to redress fiscal
    problems, privatize state enterprises, and liberalize trade and investment
    policies lost momentum. Galloping inflation - by June 1994 the monthly rate
    had risen to nearly 50% - had undermined economic stability. In response,
    the then finance minister, Fernando Henrique CARDOSO, launched the third
    phase of his stabilization plan, known as Plano Real, that called for a new
    currency, the real, which was introduced on 1 July 1994. Inflation
    subsequently dropped to under 3% per month through the end of 1994. The
    newly elected President CARDOSO has called for the implementation of
    sweeping market-oriented reform, including public sector and fiscal reform,
    privatization, deregulation, and elimination of barriers to increased
    foreign investment. Brazil's natural resources remain a major, long-term
    economic strength.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $886.3 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5.3% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $5,580 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    1,094% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    4.9% (1993)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $113 billion
  expenditures:
    $109 billion, including capital expenditures of $23 billion (1992)
Exports:
    $43.6 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    iron ore, soybean bran, orange juice, footwear, coffee, motor vehicle parts
  partners:
    EC 27.6%, Latin America 21.8%, US 17.4%, Japan 6.3% (1993)
Imports:
    $33.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.)
  commodities:
    crude oil, capital goods, chemical products, foodstuffs, coal
  partners:
    US 23.3%, EC 22.5%, Middle East 13.0%, Latin America 11.8%, Japan 6.5%
    (1993)
External debt:
    $134 billion (1994)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brazil
                                     Economy
Industrial production:
    growth rate 9.5% (1993); accounts for 39% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    55,130,000 kW
  production:
    241.4 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    1,589 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    textiles, shoes, chemicals, cement, lumber, mining (iron ore, tin), steel
    making, machine building - including aircraft, motor vehicles, motor vehicle
    parts and assemblies, and other machinery and equipment
Agriculture:
    accounts for 11% of GDP; world's largest producer and exporter of coffee and
    orange juice concentrate and second-largest exporter of soybeans; other
    products - rice, corn, sugarcane, cocoa, beef; self-sufficient in food,
    except for wheat
Illicit drugs:
    illicit producer of cannabis and coca, mostly for domestic consumption;
    government has a small-scale eradication program to control cannabis and
    coca cultivation; important transshipment country for Bolivian and Colombian
    cocaine headed for the US and Europe
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $2.5 billion; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $10.2 million; OPEC
    bilateral aid (1979-89), $284 million; former Communist countries (1970-89),
    $1.3 billion
Currency:
    1 real (R$) = 100 centavos
Exchange rates:
    R$ per US$1 - 0.85 (January 1995); CR$ per US$1 - 390.845 (January 1994),
    88.449 (1993), 4.513 (1992), 0.407 (1991), 0.068 (1990)
  note:
    on 1 August 1993 the cruzeiro real (CR$), equal to 1,000 cruzeiros, was
    introduced; another new currency, the real, was introduced on 1 July 1994,
    equal to 2,750 cruzeiro reals
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brazil
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    30,612 km (1992)
  broad gauge:
    5,369 km 1.600-m gauge (1,108 km electrified)
  standard gauge:
    194 km 1.440-m gauge
  narrow gauge:
    24,739 km 1.000-m gauge (112 km electrified); 13 km 0.760-m gauge
  dual gauge:
    310 km 1.600-m/1.000-m gauge (78 km electrified)
Highways:
  total:
    1,670,148 km
  paved:
    161,503 km
  unpaved:
    gravel/earth  1,508,645 km (1990)
Inland waterways:
    50,000 km navigable
Pipelines:
    crude oil 2,000 km; petroleum products 3,804 km; natural gas 1,095 km
Ports:
    Belem, Fortaleza, Ilheus, Imbituba, Manaus, Paranagua, Porto Alegre, Recife,
    Rio de Janeiro, Rio Grande, Salvador, Santos, Vitoria
Merchant marine:
  total:
    215 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,128,654 GRT/8,664,776 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 52, cargo 34, chemical tanker 13, combination ore/oil 12, container 12,
    liquefied gas tanker 11, oil tanker 64, passenger-cargo 5, refrigerated
    cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 11
Airports:
  total:
    3,467
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    5
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    19
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    126
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    286
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1,652
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    76
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1,303
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brazil
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    9.86 million telephones; telephone density - 61/1,000 persons; good working
    system
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    extensive microwave radio relay systems and 64 domestic satellite earth
    stations
  international:
    3 coaxial submarine cables; 3 Atlantic Ocean INTELSAT earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1,223, FM 0, shortwave 151
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    112 (Brazil has the world's fourth largest television broadcasting system)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Brazil
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Brazilian Army, Brazilian Navy (includes Marines), Brazilian Air Force,
    Federal Police (paramilitary)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 44,301,765; males fit for military service 29,815,576; males
    reach military age (18) annually 1,703,438 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $5.0 billion, 0.9% of GDP (1994)
Bahrain
BAHAMAS - Proof of U.S. citizenship, photo ID and onward/return ticket
required for stay up to 8 months.  Passport and residence/work permit
needed for residence and business.  Permit required for firearms and to
import pets.  Departure tax of $15 must be paid at airport.  For further
information call Embassy of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, 2220
Massachusetts Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008 (202/319-2660) or nearest
Consulate:  Miami (305/373-6295) or New York (212/421-6420).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Bahamas
============================================================
Bahamas - Consular Information Sheet
 January 24, 1995
Country Description:  The Bahamas has a moderately developed
economy.  Tourist facilities are widely available.
Entry Requirements:  Visas are not required for U.S. citizens for
stays up to eight months; however, U.S. citizens must carry proof of
U.S. citizenship, photo identification, and an onward/return ticket.
 Voter registration cards are not accepted as proof of citizenship.
For further information concerning entry requirements, U.S. citizens
may contact the Embassy of the Commonwealth of the Bahamas, 2220
Massachusetts Avenue N.W., Washington D.C. 20008, telephone (202)
319-2660, or the nearest consulate in Miami or New York.
Medical Facilities:  Medical care is generally good, but may be
limited in remote areas.  Doctors and hospitals often expect
immediate cash payment for health services.  There is a chronic
shortage of blood at Princess Margaret Hospital, Nassau, where most
emergency surgery is performed.  Travelers with rare blood types
should know the name and location of possible blood donors should
the need arise.
U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas
coverage has proved to be helpful.  Information on health matters
can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control's international
travelers' hotline at [phone].
Crime Information:  Visitors may wish to exercise normal caution
and good judgment in looking after valuables on the beach and in
securing their hotel rooms properly.  Crime is more prevalent in
major population centers such as Nassau and Freeport.  Most
incidents of theft take place in a part of Nassau not usually
frequented by tourists (the "over-the-hill" area).  Women in
particular may wish to avoid traveling alone or on deserted areas of
beaches and poorly-lit areas at night.
Tourists who arrive by private boat are required to declare
firearms to Bahamian Customs and to leave firearms on the boat while
in the Bahamas.  For further information on firearms in the Bahamas,
please contact the Embassy of the Bahamas.
Boaters should be aware that long-line fishing in Bahamian waters
is illegal.  All long-line fishing gear is required to be stowed
below deck while transiting through Bahamian waters.
The loss or theft of a U.S. passport overseas should be reported to
the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  A lost
or stolen U.S. birth certificate and/or driver's license generally
cannot be replaced outside of the United States.  Useful information
on guarding valuables and protecting personal security while
traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A
Safe Trip Abroad."  Both this pamphlet and "Tips for Travelers to
the Caribbean" are available from the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use, or dealing in illegal drugs are strict, and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Aviation Oversight:  In April 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed the Bahamas' civil aviation authority as in
compliance with international aviation safety oversight standards
for Bahamian carriers operating to and from the U.S.  The same level
of safety oversight would typically be applied to operations to
other destinations.  For further information, travelers may contact
the Department of Transportation at 1 [phone].
Embassy Location/Registration:  U.S. citizens may register with the
consular section of the U.S. Embassy in the Bahamas, located in the
Mosmar Building on Queen Street in Nassau; telephones [phone]
and 328-2206. This Embassy is also responsible for consular services
in the Turks and Caicos Islands, a dependency of the United Kingdom.
 U.S. citizens may obtain from the U.S. Embassy updated information
on travel and security in the Bahamas and the Turks and Caicos.
 No. 95-009
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 3,
1994, to add information on crime.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
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Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
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"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
`)Y)                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                    Geography
Location:
    Caribbean, chain of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of
    Florida
Map references:
    Central America and the Caribbean
Area:
  total area:
    13,940 sq km
  land area:
    10,070 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Connecticut
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    3,542 km
Maritime claims:
  continental shelf:
    200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
  exclusive fishing zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    3 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical marine; moderated by warm waters of Gulf Stream
Terrain:
    long, flat coral formations with some low rounded hills
Natural resources:
    salt, aragonite, timber
Land use:
  arable land:
    1%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    32%
  other:
    67%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    coral reef decay
  natural hazards:
    hurricanes and other tropical storms that cause extensive flood and wind
    damage
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous
    Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship
    Pollution
Note:
    strategic location adjacent to US and Cuba; extensive island chain
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                     People
Population:
    256,616 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    28% (female 35,924; male 36,504)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 87,868; male 82,780)
  65 years and over:
    6% (female 8,247; male 5,293) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.09% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    19.23 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    5.79 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -2.56 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    24.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    72.12 years
  male:
    67.37 years
  female:
    76.97 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    2.01 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Bahamian(s)
  adjective:
    Bahamian
Ethnic divisions:
    black 85%, white 15%
Religions:
    Baptist 32%, Anglican 20%, Roman Catholic 19%, Methodist 6%, Church of God
    6%, other Protestant 12%, none or unknown 3%, other 2%
Languages:
    English, Creole (among Haitian immigrants)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write but definition of literary not available
    (1963 est.)
  total population:
    90%
  male:
    90%
  female:
    89%
Labor force:
    136,900 (1993)
  by occupation:
    government 30%, hotels and restaurants 25%, business services 10%,
    agriculture 5% (1989)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
     Commonwealth of The Bahamas
  conventional short form:
    The Bahamas
Digraph:
    BF
Type:
    commonwealth
Capital:
    Nassau
Administrative divisions:
    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
Independence:
    10 July 1973 (from UK)
National holiday:
    National Day, 10 July (1973)
Constitution:
    10 July 1973
Legal system:
    based on English common law
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General
    Sir Clifford DARLING (since 2 January 1992)
  head of government:
    Prime Minister Hubert A. INGRAHAM (since 19 August 1992)
  cabinet:
    Cabinet; appointed by the governor on the prime minister's recommendation
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Progressive Liberal Party (PLP), Sir Lynden O. PINDLING; Free National
    Movement (FNM), Hubert Alexander INGRAHAM;
Member of:
    ACP, C, CARICOM, CCC, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM,
    IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT, INTERPOL, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAS,
    OPANAL, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Timothy Baswell DONALDSON
  chancery:
    2220 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                   Government
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Miami and New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Sidney WILLIAMS
  embassy:
    Mosmar Building, Queen Street, Nassau
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box N-8197, Nassau
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 328-2206
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
Flag:
    three equal horizontal bands of aquamarine (top), gold, and aquamarine with
    a black equilateral triangle based on the hoist side
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The Bahamas is a stable, developing nation whose economy is based primarily
    on tourism and offshore banking. Tourism alone provides about 50% of GDP and
    directly or indirectly employs about 50,000 people or 40% of the local work
    force. The economy has slackened in recent years, as the annual increase in
    the number of tourists slowed. Nonetheless, per capita GDP is one of the
    highest in the region.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $4.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    3.5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $15,900 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    2.7% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    13.1% (1993)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $696 million
  expenditures:
    $756 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95)
Exports:
    $257 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.)
  commodities:
    pharmaceuticals, cement, rum, crawfish, refined petroleum products
  partners:
    US 51%, UK 7%, Norway 7%, France 6%, Italy 5%
Imports:
    $1.15 billion (f.o.b,,1993 est.)
  commodities:
    foodstuffs, manufactured goods, crude oil, vehicles, electronics
  partners:
    US 55%, Japan 17%, Nigeria 12%, Denmark 7%, Norway 6%
External debt:
    $455 million (December 1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 3% (1990); accounts for 15% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    424,000 kW
  production:
    929 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,200 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    tourism, banking, cement, oil refining and transshipment, salt production,
    rum, aragonite, pharmaceuticals, spiral welded steel pipe
Agriculture:
    accounts for 5% of GDP; dominated by small-scale producers; principal
    products - citrus fruit, vegetables, poultry; large net importer of food
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for cocaine and marijuana bound for US and Europe; also
    a money-laundering center
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY85-89), $1 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $345 million
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 Bahamian dollar (B$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    Bahamian dollar (B$) per US$1 - 1.00 (fixed rate)
Fiscal year:
    1 July - 30 June
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    2,400 km
  paved:
    1,350 km
  unpaved:
    gravel 1,050 km
Ports:
    Freeport, Matthew Town, Nassau
Merchant marine:
  total:
    936 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 21,815,474 GRT/35,253,416 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 162, cargo 181, chemical tanker 39, combination bulk 9, combination
    ore/oil 19, container 52, liquefied gas tanker 20, oil tanker 182, passenger
    55, refrigerated cargo 146, roll-on/roll-off cargo 43, short-sea passenger
    16, vehicle carrier 12
  note:
    a flag of convenience registry; includes 46 countries among which are UK 158
    ships, Norway 125, Greece 100, US 94, Denmark 80, Netherlands 53, France 36,
    Finland 35, Japan 35, Sweden 25
Airports:
  total:
    60
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    16
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    11
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    22
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    8
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    99,000 telephones; totally automatic system; highly developed
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    tropospheric scatter and submarine cable links to Florida; 3 coaxial
    submarine cables; 1 INTELSAT (Atlantic Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 3, FM 2, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   The Bahamas
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Royal Bahamas Defense Force (Coast Guard only), Royal Bahamas Police Force
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $65 million, 2.7% of GDP (1990)
midi-Tibesti, Chari-Baguirmi, Guera, Kanem, Lac, Logone Occidental,
    Logone Oriental, Mayo-Kebbi, Moyen-Chari, Ouaddai, Salamat, Tandjile
Independence:
    11 August 1960 (from France)
National holiday:
    Independence Day 11 August (1960)
Constitution:
    22 December 1989 (suspended 3 December 1990); Provisional National Charter 1
    March 1991 is in effect (note - the constitutional commission, which was
    drafting a new constitution to submit to transitional parliament for
    ratification in April 1994, failed to do so but expects to submit a new
    draft to the parliament before the end of April 1995)
Legal system:
    based on French civil law system and Chadian customary law; has not accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    universal at age NA
Executive bra
Burkina
BULGARIA - Passport required.  Tourist visa not required for stay up to 30
days.  AIDS test may be required for those staying more than 1 month; U.S.
test not accepted.  For business visas and other information contact
Embassy of the Republic of Bulgaria, 1621 22nd St., N.W., Washington, D.C.
20008 (202/387-7969).
Bulgaria - Consular Information Sheet
September 2, 1994
Country Description:  Bulgaria is a moderately developed European nation
undergoing profound political and economic changes.  Tourist facilities are
widely available, but conditions vary considerably and some facilities are
not up to Western standards.  Goods and services taken for granted in other
European countries are still not available in many areas of Bulgaria.
Entry Requirements:  A passport is required.  A visa is not required for
tourist or business visits of less than 30 days.  An AIDS test may be
required for those staying more than one month; U.S. tests are not accepted.
 All visitors to Bulgaria must register with the police, a hotel or a guest
house within 48 hours of arrival.  For further information concerning entry
requirements, travelers can contact the Embassy of the Republic of  Bulgaria
at 1621 22nd Street N.W., Washington, D.C. 20008, tel. [phone];
Consular Section is [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Although Bulgarian physicians are trained to a very
high standard, hospitals and clinics are generally not equipped and
maintained at U.S. or West European levels.  Basic medical supplies are
widely available, but specialized treatments may not be.  Visitors must pay
cash for medical and health services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always
valid outside the United States.  Travelers have found that in some cases,
supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage has proved to
be useful.  Further information on health matters can be obtained from the
Centers for Disease Control's international travelers hotline at (404) 332-
4559.
Crime Information:  There has been a recent rise in street crime, much of
which is directed against foreigners.  Pickpocketing and purse snatching are
frequent occurrences as is theft from automobiles, where thieves smash
windows to remove valuables left in sight.  There have been a number of
incidents in which tourists have accepted offers of "help from friendly
people" met by chance at the airport, bus stations or train stations and
have been drugged or assaulted and robbed.  Taxi drivers at Sofia Airport
are notoriously dishonest and refuse to run their meters.  Travelers who
insist upon a pre-agreed fare can avoid the more outrageous overcharging.
Automobile theft is also a frequent problem, with four-wheel drive vehicles
and late model European sedans the most popular targets.  Very few vehicles
are recovered.
The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately
to the local police and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.  The
Department of State's pamphlet "A Safe Trip Abroad" is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington,
D.C. 20402.  It provides information on protecting personal security while
traveling abroad.
Currency Regulations:  Bulgaria is largely a cash economy.  Most shops,
hotels and restaurants still do not accept travelers checks or credit cards.
 Visitors can exchange money at change bureaus.  People on the street who
offer high rates of exchange are confidence tricksters intent on swindling
the unwary travelers.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the country in
which they are traveling.  Persons convicted of possession, use, or
trafficking in illegal drugs are subject to imprisonment and fines.
Civil Aviation Oversight:  In November 1992, the U.S. Federal Aviation
Administration assessed Bulgaria's civil aviation authority as in compliance
with international aviation safety oversight standards for Bulgaria's
carriers operating to and from the U.S.  The same level of safety oversight
would typically be applied to operations to other destinations.  For further
information, travelers may contact the Department of Transportation at 1-800-
322-7873.
Registration:  U.S. citizens who register in the Consular Section of the
U.S. Embassy can obtain updated information on travel and security within
Bulgaria.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy in Sofia, Bulgaria, is located at 1
Suborna (formerly 1 A. Stamboliski Boulevard); telephone [phone] to
-05.  This is also the after hours number for emergencies.
The Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy is located at 1 Kapitan Andreev
Street in Sofia; telephone [phone].
No. 94-182
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated January 19, 1994, to add
the paragraph on aviation oversight.
8                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Bulgaria
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Romania and Turkey
Map references:
    Ethnic Groups in Eastern Europe, Europe
Area:
  total area:
    110,910 sq km
  land area:
    110,550 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Tennessee
Land boundaries:
    total 1,808 km, Greece 494 km, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 148
    km, Romania 608 km, Serbia and Montenegro 318 km (all with Serbia), Turkey
    240 km
Coastline:
    354 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate; cold, damp winters; hot, dry summers
Terrain:
    mostly mountains with lowlands in north and southeast
Natural resources:
    bauxite, copper, lead, zinc, coal, timber, arable land
Land use:
  arable land:
    34%
  permanent crops:
    3%
  meadows and pastures:
    18%
  forest and woodland:
    35%
  other:
    10%
Irrigated land:
    10 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    air pollution from industrial emissions; rivers polluted from raw sewage,
    heavy metals, detergents; deforestation; forest damage from air pollution
    and resulting acid rain; soil contamination from heavy metals from
    metallurgical plants and industrial wastes
  natural hazards:
    earthquakes, landslides
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Bulgaria
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air
    Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, Endangered Species, Environmental
    Modification, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution,
    Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air
    Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol,
    Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
Note:
    strategic location near Turkish Straits; controls key land routes from
    Europe to Middle East and Asia
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Bulgaria
                                     People
Population:
    8,775,198 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    19% (female 800,413; male 841,697)
  15-64 years:
    66% (female 2,927,880; male 2,910,133)
  65 years and over:
    15% (female 735,706; male 559,369) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    -0.25% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    11.75 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    11.31 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    -2.91 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    11.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    73.68 years
  male:
    70.43 years
  female:
    77.1 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    1.71 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Bulgarian(s)
  adjective:
    Bulgarian
Ethnic divisions:
    Bulgarian 85.3%, Turk 8.5%, Gypsy 2.6%, Macedonian 2.5%, Armenian 0.3%,
    Russian 0.2%, other 0.6%
Religions:
    Bulgarian Orthodox 85%, Muslim 13%, Jewish 0.8%, Roman Catholic 0.5%, Uniate
    Catholic 0.2%, Protestant, Gregorian-Armenian, and other 0.5%
Languages:
    Bulgarian; secondary languages closely correspond to ethnic breakdown
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1992)
  total population:
    98%
  male:
    99%
  female:
    97%
Labor force:
    4.3 million
  by occupation:
    industry 33%, agriculture 20%, other 47% (1987)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Bulgaria
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Bulgaria
  conventional short form:
    Bulgaria
Digraph:
    BU
Type:
    emerging democracy
Capital:
    Sofia
Administrative divisions:
    9 provinces (oblasti, singular - oblast); Burgas, Grad Sofiya, Khaskovo,
    Lovech, Montana, Plovdiv, Ruse, Sofiya, Varna
Independence:
    22 September 1908 (from Ottoman Empire)
National holiday:
    Independence Day 3 March (1878)
Constitution:
    adopted 12 July 1991
Legal system:
    based on civil law system, with Soviet law influence; has accepted
    compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal and compulsory
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    President Zhelyu Mitev ZHELEV (since 1 August 1990); Vice President
    (vacant); election last held January 1992; results - Zhelyu ZHELEV was
    elected by popular vote
  head of government:
    Chairman of the Council of Ministers (Prime Minister) Zhan VIDENOV (since 25
    January 1995); Deputy Prime Ministers Doncho KONAKCHIEV, Kiril TSOCHEV,
    Rumen GECHEV, Svetoslav SHIVAROV (since 25 January 1995)
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; elected by the National Assembly
Legislative branch:
    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
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court, Constitutional Court
Political parties and leaders:
    Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP), Zhan VIDENOV, chairman; Union of Democratic
    Forces (UDF), Ivan KOSTOV an alliance of pro-Democratic parties; People's
    Union (PU), Stefan SAVOV; Movement for Rights and Freedoms (mainly ethnic
    Turkish party) (MRF), Ahmed DOGAN; Bulgarian Business Bloc (BBB), George
    GANCHEV
Other political or pressure groups:
    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 Bulgaria
    (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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Bulgaria
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACCT, BIS, BSEC, CCC, CE, CEI (associate members), EBRD, ECE, FAO, G- 9,
    IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INMARSAT, INTELSAT
    (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC, NAM
    (guest), NSG, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WEU (associate
    partner), WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTO, ZC
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Snezhana Damianova BOTUSHAROVA
  chancery:
    1621 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador William D. MONTGOMERY
  embassy:
    1 Saborna Street, Sofia
  mailing address:
    Unit 1335, Sofia; APO AE 09213-1335
  telephone:
    [359] (2) 88-48-01 through 05
  FAX:
    [359] (2) 80-19-77
Flag:
    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)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Bulgaria
                                     Economy
Overview:
    The Bulgarian economy continued its painful adjustment in 1994 from the
    misdirected development undertaken during four decades of Communist rule.
    Many aspects of a market economy have been put in place and have begun to
    function, but much of the economy, especially the industrial sector, has yet
    to re-establish market links lost with the collapse of the other centrally
    planned Soviet Bloc economies. The prices of many imported industrial
    inputs, especially energy products, have risen markedly, and falling real
    wages have not sufficed to restore competitiveness. The government plans
    more extensive privatization in 1995 to improve the management of
    enterprises and to encourage foreign investment. Bulgaria resumed payments
    on its $10 billion in commercial debt in 1993 following the negotiation of a
    50% write-off.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $33.7 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    0.2% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $3,830 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    122% (1994)
Unemployment rate:
    16% (1994)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $14 billion
  expenditures:
    $17.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $610 million (1993 est.)
Exports:
    $3.6 billion (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    machinery and equipment 30.6%; agricultural products 24%; manufactured
    consumer goods 22.2%; fuels, minerals, raw materials, and metals 10.5%;
    other 12.7% (1991)
  partners:
    former CEMA countries 57.7% (FSU 48.6%, Poland 2.1%, Czechoslovakia 0.9%);
    developed countries 26.3% (Germany 4.8%, Greece 2.2%); less developed
    countries 15.9% (Libya 2.1%, Iran 0.7%) (1991)
Imports:
    $4.3 billion (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    fuels, minerals, and raw materials 58.7%; machinery and equipment 15.8%;
    manufactured consumer goods 4.4%; agricultural products 15.2%; other 5.9%
  partners:
    former CEMA countries 51.0% (FSU 43.2%, Poland 3.7%); developed countries
    32.8% (Germany 7.0%, Austria 4.7%); less developed countries 16.2% (Iran
    2.8%, Libya 2.5%)
External debt:
    $12 billion (1994)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 4% (1994); accounts for about 37% of GDP (1990)
Electricity:
  capacity:
    11,500,000 kW
  production:
    35.9 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    3,827 kWh (1993)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Bulgaria
                                     Economy
Industries:
    machine building and metal working, food processing, chemicals, textiles,
    building materials, ferrous and nonferrous metals
Agriculture:
    climate and soil conditions support livestock raising and the growing of
    various grain crops, oilseeds, vegetables, fruits, and tobacco; more than
    one-third of the arable land devoted to grain; world's fourth-largest
    tobacco exporter; surplus food producer
Illicit drugs:
    transshipment point for southwest Asian heroin and South American cocaine
    transiting the Balkan route; limited producer of precursor chemicals
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    $700 million in balance of payments support (1994)
Currency:
    1 lev (Lv) = 100 stotinki
Exchange rates:
    leva (Lv) per US$1 - 67.04 (January 1995), 32.00 (January 1994), 24.56
    (January 1993), 17.18 (January 1992), 16.13 (March 1991), 0.7446 (November
    1990); note - floating exchange rate since February 1991
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Bulgaria
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    4,294 km
  standard gauge:
    4,049 km 1.435-m gauge (2,650 km electrified; 917 double track)
  other:
    245 km NA-m gauge (1994)
Highways:
  total:
    36,932 km
  paved:
    33,904 km (including 276 km expressways)
  unpaved:
    earth 3,028 km (1992)
Inland waterways:
    470 km (1987)
Pipelines:
    crude oil 193 km; petroleum products 525 km; natural gas 1,400 km (1992)
Ports:
    Burgas, Lom, Nesebur, Ruse, Varna, Vidin
Merchant marine:
  total:
    109 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,191,231 GRT/1,762,461 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 47, cargo 29, chemical carrier 4, container 2, oil tanker 15,
    passenger-cargo 2, railcar carrier 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 6, short-sea
    passenger 1, refrigerated cargo 1
  note:
    Bulgaria owns 2 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 12,960 DWT operating
    under Liberian registry
Airports:
  total:
    355
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    1
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    17
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    10
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    88
  with unpaved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    1
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    10
  with unpaved runways under 914 m:
    226
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Bulgaria
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    2,600,000 telephones; 29 telephones/100 persons (1992); extensive but
    antiquated transmission system of coaxial cable and microwave radio relay;
    direct dialing to 36 countries; telephone service is available in most
    villages; almost two-thirds of the lines are residential; 67% of Sofia
    households have phones (November 1988)
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 earth station using Intersputnik; INTELSAT link used through a Greek earth
    station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 20, FM 15, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    29 (Russian repeater in Sofia 1)
  televisions:
    2.1 million (May 1990)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Bulgaria
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Border Troops, Internal Troops
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,171,414; males fit for military service 1,810,989; males
    reach military age (19) annually 69,200 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    13 billion leva, NA% of GDP (1994 est.); note - conversion of defense
    expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce
    misleading results
Moldova
MICRONESIA, FEDERATED STATES OF (Kosrae, Yap, Ponape, and Truk) - Proof
of citizenship, proof of sufficient funds, and onward/return ticket
required for tourist visit up to 6 months, extendable (up to 12 months from date
of entry) after arrival in Micronesia.  Entry permit may be needed for
other types of travel; obtain forms from airline.  Departure fee $5 (U.S.).
Health certificate may be required if traveling from infected area.
Typhoid and tetanus immunizations are recommended.  AIDS test required
if staying over 1 year.  U.S. test is accepted.  For further information
contact Embassy of the Federated States of Micronesia, 1725 N St.,
N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036 (202/223-4383) or nearest Consulate:  Hawaii
(808/836-4775) or Guam (671/646-9154).
Micronesia - Consular Information Sheet
October 5, 1994
Country Description: The Federated States of Micronesia (including the
islands of Pohnpei, Kosrae, Truk, and Yap) is a constitutional democracy in
free association with the United States.  Its economy is developing, and
tourist facilities are available.
Entry Requirements:  Proof of U.S. citizenship and identity are required for
a tourist visit of up to one year.  Further information concerning specific
requirements is available through the Embassy of the Federated States of
Micronesia, 1725 N Street, N.W., Washington, D.C. 20036, telephone (202) 223-
4383.
Medical Facilities:  Health facilities in the Federated States of Micronesia
are adequate for routine medical problems, but are limited in range and
quality.  Doctors and hospitals may expect immediate cash payment for health
services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside the United
States.  Supplemental medical insurance with coverage for specific overseas
treatment and medical evacuation has proven useful.  The Medicaid/Medicare
program does not provide payment of medical services outside the United
States.  The international travelers hotline of the Centers for Disease
Control at [phone] has additional useful health information.
Information on Crime: The crime rate in the Federated States of Micronesia
is low.  The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to the local police, and the nearest U.S. embassy or consulate.
Useful information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "A
Safe Trip Abroad."  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents,
U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties: Travelers are subject to the law, and legal practices of the
country in which they travel.  Penalties for possession, use, or trafficking
in illegal drugs are strict, and convicted offenders can expect jail
sentences and a fine.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy can obtain updated
information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy Location: The U.S. Embassy in Kolonia has no official street
address, but is located in the lower Pics area across from the Agriculture
Station.  The mailing address is P.O. Box 1286, Pohnpei, Federated States of
Micronesia 96941.  The telephone number is [phone].
No. 94-231
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated July 9, 1993, and
provides information on supplemental medical evacuation coverage.
$                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                    Geography
Location:
    Oceania, island group in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of
    the way from Hawaii to Indonesia
Map references:
    Oceania
Area:
  total area:
    702 sq km
  land area:
    702 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly less than four times the size of Washington, DC
  note:
    includes Pohnpei (Ponape), Truk (Chuuk), Yap, and Kosrae
Land boundaries:
    0 km
Coastline:
    6,112 km
Maritime claims:
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical; heavy year-round rainfall, especially in the eastern islands;
    located on southern edge of the typhoon belt with occasional severe damage
Terrain:
    islands vary geologically from high mountainous islands to low, coral
    atolls; volcanic outcroppings on Pohnpei, Kosrae, and Truk
Natural resources:
    forests, marine products, deep-seabed minerals
Land use:
  arable land:
    NA%
  permanent crops:
    NA%
  meadows and pastures:
    NA%
  forest and woodland:
    NA%
  other:
    NA%
Irrigated land:
    NA sq km
Environment:
  current issues:
    NA
  natural hazards:
    typhoons (June to December)
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
Note:
    four major island groups totaling 607 islands
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                     People
Population:
    122,950 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    NA
  15-64 years:
    NA
  65 years and over:
    NA
Population growth rate:
    3.35% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    28.12 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    6.3 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    11.65 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    36.52 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    67.81 years
  male:
    65.84 years
  female:
    69.81 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.98 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Micronesian(s)
  adjective:
    Micronesian; Kosrae(s), Pohnpeian(s), Trukese, Yapese
Ethnic divisions:
    nine ethnic Micronesian and Polynesian groups
Religions:
    Roman Catholic 50%, Protestant 47%, other and none 3%
Languages:
    English (official and common language), Trukese, Pohnpeian, Yapese, Kosrean
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1980)
  total population:
    89%
  male:
    91%
  female:
    88%
Labor force:
    NA
  by occupation:
    two-thirds are government employees
  note:
    45,000 people are between the ages of 15 and 65
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Federated States of Micronesia
  conventional short form:
    none
  former:
    Kosrae, Ponape, Truk, and Yap Districts (Trust Territory of the Pacific
    Islands)
Abbreviation:
    FSM
Digraph:
    FM
Type:
    constitutional government in free association with the US; the Compact of
    Free Association entered into force 3 November 1986
Capital:
    Kolonia (on the island of Pohnpei)
  note:
    a new capital is being built about 10 km southwest in the Palikir valley
Administrative divisions:
    4 states; Kosrae, Pohnpei, Chuuk (Truk), Yap
Independence:
    3 November 1986 (from the US-administered UN Trusteeship)
National holiday:
    Proclamation of the Federated States of Micronesia, 10 May (1979)
Constitution:
    10 May 1979
Legal system:
    based on adapted Trust Territory laws, acts of the legislature, municipal,
    common, and customary laws
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    President Bailey OLTER (since 21 May 1991); Vice President Jacob NENA (since
    21 May 1991); election last held 11 May 1991 (next to be held 7 March 1995);
    results - Bailey OLTER elected president; Jacob NENA elected vice-president
  cabinet:
    Cabinet
Legislative branch:
    unicameral
  Congress:
    elections last held 5 March 1991 (next to be held 7 March 1995); results -
    percent of vote NA; seats - (14 total) independents 14
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court
Political parties and leaders:
    no formal parties
Member of:
    AsDB, ESCAP, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFC, IMF, ITU, SPARTECA, SPC, SPF, UN, UNCTAD,
    WHO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Jesse B. MAREHALAU
  chancery:
    1725 N Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
  telephone:
    [1] [phone]
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                   Government
  FAX:
    [1] [phone]
  consulate(s) general:
    Honolulu and Tamuning (Guam)
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador March Fong EU
  embassy:
    address NA, Kolonia
  mailing address:
    P. O. Box 1286, Pohnpei, Federated States of Micronesia 96941
  telephone:
    [691] 320-2187
  FAX:
    [691] 320-2186
Flag:
    light blue with four white five-pointed stars centered; the stars are
    arranged in a diamond pattern
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 infrastructure are major impediments to
    long-term growth.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $160 million (1990 est.)
  note:
    GDP was supplemented by approximately $100 million in grant aid in 1990
National product real growth rate:
    4% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $1,500 (1990 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    NA%
Unemployment rate:
    27% (1989)
Budget:
  revenues:
    $45 million
  expenditures:
    $31 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95 est.)
Exports:
    $3.2 million (f.o.b., 1990)
  commodities:
    fish, copra, bananas, black pepper
  partners:
    Japan, US
Imports:
    $91.2 million (c.i.f., 1990)
  commodities:
    food, manufactured goods, machinery and equipment, beverages
  partners:
    US, Japan, Australia
External debt:
    $NA
Industrial production:
    growth rate NA%
Electricity:
  capacity:
    18,000 kW
  production:
    40 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    380 kWh (1990)
Industries:
    tourism, construction, fish processing, craft items from shell, wood, and
    pearls
Agriculture:
    mainly a subsistence economy; black pepper; tropical fruits and vegetables,
    coconuts, cassava, sweet potatoes, pigs, chickens
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    under terms of the Compact of Free Association, the US will provide $1.3
    billion in grant aid during the period 1986-2001
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                     Economy
Currency:
    1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents
Exchange rates:
    US currency is used
Fiscal year:
    1 October - 30 September
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
    0 km
Highways:
  total:
    226 km
  paved:
    39 km (on major islands)
  unpaved:
    stone, coral, laterite 187 km
Ports:
    Colonia (Yap), Kolonia (Pohnpei), Lele, Moen
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    6
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    4
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    1
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    1
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    960 telephones on Kolonia and Truk
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    islands interconnected by shortwave radio (used mostly for government
    purposes
  international:
    4 INTELSAT (Pacific Ocean) earth stations
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 5, FM 1, shortwave 1
  radios:
    16,000
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    6
  televisions:
    1,125 (1987 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                         Micronesia, Federated States of
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    defense is the responsibility of the US
Congo
COMOROS ISLANDS - Passport and onward/return ticket required.  Visa for up
to 3 weeks (extendable) issued at airport upon arrival.  For further
information consult Embassy of the Federal and Islamic Republic of Comoros,
336 East 45th St., 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10017 (212/972-8010).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Comoros
============================================================
Comoros - Consular Information Sheet
 February 3, 1995
Country Description:  Comoros is a developing island nation located
in the Indian Ocean, off the east coast of Africa.  Facilities for
tourism are limited.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Visas for
stays of three weeks or less can be issued at the airport upon
arrival, provided an onward/return ticket is presented.  Further
entry information may be obtained from the Mission and Embassy of
the Federal and Islamic Republic of the Comoros, 336 E. 45th Street,
Second Floor, New York, NY 10017; telephone [phone].
Medical Facilities:  Medical facil
Burundi
0BURMA - (See Myanmar.)
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Burma (Myanmar)
============================================================
Burma (Myanmar) - Consular Information Sheet
 October 19, 1995
Country Description:  Burma, renamed Myanmar in 1989, experienced
major political unrest in 1988.  Conditions are stable under a
military government except in remote border areas where longstanding
insurgencies persist.
Entry Requirements:  Travel to and within Burma is strictly
controlled by that country's government.  A passport and visa is
required.  Tourist visas are issued for package/group tours as well
as to foreign individual tourists ("FITS") for stays of up to four
weeks.  Burmese visas may be issued at the point of entry to certain
individual tourists and group travelers.  "FITS" must exchange a
minimum of $300 for dollar denominated foreign exchange certificates
upon arrival.  Information about entering Burma via land borders as
well as other information may be sought from the Burmese Embassy
(Embassy of the Union of Myanmar), 2300 S Street, N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20008 [phone]/6), or the Permanent Mission of Myanmar to
the U.N., 10 East 77th St., New York, N.Y. 10021 (212-535-1311).
Areas of Instability:  Travel to main tourist areas of Pagan, Inle
Lake and the Mandalay area is routine.  Travel to other parts of
Burma is possible, although transportation is difficult.  Visiting
destinations such as Kyaiktiyo, Moulemein, and Myitkyina may require
advance permission from authorities, which takes several days to
arrange in Rangoon.  Those destinations requiring permission are
subject to change without advance notice.  Unauthorized travelers
may be stopped and harassed by security personnel and turned around.
 Some persons traveling to places where permission is not expressly
required have also reported delays, including temporary detention by
local security personnel.  Others report being able to travel
freely.  Obtaining advance permission to certain destinations does
not guarantee ability to travel, which is ultimately at the
discretion of Burmese military intelligence.  There has been one
reported guerrilla attack in the vicinity of Kanbauk (Tenasserim) in
the vicinity of a planned gas pipeline.
Southern Shan State is the scene of occasional fighting between the
government forces and Shan United Army (MTA).  There has also been
recent fighting by other groups in the Thai-Burma border region, and
travelers may obtain updated information from the U.S. Embassy at
Rangoon.  The Tachilek border area, at which border crossings are
sometimes permitted, is a potential site for fighting.  Even
inadvertently crossing the border elsewhere may result in danger.
Medical Facilities:  Hospital and medical services are available in
Rangoon.  Elsewhere, medical care is limited.  Doctors and hospitals
often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage,
including provision for medical evacuation, has proven useful.  The
international travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention can be reached at [phone] for additional
useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Security in tourist areas is generally good.
 Lost or stolen passports should be reported to local police and the
U.S. Embassy.  The level of violent crime and crime against property
is low.  There are occasional reports of pickpocketing.  Useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State
pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  It is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and
possible sentences include stiff jail terms and fines or the death
penalty.
Currency:  Foreign Exchange Certificates (FEC) are de facto
exchangeable for Burmese Kyat at market rates.  FEC are required by
foreigners for the payment of plane and most train tickets and most
hotels.  Kyat are accepted for most other transactions.  It is
possible to purchase FEC with some credit cards at the Myanmar
Foreign Trade Bank in Rangoon.
Although money changers may approach travelers to offer to change
dollars into Kyat at the market rate, it is illegal to exchange
foreign currency except at authorized locations such as the airport,
banks and government stores.
Other Information:  Roads are poor in Burma.  Trains are
uncomfortable and not always punctual.  Photographing persons in
uniform or any military installation is discouraged by Burmese
authorities.  Customs regulations are restrictive and strictly
enforced.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy may
obtain updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 581 Merchant
Street, Rangoon.  The telephone number is (95-1) 82055.
 No. 95-130
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 6, 1995 to
update information on entry, areas of instability, and currency
restrictions.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Burma (Myanmar)
============================================================
Burma (Myanmar) - Consular Information Sheet
 October 19, 1995
Country Description:  Burma, renamed Myanmar in 1989, experienced
major political unrest in 1988.  Conditions are stable under a
military government except in remote border areas where longstanding
insurgencies persist.
Entry Requirements:  Travel to and within Burma is strictly
controlled by that country's government.  A passport and visa is
required.  Tourist visas are issued for package/group tours as well
as to foreign individual tourists ("FITS") for stays of up to four
weeks.  Burmese visas may be issued at the point of entry to certain
individual tourists and group travelers.  "FITS" must exchange a
minimum of $300 for dollar denominated foreign exchange certificates
upon arrival.  Information about entering Burma via land borders as
well as other information may be sought from the Burmese Embassy
(Embassy of the Union of Myanmar), 2300 S Street, N.W., Washington,
D.C. 20008 [phone]/6), or the Permanent Mission of Myanmar to
the U.N., 10 East 77th St., New York, N.Y. 10021 (212-535-1311).
Areas of Instability:  Travel to main tourist areas of Pagan, Inle
Lake and the Mandalay area is routine.  Travel to other parts of
Burma is possible, although transportation is difficult.  Visiting
destinations such as Kyaiktiyo, Moulemein, and Myitkyina may require
advance permission from authorities, which takes several days to
arrange in Rangoon.  Those destinations requiring permission are
subject to change without advance notice.  Unauthorized travelers
may be stopped and harassed by security personnel and turned around.
 Some persons traveling to places where permission is not expressly
required have also reported delays, including temporary detention by
local security personnel.  Others report being able to travel
freely.  Obtaining advance permission to certain destinations does
not guarantee ability to travel, which is ultimately at the
discretion of Burmese military intelligence.  There has been one
reported guerrilla attack in the vicinity of Kanbauk (Tenasserim) in
the vicinity of a planned gas pipeline.
Southern Shan State is the scene of occasional fighting between the
government forces and Shan United Army (MTA).  There has also been
recent fighting by other groups in the Thai-Burma border region, and
travelers may obtain updated information from the U.S. Embassy at
Rangoon.  The Tachilek border area, at which border crossings are
sometimes permitted, is a potential site for fighting.  Even
inadvertently crossing the border elsewhere may result in danger.
Medical Facilities:  Hospital and medical services are available in
Rangoon.  Elsewhere, medical care is limited.  Doctors and hospitals
often expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage,
including provision for medical evacuation, has proven useful.  The
international travelers hotline at the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention can be reached at [phone] for additional
useful health information.
Information on Crime:  Security in tourist areas is generally good.
 Lost or stolen passports should be reported to local police and the
U.S. Embassy.  The level of violent crime and crime against property
is low.  There are occasional reports of pickpocketing.  Useful
information on guarding valuables and protecting personal security
while traveling abroad is provided in the Department of State
pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  It is available from the
Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  Travelers are subject to the laws and legal
practices of the country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for
possession, use or trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and
possible sentences include stiff jail terms and fines or the death
penalty.
Currency:  Foreign Exchange Certificates (FEC) are de facto
exchangeable for Burmese Kyat at market rates.  FEC are required by
foreigners for the payment of plane and most train tickets and most
hotels.  Kyat are accepted for most other transactions.  It is
possible to purchase FEC with some credit cards at the Myanmar
Foreign Trade Bank in Rangoon.
Although money changers may approach travelers to offer to change
dollars into Kyat at the market rate, it is illegal to exchange
foreign currency except at authorized locations such as the airport,
banks and government stores.
Other Information:  Roads are poor in Burma.  Trains are
uncomfortable and not always punctual.  Photographing persons in
uniform or any military installation is discouraged by Burmese
authorities.  Customs regulations are restrictive and strictly
enforced.
Registration:  Americans who register at the U.S. Embassy may
obtain updated information on travel and security within the country.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 581 Merchant
Street, Rangoon.  The telephone number is (95-1) 82055.
 No. 95-130
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated April 6, 1995 to
update information on entry, areas of instability, and currency
restrictions.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
6                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Burma
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, bordering the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between
    Bangladesh and Thailand
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    678,500 sq km
  land area:
    657,740 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Texas
Land boundaries:
    total 5,876 km, Bangladesh 193 km, China 2,185 km, India 1,463 km, Laos 235
    km, Thailand 1,800 km
Coastline:
    1,930 km
Maritime claims:
  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
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    tropical monsoon; cloudy, rainy, hot, humid summers (southwest monsoon, June
    to September); less cloudy, scant rainfall, mild temperatures, lower
    humidity during winter (northeast monsoon, December to April)
Terrain:
    central lowlands ringed by steep, rugged highlands
Natural resources:
    petroleum, timber, tin, antimony, zinc, copper, tungsten, lead, coal, some
    marble, limestone, precious stones, natural gas
Land use:
  arable land:
    15%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    1%
  forest and woodland:
    49%
  other:
    34%
Irrigated land:
    10,180 sq km (1989)
Environment:
  current issues:
    deforestation; industrial pollution of air, soil, and water; inadequate
    sanitation and water treatment contribute to disease
  natural hazards:
    destructive earthquakes and cyclones; flooding and landslides common during
    rainy season (June to September); periodic droughts
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Burma
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer
    Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified -
    Law of the Sea
Note:
    strategic location near major Indian Ocean shipping lanes
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Burma
                                     People
Population:
    45,103,809 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    36% (female 7,963,544; male 8,285,459)
  15-64 years:
    60% (female 13,478,211; male 13,404,987)
  65 years and over:
    4% (female 1,080,922; male 890,686) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    1.84% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    28.02 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    9.63 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    61.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    60.47 years
  male:
    58.38 years
  female:
    62.69 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    3.58 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Burmese (singular and plural)
  adjective:
    Burmese
Ethnic divisions:
    Burman 68%, Shan 9%, Karen 7%, Rakhine 4%, Chinese 3%, Mon 2%, Indian 2%,
    other 5%
Religions:
    Buddhist 89%, Christian 4% (Baptist 3%, Roman Catholic 1%), Muslim 4%,
    animist beliefs 1%, other 2%
Languages:
    Burmese; minority ethnic groups have their own languages
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    81%
  male:
    89%
  female:
    72%
Labor force:
    16.007 million (1992)
  by occupation:
    agriculture 65.2%, industry 14.3%, trade 10.1%, government 6.3%, other 4.1%
    (FY88/89 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Burma
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Union of Burma
  conventional short form:
    Burma
  local long form:
    Pyidaungzu Myanma Naingngandaw (translated by the US Government as Union of
    Myanma and by the Burmese as Union of Myanmar)
  local short form:
    Myanma Naingngandaw
  former:
    Socialist Republic of the Union of Burma
Digraph:
    BM
Type:
    military regime
Capital:
    Rangoon (regime refers to the capital as Yangon)
Administrative divisions:
    7 divisions* (yin-mya, singular - yin) and 7 states (pyine-mya, singular -
    pyine); Chin State, Ayeyarwady*, Bago*, Kachin State, Kayin State, Kayah
    State, Magway*, Mandalay*, Mon State, Rakhine State, Sagaing*, Shan State,
    Tanintharyi*, Yangon*
Independence:
    4 January 1948 (from UK)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 4 January (1948)
Constitution:
    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
Legal system:
    has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state and head of government:
    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
Legislative branch:
  People's Assembly (Pyithu Hluttaw):
    election last held 27 May 1990, but Assembly never convened; results - NLD
    80%; seats - (485 total) NLD 396, the regime-favored NUP 10, other 79; was
    dissolved after the coup of 18 September 1988
Judicial branch:
    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
Political parties and leaders:
    Union Solidarity and Development Association (USDA), THAN AUNG, Secretary;
    National Unity Party (NUP; proregime), THA KYAW; National League for
    Democracy (NLD), U AUNG SHWE; and eight other minor legal parties
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Burma
                                   Government
Other political or pressure groups:
    National Coalition Government of the Union of Burma (NCGUB), headed by the
    elected prime minister SEIN WIN (consists of individuals legitimately
    elected to Parliament 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 Burma Student Democratic Front (ABSDF)
Member of:
    AsDB, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, GATT, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD,
    IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, IOC, ITU,
    NAM, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WMO
Diplomatic representation in US:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador U THAUNG
  chancery:
    2300 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
  telephone:
    [1] [phone], 9045
  consulate(s) general:
    New York
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Marilyn A. MEYERS
  embassy:
    581 Merchant Street, Rangoon (GPO 521)
  mailing address:
    American Embassy, Box B, APO AP 96546
  telephone:
    [95] (1) 82055, 82182 (operator assistance required)
  FAX:
    [95] (1) 80409
Flag:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Burma
                                     Economy
Overview:
    Burma 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 six years, 1989-94, has aimed at
    revitalizing the economy after four 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 Burma'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 Burma remains a poor Asian country, its rich resources
    furnish the potential for substantial long-term increases in income,
    exports, and living standards.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $41.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    6.4% (1994)
National product per capita:
    $930 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    38% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $4.4 billion
  expenditures:
    $6.7 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY93/94 est.)
Exports:
    $674 million (FY93/94 est.)
  commodities:
    pulses and beans, teak, rice, hardwood
  partners:
    Singapore, China, Thailand, India, Hong Kong
Imports:
    $1.2 billion (FY93/94 est.)
  commodities:
    machinery, transport equipment, chemicals, food products
  partners:
    Japan, China, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia
External debt:
    $5.4 billion (FY93/94 est.)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 4.9% (FY92/93 est.); accounts for 10% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    1,100,000 kW
  production:
    2.6 billion kWh
  consumption per capita:
    55 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    agricultural processing; textiles and footwear; wood and wood products;
    petroleum refining; mining of copper, tin, tungsten, iron; construction
    materials; pharmaceuticals; fertilizer
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Burma
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    accounts for 65% of GDP and 65% of employment (including fishing, animal
    husbandry, and forestry); self-sufficient in food; principal crops - paddy
    rice, corn, oilseed, sugarcane, pulses; world's largest stand of hardwood
    trees; rice and timber account for 55% of export revenues
Illicit drugs:
    world's largest illicit producer of opium (2,030 metric tons in 1994 -
    dropped 21% due to regional drought in 1994) and minor producer of cannabis
    for the international drug trade; opium production continues to be almost
    double since the collapse of Rangoon's antinarcotic programs; growing role
    in amphetamine production for regional consumption
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $158 million; Western (non-US)
    countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1970-89), $3.9 billion;
    Communist countries (1970-89),  $424 million
Currency:
    1 kyat (K) = 100 pyas
Exchange rates:
    kyats (K) per US$1 - 5.8640 (January 1995), 5.9749 (1994), 6.1570 (1993),
    6.1045 (1992), 6.2837 (1991), 6.3386 (1990); unofficial - 120
Fiscal year:
    1 April - 31 March
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Burma
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    3,991 km (3,878 km common carrier lines, 113 km industrial lines)
  standard gauge:
    3,878 km 1.435-m gauge
  other:
    113 km NA-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    27,000 km
  paved:
    bituminous 3,200 km
  unpaved:
    gravel, improved earth 17,700 km; unimproved earth 6,100 km
Inland waterways:
    12,800 km; 3,200 km navigable by large commercial vessels
Pipelines:
    crude oil 1,343 km; natural gas 330 km
Ports:
    Bassein, Bhamo, Chauk, Mandalay, Moulmein, Myitkyina, Rangoon, Sittwe, Tavoy
Merchant marine:
  total:
    49 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 638,297 GRT/884,492 DWT
  ships by type:
    bulk 19, cargo 15, chemical tanker 1, container 2, oil tanker 3,
    passenger-cargo 3, refrigerated cargo 4, vehicle carrier 2
Airports:
  total:
    80
  with paved runways over 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    10
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    11
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    33
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    5
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    17
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Burma
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    53,000 telephones (1986); meets minimum requirements for local and intercity
    service for business and government; international service is good
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    1 INTELSAT (Indian Ocean) earth station
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0 (1985)
  radios:
    NA
  note:
    radiobroadcast coverage is limited to the most populous areas
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1 (1985)
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                      Burma
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
    Army, Navy, Air Force
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 11,553,094; females age 15-49 11,463,189; males fit for
    military service 6,180,091; females fit for military service 6,116,421;
    males reach military age (18) annually 457,445 (1995 est.); females reach
    military age (18) annually 441,628 (1995 est.)
  note:
    both sexes liable for military service
Defense expenditures:
    $NA, NA% of GDP
Antarctica
4                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Antarctica
                                    Geography
Location:
    continent mostly south of the Antarctic Circle
Map references:
    Antarctic Region
Area:
  total area:
    14 million sq km (est.)
  land area:
    14 million sq km (est.)
  comparative area:
    slightly less than 1.5 times the size of the US
  note:
    second-smallest continent (after Australia)
Land boundaries:
    none, but see entry on International disputes
Coastline:
    17,968 km
Maritime claims:
    none, but see entry on International Disputes
International disputes:
    Antarctic Treaty defers claims (see Antarctic Treaty Summary below);
    sections (some overlapping) claimed by Argentina, Australia, Chile, France
    (Adelie Land), New Zealand (Ross Dependency), Norway (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
Climate:
    severe low temperatures vary with latitude, elevation, and distance from the
    ocean; East Antarctica is colder than West Antarctica 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
Terrain:
    about 98% thick continental ice sheet and 2% barren rock, with average
    elevations between 2,000 and 4,000 meters; mountain ranges up to 4,897
    meters high; 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
Natural resources:
    none presently exploited; iron ore, chromium, copper, gold, nickel, platinum
    and other minerals, and coal and hydrocarbons have been found in small,
    uncommercial quantities
Land use:
  arable land:
    0%
  permanent crops:
    0%
  meadows and pastures:
    0%
  forest and woodland:
    0%
  other:
    100% (ice 98%, barren rock 2%)
Irrigated land:
    0 sq km
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Antarctica
                                    Geography
Environment:
  current issues:
    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 Antarctica since 1975 when measurements were
    first taken
  natural hazards:
    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 Antarctica; other seismic activity rare
    and weak
  international agreements:
    NA
Note:
    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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Antarctica
                                     People
Population:
    no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are seasonally staffed research
    stations
  Summer (January) population:
    over 4,115 total; Argentina 207, Australia 268, Belgium 13, Brazil 80, Chile
    256, China NA, Ecuador NA, Finland 11, France 78, Germany 32, Greenpeace 12,
    India 60, Italy 210, Japan 59, South Korea 14, Netherlands 10, NZ 264,
    Norway 23, Peru 39, Poland NA, South Africa 79, Spain 43, Sweden 10, UK 116,
    Uruguay NA, US 1,666, former USSR 565 (1989-90)
  Winter (July) population:
    over 1,046 total; Argentina 150, Australia 71, Brazil 12, Chile 73, China
    NA, France 33, Germany 19, Greenpeace 5, India 1, Japan 38, South Korea 14,
    NZ 11, Poland NA, South Africa 12, UK 69, Uruguay NA, US 225, former USSR
    313 (1989-90)
  Year-round stations:
    42 total; Argentina 6, Australia 3, Brazil 1, Chile 3, China 2, Finland 1,
    France 1, Germany 1, India 1, Japan 2, South Korea 1, NZ 1, Poland 1, South
    Africa 3, UK 5, Uruguay 1, US 3, former USSR 6 (1990-91)
  Summer only stations:
    over 38 total; Argentina 7, Australia 3, Chile 5, Germany 3, India 1, Italy
    1, Japan 4, NZ 2, Norway 1, Peru 1, South Africa 1, Spain 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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Antarctica
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    none
  conventional short form:
    Antarctica
Digraph:
    AY
Type:
  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 Antarctica.
    Administration is carried out through consultative member meetings - the
    18th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting was in Japan 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 Antarctica 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,
    Australia, Chile, France, New Zealand, Norway, and the UK. Nonclaimant
    consultative nations are - Belgium, Brazil (1983), China (1985), Ecuador
    (1990), Finland (1989), Germany (1981), India (1983), Italy (1987), Japan,
    South Korea (1989), Netherlands (1990), Peru (1989), Poland (1977), South
    Africa, Spain (1988), Sweden (1988), Uruguay (1985), the US, and Russia.
    Acceding (nonvoting) members, with year of accession in parentheses, are -
    Austria (1987), Bulgaria (1978), Canada (1988), Colombia (1988), Cuba
    (1984), Czech Republic (1993), Denmark (1965), Greece (1987), Guatemala
    (1991), Hungary (1984), North Korea (1987), Papua New Guinea (1981), Romania
    (1971), Slovakia (1993), Switzerland (1990), and Ukraine (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 jurisdiction over observers and scientists by their own states
  Article 9:
    frequent consultative meetings take place among member nations
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Antarctica
                                   Government
  Article 10:
    treaty states will discourage activities by any country in Antarctica 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 pollution, fauna, and flora, environmental
    impact assessments, waste management, and protected areas; it also prohibits
    all activities relating to mineral resources except scientific research; 14
    parties have ratified Protocol as of April 1995
Legal system:
    US law, including certain criminal offenses by or against US nationals, such
    as murder, may apply to areas not under jurisdiction of other countries.
    Some US laws directly apply to Antarctica. 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 Antarctica. 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
    Antarctica 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).
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Antarctica
                                     Economy
Overview:
    No economic activity at present except for fishing off the coast and
    small-scale tourism, both based abroad.
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Antarctica
                                 Transportation
Ports:
    none; offshore anchorage
Airports:
    42 landing facilities at different locations operated by 15 national
    governments party to the Treaty; one additional air facility operated by
    commercial (nongovernmental) tourist organization; helicopter pads at 36 of
    these locations; runways at 14 locations are gravel, sea ice, glacier ice,
    or compacted snow surface suitable for wheeled fixed-wing aircraft; no paved
    runways; 15 locations have snow-surface skiways limited to use by
    ski-equipped planes - 11 runways/skiways 1,000 to 3,000 m, 5 runways/skiways
    less than 1,000 m, 8 runways/skiways greater than 3,000 m, and 5 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
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Antarctica
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    NA
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    NA
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                   Antarctica
                                 Defense Forces
Note:
    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
 Gad is provided in the
Department of State pamphlet, "A Safe Trip Abroad."  It is available from
the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office,
Washington, D.C. 20402.
Adoption:   After completing lengthy pre-adoption procedures in the United
States, foreigners wishing to adopt a chil
Cameroon
9CAMBODIA (formerly Kampuchea) - Passport and visa required.  Airport visa
valid for a 1 month stay is available upon arrival in Cambodia from the
Ministry of National Security; requires $20  fee. Visas can also be
obtained from a Cambodian embassy or consulate in a country which maintains
diplomatic relations with Cambodia. There is no Cambodian Embassy in the
U.S. at this time.
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Cambodia
============================================================
Cambodia - Consular Information Sheet
 October 19, 1995
Country Description:  In September 1993, a democratically elected
government took office in Cambodia, following a two-year United
Nations peacekeeping program.  The country has enormous economic
needs and faces an increasingly weakened but still active Khmer
Rouge insurgency in several provinces.  High levels of crime and
banditry remain a persistent problem in Cambodia.
Entry Requirements:  Travelers may wish to contact the Royal
Embassy of Cambodia, 4500 16th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20022,
tel. [phone], fax [phone] for information about entry
requirements.
Areas of Instability:  Limited military conflict, which frequently
intensifies during the dry season (November through May) is possible
in a number of areas, including along the border with Thailand, and
especially in Battambang Province.  During periods of increased
military conflict, the U.S. Embassy discourages its personnel from
traveling to Battambang Province, except for essential travel.  The
U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh may be able to provide Americans
traveling outside the capital with more detailed information on
areas of conflict and especially encourages persons wishing to
travel to the Battambang area to check with the Embassy first.
Khmer Rouge Radio commentaries have threatened physical harm to
American and other foreign nationals.  Some Westerners, including
one American citizen, have been taken hostage and several
non-Americans have been killed.  The safety of road travel outside
urban areas varies greatly from region to region.  Potential risks
can be reduced if such travel is undertaken in vehicle convoy during
daylight hours.  Train travel is not considered safe, and the U.S.
Embassy in Phnom Penh has advised Embassy personnel not to travel
via train.  Inter-city travel by water can be unsafe.  Risks can be
reduced by traveling on fast boats only.  (The U.S. Embassy
discourages its personnel from travel by boat on the Tonle Sap to
Siem Reap.)  Crime and banditry is a persistent problem in some
areas.  The town of Siem Reap and the ruins of Angkor Wat remain
open to tourists, but one American was killed and another wounded by
bandits on January 15, 1995 in the vicinity of Banteay Srei Temple,
approximately 30 kilometers northeast of Siem Reap and Angkor Wat.
The area surrounding Banteay Srei Temple continues to be unsettled
and dangerous.  Since January 16, 1995, the Cambodian government has
prohibited travel to that temple.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are not widely available
and do not meet U.S. standards of hygiene and care.  Doctors and
hospitals expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage,
including provision for medical evacuation, has proven helpful in
some instances.  Questions on health matters can be directed to the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline, at [phone].
Information on Crime:  Although major crime has not been a problem
for most U.S. travelers, the potential for crime, especially in
remote or rural areas, remains.  The U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh
advises its personnel to avoid traveling alone and in remote areas
of the city, especially after dark.  Some organizations in Phnom
Penh encourage their staffs to observe a self-imposed curfew.  The
U.S. Embassy advises its personnel to carry photocopies and not
their U.S. passport, driver's license or other important documents
while sightseeing as these may be confiscated.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local
police and to the U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh.  Useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "a Safe Trip
Abroad".  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Lifting of Sanction:  Sanction against Cambodia was lifted on
January 3, 1992, in conjunction with the implementation of the
Comprehensive Political Settlement of the Cambodia conflict.  This
removes all mandatory restrictions on exports, imports, financial
transactions, telecommunications, and travel.  The lifting of the
embargo permits U.S. travel agents to book travel to Cambodia.
Exporters are still required to apply to the Department of Commerce
for authorization to export certain high technology products which
can be diverted for military use.
Financial Transactions:  Personal checks and credit cards are not
widely accepted within Cambodia.
Adoptions:  The former government of Cambodia banned adoption of
Cambodian orphans by foreign citizens.  The Royal Cambodian
government has confirmed this policy.
Dual Nationality:  The Royal Cambodian government has not yet
adopted laws on dual nationality.  In practical terms, the United
States Embassy is aware of no naturalized Americans of Cambodian
birth who have encountered problems relating to taxes, military
service, etc.  Specific questions on dual nationality can be
directed to a Cambodian embassy or consulate, to the Office of
Overseas Citizens Services, Department of State, Washington, D.C.
20520-4818, or to the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Phnom
Penh.
Registration:  Americans can register at the U.S. Embassy in Phnom
Penh and obtain updated information on travel and security within
Cambodia.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 27, Street
Angphanouvong Street 240, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.  The telephone
number is (855) 23-26436 or 23-26438.  The consular entrance to the
U.S. Embassy is located at 16, ST 228 (between Street 51 and Street
 No. 95-132
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued May 15, 1995,
to provide the address and phone number of the Royal Embassy of
Cambodia and information on financial transactions.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Cambodia
============================================================
Cambodia - Consular Information Sheet
 October 19, 1995
Country Description:  In September 1993, a democratically elected
government took office in Cambodia, following a two-year United
Nations peacekeeping program.  The country has enormous economic
needs and faces an increasingly weakened but still active Khmer
Rouge insurgency in several provinces.  High levels of crime and
banditry remain a persistent problem in Cambodia.
Entry Requirements:  Travelers may wish to contact the Royal
Embassy of Cambodia, 4500 16th Street, NW, Washington, DC 20022,
tel. [phone], fax [phone] for information about entry
requirements.
Areas of Instability:  Limited military conflict, which frequently
intensifies during the dry season (November through May) is possible
in a number of areas, including along the border with Thailand, and
especially in Battambang Province.  During periods of increased
military conflict, the U.S. Embassy discourages its personnel from
traveling to Battambang Province, except for essential travel.  The
U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh may be able to provide Americans
traveling outside the capital with more detailed information on
areas of conflict and especially encourages persons wishing to
travel to the Battambang area to check with the Embassy first.
Khmer Rouge Radio commentaries have threatened physical harm to
American and other foreign nationals.  Some Westerners, including
one American citizen, have been taken hostage and several
non-Americans have been killed.  The safety of road travel outside
urban areas varies greatly from region to region.  Potential risks
can be reduced if such travel is undertaken in vehicle convoy during
daylight hours.  Train travel is not considered safe, and the U.S.
Embassy in Phnom Penh has advised Embassy personnel not to travel
via train.  Inter-city travel by water can be unsafe.  Risks can be
reduced by traveling on fast boats only.  (The U.S. Embassy
discourages its personnel from travel by boat on the Tonle Sap to
Siem Reap.)  Crime and banditry is a persistent problem in some
areas.  The town of Siem Reap and the ruins of Angkor Wat remain
open to tourists, but one American was killed and another wounded by
bandits on January 15, 1995 in the vicinity of Banteay Srei Temple,
approximately 30 kilometers northeast of Siem Reap and Angkor Wat.
The area surrounding Banteay Srei Temple continues to be unsettled
and dangerous.  Since January 16, 1995, the Cambodian government has
prohibited travel to that temple.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are not widely available
and do not meet U.S. standards of hygiene and care.  Doctors and
hospitals expect immediate cash payment for health services.  U.S.
medical insurance is not always valid outside the United States.
Supplemental medical insurance with specific overseas coverage,
including provision for medical evacuation, has proven helpful in
some instances.  Questions on health matters can be directed to the
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention's international travelers
hotline, at [phone].
Information on Crime:  Although major crime has not been a problem
for most U.S. travelers, the potential for crime, especially in
remote or rural areas, remains.  The U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh
advises its personnel to avoid traveling alone and in remote areas
of the city, especially after dark.  Some organizations in Phnom
Penh encourage their staffs to observe a self-imposed curfew.  The
U.S. Embassy advises its personnel to carry photocopies and not
their U.S. passport, driver's license or other important documents
while sightseeing as these may be confiscated.  The loss or theft
abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported immediately to local
police and to the U.S. Embassy in Phnom Penh.  Useful information on
guarding valuables and protecting personal security while traveling
abroad is provided in the Department of State pamphlet, "a Safe Trip
Abroad".  It is available from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S.
Government Printing Office, Washington D.C. 20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Criminal penalties for
possession, use and trafficking in illegal drugs are strict and
convicted offenders can expect lengthy jail sentences and fines.
Lifting of Sanction:  Sanction against Cambodia was lifted on
January 3, 1992, in conjunction with the implementation of the
Comprehensive Political Settlement of the Cambodia conflict.  This
removes all mandatory restrictions on exports, imports, financial
transactions, telecommunications, and travel.  The lifting of the
embargo permits U.S. travel agents to book travel to Cambodia.
Exporters are still required to apply to the Department of Commerce
for authorization to export certain high technology products which
can be diverted for military use.
Financial Transactions:  Personal checks and credit cards are not
widely accepted within Cambodia.
Adoptions:  The former government of Cambodia banned adoption of
Cambodian orphans by foreign citizens.  The Royal Cambodian
government has confirmed this policy.
Dual Nationality:  The Royal Cambodian government has not yet
adopted laws on dual nationality.  In practical terms, the United
States Embassy is aware of no naturalized Americans of Cambodian
birth who have encountered problems relating to taxes, military
service, etc.  Specific questions on dual nationality can be
directed to a Cambodian embassy or consulate, to the Office of
Overseas Citizens Services, Department of State, Washington, D.C.
20520-4818, or to the Consular Section of the U.S. Embassy in Phnom
Penh.
Registration:  Americans can register at the U.S. Embassy in Phnom
Penh and obtain updated information on travel and security within
Cambodia.
Embassy Location:  The U.S. Embassy is located at 27, Street
Angphanouvong Street 240, Phnom Penh, Cambodia.  The telephone
number is (855) 23-26436 or 23-26438.  The consular entrance to the
U.S. Embassy is located at 16, ST 228 (between Street 51 and Street
 No. 95-132
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet issued May 15, 1995,
to provide the address and phone number of the Royal Embassy of
Cambodia and information on financial transactions.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
2                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cambodia
                                    Geography
Location:
    Southeastern Asia, bordering the Gulf of Thailand, between Thailand and
    Vietnam
Map references:
    Southeast Asia
Area:
  total area:
    181,040 sq km
  land area:
    176,520 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly smaller than Oklahoma
Land boundaries:
    total 2,572 km, Laos 541 km, Thailand 803 km, Vietnam 1,228 km
Coastline:
    443 km
Maritime claims:
  contiguous zone:
    24 nm
  continental shelf:
    200 nm
  exclusive economic zone:
    200 nm
  territorial sea:
    12 nm
International disputes:
    offshore islands and sections of the boundary with Vietnam are in dispute;
    maritime boundary with Vietnam not defined; parts of border with Thailand in
    dispute; maritime boundary with Thailand not clearly defined
Climate:
    tropical; rainy, monsoon season (May to November); dry season (December to
    April); little seasonal temperature variation
Terrain:
    mostly low, flat plains; mountains in southwest and north
Natural resources:
    timber, gemstones, some iron ore, manganese, phosphates, hydropower
    potential
Land use:
  arable land:
    16%
  permanent crops:
    1%
  meadows and pastures:
    3%
  forest and woodland:
    76%
  other:
    4%
Irrigated land:
    920 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    logging activities throughout the country and strip mining for gems in the
    western region along the border with Thailand are resulting in habitat loss
    and declining biodiversity (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
  natural hazards:
    monsoonal rains (June to November); flooding; occasional droughts
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cambodia
                                    Geography
  international agreements:
    party to - Marine Life Conservation, Ship Pollution; signed, but not
    ratified - Desertification, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine
    Dumping
Note:
    a land of paddies and forests dominated by the Mekong River and Tonle Sap
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cambodia
                                     People
Population:
    10,561,373 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    46% (female 2,367,414; male 2,438,104)
  15-64 years:
    51% (female 2,932,788; male 2,494,203)
  65 years and over:
    3% (female 185,337; male 143,527) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.83% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    44.42 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    16.16 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Infant mortality rate:
    109.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    49.46 years
  male:
    48 years
  female:
    51 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    5.81 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Cambodian(s)
  adjective:
    Cambodian
Ethnic divisions:
    Khmer 90%, Vietnamese 5%, Chinese 1%, other 4%
Religions:
    Theravada Buddhism 95%, other 5%
Languages:
    Khmer (official), French
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    35%
  male:
    48%
  female:
    22%
Labor force:
    2.5 million to 3 million
  by occupation:
    agriculture 80% (1988 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cambodia
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Kingdom of Cambodia
  conventional short form:
    Cambodia
  local long form:
    Reacheanachak Kampuchea
  local short form:
    Kampuchea
Digraph:
    CB
Type:
    multiparty liberal democracy under a constitutional monarchy established in
    September 1993
Capital:
    Phnom Penh
Administrative divisions:
    21 provinces (khet, singular and plural); Banteay Meanchey, Batdambang,
    Kampong Cham, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Spoe, Kampong Thum, Kampot, Kandal,
    Kaoh Kong, Kracheh, Mondol Kiri, Phnum Penh, Pouthisat, Preah Vihear, Prey
    Veng, Rotanokiri, Siemreab-Otdar Meanchey, Sihanoukville, Stoeng Treng, Svay
    Rieng, Takev
  note:
    Siemreab-Otdar Meanchey may have been divided into two provinces named
    Siemreab and Otdar Meanchey
Independence:
    9 November 1949 (from France)
National holiday:
    Independence Day, 9 November 1949
Constitution:
    promulgated September 1993
Legal system:
    currently being defined
Suffrage:
    18 years of age; universal
Executive branch:
  chief of state:
    King Norodom SIHANOUK (reinstated 24 September 1993)
  head of government:
    power shared between First Prime Minister Prince Norodom RANARIDDH and
    Second Prime Minister HUN SEN
  cabinet:
    Council of Ministers; elected by the National Assembly
Legislative branch:
    unicameral; a 120-member constituent assembly based on proportional
    representation within each province was established following the
    UN-supervised election in May 1993; the constituent assembly was transformed
    into a legislature in September 1993 after delegates promulgated the
    constitution
Judicial branch:
    Supreme Court provided for by the constitution has not yet been established
    and the future judicial system is yet to be defined by law
Political parties and leaders:
    National United Front for an Independent, Neutral, Peaceful, and Cooperative
    Cambodia (FUNCINPEC), Prince NORODOM RANARIDDH; Cambodian Pracheachon Party
    or Cambodian People's Party (CPP), CHEA SIM; Buddhist Liberal Democratic
    Party, SON SANN; Democratic Kampuchea (DK, also known as the Khmer Rouge),
    KHIEU SAMPHAN; Molinaka, PROM NEAKAREACH
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cambodia
                                   Government
Member of:
    ACCT, AsDB, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFRCS,
    ILO, IMF, IMO, INTELSAT (nonsignatory user), INTERPOL, ITU, NAM, PCA, UN,
    UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTO
Diplomatic representation in US:
    Ambassador SISOWATH SIRIRATH represents Cambodia at the United Nations
US diplomatic representation:
  chief of mission:
    Ambassador Charles H. TWINING
  embassy:
    27 EO Street 240, Phnom Penh
  mailing address:
    Box P, APO AP 96546
  telephone:
    [855] (23) 26436, 26438
  FAX:
    [855] (23) 26437
Flag:
    horizontal band of red separates two equal horizontal bands of blue with a
    white three-towered temple representing Angkor Wat in the center
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cambodia
                                     Economy
Overview:
    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 1991-94. 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 Cambodia, where 90% of about 9.5 million Khmer
    live, remains mired in poverty. The almost total lack of basic
    infrastructure 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. Inflation for 1994 as a whole was less than a quarter of the
    1992 rate and was declining during the year.
National product:
    GDP - purchasing power parity - $6.4 billion (1994 est.)
National product real growth rate:
    5% (1994 est.)
National product per capita:
    $630 (1994 est.)
Inflation rate (consumer prices):
    26%-30% (1994 est.)
Unemployment rate:
    NA%
Budget:
  revenues:
    $190 million
  expenditures:
    $365 million, including capital expenditures of $120 million (1994 est.)
Exports:
    $283.6 million (f.o.b., 1993)
  commodities:
    timber, rubber, soybeans, sesame
  partners:
    Singapore, Japan, Thailand, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia
Imports:
    $479.3 million (c.i.f., 1993)
  commodities:
    cigarettes, construction materials, petroleum products, machinery
  partners:
    Singapore, Vietnam, Japan, Australia, Hong Kong, Indonesia
External debt:
    $383 million to OECD members (1993)
Industrial production:
    growth rate 7.9% (1993 est.); accounts for 8% of GDP
Electricity:
  capacity:
    40,000 kW
  production:
    160 million kWh
  consumption per capita:
    14 kWh (1993)
Industries:
    rice milling, fishing, wood and wood products, rubber, cement, gem mining
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cambodia
                                     Economy
Agriculture:
    mainly subsistence farming except for rubber plantations; main crops - rice,
    rubber, corn; food shortages - rice, meat, vegetables, dairy products,
    sugar, flour
Illicit drugs:
    increasingly used as a transshipment country for heroin produced in the
    Golden Triangle; growing money-laundering center; high-level
    narcotics-related corruption in government; possible small-scale heroin
    production; large producer of cannibis
Economic aid:
  recipient:
    US commitments, including Ex-Im (FY70-89), $725 million; Western (non-US
    countries) (1970-89), $300 million; Communist countries (1970-89), $1.8
    billion; donor countries and multilateral institutions pledged $880 million
    in assistance in 1992; IMF pledged $120 million in aid for 1995-98
Currency:
    1 new riel (CR) = 100 sen
Exchange rates:
    riels (CR) per US$1 - 2,470 (December 1993), 2,800 (September 1992), 500
    (December 1991), 560 (1990), 159.00 (1988), 100.00 (1987)
Fiscal year:
    calendar year
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cambodia
                                 Transportation
Railroads:
  total:
    655 km
  narrow gauge:
    655 km 1.000-m gauge
Highways:
  total:
    34,100 km (some roads in serious disrepair)
  paved:
    bituminous 3,000 km
  unpaved:
    crushed stone, gravel, or improved earth 3,100 km; unimproved earth 28,000
    km
Inland waterways:
    3,700 km navigable all year to craft drawing 0.6 meters; 282 km navigable to
    craft drawing 1.8 meters
Ports:
    Kampong Saom (Sihanoukville), Kampot, Krong Kaoh Kong, Phnom Penh
Merchant marine:
    none
Airports:
  total:
    22
  with paved runways 2,438 to 3,047 m:
    2
  with paved runways 1,524 to 2,437 m:
    2
  with paved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    3
  with paved runways under 914 m:
    2
  with unpaved runways 1,524 to 2,438 m:
    3
  with unpaved runways 914 to 1,523 m:
    10
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cambodia
                                 Communications
Telephone system:
    NA telephones; service barely adequate for government requirements and
    virtually nonexistent for general public
  local:
    NA
  intercity:
    NA
  international:
    international service limited to Vietnam and other adjacent countries
Radio:
  broadcast stations:
    AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
  radios:
    NA
Television:
  broadcast stations:
    1
  televisions:
    NA
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                    Cambodia
                                 Defense Forces
Branches:
  Khmer Royal Armed Forces (KRAF):
    created in 1993 by the merger of the Cambodian People's Armed Forces and the
    two non-Communist resistance armies; note - the KRAF is also known as the
    Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF)
  Resistance forces:
    National Army of Democratic Kampuchea (Khmer Rouge)
Manpower availability:
    males age 15-49 2,255,050; males fit for military service 1,256,632; males
    reach military age (18) annually 70,707 (1995 est.)
Defense expenditures:
    exchange rate conversion - $85 million, 1.4% of GDP (1995 est.)
Cambodia
7BURUNDI - Passport and visa required.  Obtain visa before arrival to avoid
long airport delay.  Multi-entry visa valid for 2 months (must be used
within 2 months of date of issue) requires $11 fee, 3 application forms, 3
photos, yellow fever and cholera immunizations and return/onward ticket
(meningitis immunization recommended).  Company letter needed for business
travel.  Send  U.S. postal money order only and SASE for return of passport
by mail.  For further information consult Embassy of the Republic of
Burundi, Suite 212, 2233 Wisconsin Ave., N.W., Washington, D.C. 20007
(202/342-2574) or Permanent Mission of Burundi to the U.N. (212/687-1180).
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Burundi
============================================================
Burundi - Travel Warning
 October 3, 1995
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to defer all travel to
Burundi.  Because of the increasing and unpredictable incidents of
violence throughout Burundi, the Department of State has restricted
U.S. government personnel from traveling outside the capital city,
Bujumbura.  Further, personnel may travel only to areas within
Bujumbura deemed safe by the U.S. Regional Security Officer.
Dependents are prohibited from accompanying U.S. government
employees assigned to Burundi.
 No. 95-031
This replaces the Travel Warning dated June 16, 1995 to reflect the
designation of Bujumbura as an unaccompanied post for U.S.
government employees.
Burundi - Consular Information Sheet
 October 6, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to defer all
travel to Burundi.  Because of the increasing and unpredictable
incidents of violence throughout Burundi, the Department of State
has restricted U.S. government personnel from traveling outside the
capital city, Bujumbura.  Further, personnel may travel only to
areas within Bujumbura deemed safe by the U.S. Regional Security
Officer.  Dependents are prohibited from accompanying U.S.
government employees assigned to Burundi.
Country Description:  Burundi is a small, inland African nation
passing through a period of instability following a coup attempt in
October 1993.  Facilities for tourism, particularly in the interior,
are limited.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Only
those travelers resident in countries where there is no Burundian
Embassy are eligible for entry stamps, without a visa, at the
airport upon arrival.  These entry stamps are not a substitute for a
visa which must subsequently be obtained from the Immigration
Service within 24 hours of arrival.  Visas cost from $30 to $60,
depending on anticipated length of stay.  Travelers who have failed
to obtain a visa will not be permitted to leave the country.
Multiple entry visas valid for three months are available in
Burundian Embassies abroad for $11.  Evidence of yellow fever
immunization must be presented.  Also, visitors are required to show
proof of vaccination against meningococcal meningitis.  Additional
information may be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of
Burundi, Suite 212, 2233 Wisconsin Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C.
20007, telephone [phone]; or the Permanent Mission of Burundi
to the United Nations in New York, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  In light of the October 1993 coup attempt
and subsequent ethnic/political tensions, all areas of the country
are potentially unstable.  Sporadic violence remains a problem, in
Bujumbura as well as in the interior where large numbers of
displaced persons are encamped or in hiding.  Local authorities
cannot guarantee safety.  The U.S. Embassy has reiterated the
importance of using extreme caution, and respecting any curfews in
effect, with no travel to the troubled neighborhoods of the capital.
 Burundi periodically has closed its land borders without notice and
suspended air travel and telephone service in response to political
disturbances.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited in Burundi.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage, including medical evacuation coverage, has proved
to be useful.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
recommend that travelers to Burundi receive the meningococcal
polysaccharide vaccine before traveling to the area.  Information on
health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline, telephone (404)
332-4559.
Information on Crime:  Street crime in Burundi poses a high risk
for visitors.  Crime involves muggings, purse-snatching,
pickpocketing, burglary, and auto break-ins.  Criminals operate
individually or in small groups.  There have been reports of
muggings of persons jogging or walking alone in all sections of
Bujumbura, and especially on public roads bordering Lake Tanganyika.
 The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
In-Country Travel:  Given the fragile security situation, travelers
should check with the U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura before traveling out
of the capital.  Burundi has a good network of roads between the
major towns and border posts.  Travel on other roads is difficult,
particularly in the rainy season.  Public transportation to border
points is often difficult and frequently unavailable.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens who register at the
U.S. Embassy may obtain updated information on travel and security
in Burundi.  The U.S. Embassy is located on the Avenue des
Etats-Unis in the capital city of Bujumbura.  The mailing address is
B.P. 34, 1720 Bujumbura.  The telephone number is (257) 223-454.
 No. 95-124
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 12,
1995, to reflect the designation of Bujumbura as an unaccompanied
post for U.S. government employees.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
------------------------------------------------------------------------------
STATE DEPARTMENT TRAVEL INFORMATION - Burundi
============================================================
Burundi - Travel Warning
 October 3, 1995
The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to defer all travel to
Burundi.  Because of the increasing and unpredictable incidents of
violence throughout Burundi, the Department of State has restricted
U.S. government personnel from traveling outside the capital city,
Bujumbura.  Further, personnel may travel only to areas within
Bujumbura deemed safe by the U.S. Regional Security Officer.
Dependents are prohibited from accompanying U.S. government
employees assigned to Burundi.
 No. 95-031
This replaces the Travel Warning dated June 16, 1995 to reflect the
designation of Bujumbura as an unaccompanied post for U.S.
government employees.
Burundi - Consular Information Sheet
 October 6, 1995
Warning:  The Department of State warns U.S. citizens to defer all
travel to Burundi.  Because of the increasing and unpredictable
incidents of violence throughout Burundi, the Department of State
has restricted U.S. government personnel from traveling outside the
capital city, Bujumbura.  Further, personnel may travel only to
areas within Bujumbura deemed safe by the U.S. Regional Security
Officer.  Dependents are prohibited from accompanying U.S.
government employees assigned to Burundi.
Country Description:  Burundi is a small, inland African nation
passing through a period of instability following a coup attempt in
October 1993.  Facilities for tourism, particularly in the interior,
are limited.
Entry Requirements:  A passport and a visa are required.  Only
those travelers resident in countries where there is no Burundian
Embassy are eligible for entry stamps, without a visa, at the
airport upon arrival.  These entry stamps are not a substitute for a
visa which must subsequently be obtained from the Immigration
Service within 24 hours of arrival.  Visas cost from $30 to $60,
depending on anticipated length of stay.  Travelers who have failed
to obtain a visa will not be permitted to leave the country.
Multiple entry visas valid for three months are available in
Burundian Embassies abroad for $11.  Evidence of yellow fever
immunization must be presented.  Also, visitors are required to show
proof of vaccination against meningococcal meningitis.  Additional
information may be obtained from the Embassy of the Republic of
Burundi, Suite 212, 2233 Wisconsin Avenue, N.W., Washington, D.C.
20007, telephone [phone]; or the Permanent Mission of Burundi
to the United Nations in New York, telephone [phone].
Areas of Instability:  In light of the October 1993 coup attempt
and subsequent ethnic/political tensions, all areas of the country
are potentially unstable.  Sporadic violence remains a problem, in
Bujumbura as well as in the interior where large numbers of
displaced persons are encamped or in hiding.  Local authorities
cannot guarantee safety.  The U.S. Embassy has reiterated the
importance of using extreme caution, and respecting any curfews in
effect, with no travel to the troubled neighborhoods of the capital.
 Burundi periodically has closed its land borders without notice and
suspended air travel and telephone service in response to political
disturbances.
Medical Facilities:  Medical facilities are limited in Burundi.
Doctors and hospitals often expect immediate cash payment for health
care services.  U.S. medical insurance is not always valid outside
the United States.  Supplemental medical insurance with specific
overseas coverage, including medical evacuation coverage, has proved
to be useful.  The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention
recommend that travelers to Burundi receive the meningococcal
polysaccharide vaccine before traveling to the area.  Information on
health matters can be obtained from the Centers for Disease Control
and Prevention's international travelers hotline, telephone (404)
332-4559.
Information on Crime:  Street crime in Burundi poses a high risk
for visitors.  Crime involves muggings, purse-snatching,
pickpocketing, burglary, and auto break-ins.  Criminals operate
individually or in small groups.  There have been reports of
muggings of persons jogging or walking alone in all sections of
Bujumbura, and especially on public roads bordering Lake Tanganyika.
 The loss or theft abroad of a U.S. passport should be reported
immediately to local police and to the nearest U.S. embassy or
consulate.  The pamphlets "A Safe Trip Abroad" and "Tips for
Travelers to Sub-Saharan Africa" provide useful information on
protecting personal security while traveling abroad and on travel in
the region in general.  Both are available from the Superintendent
of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, D.C.
20402.
Drug Penalties:  U.S. citizens are subject to the laws of the
country in which they are traveling.  Penalties for possession, use
or trafficking in illegal drugs are strictly enforced.  Convicted
offenders can expect jail sentences and fines.
In-Country Travel:  Given the fragile security situation, travelers
should check with the U.S. Embassy in Bujumbura before traveling out
of the capital.  Burundi has a good network of roads between the
major towns and border posts.  Travel on other roads is difficult,
particularly in the rainy season.  Public transportation to border
points is often difficult and frequently unavailable.
Registration/Embassy Location:  U.S. citizens who register at the
U.S. Embassy may obtain updated information on travel and security
in Burundi.  The U.S. Embassy is located on the Avenue des
Etats-Unis in the capital city of Bujumbura.  The mailing address is
B.P. 34, 1720 Bujumbura.  The telephone number is (257) 223-454.
 No. 95-124
This replaces the Consular Information Sheet dated September 12,
1995, to reflect the designation of Bujumbura as an unaccompanied
post for U.S. government employees.
----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- ----- -----
The "[e-mail]" mailing list is the official Internet and
BITNET distribution point for the U.S. State Department Travel Warnings and
Consular Information Sheets.  To unsubscribe, send a message containing the
word "unsubscribe" to:    [e-mail]
Archives of past "travel-advisories" postings are available at the URL:
"http://www.stolaf.edu/network/travel-advisories.html" or via Gopher:
gopher.stolaf.edu, Internet Resources/US-State-Department-Travel-Advisories
0v0                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Burundi
                                    Geography
Location:
    Central Africa, east of Zaire
Map references:
    Africa
Area:
  total area:
    27,830 sq km
  land area:
    25,650 sq km
  comparative area:
    slightly larger than Maryland
Land boundaries:
    total 974 km, Rwanda 290 km, Tanzania 451 km, Zaire 233 km
Coastline:
    0 km (landlocked)
Maritime claims:
    none; landlocked
International disputes:
    none
Climate:
    temperate; warm; occasional frost in uplands; dry season from June to
    September
Terrain:
    hilly and mountainous, dropping to a plateau in east, some plains
Natural resources:
    nickel, uranium, rare earth oxide, peat, cobalt, copper, platinum (not yet
    exploited), vanadium
Land use:
  arable land:
    43%
  permanent crops:
    8%
  meadows and pastures:
    35%
  forest and woodland:
    2%
  other:
    12%
Irrigated land:
    720 sq km (1989 est.)
Environment:
  current issues:
    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
  natural hazards:
    flooding, landslides
  international agreements:
    party to - Endangered Species; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity,
    Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
Note:
    landlocked; straddles crest of the Nile-Congo watershed
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Burundi
                                     People
Population:
    6,262,429 (July 1995 est.)
Age structure:
  0-14 years:
    48% (female 1,489,721; male 1,494,730)
  15-64 years:
    50% (female 1,606,307; male 1,498,021)
  65 years and over:
    2% (female 105,446; male 68,204) (July 1995 est.)
Population growth rate:
    2.18% (1995 est.)
Birth rate:
    43.35 births/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Death rate:
    21.51 deaths/1,000 population (1995 est.)
Net migration rate:
    NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1995 est.)
  note:
    in a number of waves since April 1994, hundreds of thousands of refugees
    have fled the civil strife between the Hutu and Tutsi factions in Burundi
    and crossed into Rwanda, Tanzania, and Zaire; the refugee flows are
    continuing in 1995 as the ethnic violence has persisted
Infant mortality rate:
    111.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1995 est.)
Life expectancy at birth:
  total population:
    39.86 years
  male:
    37.84 years
  female:
    41.95 years (1995 est.)
Total fertility rate:
    6.63 children born/woman (1995 est.)
Nationality:
  noun:
    Burundian(s)
  adjective:
    Burundi
Ethnic divisions:
  Africans:
    Hutu (Bantu) 85%, Tutsi (Hamitic) 14%, Twa (Pygmy) 1%
  non-Africans:
    Europeans 3,000, South Asians 2,000
Religions:
    Christian 67% (Roman Catholic 62%, Protestant 5%), indigenous beliefs 32%,
    Muslim 1%
Languages:
    Kirundi (official), French (official), Swahili (along Lake Tanganyika and in
    the Bujumbura area)
Literacy:
    age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.)
  total population:
    50%
  male:
    61%
  female:
    40%
Labor force:
    1.9 million (1983 est.)
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Burundi
                                     People
  by occupation:
    agriculture 93.0%, government 4.0%, industry and commerce 1.5%, services
    1.5%
                             THE WORLD FACTBOOK
                                     Burundi
                                   Government
Names:
  conventional long form:
    Republic of Burundi
  conventional short form:
    Burundi
  local long form:
    Republika y'u Burundi
  local short form:
    Burundi
Digraph:
    BY
Type:
    republic
Capital:
    Bujumbura
Administrative divisions:
    15 provinces; Bubanza, Bujumbura, Bururi, Cankuzo, Cibitoke, Gitega, Karuzi,
    Kayanza, Kirundo, Makamba, Muramvya, Muyinga, Ngozi, Rutana, Ruyigi
Independ