The Project Gutenberg eBook of The 1996 CIA World Factbook This ebook is for the use of anyone anywhere in the United States and most other parts of the world at no cost and with almost no restrictions whatsoever. You may copy it, give it away or re-use it under the terms of the Project Gutenberg License included with this ebook or online at www.gutenberg.org. If you are not located in the United States, you will have to check the laws of the country where you are located before using this eBook. Title: The 1996 CIA World Factbook Author: United States. Central Intelligence Agency Release date: December 31, 2008 [eBook #27675] Most recently updated: January 4, 2021 Language: English Credits: Produced by Al Haines *** START OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE 1996 CIA WORLD FACTBOOK *** Produced by Al Haines THE 1996 CIA WORLD FACTBOOK [Transcriber's note: At the time of the preparation of this file (December 2008), the various supplementary sections of the 1996 Factbook (Appendixes, Notes and Definitions, History, etc.) were no longer available. Users of this edition should refer to the Project Gutenberg's versions of the 1995 and 1997 Factbooks for those sections. Note that there may be changes in this material from year to year.] A Afghanistan Albania Algeria American Samoa Andorra Angola Anguilla Antarctica Antigua and Barbuda Arctic Ocean Argentina Armenia Aruba Ashmore and Cartier Islands Atlantic Ocean Australia Austria Azerbaijan B The Bahamas Bahrain Baker Island Bangladesh Barbados Bassas da India Belarus Belgium Belize Benin Bermuda Bhutan Bolivia Bosnia and Herzegovina Botswana Bouvet Island Brazil British Indian Ocean Territory British Virgin Islands Brunei Bulgaria Burkina Faso Burma Burundi C Cambodia Cameroon Canada Cape Verde Cayman Islands Central African Republic Chad Chile China Christmas Island Clipperton Island Cocos (Keeling) Islands Colombia Comoros Congo Cook Islands Coral Sea Islands Costa Rica Cote d'Ivoire Croatia Cuba Cyprus Czech Republic D Denmark Djibouti Dominica Dominican Republic E Ecuador Egypt El Salvador Equatorial Guinea Eritrea Estonia Ethiopia Europa Island F Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) Faroe Islands Fiji Finland France French Guiana French Polynesia French Southern and Antarctic Lands G Gabon The Gambia Gaza Strip Georgia Germany Ghana Gibraltar Glorioso Islands Greece Greenland Grenada Guadeloupe Guam Guatemala Guernsey Guinea Guinea-Bissau Guyana H Haiti Heard Island and McDonald Islands Holy See (Vatican City) Honduras Hong Kong Howland Island Hungary I Iceland India Indian Ocean Indonesia Iran Iraq Ireland Israel Italy J Jamaica Jan Mayen Japan Jarvis Island Jersey Johnston Atoll Jordan Juan de Nova Island K Kazakstan Kenya Kingman Reef Kiribati Korea, North Korea, South Kuwait Kyrgyzstan L Laos Latvia Lebanon Lesotho Liberia Libya Liechtenstein Lithuania Luxembourg M Macau Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Madagascar Malawi Malaysia Maldives Mali Malta Man, Isle of Marshall Islands Martinique Mauritania Mauritius Mayotte Mexico Micronesia, Federated States of Midway Islands Moldova Monaco Mongolia Montserrat Morocco Mozambique N Namibia Nauru Navassa Island Nepal Netherlands Netherlands Antilles New Caledonia New Zealand Nicaragua Niger Nigeria Niue Norfolk Island Northern Mariana Islands Norway O Oman P Pacific Ocean Pakistan Palau Palmyra Atoll Panama Papua New Guinea Paracel Islands Paraguay Peru Philippines Pitcairn Islands Poland Portugal Puerto Rico Q Qatar R Reunion Romania Russia Rwanda S Saint Helena Saint Kitts and Nevis Saint Lucia Saint Pierre and Miquelon Saint Vincent and the Grenadines San Marino Sao Tome and Principe Saudi Arabia Senegal Serbia and Montenegro Seychelles Sierra Leone Singapore Slovakia Slovenia Solomon Islands Somalia South Africa South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands Spain Spratly Islands Sri Lanka Sudan Suriname Svalbard Swaziland Sweden Switzerland Syria T Taiwan Tajikistan Tanzania Thailand Togo Tokelau Tonga Trinidad and Tobago Tromelin Island Tunisia Turkey Turkmenistan Turks and Caicos Islands Tuvalu U Uganda Ukraine United Arab Emirates United Kingdom United States Uruguay Uzbekistan V Vanuatu Venezuela Vietnam Virgin Islands W Wake Island Wallis and Futuna West Bank Western Sahara Western Samoa World Y Yemen Z Zaire Zambia Zimbabwe ===================================================================== @Afghanistan ----------- Map --- Location: 33 00 N, 65 00 E -- Southern Asia, north of Pakistan Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and black with a gold emblem centered on the three bands; the emblem features a temple-like structure with Islamic inscriptions above and below, encircled by a wreath on the left and right and by a bolder Islamic inscription above, all of which are encircled by two crossed scimitars Geography --------- Location: Southern Asia, north of Pakistan Geographic coordinates: 33 00 N, 65 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Amu Darya 258 m highest point: Nowshak 7,485 m Natural resources: natural gas, petroleum, coal, copper, talc, barites, sulfur, 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, Desertification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 22,664,136 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 43% (male 4,972,469; female 4,784,900) 15-64 years: 54% (male 6,377,231; female 5,916,954) 65 years and over: 3% (male 325,808; female 286,774) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 4.78% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 43.03 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 18.16 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 22.94 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.08 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.14 male(s)/female all ages: 1.06 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 149.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 45.85 years male: 46.43 years female: 45.24 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.14 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 31.5% male: 47.2% female: 15% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: AF Type of government: 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 Executive branch: chief of state: President Burhanuddin RABBANI (interim president July-December 1992, president since 2 January 1993) was elected to a two-year term (later amended by multi-party agreement to 18 months) by a national shura (council); election last held 31 December 1992 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote NA; Vice President Mohammad NABI MOHAMMADI (since NA) was appointed by the president; note - in June 1994 failure to agree on a transfer mechanism resulted in RABBANI's extending his term to 28 December 1994; following the expiration of the term and while negotiations on the formation of a new government go on, RABBANI continues in office head of government: Prime Minister Ahmad Shah AHMADZAI (since NA) was appointed by President RABBANI as de facto prime minister, but does not have any real authority; First Deputy Prime Minister Qutbuddin HELAL (since 17 March 1993) and Deputy Prime Minister Arsala RAHMANI (since 17 March 1993) cabinet: Council of Ministers; note - term of present government expired 28 December 1994; factional fighting since 1 January 1994 has kept government officers from actually occupying ministries and discharging government responsibilities; the government's authority to remove cabinet members, including the prime minister, following the expiration of their term is questionable Legislative branch: a unicameral parliament consisting of 205 members was chosen by a national shura (council) in January 1993; non-functioning as of June 1993 Judicial branch: an interim Chief Justice of the Supreme Court has been appointed by the president in consultation with the prime minister, but a new court system has not yet been organized 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) International organization participation: AsDB, CP, ECO, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Abdul RAHIM chancery: 2341 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 234-3770, 3771 FAX: [1] (202) 328-3516 consulate(s) general: New York consulate(s): Washington, DC US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Afghanistan (embassy closed January 1989) Flag: three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and black with a gold emblem centered on the three bands; the emblem features a temple-like structure with Islamic inscriptions above and below, encircled by a wreath on the left and right and by a bolder Islamic inscription above, all of which are encircled by two crossed scimitars Economy ------- Economic 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 16 years of war, including the nearly 10-year Soviet military occupation (which ended 15 February 1989). Over the past decade, one-third of the population fled the country, with Pakistan and Iran sheltering more than 6 million refugees. Now, only 1.0 million Afghan refugees remain in Pakistan and about 1.3 million in Iran. Another 1 million probably moved into and around urban areas within Afghanistan. Gross domestic product has fallen substantially over the past 15 years because of the loss of labor and capital and the disruption of trade and transport. Millions of people continue to suffer from insufficient food, clothing, housing, and lack of medical care. Numerical data are extremely shaky. GDP: purchasing power parity - $12.8 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $600 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 65% industry: 15% services: 20% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% 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.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: small-scale production of textiles, soap, furniture, shoes, fertilizer, and cement; handwoven carpets; natural gas, oil, coal, copper Electricity: capacity: 480,000 kW production: 550 million kWh consumption per capita: 39 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, fruits, nuts, karakul pelts; wool, mutton Illicit drugs: an illicit cultivator of opium poppy and cannabis for the international drug trade; world's second-largest opium producer after Burma (1,250 metric tons in 1995) and a major source of hashish 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.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA note: US provided $450 million assistance (1985-93); 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 - 7,000 (January 1995), 1,900 (January 1994), 1,019 (March 1993), 850 (1991); note - these rates reflect the free market exchange rates rather than the official exchange rate, which is a fixed rate of 50.600 afghanis to the dollar Fiscal year: 21 March - 20 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 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: 18,200 km (1984 est.) Waterways: 1,200 km; chiefly Amu Darya, which handles vessels up to about 500 DWT Pipelines: petroleum products - Uzbekistan to Bagram and Turkmenistan to Shindand; natural gas 180 km Ports: Kheyrabad, Shir Khan Airports: total: 35 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 3 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 4 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with paved runways under 914 m: 7 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 3 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 13 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 (1995 est.) Heliports: 3 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 31,200 (1983 est.) Telephone system: domestic: very limited telephone and telegraph service; 1 public telephone in Kabul international: satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) linked only to Iran and 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region) Radio broadcast stations: AM 5, FM 0, shortwave 2 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: NA note: several television stations run by factions and local councils which provide intermittent service Televisions: 100,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: NA; note - 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: 5,549,602 males fit for military service: 2,976,741 males reach military age (22) annually: 220,532 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Albania ------- Map --- Location: 41 00 N, 20 00 E -- Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and Ionian Sea, between Greece and Serbia and Montenegro Flag ---- Description: red with a black two-headed eagle in the center Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and Ionian Sea, between Greece and Serbia and Montenegro Geographic coordinates: 41 00 N, 20 00 E Map references: 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 border countries: 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 negotiations 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 lowest point: Adriatic Sea 0 m highest point: Maja e Korabit 2,753 m 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 Geographic note: strategic location along Strait of Otranto (links Adriatic Sea to Ionian Sea and Mediterranean Sea) People ------ Population: 3,249,136 (July 1996 est.) note: the IMF, working with Albanian government figures, estimates that the population was 3,120,000 in 1993 and that it has fallen since 1990 Age structure: 0-14 years: 34% (male 570,978; female 529,147) 15-64 years: 60% (male 910,873; female 1,049,662) 65 years and over: 6% (male 77,799; female 110,677) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.34% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 22.21 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.64 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -1.17 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.08 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.08 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.87 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.7 male(s)/female all ages: 0.92 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 49.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 67.92 years male: 64.91 years female: 71.17 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.65 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Albanian(s) adjective: Albanian Ethnic divisions: Albanian 95%, Greeks 3%, other 2% (Vlachs, Gypsies, Serbs, and Bulgarians) (1989 est.) note: in 1989, other estimates of the Greek population ranged from 1% (official Albanian statistics) to 12% (from a Greek organization) 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 est.) total population: 72% male: 80% female: 63% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: AL Type of government: 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; note - some new administrative units may have been created 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) was elected for a five-year term by the People's Assembly head of government: Prime Minister of the Council of Ministers Aleksander Gabriel MEKSI (since 10 April 1992) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was 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: six members of the Democratic Party defected, making the present seating in the Assembly DP 86, ASP 38, SDP 7, DAP 6, RP 1, UHP 2 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, chairman of the Supreme Court is elected by the People's Assembly 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 International organization participation: BSEC, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, NACC, OIC, OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMIG, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Lublin DILJA chancery: Suite 1000, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005 telephone: [1] (202) 223-4942, 8187 FAX: [1] (202) 628-7342 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Joseph E. LAKE embassy: Rruga E. Labinoti 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: An extremely poor country by European standards, Albania is making the difficult transition to a more open-market economy. The economy rebounded in 1993-95 after a severe depression accompanying the collapse of the previous centrally planned system in 1990 and 1991. Stabilization policies - including a strict monetary policy, public sector layoffs, and reduced social services - have improved the government's fiscal situation and reduced inflation. The recovery has been spurred by the remittances of some 20% of the labor force 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 industrial sector ended its five-year, 78% decline in 1995, recording roughly 6% growth. A sharp fall in chromium prices has reduced hard currency receipts from the mining sector. Large segments of the population, especially those living in urban areas, continue to depend on humanitarian aid to meet basic food requirements. Unemployment remains a severe problem accounting for approximately one-fifth of the work force. Now that sanctions on Serbia have been suspended, the falloff in hard currency earnings from smuggling will aggravate unemployment problems. Growth is expected to continue in 1996, but could falter if workers' remittances from Greece are reduced or foreign assistance declines. GDP: purchasing power parity - $4.1 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,210 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 55% industry: NA% services: NA% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 16% (1994 est.) Labor force: 1.692 million (1994 est.) (including 352,000 emigrant workers and 261,000 domestically unemployed) by occupation (of those domestically employed): agriculture (nearly all private) 49.5%, private sector 22.2%, state (nonfarm) sector 28.3% (including state-owned industry 7.8%) Unemployment rate: 19% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $486.3 million expenditures: $550.4 million, including capital expenditures of $124 million (1994) Industries: food processing, textiles and clothing; lumber, oil, cement, chemicals, mining, basic metals, hydropower Industrial production growth rate: 6% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 1,662,000 kW production: 3.9 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,219 kWh (1994 est.) Agriculture: 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 Exports: $141 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: asphalt, metals and metallic ores, electricity, crude oil, vegetables, fruits, tobacco partners: Italy, US, Greece, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia Imports: $601 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.) commodities: machinery, consumer goods, grains partners: Italy, Greece, Bulgaria, Turkey, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia External debt: $977 million (1994 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 lek (L) = 100 qintars Exchange rates: leke (L) per US$1 - 95.65 (January 1996), 100.00 (January 1995), 99.00 (January 1994), 97.00 (January 1993), 50.00 (January 1992), 25.00 (September 1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 670 km standard gauge: 670 km 1.435-m gauge (1995) Highways: total: 18,450 km paved: 17,450 km unpaved: 1,000 km (1991 est.) 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, Shengjin, Vlore Merchant marine: total: 11 cargo ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 52,967 GRT/76,887 DWT (1995 est.) Airports: total: 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 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 55,000 Telephone system: domestic: 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; international traffic carried by microwave radio relay from the Tirane exchange to Italy and Greece Radio broadcast stations: AM 17, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: 577,000 (1991 est.) Television broadcast stations: 9 Televisions: 300,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Interior Ministry Troops, Border Guards Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 723,231 males fit for military service: 588,304 males reach military age (19) annually: 29,340 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $45 million, 2.5% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Algeria ------- Map --- Location: 28 00 N, 3 00 E -- Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Morocco and Tunisia Flag ---- Description: 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) Geography --------- Location: Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Morocco and Tunisia Geographic coordinates: 28 00 N, 3 00 E 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 border countries: 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: part of southeastern region claimed by Libya; 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 lowest point: Chott Melrhir -40 m highest point: Tahat 3,003 m 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; mud slides international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban Geographic note: second-largest country in Africa (after Sudan) People ------ Population: 29,183,032 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 40% (male 5,910,543; female 5,701,647) 15-64 years: 56% (male 8,319,650; female 8,162,816) 65 years and over: 4% (male 510,308; female 578,068) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.21% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 28.51 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.9 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.49 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.04 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.88 male(s)/female all ages: 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 48.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 68.31 years male: 67.22 years female: 69.46 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.59 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 61.6% male: 73.9% female: 49% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: AG Type of government: 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 Liamine ZEROUAL (appointed president 31 January 1994, elected president 16 November 1995) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 16 November 1995 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote NA head of government: Prime Minister Ahmed OUYAHIA (since 31 December 1995) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister Legislative branch: unicameral; note - suspended since 1992 National People's Assembly (Al-Majlis Ech-Chaabi Al-Watani): first-round elections held 26 December 1991; second round canceled by the military after President BENDJEDID resigned 11 January 1992, effectively suspending the assembly (next election promised by late 1996 or early 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (281 total) the fundamentalist FIS won 188 of the 231 seats contested in the first round Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Cour Supreme) Political parties and leaders: Islamic Salvation Front (FIS, outlawed April 1992), Ali BELHADJ, Dr. Abassi MADANI, Rabeh KEBIR (self-exile in Germany); National Liberation Front (FLN), Boualem BENHAMOUDA, secretary general; Socialist Forces Front (FFS), Hocine Ait AHMED, secretary general (self-exile in Switzerland); Hamas, Mahfoud NAHNAH, chairman; Rally for Culture and Democracy (RCD), Said SAADI, secretary general; Algerian Renewal Party (PRA), Noureddine BOUKROUH, chairman note: the government established a multiparty system in September 1989 and, as of 31 December 1990, over 50 legal parties existed International organization participation: 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, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ISO, ITU, NAM, OAPEC, OAS (observer), OAU, OIC, OPEC, OSCE (partner), UN, UNAVEM III, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNMIH, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Osmane BENCHERIF chancery: 2118 Kalorama Road NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 265-2800 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, 69-12-55 FAX: [213] (2) 69-39-79 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) Economy ------- Economic 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 economic stabilization and to introduce market mechanisms into the economy. Despite substantial progress toward economic 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. Following a Paris Club debt rescheduling in 1995 and a robust harvest, the economy experienced a strong recovery and key economic improvements. GDP: purchasing power parity - $108.7 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $3,800 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 12% industry: 50% services: 38% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 28% (1995 est.) 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) Unemployment rate: 25% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $14.3 billion expenditures: $17.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: petroleum, light industries, natural gas, mining, electrical, petrochemical, food processing Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 5,370,000 kW production: 18.3 billion kWh consumption per capita: 587 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, barley, oats, grapes, olives, citrus, fruits; sheep, cattle Exports: $9.5 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: petroleum and natural gas 97% partners: Italy 21%, France 16%, US 14%, Germany 13%, Spain 9% Imports: $10.6 billion (f.o.b., 1995 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) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $316 million (1993) Currency: 1 Algerian dinar (DA) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: Algerian dinars (DA) per US$1 - 53.003 (January 1996), 47.663 (1995), 35.059 (1994), 23.345 (1993), 21.836 (1992), 18.473 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 4,772 km standard gauge: 3,616 km 1.435-m gauge (301 km electrified; 215 km double track) narrow gauge: 1,156 km 1.055-m gauge Highways: total: 95,576 km paved: 63,080 km (including 400 km of expressways) unpaved: 32,496 km (1992 est.) 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: 77 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 916,701 GRT/1,086,324 DWT ships by type: bulk 9, cargo 27, chemical tanker 7, liquefied gas tanker 10, oil tanker 5, roll-on/roll-off cargo 13, short-sea passenger 5, specialized tanker 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 119 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 8 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 24 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 13 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 4 with paved runways under 914 m: 17 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 3 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 19 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 31 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 862,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: domestic: excellent service in north but sparse in south; domestic satellite system with 12 earth stations (20 additional domestic earth stations are planned) international: 5 submarine cables; microwave radio relay to Italy, France, Spain, Morocco, and Tunisia; coaxial cable to Morocco and Tunisia; participant in Medarabtel; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 Intersputnik, and 1 Arabsat Radio broadcast stations: AM 26, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 6 million (1991 est.) Television broadcast stations: 18 Televisions: 2 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: National Popular Army, Navy, Air Force, Territorial Air Defense, National Gendarmerie Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 7,391,946 males fit for military service: 4,534,267 males reach military age (19) annually: 326,229 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $1.3 billion, 2.7% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @American Samoa -------------- (territory of the US) Map --- Location: 14 20 S, 170 00 W -- Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand Flag ---- Description: blue with a white triangle edged in red that is based on the outer side and extends to the hoist side; a brown and white American bald eagle flying toward the hoist side is carrying two traditional Samoan symbols of authority, a staff and a war club Geography --------- Location: Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand Geographic coordinates: 14 20 S, 170 00 W 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) lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Lata 966 m 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 Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 59,566 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 3.77% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 35.75 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 4.01 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 6 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 18.78 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 72.91 years male: 71.03 years female: 74.85 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.24 children born/woman (1996 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 note: most people are bilingual Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.) total population: 97% male: 98% female: 97% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Territory of American Samoa conventional short form: American Samoa abbreviation: AS Data code: AQ Type of government: 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 (of the US) William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993) and Vice President Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993) are popularly elected by the citizens of the US head of government: Governor A. P. LUTALI (since 3 January 1993) and Lieutenant Governor Tauese P. SUNIA (since 3 January 1993) were elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - A. P. LUTALI (Democrat) 53%, Peter Tali COLEMAN (Republican) 36% Legislative branch: bicameral Legislative Assembly (Fono) House of Representatives: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - representatives popularly elected from 17 house districts; percent of vote by party NA; seats - (21 total, 20 elected, and 1 nonvoting delegate from Swains Island); number of seats by party NA Senate: elections last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - senators elected by village chiefs from 12 senate districts; percent of vote by party NA; seats - (18 total) number of seats by party NA US House of Representatives: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - Eni R. F. H. FALEOMAVAEGA reelected as delegate Judicial branch: High Court, chief justice and associate justices are appointed by the US Secretary of the Interior Political parties and leaders: NA International organization participation: ESCAP (associate), Interpol (subbureau), IOC, SPC Diplomatic representation in US: none (territory of the US) US diplomatic representation: none (territory of the US) Flag: blue with a white triangle edged in red that is based on the outer side and extends to the hoist side; a brown and white American bald eagle flying toward the hoist side is carrying two traditional Samoan symbols of authority, a staff and a war club Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $128 million (1991 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $2,600 (1991 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA Labor force: 14,400 (1990) by occupation: government 33%, tuna canneries 34%, other 33% (1990) Unemployment rate: 12% (1991) Budget: revenues: $97 million ($43 million in local revenue and $54 million in grant revenue) expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY90/91) Industries: tuna canneries (largely dependent on foreign fishing vessels), meat canning, handicrafts Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 30,000 kW production: 90 million kWh consumption per capita: 1,505 kWh (1993) Agriculture: bananas, coconuts, vegetables, taro, breadfruit, yams, copra, pineapples, papayas; dairy farming 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 Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA note: $21 million in operational funds and $1.2 million in construction funds for capital improvement projects from the US Department of Interior (1991) Currency: 1 US dollar (US$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: US currency is used Fiscal year: 1 October - 30 September Transportation -------------- Railways: 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: 3 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 2 note: small airstrips on Fituita and Ofu (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 8,399 Telephone system: domestic: good telex, telegraph, and facsimile services; domestic satellite system with 1 Comsat earth station international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 8,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US ====================================================================== @Andorra ------- Map --- Location: 42 30 N, 1 30 E -- Southwestern Europe, between France and Spain Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southwestern Europe, between France and Spain Geographic coordinates: 42 30 N, 1 30 E Map references: Europe Area: total area: 450 sq km land area: 450 sq km comparative area: 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC Land boundaries: total: 125 km border countries: 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 lowest point: Riu Valira 840 m highest point: Coma Pedrosa 2,946 m 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 Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 72,766 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 16% (male 5,829; female 5,851) 15-64 years: 73% (male 28,724; female 24,757) 65 years and over: 11% (male 3,718; female 3,887) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.96% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 10.2 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 2.9 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 22.29 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 0.96 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.16 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.96 male(s)/female all ages: 1.11 male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 2.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 90.94 years male: 86.47 years female: 95.2 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.14 children born/woman (1996 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Principality of Andorra conventional short form: Andorra local long form: Principat d'Andorra local short form: Andorra Data code: AN Type of government: parliamentary democracy (since March 1993) that retains as its heads of state a coprincipality; 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: 1,278 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 Coprince Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995) and Spanish Episcopal Coprince Monseigneur Juan MARTI Alanis (since 31 January 1971); each coprince is represented by a veguer (current names NA) head of government: Executive Council President Marc FORNE Molne (since 21 December 1994) was elected by the General Council and formally appointed by the coprinces cabinet: Executive Council was 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 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (28 total) AND 8, UL 5, ND 5, CNA 2, IDN 2, other 6 Judicial branch: Supreme Court of Andorra at Perpignan (France) for civil cases, two civil judges appointed by the veguers, one appeals judge appointed by the co-princes alternately; Ecclesiastical Court of the Bishop of Seo de Urgel (Spain) for civil cases; Tribunal of the Courts (Tribunal des Cortes) for criminal cases, presided over by the two civil judges, one appeals judge, the veguers, and two members of the General Council 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 International organization participation: CE, ECE, IFRCS, Interpol, IOC, ITU, UN, UNESCO, WIPO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Juli MINOVES-TRIQUELL (also Permanent Representative to the UN) embassy: 2 United Nations Plaza, 25th Floor, New York, NY 10017 telephone: (212) 750-8064 FAX: (212) 750-6630 US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Andorra; US interests in Andorra are represented by the Consulate General's office in Barcelona (Spain); mailing address: Paseo Reina Elisenda, 23, 08034 Barcelona, Spain; telephone: (343) 280-2227; FAX: (343) 205-7705; note - Consul General Maurice S. PARKER makes periodic visits to Andorra 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Tourism, the mainstay of Andorra's tiny, well-to-do economy, accounts for roughly 80% of GDP. An estimated 13 million tourists visit annually, attracted by Andorra's duty-free status and by its summer and winter resorts. Andorra's comparative advantage has recently eroded as the economies of neighboring France and Spain have been opened up, providing broader availability of goods and lower tariffs. The banking sector, with its "tax haven" status, also contributes substantially to the economy. Agricultural production is limited by a scarcity of arable land, and most food has to be imported. The principal livestock activity is sheep raising. Manufacturing consists mainly of cigarettes, cigars, and furniture. Andorra is a member of the EU Customs Union and is treated as an EU member for trade in manufactured goods (no tariffs) and as a non-EU member for agricultural products. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1 billion (1993 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $16,200 (1993 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: NA Unemployment rate: 0% Budget: revenues: $138 million expenditures: $177 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993) Industries: tourism (particularly skiing), sheep, timber, tobacco, banking Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 35,000 kW production: 140 million kWh consumption per capita: 2,570 kWh (1992) Agriculture: small quantities of tobacco, rye, wheat, barley, oats, vegetables; sheep raising Exports: $46.2 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: electricity, tobacco products, furniture partners: France 35%, Spain 59% Imports: $920.2 million (1993) commodities: consumer goods, food partners: France, Spain, US 2.6% (1992) External debt: $NA Economic aid: none Currency: 1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes; 1 peseta (Pta) = 100 centimos; the French and Spanish currencies are used Exchange rates: French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.0056 (January 1996), 4.9915 (1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632 (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991); Spanish pesetas (Ptas) per US$1 - 123.19 (January 1996), 124.69 (1995), 133.96 (1994), 127.26 (1993), 102.38 (1992), 103.91 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 269 km paved: 198 km unpaved: 71 km (1991 est.) Ports: none Airports: none Communications -------------- Telephones: 21,258 (1983 est.) Telephone system: domestic: modern system with microwave radio relay connections between exchanges international: landline circuits to France and Spain Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 10,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 Televisions: 7,000 (1991 est.) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France and Spain ====================================================================== @Angola ------ 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. Map --- Location: 12 30 S, 18 30 E -- Southern Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Namibia and Zaire Flag ---- Description: 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) Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Namibia and Zaire Geographic coordinates: 12 30 S, 18 30 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Moro de Moco 2,620 m 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 sq km 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 Geographic note: Cabinda is separated from rest of country by Zaire People ------ Population: 10,342,899 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 45% (male 2,340,804; female 2,275,689) 15-64 years: 53% (male 2,748,417; female 2,706,295) 65 years and over: 2% (male 128,067; female 143,627) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.68% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 44.58 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 17.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.14 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.89 male(s)/female all ages: 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 138.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 46.8 years male: 44.65 years female: 49.06 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.35 children born/woman (1996 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% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: AO Type of government: 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) was originally elected without opposition under a one party system and stood for election in Angola's first multiparty elections on 29-30 September 1992; DOS SANTOS received 49.6% of the total vote, making a run-off election necessary between him and second-place Jonas SAVIMBI; the run-off was not held and SAVIMBI's National Union for the Total Independence of Angola (UNITA) disputed the results of the first election; the civil war was resumed head of government: Prime Minister Marcolino Jose Carlos MOCO (since 2 December 1992) was appointed by the president and is answerable to the Assembly cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Assembleia Nacional): elections last held 29-30 September 1992 (next to be held NA); results (disputed) - percentage of vote by party NA; seats (223 total) - seats by party NA Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Tribunal da Relacao), judges of the Supreme Court are appointed by the president 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: Front for the Liberation of the Enclave of Cabinda (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 International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, CCC, CEEAC (observer), ECA, FAO, G-77, 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, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Antonio dos Santos FRANCA "N'dalu" embassy: 1819 L Street NW, Suite 400, Washington, DC 20036 telephone: [1] (202) 785-1156 FAX: [1] (202) 785-1258 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Donald K. STEINBERG embassy: No. 32 Rua Houari Boumedienne, Miramar, Luanda mailing address: C.P. 6484, Luanda; American Embassy, Luanda, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-2550 (pouch) telephone: [244] (2) 345-481, 346-418 FAX: [244] (2) 346-924 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) Economy ------- Economic overview: Angola is an economy in disarray. Despite its abundant natural resources, output per capita is among the world's lowest. Subsistence agriculture provides the main livelihood for 80%-90% of the population but accounts for less than 15% of GDP. Oil production and the supporting activities are vital to the economy, contributing about 50% to GDP. Despite the signing of a peace accord in November 1994 between the 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 must still be imported. To take advantage of its rich resources - notably gold, diamonds, extensive forests, Atlantic fisheries, and arable land, in addition to its large oil deposits - Angola will need to observe the cease-fire, implement the peace agreement, and reform government policies. GDP: purchasing power parity - $7.4 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $700 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 12% industry: 56% services: 32% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 20% monthly average (1994 est.) Labor force: 2.783 million economically active by occupation: agriculture 85%, industry 15% (1985 est.) Unemployment rate: 24% with extensive underemployment (1993 est.) Budget: revenues: $928 million expenditures: $2.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $963 million (1992 est.) Industries: petroleum; diamonds, iron ore, phosphates, feldspar, bauxite, uranium, and gold; fish processing; food processing; brewing; tobacco; sugar; textiles; cement; basic metal products Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 620,000 kW production: 1.9 billion kWh consumption per capita: 189 kWh (1993) Agriculture: bananas, sugarcane, coffee, sisal, corn, cotton, manioc (tapioca), tobacco, vegetables, plantains; livestock; forest products; fish Illicit drugs: increasingly used as a transshipment point for cocaine and heroin destined for Western Europe and other African states 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: $12 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $189 million (1993) 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 2,952 km (1995 est.); note - limited trackage in use because of landmines still in place from the civil war narrow gauge: 2,798 km 1.067-m gauge; 154 km 0.600-m gauge Highways: total: 72,626 km paved: 18,157 km unpaved: 54,469 km (1992 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 143 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 3 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 8 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 11 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 4 with paved runways under 914 m: 40 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 4 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 24 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 48 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 78,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: telephone service limited mostly to government and business use; HF radiotelephone used extensively for military links domestic: limited system of wire, microwave radio relay, and tropospheric scatter international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 17, FM 13, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 6 Televisions: 50,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, National Police Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,373,087 males fit for military service: 1,195,176 males reach military age (18) annually: 106,456 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $1.1 billion, 31% of GDP (1993) ====================================================================== @Anguilla -------- (dependent territory of the UK) Map --- Location: 18 15 N, 63 10 W -- Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, east of Puerto Rico Flag ---- Description: blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Anguillan coat of arms centered in the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms depicts three orange dolphins in an interlocking circular design on a white background with blue wavy water below Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, east of Puerto Rico Geographic coordinates: 18 15 N, 63 10 W 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 lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Crocus Hill 65 m Natural resources: 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 People ------ Population: 10,424 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 28% (male 1,491; female 1,450) 15-64 years: 64% (male 3,418; female 3,275) 65 years and over: 8% (male 342; female 448) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.45% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 17.84 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 22.35 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.04 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.76 male(s)/female all ages: 1.02 male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 23 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 76.7 years male: 73.75 years female: 79.74 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.04 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 95% male: 95% female: 95% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Anguilla Data code: AV Type of government: 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 Order 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) is a hereditary monarch; represented by Governor Alan HOOLE (since 1 November 1995) head of government: Chief Minister Hubert HUGHES (since 16 March 1994) was appointed by the governor from members of the House of Assembly cabinet: Executive Council was appointed by the governor from among the elected members of the House of Assembly Legislative branch: unicameral House of Assembly: elections last held 16 March 1994 (next to be held March 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (11 total, 7 elected) ANA 2, AUP 2, ADP 2, independent 1 Judicial branch: High Court, judge provided by Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: Anguilla National Alliance (ANA), David CARFY; Anguilla United Party (AUP), Hubert HUGHES; Anguilla Democratic Party (ADP), Victor BANKS International organization participation: Caricom (observer), CDB, Interpol (subbureau), OECS (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 Anguillan coat of arms centered in the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms depicts three orange dolphins in an interlocking circular design on a white background with blue wavy water below Economy ------- Economic overview: Anguilla has few natural resources, and the economy depends heavily on tourism, offshore banking, lobster fishing, and remittances from emigrants. Output growth has averaged about 7% in recent years, mainly as a result of boom in tourism thanks to economic expansion in North America and the UK. The economy, and especially the tourism sector, suffered a setback in late 1995 due to the effects of Hurricane Luis in September. Agricultural output had only just begun to recover from a drought in 1994 when Luis hit. Anguillan officials have put substantial effort into developing the offshore financing sector. A comprehensive package of financial services legislation was enacted in late 1994. In the medium term, prospects for the economy will depend on the tourism sector and, therefore, on continuing income growth in the industrialized nations. GDP: purchasing power parity - $53 million (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6.5% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $7,600 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 4% (1994) Labor force: 4,400 (1992) by occupation: commerce 36%, services 29%, construction 18%, transportation and utilities 10%, manufacturing 3%, agriculture/fishing/forestry/mining 4% Unemployment rate: 7% (1992 est.) Budget: revenues: $13.5 million (1993) expenditures: $17.6 million, including capital expenditures of $740,000 (1995 est.) Industries: tourism, boat building, offshore financial services Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 2,000 kW production: 6 million kWh consumption per capita: 862 kWh (1992) Agriculture: pigeon peas, corn, sweet potatoes; sheep, goats, pigs, cattle, poultry; fishing (including lobster) Exports: $556,000 (f.o.b., 1992) commodities: lobster and salt partners: NA Imports: $33.5 million (f.o.b., 1992) commodities: NA partners: NA External debt: $NA Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.70 (fixed rate since 1976) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 105 km paved: 65 km unpaved: 40 km (1992 est.) Ports: Blowing Point, Road Bay Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 2 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 890 Telephone system: domestic: modern internal telephone system international: microwave radio relay to island of Saint Martin (Guadeloupe and Netherlands Antilles) Radio broadcast stations: AM 3, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: 2,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK ====================================================================== @Antarctica ---------- Map --- Location: 90 00 S, 0 00 E -- continent mostly south of the Antarctic Circle Geography --------- Location: continent mostly south of the Antarctic Circle Geographic coordinates: 90 00 S, 0 00 E 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: 0 km note: 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 about 5,000 meters; ice-free coastal areas include parts of southern Victoria Land, Wilkes Land, the Antarctic Peninsula area, and parts of Ross Island on McMurdo Sound; glaciers form ice shelves along about half of the coastline, and floating ice shelves constitute 11% of the area of the continent lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Vinson Massif 5,140 m 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 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 Geographic 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 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Antarctica Data code: AY Type of government: 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 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; 21 parties have ratified Protocol as of April 1996 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. Economy ------- Economic overview: No economic activity at present except for fishing off the coast and small-scale tourism, both based abroad. Transportation -------------- Ports: none; offshore anchorage Airports: 50 landing facilities at different locations operated by 16 national governments party to the Treaty; one additional air facility operated by commercial (nongovernmental) tourist organization; helicopter pads at 25 of these locations; runways at 13 locations are gravel, sea ice, glacier ice, or compacted snow surface suitable for wheeled fixed-wing aircraft; no paved runways; 12 locations have snow-surface skiways limited to use by ski-equipped planes - 8 runways/skiways greater than 3,000 m,10 runways/skiways 1,000 to 3,000 m, 3 runways/skiways less than 1,000 m, and 4 of unspecified or variable length; airports generally subject to severe restrictions and limitations resulting from extreme seasonal and geographic conditions; airports do not meet ICAO standards; advance approval from the respective governmental or non-governmental operating organization required for landing (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: NA Telephone system: domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: NA Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense 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 ====================================================================== @Antigua and Barbuda ------------------- Map --- Location: 17 03 N, 61 48 W -- Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east-southeast of Puerto Rico Flag ---- Description: red with an inverted isosceles triangle based on the top edge of the flag; the triangle contains three horizontal bands of black (top), light blue, and white with a yellow rising sun in the black band Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east-southeast of Puerto Rico Geographic coordinates: 17 03 N, 61 48 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 440 sq km land area: 440 sq km comparative area: 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC note: includes Redonda Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 153 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 marine; little seasonal temperature variation Terrain: mostly low-lying limestone and coral islands with some higher volcanic areas lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Boggy Peak 402 m Natural resources: negligible; pleasant climate fosters tourism Land use: arable land: 18% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 7% forest and woodland: 16% other: 59% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: water management - a major concern because of limited natural fresh water resources - is further hampered by the clearing of trees to increase crop production, causing rainfall to run off quickly natural hazards: hurricanes and tropical storms (July to October); periodic droughts international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification People ------ Population: 65,647 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 25% (male 8,386; female 8,043) 15-64 years: 69% (male 22,589; female 22,548) 65 years and over: 6% (male 1,820; female 2,261) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.76% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 16.83 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.32 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -3.9 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.8 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 17.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 73.64 years male: 71.55 years female: 75.84 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.68 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Antiguan(s), Barbudan(s) adjective: Antiguan, Barbudan Ethnic divisions: black, British, Portuguese, Lebanese, Syrian Religions: Anglican (predominant), other Protestant sects, some Roman Catholic Languages: English (official), local dialects Literacy: age 15 and over has completed five or more years of schooling (1960 est.) total population: 89% male: 90% female: 88% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Antigua and Barbuda Data code: AC Type of government: parliamentary democracy Capital: Saint John's Administrative divisions: 6 parishes and 2 dependencies*; Barbuda*, Redonda*, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Mary, Saint Paul, Saint Peter, Saint Philip Independence: 1 November 1981 (from UK) National holiday: Independence Day, 1 November (1981) Constitution: 1 November 1981 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) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General James B. CARLISLE (since NA 1993) who was chosen by the queen on advice from the prime minister head of government: Prime Minister Lester Bryant BIRD (since 8 March 1994) was appointed by the governor general cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister Legislative branch: bicameral Parliament Senate: 17- member body appointed by the governor general House of Representatives: elections last held 8 March 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (17 total) ALP 11, UPP 5, independent 1 Judicial branch: Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (based in Saint Lucia), one judge of the Supreme Court is a resident of the islands and presides over the Court of Summary Jurisdiction Political parties and leaders: Antigua Labor Party (ALP), Lester Bryant BIRD; United Progressive Party (UPP), headed by Baldwin SPENCER, a coalition of three opposition political parties-the United National Democratic Party (UNDP); the Antigua Caribbean Liberation Movement (ACLM); and the Progressive Labor Movement (PLM) Other political or pressure groups: Antigua Trades and Labor Union (ATLU), William ROBINSON; People's Democratic Movement (PDM), Hugh MARSHALL International organization participation: ACP, C, Caricom, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, ISO (subscriber), ITU, NAM (observer), OAS, OECS, OPANAL, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Lionel Alexander HURST chancery: 3216 New Mexico Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016 telephone: [1] (202) 362-5211, 5166, 5122 FAX: [1] (202) 362-5225 consulate(s) general: Miami US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Antigua and Barbuda (embassy closed 30 June 1994); the US Ambassador to Barbados is accredited to Antigua and Barbuda Flag: red with an inverted isosceles triangle based on the top edge of the flag; the triangle contains three horizontal bands of black (top), light blue, and white with a yellow rising sun in the black band Economy ------- Economic overview: Tourism continues to be by far the dominant activity in the economy but the combined share in GDP of transport and communications, trade, and public utilities has increased markedly in recent years. Tourism's direct contribution to output in 1994 was about 20%. In addition, increased tourist arrivals helped spur growth in the construction and transport sectors. The dual island nation's agricultural production is mainly directed to the domestic market; the sector is constrained by the limited water supply and labor shortages that reflect the pull of higher wages in tourism and construction. Manufacturing - which accounts for 3.5% of GDP - comprises enclave-type assembly for export with major products being bedding, handicrafts, and electronic components. Prospects for economic growth in the medium term will continue to depend on income growth in the industrialized world, especially in the US, which accounts for about half of all tourist arrivals. GDP: purchasing power parity - $425 million (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.2% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $6,600 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 3.5% industry: 19.3% services: 77.2% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3.5% (1994) Labor force: 30,000 by occupation: commerce and services 82%, agriculture 11%, industry 7% (1983) Unemployment rate: 5%-10%(1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $134 million expenditures: $135.4 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995) Industries: tourism, construction, light manufacturing (clothing, alcohol, household appliances) Industrial production growth rate: -4.9% (1993 est.) Electricity: capacity: 52,100 kW production: 95 million kWh consumption per capita: 1,242 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cotton, fruits, vegetables, bananas, coconuts, cucumbers, mangoes, sugarcane; livestock Illicit drugs: a long-time but relatively minor transshipment point for narcotics bound for the US and Europe and recent transshipment point for heroin from Europe to the US; more significant as a drug money laundering center Exports: $40.9 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: petroleum products 48%, manufactures 23%, food and live animals 4%, machinery and transport equipment 17% partners: OECS 26%, Barbados 15%, Guyana 4%, Trinidad and Tobago 2%, US 0.3% Imports: $443.8 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: food and live animals, machinery and transport equipment, manufactures, chemicals, oil partners: US 27%, UK 16%, Canada 4%, OECS 3%, other 50% External debt: $377 million (1995 est.) Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.70 (fixed rate since 1976) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 77 km narrow gauge: 64 km 0.760-m gauge; 13 km 0.610-m gauge (used almost exclusively for handling sugarcane) Highways: total: 240 km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Ports: Saint John's Merchant marine: total: 367 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,573,063 GRT/2,147,243 DWT ships by type: bulk 6, cargo 247, chemical tanker 6, combination bulk 1, container 72, liquefied gas tanker 2, oil tanker 3, refrigerated cargo 14, roll-on/roll-off cargo 16 note: a flag of convenience registry: Germany owns 12 ships, Slovenia 3, Croatia 2, Cyprus 1, and US 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 3 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 6,700 Telephone system: domestic: good automatic telephone system international: 1 coaxial submarine cable; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); tropospheric scatter to Saba (Netherlands Antilles) and Guadeloupe Radio broadcast stations: AM 4, FM 2, shortwave 2 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 2 Televisions: 28,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Royal Antigua and Barbuda Defense Force, Royal Antigua and Barbuda Police Force (includes the Coast Guard) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $1.4 million, 1% of GDP (FY90/91) ====================================================================== @Arctic Ocean ------------ Map --- Location: 90 00 N, 0 00 E -- body of water mostly north of the Arctic Circle Geography --------- Location: body of water mostly north of the Arctic Circle Geographic coordinates: 90 00 N, 0 00 E 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 icepack is surrounded by open seas during the summer, but more than doubles in size during the winter and extends to the encircling land masses; the ocean floor is about 50% continental shelf (highest percentage of any ocean) with the remainder a central basin interrupted by three submarine ridges (Alpha Cordillera, Nansen Cordillera, and Lomonsov Ridge) lowest point: Fram Basin -4,665 m highest point: sea level 0 m 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 Geographic 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; snow cover lasts about 10 months Government ---------- Data code: none; the US Government has not approved a standard for hydrographic codes - see the Cross-Reference List of Hydrographic Data Codes appendix Economy ------- Economic overview: Economic activity is limited to the exploitation of natural resources, including petroleum, natural gas, fish, and seals. Transportation -------------- Ports: Churchill (Canada), Murmansk (Russia), Prudhoe Bay (US) Transportation note: sparse network of air, ocean, river, and land routes; the Northwest Passage (North America) and Northern Sea Route (Eurasia) are important seasonal waterways Communications -------------- Telephone system: international: no submarine cables ====================================================================== @Argentina --------- Map --- Location: 34 00 S, 64 00 W -- Southern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Chile and Uruguay Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Chile and Uruguay Geographic coordinates: 34 00 S, 64 00 W 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Salinas Chicas -40 m highest point: Cerro Aconcagua 6,962 m 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 cities; water pollution in urban areas; rivers becoming polluted due to increased pesticide and fertilizer use 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, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Marine Life Conservation Geographic 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) People ------ Population: 34,672,997 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 28% (male 4,904,380; female 4,707,293) 15-64 years: 63% (male 10,851,004; female 10,834,593) 65 years and over: 9% (male 1,414,412; female 1,961,315) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.1% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 19.41 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.62 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0.18 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.72 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 28.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 71.66 years male: 68.37 years female: 75.12 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.62 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 96.2% male: 96.2% female: 96.2% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Argentine Republic conventional short form: Argentina local long form: Republica Argentina local short form: Argentina Data code: AR Type of government: 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) was elected for a four-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 14 May 1995 (next to be held May 1999); results - Carlos Saul MENEM was reelected; Vice President Carlos RUCKAUF cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president Legislative branch: bicameral National Congress (Congreso Nacional) Senate: elections last held NA May 1995 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (72 total) PJ 38, others 34 Chamber of Deputies: one-half of the members elected every two years to four-year terms; elections last held 14 May 1995; (next to be held NA 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (257 total) PJ 132, UCR 68, Frepaso 26, other 31 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), the nine Supreme Court judges are appointed by the president with approval of the Senate Political parties and leaders: Justicialist Party (PJ), Carlos Saul MENEM, Peronist umbrella political organization; Radical Civic Union (UCR), Rodolfo TERRAGNO, moderately left-of-center party; Union of the Democratic Center (UCD), conservative party; Dignity and Independence Political Party (MODIN), Aldo RICO, right-wing party; Grand Front (Frente Grande), Carlos ALVAREZ, center-left coalition; Front for a Country in Solidarity (Frepaso, a four party coalition), leader Jose Octavio BORDON; several provincial parties 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 International organization participation: AfDB, AG (observer), Australia Group, BCIE, CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G- 6, G-11, G-15, G-19, G-24, G-77, 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, OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNAMIR, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNFICYP, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMIH, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Raul Enrique GRANILLO OCAMPO chancery: 1600 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 939-6400 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. After registering impressive 7.4% growth in 1994, based largely on inflows of foreign capital and strong domestic consumption, the Argentine economy stumbled in 1995 as financial pressures fueled by the Mexican peso crisis and political squabbling within the MENEM administration undermined investor confidence and triggered capital outflows. By yearend, GDP had contracted 4.4%, unemployment reached 16%, and Buenos Aires struggled to meet fiscal targets. On the trade front, exports soared during the first half of 1995 - largely because of strong demand in Brazil and high commodity prices - while anemic domestic consumption lowered imports; the resulting yearend trade surplus was about $1.2 billion. However, because exports contribute only 7.5% to GDP, increased foreign sales had little impact on aggregate growth. High unemployment will continue to plague the MENEM administration for the next several years as provincial entities are readied for privatization and more public sector employees are laid off. GDP: purchasing power parity - $278.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: -4.4% GDP per capita: $8,100 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 6% industry: 31% services: 63% (1992 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.7% (1995 est.) Labor force: 10.9 million by occupation: agriculture 12%, industry 31%, services 57% (1985 est.) Unemployment rate: 16% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $48.46 billion expenditures: $46.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $3.5 billion (1994 est.) Industries: food processing, motor vehicles, consumer durables, textiles, chemicals and petrochemicals, printing, metallurgy, steel Industrial production growth rate: -4.6% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 17,330,000 kW production: 54.8 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,610 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, corn, sorghum, soybeans, sugar beets; livestock Illicit drugs: increasing use as a transshipment country for cocaine headed for Europe and the US Exports: $20.7 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: meat, wheat, corn, oilseed, manufactures partners: US 9%, Brazil, Italy, Japan, Netherlands Imports: $19.5 billion (c.i.f., 1995) commodities: machinery and equipment, chemicals, metals, fuels and lubricants, agricultural products partners: US 21%, Brazil, Germany, Bolivia, Japan, Italy, Netherlands External debt: $90 billion (December 1995) Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 nuevo peso argentino = 100 centavos Exchange rates: pesos per US$1 - 1.00000 (January 1996), 0.99975 (1995), 0.99901 (1994), 0.99895 (1993), 0.99064 (1992), 0.95355 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 37,910 km broad gauge: 24,124 km 1.676-m gauge (142 km electrified) standard gauge: 2,765 km 1.435-m gauge narrow gauge: 11,021 km 1.000-m gauge (26 km electrified) Highways: total: 215,578 km paved: 61,440 km unpaved: 154,138 km 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: 37 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 303,448 GRT/458,864 DWT ships by type: bulk 1, cargo 11, chemical tanker 1, container 3, oil tanker 14, railcar carrier 1, refrigerated cargo 5, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 1,253 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: 54 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 46 with paved runways under 914 m: 511 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 2 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 60 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 549 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 2.7 million (1983 est.) Telephone system: 12,000 public telephones; extensive modern system but many families do not have telephones; despite extensive use of microwave radio relay, the telephone system frequently grounds out during rainstorms, even in Buenos Aires domestic: microwave radio relay and a domestic satellite system with 40 earth stations serve the trunk network international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 171, FM 0, shortwave 13 Radios: 22.3 million (1991 est.) Television broadcast stations: 231 Televisions: 7.165 million (1991 est.) Defense ------- 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: 8,707,014 males fit for military service: 7,063,304 males reach military age (20) annually: 310,107 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $4.7 billion, 1.5% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Armenia ------- Map --- Location: 40 00 N, 45 00 E -- Southwestern Asia, east of Turkey Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of red (top), blue, and gold Geography --------- Location: Southwestern Asia, east of Turkey Geographic coordinates: 40 00 N, 45 00 E Map references: Commonwealth of Independent 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 border countries: Azerbaijan-proper 566 km, Azerbaijan-Naxcivan exclave 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 lowest point: Debed River 400 m highest point: Aragats Lerr 4,095 m 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; restart of Metsamor nuclear power plant without adequate (IAEA-recommended) safety and backup systems natural hazards: occasionally severe earthquakes; droughts international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 3,463,574 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 28% (male 497,461; female 476,649) 15-64 years: 64% (male 1,085,935; female 1,132,282) 65 years and over: 8% (male 111,661; female 159,586) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.02% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 16.27 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.73 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -8.3 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.7 male(s)/female all ages: 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 38.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 69.06 years male: 64.44 years female: 73.92 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.06 children born/woman (1996 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 1993, virtually all Azeris had emigrated from ====================================================================== @Aruba ----- (part of the Dutch realm) Map --- Location: 12 30 N, 69 58 W -- Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Venezuela Flag ---- Description: blue with two narrow horizontal yellow stripes across the lower portion and a red, four-pointed star outlined in white in the upper hoist-side corner Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Venezuela Geographic coordinates: 12 30 N, 69 58 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 193 sq km land area: 193 sq km comparative area: slightly larger than Washington, DC Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 68.5 km Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: none Climate: tropical marine; little seasonal temperature variation Terrain: flat with a few hills; scant vegetation lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Mount Jamanota 188 m Natural resources: negligible; white sandy beaches 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: lies outside the Caribbean hurricane belt international agreements: NA People ------ Population: 67,794 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 22% (male 7,850; female 7,155) 15-64 years: 69% (male 22,499; female 24,596) 65 years and over: 9% (male 2,353; female 3,341) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.31% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 14.62 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.24 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -5.31 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.1 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.92 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.7 male(s)/female all ages: 0.93 male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 8.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 76.68 years male: 73 years female: 80.55 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.81 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Aruban(s) adjective: Aruban Ethnic divisions: mixed European/Caribbean Indian 80% Religions: Roman Catholic 82%, Protestant 8%, Hindu, Muslim, Confucian, Jewish Languages: Dutch (official), Papiamento (a Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, English dialect), English (widely spoken), Spanish Literacy: NA Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Aruba Data code: AA Type of government: part of the Dutch realm; full autonomy in internal affairs obtained in 1986 upon separation from the Netherlands Antilles Capital: Oranjestad Administrative divisions: none (self-governing part of the Netherlands) Independence: none (part of the Dutch realm; in 1990, Aruba requested and received from the Netherlands cancellation of the agreement to automatically give independence to the island in 1996) National holiday: Flag Day, 18 March Constitution: 1 January 1986 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 (of the Netherlands since 30 April 1980), a constitutional monarch, is represented by Governor General Olindo KOOLMAN (since 1 January 1992) who was appointed for a six-year term by the queen head of government: Prime Minister Jan (Henny) H. EMAN (since 29 July 1994) and Deputy Prime Minister Glenbert F. CROES were appointed by the legislature cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the legislature Legislative branch: unicameral Legislature (Staten): elections last held 29 July 1994 (next to be held by NA July 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (21 total) AVP 10, MEP 9, OLA 2 Judicial branch: Joint High Court of Justice Political parties and leaders: Electoral Movement Party (MEP), Nelson ODUBER; Aruban People's Party (AVP), Jan (Henny) H. EMAN; National Democratic Action (ADN), Pedro Charro KELLY; New Patriotic Party (PPN), Eddy WERLEMEN; Aruban Patriotic Party (PPA), Benny NISBET; Aruban Democratic Party (PDA), Leo BERLINSKI; Democratic Action '86 (AD '86), Arturo ODUBER; Aruban Liberal Party (OLA), Glenbert CROES note: governing coalition includes the AVP and OLA International organization participation: ECLAC (associate), Interpol, IOC, UNESCO (associate), WCL, WToO (associate) Diplomatic representation in US: none (self-governing part of the Netherlands) US diplomatic representation: none (self-governing part of the Netherlands) Flag: blue with two narrow horizontal yellow stripes across the lower portion and a red, four-pointed star outlined in white in the upper hoist-side corner Economy ------- Economic overview: Tourism is the mainstay of the Aruban economy, although offshore banking and oil refining and storage are also important. The rapid growth of the tourism sector over the last decade has resulted in a substantial expansion of other activities. Construction has boomed, with hotel capacity five times the 1985 level. In addition, the reopening of the country's oil refinery in 1993, a major source of employment and foreign exchange earnings, has further spurred growth. Aruba's small labor force and less than 1% unemployment rate have led to a large number of unfilled job vacancies despite sharp rises in wage rates in recent years. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1.2 billion (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6.1% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $18,000 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 6.1% (1994) Labor force: NA by occupation: most employment is in the tourist industry (1995) Unemployment rate: 0.5% (1994) Budget: revenues: $145 million expenditures: $185 million, including capital expenditures of $42 million (1988) Industries: tourism, transshipment facilities, oil refining Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 90,000 kW production: 330 million kWh consumption per capita: 4,761 kWh (1993) Agriculture: aloes; livestock; fishing Illicit drugs: major drug money laundering center and minor transit point for narcotics bound for the US and Europe Exports: $1.3 billion (including oil re-exports) (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: mostly refined petroleum products partners: US 64%, EU Imports: $1.6 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: food, consumer goods, manufactures, petroleum products, crude oil for refining and reexport partners: US 8%, EU External debt: $669 million (December 1995) Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 Aruban florin (Af.) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Aruban florins (Af.) per US$1 - 1.7900 (fixed rate since 1986) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: NA km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Ports: Barcadera, Oranjestad, Sint Nicolaas 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 note: government-owned airport east of Oranjestad accepts transatlantic flights (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 22,922 (1993 est.) Telephone system: domestic: more than adequate international: 1 submarine cable to Sint Maarten (Netherlands Antilles); extensive interisland microwave radio relay links Radio broadcast stations: AM 4, FM 4, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 19,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the Netherlands ====================================================================== @Ashmore and Cartier Islands --------------------------- (territory of Australia) Map --- Location: 12 14 S, 123 05 E -- Southeastern Asia, islands in the Indian Ocean, northwest of Australia Flag ---- Description: the flag of Australia is used Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Asia, islands in the Indian Ocean, northwest of Australia Geographic coordinates: 12 14 S, 123 05 E Map references: Southeast Asia Area: total area: 5 sq km land area: 5 sq km comparative area: about eight 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 the depth of exploitation exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 3 nm International disputes: none Climate: tropical Terrain: low with sand and coral lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 3 m 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 that can pose maritime hazards international agreements: NA Geographic note: Ashmore Reef National Nature Reserve established in August 1983 People ------ Population: no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are only seasonal caretakers Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Territory of Ashmore and Cartier Islands conventional short form: Ashmore and Cartier Islands Data code: AT Type of government: 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) Flag: the flag of Australia is used Economy ------- Economic overview: no economic activity Transportation -------------- Ports: none; offshore anchorage only Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of Australia; periodic visits by the Royal Australian Navy and Royal Australian Air Force ====================================================================== @Atlantic Ocean -------------- Map --- Location: 0 00 N, 25 00 W -- body of water between Africa, Europe, Antarctica, and the Western Hemisphere Geography --------- Location: body of water between Africa, Europe, Antarctica, and the Western Hemisphere Geographic coordinates: 0 00 N, 25 00 W Map references: World Area: total area: 82.217 million sq km comparative area: slightly less than nine times the size of the US; second-largest of the world's four oceans (after the Pacific Ocean, but larger than Indian Ocean or Arctic Ocean) note: includes Baltic Sea, Black Sea, Caribbean Sea, Davis Strait, Denmark Strait, Drake Passage, Gulf of Mexico, Mediterranean Sea, North Sea, Norwegian Sea, Scotia Sea, Weddell Sea, and other tributary water bodies Coastline: 111,866 km International disputes: some maritime disputes (see littoral states) Climate: tropical cyclones (hurricanes) develop off the coast of Africa near Cape Verde and move westward into the Caribbean Sea; hurricanes can occur from May to December, but are most frequent from August to November Terrain: surface usually covered with sea ice in Labrador Sea, Denmark Strait, and Baltic Sea from October to June; clockwise warm water gyre (broad, circular system of currents) in the northern Atlantic, counterclockwise warm water gyre in the southern Atlantic; the ocean floor is dominated by the Mid-Atlantic Ridge, a rugged north-south centerline for the entire Atlantic basin lowest point: Puerto Rico Trench -8,605 m highest point: sea level 0 m Natural resources: oil and gas fields, fish, marine mammals (seals and whales), sand and gravel aggregates, placer deposits, polymetallic nodules, precious stones Environment: current issues: endangered marine species include the manatee, seals, sea lions, turtles, and whales; drift net fishing is hastening the decline of fish stocks and contributing to international disputes; municipal sludge pollution off eastern US, southern Brazil, and eastern Argentina; oil pollution in Caribbean Sea, Gulf of Mexico, Lake Maracaibo, Mediterranean Sea, and North Sea; industrial waste and municipal sewage pollution in Baltic Sea, North Sea, and Mediterranean Sea natural hazards: icebergs common in Davis Strait, Denmark Strait, and the northwestern Atlantic Ocean from February to August and have been spotted as far south as Bermuda and the Madeira Islands; icebergs from Antarctica occur in the extreme southern Atlantic Ocean; ships subject to superstructure icing in extreme northern Atlantic from October to May and extreme southern Atlantic from May to October; persistent fog can be a maritime hazard from May to September international agreements: NA Geographic note: major choke points include the Dardanelles, Strait of Gibraltar, access to the Panama and Suez Canals; strategic straits include the Strait of Dover, Straits of Florida, Mona Passage, The Sound (Oresund), and Windward Passage; the Equator divides the Atlantic Ocean into the North Atlantic Ocean and South ====================================================================== @Australia --------- Map --- Location: 27 00 S, 133 00 E -- Oceania, continent between the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Oceania, continent between the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean Geographic coordinates: 27 00 S, 133 00 E 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 lowest point: Lake Eyre -15 m highest point: Mount Kosciusko 2,229 m 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 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; signed, but not ratified - Desertification Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 18,260,863 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 21% (male 2,009,915; female 1,912,605) 15-64 years: 66% (male 6,129,285; female 5,980,315) 65 years and over: 13% (male 967,291; female 1,261,452) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.99% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 13.99 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.88 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 2.74 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.77 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 5.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 79.39 years male: 76.44 years female: 82.5 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.84 children born/woman (1996 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% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Commonwealth of Australia conventional short form: Australia Data code: AS Type of government: 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) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General Sir William DEANE (since 16 February 1996) who was appointed by the queen head of government: Prime Minister John Winston HOWARD (since 11 March 1996) was appointed by the governor general; Deputy Prime Minister Timothy Andrew FISCHER (since 11 March 1996) cabinet: Cabinet was selected from among the members of Federal Parliament by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister Legislative branch: bicameral Federal Parliament Senate: elections last held 2 March 1996 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (76 total) Liberal-National 37, Labor 29, Australian Democrats 8, Greens 1, independent 1 House of Representatives: elections last held 2 March 1996 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (148 total) Liberal-National 94, Labor 49, independent 5 Judicial branch: High Court, the Chief Justice and six other justices are appointed by the governor general Political parties and leaders: government: coalition of Liberal Party, John Winston HOWARD and National Party, Timothy Andrew FISCHER opposition: Australian Labor Party, Kim BEAZLEY; Australian Democratic Party, Cheryl KERNOT; Green Party, Bob BROWN 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) International organization participation: AG (observer), ANZUS, APEC, AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, C, CCC, CP, EBRD, ESCAP, FAO, G- 8, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MTCR, NAM (guest), NEA, NSG, OECD, PCA, Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UN, UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNFICYP, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador John Phillip MCCARTHY chancery: 1601 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036 telephone: [1] (202) 797-3000 FAX: [1] (202) 797-3168 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Australia has a prosperous Western-style capitalist economy, with a per capita GDP comparable to levels in highly industrialized West European countries. Rich in natural resources, Australia is a major exporter of agricultural products, minerals, metals, and fossil fuels. Commodities account for more than 80% of the value of total exports, so that, as in 1983-84, a downturn in world commodity prices can have a big impact on the economy. The government is pushing for increased exports of manufactured goods, but competition in international markets continues to be severe. 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 reduced the value of Australia's net farm production, but rising world commodity prices are likely to boost commodity exports by 15% to $42.4 billion in 1995/96, according to government statistics. Short-term economic problems include a balancing of output growth and inflationary pressures and the stimulation of exports to offset rising imports. GDP: purchasing power parity - $405.4 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3.3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $22,100 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 3.1% industry: 27.7% services: 69.2% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 4.75% (1995) 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) Unemployment rate: 8.1% (December 1995) Budget: revenues: $95.69 billion expenditures: $95.15 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY95/96 est.) Industries: mining, industrial and transportation equipment, food processing, chemicals, steel Industrial production growth rate: 3.9% (FY93/94) Electricity: capacity: 34,540,000 kW production: 155 billion kWh consumption per capita: 8,021 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, barley, sugarcane, fruits; 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 Exports: $51.57 billion (f.o.b., 1995) 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: $57.41 billion (f.o.b., 1995) 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) Economic aid: donor: ODA, $953 million (1993) Currency: 1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3477 (January 1996), 1.3486 (1995), 1.3668 (1994), 1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2835 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 38,563 km (2,914 km electrified; 172 km dual gauge) broad gauge: 6,083 km 1.600-m gauge standard gauge: 16,752 km 1.435-m gauge narrow gauge: 15,728 km 1.067-m gauge Highways: total: 810,264 km paved: 283,592 km (including 1,200 km of expressways) unpaved: 526,672 km (1989 est.) 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: 76 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,547,869 GRT/3,679,534 DWT ships by type: bulk 30, cargo 4, chemical tanker 3, combination bulk 1, container 6, liquefied gas tanker 6, oil tanker 18, roll-on/roll-off cargo 7, short-sea passenger 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 442 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 9 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 13 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 106 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 116 with paved runways under 914 m: 30 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 22 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 146 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 8.7 million (1987 est.) Telephone system: good domestic and international service domestic: domestic satellite system international: submarine cables to New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Indonesia; satellite earth stations - 10 Intelsat (4 Indian Ocean and 6 Pacific Ocean), 2 Inmarsat (Indian and Pacific Ocean Regions) Radio broadcast stations: AM 258, FM 67, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 134 (1987 est.) Televisions: 9.2 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Australian Army, Royal Australian Navy, Royal Australian Air Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 4,848,777 males fit for military service: 4,192,250 males reach military age (17) annually: 127,569 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $7.3 billion, 2.0% of GDP (FY95/96) ====================================================================== @Austria ------- Map --- Location: 47 20 N, 13 20 E -- Central Europe, north of Italy Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and red Geography --------- Location: Central Europe, north of Italy Geographic coordinates: 47 20 N, 13 20 E 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: 2,558 km border countries: Czech Republic 362 km, Germany 784 km, Hungary 366 km, Italy 430 km, Liechtenstein 37 km, Slovakia 91 km, Slovenia 324 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 lowest point: Neusiedler See 115 m highest point: Grossglockner 3,797 m Natural resources: iron ore, oil, timber, magnesite, 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, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 8,023,244 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 18% (male 720,696; female 685,179) 15-64 years: 67% (male 2,726,122; female 2,659,162) 65 years and over: 15% (male 451,231; female 780,854) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.41% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 11.19 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 10.43 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 3.34 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.58 male(s)/female all ages: 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 6.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 76.53 years male: 73.38 years female: 79.84 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.49 children born/woman (1996 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% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Austria conventional short form: Austria local long form: Republik Oesterreich local short form: Oesterreich Data code: AU Type of government: 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 the 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) was elected for a six-year term by popular vote; election last held 24 May 1992 (next to be held 1998); results of second ballot - Thomas KLESTIL 57%, Rudolf STREICHER 43% head of government: Chancellor Franz VRANITZKY (since 16 June 1986) was chosen by the president from the majority party in the National Council; Vice Chancellor Wolfgang SCHUESSEL (since 22 April 1995) was chosen by the president on the advice of the chancellor cabinet: Council of Ministers was 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 three representatives National Council (Nationalrat): elections last held 17 December 1995 (next to be held Fall 1999); results - SPOE 38.3%, OEVP 28.3%, FPOE 22.1%, Greens 4.6%, LF 5.3%, other 1.4%; seats - (183 total) SPOE 71, OEVP 53, FPOE 40, Greens 9, LF 10 Judicial branch: Supreme Judicial Court (Oberster Gerichtshof) for civil and criminal cases; Administrative Court (Verwaltungsgerichtshof) for bureaucratic cases; Constitutional Court (Verfassungsgerichtshof) for constitutional cases Political parties and leaders: Social Democratic Party of Austria (SPOE), Franz VRANITZKY, chairman; Austrian People's Party (OEVP), Wolfgang SCHUESSEL, chairman; Freedom Movement (F, formerly the Freedom Party of Austria or 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 International organization participation: AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE, CEI, CERN, EBRD, ECE, EIB, ESA, EU, FAO, G- 9, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, MTCR, NACC, NAM (guest), NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNDOF, UNESCO, UNFICYP, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNMIH, UNMOT, UNOMIG, UNTSO, UPU, WCL, WEU (observer), WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Helmut TUERK chancery: 3524 International Court NW, Washington, DC 20008-3035 telephone: [1] (202) 895-6700 FAX: [1] (202) 895-6750 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 Flag: three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and red Economy ------- Economic overview: Austria has a well-developed market economy with a sizable - but falling - proportion of nationalized industry, an extensive social system, and a high standard of living. Austria's economy is closely integrated with Germany and other EU members - Austria joined the EU on 1 January 1995. Since the early 1980s, the Austrian economy has experienced stable growth. Following a mild recession in 1993, Austria's economy - driven by strong exports, investment, and private consumption - expanded 2.7% in 1994 and about 2.4% in 1995. The slowdown in 1995 was largely due to an appreciation of the Austrian schilling and its negative effect on exports and tourism. EU membership has had a positive impact on foreign investment and has helped to lower inflation. Despite Austria's generally favorable economic prospects, the government faces a number of economic challenges, especially budget consolidation. Smaller than expected revenues and rising welfare payments caused the budget deficit to climb to 7.1% of GDP in 1995. Austria also faces a growing unemployment problem. Although low by European standards, Austria's unemployment rate has risen gradually during the 1990s as companies restructured to meet competition from the EU single market and Eastern Europe. GDP: purchasing power parity - $152 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $19,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 2% industry: 34% services: 64% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.3% (1995 est.) 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) Unemployment rate: 4.6% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $65 billion expenditures: $75.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: food, iron and steel, machines, textiles, chemicals, electrical, paper and pulp, tourism, mining, motor vehicles Industrial production growth rate: 7.7% (first half 1995) Electricity: capacity: 17,230,000 kW production: 50.2 billion kWh consumption per capita: 5,824 kWh (1993) Agriculture: grains, fruit, potatoes, sugar beets; cattle, pigs, poultry; sawn wood Illicit drugs: transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin transiting the Balkan route and Eastern Europe Exports: $45.2 billion (1994) commodities: machinery and equipment, iron and steel, lumber, textiles, paper products, chemicals partners: EU 64.8% (Germany 38.1%, Italy 8.1%), Eastern Europe 11.8%, Japan 1.6%, US 3.5% (1994) Imports: $55.3 billion (1994) commodities: petroleum, foodstuffs, machinery and equipment, vehicles, chemicals, textiles and clothing, pharmaceuticals partners: EU 68.4% (Germany 40%, Italy 8.8%), Eastern Europe 6.55%, Japan 4.3%, US 4.4% (1994) External debt: $28.7 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: donor: ODA, $544 million (1993) Currency: 1 Austrian schilling (S) = 100 groschen Exchange rates: Austrian schillings (S) per US$1 - 10.314 (January 1996), 10.081 (1995), 11.422 (1994), 11.632 (1993), 10.989 (1992), 11.676 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 5,624 km standard gauge: 5,269 km 1.435-m gauge (3,263 km electrified) narrow gauge: 355 km 1.000-m and 0.760-m gauge (86 km electrified) (1995) Highways: total: 108,000 km paved: 22,000 km (including 1,800 km of expressways) unpaved: 86,000 km (1992 est.) Waterways: 446 km Pipelines: crude oil 554 km; petroleum products 171 km; natural gas 2,611 km Ports: Linz, Vienna Merchant marine: total: 29 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 88,617 GRT/122,475 DWT ships by type: bulk 1, cargo 23, combination bulk 2, container 1, refrigerated cargo 2 (1995 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 3.47 million (1986 est.) Telephone system: domestic: highly developed and efficient international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 2 Eutelsat Radio broadcast stations: AM 6, FM 21 (repeaters 545), shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 47 (repeaters 870) Televisions: 2,418,584 (1984 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army (includes Flying Division) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,084,827 males fit for military service: 1,741,068 males reach military age (19) annually: 45,628 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $2.1 billion, 1.0% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Azerbaijan ---------- Azerbaijan continues to be plagued by an unresolved eight-year-old conflict with Armenian separatists over its Nagorno-Karabakh region. The Karabakh Armenians have declared independence and seized almost 20% of the country's territory, creating almost 1 million Azeri refugees in the process. Both sides have generally observed a Russian-mediated cease-fire in place since May 1994, and support the OSCE-mediated peace process, now entering its fifth year. Nevertheless, Baku and Xankandi (Stepanakert, Nagorno-Karabakh region) remain far apart on most substantive issues from the placement and composition of a peacekeeping force to the enclave's ultimate political status, and prospects for a negotiated settlement remain dim. Map --- Location: 40 30 N, 47 30 E -- Southwestern Asia, bordering the Caspian Sea, between Iran and Russia Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), red, and green; a crescent and eight-pointed star in white are centered in red band Geography --------- Location: Southwestern Asia, bordering the Caspian Sea, between Iran and Russia Geographic coordinates: 40 30 N, 47 30 E Map references: Commonwealth of Independent 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 border countries: Armenia (with Azerbaijan-proper) 566 km, Armenia (with Azerbaijan-Naxcivan exclave) 221 km, Georgia 322 km, Iran (with Azerbaijan-proper) 432 km, Iran (with Azerbaijan-Naxcivan exclave) 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 lowest point: Caspian Sea -28 m highest point: Bazarduzu Dagi 4,485 m 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 international agreements: party to - Climate Change; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 7,676,953 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 32% (male 1,270,812; female 1,215,781) 15-64 years: 61% (male 2,293,688; female 2,423,222) 65 years and over: 7% (male 179,048; female 294,402) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.78% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 22.28 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.69 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -5.8 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.95 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.61 male(s)/female all ages: 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 74.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 64.84 years male: 60.13 years female: 69.78 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.64 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 97% male: 99% female: 96% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Azerbaijani Republic conventional short form: Azerbaijan local long form: Azarbaycan Respublikasi local short form: none former: Azerbaijan Soviet Socialist Republic Data code: AJ Type of government: 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 12 November 1995 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) was elected by popular vote; election last held 3 October 1993 (next to be held 1997 or 1998); results - Heydar ALIYEV won 97% of vote head of government: Prime Minister Fuad QULIYEV (since 9 October 1994), First Deputy Prime Ministers Abbas ABBASOV (since NA), Samed SADYKOV (since NA), Vahid AKHMEDOV (since NA), Elchin EFENDIYEV (since NA) were appointed by the president and confirmed by the Milli Mejlis cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president and confirmed by the Mejlis Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Milli Mejlis): elections last held 12 and 26 November 1995 (next to be held NA); percent of vote by party NA; seats - (125 total) number of seats by party NA 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 International organization participation: BSEC, CCC, CIS, EBRD, ECE, ECO, ESCAP, FAO, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, NACC, NAM (observer), OIC, OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO (observer) 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] (202) 842-0001 FAX: [1] (202) 842-0004 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Richard D. KAUZLARICH embassy: Azadliq Prospekti 83, Baku mailing address: use embassy street address telephone: [9] (9412) 96-00-19, 98-03-37, 98-03-36, 93-64-80, 96-36-21 FAX: [9] (9412) 98-37-55 Flag: three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), red, and green; a crescent and eight-pointed star in white are centered in red band Economy ------- Economic 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 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. Whereas the economies of most of the former Soviet republics had begun to bottom out in 1995, Azerbaijan's economy continued to plummet because of its late start on economic reform. GDP: purchasing power parity - $11.5 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994) GDP real growth rate: -17% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,480 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 85% (1995 est.) Labor force: 2.789 million by occupation: agriculture and forestry 32%, industry and construction 26%, other 42% (1990) Unemployment rate: 2.3% includes officially registered unemployed; also large numbers of unregistered unemployed and underemployed workers (December 1995) Budget: revenues: $465 million expenditures: $488 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: petroleum and natural gas, petroleum products, oilfield equipment; steel, iron ore, cement; chemicals and petrochemicals; textiles Industrial production growth rate: -21% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 4,900,000 kW production: 17 billion kWh consumption per capita: 2,200 kWh (1995 est.) Agriculture: cotton, grain, rice, grapes, fruit, vegetables, tea, tobacco; cattle, pigs, sheep, 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 Exports: $549.9 million (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: oil and gas, chemicals, oilfield equipment, textiles, cotton partners: mostly CIS and European countries Imports: $681.5 million (c.i.f., 1995) commodities: machinery and parts, consumer durables, foodstuffs, textiles partners: European countries External debt: $100 million (of which $75 million to Russia) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $14 million (1993) note: commitments, 1992-95, $1,000 million ($185 million in disbursements); wheat from Turkey Currency: 1 manat = 100 gopik Exchange rates: manats per US$1 - 4,375 (April 1996), 4,500 (April 1995), 4,168 (end of December 1994) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 2,125 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines broad gauge: 2,125 km 1.520-m gauge (1,278 km electrified) (1993) Highways: total: 36,700 km paved: 31,800 km (includes graveled) unpaved: 4,900 km (1990 est.) 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 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 710,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: 202,000 persons waiting for telephone installations (January 1991 est.) domestic: telephone service is of poor quality and inadequate; a joint venture to establish a cellular telephone system in the Baku area was supposed to become operational in 1994 international: cable and microwave radio relay connections to former Soviet republics; connection through Moscow international gateway switch to other countries; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat and 1 Intersputnik (Intelsat provides service to Turkey and through Turkey to 200 more countries; Intersputnik provides direct service to New York) Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA (1 state-owned radio broadcast station) Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 2 note: 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 Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Maritime Border Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,952,390 males fit for military service: 1,574,813 males reach military age (18) annually: 68,006 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: 33.5 billion manats, NA% of GDP (1994); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results ====================================================================== @Bahrain ------- Map --- Location: 26 00 N, 50 33 E -- Middle East, archipelago in the Persian Gulf, east of Saudi Arabia Flag ---- Description: red with a white serrated band (eight white points) on the hoist side Geography --------- Location: Middle East, archipelago in the Persian Gulf, east of Saudi Arabia Geographic coordinates: 26 00 N, 50 33 E Map references: Middle East Area: total area: 620 sq km land area: 620 sq km comparative area: 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 lowest point: Persian Gulf 0 m highest point: Jabal ad Dukhan 122 m 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 Geographic note: close to primary Middle Eastern petroleum sources; strategic location in Persian Gulf which much of Western world's petroleum must transit to reach open ocean People ------ Population: 590,042 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 31% (male 92,455; female 89,554) 15-64 years: 67% (male 236,048; female 156,556) 65 years and over: 2% (male 7,956; female 7,473) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.27% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 23.58 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 3.29 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 2.42 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.51 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.06 male(s)/female all ages: 1.33 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 17.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 74.27 years male: 71.78 years female: 76.83 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.08 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Bahraini(s) adjective: Bahraini Ethnic divisions: Bahraini 63%, Asian 13%, other Arab 10%, Iranian 8%, other 6% Religions: Shi'a Muslim 75%, Sunni Muslim 25% Languages: Arabic, English, Farsi, Urdu Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 85.2% male: 89.1% female: 79.4% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: State of Bahrain conventional short form: Bahrain local long form: Dawlat al Bahrayn local short form: Al Bahrayn Data code: BA Type of government: traditional monarchy Capital: Manama Administrative divisions: 12 municipalites (manatiq, singular - mintaqah); Al Hadd, Al Manamah, Al Mintaqah al Gharbiyah, Al Mintaqah al Wusta, Al Mintaqah ash Shamaliyah, Al Muharraq, Ar Rifa'wa al Mintaqah al Janubiyah, Jidd Hafs, Madinat Hamad, Madinat 'Isa, Juzur Hawar, Sitrah; note - all municipalities administered from Manama Independence: 15 August 1971 (from UK) National holiday: Independence Day, 16 December (1971) 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) is a traditional Arab monarch; Heir Apparent HAMAD bin Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa (son of the Amir, born 28 January 1949) head of government: Prime Minister KHALIFA bin Salman Al Khalifa (since 19 January 1970) was appointed by the amir cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the amir 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 Other political or pressure groups: several small, clandestine leftist and Islamic fundamentalist groups are active; following the arrest of a popular Shi'a cleric, Shi'a activists fomented unrest sporadically from late 1994 to September 1995, demanding the return of an elected National Assembly and an end to unemployment International organization participation: ABEDA, AFESD, AL, AMF, ESCWA, FAO, G-77, 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, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Muhammad ABD AL-GHAFFAR al-Abdallah chancery: 3502 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 342-0741, 342-0742 FAX: [1] (202) 362-2192 consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador David M. RANSOM embassy: Building No. 979, Road 3119 (next to Al-Ahli Sports Club), Zinj District, Manama mailing address: FPO AE 09834-5100; P.O. Box 26431, Manama (International Mail) telephone: [973] 273-300 FAX: [973] 272-594 Flag: red with a white serrated band (eight white points) on the hoist side Economy ------- Economic overview: In Bahrain, 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. Unemployment, especially among the young, and the depletion of both oil and underground water resources are major long-term economic problems. GDP: purchasing power parity - $7.3 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: -2% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $12,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3% (1995 est.) Labor force: 140,000 by occupation: industry and commerce 85%, agriculture 5%, services 5%, government 3% (1982) note: 42% of labor force is Bahraini Unemployment rate: 25% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $1.38 billion expenditures: $1.7 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: petroleum processing and refining, aluminum smelting, offshore banking, ship repairing Industrial production growth rate: 13% (1992) Electricity: capacity: 1,050,000 kW production: 3.3 billion kWh consumption per capita: 5,453 kWh (1993) Agriculture: fruit, vegetables; poultry, dairy products; shrimp, fish Exports: $3.2 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: petroleum and petroleum products 80%, aluminum 7% partners: India 20%, Japan 14%, Saudi Arabia 7%, US 6%, UAE 5% (1994) Imports: $3.29 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.) commodities: nonoil 59%, crude oil 41% partners: Saudi Arabia 37%, US 12%, UK 6%, Japan 5%, Germany 4% (1994) External debt: $2.6 billion (1993) Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 Bahraini dinar (BD) = 1,000 fils Exchange rates: Bahraini dinars (BD) per US$1 - 0.3760 (fixed rate) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 2,671 km paved: 2,011 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 117,060 GRT/194,061 DWT ships by type: bulk 1, cargo 3, chemical tanker 1, oil tanker 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 3 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 2 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 73,552 (1987 est.) Telephone system: modern system; good domestic services and excellent international connections domestic: NA international: tropospheric scatter to Qatar and UAE; microwave radio relay to Saudi Arabia; submarine cable to Qatar, UAE, and Saudi Arabia; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 Arabsat Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0 Radios: 320,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 2 (1988 est.) Televisions: 270,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Ground Force, Navy, Air Force, Air Defense, Coast Guard, Police Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 213,792 males fit for military service: 118,702 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $247 million, 5.5% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Baker Island ------------ (territory of the US) Map --- Location: 0 13 N, 176 31 W -- Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to Australia Flag ---- Description: the flag of the US is used Geography --------- Location: Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to Australia Geographic coordinates: 0 13 N, 176 31 W Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 1.4 sq km land area: 1.4 sq km comparative area: about 2.5 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 8 m 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 Geographic 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 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Baker Island Data code: FQ Type of government: 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 Flag: the flag of the US is used Economy ------- Economic overview: no economic activity 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 Transportation note: there is a day beacon near the middle of the west coast Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US; visited annually by the US Coast Guard ====================================================================== @Bangladesh ---------- Map --- Location: 24 00 N, 90 00 E -- Southern Asia, bordering the Bay of Bengal, between Burma and India Flag ---- Description: green with a large red disk slightly to the hoist side of center; green is the traditional color of Islam Geography --------- Location: Southern Asia, bordering the Bay of Bengal, between Burma and India Geographic coordinates: 24 00 N, 90 00 E 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 border countries: 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 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Reng Tlang 957 m 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 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 People ------ Population: 123,062,800 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 39% (male 24,434,219; female 23,436,359) 15-64 years: 58% (male 36,607,942; female 34,603,628) 65 years and over: 3% (male 2,175,017; female 1,805,635) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.85% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 30.5 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 11.21 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.78 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.2 male(s)/female all ages: 1.06 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 102.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 55.86 years male: 56.02 years female: 55.69 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.57 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 38.1% male: 49.4% female: 26.1% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: People's Republic of Bangladesh conventional short form: Bangladesh former: East Pakistan Data code: BG Type of government: republic Capital: Dhaka Administrative divisions: 4 divisions; Chittagong, Dhaka, Khulna, Rajshahi note: there may be two new divisions named Barisal and Sylhet 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) was elected for a five-year term by National Parliament; election last held 8 October 1991 (next to be held by NA October 1996); results - Abdur Rahman BISWAS received 52.1% of parliamentary vote head of government: Caretaker Prime Minister Muhammad Habibur RAHMAN (since 31 March 1996) was appointed by the president (see note under Legislative branch entry) cabinet: Advisory Council was appointed by the president on 3 April 1996 Legislative branch: unicameral National Parliament (Jatiya Sangsad): elections last held 15 February 1996 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (330 total, 300 elected and 30 seats reserved for women) seats by party NA; note - the election was held despite the fact that it was boycotted by the major opposition parties; Prime Minister Khaleda ZIAur RAHMAN's party won a landslide victory, but, under continuing pressure from the opposition, who called for an annulment of the results, National Parliament passed a bill that established a caretaker government to oversee new elections on a date yet to be determined; President BISWAS then dissolved Parliament and named a caretaker prime minister to replace Prime Minister ZIAur RAHMAN Judicial branch: Supreme Court, the Chief Justices and other judges are appointed by the president 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), Motiur Rahman NIZAMI; Bangladesh Communist Party (BCP), Saifuddin Ahmed MANIK; National Awami Party (Muzaffar); Workers Party, Rashid Khan MENON; Jatiyo Samajtantik Dal (JSD), Serajul ALAM KHAN; Ganotantri Party, leader NA; Islami Oikya Jote, leader NA; National Democratic Party (NDP), leader NA; Muslim League, Khan A. SABUR; Democratic League, Khondakar MUSHTAQUE Ahmed; United People's Party, Kazi ZAFAR Ahmed International organization participation: AsDB, C, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, 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, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNMIH, UNMOT, UNOMIG, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Humayun KABIR chancery: 2201 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007 telephone: [1] (202) 342-8372 through 8376 consulate(s) general: Los Angeles and 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 1000; 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. Annual GDP growth has averaged over 4% in recent years from a low base. Its economy is overwhelmingly agricultural, with the cultivation of rice the single most important activity in the economy. Major impediments to growth include frequent cyclones and floods, the inefficiency of state-owned enterprises, a rapidly growing labor force that cannot be absorbed by agriculture, delays in exploiting energy resources (natural gas), inadequate power supplies, and, most recently, political disturbances. In 1995, progress on Bangladesh's development agenda has been slowed by frequent political unrest before and after national elections in early 1996. Opposition parties have challenged the government's authority by resigning from Parliament and sponsoring numerous countrywide strikes that have crippled transport, hindered business activity, and threatened to slow economic growth in 1996. GDP: purchasing power parity - $144.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.6% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,130 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 4.5% (1995 est.) 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) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $2.8 billion expenditures: $4.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $1.8 billion (FY92/93) Industries: jute manufacturing, cotton textiles, food processing, steel, fertilizer Industrial production growth rate: 8.5% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 2,740,000 kW production: 9.2 billion kWh consumption per capita: 70 kWh (1993) Agriculture: jute, rice, wheat, tea, sugarcane, potatoes; beef, milk, poultry Illicit drugs: transit country for illegal drugs produced in neighboring countries Exports: $2.7 billion (1995 est.) commodities: garments, jute and jute goods, leather, shrimp partners: US 33%, Western Europe 39% (Germany 8.4%, Italy 6%) (FY91/92 est.) Imports: $4.7 billion (1995 est.) 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: $15.7 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $1.099 billion (1993) Currency: 1 taka (Tk) = 100 poiska Exchange rates: taka (Tk) per US$1 - 40.933 (January 19965), 40.278 (1995), 40.212 (1994), 39.567 (1993), 38.951 (1992), 36.596 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 2,892 km broad gauge: 978 km 1.676-m gauge narrow gauge: 1,914 km 1.000-m gauge (1992) Highways: total: 13,627 km paved: 8,546 km unpaved: 5,081 km (1992) Waterways: 5,150-8,046 km navigable waterways (includes 2,575-3,058 km main cargo routes) Pipelines: natural gas 1,220 km Ports: Chittagong, Dhaka, Chalna Port (Mongla) Merchant marine: total: 37 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 296,503 GRT/423,274 DWT ships by type: bulk 3, cargo 29, oil tanker 2, refrigerated cargo 3 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 15 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: 6 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 249,800 (1994 est.) Telephone system: domestic: poor domestic telephone service international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Indian Ocean); international radiotelephone communications and landline service to neighboring countries Radio broadcast stations: AM 9, FM 6, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 11 Televisions: 350,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary forces (includes Bangladesh Rifles, Bangladesh Ansars, Armed Police Reserve, Village Defense Parties, National Cadet Corps) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 31,795,848 males fit for military service: 18,814,818 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $481 million, 1.7% of GDP (FY95/96) ====================================================================== @Barbados -------- Map --- Location: 13 10 N, 59 32 W -- Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, northeast of Venezuela Flag ---- Description: three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), gold, and blue with the head of a black trident centered on the gold band; the trident head represents independence and a break with the past (the colonial coat of arms contained a complete trident) Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, northeast of Venezuela Geographic coordinates: 13 10 N, 59 32 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 430 sq km land area: 430 sq km comparative area: 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Hillaby 336 m Natural resources: petroleum, fish, 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, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Hazardous Wastes Geographic note: easternmost Caribbean island People ------ Population: 257,030 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 24% (male 31,263; female 29,822) 15-64 years: 66% (male 83,565; female 86,697) 65 years and over: 10% (male 9,929; female 15,754) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.26% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 15.29 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.21 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -4.49 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.08 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.63 male(s)/female all ages: 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 18.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 74.35 years male: 71.65 years female: 77.25 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.78 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 97.4% male: 98% female: 96.8% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Barbados Data code: BB Type of government: 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 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) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Acting Governor General Denys WILLIAMS (since 21 December 1995) who was appointed by the queen head of government: Prime Minister Owen Seymour ARTHUR (since 6 September 1994) was appointed by the governor general; Deputy Prime Minister Billie MILLER (since 6 September 1994) cabinet: Cabinet was 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) BLP 19, DLP 8,NDP 1 Judicial branch: Supreme Court of Judicature, judges are appointed by the Service Commissions for the Judicial and Legal Service 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 International organization participation: ACP, C, Caricom, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, 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, UNMIH, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Courtney N. BLACKMAN chancery: 2144 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 939-9218, 9219 FAX: [1] (202) 332-7467 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] (809) 436-4950 FAX: [1] (809) 429-5246 Flag: three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), gold, and blue with the head of a black trident centered on the gold band; the trident head represents independence and a break with the past (the colonial coat of arms contained a complete trident) Economy ------- Economic overview: Historically, the Barbadian economy has been dependent on sugarcane cultivation and related activities, but in recent years the production has diversified into manufacturing and tourism. Sluggish performances in the sugar and tourism sectors - which declined by 25% and 8% respectively - tempered economic expansion in 1995; output increased by 2% for the year, down from nearly 4% in 1994. Improved weather conditions in 1995 are expected to boost agriculture output in 1996. Since taking office in 1994, Prime Minister ARTHUR has aggressively moved to promote foreign direct investment as part of a policy designed to reduce nagging unemployment. The government has also been active in promoting regional integration initiatives. GDP: purchasing power parity - $2.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $9,800 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 6.4% industry: 39.3% services: 54.3% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.7% (1995 est.) Labor force: 126,000 (1993) 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.) Unemployment rate: 19.9% (September 1995) Budget: revenues: $550 million expenditures: $710 million, including capital expenditures of $86 million (FY95/96 est.) Industries: tourism, sugar, light manufacturing, component assembly for export Industrial production growth rate: 5% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 152,100 kW production: 510 million kWh consumption per capita: 1,841 kWh (1993) Agriculture: sugarcane, vegetables, cotton Illicit drugs: one of many Caribbean transshipment points for narcotics bound for the US and Europe Exports: $158.6 million (f.o.b., 1995 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: $693 million (c.i.f., 1995 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: $408 million (1995 est.) Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 Barbadian dollar (Bds$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Barbadian dollars (Bds$) per US$1 - 2.0113 (fixed rate) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 1,550 km paved: 1,550 km Ports: Bridgetown Merchant marine: total: 34 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 183,937 GRT/271,707 DWT ships by type: bulk 6, cargo 21, combination bulk 3, oil tanker 3, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 1 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 87,343 (1991 est.) Telephone system: domestic: island wide automatic telephone system international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); tropospheric scatter to Trinidad and Saint Lucia Radio broadcast stations: AM 3, FM 2, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 2 (1 pay) Televisions: 69,350 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Royal Barbados Defense Force (includes Ground Forces and Coast Guard), Royal Barbados Police Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 71,667 males fit for military service: 49,726 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Bassas da India --------------- (possession of France) Map --- Location: 21 30 S, 39 50 E -- Southern Africa, islands in the southern Mozambique Channel, about one-half of the way from Madagascar to Mozambique Flag ---- Description: the flag of France is used Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, islands in the southern Mozambique Channel, about one-half of the way from Madagascar to Mozambique Geographic coordinates: 21 30 S, 39 50 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 0.2 sq km land area: 0.2 sq km comparative area: about one-third the size of The Mall in Washington, DC 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 3 m 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 People ------ Population: uninhabited Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Bassas da India Data code: BS Type of government: French possession administered by a Commissioner of the Republic, resident in Reunion Capital: none; administered by France from Reunion Independence: none (possession of France) Flag: the flag of France is used Economy ------- Economic overview: no economic activity Transportation -------------- Ports: none; offshore anchorage only Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France ====================================================================== @Belarus ------- Map --- Location: 53 00 N, 28 00 E -- Eastern Europe, east of Poland Flag ---- Description: red horizontal band (top) and green horizontal band one-half the width of the red band; a white vertical stripe of white on the hoist side bears in red the Belarusian national ornament Geography --------- Location: Eastern Europe, east of Poland Geographic coordinates: 53 00 N, 28 00 E Map references: Commonwealth of Independent 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Nyoman River 90 m highest point: Dzyarzhynskaya Hara 346 m Natural resources: forests, 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 Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 10,415,973 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 21% (male 1,136,499; female 1,090,101) 15-64 years: 66% (male 3,334,077; female 3,536,982) 65 years and over: 13% (male 429,574; female 888,740) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.2% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 12.15 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 13.64 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 3.51 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.94 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.48 male(s)/female all ages: 0.89 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 13.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 68.57 years male: 63.2 years female: 74.21 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.69 children born/woman (1996 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 60%, other (including Roman Catholic and Muslim) 40% (early 1990's) Languages: Byelorussian, Russian, other Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1989 est.) total population: 98% male: 99% female: 97% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: BO Type of government: 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); the Belarussian Supreme Soviet issued a proclamation of independence; on 17 July 1990 Belarus issued a declaration of sovereignty 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) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 24 June and 10 July 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - Aleksandr LUKASHENKO 85%, Vyacheslav KEBICH 15% head of government: Prime Minister Mikhail CHIGIR (since NA July 1994) was appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Ministers Vladimir GARKUN (since NA), Sergey LING (since NA), Leonid SINITSYN (since NA), Valeriy KOKAREV (since NA), Vladimir RUSAKEVICH (since NA) cabinet: Council of Ministers note: first presidential elections took place in June-July 1994 Legislative branch: unicameral Supreme Soviet: elections last held May, Nov-Dec 1995 (two rounds, each with a run-off; next to be held NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (260 total) KPB 42, Agrarian 33, CAB 9, Party of People's Concord 8, UPNAZ 2, SDPB 2, BPR 1, Green Party 1, Republican Party of Labor and Justice 1, BSP 1, NFB 1, Social and Sports Party 1, Ecological Party 1, independents 95, vacant 62 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the president; Constitutional Court Political parties and leaders: Belarusian Communist Party (KPB), Vasiliy NOVIKOV, Viktor CHIKIN, chairmen; Agrarian Party, Semen SHARETSKIY; Civic Accord Bloc (CAB); Party of People's Concord, Gennadiy KARPENKO; Party of All-Belarusian Unity and Concord (UPNAZ), Dmitriy BULAKOV; Belarusian Social-Democrat Hramada (SDBP), Alex TRUSOV; Belarusian Patriotic Movement (BPR), Anatol BARANKEVICH; Green Party of Belarus, Mikalay KARTASH; Republican Party of Labor and Justice, Anatol NETSILKIN; Belarus Peasants (BSP), Yevgeniy LUGIN, chairman; Belarusian Popular Front (NFB), Zenon POZNYAK, chairman; Belarusian Social Sports Party, Vladimir ALEKSANDROVICH; Ecological Party, Aleksiy MIKULICH; National Democratic Party of Belarus (NDPB), Victor NAVUMENKA; United Democratic Party of Belarus (ADPB), Aleksandr DOBROVOLSKIY; Belarusian Socialist Party (SPB), Vyacheslav KUZNETSOV; Slavic Assembly (SAB), Nikolai SYARECHEV; Liberal-Democratic Party (LDPB), Vasil KRIVENKA; Belarusian Christian-Democratic Unity (BKDZ), Petr SILKO; Polish Democratic Union (PDZ), Konstantin TARASEVICH; Party of Beer Lovers, Yuriy GONCHAR; Belarusian Labor Party (BPP), Aleksandr BUKHVOSTOV International organization participation: CCC, CE (guest), CIS, EBRD, ECE, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Sergey Nikolayevich MARTYNOV chancery: 1619 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 986-1604 FAX: [1] (202) 986-1805 consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Kenneth Spencer YALOWITZ embassy: Starovilenskaya #46-220002, Minsk mailing address: use embassy street address telephone: [375] (172) 31-50-00 FAX: [375] (172) 34-78-53 Flag: red horizontal band (top) and green horizontal band one-half the width of the red band; a white vertical stripe of white on the hoist side bears in red the Belarusian national ornament Economy ------- Economic overview: At the time of independence in late 1991, Belarus was one of the most developed of the former Soviet states, inheriting a modern - by Soviet standards - machine building sector and robust agricultural sector. However, the breakup of the Soviet Union and its traditional trade ties, as well as the government's failure to embrace market reforms, has resulted in a sharp economic decline. Privatization is virtually nonexistent and the system of state orders and distribution persists. Although President LUKASHENKO pronounces his 1995 macro stabilization policies a success - annual inflation dropped from 2,220% in 1994 to 244% in 1995 - the IMF has criticized his insistence on maintaining the steady exchange rate for Belarusian rubel, which has traded at 11,500 to the dollar since late 1994. The IMF suspended Minsk's $300 million standby program in November 1995 until the government would agree to a devaluation of the rubel. The overvalued rubel has especially hurt Belarusian exporters, most of which now operate at a loss. In addition, the January 1995 Customs Union agreement with Russia - which required Minsk to adjust its foreign trade practices to mirror Moscow's - has resulted in higher import tariffs for Belarusian consumers; tariffs have risen from 5%-20% to 20%-40%. GDP: purchasing power parity - $49.2 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994) GDP real growth rate: -10% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $4,700 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 21% industry: 49% services: 30% (1991 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 244% (1995 est.) Labor force: 4.259 million by occupation: industry and construction 40%, agriculture and forestry 21%, other 39% (1992) Unemployment rate: 2.6% officially registered unemployed (December 1994); large numbers of underemployed workers Budget: revenues: $4.95 billion expenditures: $5.47 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.) Industries: tractors, metal-cutting machine tools, off-highway dump trucks up to 110-metric-ton load capacity, wheel-type earth movers for construction and mining, eight-wheel-drive, high-flotation trucks with cargo capacity of 25 metric tons for use in tundra and roadless areas, equipment for animal husbandry and livestock feeding, motorcycles, television sets, chemical fibers, fertilizer, linen fabric, wool fabric, radios, refrigerators, other consumer goods Industrial production growth rate: -11% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 7,010,000 kW production: 24.9 billion kWh consumption per capita: 2,300 kWh (1995 est.) Agriculture: grain, potatoes, vegetables; meat, milk Illicit drugs: illicit cultivator of opium poppy and cannabis; mostly for the domestic market; transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe Exports: $4.2 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, foodstuffs partners: Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Germany Imports: $4.6 billion (c.i.f., 1995) commodities: fuel, natural gas, industrial raw materials, textiles, sugar partners: Russia, Ukraine, Poland, Germany External debt: $2 billion (September 1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $186 million (1993) note: commitments, $3,930 million ($1,845 million disbursements), 1992-95 Currency: Belarusian rubel (BR) Exchange rates: Belarusian rubels per US$1 - 11,500 (yearend 1995), 10,600 (yearend 1994) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 5,488 km broad gauge: 5,488 km 1.520-m gauge (873 km electrified) (1993) Highways: total: 92,200 km paved: 61,000 km (including graveled) unpaved: 31,200 km (1994 est.) Waterways: NA km; note - Belarus has extensive and widely used canal and river systems 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 (1995 est.) 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 2 437 m: 4 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 9 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 62 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1.849 million (1991 est.) Telephone system: 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 est.); new investment centers on international connections and business needs domestic: the new NMT-450 analog cellular system is now operating in Minsk international: international traffic is carried by the Moscow international gateway switch and also by satellite; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (through Canada) and 1 Eutelsat (through the UK) Radio broadcast stations: AM 35, FM 18, shortwave 0 Radios: 3.17 million (1991 est.) (5,615,000 with multiple speaker systems for program diffusion) Television broadcast stations: 2 (one national and one private; the license of the private station was suspended during the parliamentary elections of 1994) Televisions: 3.5 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Air Force, Air Defense Force, Republic Security Forces (internal and border troops) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,635,570 males fit for military service: 2,067,676 males reach military age (18) annually: 76,006 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: 892 billion rubels, 1% of GDP (1995); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results ====================================================================== @Belgium ------- Map --- Location: 50 50 N, 4 00 E -- Western Europe, bordering the North Sea, between France and the Netherlands Flag ---- Description: three equal vertical bands of black (hoist side), yellow, and red; the design was based on the flag of France Geography --------- Location: Western Europe, bordering the North Sea, between France and the Netherlands Geographic coordinates: 50 50 N, 4 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: North Sea 0 m highest point: Signal de Botrange 694 m 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 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 Geographic note: crossroads of Western Europe; majority of West European capitals within 1,000 km of Brussels which is the seat of the EU People ------ Population: 10,170,241 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 18% (male 930,919; female 886,632) 15-64 years: 66% (male 3,380,105; female 3,326,853) 65 years and over: 16% (male 663,760; female 981,972) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.33% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 12 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 10.3 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 1.63 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.68 male(s)/female all ages: 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 6.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 77.09 years male: 73.86 years female: 80.51 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.69 children born/woman (1996 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% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Kingdom of Belgium conventional short form: Belgium local long form: Royaume de Belgique local short form: Belgique Data code: BE Type of government: 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 note: constitutional reforms passed by Parliament in 1993 increased the number of provinces to 10 by splitting the province of Brabant into two new provinces, Flemish Brabant and Walloon Brabant 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) is a constitutional monarch head of government: Prime Minister Jean-Luc DEHAENE (since 6 March 1992) was appointed by the king and then approved by Parliament cabinet: Cabinet is appointed by the king and approved by Parliament Legislative branch: bicameral Parliament Senate (Flemish - Senaat French - Senat): elections last held 21 May 1995 (next to be held by the end of 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (71 total, 40 directly elected; 31 will be indirectly elected at a later date) CVP 7, SP 6, VLD 6, VU 2, AGALEV 1, VB 3, PS 5, PRL 5, PSC 3, ECOLO 2; note - before the 1995 elections, there were 184 seats Chamber of Deputies(Flemish - Kamer van Volksvertegenwoordig: elections last held 21 May 1995 (next to be held by the end of 1999); results - CVP 17.2%, PS 11.9%, SP 12.6%, VLD 13.1%, PRL 10.3%, PSC 7.7%, VB 7.8%, VU 4.7%, ECOLO 4.0%, AGALEV 4.4%, FN 2.3%; seats - (150 total) CVP 29, PS 21, SP 20, VLD 21, PRL 18, PSC 12, VB 11, VU 5, ECOLO 6, AGALEV 5, FN 2; note - before the 1995 elections, there were 212 seats Judicial branch: Supreme Court of Justice (Flemish - Hof van Cassatie, French - Cour de Cassation), judges are appointed for life by the Belgian monarch 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), Herman DE CROO, president; Francophone Liberal Reformation Party (PRL), Louis MICHEL, president; Francophone Democratic Front (FDF), Olivier MAINGAIN, president; Volksunie (VU), Bert ANCIAUX, president; Vlaams Blok (VB), Karel DILLEN, chairman; National Front (FN), Daniel FERET, president; AGALEV (Flemish Greens), no president; ECOLO (Francophone Greens), no president; other minor parties 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 International organization participation: ACCT, AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, Benelux, BIS, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD, ECE, EIB, ESA, EU, FAO, G- 9, G-10, 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, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNITAR, UNMOGIP, UNPROFOR, UNRWA, UNTSO, UPU, WCL, WEU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Andre ADAM chancery: 3330 Garfield Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 333-6900 FAX: [1] (202) 333-3079 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) 508-2111 FAX: [32] (2) 511-2725 Flag: three equal vertical bands of black (hoist side), yellow, and red; the design was based on the flag of France Economy ------- Economic 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. Two-thirds of its trade is with other EU countries. The economy grew at a strong 4% annual pace during the period 1988-90, slowed to 1% in 1991-92, dropped by 1.5% in 1993, and recovered with moderate 2.3% growth in 1994 and 1995. 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $197 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $19,500 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 2% industry: 28% services: 70% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.6% (1995 est.) Labor force: 4.126 million by occupation: services 63.6%, industry 28%, construction 6.1%, agriculture 2.3% (1988) Unemployment rate: 14% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: engineering and metal products, motor vehicle assembly, processed food and beverages, chemicals, basic metals, textiles, glass, petroleum, coal Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 14,040,000 kW production: 66 billion kWh consumption per capita: 6,334 kWh (1993) Agriculture: sugar beets, fresh vegetables, fruits, grain, tobacco; beef, veal, pork, milk Illicit drugs: source of precursor chemicals for South American cocaine processors; transshipment point for cocaine entering the European market Exports: $108 billion (f.o.b., 1994) Belgium-Luxembourg Economic Union (BLEU) commodities: iron and steel, transportation equipment, tractors, diamonds, petroleum products partners: EU 67.2% (Germany 19%), US 5.8%, former Communist countries 1.4% (1994) Imports: $140 billion (c.i.f., 1994) Belgium-Luxembourg Economic Union commodities: fuels, grains, chemicals, foodstuffs partners: EU 68% (Germany 22.1%), US 8.8%, former Communist countries 0.8% (1994) External debt: $31.3 billion (1992 est.) Economic aid: donor: ODA, $808 million (1993) Currency: 1 Belgian franc (BF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: Belgian francs (BF) per US$1 - 30.036 (January 1996), 29.480 (1995), 33.456 (1994), 34.597 (1993), 32.150 (1992), 34.148 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 3,396 km (2,363 km electrified; 2,563 km double track) standard gauge: 3,396 km 1.435-m gauge (1995) Highways: total: 137,876 km paved: 129,603 km (including 1,667 km of expressways) unpaved: 8,273 km (1992 est.) 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 64,220 GRT/83,360 DWT ships by type: bulk 1, cargo 8, chemical tanker 5, liquefied gas tanker 3, oil tanker 6 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 42 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: 21 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 5.691 million (1992 est.) Telephone system: highly developed, technologically advanced, and completely automated domestic and international telephone and telegraph facilities domestic: nationwide cellular telephone system; extensive cable network; limited microwave radio relay network international: 5 submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) and 1 Eutelsat Radio broadcast stations: AM 3, FM 39, shortwave 0 Radios: 100,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 32 (1987 est.) Televisions: 3,315,662 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, National Gendarmerie Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,571,588 males fit for military service: 2,135,375 males reach military age (19) annually: 61,986 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $4.6 billion, 1.7% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Belize ------ Map --- Location: 17 15 N, 88 45 W -- Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Guatemala and Mexico Flag ---- Description: blue with a narrow red stripe along the top and the bottom edges; centered is a large white disk bearing the coat of arms; the coat of arms features a shield flanked by two workers in front of a mahogany tree with the related motto SUB UMBRA FLOREO (I Flourish in the Shade) on a scroll at the bottom, all encircled by a green garland Geography --------- Location: Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Guatemala and Mexico Geographic coordinates: 17 15 N, 88 45 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 22,960 sq km land area: 22,800 sq km comparative area: slightly larger than Massachusetts Land boundaries: total: 516 km border countries: Guatemala 266 km, Mexico 250 km Coastline: 386 km Maritime claims: exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm in the north, 3 nm in the south; note - from the mouth of the Sarstoon River to Ranguana Cay, Belize's territorial sea is 3 nm; according to Belize's Maritime Areas Act, 1992, the purpose of this limitation is to provide a framework for the negotiation of a definitive agreement on territorial differences with Guatemala International disputes: border with Guatemala in dispute; talks to resolve the dispute are stalled Climate: tropical; very hot and humid; rainy season (May to February) Terrain: flat, swampy coastal plain; low mountains in south lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Victoria Peak 1,160 m Natural resources: arable land potential, timber, fish Land use: arable land: 2% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 2% forest and woodland: 44% other: 52% Irrigated land: 20 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: deforestation; water pollution from sewage, industrial effluents, agricultural runoff natural hazards: frequent, devastating hurricanes (September to December) and coastal flooding (especially in south) international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Whaling Geographic note: national capital moved 80 km inland from Belize City to Belmopan because of hurricanes; only country in Central America without a coastline on the North Pacific Ocean People ------ Population: 219,296 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 43% (male 48,291; female 46,451) 15-64 years: 53% (male 59,132; female 57,498) 65 years and over: 4% (male 3,881; female 4,043) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.42% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 32.8 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.73 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -2.89 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.96 male(s)/female all ages: 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 33.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 68.53 years male: 66.58 years female: 70.58 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.12 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Belizean(s) adjective: Belizean Ethnic divisions: mestizo 44%, Creole 30%, Maya 11%, Garifuna 7%, other 8% Religions: Roman Catholic 62%, Protestant 30% (Anglican 12%, Methodist 6%, Mennonite 4%, Seventh-Day Adventist 3%, Pentecostal 2%, Jehovah's Witnesses 1%, other 2%), none 2%, other 6% (1980) Languages: English (official), Spanish, Mayan, Garifuna (Carib) Literacy: age 14 and over has ever attended school (1991 est.) total population: 70.3% male: 70.3% female: 70.3% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Belize former: British Honduras Data code: BH Type of government: parliamentary democracy Capital: Belmopan Administrative divisions: 6 districts; Belize, Cayo, Corozal, Orange Walk, Stann Creek, Toledo Independence: 21 September 1981 (from UK) National holiday: Independence Day, 21 September (1981) Constitution: 21 September 1981 Legal system: English law Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor General Sir Colville YOUNG (since 17 November 1993), who, according to the constitution, must be a Belizean; was appointed by the queen head of government: Prime Minister Manuel ESQUIVEL (since July 1993) was appointed by the governor general; Deputy Prime Minister Dean BARROW (since NA 1993) cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister Legislative branch: bicameral National Assembly Senate: consists of an eight-member appointed body; five members are appointed on the advice of the prime minister, two on the advice of the leader of the opposition, and one after consultation with the Belize Advisory Council (this council serves as an independent body to advise the governor general with respect to difficult decisions such as granting pardons, commutations, stays of execution, the removal of justices of appeal who appear to be incompetent, etc.) National Assembly: elections last held 30 June 1993 (next to be held NA June 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (28 total) PUP 13 UDP 15 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, the chief justice is appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister Political parties and leaders: People's United Party (PUP), George PRICE, Florencio MARIN, Said MUSA; United Democratic Party (UDP), Manuel ESQUIVEL, Dean LINDO, Dean BARROW; National Alliance for Belizean Rights, Philip GOLDSON Other political or pressure groups: Society for the Promotion of Education and Research (SPEAR), Assad SHOMAN; United Workers Front, leader NA International organization participation: ACP, C, Caricom, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, LAES, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMIH, UPU, WCL, WHO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Dean R. LINDO chancery: 2535 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 332-9636 FAX: [1] (202) 332-6888 consulate(s) general: Los Angeles consulate(s): New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador George Charles BRUNO embassy: Gabourel Lane and Hutson Street, Belize City mailing address: P. O. Box 286, Belize City; APO: Unit 7401, APO AA 34025 telephone: [501] (2) 77161 through 77163 FAX: [501] (2) 30802 Flag: blue with a narrow red stripe along the top and the bottom edges; centered is a large white disk bearing the coat of arms; the coat of arms features a shield flanked by two workers in front of a mahogany tree with the related motto SUB UMBRA FLOREO (I Flourish in the Shade) on a scroll at the bottom, all encircled by a green garland Economy ------- Economic overview: The small, essentially private enterprise economy is based primarily on agriculture, agro-based industry, and merchandising, with tourism and construction assuming increasing importance. Agriculture accounts for about 30% of GDP and provides 75% of export earnings, while sugar, the chief crop, accounts for almost 40% of hard currency earnings. The US, Belize's main trading partner, is assisting in efforts to reduce dependency on sugar with an agricultural diversification program. GDP: purchasing power parity - $575 million (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $2,750 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 30% industry: NA services: NA (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.3% (1994 est.) Labor force: 51,500 by occupation: agriculture 30%, services 16%, government 15.4%, commerce 11.2%, manufacturing 10.3% note: shortage of skilled labor and all types of technical personnel (1985) Unemployment rate: 10% (1993 est.) Budget: revenues: $126.8 million expenditures: $123.1 million, including capital expenditures of $44.8 million (FY90/91 est.) Industries: garment production, food processing, tourism, construction Industrial production growth rate: 3.7% (1990) Electricity: capacity: 34,532 kW production: 110 million kWh consumption per capita: 490 kWh (1993) Agriculture: bananas, coca, citrus, sugarcane; lumber; fish, cultured shrimp Illicit drugs: transshipment point for cocaine; an illicit producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; minor money-laundering center Exports: $115 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: sugar, citrus fruits, bananas, clothing, fish products, molasses, wood partners: US 38%, UK, other EC (1994) Imports: $281 million (c.i.f., 1993) commodities: machinery and transportation equipment, food, manufactured goods, fuels, chemicals, pharmaceuticals partners: US 53%, UK, other EC, Mexico (1994) External debt: $167.5 million (1992) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Belizean dollar (Bz$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Belizean dollars (Bz$) per US$1 - 2.00 (fixed rate) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 2,560 km paved: 336 km unpaved: 2,224 km (1987 est.) Waterways: 825 km river network used by shallow-draft craft; seasonally navigable Ports: Belize City, Big Creek, Corozol, Punta Gorda Merchant marine: total: 89 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 311,731 GRT/470,272 DWT ships by type: bulk 9, cargo 60, container 6, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 3, refrigerated cargo 4, roll-on/roll-off cargo 4, specialized tanker 1, vehicle carrier 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 35 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 25 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 8 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 15,917 (1990 est.) Telephone system: above-average system domestic: trunk network depends primarily on microwave radio relay international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 6, FM 5, shortwave 1 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 27,048 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Belize Defense Force (includes Army, Navy, Air Force, and Volunteer Guard), Belize National Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 52,290 males fit for military service: 31,086 males reach military age (18) annually: 2,390 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $8.1 million, NA% of GDP (FY95/96) ====================================================================== @Benin ----- Map --- Location: 9 30 N, 2 15 E -- Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Nigeria and Togo Flag ---- Description: two equal horizontal bands of yellow (top) and red with a vertical green band on the hoist side Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Nigeria and Togo Geographic coordinates: 9 30 N, 2 15 E 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 border countries: Burkina Faso 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Tanekas 641 m 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 Geographic note: no natural harbors People ------ Population: 5,709,529 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 48% (male 1,376,531; female 1,367,394) 15-64 years: 50% (male 1,349,386; female 1,480,251) 65 years and over: 2% (male 60,030; female 75,937) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.32% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 46.76 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 13.53 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.91 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.79 male(s)/female all ages: 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 105.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 52.69 years male: 50.74 years female: 54.7 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.64 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 37% male: 48.7% female: 25.8% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Benin conventional short form: Benin local long form: Republique du Benin local short form: Benin former: Dahomey Data code: BN Type of government: 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 Mathieu KEREKOU (since 4 April 1996) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 18 March 1996 (next to be held March 2001); results - Mathieu KEREKOU 52.49%, Nicephore SOGLO 47.51% cabinet: Executive Council, appointed by the president Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 28 March 1995 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (83 total) Renaissance Party and allies 20, PRD 19, FARD-ALAFIA 10, PSD 7, NCC 3, RDL-VIVOTEN 3, Communist Party 2, Alliance Chameleon 1, RDP 1, ADP 1, other 16 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Cour Supreme) Political parties and leaders: as of February 1996, more than 80 political parties were officially recognized; the following are represented in the National Assembly: Alliance of the National Party for Democracy and Development (PNDD) and the Democratic Renewal Party (PRD), Pascal Chabi KAO; Action for Renewal and Development (FARD-ALAFIA), Mathieu KEREKOU; Alliance of the Social Democratic Party (PSD) and the National Union for Solidarity and Progress (UNSP), Bruno AMOUSSOU; Alliance Chameleon; Alliance for Democracy and Progress (ADP), Adekpedjon AKINDES; Alliance for Social Democracy (ASD), Robert DOSSOU; Assembly of Liberal Democrats for National Reconstruction (RDL), Severin ADJOVI; Communist Party of Benin, Pascal FATONDJI, First Secretary; Our Common Cause (NCC), Albert TEVOEDJRE; Rally for Democracy and Progress (RDP); The Renaissance Party, Nicephore SOGLO International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, ECA, ECOWAS, Entente, FAO, FZ, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMIH, UPU, WADB, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Lucien Edgar TONOUKOUIN chancery: 2737 Cathedral Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 232-6656, 6657, 6658 FAX: [1] (202) 265-1996 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador John M. YATES 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] 30-14-39, 30-19-74 Flag: two equal horizontal bands of yellow (top) and red with a vertical green band on the hoist side Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy of Benin remains underdeveloped and dependent on subsistence agriculture, cotton production, and regional trade. Growth in real output, which had averaged a sound 4% in 1990-94, rose to 6% in 1995. Rapid population growth, now 3.3% per year, offset much of this growth in output. Inflation jumped to 55% in 1994 (compared to 3% in 1993) following the 50% currency devaluation in January 1994, but subsided gradually in 1995. Commercial and transport activities, which make up 37% 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. Support by the Paris Club and official bilateral creditors has eased the external debt situation in recent years. The government, still burdened with money-losing state enterprises and a bloated civil service, has been gradually implementing a World Bank supported structural adjustment program since 1991. GDP: purchasing power parity - $7.6 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,380 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 36.8% industry: 12.6% services: 50.6% (1993) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 55% (1994 est.) Labor force: 1.9 million (1987) by occupation: agriculture 60%, transport, commerce, and public services 38%, industry less than 2% Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $272 million (1993 est.) expenditures: $375 million, including capital expenditures of $84 million (1993 est.) Industries: textiles, cigarettes; beverages, food; construction materials, petroleum Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 30,000 kW production: 10 million kWh consumption per capita: 25 kWh (1993) Agriculture: corn, sorghum, cassava (tapioca), yams, beans, rice, cotton, palm oil, peanuts; poultry, livestock Illicit drugs: transshipment point for narcotics associated with Nigerian trafficking organizations and most commonly destined for Western Europe and the US Exports: $310 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: cotton, crude oil, palm products, cocoa partners: France, Morocco 37%, Portugal 14%, Spain, Italy, UK, US, Libya Imports: $439 million (c.i.f., 1994 est.) commodities: foodstuffs, beverages, tobacco, petroleum products, intermediate goods, capital goods, light consumer goods partners: France 24%, Thailand 12%, Netherlands 7%, US 5%, China, Hong Kong External debt: $1.5 billion (1993 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: CFA francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 500.56 (January 1996), 499.15 (1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991) 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 578 km (single track) (1995 est.) narrow gauge: 578 km 1.000-m gauge Highways: total: 6,070 km paved: 1,214 km unpaved: 4,856 km (1992 est.) Waterways: navigable along small sections, important only locally Ports: Cotonou, Porto-Novo Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 5 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 2 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 16,200 (1986 est.) Telephone system: domestic: fair system of open wire and microwave radio relay international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); submarine cable Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 2, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 2 Televisions: 20,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Armed Forces (includes Army, Navy, Air Force), National Gendarmerie Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,212,440 females age 15-49: 1,290,773 males fit for military service: 620,923 females fit for military service: 653,094 males reach military age (18) annually: 62,526 females reach military age (18) annually: 60,968 (1996 est.) note: both sexes are liable for military service Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $33 million, 3.2% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Bermuda ------- (dependent territory of the UK) Map --- Location: 32 20 N, 64 45 W -- North America, group of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, east of North Carolina (US) Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: North America, group of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, east of North Carolina (US) Geographic coordinates: 32 20 N, 64 45 W 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Town Hill 76 m 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 Geographic note: consists of about 360 small coral islands with ample rainfall, but no rivers or freshwater lakes; some reclaimed land leased by US Government People ------ Population: 62,099 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 0.76% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 15 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.3 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.13 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 13.16 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.03 years male: 73.36 years female: 76.97 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.8 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 98% male: 98% female: 99% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Bermuda Data code: BD Type of government: 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: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor Lord David WADDINGTON (since 25 August 1992), who was appointed by the queen head of government: Premier David SAUL (since 25 August 1995) was appointed by the governor; Deputy Premier Jerome DILL (since 1 September 1995) cabinet: Cabinet was 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 - 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), David SAUL; Progressive Labor Party (PLP), Frederick WADE; National Liberal Party (NLP), Gilbert DARRELL Other political or pressure groups: Bermuda Industrial Union (BIU), Ottiwell SIMMONS International organization participation: 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 general(s): Crown Hill, 16 Middle Road, Devonshire, Hamilton mailing address: P. O. Box HM325, Hamilton HMBX; American Consulate General Hamilton, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-5300 telephone: [1] (441) 295-1342 FAX: [1] (441) 295-1592 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. International business contributes over 60% of Bermuda's economic output; a failed independence vote in late 1995 can be partially attributed to Bermudian's fear of scaring away foreign firms. Hurricane Felix, which hit Bermuda twice over three days, caused an estimated $2.5 million in damages in August of 1995. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1.7 billion (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.5% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $28,000 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.6% (1995 est.) Labor force: 33,650 (1992) by occupation: clerical 25%, services 22%, laborers 21%, professional and technical 13%, administrative and managerial 10%, sales 7%, agriculture and fishing 2% (1984) Unemployment rate: NEGL% (1995) Budget: revenues: $327.5 million expenditures: $308.9 million, including capital expenditures of $35.4 million (FY90/91 est.) Industries: tourism, finance, structural concrete products, paints, pharmaceuticals, ship repairing Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 140,000 kW production: 504 million kWh consumption per capita: 7,745 kWh (1993) Agriculture: bananas, vegetables, citrus, flowers; dairy products Exports: $60 million (f.o.b., 1991) commodities: semitropical produce, light manufactures, reexports 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 Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 Bermudian dollar (Bd$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Bermudian dollar (Bd$) per US$1 - 1.0000 (fixed rate) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 208 km paved: 208 km unpaved: 0 km (1986 est.) note: in addition, there are 400 km of paved and unpaved roads that are privately owned Ports: Hamilton, Saint George Merchant marine: total: 69 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 3,146,693 GRT/5,007,242 DWT ships by type: bulk 10, cargo 3, container 7, liquefied gas tanker 16, oil tanker 16, refrigerated cargo 10, roll-on/roll-off cargo 4, short-sea passenger 1, specialized tanker 1, vehicle carrier 1 note: a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 11 countries among which are UK 17, US 13, Canada 10, Norway 9, Nigeria 4, Sweden 3, Hong Kong 2, Syria 2, Mexico 1, and NZ 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 1 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 54,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: domestic: modern, fully automatic telephone system international: 3 submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 5, FM 3, shortwave 0 Radios: 78,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 2 Televisions: 57,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Bermuda Regiment, Bermuda Police Force, Bermuda Reserve Constabulary Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK ====================================================================== @Bhutan ------ Map --- Location: 27 30 N, 90 30 E -- Southern Asia, between China and India Flag ---- Description: divided diagonally from the lower hoist side corner; the upper triangle is yellow and the lower triangle is orange; centered along the dividing line is a large black and white dragon facing away from the hoist side Geography --------- Location: Southern Asia, between China and India Geographic coordinates: 27 30 N, 90 30 E Map references: Asia Area: total area: 47,000 sq km land area: 47,000 sq km comparative area: slightly more than half the size of Indiana Land boundaries: total: 1,075 km border countries: China 470 km, India 605 km Coastline: 0 km (landlocked) Maritime claims: none (landlocked) International disputes: none Climate: varies; tropical in southern plains; cool winters and hot summers in central valleys; severe winters and cool summers in Himalayas Terrain: mostly mountainous with some fertile valleys and savanna lowest point: Dangme Chu 97 m highest point: Khula Kangri I 7,553 m Natural resources: timber, hydropower, gypsum, calcium carbide Land use: arable land: 2% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 5% forest and woodland: 70% other: 23% Irrigated land: 340 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: soil erosion; limited access to potable water natural hazards: violent storms coming down from the Himalayas are the source of the country's name which translates as Land of the Thunder Dragon; frequent landslides during the rainy season international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea Geographic note: landlocked; strategic location between China and India; controls several key Himalayan mountain passes People ------ Population: 1,822,625 (July 1996 est.) note: other estimates range as low as 600,000 Age structure: 0-14 years: 40% (male 378,407; female 351,146) 15-64 years: 56% (male 524,972; female 496,715) 65 years and over: 4% (male 36,304; female 35,081) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.32% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 38.48 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 15.28 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.08 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.04 male(s)/female all ages: 1.06 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 116.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 51.46 years male: 51.96 years female: 50.93 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.33 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Bhutanese (singular and plural) adjective: Bhutanese Ethnic divisions: Bhote 50%, ethnic Nepalese 35%, indigenous or migrant tribes 15% Religions: Lamaistic Buddhism 75%, Indian- and Nepalese-influenced Hinduism 25% Languages: Dzongkha (official), Bhotes speak various Tibetan dialects, Nepalese speak various Nepalese dialects Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 42.2% male: 56.2% female: 28.1% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Kingdom of Bhutan conventional short form: Bhutan Data code: BT Type of government: monarchy; special treaty relationship with India Capital: Thimphu Administrative divisions: 18 districts (dzongkhag, singular and plural); Bumthang, Chhukha, Chirang, Daga, Geylegphug, Ha, Lhuntshi, Mongar, Paro, Pemagatsel, Punakha, Samchi, Samdrup Jongkhar, Shemgang, Tashigang, Thimphu, Tongsa, Wangdi Phodrang Independence: 8 August 1949 (from India) National holiday: National Day, 17 December (1907) (Ugyen Wangchuck became first hereditary king) Constitution: no written constitution or bill of rights note: Bhutan uses 1953 Royal decree for the Constitution of the National Assembly Legal system: based on Indian law and English common law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: each family has one vote in village-level elections Executive branch: Chief of State and Head of Government (Druk Gyalpo): King Jigme Singye WANGCHUCK (since 24 July 1972) is a hereditary monarch Royal Advisory Council (Lodoi Tsokde): was nominated by the king cabinet: Council of Ministers (Lhengye Shungtsog) was appointed by the king Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Tshogdu): members serve for three years; seats - (150 total, 105 elected from village constituencies, 12 represent religious bodies, and 33 designated by the king to represent government and other secular interests) Judicial branch: the Supreme Court of Appeal is the king; High Court, judges appointed by the king Political parties and leaders: no legal parties Other political or pressure groups: Buddhist clergy; Indian merchant community; ethnic Nepalese organizations leading militant antigovernment campaign International organization participation: AsDB, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFAD, IMF, Intelsat, IOC, ITU, NAM, SAARC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO Diplomatic representation in US: none; note - Bhutan has a Permanent Mission to the UN, headed by Ugyen TSERING; address: 2 United Nations Plaza, 27th Floor, New York, NY 10017; telephone [1] (212) 826-1919; the Bhutanese mission to the UN has consular jurisdiction in the US consulate(s) general: New York honorary consulate(s): San Francisco; Washington, DC US diplomatic representation: the US and Bhutan have no formal diplomatic relations, although informal contact is maintained between the Bhutanese and US Embassy in New Delhi (India) Flag: divided diagonally from the lower hoist side corner; the upper triangle is yellow and the lower triangle is orange; centered along the dividing line is a large black and white dragon facing away from the hoist side Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy, one of the world's smallest and least developed, is based on agriculture and forestry, which provide the main livelihood for 90% of the population and account for about half of GDP. Agriculture consists largely of subsistence farming and animal husbandry. Rugged mountains dominate the terrain and make the building of roads and other infrastructure difficult and expensive. The economy is closely aligned with India's through strong trade and monetary links. The industrial sector is small and technologically backward, with most production of the cottage industry type. Most development projects, such as road construction, rely on Indian migrant labor. Bhutan's hydropower potential and its attraction for tourists are key resources; however, the government limits the number of tourists to 4,000 per year to minimize foreign influence. The Bhutanese Government has made some progress in expanding the nation's productive base and improving social welfare but growth continues to be constrained by the government's desire to protect the country's environment and cultural traditions. Growth picked up in 1995 and the country's balance of payments remained strong with comfortable reserves. The cautious fiscal stance planned for FY95/96 suggests continued economic stability in 1996. However, excessive controls and uncertain policies in areas like industrial licensing, trade, labor, and finance continue to hamper foreign investment. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1.3 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $730 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 8.6% (FY94/95 est.) Labor force: NA by occupation: agriculture 93%, services 5%, industry and commerce 2% note: massive lack of skilled labor Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $52 million expenditures: $150 million, including capital expenditures of $95 million (FY93/94 est.) note: the government of India finances nearly three-fifths of Bhutan's budget expenditures Industries: cement, wood products, processed fruits, alcoholic beverages, calcium carbide Industrial production growth rate: 7.6% (1992 est.) Electricity: capacity: 360,000 kW production: 1.7 billion kWh consumption per capita: 143 kWh (1993) note: Bhutan exports electricity to India Agriculture: rice, corn, root crops, citrus, foodgrains; dairy products, eggs Exports: $70.9 million (f.o.b., FY94/95 est.) commodities: cardamon, gypsum, timber, handicrafts, cement, fruit, electricity (to India), precious stones, spices partners: India 94%, Bangladesh Imports: $113.6 million (c.i.f., FY94/95 est.) commodities: fuel and lubricants, grain, machinery and parts, vehicles, fabrics, rice partners: India 77%, Japan, UK, Germany, US External debt: $141 million (October 1994) Economic aid: recipient: $NA Currency: 1 ngultrum (Nu) = 100 chetrum; note - Indian currency is also legal tender Exchange rates: ngultrum (Nu) per US$1 - 35.766 (January 1996), 32.427 (1995), 31.374 (1994), 30.493 (1993), 25.918 (1992), 22.742 (1991); note - the Bhutanese ngultrum is at par with the Indian rupee Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 1,296 km paved: 416 km unpaved: 880 km (1988 est.) Ports: none Airports: total: 2 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 4,620 (1991 est.) Telephone system: domestic: domestic telephone service is very poor with very few telephones in use international: international telephone and telegraph service is by landline through India; a satellite earth station was planned (1990) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0 (1990) Radios: 23,000 (1989 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 (1990 est.) Televisions: 200 (1985 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Royal Bhutan Army, Palace Guard, Militia Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 444,875 males fit for military service: 237,529 males reach military age (18) annually: 17,634 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Bolivia ------- Map --- Location: 17 00 S, 65 00 W -- Central South America, southwest of Brazil Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Central South America, southwest of Brazil Geographic coordinates: 17 00 S, 65 00 W 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Rio Paraguay 90 m highest point: Cerro Illimani 6,882 m 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-April) international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection Geographic note: landlocked; shares control of Lago Titicaca, world's highest navigable lake (elevation 3,805 m), with Peru People ------ Population: 7,165,257 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 39% (male 1,422,313; female 1,390,885) 15-64 years: 56% (male 1,959,989; female 2,042,135) 65 years and over: 5% (male 153,111; female 196,824) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.82% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 32.37 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 10.75 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -3.41 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.78 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 67.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 59.81 years male: 56.94 years female: 62.82 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.25 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 83.1% male: 90.5% female: 76% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Bolivia conventional short form: Bolivia local long form: Republica de Bolivia local short form: Bolivia Data code: BL Type of government: 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 Napoleonic Code; 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) and Vice President Victor Hugo CARDENAS Conde (since 6 August 1993) were elected for four-year terms by popular vote; election last held 6 June 1993 (next to be held NA May 1997); results - Gonzalo SANCHEZ DE LOZADA (MNR) 34%, Hugo BANZER Suarez (ADN/MIR alliance) 20%, Carlos 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 died in a plane crash 26 November 1995 cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president from panel of candidates 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 NA May 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (130 total) MNR 52, UCS 20, ADN 17, MIR 17, CONDEPA 13, MBL 7, ARBOL 1, ASD 1, EJE 1, PCD 1 Chamber of Senators (Camara de Senadores): elections last held 6 June 1993 (next to be held NA May 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (27 total) MNR 17, ADN 4, MIR 4, CONDEPA 1, UCS 1 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges appointed for a 10-year term by National Congress 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 JUSTINIANO; 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), Johnny FERNANDEZ; 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 International organization participation: AG, ECLAC, FAO, G-11, G-77, 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, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Fernando Alvaro COSSIO chancery: 3014 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 483-4410 through 4412 FAX: [1] (202) 328-3712 consulate(s) general: Los Angeles, Miami, New York, and San Francisco US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Curtis 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) 433900 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 the signing of a free trade agreement with Mexico and progress on his unique privatization plan. The main privatization bill was passed by the Bolivian legislature in late March 1994. Since that time, the administration has privatized the electric power generation sector, the state airline, the state telephone company, and the national railroad. The state mining and petroleum companies are expected to be privatized in 1996. GDP: purchasing power parity - $20 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3.7% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,530 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 12% (1995 est.) Labor force: 3.54 million by occupation: agriculture NA%, services and utilities 20%, manufacturing, mining and construction 7% (1993) Unemployment rate: urban rate 8% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $3.75 billion expenditures: $3.75 billion, including capital expenditures of $556.2 million (1995 est.) Industries: mining, smelting, petroleum, food and beverages, tobacco, handicrafts, clothing Industrial production growth rate: 5% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 756,200 kW production: 2.116 billion kWh consumption per capita: 367 kWh (1994) Agriculture: coffee, coca, cotton, corn, sugarcane, rice, potatoes; timber Illicit drugs: world's third-largest cultivator of coca (after Peru and Colombia) with an estimated 48,600 hectares under cultivation in 1995, a one percent increase in overall cultivation of coca over 1994 levels; Bolivia, however, is the second-largest producer of harvested coca leaf; even so, voluntary and forced eradication programs resulted in leaf production dropping from 89,800 metric tons in 1994 to 85,000 tons in 1995; government considers all but 12,000 hectares illicit; intermediate 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 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: $4.4 billion (November 1995) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $362 million (1993) Currency: 1 boliviano ($B) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: bolivianos ($B) per US$1 - 4.9137 (December 1995), 4.8003 (1995), 4.6205 (1994), 4.2651 (1993), 3.9005 (1992), 3.5806 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 3,691 km (single track) narrow gauge: 3,652 km 1.000-m gauge; 39 km 0.760-m gauge (13 km electrified) (1995) Highways: total: 46,311 km paved: 1,940 km (including 27 km of expressways) unpaved: 44,371 km (1991 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 1,017 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 3 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: 750 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 2 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 69 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 186 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 144,300 (1987 est.) Telephone system: new subscribers face bureaucratic difficulties; most telephones are concentrated in La Paz and other cities domestic: microwave radio relay system being expanded international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 129, FM 0, shortwave 68 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 43 Televisions: 500,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- 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: 1,685,572 males fit for military service: 1,098,948 males reach military age (19) annually: 76,035 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $145 million; 1.9% of GDP (1996) ====================================================================== @Bosnia and Herzegovina ---------------------- On 21 November 1995, in Dayton, Ohio, the former Yugoslavia's three warring parties signed a peace agreement that brought to a halt over three years of interethnic civil strife in Bosnia and Herzegovina (the final agreement was signed in Paris on 14 December 1995). The Dayton Agreement, signed by Bosnian President IZETBEGOVIC, Croatian President TUDJMAN, and Serbian President MILOSEVIC, divides Bosnia and Herzegovina roughly equally between the Muslim/Croat Federation and the Bosnian Serbs while maintaining Bosnia's currently recognized borders. An international peacekeeping force (IFOR) of 60,000 troops began to enter Bosnia in late 1995 to implement and monitor the military aspects of the agreement and is scheduled to depart the country within one year. A High Representative appointed by the UN Security Council is responsible for civilian implementation of the accord, including monitoring implementation, facilitating any difficulties arising in connection with civilian implementation, and coordinating activities of the civilian organizations and agencies in Bosnia and Herzegovina. The Bosnian conflict began in the spring of 1992 when the Government of Bosnia and Herzegovina held a referendum on independence and the Bosnian Serbs - supported by neighboring Serbia - responded with armed resistance aimed at partitioning the republic along ethnic lines and joining Serb-held areas to form a "greater Serbia." In March 1994, Bosnia's Muslims and Croats reduced the number of warring factions from three to two by signing an agreement in Washington creating their joint Muslim/Croat Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina. Map --- Location: 44 00 N, 18 00 E -- Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and Croatia Flag ---- Description: white with a large blue shield; the shield contains white fleurs-de-lis with a white diagonal band running from the upper hoist corner to the lower outer side Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and Croatia Geographic coordinates: 44 00 N, 18 00 E Map references: Bosnia and Herzegovina, Europe Area: total area: 51,233 sq km land area: 51,233 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than West Virginia Land boundaries: total: 1,459 km border countries: Croatia 932 km, Serbia and Montenegro 527 km (312 km with Serbia, 215 km with Montenegro) Coastline: 20 km Maritime claims: NA International disputes: none 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 lowest point: Adriatic Sea 0 m highest point: Maglic 2,386 m Natural resources: coal, iron, bauxite, manganese, forests, 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 Geographic note: as of January 1996, Bosnian Serb leaders continued to demand revisions to the territorial aspects of the Dayton Agreement, especially in Sarajevo - designated to be under Federation control - and the Brcko/Posavina corridor area; members of the Bosnian Croat community also reject several territorial aspects of the agreement, citing that historically Bosnian Croat lands are to be transferred to Bosnian Serb control; despite disagreements, initial implementation of the agreement as of January 1996 appeared on course with the warring parties meeting the deadline for withdrawal of forces from the front lines in Sarajevo People ------ Population: 2,656,240 (July 1996 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: 20% (male 276,530; female 248,519) 15-64 years: 68% (male 892,807; female 915,686) 65 years and over: 12% (male 133,081; female 189,617) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: -2.84% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 6.34 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 15.92 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -18.82 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.07 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.11 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.7 male(s)/female all ages: 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 43.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 56.11 years male: 51.16 years female: 61.39 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Bosnian(s), Herzegovinian(s) adjective: Bosnian, Herzegovinian Ethnic divisions: Serb 40%, Muslim 38%, Croat 22% (est.) Religions: Muslim 40%, Orthodox 31%, Catholic 15%, Protestant 4%, other 10% Languages: Serbo-Croatian 99% Literacy: NA Government ---------- 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. Name of country: 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 note: under the new constitution initialed in Dayton, Ohio, on 21 November 1995, the name of the country will be changed from Republic of Bosnia and Herzegovina to simply Bosnia and Herzegovina and will be made up of the Muslim/Croat Federation and the Bosnian Serb entity now called Republika Srpska Data code: BK Type of government: 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: administrative reorganization is currently under negotiation with the assistance of international mediators; spellings not yet approved by the US Board on Geographic Names Independence: NA April 1992 (from Yugoslavia) National holiday: NA Constitution: first promulgated in 1974 (under the Communists), amended 1989, 1990, and 1991; constitution of Muslim/Croat Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina ratified April 1994; under the Dayton Agreement signed 21 November 1995, the Muslim/Croat Federation and the Serb republic government agreed to accept new basic principles in their constitutions 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 Alija IZETBEGOVIC (since 20 December 1990) was elected by a collective (seven-member) presidency (of which he is a member); other members of the collective presidency are: Ejup GANIC (since NA November 1990), Nijaz DURAKOVIC (since NA October 1993), Stjepan KLJUJIC (since NA October 1993), Ivo KOMSIC (since NA October 1993), Mirko PEJANOVIC (since NA June 1992), Tatjana LJUJIC-MIJATOVIC (since NA December 1992); the collective presidency is elected from among the National Assembly with at least two members drawn from each of the three main ethnic groups head of government: Prime Minister Hasan MURATOVIC (since 30 January 1996) was elected by the collective presidency and the National Assembly cabinet: there is an executive body of ministers with no formal name who are members of, and responsible to, the National Assembly note: the president of the Muslim/Croat Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina is Kresimir ZUBAK (since 31 May 1994); Vice President Ejup GANIC (since 31 May 1994); elections for the Presidency of Bosnia and Herzegovina and the Presidency of the Republika Srpska will take place between six and nine months after the entry into force of the Dayton Agreement (14 December 1995) 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: the new constitution signed as part of the Dayton agreement on 21 November 1995 provides for a new bicameral Parliamentary assembly which will consist of a House of Peoples with 15 delegates, two-thirds from the Muslim/Croat Federation and one-third from the Serbian republic, and a House of Representatives with 42 members, two-thirds from the Muslim/Croat Federation and one-third from the Serbian republic; elections are scheduled to be held six to nine months after the entry into force of the Dayton Agreement Judicial branch: Supreme Court; Constitutional Court Political parties and leaders: Civic Democratic Party (GDS), Ibrahim SPAHIC; Party for Bosnia, Haris SILAJDZIC; Croatian Democratic Union of BiH (HDZ), Bozo RAJIC; Croatian Peasants' Party of BiH (HSS), Stanko STISKOVIC; Independent Serbian Democratic Party (NSDS), Petar DODIK; Liberal Bosniak Organization (LBO), Muhamed FILIPOVIC; Liberal Party (LS), Rasim KADIC, president; Muslim-Bosniac Organization (MBO), Adil ZULFIKARPASIC; Party of Democratic Action (SDA), Alija IZETBEGOVIC; Republican Party of Bosnia and Herzegovina, Stjepan KLUJIC; Serb Democratic Party (SDS), Radovan KARADZIC, president; Serbian Civic Council (SGV), Mirko PEJANOVIC; Serbian Consultative Council, Ljubomir BERBEROVIC; Social Democratic Party (SDP - formerly the Democratic Party of Socialists (DSS)), Nijaz DURAKOVIC, president; Socialist Party of Republika Srpska, Zivko RADISIC; Union of Social Democrats (SSDB), Salim BESLAGIC; United Left of the Bosnian Serb Republic (ULRS), Mile IVOSEVIC; Serbian Renewal Movement (SPO), Milan TRIVUNCIC, note - this party participated in the 1990 elections, but may not exist now; Party of Democratic Changes, leader NA, note - this party participated in the 1990 elections, but may not exist now; Alliance of Reform Forces of Yugoslavia for Bosnia and Herzegovina (SRSJ BiH), Dr. Nenad KECMANOVIC, president, note - this party participated in the 1990 elections, but may not exist now; Democratic League of Greens (DSZ), Drazen PETROVIC, note - this party participated in the 1990 elections, but may not exist now; Yugoslav United Left (JUL), CAREVIC; Serb Liberal Party, Miodrag ZIVANOVIC; Serb Radical Party; Serb Patriotic Party, Slavko ZUPLJANIN; Serb Homeland Party Other political or pressure groups: NA International organization participation: 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, WMO, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Sven ALKALAJ chancery: Suite 760, 1707 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20036 telephone: [1] (202) 833-3612, 3613, 3615 FAX: [1] (202) 833-2061 consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador John K. MENZIES embassy: 43 Ul. Djure Djakovica, Sarajevo mailing address: use street address telephone: [387] (71) 645-992, 445-700, 659-743 Flag: white with a large blue shield; the shield contains white fleurs-de-lis with a white diagonal band running from the upper hoist corner to the lower outer side Economy ------- Economic 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. The bitter interethnic warfare in Bosnia caused production to plummet, unemployment and inflation to soar, and human misery to multiply. No economic statistics for 1992-95 are available, although output clearly has fallen substantially below the levels of earlier years and almost certainly is well below $1,000 per head. The country receives substantial amounts of humanitarian aid from the international community. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $300 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: 1,026,254 by occupation: NA% Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: steel, coal, iron ore, lead, zinc, manganese, bauxite, vehicle assembly, textiles, tobacco products, wooden furniture, tank and aircraft assembly, domestic appliances, oil refining; much of capacity damaged or shut down (1995) Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 3,800,000 kW production: NA kWh consumption per capita: NA kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, corn, fruits, vegetables; livestock Illicit drugs: NA Exports: $NA commodities: NA partners: NA Imports: $NA commodities: NA partners: NA External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $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 Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 1,021 km (electrified 795 km) standard gauge: 1,021 km 1.435-m gauge (1991) Highways: total: 21,168 km paved: 11,436 km unpaved: 9,732 km (1991 est.) 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: 24 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 3 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: 7 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 9 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 727,000 Telephone system: 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 domestic: NA international: no satellite earth stations Radio broadcast stations: AM 9, FM 2, shortwave 0 Radios: 840,000 Television broadcast stations: 6 Televisions: 1,012,094 Defense ------- Branches: Army Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 654,326 males fit for military service: 524,963 males reach military age (19) annually: 22,902 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Botswana -------- Map --- Location: 22 00 S, 24 00 E -- Southern Africa, north of South Africa Flag ---- Description: light blue with a horizontal white-edged black stripe in the center Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, north of South Africa Geographic coordinates: 22 00 S, 24 00 E 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 border countries: 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 January 1996 and the parties have agreed to refer the matter to the ICJ Climate: semiarid; warm winters and hot summers Terrain: predominately flat to gently rolling tableland; Kalahari Desert in southwest lowest point: junction of the Limpopo and Shashe Rivers 513 m highest point: Tsodilo Hill 1,489 m 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 - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Desertification Geographic note: landlocked; population concentrated in eastern part of the country People ------ Population: 1,477,630 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 42% (male 317,254; female 309,617) 15-64 years: 54% (male 374,572; female 419,991) 65 years and over: 4% (male 22,314; female 33,882) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.63% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 33.34 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 17.01 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.89 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.66 male(s)/female all ages: 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 54.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 46.01 years male: 44.94 years female: 47.11 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.26 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 69.8% male: 80.5% female: 59.9% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Botswana conventional short form: Botswana former: Bechuanaland Data code: BC Type of government: parliamentary republic Capital: Gaborone Administrative divisions: 10 districts and four town councils*; Central, Chobe, Francistown*, Gaborone*,Ghanzi, Kgalagadi, Kgatleng, Kweneng, Lobatse*, Ngamiland, North-East, Selebi-Phikwe*, South-East, Southern, 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) was elected for a five-year term by the National Assembly; election last held 15 October 1994 (next to be held October 1999); Vice President Festus MOGAE (since 9 March 1992) was appointed by the president cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president Legislative branch: bicameral Parliament House of Chiefs: is a largely advisory 15-member body consisting of the chiefs of the eight principal tribes, four elected subchiefs, and three members selected by the other 12 National Assembly: elections last held 15 October 1994 (next to be held October 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (44 total, 40 elected and 4 appointed by the majority party) BDP 27, BNF 13 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 International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, SACU, SADC, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Archibald MOGWE chancery: Suite 7M, 3400 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 244-4990, 4991 FAX: [1] (202) 244-4164 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 sector is plagued by erratic rainfall and poor soils. The driving force behind the rapid economic growth of the 1970s and 1980s has been the mining industry. This sector, mostly on the strength of diamonds, has gone from generating 25% of GDP in 1980 to 39% in 1994. The unemployment rate remains a problem at 21%. Hampered by a still sluggish diamond market in 1994 and 1995, GDP grew by only 1% in both years. GDP: purchasing power parity - $4.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 1% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $3,200 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 5% industry: NA% services: NA% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 10% (1994 est.) Labor force: 428,000 (1992) by occupation: 220,000 formal sector employees; 14,300 are employed in various mines in South Africa; most others are engaged in cattle raising and subsistence agriculture (1992 est.) Unemployment rate: 21% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $1.7 billion expenditures: $1.99 billion, including capital expenditures of $652 million (FY93/94) Industries: diamonds, copper, nickel, coal, salt, soda ash, potash; livestock processing Industrial production growth rate: 4.6% (FY92/93) Electricity: capacity: 220,000 kW production: 900 million kWh consumption per capita: 694 kWh (1993) Agriculture: sorghum, maize, millet, pulses, groundnuts (peanuts), beans, cowpeas, sunflower seed; livestock Exports: $1.8 billion (f.o.b. 1994) commodities: diamonds 78%, copper and nickel 6%, meat 5% partners: Switzerland, UK, Southern African Customs Union (SACU), Imports: $1.8 billion (c.i.f., 1992) commodities: foodstuffs, vehicles and transport equipment, textiles, petroleum products partners: Switzerland, Southern African Customs Union (SACU), UK, US External debt: $691 million (1994) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $189 million (1993) Currency: 1 pula (P) = 100 thebe Exchange rates: pula (P) per US$1 - 2.8305 (January 1996), 2.7716 (1995), 2.6831 (1994), 2.4190 (1993), 2.1327 (1992), 2.0173 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Communications -------------- Telephones: 19,109 (1985 est.) Telephone system: sparse system domestic: small system of open-wire lines, microwave radio relay links, and a few radiotelephone communication stations international: microwave radio relay links to Zambia, Zimbabwe and South Africa; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 7, FM 13, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 0 (1988 est.) Televisions: 13,800 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Botswana Defense Force (includes Army and Air Wing), Botswana National Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 334,177 males fit for military service: 175,471 males reach military age (18) annually: 17,088 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $199 million, 5.2% of GDP (FY93/94) ====================================================================== @Bouvet Island ------------- (territory of Norway) Map --- Location: 54 26 S, 3 24 E -- Southern Africa, island in the South Atlantic Ocean, south-southwest of the Cape of Good Hope (South Africa) Flag ---- Description: the flag of Norway is used Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, island in the South Atlantic Ocean, south-southwest of the Cape of Good Hope (South Africa) Geographic coordinates: 54 26 S, 3 24 E 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 780 m 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 Geographic note: covered by glacial ice People ------ Population: uninhabited Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Bouvet Island Data code: BV Type of government: territory of Norway Capital: none; administered from Oslo, Norway Independence: none (territory of Norway) Flag: the flag of Norway is used Economy ------- Economic overview: no economic activity Transportation -------------- Ports: none; offshore anchorage only Communications -------------- Communications note: automatic meteorological station Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of Norway ====================================================================== @Brazil ------ Map --- Location: 10 00 S, 55 00 W -- Eastern South America, bordering the Atlantic Ocean Flag ---- Description: 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) Geography --------- Location: Eastern South America, bordering the Atlantic Ocean Geographic coordinates: 10 00 S, 55 00 W 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Pico da Neblina 3,014 m 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.) 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-Environmental Protocol, 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 - Desertification Geographic note: largest country in South America; shares common boundaries with every South American country except Chile and Ecuador People ------ Population: 162,661,214 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 31% (male 25,286,278; female 24,422,897) 15-64 years: 65% (male 52,232,435; female 53,094,724) 65 years and over: 4% (male 3,072,720; female 4,552,160) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.16% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 20.8 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9.19 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.68 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 55.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 61.62 years male: 56.67 years female: 66.81 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.34 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Brazilian(s) adjective: Brazilian Ethnic divisions: white (includes Portuguese, German, Italian, Spanish, Polish) 55%, mixed white 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 (1995 est.) total population: 83.3% male: 83.3% female: 83.2% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Federative Republic of Brazil conventional short form: Brazil local long form: Republica Federativa do Brasil local short form: Brasil Data code: BR Type of government: 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) was elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 3 October 1994; (next to be held October 1998); results - Fernando Henrique CARDOSO 53%, Luis Inacio LULA da Silva 26%, Eneas CARNEIRO 7%, Orestes QUERCIA 4%, Leonel BRIZOLA 3%, Espiridiao AMIN 3%; note - second direct presidential election since 1960; Vice President Marco MARCIEL (since NA) cabinet: Cabinet was 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%; seats - (81 total) seats by party NA Chamber of Deputies (Camara dos Deputados): election last held 3 October 1994 (next to be held October 1998); results - PMDB 21%, PFL 18%, PDT 7%, PSDB 12%, PPR 10%, PTB 6%, PT 10%, other 16%; seats - (517 total) seats by party NA note: party totals since Fall 1994 have changed considerably due to extensive party-switching Judicial branch: Supreme Federal Tribunal, judges are appointed for life by the Senate Political parties and leaders: National Reconstruction Party (PRN), Daniel TOURINHO, president; Brazilian Democratic Movement Party (PMDB), Paes DE ANDRADE, president; Liberal Front Party (PFL), Jorge BORNHAUSEN, president; Workers' Party (PT), Jose DIRCEU, president; Brazilian Workers' Party (PTB), Rodrigues PALMA, president; Democratic Labor Party (PDT), Leonel BRIZOLA, president; Brazilian Progressive Party (PPB), Espiridiao AMIN, president; Brazilian Social Democracy Party (PSDB), Artur DA TAVOLA, president; Popular Socialist Party (PPS), Roberto FREIRE, president; Communist Party of Brazil (PCdoB), Joao AMAZONAS, chairman; Liberal Party (PL), Alvaro 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 International organization participation: AfDB, AG (observer), CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-11, G-15, G-19, G-24, G-77, 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, MTCR, NAM (observer), OAS, OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Paulo Tarso FLECHA de LIMA chancery: 3006 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 745-2700 FAX: [1] (202) 745-2827 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) Economy ------- Economic overview: With its large and well-developed agricultural, mining, manufacturing, and service sectors, Brazil has South America's largest GDP by far and has the potential to become a major player in the world economy. Prior to the institution of a stabilization plan in mid-1994, stratospheric inflation rates had devastated the economy and discouraged foreign investment. Since then, tight monetary policy has apparently brought inflation under control - consumer prices increased by 23% in 1995 compared to more than 1,000% in 1994. At the same time, GDP growth slowed from 5.7% to 4.2% as credit was tightened and the steadily appreciating real encouraged imports while depressing export growth. The increased stability of the Brazilian economy allowed it to weather the fallout from the Mexican peso crisis relatively well, with foreign funds flowing in during the second half of 1995 to swell official foreign exchange reserves past the $50 billion mark. Stock market indices in Sao Paulo and Rio de Janeiro, however, ended 26% lower in 1995. President CARDOSO remains committed to further reducing inflation in 1996 while boosting growth, but he faces key challenges. Servicing domestic debt has become dramatically more burdensome for both public and private sector entities because of very high real interest rates which are contributing to growing budget deficits and a surge in bankruptcies. Fiscal reforms, many of which require constitutional amendments, are proceeding at a slow pace through the Brazilian legislature; in their absence, the government is maintaining its strict monetary policy. Brazil's natural resources remain a major, long-run economic strength. GDP: purchasing power parity - $976.8 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.2% (1995) GDP per capita: $6,100 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 16% industry: 25% services: 59% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 23% (1995) Labor force: 57 million (1989 est.) by occupation: services 42%, agriculture 31%, industry 27% Unemployment rate: 5% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $58.7 billion expenditures: $54.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994) Industries: textiles, shoes, chemicals, cement, lumber, iron ore, tin, steel, aircraft, motor vehicles and parts, other machinery and equipment Industrial production growth rate: 3.5% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 55,130,000 kW production: 241.4 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,589 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, soybeans, wheat, rice, corn, sugarcane, cocoa, citrus; beef Illicit drugs: illicit producer of cannabis, coca cultivation in the Amazon region has diminished in recent years because of its low alkaloid content, mostly for domestic consumption; government has a large-scale eradication program to control cannabis; important transshipment country for Bolivian and Colombian cocaine headed for the US and Europe Exports: $46.5 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: iron ore, soybean bran, orange juice, footwear, coffee, motor vehicle parts partners: EU 27.6%, Latin America 21.8%, US 17.4%, Japan 6.3% (1993) Imports: $49.7 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: crude oil, capital goods, chemical products, foodstuffs, coal partners: US 23.3%, EU 22.5%, Middle East 13.0%, Latin America 11.8%, Japan 6.5% (1993) External debt: $94 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $107 million (1993) Currency: 1 real (R$) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: R$ per US$1 - 0.975 (January 1996), 0.918 (1995), 0.639 (1994); CR$ per US$1 - 390.845 (January 1994), 88.449 (1993), 4.513 (1992), 0.407 (1991) note: on 1 August 1993 the cruzeiro real (CR$), equal to 1,000 cruzeiros, was introduced; another new currency, the real (R$) was introduced on 1 July 1994, equal to 2,750 cruzeiro reals Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 27,418 km (1,750 km electrified) broad gauge: 5,730 km 1.600-m gauge standard gauge: 194 km 1.440-m gauge narrow gauge: 20,958 km 1.000-m gauge; 13 km 0.760-m gauge dual gauge: 523 km 1.000-m and 1.600-m gauges Highways: total: 1,661,850 km paved: 142,919 km unpaved: 1,518,931 km (1992 est.) 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: 207 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,108,543 GRT/8,477,760 DWT ships by type: bulk 48, cargo 29, chemical tanker 11, combination ore/oil 12, container 14, liquefied gas tanker 11, multifunction large-load carrier 1, oil tanker 64, passenger-cargo 5, refrigerated cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 11 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 2,950 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: 122 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 295 with paved runways under 914 m: 1,298 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 66 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1,145 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 14,426,673 (1992 est.) Telephone system: good working system domestic: extensive microwave radio relay system and a domestic satellite system with 64 earth stations international: 3 coaxial submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean), 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean Region East) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1,223, FM 0, shortwave 151 Radios: 60 million (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 112 note: Brazil has the world's fourth largest television broadcasting system Televisions: 30 million (1993 est.) ====================================================================== @British Indian Ocean Territory ------------------------------ (dependent territory of the UK) Map --- Location: 6 00 S, 71 30 E -- Southern Asia, archipelago in the Indian Ocean, about one-half the way from Africa to Indonesia Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern Asia, archipelago in the Indian Ocean, about one-half the way from Africa to Indonesia Geographic coordinates: 6 00 S, 71 30 E Map references: World Area: total area: 60 sq km land area: 60 sq km comparative area: about 0.5 times the size of Washington, DC note: includes the entire Chagos Archipelago Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 698 km Maritime claims: exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 3 nm International disputes: the island of Diego Garcia is claimed by Mauritius Climate: tropical marine; hot, humid, moderated by trade winds Terrain: flat and low (up to four meters in elevation) lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location on Diego Garcia 15 m 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 Geographic 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 People ------ Population: no indigenous inhabitants note: there are UK-US military personnel and civilian contractors; civilian inhabitants, known as the Ilois, evacuated to Mauritius before construction of UK-US military facilities Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: British Indian Ocean Territory conventional short form: none abbreviation: BIOT Data code: IO Type of government: dependent territory of the UK Capital: none Independence: none (dependent territory of the UK) Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch head of government: Commissioner David Ross MACLENNAN (since NA 1994); Administrator Don CAIRNS (since NA); 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: NA km paved: short stretch of paved road of NA km between port and airfield on Diego Garcia unpaved: NA km Ports: Diego Garcia Airports: total: 1 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: NA Telephone system: facilities for military needs only domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK ====================================================================== @British Virgin Islands ---------------------- (dependent territory of the UK) Map --- Location: 18 30 N, 64 30 W -- Caribbean, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Puerto Rico Flag ---- Description: 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) Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Puerto Rico Geographic coordinates: 18 30 N, 64 30 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 150 sq km land area: 150 sq km comparative area: about 0.9 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 lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Mount Sage 521 m Natural resources: NEGL 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 Geographic note: strong ties to nearby US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico People ------ Population: 13,195 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 1.29% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 20.19 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.05 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -1.2 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 19.16 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 72.78 years male: 70.93 years female: 74.75 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.26 children born/woman (1996 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 (1991 est.) total population: 97.8% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: British Virgin Islands abbreviation: BVI Data code: VI Type of government: 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 (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor David MACKILLIGIN (since NA June 1995) who was appointed by the queen head of government: Chief Minister Ralph T. O'NEAL (since 15 May 1995; appointed after the death of former Chief Minister H. Lavity STOUTT) was appointed by the governor from among the members of the Legislative Council cabinet: Executive Council is appointed by the governor Legislative branch: unicameral Legislative Council: election last held 20 February 1995 (next to be held NA February 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (13 total) VIP 6, CCM 2, UP 2, independents 3 Judicial branch: Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: United Party (UP), Conrad MADURO; Virgin Islands Party (VIP); Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM), E. Walwyln BREWLEY International organization participation: 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) Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy, one of the most prosperous in the Caribbean, is highly dependent on tourism, which generates an estimated 45% of the national income. In 1985, the government began offering offshore registration to companies wishing to incorporate in the islands, and incorporation fees now generate substantial revenues. The adoption of a comprehensive insurance law in late 1994, which provides a blanket of confidentiality with regulated statutory gateways for investigation of criminal offenses, is expected to make the British Virgin Islands even more attractive to international business. Livestock raising is the most important agricultural activity; poor soils limit the islands' ability to meet domestic food requirements. Because of traditional close links with the US Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands have used the dollar as their currency since 1959. GDP: purchasing power parity - $133 million (1991 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2% (1991 est.) GDP per capita: $10,600 (1991 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.5% (1990 est.) Labor force: 4,911 (1980) by occupation: NA Unemployment rate: NEGL% (1992) Budget: revenues: $77.1 million expenditures: $76.4 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY93/94) Industries: tourism, light industry, construction, rum, concrete block, offshore financial center Industrial production growth rate: 4% (1985) Electricity: capacity: 10,500 kW production: 50 million kWh consumption per capita: 3,148 kWh (1993) Agriculture: fruits, vegetables; livestock, poultry; fish 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) Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: US currency is used Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 106 km (1983 est.) paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Ports: Road Town Merchant marine: none (1995 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 6,291 (1990 est.) Telephone system: worldwide telephone service domestic: NA international: submarine cable to Bermuda Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 9,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 4,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK ====================================================================== @Brunei ------ Map --- Location: 4 30 N, 114 40 E -- Southeastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and Malaysia Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and Malaysia Geographic coordinates: 4 30 N, 114 40 E 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 border country: Malaysia 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 lowest point: South China Sea 0 m highest point: Bukit Pagon 1,850 m 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, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 299,939 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 33% (male 51,266; female 49,194) 15-64 years: 62% (male 98,806; female 88,323) 65 years and over: 5% (male 6,843; female 5,507) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.56% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 25.5 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.1 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 5.18 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.12 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.24 male(s)/female all ages: 1.1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 24.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 71.39 years male: 69.82 years female: 73.04 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.39 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 88.2% male: 92.6% female: 83.4% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Negara Brunei Darussalam conventional short form: Brunei Data code: BX Type of government: 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) is a traditional Islamic monarch cabinet: Council of Cabinet Ministers is composed chiefly of members of the royal family, appointed and presided over by the sultan; deals with executive matters Religious Council: is appointed by the sultan; advises on religious matters Privy Council: is appointed by the sultan; deals with constitutional matters the Council of Succession: is appointed by the sultan; determines the succession to the throne if the need arises 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 constitutional reform, but elections are unlikely for several years Judicial branch: Supreme Court, chief justice and judges are sworn in by the sultan for a three-year term 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 International organization participation: APEC, ASEAN, C, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, IDB, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, Mekong Group, NAM, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador JAYA bin Abdul Latif chancery: Watergate, Suite 300, 3rd floor, 2600 Virginia Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20037 telephone: [1] (202) 342-0159 FAX: [1] (202) 342-0158 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, Bandar Seri Begawan, 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $4.6 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $15,800 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 3% industry: 42% services: 55% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.4% (1994 est.) 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) Unemployment rate: 4.8% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $2.1 billion expenditures: $2.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $427 million (1993) Industries: petroleum, petroleum refining, liquefied natural gas, construction Industrial production growth rate: 12.9% (1987) Electricity: capacity: 380,000 kW production: 1.2 billion kWh consumption per capita: 3,971 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rice, cassava (tapioca), bananas; water buffalo, pigs Exports: $2.4 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: crude oil, liquefied natural gas, petroleum products partners: Japan 50%, UK 19%, Thailand 10%, Singapore 9% (1994 est.) Imports: $1.8 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.) commodities: machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, food, chemicals partners: Singapore 29%, UK 19%, US 13%, Malaysia 9%, Japan 5% (1994 est.) External debt: 0 Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 Bruneian dollar (B$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Bruneian dollars (B$) per US$1 - 1.4214 (January 1996), 1.4174 (1995), 1.5274 (1994), 1.6158 (1993), 1.6290 (1992), 1.7276 (1991); note - the Bruneian dollar is at par with the Singapore dollar Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 13 km private line narrow gauge: 13 km 0.610-m gauge Highways: total: 2,443 km paved: 1,296 km unpaved: 1,147 km (1993) Waterways: 209 km; navigable by craft drawing less than 1.2 m Pipelines: crude oil 135 km; petroleum products 418 km; natural gas 920 km Ports: Bandar Seri Begawan, Kuala Belait, Muara, Seria, Tutong Merchant marine: total: 7 liquefied gas tankers (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 348,476 GRT/340,635 DWT (1994 est.) Airports: total: 2 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Heliports: 3 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 76,900 (1993) Telephone system: service throughout country is adequate for present needs; international service good to adjacent Malaysia domestic: NA international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 4, FM 4, shortwave 0 Radios: 115,000 (1993) Television broadcast stations: 1 (1984 est.) Televisions: 78,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Land Forces, Navy, Air Force, Royal Brunei Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 83,641 males fit for military service: 48,559 males reach military age (18) annually: 2,918 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $312 million, 6.2% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Bulgaria -------- Map --- Location: 43 00 N, 25 00 E -- Southeastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Romania and Turkey Flag ---- Description: 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) Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Romania and Turkey Geographic coordinates: 43 00 N, 25 00 E Map references: 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Black Sea 0 m highest point: Musala 2,925 m 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 international agreements: party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, Climate Change, 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, Law of the Sea Geographic note: strategic location near Turkish Straits; controls key land routes from Europe to Middle East and Asia People ------ Population: 8,612,757 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 17% (male 769,025; female 732,119) 15-64 years: 68% (male 2,891,197; female 2,923,440) 65 years and over: 15% (male 561,944; female 735,032) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.46% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 8.33 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 13.55 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 9.81 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.76 male(s)/female all ages: 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 15.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 71 years male: 67.07 years female: 75.12 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.17 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 98% male: 99% female: 97% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Bulgaria conventional short form: Bulgaria Data code: BU Type of government: 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; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal and compulsory Executive branch: chief of state: President Zhelyu Mitev ZHELEV (since 1 August 1990, when he was elected by the National Assembly); president and vice president elected for five-year terms by popular vote; election last held NA January 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - Zhelyu ZHELEV elected by popular vote; Vice President (vacant) head of government: Chairman of the Council of Ministers (Prime Minister) Zhan VIDENOV (since 25 January 1995) appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Ministers Doncho KONAKCHIEV (since 25 January 1995), Atanas PAPAKIZOV (since NA), Rumen GECHEV (since 25 January 1995), Svetoslav SHIVAROV (since 25 January 1995) 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, chairman appointed for a seven-year term by the president; Constitutional Court, 12 justices appointed or elected for a nine-year term Political parties and leaders: Bulgarian Socialist Party (BSP), Zhan VIDENOV, chairman; Union of Democratic Forces (UDF - an alliance of pro-Democratic parties), Ivan KOSTOV; People's Union (PU), Stefan SAVOV; Movement for Rights and Freedoms (mainly ethnic Turkish party) (MRF), Ahmed DOGAN; Bulgarian Business Bloc (BBB), George GANCHEV 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 International organization participation: ACCT, BIS, BSEC, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, G- 9, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarset, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, NACC, NAM (guest), NSG, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNAVEM III, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMOT, UPU, WEU (associate partner), WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant), ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Snezhana Damianova BOTUSHAROVA chancery: 1621 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 387-7969 FAX: [1] (202) 234-7973 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant) embassy: 1 Saborna Street, Sofia mailing address: Unit 1335, 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) Economy ------- Economic overview: One of the poorest countries of central Europe, Bulgaria has continued the difficult process of moving from its old command economy to a modern, market-oriented economy. GDP rose a moderate 2.4% in 1995; inflation was down sharply; and unemployment fell from an estimated 16% to 12%. Despite this progress, structural reforms necessary to underpin macroeconomic stabilization were not pursued vigorously. Mass privatization of state-owned industry continued to move slowly, although privatization of small-scale industry, particularly in the retail and service sectors, accelerated. The Bulgarian economy will continue to grow in 1996, but economic reforms will remain politically difficult as the population has become weary of the process. GDP: purchasing power parity - $43.2 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $4,920 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 12% industry: 36% services: 52% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 35% (1995) Labor force: 3.1 million by occupation: industry 41%, agriculture 18%, other 41% (1992) Unemployment rate: 11.9% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $3.8 billion expenditures: $4.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994) Industries: machine building and metal working, food processing, chemicals, textiles, construction materials, ferrous and nonferrous metals Industrial production growth rate: 2% (1995) Electricity: capacity: 11,500,000 kW production: 38.1 billion kWh consumption per capita: 4,342 kWh (1994) Agriculture: grain, oilseed, vegetables, fruits, tobacco; livestock Illicit drugs: important transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and, to a lesser degree, South American cocaine transiting the Balkan route; limited producer of precursor chemicals Exports: $4.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: machinery and equipment 12.8%; agriculture and food 21.9%; textiles and apparel 14%; metals and ores 19.7%; chemicals 16.9%; minerals and fuels 9.3% partners: former CEMA countries 35.7%; OECD 46.6% (EU 33.5%); Arab countries 5.1%; other 12.6% Imports: $4 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: fuels, minerals, and raw materials 30.1%; machinery and equipment 23.6%; textiles and apparel 11.6%; agricultural products 10.8%; metals and ores 6.8%; chemicals 12.3%; other 4.8% partners: former CEMA countries 40.3%; OECD 48.3% (EU 34.1%); Arab countries 1.7%; other 9.7% External debt: $10.4 billion (1995) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $39 million (1993) note: $700 million in balance of payments support from Western nations (1994) Currency: 1 lev (Lv) = 100 stotinki Exchange rates: leva (Lv) per US$1 - 70.5 (December 1995), 54.2 (1994), 27.1 (1993), 23.3 (1992), 18.4 (1991); note - floating exchange rate since February 1991 Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 4,292 km standard gauge: 4,047 km 1.435-m gauge (2,650 km electrified; 917 double track) other: 245 km 0.760-m gauge (1995) Highways: total: 36,932 km paved: 33,904 km (including 276 km of expressways) unpaved: 3,028 km (1992 est.) 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: 103 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,084,090 GRT/1,596,735 DWT ships by type: bulk 45, cargo 27, chemical tanker 4, container 2, oil tanker 13, passenger-cargo 1, railcar carrier 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 6, short-sea passenger 2, refrigerated cargo 1 note: Bulgaria owns an additional 7 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 135,016 DWT operating under the registries of Liberia and Malta (1995 est.) 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 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 10 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 226 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 2,773,293 (1993 est.) Telephone system: almost two-thirds of the lines are residential; 67% of Sofia households have telephones (November 1988 est.) domestic: extensive but antiquated transmission system of coaxial cable and microwave radio relay; telephone service is available in most villages international: direct dialing to 36 countries; satellite earth stations - 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region); Intelsat available 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 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Border Troops, Internal Troops Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,155,332 males fit for military service: 1,797,318 males reach military age (19) annually: 64,568 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $352 million, 2.5% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Burkina Faso ------------ Map --- Location: 13 00 N, 2 00 W -- Western Africa, north of Ghana Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, north of Ghana Geographic coordinates: 13 00 N, 2 00 W 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 border countries: 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 Faso 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 lowest point: Black Volta River 200 m highest point: Tena Kourou 749 m 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 Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 10,623,323 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 48% (male 2,569,806; female 2,537,106) 15-64 years: 49% (male 2,444,601; female 2,738,726) 65 years and over: 3% (male 145,479; female 187,605) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.53% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 47.02 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 19.99 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -1.74 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.89 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.78 male(s)/female all ages: 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 117.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 43.21 years male: 43.46 years female: 42.95 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.8 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Burkinabe (singular and plural) adjective: Burkinabe Ethnic divisions: Mossi about 24%, 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 (1995 est.) total population: 19.2% male: 29.5% female: 9.2% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Burkina Faso former: Upper Volta Data code: UV Type of government: 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) elected for a seven-year term by popular vote; election last held NA December 1991 (next to be held NA 1998) head of government: Prime Minister Roch KABORE (since NA March 1994) appointed by the president 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 NA 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, Secretary General Simon COMPAORE; National Convention of Progressive Patriots-Social Democratic Party (CNPP-PSD), Moussa BOLY; African Democratic Rally (RDA), Gerard Kango OUEDRAOGO; Alliance for Democracy and Federation (ADF), Amadou Michel NANA Other political or pressure groups: committees for the defense of the revolution; watchdog/political action groups throughout the country in both organizations and communities International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, Entente, FAO, FZ, G-77, 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, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Gaetan R. OUEDRAOGO chancery: 2340 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 332-5577, 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] 303890 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: One of the poorest countries in the world, Burkina Faso has a high population density and a high population growth rate, few natural resources, and a fragile soil. Economic development is hindered by a poor communications network within a landlocked country. Agriculture is mainly subsistence farming. Industry remains dominated by unprofitable government-controlled corporations. Following the Communaute Financiere Africaine currency devaluation on 12 January 1994, exports appear to have risen, but no official figures have been released yet. The upswing apparently continued in 1995, with growth perhaps at 4%. The government has updated its development program in conjunction with international agencies, yet even with the best of plans, the government faces formidable problems on all sides. GDP: purchasing power parity - $7.4 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $700 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 32% industry: 24% services: 44% (1990 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5% (1995 est.) Labor force: NA (most adults are employed in subsistence 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) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $483 million expenditures: $548 million, including capital expenditures of $189 million (1992) Industries: cotton lint, beverages, agricultural processing, soap, cigarettes, textiles, gold Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 60,000 kW production: 190 million kWh consumption per capita: 17 kWh (1993) Agriculture: peanuts, shea nuts, sesame, cotton, sorghum, millet, corn, rice; livestock Exports: $273 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: cotton, gold, animal products partners: EC, Cote d'Ivoire, Taiwan, Thailand Imports: $636 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: machinery, food products, petroleum partners: EC, Africa, Japan External debt: $1 billion (December 1993 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: CFA francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 500.56 (January 1996), 499.15 (1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991) 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 622 km (1995 est.) narrow gauge: 622 km 1.000-m gauge (517 km Ouagadougou to Cote d'Ivoire border and 105 km opened in 1993 from Ouagadougou to Kaya) Highways: total: 16,400 km paved: 1,280 km unpaved: 15,120 km (1987 est.) Ports: none Airports: total: 23 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 8 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 3 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 10 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 21,000 (1993 est.) Telephone system: all services only fair domestic: microwave radio relay, open wire, and radiotelephone communication stations international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 2 (1987 est.) Televisions: 49,000 (1991 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, National Police, People's Militia Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,149,485 males fit for military service: 1,101,184 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $104 million, 6.4% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Burma ----- Map --- Location: 22 00 N, 98 00 E -- Southeastern Asia, bordering the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between Bangladesh and Thailand Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Asia, bordering the Andaman Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between Bangladesh and Thailand Geographic coordinates: 22 00 N, 98 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Andaman Sea 0 m highest point: Hkakabo Razi 5,881 m 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 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, Tropical Timber 94 Geographic note: strategic location near major Indian Ocean shipping lanes People ------ Population: 45,975,625 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 37% (male 8,637,102; female 8,308,282) 15-64 years: 59% (male 13,577,232; female 13,571,312) 65 years and over: 4% (male 853,403; female 1,028,294) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.84% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 30.01 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 11.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.83 male(s)/female all ages: 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 80.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 56.14 years male: 54.46 years female: 57.92 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.83 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 83.1% male: 88.7% female: 77.7% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: BM Type of government: 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: does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state and head of government: Prime Minister and Chairman of the State Law and Order Restoration Council Gen. THAN SHWE (since 23 April 1992) State Law and Order Restoration Council: military junta which assumed power 18 September 1988 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, NUP 10, other 79 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; pro-regime), THAN AUNG, secretary; National Unity Party (NUP), pro-regime, THA KYAW; National League for Democracy (NLD), AUNG SAN SUU KYI, general secretary; and eight minor legal parties 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 the People's Assembly but not recognized by the military regime; the group fled to a border area and joined with insurgents in December 1990 to form a parallel government; Kachin Independence Army (KIA); United Wa State Army (UWSA); Karen National Union (KNU); several Shan factions, including the Mong Tai Army (MTA); All Burma Student Democratic Front (ABSDF) International organization participation: AsDB, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, ITU, Mekong Group, NAM, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador U THAUNG chancery: 2300 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 332-9044, 9045 consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Marilyn A. MEYERS embassy: 581 Merchant Street, Rangoon (GPO 521) mailing address: 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 seven years, 1989-95, has aimed at revitalizing the economy after three decades of tight central planning. Thus, private activity has markedly increased; foreign investment has been encouraged, so far with moderate success; and efforts continue to increase the efficiency of state enterprises. Published estimates of 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $47 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6.8% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 60% industry: 10% services: 30% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 38% (1994 est.) 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.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $5.3 billion expenditures: $10 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: agricultural processing; textiles and footwear; wood and wood products; petroleum refining; copper, tin, tungsten, iron; construction materials; pharmaceuticals; fertilizer Industrial production growth rate: 4.9% (FY92/93 est.) Electricity: capacity: 845,000 kW production: 3.5 billion kWh consumption per capita: 46 kWh (1995 est.) Agriculture: paddy rice, corn, oilseed, sugarcane, pulses; hardwood Illicit drugs: world's largest illicit producer of opium (2,340 metric tons in 1995) and source for over 60% of US heroin imports; minor producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; Rangoon's antinarcotic programs hindered by lack of resources, government commitment; growing role in methamphetamine production for regional consumption Exports: $879 million (FY94/95 est.) commodities: pulses and beans, teak, rice, hardwood partners: Singapore, China, Thailand, India, Hong Kong Imports: $1.5 billion (FY94/95 est.) commodities: machinery, transport equipment, construction materials, food products, consumer goods partners: Japan, China, Thailand, Singapore, Malaysia External debt: $5.5 billion (FY94/95 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $61 million (1993) Currency: 1 kyat (K) = 100 pyas Exchange rates: kyats (K) per US$1 - 5.8475 (January 1996), 5.9170 (1995), 5.9749 (1994), 6.1570 (1993), 6.1045 (1992), 6.2837 (1991); unofficial - 120 Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 3,569 km narrow gauge: 3,569 km 1.000-m gauge (1995) Highways: total: 26,861 km paved: 3,181 km unpaved: 23,680 km (1988 est.) 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, Akyab (Sittwe), Tavoy Merchant marine: total: 40 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 444,957 GRT/610,420 DWT ships by type: bulk 11, cargo 15, chemical tanker 5, container 1, oil tanker 3, passenger-cargo 3, vehicle carrier 2 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 74 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: 13 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 10 with paved runways under 914 m: 28 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 17 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 122,195 (1993 est.) Telephone system: meets minimum requirements for local and intercity service for business and government; international service is good domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0 (1985 est.) note: radiobroadcast coverage is limited to the most populous areas Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 (1988 est.) Televisions: 88,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 11,759,636 females age 15-49: 11,588,181 males fit for military service: 6,291,986 females fit for military service: 6,184,667 males reach military age (18) annually: 473,255 females reach military age (18) annually: 454,786 (1996 est.) note: both sexes liable for military service Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $135 million, NA% of GDP (FY95/96) ====================================================================== @Burundi ------- Map --- Location: 3 30 S, 30 00 E -- Central Africa, east of Zaire Flag ---- Description: 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) Geography --------- Location: Central Africa, east of Zaire Geographic coordinates: 3 30 S, 30 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Lake Tanganyika 772 m highest point: Mount Heha 2,760 m Natural resources: nickel, uranium, rare earth oxides, 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 Geographic note: landlocked; straddles crest of the Nile-Congo watershed People ------ Population: 5,943,057 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 47% (male 1,404,375; female 1,398,228) 15-64 years: 50% (male 1,454,545; female 1,527,644) 65 years and over: 3% (male 62,955; female 95,310) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.54% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 43.02 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 15.15 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -12.47 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) note: in a number of waves since October 1993, hundreds of thousands of refugees have fled the civil strife between the Hutu and Tutsi factions in Burundi and crossed into Rwanda, Tanzania, and Zaire; the refugee flows are continuing in 1996 as the ethnic violence persists Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.95 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.66 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 102.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 49.33 years male: 48.28 years female: 50.42 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.55 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 35.3% male: 49.3% female: 22.5% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Burundi conventional short form: Burundi local long form: Republika y'u Burundi local short form: Burundi Data code: BY Type of government: 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; does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: NA years of age; universal adult Executive branch: chief of state: President Sylvestre NTIBANTUNGANYA (acting president from 8 April 1994 to 30 September 1994, president since 1 October 1994); note - NTIBANTUNGANYA, in his capacity as President of the National Assembly, became acting president upon the death of President Cyprien NTARYAMIRE in an airplane crash on 6 April 1994; NTIBANTUNGANYA was sworn in on 1 October 1994 as president by the "Convention on Government" to serve a four year transitional term head of government: Prime Minister Antoine NDUWAYO (since February 1995) cabinet: Council of Ministers; appointed by prime minister Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): election last held 29 June 1993 (next to be held NA); results - FRODEBU 71%, UPRONA 21.4%; seats - (81 total) FRODEBU 65, UPRONA 16; other parties won too small shares of the vote to win seats in the assembly Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Cour Supreme) 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 for National Redress (PARENA) Other political or pressure groups: NA International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, CEEAC, CEPGL, ECA, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, ISO (subscriber), ITU, NAM, OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Severin NTAHOMVUKIYE chancery: Suite 212, 2233 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007 telephone: [1] (202) 342-2574 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Charles YELLIN 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 ------- Economic overview: Burundi is a landlocked, resource-poor country in an early stage of economic development. The economy is predominately agricultural with roughly 90% of the population dependent on subsistence agriculture. Its economic health depends on the coffee crop, which accounts for 80% of foreign exchange earnings. The ability to pay for imports therefore rests largely on the vagaries of the climate and the international 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. Since October 1993 the nation has suffered from massive ethnic-based violence which has resulted in the death of perhaps 100,000 persons and the displacement of a million others; production has fallen sharply, and an impoverished and disorganized government can hardly implement these needed reform programs. GDP: purchasing power parity - $4 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.7% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $600 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 54.1% industry: 16.8% services: 29.1% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 10% (1993 est.) Labor force: 1.9 million (1983 est.) by occupation: agriculture 93.0%, government 4.0%, industry and commerce 1.5%, services 1.5% Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $318 million expenditures: $326 million, including capital expenditures of $150 million (1991 est.) Industries: light consumer goods such as blankets, shoes, soap; assembly of imported components; public works construction; food processing Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 55,000 kW production: 100 million kWh consumption per capita: 20 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, cotton, tea, corn, sorghum, sweet potatoes, bananas, manioc; meat, milk, hides Exports: $68 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: coffee 81%, tea, cotton, hides 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: $1.05 billion (1994 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Burundi franc (FBu) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: Burundi francs (FBu) per US$1 - 268.13 (November 1995), 252.66 (1994), 242.78 (1993), 208.30 (1992), 181.51 (1991), 171.26 (1990) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 14,473 km paved: 1,028 km unpaved: 13,445 km (1992 est.) Waterways: Lake Tanganyika Ports: Bujumbura Airports: total: 3 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 7,200 (1987 est.) Telephone system: primitive system domestic: sparse system of open wire, radiotelephone communications, and low-capacity microwave radio relay international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 2, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 4,500 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army (includes naval and air units), paramilitary Gendarmerie Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,312,458 males fit for military service: 683,073 males reach military age (16) annually: 67,990 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $25 million, 2.6% of GDP (1993) ====================================================================== @Cambodia -------- Map --- Location: 13 00 N, 105 00 E -- Southeastern Asia, bordering the Gulf of Thailand, between Thailand and Vietnam Flag ---- Description: three horizontal bands of blue (top), red (double width), and blue with a white three-towered temple representing Angkor Wat outlined in black in the center of the red band Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Asia, bordering the Gulf of Thailand, between Thailand and Vietnam Geographic coordinates: 13 00 N, 105 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Gulf of Thailand 0 m highest point: Phnum Aoral 1,810 m 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 international agreements: party to - Marine Life Conservation, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Tropical Timber 94 Geographic note: a land of paddies and forests dominated by the Mekong River and Tonle Sap People ------ Population: 10,861,218 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 45% (male 2,505,998; female 2,432,620) 15-64 years: 51% (male 2,579,986; female 3,007,838) 65 years and over: 4% (male 143,759; female 191,017) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.77% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 43.5 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 15.78 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.86 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.75 male(s)/female all ages: 0.93 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 107.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 49.86 years male: 48.39 years female: 51.39 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.81 children born/woman (1996 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% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Kingdom of Cambodia conventional short form: Cambodia local long form: Preahreacheanachakr Kampuchea local short form: Kampuchea Data code: CB Type of government: multiparty liberal democracy under a constitutional monarchy established in September 1993 Capital: Phnom Penh Administrative divisions: 21 provinces (khett, singular and plural); Banteay Mean Cheay, Batdambang, Kampong Cham, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Spoe, Kampong Thum, Kampot, Kandal, Kaoh Kong, Kracheh, Mondol Kiri, Phnum Penh, Pouthisat, Preah Seihanu (Sihanoukville), Preah Vihear, Prey Veng, Rotanah Kiri, Siem Reab, Stoeng Treng, Svay Rieng, Takev note: a new province of Otdar Mean Cheay may have been created from parts of Banteay Mean Cheay and Siem Reab Independence: 9 November 1949 (from France) National holiday: Independence Day, 9 November 1949 Constitution: promulgated 21 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) is a constitutional monarch head of government: power shared between First Prime Minister Prince Norodom RANARIDDH (since NA 1993) and Second Prime Minister HUN SEN (since NA 1993) who were appointed by the king cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the king Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly: members elected for five-year terms; elections last held 23 May 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) FUNCINPEC 58, CPP 51, Buddhist Liberal Democratic Party 10, Molinaka 1 note: the May 1993 elections were for the Constituent Assembly which became the National Assembly after the new constitution was promulgated in September 1993 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 faction; Buddhist Liberal Democratic Party, IENG MOULY faction; Democratic Kampuchea (DK, also known as the Khmer Rouge), KHIEU SAMPHAN; Molinaka, PROM NEAKAREACH International organization participation: ACCT, AsDB, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, ITU, Mekong Group, NAM, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador VAR HUOTH chancery: 4500 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011 telephone: [1] (202) 726-7742 FAX: [1] (202) 726-8381 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Kenneth M. QUINN embassy: 27 EO Street 240, Phnom Penh mailing address: Box P, APO AP 96546 telephone: [855] (23) 426436, 426438 FAX: [855] (23) 426437 Flag: three horizontal bands of blue (top), red (double width), and blue with a white three-towered temple representing Angkor Wat outlined in black in the center of the red band Economy ------- Economic 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 1991-95. Despite such positive developments, the reconstruction effort faces many tough challenges because of the persistence of internal political divisions and the related lack of confidence of foreign investors. Rural 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. The decline of inflation from the 1992 rate of more than 50% is one of the bright spots. GDP: purchasing power parity - $7 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6.7% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $660 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 52% industry: 13.5% services: 34.5% (1993) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 6% (1995 est.) Labor force: 2.5 million to 3 million by occupation: agriculture 80% (1988 est.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $210 million expenditures: $346 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.) Industries: rice milling, fishing, wood and wood products, rubber, cement, gem mining Industrial production growth rate: 7.9% (1993 est.) Electricity: capacity: 40,000 kW production: 160 million kWh consumption per capita: 14 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rice, rubber, corn, vegetables Illicit drugs: key transshipment country for Golden Triangle heroin en route to West; possibly becoming money-laundering center; high-level narcotics-related corruption in government, military, and police; possible small-scale opium, heroin, and amphetamine production; large producer of cannabis Exports: $240.7 million (1995 est.) commodities: timber, rubber, soybeans, sesame partners: Singapore, Japan, Thailand, Hong Kong, Indonesia, Malaysia Imports: $630.5 million (1995 est.) commodities: cigarettes, construction materials, petroleum products, machinery, motor vehicles partners: Singapore, Vietnam, Japan, Australia, Hong Kong, Indonesia External debt: $383 million to OECD members (1993) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA note: IMF pledged $120 million in aid for 1995-98 Currency: 1 new riel (CR) = 100 sen Exchange rates: riels (CR) per US$1 - 2,585 (December 1994), 2,470 (December 1993), 2,800 (September 1992), 500 (December 1991), 560 (1990) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 603 km narrow gauge: 603 km 1.000-m gauge Highways: total: 34,100 km paved: 3,000 km unpaved: 31,100 km (1994 est.) Waterways: 3,700 km navigable all year to craft drawing 0.6 m; 282 km navigable to craft drawing 1.8 m Ports: Kampong Saom (Sihanoukville), Kampot, Krong Kaoh Kong, Phnom Penh Merchant marine: total: 5 cargo ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 17,451 GRT/18,280 DWT (1995 est.) Airports: total: 14 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: 2 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 7 (1995 est.) Heliports: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 7,000 (1981 est.) Telephone system: service barely adequate for government requirements and virtually nonexistent for general public domestic: NA international: landline international service limited to Vietnam and other adjacent countries; satellite earth station - 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 (1986 est.) Televisions: 70,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Khmer Royal Armed Forces (KRAF): created in 1993 by the merger of the Cambodian People's Armed Forces and the two noncommunist resistance armies; note - the KRAF is also known as the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF) Resistance forces: National Army of Democratic Kampuchea (Khmer Rouge) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,336,606 males fit for military service: 1,302,234 males reach military age (18) annually: 79,514 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $85 million, 1.4% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Cameroon -------- Map --- Location: 6 00 N, 12 00 E -- Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Equatorial Guinea and Nigeria Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Equatorial Guinea and Nigeria Geographic coordinates: 6 00 N, 12 00 E 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 border countries: 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 vicinity of 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Fako 4,095 m 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 Geographic note: sometimes referred to as the hinge of Africa People ------ Population: 14,261,557 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 46% (male 3,295,924; female 3,266,429) 15-64 years: 51% (male 3,602,037; female 3,627,625) 65 years and over: 3% (male 213,176; female 256,366) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.89% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 42.49 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 13.56 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.83 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 78.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 52.6 years male: 51.55 years female: 53.68 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.99 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 63.4% male: 75% female: 52.1% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Cameroon conventional short form: Cameroon former: French Cameroon Data code: CM Type of government: 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; does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: 21 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Paul BIYA (since 6 November 1982) elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 11 October 1992 (next to be held NA October 1997); results - President Paul BIYA reelected with about 40% of the vote amid widespread allegations of 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) appointed by the president cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 1 March 1992 (next to be held NA March 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats (180 total) CPDM 88, UNDP 68, UPC 18, MDR 6 Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: Cameroon People's Democratic Movement (CPDM) (government-controlled and the only party until legalization of opposition parties in 1990), Paul BIYA, president major opposition parties: National Union for Democracy and Progress (UNDP); Social Democratic Front (SDF); Cameroonian Democratic Union (UDC); Union of Cameroonian Populations (UPC); Movement for the Defense of the Republic (MDR) Other political or pressure groups: Alliance for Change (FAC), Cameroon Anglophone Movement (CAM) International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, BDEAC, CCC, CEEAC, ECA, FAO, FZ, G-19, G-77, 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, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Jerome MENDOUGA chancery: 2349 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 265-8790 through 8794 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Charles H. TWINING embassy: Rue Nachtigal, Yaounde mailing address: B. P. 817, Yaounde telephone: [237] 23-40-14, 23-05-12 FAX: [237] 23-07-53 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 to rapid economic growth between 1970 and 1985. Growth came to an abrupt halt in 1986, precipitated by steep declines in the prices of major exports: 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; currently Cameroon receives only minimal assistance from those Bretton Woods institutions. Although the 50% devaluation of the currency of 12 January 1994 improved the potential for export growth, mismanagement remains the main barrier to economic improvement. The devaluation led to a spurt in inflation, to 48% in 1994, but inflation moderated in 1995. Progress toward privatization of remaining state industry remains slow. GDP: purchasing power parity - $16.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 1.8% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,200 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 29% industry: 24% services: 47% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 48% (1994) Labor force: NA by occupation: agriculture 74.4%, industry and transport 11.4%, other services 14.2% (1983) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $1.6 billion expenditures: $2.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $226 million (FY92/93 est.) Industries: petroleum production and refining, food processing, light consumer goods, textiles, lumber Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 630,000 kW production: 2.7 billion kWh consumption per capita: 196 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, cocoa, cotton, rubber, bananas, oilseed, grains, root starches; livestock; timber Exports: $1.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: crude oil and petroleum products, lumber, aluminum, cocoa beans, coffee, cotton partners: EU (particularly France) about 50%, African countries, US Imports: $810 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: machines and electrical equipment, food, consumer goods, transport equipment, petroleum products partners: EU (France 38%, Germany), African countries, Japan 5%, US 5% External debt: $6.6 billion (1993) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $449 million (1993) Currency: 1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: CFA francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 500.56 (January 1996), 499.15 (1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991) 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 1,104 km (1995 est.) narrow gauge: 1,104 km 1.000-m gauge Highways: total: 64,626 km paved: 2,666 km unpaved: 61,960 km (1987 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 45 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: 13 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 7 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 15 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 36,737 (1991 est.) Telephone system: available only to business and government domestic: cable, microwave radio relay, and tropospheric scatter international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 11, FM 11, shortwave 0 Radios: 2 million (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 (1995) Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy (includes Naval Infantry), Air Force, National Gendarmerie, Presidential Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 3,112,339 males fit for military service: 1,572,150 males reach military age (18) annually: 151,300 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $102 million, NA% of GDP (FY93/94) ====================================================================== @Canada ------ Map --- Location: 60 00 N, 95 00 W -- Northern North America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and North Pacific Ocean, north of the conterminous US Flag ---- Description: three vertical bands of red (hoist side), white (double width, square), and red with a red maple leaf centered in the white band Geography --------- Location: Northern North America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and North Pacific Ocean, north of the conterminous US Geographic coordinates: 60 00 N, 95 00 W 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 border country: 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Logan 5,950 m Natural resources: nickel, zinc, copper, gold, lead, molybdenum, potash, silver, fish, timber, wildlife, coal, petroleum, natural gas Land use: arable land: 9% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 3% forest and woodland: 45% other: 43% 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 North American interior, and produce most of the country's rain and snow international agreements: party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, 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, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94 Geographic 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 within 161 km of the US/Canada border People ------ Population: 28,820,671 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 21% (male 3,032,458; female 2,889,603) 15-64 years: 67% (male 9,663,955; female 9,660,648) 65 years and over: 12% (male 1,501,542; female 2,072,465) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.06% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 13.33 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.17 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 4.47 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.72 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 6.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 79.07 years male: 75.67 years female: 82.65 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.81 children born/woman (1996 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%, other, mostly Asian 11.5% Religions: Roman Catholic 45%, United Church 12%, Anglican 8%, other 35% (1991) Languages: English (official), French (official) Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1986 est.) total population: 97% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Canada Data code: CA Type of government: 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), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor General Romeo LeBLANC (since 8 February 1995), who was appointed by the queen head of government: Prime Minister Jean CHRETIEN (since 4 November 1993) was appointed by the governor general; on 25 October 1993; Deputy Prime Minister Sheila COPPS (since NA); note - the prime minister is the leader of the political party commanding a majority in the House of Commons cabinet: Federal Ministry was 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 is 104 senators House of Commons (Chambre des Communes): elections last held 25 October 1993 (next to be held by NA October 1998); results - percent of votes by party NA; seats - (295 total) Liberal Party 179, Bloc Quebecois 53, Reform Party 52, New Democratic Party 8, Progressive Conservative Party 2, independents 1 Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: Liberal Party, Jean CHRETIEN; Bloc Quebecois, Michel GAUTHIER; Reform Party, Preston MANNING; New Democratic Party, Alexa MCDONOUGH; Progressive Conservative Party, Jean CHAREST International organization participation: 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, 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, OECD, OSCE, PCA, UN, UNAMIR, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNDOF, UNESCO, UNFICYP, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Raymond A. J. CHRETIEN chancery: 501 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20001 telephone: [1] (202) 682-1740 FAX: [1] (202) 682-7726 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 (vacant) embassy: 100 Wellington Street, K1P 5T1, Ottawa mailing address: P. O. Box 5000, Ogdensburg, NY 13669-0430 telephone: [1] (613) 238-5335, 4470 FAX: [1] (613) 238-5720 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. Canada started the 1990s in recession, and real rates of growth have averaged only 1.1% so far this decade. Because of slower growth, Canada still faces high unemployment and a large public sector debt. With its great natural resources, skilled labor force, and modern capital plant, however, Canada will enjoy better economic prospects in the future. The continuing constitutional impasse between English- and French-speaking areas is raising the possibility of a split in the confederation, making foreign investors somewhat edgy. GDP: purchasing power parity - $694 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.1% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $24,400 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 2% industry: 26% services: 72% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.4% (1995 est.) Labor force: 13.38 million by occupation: services 75%, manufacturing 14%, agriculture 4%, construction 3%, other 4% (1988) Unemployment rate: 9.5% (1995) Budget: revenues: $90.4 billion expenditures: $114.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95 est.) Industries: processed and unprocessed minerals, food products, wood and paper products, transportation equipment, chemicals, fish products, petroleum and natural gas Industrial production growth rate: 5.9% (1994) Electricity: capacity: 108,090,000 kW production: 511 billion kWh consumption per capita: 16,133 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, barley, oilseed, tobacco, fruits, vegetables; dairy products; forest products; 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 Exports: $185 billion (f.o.b., 1995 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: $166.7 billion (c.i.f., 1995 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: $233 billion (1994) Economic aid: donor: ODA, $2.373 billion (1993) note: ODA and OOF commitments, $10.1 billion (1986-91) Currency: 1 Canadian dollar (Can$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Canadian dollars (Can$) per US$1 - 1.3666 (January 1996), 1.3724 (1995), 1.3656 (1994), 1.2901 (1993), 1.2087 (1992), 1.1457 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 70,176 km; note - there are two major transcontinental freight railway systems: Canadian National (privatized November 1995) and Canadian Pacific Railway; passenger service provided by government-operated firm VIA, which has no trackage of its own standard gauge: 70,000 km 1.435-m gauge (63 km electrified) narrow gauge: 176 km 0.914-m gauge (1995) Highways: total: 849,404 km paved: 297,291 km (including 15,983 km of expressways) unpaved: 552,113 km (1991 est.) Waterways: 3,000 km, including Saint Lawrence Seaway Pipelines: crude and refined oil 23,564 km; natural gas 74,980 km Ports: Becancour (Quebec), Churchill, Halifax, Montreal, New Westminister, Prince Rupert, Quebec, Saint John (New Brunswick), Saint John's (Newfoundland), Seven Islands, Sydney, Three Rivers, Thunder Bay, Toronto, Vancouver, Windsor Merchant marine: total: 62 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 573,089 GRT/804,436 DWT ships by type: bulk 17, cargo 9, chemical tanker 4, oil tanker 15, passenger 2, 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 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 1,138 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 17 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 15 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 136 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 226 with paved runways under 914 m: 422 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 53 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 269 (1995 est.) Heliports: 14 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 15.3 million (1990) Telephone system: excellent service provided by modern technology domestic: domestic satellite system with about 300 earth stations international: 5 coaxial submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 5 Intelsat (4 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean) and 2 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region) Radio broadcast stations: AM 900, FM 29, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 70 (repeaters 1,400) (1991) Televisions: 11.53 million (1983 est.) Defense ------- 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: 7,645,245 males fit for military service: 6,575,057 males reach military age (17) annually: 197,688 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $9.0 billion, 1.6% of GDP (FY95/96) ====================================================================== @Cape Verde ---------- Map --- Location: 16 00 N, 24 00 W -- Western Africa, group of Islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Senegal Flag ---- Description: three horizontal bands of light blue (top, double width), white (with a horizontal red stripe in the middle third), and light blue; a circle of 10 yellow five-pointed stars is centered on the hoist end of the red stripe and extends into the upper and lower blue bands Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, group of Islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Senegal Geographic coordinates: 16 00 N, 24 00 W Map references: World Area: total area: 4,030 sq km land area: 4,030 sq km comparative area: slightly larger than Rhode Island Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 965 km Maritime claims: measured from claimed archipelagic baselines exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: none Climate: temperate; warm, dry summer; precipitation meager and very erratic Terrain: steep, rugged, rocky, volcanic lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Pico 2,829 m Natural resources: salt, basalt rock, pozzolana, limestone, kaolin, fish Land use: arable land: 9% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 6% forest and woodland: 0% other: 85% Irrigated land: 20 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: overgrazing of livestock and improper land use such as the cultivation of crops on steep slopes has led to soil erosion; demand for wood used as fuel has resulted in deforestation; desertification; environmental damage has threatened several indigenous species of birds and reptiles; overfishing natural hazards: prolonged droughts; harmattan wind can obscure visibility; volcanically and seismically active international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban Geographic note: strategic location 500 km from west coast of Africa near major north-south sea routes; important communications station; important sea and air refueling site People ------ Population: 449,066 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 50% (male 114,206; female 110,276) 15-64 years: 46% (male 90,593; female 117,485) 65 years and over: 4% (male 6,450; female 10,056) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.93% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 44.31 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.29 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -6.68 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.77 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.64 male(s)/female all ages: 0.89 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 54.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 63.39 years male: 61.47 years female: 65.41 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.12 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Cape Verdean(s) adjective: Cape Verdean Ethnic divisions: Creole (mulatto) 71%, African 28%, European 1% Religions: Roman Catholicism fused with indigenous beliefs Languages: Portuguese, Crioulo, a blend of Portuguese and West African words Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 71.6% male: 81.4% female: 63.8% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Cape Verde conventional short form: Cape Verde local long form: Republica de Cabo Verde local short form: Cabo Verde Data code: CV Type of government: republic Capital: Praia Administrative divisions: 14 districts (concelhos, singular - concelho); Boa Vista, Brava, Fogo, Maio, Paul, Praia, Porto Novo, Ribeira Grande, Sal, Santa Catarina, Santa Cruz, Sao Nicolau, Sao Vicente, Tarrafal Independence: 5 July 1975 (from Portugal) National holiday: Independence Day, 5 July (1975) Constitution: new constitution came into force 25 September 1992 Legal system: NA Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Antonio MASCARENHAS Monteiro (since 22 March 1991) elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 18 February 1996 (next to be held NA February 2001); results - Antonio Monteiro MASCARENHAS (independent) received 80.1% of vote head of government: Prime Minister Carlos Alberto Wahnon de Carvalho VEIGA (since 13 January 1991) nominated by the People'sNational Assembly and appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by prime minister from members of the Peoples National Assembly Legislative branch: unicameral People's National Assembly (Assembleia Nacional Popular): elections last held 17 December 1995 (next to be held NA); results - MPD 59%, PAICV 28%, PCD 6%; seats - (72 total) MPD 50, PAICV 21, PCD 1 Judicial branch: Supreme Tribunal of Justice (Supremo Tribunal de Justia) Political parties and leaders: Movement for Democracy (MPD), Prime Minister Carlos VEIGA, founder and chairman; African Party for Independence of Cape Verde (PAICV), Pedro Verona Rodrigues PIRES, chairman; Party for Democratic Convergence (PCD) International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM, OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WMO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Alberto Santos SILVA-CARLOS chancery: 3415 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007 telephone: [1] (202) 965-6820 FAX: [1] (202) 965-1207 consulate(s) general: Boston US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Joseph M. SEGARS embassy: Rua Abilio Macedo 81, Praia mailing address: C. P. 201, Praia telephone: [238] 61 56 16 FAX: [238] 61 13 55 Flag: three horizontal bands of light blue (top, double width), white (with a horizontal red stripe in the middle third), and light blue; a circle of 10 yellow five-pointed stars is centered on the hoist end of the red stripe and extends into the upper and lower blue bands Economy ------- Economic overview: Cape Verde's low per capita GDP reflects a poor natural resource base, serious water shortages exacerbated by cycles of long-term drought, and a high birthrate. The economy is service oriented, with commerce, transport, and public services accounting for 60% of GDP. Although nearly 70% of the population lives in rural areas, the share of agriculture in GNP is only 13%, of which fishing accounts for 4%. About 90% of food must be imported. The fishing potential, mostly lobster and tuna, is not fully exploited. Cape Verde annually runs a high trade deficit, financed by remittances from emigrants and foreign aid, which form important supplements to GDP. Economic reforms, launched by the new democratic government in 1991, are aimed at developing the private sector and attracting foreign investment to diversify the economy. Prospects for 1996 depend heavily on the maintenance of aid flows, remittances, and the momentum of the government's development program. GDP: purchasing power parity - $440 million (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.6% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $1,040 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 13% industry: 17% services: 70% (1992 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5% (1994 est.) Labor force: 102,000 (1985 est.) by occupation: agriculture (mostly subsistence) 57%, services 29%, industry 14% (1981) Unemployment rate: 35% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $174 million expenditures: $235 million, including capital expenditures of $165 million (1993 est.) Industries: fish processing, salt mining, garments, ship repair, food and beverages Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 15,000 kW production: 40 million kWh consumption per capita: 73 kWh (1993) Agriculture: bananas, corn, beans, sweet potatoes, sugarcane, coffee, peanuts; fish Illicit drugs: increasingly used as a transshipment point for illicit drugs moving from Latin America and Africa destined for Western Europe Exports: $4.4 million (f.o.b., 1992 est.) commodities: fish, bananas partners: Netherlands, Portugal, Angola, Spain Imports: $173 million (f.o.b., 1992 est.) commodities: foodstuffs, consumer goods, industrial products, transport equipment partners: Portugal, Netherlands, Germany, Spain, Brazil, France, Cote d'Ivoire External debt: $156 million (1991) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Cape Verdean escudo (CVEsc) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: Cape Verdean escudos (CVEsc) per US$1 - 77.860 (December 1995), 76.853 (1995), 81.891 (1994), 80.427 (1993), 68.018 (1992), 71.408 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 1,100 km paved: 680 km unpaved: 420 km (1992 est.) Ports: Mindelo, Praia, Tarrafal Merchant marine: cargo 3, chemical tanker 1 (1995 est.) total: 4 (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,632 GRT/8,872 DWT Airports: total: 6 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 5 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1,740 (1987 est.) Telephone system: domestic: interisland microwave radio relay system international: 2 coaxial submarine cables; HF radiotelephone to Senegal and Guinea-Bissau; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 6, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 (1987 est.) Televisions: 7,000 (1991 est.) Defense ------- Branches: People's Revolutionary Armed Forces (FARP; includes Army and Navy), Security Service Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 84,003 males fit for military service: 48,885 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $3.4 million, NA% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Cayman Islands -------------- (dependent territory of the UK) Map --- Location: 19 30 N, 80 30 W -- Caribbean, island group in Caribbean Sea, nearly one-half of the way from Cuba to Honduras Flag ---- Description: blue, with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Caymanian coat of arms on a white disk centered on the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms includes a pineapple and turtle above a shield with three stars (representing the three islands) and a scroll at the bottom bearing the motto HE HATH FOUNDED IT UPON THE SEAS Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, island group in Caribbean Sea, nearly one-half of the way from Cuba to Honduras Geographic coordinates: 19 30 N, 80 30 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 260 sq km land area: 260 sq km comparative area: 1.5 times the size of Washington, DC Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 160 km Maritime claims: exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: none Climate: tropical marine; warm, rainy summers (May to October) and cool, relatively dry winters (November to April) Terrain: low-lying limestone base surrounded by coral reefs lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: The Bluff 43 m Natural resources: fish, climate and beaches that foster tourism Land use: arable land: 0% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 8% forest and woodland: 23% other: 69% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: no natural fresh water resources, drinking water supplies must be met by rainwater catchment natural hazards: hurricanes (July to November) international agreements: NA Geographic note: important location between Cuba and Central America People ------ Population: 34,646 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 4.27% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 14.52 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 4.98 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 33.2 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) note: major destination for Cubans trying to migrate to the US Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 8.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 77.1 years male: 75.37 years female: 78.81 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.4 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Caymanian(s) adjective: Caymanian Ethnic divisions: mixed 40%, white 20%, black 20%, expatriates of various ethnic groups 20% Religions: United Church (Presbyterian and Congregational), Anglican, Baptist, Roman Catholic, Church of God, other Protestant denominations Languages: English Literacy: age 15 and over has ever attended school (1970 est.) total population: 98% male: 98% female: 98% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Cayman Islands Data code: CJ Type of government: dependent territory of the UK Capital: George Town Administrative divisions: 8 districts; Creek, Eastern, Midland, South Town, Spot Bay, Stake Bay, West End, Western Independence: none (dependent territory of the UK) National holiday: Constitution Day (first Monday in July) Constitution: 1959, revised 1972 and 1992 Legal system: British common law and local statutes Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch head of government: Governor and President of the Executive Council John OWEN (since 15 September 1995) cabinet: Executive Council - three members are appointed by the governor, four members are elected by the Legislative Assembly Legislative branch: unicameral Legislative Assembly: election last held 18 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (15 total, 12 elected) independents 12 Judicial branch: Grand Court; Cayman Islands Court of Appeal Political parties and leaders: no formal political parties International organization participation: Caricom (observer), CDB, Interpol (subbureau), IOC 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 Caymanian coat of arms on a white disk centered on the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms includes a pineapple and turtle above a shield with three stars (representing the three islands) and a scroll at the bottom bearing the motto HE HATH FOUNDED IT UPON THE SEAS Economy ------- Economic overview: With no direct taxation, the Islands are a thriving offshore financial center. Tourism is also a mainstay, accounting for about 70% of GDP and 75% of foreign currency earnings. The tourist industry is aimed at the luxury market and caters mainly to visitors from North America. Total tourist arrivals exceeded one million visitors in 1995 for the first time. About 90% of the islands' food and consumer goods must be imported. The Caymanians enjoy one of the highest outputs per capita and one of the highest standards of living in the world. GDP: purchasing power parity - $750 million (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.5% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $22,500 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 1.4% industry: 3.2% services: 95.4% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.8% (1995 est.) Labor force: 8,061 by occupation: service workers 18.7%, clerical 18.6%, construction 12.5%, finance and investment 6.7%, directors and business managers 5.9% (1979) Unemployment rate: 7% (1992) Budget: revenues: $141.5 million expenditures: $160.7 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1991) Industries: tourism, banking, insurance and finance, construction, construction materials, furniture Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 80,000 kW production: 230 million kWh consumption per capita: 6,899 kWh (1993) Agriculture: vegetables, fruit; livestock; turtle farming Illicit drugs: a major money-laundering center for illicit drug profits; transshipment point for narcotics bound for the US and Europe Exports: $10 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.) commodities: turtle products, manufactured consumer goods partners: mostly US Imports: $312 million (c.i.f., 1993 est.) commodities: foodstuffs, manufactured goods partners: US, Trinidad and Tobago, UK, Netherlands Antilles, Japan External debt: $15 million (1986) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Caymanian dollar (CI$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Caymanian dollars (CI$) per US$1 - 0.83 (18 November 1993), 0.85 (22 November 1993) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 406 km paved: 304 km unpaved: 102 km Ports: Cayman Brac, George Town Merchant marine: total: 19 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 283,734 GRT/432,610 DWT ships by type: bulk 3, cargo 6, chemical tanker 2, container 1, oil tanker 3, roll-on/roll-off cargo 4 note: a flag of convenience registry; UK owns 1 ship, India 1, Norway 1, US 3, Sweden 1, and UAE 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 3 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 21,584 (1993 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: 1 submarine coaxial cable; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: 28,200 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 Televisions: 6,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Royal Cayman Islands Police Force (RCIPF) Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK ====================================================================== @Central African Republic ------------------------ Map --- Location: 7 00 N, 21 00 E -- Central Africa, north of Zaire Flag ---- Description: four equal horizontal bands of blue (top), white, green, and yellow with a vertical red band in center; there is a yellow five-pointed star on the hoist side of the blue band Geography --------- Location: Central Africa, north of Zaire Geographic coordinates: 7 00 N, 21 00 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 622,980 sq km land area: 622,980 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Texas Land boundaries: total: 5,203 km border countries: Cameroon 797 km, Chad 1,197 km, Congo 467 km, Sudan 1,165 km, Zaire 1,577 km Coastline: 0 km (landlocked) Maritime claims: none (landlocked) International disputes: none Climate: tropical; hot, dry winters; mild to hot, wet summers Terrain: vast, flat to rolling, monotonous plateau; scattered hills in northeast and southwest lowest point: Oubangui River 335 m highest point: Mount Gaou 1,420 m Natural resources: diamonds, uranium, timber, gold, oil Land use: arable land: 3% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 5% forest and woodland: 64% other: 28% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: tap water is not potable; poaching has diminished reputation as one of last great wildlife refuges; desertification natural hazards: hot, dry, dusty harmattan winds affect northern areas; floods are common international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea Geographic note: landlocked; almost the precise center of Africa People ------ Population: 3,274,426 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 44% (male 724,914; female 718,423) 15-64 years: 52% (male 839,118; female 877,069) 65 years and over: 4% (male 53,418; female 61,484) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.08% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 39.97 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 17.64 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -1.53 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.87 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 111.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 45.86 years male: 45.03 years female: 46.71 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.41 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Central African(s) adjective: Central African Ethnic divisions: Baya 34%, Banda 27%, Sara 10%, Mandjia 21%, Mboum 4%, M'Baka 4%, Europeans 6,500 (including 3,600 French) Religions: indigenous beliefs 24%, Protestant 25%, Roman Catholic 25%, Muslim 15%, other 11% note: animistic beliefs and practices strongly influence the Christian majority Languages: French (official), Sangho (lingua franca and national language), Arabic, Hunsa, Swahili Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 60% male: 68.5% female: 52.4% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Central African Republic conventional short form: none local long form: Republique Centrafricaine local short form: none former: Central African Empire abbreviation: CAR Data code: CT Type of government: republic; Capital: Bangui Administrative divisions: 14 prefectures (prefectures, singular - prefecture), 2 economic prefectures* (prefectures economiques, singular - prefecture economique), and 1 commune**; Bamingui-Bangoran, Bangui**, Basse-Kotto, Gribingui*, Haute-Kotto, Haute-Sangha, Haut-Mbomou, Kemo-Gribingui, Lobaye, Mbomou, Nana-Mambere, Ombella-Mpoko, Ouaka, Ouham, Ouham-Pende, Sangha*, Vakaga Independence: 13 August 1960 (from France) National holiday: National Day, 1 December (1958) (proclamation of the republic) Constitution: passed by referendum 29 December 1994; adopted 7 January 1995 Legal system: based on French law Suffrage: 21 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Ange PATASSE (since 22 October 1993) elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 19 September 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - PATASSE received 52.45% of the votes and Abel GOUMBA received 45.62% head of government: Prime Minister Jean-Paul NGOUPANDE (since 6 June 1996); appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers; appointed by the president Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 19 September 1993 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (85 total) MLPC 33, RDC 14, PLD 7, ADP 6, PSD 3, others 22 note: the National Assembly is advised by the Economic and Regional Council (Conseil Economique et Regional); when they sit together they are called the Congress (Congres) Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Cour Supreme), judges appointed by the president; Constitutional Court, judges appointed by the president Political parties and leaders: Alliance for Democracy and Progress (ADP), Tchapka BREDE; Central African Democratic Assembly (RDC), Andre KOLINGBA; Civic Forum (FC), Gen. Timothee MALENDOMA; Liberal Democratic Party (PLD), Nestor KOMBO-NAGUEMON; Movement for the Liberation of the Central African People (MLPC), the party of the president, Ange Felix PATASSE; Movement for Democracy and Development (MDD), David DACKO; Marginal Movement for Democracy, Renaissance and Evolution (MDREC), Joseph BENDOUNGA; Patriotic Front for Progress (FFP), Abel GOUMBA; Social Democratic Party (PSD), Enoch Derant LAKOUE International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, BDEAC, CCC, CEEAC, ECA, FAO, FZ, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, UDEAC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Henri KOBA chancery: 1618 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 483-7800, 7801 FAX: [1] (202) 332-9893 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Mosina H. JORDAN embassy: Avenue David Dacko, Bangui mailing address: B. P. 924, Bangui telephone: [236] 61 02 00, 61 25 78, 61 02 10 FAX: [236] 61 44 94 Flag: four equal horizontal bands of blue (top), white, green, and yellow with a vertical red band in center; there is a yellow five-pointed star on the hoist side of the blue band Economy ------- Economic overview: Subsistence agriculture, together with forestry, remains the backbone of the economy of the Central African Republic (CAR), with more than 70% of the population living in outlying areas. The agricultural sector generates half of GDP. Timber has accounted for about 13% of export earnings and the diamond industry for nearly 80%. Important constraints to economic development include the CAR's landlocked position, a poor transportation system, a largely unskilled work force, and a legacy of misdirected macroeconomic policies. A major plus is the large forest reserves, which the government is moving to protect from overexploitation. The 50% devaluation of the currencies of 14 Francophone African nations on 12 January 1994 had mixed effects on the CAR's economy. While diamond, timber, coffee, and cotton exports increased - leading GDP to increase by 5.5% - inflation rose to 45%, fueled by the rising prices of imports on which the economy depends; inflation dropped back rapidly in 1995. The CAR's poor resource base and primitive infrastructure will keep it dependent on multilateral donors and France for the foreseeable future. GDP: purchasing power parity - $2.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.1% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $800 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 50% industry: 14% services: 36% (1993) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 45% (1994 est.) Labor force: 775,413 (1986 est.) by occupation: agriculture 85%, commerce and services 9%, industry 3%, government 3% note: about 64,000 salaried workers (1985) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: diamond mining, sawmills, breweries, textiles, footwear, assembly of bicycles and motorcycles Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 40,000 kW production: 100 million kWh consumption per capita: 29 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cotton, coffee, tobacco, manioc (tapioca), yams, millet, corn, bananas; timber Exports: $154 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: diamonds, timber, cotton, coffee, tobacco partners: France, Belgium, Italy, Japan, US, Spain, Iran Imports: $215 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: food, textiles, petroleum products, machinery, electrical equipment, motor vehicles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, industrial products partners: France, other EC countries, Japan, Algeria, Cameroon, Namibia External debt: $904.3 million (1993 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: CFA francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 500.56 (January 1996), 499.15 (1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991) 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 23,738 km paved: 427 km unpaved: 23,311 km (1991 est.) Waterways: 800 km; traditional trade carried on by means of shallow-draft dugouts; Oubangui is the most important river Ports: Bangui, Nola Airports: total: 48 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with paved runways under 914 m: 11 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 9 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 24 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 16,867 (1992 est.) Telephone system: fair system domestic: network consists principally of microwave radio relay and low-capacity, low-powered radiotelephone communication international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 (1987 est.) Televisions: 7,500 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Central African Army (includes Republican Guard), Air Force, National Gendarmerie, Police Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 737,330 males fit for military service: 384,134 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $30 million, 2.3% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Chad ---- Map --- Location: 15 00 N, 19 00 E -- Central Africa, south of Libya Flag ---- Description: three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), yellow, and red; similar to the flag of Romania; also similar to the flag of Andorra, which has a national coat of arms featuring a quartered shield centered in the yellow band; design was based on the flag of France Geography --------- Location: Central Africa, south of Libya Geographic coordinates: 15 00 N, 19 00 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 1.284 million sq km land area: 1,259,200 sq km comparative area: slightly more than three times the size of California Land boundaries: total: 5,968 km border countries: Cameroon 1,094 km, Central African Republic 1,197 km, Libya 1,055 km, Niger 1,175 km, Nigeria 87 km, Sudan 1,360 km Coastline: 0 km (landlocked) Maritime claims: none (landlocked) 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 of its forces in response to the ICJ ruling, but still maintains part of the airfield and a small military presence at the airfield's water supply located in Chad; demarcation of international boundaries in vicinity of Lake Chad, the lack of which has led to border incidents in the past, is completed and awaiting ratification by Cameroon, Chad, Niger, and Nigeria Climate: tropical in south, desert in north Terrain: broad, arid plains in center, desert in north, mountains in northwest, lowlands in south lowest point: Djourab Depression 175 m highest point: Emi Koussi 3,415 m Natural resources: petroleum (unexploited but exploration under way), uranium, natron, kaolin, fish (Lake Chad) Land use: arable land: 2% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 36% forest and woodland: 11% other: 51% Irrigated land: 100 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: inadequate supplies of potable water; improper waste disposal in rural areas contributes to soil and water pollution; desertification natural hazards: hot, dry, dusty harmattan winds occur in north; periodic droughts; locust plagues international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping Geographic note: landlocked; Lake Chad is the most significant water body in the Sahel People ------ Population: 6,976,845 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 44% (male 1,543,688; female 1,535,729) 15-64 years: 53% (male 1,807,361; female 1,881,930) 65 years and over: 3% (male 91,998; female 116,139) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.68% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 44.25 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 17.44 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.04 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.79 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 120.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 47.55 years male: 45.18 years female: 50.01 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.84 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Chadian(s) adjective: Chadian Ethnic divisions: nonindigenous 150,000, of whom 1,000 are French north and center: Muslims (Arabs, Toubou, Hadjerai, Fulbe, Kotoko, Kanembou, Baguirmi, Boulala, Zaghawa, and Maba) south: non-Muslims (Sara, Ngambaye, Mbaye, Goulaye, Moundang, Moussei, Massa) Religions: Muslim 50%, Christian 25%, indigenous beliefs (mostly animism) 25% Languages: French (official), Arabic (official), Sara and Sango (in south), more than 100 different languages and dialects Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write in French or Arabic (1995 est.) total population: 48.1% male: 62.1% female: 34.7% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Chad conventional short form: Chad local long form: Republique du Tchad local short form: Tchad Data code: CD Type of government: republic Capital: N'Djamena Administrative divisions: 14 prefectures (prefectures, singular - prefecture); Batha, Biltine, Borkou-Ennedi-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: 31 March 1995, passed by referendum Legal system: based on French civil law system and Chadian customary law; does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: NA years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Lt. Gen. Idriss DEBY (since 4 December 1990, after seizing power on 3 December 1990); note - transitional government's mandate was scheduled to expire in May 1996; the first round of presidential elections was scheduled for 2 June 1996, with a runoff on 23 June if necessary head of government: Prime Minister Djimasta KOIBLA (since 9 April 1995) elected by the Sovereign National Conference cabinet: Council of State appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister Legislative branch: unicameral Higher Transitional Council (Conseil Superieur de Transition: popular elections to the former National Consultative Council (Conceil National Consultatif) were last held 8 July 1990; this body was disbanded on 3 December 1990 by President DEBY and on 8 March 1991 replaced with the Provisional Council of the Republic having 30 members whom he appointed; this body, in turn, was replaced on 6 April 1993 by a 57-member Higher Transitional Council (Conseil Superieur de Transition) elected by a specially convened Sovereign National Conference; popular elections, formerly scheduled for April 1995, were initially postponed by mutual agreement of the parties concerned until at least May 1996 and subsequently postponed until after the rainy season (as late as October 1996); note - the name of the anticipated new legislative body has not been announced Judicial branch: Court of Appeal Political parties and leaders: Patriotic Salvation Movement (MPS), former dissident group, Idriss DEBY, chairman note: President DEBY, who promised political pluralism, a new constitution, and free elections by April 1994, subsequently twice postponed these initiatives; there are numerous dissident groups and at least 45 opposition political parties Other political or pressure groups: NA International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, BDEAC, CEEAC, ECA, FAO, FZ, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, UDEAC, UN, UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Mahamat Saleh AHMAT chancery: 2002 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 462-4009 FAX: [1] (202) 265-1937 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Laurence E. POPE II embassy: Avenue Felix Eboue, N'Djamena mailing address: B. P. 413, N'Djamena telephone: [235] (51) 70-09, (51) 90-52, (51) 92-33 FAX: [235] (51) 56-54 Flag: three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), yellow, and red; similar to the flag of Romania; also similar to the flag of Andorra, which has a national coat of arms featuring a quartered shield centered in the yellow band; design was based on the flag of France Economy ------- Economic overview: Climate, geographic remoteness, poor resource endowment, and lack of infrastructure make Chad one of the most underdeveloped countries in the world. Its economy is hobbled by political turmoil, drought, and food shortages. Consequently the economy has shown little progress in recent years in overcoming a severe setback brought on by civil war in the late 1980s. More than 80% of the work force is involved in subsistence farming and fishing. Cotton is the major cash crop, accounting for at least half of exports. Chad is highly dependent on foreign aid, especially food credits, given chronic shortages in several regions. Of all the Francophone countries in Africa, Chad has benefited the least from the 50% devaluation of their currencies on 12 January 1994. Despite an increase in external financial aid and favorable price increases for cotton - the primary source of foreign exchange - the corrupt and enfeebled government bureaucracy continues to postpone payment of public sector salaries and to dampen economic enterprise by neglecting payments to domestic suppliers. The devaluation resulted in stepped-up inflation of 41% in 1994; in contrast to other Francophone countries, Chad continued to suffer high inflation in 1995 because of the government's lack of financial discipline. Oil production in the Lake Chad area remains a distant prospect and the subsistence-driven economy probably will continue to limp along in the near term. GDP: purchasing power parity - $3.3 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $600 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 49% industry: 17% services: 34% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 41% (1994 est.) Labor force: NA by occupation: agriculture 85% (subsistence farming, herding, and fishing) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $120 million expenditures: $363 million, including capital expenditures of $104 million (1992 est.) Industries: cotton textiles, meat packing, beer brewing, natron (sodium carbonate), soap, cigarettes, construction materials Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 40,000 kW production: 80 million kWh consumption per capita: 13 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cotton, sorghum, millet, peanuts, rice, potatoes, manioc (tapioca); cattle, sheep, goats, camels Exports: $132 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: cotton, cattle, textiles, fish partners: France, Nigeria, Cameroon, Zaire, Sudan, Central African Republic Imports: $201 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: machinery and transportation equipment 39%, industrial goods 20%, petroleum products 13%, foodstuffs 9%; textiles; note - excludes military equipment partners: US, France, Nigeria, Cameroon, Italy, Germany External debt: $757 million (December 1993 ) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: CFA Francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 500.56 (January 1996), 499.15 (1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991) 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 31,141 km paved: 32 km unpaved: 31,109 km (1987 est.) Waterways: 2,000 km navigable Ports: none Airports: total: 47 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 3 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 11 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 13 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 18 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 5,000 (1987 est.) Telephone system: primitive system domestic: fair system of radiotelephone communication stations international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 6, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 (1987 est.) note: limited TV service; many facilities are inoperative Televisions: 7,000 (1991 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Armed Forces (includes Ground Force, Air Force, and Gendarmerie), Republican Guard, Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,562,052 males fit for military service: 809,210 males reach military age (20) annually: 63,254 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $74 million, 11.1% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Chile ----- Map --- Location: 30 00 S, 71 00 W -- Southern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean and South Pacific Ocean, between Argentina and Peru Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean and South Pacific Ocean, between Argentina and Peru Geographic coordinates: 30 00 S, 71 00 W 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Cerro Aconcagua 6,962 m 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 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; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea Geographic note: strategic location relative to sea lanes between Atlantic and Pacific Oceans (Strait of Magellan, Beagle Channel, Drake Passage); Atacama Desert is one of world's driest regions People ------ Population: 14,333,258 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 29% (male 2,071,816; female 2,041,417) 15-64 years: 65% (male 4,599,173; female 4,651,030) 65 years and over: 6% (male 403,019; female 566,803) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.24% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 18.09 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.68 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.71 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 13.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 74.49 years male: 71.26 years female: 77.72 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.23 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 95.2% male: 95.4% female: 95% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Chile conventional short form: Chile local long form: Republica de Chile local short form: Chile Data code: CI Type of government: 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; does not accept 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) elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 11 December 1993 (next to be held NA December 1997); results - Eduardo FREI Ruiz-Tagle (PDC) 58%, Arturo ALESSANDRI 24.4%, other 17.6% 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 NA December 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (46 total, 38 elected) Coalition of Parties for Democracy 21 (PDC 13, PS 4, PPD 3, PR 1), Union for the Progress of 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 NA December 1997); results - Coalition of Parties for Democracy 53.95% (PDC 27.16%, PS 12.01%, PPD 11.82%, PR 2.96%), Union for the Progress of Chile 30.57% (RN 15.25%, UDI 12.13%, UCC 3.19%); seats - (120 total) Coalition of Parties for Democracy 70 (PDC 37, PPD 15, PR 2, PS 15, left-wing independent 1), Union for the Progress of Chile 47 (RN 30, UDI 15, UCC 2), right-wing independents 3 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges are appointed by the president, the president of the Supreme Court is elected by the 17-member court Political parties and leaders: Coalition of Parties for Democracy (CPD) consists mainly of: Christian Democratic Party (PDC), Alejandro FOXLEY; Socialist Party (PS), Camilo ESCALONA; Party for Democracy (PPD), Jorge SCHAULSOHN, Radical Party (PR); Union for the Progress of Chile (UPP) consists mainly of three parties: National Renewal (RN), Andres ALLAMAND; Independent Democratic Union (UDI), Jovino NOVOA; Center Center Union (UCCP), 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 International organization participation: APEC, CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-11, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, LAES, LAIA, Mercosur (associate member), NAM, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMOGIP, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador John BIEHL del Rio chancery: 1732 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036 telephone: [1] (202) 785-1746 FAX: [1] (202) 887-5579 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: Avenida Andres Bello 2800, Santiago mailing address: use street address 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 real GDP in 1991-95 has averaged more than 6.5% annually, with an estimated one million Chileans having moved out of poverty in the last four years. Copper remains vital to the health of the economy; Chile is the world's largest producer and exporter of copper. Success in meeting the government's goal of sustained annual economic growth of 5% depends on world copper prices, the level of confidence of foreign investors and creditors, and the government's own ability to maintain a conservative fiscal stance. GDP: purchasing power parity - $113.2 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 8.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $8,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 7.4% industry: 36.4% services: 56.2% (1985) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 8.1% (1995 est.) 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) Unemployment rate: 5.4% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $17 billion expenditures: $17 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.) Industries: copper, other minerals, foodstuffs, fish processing, iron and steel, wood and wood products, transport equipment, cement, textiles Industrial production growth rate: 4.3% (1993 est.) Electricity: capacity: 4,810,000 kW production: 22 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,499 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, corn, grapes, beans, sugar beets, potatoes, fruit; beef, poultry, wool; timber; 1991 fish catch of 6.6 million metric tons 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 Exports: $15.9 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: copper 41%, other metals and minerals 8.7%, wood products 7.1%, fish and fishmeal 9.8%, fruits 8.4% (1991) partners: EU 25%, US 15%, Asia 34%, Latin America 20% (1995 est.) Imports: $14.3 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: capital goods 25.2%, spare parts 24.8%, raw materials 15.4%, petroleum 10%, foodstuffs 5.7% partners: EU 18%, US 25%, Asia 16%, Latin America 26% (1995 est.) External debt: $21.1 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $62 million (1993) Currency: 1 Chilean peso (Ch$) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: Chilean pesos (Ch$) per US$1 - 408.64 (December 1995), 396.78 (1995), 420.08 (1994), 404.35 (1993), 362.59 (1992), 349.37 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 6,782 km broad gauge: 3,743 km 1.676-m gauge (1,653 km electrified) narrow gauge: 116 km 1.067-m gauge; 2,923 km 1.000-m gauge (40 km electrified) (1995) Highways: total: 79,593 km paved: 10,984 km unpaved: 68,609 km (1991 est.) 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: 37 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 529,512 GRT/925,364 DWT ships by type: bulk 11, cargo 8, chemical tanker 4, combination ore/oil 2, container 1, liquefied gas tanker 2, oil tanker 4, roll-on/roll-off cargo 3, vehicle carrier 2 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 344 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: 17 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 16 with paved runways under 914 m: 220 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 3 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 10 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 68 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1.5 million (1994 est.) Telephone system: modern system based on extensive microwave radio relay facilities domestic: extensive microwave radio relay links; domestic satellite system with 3 earth stations international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 159, FM 0, shortwave 11 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 131 Televisions: 2.85 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- 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: 3,808,655 males fit for military service: 2,832,198 males reach military age (19) annually: 123,443 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $970 million, 2.0% of GDP (1994 est.) ====================================================================== @China ----- (also see separate Taiwan entry) Map --- Location: 35 00 N, 105 00 E -- Eastern Asia, bordering the East China Sea, Korea Bay, Yellow Sea, and South China Sea, between North Korea and Vietnam Flag ---- Description: red with a large yellow five-pointed star and four smaller yellow five-pointed stars (arranged in a vertical arc toward the middle of the flag) in the upper hoist-side corner Geography --------- Location: Eastern Asia, bordering the East China Sea, Korea Bay, Yellow Sea, and South China Sea, between North Korea and Vietnam Geographic coordinates: 35 00 N, 105 00 E Map references: Asia Area: total area: 9,596,960 sq km land area: 9,326,410 sq km comparative area: slightly larger than the US Land boundaries: total: 22,143.34 km border countries: Afghanistan 76 km, Bhutan 470 km, Burma 2,185 km, Hong Kong 30 km, India 3,380 km, Kazakstan 1,533 km, North Korea 1,416 km, Kyrgyzstan 858 km, Laos 423 km, Macau 0.34 km, Mongolia 4,673 km, Nepal 1,236 km, Pakistan 523 km, Russia (northeast) 3,605 km, Russia (northwest) 40 km, Tajikistan 414 km, Vietnam 1,281 km Coastline: 14,500 km Maritime claims: continental shelf: claim to shallow areas of East China Sea and Yellow Sea territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: boundary with India in dispute; disputed sections of the boundary with Russia remain to be settled; boundary with Tajikistan in dispute; short section of the boundary with North Korea is indefinite; involved in a complex dispute over the Spratly Islands with Malaysia, Philippines, Taiwan, Vietnam, and possibly Brunei; maritime boundary dispute with Vietnam in the Gulf of Tonkin; Paracel Islands occupied by China, but claimed by Vietnam and Taiwan; claims Japanese-administered Senkaku-shoto (Senkaku Islands/Diaoyu Tai), as does Taiwan Climate: extremely diverse; tropical in south to subarctic in north Terrain: mostly mountains, high plateaus, deserts in west; plains, deltas, and hills in east lowest point: Turpan Pendi -154 m highest point: Mount Everest 8,848 m Natural resources: coal, iron ore, petroleum, mercury, tin, tungsten, antimony, manganese, molybdenum, vanadium, magnetite, aluminum, lead, zinc, uranium, hydropower potential (world's largest) Land use: arable land: 10% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 31% forest and woodland: 14% other: 45% Irrigated land: 478,220 sq km (1991) Environment: current issues: air pollution from the overwhelming use of high-sulfur coal as a fuel, produces acid rain which is damaging forests; water shortages experienced throughout the country, particularly in urban areas; future growth in water usage threatens to outpace supplies; water pollution from industrial effluents; much of the population does not have access to potable water; less than 10% of sewage receives treatment; deforestation; estimated loss of one-fifth of agricultural land since 1957 to soil erosion and economic development; desertification; trade in endangered species natural hazards: frequent typhoons (about five per year along southern and eastern coasts); damaging floods; tsunamis; earthquakes; droughts international agreements: party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea Geographic note: world's third-largest country (after Russia and Canada) People ------ Population: 1,210,004,956 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 26% (male 167,448,148; female 151,601,650) 15-64 years: 67% (male 421,455,418; female 393,913,510) 65 years and over: 7% (male 35,056,409; female 40,529,821) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.98% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 17.01 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.92 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.34 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.11 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.1 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.07 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.86 male(s)/female all ages: 1.06 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 39.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 69.62 years male: 68.33 years female: 71.06 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.81 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Chinese (singular and plural) adjective: Chinese Ethnic divisions: Han Chinese 91.9%, Zhuang, Uygur, Hui, Yi, Tibetan, Miao, Manchu, Mongol, Buyi, Korean, and other nationalities 8.1% Religions: Daoism (Taoism), Buddhism, Muslim 2%-3%, Christian 1% (est.) note: officially atheist, but traditionally pragmatic and eclectic Languages: Standard Chinese or Mandarin (Putonghua, based on the Beijing dialect), Yue (Cantonese), Wu (Shanghaiese), Minbei (Fuzhou), Minnan (Hokkien-Taiwanese), Xiang, Gan, Hakka dialects, minority languages (see Ethnic divisions entry) Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 81.5% male: 89.9% female: 72.7% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: People's Republic of China conventional short form: China local long form: Zhonghua Renmin Gongheguo local short form: Zhong Guo abbreviation: PRC Data code: CH Type of government: Communist state Capital: Beijing Administrative divisions: 23 provinces (sheng, singular and plural), 5 autonomous regions* (zizhiqu, singular and plural), and 3 municipalities** (shi, singular and plural); Anhui, Beijing**, Fujian, Gansu, Guangdong, Guangxi*, Guizhou, Hainan, Hebei, Heilongjiang, Henan, Hubei, Hunan, Jiangsu, Jiangxi, Jilin, Liaoning, Nei Mongol*, Ningxia*, Qinghai, Shaanxi, Shandong, Shanghai**, Shanxi, Sichuan, Tianjin**, Xinjiang*, Xizang* (Tibet), Yunnan, Zhejiang note: China considers Taiwan its 23rd province Independence: 221 BC (unification under the Qin or Ch'in Dynasty 221 BC; Qing or Ch'ing Dynasty replaced by the Republic on 12 February 1912; People's Republic established 1 October 1949) National holiday: National Day, 1 October (1949) Constitution: most recent promulgated 4 December 1982 Legal system: a complex amalgam of custom and statute, largely criminal law; rudimentary civil code in effect since 1 January 1987; new legal codes in effect since 1 January 1980; continuing efforts are being made to improve civil, administrative, criminal, and commercial law Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President JIANG Zemin (since 27 March 1993) and Vice President RONG Yiren (since 27 March 1993) elected by the National People's Congress; election last held 27 March 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - JIANG Zemin was nominally elected by the Eighth National People's Congress head of government: Premier LI Peng (Acting Premier since 24 November 1987, Premier since 9 April 1988) nominated by the president, decided by the National People's Congress; Vice Premiers ZHU Rongji (since 8 April 1991), ZOU Jiahua (since 8 April 1991), QIAN Qichen (since 29 March 1993), LI Lanqing (29 March 1993), WU Bangguo (since 17 March 1995), and JIANG Chunyun (since 17 March 1995) nominated by the president, decided by the National People's Congress cabinet: State Council appointed by the National People's Congress (NPC) Legislative branch: unicameral National People's Congress (Quanguo Renmin Daibiao Dahui): elections last held NA March 1993 (next to be held NA March 1998); results - CCP is the only party but there are also independents; seats - (2,977 total) (elected at county or xian level) Judicial branch: Supreme People's Court, judges appointed by the National People's Congress Political parties and leaders: Chinese Communist Party (CCP), JIANG Zemin, general secretary of the Central Committee; eight registered small parties controlled by CCP Other political or pressure groups: such meaningful opposition as exists consists of loose coalitions, usually within the party and government organization, that vary by issue International organization participation: AfDB, APEC, AsDB, CCC, ESCAP, FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ISO, ITU, LAIA (observer), Mekong Group, MINURSO, NAM (observer), PCA, UN, UN Security Council, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNOMIL, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador LI Daoyu chancery: 2300 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 328-2500 through 2502 consulate(s) general: Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador James R. SASSER embassy: Xiu Shui Bei Jie 3, 100600 Beijing mailing address: PSC 461, Box 50, FPO AP 96521-0002 telephone: [86] (10) 5323831 FAX: [86] (10) 5326422 consulate(s) general: Chengdu, Guangzhou, Shanghai, Shenyang Flag: red with a large yellow five-pointed star and four smaller yellow five-pointed stars (arranged in a vertical arc toward the middle of the flag) in the upper hoist-side corner Economy ------- Economic overview: Beginning in late 1978 the Chinese leadership has been trying to move the economy from a sluggish Soviet-style centrally planned economy to one that is more market-oriented, but still within a rigid political framework of Communist Party control. To this end the authorities switched to a system of household responsibility in agriculture in place of the old collectivization, increased the authority of local officials and plant managers in industry, permitted a wide variety of small-scale enterprise in services and light manufacturing, and opened the economy to increased foreign trade and investment. The result has been a strong surge in production. Agricultural output doubled in the 1980s, and industry also posted major gains, especially in coastal areas near Hong Kong and opposite Taiwan, where foreign investment and modern production methods helped spur output of both domestic and export goods. GDP has more than tripled since 1978. On the darker side, the leadership has often experienced in its hybrid system the worst results of socialism (bureaucracy, lassitude, corruption) and of capitalism (windfall gains and stepped-up inflation). Beijing thus has periodically backtracked, retightening central controls at intervals. In 1992-95 annual growth of GDP accelerated, particularly in the coastal areas - averaging more than 10% annually according to official figures. In late 1993 China's leadership approved additional long-term reforms aimed at giving still more play to market-oriented institutions and at strengthening the center's control over the financial system; state enterprises would continue to dominate many key industries in what was now termed "a socialist market economy." In 1995 inflation dropped sharply, reflecting tighter monetary policies and stronger measures to control food prices. At the same time, the government struggled to (a) collect revenues due from provinces, businesses, and individuals; (b) reduce extortion and other economic crimes; and (c) keep afloat the large state-owned enterprises, most of which had not participated in the vigorous expansion of the economy. From 60 to 100 million surplus rural workers are adrift between the villages and the cities, many subsisting through part-time low-pay jobs. Popular resistance, changes in central policy, and loss of authority by rural cadres have weakened China's population control program, which is essential to the nation's long-term economic viability. One of the most dangerous long-term threats to continued rapid economic growth is the deterioration in the environment, notably air pollution, soil erosion, and the steady fall of the water table especially in the north. The amount of arable land continues to decline because of erosion and economic development, the cumulative loss since the Communist takeover in 1949 being more than 15%. The next few years will witness increasing tensions between a highly centralized political system and an increasingly decentralized economic system. GDP: purchasing power parity - $3.5 trillion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate with use of official Chinese growth figures for 1993-95; the result may overstate China's GDP by as much as 25%) GDP real growth rate: 10.3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,900 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 19% industry: 48% services: 33% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 10.1% (December 1995 over December 1994) Labor force: 583.6 million (1991) by occupation: agriculture and forestry 60%, industry and commerce 25%, construction and mining 5%, social services 5%, other 5% (1990 est.) Unemployment rate: 5.2% in urban areas (1995 est.); substantial underemployment Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: iron and steel, coal, machine building, armaments, textiles and apparel, petroleum, cement, chemical fertilizers, consumer durables, food processing, autos, consumer electronics, telecommunications Industrial production growth rate: 13.4% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 162,000,000 kW production: 746 billion kWh consumption per capita: 593 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rice, potatoes, sorghum, peanuts, tea, millet, barley, cotton, other fibers, oilseed; pork and other livestock products; fish Illicit drugs: major transshipment point for heroin produced in the Golden Triangle; growing domestic drug abuse problem Exports: $148.8 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: garments, textiles, footwear, toys, machinery and equipment (1994) partners: Hong Kong, Japan, US, Germany, South Korea, Singapore (1994) Imports: $132.1 billion (c.i.f., 1995) commodities: industrial machinery, textiles, plastics, telecommunications equipment, steel bars, aircraft (1994) partners: Japan, Taiwan, US, Hong Kong, South Korea, Germany (1994) External debt: $92 billion (1994 est.) Economic aid: donor: to less developed countries (1970-89) $NA recipient: ODA, $1.977 billion (1993) Currency: 1 yuan (Y) = 10 jiao Exchange rates: yuan (Y) per US$1 - 8.3186 (January 1996), 8.3514 (1995), 8.6187 (1994), 5.7620 (1993), 5.5146 (1992), 5.3234 (1991) note: beginning 1 January 1994, the People's Bank of China quotes the midpoint rate against the US dollar based on the previous day's prevailing rate in the interbank foreign exchange market Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 58,399 km standard gauge: 54,799 km 1.435-m gauge (7,174 km electrified; more than 11,000 km double track) narrow gauge: 3,600 km 0.762-m gauge local industrial lines (1995) Highways: total: 1.029 million km paved: 170,000 km unpaved: 859,000 km (1990 est.) Waterways: 138,600 km; about 109,800 km navigable Pipelines: crude oil 9,700 km; petroleum products 1,100 km; natural gas 6,200 km (1990) Ports: Aihui, Changsha, Dalian, Fuzhou, Guangzhou, Hangzhou, Harbin, Huangpu, Nanning, Ningbo, Qingdao, Qinhuangdao, Shanghai, Shantou, Tanggu, Xiamen, Xingang, Zhanjiang Merchant marine: total: 1,700 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 16,663,260 GRT/25,026,090 DWT ships by type: barge carrier 2, bulk 316, cargo 876, chemical tanker 15, combination bulk 11, container 103, liquefied gas tanker 4, multifunction large-load carrier 3, oil tanker 227, passenger 24, passenger-cargo 28, refrigerated cargo 22, roll-on/roll-off cargo 24, short-sea passenger 45 note: China owns an additional 267 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 9,044,039 DWT operating under the registries of Panama, Hong Kong, Malta, Liberia, Vanuatu, Cyprus, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, The Bahamas, Marshall Islands, and Singapore (1995 est.) Airports: total: 204 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 17 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 69 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 89 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 9 with paved runways under 914 m: 7 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 7 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 3 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 20 million (1994 est.) Telephone system: domestic and international services are increasingly available for private use; unevenly distributed domestic system serves principal cities, industrial centers, and most townships domestic: telephone lines are being expanded; interprovincial fiber-optic trunk lines and cellular telephone systems have been installed; a domestic satellite system with 55 earth stations is in place international: satellite earth stations - 5 Intelsat (4 Pacific Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region) and 1 Inmarsat (Pacific and Indian Ocean Regions); several international fiber-optic links to Japan, South Korea, and Hong Kong Radio broadcast stations: AM 274, FM NA, shortwave 0 Radios: 216.5 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 202 (repeaters 2,050) Televisions: 75 million Defense ------- Branches: People's Liberation Army (PLA), which includes the Ground Forces, Navy (includes Marines and Naval Aviation), Air Force, Second Artillery Corps (the strategic missile force), People's Armed Police (internal security troops, nominally subordinate to Ministry of Public Security, but included by the Chinese as part of the "armed forces" and considered to be an adjunct to the PLA in wartime) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 352,506,948 males fit for military service: 194,589,216 males reach military age (18) annually: 9,763,916 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: the officially announced but suspect figure is 70.2 billion yuan, NA% of GDP (1995 est.); note - conversion of the defense budget into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results ====================================================================== @Christmas Island ---------------- (territory of Australia) Map --- Location: 10 30 S, 105 40 E -- Southeastern Asia, island in the Indian Ocean, south of Indonesia Flag ---- Description: the flag of Australia is used Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Asia, island in the Indian Ocean, south of Indonesia Geographic coordinates: 10 30 S, 105 40 E Map references: Southeast Asia Area: total area: 135 sq km land area: 135 sq km comparative area: about 0.7 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Murray Hill 361 m 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: the narrow fringing reef surrounding the island can be a maritime hazard international agreements: NA Geographic note: located along major sea lanes of Indian Ocean People ------ Population: 813 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: -8.98% (1996 est.) Birth rate: NA births/1,000 population Death rate: NA deaths/1,000 population Net migration rate: NA migrant(s)/1,000 population Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female 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: Christmas Islander(s) adjective: Christmas Island Ethnic divisions: Chinese 61%, Malay 25%, European 11%, other 3%, no indigenous population Religions: Buddhist 55%, Christian 15%, Muslim 10%, other 20% (1991) Languages: English Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Territory of Christmas Island conventional short form: Christmas Island Data code: KT Type of government: 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 (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch head of government: Administrator Danny Ambrose GILLESPIE (since NA) was appointed by the governor general of Australia and represents the queen and Australia cabinet: Christmas Island Shire Council Legislative branch: none Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: none International organization participation: none Diplomatic representation in US: none (territory of Australia) US diplomatic representation: none (territory of Australia) Flag: the flag of Australia is used Economy ------- Economic 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. Private operators reopened the mine in 1990 under strict environmental controls, in particular to preserve the rain forest. A hotel and casino complex opened in 1993, and tourism is a likely growth sector. GDP: purchasing power parity - $NA GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $NA GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: NA by occupation: all workers are employees of the Phosphate Mining Company of Christmas Island, Ltd. Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: phosphate extraction (near depletion) Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 11,000 kW production: 30 million kWh consumption per capita: 17,800 kWh (1990) Agriculture: NA Exports: $NA commodities: phosphate partners: Australia, NZ Imports: $NA commodities: consumer goods partners: principally Australia External debt: $NA Economic aid: none Currency: 1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3477 (January 1996),1.3486 (1995), 1.3667 (1994), 1.4704, (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2836 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: 24 km to serve phosphate mines 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: NA Telephone system: domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 500 (1992) Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 350 (1992) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of Australia ====================================================================== @Clipperton Island ----------------- (possession of France) Map --- Location: 10 17 N, 109 13 W -- Middle America, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, 1,120 km southwest of Mexico Flag ---- Description: the flag of France is used Geography --------- Location: Middle America, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, 1,120 km southwest of Mexico Geographic coordinates: 10 17 N, 109 13 W 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, humid, average temperature 20-32 degrees C, rains May-October Terrain: coral atoll lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Rocher Clipperton 21 m 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: subject to tornadoes international agreements: NA Geographic note: reef about 8 km in circumference People ------ Population: uninhabited Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: IP Type of government: French possession administered by France from French Polynesia by the High Commissioner of the Republic Capital: none; administered by France from French Polynesia Independence: none (possession of France) Flag: the flag of France is used Economy ------- Economic overview: The only economic activity is a tuna fishing station. Transportation -------------- Ports: none; offshore anchorage only Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France ====================================================================== @Cocos (Keeling) Islands ----------------------- (territory of Australia) Map --- Location: 12 30 S, 96 50 E -- Southeastern Asia, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, south of Indonesia, about one-half of the way from Australia to Sri Lanka Flag ---- Description: the flag of Australia is used 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 Geographic coordinates: 12 30 S, 96 50 E 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 rainfall Terrain: flat, low-lying coral atolls lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 5 m 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: fresh water resources are limited to rainwater accumulations in natural underground reservoirs natural hazards: cyclones may occur in the early months of the year international agreements: NA Geographic note: two coral atolls thickly covered with coconut palms and other vegetation People ------ Population: 609 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 0.94% (1996 est.) Birth rate: NA births/1,000 population Death rate: NA deaths/1,000 population Net migration rate: NA migrant(s)/1,000 population Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female 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 Muslim 57%, Christian 22%, other 21% (1981 est.) Languages: English Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Territory of Cocos (Keeling) Islands conventional short form: Cocos (Keeling) Islands Data code: CK Type of government: 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 (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch head of government: Administrator John Bell READ (since NA) was appointed by the governor general of Australia and represents the queen and Australia Legislative branch: unicameral Cocos (Keeling) Islands Shire Council; President of the Islands Council Ronald GRANT (since NA) Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: none International organization participation: WMO Diplomatic representation in US: none (territory of Australia) US diplomatic representation: none (territory of Australia) Flag: the flag of Australia is used Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $NA GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $NA GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: NA Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: copra products Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 1,000 kW production: 2 million kWh consumption per capita: 2,980 kWh (1990) Agriculture: vegetables, bananas, pawpaws, coconuts Exports: $NA commodities: copra partners: Australia Imports: $NA commodities: foodstuffs partners: Australia External debt: $NA Economic aid: none Currency: 1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3477 (January 1996), 1.3486 (1995), 1.3667 (1994), 1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2836 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: NA Telephone system: domestic: NA international: telephone, telex, and facsimile communications with Australia via satellite; 1 satellite earth station of NA type Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 300 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 note: intermittent television service via satellite Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of Australia ====================================================================== @Colombia -------- Map --- Location: 4 00 N, 72 00 W -- Northern South America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Panama and Venezuela, and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Ecuador and Panama Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Northern South America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Panama and Venezuela, and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Ecuador and Panama Geographic coordinates: 4 00 N, 72 00 W 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Nevado del Huila 5,750 m 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 international agreements: party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Tropical Timber 94 Geographic note: only South American country with coastlines on both North Pacific Ocean and Caribbean Sea People ------ Population: 36,813,161 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 32% (male 5,948,599; female 5,806,450) 15-64 years: 64% (male 11,496,931; female 11,890,875) 65 years and over: 4% (male 741,788; female 928,518) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.66% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 21.34 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 4.65 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.13 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.97 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.8 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 25.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 72.81 years male: 69.97 years female: 75.73 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.35 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 91.3% male: 91.2% female: 91.4% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Colombia conventional short form: Colombia local long form: Republica de Colombia local short form: Colombia Data code: CO Type of government: 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) elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 29 May 1994 (next to be held NA May 1998) results - no candidate received more than 50% of the total vote; a run-off election to select a president from the two leading candidates was held 19 June 1994; results - Ernesto SAMPER Pizano (Liberal Party) 50.4%, Andres PASTRANA Arango (Conservative Party) 48.6%, blank votes 1%; Humberto de la CALLE Lombana elected vice president for a four-year term by popular vote in a new procedure that replaces the traditional designation of vice presidents by newly elected presidents cabinet: Cabinet Legislative branch: bicameral Congress (Congreso) Senate (Senado): elections last held 13 March 1994 (next to be held NA March 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (102 total) Liberal Party 59, conservatives (includes PC, MSN, and NDF) 31, other 12 House of Representatives (Camara de Representantes): elections last held 13 March 1994 (next to be held NA March 1998); seats - (161 total) Liberal Party 89, conservatives (includes PC, MSN, and NDF) 53, AD/M-19 2, other 17 Judicial branch: Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justical), highest court of criminal law, judges are selected from the nominees of the Higher Council of Justice for eight-year terms; Council of State, highest court of administrative law, judges are selected from the nominees of the Higher Council of Justice for eight-year terms; Constitutional Court, guards integrity and supremacy of the constitution, rules on constitutionality of laws, amendments to the constitution, and international treaties Political parties and leaders: Liberal Party (PL), Luis Fernando JARAMILLO; Conservative Party (PC), Jaime ARIAS; New Democratic Force (NDF), Andres PASTRANA Arango; Democratic Alliance M-19 (AD/M-19) is a coalition of small leftist parties and dissident liberals and conservatives; Patriotic Union (UP) is a legal political party formed by Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC) and Colombian Communist Party (PCC), Aida ABELLA; National Salvation Movement (MSN) Alvaro GOMEZ Hurtado Other political or pressure groups: three insurgent groups are active in Colombia - Revolutionary Armed Forces of Colombia (FARC); National Liberation Army (ELN); and dissidents of the recently demobilized People's Liberation Army (EPL/D) International organization participation: AG, CCC, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G- 3, G-11, G-24, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, LAES, LAIA, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Carlos LLERAS de la Fuente chancery: 2118 Leroy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 387-8338 FAX: [1] (202) 232-8643 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 22D-BIS, No. 47-51, Apartado Aereo 3831 mailing address: APO AA 34038 telephone: [57] (1) 315-0811 FAX: [57] (1) 315-2197 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Boasting a diversified and stable economy, Colombia has enjoyed Latin America's most consistent record of growth over the last several decades. Gross domestic product (GDP) has expanded every year for more than 25 years, and unlike many other South American countries, Colombia did not default on any of its official debts during the "lost decade" of the 1980s. Since 1990, when Bogota introduced a comprehensive reform program that opened the economy to foreign trade and investment, GDP growth has averaged more than 4% annually. Growth has been fueled in recent years by the expansion of the construction and financial service industries and an influx of foreign capital. Some foreign investors have been deterred by an inadequate energy and transportation infrastructure and the violence stemming from drug trafficking and persistent rural guerrilla warfare, but direct foreign investment, especially in the oil industry, is still rising at a rapid rate. Although oil consequently is overtaking coffee as the main legal export, earnings from illicit drugs probably exceed those from any other export. Non-petroleum economic growth has been slowing, however, in part because the tight monetary policies adopted to offset the inflationary impact of high capital inflows and rising government spending have slowed local sales and investment. Business confidence also has been damaged by a political crisis stemming from allegations that senior government officials, including President SAMPER, solicited contributions from drug traffickers during the 1994 election campaign. The slowdown in the growth of labor-intensive industries such as manufacturing has caused a small rise in unemployment and interfered with President SAMPER'S plans to lower the country's poverty rate, which has remained at about 40% despite the expanding economy. Nevertheless, the booming oil sector, growing foreign investment, and the fundamental stability of the economy promise to keep growth positive for the foreseeable future, barring severe, unpredictable shocks from developments in the political or international arenas. GDP: purchasing power parity - $192.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 5.3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $5,300 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 21.5% industry: 29% services: 49.5% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 19.5% (1995 est.) Labor force: 12 million (1990) by occupation: services 46%, agriculture 30%, industry 24% (1990) Unemployment rate: 9.5% (1995) Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $24 billion including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.) Industries: textiles, food processing, oil, clothing and footwear, beverages, chemicals, cement; gold, coal, emeralds Industrial production growth rate: 3.5% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 10,220,000 kW production: 33 billion kWh consumption per capita: 890 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, cut flowers, bananas, rice, tobacco, corn, sugarcane, cocoa beans, oilseed, vegetables; forest products; shrimp farming Illicit drugs: illicit producer of coca, opium poppies, and cannabis; about 50,900 hectares of coca under cultivation in 1995; the world's largest processor of coca derivatives into cocaine; supplier of cocaine to the US and other international drug markets; active aerial eradication program seeks to virtually eliminate coca and opium crops by 1997 Exports: $10.5 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: petroleum, coffee, coal, bananas, fresh cut flowers partners: US 39%, EC 25.7%, Japan 2.9%, Venezuela 8.5% (1992) Imports: $13.5 billion (c.i.f., 1995 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: $14 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $30 million (1993) Currency: 1 Colombian peso (Col$) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: Colombian pesos (Col$) per US$1 - 1,011.11 (January 1996), 912.83 (1995), 844.84 (1994), 863.06 (1993), 759.28 (1992), 633.05 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 3,386 km standard gauge: 150 km 1.435-m gauge (connects Cerrejon coal mines to maritime port at Bahia Portete) narrow gauge: 3,236 km 0.914-m gauge (1830 km in use) (1995) Highways: total: 107,200 km paved: 12,600 km unpaved: 94,600 km 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: 19 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 97,037 GRT/129,404 DWT ships by type: bulk 5, cargo 8, container 3, oil tanker 3 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 989 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 2 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 9 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 33 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 35 with paved runways under 914 m: 557 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 41 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 311 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1.89 million (1986 est.) Telephone system: modern system in many respects domestic: nationwide microwave radio relay system; domestic satellite system with 11 earth stations international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 413 (licensed), FM 217 (licensed), shortwave 28 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 33 Televisions: 5.5 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- 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: 10,067,538 males fit for military service: 6,774,105 males reach military age (18) annually: 346,372 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $2 billion, 2.8% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Comoros ------- Map --- Location: 12 10 S, 44 15 E -- Southern Africa, group of islands in the Mozambique Channel, about two-thirds of the way between northern Madagascar and northern Mozambique Flag ---- Description: green with a white crescent in the center of the field, its points facing downward; there are four white five-pointed stars placed in a line between the points of the crescent; the crescent, stars, and color green are traditional symbols of Islam; the four stars represent the four main islands of the archipelago - Mwali, Njazidja, Nzwani, and Mayotte (a territorial collectivity of France, but claimed by Comoros); the design, the most recent of several, is described in the constitution approved by referendum on 7 June 1992 Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, group of islands in the Mozambique Channel, about two-thirds of the way between northern Madagascar and northern Mozambique Geographic coordinates: 12 10 S, 44 15 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 2,170 sq km land area: 2,170 sq km comparative area: slightly more than 12 times the size of Washington, DC Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 340 km Maritime claims: exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: claims French-administered Mayotte Climate: tropical marine; rainy season (November to May) Terrain: volcanic islands, interiors vary from steep mountains to low hills lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Kartala 2,360 m Natural resources: negligible Land use: arable land: 35% permanent crops: 8% meadows and pastures: 7% forest and woodland: 16% other: 34% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: soil degradation and erosion results from crop cultivation on slopes without proper terracing; deforestation natural hazards: cyclones and tsunamis possible during rainy season (December to April); Mount Kartala on Grand Comore is an active volcano international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Desertification Geographic note: important location at northern end of Mozambique Channel People ------ Population: 569,237 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 48% (male 137,235; female 136,207) 15-64 years: 49% (male 138,447; female 142,058) 65 years and over: 3% (male 7,242; female 8,048) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.55% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 45.82 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 10.28 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.9 male(s)/female all ages: 0.99 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 75.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 58.7 years male: 56.43 years female: 61.05 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.65 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Comoran(s) adjective: Comoran Ethnic divisions: Antalote, Cafre, Makoa, Oimatsaha, Sakalava Religions: Sunni Muslim 86%, Roman Catholic 14% Languages: Arabic (official), French (official), Comoran (a blend of Swahili and Arabic) Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 57.3% male: 64.2% female: 50.4% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Federal Islamic Republic of the Comoros conventional short form: Comoros local long form: Republique Federale Islamique des Comores local short form: Comores Data code: CN Type of government: independent republic Capital: Moroni Administrative divisions: three islands; Grand Comore (Njazidja), Anjouan (Nzwani), and Moheli (Mwali) note: there are also four municipalities named Domoni, Fomboni, Moroni, and Mutsamudu Independence: 6 July 1975 (from France) National holiday: Independence Day, 6 July (1975) Constitution: 7 June 1992 Legal system: French and Muslim law in a new consolidated code Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Mohamed TAKI Abdulkarim (since 16 March 1996) was elected by popular vote; election last held 16 March 1996 (next to be held March 2001) head of government: Prime Minister MASSOUNDI Tadjidine Ben Said (since March 1996) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the president Legislative branch: unicameral Federal Assembly (Assemblee Federale): elections last held 12-20 December 1993 (next to be held by NA January 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (42 total) ruling coalition: RDR 15, UNDC 5, MWANGAZA 2; opposition: UDZIMA 8; other smaller parties: 10; two seats remained unfilled Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Cour Supreme), two members are appointed by the president, two members are elected by the Federal Assembly, one by the Council of each island, plus all the former presidents of the republic Political parties and leaders: Islands' Fraternity and Unity Party (CHUMA), Said Ali KEMAL; over 20 political parties are currently active, the most important of which are Comoran Union for Progress (UDZIMA), Omar TAMOU; Comoran Party for Democracy and Progress (PCDP), Ali MROUDJAE; Realizing Freedom's Capability (UWEZO), Mouazair ABDALLAH; Democratic Front of the Comoros (FDR), Moustapha CHELKH; Dialogue Proposition Action (DPA/MWANGAZA), Said MCHAWGAMA; Rally for Change and Democracy (RACHADE), Hassan HACHIM; Union for Democracy and Decentralization (UNDC), Mohamed Taki Halidi IBRAHAM; Rally for Democracy and Renewal (RDR); Comoran Popular Front (FPC), Mohamed HASSANALI, Mohamed El Arif OUKACHA, Abdou MOUSTAKIM (Secretary General) International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, AL, CCC, ECA, FAO, FZ, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, ILO, IMF, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WMO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Mohamed Ahamada DJIMBANAOU (ambassador to the US and Canada) chancery: (temporary) care of the Permanent Mission of the Federal and Islamic Republic of the Comoros to the United Nations, 336 East 45th Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10017 telephone: [1] (212) 972-8010 FAX: [1] (212) 983-4712 US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Comoros; the ambassador to Mauritius is accredited to Comoros Flag: green with a white crescent in the center of the field, its points facing downward; there are four white five-pointed stars placed in a line between the points of the crescent; the crescent, stars, and color green are traditional symbols of Islam; the four stars represent the four main islands of the archipelago - Mwali, Njazidja, Nzwani, and Mayotte (a territorial collectivity of France, but claimed by Comoros); the design, the most recent of several, is described in the constitution approved by referendum on 7 June 1992 Economy ------- Economic overview: One of the world's poorest countries, Comoros is made up of several islands that have poor transportation links, a young and rapidly increasing population, and few natural resources. The low educational level of the labor force contributes to a subsistence level of economic activity, high unemployment, and a heavy dependence on foreign grants and technical assistance. Agriculture, including fishing, hunting, and forestry, is the leading sector of the economy. It contributes 40% to GDP, employs 80% of the labor force, and provides most of the exports. The country is not self-sufficient in food production; rice, the main staple, accounts for 90% of imports. The government is struggling to upgrade education and technical training, to privatize commercial and industrial enterprises, to improve health services, to diversify exports, and to reduce the high population growth rate. Continued foreign support is essential if the goal of 4% annual GDP growth is to be reached in the late 1990s. GDP: purchasing power parity - $370 million (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 0.9% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $700 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 15% (1993 est.) Labor force: 140,000 (1982) by occupation: agriculture 80%, government 3% Unemployment rate: 15.8% (1989) Budget: revenues: $83 million expenditures: $92 million, including capital expenditures of $32 million (1992) Industries: tourism, perfume distillation, textiles, furniture, jewelry, construction materials, soft drinks Industrial production growth rate: -6.5% (1989 est.) Electricity: capacity: 16,000 kW production: 17 million kWh consumption per capita: 27 kWh (1993) Agriculture: vanilla, cloves, perfume essences, copra, coconuts, bananas, cassava (tapioca) Exports: $13.7 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.) commodities: vanilla, ylang-ylang, cloves, perfume oil, copra partners: US 44%, France 40%, Germany 6%, Africa 5% (1992) Imports: $40.9 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.) commodities: rice and other foodstuffs, petroleum products, cement, consumer goods partners: France 34%, South Africa 14%, Kenya 8%, Japan 4% (1992) External debt: $160 million (1992 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Comoran franc (CF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: Comoran francs (CF) per US$1 - 375.42 (January 1996), 374.36 (1995), 416.40 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991) note: beginning 12 January 1994, the Comoran franc was devalued to 75 per French franc from 50 per French franc at which it had been fixed since 1948 Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 1,104 km paved: 400 km unpaved: 704 km (1988 est.) Ports: Fomboni, Moroni, Mutsamudu Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 4 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 3,770 (1991 est.) Telephone system: sparse system of microwave radio relay and HF radiotelephone communication stations domestic: HF radiotelephone communications and microwave radio relay international: HF radiotelephone communications to Madagascar and Reunion Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 0 Televisions: 200 (1991 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Comoran Security Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 121,854 males fit for military service: 72,873 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Congo ----- Map --- Location: 1 00 S, 15 00 E -- Western Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Angola and Gabon Flag ---- Description: divided diagonally from the lower hoist side by a yellow band; the upper triangle (hoist side) is green and the lower triangle is red; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Angola and Gabon Geographic coordinates: 1 00 S, 15 00 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 342,000 sq km land area: 341,500 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Montana Land boundaries: total: 5,504 km border countries: Angola 201 km, Cameroon 523 km, Central African Republic 467 km, Gabon 1,903 km, Zaire 2,410 km Coastline: 169 km Maritime claims: territorial sea: 200 nm International disputes: long segment of boundary with Zaire along the Congo River is indefinite (no division of the river or its islands has been made) Climate: tropical; rainy season (March to June); dry season (June to October); constantly high temperatures and humidity; particularly enervating climate astride the Equator Terrain: coastal plain, southern basin, central plateau, northern basin lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Berongou 903 m Natural resources: petroleum, timber, potash, lead, zinc, uranium, copper, phosphates, natural gas Land use: arable land: 2% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 29% forest and woodland: 62% other: 7% Irrigated land: 40 sq km (1989) Environment: current issues: air pollution from vehicle emissions; water pollution from the dumping of raw sewage; tap water is not potable; deforestation natural hazards: seasonal flooding international 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 Geographic note: about 70% of the population lives in Brazzaville, Pointe Noire, or along the railroad between them People ------ Population: 2,527,841 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 43% (male 550,971; female 545,096) 15-64 years: 53% (male 657,035; female 688,441) 65 years and over: 4% (male 34,973; female 51,325) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.19% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 39.19 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 17.35 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.95 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.68 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 108.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 45.77 years male: 44.21 years female: 47.37 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.15 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 74.9% male: 83.1% female: 67.2% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: CF Type of government: 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 customary law Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Pascal LISSOUBA (since August 1992); elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held NA August 1992 (next to be held NA August 1997); results - President Pascal LISSOUBA won 61% of the vote head of government: Prime Minister Jacques Joachim YHOMBI-OPANGO (since 23 June 1993) appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers appointed by the president Legislative branch: bicameral National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): election last held 3 October 1993 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (125 total) UPADS 64, URD/PCT 58, others 3 Senate: election last held 26 July 1992 (next to be held NA July 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (60 total) UPADS 23, MCDDI 14, RDD 8, RDPS 5, PCT 2, others 8 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Cour Supreme) Political parties and leaders: of Congo's many political parties, the most important are Congolese Labor Party (PCT), Denis SASSOU-NGUESSO, president; Association for Democracy and Development (RDD), Joachim Yhombi OPANGO, president; Association for Democracy and Social Progress (RDPS), Jean-Pierre Thystere TCHICAYA, president; Congolese Movement for Democracy and Integral Development (MCDDI), Bernard KOLELAS, leader; Pan-African Union for Social Development (UPADS), Pascal LISSOUBA, leader; Union of Democratic Forces (UFD), David Charles GANAO, leader; Union for Democratic Renewal (URD); Union for Development and Social Progress (UDPS), Jean-Michael BOKAMBA-YANGOUMA, leader Other political or pressure groups: Union of Congolese Socialist Youth (UJSC); Congolese Trade Union Congress (CSC); Revolutionary Union of Congolese Women (URFC); General Union of Congolese Pupils and Students (UGEEC) International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, BDEAC, CCC, CEEAC, ECA, FAO, FZ, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, UDEAC, UN, UNAMIR, UNAVEM III, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Daniel MOUELLET chancery: 4891 Colorado Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20011 telephone: [1] (202) 726-0825 FAX: [1] (202) 726-1860 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador William C. RAMSEY embassy: Avenue Amilcar Cabral, Brazzaville mailing address: B. P. 1015, Brazzaville telephone: [242] 83 20 70 FAX: [242] 83 63 38 Flag: divided diagonally from the lower hoist side by a yellow band; the upper triangle (hoist side) is green and the lower triangle is red; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia Economy ------- Economic overview: Congo's economy is a mixture of village agriculture and handicrafts, an industrial sector based largely on oil, support services, and a government characterized by budget problems and overstaffing. Oil has supplanted forestry as the mainstay of the economy, providing about 90% of government revenues and exports. In the early 1980s, rapidly rising oil revenues enabled Congo to finance large-scale development projects with GDP growth averaging 5% annually, one of the highest rates in Africa. Subsequently, falling oil prices cut GDP growth by half. Moreover, the Congolese Government has mortgaged a substantial portion of its oil earnings, contributing to the government's shortage of revenues. The 12 January 1994 devaluation of Franc Zone currencies by 50% resulted in inflation of 61% in 1994. Recent efforts to implement economic reforms have begun to show progress; the IMF has recommended approval of an Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility agreement in 1996. GDP: purchasing power parity - $7.7 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3.3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $3,100 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 11.4% industry: 35.2% services: 53.4% (1993) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 61% (1994 est.) Labor force: 79,100 wage earners by occupation: agriculture 75%, commerce, industry, and government 25% Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $2.18 billion (1994 est.) expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: petroleum extraction, cement kilning, lumbering, brewing, sugar milling, palm oil, soap, cigarette making Industrial production growth rate: 3.7% (estimated average annual growth rate for 1980-92) Electricity: capacity: 120,000 kW production: 400 million kWh consumption per capita: 201 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cassava (tapioca) accounts for 90% of food output, sugar, rice, corn, peanuts, vegetables, coffee, cocoa; forest products Exports: $1 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: crude oil 90%, lumber, plywood, sugar, cocoa, coffee, diamonds partners: Italy, France, Spain, other EU countries, US, Taiwan Imports: $600 million (c.i.f., 1995) commodities: intermediate manufactures, capital equipment, construction materials, foodstuffs, petroleum products partners: France, Italy, other EU countries, US, Japan, Thailand External debt: $5 billion (1993) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: CFA francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 500.56 (January 1996), 499.15 (1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991) 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 795 km (1995 est.) narrow gauge: 795 km 1.067-m gauge (includes 285 km that are privately owned) Highways: total: 12,745 km paved: 1,236 km unpaved: 11,509 km (1992 est.) Waterways: the Congo and Ubangi (Oubangui) Rivers provide 1,120 km of commercially navigable water transport; other rivers are used for local traffic only Pipelines: crude oil 25 km Ports: Brazzaville, Impfondo, Ouesso, Oyo, Pointe-Noire Merchant marine: total: 1 cargo ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,218 GRT/4,100 DWT (1995 est.) Airports: total: 34 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 3 with paved runways under 914 m: 9 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 7 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 14 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 18,000 (1983 est.) Telephone system: services adequate for government use; key exchanges are in Brazzaville, Pointe-Noire, and Loubomo domestic: primary network consists of microwave radio relay and coaxial cable international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 4, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 4 (1987 est.) Televisions: 8,500 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy (includes Marines), Air Force, National Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 582,103 males fit for military service: 296,602 males reach military age (20) annually: 25,247 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $110 million, 3.8% of GDP (1993) ====================================================================== @Cook Islands ------------ (free association with New Zealand) Map --- Location: 21 14 S, 159 46 W -- Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand Flag ---- Description: blue, with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and a large circle of 15 white five-pointed stars (one for every island) centered in the outer half of the flag Geography --------- Location: Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand Geographic coordinates: 21 14 S, 159 46 W Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 240 sq km land area: 240 sq km comparative area: slightly more than one times the size of Washington, DC Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 120 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: none Climate: tropical; moderated by trade winds Terrain: low coral atolls in north; volcanic, hilly islands in south lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Te Manga 652 m Natural resources: negligible Land use: arable land: 4% permanent crops: 22% meadows and pastures: 0% forest and woodland: 0% other: 74% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: NA natural hazards: typhoons (November to March) international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea People ------ Population: 19,561 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 1.11% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 22.87 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.2 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -6.58 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 24.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 71.14 years male: 69.2 years female: 73.1 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.25 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Cook Islander(s) adjective: Cook Islander Ethnic divisions: Polynesian (full blood) 81.3%, Polynesian and European 7.7%, Polynesian and non-European 7.7%, European 2.4%, other 0.9% Religions: Christian (majority of populace members of Cook Islands Christian Church) Languages: English (official), Maori Literacy: NA Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Cook Islands Data code: CW Type of government: self-governing parliamentary government in free association with New Zealand; Cook Islands is fully responsible for internal affairs; New Zealand retains responsibility for external affairs, in consultation with the Cook Islands Capital: Avarua Administrative divisions: none Independence: none (became self-governing in free association with New Zealand on 4 August 1965 and has the right at any time to move to full independence by unilateral action) National holiday: Constitution Day, 4 August Constitution: 4 August 1965 Legal system: NA Suffrage: NA years of age; universal adult Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Apenera SHORT (since NA); New Zealand High Commissioner Darryl DUNN (since NA 1994), representative of New Zealand was appointed by the New Zealand Government head of government: Prime Minister Sir Geoffrey A. HENRY (since 1 February 1989); Deputy Prime Minister Inatio AKARURU (since 1 February 1989) cabinet: Cabinet; collectively responsible to Parliament Legislative branch: unicameral Parliament: elections last held 6 March 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (25 total) Cook Islands Party 20, Democratic Party 3, Democratic Alliance Party 2 note: the House of Arikis (chiefs) advises on traditional matters, but has no legislative powers Judicial branch: High Court Political parties and leaders: Cook Islands Party, Geoffrey HENRY; Democratic Party, Sir Thomas DAVIS; Democratic Alliance Party, Norman GEORGE International organization participation: AsDB, ESCAP (associate), ICAO, ICFTU, IFAD, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), IOC, Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UNESCO, WHO Diplomatic representation in US: none (self-governing in free association with New Zealand) US diplomatic representation: none (self-governing in free association with New Zealand) Flag: blue, with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and a large circle of 15 white five-pointed stars (one for every island) centered in the outer half of the flag Economy ------- Economic overview: Agriculture provides the economic base. The major export earners are fruit, copra, and clothing. Manufacturing activities are limited to a fruit-processing plant and several clothing factories. Economic development is hindered by the isolation of the islands from foreign markets and a lack of natural resources and good transportation links. A large trade deficit is annually made up for by remittances from emigrants and by foreign aid, largely from New Zealand. Current economic development plans call for exploiting the tourism potential and expanding the mining and fishing industries. Despite these plans, the Cook Islands will continue to face severe financial problems. GDP: purchasing power parity - $57 million (1993 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $3,000 (1993 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 6.2% (1990) Labor force: 5,810 by occupation: agriculture 29%, government 27%, services 25%, industry 15%, other 4% (1981) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: fruit processing, tourism Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 14,000 kW production: 21 million kWh consumption per capita: 741 kWh (1993) Agriculture: copra, citrus, pineapples, tomatoes, bananas, yams, taro Exports: $3.4 million (f.o.b., 1990) commodities: copra, fresh and canned fruit, clothing partners: NZ 80%, Japan Imports: $50 million (c.i.f., 1990) commodities: foodstuffs, textiles, fuels, timber partners: NZ 49%, Japan, Australia, US External debt: $160 million (1994) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA note: in 1994, Cook Islands received $5.4 million in budget support and $3.3 million in project aid from New Zealand, the country's largest source of aid Currency: 1 New Zealand dollar (NZ$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: New Zealand dollars (NZ$) per US$1 - 1.5138 (January 1996), 1.5235 (1995), 1.6844 (1994), 1.8495 (1993), 1.8584 (1992), 1.7265 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 187 km paved: 35 km unpaved: 152 km (1980 est.) Ports: Avarua, Avatiu Merchant marine: total: 1 cargo ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,464 GRT/2,181 DWT (1995 est.) Airports: total: 7 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 3 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 4,180 (1994) Telephone system: domestic: the individual islands are connected by a combination of satellite earth stations, microwave systems, and VHF and HF radiotelephone; within the islands, service is provided by small exchanges connected to subscribers by open wire, cable, and fiber-optic cable international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 1 Radios: 13,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 studio and 8 low-powered repeaters to achieve good coverage on the island of Rarotonga Televisions: 3,500 (1995 est.) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of New Zealand ====================================================================== @Coral Sea Islands ----------------- (territory of Australia) Map --- Location: 18 00 S, 152 00 E -- Oceania, islands in the Coral Sea, northeast of Australia Flag ---- Description: the flag of Australia is used Geography --------- Location: Oceania, islands in the Coral Sea, northeast of Australia Geographic coordinates: 18 00 S, 152 00 E Map references: Oceania Area: total area: less than 3 sq km land area: less than 3 sq km comparative area: NA note: includes numerous small islands and reefs scattered over a sea area of about 1 million sq km, with Willis Islets the most important Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 3,095 km Maritime claims: exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 3 nm International disputes: none Climate: tropical Terrain: sand and coral reefs and islands (or cays) lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location on Cato Island 6 m Natural resources: negligible Land use: arable land: 0% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 0% forest and woodland: 0% other: 100% (mostly grass or scrub cover) Irrigated land: 0 sq km Environment: current issues: no permanent fresh water resources natural hazards: occasional, tropical cyclones international agreements: NA Geographic note: important nesting area for birds and turtles People ------ Population: no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are three meteorologists Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Coral Sea Islands Territory conventional short form: Coral Sea Islands Data code: CR Type of government: territory of Australia administered by the Ministry for Environment, Sport, and Territories Capital: none; administered from Canberra, Australia Independence: none (territory of Australia) Flag: the flag of Australia is used Economy ------- Economic overview: no economic activity Transportation -------------- Ports: none; offshore anchorage only Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of Australia; visited regularly by the Royal Australian Navy; Australia has control over the activities of visitors ====================================================================== @Costa Rica ---------- Map --- Location: 10 00 N, 84 00 W -- Middle America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Nicaragua and Panama Flag ---- Description: five horizontal bands of blue (top), white, red (double width), white, and blue, with the coat of arms in a white disk on the hoist side of the red band Geography --------- Location: Middle America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Nicaragua and Panama Geographic coordinates: 10 00 N, 84 00 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 51,100 sq km land area: 50,660 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than West Virginia note: includes Isla del Coco Land boundaries: total: 639 km border countries: Nicaragua 309 km, Panama 330 km Coastline: 1,290 km Maritime claims: exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: none Climate: tropical; dry season (December to April); rainy season (May to November) Terrain: coastal plains separated by rugged mountains lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Cerro Chirripo 3,810 m 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; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Life Conservation People ------ Population: 3,463,083 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 35% (male 612,624; female 582,566) 15-64 years: 61% (male 1,061,703; female 1,038,403) 65 years and over: 4% (male 77,773; female 90,014) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.06% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 23.84 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 4.14 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0.92 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.86 male(s)/female all ages: 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 13.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.72 years male: 73.31 years female: 78.24 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.9 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 94.8% male: 94.7% female: 95% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Costa Rica conventional short form: Costa Rica local long form: Republica de Costa Rica local short form: Costa Rica Data code: CS Type of government: democratic republic Capital: San Jose Administrative divisions: 7 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Alajuela, Cartago, Guanacaste, Heredia, Limon, Puntarenas, San Jose Independence: 15 September 1821 (from Spain) National holiday: Independence Day, 15 September (1821) Constitution: 9 November 1949 Legal system: based on Spanish civil law system; 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 Jose Maria FIGUERES Olsen (since 8 May 1994), First Vice President Rodrigo OREAMUNO Blanco (since 8 May 1994), Second Vice President Rebeca GRYNSPAN Mayufis (since 8 May 1994) were elected for four-year terms by universal suffrage; election last held 6 February 1994 (next to be held NA February 1998); results - President FIGUERES (PLN) 49.7%, Miquel Angel RODRIGUEZ (PUSC) 47.5% cabinet: Cabinet selected by the president Legislative branch: unicameral Legislative Assembly (Asamblea Legislativa): elections last held 6 February 1994 (next to be held NA February 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (61 total) PLN 28, PUSC 29, minority parties 4 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), justices are elected for eight-year terms by the Legislative Assembly Political parties and leaders: National Liberation Party (PLN), Rolando ARAYA; Social Christian Unity Party (PUSC), Rafael Angel CALDERON Fournier; Marxist Popular Vanguard Party (PVP), Humberto VARGAS Carbonell; New Republic Movement (MNR), Sergio Erick ARDON Ramirez; People's Party of Costa Rica (PPC), Lenin CHACON Vargas; Radical Democratic Party (PRD), Juan Jose ECHEVERRIA Brealey; Democratic Force Party (FD), Isaac Felipe AZOFEIFA Bolanos Other political or pressure groups: Costa Rican Confederation of Democratic Workers (CCTD), Liberation Party affiliate; Confederated Union of Workers (CUT), Communist Party affiliate; Authentic Confederation of Democratic Workers (CATD), Communist Party affiliate; Chamber of Coffee Growers; National Association for Economic Development (ANFE); Free Costa Rica Movement (MCRL), rightwing militants; National Association of Educators (ANDE); Federation of Public Service Workers (FTSP) International organization participation: AG (observer), BCIE, CACM, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, 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, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Sonia PICADO chancery: 2114 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 234-2945 FAX: [1] (202) 265-4795 consulate(s) general: Albuquerque, Atlanta, Chicago, Durham, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, Philadelphia, San Antonio, San Diego, San Francisco, and San Juan (Puerto Rico) consulate(s): Austin US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Peter Jon DE VOS embassy: Pavas Road, San Jose mailing address: APO AA 34020 telephone: [506] 220-3939 FAX: [506] 220-2305 Flag: five horizontal bands of blue (top), white, red (double width), white, and blue, with the coat of arms in a white disk on the hoist side of the red band Economy ------- Economic overview: Costa Rica's basically stable and progressive economy depends especially on tourism and the export of bananas, coffee, and other agricultural products. Recent trends have been disappointing. Economic growth slipped from 4.3% in 1994 to 2.5% in 1995, the lowest rate of growth since 1991's 2.1%. Inflation rose dramatically to 22.5% from 13.5% in 1994, well above the government's own projection of 18%. Unemployment rose from 4.0% in 1994 to 5.2% in 1995, and substantial underemployment continues. These economic woes are likely to be exacerbated in 1996 by a standby arrangement reached with the IMF on 29 November 1995. To restore fiscal balance, the government agreed to curb inflation, reduce the fiscal deficit, increase domestic savings, and improve public sector efficiency while increasing the role of the private sector. Costa Rica signed a free trade agreement with Mexico in 1994. GDP: purchasing power parity - $18.4 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $5,400 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 22.5% (1995 est.) Labor force: 868,300 by occupation: industry and commerce 35.1%, government and services 33%, agriculture 27%, other 4.9% (1985 est.) Unemployment rate: 5.2% (1995 est.); much underemployment Budget: revenues: $1.1 billion expenditures: $1.34 billion, including capital expenditures of $110 million (1991 est.) Industries: food processing, textiles and clothing, construction materials, fertilizer, plastic products Industrial production growth rate: 10.5% (1992) Electricity: capacity: 1,040,000 kW production: 4.1 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,164 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, bananas, sugar, corn, rice, beans, potatoes; beef; timber (depletion of forest resources has resulted in declining timber output) Illicit drugs: transshipment country for cocaine and heroin from South America; illicit production of cannabis on small, scattered plots Exports: $2.4 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: coffee, bananas, textiles, sugar partners: US, Germany, Italy, Guatemala, El Salvador, Netherlands, UK, France Imports: $3 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.) commodities: raw materials, consumer goods, capital equipment, petroleum partners: US, Japan, Mexico, Guatemala, Venezuela, Germany External debt: $4 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Costa Rican colon (C) = 100 centimos Exchange rates: Costa Rican colones (C) per US$1 - 193.93 (December 1995), 179.73 (1995), 157.07 (1994), 142.17 (1993), 134.51 (1992), 122.43 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 950 km narrow gauge: 950 km 1.067-m gauge (260 km electrified) note: the entire system was scheduled to be shut down on 31 June 1995 because of insolvency Highways: total: 35,560 km paved: 5,608 km unpaved: 29,952 km (1992 est.) Waterways: about 730 km, seasonally navigable Pipelines: petroleum products 176 km Ports: Caldera, Golfito, Moin, Puerto Limon, Puerto Quepos, Puntarenas Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 145 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: 16 with paved runways under 914 m: 97 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 29 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 281,042 (1983 est.) Telephone system: very good domestic telephone service domestic: NA international: connected to Central American Microwave System; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 71, FM 0, shortwave 13 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 18 Televisions: 340,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Civil Guard, Coast Guard, Air Section, Rural Assistance Guard; note - the Constitution prohibits armed forces Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 917,566 males fit for military service: 616,420 males reach military age (18) annually: 33,504 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $55 million, 2.0% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Cote d'Ivoire ------------- (also known as Ivory Coast) Map --- Location: 8 00 N, 5 00 W -- Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Ghana and Liberia Flag ---- Description: three equal vertical bands of orange (hoist side), white, and green; similar to the flag of Ireland, which is longer and has the colors reversed - green (hoist side), white, and orange; also similar to the flag of Italy, which is green (hoist side), white, and red; design was based on the flag of France Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Ghana and Liberia Geographic coordinates: 8 00 N, 5 00 W Map references: Africa Area: total area: 322,460 sq km land area: 318,000 sq km comparative area: slightly larger than New Mexico Land boundaries: total: 3,110 km border countries: Burkina Faso 584 km, Ghana 668 km, Guinea 610 km, Liberia 716 km, Mali 532 km Coastline: 515 km Maritime claims: continental shelf: 200 nm exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: none Climate: tropical along coast, semiarid in far north; three seasons - warm and dry (November to March), hot and dry (March to May), hot and wet (June to October) Terrain: mostly flat to undulating plains; mountains in northwest lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Mont Nimba 1,752 m Natural resources: petroleum, diamonds, manganese, iron ore, cobalt, bauxite, copper Land use: arable land: 9% permanent crops: 4% meadows and pastures: 9% forest and woodland: 26% other: 52% Irrigated land: 620 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: deforestation (most of the country's forests - once the largest in West Africa - have been cleared by the timber industry); water pollution from sewage and industrial and agricultural effluents natural hazards: coast has heavy surf and no natural harbors; during the rainy season torrential flooding is 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, Tropical Timber 83; signed, but not ratified - Desertification People ------ Population: 14,762,445 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 48% (male 3,552,270; female 3,462,462) 15-64 years: 50% (male 3,828,538; female 3,599,920) 65 years and over: 2% (male 164,358; female 154,897) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.92% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 42.48 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 15.7 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 2.43 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) note: since 1989, over 350,000 refugees have fled to Cote d'Ivoire to escape the civil war in Liberia Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.06 male(s)/female all ages: 1.04 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 82.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 46.73 years male: 46.23 years female: 47.25 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.15 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Ivorian(s) adjective: Ivorian Ethnic divisions: Baoule 23%, Bete 18%, Senoufou 15%, Malinke 11%, Agni, foreign Africans (mostly Burkinabe and Malians, about 3 million), non-Africans 130,000 to 330,000 (French 30,000 and Lebanese 100,000 to 300,000) Religions: indigenous 25%, Muslim 60%, Christian 12% Languages: French (official), 60 native dialects with Dioula the most widely spoken Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 40.1% male: 49.9% female: 30% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Cote d'Ivoire conventional short form: Cote d'Ivoire local long form: Republique de Cote d'Ivoire local short form: Cote d'Ivoire former: Ivory Coast Data code: IV Type of government: republic; multiparty presidential regime established 1960 Capital: Yamoussoukro note: although Yamoussoukro has been the capital since 1983, Abidjan remains the administrative center; foreign governments, including the US, maintain official presences in Abidjan Administrative divisions: 50 departments (departements, singular - departement); Abengourou, Abidjan, Aboisso, Adzope, Agboville, Agnibilekrou, Bangolo, Beoumi, Biankouma, Bondoukou, Bongouanou, Bouafle, Bouake, Bouna, Boundiali, Dabakala, Daloa, Danane, Daoukro, Dimbokro, Divo, Duekoue, Ferkessedougou, Gagnoa, Grand-Lahou, Guiglo, Issia, Katiola, Korhogo, Lakota, Man, Mankono, Mbahiakro, Odienne, Oume, Sakassou, San-Pedro, Sassandra, Seguela, Sinfra, Soubre, Tabou, Tanda, Tingrela, Tiassale, Touba, Toumodi, Vavoua, Yamoussoukro, Zuenoula Independence: 7 August 1960 (from France) National holiday: National Day, 7 August Constitution: 3 November 1960; has been amended numerous times, last time November 1990 Legal system: based on French civil law system and customary law; judicial review in the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: 21 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Henri Konan BEDIE (since 7 December 1993) served the remainder of the term of former President Felix HOUPHOUET-BOIGNY, who died in office after continuous service from November 1960; President BEDIE was elected with 96% of the vote at the last election on 22 October 1995 (next election October 2000); the president is elected for a five-year term by popular vote head of government: Prime Minister Daniel Kablan DUNCAN (since 10 December 1993), appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers, appointed by the prime minister Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 27 November 1995 (next to be held November 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (175 total) PDCI 147, RDR 14, FPI 10, unfilled 4; note - of the unfilled seats, elections for 3 were postponed because of violence in the electoral districts and 1 seat remains contested Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Cour Supreme) Political parties and leaders: Democratic Party of the Cote d'Ivoire (PDCI), Henri Konan BEDIE; Rally of the Republicans (RDR), Djeny KOBINA; Ivorian Popular Front (FPI), Laurent GBAGBO; Ivorian Worker's Party (PIT), Francis WODIE; Ivorian Socialist Party (PSI), Morifere BAMBA; over 20 smaller parties International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, Entente, FAO, FZ, G-24, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNITAR, UPU, WADB, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Moise KOUMOUE-KOFFI chancery: 2424 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 797-0300 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Lannon WALKER embassy: 5 Rue Jesse Owens, Abidjan mailing address: 01 B. P. 1712, Abidjan telephone: [225] 21 09 79 FAX: [225] 22 32 59 Flag: three equal vertical bands of orange (hoist side), white, and green; similar to the flag of Ireland, which is longer and has the colors reversed - green (hoist side), white, and orange; also similar to the flag of Italy, which is green (hoist side), white, and red; design was based on the flag of France Economy ------- Economic overview: Cote d'Ivoire is among the world's largest producers and exporters of coffee, cocoa beans, and palm-kernel oil. Consequently, the economy is highly sensitive to fluctuations in international prices for coffee and cocoa and to weather conditions. Despite attempts by the government to diversify, the economy is still largely dependent on agriculture and related industries. After several years of lagging performance, the Ivorian economy began a comeback in 1994, due to improved prices for cocoa and coffee, growth in nontraditional primary exports such as pineapples and rubber, trade and banking liberalization, offshore oil and gas discoveries, and generous external financing and debt rescheduling by multilateral lenders and France. The 50% devaluation of Franc Zone currencies on 12 January 1994 caused a one-time jump in the inflation rate to 32% for 1994, but this rate fell to perhaps 10% in 1995, in part as the economy adjusted to the devaluation. Moreover, government adherence to donor-mandated reforms led to a budget surplus in 1994. Real growth of GDP in 1994 was 1.7%, a significant improvement following several years of negative growth. In 1995 growth picked up to 5%. GDP: purchasing power parity - $21.9 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,500 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 37% industry: 24% services: 39% (1993) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 10% (1995 est.) Labor force: 5.718 million by occupation: over 85% of population engaged in agriculture, forestry, livestock raising; about 11% of labor force are wage earners, nearly half in agriculture and the remainder in government, industry, commerce, and professions Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $1.9 billion expenditures: $3.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $408 million (1993) Industries: foodstuffs, beverages; wood products, oil refining, automobile assembly, textiles, fertilizer, construction materials, electricity Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 1,170,000 kW production: 1.8 billion kWh consumption per capita: 123 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, cocoa beans, bananas, palm kernels, corn, rice, manioc, sweet potatoes, sugar; cotton, rubber; timber Illicit drugs: illicit producer of cannabis; mostly for local consumption; some international drug trade; transshipment point for Southwest and Southeast Asian heroin to Europe and occasionally to the US Exports: $2.9 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: cocoa 55%, coffee 12%, tropical woods 11%, petroleum, cotton, bananas, pineapples, palm oil, cotton, fish partners: France, Netherlands, Germany, Italy, Burkina Faso, US, UK Imports: $1.6 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: food, capital goods, consumer goods, fuel partners: France, Nigeria, Japan, Netherlands, US, Italy External debt: $19 billion (1993) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $552 million (1993) Currency: 1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: CFA francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 500.56 (January 1996), 499.15 (1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991) 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 660 km (1995 est.) narrow gauge: 660 km 1.000-meter gauge; 25 km double track Highways: total: 46,331 km paved: 3,579 km unpaved: 42,752 km (1984 est.) Waterways: 980 km navigable rivers, canals, and numerous coastal lagoons Ports: Abidjan, Aboisso, Dabou, San-Pedro Merchant marine: total: 3 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 27,726 GRT/34,711 DWT ships by type: container 2, oil tanker 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 35 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: 4 with paved runways under 914 m: 10 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 6 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 12 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 87,700 (1987 est.) Telephone system: well-developed by African standards but operating well below capacity domestic: open-wire lines and microwave radio relay international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean); 2 coaxial submarine cables Radio broadcast stations: AM 71, FM 0, shortwave 13 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 18 Televisions: 810,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary Gendarmerie, Presidential Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 3,386,638 males fit for military service: 1,762,412 males reach military age (18) annually: 157,712 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $140 million, 1.4% of GDP (1993) ====================================================================== @Croatia ------- Map --- Location: 45 10 N, 15 30 E -- Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea, between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia Flag ---- Description: red, white, and blue horizontal bands with Croatian coat of arms (red and white checkered) Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea, between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia Geographic coordinates: 45 10 N, 15 30 E Map references: Europe Area: total area: 56,538 sq km land area: 56,410 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than West Virginia Land boundaries: total: 2,073 km border countries: Bosnia and Herzegovina 932 km, Hungary 329 km, Serbia and Montenegro 266 km (241 km with Serbia; 25 km with Montenego), Slovenia 546 km Coastline: 5,790 km (mainland 1,778 km, islands 4,012 km) Maritime claims: continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation International disputes: Eastern Slavonia, which was held by ethnic Serbs during the war, is currently being overseen by the UN Transitional Administration for Eastern Slavonia; reintegration of Eastern Slavonia into Croatia will occur in 1997; although Croatia does not recognize the "Federal Republic of Yugoslavia," both countries have agreed to open consular sections in each other's capitals; Croatia and Italy have not resolved a bilateral issue dating from WWII over property and ethnic minority rights; a border dispute with Slovenia is unresolved Climate: Mediterranean and continental; continental climate predominant with hot summers and cold winters; mild winters, dry summers along coast Terrain: geographically diverse; flat plains along Hungarian border, low mountains and highlands near Adriatic coast, coastline, and islands lowest point: Adriatic Sea 0 m highest point: Dinara 1,830 m Natural resources: oil, some coal, bauxite, low-grade iron ore, calcium, natural asphalt, silica, mica, clays, salt Land use: arable land: 32% permanent crops: 20% meadows and pastures: 18% forest and woodland: 15% other: 15% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: air pollution (from metallurgical plants) and resulting acid rain is damaging the forests; coastal pollution from industrial and domestic waste; widespread casualties and destruction of infrastructure in border areas affected by civil strife natural hazards: frequent and destructive 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, Desertification, Law of the Sea Geographic note: controls most land routes from Western Europe to Aegean Sea and Turkish Straits People ------ Population: 5,004,112 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 18% (male 453,142; female 431,118) 15-64 years: 69% (male 1,731,200; female 1,716,824) 65 years and over: 13% (male 252,897; female 418,931) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.58% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 9.83 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 11.33 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 7.31 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.6 male(s)/female all ages: 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 10.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 72.81 years male: 69.13 years female: 76.72 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.4 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Croat(s) adjective: Croatian Ethnic divisions: Croat 78%, Serb 12%, Muslim 0.9%, Hungarian 0.5%, Slovenian 0.5%, others 8.1% (1991) Religions: Catholic 76.5%, Orthodox 11.1%, Slavic Muslim 1.2%, Protestant 0.4%, others and unknown 10.8% Languages: Serbo-Croatian 96%, other 4% (including Italian, Hungarian, Czechoslovak, and German) Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1991 est.) total population: 97% male: 99% female: 95% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Croatia conventional short form: Croatia local long form: Republika Hrvatska local short form: Hrvatska Data code: HR Type of government: parliamentary democracy Capital: Zagreb Administrative divisions: 21 counties (zupanijas, zupanija - singular): Bjelovar-Bilogora, City of Zagreb, Dubrovnik-Neretva, Istra, Karlovac, Koprivnica-Krizevci, Krapina-Zagorje, Lika-Senj, Medimurje, Osijek-Baranja, Pozega-Slavonija, Primorje-Gorski Kotar, Sibenik, Sisak-Moslavina, Slavonski Brod-Posavina, Split-Dalmatia, Varazdin, Virovitica-Podravina, Vukovar-Srijem, Zadar-Knin, Zagreb Independence: 25 June 1991 (from Yugoslavia) National holiday: Statehood Day, 30 May (1990) Constitution: adopted on 22 December 1990 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 Franjo TUDJMAN (since 30 May 1990) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 4 August 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - Franjo TUDJMAN reelected with about 56% of the vote; his opponent Dobroslav PARAGA received 5% of the vote head of government: Prime Minister Zlatko MATESA (since NA November 1995) and Deputy Prime Ministers Mate GRANIC (since 8 September 1992), Ivica KOSTOVIC (since 14 October 1993), Jure RADIC (since NA October 1994), Borislav SKEGRO (since 3 April 1993), and Ljerka MINTAS-HODAS (since November 1995) were appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president Legislative branch: bicameral parliament Assembly (Sabor) House of Districts (Zupanije Dom): elections last held 7 and 21 February 1993 (next to be held NA February 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (68 total; 63 elected, 5 presidentially appointed) HDZ 37, HSLS 16, HSS 5, Istrian Democratic Assembly 3, SPH-SDP 1, HNS 1 House of Representatives (Zastupnicki Dom): elections last held 29 October 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - HDZ 45.23%, HSS/IDS/HNS/HKDU/SBHS 18.26%, HSLS 11.55%, SDP 8.93%, HSP 5.01%; seats - (127 total) HDZ 75, HSLS 12, HSS 10, SDP 10, IDS 4, HSP 4, HNS 2, SNS 2, HND 1, ASH 1, HKDU 1, SBHS 1, independents 4 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges appointed for eight-year terms by the Judicial Council of the Republic, which is elected by the Chamber of Representatives; Constitutional Court, judges appointed for eight-year terms by the Judicial Council of the Republic, which is elected by the Chamber of Representatives Political parties and leaders: Croatian Democratic Union (HDZ), Franjo TUDJMAN, president; Croatian Democratic Independents (HND), Stjepan MESIC, president; Croatian Social Liberal Party (HSLS), Vlado GOTOVAC, president; Social Democratic Party of Croatia (SDP), Ivica RACAN; Croatian Party of Rights (HSP), Ante DAPIC; Croatian Peasants' Party (HSS), Josip PANKRETIC; Croatian People's Party (HNS), Radimir CACIC, president; Serbian National Party (SNS), Milan DJUKIC; Action of the Social Democrats of Croatia (ASH), Miko TRIPALO; Croatian Christian Democratic Union (HKDU), Marko VASELICA, president; Istrian Democratic Assembly (IDS), Ivan JACKOVIC; Slanvonsko-Baranja Croatian Party (SBHS) Other political or pressure groups: NA International organization participation: CCC, CE (guest), CEI, EBRD, ECE, FAO, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, NAM (observer), OSCE, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Miomir ZUZUL chancery: 2343 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 588-5899 FAX: [1] (202) 588-8936 consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Peter W. GALBRAITH embassy: Andrije Hebranga 2, Zagreb mailing address: US Embassy, Zagreb, Unit 1345, APO AE 09213-1345 telephone: [385] (41) 455-55-00 FAX: [385] (41) 455-85-85 Flag: red, white, and blue horizontal bands with Croatian coat of arms (red and white checkered) Economy ------- Economic overview: Before the dissolution of Yugoslavia, the Republic of Croatia, after Slovenia, was the most prosperous and industrialized area, with a per capita output perhaps one-third above the Yugoslav average. Croatia faces considerable economic problems stemming from: the legacy of longtime communist mismanagement of the economy; large foreign debt; damage during the internecine fighting to bridges, factories, power lines, buildings, and houses; the large refugee population, both Croatian and Bosnian; and the disruption of economic ties to Serbia and the other former Yugoslav republics, as well as within its own territory. Western aid and investment, especially in the tourist and oil industries, would help restore the economy. The government has been successful in some reform efforts including stabilization policies and has normalized relations with creditors. Yet it still is struggling with privatization of large state enterprises and with bank reform. The draft 1996 budget, which had raised concerns about inflation, capitalizes on the "peace dividend" to boost expenditures on the repair and upgrading of infrastructure. GDP: purchasing power parity - $20.1 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 1.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $4,300 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 12.7% industry: 30.6% services: 56.7% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3.7% (1995) Labor force: 1.444 million (1995) by occupation: industry and mining 31.1%, agriculture 4.3%, government 19.1% (including education and health), other 45.5% (1993) Unemployment rate: 18.1% (January 1996) Budget: revenues: $3.86 billion expenditures: $3.72 billion, including capital expenditures of $320 million (1994 est.) Industries: chemicals and plastics, machine tools, fabricated metal, electronics, pig iron and rolled steel products, aluminum, paper, wood products, construction materials, textiles, shipbuilding, petroleum and petroleum refining, food and beverages Industrial production growth rate: 0.9% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 3,630,000 kW production: 11.234 billion kWh consumption per capita: 2,000 kWh (1993 est.) Agriculture: wheat, corn, sugar beets, sunflower seed, alfalfa, clover, olives, citrus, grapes, vegetables; livestock breeding, dairy farming Illicit drugs: transit point for Southwest Asian heroin to Western Europe Exports: $4.3 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: machinery and transport equipment 13.6%, miscellaneous manufactures 27.6%, chemicals 14.2%, food and live animals 12.2%, raw materials 6.1%, fuels and lubricants 9.4%, beverages and tobacco 2.7% (1993) partners: Germany 22.9%, Italy 21.2%, Slovenia 18.3% (1993) Imports: $5.2 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: machinery and transport equipment 23.1%, fuels and lubricants 8.8%, food and live animals 9.0%, chemicals 14.2%, miscellaneous manufactured articles 16.0%, raw materials 3.5%, beverages and tobacco 1.4% (1993) partners: Germany, Italy, Slovenia, Iran External debt: $3.15 billion (September 1995) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA note: IMF has given Croatia $192 million; World Bank has given Croatia $100 million Currency: 1 Croatian kuna (HRK) = 100 paras Exchange rates: Croatian kuna per US$1 - 5.405 (January 1996), 5.230 (1995), 5.996 (1994), 3.577 (1993) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 2,699 km standard gauge: 2,699 km 1.435-m gauge (1213 km electrified) note: disrupted by territorial dispute with Serbia (1994) Highways: total: 27,378 km paved: 22,176 km (including 302 km of expressways) unpaved: 5,202 km (1991 est.) Waterways: 785 km perennially navigable Pipelines: crude oil 670 km; petroleum products 20 km; natural gas 310 km (1992); note - under repair following territorial dispute Ports: Dubrovnik, Omisalj, Ploce, Pula, Rijeka, Sibenik, Split, Zadar Merchant marine: total: 39 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 203,495 GRT/252,818 DWT ships by type: bulk 2, cargo 23, chemical tanker 1, container 3, oil tanker 1, passenger 2, refrigerated cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2, short-sea passenger 4 note: Croatia owns an additional 140 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 3,368,035 DWT operating under the registries of Malta, Liberia, Cyprus, Panama, Antigua and Barbuda, The Bahamas, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (1995 est.) Airports: total: 68 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: 2 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 with paved runways under 914 m: 47 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 7 (1995 est.) Heliports: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1.216 million (1993 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: no satellite earth stations Radio broadcast stations: AM 14, FM 8, shortwave 0 Radios: 1.1 million Television broadcast stations: 12 (repeaters 2) Televisions: 1.52 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Ground Forces, Naval Forces, Air and Air Defense Forces, Frontier Guard, Home Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,314,718 males fit for military service: 1,046,490 males reach military age (19) annually: 34,914 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: 337 billion to 393 billion dinars, NA% of GDP (1993 est.); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results ====================================================================== @Cuba ---- Map --- Location: 21 30 N, 80 00 W -- Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, south of Florida Flag ---- Description: five equal horizontal bands of blue (top and bottom) alternating with white; a red equilateral triangle based on the hoist side bears a white five-pointed star in the center Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, south of Florida Geographic coordinates: 21 30 N, 80 00 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 110,860 sq km land area: 110,860 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Pennsylvania Land boundaries: total: 29 km border country: US Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay 29 km note: Guantanamo Naval Base is leased by the US and thus remains part of Cuba Coastline: 3,735 km Maritime claims: exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: US Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay is leased to US and only mutual agreement or US abandonment of the area can terminate the lease Climate: tropical; moderated by trade winds; dry season (November to April); rainy season (May to October) Terrain: mostly flat to rolling plains with rugged hills and mountains in the southeast lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Pico Turquino 2,005 m Natural resources: cobalt, nickel, iron ore, copper, manganese, salt, timber, silica, petroleum Land use: arable land: 23% permanent crops: 6% meadows and pastures: 23% forest and woodland: 17% other: 31% Irrigated land: 8,960 sq km (1989) Environment: current issues: pollution of Havana Bay; overhunting threatens wildlife populations; deforestation natural hazards: the east coast is subject to hurricanes from August to October (in general, the country averages about one hurricane every other year); droughts are common international agreements: party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification, Marine Life Conservation Geographic note: largest country in Caribbean People ------ Population: 10,951,334 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 22% (male 1,256,674; female 1,191,652) 15-64 years: 68% (male 3,753,343; female 3,736,043) 65 years and over: 10% (male 478,630; female 534,992) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.44% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 13.37 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.39 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -1.54 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.9 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.05 years male: 72.71 years female: 77.54 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.52 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Cuban(s) adjective: Cuban Ethnic divisions: mulatto 51%, white 37%, black 11%, Chinese 1% Religions: nominally Roman Catholic 85% prior to CASTRO assuming power; Protestants, Jehovah's Witnesses, Jews, and Santeria are also represented Languages: Spanish Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 95.7% male: 96.2% female: 95.3% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Cuba conventional short form: Cuba local long form: Republica de Cuba local short form: Cuba Data code: CU Type of government: Communist state Capital: Havana Administrative divisions: 14 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia) and 1 special municipality* (municipio especial); Camaguey, Ciego de Avila, Cienfuegos, Ciudad de La Habana, Granma, Guantanamo, Holguin, Isla de la Juventud*, La Habana, Las Tunas, Matanzas, Pinar del Rio, Sancti Spiritus, Santiago de Cuba, Villa Clara Independence: 20 May 1902 (from Spain 10 December 1898; administered by the US from 1898 to 1902) National holiday: Rebellion Day, 26 July (1953); Liberation Day, 1 January (1959) Constitution: 24 February 1976 Legal system: based on Spanish and American law, with large elements of Communist legal theory; does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: 16 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state and head of government: President of the Council of State and President of the Council of Ministers Fidel CASTRO Ruz (prime minister from February 1959 until 24 February 1976 when office was abolished; president since 2 December 1976) and First Vice President of the Council of State and First Vice President of the Council of Ministers Gen. Raul CASTRO Ruz (since 2 December 1976) were elected by the National Assembly cabinet: Council of Ministers were proposed by the president of the Council of State, appointed by the National Assembly Council of State: members elected by the National Assembly Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly of People's Power (Asemblea Nacional del P: elections last held NA February 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); seats - 589 total, elected directly from slates approved by special candidacy commissions Judicial branch: People's Supreme Court (Tribunal Supremo Popular), president, vice president, and other judges are elected by the National Assembly Political parties and leaders: only party - Cuban Communist Party (PCC), Fidel CASTRO Ruz, first secretary International organization participation: CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IAEA, ICAO, ICRM, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, ISO, ITU, LAES, LAIA (observer), NAM, OAS (excluded from formal participation since 1962), PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMIG, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: none; note - Cuba has an Interests Section in the Swiss Embassy, headed by Principal Officer Fernando REMIREZ DE ESTENOZ; address: Cuban Interests Section, Swiss Embassy, 2639 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009; telephone: [1] (202) 797-8518 through 8520 US diplomatic representation: none; note - the US does have an Interests Section in the Swiss Embassy, headed by Principal Officer Joseph G. SULLIVAN; address: USINT, Swiss Embassy, Calzada Entre L Y M, Vedado Seccion, Havana; telephone: 33-3551 through 3559, 33-3543 through 3547 (operator assistance required); FAX: 33-3700; protecting power in Cuba is Switzerland Flag: five equal horizontal bands of blue (top and bottom) alternating with white; a red equilateral triangle based on the hoist side bears a white five-pointed star in the center Economy ------- Economic overview: The state retains a primary role in the economy and controls practically all foreign trade. The government has undertaken several reforms in recent years designed to stem excess liquidity, raise labor incentives, and increase the availability of food, consumer goods, and services from depressed levels. The liberalized agricultural markets introduced in October 1994, where state and private farms are authorized to sell any above-quota production at unrestricted prices, have broadened legal consumption alternatives and reduced black market prices. The government's efforts to reduce subsidies to loss-making enterprises and shrink the money supply caused the black market exchange rate to move from a peak of 120 pesos to the dollar in the summer of 1994 to 25-30 pesos to the dollar at yearend 1995. The number of self-employed workers licensed by the government increased more slowly in 1995, from 160,000 at yearend 1994 to 190,000 in July 1995 and to about 210,000 in January 1996. Discussions continue within the leadership over the relative affluence of self-employed workers and the growing inequality of income in what has historically been a strictly egalitarian society. The government released new economic data in 1995 which showed a 35% decline in GDP during 1989-1993, a drop precipitated by the withdrawal of massive Soviet aid and prolonged by Cuba's own economic inefficiencies. The decline in GDP apparently was halted in 1994, and government officials claim that GDP increased by 2.5% in 1995. Export earnings rose by 20% in 1995 to $1.6 billion, largely on the strength of higher world prices for key commodities and increased production of nickel through joint ventures with a Canadian firm. Higher export revenues and new credits from European firms and Mexico enabled Havana to increase its imports for the first time in six years. Imports rose 21% to almost $2.4 billion, or 30% of the 1989 level. Officials have sharply criticized provisions of legislation under consideration in the US Congress, which aims to curtail third-country investment in expropriated US properties in Cuba and deny official assistance to Havana. GDP: purchasing power parity - $14.7 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,300 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 7% industry: 30% services: 63% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: 4.71 million economically active population (1989); 3,527,000 employed in state civilian sector (1989) by occupation: services and government 30%, industry 22%, agriculture 20%, commerce 11%, construction 10%, transportation and communications 7% (June 1990) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: sugar, petroleum, food, tobacco, textiles, chemicals, paper and wood products, metals (particularly nickel), cement, fertilizers, consumer goods, agricultural machinery Industrial production growth rate: 6% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 3,990,000 kW production: 12 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,022 kWh (1993) Agriculture: sugarcane, tobacco, citrus, coffee, rice, potatoes and other tubers, beans; livestock Exports: $1.6 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: sugar, nickel, shellfish, tobacco, medical products, citrus, coffee partners: Canada 15%, China 15%, Russia 15% (1995 est.) Imports: $2.4 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.) commodities: petroleum, food, machinery, chemicals partners: Spain 15%, Mexico 15%, Russia 10%, (1995 est.) External debt: $9.1 billion (convertible currency,1995); another $20 billion owed to Russia (1995) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Cuban peso (Cu$) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: Cuban pesos (Cu$) per US$1 - 1.0000 (non-convertible, official rate, linked to the US dollar) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 4,677 km standard gauge: 4,677 km 1.435-m gauge (132 km electrified) note: a large amount of track is in private use by sugar plantations Highways: total: 26,500 km paved: 14,575 km unpaved: 11,925 km (1996 est.) Waterways: 240 km Ports: Cienfuegos, La Habana, Manzanillo, Mariel, Matanzas, Nuevitas, Santiago de Cuba Merchant marine: total: 41 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 220,870 GRT/310,169 DWT ships by type: cargo 17, chemical tanker 1, liquefied gas tanker 4, oil tanker 9, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated cargo 9 note: Cuba owns an additional 47 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 462,517 DWT operating under the registries of Panama, Cyprus, Malta, Belize, and Mauritius (1995 est.) Airports: total: 156 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 7 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 7 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 14 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 9 with paved runways under 914 m: 87 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 31 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 430,000 (1987 est.) Telephone system: among the world's least developed telephone systems domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region) Radio broadcast stations: AM 150, FM 5, shortwave 0 Radios: 2.14 million (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 58 Televisions: 2.5 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Revolutionary Armed Forces (FAR) includes ground forces, Revolutionary Navy (MGR), Air and Air Defense Force (DAAFAR), Territorial Troops Militia (MTT), and Youth Labor Army (EJT); Interior Ministry Border Guards (TGF) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 3,053,431 females age 15-49: 3,009,852 males fit for military service: 1,898,644 females fit for military service: 1,866,313 males reach military age (17) annually: 65,182 females reach military age (17) annually: 61,960 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $NA, roughly 4% of GDP (1995 est.) Defense note: Moscow, for decades the key military supporter and supplier of Cuba, cut off almost all military aid by 1993 ====================================================================== @Cyprus ------ Map --- Location: 35 00 N, 33 00 E -- Middle East, island in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Turkey Flag ---- Description: white with a copper-colored silhouette of the island (the name Cyprus is derived from the Greek word for copper) above two green crossed olive branches in the center of the flag; the branches symbolize the hope for peace and reconciliation between the Greek and Turkish communities Geography --------- Location: Middle East, island in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Turkey Geographic coordinates: 35 00 N, 33 00 E Map references: Middle East Area: total area: 9,250 sq km (note - 3,355 sq km are in the Turkish area) land area: 9,240 sq km comparative area: about 0.7 times the size of Connecticut Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 648 km Maritime claims: continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: 1974 hostilities divided the island into two de facto autonomous areas, a Greek area controlled by the Cypriot Government (59% of the island's land area) and a Turkish-Cypriot area (37% of the island), that are separated by a UN buffer zone (4% of the island); there are two UK sovereign base areas within the Greek Cypriot portion of the island Climate: temperate, Mediterranean with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters Terrain: central plain with mountains to north and south; scattered but significant plains along southern coast lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m highest point: Olympus 1,952 m Natural resources: copper, pyrites, asbestos, gypsum, timber, salt, marble, clay earth pigment Land use: arable land: 40% permanent crops: 7% meadows and pastures: 10% forest and woodland: 18% other: 25% Irrigated land: 350 sq km (1989) Environment: current issues: water resource problems (no natural reservoir catchments, seasonal disparity in rainfall, and most potable resources concentrated in the Turkish Cypriot area); water pollution from sewage and industrial wastes; coastal degradation; loss of wildlife habitats from urbanization natural hazards: moderate earthquake activity international agreements: party to - Air Pollution, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change People ------ Population: 744,609 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 25% (male 97,400; female 92,110) 15-64 years: 64% (male 240,716; female 238,039) 65 years and over: 11% (male 33,340; female 43,004) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.11% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 15.39 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 3.38 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.78 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 8.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 76.26 years male: 74.11 years female: 78.52 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.19 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Cypriot(s) adjective: Cypriot Ethnic divisions: total: Greek 78% (99.5% of the Greeks live in the Greek area; 0.5% of the Greeks live in the Turkish area), Turkish 18% (1.3% of the Turks live in the Greek area; 98.7% of the Turks live in the Turkish area), other 4% (99.2% of the other ethnic groups live in the Greek area; 0.8% of the other ethnic groups live in the Turkish area) Religions: Greek Orthodox 78%, Muslim 18%, Maronite, Armenian Apostolic, and other 4% Languages: Greek, Turkish, English Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1987 est.) total population: 94% male: 98% female: 91% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Cyprus conventional short form: Cyprus note: the Turkish area refers to itself as the "Turkish Republic" or the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" (TRNC) Data code: CY Type of government: republic note: a disaggregation of the two ethnic communities inhabiting the island began after the outbreak of communal strife in 1963; this separation was further solidified following the Turkish invasion of the island in July 1974, which gave the Turkish Cypriots de facto control in the north; Greek Cypriots control the only internationally recognized government; on 15 November 1983 Turkish Cypriot "President" Rauf DENKTASH declared independence and the formation of a "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" (TRNC), which has been recognized only by Turkey; both sides publicly call for the resolution of intercommunal differences and creation of a new federal system of government Capital: Nicosia note: the Turkish area's capital is Lefkosa (Nicosia) Administrative divisions: 6 districts; Famagusta, Kyrenia, Larnaca, Limassol, Nicosia, Paphos; note - Turkish area administrative divisions include Kyrenia, all but a small part of Famagusta, and small parts of Nicosia and Larnaca Independence: 16 August 1960 (from UK) note: Turkish area proclaimed self-rule on NA February 1975 from Republic of Cyprus National holiday: Independence Day, 1 October note: Turkish area celebrates 15 November as Independence Day Constitution: 16 August 1960; negotiations to create the basis for a new or revised constitution to govern the island and to better relations between Greek and Turkish Cypriots have been held intermittently; in 1975 Turkish Cypriots created their own constitution and governing bodies within the "Turkish Federated State of Cyprus," which was renamed the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" in 1983; a new constitution for the Turkish area passed by referendum on 5 May 1985 Legal system: based on common law, with civil law modifications Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state and head of government: President Glafcos CLERIDES (since 28 February 1993) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 14 February 1993 (next to be held NA February 1998); results - Glafcos CLERIDES 50.3%, Yeoryios VASSILIOU 49.7% cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed jointly by the president and vice president note: Rauf R. DENKTASH has been "president" of the Turkish area since 13 February 1975 (president is elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage); Hakki ATUN has been "prime minister" of the Turkish area since 1 January 1994; there is a Council of Ministers (cabinet) in the Turkish area; elections last held 15 and 22 April 1995 (next to be held NA April 2000); results - Rauf R. DENKTASH 62.5%, Dervis EROGLU 37.5% Legislative branch: unicameral Greek area: House of Representatives (Vouli Antiprosopon): elections last held 19 May 1991 (next to be held May 1996); results - DISY 35.8%, AKEL (Communist) 30.6%, DIKO 19.5%, EDEK 10.9%; others 3.2%; seats - (56 total) DISY 20, AKEL (Communist) 18, DIKO 11, EDEK 7 Turkish area: Assembly of the Republic (Cumhuriyet Meclisi): elections last held 12 December 1993 (next to be held NA); results - UBP 29.9%, DP 29.2%, CTP 24.2% TKP 13.3%, others 3.4%; seats - (50 total) UBP (conservative) 15, DP 16, CTP 13, TKP 5, UDP 1 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the Supreme Council of Judicature note: there is also a Supreme Court in the Turkish area Political parties and leaders: Greek area: Progressive Party of the Working People (AKEL, Communist Party), Dimitrios CHRISTOFIAS; Democratic Rally (DISY), Ioannis MATSIS; Democratic Party (DIKO), Spyros KYPRIANOU; United Democratic Union of the Center (EDEK), Vassos LYSSARIDIS; Socialist Democratic Renewal Movement (ADISOK), Mikhalis PAPAPETROU; Liberal Party, Nikolaos ROLANDIS; Free Democrats, Yeoryios VASSILIOU; New Horizons, Nikolaos KOUTSOU, secretary general Turkish area: National Unity Party (UBP), Dervis EROGLU; Communal Liberation Party (TKP), Mustafa AKINCI; Republican Turkish Party (CTP), Mehmet ALI TALAT; New Cyprus Party (YKP), Alpay DURDURAN; Free Democratic Party (HDP), Ismet KOTAK; Nationalist Justice Party (MAP), Zorlu TORE; Unity and Sovereignty Party (BEP), Arif Salih KIRDAG; Democratic Party (DP), Serdar DENKTASH; National Birth Party (UDP), Enver EMIN; the HDP, MAP, and VP merged under the label National Struggle Unity Party (MMBP) to compete in the 12 December 1993 legislative election Other political or pressure groups: United Democratic Youth Organization (EDON, Communist controlled); Union of Cyprus Farmers (EKA, Communist controlled); Cyprus Farmers Union (PEK, pro-West); Pan-Cyprian Labor Federation (PEO, Communist controlled); Confederation of Cypriot Workers (SEK, pro-West); Federation of Turkish Cypriot Labor Unions (Turk-Sen); Confederation of Revolutionary Labor Unions (Dev-Is) International organization participation: C, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, IDA, IFAD, IFC, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarset, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, NAM, OAS (observer), OSCE, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Andreas J. JACOVIDES chancery: 2211 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 462-5772 consulate(s) general: New York note: Representative of the Turkish area in the US is Namik KORMAN, office at 1667 K Street NW, Washington, DC, telephone [1] (202) 887-6198 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Richard A. BOUCHER embassy: corner of Metochiou and Ploutarchou Streets, Engomi, Nicosia mailing address: P. O. Box 4536, FPO AE 09836 telephone: [357] (2) 476100 FAX: [357] (2) 465944 Flag: white with a copper-colored silhouette of the island (the name Cyprus is derived from the Greek word for copper) above two green crossed olive branches in the center of the flag; the branches symbolize the hope for peace and reconciliation between the Greek and Turkish communities note: the Turkish Cypriot flag has a horizontal red stripe at the top and bottom between which is a red crescent and red star on a white field Economy ------- Economic overview: The Greek Cypriot economy is small and prosperous, but highly susceptible to external shocks. Industry contributes 25% to GDP and employs 26% of the labor force, while the service sector contributes 70% to GDP and employs 62% of the labor force. After surging 9.7% in 1992, economic growth slowed to 1.6% in 1993 - its lowest level in two decades - because of the decline in tourist arrivals associated with the recession in Western Europe, Cyprus' main trading partner, and the loss in export competitiveness due to a sharp rise in unit labor costs. However, real GDP picked up in 1994 and 1995, as inflation fell from 4.7% to about 3%. Economic prospects appear favorable for 1996: real GDP is likely to grow between 3% and 4%, and inflation is likely to rise slightly to 3.5%-4.5%. The Turkish Cypriot economy has less than one-third the per capita GDP of the south. Because it is recognized only by Turkey, it has had much difficulty arranging foreign financing, and foreign firms have hesitated to invest there. The economy remains heavily dependent on agriculture and government service, which together employ about half of the work force. Moreover, the small, vulnerable economy has suffered because the Turkish lira is legal tender. Economic growth sharply dropped during 1994 because of the severe economic crisis affecting the mainland, and inflation soared to 215%. To compensate for the economy's weakness, Turkey provides direct and indirect aid to nearly every sector; financial support has risen and now equals in value about one-third of Turkish Cypriot GDP. GDP: Greek area: purchasing power parity - $7.8 billion (1995 est.) Turkish area: purchasing power parity - $520 million (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: Greek area: 5% (1995 est.) Turkish area: 0.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: Greek area: $13,000 (1995 est.) Turkish area: $3,900 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: Greek area - agriculture: 5.6% Greek area - industry: 24.9% Greek area - services: 69.5% (1994) Turkish area - agriculture: 11.4% Turkish area - industry: 22.9% Turkish area - services: 65.7% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): Greek area: 3% (1995 est.) Turkish area: 215% (1994) Labor force: Greek area: 294,100 by occupation: services 61.5%, industry 26%, agriculture 12.5% (1994) Turkish area: 75,320 by occupation: services 52.9%, industry 23.6%, agriculture 23.5% (1994) Unemployment rate: Greek area: 2.7% (1994) Turkish area: 1.6% (1994) Budget: revenues: Greek area - $2.3 billion, Turkish area - $246 million expenditures: Greek area - $3.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $500 million, Turkish area - $350 million, including capital expenditures of $75 million (1996 est.) Industries: food, beverages, textiles, chemicals, metal products, tourism, wood products Industrial production growth rate: Greek area: 3.7% (1994) Turkish area: 2.6% (1992) Electricity: capacity: 550,000 kW production: 2.3 billion kWh consumption per capita: 2,903 kWh (1993) Agriculture: potatoes, vegetables, barley, grapes, olives, citrus, vegetables Illicit drugs: transit point for heroin via air routes and container traffic to Europe, especially from Lebanon and Turkey, also some cocaine transits en route to Russia Exports: Greek area: $968 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: citrus, potatoes, grapes, wine, cement, clothing and shoes partners: UK 16%, Lebanon 9%, Greece 8%, Russia 12% Turkish area: $59 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: citrus, potatoes, textiles partners: UK 48%, Turkey 22% Imports: Greek area: $2.7 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: consumer goods, petroleum and lubricants, food and feed grains, machinery partners: UK 12%, Japan 9%, Italy 10%, Germany 9%, US 8% Turkish area: $330 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: food, minerals, chemicals, machinery partners: Turkey 48%, UK 19% External debt: Greek area: $1.4 billion (1994) Economic aid: Greek area - recipient: ODA, $NA Turkish area: during 1977-93, received substantial grants and loans from Turkey Currency: 1 Cypriot pound (LC) = 100 cents; 1 Turkish lira (TL) = 100 kurus Exchange rates: Cypriot pounds per US1$ - 0.4628 (January 1996), 0.4522 (1995), 0.4915 (1994), 0.4970 (1993), 0.4502 (1992), 0.4633 (1991); Turkish liras (TL) per US$1 - 60,502.1 (January 1996), 45,845.1 (1995), 29,608.7 (1994), 10,984.6 (1993), 6,872.4 (1992), 4,171.8 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: Greek area - total: 10,448 km Greek area - paved: 5,694 km Greek area - unpaved: 4,754 km Turkish area - total: 6,116 km Turkish area - paved: 5,278 km Turkish area - unpaved: 838 km Ports: Famagusta, Kyrenia, Larnaca, Limassol, Vasilikos Bay Merchant marine: total: 1,524 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 23,949,242 GRT/40,236,638 DWT ships by type: bulk 490, cargo 562, chemical tanker 27, combination bulk 53, combination ore/oil 22, container 115, liquefied gas tanker 3, multifunction large-load carrier 4, oil tanker 129, passenger 6, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated cargo 62, roll-on/roll-off cargo 28, short-sea passenger 17, specialized tanker 3, vehicle carrier 2 note: a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 48 countries among which are Greece 706, Germany 171, Russia 44, Netherlands 31, Belgium 30, Japan 29, Cuba 21, UK 17, Spain 14, and Hong Kong 13 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 15 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 8 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 with paved runways under 914 m: 3 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Heliports: 4 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 331,000 (1995 est.) Telephone system: excellent in both the Greek and Turkish areas domestic: open wire, fiber-optic cable, and microwave radio relay international: tropospheric scatter; 3 coaxial and 5 fiber-optic submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean), 2 Eutelsat, 2 Intersputnik, and 1 Arabsat Radio broadcast stations: Greek area: AM 11, FM 8, shortwave 0 Turkish area: AM 2, FM 6, shortwave 0 Radios: Greek area: 270,000 (1993 est.) Turkish area: 42,170 (1985 est.) Television broadcast stations: Greek area: 1 (repeaters 34) Turkish area: 1 Televisions: Greek area: 107,000 (1992 est.) Turkish area: 75,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Greek area: Greek Cypriot National Guard (GCNG; includes air and naval elements), Greek Cypriot Police Turkish area: Turkish Cypriot Security Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 190,372 males fit for military service: 130,880 males reach military age (18) annually: 5,749 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $493 million, 5.6% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Czech Republic -------------- Map --- Location: 49 45 N, 15 30 E -- Central Europe, southeast of Germany Flag ---- Description: two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red with a blue isosceles triangle based on the hoist side (almost identical to the flag of the former Czechoslovakia) Geography --------- Location: Central Europe, southeast of Germany Geographic coordinates: 49 45 N, 15 30 E Map references: Europe Area: total area: 78,703 sq km land area: 78,645 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than South Carolina Land boundaries: total: 1,880 km border countries: Austria 362 km, Germany 646 km, Poland 658 km, Slovakia 214 km Coastline: 0 km (landlocked) Maritime claims: none (landlocked) International disputes: Liechtenstein claims restitution for 1,600 sq km of Czech territory confiscated from its royal family in 1918; Sudeten German claims for restitution of property confiscated in connection with their expulsion after World War II versus the Czech Republic claims that restitution does not precede February 1948 when the Communists seized power; unresolved property issues with Slovakia over redistribution of property of the former Czechoslovak federal government Climate: temperate; cool summers; cold, cloudy, humid winters Terrain: Bohemia in the west consists of rolling plains, hills, and plateaus surrounded by low mountains; Moravia in the east consists of very hilly country lowest point: Elbe River 115 m highest point: Snezka 1,602 m Natural resources: hard coal, soft coal, kaolin, clay, graphite 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 and water pollution in areas of northwest Bohemia and in northern Moravia around Ostrava present 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 Geographic note: landlocked; strategically located astride some of oldest and most significant land routes in Europe; Moravian Gate is a traditional military corridor between the North European Plain and the Danube in central Europe People ------ Population: 10,321,120 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 18% (male 965,861; female 918,745) 15-64 years: 68% (male 3,519,753; female 3,524,913) 65 years and over: 14% (male 526,841; female 865,007) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: -0.03% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 10.39 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 10.89 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0.24 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.61 male(s)/female all ages: 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 8.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 73.76 years male: 70.08 years female: 77.65 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.38 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Czech(s) adjective: Czech note: 300,000 Slovaks declared themselves Czech citizens in 1994 Ethnic divisions: Czech 94.4%, Slovak 3%, Polish 0.6%, German 0.5%, Gypsy 0.3%, Hungarian 0.2%, other 1% Religions: atheist 39.8%, Roman Catholic 39.2%, Protestant 4.6%, Orthodox 3%, other 13.4% Languages: Czech, Slovak Literacy: age NA and over can read and write (est.) total population: 99% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Czech Republic conventional short form: Czech Republic local long form: Ceska Republika local short form: Cechy Data code: EZ Type of government: parliamentary democracy Capital: Prague Administrative divisions: 8 regions (kraje, kraj - singular); Jihocesky, Jihomoravsky, Praha, Severocesky, Severomoravsky, Stredocesky, Vychodocesky, Zapadocesky Independence: 1 January 1993 (from Czechoslovakia) National holiday: National Liberation Day, 8 May; Founding of the Republic, 28 October Constitution: ratified 16 December 1992; effective 1 January 1993 Legal system: civil law system based on Austro-Hungarian codes; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction; legal code modified to bring it in line with Organization on Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) obligations and to expunge Marxist-Leninist legal theory Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Vaclav HAVEL (since 26 January 1993) was elected for a five-year term by the Parliament; election last held 26 January 1993 (next to be held NA January 1998); results - Vaclav HAVEL was elected head of government: Prime Minister Vaclav KLAUS (since NA June 1992) was appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Ministers Ivan KOCARNIK (since NA June 1992), Josef LUX (since NA June 1992), Jan KALVODA (since NA June 1992) cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister Legislative branch: bicameral Parliament (Parlament) Senate (Senate): elections to be held 15-16 November 1996 (next to be held NA); seats (81 total) Chamber of Deputies (Snemovna Poslancu): elections last held 5-6 June 1992 (next to be held 31 May-1 June 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA given breakup and realignment of all parliamentary opposition parties since 1992; seats - (200 total) governing coalition (ODS 65, KDS 10, ODA 16, KDU-CSL 15), opposition (CSSD 18, LB 25, KSCM 10, LSU 9, LSNS 5, CMUS 9, SPR-RSC 6, independents 12) Judicial branch: Supreme Court, chairman and deputy chairmen are appointed by the president; Constitutional Court, chairman and deputy chairmen are appointed by the president Political parties and leaders: governing coalition: Civic Democratic Party (ODS), Vaclav KLAUS, chairman; Christian Democratic Party (KDS), Ivan PILIP, chairman; Civic Democratic Alliance (ODA), Jan KALVODA, chairman; Christian Democratic Union/Czech People's Party (KDU-CSL), Josef LUX, chairman; note - KDS was to merge with ODS in March 1996 opposition: Czech Social Democrats (CSSD - left opposition), Milos ZEMAN, chairman; Left Bloc (LB - left opposition), Jaroslav ORTMAN, chairman; Communist Party (KSCM - left opposition), Miroslav GREBENICEK, chairman; Liberal Social Union (LSU - left opposition), Frantisek TRNKA, chairman, note - may not still be in existence; Liberal National Social Party (LSNS - center party), Vavrinec BODENLOS, chairman; Bohemian-Moravian Center Union (CMUS - center party), Jan JEGLA, chairman; Assembly for the Republic (SPR-RSC - right radical), Miroslav SLADEK, chairman Other political or pressure groups: Czech-Moravian Chamber of Trade Unions; Civic Movement International organization participation: Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE (guest), CEI, CERN, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC, NSG, OECD, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMIG, UNOMIL, UNPROFOR, UPU, WEU (associate partner), WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Michael ZANTOVSKY chancery: 3900 Spring of Freedom Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 363-6315, 6316 FAX: [1] (202) 966-8540 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Jenonne R. WALKER embassy: Trziste 15, 11801 Prague 1 mailing address: Unit 1330, APO AE 09213-1330 telephone: [42] (2) 2451-0847 FAX: [42] (2) 2451-1001 Flag: two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red with a blue isosceles triangle based on the hoist side (almost identical to the flag of the former Czechoslovakia) Economy ------- Economic overview: The Czech Republic, which separated from Slovakia on 1 January 1993, emerged from recession with 2.6% growth in 1994 and 5% growth in 1995. Inflation in 1994-95 was cut in half; unemployment was kept at about 3%; the budget was balanced; and exports were reoriented to the EU. Prague's mass privatization program, including its innovative distribution of ownership shares to Czech citizens via "coupon vouchers," has made the most rapid progress in Eastern Europe. About 80% of the economy is wholly or partially in private hands. Because of its progress on reform, the Czech Republic in 1995 became the first post-Communist member of the OECD. Its solid economic performance also led Standard and Poor's to upgrade the country's sovereign credit rating to "A" and attracted nearly $5.3 billion in direct foreign investment to Czech industry between 1990 and September 1995. The Czech crown became convertible for current account transactions in October 1995. Czech companies increasingly are using the international capital market to fund capital investment, and foreign currency reserves totaled $13.9 billion at the end of 1995. Prague's biggest macroeconomic concern now is limiting the inflationary effect of these large capital inflows. The Czech economy also still faces microeconomic problems. Prague has promised to strengthen its bankruptcy law and improve the transparency of stock market operations in 1996, but some changes probably will not take effect until some time after the parliamentary elections of mid-1996 and will depend largely on voluntary compliance. Prague forecasts a balanced budget, 5.5% GDP growth, 2.8% unemployment, and 8.1% inflation for 1996. GDP: purchasing power parity - $106.2 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $10,200 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 5.8% industry: 40.7% services: 53.5% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 9.1% (1995 est.) Labor force: 5.389 million by occupation: industry 37.9%, agriculture 8.1%, construction 8.8%, communications and other 45.2% (1990) Unemployment rate: 2.9% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $16.5 billion expenditures: $16.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: fuels, ferrous metallurgy, machinery and equipment, coal, motor vehicles, glass, armaments Industrial production growth rate: 12.9% (January-November 1995) Electricity: capacity: 14.470,000 kW production: 56.3 billion kWh consumption per capita: 4,842 kWh (1993) Agriculture: grains, potatoes, sugar beets, hops, fruit; pigs, cattle, poultry; forest products Illicit drugs: transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and Latin American cocaine to Western Europe Exports: $17.4 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: manufactured goods, machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, fuels, minerals, metals, agricultural products partners: Germany 32.4%, Slovakia 16.1%, Austria 6.7%, Poland 5.3%, Italy 4%, Russia 3.3%, Netherlands 2.8%, France 2.6%, UK 2.2%, Hungary 2.1%, US 1.8%, Belgium 1.5% (January-September 1995) Imports: $21.3 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, chemicals, fuels and lubricants, raw materials, agricultural products partners: Germany 26%, Slovakia 13.2%, Russia 9.2%, Austria 7%, Italy 5.6%, France 4.1%, US 3.8%, Poland 3.1%, Netherlands 2.9%, UK 2.9%, Switzerland 2.1%, Belgium 2.0% (January-September 1995) External debt: $14.9 billion (June 1995) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $27 million (1993) Currency: 1 koruna (Kc) = 100 haleru Exchange rates: koruny (Kcs) per US$1 - 26.967 (January 1996), 26.541 (1995), 28.785 (1994), 29.153 (1993), 28.26 (1992), 29.53 (1991), 17.95 (1990) note: values before 1993 reflect Czechoslovak exchange rates Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 9,413 km standard gauge: 9,316 km 1.435-m standard gauge (2640 km electrified) narrow gauge: 97 km several narrow gauges (1995) Highways: total: 55,557 km (1994 est.) paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Waterways: NA km; the Elbe (Labe) is the principal river Pipelines: natural gas 5,400 km Ports: Decin, Prague, Usti nad Labem Merchant marine: total: 10 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 155,946 GRT/251,624 DWT ships by type: bulk 5, cargo 5 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 116 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 2 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 9 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 13 with paved runways under 914 m: 5 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 3 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 10 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 32 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 41 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 3,349,539 (1993 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intersputnik (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions) Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: NA Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: Army, Air and Air Defense Forces, Civil Defense, Railroad Units Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,724,607 males fit for military service: 2,074,331 males reach military age (18) annually: 88,418 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $931 million, 2.5% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Denmark ------- Map --- Location: 56 00 N, 10 00 E -- Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, on a peninsula north of Germany Flag ---- Description: red with a white cross that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side, and that design element of the Dannebrog (Danish flag) was subsequently adopted by the other Nordic countries of Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden Geography --------- Location: Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, on a peninsula north of Germany Geographic coordinates: 56 00 N, 10 00 E Map references: Europe Area: total area: 43,070 sq km land area: 42,370 sq km comparative area: slightly more than twice the size of Massachusetts note: includes the island of Bornholm in the Baltic Sea and the rest of metropolitan Denmark, but excludes the Faroe Islands and Greenland Land boundaries: total: 68 km border country: Germany 68 km Coastline: 3,379 km Maritime claims: contiguous zone: 4 nm continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 3 nm International disputes: Rockall continental shelf dispute involving Iceland, Ireland, and the UK (Ireland and the UK have signed a boundary agreement in the Rockall area) Climate: temperate; humid and overcast; mild, windy winters and cool summers Terrain: low and flat to gently rolling plains lowest point: Lammefjord -7 m highest point: Ejer Bavnehoj 173 m Natural resources: petroleum, natural gas, fish, salt, limestone Land use: arable land: 61% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 6% forest and woodland: 12% other: 21% Irrigated land: 4,300 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: air pollution, principally from vehicle emissions; nitrogen and phosphorus pollution of the North Sea; drinking and surface water becoming polluted from animal wastes natural hazards: flooding is a threat in some areas of the country (e.g., parts of Jutland, along the southern coast of the island of Lolland) that are protected from the sea by a system of dikes 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, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification, Law of the Sea Geographic note: controls Danish Straits linking Baltic and North Seas; about one-quarter of the population lives in Copenhagen People ------ Population: 5,249,632 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 17% (male 469,672; female 446,907) 15-64 years: 67% (male 1,789,552; female 1,738,870) 65 years and over: 16% (male 330,396; female 474,235) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.38% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 12.24 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 10.42 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 2 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.7 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 4.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 77.3 years male: 73.78 years female: 81.01 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.67 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Dane(s) adjective: Danish Ethnic divisions: Scandinavian, Eskimo, Faroese, German Religions: Evangelical Lutheran 91%, other Protestant and Roman Catholic 2%, other 7% (1988) Languages: Danish, Faroese, Greenlandic (an Eskimo dialect), German (small minority) Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.) total population: 99% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Kingdom of Denmark conventional short form: Denmark local long form: Kongeriget Danmark local short form: Danmark Data code: DA Type of government: constitutional monarchy Capital: Copenhagen Administrative divisions: metropolitan Denmark - 14 counties (amter, singular - amt) and 1 city* (stad); Arhus, Bornholms, Frederiksborg, Fyns, Kobenhavns, Nordjyllands, Ribe, Ringkobing, Roskilde, Sonderjyllands, Staden Kobenhavn*, Storstroms, Vejle, Vestsjaellands, Viborg note: see separate entries for the Faroe Islands and Greenland, which are part of the Danish realm and self-governing administrative divisions Independence: 10th century first organized as a unified state; in 1849 became a constitutional monarchy National holiday: Birthday of the Queen, 16 April (1940) Constitution: 1849 was the original constitution; there was a major overhaul 5 June 1953, allowing for a unicameral legislature and a female chief of state 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) is a constitutional monarch; 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) was appointed by the queen cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the queen 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, Social People's Party 13, Progress Party 11, Radical Liberals 8, Unity Party 6, Center Democrats 5, independent 1 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the monarch for life Political parties and leaders: Social Democratic Party, Poul Nyrup RASMUSSEN; Conservative Party, Hans ENGELL; Liberal Party, Uffe ELLEMANN-JENSEN; Socialist People's Party, Holger K. NIELSEN; Progress Party, Group Chairman Kim BEHNKE and Policy Spokesman Jan Kopke CHRISTENSEN; Center Democratic Party, Mimi Stilling JAKOBSEN; Radical Liberal Party, Marianne JELVED; Christian People's Party, Jann SJURSEN; Danish Workers' Party, Common Cause, Preben Moller HANSEN; Unity Party International organization participation: AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD, ECE, EIB, ESA, EU, FAO, G- 9, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MTCR, NACC, NATO, NC, NEA, NIB, NSG, OECD, OSCE, PCA, UN, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNMOGIP, UNMOT, UNOMIG, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UPU, WEU (observer), WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Knud-Erik TYGESEN chancery: 3200 Whitehaven Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 234-4300 FAX: [1] (202) 328-1470 consulate(s) general: Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Edward E. ELSON embassy: Dag Hammarskjolds Alle 24, 2100 Copenhagen mailing address: APO AE 09716, PSC 73 telephone: [45] (31) 42 31 44 FAX: [45] (35) 43 02 23 Flag: red with a white cross that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side, and that design element of the Dannebrog (Danish flag) was subsequently adopted by the other Nordic countries of Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden Economy ------- Economic overview: This thoroughly modern economy features high-tech agriculture, up-to-date small-scale and corporate industry, extensive government welfare measures, comfortable living standards, and high dependence on foreign trade. Denmark is self-sufficient in food production. The new center-left coalition government will concentrate on reducing the persistently high unemployment rate and the budget deficit as well as following the previous government's policies of maintaining low inflation and a current account surplus. In the face of recent international market pressure on the Danish krone, the coalition has also vowed to maintain a stable currency. The coalition hopes to lower marginal income taxes while maintaining overall tax revenues; boost industrial competitiveness through labor market and tax reforms and increased research and development funds; and improve welfare services for the neediest while cutting paperwork and delays. Prime Minister RASMUSSEN's reforms will focus on adapting Denmark to the criteria for European integration by 1999; Copenhagen has won from the European Union (EU) the right to opt out of the European Monetary Union (EMU) if a national referendum rejects it. Denmark is, in fact, one of the few EU countries likely to fit into the EMU on time. Denmark is weathering the current worldwide slump better than many West European countries. Although unemployment is high, it remains stable compared to most European countries. GDP: purchasing power parity - $112.8 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3.1% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $21,700 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 3% industry: 23.5% services: 73.5% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.4% (1995 est.) Labor force: 2,553,900 by occupation: private services 37.1%, government services 30.4%, manufacturing and mining 20%, construction 6.3%, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 5.6%, electricity/gas/water 0.6% (1991) Unemployment rate: 9.5% (1995) Budget: revenues: $56.5 billion expenditures: $64.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.) Industries: food processing, machinery and equipment, textiles and clothing, chemical products, electronics, construction, furniture, and other wood products, shipbuilding Industrial production growth rate: -2.5% (1993 est.) Electricity: capacity: 10,030,000 kW production: 32 billion kWh consumption per capita: 5,835 kWh (1993) Agriculture: grain, potatoes, rape, sugar beets; meat, dairy products; fish Exports: $39.6 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: meat and meat products, dairy products, transport equipment (shipbuilding), fish, chemicals, industrial machinery partners: EU 49.4% (Germany 22.4%, UK 8.2%), Sweden 10.4%, Norway 6.5%, US 5.5%, Japan 4.1%, FSU 1.7% (1994) Imports: $34 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.) commodities: petroleum, machinery and equipment, chemicals, grain and foodstuffs, textiles, paper partners: EU 51% (Germany 22%, UK 6.5%), Sweden 11.6%, Norway 5.1%, US 5.2%, Japan 3.5%, FSU 1.7% (1994) External debt: $40.9 billion (1994 est.) Economic aid: donor: ODA, $1.34 billion (1993) Currency: 1 Danish krone (DKr) = 100 oere Exchange rates: Danish kroner (DKr) per US$1 - 5.652 (January 1996), 5.602 (1995), 6.361 (1994), 6.484 (1993), 6.036 (1992), 6.396 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 2,848 km (499 km privately owned and operated) standard gauge: 2,848 km 1.435-m gauge (326 km electrified; 760 km double track) (1995) Highways: total: 71,042 km paved: 71,042 km (including 696 km of expressways) unpaved: 0 km (1992 est.) Waterways: 417 km Pipelines: crude oil 110 km; petroleum products 578 km; natural gas 700 km Ports: Alborg, Arhus, Copenhagen, Esbjerg, Fredericia, Grenaa, Koge, Odense, Struer Merchant marine: total: 334 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,013,054 GRT/7,171,871 DWT ships by type: bulk 13, cargo 114, chemical tanker 25, container 65, liquefied gas tanker 27, livestock carrier 5, oil tanker 31, railcar carrier 1, refrigerated cargo 17, roll-on/roll-off cargo 26, short-sea passenger 9, specialized tanker 1 note: Denmark has created its own internal register, called the Danish International Ship register (DIS); DIS ships do not have to meet Danish manning regulations, and they amount to a flag of convenience within the Danish register (1995 est.) Airports: total: 109 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: 3 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 13 with paved runways under 914 m: 77 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 6 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 4.005 million (1985 est.) Telephone system: excellent telephone and telegraph services domestic: buried and submarine cables and microwave radio relay form trunk network international: 19 submarine coaxial cables; satellite earth stations - 7 Intelsat, NA Eutelsat, and 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions); note - Denmark shares the Inmarsat earth station with the other Nordic countries (Finland, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden) Radio broadcast stations: AM 3, FM 2, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 2 Televisions: 2.04 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Royal Danish Army, Royal Danish Navy, Royal Danish Air Force, Home Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,338,791 males fit for military service: 1,150,996 males reach military age (20) annually: 34,324 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $3.2 billion, 1.8% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Djibouti -------- Map --- Location: 11 30 N, 43 00 E -- Eastern Africa, bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, between Eritrea and Somalia Flag ---- Description: two equal horizontal bands of light blue (top) and light green with a white isosceles triangle based on the hoist side bearing a red five-pointed star in the center Geography --------- Location: Eastern Africa, bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Red Sea, between Eritrea and Somalia Geographic coordinates: 11 30 N, 43 00 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 22,000 sq km land area: 21,980 sq km comparative area: slightly larger than Massachusetts Land boundaries: total: 508 km border countries: Eritrea 113 km, Ethiopia 337 km, Somalia 58 km Coastline: 314 km Maritime claims: contiguous zone: 24 nm exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: none Climate: desert; torrid, dry Terrain: coastal plain and plateau separated by central mountains lowest point: Asal -155 m highest point: Mousa Alli 2,028 m Natural resources: geothermal areas Land use: arable land: 0% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 9% forest and woodland: 0% other: 91% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: inadequate supplies of potable water; desertification natural hazards: earthquakes; droughts; occasional cyclonic disturbances from the Indian Ocean bring heavy rains and flash floods international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Desertification Geographic note: strategic location near world's busiest shipping lanes and close to Arabian oilfields; terminus of rail traffic into Ethiopia; a vast wasteland People ------ Population: 427,642 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 43% (male 91,687; female 91,242) 15-64 years: 55% (male 123,699; female 110,530) 65 years and over: 2% (male 5,389; female 5,095) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.5% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 42.5 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 15.26 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -12.28 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.12 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.06 male(s)/female all ages: 1.07 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 106.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 50.15 years male: 48.24 years female: 52.12 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.08 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Djiboutian(s) adjective: Djiboutian Ethnic divisions: Somali 60%, Afar 35%, French, Arab, Ethiopian, and Italian 5% Religions: Muslim 94%, Christian 6% Languages: French (official), Arabic (official), Somali, Afar Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 46.2% male: 60.3% female: 32.7% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Djibouti conventional short form: Djibouti former: French Territory of the Afars and Issas, French Somaliland Data code: DJ Type of government: republic Capital: Djibouti Administrative divisions: 5 districts (cercles, singular - cercle); 'Ali Sabih, Dikhil, Djibouti, Obock, Tadjoura Independence: 27 June 1977 (from France) National holiday: Independence Day, 27 June (1977) Constitution: multiparty constitution approved in referendum 4 September 1992 Legal system: based on French civil law system, traditional practices, and Islamic law Suffrage: NA years of age; universal adult Executive branch: chief of state: President HASSAN GOULED Aptidon (since 24 June 1977); election last held 7 May 1993 (next to be held NA 1999); results - President HASSAN GOULED reelected to a six-year term by universal suffrage head of government: Prime Minister BARKAT Gourad Hamadou (since 30 September 1978) cabinet: Council of Ministers is responsible to the president Legislative branch: unicameral Chamber of Deputies (Chambre des Deputes): elections last held 18 December 1992; results - RPP (the ruling party) dominated; seats - (65 total) RPP 65 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Cour Supreme) Political parties and leaders: ruling party: People's Progress Assembly (RPP), Hassan GOULED Aptidon other parties: Democratic Renewal Party (PRD), Mohamed Jama ELABE; Democratic National Party (PND), ADEN Robleh Awaleh Other political or pressure groups: Front for the Restoration of Unity and Democracy (FRUD) and affiliates; Movement for Unity and Democracy (MUD) International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, AFESD, AL, ECA, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGADD, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, UN, UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMIH, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador ROBLE Olhaye Oudine chancery: Suite 515, 1156 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005 telephone: [1] (202) 331-0270 FAX: [1] (202) 331-0302 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Martin L. CHESHES embassy: Plateau du Serpent, Boulevard Marechal Joffre, Djibouti mailing address: B. P. 185, Djibouti telephone: [253] 35 39 95 FAX: [253] 35 39 40 Flag: two equal horizontal bands of light blue (top) and light green with a white isosceles triangle based on the hoist side bearing a red five-pointed star in the center Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy is based on service activities connected with the country's strategic location and status as a free trade zone in northeast Africa. Two-thirds of the inhabitants live in the capital city, the remainder being mostly nomadic herders. Scanty rainfall limits crop production to fruits and vegetables, and most food must be imported. Djibouti provides services as both a transit port for the region and an international transshipment and refueling center. It has few natural resources and little industry. The nation is, therefore, heavily dependent on foreign assistance (an important supplement to GDP) to help support its balance of payments and to finance development projects. An unemployment rate of over 30% continues to be a major problem. Per capita consumption dropped an estimated 35% over the last six years because of recession, civil war, and a high population growth rate (including immigrants and refugees). GDP: purchasing power parity - $500 million (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: -3% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $1,200 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 3% industry: 21% services: 76% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 6% (1993 est.) Labor force: 282,000 by occupation: agriculture 75%, industry 11%, services 14% (1991 est.) Unemployment rate: over 30% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $164 million expenditures: $201 million, including capital expenditures of $16 million (1993 est.) Industries: limited to a few small-scale enterprises, such as dairy products and mineral-water bottling Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 90,000 kW production: 170 million kWh consumption per capita: 398 kWh (1993) Agriculture: fruits, vegetables; goats, sheep, camels Exports: $184 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: hides and skins, coffee (in transit) partners: Somalia 48%, Yemen 42% Imports: $384 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: foods, beverages, transport equipment, chemicals, petroleum products partners: France, UK, Saudi Arabia, Bahrain, South Korea External debt: $227 million (1993 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Djiboutian franc (DF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: Djiboutian francs (DF) per US$1 - 177.721 (fixed rate since 1973) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 97 km (Djibouti segment of the Addis Ababa-Djibouti railroad) narrow gauge: 97 km 1.000-m gauge Highways: total: 2,879 km paved: 363 km unpaved: 2,516 km (1991 est.) Ports: Djibouti Merchant marine: total: 1 cargo ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,369 GRT/3,030 DWT (1995 est.) Airports: total: 11 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 2 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 5 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 7,200 (1986 est.) Telephone system: telephone facilities in the city of Djibouti are adequate as are the microwave radio relay connections to outlying areas of the country domestic: microwave radio relay network international: submarine cable to Saudi Arabia; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) and 1 Arabsat Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 2, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 17,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Djibouti National Army (includes Navy and Air Force), National Security Force (Force Nationale de Securite), National Police Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 102,528 males fit for military service: 60,076 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $26 million, NA% of GDP (1989) ====================================================================== @Dominica -------- Map --- Location: 13 30 N, 61 20 W -- Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, about one-half of the way from Puerto Rico to Trinidad and Tobago Flag ---- Description: green with a centered cross of three equal bands - the vertical part is yellow (hoist side), black, and white - the horizontal part is yellow (top), black, and white; superimposed in the center of the cross is a red disk bearing a sisserou parrot encircled by 10 green five-pointed stars edged in yellow; the 10 stars represent the 10 administrative divisions (parishes) Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, about one-half of the way from Puerto Rico to Trinidad and Tobago Geographic coordinates: 13 30 N, 61 20 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 750 sq km land area: 750 sq km comparative area: more than four times the size of Washington, DC Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 148 km Maritime claims: contiguous zone: 24 nm exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: none Climate: tropical; moderated by northeast trade winds; heavy rainfall Terrain: rugged mountains of volcanic origin lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Morne Diablatins 1,447 m Natural resources: timber Land use: arable land: 9% permanent crops: 13% meadows and pastures: 3% forest and woodland: 41% other: 34% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: NA natural hazards: flash floods are a constant threat; destructive hurricanes can be expected during the late summer months international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling People ------ Population: 82,926 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 28% (male 11,986; female 11,521) 15-64 years: 64% (male 27,206; female 25,841) 65 years and over: 8% (male 2,608; female 3,764) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.38% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 18.38 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.31 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -9.32 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.69 male(s)/female all ages: 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 9.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 77.4 years male: 74.55 years female: 80.4 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.93 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Dominican(s) adjective: Dominican Ethnic divisions: black, Carib Indians Religions: Roman Catholic 77%, Protestant 15% (Methodist 5%, Pentecostal 3%, Seventh-Day Adventist 3%, Baptist 2%, other 2%), none 2%, unknown 1%, other 5% Languages: English (official), French patois Literacy: age 15 and over has ever attended school (1970 est.) total population: 94% male: 94% female: 94% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Commonwealth of Dominica conventional short form: Dominica Data code: DO Type of government: parliamentary democracy Capital: Roseau Administrative divisions: 10 parishes; Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Joseph, Saint Luke, Saint Mark, Saint Patrick, Saint Paul, Saint Peter Independence: 3 November 1978 (from UK) National holiday: Independence Day, 3 November (1978) Constitution: 3 November 1978 Legal system: based on English common law Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Crispin Anselm SORHAINDO (since 25 October 1993) was elected for a five-year term by the House of Assembly; election last held 4 October 1993 (next to be held NA October 1998); results - percent of vote NA head of government: Prime Minister Edison C. JAMES (since 12 June 1995); prime minister is appointed by the president cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister Legislative branch: unicameral House of Assembly: elections last held 12 June 1995 (next to be held by October 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (30 total; 9 appointed senators and 21 elected representatives) UWP 11, DLP 5, DFP 5 Judicial branch: Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (located in Santa Lucia), one of the six judges must reside in Dominica and preside over the Court of Summary Jurisdiction Political parties and leaders: Dominica Freedom Party (DFP), Brian ALLEYNE; Dominica Labor Party (DLP), Rosie DOUGLAS; United Workers Party (UWP), Edison JAMES Other political or pressure groups: Dominica Liberation Movement (DLM), a small leftist group International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, C, Caricom, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, NAM (observer), OAS, OECS, OPANAL, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: Dominica does not have an embassy in the US consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Dominica; the Ambassador to Dominica resides in Bridgetown (Barbados), but travels frequently to Dominica Flag: green with a centered cross of three equal bands - the vertical part is yellow (hoist side), black, and white - the horizontal part is yellow (top), black, and white; superimposed in the center of the cross is a red disk bearing a sisserou parrot encircled by 10 green five-pointed stars edged in yellow; the 10 stars represent the 10 administrative divisions (parishes) Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy is dependent on agriculture and thus is highly vulnerable to climatic conditions. Agriculture accounts for 26% of GDP and employs 40% of the labor force. Development of the tourist industry remains difficult because of the rugged coastline and the lack of an international airport. Hurricane Luis devastated the country's banana crop in September 1995; tropical storms had wiped out one-quarter of the crop in 1994 as well. The newly elected government is attempting to develop an offshore financial industry in order to diversify the island's production base. GDP: purchasing power parity - $200 million (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: -1% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,450 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 26% industry: NA% services: NA% (1995) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 0.4% (1995) Labor force: 25,000 by occupation: agriculture 40%, industry and commerce 32%, services 28% (1984) Unemployment rate: 15% (1992 est.) Budget: revenues: $80 million expenditures: $95.8 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY95/96 est.) Industries: soap, coconut oil, tourism, copra, furniture, cement blocks, shoes Industrial production growth rate: -10% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 7,000 kW production: 30 million kWh consumption per capita: 347 kWh (1993) Agriculture: bananas, citrus, mangoes, root crops, coconuts; forestry and fisheries potential not exploited Illicit drugs: transshipment point for narcotics bound for the US and Europe; minor cannabis producer Exports: $48.3 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: bananas, soap, bay oil, vegetables, grapefruit, oranges partners: UK 55%, Caricom countries, Italy, US Imports: $98.8 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: manufactured goods, machinery and equipment, food, chemicals partners: US 25%, Caricom, UK, Japan, Canada External debt: $92.8 million (1992) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.70 (fixed rate since 1976) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 800 km paved: 500 km unpaved: 300 km Ports: Portsmouth, Roseau Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 2 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 14,613 (1993 est.) Telephone system: domestic: fully automatic network international: microwave radio relay and SHF radiotelephone links to Martinique and Guadeloupe; VHF and UHF radiotelephone links to Saint Lucia Radio broadcast stations: AM 3, FM 2, shortwave 0 Radios: 45,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 cable Televisions: 5,200 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (includes Special Service Unit, Coast Guard) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Dominican Republic ------------------ Map --- Location: 19 00 N, 70 40 W -- Caribbean, eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Haiti Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, eastern two-thirds of the island of Hispaniola, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Haiti Geographic coordinates: 19 00 N, 70 40 W 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 border country: 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 lowest point: Lago Enriquillo -46 m highest point: Pico Duarte 3,175 m 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 Geographic note: shares island of Hispaniola with Haiti (eastern two-thirds is the Dominican Republic, western one-third is Haiti) People ------ Population: 8,088,881 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 34% (male 1,401,322; female 1,355,530) 15-64 years: 62% (male 2,541,356; female 2,460,509) 65 years and over: 4% (male 156,238; female 173,926) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.73% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 23.51 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.53 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.9 male(s)/female all ages: 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 47.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 69.06 years male: 66.89 years female: 71.34 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.66 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 82.1% male: 82% female: 82.2% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Dominican Republic conventional short form: none local long form: Republica Dominicana local short form: none Data code: DR Type of government: 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; 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 Garrigoza (since 16 August 1994); president is elected for a four-year term by direct vote; election last held 16 May 1994 (next to be held 16 May 1996); results - Joaquin BALAGUER (PRSC) 42.6%, Juan BOSCH Gavino (PLD) 13.2%, Jose Francisco PENA Gomez (PRD) 41.9%, Jacobo MAJLUTA (PRI) 2.3% cabinet: Cabinet was nominated by the president Legislative branch: bicameral National Congress (Congreso Nacional) Senate (Senado): elections last held 16 May 1994 (next to be held NA May 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (30 total) PRSC 15, PLD 1, PRD 14 Chamber of Deputies (Camara de Diputados): elections last held 16 May 1994 (next to be held NA May 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) PLD 13, PRSC 50, PRD 57 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges are elected by the Senate Political parties and leaders: major parties: Social Christian Reformist Party (PRSC), Joaquin BALAGUER Ricardo; Dominican Liberation Party (PLD), Lidio CADET; Dominican Revolutionary Party (PRD), Jose Franciso PENA Gomez; Independent Revolutionary Party (PRI), Jacobo MAJLUTA minor parties: National Veterans and Civilian Party (PNVC), Juan Rene BEAUCHAMPS Javier; Liberal Party of the Dominican Republic (PLRD), Andres Van Der HORST; Democratic Quisqueyan Party (PQD), Elias WESSIN Chavez; National Progressive Force (FNP), Marino VINICIO Castillo; Popular Christian Party (PPC), Rogelio DELGADO Bogaert; Dominican Communist Party (PCD), Narciso ISA Conde; Dominican Workers' Party (PTD), Ivan RODRIGUEZ; Anti-Imperialist Patriotic Union (UPA), Ignacio RODRIGUEZ Chiappini; Alliance for Democracy Party (APD), Maximilano Rabelais PUIG Miller, Nelsida MARMOLEJOS, Vicente BENGOA; Democratic Union (UD), Fernando ALVAREZ Bogaert 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 Organizations (COP) International organization participation: ACP, Caricom (observer), ECLAC, FAO, G-11, G-77, 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, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Jose del Carmen ARIZA Gomez chancery: 1715 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 332-6280 FAX: [1] (202) 265-8057 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, 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, APO AA 34041 telephone: [1] (809) 221-2171, 221-8100 FAX: [1] (809) 686-7437 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Economic reforms launched in late 1994 contributed to exchange rate stabilization, reduced inflation, and relatively strong GDP growth in 1995. Output growth was concentrated in the tourism and free trade zone (ftz) sectors while sugar and non-ftz manufacturing declined last year. Drought in early 1995 hurt agricultural production but favorable world prices for export commodities helped mitigate the impact. Sugar refining was devastated by a disastrous harvest resulting from the drought and ongoing problems at the state-owned sugar company. Unreliable electric supplies continue to hamper expansion in manufacturing; small and medium-sized retail firms also suffer due to the dismal power situation. A presidential election scheduled for May 1996 could lead to increased government spending before and in the immediate aftermath of the vote, raising the potential for rising inflation and increased pressure on the Dominican peso. GDP: purchasing power parity - $26.8 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $3,400 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 13% industry: 32% services: 55% (1995) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 9.5% (1995) Labor force: 2.3 million to 2.6 million by occupation: agriculture 50%, services and government 32%, industry 18% (1991 est.) Unemployment rate: 30% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $1.8 billion expenditures: $2.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.) Industries: tourism, sugar processing, ferronickel and gold mining, textiles, cement, tobacco Industrial production growth rate: 6.3% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 1,450,000 kW production: 5.4 billion kWh consumption per capita: 651 kWh (1993) Agriculture: sugarcane, coffee, cotton, cocoa, tobacco, rice, beans, potatoes, corn, bananas; cattle, pigs, dairy products, meat, eggs Illicit drugs: transshipment point for South American drugs destined for the US and Europe Exports: $837.7 million (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: ferronickel, sugar, gold, coffee, cocoa partners: US 47.5%, EC 22%, Puerto Rico 8.4%, Asia 6.7% (1994) Imports: $2.867 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: foodstuffs, petroleum, cotton and fabrics, chemicals and pharmaceuticals partners: US 60% (1993) External debt: $4.6 billion (1994) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $21 million (1993) Currency: 1 Dominican peso (RD$) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: Dominican pesos (RD$) per US$1 - 13.589 (December 1995), 13.617 (1995), 13.160 (1994), 12.676 (1993), 12.774 (1992), 12.692 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 757 km standard gauge: 375 km 1.435-m gauge (Central Romana Railroad) narrow gauge: 142 km 0.762-m gauge (Dominica Government Railway); 240 km operated by sugar companies in various gauges (0.558-m, 0.762-m, 1.067-m gauges) (1995) Highways: total: 11,931 km paved: 5,766 km unpaved: 6,165 km (1987 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 31 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 2 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 6 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 with paved runways under 914 m: 14 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 4 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 190,000 (1987 est.) Telephone system: domestic: relatively efficient system based on islandwide microwave radio relay network international: 1 coaxial submarine cable; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 120, FM 0, shortwave 6 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 18 (1987 est.) Televisions: 728,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, National Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,212,012 males fit for military service: 1,391,472 males reach military age (18) annually: 83,611 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $116 million, 1.4% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Ecuador ------- Map --- Location: 2 00 S, 77 30 W -- Western South America, bordering the Pacific Ocean at the Equator, between Colombia and Peru Flag ---- Description: three horizontal bands of yellow (top, double width), blue, and red with the coat of arms superimposed at the center of the flag; similar to the flag of Colombia that is shorter and does not bear a coat of arms Geography --------- Location: Western South America, bordering the Pacific Ocean at the Equator, between Colombia and Peru Geographic coordinates: 2 00 S, 77 30 W Map references: South America Area: total area: 283,560 sq km land area: 276,840 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Nevada note: includes Galapagos Islands Land boundaries: total: 2,010 km border countries: Colombia 590 km, Peru 1,420 km Coastline: 2,237 km Maritime claims: continental shelf: claims continental shelf between mainland and Galapagos Islands territorial sea: 200 nm International disputes: three sections of the boundary with Peru are in dispute Climate: tropical along coast becoming cooler inland Terrain: coastal plain (costa), inter-Andean central highlands (sierra), and flat to rolling eastern jungle (oriente) lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Chimborazo 6,267 m Natural resources: petroleum, fish, timber Land use: arable land: 6% permanent crops: 3% meadows and pastures: 17% forest and woodland: 51% other: 23% Irrigated land: 5,500 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: deforestation; soil erosion; desertification; water pollution natural hazards: frequent earthquakes, landslides, volcanic activity; periodic droughts international agreements: party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands, Whaling Geographic note: Cotopaxi in Andes is highest active volcano in world People ------ Population: 11,466,291 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 35% (male 2,062,468; female 1,996,679) 15-64 years: 60% (male 3,403,197; female 3,489,728) 65 years and over: 5% (male 241,217; female 273,002) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.96% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 25.06 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.5 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.88 male(s)/female all ages: 0.99 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 34.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 71.09 years male: 68.49 years female: 73.82 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.89 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 90.1% male: 92% female: 88.2% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Ecuador conventional short form: Ecuador local long form: Republica del Ecuador local short form: Ecuador Data code: EC Type of government: republic Capital: Quito Administrative divisions: 21 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Azuay, Bolivar, Canar, Carchi, Chimborazo, Cotopaxi, El Oro, Esmeraldas, Galapagos, Guayas, Imbabura, Loja, Los Rios, Manabi, Morona-Santiago, Napo, Pastaza, Pichincha, Sucumbios, Tungurahua, Zamora-Chinchipe Independence: 24 May 1822 (from Spain) National holiday: Independence Day, 10 August (1809) (independence of Quito) Constitution: 10 August 1979 Legal system: based on civil law system; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal, compulsory for literate persons ages 18-65, optional for other eligible voters Executive branch: chief of state and head of government: President Sixto DURAN-BALLEN Cordovez (since 10 August 1992); Vice President Eduardo PENA Trivino (since 18 October 1995); president and vice president were elected for four-year terms by universal suffrage; runoff election held 5 July 1992; results - Sixto DURAN-BALLEN elected as president (next election was held 19 May 1996; no presidential candidate received more than 50% of the vote; a runoff election between BUCARAM and NEBOT will be held on 7 July 1996); note - former Vice President DAHIK resigned 11 October 1995 and left the country to escape arrest on corruption charges; National Congress chose PENA as his successor in accordance with the constitution cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president Legislative branch: unicameral National Congress (Congreso Nacional): elections last held 19 May 1996; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (82 total) PSC 27, PRE 21, DP 10, Pachakutik Movement 7, ID 5, PLRE 3, MPD 2, APRE 2, CFP 1, independent and other 4 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges are elected by the Chamber of Representatives Political parties and leaders: Center-Right parties: Republican Unity Party (PUR); Social Christian Party (PSC), Jaime NEBOT Saadi, president; Ecuadorian Conservative Party (PCE), President Sixto DURAN-BALLEN (two parties merged in 1995) Center-Left parties: Democratic Left (ID), Andres VALLEJO Arcos, Rodrigo BORJA Cevallos, leaders; Popular Democracy (DP), Rodrigo PAZ, leader; Ecuadorian Radical Liberal Party (PLRE), Medardo MORA, leader; Radical Alfarista Front (FRA), Jaime ASPIAZU Seminario, director Populist parties: Roldosist Party (PRE), Abdala BUCARAM Ortiz, director; Concentration of Popular Forces (CFP), Rodolfo BAQUERIZO Nazur, leader; Popular Revolutionary Action (APRE), Frank VARGAS Passos, leader Far-Left parties: Popular Democratic Movement (MPD), Juan Jose CASTELLO, leader; Ecuadorian Socialist Party (PSE), Leon ROLDOS, leader; Broad Leftist Front (FADI), Rene Mauge MOSQUERA, chairman; Ecuadorian National Liberation (LN), Alfredo CASTILLO, director Communists: Communist Party of Ecuador (PCE, pro-North Korea), Rene Mauge MOSQUERA, Secretary General; Communist Party of Ecuador/Marxist-Leninist (PCMLE, Maoist) International organization participation: AG, ECLAC, FAO, G-11, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, 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, WToO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Edgar TERAN Teran chancery: 2535 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 234-7200 consulate(s) general: Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, and San Francisco consulate(s): Newark US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Peter F. ROMERO embassy: Avenida 12 de Octubre y Avenida Patria, Quito mailing address: APO AA 34039 telephone: [593] (2) 562-890 FAX: [593] (2) 502-052 consulate(s) general: Guayaquil Flag: three horizontal bands of yellow (top, double width), blue, and red with the coat of arms superimposed at the center of the flag; similar to the flag of Colombia that is shorter and does not bear a coat of arms Economy ------- Economic overview: Ecuador has substantial oil resources and rich agricultural areas. Growth has been uneven in recent years because of fluctuations in prices for Ecuador's primary exports - oil and bananas - as well as because of government policies designed to curb inflation. President Sixto DURAN-BALLEN launched a series of macroeconomic reforms when he came into office in August 1992, which included raising domestic fuel prices and utility rates, eliminating most subsidies, and bringing the government budget into balance. These measures helped to reduce inflation from 55% in 1992 to 25% in 1995. DURAN-BALLEN has a much more favorable attitude toward foreign investment than his predecessor and has supported several laws designed to encourage foreign investment. Ecuador has implemented free or complementary trade agreements with Bolivia, Chile, Colombia, Peru, and Venezuela, as well as joined the World Trade Organization. Growth slowed to 2.3% in 1995 due in part to high domestic interest rates and shortages of electric power. GDP: purchasing power parity - $44.6 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $4,100 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 13% industry: 39% services: 48% (1992 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 25% (1995) Labor force: 2.8 million by occupation: agriculture 35%, manufacturing 21%, commerce 16%, services and other activities 28% (1982) Unemployment rate: 7.1% (1994) Budget: revenues: $3.3 billion expenditures: $3.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.) Industries: petroleum, food processing, textiles, metal work, paper products, wood products, chemicals, plastics, fishing, lumber Industrial production growth rate: 6.4% (1993) Electricity: capacity: 2,230,000 kW production: 6.9 billion kWh consumption per capita: 612 kWh (1993) Agriculture: bananas, coffee, cocoa, rice, potatoes, manioc, plantains, sugarcane; cattle, sheep, pigs, beef, pork, dairy products; balsa wood; fish, shrimp Illicit drugs: significant transit country for derivatives of coca originating in Colombia, Bolivia, and Peru; minor illicit producer of coca; importer of precursor chemicals used in production of illicit narcotics; important money-laundering hub Exports: $4 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: petroleum 39%, bananas 17%, shrimp 16%, cocoa 3%, coffee 6% partners: US 42%, Latin America 29%, Caribbean, EU countries 17% Imports: $3.7 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: transport equipment, consumer goods, vehicles, machinery, chemicals partners: US 28%, EU 17%, Latin America 31%, Caribbean, Japan External debt: $12.6 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $153 million (1993) note: received $12.7 million from the US and $160 million from other countries in 1995 Currency: 1 sucre (S/) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: sucres (S/) per US$1 - 2914.8 (31 December 1995), 2,564.5 (1995), 2,196.7 (1994), 1,919.1 (1993), 1,534.0 (1992), 1,046.25 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 965 km (single track) narrow gauge: 965 km 1.067-m gauge Highways: total: 43,709 km paved: 5,245 km unpaved: 38,464 km (1991 est.) Waterways: 1,500 km Pipelines: crude oil 800 km; petroleum products 1,358 km Ports: Esmeraldas, Guayaquil, La Libertad, Manta, Puerto Bolivar, San Lorenzo Merchant marine: total: 19 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 114,701 GRT/171,240 DWT ships by type: container 2, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 12, passenger 3, refrigerated cargo 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 188 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: 8 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 13 with paved runways under 914 m: 121 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 5 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 32 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 586,300 (1994 est.) Telephone system: domestic: facilities generally inadequate and unreliable international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 272, FM 0, shortwave 39 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 33 Televisions: 940,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army (Ejercito Ecuatoriano), Navy (Armada Ecuatoriana, includes Marines), Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Ecuatoriana), National Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,968,361 males fit for military service: 2,006,509 males reach military age (20) annually: 121,241 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $386 million, 2.1% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Egypt ----- Map --- Location: 27 00 N, 30 00 E -- Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Libya and the Gaza Strip Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and black with the national emblem (a shield superimposed on a golden eagle facing the hoist side above a scroll bearing the name of the country in Arabic) centered in the white band; similar to the flag of Yemen, which has a plain white band; also similar to the flag of Syria that has two green stars and to the flag of Iraq, which has three green stars (plus an Arabic inscription) in a horizontal line centered in the white band Geography --------- Location: Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Libya and the Gaza Strip Geographic coordinates: 27 00 N, 30 00 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 1,001,450 sq km land area: 995,450 sq km comparative area: slightly more than three times the size of New Mexico Land boundaries: total: 2,689 km border countries: Gaza Strip 11 km, Israel 255 km, Libya 1,150 km, Sudan 1,273 km Coastline: 2,450 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: administrative boundary with Sudan 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: desert; hot, dry summers with moderate winters Terrain: vast desert plateau interrupted by Nile valley and delta lowest point: Qattara Depression -133 m highest point: Mount Catherine 2,629 m Natural resources: petroleum, natural gas, iron ore, phosphates, manganese, limestone, gypsum, talc, asbestos, lead, zinc Land use: arable land: 3% permanent crops: 2% meadows and pastures: 0% forest and woodland: 0% other: 95% Irrigated land: 25,850 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: agricultural land being lost to urbanization and windblown sands; increasing soil salinization below Aswan High Dam; desertification; oil pollution threatening coral reefs, beaches, and marine habitats; other water pollution from agricultural pesticides, raw sewage, and industrial effluents; very limited natural fresh water resources away from the Nile which is the only perennial water source; rapid growth in population overstraining natural resources natural hazards: periodic droughts; frequent earthquakes, flash floods, landslides, volcanic activity; hot, driving windstorm called khamsin occurs in spring; dust storms, sandstorms international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, 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 - Tropical Timber 94 Geographic note: controls Sinai Peninsula, only land bridge between Africa and remainder of Eastern Hemisphere; controls Suez Canal, shortest sea link between Indian Ocean and Mediterranean Sea; size, and juxtaposition to Israel, establish its major role in Middle Eastern geopolitics People ------ Population: 63,575,107 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 37% (male 11,970,197; female 11,462,689) 15-64 years: 60% (male 19,127,696; female 18,738,304) 65 years and over: 3% (male 1,028,916; female 1,247,305) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.91% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 28.18 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.7 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.35 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.82 male(s)/female all ages: 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 72.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 61.43 years male: 59.51 years female: 63.46 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.58 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Egyptian(s) adjective: Egyptian Ethnic divisions: Eastern Hamitic stock (Egyptians, Bedouins, and Berbers) 99%, Greek, Nubian, Armenian, other European (primarily Italian and French) 1% Religions: Muslim (mostly Sunni) 94% (official estimate), Coptic Christian and other 6% (official estimate) Languages: Arabic (official), English and French widely understood by educated classes Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 51.4% male: 63.6% female: 38.8% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Arab Republic of Egypt conventional short form: Egypt local long form: Jumhuriyat Misr al-Arabiyah local short form: none former: United Arab Republic (with Syria) Data code: EG Type of government: republic Capital: Cairo Administrative divisions: 26 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Ad Daqahliyah, Al Bahr al Ahmar, Al Buhayrah, Al Fayyum, Al Gharbiyah, Al Iskandariyah, Al Isma'iliyah, Al Jizah, Al Minufiyah, Al Minya, Al Qahirah, Al Qalyubiyah, Al Wadi al Jadid, Ash Sharqiyah, As Suways, Aswan, Asyut, Bani Suwayf, Bur Sa'id, Dumyat, Janub Sina, Kafr ash Shaykh, Matruh, Qina, Shamal Sina, Suhaj Independence: 28 February 1922 (from UK) National holiday: Anniversary of the Revolution, 23 July (1952) Constitution: 11 September 1971 Legal system: based on English common law, Islamic law, and Napoleonic codes; judicial review by Supreme Court and Council of State (oversees validity of administrative decisions); accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal and compulsory Executive branch: chief of state: President Mohammed Hosni MUBARAK (sworn in as president 14 October 1981, eight days after the assassination of President SADAT); national referendum held 4 October 1993 validated MUBARAK's nomination by the People's Assembly to a third six-year presidential term; note - the president is nominated by the People's Assembly and that nomination must then be validated by a national, popular referendum head of government: Prime Minister Kamal Ahmed al-GANZOURI (since 4 January 1996) was appointed by the president cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president Legislative branch: bicameral People's Assembly (Majlis al-Cha'b): elections last held 29 November 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - NDP 72%, idependents 25%, opposition 3%; seats - (454 total, 444 elected, 10 appointed by the president) NDP 317, independents 114, NWP 6, NPUG 5, Nasserist Arab Democratic Party 1, Liberals 1 Advisory Council (Majlis al-Shura): functions only in a consultative role; elections last held 7 June 1995 (next to be held NA); results - NDP 99%, independents 1%; seats - (264 total, 176 elected, 88 appointed by the president) seats by party NA Judicial branch: Supreme Constitutional Court Political parties and leaders: National Democratic Party (NDP), President Mohammed Hosni MUBARAK, leader, is the dominant party; legal opposition parties are as follows: New Wafd Party (NWP), Fu'ad SIRAJ AL-DIN; Socialist Labor Party (SLP), Ibrahim SHUKRI; National Progressive Unionist Grouping (NPUG), Khalid Muhi al-DIN; Socialist Liberal Party, Mustafa Kamal MURAD; Democratic Unionist Party, Mohammed 'Abd-al-Mun'im TURK; Umma Party, Ahmad al-SABAHI; Misr al-Fatah Party (Young Egypt Party), leader NA; Nasserist Arab Democratic Party, Dia' al-din DAWUD; Democratic Peoples' Party, Anwar AFIFI; The Greens Party, Kamal KIRAH; Social Justice Party, Muhammad 'ABD-AL-'AL note: formation of political parties must be approved by government Other political or pressure groups: despite a constitutional ban against religious-based parties, the technically illegal Muslim Brotherhood constitutes MUBARAK's potentially most significant political opposition; MUBARAK tolerated limited political activity by the Brotherhood for his first two terms, but has moved more aggressively in the past year to block its influence; trade unions and professional associations are officially sanctioned International organization participation: ABEDA, ACC, ACCT (associate), AfDB, AFESD, AG (observer), AL, AMF, BSEC (observer), CAEU, CCC, EBRD, ECA, ESCWA, FAO, G-15, G-19, G-24, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, NAM, OAPEC, OAS (observer), OAU, OIC, OSCE (partner), PCA, UN, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMIG, UNOMIL, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNRWA, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Ahmed Maher El SAYED chancery: 3521 International Court NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 895-5400 FAX: [1] (202) 244-4319, 5131 consulate(s) general: Chicago, Houston, New York, and San Francisco US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Edward S. WALKER, Jr. embassy: (North Gate) 8, Kamel El-Din Salah Street, Garden City, Cairo mailing address: APO AE 09839-4900, Unit 64900, Cairo telephone: [20] (2) 3557371 FAX: [20] (2) 3573200 branch office: Alexandria Flag: three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and black with the national emblem (a shield superimposed on a golden eagle facing the hoist side above a scroll bearing the name of the country in Arabic) centered in the white band; similar to the flag of Yemen, which has a plain white band; also similar to the flag of Syria that has two green stars and to the flag of Iraq, which has three green stars (plus an Arabic inscription) in a horizontal line centered in the white band Economy ------- Economic overview: Half of Egypt's GDP originates in the public sector, most industrial plants being owned by the government. Overregulation holds back technical modernization and foreign investment. Even so, the economy grew rapidly during the late 1970s and early 1980s, but in 1986 the collapse of world oil prices and an increasingly heavy burden of debt servicing led Egypt to begin negotiations with the IMF for balance-of-payments support. Egypt's first IMF standby arrangement, concluded in mid-1987, was suspended in early 1988 because of the government's failure to adopt promised reforms. Egypt signed a follow-on program with the IMF and also negotiated a structural adjustment loan with the World Bank in 1991. In 1991-93 the government made solid progress on administrative reforms such as liberalizing exchange and interest rates, but resisted implementing major structural reforms like streamlining the public sector. As a result, the economy has not gained enough momentum to tackle the growing problem of unemployment. Egypt made uneven progress in implementing the successor programs it signed onto in late 1993 with the IMF and World Bank; currently it is negotiating another successor program with the IMF. President MUBARAK has cited population growth as the main cause of the country's economic troubles. The addition of about 1.2 million people a year to the already huge population of 63 million exerts enormous pressure on the 5% of the land area available for agriculture along the Nile. GDP: purchasing power parity - $171 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,760 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 9.4% (yearend 1995) Labor force: 16 million (1994 est.) by occupation: government, public sector enterprises, and armed forces 36%, agriculture 34%, privately owned service and manufacturing enterprises 20% (1984) note: shortage of skilled labor; 2.5 million Egyptians work abroad, mostly in Saudi Arabia and the Gulf Arab states (1993 est.) Unemployment rate: 20% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $18 billion expenditures: $19.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $3.8 billion (FY94/95 est.) Industries: textiles, food processing, tourism, chemicals, petroleum, construction, cement, metals Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 11,830,000 kW production: 44.5 billion kWh consumption per capita: 695 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cotton, rice, corn, wheat, beans, fruits, vegetables; cattle, water buffalo, sheep, goats; annual fish catch about 140,000 metric tons Illicit drugs: a transit point for Southwest Asian and Southeast Asian heroin and opium moving to Europe and the US; popular transit stop for Nigerian couriers; large domestic consumption of hashish from Lebanon and Syria Exports: $5.4 billion (f.o.b., FY94/95 est.) commodities: crude oil and petroleum products, cotton yarn, raw cotton, textiles, metal products, chemicals partners: EU, US, Japan Imports: $15.2 billion (c.i.f., FY94/95 est.) commodities: machinery and equipment, foods, fertilizers, wood products, durable consumer goods, capital goods partners: US, EU, Japan External debt: $33.6 billion (FY93/94 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $1.713 billion (1993) Currency: 1 Egyptian pound (LE) = 100 piasters Exchange rates: Egyptian pounds (LE) per US$1 - 3.4 (November 1994), 3.369 (November 1993), 3.345 (November 1992), 2.7072 (1990); market rate: 3.3920 (January 1996), 3.3900 (1995), 3.3910 (1994), 3.3718 (1993), 3.3386 (1992), 3.3322 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 4,751 km standard gauge: 4,751 km 1,435-m gauge (42 km electrified; 951 km double track) Highways: total: 47,387 km paved: 34,593 km unpaved: 12,794 km (1992 est.) Waterways: 3,500 km (including the Nile, Lake Nasser, Alexandria-Cairo Waterway, and numerous smaller canals in the delta); Suez Canal, 193.5 km long (including approaches), used by oceangoing vessels drawing up to 16.1 m of water Pipelines: crude oil 1,171 km; petroleum products 596 km; natural gas 460 km Ports: Alexandria, Al Ghardaqah, Aswan, Asyut, Bur Safajah, Damietta, Marsa Matruh, Port Said, Suez Merchant marine: total: 164 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,187,290 GRT/1,833,108 DWT ships by type: bulk 22, cargo 74, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 14, passenger 33, refrigerated cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 15, short-sea passenger 4 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 80 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 11 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 34 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 16 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 with paved runways under 914 m: 9 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 2 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 4 (1995 est.) Heliports: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 2.2 million (1993) Telephone system: large system by Third World standards but inadequate for present requirements and undergoing extensive upgrading domestic: principal centers at Alexandria, Cairo, Al Mansurah, Ismailia, Suez, and Tanta are connected by coaxial cable and microwave radio relay international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean and Indian Ocean), 1 Arabsat, and 1 Inmarsat; 5 coaxial submarine cables; tropospheric scatter to Sudan; microwave radio relay to Israel; participant in Medarabtel Radio broadcast stations: AM 39, FM 6, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 41 Televisions: 5 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Air Defense Command Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 16,530,460 males fit for military service: 10,723,011 males reach military age (20) annually: 660,453 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $3.5 billion, 8.2% of GDP (FY94/95 est.) ====================================================================== @El Salvador ----------- Map --- Location: 13 50 N, 88 55 W -- Middle America, bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Guatemala and Honduras Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Middle America, bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Guatemala and Honduras Geographic coordinates: 13 50 N, 88 55 W 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Cerro El Pital 2,730 m 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, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea Geographic note: smallest Central American country and only one without a coastline on Caribbean Sea People ------ Population: 5,828,987 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 38% (male 1,137,804; female 1,097,774) 15-64 years: 57% (male 1,627,519; female 1,716,261) 65 years and over: 5% (male 115,973; female 133,656) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.81% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 28.3 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.81 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -4.4 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.95 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.87 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 31.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 68.88 years male: 65.44 years female: 72.5 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.2 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 71.5% male: 73.5% female: 69.8% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of El Salvador conventional short form: El Salvador local long form: Republica de El Salvador local short form: El Salvador Data code: ES Type of government: 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) and Vice President Enrique BORGO Bustamante (since 1 June 1994) were elected for five-year terms by universal suffrage; election last held 20 March 1994 (next to be held NA March 1999); results - Armando CALDERON SOL (ARENA) 49.03%, Ruben ZAMORA Rivas (CD/FMLN/MNR) 24.09%, Fidel CHAVEZ Mena (PDC) 16.39%, other 10.49%; because no candidate received a majority, a run-off election was held 24 April 1994; results - Armando CALDERON SOL (ARENA) 68.35%, Ruben ZAMORA Rivas (CD/FMLN/MNR) 31.65% cabinet: Council of Ministers Legislative branch: unicameral Legislative Assembly (Asamblea Legislativa): elections last held 20 March 1994 (next to be held NA March 1997); results - ARENA 46.4%, FMLN 25.0%, PDC 21.4%, PCN 4.8%, other 2.4%; seats - (84 total) ARENA 39, FMLN 21, PDC 18, PCN 4, other 2 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges are selected by the Legislative Assembly 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 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 International organization participation: BCIE, CACM, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ITU, LAES, LAIA (observer), MINURSO, NAM (observer), OAS, OPANAL, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Ana Cristina SOL chancery: 2308 California Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 265-9671, 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 Santa Elena, Station Antiguo Cuscatlan, San Salvador mailing address: Unit 3116, APO AA 34023 telephone: [503] 278-4444 FAX: [503] 278-6011 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: El Salvador possesses a fast-growing entrepreneurial economy in which 90% of economic activity is in private hands, with growth averaging 5% since 1990. Yet, because the 1980s were a decade of civil war and stagnation, per capita GDP has not regained the level of the late 1970s. The rebound in the 1990s stems from the government program, in conjunction with the IMF, of privatization, deregulation, and fiscal stabilization. The economy now is oriented more toward manufacturing and services compared with agriculture. The sizable trade deficits are in the main covered by remittances from the large number of Salvadorans abroad. GDP: purchasing power parity - $11.4 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6.3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,950 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 11.4% (1995 est.) Labor force: 1.7 million (1982 est.) by occupation: agriculture 40%, commerce 16%, manufacturing 15%, government 13%, financial services 9%, transportation 6%, other 1% Unemployment rate: 6.7% (1993) Budget: revenues: $846 million expenditures: $890 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.) Industries: food processing, beverages, petroleum, tobacco, chemicals, textiles, furniture Industrial production growth rate: 7.6% (1993) Electricity: capacity: 750,000 kW production: 2.4 billion kWh consumption per capita: 408 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, sugarcane, corn, rice, beans, oilseed; beef, dairy products; shrimp Illicit drugs: transshipment point for cocaine; marijuana produced for local consumption Exports: $1.6 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: coffee, sugarcane, shrimp partners: US, Guatemala, Costa Rica, Germany Imports: $3.3 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.) commodities: raw materials, consumer goods, capital goods partners: US, Guatemala, Mexico, Venezuela, Germany External debt: $2.6 billion (December 1992) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $777 million (1993) note: US has committed $250 million in aid to El Salvador for 1992-96 Currency: 1 Salvadoran colon (C) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: Salvadoran colones (C) per US$1 - 8.755 (December 1995), 8.755 (1995), 8.750 (1994), 8.670 (1993), 9.170 (1992), 8.080 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 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: 12,251 km paved: 1,740 km (including 107 km of expressways) unpaved: 10,511 km (1992 est.) Waterways: Rio Lempa partially navigable Ports: Acajutla, Puerto Cutuco, La Libertad, La Union, Puerto El Triunfo Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 73 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: 2 with paved runways under 914 m: 48 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 21 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 116,000 (1984 est.) Telephone system: domestic: nationwide microwave radio relay system international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); connected to Central American Microwave System Radio broadcast stations: AM 77, FM 0, shortwave 2 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 5 (1986 est.) Televisions: 500,700 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,415,691 males fit for military service: 905,938 males reach military age (18) annually: 78,660 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $100 million, 1% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Equatorial Guinea ----------------- Map --- Location: 2 00 N, 10 00 E -- Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Cameroon and Gabon Flag ---- Description: 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) Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Cameroon and Gabon Geographic coordinates: 2 00 N, 10 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Malabo 3,008 m 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 Geographic note: insular and continental regions rather widely separated People ------ Population: 431,282 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 43% (male 93,319; female 92,753) 15-64 years: 53% (male 108,706; female 120,129) 65 years and over: 4% (male 7,235; female 9,140) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.58% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 39.77 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 14.01 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.9 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.79 male(s)/female all ages: 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 98 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 53.01 years male: 50.79 years female: 55.29 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.17 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 78.5% male: 89.6% female: 68.1% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: EK Type of government: 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: NA years of age; universal adult Executive branch: chief of state: President Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Teodoro OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO (since 3 August 1979) election last held 25 February 1996 (next to be held NA February 2003); results - President OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO reelected to a seven-year term without opposition 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 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; 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 opposition parties: Progressive Democratic Alliance (ADP), Antonio-Ebang Mbele Abang, president; Popular Action of Equatorial Guinea (APGE),Casiano Masi Edu, leader; Liberal Democratic Convention (CLD), Alfonso Nsue MIFUMU, president; Convergence for Social Democracy (CPDS), Santiago Obama Ndong, president; Social Democratic and Popular Convergence (CSDP), Secundino Oyono Agueng Ada, general secretary; Party of the Social Democratic Coalition (PCSD), Buenaventura Moswi M'Asumu, general coordinater; Liberal Party (PL), Santos PASCUAL; Party of Progress (PP), Severo MOTO Nsa, president; Social Democratic Party (PSD), Benjamin-Gabriel Balingha Balinga Alene, general secretary; Socialist Party of Equatorial Guinea (PSGE), Tomas MICHEBE Fernandez, general secretary; National Democratic Union (UDENA), Jose MECHEBA Ikaka, president; Democratic Social Union (UDS), Camelo Modu, general secretary; Popular Union (UP), Juan Bitui, president International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, BDEAC, CEEAC, ECA, FAO, FZ, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAS (observer), OAU, UDEAC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Pastor Micha ONDO BILE chancery: (temporary) 57 Magnolia Avenue, Mount Vernon, NY 10553 telephone: [1] (914) 738-9584, 667-6913 FAX: [1] (914) 667-6838 US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Equatorial Guinea (embassy closed September 1995); US relations with Equatorial Guinea are handled through the US Embassy in Yaounde, Cameroon 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) Economy ------- Economic 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 IMF have been cut off since 1993 because of the government's gross corruption and mismanagement. Businesses, for the most part, are owned by government officials and their family members. Undeveloped natural resources include 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. In 1995, exports responded to the devaluation of 12 January 1994, apparently resulting in a sizable surplus and strong GDP growth. Increased production from recently discovered oil and natural gas fields will provide a greater share of exports in 1996-97. GDP: purchasing power parity - $325 million (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 10% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $800 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 47% industry: 26% services: 27% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 41% (1994 est.) Labor force: 172,000 (1986 est.) by occupation: agriculture 66%, services 23%, industry 11% (1980) note: labor shortages on plantations Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $32.5 million expenditures: $35.9 million, including capital expenditures of $3 million (1992 est.) Industries: fishing, sawmilling Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 23,000 kW production: 20 million kWh consumption per capita: 50 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, cocoa, rice, yams, cassava (tapioca), bananas, palm oil nuts, manioc; livestock; timber Exports: $62 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: coffee, cocoa beans, timber, petroleum partners: Spain, Nigeria, Cameroon, Japan, Portugal Imports: $60 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: petroleum, food, beverages, clothing, machinery partners: Cameroon, Spain, France, US, Italy, Netherlands External debt: $268 million (1993 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: CFA francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 500.56 (January 1996), 499.15 (1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991) 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 0 km Highways: total: 2,744 km paved: 330 km unpaved: 2,414 km (1988 est.) 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 (1995 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 2,000 (1987 est.) Telephone system: poor system with adequate government services domestic: NA international: international communications from Bata and Malabo to African and European countries; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 4,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Rapid Intervention Force, National Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 92,704 males fit for military service: 47,124 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $2.5 million, NA% of GDP (FY93/94) ====================================================================== @Eritrea ------- Map --- Location: 15 00 N, 39 00 E -- Eastern Africa, bordering the Red Sea, between Djibouti and Sudan Flag ---- Description: red isosceles triangle (based on the hoist side) dividing the flag into two right triangles; the upper triangle is green, the lower one is blue; a gold wreath encircling a gold olive branch is centered on the hoist side of the red triangle Geography --------- Location: Eastern Africa, bordering the Red Sea, between Djibouti and Sudan Geographic coordinates: 15 00 N, 39 00 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 121,320 sq km land area: 121,320 sq km comparative area: slightly larger than Pennsylvania Land boundaries: total: 1,630 km border countries: Djibouti 113 km, Ethiopia 912 km, Sudan 605 km Coastline: 1,151 km (land and island coastline is 2,234 km) Maritime claims: NA International disputes: a dispute with Yemen over sovereignty of the Hanish Islands in the southern Red Sea has been submitted to arbitration under the auspices of the ICJ Climate: hot, dry desert strip along Red Sea coast; cooler and wetter in the central highlands (up to 61 cm of rainfall annually); semiarid in western hills and lowlands; rainfall heaviest during June-September except on coastal desert Terrain: dominated by extension of Ethiopian north-south trending highlands, descending on the east to a coastal desert plain, on the northwest to hilly terrain and on the southwest to flat-to-rolling plains lowest point: Kobar Sink -75 m highest point: Soira 3,013 m Natural resources: gold, potash, zinc, copper, salt, probably oil (petroleum geologists are prospecting for it), fish Land use: arable land: 3% permanent crops: 2% (coffee) meadows and pastures: 40% forest and woodland: 5% other: 50% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: famine; deforestation; desertification; soil erosion; overgrazing; loss of infrastructure from civil warfare natural hazards: frequent droughts international agreements: party to - Endangered Species; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, Desertification Geographic note: strategic geopolitical position along world's busiest shipping lanes; Eritrea retained the entire coastline of Ethiopia along the Red Sea upon de jure independence from Ethiopia on 27 April 1993 People ------ Population: 3,427,883 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 44% (male 755,417; female 743,135) 15-64 years: 53% (male 910,976; female 913,531) 65 years and over: 3% (male 54,310; female 50,514) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.79% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 43.32 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 15.44 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) note: it is estimated that between 300,000 and 500,000 Eritrean refugees were still living in Sudan at the end of 1995; their repatriation is being facilitated by the UNHCR Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.08 male(s)/female all ages: 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 118.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 50.31 years male: 48.57 years female: 52.1 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.5 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Eritrean(s) adjective: Eritrean Ethnic divisions: ethnic Tigrinya 50%, Tigre and Kunama 40%, Afar 4%, Saho (Red Sea coast dwellers) 3% Religions: Muslim, Coptic Christian, Roman Catholic, Protestant Languages: Afar, Amharic, Arabic, Italian, Tigre and Kunama, Tigrinya, minor tribal languages Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: State of Eritrea conventional short form: Eritrea local long form: none local short form: none former: Eritrea Autonomous Region in Ethiopia Data code: ER Type of government: transitional government note: on 29 May 1991 ISAIAS Afworke, secretary general of the Peoples' Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ), which then served and still serves as the country's legislative body, announced the formation of the Provisional Government in Eritrea (PGE) in preparation for the 23-25 April 1993 referendum on independence for the autonomous region of Eritrea; the result was a landslide vote for independence, which was proclaimed on 27 April 1993 Capital: Asmara (formerly Asmera) Administrative divisions: 8 provinces (singular - awraja); Akele Guzay, Barka, Denkel, Hamasen, Sahil, Semhar, Senhit, Seraye; note - information issued by the Eritrean government indicates that the administrative structure of Eritrea, which had been established by former colonial powers, will consist of only six regions when the new constitution, presently being drafted, goes into effect sometime in 1996 Independence: 27 May 1993 (from Ethiopia; formerly the Eritrea Autonomous Region) National holiday: National Day (independence from Ethiopia), 24 May (1993) Constitution: transitional "constitution" decreed 19 May 1993; the promulgation of a draft constitution is expected in 1996 Legal system: NA Suffrage: NA; note - the transitional constitution of 19 May 1993 did not provide rules for suffrage, but it seems likely that the final version of the constitution, to be promulgated some time in 1996, will follow the example set in the referendum of 1993 in which suffrage was universal for persons 18 years of age or older Executive branch: chief of state and head of government: President ISAIAS Afworki (since 22 May 1993) is head of the State Council and National Assembly cabinet: State Council is the collective executive authority note: election to be held in 1997 Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly: 75 members of the PFDJ Central Committee (the old Central Committee of the EPLF) and 75 directly elected members serve as the country's legislative body until country-wide elections are held in 1997 Judicial branch: Judiciary Political parties and leaders: People's Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ), ISAIAS Afworki, PETROS Solomon (the only party recognized by the government) Other political or pressure groups: Eritrean Islamic Jihad (EIJ); Eritrean Liberation Front (ELF), ABDULLAH Muhammed; Eritrean Liberation Front - United Organization (ELF-UO), Mohammed Said NAWUD; Eritrean Liberation Front - Revolutionary Council (ELF-RC), Ahmed NASSER International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, ECA, FAO, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFAD, IGADD, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), ITU, NAM, OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador AMDEMICHAEL Berhane Khasai chancery: Suite 400, 910 17th Street NW, Washington, DC 20006 telephone: [1] (202) 429-1991 FAX: [1] (202) 429-9004 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Robert G. HOUDEK embassy: Franklin D. Roosevelt St., Asmara mailing address: P.O. Box 211, Asmara telephone: [291] (1) 120004 FAX: [291] (1) 127584 Flag: red isosceles triangle (based on the hoist side) dividing the flag into two right triangles; the upper triangle is green, the lower one is blue; a gold wreath encircling a gold olive branch is centered on the hoist side of the red triangle Economy ------- Economic overview: With independence from Ethiopia on 27 April 1993, Eritrea faces the bitter economic problems of a small, desperately poor African country. Most of the population will continue to depend on subsistence farming. Domestic output is substantially augmented by worker remittances from abroad. Government revenues come from custom duties and income and sales taxes. Eritrea has inherited the entire coastline of Ethiopia and has long-term prospects for revenues from the development of offshore oil, offshore fishing, and tourism. For the time being, Ethiopia will be largely dependent on Eritrean ports for its foreign trade. GDP: purchasing power parity - $2 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 10% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $570 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 10% (1995 est.) Labor force: NA Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: food processing, beverages, clothing and textiles Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: NA kW production: NA kWh consumption per capita: NA kWh Agriculture: sorghum, lentils, vegetables, maize, cotton, tobacco, coffee, sisal (for making rope); livestock (including goats); fish Exports: $33 million (1995 est.) commodities: livestock, sorghum, textiles partners: Ethiopia, Italy, Saudi Arabia, UK, US, Yemen Imports: $420 million (1995 est.) commodities: processed goods, machinery, petroleum products partners: NA External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 birr (Br) = 100 cents; at present, Ethiopian currency used Exchange rates: birr (Br) per US$1 - 6.2 (1995 est.), 5.600 (September 1994), 5.000 (fixed rate 1992-93); note - following independence from Ethiopia, Eritrea continued to use Ethiopian currency, the official rate of which was pegged to US$1 = 5.000 birr Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 307 km; note - nonoperational since 1978 except for about 5 km that was reopened in Massawa in 1994; rehabilitation of the remainder and of the rolling stock is under way; links Ak'ordat and Asmara (formerly Asmera) with the port of Massawa (formerly Mits'iwa) narrow gauge: 307 km 0.950-m gauge (1995 est.) Highways: total: 3,845 km paved: 807 km unpaved: 3,038 km (1993 est.) Ports: Assab (Aseb), Massawa (Mits'iwa) Merchant marine: total: 1 cargo ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 11,573 GRT/13,593 DWT (1995 est.) Airports: total: 14 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 2 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 4 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 4 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: NA Telephone system: domestic: very inadequate; about 4 telephones per 100 families, most of which are in Asmara; government is seeking international tenders to improve the system international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 (government controlled) Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Estonia ------- Map --- Location: 59 00 N, 26 00 E -- Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Finland, between Latvia and Russia Flag ---- Description: pre-1940 flag restored by Supreme Soviet in May 1990 - three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), black, and white Geography --------- Location: Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and Gulf of Finland, between Latvia and Russia Geographic coordinates: 59 00 N, 26 00 E 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 border countries: 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; disputes maritime border with Latvia - primary concern is fishing rights around Ruhne Island in the Gulf of Riga Climate: maritime, wet, moderate winters, cool summers Terrain: marshy, lowlands lowest point: Baltic Sea 0 m highest point: Suur Munamagi 318 m 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 former Soviet military bases natural hazards: flooding occurs frequently in the spring international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Ship Pollution, Wetlands People ------ Population: 1,459,428 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 20% (male 148,683; female 143,563) 15-64 years: 66% (male 467,759; female 501,519) 65 years and over: 14% (male 63,976; female 133,928) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: -1.13% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 10.74 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 14.12 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -7.96 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.93 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.48 male(s)/female all ages: 0.87 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 17.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 68.13 years male: 62.5 years female: 74.05 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.55 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Estonian(s) adjective: Estonian Ethnic divisions: Estonian 61.5%, Russian 30.3%, Ukrainian 3.2%, Byelorussian 1.8%, Finn 1.1%, other 2.1% (1989) Religions: Lutheran, Orthodox Christian Languages: Estonian (official), Latvian, Lithuanian, Russian, other Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1989 est.) total population: 100% male: 100% female: 100% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Estonia conventional short form: Estonia local long form: Eesti Vabariik local short form: Eesti former: Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic Data code: EN Type of government: 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) was elected for a five-year term by Parliament; election last held 20 September 1992 (next to be held fall 1996); results - no candidate received majority; Parliament elected Lennart MERI head of government: Acting Prime Minister Tiit VAHI (since NA March 1995); the president nominated and Parliament authorized the candidate for prime minister cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister, approved by Parliament Legislative branch: unicameral Parliament (Riigikogu): elections last held 5 March 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - KMU 32.22%, RE 16.18%, K 14.17%, Pro Patria and ERSP 7.85%, M 5.98%, Our Home is 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: National Court Political parties and leaders: Coalition Party and Rural Union (KMU), Tiit VAHI, chairman, made up of 4 parties: Coalition Party, Country People's Party, Farmer's Assembly, and Pensioners' and Families' League; Reform Party-Liberals (RE), Siim KALLAS, chairman; Center Party (K), Edgar SAVISAAR, chairman; Union of Pro Patria or Fatherland Alliance (Isamaa of Fatherland), Toivo JURGENSON, chairman; National Independence Party (ERSP), Kelam TUNNE, chairman, note - may have disappeared since the last election; Our Home is Estonia made up of 2 parties: United Peoples Party and the Russian People's Party of Estonia; United Peoples Party, Viktor ANDREJEV, chairman; Russian People's Party of 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 International organization participation: BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Interpol, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NACC, OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WEU (associate partner), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Toomas Hendrik ILVES chancery: 2131 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 588-0101 FAX: [1] (202) 789-0471 consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Lawrence P. TAYLOR embassy: Kentmanni 20, Tallinn EE 0001 mailing address: use embassy street address telephone: [372] (6) 312-021 FAX: [372] (6) 312-025 Flag: pre-1940 flag restored by Supreme Soviet in May 1990 - three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), black, and white Economy ------- Economic overview: Estonia continues to experience strong economic growth after its economy bottomed out in 1993. Bolstered by a widespread national desire to reintegrate into Western Europe, Estonia has adhered to disciplined fiscal and financial policies and has led the FSU countries in pursuing economic reform. Monthly inflation has been held to under 5% since the beginning of 1992, with monthly inflation in 1995 at 2%. Following four years of decline, Estonia's GDP grew 5% in 1994 and 6% in 1995 - among the highest rates in Europe, according to estimates of the IMF and Estonia's own Economic Ministry. Despite these positive economic indicators, unemployment - 8% in 1994 - is on the rise, and wages - especially for teachers and law enforcement personnel - have not kept pace with inflation. Small- and medium-scale privatization is essentially complete, and large-scale privatization is progressing, but slowly. Estonia has successfully reoriented it trade toward the West, two-thirds of exports now going to Western markets. Estonia's free trade policies were the cornerstone of its negotiations with the European Union, and led to the signing of an association agreement in June 1995. Estonia was the only Baltic state not to have a transition period imposed by the EU prior to its implementation of a free trade agreement. GDP: purchasing power parity - $12.3 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994) GDP real growth rate: 6% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $7,600 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 10% industry: 37% services: 53% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 29% (1995 est.) Labor force: 750,000 (1992) by occupation: industry and construction 42%, agriculture and forestry 20%, other 38% (1990) Unemployment rate: 8% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $620 million expenditures: $582 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (January-October 1995) Industries: oil shale, shipbuilding, phosphates, electric motors, excavators, cement, furniture, clothing, textiles, paper, shoes, apparel Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 3,420,000 kW production: 11.3 billion kWh consumption per capita: 6,528 kWh (1993) Agriculture: potatoes, fruits, vegetables; livestock and dairy products; fish 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 Exports: $1.8 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: textile 14%, food products 11%, vehicles 11%, metals 11% (1993) partners: Russia, Finland, Sweden, Germany Imports: $2.5 billion (c.i.f., 1995) commodities: machinery 18%, fuels 15%, vehicles 14%, textiles 10% (1993) partners: Finland, Russia, Germany, Sweden External debt: $270 million (January 1996) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $147 million (1993) note: Western commitments $285 million (including international financial institutions) Currency: 1 Estonian kroon (EEK) = 100 cents (introduced in August 1992) Exchange rates: krooni (EEK) per US$1 - 11.523 (December 1995), 11.465 (1995), 12.991 (1994), 13.223 (1993); note - krooni are tied to the German deutsche mark at a fixed rate of 8 to 1 Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 1,018 km common carrier lines only; does not include dedicated industrial lines broad gauge: 1,018 km 1.520-m gauge (132 km electrified) (1995) Highways: total: 14,771 km paved: 8,124 km (including 62 km of expressways) unpaved: 6,647 km (1993) Waterways: 500 km perennially navigable Pipelines: natural gas 420 km (1992) Ports: Haapsalu, Narva, Paldiski, Parnu, Tallinn Merchant marine: total: 52 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 353,140 GRT/467,086 DWT ships by type: bulk 6, cargo 33, oil tanker 3, roll-on/roll-off cargo 6, short-sea passenger 4 (1995 est.) 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 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 4 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 5 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 400,000 Telephone system: system is antiquated; improvements are being made piecemeal, with emphasis on business needs and international connections; there are still about 150,000 unfulfilled requests for subscriber service domestic: substantial investment has been made in cellular systems which are operational throughout Estonia international: international traffic is carried to the other former Soviet republics by landline or microwave radio relay and to other countries partly by leased connection to the Moscow international gateway switch and partly by a new Tallinn-Helsinki fiber-optic, submarine cable which gives Estonia access to international circuits everywhere; access to the international packet-switched digital network via Helsinki Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave 0 Radios: 710,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 3 note: provide Estonian programs as well as Moscow Ostenkino's first and second programs Televisions: 600,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- 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: 357,835 males fit for military service: 280,757 males reach military age (18) annually: 10,525 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $35 million, 1.5% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Ethiopia -------- Map --- Location: 8 00 N, 38 00 E -- Eastern Africa, west of Somalia Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of green (top), yellow, and red with a yellow pentagram and single yellow rays emanating from the angles between the points on a light blue disk centered on the three bands; 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 Geography --------- Location: Eastern Africa, west of Somalia Geographic coordinates: 8 00 N, 38 00 E 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 border countries: Djibouti 337 km, Eritrea 912 km, Kenya 830 km, Somalia 1,626 km, Sudan 1,606 km Coastline: 0 km (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 lowest point: Denakil -125 m highest point: Ras Dashen Terara 4,620 m 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 Geographic note: landlocked - entire coastline along the Red Sea was lost with the de jure independence of Eritrea on 27 April 1993 People ------ Population: 57,171,662 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 46% (male 13,116,158; female 13,080,276) 15-64 years: 51% (male 14,782,995; female 14,624,779) 65 years and over: 3% (male 728,808; female 838,646) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.72% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 46.05 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 17.53 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -1.36 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) note: repatriation of Ethiopians who fled to Sudan, Kenya and Somalia for refuge from war and famine in earlier years, is expected to continue in 1996; entry into Ethiopia of Sudanese and Somalis fleeing the fighting in their own countries is also continuing in 1996 Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.87 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 122.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 46.85 years male: 45.71 years female: 48.02 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 7 children born/woman (1996 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 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 35.5% male: 45.5% female: 25.3% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia conventional short form: Ethiopia local long form: none local short form: Ityop'iya abbreviation: FDRE Data code: ET Type of government: federal republic 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 popular elections were held in May and June 1995 Capital: Addis Ababa Administrative divisions: 9 ethnically-based administrative regions (astedader akababiwach, singular - astedader akababi) and 1 federal capital*: Addis Ababa*; Afar; Amhara; Benshangul/Gumaz; Gambela; Harar; Oromia; Somali; Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples; Tigray 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 NEGASSO Gidada (since NA August 1995) elected by the Council of People's Representatives following the elections of legislators in May and June 1995 head of government: Prime Minister MELES Zenawi (since NA August 1995) designated by the party in power, EPRDF, following the elections of legislators in May and June 1995 cabinet: Council of Ministers as provided in the December 1994 constitution; ministers are selected by the prime minister and approved by the Council of People's Representatives Legislative branch: bicameral legislature Federal Council: upper chamber, having NA members, represents the ethnic interests of the regional governments and is elected by the regional assemblies Council of People's Representatives: lower chamber, having 550 members, elected by popular vote note: both bodies have five-year terms of office; regional and national popular elections were held in May and June 1995; results - EPRDF swept nearly all seats Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges are elected by the national legislature 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 International organization participation: 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, WToO, WTrO (observer) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador BERHANE Gebre-Christos chancery: 2134 Kalorama Road NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 234-2281, 2282 FAX: [1] (202) 328-7950 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 with a yellow pentagram and single yellow rays emanating from the angles between the points on a light blue disk centered on the three bands; 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: 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 half 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $24.2 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.7% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $400 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 48% industry: 15% services: 37% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 10% (FY93/94) Labor force: 18 million by occupation: agriculture and animal husbandry 80%, government and services 12%, industry and construction 8% (1985) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $1.2 billion expenditures: $1.7 billion, including capital expenditures of $707 million (FY93/94) Industries: food processing, beverages, textiles, chemicals, metals processing, cement Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 460,000 kW production: 1.3 billion kWh consumption per capita: 23 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cereals, pulses, coffee, oilseed, sugarcane, potatoes, other vegetables; hides, 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 markets in southern Africa; cultivates qat (chat) for local use and regional export Exports: $296 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: coffee, leather products, gold partners: Germany, Japan, Saudi Arabia, France, Italy Imports: $972 million (c.i.f., 1994 est.) commodities: capital goods, consumer goods, fuel partners: US, Germany, Italy, Saudi Arabia, Japan External debt: $3.7 billion (1993 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $1.036 billion (1993) Currency: 1 birr (Br) = 100 cents Exchange rates: birr (Br) per US$1 - 6.3200 (December 1995), 6.3200 (1995), 5.9500 (1994), 5.0000 (fixed rate 1992-93); fixed at 2.070 before 1992; note - official rate pegged to the US$ Fiscal year: 8 July - 7 July Transportation -------------- Railways: 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: 20,838 km (1993 est.) Ports: none; Ethiopia is landlocked but by agreement with Eritrea may use the ports of Assab and Massawa Merchant marine: total: 12 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 62,627 GRT/88,908 DWT ships by type: cargo 8, oil tanker 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 58 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: 1 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 6 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 2 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 5 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 9 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 29 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 100,000 (1983 est.) Telephone system: open wire and microwave radio relay system adequate for government use domestic: open wire and microwave radio relay international: open wire to Sudan and Djibouti; microwave radio relay to Kenya and Djibouti; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 4, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 9.9 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 100,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Ground Forces, Air Force, Police note: following the secession of Eritrea, Ethiopia's naval facilities remained in Eritrea's possession; current reorganization plans do not include a navy Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 12,912,144 males fit for military service: 6,707,180 males reach military age (18) annually: 583,724 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $140 million, 4.1% of GDP (FY93/94) ====================================================================== @Europa Island ------------- (possession of France) Map --- Location: 22 20 S, 40 22 E -- Southern Africa, island in the Mozambique Channel, about one-half of the way from southern Madagascar to southern Mozambique Flag ---- Description: the flag of France is used Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, island in the Mozambique Channel, about one-half of the way from southern Madagascar to southern Mozambique Geographic coordinates: 22 20 S, 40 22 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 28 sq km land area: 28 sq km comparative area: about 0.1 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 24 m 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 Geographic note: wildlife sanctuary People ------ Population: uninhabited Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Europa Island local long form: none local short form: Ile Europa Data code: EU Type of government: French possession administered by Commissioner of the Republic; resident in Reunion Capital: none; administered by France from Reunion Independence: none (possession of France) Flag: the flag of France is used Economy ------- Economic overview: no economic activity Transportation -------------- Ports: none; offshore anchorage only Airports: total: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Communications note: 1 meteorological station Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France ====================================================================== @Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) --------------------------------- (dependent territory of the UK) Map --- Location: 51 45 S, 59 00 W -- Southern South America, islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, east of southern Argentina Flag ---- Description: blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Falkland Island coat of arms in a white disk centered on the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms contains a white ram (sheep raising is the major economic activity) above the sailing ship Desire (whose crew discovered the islands) with a scroll at the bottom bearing the motto DESIRE THE RIGHT Geography --------- Location: Southern South America, islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, east of southern Argentina Geographic coordinates: 51 45 S, 59 00 W Map references: South America Area: total area: 12,170 sq km land area: 12,170 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Connecticut note: includes the two main islands of East and West Falkland and about 200 small islands Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 1,288 km Maritime claims: continental shelf: 200 nm exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: administered by the UK, claimed by Argentina Climate: cold marine; strong westerly winds, cloudy, humid; rain occurs on more than half of days in year; occasional snow all year, except in January and February, but does not accumulate Terrain: rocky, hilly, mountainous with some boggy, undulating plains lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Usborne 705 m Natural resources: fish, wildlife Land use: arable land: 0% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 99% forest and woodland: 0% other: 1% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: NA natural hazards: strong winds persist throughout the year international agreements: NA Geographic note: deeply indented coast provides good natural harbors; short growing season People ------ Population: 2,374 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 2.43% (1996 est.) Birth rate: NA births/1,000 population Death rate: NA deaths/1,000 population Net migration rate: NA migrant(s)/1,000 population Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female 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: Falkland Islander(s) adjective: Falkland Island Ethnic divisions: British Religions: primarily Anglican, Roman Catholic, United Free Church, Evangelist Church, Jehovah's Witnesses, Lutheran, Seventh-Day Adventist Languages: English Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Colony of the Falkland Islands conventional short form: Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas) Data code: FA Type of government: dependent territory of the UK Capital: Stanley 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 Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (of the UK since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch head of government: Governor R. RALPH (since NA) was appointed by the queen cabinet: Executive Council; three members elected by the Legislative Council, two ex-officio members (chief executive and the financial secretary), and the governor Legislative branch: unicameral Legislative Council: elections last held 11 October 1989 (next was to be held NA October 1994); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (10 total, 8 elected) independents 8 Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: NA International organization participation: ICFTU 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 Falkland Island coat of arms in a white disk centered on the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms contains a white ram (sheep raising is the major economic activity) above the sailing ship Desire (whose crew discovered the islands) with a scroll at the bottom bearing the motto DESIRE THE RIGHT Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy was formerly based on agriculture, mainly sheep farming, which directly or indirectly employs most of the work force. Dairy farming supports domestic consumption; crops furnish winter fodder. Exports feature shipments of high-grade wool to the UK and the sale of postage stamps and coins. Rich stocks of fish in the surrounding waters are not presently exploited by the islanders. So far, efforts to establish a domestic fishing industry have been unsuccessful. The economy has diversified since 1987, when the government began selling fishing licenses to foreign trawlers operating within the Falklands exclusive fishing zone. These license fees total more than $40 million per year and support the island's health, education, and welfare system. To encourage tourism, the Falkland Islands Development Corporation has built three lodges for visitors attracted by the abundant wildlife and trout fishing. The islands are now self-financing except for defense. The British Geological Survey announced a 200-mile oil exploration zone around the islands in 1993, and early seismic surveys suggest substantial reserves capable of producing 500,000 barrels per day. An agreement between Argentina and the United Kingdom in 1995 seeks to defuse licensing and sovereignty conflicts that would dampen foreign interest in exploiting potential oil reserves. GDP: purchasing power parity - $NA GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $NA GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: 1,100 (est.) by occupation: agriculture 95% (mostly sheepherding) Unemployment rate: NA%; labor shortage Budget: revenues: $42.7 million expenditures: $28.5 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993-94 est.) Industries: wool and fish processing Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 9,200 kW production: 17 million kWh consumption per capita: 7,253 kWh (1993) Agriculture: fodder and vegetable crops; sheep farming, small dairy herds Exports: $5.4 million commodities: wool, hides, meat partners: UK, Netherlands, Japan (1992) Imports: $26.2 million commodities: food, clothing, timber, and machinery partners: UK, Netherlands Antilles (Curacao), Japan (1992) External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA note: UK, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments totaled $18 million (1993-94) Currency: 1 Falkland pound (LF) = 100 pence Exchange rates: Falkland pound (LF) per US$1 - 0.6535 (January 1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991); note - the Falkland pound is at par with the British pound Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 510 km paved: 30 km unpaved: 480 km Ports: Stanley Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 5 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 4 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1,180 (1991 est.) Telephone system: domestic: government-operated radiotelephone and private VHF/CB radiotelephone networks provide effective service to almost all points on both islands international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) with links through London to other countries Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0 Radios: 1,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 (government operated) Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: British Forces Falkland Islands (includes Army, Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, and Royal Marines), Police Force Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK ====================================================================== @Faroe Islands ------------- (part of the Danish realm) Map --- Location: 62 00 N, 7 00 W -- Northern Europe, island group between the Norwegian Sea and the north Atlantic Ocean, about one-half of the way from Iceland to Norway Flag ---- Description: white with a red cross outlined in blue that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side in the style of the Dannebrog (Danish flag) Geography --------- Location: Northern Europe, island group between the Norwegian Sea and the north Atlantic Ocean, about one-half of the way from Iceland to Norway Geographic coordinates: 62 00 N, 7 00 W Map references: Europe Area: total area: 1,400 sq km land area: 1,400 sq km comparative area: eight times the size of Washington, DC Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 764 km Maritime claims: exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 3 nm International disputes: none Climate: mild winters, cool summers; usually overcast; foggy, windy Terrain: rugged, rocky, some low peaks; cliffs along most of coast lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Slaettaratindur 882 m Natural resources: fish Land use: arable land: 2% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 0% forest and woodland: 0% other: 98% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: NA natural hazards: NA international agreements: NA Geographic note: archipelago of 18 inhabited islands and a few uninhabited islets; strategically located along important sea lanes in northeastern Atlantic; precipitous terrain limits habitation to small coastal lowlands People ------ Population: 43,857 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 24% (male 5,461; female 5,280) 15-64 years: 62% (male 14,488; female 12,617) 65 years and over: 14% (male 2,661; female 3,350) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: -1.8% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 13.91 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.69 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -23.19 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 0.99 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.15 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.79 male(s)/female all ages: 1.06 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 7.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 77.83 years male: 74.75 years female: 80.88 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.38 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Faroese (singular and plural) adjective: Faroese Ethnic divisions: Scandinavian Religions: Evangelical Lutheran Languages: Faroese (derived from Old Norse), Danish Literacy: NA Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Faroe Islands local long form: none local short form: Foroyar Data code: FO Type of government: part of the Danish realm; self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark Capital: Torshavn Administrative divisions: none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark) Independence: none (part of the Danish realm; self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark) National holiday: Birthday of the Queen, 16 April (1940) Constitution: 5 June 1953 (Danish constitution) Legal system: Danish Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: Queen MARGRETHE II (of Denmark since 14 January 1972), who is a constitutional monarch, is represented by High Commissioner Bent KLINTE, chief administrative officer (since NA) head of government: Prime Minister Edmund JOENSEN (since 15 September 1994) was elected by the Logting cabinet: Landsstyri was elected by the Logting Legislative branch: unicameral Faroese Parliament (Logting): elections last held 8 July 1994 (next to be held by July 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (32 total) Liberal Party 8, People's Party 6, Social Democrats 5, Republicans 4, Workers' Party 3, Christian Democrats 2, Center Party 2, Home Rule Party 2 Danish Parliament: elections last held on 21 September 1994 (next to be held by September 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) Liberals 2 Judicial branch: none Political parties and leaders: Social Democratic Party, Marita PETERSEN; Workers Front, Oli JACOBSEN; Home Rule Party, Helena Dam A NEYSTABO; The "Coalition Party," Edmund JOENSEN; Republican Party, Finnbogi ISAKSON; Centrist Party, Tordur NICLASEN; Christian People's Party, Niels Pauli DANIELSEN; People's Party, Arnfinn KALLSBERG; Liberal Party, Jorgen ESTRUP; Christian Democratic Party International organization participation: none Diplomatic representation in US: none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark) US diplomatic representation: none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark) Flag: white with a red cross outlined in blue that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side in the style of the Dannebrog (Danish flag) Economy ------- Economic overview: The Faroese economy is experiencing a moderate upturn after several years of decline brought on by over-fishing and declining fish prices, large budget deficits by the Faroese Home Rule Government (FHRG), plummeting property values, and a bail-out merger of the two largest Faroese banks. Near-term forecasts suggest continued economic recovery, and oil finds close to the Faroese area may lay the basis for an eventual economic rebound. Aided by a substantial annual subsidy from Denmark, the Faroese have enjoyed a standard of living comparable to the Danes and other Scandinavians. GDP: purchasing power parity - $733 million (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $15,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 6.8% (1993 est.) Labor force: 17,585 by occupation: largely engaged in fishing, manufacturing, transportation, and commerce Unemployment rate: 23% (1993) Budget: revenues: $407.2 million expenditures: $482.7 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993 est.) Industries: fishing, shipbuilding, handicrafts Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 90,000 kW production: 200 million kWh consumption per capita: 3,953 kWh (1992) Agriculture: potatoes, vegetables; sheep; annual fish catch about 360,000 metric tons Exports: $345.3 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.) commodities: fish and fish products 88%, animal feedstuffs, transport equipment (ships) (1989) partners: Denmark 20%, Germany 18.3%, UK 14.2%, France 11.2%, Spain 7.9%, US 4.5% Imports: $234.4 million (c.i.f., 1993 est.) commodities: machinery and transport equipment 24.4%, manufactures 24%, food and livestock 19%, fuels 12%, chemicals 6.5% partners: Denmark 43.8%, Norway 19.8%, Sweden 4.9%, Germany 4.2%, US 1.3% External debt: $1.2 billion (1993 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA note: receives an annual subsidy from Denmark of about $130 million Currency: 1 Danish krone (DKr) = 100 oere Exchange rates: Danish kroner (DKr) per US$1 - 5.652 (January 1996), 5.602 (1995), 6.361 (1994), 6.484 (1993), 6.036 (1992), 6.396 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 443 km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Ports: Klaksvick, Torshavn, Tvoroyri Merchant marine: total: 7 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 19,879 GRT/18,444 DWT ships by type: cargo 5, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1, short-sea passenger 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 1 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 27,900 (1984 est.) Telephone system: good international communications; fair domestic facilities domestic: NA international: 3 coaxial submarine cables Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 3 (repeaters 10), shortwave 0 Radios: 24,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 3 (repeaters 29) Televisions: 14,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: no organized native military forces; only a small Police Force and Coast Guard are maintained Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP Defense note: defense is the responsibility of Denmark ====================================================================== @Fiji ---- Map --- Location: 18 00 S, 175 00 E -- Oceania, island group in the South Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Oceania, island group in the South Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand Geographic coordinates: 18 00 S, 175 00 E 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Tomanivi 1,324 m 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 83, Tropical Timber 94, Whaling Geographic note: includes 332 islands of which approximately 110 are inhabited People ------ Population: 782,381 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 35% (male 141,652; female 135,829) 15-64 years: 62% (male 240,621; female 240,620) 65 years and over: 3% (male 11,235; female 12,424) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.28% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 23.37 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.35 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -4.22 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.9 male(s)/female all ages: 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 17.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 65.71 years male: 63.39 years female: 68.14 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.83 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 91.6% male: 93.8% female: 89.3% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Fiji conventional short form: Fiji Data code: FJ Type of government: 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 (Acting President since 15 December 1993, President since 12 January 1994) was appointed for a five-year term by the Great Council of Chiefs; First Vice President Ratu Sir Josaia TAIVAIQIA (since 12 January 1994); Second Vice President Ratu Inoke TAKIVEIKATA (since 12 January 1994) head of government: Prime Minister Sitiveni RABUKA (since 2 June 1992) was appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Minister Timoci VESIKULA (since NA) Presidential Council: advises the president on matters of national importance Great Council of Chiefs: highest ranking members of the traditional chiefly system cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the prime minister from among the members of Parliament and is responsible to Parliament Legislative branch: bicameral Parliament Senate: nonelective body, members are appointed by the president and serve five-year terms; seats - (34 total, 24 reserved for ethnic Fijians, 9 for Indians and others, and 1 for the island of Rotuma) House of Representatives: members serve five-year terms; elections last held 18-25 February 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (70 total, with ethnic Fijians allocated 37 seats, ethnic Indians 27 seats, and independents and other 6 seats) SVT 31, NFP 20, FLP 7, FAP 5, GVP 4, independents 2, ANC 1 Judicial branch: Supreme Court 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), Leo SMITH; Fiji Conservative Party (FCP), leader NA; Conservative Party of Fiji (CPF), leader NA; Fiji Indian Liberal Party, leader NA; Fiji Indian Congress Party, leader NA; Fiji Independent Labor (Muslim), leader NA; Four Corners Party, leader NA; Fijian Association Party (FAP), Josevata KAMIKAMICA; 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 remaining members of the ANC have renamed their party the General Electors' Association International organization participation: ACP, AsDB, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, PCA, Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UN, UNAMIR, UNAVEM III, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNIKOM, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Pita Kewa NACUVA chancery: Suite 240, 2233 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007 telephone: [1] (202) 337-8320 FAX: [1] (202) 337-1996 consulate(s): New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Don Lee GEVIRTZ 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Fiji, richly endowed with forest, mineral, and fish resources, is one of the most developed of the Pacific island economies, though still with a large subsistence sector. Sugar exports and tourism are the major sources of foreign exchange. Industry contributes 17% to GDP; sugar processing makes up one-third of industrial activity. Roughly 250,000 tourists visit each year. Political uncertainty and 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 of 5% was largely attributable to increased tourism and expansion in the manufacturing sector. GDP: purchasing power parity - $4.7 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.2% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $6,100 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 22% industry: 17% services: 61% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2% (1995) Labor force: 235,000 by occupation: subsistence agriculture 67%, wage earners 18%, salary earners 15% (1987) Unemployment rate: 5.4% (1992) Budget: revenues: $495.6 million expenditures: $591.2 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: sugar, tourism, copra, gold, silver, clothing, lumber, small cottage industries Industrial production growth rate: 0% (1993 est.) Electricity: capacity: 200,000 kW production: 480 million kWh consumption per capita: 581 kWh (1993) Agriculture: sugarcane, coconuts, cassava (tapioca), rice, sweet potatoes, bananas; cattle, pigs, horses, goats; fish catch nearly 33,000 tons (1989) Exports: $571.8 million (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: sugar 40%, clothing, gold, processed fish, lumber partners: EC 26%, Australia 15%, Pacific Islands 11%, Japan 6% Imports: $864.3 million (c.i.f., 1995) 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.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Fijian dollar (F$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Fijian dollars (F$) per US$1 - 1.4347 (January 1996), 1.4063 (1995), 1.4641 (1994), 1.5418 (1993), 1.5030 (1992), 1.4756 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 597 km; note - belongs to the government-owned Fiji Sugar Corporation narrow gauge: 597 km 0.610-m gauge (1995) Highways: total: 4,800 km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km 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 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 21 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: 15 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 60,017 (1987 est.) Telephone system: modern local, interisland, and international (wire/radio integrated) public and special-purpose telephone, telegraph, and teleprinter facilities; regional radio communications center domestic: NA international: access to important cable link between US and Canada and NZ and Australia; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 7, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 0 Televisions: 12,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Republic of Fiji Military Forces (RFMF; includes army, navy, and air elements) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 205,616 males fit for military service: 113,339 males reach military age (18) annually: 8,746 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $28 million, 2.5% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Finland ------- Map --- Location: 64 00 N, 26 00 E -- Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, Gulf of Bothnia, and Gulf of Finland, between Sweden and Russia Flag ---- Description: white with a blue cross that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side in the style of the Dannebrog (Danish flag) Geography --------- Location: Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, Gulf of Bothnia, and Gulf of Finland, between Sweden and Russia Geographic coordinates: 64 00 N, 26 00 E Map references: Europe Area: total area: 337,030 sq km land area: 305,470 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Montana Land boundaries: total: 2,628 km border countries: Norway 729 km, Sweden 586 km, Russia 1,313 km Coastline: 1,126 km (excludes islands and coastal indentations) Maritime claims: contiguous zone: 6 nm continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation exclusive fishing zone: 12 nm territorial sea: 4 nm International disputes: none Climate: cold temperate; potentially subarctic, but comparatively mild because of moderating influence of the North Atlantic Current, Baltic Sea, and more than 60,000 lakes Terrain: mostly low, flat to rolling plains interspersed with lakes and low hills lowest point: Baltic Sea 0 m highest point: Haltiatunturi 1,328 m Natural resources: timber, copper, zinc, iron ore, silver Land use: arable land: 8% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 0% forest and woodland: 76% other: 16% Irrigated land: 620 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: air pollution from manufacturing and power plants contributing to acid rain; water pollution from industrial wastes, agricultural chemicals; habitat loss threatens wildlife populations 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, 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 Geographic note: long boundary with Russia; Helsinki is northernmost national capital on European continent; population concentrated on small southwestern coastal plain People ------ Population: 5,105,230 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 19% (male 492,616; female 471,736) 15-64 years: 67% (male 1,725,113; female 1,687,974) 65 years and over: 14% (male 275,927; female 451,864) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.1% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 11.32 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 10.92 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0.58 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.04 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.61 male(s)/female all ages: 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 4.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.47 years male: 73.82 years female: 77.18 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.68 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Finn(s) adjective: Finnish Ethnic divisions: Finn, Swede, Lapp, Gypsy, Tatar Religions: Evangelical Lutheran 89%, Greek Orthodox 1%, none 9%, other 1% Languages: Finnish 93.5% (official), Swedish 6.3% (official), small Lapp- and Russian-speaking minorities Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.) total population: 100% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Finland conventional short form: Finland local long form: Suomen Tasavalta local short form: Suomi Data code: FI Type of government: republic Capital: Helsinki Administrative divisions: 12 provinces (laanit, singular - laani); Ahvenanmaa, Hame, Keski-Suomi, Kuopio, Kymi, Lappi, Mikkeli, Oulu, Pohjois-Karjala, Turku ja Pori, Uusimaa, Vaasa Independence: 6 December 1917 (from Soviet Union) National holiday: Independence Day, 6 December (1917) Constitution: 17 July 1919 Legal system: civil law system based on Swedish law; Supreme Court may request legislation interpreting or modifying laws; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Martti AHTISAARI (since 1 March 1994) was elected for a six-year term by popular vote; election last held 31 January-6 February 1994 (next to be held NA January 2000); results - Martti AHTISAARI 54%, Elisabeth REHN 46% head of government: Prime Minister Paavo LIPPONEN (since 13 April 1995) and Deputy Prime Minister Sauli NIINISTO (since 13 April 1995) were appointed by the president cabinet: Council of State (Valtioneuvosto) was appointed by the president, responsible to Parliament Legislative branch: unicameral Parliament (Eduskunta): elections last held 19 March 1995 (next to be held NA March 1999); results - Social Democratic Party 28.3%, Center Party 19.9%, National Coalition (Conservative) Party 17.9%, Leftist Alliance (Communist) 11.2%, Swedish People's Party 5.1%, Green League 6.5%, Ecology Party 0.3%, Rural 1.3%, Finnish Christian League 3.0%, Liberal People's Party 0.6%, Young Finns 2.8%; seats - (200 total) Social Democratic Party 63, Center Party 44, National Coalition (Conservative) Party 39, Leftist Alliance (Communist) 22, Swedish People's Party 11, Green League 9, Ecology Party 1, Rural 1, Finnish Christian League 7, Young Finns 2, Aaland Islands 1 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Korkein Oikeus), judges appointed by the president Political parties and leaders: government coalition: Social Democratic Party, Paavo LIPPONEN; National Coalition (conservative) Party, Sauli NIINISTO; Leftist Alliance (Communist) People's Democratic League and Democratic Alternative, Claes ANDERSSON; Swedish People's Party, (Johan) Ole NORRBACK; Green League, Pekka HAAVISTO other: Center Party, Esko AHO; Finnish Christian League, Toimi KANKAANNIEMI; Rural Party, Raimo VISTBACKA; Liberal People's Party, Tuulikki UKKOLA; Greens Ecological Party (EPV); Young Finns, Risto PENTTILAE Other political or pressure groups: Finnish Communist Party-Unity, Yrjo HAKANEN; Constitutional Rightist Party; Finnish Pensioners Party; Communist Workers Party, Timo LAHDENMAKI International organization participation: AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD, ECE, EIB, ESA, EU, FAO, G- 9, 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), NC, NEA, NIB, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNFICYP, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNIKOM, UNMOGIP, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UPU, WEU (observer), WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Jaakko LAAJAVA chancery: 3301 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 298-5800 FAX: [1] (202) 298-6030 consulate(s) general: Los Angeles and New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Derek N. SHEARER embassy: Itainen Puistotie 14A, FIN-00140, Helsinki mailing address: APO AE 09723 telephone: [358] (0) 171931 FAX: [358] (0) 174681 Flag: white with a blue cross that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side in the style of the Dannebrog (Danish flag) Economy ------- Economic overview: Finland has a highly industrialized, largely free-market economy, with per capita output equaling that of the UK, France and Italy. Its key economic sector is manufacturing - principally the wood, metals, and engineering industries. Trade is important, with the export of goods representing about 30% of GDP. Except for timber and several minerals, Finland depends on imports of raw materials, energy, and some components for manufactured goods. Because of the climate, agricultural development is limited to maintaining self-sufficiency in basic products. Forestry, an important export earner, provides a secondary occupation for the rural population. The economy, which experienced an average of 4.9% annual growth between 1987 and 1989, sank into deep recession in 1991 as GDP contracted by 6.5%. The recession - which continued in 1992 with GDP contracting by 4.1% - has been caused by economic overheating, depressed foreign markets, and the dismantling of the barter system between Finland and the former Soviet Union under which Soviet oil and gas had been exchanged for Finnish manufactured goods. The Finnish Government has proposed efforts to increase industrial competitiveness and efficiency by an increase in exports to Western markets, cuts in public expenditures, partial privatization of state enterprises, and changes in monetary policy. In June 1991 Helsinki had tied the markka to the European Union's (EU) European Currency Unit (ECU) to promote stability. Ongoing speculation resulting from a lack of confidence in the government's policies forced Helsinki to devalue the markka by about 12% in November 1991 and to indefinitely break the link in September 1992. The devaluations have boosted the competitiveness of Finnish exports. The recession bottomed out in 1993, and Finland participated in the general European upturn of 1994. Unemployment probably will remain a serious problem during the next few years; the majority of Finnish firms face a weak domestic market and the troubled German and Swedish export markets. The Finns voted in an October 1994 referendum to enter the EU, and Finland officially joined the Union on 1 January 1995. Increasing integration with Western Europe will dominate the economic picture over the next few years. GDP: purchasing power parity - $92.4 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $18,200 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 4.6% industry: 28% services: 67.4% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2% (1995 est.) Labor force: 2.533 million by occupation: public services 30.4%, industry 20.9%, commerce 15.0%, finance, insurance, and business services 10.2%, agriculture and forestry 8.6%, transport and communications 7.7%, construction 7.2% Unemployment rate: 17% (1995) Budget: revenues: $21.7 billion expenditures: $31.7 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993 est.) Industries: metal products, shipbuilding, pulp and paper, copper refining, foodstuffs, chemicals, textiles, clothing Industrial production growth rate: 5% (1993 est.) Electricity: capacity: 13,360,000 kW production: 58 billion kWh consumption per capita: 12,196 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cereals, sugar beets, potatoes; dairy cattle; annual fish catch about 160,000 metric tons Illicit drugs: transshipment point for Latin American cocaine for the West European market Exports: $29.7 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: paper and pulp, machinery, chemicals, metals, timber partners: EU 46.5% (Germany 13.4%, UK 10.3%), Sweden 11%, US 7.2%, Japan 2.1%, FSU 8.6% (1994) Imports: $23.2 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: foodstuffs, petroleum and petroleum products, chemicals, transport equipment, iron and steel, machinery, textile yarn and fabrics, fodder grains partners: EU 44% (Germany 15%, UK 8.3%), Sweden 10.4%, US 7.6%, Japan 6.5%, FSU 10.3 (1994) External debt: $30 billion (December 1993) Economic aid: donor: ODA, $355 million (1993) Currency: 1 markka (FMk) or Finmark = 100 pennia Exchange rates: markkaa (FMk) per US$1 - 4.4425 (January 1996), 4.3667 (1995), 5.2235 (1994), 5.7123 (1993), 4.4794 (1992), 4.0440 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 5,895 km broad gauge: 5,895 km 1.524-m gauge (1,993 km electrified; 480 km double- or more-track) (1995) Highways: total: 76,755 km paved: 47,588 km (including 318 km of expressways) unpaved: 29,167 km (1992 est.) Waterways: 6,675 km total (including Saimaa Canal); 3,700 km suitable for steamers Pipelines: natural gas 580 km Ports: Hamina, Helsinki, Kokkola, Kotka, Loviisa, Oulu, Pori, Rauma, Turku, Uusikaupunki, Varkaus Merchant marine: total: 92 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,051,231 GRT/1,075,397 DWT ships by type: bulk 8, cargo 20, chemical tanker 5, oil tanker 12, passenger 2, refrigerated cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 31, short-sea passenger 12, vehicle carrier 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 157 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 3 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 23 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 13 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 21 with paved runways under 914 m: 92 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 5 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 2.78 million (1986 est.) Telephone system: good service from cable and microwave radio relay network domestic: cable and microwave radio relay international: 1 submarine cable; satellite earth stations - access to Intelsat transmission service via a Swedish satellite earth station, 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions); note - Finland shares the Inmarsat earth station with the other Nordic countries (Denmark, Iceland, Norway, and Sweden) Radio broadcast stations: AM 6, FM 105, shortwave 0 Radios: 4.98 million (1991 est.) Television broadcast stations: 235 Televisions: 2.1 million (1983 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Frontier Guard (includes Sea Guard) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,307,128 males fit for military service: 1,074,540 males reach military age (17) annually: 32,760 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $1.9 billion, 1.6% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @France ------ Map --- Location: 46 00 N, 2 00 E -- 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 Flag ---- Description: 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 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 Geographic coordinates: 46 00 N, 2 00 E 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 only metropolitan France (which includes Corsica), but excludes the overseas administrative divisions Land boundaries: total: 2,892.4 km border countries: 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; claims Matthew and Hunter Islands east of New Caledonia 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 lowest point: Rhone River delta -2 m highest point: Mont Blanc 4,807 m 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% note: includes Corsica Irrigated land: 14,850 sq km (1993 est.); note - includes Corsica 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 Geographic note: largest West European nation; occasional strong, cold, dry, north-to-northwesterly wind known as mistral People ------ Population: 58,317,450 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 19.04% (male 5,688,505; female 5,417,355) 15-64 years: 65.62% (male 19,147,369; female 19,120,935) 65 years and over: 15.34% (male 3,589,100; female 5,354,186) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.34% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 10.82 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9.27 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 1.88 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.67 male(s)/female all ages: 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 5.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 77.93 years male: 73.98 years female: 82.11 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.49 children born/woman (1996 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 (1980 est.) total population: 99% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: French Republic conventional short form: France local long form: Republique Francaise local short form: France Data code: FR Type of government: 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: metropolitan France is divided into 22 regions (including the "territorial collectivity" of Corse or Corsica) and are subdivided into 96 departments; see separate entries for the overseas departments (French Guiana, 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 Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995) was elected for a seven-year term by direct universal suffrage; election last held 17 May 1995 (next to be held by May 2002); results - Second Ballot Jacques CHIRAC 52.64%, Lionel JOSPIN 47.36% head of government: Prime Minister Alain JUPPE (since 18 May 1995) was appointed by the president cabinet: the Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on the suggestion of the prime minister Legislative branch: bicameral Parliament (Parlement) Senate (Senat): elections last held 24 September 1995 (next to be held September 1998; nine-year term, elected by thirds every three years); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (321 total; 296 metropolitan France, 13 for overseas departments and territories, and 12 for French nationals abroad) RPR 91, UDF 132, PS 75, PCF 16, other 7 National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (577 total) RPR 247, UDF 213, PS 67, PCF 24, independents 26; note - seating as of 24 September 1995: RPR 247, UDF 208, PS 71, PCF 24, independents 27 Judicial branch: Supreme Court of Appeals (Cour de Cassation), judges are appointed by the president from nominations of the High Council of the Judiciary Political parties and leaders: Rally for the Republic (RPR), Alain JUPPE, president; Union for French Democracy (UDF - coalition of PR, FD, RAD, PSD), Francois LEOTARD; Republican Party (PR), Francois LEOTARD; Democratic Force (FD), Francois BAYROU; Radical (RAD), Andre ROSSINOT; Socialist Party (PS), Lionel JOSPIN; Left Radical Movement (MRG); Communist Party (PCF), Robert HUE; National Front (FN), Jean-Marie LE PEN; The Greens, Dominique VOYNET; Generation Ecology (GE), Brice LALONDE; Citizens Movement (MDC), Jean Pierre CHEVENEMENT 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 - 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) International organization participation: ACCT, AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BDEAC, BIS, CCC, CDB (non-regional), CE, CERN, EBRD, ECA (associate), ECE, ECLAC, EIB, ESA, ESCAP, EU, FAO, FZ, G- 5, G- 7, G-10, 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, SPC, UN, UN Security Council, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMIH, UNOMIG, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNRWA, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WEU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Francois BUJON DE L'ESTANG chancery: 4101 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007 telephone: [1] (202) 944-6000 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: PSC 116, APO AE 09777 telephone: [33] (1) 43-12-22-22 FAX: [33] (1) 42 66 97 83 consulate(s) general: 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: One of the four West European trillion-dollar economies, the French economy features considerable - albeit diminishing - state control over its capitalistic market system. In running important industrial segments (railways, airlines, electricity, telecommunications), administrating an exceptionally generous social welfare system, and staffing an enormous bureaucracy, the state spends about 55% of GDP. 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 expanded 2.4% in 1994 and in 1995. Persistently high unemployment still poses a major problem for the government, as will the need to cut back on welfare benefits and bureaucratic budgets. Paris remains committed to maintaining the franc-deutsche mark parity, which has kept French interest rates high at the expense of jobs. Although the pace of economic and financial integration within the European Union has slowed down, integration will remain a major force in France, shaping the fortunes of the various economic sectors over the next few years. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1.173 trillion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $20,200 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 2.4% industry: 26.5% services: 71.1% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.7% (1995) Labor force: 24.17 million by occupation: services 61.5%, industry 31.3%, agriculture 7.2% (1987) note: includes Corsica Unemployment rate: 11.7% (yearend 1995) Budget: revenues: $220.5 billion expenditures: $249.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $47 billion (1993 budget) Industries: steel, machinery, chemicals, automobiles, metallurgy, aircraft, electronics, mining, textiles, food processing, tourism 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) Agriculture: wheat, cereals, sugar beets, potatoes, wine grapes; beef, dairy products; fish catch of 850,000 metric tons ranks among world's top 20 countries and is all used domestically Illicit drugs: transshipment point for South American cocaine and Southwest Asian heroin Exports: $235.5 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: machinery and transportation equipment, chemicals, foodstuffs, agricultural products, iron and steel products, textiles and clothing partners: Germany 17.1%, Italy 9.3%, Spain 7.1%, Belgium-Luxembourg 8.7%, UK 9.9%, Netherlands 4.6%, US 7.0%, Japan 2.0%, Russia 0.5% Imports: $229.3 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: crude oil, machinery and equipment, agricultural products, chemicals, iron and steel products partners: Germany 17.8%, Italy 10.1%, US 8.5%, Netherlands 4.9%, Spain 8.8%, Belgium-Luxembourg 9.1%, UK 7.9%, Japan 3.7%, Russia 1.2% External debt: $300 billion (1993 est.) Economic aid: donor: ODA, $7.915 billion (1993) Currency: 1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.0056 (January 1996), 4.9915 (1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632 (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 33,891 km standard gauge: 33,524 km 1.435-m gauge; 32,275 km are operated by French National Railways (SNCF); 13,741 km of SNCF routes are electrified and 12,132 km are double- or multiple-tracked narrow gauge: 367 km 1.000-m gauge note: includes Corsica; does not include 33 tourist railroads, totalling 469 km, many being of very narrow gauge (1995) Highways: total: 1,511,200 km paved: 811,200 km (including 7,700 km of expressways) unpaved: 700,000 km (1992 est.) note: includes Corsica 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: 55 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,203,086 GRT/1,779,263 DWT ships by type: bulk 6, cargo 5, chemical tanker 5, container 7, liquefied gas tanker 3, oil tanker 16, passenger 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 6, short-sea passenger 5, specialized tanker 1 note: France also maintains a captive register for French-owned ships in the Kerguelen Islands (French Southern and Antarctic Lands) (1995 est.) Airports: total: 460 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 13 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 26 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 91 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 73 with paved runways under 914 m: 179 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 3 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 75 (1995 est.) note: includes Corsica Heliports: 3 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 35 million (1987 est.) Telephone system: highly developed domestic: extensive cable and microwave radio relay; extensive introduction of fiber-optic cable; domestic satellite system international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (with total of 5 antennas - 2 for Indian Ocean and 3 for Atlantic Ocean), NA Eutelsat, 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean Region); HF radiotelephone communications with more than 20 countries Radio broadcast stations: AM 41, FM 800 (mostly repeaters), shortwave 0 Radios: 49 million (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 846 (mostly repeaters) note: Eutelsat receive-only TV service Televisions: 29.3 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy (includes Naval Air), Air Force and Air Defense, National Gendarmerie Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 14,782,577 males fit for military service: 12,299,651 males reach military age (18) annually: 383,252 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $47.7 billion, 2.5% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @French Guiana ------------- (overseas department of France) Map --- Location: 4 00 N, 53 00 W -- Northern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Brazil and Suriname Flag ---- Description: the flag of France is used Geography --------- Location: Northern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Brazil and Suriname Geographic coordinates: 4 00 N, 53 00 W Map references: South America Area: total area: 91,000 sq km land area: 89,150 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Indiana Land boundaries: total: 1,183 km border countries: Brazil 673 km, Suriname 510 km Coastline: 378 km Maritime claims: exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: Suriname claims area between Riviere Litani and Riviere Marouini (both headwaters of the Lawa) Climate: tropical; hot, humid; little seasonal temperature variation Terrain: low-lying coastal plains rising to hills and small mountains lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Bellevue de l'Inini 851 m Natural resources: bauxite, timber, gold (widely scattered), cinnabar, kaolin, fish Land use: arable land: NEGL% permanent crops: NEGL% meadows and pastures: NEGL% forest and woodland: 88% other: 12% (1992) Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: NA natural hazards: high frequency of heavy showers and severe thunderstorms; flooding international agreements: NA Geographic note: mostly an unsettled wilderness People ------ Population: 151,187 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 32% (male 24,447; female 23,378) 15-64 years: 63% (male 52,061; female 43,726) 65 years and over: 5% (male 3,784; female 3,791) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.86% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 24.68 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 4.59 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 18.52 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.19 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1 male(s)/female all ages: 1.13 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 14.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.79 years male: 72.55 years female: 79.19 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.42 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: French Guianese (singular and plural) adjective: French Guianese Ethnic divisions: black or mulatto 66%, white 12%, East Indian, Chinese, Amerindian 12%, other 10% Religions: Roman Catholic Languages: French Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1982 est.) total population: 83% male: 84% female: 82% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Department of Guiana conventional short form: French Guiana local long form: none local short form: Guyane Data code: FG Type of government: overseas department of France Capital: Cayenne 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 (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995); represented by Prefect Pierre DARTOUT who was appointed by the French Ministry of Interior head of government: President of the General Council Stephan PHINERA-HORTH (since March 1994) Legislative branch: unicameral General Council and a unicameral Regional Council General Council: elections last held NA March 1994 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (19 total) PSG 8, RPR 2, UDF 1, other right 1, other 7 Regional Council: elections last held 22 March 1992 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (31 total) PSG 16, FDG 10, RPR 2, independents 3 French Senate: elections last held 24 September 1989 (next to be held September 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) PSG 1 French National Assembly: elections last held 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) RPR 1, independent 1 Judicial branch: Court of Appeals (highest local court based in Martinique with jurisdiction over Martinique, Guadeloupe, and French Guiana) Political parties and leaders: Guianese Socialist Party (PSG), Raymond TRACY; Conservative Union for the Republic (UPR), Leon BERTRAND; Rally for the Center Right (URC); Rally for the Republic (RPR); Guyana Democratic Front (FDG), Georges OTHILY; Walwari Committee, Christine TAUBIRA-DELANON; Socialist Party (PS), Jean BART; Union for French Democracy (UDF), R. CHOW-CHINE International organization participation: 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy is tied closely to that of France through subsidies and imports. Besides the French space center at Kourou, fishing and forestry are the most important economic activities, with exports of fish and fish products (mostly shrimp) accounting for more than 60% of total revenue in 1992. The large reserves of tropical hardwoods, not fully exploited, support an expanding sawmill industry that provides sawn logs for export. Cultivation of crops is limited to the coastal area, where the population is largely concentrated. French Guiana is heavily dependent on imports of food and energy. Unemployment is a serious problem, particularly among younger workers. GDP: purchasing power parity - $800 million (1993 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $6,000 (1993 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.5% (1992) Labor force: 36,597 (1993) by occupation: services, government, and commerce 60.6%, industry 21.2%, agriculture 18.2% (1980) Unemployment rate: 24.1% (1993 est.) Budget: revenues: $133 million expenditures: $284 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.) Industries: construction, shrimp processing, forestry products, rum, gold mining Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 180,000 kW production: 450 million kWh consumption per capita: 3,149 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rice, corn, manioc, cocoa, vegetables, bananas, sugar; cattle, pigs, poultry Illicit drugs: small amount of marijuana grown for local consumption; minor transshipment point to Europe Exports: $110 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: shrimp, timber, rum, rosewood essence partners: France 52%, Spain 15%, US 5% (1992) Imports: $719 million (c.i.f., 1992) commodities: food (grains, processed meat), other consumer goods, producer goods, petroleum partners: France 77%, Germany 11%, US 5% (1992) External debt: $1.2 billion (1988) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.0056 (January 1996), 4.9915 (1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632 (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km (1995) Highways: total: 1,817 km (national 432 km, departmental 385 km, community 1,000 km) paved: 727 km unpaved: 1,090 km (1995 est.) Waterways: 460 km, navigable by small oceangoing vessels and river and coastal steamers; 3,300 km navigable by native craft Ports: Cayenne, Degrad des Cannes, Saint-Laurent du Maroni Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 10 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 with paved runways under 914 m: 4 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 31,000 (1990 est.) Telephone system: domestic: fair open wire and microwave radio relay system international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 5, FM 7, shortwave 0 Radios: 79,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 9 Televisions: 22,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: French Forces, Gendarmerie Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 43,412 males fit for military service: 28,171 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France ====================================================================== @French Polynesia ---------------- (overseas territory of France) Map --- Location: 15 00 S, 140 00 W -- Oceania, archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from South America to Australia Flag ---- Description: two narrow red horizontal bands encase a wide white band; centered on the white band is a disk with blue and white wave pattern on the lower half and gold and white ray pattern on the upper half; a stylized red, blue and white ship rides on the wave pattern; the French flag is used for official occasions Geography --------- Location: Oceania, archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from South America to Australia Geographic coordinates: 15 00 S, 140 00 W Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 4,167 sq km (118 islands and atolls) land area: 3,660 sq km comparative area: slightly less than one-third the size of Connecticut Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 2,525 km Maritime claims: exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: none Climate: tropical, but moderate Terrain: mixture of rugged high islands and low islands with reefs lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Orohena 2,241 m Natural resources: timber, fish, cobalt Land use: arable land: 1% permanent crops: 19% meadows and pastures: 5% forest and woodland: 31% other: 44% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: NA natural hazards: occasional cyclonic storms in January international agreements: NA Geographic note: includes five archipelagoes; Makatea in French Polynesia is one of the three great phosphate rock islands in the Pacific Ocean - the others are Banaba (Ocean Island) in Kiribati and Nauru People ------ Population: 224,911 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 35% (male 40,450; female 39,038) 15-64 years: 61% (male 70,506; female 65,620) 65 years and over: 4% (male 4,636; female 4,661) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.19% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 27.15 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.27 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.07 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1 male(s)/female all ages: 1.06 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 14.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 70.94 years male: 68.49 years female: 73.5 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.26 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: French Polynesian(s) adjective: French Polynesian Ethnic divisions: Polynesian 78%, Chinese 12%, local French 6%, metropolitan French 4% Religions: Protestant 54%, Roman Catholic 30%, other 16% Languages: French (official), Tahitian (official) Literacy: age 14 and over can read and write, but definition of literacy not available (1977 est.) total population: 98% male: 98% female: 98% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Territory of French Polynesia conventional short form: French Polynesia local long form: Territoire de la Polynesie Francaise local short form: Polynesie Francaise Data code: FP Type of government: overseas territory of France since 1946 Capital: Papeete Administrative divisions: none (overseas territory of France); there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 5 archipelagic divisions named Archipel des Marquises, Archipel des Tuamotu, Archipel des Tubuai, Iles du Vent, and Iles Sous-le-Vent note: Clipperton Island is administered by France from French Polynesia Independence: none (overseas territory of France) National holiday: National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789) Constitution: 28 September 1958 (French Constitution) Legal system: based on French system Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995); represented by High Commissioner of the Republic Paul RONCIERE (since 8 August 1994) who was appointed by the French Ministry of Interior head of government: President of the Territorial Government of French Polynesia Gaston FLOSSE (since 4 April 1991); President of the Territorial Assembly Tinomana EBB (since NA) cabinet: Council of Ministers; president submits a list of members of the Territorial Assembly for approval by them to serve as ministers Legislative branch: unicameral Territorial Assembly: elections last held 17 March 1991 (next to be held NA March 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (41 total) People's Rally for the Republic (Gaullist) 18, Polynesian Union Party 12, New Fatherland Party 7, other 4 French Senate: elections last held 24 September 1989 (next to be held NA September 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) party NA French National Assembly: elections last held 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA March 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) People's Rally for the Republic (Gaullist) 2 Judicial branch: Court of Appeal; Court of the First Instance; Court of Administrative Law Political parties and leaders: People's Rally for the Republic (Tahoeraa Huiraatira), Gaston FLOSSE; Polynesian Union Party (includes Te Tiarama and Here Ai'a Party), Jean JUVENTIN; New Fatherland Party (Ai'a Api), Emile VERNAUDON; Independent Party (Ia Mana Te Nunaa), Jacques DROLLET; Te Aratia Ote Nunaa, Tinomana EBB; Haere i Mua, Alexandre LEONTIEFF; other small parties International organization participation: ESCAP (associate), FZ, ICFTU, SPC, WMO Diplomatic representation in US: none (overseas territory of France) US diplomatic representation: none (overseas territory of France) Flag: two narrow red horizontal bands encase a wide white band; centered on the white band is a disk with blue and white wave pattern on the lower half and gold and white ray pattern on the upper half; a stylized red, blue and white ship rides on the wave pattern; the French flag is used for official occasions Economy ------- Economic overview: Since 1962, when France stationed military personnel in the region, French Polynesia has changed from a subsistence economy to one in which a high proportion of the work force is either employed by the military or supports the tourist industry. Tourism accounts for about 20% of GDP and is a primary source of hard currency earnings. The territory will continue to benefit from a five-year (1994-98) development agreement with France aimed principally at creating new jobs. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1.76 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $8,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 4% industry: 18% services: 78% (1992 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.5% (1994) Labor force: 76,630 employed (1988) by occupation: agriculture 13%, industry 19%, services 68% (1992 est.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $686 million expenditures: $884 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1989) Industries: tourism, pearls, agricultural processing, handicrafts Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 75,000 kW production: 334 million kWh consumption per capita: 1,189 kWh (1994) Agriculture: coconuts, vanilla, vegetables, fruits; poultry, beef, dairy products Exports: $230 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: cultured pearls 41.6%, coconut products, mother-of-pearl, vanilla, shark meat (1992) partners: France 34%, US 10% (1992) Imports: $912 million (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: fuels, foodstuffs, equipment partners: ECE 64% (France 45.4%), US 13.6%, Australia 6.9%, NZ 5.8%, Japan 5% (1992) External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 CFP franc (CFPF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: Comptoirs Francais du Pacifique francs (CFPF) per US$1 - 91.00 (January 1996), 90.75 (1995), 100.94 (1994), 102.96 (1993), 96.24 (1992), 102.57 (1991); note - linked at the rate of 18.18 to the French franc Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 792 km paved: 792 km (1995 est.) Ports: Mataura, Papeete, Rikitea, Uturoa Merchant marine: total: 3 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 4,127 GRT/6,710 DWT ships by type: passenger-cargo 2, refrigerated cargo 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 41 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 2 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 5 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 13 with paved runways under 914 m: 15 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 6 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 33,200 (1983 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 5, FM 2, shortwave 0 Radios: 116,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 6 Televisions: 35,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: French Forces (includes Army, Navy, Air Force), Gendarmerie Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France ====================================================================== @French Southern and Antarctic Lands ----------------------------------- (overseas territory of France) Map --- Location: 43 00 S, 67 00 E -- 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 Antarctica, "Adelie Land"; the US does not recognize the French claim to "Adelie Land" Flag ---- Description: the flag of France is used 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 Antarctica, "Adelie Land"; the US does not recognize the French claim to "Adelie Land" Geographic coordinates: 43 00 S, 67 00 E 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 "Adelie Land" 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: "Adelie Land" claim in Antarctica is not recognized by the US Climate: antarctic Terrain: volcanic lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Mont Ross on Kerguelen 1,850 m 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 Geographic note: remote location in the southern Indian Ocean People ------ Population: no indigenous inhabitants; note - there were 145 (1995) mostly researchers whose numbers vary from winter (July) to summer (January) Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: FS Type of government: overseas territory of France since 1955; governed by High Administrator Christian DORS (since 4 December 1991) 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 "Adelie Land" claim in Antarctica that is not recognized by the US Independence: none (overseas territory of France) Flag: the flag of France is used Economy ------- Economic 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: $22.6 million expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995) Transportation -------------- Ports: none; offshore anchorage only Merchant marine: total: 66 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,133,942 GRT/3,617,863 DWT ships by type: bulk 2, cargo 6, chemical tanker 7, container 10, liquefied gas tanker 4, multifunction large-load carrier 1, oil tanker 18, refrigerated cargo 4, roll-on/roll-off cargo 13, specialized 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 (1995 est.) Airports: none (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: NA Telephone system: domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: NA Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France ====================================================================== @Gabon ----- Map --- Location: 1 00 S, 11 45 E -- Western Africa, bordering the Atlantic Ocean at the Equator, between Congo and Equatorial Guinea Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of green (top), yellow, and blue Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, bordering the Atlantic Ocean at the Equator, between Congo and Equatorial Guinea Geographic coordinates: 1 00 S, 11 45 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 267,670 sq km land area: 257,670 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Colorado Land boundaries: total: 2,551 km border countries: Cameroon 298 km, Congo 1,903 km, Equatorial Guinea 350 km Coastline: 885 km Maritime claims: contiguous zone: 24 nm exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: maritime boundary dispute with Equatorial Guinea because of disputed sovereignty over islands in Corisco Bay Climate: tropical; always hot, humid Terrain: narrow coastal plain; hilly interior; savanna in east and south lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Mont Iboundji 1,575 m Natural resources: petroleum, manganese, uranium, gold, timber, iron ore Land use: arable land: 1% permanent crops: 1% meadows and pastures: 18% forest and woodland: 78% other: 2% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: deforestation; poaching natural hazards: NA international agreements: party to - Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94 People ------ Population: 1,172,798 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 34% (male 197,188; female 196,562) 15-64 years: 61% (male 364,033; female 353,451) 65 years and over: 5% (male 30,270; female 31,294) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.47% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 28.22 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 13.56 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.97 male(s)/female all ages: 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 90.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 55.59 years male: 52.72 years female: 58.56 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.89 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Gabonese (singular and plural) adjective: Gabonese Ethnic divisions: Bantu tribes including four major tribal groupings (Fang, Eshira, Bapounou, Bateke), other Africans and Europeans 100,000, including 27,000 French Religions: Christian 55%-75%, Muslim less than 1%, animist Languages: French (official), Fang, Myene, Bateke, Bapounou/Eschira, Bandjabi Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 63.2% male: 73.7% female: 53.3% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Gabonese Republic conventional short form: Gabon local long form: Republique Gabonaise local short form: Gabon Data code: GB Type of government: republic; multiparty presidential regime (opposition parties legalized 1990) Capital: Libreville Administrative divisions: 9 provinces; Estuaire, Haut-Ogooue, Moyen-Ogooue, Ngounie, Nyanga, Ogooue-Ivindo, Ogooue-Lolo, Ogooue-Maritime, Woleu-Ntem Independence: 17 August 1960 (from France) National holiday: Renovation Day, 12 March (1968) (Gabonese Democratic Party established) Constitution: adopted 14 March 1991 Legal system: based on French civil law system and customary law; judicial review of legislative acts in Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court; compulsory ICJ jurisdiction not accepted Suffrage: 21 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President El Hadj Omar BONGO (since 2 December 1967) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage on 5 December 1993 (next election to be held 1998); results - President Omar BONGO received 51% of the vote head of government: Prime Minister Paulin OBAME Nguema (since 9 December 1994) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister in consultation with the president Legislative branch: unicameral; note - the provision of the constitution for the establishment of a senate has not been implemented National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): elections last held on 5 December 1993 (next to be held by July 1996, according to the October 1994 Paris Accords; however, President BONGO has indicated that date might slip); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) PDG 64, National Recovery Movement - Lumberjacks (Morena-Bucherons/RNB) 17, PGP 12, National Recovery Movement (Morena-Original) 2, PUP 4, CLR 1, FAR 4, UPG 1, independents 15 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Cour Supreme) Political parties and leaders: Gabonese Democratic Party (PDG, former sole party), Simplice Guedet MANZELA, secretary general; Circle of Liberal Reformers (CLR), General Jean Boniface ASSELE; People's Unity Party (PUP), Louis Gaston MAYILA; Gabonese Socialist Union (USG), Dr. Serge Mba BEKALE; National Recovery Movement - Lumberjacks (Morena-Bucherons/RNB), Fr. Paul M'BA-ABESSOLE; Gabonese Party for Progress (PGP), Pierre-Louis AGONDHO-OKAWE, president; National Recovery Movement (Morena-Origina), note - this party won 2 seats in the 5 December 1993 elections for the National Assembly but is no longer very active; Gabonese Party for Progress (PGP), Pierre Louis AGONDJO OKAWE; African Forum for Reconstruction (FAR), Leon MBOU-YEMBI, secretary general; Gabonese People's Union (UPG), Pierre MAMBOUNDOU International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, BDEAC, CCC, CEEAC, ECA, FAO, FZ, G-24, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, OPEC, UDEAC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Paul BOUNDOUKOU-LATHA chancery: Suite 200, 2034 20th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 797-1000 FAX: [1] (202) 332-0668 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Elizabeth RASPOLIC embassy: Boulevard de la Mer, Libreville mailing address: B. P. 4000, Libreville telephone: [241] 76 20 03 through 76 20 04, 74 34 92 FAX: [241] 74 55 07 Flag: three equal horizontal bands of green (top), yellow, and blue Economy ------- Economic overview: Notwithstanding its serious ongoing economic problems, Gabon enjoys a per capita income more than three times that of most nations of sub-Saharan Africa. Gabon depended on timber and manganese until oil was discovered offshore in the early 1970s. The oil sector now accounts for 50% of GDP. Real GDP growth has been feeble since 1992 and Gabon continues to face the problem of fluctuating prices for its oil, timber, manganese, and uranium exports. Despite an abundance of natural wealth, and a manageable rate of population growth, the economy is hobbled by poor fiscal management. In 1992, the fiscal deficit widened to 2.4% of GDP, and Gabon failed to settle arrears on its bilateral debt, leading to a cancellation of rescheduling agreements with official and private creditors. Devaluation of its Francophone currency by 50% on 12 January 1994 sparked a one-time inflationary surge, to 35%; the rate dropped to 15% in 1995. Nevertheless, the government must continue to keep a tight rein on spending and wage increases. The IMF and France are considering offering financial assistance in 1996 if Gabon shows progress in privatization and fiscal discipline. GDP: purchasing power parity - $6 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $5,200 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 8.2% industry: 44.7% services: 47.1% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 15% (1995 est.) Labor force: 120,000 salaried by occupation: agriculture 65.0%, industry and commerce 30.0%, services 2.5%, government 2.5% Unemployment rate: 10%-14% (1993 est.) Budget: revenues: $1.3 billion expenditures: $1.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $311 million (1993 est.) Industries: food and beverage; textile; lumbering and plywood; cement; petroleum extraction and refining; manganese, uranium, and gold mining; chemicals; ship repair Industrial production growth rate: -3% (1991) Electricity: capacity: 315,000 kW production: 910 million kWh consumption per capita: 757 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cocoa, coffee, sugar, palm oil; rubber; okoume (a tropical softwood); cattle; small fishing operations (provide a catch of about 20,000 metric tons) Exports: $2.1 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: crude oil 80%, timber 14%, manganese 6%, uranium partners: US 50%, France 16%, Japan 8%, Spain 6%, Germany NA (1994 est.) Imports: $800 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: foodstuffs, chemical products, petroleum products, construction materials, manufactures, machinery partners: France 35%, African countries, US, Japan, Netherlands (1994) External debt: $3.8 billion (1993 ) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $75 million (1993) Currency: 1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: CFA francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 500.56 (January 1996), 499.15 (1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991) 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 649 km Gabon State Railways (OCTRA) standard gauge: 649 km 1.435-m gauge; single track (1994) Highways: total: 7,456 km paved: 560 km unpaved: 6,896 km (1988 est.) Waterways: 1,600 km perennially navigable Pipelines: crude oil 270 km; petroleum products 14 km Ports: Cape Lopez, Kango, Lambarene, Libreville, Mayumba, Owendo, Port-Gentil Merchant marine: total: 3 bulk (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 36,976 GRT/60,319 DWT (1995 est.) Airports: total: 54 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: 7 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 21 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 8 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 15 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 22,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: domestic: adequate system of cable, microwave radio relay, tropospheric scatter, radiotelephone communication stations, and a domestic satellite system with 12 earth stations international: satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 6, FM 6, shortwave 0 Radios: 250,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 3 (repeaters 5) Televisions: 40,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Presidential Guard, National Gendarmerie, National Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 273,662 males fit for military service: 139,439 males reach military age (20) annually: 10,966 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $154 million, 2.4% of GDP (1993) ====================================================================== @Gaza Strip ---------- The Israel-PLO Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements ("the DOP"), signed in Washington on 13 September 1993, provides for a transitional period not exceeding five years of Palestinian interim self-government in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Permanent status negotiations began on 5 May 1996. Map --- Location: 31 25 N, 34 20 E -- Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Israel Geography --------- Location: Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Israel Geographic coordinates: 31 25 N, 34 20 E Map references: Middle East Area: total area: 360 sq km land area: 360 sq km comparative area: slightly more than twice the size of Washington, DC Land boundaries: total: 62 km border countries: Egypt 11 km, Israel 51 km Coastline: 40 km Maritime claims: Israeli occupied with current status subject to the Israeli-Palestinian Interim Agreement - permanent status to be determined through further negotiation International disputes: West Bank and Gaza Strip are Israeli occupied with current status subject to the Israeli-Palestinian Interim Agreement - permanent status to be determined through further negotiation Climate: temperate, mild winters, dry and warm to hot summers Terrain: flat to rolling, sand- and dune-covered coastal plain lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m highest point: Abu 'Awdah (Joz Abu 'Auda) 105 m Natural resources: NEGL Land use: arable land: 13% permanent crops: 32% meadows and pastures: 0% forest and woodland: 0% other: 55% Irrigated land: 115 sq km (1992 est.) Environment: current issues: desertification natural hazards: NA international agreements: NA Geographic note: there are 24 Israeli settlements and civilian land use sites in the Gaza Strip (August 1995 est.) People ------ Population: 923,940 (July 1996 est.) note: in addition, there are 5,000 Israeli settlers in the Gaza Strip (August 1995 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 52% (male 244,026; female 231,976) 15-64 years: 46% (male 210,706; female 210,764) 65 years and over: 2% (male 11,553; female 14,915) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 6.79% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 50.67 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 4.4 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 21.65 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.78 male(s)/female all ages: 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 27.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 71.98 years male: 70.69 years female: 73.34 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 7.79 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: NA adjective: NA Ethnic divisions: Palestinian Arab and other 99.4%, Jewish 0.6% Religions: Muslim (predominantly Sunni) 98.7%, Christian 0.7%, Jewish 0.6% Languages: Arabic, Hebrew (spoken by Israeli settlers), English (widely understood) Literacy: NA Government ---------- Government note: Under the Israeli-PLO Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements ("the DOP"), Israel agreed to transfer certain powers and responsibilities to the Palestinian Authority, which includes a Palestinian Legislative Council elected in January 1996, as part of interim self-governing arrangements in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. A transfer of powers and responsibilities for the Gaza Strip and Jericho has taken place pursuant to the Israel-PLO 4 May 1994 Cairo Agreement on the Gaza Strip and the Jericho Area and in additional areas of the West Bank pursuant to the Israel-PLO 28 September 1995 Interim Agreement. The DOP provides that Israel will retain responsibility during the transitional period for external security and for internal security and public order of settlements and Israelis. Permanent status is to be determined through direct negotiations within five years. Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Gaza Strip local long form: none local short form: Qita Ghazzah Data code: GZ Economy ------- Economic overview: In 1991 roughly 40% of Gaza Strip workers were employed across the border by Israeli industrial, construction, and agricultural enterprises, with worker remittances supplementing GDP by roughly 50%. Gaza has depended upon Israel for nearly 90% of its external trade. Aggravating the impact of Israeli military administration, unrest in the territory from 1988 to 1993 (intifadah) raised unemployment and lowered the standard of living of Gazans. The Persian Gulf crisis and its aftershocks also dealt blows to Gaza since August 1990. Worker remittances from the Gulf states have dropped, unemployment has increased, and exports have fallen. The withdrawal of Israel from the Gaza Strip in May 1994 has brought a new set of adjustment problems. The stringent border restrictions have held back economic growth in 1995 and 1996. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3%-4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,200 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 33% industry: 7% services: 60% (1995 est., includes West Bank) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 14% (1995 est.) Labor force: NA by occupation: construction 33.4%, agriculture 20.0%, commerce, restaurants, and hotels 14.9%, industry 10.0%, other services 21.7% (1991) note: excluding Israeli settlers Unemployment rate: 30%-45% (1995 est.) Budget: $NA Industries: generally small family businesses that produce textiles, soap, olive-wood carvings, and mother-of-pearl souvenirs; the Israelis have established some small-scale modern industries in an industrial center Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: power supplied by Israel Agriculture: olives, citrus, other fruits, vegetables; beef, dairy products Exports: $49 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: citrus partners: Israel, Egypt Imports: $339 million (c.i.f., 1994 est.) commodities: food, consumer goods, construction materials partners: Israel, Egypt External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA note: $410 million (est.) disbursed from international aid pledges in 1995 (includes aid to West Bank) Currency: 1 new Israeli shekel (NIS) = 100 new agorot Exchange rates: new Israeli shekels (NIS) per US$1 - 3.1295 (January 1996), 3.0113 (1995), 3.0111 (1994), 2.8301 (1993), 2.4591 (1992), 2.2791 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year (since 1 January 1992) Transportation -------------- Railways: total: NA km; note - one line, abandoned and in disrepair, little trackage remains Highways: total: NA km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km note: small, poorly developed road network Ports: Gaza Airports: total: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: NA note: 10% of Palestinian households have telephones (1992 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM 0, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: NA; note - 95% of Palestinian households have radios (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 Televisions: NA; note - 59% of Palestinian households have televisions (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: NA Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Georgia ------- Beset by ethnic and civil strife since independence in 1991, Georgia began to stabilize in 1994. Separatist conflicts in Abkhazia and South Ossetia have been dormant for more than two years, although political settlements remain elusive. Russian peacekeepers are deployed in both regions and a UN Observer Mission is operating in Abkhazia. As a result of these conflicts, Georgia still has about 250,000 internally displaced people. In November 1995, Georgia held peaceful, generally free and fair nationwide presidential and parliamentary elections. Although the country continues to suffer from a crippling economic crisis, aggravated by a severe energy shortage, some progress has been made and the Georgian Government remains committed to economic reform in cooperation with the IMF and the World Bank. Violence and organized crime were sharply curtailed in 1995. Map --- Location: 42 00 N, 43 30 E -- Southwestern Asia, bordering the Black Sea, between Turkey and Russia Flag ---- Description: maroon field with small rectangle in upper hoist side corner; rectangle divided horizontally with black on top, white below Geography --------- Location: Southwestern Asia, bordering the Black Sea, between Turkey and Russia Geographic coordinates: 42 00 N, 43 30 E Map references: Commonwealth of Independent States Area: total area: 69,700 sq km land area: 69,700 sq km comparative area: slightly larger than South Carolina Land boundaries: total: 1,461 km border countries: Armenia 164 km, Azerbaijan 322 km, Russia 723 km, Turkey 252 km Coastline: 310 km Maritime claims: NA International disputes: none Climate: warm and pleasant; Mediterranean-like on Black Sea coast Terrain: largely mountainous with Great Caucasus Mountains in the north and Lesser Caucasus Mountains in the south; Kolkhida Lowland opens to the Black Sea in the west; Mtkvari River Basin in the east; good soils in river valley flood plains, foothills of Kolkhida Lowland lowest point: Black Sea 0 m highest point: Mt'a Mqinvartsveri (Gora Kazbek) 5,048 m Natural resources: forests, hydropower, manganese deposits, iron ore, copper, minor coal and oil deposits; coastal climate and soils allow for important tea and citrus growth Land use: arable land: 11% permanent crops: 4% meadows and pastures: 29% forest and woodland: 38% other: 18% Irrigated land: 4,660 sq km (1990) Environment: current issues: air pollution, particularly in Rust'avi; heavy pollution of Mtkvari River and the Black Sea; inadequate supplies of potable water; soil pollution from toxic chemicals natural hazards: NA international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Desertification People ------ Population: 5,219,810 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 22% (male 595,524; female 571,207) 15-64 years: 66% (male 1,643,506; female 1,784,286) 65 years and over: 12% (male 229,910; female 395,377) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: -1.02% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 12.81 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 12.21 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -10.82 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.92 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.58 male(s)/female all ages: 0.9 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 22.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 68.09 years male: 63.43 years female: 72.98 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.69 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Georgian(s) adjective: Georgian Ethnic divisions: Georgian 70.1%, Armenian 8.1%, Russian 6.3%, Azeri 5.7%, Ossetian 3%, Abkhaz 1.8%, other 5% Religions: Christian Orthodox 75% (Georgian Orthodox 65%, Russian Orthodox 10%), Muslim 11%, Armenian Apostolic 8%, unknown 6% Languages: Armenian 7%, Azeri 6%, Georgian 71% (official), Russian 9%, other 7% Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1989 est.) total population: 99% male: 100% female: 98% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Georgia conventional short form: Georgia local long form: Sak'art'velos Respublika local short form: Sak'art'velo former: Georgian Soviet Socialist Republic Data code: GG Type of government: republic Capital: T'bilisi Administrative divisions: 2 autonomous republics (avtomnoy respubliki, singular - avtom respublika); Abkhazia (Sokhumi), Ajaria (Bat'umi) note: the administrative centers of the autonomous republics are included in parentheses; there are no oblasts - the rayons around T'bilisi are under direct republic jurisdiction Independence: 9 April 1991 (from Soviet Union) National holiday: Independence Day, 26 May (1991) Constitution: adopted 17 October 1995 Legal system: based on civil law system Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state and head of government: President Eduard Amvrosiyevich SHEVARDNADZE (previously elected Chairman of the Government Council 10 March 1992, Council has since been disbanded; previously elected Chairman of Parliament 11 October 1992); presidential election last held 5 November 1995 (next to be held NA April 2001); results - Eduard SHEVARDNADZE 74%; president's term to last five years cabinet: Cabinet of Ministers Legislative branch: unicameral Georgian Parliament: elections last held 5 November 1995 (next to be held NA November 2000); results - CUG 24%, NDP 8%, All Georgia Revival Union 7%, all other parties received less than 5% each; seats - (235 total) number of seats by party NA Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: Citizens Union of Georgia (CUG), Eduard SHEVARDNADZE, Zurab ZHVANIA, general secretary; National Democratic Party (NDP), Irina SARISHVILI-CHANTARIA; United Republican Party, umbrella organization for parties including the GPF and the Charter 1991 Party, Notar NATADZE, chairman; Georgian Popular Front (GPF), Nodar NATADZE, chairman; Charter 1991 Party, Tedo PAATASHVILI; Georgian Social Democratic Party (GSDP), Guram MUCHAIDZE, secretary general; All Georgia Union for Revival, Alsan ABASHIDZE; Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Irakli SHENGELAYA; Democratic Georgia Union (DGU), Avtandil MARGIANI; National Independence Party (NIP), Irakliy TSERETELI, chairman; Georgian Monarchists' Party (GMP), Temur ZHORZHOLIANI; Greens Party; Agrarian Party of Georgia (APG), Roin LIPARTELIANI; United Communist Party of Georgia (UCP), Panteleimon GIORGADZE, chairman Other political or pressure groups: supporters of ousted President Zviad GAMSAKHURDIA (deceased 1 January 1994) remain a source of opposition; separatist elements in the breakaway region of Abkhazia International organization participation: BSEC, CCC, CIS, EBRD, ECE, FAO, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFAD, IFC, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NACC, OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Tedo JAPARIDZE chancery: (temporary) Suite 424, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005 telephone: [1] (202) 393-5959 FAX: [1] (202) 393-6060 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador William H. COURTNEY embassy: #25 Antoneli Street, T'bilisi 380026 mailing address: use embassy street address telephone: [7] (8832) 98-99-67, 93-38-03 FAX: [7] (8832) 93-37-59 Flag: maroon field with small rectangle in upper hoist side corner; rectangle divided horizontally with black on top, white below Economy ------- Economic overview: Georgia's economy has traditionally revolved around Black Sea tourism; cultivation of citrus fruits, tea, and grapes; mining of manganese and copper; and a small industrial sector producing wine, metals, machinery, chemicals, and textiles. The country imports the bulk of its energy needs, including natural gas and oil products. Its only sizable internal energy resource is hydropower. Since 1991 the economy has sustained severe damage from civil strife. Georgia has been suffering from acute energy shortages, as it is having problems paying for even minimal imports. Georgia is pinning its hopes for long-term recovery largely on reestablishing trade ties with Russia and on developing international transportation through the key Black Sea ports of P'ot'i and Bat'umi. Statistical estimates on Georgia are subject to a particularly wide margin of error, even compared with other FSU countries. The GDP estimate below probably does not reflect much of its grass roots economic activity. GDP is supplemented by considerable EU and US humanitarian aid. GDP: purchasing power parity - $6.2 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994) GDP real growth rate: -11% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,080 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 70.4% industry: 10.2% services: 19.4% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.2% monthly average (first half 1995 est.) Labor force: 2.763 million by occupation: industry and construction 31%, agriculture and forestry 25%, other 44% (1990) Unemployment rate: officially less than 5% but real unemployment may be more than 20%, with even larger numbers of underemployed workers Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: steel, aircraft, machine tools, foundry equipment, electric locomotives, tower cranes, electric welding equipment, machinery for food preparation and meat packing, electric motors, process control equipment, trucks, tractors, textiles, shoes, chemicals, wood products, wine Industrial production growth rate: -10% (1995) Electricity: capacity: 4,410,000 kW production: 9.1 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,526 kWh (1993) Agriculture: citrus, grapes, tea, vegetables, potatoes; small livestock sector Illicit drugs: illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for domestic consumption; used as transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe Exports: $140 million (c.i.f., 1995) commodities: citrus fruits, tea, wine, other agricultural products; diverse types of machinery; ferrous and nonferrous metals; textiles; chemicals; fuel re-exports partners: Russia, Turkey, Armenia, Azerbaijan Imports: $250 million (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: fuel, grain and other foods, machinery and parts, transport equipment partners: Russia, Azerbaijan, Turkey; note - EU and US send humanitarian food shipments External debt: $1.2 billion (of which $135 million to Russia) (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $28 million (1993) note: commitments, 1992-95, $1,200 million ($675 million disbursements) Currency: lari introduced September 1995 replacing the coupon Exchange rates: laris per US$1 - 1.24 (end December 1995) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 1,570 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines broad gauge: 1,570 km 1.520-m gauge (1990) Highways: total: 35,100 km paved: 31,200 km unpaved: 3,900 km (1990 est.) Pipelines: crude oil 370 km; refined products 300 km; natural gas 440 km (1992) Ports: Bat'umi, P'ot'i, Sokhumi Merchant marine: total: 23 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 307,765 GRT/483,567 DWT ships by type: bulk 8, cargo 2, oil tanker 12, short-sea passenger 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 28 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 7 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 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 5 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 6 (1994 est.) Transportation note: transportation network is in poor condition and disrupted by ethnic conflict, criminal activities, and fuel shortages; network lacks maintenance and repair Communications -------------- Telephones: 672,000 (1993 est.) Telephone system: poor service; 339,000 unsatisfied applications for telephones (December 1990 est.) domestic: NA international: landline to CIS members and Turkey; satellite earth station - 1 Eutelsat; leased connections with other countries via the Moscow international gateway switch; international electronic mail and telex service available Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 3 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Republic Security Forces (internal and border troops) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,288,291 males fit for military service: 1,021,632 males reach military age (18) annually: 40,654 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $60 million to $65 million, NA% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Germany ------- Map --- Location: 51 00 N, 9 00 E -- Central Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, between the Netherlands and Poland, south of Denmark Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of black (top), red, and yellow Geography --------- Location: Central Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, between the Netherlands and Poland, south of Denmark Geographic coordinates: 51 00 N, 9 00 E Map references: Europe Area: total area: 356,910 sq km land area: 349,520 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Montana note: includes the formerly separate Federal Republic of Germany, the German Democratic Republic, and Berlin, following formal unification on 3 October 1990 Land boundaries: total: 3,621 km border countries: Austria 784 km, Belgium 167 km, Czech Republic 646 km, Denmark 68 km, France 451 km, Luxembourg 138 km, Netherlands 577 km, Poland 456 km, Switzerland 334 km Coastline: 2,389 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: temperate and marine; cool, cloudy, wet winters and summers; occasional warm, tropical foehn wind; high relative humidity Terrain: lowlands in north, uplands in center, Bavarian Alps in south lowest point: Freepsum Lake -2 m highest point: Zugspitze 2,962 m Natural resources: iron ore, coal, potash, timber, lignite, uranium, copper, natural gas, salt, nickel Land use: arable land: 34% permanent crops: 1% meadows and pastures: 16% forest and woodland: 30% other: 19% Irrigated land: 4,800 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: emissions from coal-burning utilities and industries and lead emissions from vehicle exhausts (the result of continued use of leaded fuels) contribute to air pollution; acid rain, resulting from sulfur dioxide emissions, is damaging forests; heavy pollution in the Baltic Sea from raw sewage and industrial effluents from rivers in eastern Germany natural hazards: NA 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, 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, Desertification, Tropical Timber 94 Geographic note: strategic location on North European Plain and along the entrance to the Baltic Sea People ------ Population: 83,536,115 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 16.15% (male 6,928,750; female 6,563,026) 15-64 years: 68.52% (male 29,339,780; female 27,902,549) 65 years and over: 15.33% (male 4,658,014; female 8,143,996) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.67% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 9.66 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 12.21 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 8.25 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.57 male(s)/female all ages: 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.95 years male: 72.8 years female: 79.27 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.3 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: German(s) adjective: German Ethnic divisions: German 95.1%, Turkish 2.3%, Italians 0.7%, Greeks 0.4%, Poles 0.4%, other 1.1% (made up largely of people fleeing the war in the former Yugoslavia) Religions: Protestant 45%, Roman Catholic 37%, unaffiliated or other 18% Languages: German Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1977 est.) total population: 99% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Federal Republic of Germany conventional short form: Germany local long form: Bundesrepublik Deutschland local short form: Deutschland Data code: GM Type of government: federal republic Capital: Berlin note: the shift from Bonn to Berlin will take place over a period of years, with Bonn retaining many administrative functions and several ministries Administrative divisions: 16 states (laender, singular - land); Baden-Wuerttemberg, Bayern, Berlin, Brandenburg, Bremen, Hamburg, Hessen, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Niedersachsen, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Rheinland-Pfalz, Saarland, Sachsen, Sachsen-Anhalt, Schleswig-Holstein, Thueringen Independence: 18 January 1871 (German Empire unification); divided into four zones of occupation (UK, US, USSR, and later, France) in 1945 following World War II; Federal Republic of Germany (FRG or West Germany) proclaimed 23 May 1949 and included the former UK, US, and French zones; German Democratic Republic (GDR or East Germany) proclaimed 7 October 1949 and included the former USSR zone; unification of West Germany and East Germany took place 3 October 1990; all four power rights formally relinquished 15 March 1991 National holiday: German Unity Day (Day of Unity), 3 October (1990) Constitution: 23 May 1949, known as Basic Law; became constitution of the united German people 3 October 1990 Legal system: civil law system with indigenous concepts; judicial review of legislative acts in the Federal Constitutional Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Roman HERZOG (since 1 July 1994) was elected by the Federal Convention including members of the Bundestag and an equal number of members elected by the Land Parliaments head of government: Chancellor Dr. Helmut KOHL (since 4 October 1982) was elected by an absolute majority of the Bundestag cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president upon the proposal of the chancellor Legislative branch: bicameral chamber (no official name for the two chambers as a whole) Federal Assembly (Bundestag): election last held 16 October 1994 (next to be held by NA 1998); results - CDU 34.2%, SPD 36.4%, Alliance 90/Greens 7.3%, CSU 7.3%, FDP 6.9%, PDS 4.4%, Republicans 1.9%; seats - (usually 656 total, but 672 for the 1994 term) CDU 244, SPD 252, Alliance 90/Greens 49, CSU 50, FDP 47, PDS 30; elected by direct popular vote under a system combining direct and proportional representation; a party must win 5% of the national vote or three direct mandates to gain representation Federal Council (Bundesrat): State governments are directly represented by votes; each has 3 to 6 votes depending on size and are required to vote as a block; current composition: votes - (68 total) SPD-led states 41, CDU-led states 27 Judicial branch: Federal Constitutional Court (Bundesverfassungsgericht), half the judges are elected by the Bundestag and half by the Bundesrat Political parties and leaders: Christian Democratic Union (CDU), Helmut KOHL, chairman; Christian Social Union (CSU), Theo WAIGEL, chairman; Free Democratic Party (FDP), Wolfgang GERHARDT, chairman; Social Democratic Party (SPD), Oskar LA FONTAINE, chairman; Alliance '90/Greens, Krista SAGER, Juergen TRITTIN, cochairpersons; Party of Democratic Socialism (PDS), Lothar BISKY, chairman; Republikaner, Rolf SCHLIERER, chairman; National Democratic Party (NPD), Ellen-Doris SCHERER; Communist Party (DKP), Rolf PRIEMER and Heinz STEHR, cochairpersons Other political or pressure groups: expellee, refugee, and veterans groups International organization participation: AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BDEAC, BIS, CBSS, CCC, CDB (non-regional), CE, CERN, EBRD, ECE, EIB, ESA, EU, FAO, G- 5, G- 7, G-10, 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 (observer), OECD, OSCE, PCA, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNAMIR, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNITAR, UNOMIG, UNPROFOR, UPU, WEU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Juergen CHROBOG chancery: 4645 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007 telephone: [1] (202) 298-4000 FAX: [1] (202) 298-4249 consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Detroit, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Francisco, Seattle US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Charles E. REDMAN embassy: Deichmanns Aue 29, 53170 Bonn mailing address: APO AE 09080, PSC 117, Bonn telephone: [49] (228) 3391 FAX: [49] (228) 339-2663 branch office: Berlin consulate(s) general: Dusseldorf, Frankfurt, Hamburg, Leipzig, Munich, and Stuttgart Flag: three equal horizontal bands of black (top), red, and yellow Economy ------- Economic overview: Germany, the world's third-most powerful economy, faces its own unique problem of bringing its eastern area up to scratch after 45 years of communist rule. Despite substantial progress toward economic integration, the eastern states will continue to rely on subsidies from the federal government into the next century. Assistance to the east of about $100 billion annually has helped the region average nearly 8% annual economic growth since 1991, even though the overall German economy has averaged less than 2% growth. The economic recovery in the east has been led by the construction industries, with growth increasingly supported by the service sectors and light manufacturing industries. Western Germany, which accounts for 90% of overall German GDP and has three times the per capita income of eastern Germany, is perennially the first- or second-largest exporter, after the US, in the world. Nonetheless, business and political leaders have in recent years become increasingly concerned about Germany's apparent decline in attractiveness as a business location. They cite the increasing preference of German companies to locate manufacturing facilities - long the strength of the postwar economy - to foreign countries, including the US, rather than in Germany, so they can be closer to their markets and avoid Germany's high production costs. The conditions under which European economic integration - especially movement toward a single European currency - will proceed will be another key issue facing Germany in the next few years. GDP: Germany: purchasing power parity - $1.4522 trillion (1995 est.) western: purchasing power parity - $1.3318 trillion (1995 est.) eastern: purchasing power parity - $120.4 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: Germany: 1.8% (1995 est.) western: 1.5% (1995 est.) eastern: 6.3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: Germany: $17,900 (1995 est.) western: $21,100 (1995 est.) eastern: $6,600 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 1% industry: 34.2% services: 64.8% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): western: 2% (1995 est.) eastern: 2% (1995 est.) Labor force: 36.75 million by occupation: industry 41%, agriculture 6%, other 53% (1987) Unemployment rate: western: 8.7% (December 1995) eastern: 14.9% (December 1995) Budget: revenues: $690 billion expenditures: $780 billion, including capital expenditures of $96.5 billion (1994) Industries: western: among world's largest and technologically advanced producers of iron, steel, coal, cement, chemicals, machinery, vehicles, machine tools, electronics, food and beverages eastern: metal fabrication, chemicals, brown coal, shipbuilding, machine building, food and beverages, textiles, petroleum refining Industrial production growth rate: western: 2.8% (1994) eastern: NA% Electricity: capacity: 115,430,000 kW production: 493 billion kWh consumption per capita: 5,683 kWh (1993) Agriculture: western: potatoes, wheat, barley, sugar beets, fruit, cabbage; cattle, pigs, poultry eastern: wheat, rye, barley, potatoes, sugar beets, fruit; pork, beef, chicken, milk, hides Illicit drugs: source of precursor chemicals for South American cocaine processors; transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and Latin American cocaine for West European markets Exports: $437 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: manufactures 89.3% (including machines and machine tools, chemicals, motor vehicles, iron and steel products), agricultural products 5.5%, raw materials 2.7%, fuels 1.3% (1993) partners: EC 47.9% (France 11.7%, Netherlands 7.4%, Italy 7.5%, UK 7.7%, Belgium-Luxembourg 6.6%), EFTA 15.5%, US 7.7%, Eastern Europe 5.2%, OPEC 3.0% (1993) Imports: $362 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: manufactures 75.1%, agricultural products 10.0%, fuels 8.3%, raw materials 5.0% (1993) partners: EC 46.4% (France 11.3%, Netherlands 8.4%, Italy 8.1%, UK 6.0%, Belgium-Luxembourg 5.7%), EFTA 14.3%, US 7.3%, Japan 6.3%, Eastern Europe 5.1%, OPEC 2.6% (1993) External debt: $NA Economic aid: donor: ODA, $6.954 billion (1993) Currency: 1 deutsche mark (DM) = 100 pfennige Exchange rates: deutsche marks (DM) per US$1 - 1.4617 (January 1996), 1.4331 (1995), 1.6228 (1994), 1.6533 (1993), 1.5617 (1992), 1.6595 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 43,966 km standard gauge: 43,531 km 1.435-m; 40,355 km are owned by Deutsche Bahn AG (DB); 17,015 km of the DB system are electrified and 16,941 km are double- or more-tracked narrow gauge: 389 km 1.000-m gauge (DB operates 146 km of 1.000-m gauge); 7 km 0.900-m gauge; 39 km 0.750-m gauge note: in addition to the DB system there are 54 privately-owned industrial or excursion railways, ranging in route length from 2 km to 632 km, with a total length of 3,465 km (1995) Highways: total: 636,282 km paved: 531,018 km (including 10,955 km of expressways) unpaved: 105,264 km (1991 est.) Waterways: western: 5,222 km, of which almost 70% are usable by craft of 1,000-metric-ton capacity or larger; major rivers include the Rhine and Elbe; Kiel Canal is an important connection between the Baltic Sea and North Sea eastern: 2,319 km (1988) Pipelines: crude oil 3,644 km; petroleum products 3,946 km; natural gas 97,564 km (1988) Ports: Berlin, Bonn, Brake, Bremen, Bremerhaven, Cologne, Dresden, Duisburg, Emden, Hamburg, Karlsruhe, Kiel, Lubeck, Magdeburg, Mannheim, Rostock, Stuttgart Merchant marine: total: 452 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,054,327 GRT/6,367,036 DWT ships by type: bulk 6, cargo 193, chemical tanker 15, combination bulk 4, combination ore/oil 5, container 166, liquefied gas tanker 12, multifunction large-load carrier 6, oil tanker 11, passenger 3, railcar carrier 3, refrigerated cargo 7, roll-on/roll-off cargo 14, short-sea passenger 7 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 617 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 13 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 65 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 67 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 51 with paved runways under 914 m: 351 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 2 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 6 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 7 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 55 (1995 est.) Heliports: 55 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 44 million Telephone system: Germany has one of the world's most technologically advanced telecommunications systems; as a result of intensive capital expenditures since reunification, the formerly backward system of the eastern part of the country is being rapidly modernized and integrated with that of the western part domestic: the region which was formerly West Germany is served by an extensive system of automatic telephone exchanges connected by modern networks of fiber-optic cable, coaxial cable, microwave radio relay, and a domestic satellite system; cellular telephone service is widely available and includes roaming service to many foreign countries; since the reunification of Germany, the telephone system of the eastern region has been upgraded and enjoys many of the advantages of the national system international: satellite earth stations - 14 Intelsat (12 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean), 1 Eutelsat, 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean region), 2 Intersputnik (1 Atlantic Ocean region and 1 Indian Ocean region); 6 submarine cable connections; 2 HF radiotelephone communication centers; tropospheric scatter links Radio broadcast stations: western: AM 80, FM 470, shortwave 0 eastern: AM 23, FM 17, shortwave 0 Radios: 70 million (1991 est.) Television broadcast stations: 246 (repeaters 6,000); note - there are 15 Russian repeaters in eastern Germany Televisions: 44.8 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy (includes Naval Air Arm), Air Force, Border Police, Coast Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 21,540,919 males fit for military service: 18,537,347 males reach military age (18) annually: 449,292 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $42.8 billion, 1.5% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Ghana ----- Map --- Location: 8 00 N, 2 00 W -- Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Cote d'Ivoire and Togo Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of red (top), yellow, and green with a large black five-pointed star centered in the yellow band; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia; similar to the flag of Bolivia, which has a coat of arms centered in the yellow band Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Cote d'Ivoire and Togo Geographic coordinates: 8 00 N, 2 00 W Map references: Africa Area: total area: 238,540 sq km land area: 230,020 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Oregon Land boundaries: total: 2,093 km border countries: Burkina Faso 548 km, Cote d'Ivoire 668 km, Togo 877 km Coastline: 539 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; warm and comparatively dry along southeast coast; hot and humid in southwest; hot and dry in north Terrain: mostly low plains with dissected plateau in south-central area lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Afadjato 880 m Natural resources: gold, timber, industrial diamonds, bauxite, manganese, fish, rubber Land use: arable land: 5% permanent crops: 7% meadows and pastures: 15% forest and woodland: 37% other: 36% Irrigated land: 80 sq km (1989) Environment: current issues: recent drought in north severely affecting agricultural activities; deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; poaching and habitat destruction threatens wildlife populations; water pollution; inadequate supplies of potable water natural hazards: dry, dusty, harmattan winds occur from January to March; droughts international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Marine Life Conservation Geographic note: Lake Volta is the world's largest artificial lake; northeasterly harmattan wind (January to March) People ------ Population: 17,698,271 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 43% (male 3,856,673; female 3,819,946) 15-64 years: 54% (male 4,658,142; female 4,814,060) 65 years and over: 3% (male 262,159; female 287,291) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.29% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 35 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 11.15 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.94 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.97 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.91 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 80.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 56.17 years male: 54.18 years female: 58.22 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.59 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Ghanaian(s) adjective: Ghanaian Ethnic divisions: black African 99.8% (major tribes - Akan 44%, Moshi-Dagomba 16%, Ewe 13%, Ga 8%), European and other 0.2% Religions: indigenous beliefs 38%, Muslim 30%, Christian 24%, other 8% Languages: English (official), African languages (including Akan, Moshi-Dagomba, Ewe, and Ga) Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 64.5% male: 75.9% female: 53.5% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Ghana conventional short form: Ghana former: Gold Coast Data code: GH Type of government: constitutional democracy Capital: Accra Administrative divisions: 10 regions; Ashanti, Brong-Ahafo, Central, Eastern, Greater Accra, Northern, Upper East, Upper West, Volta, Western Independence: 6 March 1957 (from UK) National holiday: Independence Day, 6 March (1957) Constitution: new constitution approved 28 April 1992 Legal system: based on English common 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 Jerry John RAWLINGS (since 3 November 1992); elected for a four-year term by direct universal suffrage; the president can appoint a vice president; election last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held NA December 1996) cabinet: Cabinet; president nominates members subject to approval by the Parliament Legislative branch: unicameral Parliament: elections last held 29 December 1992 (next to be held NA December 1996); results - opposition boycotted the election, the National Democratic Congress won 198 of the total 200 seats and 2 seats were won by independents; because of interim bye-elections, the National Democratic Congress and its remaining coalition partner, Every Ghanian Living Everywhere (EGLE), now control 189 seats; former coalition partner, NCP, has 8 seats; independents hold 3 Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: National Democratic Congress (NDC), Jerry John RAWLINGS; New Patriotic Party (NPP), Peter Ala ADJETY; People's Heritage Party (PHP), Alex ERSKINE; National Convention Party (NCP), Kow ARKAAH; Every Ghanian Living Everywhere (EGLE), Ashang OKINE; Peoples Convention Party (PCP), B.K. NKETSIA; Peoples National Convention (PNC), Alhaji Asuma BANDA International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, G-24, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, MINURSO, NAM, OAU, UN, UNAMIR, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNIKOM, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Ekwow SPIO-GARBRAH chancery: 3512 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 686-4520 FAX: [1] (202) 686-4527 consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Edward BRYNN embassy: Ring Road East, East of Danquah Circle, Accra mailing address: P. O. Box 194, Accra telephone: [233] (21) 775348 FAX: [233] (21) 775747 Flag: three equal horizontal bands of red (top), yellow, and green with a large black five-pointed star centered in the yellow band; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia; similar to the flag of Bolivia, which has a coat of arms centered in the yellow band Economy ------- Economic overview: Well endowed with natural resources, Ghana has twice the per capita output of the poorer countries in West Africa. Heavily reliant on international assistance, Ghana has made steady progress in liberalizing its economy since 1983. Overall growth continued at a rate of approximately 5% in 1995, due largely to increased gold, timber, and cocoa production - major sources of foreign exchange. The economy, however, continues to revolve around subsistence agriculture, which accounts for almost half of GDP and employs 55% of the work force, mainly small landholders. Public sector wage increases, regional peacekeeping commitments, and the containment of internal unrest in the underdeveloped north have placed substantial demands on the government's budget and have led to inflationary deficit financing, depreciation of the cedi, and rising public discontent with Ghana's austerity program. GDP: purchasing power parity - $25.1 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,400 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 47% industry: 16% services: 37% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 69% (1995 est.) Labor force: 3.7 million by occupation: agriculture and fishing 54.7%, industry 18.7%, sales and clerical 15.2%, professional 3.7%, services, transportation, and communications 7.7% Unemployment rate: 10% (1993 est.) Budget: revenues: $1.05 billion expenditures: $1.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $178 million (1993) Industries: mining, lumbering, light manufacturing, aluminum, food processing Industrial production growth rate: 2.8% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 1,180,000 kW production: 6.1 billion kWh consumption per capita: 323 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cocoa, rice, coffee, cassava (tapioca), peanuts, corn, shea nuts, bananas; timber Illicit drugs: illicit producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; transit hub for Southwest and Southeast Asian heroin destined for Europe and the US Exports: $1 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.) commodities: cocoa 40%, gold, timber, tuna, bauxite, aluminum, manganese ore, and diamonds partners: Germany , US , UK , Netherlands , Japan (1995) Imports: $1.7 billion (f.o.b., 1993 est.) commodities: petroleum, consumer goods, foods, intermediate goods, capital equipment partners: UK, US, Germany, Japan, Netherlands (1995) External debt: $4.6 billion (December 1993 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $472 million (1993) Currency: 1 new cedi (C) = 100 pesewas Exchange rates: new cedis per US$1 - 1,246.11 (September 1995), 956.71 (1994), 649.06 (1993), 437.09 (1992), 367.83 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 953 km; note - undergoing major renovation (1995 est.) narrow gauge: 953 km 1.067-m gauge; 32 km double track Highways: total: 38,145 km paved: 7,476 km (including 21 km of expressways) unpaved: 30,669 km (1990 est.) Waterways: Volta, Ankobra, and Tano Rivers provide 168 km of perennial navigation for launches and lighters; Lake Volta provides 1,125 km of arterial and feeder waterways Pipelines: none Ports: Takoradi, Tema Merchant marine: total: 3 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 27,427 GRT/35,894 DWT ships by type: cargo 2, refrigerated cargo 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 12 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 3 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: 2 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 70,000 (1988 est.) Telephone system: poor to fair system domestic: primarily microwave radio relay international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 4, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 4 (repeaters 8) Televisions: 250,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Police Force, Palace Guard, Civil Defense Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 4,135,538 males fit for military service: 2,303,423 males reach military age (18) annually: 176,332 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $30 million, 0.8% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Gibraltar --------- (dependent territory of the UK) Map --- Location: 36 11 N, 5 22 W -- Southwestern Europe, bordering the Strait of Gibraltar, which links the Mediterranean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, on the southern coast of Spain Flag ---- Description: two horizontal bands of white (top, double width) and red with a three-towered red castle in the center of the white band; hanging from the castle gate is a gold key centered in the red band Geography --------- Location: Southwestern Europe, bordering the Strait of Gibraltar, which links the Mediterranean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, on the southern coast of Spain Geographic coordinates: 36 11 N, 5 22 W Map references: Europe 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: total: 1.2 km border country: Spain 1.2 km Coastline: 12 km Maritime claims: territorial sea: 3 nm International disputes: source of friction between Spain and the UK Climate: Mediterranean with mild winters and warm summers Terrain: a narrow coastal lowland borders the Rock of Gibraltar lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m highest point: Rock of Gibraltar 426 m Natural resources: NEGL 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 freshwater resources, so large concrete or natural rock water catchments collect rain water natural hazards: NA international agreements: NA Geographic note: strategic location on Strait of Gibraltar that links the North Atlantic Ocean and Mediterranean Sea People ------ Population: 28,765 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 20% (male 3,109; female 2,728) 15-64 years: 66% (male 10,668; female 8,292) 65 years and over: 14% (male 1,582; female 2,386) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.54% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 13.94 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.73 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0.21 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.04 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.14 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.29 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.66 male(s)/female all ages: 1.15 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 6.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 77.83 years male: 74.5 years female: 81.31 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.26 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Gibraltarian(s) adjective: Gibraltar Ethnic divisions: Italian, English, Maltese, Portuguese, Spanish Religions: Roman Catholic 74%, Protestant 11% (Church of England 8%, other 3%), Muslim 8%, Jewish 2%, none or other 5% (1981) Languages: English (used in schools and for official purposes), Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Russian Literacy: NA Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Gibraltar Data code: GI Type of government: dependent territory of the UK Capital: Gibraltar Administrative divisions: none (dependent territory of the UK) Independence: none (dependent territory of the UK) National holiday: Commonwealth Day (second Monday of March) Constitution: 30 May 1969 Legal system: English law Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal, plus other UK subjects resident six months or more Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor and Commander in Chief Field Marshal Sir John CHAPPLE (since NA March 1993) head of government: Chief Minister Joe BOSSANO (since 25 March 1988) was appointed by the governor Gibraltar Council: advises the governor cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed from the elected members of the House of Assembly by the governor in consultation with the chief minister Legislative branch: unicameral House of Assembly: elections last held 16 January 1992 (next to be held NA January 1996); results - SL 73.3%, SD 20.2%, NP 4.7%, independents 1.8%; seats - (18 total, 15 elected) SL 8, SD 7 Judicial branch: Supreme Court; Court of Appeal Political parties and leaders: Gibraltar Socialist Labor Party (SL), Joe BOSSANO; Gibraltar Labor Party/Association for the Advancement of Civil Rights (GCL/AACR), leader Adolfo CANEPA; Gibraltar Social Democrats (SD), Peter CARUANA; Gibraltar National Party (NP), Joe GARCIA Other political or pressure groups: Housewives Association; Chamber of Commerce; Gibraltar Representatives Organization International organization participation: Interpol (subbureau) Diplomatic representation in US: none (dependent territory of the UK) US diplomatic representation: none (dependent territory of the UK) Flag: two horizontal bands of white (top, double width) and red with a three-towered red castle in the center of the white band; hanging from the castle gate is a gold key centered in the red band Economy ------- Economic overview: Gibraltar benefits from an extensive shipping trade and offshore banking. The British military presence has been sharply reduced and now contributes about 11% to the local economy. The financial sector accounts for 15% of GDP; tourism, shipping services fees, and duties on consumer goods also generate revenue. Because more than 70% of the economy is in the public sector, changes in government spending have a major impact on the level of employment. GDP: purchasing power parity - $205 million (1993 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $6,600 (1993 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: 14,800 (including non-Gibraltar laborers) note: UK military establishments and civil government employ nearly 50% of the labor force Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $116 million expenditures: $124 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992-93) Industries: tourism, banking and finance, construction, commerce; support to large UK naval and air bases; tobacco, mineral waters, beer, canned fish Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 47,000 kW production: 90 million kWh consumption per capita: 2,539 kWh (1993) Agriculture: none Exports: $57 million (f.o.b., 1992) commodities: (principally reexports) petroleum 51%, manufactured goods 41%, other 8% partners: UK, Morocco, Portugal, Netherlands, Spain, US, FRG Imports: $420 million (c.i.f., 1992) commodities: fuels, manufactured goods, and foodstuffs partners: UK, Spain, Japan, Netherlands External debt: $318 million (1987) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Gibraltar pound (LG) = 100 pence Exchange rates: Gibraltar pounds (LG) per US$1 - 0.6535 (January 1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991); note - the Gibraltar pound is at par with the British pound Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: total: NA km; 1.000-m gauge system in dockyard area only Highways: total: 49.9 km (including 12.9 km public highways) paved: 49.9 km unpaved: 0 km Pipelines: none Ports: Gibraltar Merchant marine: total: 19 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 357,730 GRT/635,769 DWT ships by type: bulk 1, cargo 3, chemical tanker 1, container 1, oil tanker 13 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 1 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 19,529 (1993 est.) Telephone system: adequate, automatic domestic system and adequate international facilities domestic: automatic exchange facilities international: radiotelephone; microwave radio relay; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 6, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 4 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: British Army, Royal Navy, Royal Air Force Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK ====================================================================== @Glorioso Islands ---------------- (possession of France) Map --- Location: 11 30 S, 47 20 E -- Southern Africa, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, northwest of Madagascar Flag ---- Description: the flag of France is used Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, northwest of Madagascar Geographic coordinates: 11 30 S, 47 20 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 5 sq km land area: 5 sq km comparative area: about eight 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 12 m 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 People ------ Population: uninhabited Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Glorioso Islands local long form: none local short form: Iles Glorieuses Data code: GO Type of government: French possession administered by Commissioner of the Republic, resident in Reunion Capital: none; administered by France from Reunion Independence: none (possession of France) Flag: the flag of France is used Economy ------- Economic overview: no economic activity Transportation -------------- Ports: none; offshore anchorage only Airports: total: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France ====================================================================== @Greece ------ Map --- Location: 39 00 N, 22 00 E -- Southern Europe, bordering the Aegean Sea, Ionian Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea, between Albania and Turkey Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern Europe, bordering the Aegean Sea, Ionian Sea, and the Mediterranean Sea, between Albania and Turkey Geographic coordinates: 39 00 N, 22 00 E 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 border countries: 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; border demarcation with Albania, the treatment of Albania's ethnic Greek minority, and migrant Albanian workers in Greece remain unresolved issues Climate: temperate; mild, wet winters; hot, dry summers Terrain: mostly mountains with ranges extending into sea as peninsulas or chains of islands lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m highest point: Mount Olympus 2,917 m 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 international agreements: party to - Air Pollution, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, 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-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Desertification Geographic note: strategic location dominating the Aegean Sea and southern approach to Turkish Straits; a peninsular country, possessing an archipelago of about 2,000 islands People ------ Population: 10,538,594 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 16% (male 899,029; female 837,308) 15-64 years: 68% (male 3,571,918; female 3,542,556) 65 years and over: 16% (male 736,818; female 950,965) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.42% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 9.78 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9.53 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 3.98 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.07 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.07 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.78 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 7.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.1 years male: 75.6 years female: 80.78 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.37 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Greek(s) adjective: Greek Ethnic divisions: Greek 98%, other 2% note: the Greek Government states there are no ethnic divisions in ====================================================================== @Greenland --------- (part of the Danish realm) Map --- Location: 72 00 N, 40 00 W -- Northern North America, island between the Arctic Ocean and the North Atlantic Ocean, northeast of Canada Flag ---- Description: two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red with a large disk slightly to the hoist side of center - the top half of the disk is red, the bottom half is white Geography --------- Location: Northern North America, island between the Arctic Ocean and the North Atlantic Ocean, northeast of Canada Geographic coordinates: 72 00 N, 40 00 W Map references: Arctic Region Area: total area: 2,175,600 sq km land area: 383,600 sq km (ice free) comparative area: slightly more than three times the size of Texas Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 44,087 km Maritime claims: exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 3 nm International disputes: none Climate: arctic to subarctic; cool summers, cold winters Terrain: flat to gradually sloping icecap covers all but a narrow, mountainous, barren, rocky coast lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Gunnbjorn 3,700 m Natural resources: zinc, lead, iron ore, coal, molybdenum, cryolite, uranium, fish Land use: arable land: 0% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 1% forest and woodland: 0% other: 99% Irrigated land: 0 sq km Environment: current issues: NA natural hazards: continuous permafrost over northern two-thirds of the island international agreements: NA Geographic note: dominates North Atlantic Ocean between North America and Europe; sparse population confined to small settlements along coast People ------ Population: 58,203 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 27% (male 7,871; female 7,723) 15-64 years: 68% (male 21,755; female 17,961) 65 years and over: 5% (male 1,307; female 1,586) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 17.06 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.11 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.21 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.82 male(s)/female all ages: 1.13 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 23.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 68.24 years male: 63.97 years female: 72.53 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.22 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Greenlander(s) adjective: Greenlandic Ethnic divisions: Greenlander 86% (Eskimos and Greenland-born whites), Danish 14% Religions: Evangelical Lutheran Languages: Eskimo dialects, Danish Literacy: NA Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Greenland local long form: none local short form: Kalaallit Nunaat Data code: GL Type of government: part of the Danish realm; self-governing overseas administrative division Capital: Nuuk (Godthab) Administrative divisions: 3 municipalities (kommuner, singular - kommun); Nordgronland, Ostgronland, Vestgronland Independence: none (part of the Danish realm; self-governing overseas administrative division) National holiday: Birthday of the Queen, 16 April (1940) Constitution: 5 June 1953 (Danish constitution) Legal system: Danish Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: Queen MARGRETHE II (of Denmark since 14 January 1972), a constitutional monarch, is represented by High Commissioner Steen SPORE (since NA 1993) head of government: Prime Minister Lars Emil JOHANSEN (since 15 March 1991) was elected by the Landsting cabinet: Landsstyre is formed from the Landsting on basis of strength of parties Legislative branch: unicameral Parliament (Landsting): election last held on 4 March 1995 (next to be held NA 5 March 1999); results - Siumut 38.5%, Inuit Ataqatigiit 20.3%, Atassut Party 29.7%; seats - (31 total) Siumut 12, Atassut Party 10, Inuit Ataqatigiit 6, conservative splinter grouping 2, independent 1 Danish Folketing: election last held on 21 September 1994 (next to be held by NA September 1998); Greenland elects two representatives to the Folketing; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) Liberals 1, Social Democrats 1; note - Greenlandic representatives are affiliated with Danish political parties Judicial branch: High Court (Landsret) Political parties and leaders: two-party ruling coalition; Siumut (Forward Party, a moderate socialist party that advocates more distinct Greenlandic identity and greater autonomy from Denmark), Lars Emil JOHANSEN, chairman; Inuit Ataqatigiit (IA) (Eskimo Brotherhood, a Marxist-Leninist party that favors complete independence from Denmark rather than home rule), Josef MOTZFELDT; Atassut Party (Solidarity, a more conservative party that favors continuing close relations with Denmark), Daniel SKIFTE; Akulliit Party, Bjarne KREUTZMANN; Issituup (Polar Party), Nicolai HEINRICH Diplomatic representation in US: none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark) US diplomatic representation: none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark) Flag: two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red with a large disk slightly to the hoist side of center - the top half of the disk is red, the bottom half is white Economy ------- Economic overview: Greenland's economic situation at present is difficult. Unemployment is increasing, and prospects for economic growth in the immediate future are dim. Following the closing of the Black Angel lead and zinc mine in 1989, Greenland became almost completely dependent on fishing and fish processing, the sector accounting for 95% of exports. Prospects for fisheries are not bright, as the important shrimp catches will at best stabilize and cod catches have dropped. Resumption of mining and hydrocarbon activities is not around the corner, thus leaving only tourism with some potential for the near future. The public sector, i.e., the central government and its commercial entities and the municipalities, plays a dominant role in Greenland, accounting for about two-thirds of total employment. About half the government's revenues come from grants from the Danish Government, an important supplement of GDP. GDP: purchasing power parity - $892 million (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $15,500 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.3% (1993 est.) Labor force: 22,800 Unemployment rate: 6.6% (1993 est.) Budget: revenues: $667 million expenditures: $635 million, including capital expenditures of $103.8 million (1993 est.) Industries: fish processing (mainly shrimp), lead, zinc, handicrafts, small shipyards Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 84,000 kW production: 210 million kWh consumption per capita: 3,361 kWh (1993) Agriculture: forage crops, small garden vegetables; sheep; 1988 fish catch of 133,500 metric tons Exports: $330.5 million (f.o.b., 1993 est.) commodities: fish and fish products 95% partners: Denmark 79%, Benelux 9%, Germany 5% Imports: $369.6 million (c.i.f., 1993 est.) commodities: manufactured goods 28%, machinery and transport equipment 24%, food and live animals 12.4%, petroleum products 12% partners: Denmark 65%, Norway 8.8%, US 4.6%, Germany 3.8%, Japan 3.8%, Sweden 2.4% External debt: $297.1 million (1993) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA note: substantial annual subsidy from Denmark Currency: 1 Danish krone (DKr) = 100 oere Exchange rates: Danish kroner (DKr) per US$1 - 5.652 (January 1996), 5.602 (1995), 6.361 (1994), 6.484 (1993), 6.036 (1992), 6.396 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 150 km paved: 60 km unpaved: 90 km Ports: Faeringehavn, Frederikshaab, Holsteinsborg, Nanortalik, Narsaq, Nuuk (Godthaab), Sondre Stromfjord Merchant marine: total: 1 short-sea passenger (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,162 GRT/610 DWT (1995 est.) Airports: total: 8 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: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 1 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 17,900 (1984 est.) Telephone system: adequate domestic and international service provided by cables and microwave radio relay domestic: microwave radio relay international: 2 coaxial submarine cables; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 5, FM 7 (repeaters 35), shortwave 0 Radios: 23,000 (1991 est.) Television broadcast stations: 4 (repeaters 9) Televisions: 12,000 (1991 est.) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of Denmark ====================================================================== @Grenada ------- Map --- Location: 12 07 N, 61 40 W -- Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago Flag ---- Description: a rectangle divided diagonally into yellow triangles (top and bottom) and green triangles (hoist side and outer side) with a red border around the flag; there are seven yellow five-pointed stars with three centered in the top red border, three centered in the bottom red border, and one on a red disk superimposed at the center of the flag; there is also a symbolic nutmeg pod on the hoist-side triangle (Grenada is the world's second-largest producer of nutmeg, after Indonesia); the seven stars represent the seven administrative divisions Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago Geographic coordinates: 12 07 N, 61 40 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 340 sq km land area: 340 sq km comparative area: twice the size of Washington, DC Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 121 km Maritime claims: exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: none Climate: tropical; tempered by northeast trade winds Terrain: volcanic in origin with central mountains lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Mount Saint Catherine 840 m Natural resources: timber, tropical fruit, deepwater harbors Land use: arable land: 15% permanent crops: 26% meadows and pastures: 3% forest and woodland: 9% other: 47% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: NA natural hazards: lies on edge of hurricane belt; hurricane season lasts from June to November international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling Geographic note: the administration of the islands of the Grenadines group is divided between Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada People ------ Population: 94,961 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 43% (male 20,975; female 20,246) 15-64 years: 52% (male 26,089; female 23,068) 65 years and over: 5% (male 2,112; female 2,471) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.55% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 29.13 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.74 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -17.87 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.02 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.13 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.86 male(s)/female all ages: 1.07 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 11.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 70.89 years male: 68.39 years female: 73.44 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.78 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Grenadian(s) adjective: Grenadian Ethnic divisions: black African Religions: Roman Catholic, Anglican, other Protestant sects Languages: English (official), French patois Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1970 est.) total population: 98% male: 98% female: 98% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Grenada Data code: GJ Type of government: parliamentary democracy Capital: Saint George's Administrative divisions: 6 parishes and 1 dependency*; Carriacou and Petit Martinique*, Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Mark, Saint Patrick Independence: 7 February 1974 (from UK) National holiday: Independence Day, 7 February (1974) Constitution: 19 December 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), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor General Reginald Oswald PALMER (since 6 August 1992) head of government: Prime Minister Keith MITCHELL (since 22 June 1995) was appointed from members of the House of Assembly by the governor general cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister Legislative branch: bicameral Parliament Senate: consists of a 13-member body, 10 appointed by the government and three by the leader of the opposition House of Representatives: elections last held on 20 June 1995 (next to be held by NA October 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (15 total) NDC 5, GULP 2, NNP 8 Judicial branch: West Indies Associate States Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: National Democratic Congress (NDC), George BRIZAN; Grenada United Labor Party (GULP), Sir Eric GAIRY; The National Party (TNP), Ben JONES; New National Party (NNP), Keith MITCHELL; Maurice Bishop Patriotic Movement (MBPM), Terrence MARRYSHOW; New Democratic Party (NDP), James MITCHELL; Unity Labor Party (ULP), Vincent BEACHE International organization participation: ACP, C, Caricom, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Interpol, IOC, ISO (subscriber), ITU, LAES, NAM, OAS, OECS, OPANAL, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Denneth MODESTE chancery: 1701 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 265-2561 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: the ambassador to Barbados is accredited to Grenada; Charge d'Affaires Dennis CARTER embassy: Point Salines, Saint George's mailing address: P. O. Box 54, Saint George's, Grenada, W.I. telephone: [1] (809) 444-1173 through 1178 FAX: [1] (809) 444-4820 Flag: a rectangle divided diagonally into yellow triangles (top and bottom) and green triangles (hoist side and outer side) with a red border around the flag; there are seven yellow five-pointed stars with three centered in the top red border, three centered in the bottom red border, and one on a red disk superimposed at the center of the flag; there is also a symbolic nutmeg pod on the hoist-side triangle (Grenada is the world's second-largest producer of nutmeg, after Indonesia); the seven stars represent the seven administrative divisions Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy is essentially agricultural and centers on the traditional production of spices and tropical plants. Agriculture accounts for about 10% of GDP and 80% of exports and employs 24% of the labor force. Tourism is the leading foreign exchange earner, followed by agricultural exports. Manufacturing remains relatively undeveloped, but is growing due to a favorable private investment climate since 1983. The economy achieved an impressive average annual growth rate of 5.5% in 1986-91 but has slowed since 1992. The new MITCHELL government has moved forward with a plan to eliminate personal income tax in the hope of spurring domestic consumption. GDP: purchasing power parity - $284 million (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $3,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 10.2% industry: 40.3% services: 49.5% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3% (1995 est.) Labor force: 36,000 by occupation: services 31%, agriculture 24%, construction 8%, manufacturing 5%, other 32% (1985) Unemployment rate: 14% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $75.7 million (1996 est.) expenditures: $126.7 million, including capital expenditures of $51 million (1996 est.) Industries: food and beverages, textiles, light assembly operations, tourism, construction Industrial production growth rate: 1.8% (1992 est.) Electricity: capacity: 12,500 kW production: 60 million kWh consumption per capita: 639 kWh (1993) Agriculture: bananas, cocoa, nutmeg, mace, citrus, avocados, root crops, sugarcane, corn, vegetables Illicit drugs: produces and exports marijuana for US markets Exports: $24.2 million (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: bananas, cocoa, nutmeg, fruit and vegetables, clothing, mace partners: Caricom 32.3%, UK 20%, US 13%, Netherlands 8.8% (1991) Imports: $162.2 million (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: food 25%, manufactured goods 22%, machinery 20%, chemicals 10%, fuel 6% (1989) partners: US 31.2%, Caricom 23.6%, UK 13.8%, Japan 7.1% (1991) External debt: $89.1 million (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.70 (fixed rate since 1976) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 994 km paved: 597 km unpaved: 397 km (1988 est.) Ports: Grenville, Saint George's 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 5,650 (1988 est.) Telephone system: automatic, islandwide telephone system domestic: interisland VHF and UHF radiotelephone links international: new SHF radiotelephone links to Trinidad and Tobago and Saint Vincent; VHF and UHF radio links to Trinidad Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 80,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 (1988 est.) Televisions: 30,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Royal Grenada Police Force, Coast Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Guadeloupe ---------- (overseas department of France) Map --- Location: 16 15 N, 61 35 W -- Caribbean, islands in the eastern Caribbean Sea, southeast of Puerto Rico Flag ---- Description: three horizontal bands, a narrow green band (top), a wide red band, and a narrow green band; the green bands are separated from the red band by two narrow white stripes; a five-pointed gold star is centered in the red band toward the hoist side; the flag of France is used for official occasions Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, islands in the eastern Caribbean Sea, southeast of Puerto Rico Geographic coordinates: 16 15 N, 61 35 W 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; moderately 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 lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Soufriere 1,467 m 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 People ------ Population: 407,768 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 26% (male 53,118; female 51,219) 15-64 years: 66% (male 132,846; female 136,147) 65 years and over: 8% (male 14,617; female 19,821) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.2% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 17.78 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.59 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.16 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.74 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 8.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 77.4 years male: 74.37 years female: 80.58 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.92 children born/woman (1996 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 4%, Protestant sects 1% Languages: French (official) 99%, Creole patois Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1982 est.) total population: 90% male: 90% female: 90% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Department of Guadeloupe conventional short form: Guadeloupe local long form: Departement de la Guadeloupe local short form: Guadeloupe Data code: GP Type of government: 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 (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995), represented by Prefect Michel DIEFENBACHER (since NA March 1995), who was appointed by the French Ministry of Interior head of government: President of the General Council Dominique LARIFLA (since NA); President of the Regional Council Lucette MICHAUX-CHEVRY (since 22 March 1992) Legislative branch: unicameral General Council and unicameral Regional Council General Council: elections last held 22 March 1992 (next to be held by NA 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (43 total) FRUI.G 13, RPR/DUD 13, PPDG 8, FGPS 3, PCG 3, UPLG 1, PSG 1, independent 1 Regional Council: elections last held 31 January 1994 (next to be held by 16 March 1998); results - RPR/FGPS-dissadents 48.30%, FGPS 17.09%, FRUI.G 7.44%, PPDG 8.90%, UPLG 7.75% PCG 6.05%; seats - (41 total) RPR/FGPS-dissadents 22, FGPS/FRUI.G 9, PPDG 5, PCG 3, UPLG 2 French Senate: elections last held in September 1995 (next to be held NA September 2004); Guadeloupe elects two representatives; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) PPDG 1, FGPS 1 French National Assembly: elections last held on 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA March 1998); 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 Political parties and leaders: Rally for the Republic (RPR), Daniel BEAUBRUN; Communist Party of Guadeloupe (PCG), Christian Medard CELESTE; Socialist Party (FGPS), Georges LOUISOR; Popular Union for the Liberation of Guadeloupe (UPLG), Claude MAKOUKE; FGPS Dissidents (FRUI.G), Dominique LARIFLA; Union for French Democracy (UDF), Marcel ESDRAS; Progressive Democratic Party (PPDG), Henri BANGOU Other political or pressure groups: 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) International organization participation: FZ, WCL, WFTU Diplomatic representation in US: none (overseas department of France) US diplomatic representation: none (overseas department of France) Flag: three horizontal bands, a narrow green band (top), a wide red band, and a narrow green band; the green bands are separated from the red band by two narrow white stripes; a five-pointed gold star is centered in the red band toward the hoist side; the flag of France is used for official occasions Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $3.7 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $9,200 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 6% industry: 9% services: 85% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3.7% (1990) Labor force: 129,700 by occupation: agriculture 15%, industry 20%, services 65% (1993) Unemployment rate: 31.3% (1995) Budget: revenues: $395 million expenditures: $407 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995) Industries: construction, cement, rum, sugar, tourism Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 320,000 kW production: 650 million kWh consumption per capita: 1,421 kWh (1993) Agriculture: bananas, sugarcane, tropical fruits and vegetables; cattle, pigs, goats Exports: $130 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: bananas, sugar, rum partners: France 70%, Martinique 17% (1991) Imports: $1.4 billion (c.i.f., 1993) commodities: foodstuffs, fuels, vehicles, clothing and other consumer goods, construction materials partners: France 60%, EC, US, Japan (1991) External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA note: substantial annual French subsidies Currency: 1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.0056 (January 1996), 4.9915 (1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632 (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: NA km; privately owned, narrow-gauge plantation lines Highways: total: 2,082 km (national 329 km, regional 582 km, community/local 1171 km) paved: 1,742 km unpaved: 340 km (1985 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 64,916 (1984 est.) Telephone system: domestic facilities inadequate domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); 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: 100,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 9 Televisions: 150,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: French Forces, Gendarmerie Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France ====================================================================== @Guam ---- (territory of the US) Map --- Location: 13 28 N, 144 47 E -- Oceania, island in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to the Philippines Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Oceania, island in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to the Philippines Geographic coordinates: 13 28 N, 144 47 E Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 541.3 sq km land area: 541.3 sq km comparative area: 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 coralline 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Lamlam 406 m 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 Geographic note: largest and southernmost island in the Mariana Islands archipelago; strategic location in western North Pacific Ocean People ------ Population: 156,974 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 2.34% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 24.24 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 3.86 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 3 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 15.17 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 74.29 years male: 72.42 years female: 76.13 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.25 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Guamanian(s) adjective: Guamanian Ethnic divisions: Chamorro 47%, Filipino 25%, white 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 est.) total population: 99% male: 99% female: 99% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Territory of Guam conventional short form: Guam Data code: GQ Type of government: 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 (of the United States) 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) and Lieutenant Governor Madeleine BORDALLO (since 8 November 1994) were elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1998); results - Carl GUTIERREZ (Democrat) defeated Tommy TANAKA (Republican) with 54.6% of the vote 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, judge is appointed by the president; Territorial Superior Court, judges appointed for eight-year terms by the governor Political parties and leaders: Democratic Party (controls the legislature); Republican Party (party of the Governor) International organization participation: ESCAP (associate), IOC, SPC Diplomatic representation in US: none (territory of the US) 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $2 billion (1991 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $14,000 (1991 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 4% (1992 est.) 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) Unemployment rate: 2% (1992 est.) Budget: revenues: $525 million expenditures: $395 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1991) Industries: US military, tourism, construction, transshipment services, concrete products, printing and publishing, food processing, textiles Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 300,000 kW production: 750 million kWh consumption per capita: 4,797 kWh (1993) Agriculture: fruits, copra, vegetables; eggs, pork, poultry, beef 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: $NA Economic aid: recipient: although Guam receives no foreign aid, it does receive large transfer payments from the general revenues of the US Federal Treasury into which Guamanians pay no income or excise taxes; under the provisions of a special law of Congress, the Guamanian Treasury, rather than the US Treasury, receives federal income taxes paid by military and civilian Federal employees stationed in Guam Currency: 1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: US currency is used Fiscal year: 1 October - 30 September Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 674 km (all-weather roads) paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Ports: Apra Harbor Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 4 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 2 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 26,317 (1989 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean); submarine cables to US and Japan Radio broadcast stations: AM 3, FM 3, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 3 Televisions: 75,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US ====================================================================== @Guatemala --------- Map --- Location: 15 30 N, 90 15 W -- Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Honduras and Belize and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between El Salvador and Mexico Flag ---- Description: three equal vertical bands of light blue (hoist side), white, and light blue with the coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms includes a green and red quetzal (the national bird) and a scroll bearing the inscription LIBERTAD 15 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 1821 (the original date of independence from Spain) all superimposed on a pair of crossed rifles and a pair of crossed swords and framed by a wreath Geography --------- Location: Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Honduras and Belize and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between El Salvador and Mexico Geographic coordinates: 15 30 N, 90 15 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 108,890 sq km land area: 108,430 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Tennessee Land boundaries: total: 1,687 km border countries: Belize 266 km, El Salvador 203 km, Honduras 256 km, Mexico 962 km Coastline: 400 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: border with Belize in dispute; talks to resolve the dispute are stalled Climate: tropical; hot, humid in lowlands; cooler in highlands Terrain: mostly mountains with narrow coastal plains and rolling limestone plateau (Peten) lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Volcan Tajumulco 4,211 m Natural resources: petroleum, nickel, rare woods, fish, chicle Land use: arable land: 12% permanent crops: 4% meadows and pastures: 12% forest and woodland: 40% other: 32% Irrigated land: 780 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: deforestation; soil erosion; water pollution natural hazards: numerous volcanoes in mountains, with frequent violent earthquakes; Caribbean coast subject to hurricanes and other tropical storms international agreements: party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea Geographic note: no natural harbors on west coast People ------ Population: 11,277,614 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 43% (male 2,464,498; female 2,362,457) 15-64 years: 54% (male 3,026,834; female 3,031,278) 65 years and over: 3% (male 184,927; female 207,620) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.48% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 33.96 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.15 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -1.98 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.89 male(s)/female all ages: 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 50.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 65.24 years male: 62.64 years female: 67.97 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.5 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Guatemalan(s) adjective: Guatemalan Ethnic divisions: Mestizo - mixed Amerindian-Spanish ancestry (in local Spanish called Ladino) 56%, Amerindian or predominantly Amerindian 44% Religions: Roman Catholic, Protestant, traditional Mayan Languages: Spanish 60%, Indian language 40% (23 Indian dialects, including Quiche, Cakchiquel, Kekchi) Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 55.6% male: 62.5% female: 48.6% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Guatemala conventional short form: Guatemala local long form: Republica de Guatemala local short form: Guatemala Data code: GT Type of government: republic Capital: Guatemala Administrative divisions: 22 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Alta Verapaz, Baja Verapaz, Chimaltenango, Chiquimula, El Progreso, Escuintla, Guatemala, Huehuetenango, Izabal, Jalapa, Jutiapa, Peten, Quetzaltenango, Quiche, Retalhuleu, Sacatepequez, San Marcos, Santa Rosa, Solola, Suchitepequez, Totonicapan, Zacapa Independence: 15 September 1821 (from Spain) National holiday: Independence Day, 15 September (1821) Constitution: 31 May 1985, effective 14 January 1986 note: suspended 25 May 1993 by President SERRANO; reinstated 5 June 1993 following ouster of president Legal system: civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state and head of government: President Alvaro Enrique ARZU Irigoyen (since 14 January 1996); Vice President Luis Alberto FLORES Asturias (since 14 January 1996); results - Alvaro Enrique ARZU Irigoyen (PAN) 51.2%, Jorge PORTILLO Cabrera (FRG) 48.8%; ARZU was elected for a four-year term by universal suffrage; election runoff held on 14 January 1996 (next to be held November 2000) cabinet: Council of Ministers was named by the president Legislative branch: unicameral Congress of the Republic (Congreso de la Republica): elections were held on 12 November 1995 to select 80 new congressmen (next election will be held in November 2000); results - seats (80 total) PAN 43, FRG 21, FDNG 6, DCG 4, UCN 3, UD 2, MLN 1 note: on 11 November 1993 the congress approved a procedure that reduced its number from 116 seats to 80; the procedure provided for a special election in mid-1994 to elect an interim congress of 80 members to serve until replaced in the November 1995 general election; the plan was approved in a general referendum in January 1994 and the special election was held on 14 August 1994 Judicial branch: Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia); additionally the Court of Constitutionality is presided over by the President of the Supreme Court, judges are elected for a five-year term by Congress Political parties and leaders: National Centrist Union (UCN), (vacant); Solidarity Action Movement (MAS), Oliverio GARCIA Rodas; Christian Democratic Party (DCG), Alfonso CABRERA Hidalgo; National Advancement Party (PAN), Alvaro ARZU Irigoyen; National Liberation Movement (MLN), Mario SANDOVAL Alarcon; Social Democratic Party (PSD), Mario SOLORZANO Martinez; Revolutionary Party (PR), Carlos CHAVARRIA Perez; Guatemalan Republican Front (FRG), Efrain RIOS Montt; Democratic Union (UD), Jose CHEA Urruela; New Guatemalan Democratic Front (FDNG), Jorge GONZALEZ del Valle Other political or pressure groups: Coordinating Committee of Agricultural, Commercial, Industrial, and Financial Associations (CACIF); Mutual Support Group (GAM); Agrarian Owners Group (UNAGRO); Committee for Campesino Unity (CUC); leftist guerrilla movement known as Guatemalan National Revolutionary Union (URNG) has four main factions - Guerrilla Army of the Poor (EGP); Revolutionary Organization of the People in Arms (ORPA); Rebel Armed Forces (FAR); Guatemalan Labor Party (PGT/O) International organization participation: BCIE, CACM, CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-24, G-77, 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, UNIDO, UNMIH, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Pedro LAMPORT Kelsall chancery: 2220 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 745-4952 through 4954 FAX: [1] (202) 745-1908 consulate(s) general: Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, and San Francisco US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Marilyn McAFEE embassy: 7-01 Avenida de la Reforma, Zone 10, Guatemala City mailing address: APO AA 34024 telephone: [502] (2) 311541 FAX: [502] (2) 318885 Flag: three equal vertical bands of light blue (hoist side), white, and light blue with the coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms includes a green and red quetzal (the national bird) and a scroll bearing the inscription LIBERTAD 15 DE SEPTIEMBRE DE 1821 (the original date of independence from Spain) all superimposed on a pair of crossed rifles and a pair of crossed swords and framed by a wreath Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy is based on family and corporate agriculture, which accounts for 25% of GDP, employs about 60% of the labor force, and supplies two-thirds of exports. Manufacturing, predominantly in private hands, accounts for about 20% of GDP and 12% of the labor force. In both 1990 and 1991, the economy grew by 3%, the fourth and fifth consecutive years of mild growth. In 1992 growth picked up to almost 5% as government policies favoring competition and foreign trade and investment took stronger hold. In 1993-94, despite political unrest, this momentum continued, foreign investment held up, and annual growth averaged 4%. Strong international prices for Guatemala's traditional commodity exports featured 4.9% growth in 1995. Given the markedly uneven distribution of land and income, the government faces major obstacles in its program of economic modernization and the reduction of poverty. GDP: purchasing power parity - $36.7 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.9% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $3,300 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 25% industry: 20% services: 55% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 9% (1995 est.) Labor force: 3.2 million (1994 est.) by occupation: agriculture 60%, services 13%, manufacturing 12%, commerce 7%, construction 4%, transport 3%, utilities 0.7%, mining 0.3% (1985) Unemployment rate: 4.9%; underemployment 30%-40% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $1.6 billion expenditures: $1.88 billion, including capital expenditures of $570 million (1996 est.) Industries: sugar, textiles and clothing, furniture, chemicals, petroleum, metals, rubber, tourism Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 700,000 kW production: 2.3 billion kWh consumption per capita: 211 kWh (1993) Agriculture: sugarcane, corn, bananas, coffee, beans, cardamom; cattle, sheep, pigs, chickens Illicit drugs: transit country for cocaine shipments; illicit producer of opium poppy and cannabis for the international drug trade; the government has an active eradication program for cannabis and opium poppy Exports: $2.3 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: coffee, sugar, bananas, cardamom, beef partners: US 30%, El Salvador, Costa Rica, Germany, Honduras Imports: $2.85 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.) commodities: fuel and petroleum products, machinery, grain, fertilizers, motor vehicles partners: US 44%, Mexico, Venezuela, Japan, Germany External debt: $3.1 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $84 million (1993) Currency: 1 quetzal (Q) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: free market quetzales (Q) per US$1 - 5.9346 (December 1995), 5.8103 (1995), 5.7512 (1994), 5,6354 (1993), 5.1706 (1992), 5.0289 (1991); note - black-market rate 2.800 (May 1989) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 884 km (102 km privately owned) narrow gauge: 884 km 0.914-m gauge (single track) Highways: total: 12,033 km paved: 3,117 km (including 125 km of expressways) unpaved: 8,916 km (1992 est.) Waterways: 260 km navigable year round; additional 730 km navigable during high-water season Pipelines: crude oil 275 km Ports: Champerico, Puerto Barrios, Puerto Quetzal, San Jose, Santo Tomas de Castilla Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 463 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: 2 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 5 with paved runways under 914 m: 320 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 9 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 124 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 210,000 (1993 est.) Telephone system: fairly modern network centered in the city of ====================================================================== @Guernsey -------- (British crown dependency) Map --- Location: 49 28 N, 2 35 W -- Western Europe, islands in the English Channel, northwest of France Flag ---- Description: white with the red cross of Saint George (patron saint of England) extending to the edges of the flag Geography --------- Location: Western Europe, islands in the English Channel, northwest of France Geographic coordinates: 49 28 N, 2 35 W 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: 12 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location on Sark 114 m 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 Geographic note: large, deepwater harbor at Saint Peter Port People ------ Population: 62,920 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 18% (male 5,592; female 5,439) 15-64 years: 67% (male 20,636; female 21,472) 65 years and over: 15% (male 3,925; female 5,856) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.28% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 13.06 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9.73 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 9.44 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.04 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.67 male(s)/female all ages: 0.92 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 9.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.22 years male: 75.28 years female: 81.27 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.56 children born/woman (1996 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Bailiwick of Guernsey conventional short form: Guernsey Data code: GK Type of government: 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 (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch head of government: Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief Vice-Admiral Sir John COWARD (since NA 1994) and Bailiff Mr. Graham Martyn DOREY (since February 1992) were appointed by the queen cabinet: Advisory and Finance Committee (other committees); appointed by the Assembly of 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 International organization participation: 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Financial services account for about 55% 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. GDP: $NA GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $NA GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 7% (1988) Labor force: NA Unemployment rate: 3%-4% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $238.3 million expenditures: $223.7 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993 est.) Industries: tourism, banking Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 173,000 kW production: 525 million kWh consumption per capita: 9,060 kWh (1992) Agriculture: tomatoes, greenhouse flowers, sweet peppers, eggplant, other vegetables, fruit; Guernsey cattle 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 Economic aid: none Currency: 1 Guernsey (LG) pound = 100 pence Exchange rates: Guernsey pounds (LG) per US$1 - 0.6535 (January 1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991); note - the Guernsey pound is at par with the British pound Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: NA km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 41,850 (1983 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: 1 submarine cable Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK ====================================================================== @Guinea ------ Map --- Location: 11 00 N, 10 00 W -- Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea-Bissau and Sierra Leone Geographic coordinates: 11 00 N, 10 00 W 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Mont Nimba 1,752 m 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, Hazardous Wastes People ------ Population: 7,411,981 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 44% (male 1,632,414; female 1,637,007) 15-64 years: 53% (male 1,928,586; female 2,013,343) 65 years and over: 3% (male 84,005; female 116,626) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.85% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 42.59 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 18.71 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -5.4 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) note: in prior years Guinea received several hundred thousand refugees from the civil wars in Liberia and Sierra Leone, many of whom are now returning to their own countries Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.72 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 134.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 45.06 years male: 42.73 years female: 47.47 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.72 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 35.9% male: 49.9% female: 21.9% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Guinea conventional short form: Guinea local long form: Republique de Guinee local short form: Guinee former: French Guinea Data code: GV Type of government: 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 multiparty election 19 December 1993 (president must be elected by a majority of the votes cast); prior to the election he had ruled as head of military government since 5 April 1984 cabinet: Council of Ministers was 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 were held on 11 June 1995; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (114 total) PUP 71, RPG 19, PRP 9, UNR 9, UPG 2, PDG 1, UNP 1, PDG/RDA 1, other 1 Judicial branch: Court of Appeal (Cour d'Appel) Political parties and leaders: political parties were legalized on 1 April 1992; of the more than 40 with legal status, the following won seats in the legislature in the 11 June 1995 elections pro-government: Party for Unity and Progress (PUP) 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; Union for Progress of Guinea (UPG), Secretary-General Jean-Marie DORE; Democratic Party of Guinea (DPG), Ahmed Sekou TOURE; National Union for the Prosperity of Guinea (UNPG), Lt.Col. Facine TOURE, leader; Democratic Party of Guinea (PDG), El Hadj Ismael Mohamed Gassim GUSHEIN, leader International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, 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, UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Bangoura Mahawa CAMARA chancery: 2112 Leroy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 483-9420 FAX: [1] (202) 483-8688 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Joseph A. SALOOM III embassy: Rue KA 038, Conakry mailing address: B. P. 603, Conakry telephone: [224] 41 15 20, 41 15 21, 41 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Although possessing major mineral, hydropower, and agricultural resources, Guinea remains one of the poorest countries in the world. The agricultural sector employs 80% of the work force. Guinea possesses over 25% of the world's 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $6.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,020 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 24% industry: 31% services: 45% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 4.1% (1994 est.) Labor force: 2.4 million (1983) by occupation: agriculture 80.0%, industry and commerce 11.0%, services 5.4%, civil service 3.6% Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $449 million expenditures: $708 million, including capital expenditures of $361 million (1990 est.) Industries: bauxite, gold, diamonds; alumina refining; light manufacturing and agricultural processing industries Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 180,000 kW production: 520 million kWh consumption per capita: 77 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rice, coffee, pineapples, palm kernels, cassava (tapioca), bananas, sweet potatoes; cattle, sheep, goats; timber Exports: $562 million (1994 est.) commodities: bauxite, alumina, diamonds, gold, coffee, pineapples, bananas, palm kernels partners: US 23%, Belgium 12%, Ireland 12%, Spain 12% Imports: $688 million (1994 est.) commodities: petroleum products, metals, machinery, transport equipment, textiles, grain and other foodstuffs partners: France 26%, Cote d'Ivoire 12%, Hong Kong 6%, Germany 6% External debt: $3.02 billion (1994) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Guinean franc (FG) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: Guinean francs (FG) per US$1 - 995.3 (August 1995), 976.6 (1994), 955.5 (1993), 902.0 (1992), 753.9 (1991) note: the official exchange rate of the Guinean franc was set and quoted weekly against the US dollar until end-October 1993; since 1 November 1994, the exchange rate is determined in the interbank market for foreign exchange Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 1,086 km standard gauge: 279 km 1.435-m gauge narrow gauge: 807 km 1.000-m gauge; note - includes 662 km in common carrier service from Kankan to Conakry Highways: total: 29,750 km paved: 4,490 km unpaved: 25,260 km (1991 est.) Waterways: 1,295 km navigable by shallow-draft native craft Ports: Boke, Conakry, Kamsar Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 14 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 2 437 m: 6 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 18,000 (1994 est.) Telephone system: poor to fair system of open-wire lines, small radiotelephone communication stations, and new microwave radio relay system domestic: microwave radio relay and radiotelephone communication international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 3, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: 257,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 65,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- 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: 1,684,264 males fit for military service: 849,404 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $50 million, 1.6% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Guinea-Bissau ------------- Map --- Location: 12 00 N, 15 00 W -- Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea and Senegal Flag ---- Description: two equal horizontal bands of yellow (top) and green with a vertical red band on the hoist side; there is a black five-pointed star centered in the red band; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea and Senegal Geographic coordinates: 12 00 N, 15 00 W Map references: Africa Area: total area: 36,120 sq km land area: 28,000 sq km comparative area: slightly less than three times the size of Connecticut Land boundaries: total: 724 km border countries: Guinea 386 km, Senegal 338 km Coastline: 350 km Maritime claims: exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: none Climate: tropical; generally hot and humid; monsoonal-type rainy season (June to November) with southwesterly winds; dry season (December to May) with northeasterly harmattan winds Terrain: mostly low coastal plain rising to savanna in east lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location in the northeast corner of the country 300 m Natural resources: phosphates, bauxite, unexploited deposits of petroleum, fish, timber Land use: arable land: 11% permanent crops: 1% meadows and pastures: 43% forest and woodland: 38% other: 7% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: deforestation; soil erosion; overgrazing; overfishing natural hazards: hot, dry, dusty harmattan haze may reduce visibility during dry season; brush fires international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Wetlands People ------ Population: 1,151,330 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 43% (male 247,471; female 246,725) 15-64 years: 54% (male 295,132; female 329,681) 65 years and over: 3% (male 15,603; female 16,718) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.35% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 39.7 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 16.23 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.9 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.93 male(s)/female all ages: 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 115.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 48.28 years male: 46.63 years female: 49.99 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.34 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Guinea-Bissauan(s) adjective: Guinea-Bissauan Ethnic divisions: African 99% (Balanta 30%, Fula 20%, Manjaca 14%, Mandinga 13%, Papel 7%), European and mulatto less than 1% Religions: indigenous beliefs 65%, Muslim 30%, Christian 5% Languages: Portuguese (official), Criolo, African languages Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 54.9% male: 68% female: 42.5% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Guinea-Bissau conventional short form: Guinea-Bissau local long form: Republica de Guine-Bissau local short form: Guine-Bissau former: Portuguese Guinea Data code: PU Type of government: republic, formerly highly centralized, multiparty since mid-1991 Capital: Bissau Administrative divisions: 9 regions (regioes, singular - regiao); Bafata, Biombo, Bissau, Bolama, Cacheu, Gabu, Oio, Quinara, Tombali Independence: 10 September 1974 (from Portugal) National holiday: Independence Day, 10 September (1974) Constitution: 16 May 1984, amended 4 May 1991 (currently undergoing revision to liberalize popular participation in the government) Legal system: NA Suffrage: 15 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President of the Republic of Guinea-Bissau Joao Bernardo VIEIRA (assumed power 14 November 1980) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held August 1994 (next to be held 1999); results - Joao Bernardo VIEIRA 52%, Kumba YALLA 48% head of government: Prime Minister Manuel SATURNINO (since 5 November 1994) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president Legislative branch: unicameral National People's Assembly: (Assembleia Nacional Popular) elections last held 3 July and 7 August 1994 (next to be held 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (100 total) PAIGC 62, RGB 19, PRS 12, Union for Change Coalition 6, FLING 1 Judicial branch: none; there is a Ministry of Justice in the Council of Ministers Political parties and leaders: African Party for the Independence of Guinea-Bissau and Cape Verde (PAIGC), President Joao Bernardo VIEIRA, leader; Guinea-Bissau Resistance (RGB), Helder Jorge VAZ Gomes Lopes, leader; Democratic Front (FD); Social Renovation Party (PRS), Koumba YALLA, leader; Union for Change Coalition; Front for the Liberation and Independence of Guinea (FLING); Democratic Social Front (FDS), Rafael BARBOSA, leader; Bafata Movement, Domingos Fernandes GARNER, leader; Guinea-Bissau Resistance (RGB); Union for Change Coalition International organization participation: ACCT (associate), ACP, AfDB, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, UN, UNAMIR, UNAVEM III, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNOMIL, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Alfredo Lopes CABRAL chancery: 918 16th Street NW, Mezzanine Suite, Washington, DC 20006 telephone: [1] (202) 872-4222 FAX: [1] (202) 872-4226 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Peggy BLACKFORD embassy: Bairro de Penha, Bissau mailing address: C.P. 297, 1067 Bissau Codex, Bissau, Guinea-Bissau telephone: [245] 252273, 252274, 252275, 252276 FAX: [245] 252282 Flag: two equal horizontal bands of yellow (top) and green with a vertical red band on the hoist side; there is a black five-pointed star centered in the red band; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia Economy ------- Economic overview: Guinea-Bissau ranks among the poorest countries in the world. Agriculture and fishing are the main economic activities. Cashew nuts, peanuts, and palm kernels are the primary exports. Exploitation of known mineral deposits is unlikely at present because of a weak infrastructure and the high cost of development. With IMF support, the country is committed to an economic reform program emphasizing monetary stability and private sector growth. This process will continue at a slow pace because of a heavy foreign debt burden and internal constraints. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1 billion (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $900 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 44% industry: 8% services: 48% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 15% (1994 est.) Labor force: 403,000 (est.) by occupation: agriculture 90%, industry, services, and commerce 5%, government 5% Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: agricultural products processing, beer, soft drinks Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 22,000 kW production: 40 million kWh consumption per capita: 37 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rice, corn, beans, cassava (tapioca), cashew nuts, peanuts, palm kernels, cotton; fishing and forest potential not fully exploited Exports: $32 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: cashews, fish, peanuts, palm kernels partners: Portugal, Spain, Senegal, India, Nigeria, Cote d'Ivoire Imports: $63 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: foodstuffs, transport equipment, petroleum products, machinery and equipment partners: Portugal, Netherlands, China, Germany, Senegal External debt: $692 million (December 1993 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Guinea-Bissauan peso (PG) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: Guinea-Bissauan pesos (PG) per US$1 - 17,659 (December 1995), 12,892 (1994), 10,082 (1993), 6,934 (1992), 3,659 (1991), 2,185 (1990) Fiscal year: calendar year Communications -------------- Telephones: 3,000 (1988 est.) Telephone system: poor system domestic: combination of microwave radio relay, open-wire lines, and radiotelephone communications international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0 Radios: 40,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: People's Revolutionary Armed Force (FARP; includes Army, Navy, and Air Force), paramilitary force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 259,738 males fit for military service: 148,291 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $9 million, 4.5% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Guyana ------ Map --- Location: 5 00 N, 59 00 W -- Northern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Suriname and Venezuela Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Northern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Suriname and Venezuela Geographic coordinates: 5 00 N, 59 00 W 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Roraima 2,835 m 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, Whaling People ------ Population: 712,091 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 33% (male 118,796; female 114,327) 15-64 years: 63% (male 224,219; female 222,562) 65 years and over: 4% (male 14,582; female 17,605) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: -0.9% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 19.03 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9.55 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -18.47 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.83 male(s)/female all ages: 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 51.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 60.1 years male: 57.55 years female: 62.78 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.19 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 98.1% male: 98.6% female: 97.5% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Co-operative Republic of Guyana conventional short form: Guyana former: British Guiana Data code: GY Type of government: 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 9 October 1992); the president is elected by the majority party in the National Assembly after legislative elections, which must be held within five years; legislative elections last held 5 October 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - Cheddi JAGAN was elected president by the PPP head of government: Prime Minister Sam HINDS (since 9 October 1992) was appointed by the president cabinet: Cabinet of Ministers was appointed by the president; is 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) note: the latter two organizations are small and active but not well organized International organization participation: ACP, C, Caricom, CCC, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, ITU, LAES, NAM, OAS, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMIH, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Dr. Ali Odeen ISHMAEL chancery: 2490 Tracy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 265-6900, 6901 consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador David L. HOBBS 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: In 1995, Guyana, one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere, posted its fifth straight year of economic growth of 5% or better, with the advance led by gold mining and by production of rice, sugar, and 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 must persist in efforts to manage its $2 billion external debt, control inflation, and extend the privatization program. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1.6 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 5.1% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,200 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 26.5% industry: 27.8% services: 45.7% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 8.1% (1995) 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) Unemployment rate: 12% (1992 est.) Budget: revenues: $209 million expenditures: $303 million, including capital expenditures of $109 million (1995 est.) Industries: bauxite, sugar, rice milling, timber, fishing (shrimp), textiles, gold mining Industrial production growth rate: 5.6% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 110,000 kW production: 230 million kWh consumption per capita: 286 kWh (1993) Agriculture: sugar, rice, wheat, vegetable oils; beef, pork, poultry, dairy products; development potential exists for fishing and forestry Illicit drugs: transshipment point for narcotics from South America - primarily Venezuela - to the US and Europe; producer of cannabis Exports: $453 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.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Guyanese dollar (G$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Guyanese dollars (G$) per US$1 - 140.3 (January 1996), 142.0 (1995), 138.3 (1994), 126.7 (1993), 125.0 (1992), 111.8 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 88 km standard gauge: 40 km 1.435-m gauge (dedicated to ore transport) narrow gauge: 48 km 0.914-m gauge (dedicated to ore transport) Highways: total: 7,621 km paved: 547 km unpaved: 7,074 km (1987 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 47 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: 32 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 9 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 33,000 (1987 est.) Telephone system: fair system for long-distance calling domestic: microwave radio relay network for trunk lines international: tropospheric scatter to Trinidad; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 4, FM 3, shortwave 1 Radios: 398,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 (1987 est.) Televisions: 32,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- 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: 197,548 males fit for military service: 149,646 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $7 million, 1.7% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Haiti ----- Map --- Location: 19 00 N, 72 25 W -- Caribbean, western one-third of the island of Hispaniola, between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, west of the Dominican Republic Flag ---- Description: 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) 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 Geographic coordinates: 19 00 N, 72 25 W 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 border country: 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 lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Chaine de la Selle 2,680 m 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 Geographic note: shares island of Hispaniola with Dominican Republic (western one-third is Haiti, eastern two-thirds is the Dominican Republic) People ------ Population: 6,731,539 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 46% (male 1,568,943; female 1,523,406) 15-64 years: 50% (male 1,614,679; female 1,758,388) 65 years and over: 4% (male 132,460; female 133,663) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.77% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 38.15 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 15.96 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -4.52 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.92 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.99 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 103.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 49.26 years male: 47.26 years female: 51.35 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.69 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 45% male: 48% female: 42.2% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Haiti conventional short form: Haiti local long form: Republique d'Haiti local short form: Haiti Data code: HA Type of government: 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; in October 1991, government claimed to be observing the constitution; return to constitutional rule, October 1994 Legal system: based on Roman civil law system; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Rene Garcia PREVAL (since 7 February 1996), was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 17 December 1995 (next to be held by December 2000); results - Rene PREVAL 88%, Leon JEUNE 2.5%, Victor BENOIT 2.3% head of government: Prime Minister Rosny SMARTH (since March 1996) was appointed by the president cabinet: Cabinet; was chosen by prime minister in consultation with the president Legislative branch: bicameral National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale) Senate: elections last held 25 June 1995 with reruns on 13 August and runoffs on 17 September (next to be held 25 June 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - 27 total Chamber of Deputies: elections last held 25 June 1995 with reruns on 13 August and runoffs on 17 September; results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - 83 total Judicial branch: Court of Appeal (Cour de Cassation) Political parties and leaders: National Front for Change and Democracy (FNCD), Evans PAUL and Turneb DELPE; National Cooperative Action Movement (MKN), Volvick Remy JOSEPH; National Congress of Democratic Movements (CONACOM), Victor BENOIT; Movement for the Installation of Democracy in 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), Fritz PIERRE; Assembly of Progressive National Democrats (RDNP), Leslie MANIGAT; National Labor Party (PNT), Remy ZAMOR; Mobilization for National Development (MDN), Hubert DE RONCERAY; Democratic Movement for the Liberation of 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; Open the Gate Party (PLB), Renaud BERNARDIN; Haitian National Democratic Progressive Party (PNDPH), Turneb DELPE 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); Papaye Peasants Movement (MPP) International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, Caricom (observer), CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ITU, LAES, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Jean CASIMIR chancery: 2311 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 332-4090 through 4092 FAX: [1] (202) 745-7215 consulate(s) general: Boston, Chicago, Miami, New York, and San Juan (Puerto Rico) US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador William Lacy SWING embassy: 5 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) Economy ------- Economic overview: About 75% of the population lives in abject poverty. Nearly 70% of all Haitians depend on the agriculture sector, which consists mainly of small-scale subsistence farming and employs about two-thirds of the economically active work force. The country has experienced only moderate job creation since President ARISTIDE was returned to power in October 1994. Failure to reach agreement with multilateral lenders in late 1995 led to rising deficit spending and subsequently increasing inflation and a drop in the value of the Haitian currency in the final months of 1995. Potential investors, both foreign and domestic, have been reluctant to risk their capital, planning to "wait and see" what happens in the months following the inauguration of newly elected President Rene PREVAL and the drawdown of UN peacekeeping forces. The PREVAL government will have to grapple with implementing necessary, although unpopular, economic reforms in order to obtain badly needed foreign aid and improve Haiti's ability to attract foreign capital if the Haitian economy is to gain momentum. Haiti will continue to depend heavily on foreign aid in the medium term. GDP: purchasing power parity - $6.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 34.8% industry: 23% services: 42.2% (1991 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 14.5% (FY 94/95) Labor force: 2.3 million by occupation: agriculture 66%, services 25%, industry 9% note: shortage of skilled labor, unskilled labor abundant (1982) Unemployment rate: 60% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $242 million expenditures: $299.4 million including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95) Industries: sugar refining, flour milling, textiles, cement, tourism, light assembly industries based on imported parts Industrial production growth rate: 2.5% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 150,000 kW production: 590 million kWh consumption per capita: 86 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, mangoes, sugarcane, rice, corn, sorghum; wood Illicit drugs: transshipment point for cocaine and marijuana en route to the US and Europe Exports: $161 million (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: light manufactures 65%, coffee 19%, other agriculture 8%, other 8% partners: US 81%, Europe 12% (1993) Imports: $537 million (f.o.b., 1995 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: $827 million (September 1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 gourde (G) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: gourdes (G) per US$1 - 16.783 (January 1996), 16.160 (1995), 12.947 (1994), 12.805 (1993), 10.953 (1992), 8.240 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 October - 30 September Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 40 km (single track; privately owned industrial line)-closed in early 1990's narrow gauge: 40 km 0.760-m gauge Highways: total: 3,978 km paved: 944 km unpaved: 3,034 km (1987 est.) 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: 11 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: 4 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 4 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 50,000 (1990 est.) Telephone system: domestic facilities barely adequate, international facilities slightly better domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 33, FM 0, shortwave 2 Radios: 320,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 4 (1987 est.) Televisions: 32,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Haitian National Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,379,116 males fit for military service: 746,617 males reach military age (18) annually: 67,287 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Heard Island and McDonald Islands --------------------------------- (territory of Australia) Map --- Location: 53 06 S, 72 31 E -- Southern Africa, islands in the Indian Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Madagascar to Antarctica Flag ---- Description: the flag of Australia is used Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, islands in the Indian Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Madagascar to Antarctica Geographic coordinates: 53 06 S, 72 31 E Map references: Antarctic Region Area: total area: 412 sq km land area: 412 sq km comparative area: 1.5 times the size of Washington, DC Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 101.9 km Maritime claims: exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 3 nm International disputes: none Climate: antarctic Terrain: Heard Island - bleak and mountainous, with a quiescent volcano; McDonald Islands - small and rocky lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Big Ben 2,745 m 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: Heard Island is dominated by a dormant volcano called Big Ben international agreements: NA Geographic note: primarily used for research stations People ------ Population: uninhabited Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Territory of Heard Island and McDonald Islands conventional short form: Heard Island and McDonald Islands Data code: HM Type of government: territory of Australia administered by the Ministry for Environment, Sport, and Territories Capital: none; administered from Canberra, Australia Independence: none (territory of Australia) Flag: the flag of Australia is used Economy ------- Economic overview: no economic activity Transportation -------------- Ports: none; offshore anchorage only Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of Australia ====================================================================== @Holy See (Vatican City) ----------------------- Map --- Location: 41 54 N, 12 27 E -- Southern Europe, an enclave of Rome (Italy) Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern Europe, an enclave of Rome (Italy) Geographic coordinates: 41 54 N, 12 27 E 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 border country: 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 lowest point: unnamed location 19 m highest point: unnamed location 75 m 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 Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 840 (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.15% (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: none adjective: none Ethnic divisions: Italians, Swiss Religions: Roman Catholic Languages: Italian, Latin, various other languages Government ---------- Name of country: 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) Data code: VT Type of government: 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) was elected for life by the College of Cardinals; election last held 16 October 1978 (next to be held after the death of the current pope); results - Karol WOJTYLA was elected for life by the College of Cardinals head of government: Secretary of State Archbishop Angelo Cardinal SODANO (since NA 1991) was appointed by the pope cabinet: Pontifical Commission was 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) International organization participation: IAEA, ICFTU, Intelsat, IOM (observer), ITU, OAS (observer), OSCE, UN (observer), UNCTAD, UNHCR, UPU, WIPO, WToO (observer) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Apostolic Pro-Nuncio Archbishop Agostino CACCIAVILLAN chancery: 3339 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 333-7121 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Raymond L. FLYNN embassy: Villa Domiziana, Via Delle Terme Deciane 26, Rome 00153 mailing address: PSC 59, APO AE 09624 telephone: [39] (6) 46741 FAX: [39] (6) 5758346, 57300682 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. Labor force: NA by occupation: dignitaries, priests, nuns, guards, and 3,000 lay workers who live outside the Vatican Budget: revenues: $175.5 million expenditures: $175 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994) Industries: printing and production of a small amount of mosaics and staff uniforms; worldwide banking and financial activities Electricity: capacity: 5,000 kW standby production: power supplied by Italy consumption per capita: NA kWh (1992) Currency: 1 Vatican lira (VLit) = 100 centesimi Exchange rates: Vatican lire (VLit) per US$1 - 1,583.8 (January 1996), 1,629.6 (1995), 1,612.4 (1994), 1,573.7 (1993), 1,232.4 (1992), 1,240.6 (1991); note - the Vatican lira is at par with the Italian lira which circulates freely Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 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 Communications -------------- Telephones: 2,000 Telephone system: automatic exchange domestic: 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 Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of Italy; Swiss Papal Guards are posted at entrances to Vatican City ====================================================================== @Honduras -------- Map --- Location: 15 00 N, 86 30 W -- Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Guatemala and Nicaragua and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between El Salvador and Nicaragua Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea, between Guatemala and Nicaragua and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between El Salvador and Nicaragua Geographic coordinates: 15 00 N, 86 30 W 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 border countries: 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; maritime boundary dispute with Nicaragua Climate: subtropical in lowlands, temperate in mountains Terrain: mostly mountains in interior, narrow coastal plains lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Cerro Las Minas 2,870 m 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 natural hazards: frequent, but generally mild, earthquakes; damaging hurricanes and floods along Caribbean coast international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Tropical Timber 94 People ------ Population: 5,605,193 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 43% (male 1,220,188; female 1,177,725) 15-64 years: 54% (male 1,496,625; female 1,520,918) 65 years and over: 3% (male 91,126; female 98,611) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.6% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 33.38 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.83 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -1.53 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.92 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 41.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 68.42 years male: 66.01 years female: 70.96 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.41 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 72.7% male: 72.6% female: 72.7% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Honduras conventional short form: Honduras local long form: Republica de Honduras local short form: Honduras Data code: HO Type of government: 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) was elected for a four-year term by a simple majority of the people; First Vice President General (Ret.) Walter LOPEZ; Second Vice President Juan DE LA CRUZ Avelar; Third Vice President Guadeloupe JEREZANO; election last held 28 November 1993 (next to be held November 1997); results - Carlos Roberto REINA Idiaquez (PLH) 53%, Oswaldo RAMOS Soto (PNH) 41%, other 6% 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), judges are elected for four-year terms by the National Assembly 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) International organization participation: BCIE, CACM, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, 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, UN Security Council (temporary), UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMIH, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Roberto FLORES Bermudez chancery: 3007 Tilden Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 966-7702, 2604, 5008, 4596 FAX: [1] (202) 966-9751 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Honduras is one of the poorest countries in the Western Hemisphere. Agriculture, the most important sector of the economy, employs nearly two-thirds of the labor force and produces two-thirds of exports. Productivity remains low. Manufacturing, still in its early stages, employs about 9% of the labor force, and generates 20% of exports. Many basic problems face the economy, including rapid population growth, high unemployment, 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $10.8 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,980 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 30% industry: 20% services: 50% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 30% (1994 est.) Labor force: 1.3 million by occupation: agriculture 62%, services 20%, manufacturing 9%, construction 3%, other 6% (1985) Unemployment rate: 10%; underemployed 30%-40% (1992) Budget: revenues: $527 million expenditures: $668 million, including capital expenditures of $166 million (1993 est.) Industries: sugar, coffee, textiles, clothing, wood products Industrial production growth rate: 10% (1992 est.) Electricity: capacity: 290,000 kW production: 2.3 billion kWh consumption per capita: 445 kWh (1993) Agriculture: bananas, coffee, citrus; beef; timber; shrimp; Illicit drugs: transshipment point for narcotics; illicit producer of cannabis, cultivated on small plots and used principally for local consumption Exports: $843 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: bananas, coffee, shrimp, lobster, minerals, meat, lumber partners: US 53%, Germany 11%, Belgium 8%, UK 5% Imports: $1.1 billion (c.i.f. 1994) commodities: machinery and transport equipment, chemical products, manufactured goods, fuel and oil, foodstuffs partners: US 50%, Mexico 8%, Guatemala 6% External debt: $3.7 billion (1994) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 lempira (L) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: lempiras (L) per US$1 - 10.3432 (December 1994), 10.3432 (1995), 9.4001 (1994), 7.2600 (1993), 5.8300 (1992), 5.4000 (1991); the lempira was allowed to float in 1992 Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 595 km narrow gauge: 190 km 1.067-m gauge; 128 km 1.057-m gauge; 277 km 0.914-m gauge note: in 1993, there was a total of 988 km of track (1995) Highways: total: 14,203 km paved: 2,533 km unpaved: 11,670 km (1993 est.) Waterways: 465 km navigable by small craft Ports: La Ceiba, Puerto Castilla, Puerto Cortes, San Lorenzo, Tela, Puerto Lempira Merchant marine: total: 257 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 769,518 GRT/1,148,423 DWT ships by type: bulk 29, cargo 165, chemical tanker 2, combination bulk 1, container 7, liquefied gas tanker 1, livestock carrier 3, oil tanker 19, passenger 1, passenger-cargo 3, refrigerated cargo 16, roll-on/roll-off cargo 7, short-sea passenger 2, vehicle carrier 1 note: a flag of convenience registry; Russia owns 8 ships, Vietnam 4, North Korea 2, Greece 1, Japan 1, US 1, Iran 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 111 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: 5 with paved runways under 914 m: 79 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 21 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 105,000 (1992 est.) Telephone system: inadequate system domestic: NA international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); connected to Central American Microwave System Radio broadcast stations: AM 176, FM 0, shortwave 7 Radios: 2.115 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 28 Televisions: 400,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy (includes Marines), Air Force, Public Security Forces (FUSEP) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,322,525 males fit for military service: 787,889 males reach military age (18) annually: 64,378 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $41 million, about 0.4% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Hong Kong --------- (dependent territory of the UK) Map --- Location: 22 15 N, 114 10 E -- Eastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and China Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Eastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and China Geographic coordinates: 22 15 N, 114 10 E Map references: Southeast Asia Area: total area: 1,040 sq km land area: 990 sq km comparative area: six times the size of Washington, DC Land boundaries: total: 30 km border country: 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 lowest point: South China Sea 0 m highest point: Tai Mo Shan 958 m 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 Geographic note: more than 200 islands People ------ Population: 6,305,413 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 19% (male 609,493; female 593,687) 15-64 years: 70% (male 2,312,141; female 2,094,156) 65 years and over: 11% (male 307,186; female 388,750) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.77% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 10.5 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.23 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 12.42 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.79 male(s)/female all ages: 1.05 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 5.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 82.19 years male: 78.88 years female: 85.71 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.3 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 92.2% male: 96% female: 88.2% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Hong Kong abbreviation: HK Data code: HK Type of government: dependent territory of the UK scheduled to revert to China on 1 July 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 18 years of age; universal for permanent residents living in the territory of Hong Kong for the past seven years; indirect election limited to about 100,000 professionals of electoral college and functional constituencies Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch head of government: Governor and President of the Executive Council Christopher Francis PATTEN (since 9 July 1992) was appointed by the Queen; Chief Secretary Anson CHAN Fang On-Sang (since 29 November 1993) cabinet: Executive Council was appointed by the Governor Legislative branch: unicameral Legislative Council: indirect and direct elections last held 17 September 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (60 total, 30 indirectly elected by functional constituencies, 20 directly elected, 10 elected by election committee) Democratic Party 21, Liberal Party 10, Democratic Alliance for the Betterment of Hong Kong 6, other parties and independents 23 Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: Democratic Party, Martin LEE, chairman; Liberal Party, Allen LEE, chairman; Democratic Alliance for the Betterment of Hong Kong, TSANG Yuk-shing, chairman; Hong Kong Democratic Foundation, Dr. Patrick SHIU Kin-ying, chairman Other political or pressure groups: 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), LEE Cheuk-yan, chairman; Hong Kong General Chamber of Commerce; Chinese General Chamber of Commerce (pro-China); Federation of Hong Kong Industries; Chinese Manufacturers' Association of Hong Kong; Hong Kong Professional Teachers' Union, CHEUNG Man-kwong, president; Hong Kong Alliance in Support of the Patriotic Democratic Movement in China, Szeto WAH, chairman International organization participation: APEC, AsDB, CCC, ESCAP (associate), ICFTU, IMO (associate), Interpol (subbureau), IOC, ISO (correspondent), WCL, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: none (dependent territory of the UK) US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Consul General Richard W. MUELLER consulate general(s): 26 Garden Road, Hong Kong mailing address: PSC 464, Box 30, FPO AP 96522-0002 telephone: [852] 2523-9011 FAX: [852] 2845-1598 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 and construction account for about 18% of GDP. Goods and services exports account for about 50% of GDP. Real GDP growth averaged a remarkable 8% in 1987-88, slowed to 3.0% in 1989-90, and picked up to 4.2% in 1991, 5.0% in 1992, 5.2% in 1993, 5.5% in 1994, and 5.0% in 1995. Unemployment, which has been declining since the mid-1980s, edged up from 2% to 3.5% in 1995. Notwithstanding, a shortage of labor continues to put upward pressure on prices and the cost of living. Prospects for 1996 remain bright so long as major trading partners continue to be reasonably prosperous and so long as investors feel China will support free market practices after the takeover in 1997. GDP: purchasing power parity - $152.4 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $27,500 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 0.2% industry: 18.4% services: 81.4% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 8.4% (1995) Labor force: 2,915,400 (1994) 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) Unemployment rate: 3.5% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $19 billion expenditures: $14.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $289 million (FY94/95) Industries: textiles, clothing, tourism, electronics, plastics, toys, watches, clocks Industrial production growth rate: 2% (1993 est.) Electricity: capacity: 8,930,000 kW production: 33 billion kWh consumption per capita: 4,628 kWh (1993) Agriculture: fresh vegetables; poultry Illicit drugs: a hub for Southeast Asian heroin trade; transshipment and money-laundering center; increasing indigenous amphetamine abuse Exports: $177.1 billion (including re-exports)(f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: clothing, textiles, yarn and fabric, footwear, electrical appliances, watches and clocks, toys partners: China 33%, US 22%, Germany 5%, Japan 5%, UK 3% (1993) Imports: $195.4 billion (c.i.f., 1995) commodities: foodstuffs, transport equipment, raw materials, semimanufactures, petroleum; a large share is re-exported partners: China 38%, Japan 17%, Taiwan 9%, US 7% (1993) External debt: none (1995) Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 Hong Kong dollar (HK$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Hong Kong dollars (HK$) per US$ - 7.800 (1995), 7.800 (1994), 7.800 (1993), 7.741 (1992), 7.771 (1991); note - linked to the US dollar at the rate of about 7.8 HK$ per 1 US$ since 1985 Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 35 km standard gauge: 35 km 1.435-m gauge Highways: total: 1,661 km paved: 1,661 km unpaved: 0 km (1994 est.) Ports: Hong Kong Merchant marine: total: 238 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 8,632,224 GRT/14,820,657 DWT ships by type: bulk 129, cargo 32, chemical tanker 1, combination bulk 4, combination ore/oil 3, container 39, liquefied gas tanker 3, multifunction large load carrier 1, oil tanker 17, refrigerated cargo 5, short-sea passenger 1, vehicle carrier 3 note: a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 17 countries among which are UK 51, China 11, Belgium 8, South Africa 8, US 8, Japan 7, Bermuda 6, Switzerland 6, Germany 3, and Israel 3 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 2 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 1 (1995 est.) note: new international airport to be commissioned in 1997/98 Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 4.13 million (1995 est.) Telephone system: modern facilities provide excellent domestic and international services domestic: microwave radio relay links and extensive fiber-optic network international: satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Pacific Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean); coaxial cable to Guangzhou, China; access to 5 international submarine cables providing connections to ASEAN member nations, Japan, Taiwan, Australia, Middle East, and Western Europe Radio broadcast stations: AM 6, FM 6, shortwave 0 Radios: 3 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 4 (British Broadcasting Corporation repeater 1; British Forces Broadcasting Service repeater 1) Televisions: 1.75 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- 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: 1,895,535 males fit for military service: 1,442,072 males reach military age (18) annually: 46,248 (1996 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 Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK until 1 July 1997, when China will assume command ====================================================================== @Howland Island -------------- (territory of the US) Map --- Location: 0 48 N, 176 38 W -- Oceania, island in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to Australia Flag ---- Description: the flag of the US is used Geography --------- Location: Oceania, island in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to Australia Geographic coordinates: 0 48 N, 176 38 W Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 1.6 sq km land area: 1.6 sq km comparative area: about three times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 6.4 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-lying, nearly level, sandy, coral island surrounded by a narrow fringing reef; depressed central area lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 3 m Natural resources: guano (deposits worked until late 1800s) Land use: arable land: 0% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 0% forest and woodland: 5% other: 95% 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 Geographic note: almost totally covered with grasses, prostrate vines, and low-growing shrubs; small area of trees in the center; primarily a nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat for seabirds, shorebirds, and marine wildlife; feral cats 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Howland Island Data code: HQ Type of government: 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 Flag: the flag of the US is used Economy ------- Economic overview: no economic activity Transportation -------------- Ports: none; offshore anchorage only; note - there is one boat landing area along the middle of the west coast Airports: airstrip constructed in 1937 for scheduled refueling stop on the round-the-world flight of Amelia Earhart and Fred Noonan - they left Lae, New Guinea, for Howland Island, but were never seen again; the airstrip is no longer serviceable Transportation note: Earhart Light is a day beacon near the middle of the west coast that was partially destroyed during World War II, but has since been rebuilt; named in memory of famed aviatrix Amelia Earhart Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US; visited annually by the US Coast Guard ====================================================================== @Hungary ------- Map --- Location: 47 00 N, 20 00 E -- Central Europe, northwest of Romania Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and green Geography --------- Location: Central Europe, northwest of Romania Geographic coordinates: 47 00 N, 20 00 E Map references: Europe Area: total area: 93,030 sq km land area: 92,340 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Indiana Land boundaries: total: 2,009 km border countries: Austria 366 km, Croatia 329 km, Romania 443 km, Serbia and Montenegro 151 km (all with Serbia), Slovakia 515 km, Slovenia 102 km, Ukraine 103 km Coastline: 0 km (landlocked) Maritime claims: none (landlocked) International disputes: Gabcikovo Dam dispute with Slovakia Climate: temperate; cold, cloudy, humid winters; warm summers Terrain: mostly flat to rolling plains; hills and low mountains on the Slovakian border lowest point: Tisza River 78 m highest point: Kekes 1,014 m Natural resources: bauxite, coal, natural gas, fertile soils Land use: arable land: 51% permanent crops: 6% meadows and pastures: 13% forest and woodland: 18% other: 12% Irrigated land: 1,750 sq km (1989) Environment: current issues: an early-1996 government study identified 179 areas that suffer from air pollution, 54 areas with polluted soil, and 32 areas with polluted underground water; the study estimated clean-up costs at $350 million, but the 1996 government budget allocates only about $7 million for this purpose 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, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea Geographic note: landlocked; strategic location astride main land routes between Western Europe and Balkan Peninsula as well as between Ukraine and Mediterranean basin People ------ Population: 10,002,541 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 18% (male 907,963; female 867,536) 15-64 years: 68% (male 3,325,529; female 3,464,588) 65 years and over: 14% (male 538,106; female 898,819) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: -0.68% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 10.72 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 15.06 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -2.48 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.6 male(s)/female all ages: 0.91 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 12.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 69.02 years male: 64.23 years female: 74.04 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.51 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Hungarian(s) adjective: Hungarian Ethnic divisions: Hungarian 89.9%, Gypsy 4%, German 2.6%, Serb 2%, Slovak 0.8%, Romanian 0.7% Religions: Roman Catholic 67.5%, Calvinist 20%, Lutheran 5%, atheist and other 7.5% Languages: Hungarian 98.2%, other 1.8% Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1980 est.) total population: 99% male: 99% female: 98% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Hungary conventional short form: Hungary local long form: Magyar Koztarsasag local short form: Magyarorszag Data code: HU Type of government: republic Capital: Budapest Administrative divisions: 38 counties (megyek, singular - megye) and 1 capital city* (fovaros); Bacs-Kiskun, Baranya, Bekes, Bekescsaba, Borsod-Abauj-Zemplen, Budapest*, Csongrad, Debrecen, Dunaujvaros, Eger, Fejer, Gyor, Gyor-Moson-Sopron, Hajdu-Bihar, Heves, Hodmezovasarhely, Jasz-Nagykun-Szolnok, Kaposvar, Kecskemet, Komarom-Esztergom, Miskolc, Nagykanizsa, Nograd, Nyiregyhaza, Pecs, Pest, Somogy, Sopron, Szabolcs-Szatmar-Bereg, Szeged, Szekesfehervar, Szolnok, Szombathely, Tatabanya, Tolna, Vas, Veszprem, Zala, Zalaegerszeg Independence: 1001 (unification by King Stephen I) National holiday: St. Stephen's Day (National Day), 20 August (commemorates the founding of Hungarian state circa 1000 AD) Constitution: 18 August 1949, effective 20 August 1949, revised 19 April 1972; 18 October 1989 revision ensured legal rights for individuals and constitutional checks on the authority of the prime minister and also established the principle of parliamentary oversight Legal system: in process of revision, moving toward rule of law based on Western model Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Arpad GONCZ (since 3 August 1990; previously interim president from 2 May 1990) was elected for a four-year term by the National Assembly; election last held 19 June 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - President GONCZ elected by parliamentary vote with a total of 259 votes out of 335 head of government: Prime Minister Gyula HORN (since 15 July 1994) was elected by the National Assembly on the recommendation of the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was elected by the National Assembly on recommendation of the president Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Orszaggyules): elections last held on 8 and 29 May 1994 (next to be held spring 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (386 total) MSzP 209, SzDSz 70, MDF 37, FKgP 26, KDNP 22, FiDeSz 20, other 2 Judicial branch: Constitutional Court, judges are elected by the National Assembly Political parties and leaders: Hungarian Democratic Forum (MDF), Lajos FUR, chairman; Independent Smallholders (FKgP), Jozsef TORGYAN, president; Hungarian Socialist Party (MSzP), Gyula HORN, president; Christian Democratic People's Party (KDNP), Gyorgy GICZY, president; Federation of Young Democrats (FiDeSz), Viktor ORBAN, chairman; Alliance of Free Democrats (SzDSz), Ivan PETO, chairman note: the Hungarian Socialist (Communist) Workers' Party (MSzMP) renounced Communism and became the Hungarian Socialist Party (MSzP) in October 1989; there is still a small MMP International organization participation: Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE, CEI, CERN, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, G- 9, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, MTCR, NACC, NAM (guest), NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNAVEM III, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNMOT, UNOMIG, UNU, UPU, WEU (associate partner), WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Gyorgy BANLAKI chancery: 3910 Shoemaker Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 362-6730 FAX: [1] (202) 966-8135 consulate(s) general: Los Angeles and New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Donald M. BLINKEN embassy: V. Szabadsag Ter 12, Budapest mailing address: Am Embassy, Unit 1320, APO AE 09213-1320 telephone: [36] (1) 267-4400, 269-9331 FAX: [36] (1) 269-9326 Flag: three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and green Economy ------- Economic overview: Hungary, probably the most Western-oriented economy in East Europe before the transition to a market system began in 1990, made good progress in the initial years of transition. The reform process slowed in 1993-94, however, in part because of the May 1994 elections and the resulting change in government. By 1994 the privatization of state firms had ground to a halt, while both the budget and current account deficits soared to unsustainable levels - about 8% and 10% of GDP, respectively. The situation improved sharply in 1995; an austerity program introduced in March reduced both deficits, and a renewed privatization effort later in 1995 resulted in more than $3 billion worth of sales of state firms to foreign investors - money that will be used to reduce Hungary's large foreign debt. As for other macroeconomic developments, real GDP increased 2.9% in 1994 - following several years of steep decline - and about 1.5% in 1995. Unemployment reached 14% in early 1993 before gradually falling back to 10% in 1995. Inflation has oscillated; it reached 40% in mid-1991, dropped to 17% in early 1994, and then jumped back to 31% by mid-1995. Prospects for 1996 are good. With the government still committed to austerity, both the budget and current account deficits should fall to about 4% of GDP. Economic growth is expected to be about 2% and unemployment at about 10%, with inflation falling to 20% by yearend. In March 1996 the IMF signed a new standby loan agreement with Budapest, and the OECD approved Hungary's application for admission. GDP: purchasing power parity - $72.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 1.5% (1995) GDP per capita: $7,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 7.3% industry: 37.5% services: 55.2% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 28.3% (1995) Labor force: 4.8 million (1995) by occupation: services, trade, government, and other 47.2%, industry 29.7%, agriculture 16.1%, construction 7.0% (1991) Unemployment rate: 10.4% (yearend 1995) Budget: revenues: $12.6 billion expenditures: $13.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995) Industries: mining, metallurgy, construction materials, processed foods, textiles, chemicals (especially pharmaceuticals), motor vehicles Industrial production growth rate: 6% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 6,740,000 kW production: 31 billion kWh consumption per capita: 3,012 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, corn, sunflower seed, potatoes, sugar beets; pigs, cattle, poultry, dairy products Illicit drugs: major transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and transit point for South American cocaine destined for Western Europe; limited producer of precursor chemicals Exports: $13 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: raw materials and semi-finished goods 36.4%, consumer goods 26.7%, food and agriculture 20.5%, capital goods 13.1%, fuels and energy 3.3% (1994) partners: Germany 28.2%, Austria 10.9%, Italy 8.5%, Russia 7.5%, US 4.0% (1994) Imports: $15 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: fuels and energy 11.0%, raw materials and semi-finished goods 36.9%, capital goods 23.3%, consumer goods 22.0%, food and agriculture 6.8% (1994) partners: Germany 23.4%, Austria 12.0%, Russia 12.0%, Italy 7.0%, UK 4.0% (1994) External debt: $32.7 billion (October 1995) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $136 million (1993) note: assistance received from OECD countries and international organizations, $3,700 million (1990-93) Currency: 1 forint (Ft) = 100 filler Exchange rates: forints per US$1 - 144 (January 1996), 125.681 (1995),105.160 (1994), 91.933 (1993), 78.988 (1992), 74.735 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 7,685 km broad gauge: 35 km 1.524-m gauge standard gauge: 7,474 km 1.435-m gauge (2,162 km electrified; 1,236 km double track) narrow gauge: 176 km mostly 0.760-m gauge (1995) note: Hungry and Austria jointly manage the cross-border standard-gauge railway between Gyor, Sopron, Ebenfurti, and Vasut, a distance of about 100 km Highways: total: 158,711 km paved: 69,992 km (including 441 km of expressways) unpaved: 88,719 km (1992 est.) Waterways: 1,622 km (1988) Pipelines: crude oil 1,204 km; natural gas 4,387 km (1991) Ports: Budapest, Dunaujvaros Merchant marine: total: 10 cargo ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 46,121 GRT/61,613 DWT (1995 est.) Airports: total: 78 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: 4 with paved runways under 914 m: 1 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 7 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 9 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 14 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 34 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1.52 million (1993 est.) Telephone system: 14,213 telex lines; automatic telephone network based on microwave radio relay system; 608,000 telephones on order; 12-15 year wait for a telephone; 49% of all telephones are in Budapest (1991 est.); note - the former state-owned telecommunications firm MATAV - now privatized and managed by a US/German consortium - has ambitious plans to upgrade the inadequate system, including a contract with the German firm Siemens and the Swedish firm Ericsson to provide 600,000 new phone lines during 1996-98 domestic: microwave radio relay international: satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat and 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region) Radio broadcast stations: AM 32, FM 15, shortwave 0 Radios: 6 million (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 41 (Russian repeaters 8) Televisions: 4.38 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Ground Forces, Air and Air Defense Forces, Border Guard, Territorial Defense Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,552,794 males fit for military service: 2,036,399 males reach military age (18) annually: 82,040 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $620 million, 1.7% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Iceland ------- Map --- Location: 65 00 N, 18 00 W -- Northern Europe, island between the Greenland Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, northwest of the UK Flag ---- Description: 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) Geography --------- Location: Northern Europe, island between the Greenland Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, northwest of the UK Geographic coordinates: 65 00 N, 18 00 W 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Hvannadalshnukur 2,119 m 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, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Life Conservation Geographic note: strategic location between Greenland and Europe; westernmost European country; more land covered by glaciers than in all of continental Europe People ------ Population: 270,292 (July 1996 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% (male 33,605; female 31,933) 15-64 years: 64% (male 88,064; female 85,724) 65 years and over: 12% (male 13,916; female 17,050) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.83% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 16.94 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.17 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -2.5 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.82 male(s)/female all ages: 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 4.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 80.08 years male: 77.68 years female: 82.6 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.24 children born/woman (1996 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% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Iceland conventional short form: Iceland local long form: Lyoveldio Island local short form: Island Data code: IC Type of government: 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) was elected for a four-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 29 June 1988 (next to be held June 1996); results - there was no election in 1992 as President Vigdis FINNBOGADOTTIR was unopposed head of government: Prime Minister David ODDSSON (since 30 April 1991) was appointed by the president cabinet: Cabinet was 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), justices are appointed for life by the president Political parties and leaders: Independence Party (conservative), David ODDSSON; Progressive Party (liberal), Halldor ASGRIMSSON; Social Democratic Party, Jon Baldvin HANNIBALSSON; People's Alliance (left socialist), Margret FRIMANNSDOTTIR; Women's Party, Kristin ASTGEIRSDOTTIR; People's Movement (centrist); National Awakening (People's Revival Party), Johanna SIGURDARDOTTIR International organization participation: Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, EFTA, FAO, 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, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Einar BENEDIKTSSON chancery: Suite 1200, 1156 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005 telephone: [1] (202) 265-6653 through 6655 FAX: [1] (202) 265-6656 consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Parker W. BORG embassy: Laufasvegur 21, Reykjavik mailing address: US Embassy, PSC 1003, Box 40, FPO AE 09728-0340 telephone: [354] 5629100 FAX: [354] 5629139 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) Economy ------- Economic overview: Iceland's Scandinavian-type economy is basically capitalistic, but with an extensive welfare system, low unemployment, and comparatively even distribution of income. The economy is heavily dependent on the fishing industry, which provides nearly 75% of export earnings and employs 12% of the work force. In the absence of other natural resources - except energy - 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. 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3.2% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $18,800 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 9.6% industry: 22.1% services: 68.3% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.5% (1995 est.) 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%, other 0.9% (1990) Unemployment rate: 3.9% (December 1995) Budget: revenues: $1.9 billion expenditures: $2.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $297 million (1994 est.) Industries: fish processing, aluminum smelting, ferrosilicon production, geothermal power 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) Agriculture: potatoes, turnips; cattle, sheep; fish catch of about 1.1 million metric tons in 1992 Exports: $1.6 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: fish and fish products, animal products, aluminum, ferrosilicon, diatomite partners: EC 68% (UK 25%, Germany 12%), US 11%, Japan 8% (1992) Imports: $1.5 billion (c.i.f., 1994) 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.) Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 Icelandic krona (IKr) = 100 aurar Exchange rates: Icelandic kronur (IKr) per US$1 - 65.970 (January 1996), 64.692 (1995), 69.944 (1994), 67.603 (1993), 57.546 (1992), 58.996 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 11,373 km paved: 2,513 km unpaved: 8,860 km (1992 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 84 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: 5 with paved runways under 914 m: 49 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 4 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 22 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 143,600 (1993 est.) Telephone system: adequate domestic service domestic: the trunk network consists of coaxial and fiber-optic cables and microwave radio relay links international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean), 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions); note - Iceland shares the Inmarsat earth station with the other Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden) Radio broadcast stations: AM 5, FM 147 (transmitters and repeaters), shortwave 0 Radios: 91,500 licensed (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 202 (transmitters and repeaters) Televisions: 96,100 licensed (1993 est.) Defense ------- 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: 71,317 males fit for military service: 63,126 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: none ====================================================================== @India ----- Map --- Location: 20 00 N, 77 00 E -- Southern Asia, bordering the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between Burma and Pakistan Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern Asia, bordering the Arabian Sea and the Bay of Bengal, between Burma and Pakistan Geographic coordinates: 20 00 N, 77 00 E Map references: Asia Area: total area: 3,287,590 sq km land area: 2,973,190 sq km comparative area: slightly more than one-third the size of the US Land boundaries: total: 14,103 km border countries: 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 in dispute; status of Kashmir with Pakistan; water-sharing problems with downstream riparians, Bangladesh over the Ganges and Pakistan over the Indus (Wular Barrage) 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Kanchenjunga 8,598 m 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 natural hazards: droughts, flash floods, severe thunderstorms common; earthquakes international agreements: party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification Geographic note: dominates South Asian subcontinent; near important Indian Ocean trade routes People ------ Population: 952,107,694 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 34% (male 168,030,766; female 159,283,151) 15-64 years: 62% (male 304,805,787; female 281,311,834) 65 years and over: 4% (male 19,148,385; female 19,527,771) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.64% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 25.94 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9.61 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0.04 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.08 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.98 male(s)/female all ages: 1.07 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 71.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 59.71 years male: 59.12 years female: 60.32 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.2 children born/woman (1996 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 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 52% male: 65.5% female: 37.7% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of India conventional short form: India Data code: IN Type of government: 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, Himachel 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) was elected for a five-year term by an electoral college consisting of elected members of both houses of Parliament and the legislatures of the states; Vice President Kicheril Raman NARAYANAN (since 21 August 1992) was elected by both houses of Parliament head of government: Prime Minister P. V. Narasimha RAO (since 21 June 1991) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was 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 27 April through May 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (545 total, 543 elected, 2 appointed) Congress (I) Party 245, BJP 119, Janata Dal Party 39, Janata Dal (Ajit Singh) 20, CPI/M 35, CPI 14, 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, Samata 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, judges are appointed by the president Political parties and leaders: Congress (I) Party, P. V. Narasimha RAO, president; Bharatiya Janata Party (BJP), L.K. ADVANI; Janata Dal Party, Laloo Prasad YADAV; Janata Dal (Ajit), Ajit SINGH; Janata Dal (Ex-Ajit), leader NA; Communist Party of India/Marxist (CPI/M), Harkishan Singh SURJEET; Communist Party of India (CPI), Indrajit GUPTA; Telugu Desam (Naidu) (a regional party in Andhra Pradesh), Chandrababu NAIDU; All-India Anna Dravida Munnetra Kazagham (AIADMK; a regional party in Tamil Nadu), Jayaram JAYALALITHA; Samajwadi Party (SP), Mulayam Singh YADAV (president), Om Prakash CHAUTALA, Devi LAL; Shiv Sena, Bal THACKERAY; Revolutionary Socialist Party (RSP), Tridip CHOWDHURY; Bahujan Samaj Party (BSP), Kanshi RAM; Congress (S) Party, leader NA; Communist Party of India/Marxist-Leninist (CPI/ML), Vinod MISHRA; Dravida Munnetra Kazagham (a regional party in Tamil Nadu), M. KARUNANIDHI; Akali Dal factions representing Sikh religious community in the Punjab; National Conference (NC; a regional party in Jammu and Kashmir), Farooq ABDULLAH; Bihar Peoples Party, Lovely ANAND; Samata Party (formerly Janata Dal members), George FERNANDES; Indian National League, Suliaman SAIT; Kerala Congress (Mani faction), K.M. MANI; All India Forward Bloc (AIFB), Prem Dutta PALIWAL (chairman), Chitta BASU (general secretary); Congress (Tiwari), Arjun SINGH and N.D. TIWARI 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 International organization participation: AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, C, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G- 6, G-15, G-19, G-24, G-77, 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, UNAMIR, UNAVEM III, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMIH, UNOMIL, UNU, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Naresh CHANDRA chancery: 2107 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008; note - Embassy located at 2536 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 939-7000 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: Calcutta, Madras, Mumbai (Bombay) 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 200 million plus middle class consumers. New Delhi has always paid its foreign debts on schedule and has stimulated exports, attracted foreign investment, and revived confidence in India's economic prospects. GDP growth in 1992-95 has averaged nearly 5%. Most of the country's external fundamentals - including the current account balance and reserves (now nearly $17 billion) are healthy. Party politics is increasingly shaping the debate over economic reforms. In addition, the 25 Indian states and several union territories, which are playing a more active role in determining economic policy, are further complicating the economic climate. The Indian Government will also have to watch closely rising government expenditures and higher debt servicing which could create a debt trap by the turn of the century. Nevertheless, India should achieve economic growth of 5.5%-6.5% annually through the next several years. Even if a weak coalition government comes to power in 1996 and is unable to push reforms aggressively, parts of the economy that have already benefited from deregulation will continue to grow. Moreover, the country can build on other strengths, including its diverse industrial base, large scientific and technical pool, well-developed legal system, and its large middle class to achieve higher growth. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1.4087 trillion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 5.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,500 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 9% (1995) Labor force: 314.751 million (1990) by occupation: agriculture 65% (1993 est.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $36.5 billion expenditures: $54.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $11.4 billion (FY94/95) Industries: textiles, chemicals, food processing, steel, transportation equipment, cement, mining, petroleum, machinery Industrial production growth rate: 10% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 81,200,000 kW (March 1995) production: 314 billion kWh (1993) consumption per capita: 324 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rice, wheat, oilseed, cotton, jute, tea, sugarcane, potatoes; cattle, water buffalo, 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 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 70 metric tons of illicit opium in 1995 Exports: $29.96 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: clothing, gems and jewelry, engineering goods, chemicals, leather manufactures, cotton yarn, and fabric partners: US, Japan, Germany, UK, Hong Kong Imports: $33.5 billion (c.i.f., 1995) commodities: crude oil and petroleum products, machinery, gems, fertilizer, chemicals partners: US, Germany, Saudi Arabia, UK, Belgium, Japan External debt: $97.9 billion (March 1995) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $1.237 billion (1993); US ODA bilateral commitments $171 million; US Ex-Im bilateral commitments $680 million; Western (non-US) countries, ODA bilateral commitments $2.48 billion; OPEC bilateral aid $200 million; World Bank (IBRD) multilateral commitments $2.8 billion; Asian Development Bank (AsDB) multilateral commitments $760 million; International Finance Corporation (IFC) multilateral commitments $200 million; other multilateral commitments $554 million (1995-96) Currency: 1 Indian rupee (Re) = 100 paise Exchange rates: Indian rupees (Rs) per US$1 - 35.766 (January 1996), 32.427 (1995), 31.374 (1994), 30.493 (1993), 25.918 (1992), 22.742 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 62,462 km (11,793 km electrified; 12,617 km double track) broad gauge: 37,824 km 1.676-m gauge narrow gauge: 20,653 km 1.000-m gauge; 3,985 km 0.762-m and 0.610-m gauge (1995 est.) Highways: total: 2.037 million km paved: 981,834 km unpaved: 1,055,166 km (1995 est.) Waterways: 16,180 km; 3,631 km navigable by large vessels Pipelines: crude oil 3,005 km; petroleum products 2,687 km; natural gas 1,700 km (1995) Ports: Calcutta, Cochin, Jawaharal Nehru, Kandla, Madras, Mumbai (Bombay), Vishakhapatnam Merchant marine: total: 310 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 6,787,834 GRT/11,296,222 DWT ships by type: bulk 133, cargo 65, chemical tanker 10, combination bulk 2, combination ore/oil 3, container 11, liquefied gas tanker 6, oil tanker 73, passenger-cargo 5, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1, short-sea passenger 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 288 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: 59 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 68 with paved runways under 914 m: 62 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 2 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 36 (1995 est.) Heliports: 15 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 9.8 million (1995) Telephone system: probably the least adequate telephone system of any of the industrializing countries; three of every four villages have no telephone service; only 5% of India's villages have long-distance service; poor telephone service significantly impedes commercial and industrial growth and penalizes India in global markets; slow improvement is taking place with the recent admission of private and private-public investors, but demand for communication services is also growing rapidly domestic: local service is provided mostly by open wire and obsolete electromechanical and manual switchboard systems; within the last 10 years a substantial amount of digital switch gear has been introduced for local service; long-distance traffic is carried mostly by open wire, coaxial cable, and low-capacity microwave radio relay; since 1985, however, significant trunk capacity has been added in the form of fiber-optic cable and a domestic satellite system with over 100 earth stations international: satellite earth stations - 8 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) and 1 Inmarsat (Indian Ocean Region); submarine cables to Malaysia and UAE Radio broadcast stations: AM 96, FM 4, shortwave 0 Radios: 70 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 274 (government controlled) Televisions: 33 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- 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: 260,624,007 males fit for military service: 153,176,413 males reach military age (17) annually: 9,770,331 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $8.0 billion, 2.7% of GDP (FY95/96) ====================================================================== @Indian Ocean ------------ Map --- Location: 30 00 S, 80 00 E -- body of water between Africa, Antarctica, Asia, and Australia Geography --------- Location: body of water between Africa, Antarctica, Asia, and Australia Geographic coordinates: 30 00 S, 80 00 E 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 lowest point: Java Trench -7,258 m highest point: sea level 0 m 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 Geographic note: major chokepoints include Bab el Mandeb, Strait of Hormuz, Strait of Malacca, southern access to the Suez Canal, and the Lombok Strait Government ---------- Data code: none; the US Government has not approved a standard for hydrographic codes - see the Cross-Reference List of Hydrographic Codes appendix Economy ------- Economic 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. Transportation -------------- Ports: Calcutta (India), Colombo (Sri Lanka), Durban (South Africa), Jakarta (Indonesia), Madras (India), Melbourne (Australia), Mumbai (Bombay; India), Richard's Bay (South Africa) Communications -------------- Telephone system: international: submarine cables from India to UAE and Malaysia and from Sri Lanka to Djibouti and Indonesia ====================================================================== @Indonesia --------- Map --- Location: 5 00 S, 120 00 E -- Southeastern Asia, archipelago between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Asia, archipelago between the Indian Ocean and the Pacific Ocean Geographic coordinates: 5 00 S, 120 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Puncak Jaya 5,030 m 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, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Marine Life Conservation Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 206,611,600 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 32% (male 33,354,840; female 32,414,363) 15-64 years: 64% (male 66,385,852; female 66,827,085) 65 years and over: 4% (male 3,380,567; female 4,248,893) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.53% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 23.67 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.38 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.8 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 63.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 61.64 years male: 59.51 years female: 63.88 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.7 children born/woman (1996 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 (official, modified form of Malay), English, Dutch, local dialects the most widely spoken of which is Javanese Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 83.8% male: 89.6% female: 78% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: ID Type of government: 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) and Vice President Gen. (Ret.) Try SUTRISNO (since 11 March 1993) were elected for five-year terms by the People's Consultative Assembly cabinet: Cabinet Legislative branch: unicameral House of Representatives (Dewan Perwakilan Rakyat or DPR): elections last held 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 judges are appointed by the president Political parties and leaders: GOLKAR (quasi-official party based on functional groups), 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 International organization participation: APEC, AsDB, ASEAN, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-15, G-19, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, Mekong Group, NAM, OIC, OPEC, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNOMIG, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Arifin Mohamad SIREGAR chancery: 2020 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036 telephone: [1] (202) 775-5200 FAX: [1] (202) 775-5365 consulate(s) general: Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador J. Stapleton ROY embassy: Medan Merdeka Selatan 5, Jakarta mailing address: Box 1, 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Indonesia is a mixed economy with some central planning but with an emphasis on rapid deregulation and private enterprise. Real GDP growth in 1985-95 averaged about 7%, quite impressive, but not sufficient to both slash underemployment and absorb the 2.3 million workers annually entering the labor force. Plantation crops - rubber and palm oil - and textiles and plywood are being encouraged for both export and job generation. Industrial output is based on a supply of diverse natural resources, including crude oil, natural gas, timber, metals, and coal. Foreign investment has also boosted manufacturing output and exports in recent years. Indeed, the economy's growth is highly dependent on the continuing expansion of nonoil exports. Japan remains Indonesia's most important customer and supplier of aid. Like some other rapidly developing countries in Southeast Asia, Indonesia is struggling to keep the economy from overheating. GDP: purchasing power parity - $710.9 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 7.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $3,500 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 17% industry: 32.6% services: 50.4% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 8.6% (1995 est.) Labor force: 67 million by occupation: agriculture 55%, manufacturing 10%, construction 4%, transport and communications 3% (1985 est.) Unemployment rate: 3% official rate; underemployment 40% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $38.1 billion expenditures: $38.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $14.5 billion (FY96/97 est.) Industries: petroleum and natural gas, textiles, mining, cement, chemical fertilizers, plywood, food, rubber Industrial production growth rate: 13.9% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 12,100,000 kW production: 44 billion kWh consumption per capita: 207 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rice, cassava (tapioca), peanuts, rubber, cocoa, coffee, palm oil, copra, other tropical products; poultry, beef, pork, eggs Illicit drugs: illicit producer of cannabis largely for domestic use; government actively eradicating plantings and prosecuting traffickers; minor role as transshipment point for Golden Triangle heroin Exports: $39.9 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: manufactures 51.9%, fuels 26.4%, foodstuffs 12.7%, raw materials 9.0% partners: Japan 27.4%, US 14.6%, Singapore 10.1%, South Korea 6.5%, Taiwan 4.1%, Netherlands 3.3%, China 3.3%, Hong Kong 3.3%, Germany 3.2% Imports: $32 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: manufactures 75.3%, raw materials 9.0%, foodstuffs 7.8%, fuels 7.7% partners: Japan 24.2%, US 11.2%, Germany 7.7%, South Korea 6.8%, Singapore 5.9%, Australia 4.8%, Taiwan 4.5%, China 4.3% External debt: $97.6 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $1.542 billion (1993) Currency: Indonesian rupiah (Rp) Exchange rates: Indonesian rupiahs (Rp) per US$1 - 2,306.3 (January 1996), 2,248.6 (1995), 2,160.8 (1994), 2,087.1 (1993), 2,029.9 (1992), 1,950.3 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 6,458 km narrow gauge: 5,961 km 1.067-m gauge (101 km electrified; 101 km double track); 497 km 0.750-m gauge (1995) Highways: total: 283,516 km paved: 125,051 km unpaved: 158,465 km (1995 est.) 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: 457 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,098,958 GRT/3,056,040 DWT ships by type: bulk 30, cargo 265, chemical tanker 6, container 11, liquefied gas tanker 5, livestock carrier 1, oil tanker 98, passenger 5, passenger-cargo 12, roll-on/roll-off cargo 7, short-sea passenger 6, specialized tanker 7, vehicle carrier 4 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 414 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: 35 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 41 with paved runways under 914 m: 299 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 3 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 23 (1995 est.) Heliports: 4 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1,276,600 (1993 est.) Telephone system: domestic service fair, international service good domestic: interisland microwave system and HF radio police net; domestic satellite communications system international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 618, FM 38, shortwave 0 Radios: 28.1 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 9 Televisions: 11.5 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, National Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 57,222,025 males fit for military service: 33,702,395 males reach military age (18) annually: 2,280,360 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $2.7 billion, 1.4% of GNP (FY95/96) ====================================================================== @Iran ---- Map --- Location: 32 00 N, 53 00 E -- Middle East, bordering the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, and the Caspian Sea, between Iraq and Pakistan Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and red; the national emblem (a stylized representation of the word Allah) in red is centered in the white band; ALLAH AKBAR (God is Great) in white Arabic script is repeated 11 times along the bottom edge of the green band and 11 times along the top edge of the red band Geography --------- Location: Middle East, bordering the Gulf of Oman, the Persian Gulf, and the Caspian Sea, between Iraq and Pakistan Geographic coordinates: 32 00 N, 53 00 E 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 border countries: Afghanistan 936 km, Armenia 35 km, Azerbaijan-proper 432 km, Azerbaijan-Naxcivan exclave 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: Lesser Tunb (called Tunb as Sughra in Arabic by UAE and Jazireh-ye Tonb-e Kuchek in Persian by Iran) and Greater Tunb (called Tunb al Kubra in Arabic by UAE and Jazireh-ye Tonb-e Bozorg in Persian by Iran); it jointly administers with the UAE an island in the Persian Gulf claimed by the UAE (called Abu Musa in Arabic by UAE and Jazireh-ye Abu Musa in Persian by Iran); in 1992 the dispute over Abu Musa and the Tunb islands became more acute when 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; support to clients in Afghanistan 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 lowest point: Caspian Sea -28 m highest point: Qolleh-ye Damavand 5,671 m Natural resources: petroleum, natural gas, coal, chromium, copper, iron ore, lead, manganese, zinc, sulfur Land use: arable land: 8% permanent crops: 0% 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; dust storms, 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 People ------ Population: 66,094,264 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 45% (male 15,166,131; female 14,289,283) 15-64 years: 52% (male 17,326,388; female 16,731,470) 65 years and over: 3% (male 1,327,718; female 1,253,274) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.21% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 33.67 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.61 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -5 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.06 male(s)/female all ages: 1.05 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 52.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 67.39 years male: 66.12 years female: 68.72 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.72 children born/woman (1996 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 89%, Sunni Muslim 10%, 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 (1994 est.) total population: 72.1% male: 78.4% female: 65.8% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Islamic Republic of Iran conventional short form: Iran local long form: Jomhuri-ye Eslami-ye Iran local short form: Iran Data code: IR Type of government: theocratic republic Capital: Tehran Administrative divisions: 25 provinces (ostanha, singular - ostan); Ardabil, Azarbayjan-e Gharbi, Azarbayjan-e Sharqi, Bushehr, Chahar Mahall va Bakhtiari, Esfahan, Fars, Gilan, Hamadan, Hormozgan, Ilam, Kerman, Kermanshahan, Khorasan, Khuzestan, Kohkiluyeh va Buyer Ahmadi, Kordestan, Lorestan, Markazi, Mazandaran, Semnan, Sistan va Baluchestan, Tehran, Yazd, Zanjan 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-e moazam) and functional chief of sta: Leader of the Islamic Revolution Ayatollah Ali Hoseini-KHAMENEI (since 4 June 1989) was appointed for life by Council of Experts head of government: President Ali Akbar Hashemi-RAFSANJANI (since 3 August 1989) was elected for a four-year term by universal suffrage; First Vice President Hasan Ebrahim HABIBI (since NA August 1989); election last held 11 June 1993 (next to be held NA May 1997); results - Ali Akbar Hashemi-RAFSANJANI was elected with 63% of the vote cabinet: Council of Ministers was selected by the president with legislative approval Legislative branch: unicameral Islamic Consultative Assembly (Majles-e-Shura-ye-Eslami): elections last held 8 March and 19 April 1996 (next to be held NA March 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (270 seats total) number of seats by party NA Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: there are at least 76 licensed parties, none are, as yet, openly active; the most important groupings are - Tehran Militant Clergy Association, leader NA; Militant Clerics Association, Mehdi MAHDAVI-KARUBI and Mohammad Asqar MUSAVI-KHOINIHA; Servants of Reconstruction (G-6), leader NA Other political or pressure groups: groups that generally support the Islamic Republic include Ansar-e Hizballah, Mojahedin of the Islamic Revolution, Muslim Students Following the Line of the Imam, and the Islamic Coalition Association; opposition groups include the Liberation Movement of Iran and the Nation of Iran party; armed political groups that have been almost completely repressed by the government include Mojahedin-e Khalq Organization (MEK), People's Fedayeen, Kurdish Democratic Party of Iran; the Society for the Defense of Freedom International organization participation: 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, WIPO, WMO, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: none; note - Iran has an Interests Section in the Pakistani Embassy, headed by Faramarz FATH-NEJAD; address: Iranian Interests Section, Pakistani Embassy, 2209 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007; telephone: [1] (202) 965-4990 US diplomatic representation: none; note - 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 AKBAR (God is Great) in white Arabic script is repeated 11 times along the bottom edge of the green band and 11 times along the top edge of the red band Economy ------- Economic 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 or have been reversed 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 85% of Iran's export revenues - are providing less relief to Iran than usual because of reduced oil prices. Iran's financial situation will remain tight in 1996 because the bulk of payments due under its rescheduling agreements in 1993-94 will be coming due. GDP: purchasing power parity - $323.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: -2% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $4,700 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 21% industry: 37% services: 42% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 60% (1995 est.) Labor force: 15.4 million by occupation: agriculture 33%, manufacturing 21% note: shortage of skilled labor (1988 est.) Unemployment rate: over 30% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: petroleum, petrochemicals, textiles, cement and other construction materials, food processing (particularly sugar refining and vegetable oil production), metal fabricating, armaments Industrial production growth rate: 4.3% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 19,080,000 kW production: 50.8 billion kWh consumption per capita: 745 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, rice, other grains, sugar beets, fruits, nuts, cotton; dairy products, wool; caviar 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 Exports: $16 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: petroleum 85%, carpets, fruits, nuts, hides, iron, steel partners: Japan, Italy, France, Netherlands, Belgium/Luxembourg, Spain, and Germany Imports: $13 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.) commodities: machinery, military supplies, metal works, foodstuffs, pharmaceuticals, technical services, refined oil products partners: Germany, Japan, Italy, UK, UAE External debt: $30 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $40 million (1993) 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 - 1,750 (January 1996), 1,747.93 (1995), 1,748.75 (1994), 1,267.77 (1993), 65.55 (1992), 67.51 (1991); black market rate: 4,000 rials per US$1 (December 1995); note - as of May 1995, the "official rate" of 1,750 rials per US$1 is used for imports of essential goods and services and for oil exports, wheras the "official export rate" of 3,000 rials per US$1 is used for non-oil exports and imports not covered by the official rate Fiscal year: 21 March - 20 March Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 5,093 km broad gauge: 96 km 1.676-m gauge standard gauge: 4,997 km 1.432-m gauge (146 km electrified) (1995) Highways: total: 140,200 km paved: 42,700 km unpaved: 97,500 km (1995 est.) Waterways: 904 km; the Shatt al Arab is usually navigable by maritime traffic for about 130 km; channel has been dredged to 3 m and is in use 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: 130 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,791,892 GRT/4,891,615 DWT ships by type: bulk 47, cargo 41, chemical tanker 5, combination bulk 2, liquefied gas tanker 1, multifunction large-load carrier 1, oil tanker 19, refrigerated cargo 3, roll-on/roll-off cargo 9, short-sea passenger 1, specialized tanker 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 212 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 30 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 11 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 31 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 17 with paved runways under 914 m: 22 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 2 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 10 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 88 (1995 est.) Heliports: 12 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 3.02 million (1992 est.) Telephone system: domestic: microwave radio relay extends throughout country; system centered in Tehran international: satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 Inmarsat (Indian Ocean Region); HF radio and microwave radio relay to Turkey, Pakistan, Syria, Kuwait, Tajikistan, and Uzbekistan; submarine fiber-optic cable to UAE Radio broadcast stations: AM 77, FM 3, shortwave 0 Radios: 14.3 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 28 Televisions: 3.9 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Islamic Republic of Iran regular forces (includes Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces), Revolutionary Guards (includes Ground, Air, Navy, Qods, and Basij-mobilization-forces), Law Enforcement Forces Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 15,157,796 males fit for military service: 9,010,648 males reach military age (21) annually: 632,602 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: according to official Iranian data, Iran in 1994 budgeted 4,377 billion rials and in 1993 spent 2,182 billion rials, including $850 million in hard currency; note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using current exchange rates could produce misleading results ====================================================================== @Iraq ---- Map --- Location: 33 00 N, 44 00 E -- Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf, between Iran and Kuwait Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf, between Iran and Kuwait Geographic coordinates: 33 00 N, 44 00 E 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 border countries: 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; 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 lowest point: Persian Gulf 0 m highest point: Gundah Zhur 3,608 m 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.) Environment: current issues: government water control projects have drained most of the inhabited marsh areas east of An Nasiriyah by drying up or diverting the feeder streams and rivers; a once sizable population of Shi'a Muslims, who have inhabited these areas for thousands of years, has been displaced; furthermore, the destruction of the natural habitat poses serious threats to the area's wildlife populations; inadequate supplies of potable water; development of Tigris-Euphrates Rivers system contingent upon agreements with upstream riparian Turkey; air and water pollution; soil degradation (salinization) and erosion; desertification natural hazards: dust storms, sandstorms, floods international agreements: party to - Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Environmental Modification People ------ Population: 21,422,292 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 48% (male 5,179,240; female 5,014,141) 15-64 years: 49% (male 5,342,529; female 5,228,802) 65 years and over: 3% (male 307,097; female 350,483) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.69% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 43.07 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.57 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0.37 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.88 male(s)/female all ages: 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 60 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 66.95 years male: 65.92 years female: 68.03 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.41 children born/woman (1996 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 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 58% male: 70.7% female: 45% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Iraq conventional short form: Iraq local long form: Al Jumhuriyah al Iraqiyah local short form: Al Iraq Data code: IZ Type of government: 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) were elected by a two-thirds majority of the Revolutionary Command Council 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 24 March 1996 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (250 total, 30 appointed by SADDAM Husayn to represent three northern provonces of Dahuk, Arbil, and As Sulaymaniyah) 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, SADDAM Husayn, central party leader Other political or pressure groups: political parties and activity severely restricted; opposition to regime from disaffected members of the Ba'th Party, Army officers, tribes, and Shi'a religious and ethnic Kurdish dissidents; the Green Party (government-controlled) International organization participation: 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, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: none; note - Iraq has an Interest Section in the Algerian Embassy; address: Iraqi Interests Section, Algerian Embassy, 1801 P Street NW, Washington, DC 20036; telephone: [1] (202) 483-7500; FAX: [1] (202) 462-5066 US diplomatic representation: none; note - the US has an Interests Section in the Polish Embassy in Baghdad, which is in the Masbah Quarter (opposite the Foreign Ministry Club); address: P. O. Box 2447 Alwiyah, Baghdad; telephone: [964] (1) 719-6138, 719-6139, 718-1840, 719-3791; 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 Economy ------- Economic 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; Iraq suffered economic losses of at least $100 billion from the war. After the end of hostilities in 1988, oil exports gradually increased with the construction of new pipelines and restoration of damaged facilities. Agricultural development remained hampered by labor shortages, salinization, and dislocations caused by previous land reform and collectivization programs. The industrial sector, although accorded high priority by the government, also was under financial constraints. 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 1994 and 1995; consumer prices have more than doubled in both 1994 and 1995. The UN-sponsored economic embargo has reduced exports and imports and has contributed to the sharp rise in prices. The Iraqi Government has been unwilling to abide by UN resolutions so that the economic embargo can be removed. The government's policies of supporting large military and internal security forces and of allocating resources to key supporters of the regime have exacerbated shortages. In brief, per capita output for 1994-95 is well below the 1989-90 level, but any estimate has a wide range of error. GDP: purchasing power parity - $41.1 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $2,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% 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 Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: petroleum, chemicals, textiles, construction materials, food processing Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 7,170,000 kW production: 25.7 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,247 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, barley, rice, vegetables, dates, other fruit, cotton; cattle, sheep Exports: $NA commodities: crude oil and refined products, fertilizer, sulfur partners: US, Brazil, Turkey, Japan, Netherlands, Spain (1990) Imports: $NA commodities: manufactures, food partners: Germany, US, Turkey, France, UK (1990) External debt: $50 billion (1989 est.), excluding debt of about $35 billion owed to Gulf Arab states Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Iraqi dinar (ID) = 1,000 fils Exchange rates: Iraqi dinars (ID) per US$1 - 3.2169 (fixed official rate since 1982); black-market rate (December 1995) US$1 = 2,900 Iraqi dinars; semi-official rate US$1 = 1,000 Iraqi dinars Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 2,032 km standard gauge: 2,032 km 1.435-m gauge Highways: total: 45,554 km paved: 38,402 km (including 976 km of expressways) unpaved: 7,152 km (1989 est.) 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/1,432,292 DWT ships by type: cargo 14, oil tanker 16, passenger 1, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 3 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 102 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: 6 with paved runways under 914 m: 16 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 2 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 3 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 3 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 9 (1995 est.) Heliports: 5 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 632,000 (1987 est.) Telephone system: reconstitution of damaged telecommunication facilities began after the Gulf war; most damaged facilities have been rebuilt domestic: the network consists of coaxial cables and microwave radio relay links international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region) and 1 Arabsat; coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to Jordan, Kuwait, Syria, and Turkey; Kuwait line is probably nonoperational Radio broadcast stations: AM 16, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: 4.02 million (1991 est.) Television broadcast stations: 13 Televisions: 1 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- 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: 4,832,001 males fit for military service: 2,711,312 males reach military age (18) annually: 237,843 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Ireland ------- Map --- Location: 53 00 N, 8 00 W -- Western Europe, occupying five-sixths of the island of Ireland in the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Great Britain Flag ---- Description: three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and orange; similar to the flag of Cote d'Ivoire, which is shorter and has the colors reversed - orange (hoist side), white, and green; also similar to the flag of Italy, which is shorter and has colors of green (hoist side), white, and red Geography --------- Location: Western Europe, occupying five-sixths of the island of Ireland in the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Great Britain Geographic coordinates: 53 00 N, 8 00 W 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 border country: 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Carrauntoohill 1,041 m 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 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 Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 3,566,833 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 23% (male 424,558; female 402,062) 15-64 years: 65% (male 1,175,383; female 1,157,960) 65 years and over: 12% (male 173,150; female 233,720) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: -0.22% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 13.22 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.93 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -6.46 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.07 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.74 male(s)/female all ages: 0.99 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 6.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.58 years male: 72.88 years female: 78.46 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.83 children born/woman (1996 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% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Ireland Data code: EI Type of government: 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 plebiscite 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) was elected for a seven-year term by popular vote; election last held 9 November 1990 (next to be held NA November 1997); results - Mary Bourke ROBINSON 52.8%, Brian LENIHAN 47.2% head of government: Prime Minister John BRUTON (since 15 December 1994) was nominated by the House of Representatives and appointed by the president cabinet: Cabinet was 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 25 November 1992 (next to be held by NA November 1997); results - Fianna Fail 39.1%, Fine Gael 24.5%, Labor Party 19.3%, Progressive Democrats 4.7%, Democratic Left 2.8%, Sinn Fein 1.6%, Workers' Party 0.7%, independents 5.9%; seats - (166 total) Fianna Fail 68, Fine Gael 45, Labor Party 33, Progressive Democrats 10, Democratic Left 4, Greens 1, independents 5 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges appointed by the president on the advice of the government (prime minister and cabinet) 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, Mary HARNEY; The Workers' Party, Marion DONNELLY; Green Alliance, Bronwen MAHER note: Prime Minister BRUTON heads a three-party coalition consisting of the Fine Gael, the Labor Party, and the Democratic Left International organization participation: Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, EIB, ESA, EU, FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, MTCR, NEA, NSG, OECD, OSCE, UN, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNFICYP, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNIKOM, UNMIH, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UPU, WEU (observer), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Dermot A. GALLAGHER chancery: 2234 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 462-3939 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) 6688777 FAX: [353] (1) 6689946 Flag: three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and orange; similar to the flag of Cote d'Ivoire, which is shorter and has the colors reversed - orange (hoist side), white, and green; also similar to the flag of Italy, which is shorter and has colors of green (hoist side), white, and red Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy is small and trade dependent. Agriculture, once the most important sector, is now dwarfed by industry, which accounts for 38% of GDP, about 80% of exports, and employs 28% of the labor force. Although exports remain the primary engine for Ireland's robust growth, the economy is also benefiting from a rise in consumer spending and recovery in both construction and business investment. Ireland has substantially reduced its external debt since 1987, to 40% of GDP in 1994. Over the same period, 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $54.6 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 7% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $15,400 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 6.8% industry: 35.3% services: 57.9% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.8% (1995 est.) 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) Unemployment rate: 13.5% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $19.3 billion expenditures: $20.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $3.6 billion (1994) Industries: food products, brewing, textiles, clothing, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, machinery, transportation equipment, glass and crystal Industrial production growth rate: 8.9% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 3,930,000 kW production: 14.9 billion kWh consumption per capita: 3,938 kWh (1993) Agriculture: turnips, barley, potatoes, sugar beets, wheat; meat and dairy products Illicit drugs: transshipment point for hashish from North Africa to the UK and Netherlands Exports: $29.9 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: chemicals, data processing equipment, industrial machinery, live animals, animal products partners: EU 73% (UK 27%, Germany 14%, France 9%), US 9% Imports: $25.3 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: food, animal feed, data processing equipment, petroleum and petroleum products, machinery, textiles, clothing partners: EU 58% (UK 36%, Germany 7%, France 4%), US 18% External debt: $19.5 billion (1994 est.) Economic aid: donor: ODA, $81 million (1993) Currency: 1 Irish pound (LIr) = 100 pence Exchange rates: Irish pounds (LIr) per US$1 - 0.6315 (January 1996), 0.6235 (1995), 0.6676 (1994), 0.6816 (1993), 0.5864 (1992), 0.6190 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 1,944 km broad gauge: 1,944 km 1.600-m gauge (37 km electrified; 485 km double track) (1995) Highways: total: 92,327 km paved: 86,787 km (including 32 km of expressways) unpaved: 5,540 km (1992 est.) Waterways: limited for commercial traffic Pipelines: natural gas 225 km Ports: Arklow, Cork, Drogheda, Dublin, Foynes, Galway, Limerick, New Ross, Waterford Merchant marine: total: 42 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 129,027 GRT/155,371 DWT ships by type: bulk 4, cargo 27, chemical tanker 1, container 3, oil tanker 2, short-sea passenger 3, specialized tanker 2 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 40 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: 29 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 900,000 (1987 est.) Telephone system: modern digital system using cable and microwave radio relay domestic: microwave radio relay international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 9, FM 45, shortwave 0 Radios: 2.2 million (1991 est.) Television broadcast stations: 86 (1987 est.) Televisions: 1.025 million (1990 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army (includes Naval Service and Air Corps), National Police (Garda Siochana) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 939,237 males fit for military service: 761,048 males reach military age (17) annually: 35,904 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $618 million, 1.3% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Israel ------ (also see separate Gaza Strip and West Bank entries) Note: The territories occupied by Israel since the 1967 war are not included in the data below. In keeping with the framework established at the Madrid Conference in October 1991, bilateral negotiations are being conducted between Israel and Palestinian representatives, and Israel and Syria, to achieve a permanent settlement between them. 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. Map --- Location: 31 30 N, 34 45 E -- Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Lebanon Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Lebanon Geographic coordinates: 31 30 N, 34 45 E 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 border countries: 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: West Bank and Gaza Strip are Israeli occupied with current status subject to the Israeli-Palestinian Interim Agreement - permanent status to be determined through further negotiation; Golan Heights is Israeli occupied; Israeli troops in southern 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 lowest point: Dead Sea -408 m highest point: Har Meron 1,208 m 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 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 Geographic note: there are 202 Israeli settlements and civilian land use sites in the West Bank, 42 in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, 24 in the Gaza Strip, and 26 in East Jerusalem (August 1995 est.) People ------ Population: 5,421,995 (July 1996 est.) note: includes 127,600 Israeli settlers in the West Bank, 14,800 in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights, 5,000 in the Gaza Strip, and 153,700 in East Jerusalem (August 1995 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 29% (male 793,712; female 756,735) 15-64 years: 62% (male 1,670,082; female 1,669,481) 65 years and over: 9% (male 230,082; female 301,903) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.11% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 20.31 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.26 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 7.03 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.76 male(s)/female all ages: 0.99 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 8.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.01 years male: 76.16 years female: 79.96 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.77 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 95% male: 97% female: 93% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: State of Israel conventional short form: Israel local long form: Medinat Yisra'el local short form: Yisra'el Data code: IS Type of government: republic Capital: Jerusalem note: Israel proclaimed Jerusalem as its capital in 1950, but the US, like nearly all other countries, 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) was elected for a five-year term by the Knesset; election last held 24 March 1993 (next to be held NA March 1998); results - Ezer WEIZMAN elected by Knesset head of government: Prime Minister Shimon PERES (since 15 November 1995) was appointed by the president following the assassination of Prime Minister Yitzhak RABIN cabinet: Cabinet was selected from and approved by the Knesset Legislative branch: unicameral parliament (Knesset): elections last held NA June 1992 (next to be held 29 May 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) Labor 44, Likud 32, MERETZ 12, Tzomet 8, National Religious Party 6, SHAS 6, United Torah Jewry 4, Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (Hadash) 3, Moledet 3, Arab Democratic Party 2; note - the distribution of seats as of January 1996 is as follows - Labor Party 45, Likud bloc 33, MERETZ 12, National Religious Party 6, SHAS 6, Tzomet 5, United Torah Jewry 4, Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (Hadash) 3, Moledet 2, Arab Democratic Party 2, Yi'ud 1 (in coalition), Right of Israel 1 Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: members of the government: Labor Party, Prime Minister Shimon PERES; MERETZ, Minister of Environment Yossi SARID; Yi'ud, Gonen SEGEV not in coalition but voting with the government: Democratic Front for Peace and Equality (Hadash), Hashim MAHAMID; Arab Democratic Party, Abd al Wahab DARAWSHAH opposition parties: Likud Party, Binyamin NETANYAHU; Tzomet, Rafael EITAN; National Religious Party, Zevulun HAMMER; United Torah Jewry, Avraham SHAPIRA; Moledet, Rehavam ZEEVI; Peace Guard (independent), Shaul GUTMAN; SHAS, Arieh DERI; Right of Israel, leader NA note: Israel currently has a coalition government comprising three parties that hold 58 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 International organization participation: AG (observer), BSEC (observer), CCC, CE (observer), CERN (observer), EBRD, ECE, FAO, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, IDA, IFAD, IFC, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, OAS (observer), OSCE (partner), PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Itamar RABINOVICH chancery: 3514 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 364-5500 FAX: [1] (202) 364-5610 consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, and San Francisco US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Martin S. INDYK embassy: 71 Hayarkon Street, Tel Aviv mailing address: PSC 98, Box 100, APO AE 09830 telephone: [972] (3) 519-7575 FAX: [972] (3) 517-3227 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 Economy ------- Economic 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, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 3.5%, and services the rest. Israel is largely self-sufficient in food production except for grains. Diamonds, high-technology equipment, and agricultural products (fruits and vegetables) are leading exports. Israel usually posts current account deficits, which are covered by large transfer payments from abroad and by foreign loans. Roughly half of the government's external debt is owed to the US, which is its major source of economic and military aid. To earn needed foreign exchange, Israel has been targeting high-technology niches in international markets, such as medical scanning equipment. The influx of Jewish immigrants from the former USSR, which topped 525,000 during the period 1990-95, increased unemployment, intensified housing problems, and strained the government budget. At the same time, the immigrants bring to the economy valuable scientific and professional expertise. GDP: purchasing power parity - $80.1 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 7.1% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $15,500 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 3.5% industry: 22% services: 74.5% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 10.1% (1995) Labor force: 1.9 million (1992) 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) Unemployment rate: 6.3% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $41 billion expenditures: $53 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996) Industries: food processing, diamond cutting and polishing, textiles and apparel, chemicals, metal products, military equipment, transport equipment, electrical equipment, potash mining, high-technology electronics, tourism Industrial production growth rate: 10.3% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 4,140,000 kW production: 23 billion kWh consumption per capita: 4,290 kWh (1993) Agriculture: citrus and other fruits, vegetables, cotton; beef, poultry, dairy products Illicit drugs: increasingly concerned about cocaine and heroin abuse and trafficking Exports: $28.4 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: machinery and equipment, cut diamonds, chemicals, textiles and apparel, agricultural products, metals partners: US, EU, Japan Imports: $40.1 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.) commodities: military equipment, investment goods, rough diamonds, oil, other productive inputs, consumer goods partners: EU, US, Japan External debt: $18.5 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: total receipts $12.14 billion of which $11.38 billion from the US (1990-93) Currency: 1 new Israeli shekel (NIS) = 100 new agorot Exchange rates: new Israeli shekels (NIS) per US$1 - 3.1295 (January 1996), 3.0113 (1995), 3.0111 (1994), 2.8301 (1993), 2.4591 (1992), 2.2791 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year (since 1 January 1992) Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 526 km standard gauge: 526 km 1.435-m gauge Highways: total: 13,461 km paved: 13,461 km (including 56 km of expressways) unpaved: 0 km (1992 est.) 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: 28 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 577,747 GRT/701,459 DWT ships by type: cargo 5, container 20, refrigerated cargo 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 50 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: 7 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 8 with paved runways under 914 m: 22 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 (1995 est.) Heliports: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 2.425 million (1990 est.) Telephone system: most highly developed system in the Middle East although not the largest domestic: good system of coaxial cable and microwave radio relay international: 3 submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 9, FM 45, shortwave 0 Radios: 2.25 million (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 20 Televisions: 1.5 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- 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: 1,390,603 females age 15-49: 1,363,986 males fit for military service: 1,139,137 females fit for military service: 1,112,947 males reach military age (18) annually: 50,508 females reach military age (18) annually: 48,176 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $9.2 billion, about 9.8% of GDP (1996) ====================================================================== @Italy ----- Map --- Location: 42 50 N, 12 50 E -- Southern Europe, a peninsula extending into the central Mediterranean Sea, northeast of Tunisia Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern Europe, a peninsula extending into the central Mediterranean Sea, northeast of Tunisia Geographic coordinates: 42 50 N, 12 50 E 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: 1,935.2 km border countries: Austria 430 km, France 488 km, Holy See (Vatican City) 3.2 km, San Marino 39 km, Slovenia 235 km, Switzerland 740 km Coastline: 7,600 km Maritime claims: continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: Italy is negotiating with Slovenia over property and minority rights issues dating from World War II Climate: predominantly Mediterranean; Alpine in far north; hot, dry in south Terrain: mostly rugged and mountainous; some plains, coastal lowlands lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m highest point: Mont Blanc 4,807 m 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 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, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Desertification Geographic note: strategic location dominating central Mediterranean as well as southern sea and air approaches to Western Europe People ------ Population: 57,460,274 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 15% (male 4,419,636; female 4,167,860) 15-64 years: 68% (male 19,656,546; female 19,629,291) 65 years and over: 17% (male 3,902,426; female 5,684,515) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.13% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 9.87 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9.82 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 1.25 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.69 male(s)/female all ages: 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 6.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.06 years male: 74.85 years female: 81.48 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.27 children born/woman (1996 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% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Italian Republic conventional short form: Italy local long form: Repubblica Italiana local short form: Italia former: Kingdom of Italy Data code: IT Type of government: 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) was elected for a seven-year term by an electoral college consisting of both houses of Parliament and 58 regional representatives head of government: Prime Minister (referred to in Italy as the President of the Council of Ministers) Romano PRODI (since 18 May 1996) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was 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 22 April 1996 (next to be held by NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (326 total, 315 elected, 11 appointed senators-for-life) Olive Tree 157, Freedom Alliance 116, Northern League 27, Refounded Communists 10, regional lists 3, Social Movement-Tricolor Flames 1, Panella Reformers 1 Chamber of Deputies (Camera dei Deputati): elections last held 22 April 1996 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (630 total) Olive Tree 284, Freedom Alliance 246, Northern League 59, Refounded Communists 35, Southern Tyrol List 3, Autonomous List 2, other 1 Judicial branch: Constitutional Court (Corte Costituzionale), composed of 15 judges (one-third appointed by the president, one-third elected by Parliament, one-third elected by the ordinary and administrative supreme courts) Political parties and leaders: Olive Tree: Democratic Party of the Left (PDS), Massimo D'ALEMA; Greens, Carlo RIPA DI MEANA; Italian Renewal, Lamberto DINI; Southern Tyrols List (German speakers) Freedom Alliance: Forza Italia (FI), Silvio BERLUSCONI; National Alliance (AN), Gianfranco FINI; Christian Democratic Center (CCD), Pier Ferdinando CASINI; Democratic Union Party, Antonio MACCANICO other: Northern League (NL), Umberto BOSSI; Italian Social Movement, Pino RAUTI; Communist Refoundation (RC), Fausto BERTINOTTI; Italian Socialists, Enrico BOSELLI; Rete (The Network), Leoluca ORLANDO; Christian Socialists, Luciano GUERZONI; Democratic Pact for Italy, Mario SEGNI; Italian Popular Party (PPI), Gerardo BIANCO; Pannella's Reformers, Marco PANNELLA; Christian Democratic Union (United Christian Democrats - CDU), Rocco BUTTIGLIONE; Democratic Alliance, Willer BORDON; Union for the New Republic, Raffaele COSTA; Unitary Communists, Famiano CRUCIANELLI; Autonomous List (a group of minor parties); Social Movement-Tricolor Flames 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 centrist, and Unione Italiana del Lavoro or UIL which is center-left); Italian manufacturers and merchants associations (Confindustria, Confcommercio); organized farm groups (Confcoltivatori, Confagricoltura) International organization participation: AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CDB (non-regional), CE, CEI, CERN, EBRD, ECE, ECLAC, EIB, ESA, EU, FAO, G- 7, G-10, 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, NAM (guest), NATO, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OSCE, PCA, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMOGIP, UNTSO, UPU, WCL, WEU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Ferdinando SALLEO chancery: 1601 Fuller Street NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 328-5500 FAX: [1] (202) 483-2187 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) 488-2672 consulate(s) general: Florence, Milan, Naples 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. Most raw materials needed by industry and over 75% of energy requirements must be imported. 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 inflationary wage indexation system, and started to scale back its 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 EU. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1.0886 trillion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3.2% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $18,700 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 2.9% industry: 31.6% services: 65.5% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5.4% (1995) Labor force: 23.988 million by occupation: services 58%, industry 32.2%, agriculture 9.8% (1988) Unemployment rate: 12.2% (January 1995) Budget: revenues: $339 billion expenditures: $431 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.) Industries: tourism, machinery, iron and steel, chemicals, food processing, textiles, motor vehicles, clothing, footwear, ceramics Industrial production growth rate: 5.5% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 61,630,000 kW production: 209 billion kWh consumption per capita: 4,033 kWh (1993) Agriculture: fruits, vegetables, grapes, potatoes, sugar beets, soybeans, grain, olives; meat and dairy products; 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 Exports: $190.8 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: metals, textiles and clothing, production machinery, motor vehicles, transportation equipment, chemicals 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.) Economic aid: donor: ODA, $3.043 billion (1993) Currency: 1 Italian lira (Lit) = 100 centesimi Exchange rates: Italian lire (Lit) per US$1 - 1,583.8 (January 1996), 1,629.6 (1995), 1,612.4 (1994), 1,573.7 (1993), 1,232.4 (1992), 1,240.6 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 18,961 km standard gauge: 17,981 km 1.435-m gauge; Italian Railways (FS) operates 16,118 km of the total standard gauge routes (10,560 km electrified) narrow gauge: 113 km 1.000-m gauge (113 km electrified); 867 km 0.950-m gauge (144 km electrified) Highways: total: 305,388 km (including 45,076 km major roads, 112,111 km secondary roads, 6,301 km motorways) paved: 271,674 km unpaved: 33,714 km (1991 est.) 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: 419 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,480,320 GRT/7,919,064 DWT ships by type: bulk 35, cargo 57, chemical tanker 39, combination bulk 1, combination ore/oil 3, container 16, liquefied gas tanker 37, multifunction large-load carrier 1, oil tanker 123, passenger 5, roll-on/roll-off cargo 53, short-sea passenger 31, specialized tanker 11, vehicle carrier 7 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 132 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: 24 with paved runways under 914 m: 32 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 20 (1995 est.) Heliports: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 25.6 million (1987 est.) Telephone system: modern, well-developed, fast; fully automated telephone, telex, and data services domestic: high-capacity cable and microwave radio relay trunks international: satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (with a total of 5 antennas - 3 for Atlantic Ocean and 2 for Indian Ocean), 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean Region), and NA Eutelsat; 21 submarine cables Radio broadcast stations: AM 135, FM 28 (repeaters 1,840), shortwave 0 Radios: 45.7 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 83 (repeaters 1,000) Televisions: 24.35 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Carabinieri Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 14,739,097 males fit for military service: 12,769,628 males reach military age (18) annually: 358,884 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $20.4 billion, 1.9% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Jamaica ------- Map --- Location: 18 15 N, 77 30 W -- Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba Flag ---- Description: diagonal yellow cross divides the flag into four triangles - green (top and bottom) and black (hoist side and outer side) Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, south of Cuba Geographic coordinates: 18 15 N, 77 30 W 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 lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Blue Mountain Peak 2,256 m 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, Whaling Geographic note: strategic location between Cayman Trench and Jamaica Channel, the main sea lanes for Panama Canal People ------ Population: 2,595,275 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 32% (male 430,609; female 411,966) 15-64 years: 61% (male 781,626; female 795,808) 65 years and over: 7% (male 77,725; female 97,541) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.8% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 22.19 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.57 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -8.58 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.8 male(s)/female all ages: 0.99 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 15.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 74.88 years male: 72.6 years female: 77.29 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.45 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 85% male: 80.8% female: 89.1% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Jamaica Data code: JM Type of government: 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), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor General Sir Howard COOKE (since 1 August 1991) who was appointed by the queen on recommendation of the prime minister head of government: Prime Minister Percival James PATTERSON (since 30 March 1992) and the Deputy Prime Minister Seymour MULLINGS (since NA 1993) were appointed by the governor general cabinet: Cabinet was 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, judges appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister Political parties and leaders: People's National Party (PNP), P. J. PATTERSON; Jamaica Labor Party (JLP), Edward SEAGA; National Democratic Movement (NDM), Bruce GOLDING Other political or pressure groups: Rastafarians (black religious/racial cultists, pan-Africanists); New Beginnings Movement (NBM) International organization participation: ACP, C, Caricom, CCC, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-15, G-19, G-77, 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, UNMIH, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Richard Leighton BERNAL chancery: 1520 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036 telephone: [1] (202) 452-0660 FAX: [1] (202) 452-0081 consulate(s) general: Miami and New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador J. Gary COOPER embassy: Jamaica Mutual Life Center, 2 Oxford Road, 3rd floor, Kingston mailing address: use embassy street address telephone: [1] (809) 929-4850 through 4859 FAX: [1] (809) 926-6743 Flag: diagonal yellow cross divides the flag into four triangles - green (top and bottom) and black (hoist side and outer side) Economy ------- Economic overview: Key sectors in this island economy are bauxite (alumina and bauxite account for more than half of exports) and tourism. Since assuming office in 1992, Prime Minister PATTERSON has consolidated the market-oriented reforms initiated by his predecessor, Michael MANLEY, to make Jamaica a regional leader in economic reform. PATTERSON has eliminated most price controls, streamlined tax schedules, and privatized government enterprises. Tight monetary and fiscal policies under an IMF program have helped slow inflation and stabilize the exchange rate, but, as a result, economic growth has slowed down and unemployment remains high. Jamaica's medium-term prospects depend largely on its ability to continue to attract foreign capital and limit speculation against the Jamaican dollar. GDP: purchasing power parity - $8.2 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 0.8% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $3,200 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 7.9% industry: 28.1% services: 64% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 25.5% (1995) Labor force: 1,062,100 by occupation: services 41%, agriculture 22.5%, industry 19%, unemployed 17.5% (1989) Unemployment rate: 15.4% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $1.45 billion expenditures: $2 billion, including capital expenditures of $732 million (FY95/96 est.) Industries: bauxite, tourism, textiles, food processing, light manufactures Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 730,000 kW production: 2.6 billion kWh consumption per capita: 988 kWh (1993) Agriculture: sugarcane, bananas, coffee, citrus, potatoes, vegetables; poultry, goats, milk 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 Exports: $2 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: alumina, bauxite, sugar, bananas, rum partners: US 47%, UK 11%, Canada 9%, Norway 7%, France 4% (1993) Imports: $2.7 billion (f.o.b., 1995 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.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $239 million (1993) Currency: 1 Jamaican dollar (J$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Jamaican dollars (J$) per US$1 - 39.86 (December 1995), 33.086 (1994), 24.949 (1993), 22.960 (1992), 12.116 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 272 km standard gauge: 272 km 1.435-m gauge; note - 207 km belonging to the Jamaica Railway Corporation which were in common carrier service are no longer operational; the remaining track is privately owned and used to transport bauxite Highways: total: 18,094 km paved: 12,528 km unpaved: 5,566 km (1988 est.) Pipelines: petroleum products 10 km Ports: Alligator Pond, Discovery Bay, Kingston, Montego Bay, Ocho Rios, Port Antonio, Longs Wharf, Rocky Point Merchant marine: total: 2 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 3,435 GRT/6,105 DWT ships by type: oil tanker 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 27 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 2 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 with paved runways under 914 m: 21 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 212,257 (1991 est.) Telephone system: fully automatic domestic telephone network domestic: NA international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); 3 coaxial submarine cables Radio broadcast stations: AM 10, FM 17, shortwave 0 Radios: 1.04 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 8 Televisions: 330,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Jamaica Defense Force (includes Ground Forces, Coast Guard and Air Wing), Jamaica Constabulary Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 680,965 males fit for military service: 481,616 males reach military age (18) annually: 25,810 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $30 million, NA% of GDP (FY95/96) ====================================================================== @Jan Mayen --------- (territory of Norway) Map --- Location: 71 00 N, 8 00 W -- Northern Europe, island between the Greenland Sea and the Norwegian Sea, northeast of Iceland Flag ---- Description: the flag of Norway is used Geography --------- Location: Northern Europe, island between the Greenland Sea and the Norwegian Sea, northeast of Iceland Geographic coordinates: 71 00 N, 8 00 W Map references: Arctic Region Area: total area: 373 sq km land area: 373 sq km comparative area: slightly more than twice the size of Washington, DC Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 124.1 km Maritime claims: contiguous zone: 10 nm continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 4 nm International disputes: none Climate: arctic maritime with frequent storms and persistent fog Terrain: volcanic island, partly covered by glaciers lowest point: Norwegian Sea 0 m highest point: Haakon VII Toppen (Beerenberg) 2,277 m 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 Geographic note: barren volcanic island with some moss and grass People ------ Population: no permanent inhabitants; note - there are personnel who man the Long Range Navigation (LORAN) C base and the weather and coastal services radio station Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Jan Mayen Data code: JN Type of government: territory of Norway Capital: none Independence: none (territory of Norway) Executive branch: administered from Oslo, Norway, through a governor (sysselmann) resident in Longyearbyen (Svalbard); however, authority has been delegated to a station commander of the Norwegian Defense Communication Service Flag: the flag of Norway is used Economy ------- Economic 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) Transportation -------------- Highways: total: NA km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Ports: none; offshore anchorage only Airports: total: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephone system: domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA note: radio and meteorological station Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: NA Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of Norway ====================================================================== @Japan ----- Map --- Location: 36 00 N, 138 00 E -- Eastern Asia, island chain between the North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan, east of the Korean Peninsula Flag ---- Description: white with a large red disk (representing the sun without rays) in the center Geography --------- Location: Eastern Asia, island chain between the North Pacific Ocean and the Sea of Japan, east of the Korean Peninsula Geographic coordinates: 36 00 N, 138 00 E 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 lowest point: Hachiro-gata -4 m highest point: Fujiyama 3,776 m 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 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; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94 Geographic note: strategic location in northeast Asia People ------ Population: 125,449,703 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 16% (male 10,121,414; female 9,644,243) 15-64 years: 69% (male 43,624,464; female 43,359,249) 65 years and over: 15% (male 7,737,781; female 10,962,552) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.21% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 10.19 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.71 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.4 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.71 male(s)/female all ages: 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 4.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 79.55 years male: 76.57 years female: 82.68 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.46 children born/woman (1996 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 Christian 0.7%) Languages: Japanese Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1970 est.) total population: 99% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Japan Data code: JA Type of government: 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) is a constitutional monarch head of government: Prime Minister Ryutaro HASHIMOTO (since 11 January 1996) and Deputy Prime Minister Wataru KUBO (since 11 January 1996) were designated by the Diet and appointed by the emperor cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the prime minister Legislative branch: bicameral Diet (Kokkai) House of Councillors (Sangi-in): half of the members elected every three years to six-year terms; elections last held 23 July 1995 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (252 total, with 126 up for election) LDP 110 (49 newly won), Shinshinto 56 (40 newly won), SDP 38 (16 newly won), JCP 14 (8 newly won), Sakigate 3 (3 newly won), others 19 (4 newly won), independents 12 (6 newly won); note - the distribution of seats as of 1 March 1996 is as follows - LDP 111, Heisei-kai 69, SDP 35, JCP 14, Sakigake 3, others and independents 19, vacancies 1 House of Representatives (Shugi-in): all members elected every four years to four-year terms; elections last held 18 July 1993 (next to be held by July 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (511 total) LDP 223, SDP 70, Shinseito 55, Komeito 51, JNP 35, JCP 15, DSP 15, Sakigake 13, others 4, independents 30; note - the distribution of seats as of 1 March 1996 is as follows - LDP 207, Shinshinto 170, SDP 63, Sakigake 22, JCP 15, others and independents 19, vacant 15 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, chief justice is appointed by the emperor after designation by the cabinet, all other justices are appointed by the cabinet Political parties and leaders: Liberal Democratic Party (LDP), Ryutaro HASHIMOTO, president and Koichi KATO, secretary general; Social Democratic Party (SDP), Tomiichi MURAYAMA, president and Kanju SATO, secretary general; Sakigake (Harbinger), Masayoshi TAKEMURA, chairman and Yukio HATOYAMA, secretary general; Shinshinto (New Frontier Party, NFP), Ichiro OZAWA, chairman and Takashi YONEZAWA, secretary general; Japan Communist Party (JCP), Tetsuzo FUWA, presidium chairman 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; 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 International organization participation: AfDB, AG (observer), APEC, AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CP, EBRD, ESCAP, FAO, G- 2, G- 5, G- 7, G- 8, G-10, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MTCR, NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OSCE (partner), PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNITAR, UNRWA, UNU, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Kunihiko SAITO chancery: 2520 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 939-6700 FAX: [1] (202) 328-2187 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, 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. One notable characteristic of the economy is the working together of manufacturers, suppliers, and distributors in closely knit groups called keiretsu. A second basic feature has been the guarantee of lifetime employment for a substantial portion of the urban labor force; this guarantee is slowly eroding. Industry, the most important sector of the economy, is heavily dependent on imported raw materials and fuels. The much smaller agricultural sector is highly subsidized and protected, with crop yields among the highest in the world. Usually self-sufficient in rice, 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. For three decades overall economic growth had been spectacular: a 10% average in the 1960s, a 5% average in the 1970s and 1980s. Growth came to a halt in 1992-95 largely because of the aftereffects of overinvestment during the late 1980s and contractionary domestic policies intended to wring speculative excesses from the stock and real estate markets. At yearend 1995, the financial structure is shaky with banks holding hundreds of billions of dollars of suspect assets. At the same time, the continued basic strength of the economy has been reflected in substantial trade surpluses, sizable foreign investments, and remarkably low rates of unemployment, inflation, and social disorder. The crowding of the habitable land area and the aging of the population are two major long-run problems. GDP: purchasing power parity - $2.6792 trillion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 0.3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $21,300 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 2.1% industry: 40.2% services: 57.7% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): -0.1% (1995) 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%, other 3% (1988) Unemployment rate: 3.1% (1995) Budget: revenues: $595 billion expenditures: $829 billion, including capital expenditures (public works only) of about $122 billion (1995 est.) Industries: among world's largest and technologically advanced producers of steel and non-ferrous metallurgy, heavy electrical equipment, construction and mining equipment, motor vehicles and parts, electronic and telecommunication equipment, machine tools, automated production systems, locomotives and railroad rolling stock, ships, chemicals; textiles, processed foods Industrial production growth rate: 3.3% (1995) Electricity: capacity: 205,140,000 kW (1993) production: 915 billion kWh (1995) consumption per capita: 7,293 kWh (1995) Agriculture: rice, sugar beets, vegetables, fruit; pork, poultry, dairy products, eggs; world's largest fish catch of 10 million metric tons in 1991 Exports: $442.84 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: manufactures 97% (including machinery 46%, motor vehicles 20%, consumer electronics 10%) partners: Southeast Asia 38%, US 27%, Western Europe 17%, China 5% Imports: $336.09 billion (c.i.f., 1995) commodities: manufactures 52%, fossil fuels 20%, foodstuffs and raw materials 28% partners: Southeast Asia 25%, US 22%, Western Europe 16%, China 11% External debt: $NA Economic aid: donor: ODA, $11.259 billion (1993) note: ODA and OOF commitments (1970-95), $143 billion Currency: yen (Y) Exchange rates: yen (Y) per US$1 - 105.84 (January 1996), 94.06 (1995), 102.21 (1994), 111.20 (1993), 126.65 (1992), 134.71 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 26,506 km standard gauge: 3,233 km 1.435-m gauge (entirely electrified) narrow gauge: 72 km 1.372-m gauge (72 km electrified); 23,154 km 1.067-m gauge (13,835 km electrified); 47 km 0.762-m gauge (47 km electrified) (1994) Highways: total: 1,112,844 km paved: 790,119 km (including 5,054 km of expressways) unpaved: 322,725 km (1992 est.) 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: 796 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 15,944,137 GRT/23,662,930 DWT ships by type: bulk 192, cargo 57, chemical tanker 6, combination bulk 2, combination ore/oil 6, container 38, liquefied gas tanker 39, oil tanker 259, passenger 9, passenger-cargo 3, refrigerated cargo 35, roll-on/roll-off cargo 43, short-sea passenger 28, specialized tanker 2, vehicle carrier 77 note: Japan owns an additional 1,587 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 50,072,815 DWT operating under the registries of Panama, Liberia, Vanuatu, The Bahamas, Singapore, Cyprus, Philippines, Hong Kong, and Malta (1995 est.) Airports: total: 164 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 6 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 32 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 34 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 30 with paved runways under 914 m: 60 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 (1995 est.) Heliports: 11 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 64 million (1987 est.) Telephone system: excellent domestic and international service domestic: NA international: satellite earth stations - 5 Intelsat (4 Pacific Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region), and 1 Inmarsat (Pacific and Indian Ocean Regions); submarine cables to China, Philippines, Russia, and US (via Guam) Radio broadcast stations: AM 318, FM 58, shortwave 0 Radios: 97 million (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 12,350 (1 kW or greater 196) Televisions: 100 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- 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: 31,833,691 males fit for military service: 27,322,517 males reach military age (18) annually: 858,912 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $50.2 billion, 1% of GDP (FY95/96) ====================================================================== @Jarvis Island ------------- (territory of the US) Map --- Location: 0 22 S, 160 03 W -- Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to the Cook Islands Flag ---- Description: the flag of the US is used Geography --------- Location: Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to the Cook Islands Geographic coordinates: 0 22 S, 160 03 W Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 4.5 sq km land area: 4.5 sq km comparative area: about eight 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 23 m 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 Geographic 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 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Jarvis Island Data code: DQ Type of government: 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 Flag: the flag of the US is used Economy ------- Economic overview: no economic activity 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 Transportation note: there is a day beacon near the middle of the west coast Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US; visited annually by the US Coast Guard ====================================================================== @Jersey ------ (British crown dependency) Map --- Location: 49 15 N, 2 10 W -- Western Europe, island in the English Channel, northwest of France Flag ---- Description: white with the diagonal red cross of Saint Patrick (patron saint of Ireland) extending to the corners of the flag Geography --------- Location: Western Europe, island in the English Channel, northwest of France Geographic coordinates: 49 15 N, 2 10 W 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: 12 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 143 m 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 Geographic note: largest and southernmost of Channel Islands; about 30% of population concentrated in Saint Helier People ------ Population: 87,848 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 17% (male 7,787; female 7,284) 15-64 years: 69% (male 29,928; female 30,395) 65 years and over: 14% (male 5,107; female 7,347) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.77% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 12.93 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9.21 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 4.01 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.11 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.07 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.7 male(s)/female all ages: 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 2.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.36 years male: 75.63 years female: 81.39 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.5 children born/woman (1996 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Bailiwick of Jersey conventional short form: Jersey Data code: JE Type of government: 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 (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch Head of Government: Lieutenant Governor and Commander in Chief Sir Michael WILKES (since NA 1995) and Bailiff Philip Martin BAILHACHE (since NA 1995) were appointed by the queen cabinet: committees were appointed by the Assembly of 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) independents 52 Judicial branch: Royal Court, judges elected by an electoral college and the bailiff Political parties and leaders: none; all independents International organization participation: 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $NA GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $NA GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: NA Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $643.7 million expenditures: $597.2 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: tourism, banking and finance, dairy Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 50,000 kW standby production: power supplied by France consumption per capita: NA kWh (1992) Agriculture: potatoes, cauliflowers, tomatoes; meat, dairy products 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 Economic aid: none Currency: 1 Jersey pound (LJ) = 100 pence Exchange rates: Jersey pounds (LJ) per US$1 - 0.6535 (January 1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991); the Jersey pound is at par with the British pound Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: NA km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Ports: Gorey, Saint Aubin, Saint Helier Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 1 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 61,447 (1983 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: 3 submarine cables Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK ====================================================================== @Johnston Atoll -------------- (territory of the US) Map --- Location: 16 45 N, 169 30 W -- Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-third of the way from Hawaii to the Marshall Islands Flag ---- Description: the flag of the US is used Geography --------- Location: Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-third of the way from Hawaii to the Marshall Islands Geographic coordinates: 16 45 N, 169 30 W 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Summit Peak 5 m Natural resources: NA; guano deposits worked until depletion 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 Geographic note: strategic location in the North Pacific Ocean; Johnston Island and Sand Island are natural islands, which have been expanded by coral dredging; 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 People ------ Population: no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are 1,200 US military and civilian contractor personnel (July 1996 est.) Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Johnston Atoll Data code: JQ Type of government: unincorporated 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: NA km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Ports: Johnston Island Airports: total: 1 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: NA Telephone system: 52 telephone lines; excellent system domestic: 60-channel submarine cable, 22 DSN circuits by satellite, Autodin with standard remote terminal, digital telephone switch, Military Affiliated Radio System (MARS station), UHF/VHF air-ground radio, a link to the Pacific Consolidated Telecommunications Network (PCTN) satellite, and amateur radio international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM 5, shortwave NA Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: NA Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US ====================================================================== @Jordan ------ Map --- Location: 31 00 N, 36 00 E -- Middle East, northwest of Saudi Arabia Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Middle East, northwest of Saudi Arabia Geographic coordinates: 31 00 N, 36 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Dead Sea -408 m highest point: Jabal Ram 1,754 m 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; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea People ------ Population: 4,212,152 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 44% (male 949,822; female 903,043) 15-64 years: 53% (male 1,153,360; female 1,091,416) 65 years and over: 3% (male 57,783; female 56,728) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.65% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 36.67 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 3.95 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -6.23 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.02 male(s)/female all ages: 1.05 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 31.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 72.48 years male: 70.62 years female: 74.45 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.1 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 86.6% male: 93.4% female: 79.4% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: JO Type of government: 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 2 May 1953) is a constitutional monarch head of government: Prime Minister Abd al-Karim al-KABARITI (since 4 February 1996) was appointed by the king cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the king 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) IAF 16, Jordanian National Alliance Party 4, Al-Yaqazah Party 2, Al-Watan Party 2, Al-'Ahd Party 2, Jordanian Arab Democratic Party 2, Al-Mustaqbal Party 1, Jordanian Arab Socialist Ba'th Party 1, Jordanian Democratic Progressive Party 1, Jordanian People's Democratic Party-Hashd 1, Jordanian Socialist Democratic Party 1, independents 47 note: the House of Representatives has been convened and dissolved by the king several times since 1974; in November 1989 the first parliamentary elections in 22 years were held Judicial branch: Court of Cassation Political parties and leaders: Al-'Ahd (Pledge) Party, 'Abd al-Hadi al-MAJALI, secretary general; Al-Ahrar (Liberals) Party, Ahmad al-ZU'BI, secretary general; Al-Taqaddumi (Progressive) Party, Fawwaz al-ZUBI, secretary general; Al-Watan (Homeland) Party, 'Akif al-FAYIZ; Al-Yaqazah (Awakening) Party, 'Abd al-Ra'uf al-RAWABIDAH, secretary general; Constitutional Jordanian Arab Front Party, Milhim al-TALL; Democratic Arab Islamic Movement Party-Du'a', Yusuf Abu BAKR, secretary general; Democratic Arab Unionist Party-Wad, Anis al-MU'ASHIR, secretary general; Islamic Action Front (IAF), Ishaq al-FARHAN, secretary general; Jordanian Arab Masses Party, 'Abd al-Khaliq SHATAT, secretary general; Jordanian Arab Socialist Ba'th Party, Taysir al-HIMSI, command first secretary; Jordanian Communist Party (JCP), Ya'qub ZAYADIN, secretary general; Jordanian Democratic Popular Unity Party, 'Azmi al-KHAWAJA, secretary general; Jordanian National Alliance Party, Mijhim al-KHURAYSHAH, secretary general; Jordanian People's Democratic Party-Hashd, Salim al-NAHHAS, secretary general; Jordanian Unionist Democratic Party, 'Isa MADANAT (secretary general), Ali AMIR (secretary general), Munis al-RAZZAZ (secretary general); Pan-Arab Action Front Party, Muhammad al-ZU'BI, secretary general; Popular Unity Party-the Unionists, Mustafa AL-'ISAWI, secretary general; Progress and Justice Party, 'Ali al-SA'D, secretary general; Progressive Arab Ba'th Party, Mahmud al-MA'AYITAH, command secretary; Al-Mustaqbal (Future) Party, Sulayman 'ARAR, secretary general; Jordanian Arab Partisans Party, Muhammad al-MAJALI, leader, Muhammad SHURAYDAH, secretary general note: in 1995, the Jordanian Arab Democratic Party, the Jordanian Democratic Progressive Party, and the Jordanian Socialist Democratic Party merged to form the Jordanian Unionist Democratic Party International organization participation: 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, UNAMIR, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMIH, UNMOT, UNOMIG, UNOMIL, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNRWA, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Fayiz A. TARAWNEH chancery: 3504 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 966-2664 FAX: [1] (202) 966-3110 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Wesley W. 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Jordan is a small Arab country with inadequate supplies of water and other natural resources such as oil and coal. Jordan benefited from increased Arab aid during the oil boom of the late 1970s and early 1980s, when its annual real GNP growth averaged more than 10%. In the remainder of the 1980s, however, reductions in both Arab aid and worker remittances slowed real economic growth to an average of roughly 2% per year. Imports - mainly oil, capital goods, consumer durables, and food - outstripped exports, with the difference covered by aid, remittances, and borrowing. In mid-1989, the Jordanian Government began debt-rescheduling negotiations and agreed to implement an IMF-supported program designed to gradually reduce the budget deficit and implement badly needed structural reforms. The Persian Gulf crisis that began in August 1990, however, aggravated Jordan's already serious economic problems, forcing the government to shelve the IMF program, stop most debt payments, and suspend rescheduling negotiations. Aid from Gulf Arab states, worker remittances, and trade contracted; and refugees flooded the country, producing serious balance-of-payments problems, stunting GDP growth, and straining government resources. The economy rebounded in 1992, largely due to the influx of capital repatriated by workers returning from the Gulf, but the recovery was uneven throughout 1994 and 1995. The government is implementing the reform program adopted in 1992 and continues to secure rescheduling and write-offs of its heavy foreign debt. Debt, poverty, and unemployment remain Jordan's biggest on-going problems. GDP: purchasing power parity - $19.3 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $4,700 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 11% industry: 25% services: 64% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3% (1995 est.) 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) Unemployment rate: 16% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $2.5 billion expenditures: $2.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $640 million (1996 est.) Industries: phosphate mining, petroleum refining, cement, potash, light manufacturing Industrial production growth rate: 5.6% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 1,050,000 kW production: 4.2 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,072 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, barley, citrus, tomatoes, melons, olives; sheep, goats, poultry Exports: $1.7 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: phosphates, fertilizers, potash, agricultural products, manufactures partners: India, Iraq, Saudi Arabia, EU, Indonesia, UAE Imports: $3.8 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: crude oil, machinery, transport equipment, food, live animals, manufactured goods partners: EU, US, Iraq, Japan, Turkey External debt: $6.9 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $238 million (1993) Currency: 1 Jordanian dinar (JD) = 1,000 fils Exchange rates: Jordanian dinars (JD) per US$1 - 0.7090 (January 1996), 0.7005 (1995), 0.6987 (1994), 0.6928 (1993), 0.6797 (1992), 0.6808 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 676 km narrow gauge: 676 km 1.050-m gauge; note - an additional 110 km stretch of the old Hedjaz railroad is out of use Highways: total: 5,680 km paved: 5,680 km (including 1,712 km of expressways) unpaved: 0 km (1991 est.) Pipelines: crude oil 209 km Ports: Al'Aqabah Merchant marine: total: 3 bulk ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 41,960 GRT/67,515 DWT (1995 est.) Airports: total: 14 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 10 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 3 with paved runways under 914 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 81,500 (1987 est.) Telephone system: adequate telephone system domestic: microwave radio relay, cable, and radiotelephone links international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 Arabsat; coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to Iraq, Saudi Arabia, and Syria; microwave radio relay to Lebanon is inactive; participant in Medarabtel Radio broadcast stations: AM 5, FM 7, shortwave 0 Radios: 1.1 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 8 and 1 TV receive-only satellite link Televisions: 350,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- 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: 1,011,588 males fit for military service: 721,460 males reach military age (18) annually: 45,406 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $589 million, 8.2% of GDP (1996) ====================================================================== @Juan de Nova Island ------------------- (possession of France) Map --- Location: 17 03 S, 42 45 E -- Southern Africa, island in the Mozambique Channel, about one-third of the way between Madagascar and Mozambique Flag ---- Description: the flag of France is used Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, island in the Mozambique Channel, about one-third of the way between Madagascar and Mozambique Geographic coordinates: 17 03 S, 42 45 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 4.4 sq km land area: 4.4 sq km comparative area: about seven 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 the of exploitation exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: claimed by Madagascar Climate: tropical Terrain: NA lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 10 m 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 Geographic note: wildlife sanctuary People ------ Population: uninhabited Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Juan de Nova Island local long form: none local short form: Ile Juan de Nova Data code: JU Type of government: French possession administered by Commissioner of the Republic, resident in Reunion Capital: none; administered by France from Reunion Independence: none (possession of France) Flag: the flag of France is used Economy ------- Economic overview: no economic activity Transportation -------------- Railways: 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 (1995 est.) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France ====================================================================== @Kazakstan --------- Map --- Location: 48 00 N, 68 00 E -- Central Asia, northwest of China Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Central Asia, northwest of China Geographic coordinates: 48 00 N, 68 00 E Map references: Commonwealth of Independent 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 border countries: China 1,533 km, Kyrgyzstan 1,051 km, Russia 6,846 km, Turkmenistan 379 km, Uzbekistan 2,203 km Coastline: 0 km (landlocked) note: Kazakstan 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 lowest point: Vpadina Kaundy -132 m highest point: Zhengis Shingy 7,439 m 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, Climate Change, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Desertification Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 16,916,463 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 30% (male 2,576,204; female 2,486,937) 15-64 years: 63% (male 5,203,035; female 5,451,404) 65 years and over: 7% (male 384,341; female 814,542) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: -0.15% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 19.02 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9.65 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -10.88 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.95 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.47 male(s)/female all ages: 0.93 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 63.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 64.09 years male: 58.56 years female: 69.9 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.36 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Kazakstani(s) adjective: Kazakstani Ethnic divisions: Kazak (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: Kazak (Qazaqz) official language spoken by over 40% of population, Russian (language of interethnic communication) spoken by two-thirds of population and used in everyday business Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1989 est.) total population: 98% male: 99% female: 96% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Kazakstan conventional short form: Kazakstan local long form: Qazaqstan Respublikasy local short form: none former: Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic Data code: KZ Type of government: 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), Pavlodar Oblysy, Qaraghandy Oblysy, Qostanay Oblysy, Qyzylorda 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; has been amended in April 1995 and August 1995 Legal system: based on civil law system Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Nursultan A. NAZARBAYEV (since 22 February 1990) was elected chairman of the Supreme Soviet 22 February 1990, and president by popular election 1 December 1991; was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 1 December 1991 (next to be held NA 2000); results - Nursultan A. NAZARBAYEV ran unopposed; note - President NAZARBAYEV's term was extended to the year 2000 by a nationwide referendum held 30 April 1995 head of government: Prime Minister Akezhan KAZHEGELDIN (since 12 October 1994) and First Deputy Prime Ministers Nigmatzhan ISINGARIN (since 12 October 1994) were appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister note: President NAZARBAYEV has expanded his presidential powers by decree: only he can initiate constitutional amendments, appoint and dismiss the government, dissolve parliament, call referenda at his discretion, and appoint administrative heads of regions and cities Legislative branch: bicameral Parliament Senate: elections (indirect) last held 5 December 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (47 total) "independent" state officials 25, progovernment parties 11, other parties 2, vacant 9 (of which 7 are to be nominated by the president) Majilis: elections last held 9 December and 23 December 1995 (next to be held NA); percent of vote by party NA; seats - (67 total) seats by party NA; note - 172 candidates were forwarded by parties and social organizations and 113 candidates were independents Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: ALASH party; People's Unity Party (PUP; was Union of People's Unity), Akhan BIZHANOV, chairman; Democratic Party, Tulegen ZHUKEYEV and Altynbek SARSENBAYEV, cochairmen; People's Congress of Kazakstan (PCK), Olzhas SULEYMENOV, chairman; Socialist Party of Kazakstan (SPK; former Communist Party), Petr SVOIK, chairman; Communist Party, Baidabek TULEPBAYEV; National Democratic Party, Kamal ORMANTAYEV, chairman; AZAT party, Khasen KOZH-AKHMET, chairman; Confederation of Trade Unions of the Republic of Kazakstan; Peasant Union of the Republic Kazakstan (KPU); Slavic Movement LAD, Aleksandra DOKUCHAYEVA, chairman; Party for Social Justice and Economic Revival "Tagibat"; Social Democratic Party, Dos KUSHIMOV, cochairman; People's Cooperative Party, Umirzak SARSENOV, chairman; Organization of Veterans; Republican Party Other political or pressure groups: Independent Trade Union Center, Leonid SOLOMIN, president; Kazakstani-American Bureau on Human Rights, Yevgeniy ZHOVTIS, executive director; Democratic Committee on Human Rights; Independent Miners Union International organization participation: AsDB, CCC, CIS, EBRD, ECE, ECO, ESCAP, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IDB, IFC, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, NACC, OIC, OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (observer) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Bolat NURGALIYEV chancery: (temporary) 3421 Massachusetts Avenue, NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 333-4504 through 4507 FAX: [1] (202) 333-4509 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador A. Elizabeth JONES embassy: 99/97 Furmanova Street, Almaty, Republic of Kazakstan 480012 mailing address: use embassy street address telephone: [7] (3272) 63-39-05, 63-13-75, 63-24-26 FAX: [7] (3272) 63-29-42 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Kazakstan, the second largest of the former Soviet states in territory, possesses enormous untapped fossil-fuel reserves as well as plentiful supplies of other minerals and metals. It also has considerable agricultural potential with its vast steppe lands accommodating both livestock and grain production. Kazakstan's industrial sector rests on the extraction and processing of these natural resources and also on a relatively large machine building sector specializing in construction equipment, tractors, agricultural machinery, and some defense items. The breakup of the USSR and the collapse of demand for Kazakstan's traditional heavy industry products have resulted in a sharp contraction of the economy since 1991, with the steepest annual decline occurring in 1994. The government has pursued a moderate program of economic reform and privatization, resulting in a gradual lifting of state controls over economic activity and a shifting of assets into the private sector. Nevertheless, government control over key sectors of the economy remains strong. Moreover, continued lack of pipeline transportation for expanded oil exports has closed off a likely source of economic recovery. GDP: purchasing power parity - $46.9 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994) GDP real growth rate: -8.9% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,700 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 28.5% industry: 41.5% services: 30% (1991 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 60.3% (1995 est.) Labor force: 7.356 million by occupation: industry and construction 31%, agriculture and forestry 26%, other 43% (1992) Unemployment rate: 1.4% includes only officially registered unemployed; also large numbers of underemployed workers (September 1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA 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; much of industrial capacity is shut down and/or is in need of repair Industrial production growth rate: -8% (1995) Electricity: capacity: 17,380,000 kW production: 65.7 billion kWh consumption per capita: 3,700 kWh (1995 est.) Agriculture: grain, mostly spring wheat, cotton; wool, meat Illicit drugs: illicit cultivation of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for CIS consumption; government eradication program; used as transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe and North America from Southwest Asia Exports: $5.1 billion (1995) commodities: oil, ferrous and nonferrous metals, chemicals, grain, wool, meat, coal partners: Russia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan Imports: $3.9 billion (1995) commodities: machinery and parts, industrial materials, oil and gas partners: Russia and other former Soviet republics, China External debt: $2.5 billion (of which $1.3 billion to Russia) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $10 million (1993) note: commitments, 1992-95, $4,780 million ($1,795 million disbursements) Currency: national currency, the tenge, introduced on 15 November 1993 Exchange rates: tenges per US$1 - 64 (yearend 1995), 54 (yearend 1994) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 13,841 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines broad gauge: 13,841 km 1.520-m gauge (3,299 km electrified) (1992) Highways: total: 87,873 km public roads paved: 82,568 km unpaved: 5,305 km (1994) Waterways: 4,002 km on the Syrdariya River and 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 2 437 m: 25 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 65 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 190 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 2.2 million Telephone system: service is poor domestic: landline and microwave radio relay international: international traffic with other former Soviet republics and China carried by landline and microwave radio relay and with other countries by satellite and through 8 international telecommunications circuits at the Moscow international gateway switch; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat and a new satellite earth station established at Almaty of unknown type Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA Radios: 4.088 million (with multiple speakers for program diffusion 6.082 million) Television broadcast stations: NA; Orbita (TV receive only) earth station Televisions: 4.75 million Defense ------- Branches: Army, Air Force, Air Defense Force, National Guard, Security Forces (internal and border troops); Kazakstan may also be establishing a maritime force - navy or coast guard - on the Caspian Sea Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 4,399,356 males fit for military service: 3,516,583 males reach military age (18) annually: 154,750 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: 18.9 billion tenges, NA% of GDP (1995); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results ====================================================================== @Kenya ----- Map --- Location: 1 00 N, 38 00 E -- Eastern Africa, bordering the Indian Ocean, between Somalia and Tanzania Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Eastern Africa, bordering the Indian Ocean, between Somalia and Tanzania Geographic coordinates: 1 00 N, 38 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Kenya 5,199 m 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; signed, but not ratified - Desertification Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 28,176,686 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 45% (male 6,362,160; female 6,226,333) 15-64 years: 53% (male 7,413,876; female 7,448,733) 65 years and over: 2% (male 328,649; female 396,935) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.27% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 33.38 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 10.3 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.35 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.83 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 55.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 55.61 years male: 55.53 years female: 55.69 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.45 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 78.1% male: 86.3% female: 70% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Kenya conventional short form: Kenya former: British East Africa Data code: KE Type of government: 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) elected for a five-year term from the National Assembly by direct popular vote; election last held 29 December 1992 (next to be held by early 1998); results - President Daniel T. arap MOI was reelected with 37% of the vote; Kenneth MATIBA (FORD-ASILI) 26%; Mwai KIBAKI (DP) 19%, Oginga ODINGA (FORD-Kenya) 17%; Vice President George SAITOTI (since 10 May 1989) was appointed by the president cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Bunge): election last held 29 December 1992 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (188 total) KANU 100, FORD-Kenya 31, FORD-Asili 31, DP 23, smaller parties 3; president nominates 12 additional members; note - as of 9 April 1996 seat distribution was: KANU 106, FORD-Kenya 32, FORD-Asili 22, DP 22, smaller parties and vacancies 6 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; unregistered SAFINA party with which prominent naturalist Richard Leakey is associated International organization participation: ACP, C, CCC, EADB, ECA, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGADD, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, NAM, OAU, UN, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNOMIL, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNU, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Benjamin Edgar KIPKORIR chancery: 2249 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 387-6101 FAX: [1] (202) 462-3829 consulate(s) general: Los Angeles and New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Aurelia E. BRAZEAL embassy: corner of Moi Avenue and Haile Selassie Avenue, Nairobi mailing address: P. O. Box 30137, Unit 64100, 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. The strong economy continued into 1995 with inflation cut sharply and GDP growth at 5%. GDP: purchasing power parity - $36.8 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,300 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 27% industry: 19% services: 54% (1992 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.7% (1995 est.) Labor force: by occupation: agriculture 75%-80% (1993 est.), non-agriculture 20%-25% (1993 est.) Unemployment rate: 35% urban (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $2.4 billion expenditures: $2.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $740 million (1990 est.) Industries: small-scale consumer goods (plastic, furniture, batteries, textiles, soap, cigarettes, flour), agricultural processing; oil refining, cement; tourism Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 810,000 kW production: 3.3 billion kWh consumption per capita: 117 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, tea, corn, wheat, sugarcane, fruit, vegetables; dairy products, beef, pork, poultry, eggs Illicit drugs: widespread harvesting of small, wild plots of marijuana and qat (chat); most locally consumed; transit country for Southwest Asian heroin moving to West Africa and onward to Europe and North America; Indian methaqualone also transits on way to South Africa Exports: $1.6 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: tea 25%, coffee 18%, petroleum products 11% (1990) partners: EC 47%, Africa 23%, Asia 11%, US 4%, Middle East 3% (1991) Imports: $2.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994) 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.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $589 million (1993) Currency: 1 Kenyan shilling (KSh) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Kenyan shillings (KSh) per US$1 - 56.715 (January 1996), 51.430 (1995), 56.051 (1994), 58.001 (1993), 32.217 (1992), 27.508 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 2,652 km narrow gauge: 2,652 km 1.000-m gauge Highways: total: 62,573 km paved: 8,322 km unpaved: 54,251 km (1991 est.) Waterways: part of Lake Victoria system is within boundaries of ====================================================================== @Kingman Reef ------------ (territory of the US) Map --- Location: 6 24 N, 162 24 W -- Oceania, reef in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to American Samoa Flag ---- Description: the flag of the US is used Geography --------- Location: Oceania, reef in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to American Samoa Geographic coordinates: 6 24 N, 162 24 W 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 1 m 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 Kingman Reef a maritime hazard international agreements: NA Geographic note: barren coral atoll with deep interior lagoon; closed to the public People ------ Population: uninhabited Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Kingman Reef Data code: KQ Type of government: 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 Flag: the flag of the US is used Economy ------- Economic overview: no economic activity 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 Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US ====================================================================== @Kiribati -------- Map --- Location: 1 25 N, 173 00 E -- 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 Flag ---- Description: 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 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 Geographic coordinates: 1 25 N, 173 00 E Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 717 sq km land area: 717 sq km comparative area: 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location on Banaba 81 m 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: heavy pollution in lagoon of south Tarawa atoll due to heavy migration mixed with traditional practices such as lagoon latrines and open-pit dumping; ground water at risk natural hazards: typhoons can occur any time, but usually November to March; occasional tornadoes international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 80,919 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 1.89% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 27.13 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.9 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.31 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 52.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 62.02 years male: 60.25 years female: 64.03 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.21 children born/woman (1996 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Kiribati conventional short form: Kiribati note: pronounced kiribas former: Gilbert Islands Data code: KR Type of government: 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) was elected by popular vote; note - the House of Assembly chooses the presidential candidates from among their members and then those candidates compete in a general election; election last held 30 September 1994 (next to be held by NA 1999); results - Teburoro TITO 51.2%, Tewareka TENTOA 18.3%, Roniti TEIWAKI 16.0%, Peter Taberannang TIMEON 14.5%; Vice President (Kauoman-ni-Beretitenti) Tewareka TENTOA (since 12 October 1994) was appointed by the president cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president from among the members of the House of Assembly Legislative branch: unicameral House of Assembly (Maneaba Ni Maungatabu): elections last held 22 July 1994 (next to be held by NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (40 total, 39 elected) Maneaban Te Mauri 13, National Progressive Party 7, independents 19 Judicial branch: Court of Appeal, judges at all levels are appointed by the president; High Court, judges at all levels are appointed by the president Political parties and leaders: National Progressive Party, Teatao TEANNAKI; Christian Democratic Party, Teburoro TITO; New Movement Party, leader NA; Liberal Party, Tewareka TENTOA; Maneaban Te Mauri Party, Roniti TEIWAKI 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 International organization participation: ACP, AsDB, C, ESCAP, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, IDA, IFC, IMF, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, ITU, Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UNESCO, UPU, WHO Diplomatic representation in US: Kiribati does not have an embassy in the US US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Kiribati; 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 growth has declined from about 10% in 1988 to about 2.6% in 1995. Economic development is constrained by a shortage of skilled workers, weak infrastructure, and remoteness from international markets. The financial sector is at an early stage of development. Foreign financial aid, largely from the UK and Japan, is a critical supplement to GDP, equal in amount to 25%-50% of GDP in recent years. GDP: purchasing power parity - $68 million (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.6% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $860 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5.5% (1994 est.) Labor force: 7,870 economically active, not including subsistence farmers (1985 est.) Unemployment rate: 2%; underemployment 70% (1992 est.) Budget: revenues: $32.5 million expenditures: $54.3 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: fishing, handicrafts Industrial production growth rate: 0.7% (1992 est.) Electricity: capacity: 5,000 kW production: 13 million kWh consumption per capita: 131 kWh (1993) Agriculture: copra, taro, breadfruit, sweet potatoes, vegetables; fish Exports: $6.3 million (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: copra 50%, seaweed 16%, fish 15% partners: Denmark, Fiji, US Imports: $38.6 million (c.i.f., 1995 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.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3477 (January 1996), 1.3486 (1995), 1.3667 (1994), 1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2835 (1991) Fiscal year: NA Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 640 km (1987 est.) paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Waterways: small network of canals, totaling 5 km, in Line Islands Ports: Banaba, Betio, English Harbor, Kanton Merchant marine: total: 2 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 3,248 GRT/4,496 DWT ships by type: oil tanker 1, short-sea passenger 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 20 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 4 with paved runways under 914 m: 5 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 11 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1,400 (1984 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 15,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 (1988 est.) Televisions: 0 (1988 est.) Defense ------- Branches: no regular military forces; Police Force (carries out law enforcement functions and paramilitary duties; small police posts are on all islands) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Korea, North ------------ Map --- Location: 40 00 N, 127 00 E -- Eastern Asia, northern half of the Korean Peninsula bordering the Korea Bay and the Sea of Japan, between China and South Korea Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Eastern Asia, northern half of the Korean Peninsula bordering the Korea Bay and the Sea of Japan, between China and South Korea Geographic coordinates: 40 00 N, 127 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Sea of Japan 0 m highest point: Paektu-san 2,744 m 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 international agreements: party to - Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection Geographic note: strategic location bordering China, South Korea, and Russia; mountainous interior is isolated, nearly inaccessible, and sparsely populated People ------ Population: 23,904,124 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 30% (male 3,605,972; female 3,465,038) 15-64 years: 66% (male 7,871,783; female 7,956,935) 65 years and over: 4% (male 355,284; female 649,112) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.74% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 22.86 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.45 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.55 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 25.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 70.32 years male: 67.23 years female: 73.57 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.31 children born/woman (1996 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% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: KN Type of government: Communist state; Stalinist dictatorship Capital: P'yongyang Administrative divisions: 9 provinces (do, singular and plural) and 3 special cities* (si, singular and plural); Chagang-do (Chagang Province), Hamgyong-bukto (North Hamgyong Province), Hamgyong-namdo (South Hamgyong Province), Hwanghae-bukto (North Hwanghae Province), Hwanghae-namdo (South Hwanghae Province), Kaesong-si* (Kaesong City), Kangwon-do (Kangwon Province), Namp'o-si* (Namp'o City), P'yongan-bukto (North P'yongan Province), P'yongan-namdo (South P'yongan Province), P'yongyang-si* (P'yongyang City), Yanggang-do (Yanggang Province) 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 [defacto]; note - President KIM Il-song was reelected without opposition 24 May 1990 and died 8 July 1994 leaving his son KIM Chong-il as designated successor; however the son has not assumed the titles that his father held and no new elections have been held or scheduled head of government: Premier KANG Song-san (since NA December 1992) was elected by the Supreme People's Assembly cabinet: State Administration Council was appointed by the Supreme People's Assembly Legislative branch: unicameral Supreme People's Assembly (Ch'oego Inmin Hoeui): elections last held 7-9 April 1990 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (687 total) the KWP approves a single list of candidates who are elected without opposition; minor parties hold a few seats Judicial branch: Central Court, judges are elected by the Supreme People's Assembly 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 International organization participation: ESCAP, FAO, G-77, ICAO, ICRM, IFAD, IFRCS, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), IOC, ISO, ITU, NAM, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: none; note - North Korea has a Permanent Mission to the UN in New York, headed by PAK Kil-yon 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 an average of 4%-5% annually during 1989-95 because of systemic problems and disruptions in socialist-style economic relations and technological links with the former USSR and China. The leadership has insisted on maintaining its high level of military outlays from a shrinking economic pie. Moreover, a serious drawdown in inventories and critical shortages in the energy sector have led to increasing interruptions in industrial production. Abundant mineral resources and hydropower have formed the basis of industrial development since World War II. Manufacturing is centered on heavy industry, including military industry, with light industry lagging far behind. Despite the use of improved seed varieties, expansion of irrigation, and the heavy use of fertilizers, North Korea has not yet become self-sufficient in food production. Indeed, a shortage of arable lands, several years of poor harvests, and a cumbersome distribution system have resulted in chronic food shortages. The year 1995 was marked by serious summer floods that worsened an already tenuous food situation. Substantial grain shipments from Japan and South Korea offset a portion of the losses. North Korea remains far behind South Korea in economic development and living standards. GDP: purchasing power parity - $21.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: -5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $920 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 25% industry: 60% services: 15% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: 9.615 million by occupation: agricultural 36%, nonagricultural 64% Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $19.3 billion expenditures: $19.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.) Industries: military products; machine building, electric power, chemicals; mining (coal, iron ore, magnesite, graphite, copper, zinc, lead, and precious metals), metallurgy; textiles, food processing Industrial production growth rate: -7% to -9% (1992 est.) Electricity: capacity: 9,500,000 kW production: 50 billion kWh consumption per capita: 2,053 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rice, corn, potatoes, soybeans, pulses; cattle, pigs, pork, eggs Exports: $840 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: minerals, metallurgical products, agricultural and fishery products, manufactures (including armaments) partners: China, Japan, South Korea, Germany, Hong Kong, Russia Imports: $1.27 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: petroleum, grain, coking coal, machinery and equipment, consumer goods partners: China, Japan, Hong Kong, Germany, Russia, Singapore External debt: $8 billion (1992 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA note: small amounts of grant aid from Japan and other countries 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: 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: 4,500 km unpaved: 25,500 km 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: 88 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 712,480 GRT/1,140,923 DWT ships by type: bulk 9, cargo 71, 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 34,782 DWT operating under the registries of Hondurus and Poland (1995 est.) 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 2 437 m: 5 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 12 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 6 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 30,000 (1990 est.) Telephone system: system is believed to be available principally for government business domestic: NA international: satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) and 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region); 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: 400,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Korean People's Army (includes Army, Navy, Air Force), Civil Security Forces Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 6,844,035 males fit for military service: 4,143,713 males reach military age (18) annually: 194,922 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $5 billion to $7 billion, 25% to 33% of GDP (1995 est.) ====================================================================== @Korea, South ------------ Map --- Location: 37 00 N, 127 30 E -- Eastern Asia, southern half of the Korean Peninsula bordering the Sea of Japan and the Yellow Sea, south of North Korea Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Eastern Asia, southern half of the Korean Peninsula bordering the Sea of Japan and the Yellow Sea, south of North Korea Geographic coordinates: 37 00 N, 127 30 E 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 border country: 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 lowest point: Sea of Japan 0 m highest point: Halla-san 1,950 m 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; drift net fishing natural hazards: occasional typhoons bring high winds and floods; earthquakes in southwest international agreements: party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea People ------ Population: 45,482,291 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 23% (male 5,531,032; female 4,962,915) 15-64 years: 71% (male 16,374,678; female 15,910,846) 65 years and over: 6% (male 1,014,649; female 1,688,171) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.02% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 16.24 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.35 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.14 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.11 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.6 male(s)/female all ages: 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 8.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 73.26 years male: 69.65 years female: 77.39 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.77 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 98% male: 99.3% female: 96.7% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: KS Type of government: republic Capital: Seoul Administrative divisions: 9 provinces (do, singular and plural) and 6 special cities* (gwangyoksi, singular and plural); Cheju-do, Cholla-bukto, Cholla-namdo, Ch'ungch'ong-bukto, Ch'ungch'ong-namdo, Inch'on-gwangyoksi*, Kangwon-do, Kwangju-gwangyoksi*, Kyonggi-do, Kyongsang-bukto, Kyongsang-namdo, Pusan-gwangyoksi*, Soul-t'ukpyolsi*, Taegu-gwangyoksi*, Taejon-gwangyoksi* 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) was elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 18 December 1992 (next to be held NA December 1997); results - KIM Yong-sam (DLP) 41.9%, KIM Tae-chung (DP) 33.8%, CHONG Chu-yong (UPP) 16.3%, other 8% head of government: Prime Minister YI Su-song (since 15 December 1995) was appointed by the president with the consent of the National Assembly; Deputy Prime Ministers NA Ung-pae (since 20 December 1995) and KWON O-ki (since 20 December 1995) were appointed by the president on the prime minister's recommendation cabinet: State Council was appointed by the president on the prime minister's recommendation Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Kukhoe): members elected for four-year terms; elections last held 11 April 1996 (next to be held NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (299 total) NKP 139, NCNP 79, ULD 50, DP 15, independents 16 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, justices are appointed by the president subject to the consent of the National Assembly Political parties and leaders: majority party: New Korea Party (NKP), KIM Yong-sam, president opposition: United Liberal Democratic Party (ULD), KIM Chong-p'il, president; Democratic Party (DP), KIM Won-ki, co-chairman and CHANG Ul-pyong, co-chairman; National Congress for New Politics (NCNP), KIM Tae-chung, president 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 International organization participation: AfDB, APEC, AsDB, CCC, CP, EBRD, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, OAS (observer), OSCE (partner), UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMOGIP, UNOMIG, UNU, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador PAK Kun-u chancery: 2450 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 939-5600, 524-9273 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, 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: As one of the Four Dragons of East Asia, South Korea has achieved an incredible record of growth. Three decades ago its GDP per capita was comparable with levels in the poorer countries of Africa and Asia. Today its GDP per capita is nine times India's, 14 times North Korea's, and already up with the lesser economies of the European Union. This success has been achieved by a unique combination of authoritarian government guidance of what is at bottom an essentially entrepreneurial process. The government has sponsored large-scale adoption of technology and management from Japan and other modern nations; has successfully pushed the development of export industries while encouraging the import of machinery and materials at the expense of consumer goods; and has pushed its labor force to a work effort seldom matched anywhere even in wartime. Real GDP grew by an average 10% in 1986-91, then paused to a "mere" 5% in 1992-93, only to move back up to 8% in 1994 and 9% in 1995. With a much higher standard of living and with a considerable easing of authoritarian controls, the work pace has softened. Growth rates will probably slow down over the medium term because of the exhaustion of former growth opportunities and the need to deal with pollution and the other problems of success. GDP: purchasing power parity - $590.7 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 9% (1995) GDP per capita: $13,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 8% industry: 45% services: 47% (1991 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 4.3% (1995 est.) Labor force: 20 million by occupation: services and other 52%, mining and manufacturing 27%, agriculture, fishing, forestry 21% (1991) Unemployment rate: 2% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $69 billion expenditures: $67 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: electronics, automobile production, chemicals, shipbuilding, steel, textiles, clothing, footwear, food processing Industrial production growth rate: 12.2% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 28,750,000 kW production: 165 billion kWh consumption per capita: 2,899 kWh (1994) Agriculture: rice, root crops, barley, vegetables, fruit; cattle, pigs, chickens, milk, eggs; fish catch of 2.9 million metric tons, seventh largest in world Exports: $125.4 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: electronic and electrical equipment, machinery, steel, automobiles, ships; textiles, clothing, footwear; fish partners: US 19%, Japan 14%, EU 13% Imports: $135.1 billion (c.i.f., 1995) commodities: machinery, electronics and electronic equipment, oil, steel, transport equipment, textiles, organic chemicals, grains partners: Japan 24%, US 22%, EU 13% External debt: $77 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 South Korean won (W) = 100 chun (theoretical) Exchange rates: South Korean won (W) per US$1 - 787.27 (January 1996), 771.27 (1995), 803.45 (1994), 802.67 (1993), 780.65 (1992), 733.35 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 3,101 km standard gauge: 3,081 km 1.435-m gauge (560 km electrified) narrow gauge: 20 km 0.762-m gauge Highways: total: 61,296 km paved: 51,918 km (including 1,550 km of expressways) unpaved: 9,378 km (1993) 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: 428 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 6,076,981 GRT/9,822,089 DWT ships by type: bulk 124, cargo 122, chemical tanker 21, combination bulk 3, combination ore/oil 1, container 59, liquefied gas tanker 12, multifunction large-load carrier 1, oil tanker 61, refrigerated cargo 13, short-sea passenger 1, vehicle carrier 10 note: South Korea owns an additional 231 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 10,128,506 DWT operating under the registries of Panama, Liberia, Cyprus, Malta, The Bahamas, and Thailand (1995 est.) Airports: total: 105 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 20 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 13 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 14 with paved runways under 914 m: 54 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 (1995 est.) Heliports: 201 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 16.6 million (1993) Telephone system: excellent domestic and international services domestic: NA international: fiber-optic submarine cable to China; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Pacific Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 Inmarsat (Pacific Ocean Region) Radio broadcast stations: AM 79, FM 46, shortwave 0 Radios: 42 million (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 256 (57 of which are 1 kW or greater) (1987 est.) Televisions: 9.3 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marine Corps, National Maritime Police (Coast Guard) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 13,602,115 males fit for military service: 8,706,545 males reach military age (18) annually: 398,322 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $17.4 billion, 3.3% of GNP (1996) ====================================================================== @Kuwait ------ Map --- Location: 29 30 N, 45 45 E -- Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf, between Iraq and Saudi Arabia Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and red with a black trapezoid based on the hoist side Geography --------- Location: Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf, between Iraq and Saudi Arabia Geographic coordinates: 29 30 N, 45 45 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Persian Gulf 0 m highest point: unnamed location 306 m 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 dust storms 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, Desertification, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping Geographic note: strategic location at head of Persian Gulf People ------ Population: 1,950,047 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 33% (male 334,778; female 317,241) 15-64 years: 65% (male 757,535; female 507,064) 65 years and over: 2% (male 18,459; female 14,970) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 6.65% (1996 est.) note: this rate reflects the continued post-Gulf crisis return of nationals and expatriates Birth rate: 20.28 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 2.2 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 48.46 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.49 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.23 male(s)/female all ages: 1.32 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 11.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.92 years male: 73.59 years female: 78.38 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.82 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 78.6% male: 82.2% female: 74.9% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: State of Kuwait conventional short form: Kuwait local long form: Dawlat al Kuwayt local short form: Al Kuwayt Data code: KU Type of government: 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 (1950) 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 have been naturalized for 30 years or more or have resided in Kuwait since 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 30 years will be eligible to vote Executive branch: chief of state: Amir JABIR al-Ahmad al-Jabir Al Sabah (since 31 December 1977) is a hereditary monarch of the MUBARAK line of the ruling Sabah family head of government: Prime Minister and Crown Prince SAAD al-Abdallah al-Salim Al Sabah (since 8 February 1978), First Deputy Prime Minister SABAH al-Ahmad al-Jabir Al Sabah (since 17 October 1992), and Second Deputy Prime Minister Nasir Abdallah al-RUDAN (since NA) were appointed by the Amir cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister and approved by the amir Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Majlis al-umma): elected members serve four-year terms; elections last held 5 October 1992 (next to be held NA September 1996); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (50 total) independents 50; note - all cabinet ministers are also ex officio members of the National Assembly Judicial branch: High Court of Appeal Political parties and leaders: none Other political or pressure groups: several political groups act as de facto parties: Bedouins, merchants, Sunni and Shi'a activists, and secular leftists and nationalists International organization participation: ABEDA, AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, BDEAC, CAEU, CCC, ESCWA, FAO, G-77, 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, WToO, WTrO 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] (202) 966-0702 FAX: [1] (202) 966-0517 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 6900, 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 averaged 2.0 million barrels per day in 1994. The government continues to record large fiscal deficits. Petroleum accounts for nearly half of GDP, 90% of export revenues, and 70% of government income. 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 1994-95, with the growth in industry and finance. 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $30.8 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $17,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 0% industry: 55% services: 45% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5% (1994 est.) Labor force: 1 million (1994 est.) by occupation: industry and agriculture 25.0%, services 25.0%, government and social services 50.0% note: 80% of labor force non-Kuwaiti (1994 est.) Unemployment rate: NEGL% (1992 est.) Budget: revenues: $9.7 billion expenditures: $14.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY95/96 est.) Industries: petroleum, petrochemicals, desalination, food processing, construction materials, salt, construction Industrial production growth rate: 1% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 7,070,000 kW production: 11 billion kWh consumption per capita: 6,007 kWh (1993) Agriculture: practically no crops; extensive fishing in territorial waters Exports: $11.9 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: oil partners: US 23%, Japan 13%, Germany 10%, UK 9%, France 8% Imports: $6.7 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: food, construction materials, vehicles and parts, clothing partners: US 14%, Japan 12%, Germany 8%, UK 7%, France 6% (1994 est.) External debt: $NA Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 Kuwaiti dinar (KD) = 1,000 fils Exchange rates: Kuwaiti dinars (KD) per US$1 - 0.2993 (January 1996), 0.2984 (1995), 0.2976 (1994), 0.3017 (1993), 0.2934 (1992), 0.2843 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 4,273 km paved: NA km (including 280 km of expressways) (1989 est.) unpaved: NA km 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: 46 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,053,667 GRT/3,242,305 DWT ships by type: cargo 10, container 3, liquefied gas tanker 7, livestock carrier 4, oil tanker 21, vehicle carrier 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 4 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 3 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 548,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: the civil network suffered some damage as a result of the Gulf war, but most of the telephone exchanges were left intact and, by the end of 1994, domestic and international telecommunications had been restored to normal operation; the quality of service is excellent domestic: new telephone exchanges provide a large capacity for new subscribers; trunk traffic is carried by microwave radio relay, coaxial cable, open wire and fiber-optic cable; a cellular telephone system operates throughout Kuwait and the country is well supplied with pay telephones international: coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to Saudi Arabia; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean, 2 Indian Ocean), 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean), and 1 Arabsat Radio broadcast stations: AM 3, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 720,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 3 (1986 est.) Televisions: 800,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, National Guard, Ministry of Interior Forces, Coast Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 658,270 males fit for military service: 391,586 males reach military age (18) annually: 17,544 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $3.5 billion, 12.8% of GDP (FY95/96) ====================================================================== @Kyrgyzstan ---------- Map --- Location: 41 00 N, 75 00 E -- Central Asia, west of China Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Central Asia, west of China Geographic coordinates: 41 00 N, 75 00 E Map references: Commonwealth of Independent 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 border countries: China 858 km, Kazakstan 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 and associated valleys and basins encompass entire nation lowest point: Kara-Daryya 132 m highest point: Jengish Chokusu 7,439 m 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 Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 4,529,648 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 37% (male 847,859; female 828,889) 15-64 years: 57% (male 1,263,044; female 1,312,040) 65 years and over: 6% (male 100,524; female 177,292) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.07% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 26.02 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.83 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -16.5 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.57 male(s)/female all ages: 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 77.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 63.86 years male: 59.18 years female: 68.77 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.22 children born/woman (1996 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 NA%, Russian Orthodox NA% Languages: Kirghiz (Kyrgyz) - official language, Russian - official language note: in March 1996, the Kyrgyz legislature amended the constitution to make Russian an official language, along with Kyrgyz, in territories and work places where Russian-speaking citizens predominate Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1989 est.) total population: 97% male: 99% female: 96% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Kyrgyz Republic conventional short form: Kyrgyzstan local long form: Kyrgyz Respublikasy local short form: none former: Kirghiz Soviet Socialist Republic Data code: KG Type of government: 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 note: amendment proposed by President AKAYEV and passed in a national referendum on 10 February 1996 significantly expands the powers of the president at the expense of the legislature 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) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; elections last held 24 December 1995 (next to be held NA); results - Askar AKAYEV won election with 75% of vote with 86% of electorate voting; note - elections were held early which gave the two opposition candidates little time to campaign; AKAYEV may have orchestrated the "deregistration" of two other candidates, one of whom was a major rival head of government: Prime Minister Apas JUMAGULOV (since NA December 1993) was appointed by the president and reappointed February 1996 cabinet: Cabinet of Ministers was appointed by the president on the recommendation of the prime minister Legislative branch: bicameral Supreme Council (Zhogorku Kenesh) Assembly of People's Representatives: elections last held 5 February 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (70 total) seats by party NA; note - not all the 70 seats were filled at the 5 February elections; as a result, run-off elections were held at later dates; the assembly meets twice yearly Legislative Assembly: elections last held 5 February 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (35 total) seats by party NA; note - not all the 35 seats were filled at the 5 February elections; as a result, run-off elections were held note: the legislature became bicameral for the 5 February 1995 elections Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges are appointed for a 10-year term by the Zhogorku Kenesh on recommendation of the president; Constitutional Court; Higher Court of Arbitration Political parties and leaders: Social Democratic Party (SDP); Democratic Movement of Kyrgyzstan (DDK), Jypar JEKSHEYEV, chairman; National Unity; Communist Party of Kyrgyzstan (PCK), Absamat MASALIYEV, chairman; Democratic Movement of Free Kyrgyzstan (ErK), Tursunbay Bakir UULU, chairman; Republican Popular Party of Kyrgyzstan; Agrarian Party of Kyrgyzstan; Atu Meken Party, Omurbek TEKEBAYEV; ASABA Other political or pressure groups: National Unity Democratic Movement; Peasant Party; Council of Free Trade Unions; Union of Entrepreneurs; Agrarian Party International organization participation: AsDB, CIS, EBRD, ECE, ECO, ESCAP, FAO, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, ILO, IMF, Intelsat, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NACC, OIC, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (observer) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Acting Ambassador Almas CHUKIN chancery: (temporary) Suite 706, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005 telephone: [1] (202) 347-3732 FAX: [1] (202) 347-3718 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Eileen A. MALLOY embassy: Erkindik Prospekt #66, Bishkek 720002 mailing address: use embassy street address telephone: [7] (3312) 22-29-20, 22-27-77, 22-26-31, 22-24-73 FAX: [7] (3312) 22-35-51 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Kyrgyzstan is a small, poor, mountainous country with a predominantly agricultural economy. Cotton, wool, and meat are the main agricultural products and exports. Industrial exports included gold, mercury, uranium, and hydropower. Kyrgyzstan has been one of the most progressive countries of the former Soviet Union in carrying out market reforms. Following a successful stabilization program, which has lowered inflation from 88% in 1994 to 32% for 1995, attention is turning toward stimulating growth. About half of government stock in enterprises has been sold. Drops in production have been severe since the break up of the Soviet Union, but by mid-1995 production began to level off as exports began to increase. The level of hardship for pensioners, unemployed workers, and government workers with salaries arrears continues to be very high. Foreign assistance plays a substantial role in the country's budget. In early 1996, the economy apparently is slowly beginning to restore previous levels of output. GDP: purchasing power parity - $5.4 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994) GDP real growth rate: -6% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,140 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 32% (1995 est.) Labor force: 1.836 million by occupation: agriculture and forestry 38%, industry and construction 21%, other 41% (1990) Unemployment rate: 4.8% includes officially registered unemployed; also large numbers of unregistered unemployed and underemployed workers (December 1995) Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: small machinery, textiles, food processing, cement, shoes, sawn logs, refrigerators, furniture, electric motors, gold, rare earth metals Industrial production growth rate: -12.5% (1995) Electricity: capacity: 3,660,000 kW production: 12.3 billion kWh consumption per capita: 2,500 kWh (1995 est.) Agriculture: wool, tobacco, cotton, potatoes, vegetables, grapes, fruits and berries; sheep, goats, cattle Illicit drugs: illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for CIS consumption; government eradication program; used as transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe and North America from Southwest Asia Exports: $380 million (1995) commodities: cotton, wool, meat, tobacco; gold, mercury, uranium, hydropower; machinery; shoes partners: Russia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Kazakstan, Turkey, Cuba, and Germany Imports: $439 million (1995) commodities: grain, lumber, industrial products, ferrous metals, fuel, machinery, textiles, footwear partners: Russia, Uzbekistan, Kazakstan, China, and UK External debt: $480 million (of which $115 million to Russia) (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $56 million (1993) note: commitments, 1992-95, $1,695 million ($390 million disbursements) Currency: introduced national currency, the som (10 May 1993) Exchange rates: soms per US$1 - 11.2 (yearend 1995), 10.6 (yearend 1994) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 370 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines broad gauge: 370 km 1.520-m gauge (1990) Highways: total: 28,400 km paved: 22,400 km unpaved: 6,000 km (1990) Pipelines: natural gas 200 km Ports: Balykchy (Ysyk-Kol or 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 2 437 m: 4 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 4 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 32 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 342,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: poorly developed; about 100,000 unsatisfied applications for household telephones domestic: principally microwave radio relay international: connections with other CIS countries by landline or microwave radio relay and with other countries by leased connections with Moscow international gateway switch and by satellite; satellite earth stations - 1 Intersputnik and 1 Intelsat Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA; note -1 state-run radio broadcast station Radios: 825,000 (radio receiver systems with multiple speakers for program diffusion 748,000) Television broadcast stations: 1 note: receives Turkish broadcasts Televisions: 875,000 Defense ------- Branches: Army, National Guard, Security Forces (internal and border troops), Civil Defense Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,096,985 males fit for military service: 890,901 males reach military age (18) annually: 44,159 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: 151 million soms, NA% of GDP (1995); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results ====================================================================== @Laos ---- Map --- Location: 18 00 N, 105 00 E -- Southeastern Asia, northeast of Thailand Flag ---- Description: three horizontal bands of red (top), blue (double width), and red with a large white disk centered in the blue band Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Asia, northeast of Thailand Geographic coordinates: 18 00 N, 105 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Mekong River 70 m highest point: Phou Bia 2,817 m 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 - Environmental Modification, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the Sea Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 4,975,772 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 45% (male 1,142,825; female 1,114,628) 15-64 years: 51% (male 1,237,660; female 1,316,591) 65 years and over: 4% (male 75,748; female 88,320) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.81% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 41.94 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 13.83 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.94 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.86 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 96.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 52.69 years male: 51.14 years female: 54.31 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.87 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 56.6% male: 69.4% female: 44.4% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Lao People's Democratic Republic conventional short form: Laos local long form: Sathalanalat Paxathipatai Paxaxon Lao local short form: none Data code: LA Type of government: 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) was elected for a five-year term by the National Assembly head of government: Prime Minister Gen. KHAMTAI SIPHANDON (since 15 August 1991) was appointed for a five-year term by the president with the approval of the National Assembly; Deputy Prime Minister KHAMPHOUI KEOBOUALAPHA (since NA) cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president, approved by the National Assembly Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly: members elected for five-year terms; elections last held 20 December 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (85 total) LPRP 85 Judicial branch: People's Supreme Court, the president of the People's Supreme Court is elected by the National Assembly on the recommendation of the National Assembly Standing Committee, the vice president of the People's Supreme Court and the judges are appointed by the National Assembly Standing Committee Political parties and leaders: Lao People's Revolutionary Party (LPRP), KHAMTAI Siphandon, party president; other parties proscribed Other political or pressure groups: noncommunist political groups proscribed; most opposition leaders fled the country in 1975 International organization participation: ACCT, AsDB, ASEAN (observer), CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, ITU, Mekong Group, NAM, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (observer) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador HIEM PHOMMACHANH chancery: 2222 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 332-6416, 6417 FAX: [1] (202) 332-4923 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Victor L. TOMSETH embassy: Rue Bartholonie, B.P. 114, Vientiane mailing address: 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 Economy ------- Economic 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/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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $5.2 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 8% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,100 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 50% industry: 17% services: 33% (1993) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 20% (1995 est.) Labor force: 1 million-1.5 million by occupation: agriculture 80% (1992 est.) Unemployment rate: 21% (1992 est.) Budget: revenues: $198 million expenditures: $351 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994) Industries: tin and gypsum mining, timber, electric power, agricultural processing, construction Industrial production growth rate: 7.5% (1992 est.) Electricity: capacity: 260,000 kW production: 870 million kWh consumption per capita: 44 kWh (1993) Agriculture: sweet potatoes, vegetables, corn, coffee, sugarcane, cotton; water buffalo, pigs, cattle, poultry Illicit drugs: world's third largest opium producer (180 metric tons from nearly 20,000 hectares in 1995); heroin producer; increasingly used as transshipment point for heroin produced in Burma; illicit producer of cannabis Exports: $278 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: electricity, wood products, coffee, tin, garments partners: Thailand, Japan, France, Germany, Netherlands Imports: $486 million (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: food, fuel oil, consumer goods, manufactures partners: Thailand, China, Japan, France, US External debt: $2 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 new kip (NK) = 100 at Exchange rates: new kips (NK) per US$1 - 920 (1995), 717 (1994 est.), 720 (July 1993), 710 (May 1992), 710 (December 1991), 700 (September 1990), 576 (1989) Fiscal year: 1 October - 30 September Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 14,130 km paved: 2,261 km unpaved: 11,869 km (1992 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 39 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: 16 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 13 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 6,600 (1991 est.) Telephone system: service to general public very poor; radiotelephone communications network provides generally erratic service to government users domestic: radiotelephone communications international: satellite earth station - 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region) Radio broadcast stations: AM 10, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 560,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 2 Televisions: 32,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Lao People's Army (LPA; includes riverine naval and militia elements), Air Force, National Police Department Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,087,264 males fit for military service: 586,664 males reach military age (18) annually: 53,250 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $105 million, 8.1% of GDP (FY92/93) ====================================================================== @Latvia ------ Map --- Location: 57 00 N, 25 00 E -- Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Estonia and Lithuania Flag ---- Description: two horizontal bands of maroon (top and bottom), white (middle, narrower than other two bands) Geography --------- Location: Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Estonia and Lithuania Geographic coordinates: 57 00 N, 25 00 E 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 border countries: 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/Pytalovo section of border ceded by the Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic to Russia in 1944; the maritime borders with Lithuania and Estonia Climate: maritime; wet, moderate winters Terrain: low plain lowest point: Baltic Sea 0 m highest point: Gaizinkalns 312 m 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, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Ship Pollution, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Ozone Layer Protection People ------ Population: 2,468,982 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 20% (male 254,664; female 244,502) 15-64 years: 66% (male 775,690; female 848,128) 65 years and over: 14% (male 108,814; female 237,184) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: -1.39% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 10.94 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 15.19 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -9.69 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.92 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.46 male(s)/female all ages: 0.86 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 21.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 66.91 years male: 60.84 years female: 73.27 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.62 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 100% male: 100% female: 99% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Latvia conventional short form: Latvia local long form: Latvijas Republika local short form: Latvija former: Latvian Soviet Socialist Republic Data code: LG Type of government: 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) was elected by Parliament (Saeima) in the third round of balloting; election last held 7 July 1993 (next to be held NA June 1996) head of government: Prime Minister Andris SKELE (since 21 December 1995) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was nominated by the prime minister and appointed by the Supreme Council Legislative branch: unicameral Parliament (Saeima): elections last held 30 September-1 October 1995 (next to be held NA October 1998); results - Saimnieks 18%, LC 17%, For Latvia 16%, TB 14%, LNNK 8%, Unity 8%, LSZ/LKDS 7%, Harmony 6%, Socialist 6%; seats - (100 total) Saimnieks 18, LC 17, For Latvia 16, TB 14, LNNK 8, Unity 8, LSZ/LKDS 7, Harmony 6, Socialist 6 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges' appointments are confirmed by the Saeima Political parties and leaders: Democratic Party "Saimnieks" (DPS), Ziedonis CEVERS, chairman; Latvia's Way (LC), Valdis BIRKAVS; People's Movement For Latvia, Joachim SIEGERIST; Fatherland and Freedom (TB), Maris GRINBLATS; Latvian Unity Party (LVP), A. KAULS; Latvian National Conservative Party (LNNK), A. SEILE; Green Party (LSZ), O. BATAREVSK; Latvian Farmers Union (LZS), A. ROZENTALS; Christian Democrat Union (LKDS), P. KLAVINS; National Harmony Party (TSP), Janis JURKANS; Latvian Socialist Party (LSP), F. STROGANOVS; Latvian Liberal Party (LLP), J. DANOSS; Political Association of the Underprivileged (MPA), B. PELSE, V. DIMANTS, J. KALNINS; Latvian Democratic Labor Party (LDDP), J. BOJARS; Party of Russian Citizens (LKPP), V. SOROCHIN, V. IVANOV; Popular Front of Latvia (LTF), Uldis AUGSTKALNS; Political Union of Economists (TPA), E. KIDE; Latvian National Democratic Party (LNDP), A. MALINS; "Our Land" (MZ), M. DAMBEKALNE; Anticommunist Union (PA), P. MUCENIEKS; Latvian Social-Democratic Workers Party (LSDSP); Party for the Defense of Latvia's Defrauded People; Latvian Independence Party (LNP), V. KONOVALOUS International organization participation: BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), 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, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Ojars Eriks KALNINS chancery: 4325 17th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011 telephone: [1] (202) 726-8213, 8214 FAX: [1] (202) 726-6785 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Larry C. NAPPER embassy: Raina Boulevard 7, LV-1510, Riga mailing address: PSC 78, Box R, APO AE 09723 telephone: [371] (2) 210-005 FAX: [371] (2) 226-530 Flag: two horizontal bands of maroon (top and bottom), white (middle, narrower than other two bands) Economy ------- Economic overview: Latvia's economic transformation to a modern market economy - rivaled only by Estonia among the former Soviet states - faltered in 1995 as a result of banking and budget crises. Latvia's largely unregulated financial sector suffered a series of bank failures, including the collapse of the country's largest commercial bank - Bank Baltija - due largely to criminal activity by the owners. The government's attempts to compensate depositors of failed banks exacerbated an existing budget shortfall; poor revenue collection and a soft treasury bill market had already caused the government to incur a larger than expected deficit early in the year. As a result of the crises, Latvia's budget deficit for 1995 was $168 million, double that originally planned. In addition, GDP growth came to a halt. The Central Bank maintained its tough monetary policies - severely limiting credits to the state, despite the budget problems - helping to keep annual inflation the lowest among the Baltic states, at about 20%. New Prime Minister SKELE wants to invigorate the privatization of industry; agriculture already is mainly in private hands. GDP: purchasing power parity - $14.7 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: -1.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $5,300 (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 9% industry: 31% services: 60% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 20% (1995 est.) Labor force: 1.407 million by occupation: industry and construction 41%, agriculture and forestry 16%, other 43% (1990) Unemployment rate: 6.5% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: buses, vans, street and railroad cars, synthetic fibers, agricultural machinery, fertilizers, washing machines, radios, electronics, pharmaceuticals, processed foods, textiles; dependent on imports for energy, raw materials, and intermediate products Industrial production growth rate: -9.5% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 2,080,000 kW production: 5.5 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,864 kWh (1993) Agriculture: grain, sugar beets, potatoes, vegetables; meat, milk, eggs; fish 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 Exports: $1.3 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: timber, textiles, dairy products partners: Russia, Germany, Sweden, UK, Lithuania Imports: $1.7 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.) commodities: fuels, cars, chemicals partners: Russia, Germany, Sweden, Ukraine, UK, Lithuania, Finland External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $122 million (1993) note: commitments from the West and international institutions, $525 million (1992-95) Currency: 1 lat = 100 cents; introduced NA March 1993 Exchange rates: lats per US$1 - 0.544 (January 1996), 0.528 (1995), 0.560 (1994), 0.675 (1993), 0.736 (1992) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 2,412 km broad gauge: 2,379 km 1.520-m gauge (271 km electrified) (1992) narrow gauge: 33 km 0.750-m gauge (1994) Highways: total: 66,718 km paved: 12,076 km unpaved: 54,642 km (1992 est.) 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: 56 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 519,859 GRT/678,987 DWT ships by type: cargo 7, oil tanker 24, refrigerated cargo 18, roll-on/roll-off cargo 7 (1995 est.) 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 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 660,000 (1993 est.) Telephone system: service is better than in most of the other former Soviet republics domestic: an NMT-450 analog cellular telephone network covers 75% of Latvia's population international: international traffic carried by leased connection to the Moscow international gateway switch, through the new Ericsson digital telephone exchange in Riga, and through the Finnish cellular net; Sprint data network carries electronic mail Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA; note - there are 25 radio broadcast stations of unknown type Radios: 1.4 million (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 30 Televisions: 1.1 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Security Forces, Border Guard, Home Guard (Zemessardze) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 583,134 males fit for military service: 457,067 males reach military age (18) annually: 16,180 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: 176 million rubles, 3% to 5% of GDP (1994); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the prevailing exchange rate could produce misleading results ====================================================================== @Lebanon ------- 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 four cabinets and conducted the first legislative election in 20 years. Most of the militias have been weakened or disbanded. The Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF) has seized vast quantities of weapons used by the militias during the war and extended central government authority over about one-half of the country. Hizballah, the radical Shi'a party, retains most of its weapons. Foreign forces still occupy areas of 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 Jazzin. Syria maintains about 30,000 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. Map --- Location: 33 50 N, 35 50 E -- Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Israel and Syria Flag ---- Description: three horizontal bands of red (top), white (double width), and red with a green and brown cedar tree centered in the white band Geography --------- Location: Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Israel and Syria Geographic coordinates: 33 50 N, 35 50 E 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 border countries: Israel 79 km, Syria 375 km Coastline: 225 km Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: 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 lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m highest point: Jabal al Makmal 3,087 m 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 (1990 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: dust storms, 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 Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 3,776,317 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 36% (male 687,631; female 662,100) 15-64 years: 59% (male 1,049,689; female 1,163,255) 65 years and over: 5% (male 98,406; female 115,236) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.16% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 27.93 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.35 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.9 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.85 male(s)/female all ages: 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 36.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 69.99 years male: 67.49 years female: 72.62 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.24 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 92.4% male: 94.7% female: 90.3% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Lebanon conventional short form: Lebanon local long form: Al Jumhuriyah al Lubnaniyah local short form: none Data code: LE Type of government: 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) was elected for a six-year term by the National Assembly and in 1995 the National Assembly amended the constitution to extend his term by three years; note - by custom, the president is a Maronite Christian, the prime minister is a Sunni Muslim, and the speaker of the legislature is a Shi'a Muslim head of government: Prime Minister Rafiq al-HARIRI (since 22 October 1992) and Deputy Prime Minister Michel al-MURR (since NA) were appointed by the president in consultation with the National Assembly cabinet: Cabinet was chosen by the prime minister in consultation with the members of the National Assembly; the current Cabinet was formed in 1995 Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Arabic - Majlis Alnuwab French - Assembl: elections last held in the summer of 1992 (next to be held NA 1996); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (128 total, one-half Christian and one-half Muslim) independents 128 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 International organization participation: 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, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Riyad TABBARAH chancery: 2560 28th Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 939-6300 FAX: [1] (202) 939-6324 consulate(s) general: Detroit, New York, and Los Angeles US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Richard H. JONES embassy: Antelias, Beirut mailing address: P. O. Box 70-840, Beirut; PSC 815, Box 2, FPO AE 09836-0002 telephone: [961] (1) 402200, 403300, 406650, 406651, 426183, 417774, 889926 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: The 1975-91 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. Peace has enabled the central government to restore control in Beirut, begin collecting taxes, and regain access to key port and government facilities. Economic recovery has been helped by a financially sound banking system and resilient small- and medium-scale manufacturers. Family remittances, banking services, manufactured and farm exports, and international aid are the main sources of foreign exchange. In the relatively settled year of 1991, industrial production, agricultural output, and exports showed substantial gains. The rebuilding of the war-ravaged country was delayed in 1992 because of an upturn in political wrangling. In October 1992, Rafiq al-HARIRI was appointed prime minister. A billionaire entrepreneur, al-HARIRI, announced ambitious plans for Lebanon's reconstruction, which involve a substantial influx of foreign aid and investment. The economy has posted considerable gains since 1992, with GDP rebounding, inflation falling, and foreign capital inflows jumping. Signs of strain have emerged in recent years, however, as the government budget deficit has risen and grassroots economic dissatisfaction has grown. Meantime, the future fate of Lebanon and its economy is being determined largely by outside forces - in Syria, other Arab nations, Israel, and the West. GDP: purchasing power parity - $18.3 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $4,900 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 13% industry: 28% services: 59% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 9% (1995 est.) Labor force: 650,000 by occupation: services 60%, industry 28%, agriculture 12% (1990 est.) Unemployment rate: 30% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $1.4 billion expenditures: $3.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.) Industries: banking, food processing, textiles, cement, oil refining, chemicals, jewelry, some metal fabricating Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 1,220,000 kW production: 2.5 billion kWh consumption per capita: 676 kWh (1993) Agriculture: citrus, vegetables, potatoes, olives, tobacco, hemp (hashish); sheep, goats 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; a key locus of cocaine processing and trafficking; a Lebanese/Syrian 1994 eradication campaign practically eliminated the opium crop and caused a 50% decrease in the cannabis crop Exports: $1 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: agricultural products, chemicals, textiles, precious and semiprecious metals and jewelry, metals and metal products partners: Saudi Arabia 13%, Switzerland 12%, UAE 11%, Syria 9%, US 5% Imports: $7.3 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.) commodities: consumer goods, machinery and transport equipment, petroleum products partners: Italy 14%, France 9%, US 8%, Turkey 5%, Saudi Arabia 3% External debt: $1.2 billion (July 1995) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Lebanese pound (LL) = 100 piasters Exchange rates: Lebanese pounds (LL) per US$1 - 1,584.0 (March 1996), 1,621.4 (1995), 1,680.1 (1994), 1,741.4 (1993), 1,712.8 (1992), 928.2 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 222 km standard gauge: 222 km 1.435-m (from Beirut to the Syrian border) Highways: total: 7,370 km paved: 6,265 km unpaved: 1,105 km (1990 est.) Pipelines: crude oil 72 km (none in operation) Ports: Al Batrun, Al Mina, An Naqurah, Antilyas, Az Zahrani, Beirut, Jubayl, Juniyah, Shikka, Sidon, Tripoli, Tyre Merchant marine: total: 58 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 192,075 GRT/296,256 DWT ships by type: bulk 4, cargo 39, chemical tanker 1, combination bulk 1, combination ore/oil 1, container 2, livestock carrier 4, refrigerated cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2, specialized tanker 1, vehicle carrier 2 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 7 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: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 150,000 (1990 est.) Telephone system: telecommunications system severely damaged by civil war; rebuilding still underway domestic: primarily microwave radio relay and cable international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean) (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 1 note: more than 100 AM and FM stations are operated sporadically by various factions Radios: 2.37 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 13 Televisions: 1.1 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Lebanese Armed Forces (LAF; includes Army, Navy, and Air Force) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 889,517 males fit for military service: 553,538 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $278 million, 5.5% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Lesotho ------- Map --- Location: 29 30 S, 28 30 E -- Southern Africa, an enclave of South Africa Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, an enclave of South Africa Geographic coordinates: 29 30 S, 28 30 E 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 border country: 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 lowest point: junction of the Orange and Makhaleng Rivers 1,400 m highest point: Mount Thabana Ntlenyana 3,482 m 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, Climate Change, Desertification, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping Geographic note: landlocked; surrounded by South Africa People ------ Population: 1,970,781 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 41% (male 404,733; female 402,813) 15-64 years: 54% (male 519,493; female 553,618) 65 years and over: 5% (male 37,237; female 52,887) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.9% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 32.7 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 13.74 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.94 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.7 male(s)/female all ages: 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 81.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 52.08 years male: 50.08 years female: 54.14 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.32 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 71.3% male: 81.1% female: 62.3% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Kingdom of Lesotho conventional short form: Lesotho former: Basutoland Data code: LT Type of government: modified 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 LETSIE III (since 7 February 1996); the king is the former Crown Prince David Monato BERENG Seeiso and succeeded his father King MOSHOESHOE II, who died in an automobile accident on 16 January 1996; King LETSIE III formerly occupied the throne (November 1990 to February 1995) while his father was in exile note: the king is a hereditary monarch, but, under the terms of the constitution which came into effect after the March 1993 election, he has no executive or legislative powers; moreover, under traditional law the king can be elected or deposed by a majority vote of the College of Chiefs head of government: Prime Minister Ntsu MOKHEHLE (since 2 April 1993) cabinet: Cabinet Legislative branch: bicameral Parliament Senate: consists of 33 members (the 22 principal chiefs and 11 other members appointed by the ruling party) Assembly: members elected by popular vote; election last held NA March 1993 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats (65 total) BCP 65 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 International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, 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, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Dr. Eunice M. BULANE chancery: 2511 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 797-5533 through 5536 FAX: [1] (202) 234-6815 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Bismarck MYRICK 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 which support the milling, canning, leather, and jute industries. 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 will support the economy's continued expansion. GDP: purchasing power parity - $2.8 billion (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 13.5% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $1,430 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 10.4% industry: 48.8% services: 40.8% (1993) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 9.5% (January 1995) 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 Unemployment rate: substantial unemployment and underemployment Budget: revenues: $445 million expenditures: $400 million, including capital expenditures of $128 million (FY94/95 est.) Industries: food, beverages, textiles, handicrafts; construction; tourism Industrial production growth rate: 12.5% (1994 est.) Electricity: power supplied by South Africa Agriculture: corn, wheat, pulses, sorghum, barley; livestock Exports: $142 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: clothing, furniture, footwear, wool partners: South Africa 39%, EC 22%, North and South America 33% (1993) Imports: $1 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.) commodities: mainly corn, building materials, clothing, vehicles, machinery, medicines, petroleum products partners: South Africa 83%, Asia 12%, EC 3% (1993) External debt: $512 million (1993) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 loti (L) = 100 lisente Exchange rates: maloti (M) per US$1 - 3.6417 (January 1996), 3.6266 (1995), 3.5490 (1994), 3.2636 (1993), 2.8497 (1992), 2.7563 (1991); note - the Basotho loti is at par with the South African rand Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 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: 5,324 km paved: 799 km unpaved: 4,525 km (1993 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 12,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: rudimentary system domestic: consists of a few landlines, a small microwave radio relay system, and a minor radiotelephone communication system international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 3, FM 4, shortwave 0 Radios: 66,000 Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 11,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Lesotho Defense Force (LDF; includes Army and Air Wing), Lesotho Mounted Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 455,218 males fit for military service: 245,774 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Liberia ------- Years of civil strife have destroyed much of Liberia's economic infrastructure, made civil administration nearly impossible, and brought economic activity virtually to a halt. The deterioration of economic conditions has been greatly exacerbated by the flight of most business people with their expertise and capital. Civil order ended in 1990 when President Samuel Kanyon DOE was killed by rebel forces. The ensuing civil war persisted until August 1995 when the major factions signed the Abuja peace accord and, in September 1995, formed a transitional coalition government under Wilton SANKAWULO. The war was resumed in April 1996, when forces loyal to faction leaders Charles TAYLOR and Alhaji KROMAH attacked rival factions in Monrovia, further damaging the capital's already dilapidated infrastructure and causing panic among the remaining foreign residents, thousands of whom sought refuge in US facilities. Prospects for peace became extremely uncertain again. Map --- Location: 6 30 N, 9 30 W -- Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Cote d'Ivoire and Sierra Leone Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Cote d'Ivoire and Sierra Leone Geographic coordinates: 6 30 N, 9 30 W 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Wuteve 1,380 m 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 People ------ Population: 2,109,789 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 45% (male 475,138; female 470,970) 15-64 years: 52% (male 557,855; female 532,143) 65 years and over: 3% (male 35,544; female 38,139) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.13% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 42.72 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 11.95 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -9.48 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) note: until the Ghanaian-led peace negotiations are successful, many Liberian refugees will be unable to return from exile Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.93 male(s)/female all ages: 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 108.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 58.59 years male: 56.05 years female: 61.22 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.23 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 38.3% male: 53.9% female: 22.4% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Liberia conventional short form: Liberia Data code: LI Type of government: 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 Wilton SANKAWULO (since NA September 1995); president was to be elected for a six-year term by universal suffrage at the end of 1995; election last held 15 October 1985 (next to be held NA August 1996); results - Samuel Kanyon DOE (NDPL) 50.9%, Jackson DOE (LAP) 26.4%, other 22.7% note: constitutional government ended in September 1990 when President Samuel Kanyon DOE was killed by rebel forces; civil war ensued and in August 1995 the Abuja peace accord was signed by the major warring factions; a transitional coalition government under Wilton SANKAWULO was formed in September 1995; presidential elections are scheduled for August 1996 cabinet: Cabinet was 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 is unlikely to be reconstituted 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 International organization participation: 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, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM, OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Konah K. BLACKETT chancery: 5201 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011 telephone: [1] (202) 723-0437 consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chief of Mission William MILAM embassy: 111 United Nations Drive, Monrovia mailing address: P. O. Box 100098, Mamba Point, Monrovia telephone: [231] 226-370 FAX: [231] 226-148 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 continued political turmoil has prevented restoration of normal economic life, including the re-establishment of a strong central government with effective economic development programs. The economy deteriorated further in 1995. GDP: purchasing power parity - $2.3 billion (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 0% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $770 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 50% (1994 est.) 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% note: non-African foreigners hold about 95% of the top-level management and engineering jobs Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $225 million expenditures: $285 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.) Industries: rubber processing, food processing, construction materials, furniture, palm oil processing, iron ore, diamonds Industrial production growth rate: NA% (1993-94) Electricity: capacity: 330,000 kW production: 440 million kWh consumption per capita: 143 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rubber, coffee, cocoa, rice, cassava (tapioca), palm oil, sugarcane, bananas; sheep, goats; timber Illicit drugs: increasingly a transshipment point for heroin and cocaine Exports: $530 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: iron ore 61%, rubber 20%, timber 11%, coffee partners: US, EC, Netherlands, Singapore Imports: NA (c.i.f., 1994 est.) commodities: mineral fuels, chemicals, machinery, transportation equipment, manufactured goods; rice and other foodstuffs partners: US, EC, Japan, China, Netherlands, ECOWAS, South Korea External debt: $1.9 billion (1993 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Liberian dollar (L$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Liberian dollars (L$) per US$1 - 1.0000 (officially fixed rate since 1940); market exchange rate of US$1 - L$50 (October 1995), L$7 (January 1992), market rate floats against the US dollar Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 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: 10,029 km paved: 600 km unpaved: 9,429 km (1987 est.) Ports: Buchanan, Greenville, Harper, Monrovia Merchant marine: total: 1,601 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 59,449,296 GRT/98,819,081 DWT ships by type: barge carrier 2, bulk 411, cargo 121, chemical tanker 108, combination bulk 28, combination ore/oil 56, container 143, liquefied gas tanker 77, multifunction large-load carrier 1, oil tanker 463, passenger 42, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated cargo 64, roll-on/roll-off cargo 23, short-sea passenger 4, specialized tanker 9, vehicle carrier 48 note: a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 59 countries among which are US 253, Japan 172, Norway 165, Germany 149, Greece 137, Hong Kong 114, UK 78, China 49, Monaco 41, and Cyprus 34 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 39 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 29 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 6 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: less than 25,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: telephone and telegraph service via microwave radio relay network; main center is Monrovia; most telecommunications services inoperable due to insurgency movement domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 3, FM 4, shortwave 0 Radios: 622,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 5 (1987 est.) Televisions: 51,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- 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: 479,274 males fit for military service: 256,200 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $14 million, 2.9% of GDP (1993) ====================================================================== @Libya ----- Map --- Location: 25 00 N, 17 00 E -- Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Tunisia Flag ---- Description: plain green; green is the traditional color of Islam (the state religion) Geography --------- Location: Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Egypt and Tunisia Geographic coordinates: 25 00 N, 17 00 E 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 border countries: 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 of its forces in response to the ICJ ruling, but still maintains part of the airfield and a small military presence at the airfield's water supply located in Chad; maritime boundary dispute with 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 lowest point: Sabkhat Ghuzayyil -47 m highest point: Bikku Bitti 2,267 m 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; dust storms, sandstorms international agreements: party to - Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the Sea People ------ Population: 5,445,436 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 48% (male 1,319,696; female 1,274,865) 15-64 years: 49% (male 1,375,441; female 1,308,613) 65 years and over: 3% (male 87,434; female 79,387) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.67% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 44.42 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.7 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.1 male(s)/female all ages: 1.04 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 59.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 64.67 years male: 62.48 years female: 66.97 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.26 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 76.2% male: 87.9% female: 63% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Ishtirakiyah local short form: none Data code: LY Type of government: 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 note: the 25 muncipalities may have been replaced by 1,500 communes in 1992 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. Muammar Abu Minyar al-QADHAFI (since 1 September 1969) was elected by the General People's Congress head of government: Secretary of the General People's Committee (Premier) Abd al Majid al-QA'UD (since 29 January 1994) cabinet: General People's Committee was 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 International organization participation: 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, WToO, WTrO (observer) Diplomatic representation in US: Libya does not have an embassy in the US US diplomatic representation: the US suspended all embassy activities in Tripoli on 2 May 1980 Flag: plain green; green is the traditional color of Islam (the state religion) Economy ------- Economic 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 subsequently GDP growth has slowed on average and has fluctuated sharply in response to changes in the world oil market. Import restrictions and inefficient resource allocations have led to periodic shortages of basic goods and foodstuffs. The nonoil manufacturing and construction sectors, which account for about 20% of GDP, have expanded from processing mostly agricultural products to include the production of 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 to sustain imports of food, consumer goods, and equipment for the oil industry and ongoing development projects. GDP: purchasing power parity - $32.9 billion (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: -0.9% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $6,510 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 25% (1993 est.) Labor force: 1 million (includes about 280,000 resident foreigners) by occupation: industry 31%, services 27%, government 24%, agriculture 18% Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $8.1 billion expenditures: $9.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $3.1 billion (1989 est.) Industries: petroleum, food processing, textiles, handicrafts, cement Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 4,600,000 kW production: 16.1 billion kWh consumption per capita: 3,078 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, barley, olives, dates, citrus, vegetables, peanuts; meat, eggs 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.) Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 Libyan dinar (LD) = 1,000 dirhams Exchange rates: Libyan dinars (LD) per US$1 - 0.3617 (January 1996), 0.3532 (1995), 0.3596 (1994), 0.3250 (1993), 0.3013 (1992), 0.2684 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 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: 19,189 km paved: 10,738 km unpaved: 8,451 km (1987 est.) Waterways: none Pipelines: crude oil 4,383 km; petroleum products 443 km (includes liquefied 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 686,834 GRT/1,209,263 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 note: Libya owns an additional 6 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 38,260 DWT operating under the registries of Algeria and Turkey (1995 est.) Airports: total: 130 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: 13 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 4 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 3 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 15 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 38 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 370,000 Telephone system: modern telecommunications system domestic: microwave radio relay, coaxial cable, tropospheric scatter, and a domestic satellite system with 14 earth stations international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean); planned Arabsat and Intersputnik satellite earth stations; submarine cables to France and Italy; microwave radio relay to Tunisia and Egypt; tropospheric scatter to Greece; participant in Medarabtel Radio broadcast stations: AM 17, FM 3, shortwave 0 Radios: 1 million (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 12 (1987 est.) Televisions: 500,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Armed Peoples of the Libyan Arab Jamahiriyah (includes Army, Navy, and Air and Air Defense Command), Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,170,100 males fit for military service: 696,288 males reach military age (17) annually: 56,834 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $1.4 billion, 6.1% of GDP (1994 est.) ====================================================================== @Liechtenstein ------------- Map --- Location: 47 10 N, 9 32 E -- Central Europe, between Austria and Switzerland Flag ---- Description: two equal horizontal bands of blue (top) and red with a gold crown on the hoist side of the blue band Geography --------- Location: Central Europe, between Austria and Switzerland Geographic coordinates: 47 10 N, 9 32 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Ruggleller Riet 430 m highest point: Grauspitz 2,599 m 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 Geographic note: landlocked; variety of microclimatic variations based on elevation People ------ Population: 31,122 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 19% (male 2,961; female 2,871) 15-64 years: 70% (male 10,775; female 11,113) 65 years and over: 11% (male 1,366; female 2,036) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.08% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 11.47 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.81 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 6.11 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.14 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.97 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.67 male(s)/female all ages: 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 5.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.84 years male: 75.92 years female: 82.17 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.37 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 100% male: 100% female: 100% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Principality of Liechtenstein conventional short form: Liechtenstein local long form: Furstentum Liechtenstein local short form: Liechtenstein Data code: LS Type of government: 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: 20 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: Prince Hans ADAM II (since 13 November 1989, who is a hereditary monarch, assumed executive powers 26 August 1984); Heir Apparent Prince ALOIS von und zu Liechtenstein (born 11 June 1968) head of government: Mario FRICK (since 15 December 1993) and Deputy Head of Government Dr. Thomas BUECHEL (since 15 December 1993) were elected by the Landtag for a four-year term and confirmed by the prince cabinet: Cabinet was elected by the Diet; confirmed by the prince 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) International organization participation: CE, EBRD, ECE, EFTA, IAEA, ICRM, IFRCS, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, OSCE, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UPU, WCL, WIPO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: Liechtenstein does not have an embassy in the US, but is represented by the Swiss embassy in routine diplomatic matters US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Liechtenstein, but the US Consul General at Zurich (Switzerland) has consular accreditation in Vaduz Flag: two equal horizontal bands of blue (top) and red with a gold crown on the hoist side of the blue band Economy ------- Economic 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 the urban areas of its large European neighbors. Low business taxes - the maximum tax rate is 18% - and easy incorporation rules have induced about 25,000 holding or so-called letter box companies to establish nominal offices in 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $630 million (1990 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $22,300 (1990 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5.4% (1990) Labor force: 20,000 of which 12,000 are foreigners; 6,885 commute from Austria and Switzerland to work each day by occupation: industry, trade, and building 48.1%, services 50.2%, agriculture, fishing, forestry, and horticulture 1.7% (1993) Unemployment rate: 0.9% (1995) Budget: revenues: $455 million expenditures: $442 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: electronics, metal manufacturing, textiles, ceramics, pharmaceuticals, food products, precision instruments, tourism Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 23,000 kW production: 150 million kWh consumption per capita: 5,230 kWh (1992) Agriculture: vegetables, corn, wheat, potatoes, grapes; livestock Exports: $1.636 billion (1993) 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 Economic aid: none Currency: 1 Swiss franc, franken, or franco (SwF) = 100 centimes, rappen, or centesimi Exchange rates: Swiss francs, franken, or franchi (SwF) per US$1 - 1.1810 (January 1996), 1.1825 (1995), 1.3677 (1994), 1.4776 (1993), 1.4062 (1992), 1.4340 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 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: 238 km paved: 238 km unpaved: 0 km (1986 est.) Ports: none Airports: none Communications -------------- Telephones: 18,916 (1993 est.) Telephone system: limited, but sufficient automatic telephone system domestic: NA international: linked to Swiss networks by cable and microwave radio relay Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA note: linked to Swiss networks Radios: 11,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: NA note: linked to Swiss networks Televisions: 10,620 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of Switzerland ====================================================================== @Lithuania --------- Map --- Location: 56 00 N, 24 00 E -- Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Latvia and Russia Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of yellow (top), green, and red Geography --------- Location: Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, between Latvia and Russia Geographic coordinates: 56 00 N, 24 00 E 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 border countries: 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; disputes maritime border with Latvia (primary concern is oil exploration rights); treaty with Belarus defining the border awaits ratification Climate: maritime; wet, moderate winters and summers Terrain: lowland, many scattered small lakes, fertile soil lowest point: Baltic Sea 0 m highest point: Juozapine Kalnas 292 m Natural resources: peat Land use: arable land: 49% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 22% forest and woodland: 16% other: 13% 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 - Climate Change, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Ozone Layer Protection People ------ Population: 3,646,041 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 22% (male 400,823; female 384,592) 15-64 years: 66% (male 1,162,626; female 1,244,103) 65 years and over: 12% (male 154,862; female 299,035) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: -0.35% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 12.93 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 13.33 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -3.09 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.94 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.52 male(s)/female all ages: 0.89 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 17 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 68.03 years male: 62.15 years female: 74.21 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.78 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 98% male: 99% female: 98% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Lithuania conventional short form: Lithuania local long form: Lietuvos Respublika local short form: Lietuva former: Lithuanian Soviet Socialist Republic Data code: LH Type of government: 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) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 14 February 1993 (next to be held spring 1997); results - Algirdas BRAZAUSKAS was elected; percent of vote NA head of government: Premier Mindaugas STANKEVICIUS (since 15 February 1996) was appointed by the president on approval of the Seimas cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on the nomination of the prime minister Legislative branch: unicameral Seimas (parliament): elections last held 26 October and 25 November 1992 (next to be held NA October 1996); results - LDDP 51%; seats - (141 total) LDDP 73, Conservative Party 30, LKDP 17, LTS 8, Farmers' Union 4, LLS 4, Center Union 2, others 3 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges appointed by the Seimas; Court of Appeal, judges appointed by the Seimas Political parties and leaders: Christian Democratic Party (LKDP), Algirdas SAUDARGAS, chairman; Democratic Labor Party of Lithuania (LDDP), Mindaugas STANKEVICIUS , chairman; Lithuanian Nationalist Union (LTS), Rimantas SMETONA, chairman; Lithuanian Social Democratic Party (LSDP), Aloyzas SAKALAS, chairman; Farmers' Union, Jonas CIULEVICIUS, chairman; Center Union, Romualdas OZOLAS, chairman; Homeland Union/Conservative Party, Vytautas LANDSBERGIS, chairman; Lithuanian Polish Union (LLS), Rytardas MACIEKIANIEC, chairman Other political or pressure groups: Lithuanian Future Forum International organization participation: BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NACC, OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WEU (associate partner), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Alfonsas EIDINTAS chancery: 2622 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 234-5860, 2639 FAX: [1] (202) 328-0466 consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador James W. SWIHART, Jr. embassy: Akmenu 6, Vilnius 2600 mailing address: PSC 78, Box V, APO AE 09723 telephone: [78] (8) 973-0000, 227-224 FAX: [78] (8) 670-6084 Flag: three equal horizontal bands of yellow (top), green, and red Economy ------- Economic overview: Since declaring independence in 1990, Lithuania has implemented reforms aimed at eliminating the vestiges of the former socialist system. With the help of the IMF and other international institutions, the government has adopted a disciplined program to restrain inflation, reduce price controls, lower the budget deficit and privatize the economy. Lithuania has embarked on a series of price liberalizations; most price controls have been abolished. More than two-thirds of its industrial facilities as well as most housing and agricultural enterprises have been privatized, although important "strategic" enterprises have been exempted from privatization - namely energy and telecommunications. While Lithuania has reduced its trade dependence on Russia and other republics of the FSU from 85% in 1991 to about 40% in 1995, Russia remains Lithuania's leading trading partner. Lithuania has made great strides in reducing its annual rate of inflation - from over 1,100% in 1992 to about 35% in 1995. Production bottomed out in 1994-95. A banking crisis beginning in September, during which central bank reserves dropped one-third, held back growth in 1995. If the government can stay the course on economic reform and fiscal discipline - which may be politically difficult in the election year of 1996 - Lithuania could be set for strong economic growth in the near term. As for real resources, Lithuania's growth depends largely on its ability to exploit its strategic location - with its ice-free port at Klaipeda and its rail and highway hub in Vilnius connecting it with Eastern Europe, Belarus, Russia, and Ukraine. Lacking important natural resources, it will remain dependent on imports of fuels and raw materials. GDP: purchasing power parity - $13.3 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994) GDP real growth rate: 1% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $3,400 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 20% industry: 42% services: 38% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 35% (1995 est.) Labor force: 1.836 million by occupation: industry and construction 42%, agriculture and forestry 18%, other 40% (1990) Unemployment rate: 6.1% (January 1996) Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: metal-cutting machine tools, electric motors, television sets, refrigerators and freezers, petroleum refining, shipbuilding (small ships), furniture making, textiles, food processing, fertilizers, agricultural machinery, optical equipment, electronic components, computers, amber Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 6,190,000 kW production: 18.9 billion kWh consumption per capita: 4,608 kWh (1993) Agriculture: grain, potatoes, sugar beets, vegetables; meat, milk, eggs; fish 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 Exports: $2.2 billion (1994) commodities: electronics 18%, food 10%, chemicals 6%, petroleum products 5% (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: $895 million Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $144 million (1993) note: commitments from the West and international financial institutions, $765 million (1992-95) Currency: introduced the convertible litas in June 1993 Exchange rates: litai per US$1 - 4.000 (January 1996), 4.000 (1995), 3.978 (1994), 4.344 (1993), 1.773 (1992); note - fixed rate since 1 May 1994 Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 2,002 km broad gauge: 2,002 km 1.524-m gauge (122 km electrified) (1994) Highways: total: 55,603 km paved: 42,209 km (including 382 km of expressways) unpaved: 13,394 km (1994) Waterways: 600 km perennially navigable Pipelines: crude oil, 105 km; natural gas 760 km (1992) Ports: Kaunas, Klaipeda Merchant marine: total: 43 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 264,639 GRT/303,649 DWT ships by type: cargo 26, combination bulk 11, oil tanker 2, railcar carrier 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1, short-sea passenger 2 (1995 est.) 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 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 6 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 63 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 900,000 Telephone system: telecommunications system ranks among the most modern of the former Soviet republics domestic: an NMT-450 analog cellular telephone network operates in Vilnius and other cities; landlines and microwave radio relay connect switching centers international: international connections no longer depend on the Moscow international gateway switch, but are established by satellite through Oslo from Vilnius and through Copenhagen from Kaunas; satellite earth stations - 1 Eutelsat and 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); cellular network linked internationally through Copenhagen by Eutelsat; international electronic mail is available; landlines or microwave radio relay to former Soviet republics Radio broadcast stations: AM 13, FM 26, shortwave 1, longwave 1 Radios: 1.42 million (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 3 Televisions: 1.77 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Ground Forces, Navy, Air and Air Defense Force, Security Forces (internal and border troops), National Guard (Skat) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 903,437 males fit for military service: 712,875 males reach military age (18) annually: 26,162 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $31.7 million, 1% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Luxembourg ---------- Map --- Location: 49 45 N, 6 10 E -- Western Europe, between France and Germany Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Western Europe, between France and Germany Geographic coordinates: 49 45 N, 6 10 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Moselle River 133 m highest point: Burgplatz 559 m 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 Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 415,870 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 18% (male 39,199; female 37,239) 15-64 years: 68% (male 142,394; female 138,349) 65 years and over: 14% (male 23,118; female 35,571) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.57% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 13.14 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.32 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 10.93 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.09 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.65 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 4.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.26 years male: 75.24 years female: 81.56 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.76 children born/woman (1996 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% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Grand Duchy of Luxembourg conventional short form: Luxembourg local long form: Grand-Duche de Luxembourg local short form: Luxembourg Data code: LU Type of government: constitutional monarchy Capital: Luxembourg Administrative divisions: 3 districts; Diekirch, Grevenmacher, ====================================================================== @Macau ----- (overseas territory of Portugal) Map --- Location: 22 10 N, 113 33 E -- Eastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and China Flag ---- Description: the flag of Portugal is used Geography --------- Location: Eastern Asia, bordering the South China Sea and China Geographic coordinates: 22 10 N, 113 33 E 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 border country: 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 lowest point: South China Sea 0 m highest point: Coloane Alto 174 m Natural resources: NEGL 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) Geographic note: essentially urban; one causeway and one bridge connect the two islands to the peninsula on mainland People ------ Population: 496,837 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 24% (male 60,709; female 57,004) 15-64 years: 68% (male 167,466; female 169,486) 65 years and over: 8% (male 17,569; female 24,603) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.15% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 14.16 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 4.31 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 1.66 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.71 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 5.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 79.95 years male: 77.49 years female: 82.54 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.51 children born/woman (1996 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) 4%, Chinese (Cantonese) is the language of commerce Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1981 est.) total population: 90% male: 93% female: 86% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Macau local long form: none local short form: Ilha de Macau Data code: MC Type of government: 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 years after transition) National holiday: Day of Portugal, 10 June (1580) Constitution: 17 February 1976, Organic Law of Macau; basic law drafted primarily by Beijing promulgated 31 March 1993 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) was appointed by the President of Portugal after consultation with the Legislative Assembly cabinet: Consultative Council consists of a total of 15 members - five appointed by the governor, two nominated by the governor, five elected for a four-year term (two represent administrative bodies, one represents moral, cultural, and welfare interests, and two represent economic interests), and three statutory members Legislative branch: unicameral Legislative Assembly: elections last held 10 March 1991 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (23 total, 8 elected by direct vote, 8 by indirect vote, and 7 appointed by the governor) number of seats by party NA Judicial branch: Supreme Court, consisting of five magistrates including the president; lower court judges appointed for three years by governor 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 procommunist merchants representing China's interests; in January 1967 the Macau Government acceded to Chinese demands that gave China veto power over administration International organization participation: CCC, ESCAP (associate), IMO (associate), Interpol (subbureau), UNESCO (associate), WToO (associate), WTrO 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 probably represents over 40% of GDP. 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $6.4 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $13,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 8.6% (1995 est.) Labor force: 180,000 (1986) by occupation: NA Unemployment rate: 2% (1992 est.) Budget: revenues: $305 million expenditures: $298 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1989 est.) Industries: clothing, textiles, toys, plastic products, furniture, tourism Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 258,000 kW production: 950 million kWh consumption per capita: 2,093 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rice, vegetables Exports: $1.9 billion (1995 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: $0 (1995) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 pataca (P) = 100 avos Exchange rates: patacas (P) per US$1 - 8.034 (1991-95), 8.024 (1990), 8.030 (1989); note - linked to the Hong Kong dollar at the rate of 1.03 patacas per Hong Kong dollar Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 90 km paved: 42 km unpaved: 48 km (1987 est.) Ports: Macau Merchant marine: none Airports: new international airport completed in 1995; 1 seaplane station Communications -------------- Telephones: 170,021 (1994 est.) Telephone system: fairly modern communication facilities maintained for domestic and international services domestic: NA international: HF radiotelephone communication facility; access to international communications carriers provided via Hong Kong and China; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 4, FM 3, shortwave 0 Radios: 135,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 note: TV programs received from Hong Kong Televisions: 34,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: NA Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 142,704 males fit for military service: 79,225 (1996 est.) Defense note: defense is the responsibility of Portugal ====================================================================== @Macedonia, The Former Yugoslav Republic of ------------------------------------------ Map --- Location: 41 50 N, 22 00 E -- Southeastern Europe, north of Greece Flag ---- Description: a rising yellow sun with 8 rays extending to the edges of the red field Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Europe, north of Greece Geographic coordinates: 41 50 N, 22 00 E Map references: 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 border countries: 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; in September 1995, Skopje and Athens signed an interim accord resolving their dispute over symbols and certain constitutional provisions; Athens also lifted its economic embargo on the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 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 lowest point: Vardar River 50 m highest point: Korab 2,753 m Natural resources: chromium, lead, zinc, manganese, tungsten, nickel, low-grade iron ore, asbestos, sulfur, 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 Geographic note: landlocked; major transportation corridor from Western and Central Europe to Aegean Sea and Southern Europe to Western Europe People ------ Population: 2,104,035 (July 1996 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: 22% (male 242,593; female 228,563) 15-64 years: 68% (male 728,969; female 703,665) 65 years and over: 10% (male 90,363; female 109,882) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.46% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 13.31 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.47 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.2 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.08 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.82 male(s)/female all ages: 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 29.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 71.94 years male: 69.86 years female: 74.18 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.82 children born/woman (1996 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia conventional short form: none local long form: Republika Makedonija local short form: Makedonija abbreviation: FYROM Data code: MK Type of government: 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) was elected by the Assembly in 1991 and reelected by popular vote in 1994; election last held 16 October 1994 (next to be held NA 1997); results - percent of vote NA; note - following a failed assassination attempt on the president in October 1995, then Parliamentary Speaker Stojan ANDOV was acting president; GLIGOROV resumed his duties in early 1996 head of government: Prime Minister Branko CRVENKOVSKI (since 4 September 1992) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers were elected by the majority vote of all the deputies in the Assembly; note - after the withdrawal of the Liberal Party from the ruling coalition in early 1996, the Council of Ministers was reorganized without LP participation Legislative branch: unicameral Assembly (Sobranje): elections last held 16 and 30 October 1994 (next to be held NA November 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (120 total) SDSM 58, LP 29, SPM 8, PDP 10, NDP 4, independents 7, other 4 Judicial branch: Constitutional Court, judges are elected by the Judicial Council; Judicial Court of the Republic, judges are elected by the Judicial Council Political parties and leaders: Social-Democratic Alliance of Macedonia (SDSM; former Communist Party), Branko CRVENKOVSKI, president; Party for Democratic Prosperity (PDP), Abdurahman HALITI, president; National Democratic Party (NDP), Ilijas HALINI, president; Alliance of Reform Forces of Macedonia - Liberal Party (SRSM-LP), Stojan ANDOV, president; Socialist Party of Macedonia (SPM), Kiro POPOVSKI, president; Internal Macedonian Revolutionary Organization - Democratic Party for Macedonian National Unity (VMRO-DPMNE), Ljupco GEORGIEVSKI, president; Party of Yugoslavs in Macedonia (SJM), Milan DURCINOV, president; Democratic Party (DP), Petar GOSEV, president; Party for Democratic Prosperity of Albanians (PDPA), Arben XHAFFERI, president 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) International organization participation: CCC, CE, CEI, EBRD, ECE, FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, ITU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO (observer) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Ljubica ACEVSKA chancery: 3050 K Street, NW, Suite 210, Washington, DC 20007 telephone: [1] (202) 337 3063 FAX: [1] (202) 337 3093 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador-designate Christopher HILL; Charge d'Affaires Victor D. COMRAS embassy: ul. 27 Mart No. 5, 9100 Skopje mailing address: United States Liaison Office Skopje, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-7120 (pouch) telephone: [389] (91) 116-180 FAX: [389] (91) 117-103 note: the US agreed to establish full diplomatic relations with the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia in September 1995, and to upgrade the Liaison Office to an Embassy Flag: a rising yellow sun with 8 rays extending to the edges of the red field Economy ------- Economic 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. The end of sanctions on Serbia and the lifting of the Greek embargo on Macedonia have reopened its natural trade corridors, but the country has been slow to capitalize on these opportunities. Moreover, the Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia's geographical isolation, technological underdevelopment, and potential political instability place it far down the list of countries of interest to Western investors. An internal commitment to economic reform would encourage foreign investment over the long run. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1.9 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4% GDP per capita: $880 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 24% industry: 44% services: 32% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 14.8% (1995 est.) Labor force: 591,773 (June 1994) by occupation: manufacturing and mining 40% (1992) Unemployment rate: 37% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: coal, metallic chromium, lead, zinc, ferronickel, textiles, wood products, tobacco Industrial production growth rate: -14% (1993) Electricity: capacity: 1,600,000 kW production: 6.046 billion kWh consumption per capita: 2,941 kWh (1992) Agriculture: rice, tobacco, wheat, corn, millet, cotton, sesame, mulberry leaves, citrus, vegetables; beef, pork, poultry, mutton Illicit drugs: limited illicit opium cultivation; transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin Exports: $916.2 million (1995) 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: $199 million (1995) 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: $737.1 million (1994) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA note: US, $10 million (for humanitarian and technical assistance); in December 1995, the EU agreed to provide a credit line of ECU 21.7 million for investment projects 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 - 38.8 (December 1995), 39 (November 1994), 865 (October 1992) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 699 km standard gauge: 699 km 1.435-m gauge (232 km electrified) (1995) Highways: total: 10,591 km paved: 5,091 km unpaved: 5,500 km (1991 est.) 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: 12 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 125,000 Telephone system: domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM 6, FM 2, shortwave 0 Radios: 369,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 5 (relays 2) Televisions: 327,011 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Police Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 571,927 males fit for military service: 458,231 males reach military age (19) annually: 16,698 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: 7 billion denars, NA% of GDP (1993 est.); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results ====================================================================== @Madagascar ---------- Map --- Location: 20 00 S, 47 00 E -- Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Mozambique Flag ---- Description: two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and green with a vertical white band of the same width on hoist side Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Mozambique Geographic coordinates: 20 00 S, 47 00 E 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Maromokotro 2,876 m 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 Geographic note: world's fourth-largest island; strategic location along Mozambique Channel People ------ Population: 13,670,507 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 45% (male 3,105,958; female 3,034,279) 15-64 years: 52% (male 3,499,021; female 3,573,052) 65 years and over: 3% (male 224,710; female 233,487) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.83% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 42.63 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 14.38 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.96 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 93.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 52.19 years male: 51.11 years female: 53.3 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.89 children born/woman (1996 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% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Madagascar conventional short form: Madagascar local long form: Republique de Madagascar local short form: Madagascar former: Malagasy Republic Data code: MA Type of government: republic Capital: Antananarivo Administrative divisions: 6 provinces (faritany); 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) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 10 February 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - Albert ZAFY (UNDD) 67%; Didier RATSIRAKA (AREMA) 33% head of government: Prime Minister Emmanuel RAKOTOVAHINY (since 30 October 1995) was elected by the National Assembly cabinet: Council of Ministers was 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 16 June 1993 (next to be held NA June 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (138 total) CFV coalition 76, PMDM/MFM 16, CSCD 11, Famima 10, RPSD 7, various pro-Ratsiraka groups 10, others 8 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Cour Supreme); High Constitutional Court (Haute Cour Constitutionnelle) 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 International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Pierrot Jocelyn RAJAONARIVELO chancery: 2374 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 265-5525, 5526 consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Vicki J. HUDDLESTON 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) 234-539 Flag: two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and green with a vertical white band of the same width on hoist side Economy ------- Economic overview: Madagascar is one of the poorest countries in the world, suffering from chronic malnutrition, underfunded health and education facilities, a roughly 3% annual population growth rate, and severe loss of forest cover, accompanied by erosion. Agriculture, including fishing and forestry, is the mainstay of the economy, accounting for 35% of GDP and contributing more than 70% of export earnings. Industry is largely confined to the processing of agricultural products and textile manufacturing; it accounts for 15% of GDP. In 1986, the government introduced a five-year development plan that stressed self-sufficiency in food (mainly rice) by 1990, increased production for export, and reduced energy imports. Subsequently, growth in output has been held back because of protracted antigovernment strikes and demonstrations for political reform. Since 1993, corruption and political instability have caused the economy and 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $11.4 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.7% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $820 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 35% industry: 15% services: 50% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 35% (1994 est.) 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: 175,400 (3.6% of total work force) 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.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $250 million expenditures: $265 million, including capital expenditures of $180 million (1991 est.) Industries: meat processing, soap, breweries, tanneries, sugar, textiles, glassware, cement, automobile assembly plant, paper, petroleum Industrial production growth rate: 3.8% (1993 est.) Electricity: capacity: 220,000 kW production: 560 million kWh consumption per capita: 40 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, vanilla, sugarcane, cloves, cocoa, rice, cassava (tapioca), beans, bananas, peanuts; livestock products Illicit drugs: illicit producer of cannabis (cultivated and wild varieties) used mostly for domestic consumption; transshipment point for heroin 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.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $318 million (1993) Currency: 1 Malagasy franc (FMG) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: Malagasy francs (FMG) per US$1 - 4,239.5 (November 1995), 3,067.3 (1994), 1,913.8 (1993), 1,864.0 (1992), 1,835.4 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 883 km narrow gauge: 883 km 1.000-m gauge (1994) Highways: total: 34,750 km paved: 5,352 km unpaved: 29,398 km (1991 est.) Waterways: of local importance only; isolated streams and small portions of Canal des Pangalanes Ports: Antsiranana, Antsohimbondrona, Mahajanga, Toamasina, Toliaria Merchant marine: total: 11 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 22,132 GRT/31,261 DWT ships by type: cargo 5, chemical tanker 1, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 105 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: 31 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 45 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 96,000 (1988 est.) Telephone system: system is above average for Africa domestic: open-wire lines, coaxial cables, microwave radio relay, and tropospheric scatter links international: submarine cable to Bahrain; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) and 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region) Radio broadcast stations: AM 17, FM 3, shortwave 0 Radios: 2.565 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 (repeaters 36) Televisions: 260,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- 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: 3,103,022 males fit for military service: 1,843,732 males reach military age (20) annually: 132,146 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $29 million, 1.0% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Malawi ------ Map --- Location: 13 30 S, 34 00 E -- Southern Africa, east of Zambia Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of black (top), red, and green with a radiant, rising, red sun centered in the black band Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, east of Zambia Geographic coordinates: 13 30 S, 34 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: junction of the Shire River and international boundary with Mozambique 37 m highest point: Mount Mlanje Sapitwa 3,002 m 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 populations 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 - Desertification, Law of the Sea Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 9,452,844 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 46% (male 2,189,223; female 2,168,317) 15-64 years: 51% (male 2,371,518; female 2,472,245) 65 years and over: 3% (male 107,701; female 143,840) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.71% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 41.56 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 24.48 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) note: the return of refugees to Mozambique is apparently complete Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.75 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 139.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 36.16 years male: 35.87 years female: 36.46 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.91 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 56.4% male: 71.9% female: 41.8% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Malawi conventional short form: Malawi former: Nyasaland Data code: MI Type of government: multiparty democracy 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); Republic Day 6 July (1966) Constitution: 18 May 1995; most recent revision 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: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state and head of government: President Bakili MULUZI (since 21 May 1994), leader of the UDF, was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage cabinet: Cabinet was named by the president Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly: elections last held 17 May 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (177 total) UDF 84, AFORD 33, MCP 55, others 5; note - because of defections and a bi-election of 18 December 1995, the seats in the National Assembly were held at the end of the year as follows: UDF 87, MCP 55, AFORD 35 note: the constitution of 18 May 1995, in addition to reducing the age at which universal suffrage is conferred from 21 to 18 years, provided for a bicameral legislature; by 1999, in addition to the existing National Assembly, a Senate of 80 seats is to be elected 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), Green MUNLO, secretary general (top party position); Alliance for Democracy (AFORD), Chakufwa CHIHANA; Christian Democratic Party (CDP), Eston KAKHOME, president; Malawi Democratic Party (MDP), Kampelo KALUA, president International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, 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, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Willie CHOKANI chancery: 2408 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 797-1007 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 31% of GDP and 90% of export revenues. The economy depends on substantial inflows of economic assistance from the IMF, the World Bank, and individual donor nations. The new government faces strong challenges, e.g., to spur exports, to improve educational and health facilities, and to deal with environmental problems of deforestation and erosion. Drought hurt the 1994 economy, with GDP down by 12.4%. Good weather and a strong tobacco crop resulted in an upturn in 1995. In December 1995, donors pledged $332 million in aid for 1996. GDP: purchasing power parity - $6.9 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 9.9% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $700 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 31% industry: 14% services: 55% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 83.3% (1995 est.) 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) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $530 million expenditures: $674 million, including capital expenditures of $129 million (1993) Industries: tea, tobacco, sugar, sawmill products, cement, consumer goods Industrial production growth rate: 3.5% (1992 est.) Electricity: capacity: 190,000 kW production: 905 million kWh (1993) consumption per capita: 92 kWh (1993) Agriculture: tobacco, sugarcane, cotton, tea, corn, potatoes, cassava (tapioca), sorghum, pulses; cattle, goats Exports: $365 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: tobacco, tea, sugar, coffee, peanuts, wood products partners: US, South Africa, Germany, Japan (1994) Imports: $240 million (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: food, petroleum products, semimanufactures, consumer goods, transportation equipment partners: South Africa, Japan, US, UK, Zimbabwe External debt: $1.95 billion (December 1994 est.) Economic aid: recipient: in December 1995, donors pledged for 1996, $332 million Currency: 1 Malawian kwacha (MK) = 100 tambala Exchange rates: Malawian kwacha (MK) per US$1 - 16.3516 (November 1995), 8.7364 (1994), 4.4028 (1993), 3.6033 (1992), 2.8033 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 789 km narrow gauge: 789 km 1.067-m gauge Highways: total: 27,294 km (1990 est.) paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Waterways: Lake Nyasa (Lake Malawi); Shire River, 144 km Ports: Chipoka, Monkey Bay, Nkhata Bay, Nkhotakota Airports: total: 41 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: 20 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 14 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 43,000 (1985 est.) Telephone system: domestic: fair system of open-wire lines, microwave radio relay links, and radiotelephone communications stations international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 10, FM 17, shortwave 0 Radios: 1.011 million (1995) Television broadcast stations: 0 (1987 est.) Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: Army (includes Air Wing and Naval Detachment), Police (includes paramilitary Mobile Force Unit) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,106,905 males fit for military service: 1,076,788 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $10.4 million, NA% of GDP (FY94/95) ====================================================================== @Malaysia -------- Map --- Location: 2 30 N, 112 30 E -- Southeastern Asia, peninsula and northern one-third of the island of Borneo, bordering Indonesia and the South China Sea, south of Vietnam Flag ---- Description: 14 equal horizontal stripes of red (top) alternating with white (bottom); there is a blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner bearing a yellow crescent and a yellow fourteen-pointed star; the crescent and the star are traditional symbols of Islam; the design was based on the flag of the US Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Asia, peninsula and northern one-third of the island of Borneo, bordering Indonesia and the South China Sea, south of Vietnam Geographic coordinates: 2 30 N, 112 30 E 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 border countries: 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 the depth of exploitation; specified boundary in the South China Sea exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Kinabalu 4,100 m 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 international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea Geographic note: strategic location along Strait of Malacca and southern South China Sea People ------ Population: 19,962,893 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 36% (male 3,684,510; female 3,483,893) 15-64 years: 60% (male 5,996,369; female 6,017,327) 65 years and over: 4% (male 342,742; female 438,052) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.07% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 26.2 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.49 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.07 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.78 male(s)/female all ages: 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 24 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 69.75 years male: 66.82 years female: 72.89 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.27 children born/woman (1996 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 Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 83.5% male: 89.1% female: 78.1% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Malaysia former: Malayan Union Data code: MY Type of government: 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 TUANKU JA'AFAR ibni Al-Marhum Tuanku Abdul Rahman (since 26 April 1994) and Deputy Paramount Ruler Sultan TUNKU SALAHUDDIN Abdul Aziz Shah ibni Al-Marhum Sultan Hisammuddin Alam Shah (since 26 April 1994) were elected for five-year terms by and from the hereditary rulers of nine of the states head of government: Prime Minister Dr. MAHATHIR bin Mohamad (since 16 July 1981) was appointed by the paramount ruler; Deputy Prime Minister ANWAR bin Ibrahim (since 1 December 1993) cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the paramount ruler from among the members of Parliament Legislative branch: bicameral Parliament (Parlimen) Senate (Dewan Negara): elected members serve six-year terms; elections last held NA (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (58 total, 32 appointed by the paramount ruler and 26 elected by the state legislatures) seats by party NA House of Representatives (Dewan Rakyat): members elected for five-year terms; elections last held NA April 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - National Front 63%, other 37%; seats - (192 total) National Front 162, DAP 9, PBS 8, PAS 7, Semangat'46 6 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges appointed by the paramount ruler 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; Spirit of '46 (Semangat '46), Tengku Tan Sri RAZALEIGH, president Sabah: National Front, SALLEH Said Keruak, Sabah Chief Minister, Sakaran DANDAI, head of Sabah State; United Sabah National Organizaton (USNO), leader NA; Sabah United Party (Parti Bersatu Sabah, PBS), Datuk Seri Joseph PAIRIN Kitingan 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 International organization participation: APEC, AsDB, ASEAN, C, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-15, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ISO, ITU, Mekong Group, MINURSO, NAM, OIC, UN, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNOMIL, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador DALI Mahmud Hashim chancery: 2401 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 328-2700 FAX: [1] (202) 483-7661 consulate(s) general: Los Angeles and New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador John R. MALOTT 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: 14 equal horizontal stripes of red (top) alternating with white (bottom); there is a blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner bearing a yellow crescent and a yellow fourteen-pointed star; the crescent and the star are traditional symbols of Islam; the design was based on the flag of the US Economy ------- Economic overview: The Malaysian economy, a mixture of private enterprise and public management, has posted a remarkable record of 9% average annual growth in 1988-95. The official growth target for 1996 is 8.3%. This growth has resulted in a substantial reduction in poverty and a marked rise in real wages. Manufactured goods exports expanded rapidly, and foreign investors continued to commit large sums in the economy. The government is aware of the inflationary potential of this rapid development and is closely monitoring fiscal and monetary policies. GDP: purchasing power parity - $193.6 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 9.5% (1995) GDP per capita: $9,800 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 8% industry: 25% services: 67% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5.3% (1995) Labor force: 7.627 million (1993) Unemployment rate: 2.8% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $20.2 billion expenditures: $19.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $4.8 billion (1995 est.) 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 Industrial production growth rate: 12% (1994) Electricity: capacity: 6,700,000 kW production: 31 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,528 kWh (1993) Agriculture: Peninsular Malaysia: natural rubber, palm oil, rice Sabah: subsistence crops, rubber, timber, coconut, rice Sarawak: rubber, pepper; timber Illicit drugs: transit point for Golden Triangle heroin going to the US, Western Europe, and the Third World despite severe penalties for drug trafficking Exports: $72 billion (1995) commodities: electronic equipment, petroleum and petroleum products, palm oil, wood and wood products, rubber, textiles partners: Singapore 21%, US 20%, Japan 12%, UK 4%, Thailand 4%, Germany 3% (1994) Imports: $72.2 billion (1995) commodities: machinery and equipment, chemicals, food, petroleum products partners: Japan 26%, US 17%, Singapore 14%, Taiwan 5%, Germany 4%, UK 3%, South Korea 3% (1993) External debt: $27.4 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $45 million (1993) Currency: 1 ringgit (M$) = 100 sen Exchange rates: ringgits (M$) per US$1 - 2.5567 (January 1996), 2.5044 (1995), 2.6243 (1994), 2.5741 (1993), 2.5474 (1992), 2.7501 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 1,806 km (Peninsular Malaysia 1,672 km; Sabah 134 km; Sarawak 0 km) narrow gauge: 1,806 km 1.000-m gauge (Peninsular Malaysia 1,672 km; Sabah 134 km) Highways: total: 92,545 km paved: 69,409 km (including 574 km of expressways) unpaved: 23,136 km (1992 est.) 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: 248 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 3,035,684 GRT/4,494,476 DWT ships by type: bulk 43, cargo 83, chemical tanker 13, container 31, liquefied gas tanker 12, livestock carrier 1, oil tanker 55, roll-on/roll-off cargo 5, short-sea passenger 1, vehicle carrier 4 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 105 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: 74 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 5 (1995 est.) Heliports: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 2,550,957 (1992 est.) Telephone system: international service good domestic: good intercity service provided on Peninsular Malaysia mainly by microwave radio relay; adequate intercity microwave radio relay network between Sabah and Sarawak via Brunei; domestic satellite system with 2 earth stations international: submarine cables to India, 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: 8.08 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 33 Televisions: 2 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- 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: 5,160,884 males fit for military service: 3,129,626 males reach military age (21) annually: 184,236 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $2.4 billion, 2.9% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Maldives -------- Map --- Location: 3 15 N, 73 00 E -- Southern Asia, group of atolls in the Indian Ocean, south-southwest of India Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern Asia, group of atolls in the Indian Ocean, south-southwest of India Geographic coordinates: 3 15 N, 73 00 E Map references: Asia Area: total area: 300 sq km land area: 300 sq km comparative area: nearly twice 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location on Wilingili 24 m 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 Geographic note: 1,190 coral islands grouped into 26 atolls; archipelago of strategic location astride and along major sea lanes in Indian Ocean People ------ Population: 270,758 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 47% (male 65,559; female 62,399) 15-64 years: 50% (male 69,071; female 65,659) 65 years and over: 3% (male 4,336; female 3,734) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.52% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 41.88 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.64 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.16 male(s)/female all ages: 1.05 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 47 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 66.17 years male: 64.6 years female: 67.82 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.06 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Maldivian(s) adjective: Maldivian Ethnic divisions: Sinhalese, Dravidian, Arab, African Religions: Sunni Muslim Languages: Maldivian Divehi (dialect of Sinhala, script derived from Arabic), English spoken by most government officials Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 93.2% male: 93.3% female: 93% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Maldives conventional short form: Maldives Data code: MV Type of government: 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) was reelected for a five-year term by secret ballot of the Majlis; election last held 1 October 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - President Maumoon Abdul GAYOOM was reelected with 92.76% of the vote cabinet: Ministry of Atolls was appointed by the president; note - need not be members of Majilis Legislative branch: unicameral; members elected for five-year terms or appointed by the president Citizens' Council (Majlis): elections last held 2 December 1994 (next to be held NA December 1999); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (48 total, 40 elected, 8 appointed by the president) independents 40 Judicial branch: High Court Political parties and leaders: although political parties are not banned, none exist International organization participation: AsDB, C, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, ITU, NAM, OIC, SAARC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: Maldives does not have an embassy in the US, but does have a Permanent Mission to the UN in New York, headed by Ahmed ZAKI US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Maldives; the US Ambassador to Sri Lanka is accredited to Maldives and makes periodic visits there 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: During the 1980s tourism became one of the most important and highest growth sectors of the economy. In 1994, tourism, Maldives largest industry, accounted for about 18% of GDP and more than 60% of the Maldives' foreign exchange receipts. Fishing is a second leading growth sector. Over 90% of government tax revenue comes from import duties and tourism-related taxes. The Maldivian Government initiated an economic reform program in 1989 initially by lifting import quotas and opening some exports to the private sector. Subsequently, it has liberalized regulations to allow more foreign investment. Agriculture and manufacturing continue to play a minor role in the economy, constrained by the limited availability of cultivable land and the shortage of domestic labor. Most staple foods must be imported. In 1994, industry which consisted mainly of garment production, boat building, and handicrafts accounted for about 15% of GDP. GDP: purchasing power parity - $390 million (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6.6% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $1,560 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 21.5% industry: 15.3% services: 63.2% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 16.5% (1994 est.) Labor force: 66,000 (est.) by occupation: fishing industry 25% Unemployment rate: NEGL% Budget: revenues: $88 million (excluding foreign grants) expenditures: $141 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: fish processing, tourism, shipping, boat building, coconut processing, garments, woven mats, rope, handicrafts, coral and sand mining Industrial production growth rate: 6.3% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 5,000 kW production: 30 million kWh consumption per capita: 123 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coconuts, corn, sweet potatoes; fishing Exports: $75.3 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: fish, clothing partners: Sri Lanka, US, Germany, Singapore, UK Imports: $195.1 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: consumer goods, intermediate and capital goods, petroleum products partners: Singapore, India, Sri Lanka, Hong Kong, Japan, Thailand External debt: $137.5 million (1994 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 rufiyaa (Rf) = 100 laari Exchange rates: rufiyaa (Rf) per US$1 - 11.770 (January 1996), 11.770 (1995), 11.586 (1994), 10.957 (1993), 10.569 (1992), 10.253 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: NA km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km; note - Male has 9.6 km of coral highways within the city (1988 est.) Ports: Gan, Male Merchant marine: total: 20 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 73,284 GRT/113,669 DWT ships by type: cargo 17, container 2, oil tanker 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 2 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 8,523 (1992 est.) Telephone system: minimal domestic and international facilities domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: 28,284 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 7,309 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: National Security Service (paramilitary police force) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 59,179 males fit for military service: 33,016 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Mali ---- Map --- Location: 17 00 N, 4 00 W -- Western Africa, southwest of Algeria Flag ---- Description: three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), yellow, and red; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, southwest of Algeria Geographic coordinates: 17 00 N, 4 00 W 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 border countries: Algeria 1,376 km, Burkina Faso 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 Faso and Mali was submitted to the International Court of Justice (ICJ) in October 1983 and the ICJ issued its final ruling in December 1986, which both sides agreed to accept; Burkina Faso and Mali are proceeding with boundary demarcation, including the tripoint with 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 lowest point: Senegal River 23 m highest point: Hombori Tondo 1,155 m 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 - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Nuclear Test Ban Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 9,653,261 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 48% (male 2,310,294; female 2,308,941) 15-64 years: 49% (male 2,231,244; female 2,488,276) 65 years and over: 3% (male 149,370; female 165,136) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.95% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 51.38 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 19.49 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -2.37 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.9 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.9 male(s)/female all ages: 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 102.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 46.84 years male: 45.12 years female: 48.6 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 7.25 children born/woman (1996 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 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 31% male: 39.4% female: 23.1% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Mali conventional short form: Mali local long form: Republique de Mali local short form: Mali former: French Sudan Data code: ML Type of government: 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) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held NA April 1992 (next to be held NA April 1997); Alpha KONARE was elected in runoff race against Montaga TALL head of government: Prime Minister Ibrahima Boubacar KEITA (since NA March 1994) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly: elections last held 8 March 1992 (next to be held NA February 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (116 total) Adema 76, CNID 9, US/RAD 8, Popular Movement for the Development of the Republic of West Africa 6, RDP 4, UDD 4, RDT 3, UFDP 3, PDP 2, UMDD 1 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Cour Supreme) Political parties and leaders: Alliance for Democracy (Adema), Ibrahim Baubacar KEITA; National Congress for Democratic Initiative (CNID), Mountaga TALL; Sudanese Union/African Democratic Rally (US/RDA), Mamadou Madeira KEITA; Popular Movement for the Development of the Republic of West Africa; Rally for Democracy and Progress (RDP), Almamy SYLLA; Union for Democracy and Development (UDD), Moussa Balla COULIBALY; Rally for Democracy and Labor (RDT); Union of Democratic Forces for Progress (UFDP), Dembo DIALLO; Party for Democracy and Progress (PDP), Idrissa TRAORE; Malian Union for Democracy and Development (UMDD); Movement for the Independence, the Renaissance and Integration of Africa (MIRIA), Mohammed Lamine TRAORE Other political or pressure groups: United Movement and Fronts of Azawad (MFUA); Patriotic Movement of the Ghanda Kaye (MPGK) International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, FZ, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, UN, UNAMIR, UNAVEM III, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMIH, UPU, WADB, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Cheick Oumar DIARRAH chancery: 2130 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 332-2249, 939-8950 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador David RAWSON 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 12 January 1994. Post-devaluation inflation peaked at 35% in 1994, and the government appears to be keeping on track with its IMF structural adjustment program. GDP: purchasing power parity - $5.4 billion (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.4% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $600 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 42.4% industry: 15.4% services: 42.2% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 8% (1995 est.) Labor force: 2.666 million (1986 est.) by occupation: agriculture 80%, services 19%, industry and commerce 1% (1981) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $376 million expenditures: $697 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.) Industries: minor local consumer goods production and food processing; construction; phosphate and gold mining Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 90,000 kW production: 310 million kWh consumption per capita: 33 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cotton, millet, rice, corn, vegetables, peanuts; cattle, sheep, goats 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: $2.8 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: CFA francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 500.56 (January 1996), 499.15 (1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991) 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 641 km; note - linked to Senegal's rail system through Kayes narrow gauge: 641 km 1.000-m gauge (1995) Highways: total: 15,610 km paved: 1,661 km unpaved: 13,949 km (1987 est.) Waterways: 1,815 km navigable Ports: Koulikoro Airports: total: 24 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 4 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 with paved runways under 914 m: 7 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 3 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 8 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 11,000 (1982 est.) Telephone system: domestic system poor but improving; provides only minimal service domestic: network consists of microwave radio relay, open wire, and radiotelephone communications stations; expansion of microwave radio relay in progress international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 2, shortwave 0 Radios: 430,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 2 (1987 est.) Televisions: 11,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Air Force, Gendarmerie, Republican Guard, National Guard, National Police (Surete Nationale) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,925,205 males fit for military service: 1,100,599 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $66 million, 2.2% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Malta ----- Map --- Location: 35 50 N, 14 35 E -- Southern Europe, islands in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily (Italy) Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern Europe, islands in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily (Italy) Geographic coordinates: 35 50 N, 14 35 E Map references: Europe Area: total area: 320 sq km land area: 320 sq km comparative area: 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 lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m highest point: Dingli Cliffs 245 m 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, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Desertification Geographic note: the country comprises an archipelago, with only the three largest islands (Malta, Gozo, and Comino) being inhabited; numerous bays provide good harbors People ------ Population: 375,576 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 22% (male 42,067; female 39,958) 15-64 years: 67% (male 126,179; female 125,321) 65 years and over: 11% (male 17,766; female 24,285) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.01% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 14.79 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.83 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 2.12 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.73 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 6.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.11 years male: 75.77 years female: 80.6 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.17 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 84% male: 86% female: 82% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Malta conventional short form: Malta Data code: MT Type of government: parliamentary democracy Capital: Valletta Administrative divisions: none (administered 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) was elected for a five-year term by the House of Representatives head of government: Prime Minister Dr. Edward (Eddie) FENECH ADAMI (since 12 May 1987) was appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Minister (since 14 May 1987) and Foreign Minister (since 1990) Dr. Guido DE MARCO cabinet: Cabinet was 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 (NP 36, MLP 33 after adjustment) Judicial branch: Constitutional Court, judges are appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister; Court of Appeal, judges are appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister Political parties and leaders: Nationalist Party (NP), Edward FENECH ADAMI; Malta Labor Party (MLP), Alfred SANT International organization participation: C, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarset, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO (correspondent), ITU, NACC, NAM, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Albert Borg Olivier DE PUGET chancery: 2017 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 462-3611, 3612 FAX: [1] (202) 387-5470 consulate(s): New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Joseph R. PAOLINO, Jr. embassy: 2nd Floor, Development House, Saint Anne Street, Floriana, ====================================================================== @Man, Isle of ------------ (British crown dependency) Map --- Location: 54 15 N, 4 30 W -- Western Europe, island in the Irish Sea, between Great Britain and Ireland Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Western Europe, island in the Irish Sea, between Great Britain and Ireland Geographic coordinates: 54 15 N, 4 30 W Map references: Europe Area: total area: 588 sq km land area: 588 sq km comparative area: slightly more than three times the size of Washington, DC Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 113 km Maritime claims: exclusive fishing zone: 12 nm territorial sea: 12 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 lowest point: Irish Sea 0 m highest point: Snaefell 620 m 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 Geographic note: one small islet, the Calf of Man, lies to the southwest, and is a bird sanctuary People ------ Population: 73,837 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 18% (male 6,606; female 6,348) 15-64 years: 65% (male 23,917; female 23,815) 65 years and over: 17% (male 5,239; female 7,912) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.94% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 12.43 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 12.09 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 9.02 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.66 male(s)/female all ages: 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 2.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 77.15 years male: 73.56 years female: 80.91 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.68 children born/woman (1996 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Isle of Man Data code: IM Type of government: 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 (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), represented by Lieutenant Governor His Excellency Sir Timothy DAUNT (since NA 1995) who was appointed for a five-year term by the queen head of government: President of the Legislative Council Sir Charles KERRUISH (since NA 1990); was elected by the Tynwald 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 November 1991 (next to be held NA 1996); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (24 total) independents 24 Judicial branch: High Court of Justice, justices are appointed by the Lord Chancellor of England on the nomination of the lieutenant governor Political parties and leaders: there is no party system; members sit as independents International organization participation: 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 EU markets. GDP: purchasing power parity - $780 million (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $10,800 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 7% (1992 est.) Labor force: 31,829 (1991) by occupation: manufacturing 11%, construction 11%, transport and communication 6%, retail distribution 9%, professional and scientific services 17%, public administration 7%, banking and finance 8% Unemployment rate: 1% (1992 est.) Budget: revenues: $130.4 million expenditures: $114.4 million, including capital expenditures of $18.1 million (1985 est.) Industries: financial services, light manufacturing, tourism Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 61,000 kW production: 190 million kWh consumption per capita: 2,965 kWh (1992) Agriculture: cereals, vegetables; cattle, sheep, pigs, poultry Exports: $NA commodities: tweeds, herring, processed shellfish, beef, lamb partners: UK Imports: $NA commodities: timber, fertilizers, fish partners: UK External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Manx pound (LM) = 100 pence Exchange rates: Manx pounds (LM) per US$1 - 0.6537 (January 1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991); the Manx pound is at par with the British pound Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 52 km (27 km electrified) Highways: total: 640 km paved: 320 km unpaved: 320 km Ports: Castletown, Douglas, Peel, Ramsey Merchant marine: total: 83 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,099,888 GRT/3,569,632 DWT ships by type: bulk 13, cargo 10, chemical tanker 4, container 12, liquefied gas tanker 8, oil tanker 18, passenger 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 13, short-sea passenger 1, vehicle carrier 2 note: a flag of convenience registry; UK owns 10 ships, Switzerland 2, South Africa 2, Denmark 1, and Netherlands 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 1 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 41,000 (1995) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 4, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 4 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK ====================================================================== @Marshall Islands ---------------- Map --- Location: 9 00 N, 168 00 E -- Oceania, group of atolls and reefs in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to Papua New Guinea Flag ---- Description: 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 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 Geographic coordinates: 9 00 N, 168 00 E Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 181.3 sq km land area: 181.3 sq km comparative area: about the size of Washington, DC note: includes the atolls of Bikini, Enewetak, 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location on Likiep 10 m 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 Geographic note: two archipelagic island chains of 30 atolls and 1,152 islands; Bikini and Enewetak are former US nuclear test sites; Kwajalein, the famous World War II battleground, is now used as a US missile test range People ------ Population: 58,363 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 51% (male 15,043; female 14,435) 15-64 years: 47% (male 14,084; female 13,399) 65 years and over: 2% (male 657; female 745) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.85% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 45.75 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.28 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.88 male(s)/female all ages: 1.04 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 46.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 63.81 years male: 62.25 years female: 65.45 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.83 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 93% male: 100% female: 88% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of the Marshall Islands conventional short form: Marshall Islands former: Marshall Islands District (Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands) Data code: RM Type of government: 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 NA 1979) was elected for a four-year term by the Nitijela from among its own members; election last held 20 November 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - President Amata KABUA was reelected cabinet: Cabinet; president selects from among the members of Parliament Legislative branch: unicameral Parliament (Nitijela): elections last held 20 November 1995 (next to be held NA November 1999); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (33 total) seats by party NA Judicial branch: Supreme Court; High Court Political parties and leaders: government: Our Islands Party, President Amata KABUA opposition: Ralik/Ratak Democratic Party (RRDP), Ramsey REIMERS International organization participation: AsDB, ESCAP, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFC, IMF, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, WHO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant) chancery: 2433 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 234-5414 FAX: [1] (202) 232-3236 consulate(s) general: Honolulu and Los Angeles US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Joan PLAISTED embassy: Oceanside, Long Island, Majuro mailing address: P. O. Box 1379, Majuro, Republic of the Marshall Islands 96960-1379; Majuro, 20521-4380 (pouch) 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 government is drafting economic reforms designed to increase revenue and compensate for reductions in US Government grants - in 1994, the US Government provided grants of $50 million, equal to 55% of the Marshall Islands' GDP. About 25% of the government's 1995/96 budget is devoted to debt repayment. GDP: purchasing power parity - $94 million (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 1.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,680 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 4% (1995 est.) Labor force: 4,800 (1986) by occupation: NA Unemployment rate: 16% (1991 est.) Budget: revenues: $67.2 million expenditures: $79.6 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95 est.) Industries: copra, fish, tourism, craft items from shell, wood, and pearls, offshore banking (embryonic) Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 42,000 kW production: 80 million kWh consumption per capita: 1,840 kWh (1990) Agriculture: coconuts, cacao, taro, breadfruit, fruits; pigs, chickens Exports: $21.3 million (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: coconut oil, fish, live animals, trochus shells partners: US, Japan, Australia Imports: $69.9 million (c.i.f., 1995 est.) commodities: foodstuffs, machinery and equipment, beverages and tobacco, fuels partners: US, Japan, Australia External debt: $170 million (1994) 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 Exchange rates: US currency is used Fiscal year: 1 October - 30 September Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: NA km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km note: paved roads on major islands (Majuro, Kwajalein), otherwise stone-, coral-, or laterite-surfaced roads and tracks Ports: Majuro Merchant marine: total: 78 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 3,068,782 GRT/5,073,125 DWT ships by type: bulk carrier 43, cargo 4, combination ore/oil 1, container 17, oil tanker 11, refrigerated cargo 1, vehicle carrier 1 (1995 est.) 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 914 to 1 523 m: 7 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 800 (1988 est.) Telephone system: telex services domestic: islands interconnected by shortwave radiotelephone (used mostly for government purposes) international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean); US Government satellite communications system on Kwajalein Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 2, shortwave 1 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: no regular military forces (a coast guard may be established); Police Force Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US ====================================================================== @Martinique ---------- (overseas department of France) Map --- Location: 14 40 N, 61 00 W -- Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago Flag ---- Description: a light blue background is divided into four quadrants by a white cross; in the center of each rectangle is a white snake; the flag of France is used for official occasions Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago Geographic coordinates: 14 40 N, 61 00 W 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: 350 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); vulnerable to devastating cyclones (hurricanes) every eight years on average; average temperature 17.3 degrees C; humid Terrain: mountainous with indented coastline; dormant volcano lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Montagne Pelee 1,397 m 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 People ------ Population: 399,151 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 23% (male 46,851; female 45,300) 15-64 years: 67% (male 132,161; female 135,707) 65 years and over: 10% (male 16,542; female 22,590) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.1% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 16.92 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.85 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.1 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.04 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.97 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.73 male(s)/female all ages: 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 7.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.81 years male: 76.07 years female: 81.68 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.81 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Martiniquais (singular and plural) adjective: Martiniquais Ethnic divisions: African and African-white-Indian mixture 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 est.) total population: 93% male: 92% female: 93% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Department of Martinique conventional short form: Martinique local long form: Departement de la Martinique local short form: Martinique Data code: MB Type of government: 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 (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995); Prefect Jean-Francois CORDET (since NA) was appointed by the French Ministry of the Interior head of government: President of the General Council Claude LISE (since 22 March 1992); President of the Regional Council Emile CAPGRAS (since 22 March 1992); Legislative branch: unicameral General Council and a unicameral Regional Assembly General Council: elections last held NA March 1994 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (44 total) number of seats by party NA; note - the PPM won a plurality Regional Assembly: elections last held on 22 March 1992 (next to be held by March 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (41 total) RPR-UDF 16, MIM 9, PPM 9, PCM 5, independents 2 French Senate: elections last held 24 September 1989 (next to be held September 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) UDF 1, PPM 1 French National Assembly: elections last held 21 March 1993 (next to be held NA June 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (4 total) RPR 2, UDF 1, PPM 1 Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: Rally for the Republic (RPR), Alex URSULET; Union for a Martinique of Progress (UMP); Martinique Progressive Party (PPM), Aime CESAIRE; Socialist Federation of Martinique (FSM), Jean CRUSOL; Martinique Communist Party (PCM), George ERICHOT; Martinique Patriots (PM); Union for French Democracy (UDF), Miguel LAVENTURE; Martinique Independence Movement (MIM), Alfred MARIE-JEANNE; Republican Party (PR), Jean BAILLY 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) International organization participation: FZ, WCL, WFTU Diplomatic representation in US: none (overseas department of France) US diplomatic representation: none (overseas department of France) Flag: a light blue background is divided into four quadrants by a white cross; in the center of each rectangle is a white snake; the flag of France is used for official occasions Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy is based on sugarcane, bananas, tourism, and light industry. Agriculture accounts for about 6% of GDP and the small industrial sector for 11%. Sugar production has declined, with most of the sugarcane now used for the production of rum. Banana exports are increasing, going mostly to 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $3.95 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $10,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 6% industry: 11% services: 83% (1992 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3.9% (1990) Labor force: 121,600 by occupation: agriculture 10%, industry 17%, services 73% (1992) Unemployment rate: 32.1% (1990) Budget: revenues: $657 million expenditures: $2.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.) Industries: construction, rum, cement, oil refining, sugar, tourism Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 113,100 kW production: 761 million kWh consumption per capita: 1,677 kWh (1993) Agriculture: pineapples, avocados, bananas, flowers, vegetables, sugarcane for rum Illicit drugs: transshipment point for cocaine and marijuana bound for the US and Europe Exports: $218 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: refined petroleum products, bananas, rum, pineapples partners: France 57%, Guadeloupe 31%, French Guiana (1991) Imports: $1.76 billion (c.i.f., 1993) 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: $180 million (1994) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA note: French aid $600 million (1989-93); EU aid $137 million Currency: 1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.0056 (January 1996), 4.9915 (1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632 (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 1,690 km paved: 1,300 km unpaved: 390 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 159,000 (1990 est.) Telephone system: domestic facilities are adequate domestic: NA international: microwave radio relay to Guadeloupe, Dominica, and Saint Lucia; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 6, shortwave 0 Radios: 74,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 10 Televisions: 65,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: French forces (Army, Navy, Air Force), Gendarmerie Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France ====================================================================== @Mauritania ---------- Map --- Location: 20 00 N, 12 00 W -- Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Senegal and Western Sahara Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Senegal and Western Sahara Geographic coordinates: 20 00 N, 12 00 W 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Sebkha de Ndrhamcha -3 m highest point: Kediet Ijill 910 m 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 Geographic note: most of the population concentrated along the Senegal River in the southern part of the country People ------ Population: 2,336,048 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 48% (male 568,828; female 562,342) 15-64 years: 49% (male 560,540; female 592,914) 65 years and over: 3% (male 21,753; female 29,671) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.17% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 46.92 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 15.24 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.04 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.94 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.73 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 81.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 49.01 years male: 46.09 years female: 52.06 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.84 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 37.7% male: 49.6% female: 26.3% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Islamic Republic of Mauritania conventional short form: Mauritania local long form: Al Jumhuriyah al Islamiyah al Muritaniyah local short form: Muritaniyah Data code: MR Type of government: 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, and state security courts (in the process of being eliminated) Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Col. Maaouya Ould Sid Ahmed TAYA (since 12 December 1984) was reelected for a six-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 17 January 1992 (next to be held NA January 1998); results - President Col. Maaouya Ould Sid Ahmed TAYA was reelected head of government: Prime Minister Cheikh El Afia Ould Mohamed KHOUNA (since NA January 1996) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers Legislative branch: bicameral legislature Senate (Majlis al-Shuyukh): elections last held 15 April 1994 (next to be held 12 April 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats (56 total, with 17 up for election every two years) PRDS 16, UFD/NE 1 National Assembly (Majlis al-Watani): elections last held 6 and 13 March 1992 (next to be held NA March 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (79 total) UFD/NE 67, PMR 1, RDU 1, independents 10 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Cour Supreme) 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) International organization participation: ABEDA, ACCT (associate), ACP, AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, AMU, CAEU, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, G-77, 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, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Ismail Ould IYAHI chancery: 2129 Leroy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 232-5700 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $2.8 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,200 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 27.1% industry: 29.5% services: 43.4% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3.5% (1995 est.) Labor force: 465,000 (1981 est.); 45,000 wage earners (1980) by occupation: agriculture 47%, services 29%, industry and commerce 14%, government 10% Unemployment rate: 20% (1991 est.) Budget: revenues: $254 million expenditures: $280 million, including capital expenditures of $94 million (1994 est.) Industries: fish processing, mining of iron ore and gypsum Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 110,000 kW production: 135 million kWh consumption per capita: 61 kWh (1993) Agriculture: dates, millet, sorghum, root crops; cattle, sheep; fish products Exports: $390 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: iron ore, fish and fish products partners: Japan 27%, Italy, Belgium, Luxembourg Imports: $355 million (c.i.f., 1994 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.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 ouguiya (UM) = 5 khoums Exchange rates: ouguiyas (UM) per US$1 - 135.690 (January 1996), 129.768 (1995), 123.575 (1994), 120.806 (1993), 87.027 (1992), 81.946 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 704 km (single track); note - owned and operated by government mining company standard gauge: 704 km 1.435-m gauge (1995) Highways: total: 7,496 km paved: 1,342 km unpaved: 6,154 km (1987 est.) Waterways: mostly ferry traffic on the Senegal River Ports: Bogue, Kaedi, Nouadhibou, Nouakchott, Rosso Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 24 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: 1 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 4 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 9 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 17,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: poor system of cable and open-wire lines, minor microwave radio relay links, and radiotelephone communications stations (improvements being made) domestic: mostly cable and open-wire lines international: satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) and 2 Arabsat Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 300,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 (1987 est.) Televisions: 50,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, National Guard, National Police, Presidential Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 500,754 males fit for military service: 244,546 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $33 million, 2.5% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Mauritius --------- Map --- Location: 20 17 S, 57 33 E -- Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar Flag ---- Description: four equal horizontal bands of red (top), blue, yellow, and green Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar Geographic coordinates: 20 17 S, 57 33 E Map references: World Area: total area: 1,860 sq km land area: 1,850 sq km comparative area: almost 11 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 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Piton de la Petite Riviere Noire 828 m 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 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, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification People ------ Population: 1,140,256 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 27% (male 157,174; female 152,980) 15-64 years: 67% (male 379,840; female 383,295) 65 years and over: 6% (male 27,429; female 39,538) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.23% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 18.97 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.67 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.69 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 17.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 70.53 years male: 66.72 years female: 74.33 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.24 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 82.9% male: 87.1% female: 78.8% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Mauritius conventional short form: Mauritius Data code: MP Type of government: 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) and Vice President Rabindranath GHURBURRON (since 1 July 1992) were elected for five-year terms by the National Assembly head of government: Prime Minister Navin RAMGOOLAM (since 27 December 1995) and Deputy Prime Minister Paul BERENGER (since 27 December 1995) were appointed by the president and are responsible to the National Assembly cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister Legislative branch: unicameral Legislative Assembly: elections last held on 20 December 1995 (next to be held by December 2000); results - MMM/MLP 65%, MSM/RMM 20%, other 15%; seats - (66 total; 62 elected, 4 appointed) MLP 35, MMM 25, allies of MLP and MMM on Rodrigues Island 2; appointed were Rodrigues Movement 2, Gaetan Duval Party 1, Hizballah 1 Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: government coalition: MLP/MMM alliance - Mauritian Labor Party (MLP), Navin RAMGOOLAM; Mauritian Militant Movement (MMM), Paul BERENGER opposition: Organization of the People of Rodrigues (OPR), Louis Serge CLAIR; Rodrigues Movement, Nicolas VONMALLY; Gaetan Duval Party, Gaetan DUVAL; Hizbullah, Imam Mustapha BEEHARRY; Militant Socialist Movement (MSM); Mauritian Militant Resurgence (MMR) Other political or pressure groups: various labor unions International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OAU, PCA, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Anund Priyay NEEWOOR chancery: Suite 441, 4301 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 244-1491, 1492 FAX: [1] (202) 966-0983 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] 208-2347, 208-2354, 208-9763 through 9767 FAX: [230] 208-9534 Flag: four equal horizontal bands of red (top), blue, yellow, and green Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $10.9 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.7% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $9,600 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 9.4% (1993 est.) Labor force: 335,000 by occupation: government services 29%, agriculture and fishing 27%, manufacturing 22%, other 22% Unemployment rate: 2.4% (1991 est.) Budget: revenues: $653 million expenditures: $567 million, including capital expenditures of $143 million (FY92/93 est.) Industries: food processing (largely sugar milling), textiles, wearing apparel, chemicals, metal products, transport equipment, nonelectrical machinery, tourism Industrial production growth rate: 5.8% (1992) Electricity: capacity: 340,000 kW production: 920 million kWh consumption per capita: 777 kWh (1993) Agriculture: sugarcane, tea, corn, potatoes, bananas, pulses; cattle, goats; fish Illicit drugs: illicit producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; heroin consumption and transshipment are growing problems Exports: $1.3 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: textiles 44%, sugar 40%, light manufactures 10% partners: EU and US have preferential treatment, EU 77%, US 15% Imports: $1.9 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: manufactured goods 50%, capital equipment 17%, foodstuffs 13%, petroleum products 8%, chemicals 7% partners: EU, US, South Africa, Japan External debt: $996.8 million (1993 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Mauritian rupee (MauR) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Mauritian rupees (MauRs) per US$1 - 17.842 (January 1996), 17.386 (1995), 17.960 (1994), 17.648 (1993), 15.563 (1992), 15.652 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 1,831 km paved: 1,703 km (including 29 km of expressways) unpaved: 128 km (1991 est.) Ports: Port Louis Merchant marine: total: 17 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 221,446 GRT/308,478 DWT ships by type: bulk 1, cargo 9, container 4, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 1, passenger-cargo 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 4 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 65,000 (1985 est.) Telephone system: small system with good service domestic: primarily microwave radio relay international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean); new microwave link to Reunion; HF radiotelephone links to several countries Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 395,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 4 (1987 est.) Televisions: 151,096 (1991 est.) Defense ------- 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: 327,403 males fit for military service: 166,466 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $11.2 million, 0.4% of GDP (FY92/93) ====================================================================== @Mayotte ------- (territorial collectivity of France) Map --- Location: 12 50 S, 45 10 E -- Southern Africa, island in the Mozambique Channel, about one-half of the way from northern Madagascar to northern Mozambique Flag ---- Description: the flag of France is used Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, island in the Mozambique Channel, about one-half of the way from northern Madagascar to northern Mozambique Geographic coordinates: 12 50 S, 45 10 E 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 deep ravines and ancient volcanic peaks lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Benara 660 m Natural resources: NEGL 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 Geographic note: part of Comoro Archipelago People ------ Population: 100,838 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 50% (male 25,099; female 24,881) 15-64 years: 48% (male 24,790; female 23,727) 65 years and over: 2% (male 1,152; female 1,189) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.78% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 47.93 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 10.12 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.97 male(s)/female all ages: 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 75.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 58.7 years male: 56.43 years female: 61.05 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.63 children born/woman (1996 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Territorial Collectivity of Mayotte conventional short form: Mayotte Data code: MF Type of government: 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 (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995) represented by Prefect Alain WEIL (since NA), who was appointed by the French Ministry of the Interior head of government: 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 24 September 1995 (next to be held 24 September 2001); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) MPM 1 French National Assembly: elections last held 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - UDF-CDS 54.3%, RPR 44.3%; seats - (1 total) UDF-CDS 1 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) International organization participation: 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $54 million (1993 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $600 (1993 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: NA Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $37.3 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1985 est.) Industries: newly created lobster and shrimp industry Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: NA kW production: NA kWh consumption per capita: NA kWh Agriculture: vanilla, ylang-ylang, coffee, copra Exports: $2.9 million (f.o.b., 1992) commodities: ylang-ylang (perfume essence), vanilla, copra partners: France 80%, Comoros 15%, Reunion Imports: $87.5 million (f.o.b., 1992) commodities: building materials, transportation equipment, rice, clothing, flour partners: France 63%, South Africa 11%, Thailand 9%, Singapore External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.0056 (January 1996), 4.9915 (1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632 (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 93 km paved: 72 km unpaved: 21 km Ports: Dzaoudzi Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 1 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 450 Telephone system: small system administered by French Department of Posts and Telecommunications domestic: NA international: microwave radio relay and HF radiotelephone communications to Comoros and other international connections Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 30,000 (1994 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 Televisions: 3,500 (1994 est.) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France ====================================================================== @Mexico ------ Map --- Location: 23 00 N, 102 00 W -- Middle America, bordering the Caribbean Sea and the Gulf of Mexico, between Belize and the US and bordering the North Pacific Ocean, between Guatemala and the US Flag ---- Description: 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 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 Guatemala and the US Geographic coordinates: 23 00 N, 102 00 W 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Laguna Salada -10 m highest point: Volcan Pico de Orizaba 5,700 m 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 international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling Geographic note: strategic location on southern border of US People ------ Population: 95,772,462 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 36% (male 17,732,725; female 17,125,562) 15-64 years: 59% (male 27,562,285; female 29,165,138) 65 years and over: 5% (male 1,911,968; female 2,274,784) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.87% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 26.24 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 4.58 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -2.97 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.94 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.84 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 25 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 73.67 years male: 70.07 years female: 77.45 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.03 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 89.6% male: 91.8% female: 87.4% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: United Mexican States conventional short form: Mexico local long form: Estados Unidos Mexicanos local short form: Mexico Data code: MX Type of government: 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) was elected for a six-year term by popular vote; election last held 21 August 1994 (next to be held NA 2000); results - Ernesto ZEDILLO Ponce de Leon (PRI) 50.18%, Cuauhtemoc CARDENAS Solorzano (PRD) 17.08%, Diego FERNANDEZ DE CEVALLOS (PAN) 26.69%; other 6.049% cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president Legislative branch: bicameral National Congress (Congreso de la Union) Senate (Camara de Senadores): elections last held 21 August 1994 (next to be held NA July 1997 for one-quarter of the seats); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats in full Senate - (128 total; Senate expanded from 64 seats at the last election) PRI 93, PRD 25, PAN 10 Chamber of Deputies (Camara de Diputados): elections last held 24 August 1994 (next to be held NA July 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (500 total) PRI 300, PAN 119, PRD 71, PT 10 Judicial branch: Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia), judges are appointed by the president with consent of the Senate Political parties and leaders: (recognized parties) Institutional Revolutionary Party (PRI), Santiago ONATE Laborde; National Action Party (PAN), Carlos CASTILLO; Popular Socialist Party (PPS), Indalecio SAYAGO Herrera; Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD), Porfirio MUNOZ Ledo; Cardenist Front for the National Reconstruction Party (PFCRN), Rafael AGUILAR Talamantes; Democratic Forum Party (PFD), Pablo Emilio MADERO; Mexican Green Ecologist Party (PVEM), Jorge GONZALEZ Torres; Workers Party (PT), Alberto ANYA Gutierrez 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) International organization participation: AG (observer), APEC, BCIE, Caricom (observer), CCC, CDB, EBRD, ECLAC, FAO, G- 6, G-11, G-15, G-19, G-24, 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, OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNITAR, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Jesus SILVA Herzog Flores chancery: 1911 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20006 telephone: [1] (202) 728-1600 consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Chicago, Dallas, Denver, El Paso, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New Orleans, New York, Phoenix, 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, 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 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Mexico has a free market economy with a mixture of modern and outmoded industry and agriculture, increasingly dominated by the private sector. Mexico entered 1996 on the heels of its worst recession since the 1930s. Economic activity contracted about 7% in 1995 in the aftermath of the peso devaluation in late 1994. Although Mexico City was able to correct imbalances in its external accounts, meet international payments obligations, and dramatically improve its trade balance in 1995, the domestic economy suffered harshly as the ZEDILLO administration stuck to a strict austerity program. The tight monetary and fiscal policies helped prevent spiraling inflation and kept government spending under control but drove interest rates to record heights, making it difficult for most Mexicans to service their debts. At the same time, consumers' reduced purchasing power made buying even necessities difficult for some. Many small- and medium-sized firms were unable to survive under the twin burdens of high interest rates and depressed domestic demand for their goods. Business closures and cutbacks fueled unemployment; more than 1 million Mexicans lost their jobs. According to the government and most private sector observers, the recession bottomed out in the third quarter of 1995, but the difficult year fed growing dissatisfaction with the ruling party, led to a crisis of confidence in President ZEDILLO'S ability to lead, and spurred increased tensions within the ruling party. While the ZEDILLO administration is optimistic that 1996 will bring some recovery - the government is forecasting 3% growth and 21% inflation - Mexico will face several key vulnerabilities, including the financial health of the banking sector, shaky investor confidence that could be easily jarred by more political or economic shocks, and increasingly emboldened dissenters within the ruling party. GDP: purchasing power parity - $721.4 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: -6.9% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $7,700 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 8.5% industry: 28.4% services: 63.1% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 52% (1995 est.) Labor force: 33.6 million (1994) 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% Unemployment rate: 10% (1995 est.) plus considerable underemployment Budget: revenues: $56 billion (1995 est.) expenditures: $54 billion (1995 est.), including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: food and beverages, tobacco, chemicals, iron and steel, petroleum, mining, textiles, clothing, motor vehicles, consumer durables, tourism Industrial production growth rate: -7.5% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 28,780,000 kW production: 122 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,239 kWh (1993) Agriculture: corn, wheat, soybeans, rice, beans, cotton, coffee, fruit, tomatoes; beef, poultry, dairy products; wood products Illicit drugs: illicit cultivation of opium poppy and cannabis continues in spite of increasing government eradication; major supplier of heroin and marijuana to the US market; continues as the primary transshipment country for US-bound cocaine from South America; increasingly involved in the production and distribution of methamphetamine Exports: $80 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.), includes in-bond industries commodities: crude oil, oil products, coffee, silver, engines, motor vehicles, cotton, consumer electronics partners: US 85%, Japan 1.6%, EU 4.6% (1994 est.) Imports: $72 billion (f.o.b., 1995 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 69%, Japan 6%, EU 12% (1994 est.) External debt: $155 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $85 million (1993) note: US commitments, (Emergency Stabilization Fund), $13.5 billion; IMF, $13 billion (1995-96) Currency: 1 New Mexican peso (Mex$) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: market rate of Mexican pesos (Mex$) per US$1 - 7.6647 (December 1995), 6.4194 (1995), 3.3751 (1994), 3.1156 (1993), 3,094.9 (1992), 3,018.4 (1991) note: the new peso replaced the old peso on 1 January 1993; 1 new peso = 1,000 old pesos Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 20,567 km standard gauge: 20,477 km 1.435-m gauge (246 km electrified) narrow gauge: 90 km 0.914-m gauge (1994) Highways: total: 245,433 km paved: 88,601 km (including 4,286 km of expressways) unpaved: 156,832 km (1993 est.) 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: 51 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 875,314 GRT/1,245,932 DWT ships by type: cargo 1, chemical tanker 4, container 4, liquefied gas tanker 7, oil tanker 29, refrigerated cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2, short-sea passenger 3 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 1,411 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: 88 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 66 with paved runways under 914 m: 815 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 50 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 358 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 11,890,868 (1993 est.) Telephone system: highly developed system with extensive microwave radio relay links; privatized in December 1990 domestic: adequate telephone service for business and government, but the population is poorly served; domestic satellite system with 120 earth stations; extensive microwave radio relay network international: satellite earth stations - 5 Intelsat (4 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean); launched Solidaridad I satellite in November 1993 and Solidaridad II in October 1994, giving Mexico improved access to South America, Central America and much of the US as well as enhancing domestic communications; linked to Central American Microwave System of trunk connections Radio broadcast stations: AM 679, FM 0, shortwave 22 Radios: 22.5 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 238 Televisions: 13.1 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: National Defense (includes Army and Air Force), Navy (includes Naval Air and Marines) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 23,945,962 males fit for military service: 17,451,706 males reach military age (18) annually: 1,057,538 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $2.24 billion, 0.9% of GDP (1996) ====================================================================== @Micronesia, Federated States of ------------------------------- Map --- Location: 6 55 N, 158 15 E -- Oceania, island group in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to Indonesia Flag ---- Description: light blue with four white five-pointed stars centered; the stars are arranged in a diamond pattern Geography --------- Location: Oceania, island group in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to Indonesia Geographic coordinates: 6 55 N, 158 15 E Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 702 sq km land area: 702 sq km comparative area: four times the size of Washington, DC note: includes Pohnpei (Ponape), Truk (Chuuk) Islands, Yap Islands, 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Totolom 791 m 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; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Hazardous Wastes, Ozone Layer Protection Geographic note: four major island groups totaling 607 islands People ------ Population: 125,377 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: 35% (est.) 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 3.34% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 27.94 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.22 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 11.65 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 35.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 67.99 years male: 66.02 years female: 69.99 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.96 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 89% male: 91% female: 88% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: FM Type of government: 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) and Vice President Jacob NENA (since 21 May 1991) were elected by the Congress from among the four Senators-at-Large; election last held 11 May 1995 (next to be held NA May 1999); results - Bailey OLTER reelected to a second term as president; Jacob NENA reelected to a second term as vice president cabinet: Cabinet Legislative branch: unicameral Congress: elections last held 7 March 1995 (next to be held NA March 1999); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (14 total) independents 14 Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: no formal parties International organization participation: AsDB, ESCAP, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFC, IMF, Intelsat, ITU, Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UN, UNCTAD, WHO, WMO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Jesse B. MAREHALAU chancery: 1725 N Street NW, Washington, DC 20036 telephone: [1] (202) 223-4383 FAX: [1] (202) 223-4391 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $205 million (1994 est.) note: GDP is supplemented by grant aid, averaging perhaps $100 million annually GDP real growth rate: 1.4% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $1,700 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 4% (1994 est.) Labor force: NA by occupation: two-thirds are government employees Unemployment rate: 27% (1989) Budget: revenues: $45 million expenditures: $31 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95 est.) Industries: tourism, construction, fish processing, craft items from shell, wood, and pearls Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 18,000 kW production: 40 million kWh consumption per capita: 380 kWh (1990) Agriculture: black pepper, tropical fruits and vegetables, coconuts, cassava (tapioca), sweet potatoes; pigs, chickens Exports: $29.1 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: fish, garments, bananas, black pepper partners: Japan, US, Guam Imports: $141.1 million (c.i.f., 1994 est.) commodities: food, manufactured goods, machinery and equipment, beverages partners: US, Japan, Australia External debt: $129 million Economic aid: recipient: under terms of the Compact of Free Association, the US will provide $1.3 billion in grant aid during the period 1986-2001 Currency: 1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: US currency is used Fiscal year: 1 October - 30 September Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 226 km paved: 39 km unpaved: 187 km Ports: Colonia (Yap), Kolonia (Pohnpei), Lele, Moen Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 5 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 4 with paved runways under 914 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 960 Telephone system: domestic: islands interconnected by shortwave radiotelephone (used mostly for government purposes) international: satellite earth stations - 4 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 5, FM 1, shortwave 1 Radios: 17,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 6 Televisions: 1,290 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US ====================================================================== @Midway Islands -------------- (territory of the US) Map --- Location: 28 13 N, 177 22 W -- Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-third of the way from Honolulu to Tokyo Flag ---- Description: the flag of the US is used Geography --------- Location: Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-third of the way from Honolulu to Tokyo Geographic coordinates: 28 13 N, 177 22 W Map references: Oceania 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 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 4 m 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 Geographic note: a coral atoll; closed to the public People ------ Population: no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are 453 US military personnel (July 1995 est.) Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Midway Islands Data code: MQ Type of government: unincorporated territory of the US formerly 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 undergoing transfer of accountability and responsibility to the US Department of the Interior, Fish and Wildlife Service Capital: none; administered from Washington, DC Flag: the flag of the US is used Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy is based on providing support services for remaining activities located on the islands. All food and manufactured goods must be imported. Electricity: supplied by US Military Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 32 km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Pipelines: 7.8 km Ports: Sand Island Airports: total: 2 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: NA Telephone system: domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: NA Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US ====================================================================== @Moldova ------- Map --- Location: 47 00 N, 29 00 E -- Eastern Europe, northeast of Romania Flag ---- Description: same color scheme as Romania - three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), yellow, and red; emblem in center of flag is of a Roman eagle of gold outlined in black with a red beak and talons carrying a yellow cross in its beak and a green olive branch in its right talons and a yellow scepter in its left talons; on its breast is a shield divided horizontally red over blue with a stylized ox head, star, rose, and crescent all in black-outlined yellow Geography --------- Location: Eastern Europe, northeast of Romania Geographic coordinates: 47 00 N, 29 00 E Map references: Commonwealth of Independent 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Nistru River 2 m highest point: Mount Balaneshty 430 m 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: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 4,463,847 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 26% (male 592,245; female 573,452) 15-64 years: 64% (male 1,381,017; female 1,496,428) 65 years and over: 10% (male 155,908; female 264,797) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.18% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 16.3 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 11.75 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -2.77 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.92 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.59 male(s)/female all ages: 0.91 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 47.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 65.14 years male: 60.77 years female: 69.73 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.17 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 96% male: 99% female: 94% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: MD Type of government: 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 28 July 1994; replaces old Soviet constitution of 1979 Legal system: based on civil law system; Constitutional Court reviews legality of legislative acts and governmental decisions of resolution; it is unclear if Moldova accepts compulsory ICJ 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) was elected for a four-year term by popular vote; election last held 8 December 1991 (next to be held NA December 1996); results - Mircea SNEGUR ran unopposed and won 98.17% of vote; note - President SNEGUR was named executive president by the Supreme Soviet on 3 September 1990 and was confirmed by popular election on 8 December 1991 head of government: Prime Minister Andrei SANGHELI (since 1 July 1992; reappointed 5 April 1994 after elections for new legislature) was appointed by Parliament; First Deputy Prime Minister Ion GUTU (since NA April 1994) cabinet: Council of Ministers was 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 of vote by party NA; seats - (104 total) PDAM 56, Socialist/Yedinstvo Bloc 28, Peasants and Intellectuals Bloc 11, FPCDM 9; note - seats as of June-July 1995 were as follows: PDAM 45, PSM/UN 28, Peasants and Intellectuals Bloc 11, PRCM 11, FPCDM 9 note: the comparative breakdown of seats by faction is approximate Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: Christian Democratic Popular Front (FPCDM - formerly Moldovan Popular Front), Iurie ROSCA, chairman; Socialist Unity Faction (US) of the Socialist Party of Moldova (PSM), Vladimir SOLONARI, leader; Social Democratic Party of Moldova (PSDM), Anatol TARAN, chairman; Agrarian Democratic Party of Moldova (PDAM), Dumitru MOTPAN, chairman; Peasants and Intellectuals Bloc, Mihai GHIMPU, leader; Liberal Party of Modova (PLM), Mircea RUSU, chairman; Socialist Party of Moldova (PSM), Valeriu SENIC and Victor MOREV, cochairmen; Party of Rivival and Conciliation of Moldova (PRCM), Mircea SNEGUR, chairman; Moldovan Party of Democratic Forces (PFDM), Valeriu MATEI, chairman; Party for Social Progress (PPSM), Eugen SOBOR, chairman; Communist Party (PCM), Vladimir VORONIN, first chairman; Yedinstvo Intermovement, Vladimir SOLONARI, chairman, note - this party may not be in existence now Other political or pressure groups: United Council of Labor Collectives (UCLC), Igor SMIRNOV, chairman; 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 International organization participation: BSEC, CCC, CE, CIS, EBRD, ECE, FAO, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFC, ILO, IMF, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NACC, OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Nicolae TAU chancery: Suites 329, 333, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005 telephone: [1] (202) 783-3012 FAX: [1] (202) 783-3342 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador John Todd STEWART embassy: Strada Alexei Mateevich #103, Chisinau 277014 mailing address: use embassy street address telephone: [373] (2) 23-37-72 FAX: [373] (2) 23-30-44 Flag: same color scheme as Romania - three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), yellow, and red; emblem in center of flag is of a Roman eagle of gold outlined in black with a red beak and talons carrying a yellow cross in its beak and a green olive branch in its right talons and a yellow scepter in its left talons; on its breast is a shield divided horizontally red over blue with a stylized ox head, star, rose, and crescent all in black-outlined yellow Economy ------- Economic overview: Moldova enjoys a favorable climate and good farmland but has no major mineral deposits. As a result, the economy depends heavily on agriculture, featuring fruits, vegetables, wine, and tobacco. Moldova must import all of its supplies of oil, coal, and natural gas. Energy shortages have contributed to sharp production declines since the breakup of the Soviet Union in 1991. The Moldovan Government has been making steady progress on an ambitious economic reform agenda, and the IMF has called Moldova a model for the region. As part of its reform efforts, Chisinau has introduced a stable convertible currency, freed all prices, stopped issuing preferential credits to state enterprises and backed their steady privatization, removed export controls, and freed interest rates. Chisinau appears strongly committed to continuing these reforms in 1996. Published estimates probably overstated the decline in output in 1991-94; the $2,310 per capita figure for GDP thus is a minimum estimate. GDP: purchasing power parity - $10.4 billion (1995 estimate extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994) GDP real growth rate: -3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,310 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 33% industry: 36% services: 31% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 24% (1995 est.) Labor force: 2.03 million (January 1994) by occupation: agriculture 34.4%, industry 20.1%, other 45.5% (1985 figures) Unemployment rate: 1.2% (includes only officially registered unemployed; large numbers of underemployed workers) (December 1995) Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA note: budget deficit for 1995 approximately 5% of GDP Industries: food processing, agricultural machinery, foundry equipment, refrigerators and freezers, washing machines, hosiery, sugar, vegetable oil, shoes, textiles Industrial production growth rate: -6% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 3,000,000 kW production: 8.2 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,830 kWh (1994) Agriculture: vegetables, fruits, wine, grain, sugar beets, sunflower seed, tobacco; meat, milk Illicit drugs: illicit cultivator of opium poppy and cannabis; mostly for CIS consumption; transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe Exports: $720 million (1995) commodities: foodstuffs, wine, tobacco, textiles and footwear, machinery, chemicals partners: Russia, Kazakstan, Ukraine, Romania, Germany Imports: $822 million (1995) commodities: oil, gas, coal, steel, machinery, foodstuffs, automobiles, and other consumer durables partners: Russia, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Romania, Germany External debt: $550 million (of which $250 million to Russia) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $46 million (1993) note: commitments, $1,335 million ($500 million disbursements), 1992-95 Currency: the leu (plural lei) was introduced in late 1993 Exchange rates: lei per US$1 - 4.5460 (January 1996), 4.4990 (1995), 4.2700 (1994), 3.6400 (1993), 0.4145 (1992), 0.0017 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 1,328 km broad gauge: 1,328 km 1.520-m gauge (1992) Highways: total: 14,508 km paved: 12,346 km unpaved: 2,162 km (1992 est.) Waterways: 424 km (1994) 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 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 5 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 8 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 577,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: telecommunication system not well developed; 215,000 unsatisfied requests for telephone service (1991 est.) domestic: NA international: international connections to other former Soviet republics by landline and microwave radio relay through Ukraine and to other countries by leased connections to the Moscow international gateway switch; satellite earth stations - 1 Eutelsat and 1 Intelsat Radio broadcast stations: AM 9, FM 5, shortwave NA (1994) Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 2 (one national and one private) (1995) Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: Ground Forces, Air and Air Defense Forces, Republic Security Forces (internal and border troops) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,125,538 males fit for military service: 888,757 males reach military age (18) annually: 37,183 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: 203 million lei, 2.5% of GDP (1995); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results ====================================================================== @Monaco ------ Map --- Location: 43 44 N, 7 24 E -- Western Europe, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, on the southern coast of France, near the border with Italy Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Western Europe, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, on the southern coast of France, near the border with Italy Geographic coordinates: 43 44 N, 7 24 E 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 border country: 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 lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m highest point: Mont Agel 140 m 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 Geographic note: second smallest independent state in world (after Holy See); almost entirely urban People ------ Population: 31,719 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 17% (male 2,737; female 2,685) 15-64 years: 63% (male 9,746; female 10,318) 65 years and over: 20% (male 2,288; female 3,945) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.59% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 10.66 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 12.11 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 7.38 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.94 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.58 male(s)/female all ages: 0.87 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 6.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.07 years male: 74.38 years female: 81.93 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.7 children born/woman (1996 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Principality of Monaco conventional short form: Monaco local long form: Principaute de Monaco local short form: Monaco Data code: MN Type of government: 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: 21 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: Prince RAINIER III (since NA November 1949) is a hereditary monarch; Heir Apparent Prince ALBERT Alexandre Louis Pierre (born 14 March 1958) head of government: Minister of State Jaques DUPONT (since NA 1995) was appointed by the prince from a list of three candidates presented by the French Government cabinet: Council of Government is 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 International organization participation: ACCT, ECE, IAEA, ICAO, ICRM, IFRCS, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, OSCE, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WHO, WIPO Diplomatic representation in US: Monaco does not have an embassy in the US consulate(s): New York honorary consulate(s) general: Boston, Chicago, Los Angeles, New Orleans, San Francisco, San Juan (Puerto Rico) honorary consulate(s): Dallas, Palm Beach, Philadelphia, and Washington, DC US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Monaco; the US Consul General in Marseille (France) is accredited to ====================================================================== @Mongolia -------- Map --- Location: 46 00 N, 105 00 E -- Northern Asia, between China and Russia Flag ---- Description: 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) Geography --------- Location: Northern Asia, between China and Russia Geographic coordinates: 46 00 N, 105 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Hoh Nuur 518 m highest point: Nayramadlin Orgil 4,374 m 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: dust storms 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 Geographic note: landlocked; strategic location between China and Russia People ------ Population: 2,496,617 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 38% (male 486,321; female 471,931) 15-64 years: 58% (male 722,485; female 723,065) 65 years and over: 4% (male 39,704; female 53,111) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.69% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 25.55 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.65 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.75 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 69.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 60.75 years male: 58.8 years female: 62.8 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.04 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Mongolian(s) adjective: Mongolian Ethnic divisions: Mongol 90%, Kazak 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: age 15 and over can read and write (1988 est.) total population: 82.9% male: 88.6% female: 77.2% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Mongolia local long form: none local short form: Mongol Uls former: Outer Mongolia Data code: MG Type of government: 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) was nominated by parties in the State Great Hural and elected in general presidential elections for a four-year term; election last held 6 June 1993 (next to be held NA 1997); results - Punsalmaagiyn OCHIRBAT (MNDP and MSDP) elected directly with 57.8% of the vote, other candidate Lodongiyn TUDEV (MPRP) head of government: Prime Minister Putsagiyn JASRAY (since 3 August 1992) and Deputy Prime Ministers Lhamsuren ENEBISH (since NA October 1992) and Choijilsurengiyn PUREVDORJ (since NA September 1990) were appointed by the State Great Hural cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the State Great Hural Legislative branch: unicameral State Great Hural: elections held for the first time 28 June 1992 (next to be held NA June 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (76 total) MPRP 71, United Party of 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, judges are nominated by the General Council of Courts for approval of the Great Hural 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 International organization participation: 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, WToO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Jalbuugiyn CHOINHOR chancery: 2833 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20007 telephone: [1] (202) 333-7117 FAX: [1] (202) 298-9227 consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Donald C. JOHNSON embassy: inner north side of the Big Ring, just west of the Selbe Gol, 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) Economy ------- Economic 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 has been soliciting support from international financial agencies and foreign investors. The economy, however, has still not recovered from the loss of Soviet aid. The country continues to suffer substantial economic hardships, with one-fourth of the population below the poverty line. GDP: purchasing power parity - $4.9 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,970 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 28% industry: 35% services: 37% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 53% (1995 est.) Labor force: 1.115 million (mid-1993 est.) 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 Unemployment rate: 15% (1991 est.) Budget: revenues: $1.5 billion expenditures: $1.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: copper, construction materials, mining (particularly coal); food and beverage, processing of animal products Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 900,000 kW production: 3.1 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,267 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, barley, potatoes, forage crops; sheep, goats, cattle, camels, horses Exports: $400 million (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: copper, livestock, animal products, cashmere, wool, hides, fluorspar, other nonferrous metals partners: former CMEA countries 62%, China 17%, EC 8% (1992) Imports: $223 million (f.o.b., 1994) 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: $473.7 million (1994) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 tughrik (Tug) = 100 mongos Exchange rates: tughriks (Tug) per US$1 - 4465.39 (October 1995), 412.72 (1994), 42.56 (1992), 9.52 (1991), 5.63 (1990) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 1,928 km broad gauge: 1,928 km 1.524-m gauge (1994) Highways: total: 46,700 km paved: 1,000 km unpaved: 45,700 km (1988 est.) 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 2 437 m: 10 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 5 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 89,000 (1995 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region) Radio broadcast stations: AM 12, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: 220,000 Television broadcast stations: 1 (provincial repeaters 18) Televisions: 120,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Mongolian People's Army (includes Internal Security Forces and Frontier Guards), Air Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 638,560 males fit for military service: 417,620 males reach military age (18) annually: 27,386 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $22.8 million, 1% of GDP (1992) ====================================================================== @Montserrat ---------- (dependent territory of the UK) Map --- Location: 16 45 N, 62 12 W -- Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, southeast of Puerto Rico Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, southeast of Puerto Rico Geographic coordinates: 16 45 N, 62 12 W 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 lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Chances Peak 914 m Natural resources: NEGL 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 People ------ Population: 12,771 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 0.28% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 15.08 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9.83 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -2.47 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 11.78 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.65 years male: 73.89 years female: 77.46 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.93 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 97% male: 97% female: 97% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Montserrat Data code: MH Type of government: 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 (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor Frank SAVAGE (since NA February 1993) was appointed by the queen 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 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (11 total, 7 elected) NPP 4, NDP 1, PLM 1, independent 1 Judicial branch: Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (based in Saint Lucia) Political parties and leaders: National Progressive Party (NPP), Reuben T. MEADE; People's Liberation Movement (PLM), Noel TUITT; National Development Party (NDP), Bertrand OSBORNE International organization participation: 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy is small and open, with economic activity centered on tourism and related services. Tourism accounts for roughly one-quarter of Montserrat's national income. The island's main export is electronic components which are mainly shipped to the US. The agriculture sector is small; cabbages, carrots, cucumbers, and onions are grown for the domestic market; additionally, some hot peppers and live plants are exported to the US and Europe. The threat of a volcanic eruption in late 1995 led to the repeated evacuation of Montserrat's capital, Plymouth, and deep ash from the volcano destroyed much of the yearend crops. As a result, production in 1995 dropped precipitously. The likely slow recovery of tourism and the continued danger of an eruption dim the prospects for rapid recovery in 1996. GDP: purchasing power parity - $55.6 million (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 0.5% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $4,500 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 4.8% industry: 18.4% services: 76.8% (1990 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 9.6% (1994) 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.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $15.7 million expenditures: $15.6 million including capital expenditures of $NA (1994) Industries: tourism, rum, textiles, electronic appliances Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 5,271 kW production: 17 million kWh consumption per capita: 1,106 kWh (1993) Agriculture: tomatoes, onions, peppers; livestock products Exports: $2.3 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: electronic components, plastic bags, apparel, hot peppers, live plants, cattle partners: US, Ireland 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: $10.2 million (December 1994) Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.70 (fixed rate since 1976) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 280 km paved: 200 km unpaved: 80 km Ports: Plymouth Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 1 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 3,000 Telephone system: domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM 8, FM 4, shortwave 0 Radios: 6,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 2,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Police Force Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK ====================================================================== @Morocco ------- Map --- Location: 32 00 N, 5 00 W -- Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, between Algeria and Western Sahara Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and the Mediterranean Sea, between Algeria and Western Sahara Geographic coordinates: 32 00 N, 5 00 W 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 border countries: Algeria 1,559 km, Western Sahara 443 km note: excludes the length of the boundary between the places of sovereignty and Morocco 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 and the UN is attempting to hold a referendum on the issue; the UN-administered cease-fire has been 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 lowest point: Sebkha Tah -55 m highest point: Jebel Toubkal 4,165 m 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 natural hazards: northern mountains geologically unstable and subject to earthquakes; periodic droughts international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea Geographic note: strategic location along Strait of Gibraltar People ------ Population: 29,779,156 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 38% (male 5,696,731; female 5,522,077) 15-64 years: 58% (male 8,577,918; female 8,700,521) 65 years and over: 4% (male 613,712; female 668,197) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.05% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 27.39 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.77 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -1.08 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.92 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 43.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 69.52 years male: 67.53 years female: 71.61 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.58 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 43.7% male: 56.6% female: 31% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Kingdom of Morocco conventional short form: Morocco local long form: Al Mamlakah al Maghribiyah local short form: Al Maghrib Data code: MO Type of government: 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 Srarhna, Er Rachidia, Essaouira, Es Smara, Fes*, Figuig, Guelmim, Ifrane, Kenitra, Khemisset, Khenifra, Khouribga, Laayoune, Larache, Marrakech*, Meknes*, Nador, Ouarzazate, Oujda, Rabat-Sale*, Safi, Settat, Sidi Kacem, Tanger, Tan-Tan, Taounate, Taroudannt, Tata, Taza, Tetouan, Tiznit 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) is a hereditary monarch head of government: Prime Minister Abdellatif FILALI (since 29 May 1994) was appointed by the king cabinet: Council of Ministers was 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, judges are appointed on the recommendation of the Supreme Council of the Judiciary, presided over by the king 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), Mohamed Ben SAID pro-government: Constitutional Union (UC), Maati BOUABID; Popular Movement (MP), Mohamed LAENSER; National Democratic Party (PND), Mohamed Arsalane EL-JADIDI; National Popular Movement (MNP), Mahjoubi AHARDANE independents: National Rally of Independents (RNI), Ahmed OSMAN; Democracy and Istiqlal Party (PDI), leader NA; Action Party (PA), Abdullah SENHAJI; Non-Obedience Candidates (SAP), leader NA labor unions and community organizations (indirect elections: 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 International organization participation: ABEDA, ACCT (associate), AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, AMU, CCC, EBRD, ECA, FAO, G-77, 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, OSCE (partner), UN, UNAVEM III, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Mohamed BENAISSA chancery: 1601 21st Street NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 462-7979 through 7982 FAX: [1] (202) 265-0161 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 Economy ------- Economic 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%. In 1995, Morocco suffered from a drought said to be the worst in 30 years. Servicing the large debt, high unemployment, and vulnerability to external economic forces remain long-term problems for Morocco. GDP: purchasing power parity - $87.4 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: -6.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $3,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 14.3% industry: 32.2% services: 53.5% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5.4% (1994) Labor force: 7.4 million by occupation: agriculture 50%, services 26%, industry 15%, other 9% (1985) Unemployment rate: 16% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $8.1 billion expenditures: $8.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.) Industries: phosphate rock mining and processing, food processing, leather goods, textiles, construction, tourism Industrial production growth rate: 0.1% Electricity: capacity: 2,620,000 kW production: 9.9 billion kWh consumption per capita: 361 kWh (1993) Agriculture: barley, wheat, citrus, wine, vegetables, olives; livestock 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 Exports: $4 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: food and beverages 30%, semiprocessed goods 23%, consumer goods 21%, phosphates 17% partners: EC 70%, Japan 5%, US 4%, Libya 3%, India 2% (1993) Imports: $7.2 billion (c.i.f., 1994) 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.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $297 million (1993) note: $2.8 billion debt canceled by Saudi Arabia (1991) Currency: 1 Moroccan dirham (DH) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: Moroccan dirhams (DH) per US$1 - 8.607 (January 1996), 8.540 (1995), 9.203 (1994), 9.299 (1993), 8.538 (1992), 8.707 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 1,907 km standard gauge: 1,907 km 1.435-m gauge (1003 km electrified; 246 km double track) (1994) Highways: total: 59,474 km paved: 29,440 km (including 73 km of expressways) unpaved: 30,034 km (1991 est.) Pipelines: crude oil 362 km; petroleum products 491 km (abandoned); 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: 37 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 175,962 GRT/257,449 DWT ships by type: cargo 8, chemical tanker 7, container 2, oil tanker 4, refrigerated cargo 9, roll-on/roll-off cargo 6, short-sea passenger 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 63 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: 7 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 with paved runways under 914 m: 12 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 11 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 15 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 270,100 (1987 est.) Telephone system: domestic: good system composed of open-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; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) and 1 Arabsat; microwave radio relay to Gibraltar, Spain, and Western Sahara; coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to Algeria; participant in Medarabtel Radio broadcast stations: AM 20, FM 7, shortwave 0 Radios: 5.527 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 26 (repeaters 26) Televisions: 1.21 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Royal Moroccan Army, Royal Moroccan Navy, Royal Moroccan Air Force, Royal Gendarmerie, Auxiliary Forces Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 7,541,745 males fit for military service: 4,782,028 males reach military age (18) annually: 330,344 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $1.38 billion, 4.1% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Mozambique ---------- Map --- Location: 18 15 S, 35 00 E -- Southern Africa, bordering the Mozambique Channel, between South Africa and Tanzania Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, bordering the Mozambique Channel, between South Africa and Tanzania Geographic coordinates: 18 15 S, 35 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Monte Binga 2,436 m Natural resources: coal, titanium, natural gas 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 - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea People ------ Population: 17,877,927 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 46% (male 4,141,915; female 4,115,191) 15-64 years: 51% (male 4,324,102; female 4,868,518) 65 years and over: 3% (male 184,606; female 243,595) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.65% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 45.51 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 18.97 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) note: by the end of 1994, an estimated 1.6 million Mozambican refugees, who fled to Malawi, Zimbabwe, and South Africa in earlier years from the civil war, had returned; an estimated 100,000 refugees remain to be repatriated from those countries Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.89 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.76 male(s)/female all ages: 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 125.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 44.34 years male: 43.21 years female: 45.5 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.23 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Mozambican(s) adjective: Mozambican Ethnic divisions: indigenous tribal groups 99.66% (Shangaan, Chokwe, Manyika, Sena, Makua, and others), Europeans 0.06%, Euro-Africans 0.2%, Indians 0.08% Religions: indigenous beliefs 50%, Christian 30%, Muslim 20% Languages: Portuguese (official), indigenous dialects Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 40.1% male: 57.7% female: 23.3% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Mozambique conventional short form: Mozambique local long form: Republica Popular de Mocambique local short form: Mocambique Data code: MZ Type of government: 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) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote head of government: Prime Minister Pascoal MOCUMBI (since December 1994) was appointed by the president cabinet: Cabinet Legislative branch: unicameral Assembly of the Republic (Assembleia da Republica): the members are elected by direct, universal, adult suffrage on a secret ballot for a term of five years; election last held 27-29 October 1994 (next to be held NA October 1999); results - percent vote by party NA, seats (250 total) FRELIMO won a slim majority note: the presidential and legislative elections took place as called for in the 1992 peace accords; RENAMO participated in the elections Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges appointed by the president and judges elected by the Assembly Political parties and leaders: Front for the Liberation of Mozambique (FRELIMO), Joaquim Alberto CHISSANO, chairman; Mozambique National Resistance (RENAMO), Afonso DHLAKAMA, president; Democratic Union (DU), Antonio PALANGE, General Secretary International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarset, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Hipolito Pereira Zozimo PATRICIO chancery: Suite 570, 1990 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20036 telephone: [1] (202) 293-7146 FAX: [1] (202) 835-0245 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 between civil warring factions, signed in October 1992, improved chances of foreign investment, aided IMF-supported economic reforms, and supported continued economic recovery. Elections held in 1994 diverted government attention from the economy, resulting in slippage and delays in the economic reform program. Nonetheless, growth continued in 1994-95, and the economy should move forward in the late 1990s, given continued foreign help in meeting debt obligations. One key event in 1995 was the conclusion of negotiations with Enron of Houston, Texas, for a $700 million project to exploit the Pande natural gas fields. GDP: purchasing power parity - $12.2 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: -2.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $700 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 33% industry: 12% services: 55% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 50% (1994 est.) Labor force: NA by occupation: 90% engaged in agriculture Unemployment rate: 50% (1989 est.) Budget: revenues: $252 million expenditures: $607 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.) Industries: food, beverages, chemicals (fertilizer, soap, paints), petroleum products, textiles, cement, glass, asbestos, tobacco Industrial production growth rate: 5.8% (1993 est.) Electricity: capacity: 2,360,000 kW production: 1.7 billion kWh consumption per capita: 58 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cotton, cashew nuts, sugarcane, tea, cassava (tapioca), corn, rice, tropical fruits; beef, poultry Exports: $170 million (f.o.b., 1995 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.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 metical (Mt) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: meticais (Mt) per US$1 - 10,908.0 (December 1995), 9,024.3 (1995), 6,038.6 (1994), 3,874.2 (1993), 2,516.5 (1992), 1,434.5 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 3,131 km narrow gauge: 2,988 km 1.067-m gauge; 143 km 0.762-m gauge (1994) Highways: total: 27,287 km paved: 4,693 km unpaved: 22,594 km (1991 est.) note: highway traffic impeded by land mines not removed at end of civil war 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: 4 cargo ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,694 GRT/9,724 DWT (1995 est.) Airports: total: 131 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: 10 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 5 with paved runways under 914 m: 67 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 12 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 32 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 59,000 (1983 est.) Telephone system: fair system of tropospheric scatter, open-wire lines, and microwave radio relay domestic: microwave radio relay and tropospheric scatter international: satellite earth stations - 5 Intelsat (2 Atlantic Ocean and 3 Indian Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 29, FM 4, shortwave 0 Radios: 700,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 44,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Naval Command, Air and Air Defense Forces, Militia Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 3,767,855 males fit for military service: 2,162,388 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $84 million, 5.3% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Namibia ------- Map --- Location: 22 00 S, 17 00 E -- Southern Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Angola and South Africa Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Angola and South Africa Geographic coordinates: 22 00 S, 17 00 E 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 border countries: 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 December 1995, and the parties agreed to refer the matter to the ICJ Climate: desert; hot, dry; rainfall sparse and erratic Terrain: mostly high plateau; Namib Desert along coast; Kalahari Desert in east lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Konigstein 2,606 m 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 - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Desertification, Hazardous Wastes People ------ Population: 1,677,243 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 44% (male 370,090; female 362,185) 15-64 years: 52% (male 428,488; female 449,726) 65 years and over: 4% (male 28,599; female 38,155) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.93% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 37.29 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.98 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.95 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.75 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 47.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 64.48 years male: 62.85 years female: 66.16 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.1 children born/woman (1996 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 are: Herero 7%, Damara 7%, Nama 5%, Caprivian 4%, Bushmen 3%, Baster 2%, Tswana 0.5% Religions: Christian 80% to 90%, Lutheran 50% at least, other Christian denominations 30%, native religions 10% to 20% 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 est.) total population: 38% male: 45% female: 31% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Namibia conventional short form: Namibia Data code: WA Type of government: republic Capital: Windhoek Administrative divisions: 13 regions; 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) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 7-8 December 1994 (next to be held NA December 1999); results - Sam NUJOMA elected president; percent of vote NA cabinet: Cabinet appointed by the president from the members of 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 December 1999); 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; SWAPO for Justice, Zacharia NJOMBA; DTA of Namibia (formerly Democratic Turnhalle Alliance) (DTA), Mishake MUYONGO; United Democratic Front (UDF), Justus GAROEB; Federal Convention of Namibia (FCN), Keiphas CONRADIE; Monitor Action Group (MAG), Kosie PRETORIUS; Workers Revolutionary Party (WRP); Southwest African National Union (SWANU), Hitjevi VEII; Democratic Coalition of Namibia (DCN), Moses K. KATJIUONGUA; National Patriotic Front (NPF), Moses K. KATJIUONGUA Other political or pressure groups: NA International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM, OAU, SACU, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Tuliameni KALOMOH chancery: 1605 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 986-0540 FAX: [1] (202) 986-0443 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy is heavily dependent on the extraction and processing of 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. Rich alluvial diamond deposits make 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $5.8 billion (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6.6% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $3,600 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 11% (1994) Labor force: 500,000 by occupation: agriculture 60%, industry and commerce 19%, services 8%, government 7%, mining 6% (1981 est.) Unemployment rate: 35% in urban areas (1993 est.) Budget: revenues: $941 million expenditures: $1.05 billion, including capital expenditures of $157 million (FY93/94) Industries: meat packing, fish processing, dairy products; mining (diamond, lead, zinc, tin, silver, tungsten, uranium, copper) Industrial production growth rate: 10% (1994) Electricity: capacity: 406,000 kW production: 1.29 billion kWh consumption per capita: 658 kWh (1991) Agriculture: millet, sorghum, peanuts; livestock; fish catch potential of over 1 million metric tons not being fulfilled Exports: $1.3 billion (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: diamonds, copper, gold, zinc, lead, uranium, cattle, processed fish, karakul skins partners: Switzerland, South Africa, Germany, UK Imports: $1.2 billion (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: foodstuffs, petroleum products and fuel, machinery and equipment partners: South Africa, Germany, US, Japan External debt: about $385 million (1994 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 South African rand (R) = 100 cents Exchange rates: South African rand (R) per US$1 - 3.6417 (January 1996), 3.6266 (1995), 3.5490 (1994), 3.2636 (1993), 2.8497 (1992), 2.7653 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 2,382 km (1995) narrow gauge: 2,382 km 1.067-m gauge; single track Highways: total: 54,186 km paved: 4,056 km unpaved: 50,130 km (1987 est.) Ports: Luderitz, Walvis Bay Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 108 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: 10 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 2 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 17 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 58 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 89,722 (1992 est.) Telephone system: domestic: good urban services; 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: 195,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 3 Televisions: 27,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: National Defense Force (Army), Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 377,687 males fit for military service: 224,682 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $64 million, 2.1% of GDP (FY95/96) ====================================================================== @Nauru ----- Map --- Location: 0 32 S, 166 55 E -- Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, south of the Marshall Islands Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, south of the Marshall Islands Geographic coordinates: 0 32 S, 166 55 E Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 21 sq km land area: 21 sq km comparative area: about 0.1 times 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location along plateau rim 61 m 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 Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 10,273 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 1.33% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 18.03 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.1 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0.4 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 40.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 66.68 years male: 64.3 years female: 69.18 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.08 children born/woman (1996 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Nauru conventional short form: Nauru former: Pleasant Island Data code: NR Type of government: 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: acts of the Nauru Parliament and British common law Suffrage: 20 years of age; universal and compulsory Executive branch: chief of state and head of government: President Lagumot HARRIS (since 22 November 1995) was elected by Parliament; election last held 18 November 1995 (next to be held NA November 1998) cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president from among members of Parliament Legislative branch: unicameral Parliament: election last held 18 November 1995 (next to be held NA November 1998); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (18 total) independents 18 Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: none International organization participation: AsDB, C (special), ESCAP, ICAO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, ITU, Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UPU, WHO Diplomatic representation in US: Nauru does not have an embassy in the US US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Nauru; 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. However, dividends from the trusts have declined sharply since 1990 and the government has been borrowing from the trusts to finance fiscal deficits. GDP: purchasing power parity - $100 million (1993 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $10,000 (1993 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): -3.6% (1993) Labor force: by occupation: NA Unemployment rate: 0% Budget: revenues: $23.8 million expenditures: $69.2 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY92/93) Industries: phosphate mining, financial services, coconut products Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 14,000 kW production: 30 million kWh consumption per capita: 3,036 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coconuts predominate Exports: $25.3 million (f.o.b., 1991) commodities: phosphates partners: Australia, NZ Imports: $21.1 million (c.i.f., 1991) commodities: food, fuel, manufactures, building materials, machinery partners: Australia, UK, NZ, Japan External debt: $33.3 million Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3477 (January 1996), 1.3486 (1995), 1.3667 (1994), 1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2834 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 3.9 km; note - used to haul phosphates from the center of the island to processing facilities on the southwest coast Highways: total: 27 km paved: 21 km unpaved: 6 km (1986 est.) Ports: Nauru Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 1 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 2,000 (1989 est.) Telephone system: adequate local and international radiotelephone communications provided via Australian facilities domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 4,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 (1986 est.) Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: no regular armed forces; Directorate of the Nauru Police Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Navassa Island -------------- (territory of the US) Map --- Location: 18 25 N, 75 02 W -- Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, about one-fourth of the way from Haiti to Jamaica Flag ---- Description: the flag of the US is used Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, about one-fourth of the way from Haiti to Jamaica Geographic coordinates: 18 25 N, 75 02 W 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) lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: unnamed location on southwest side 77 m 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 Geographic 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 People ------ Population: uninhabited; note - transient Haitian fishermen and others camp on the island Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Navassa Island Data code: BQ Type of government: unincorporated territory of the US administered by the US Coast Guard Capital: none; administered from Washington, DC Flag: the flag of the US is used Economy ------- Economic overview: no economic activity Transportation -------------- Ports: none; offshore anchorage only Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US ====================================================================== @Nepal ----- Map --- Location: 28 00 N, 84 00 E -- Southern Asia, between China and India Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern Asia, between China and India Geographic coordinates: 28 00 N, 84 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Kanchan Kalan 70 m highest point: Mount Everest 8,848 m Natural resources: quartz, water, timber, hydropower 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 - Desertification, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation Geographic note: landlocked; strategic location between China and India; contains eight of world's 10 highest peaks People ------ Population: 22,094,033 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 42% (male 4,776,245; female 4,563,000) 15-64 years: 55% (male 6,172,821; female 5,945,626) 65 years and over: 3% (male 320,350; female 315,991) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.45% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 37 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 12.56 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.01 male(s)/female all ages: 1.04 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 79 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 53.63 years male: 53.35 years female: 53.93 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.06 children born/woman (1996 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 other languages divided into numerous dialects Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 27.5% male: 40.9% female: 14% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Kingdom of Nepal conventional short form: Nepal Data code: NP Type of government: 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: chief of state: King BIRENDRA Bir Bikram Shah Dev (succeeded to the throne 31 January 1972 following the death of his father King MAHENDRA Bir Bikram Shah Dev, crowned king 24 February 1975) is a constitutional monarch; Heir Apparent Crown Prince DIPENDRA Bir Bikram head of government: Prime Minister Sher Bahadur DEUBA (since 12 September 1995); note - in 1994, the king appointed Man Mohan ADHIKARI to be prime minister using the standard criterion - he was the leader of the majority party in the House of Representatives following the last election; however, in September 1995, a parliamentary coalition of the Nepali Congress Party, the Rastriya Prajantra Party, the Nepal Sadbhavana Party, and independents voted against Prime Minister ADHIKARI; Sher Bahadur DEUBA, the leader of the Nepali Congress Party, then formed the new government and was appointed the new prime minister by the king cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the king on recommendation of the prime minister Legislative branch: bicameral Parliament National Council: consists of 60 members (50 appointed by House of Representatives and 10 by the king) House of Representatives: elections last held 15 November 1994 (next to be held NA); results - NCP 33%, CPN/UML 31%, NDP 18%, Terai Rights Sadbhavana Party 3%, NWPP 1%; seats - (205 total) CPN/UML 88, NCP 83, NDP 20, NWPP 4, Terai Rights Sadbhavana Party 3, independents 7 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Sarbochha Adalat), chief justice is appointed by the king on recommendation of the Constitutional Council, the other judges are appointed by the king on the recommendation of the Judicial Council Political parties and leaders: Communist Party of Nepal/United Marxist and Leninist (CPN/UML), Man Mohan ADHIKARI, president; Nepali Congress Party (NCP), Krishna Prasad BHATTARAI (president), Girija Prasad KOIRALA, Prime Minister Sher Bahadur DEUBA; National Democratic Party (NDP), leader NA; Terai Rights Sadbhavana (Goodwill) Party, Gajendra Narayan SINGH; Nepal Workers and Peasants Party (NWPP), leader NA; Nepal Sadbhavana Party, leader NA; Rastriya Prajantra Party, leader NA Other political or pressure groups: numerous small, left-leaning student groups in the capital; several small, radical Nepalese antimonarchist groups International organization participation: 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, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNMIH, UNPROFOR, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Basudev Prasad DHUNGANA chancery: 2131 Leroy Place NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 667-4550 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 80% of the population and accounting for about one-half of GDP. Industrial activity is limited, mainly involving the processing of agricultural produce (jute, sugarcane, 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 moving forward with economic reforms particularly those that encourage trade and foreign investment, e.g., by eliminating business licenses and registration requirements in order to simplify investment procedures. The government has also been cutting public expenditures by reducing subsidies, privatizing state industries, and laying off civil servants. (In 1995 little progress was made in these areas because the communist government had trouble formulating and implementing policies.) The new coalition government is planning to pick up the pace of reforms in 1996, focusing primarily on raising revenues to develop the rural sector by increasing taxation and privatization. Prospects for foreign trade and investment, particularly in areas other than power development and tourism, will continue to remain poor because of the small size of the economy, its technological backwardness, its remoteness, and its susceptibility to natural disaster. The international community provides funding for 62% of Nepal's developmental budget and for 34% of total budgetary expenditures. GDP: purchasing power parity - $25.2 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,200 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 49.3% industry: 18.4% services: 32.3% (1993) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 6.7% (FY94/95) Labor force: 8.5 million (1991 est.) by occupation: agriculture 93%, services 5%, industry 2% note: severe lack of skilled labor Unemployment rate: NA%; substantial underemployment (1995) Budget: revenues: $645 million expenditures: $1.05 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95 est.) Industries: tourism, carpet, textile; small rice, jute, sugar, and oilseed mills; cigarette; cement and brick production Industrial production growth rate: 14.7% (FY94/95 est.) Electricity: capacity: 280,000 kW production: 920 million kWh consumption per capita: 41 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rice, corn, wheat, sugarcane, root crops; milk, water buffalo meat Illicit drugs: illicit producer of cannabis for the domestic and international drug markets; transit point for heroin from Southeast Asia to the West Exports: $430 million (f.o.b., 1995 est.) but does not include unrecorded border trade with India commodities: carpets, clothing, leather goods, jute goods, grain partners: India, US, Germany, UK Imports: $1.4 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.) commodities: petroleum products 20%, fertilizer 11%, machinery 10% partners: India, Singapore, Japan, Germany External debt: $2.3 billion (FY94/95 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $310 million (1993) note: western and Japanese bilateral aid $215 million; multilateral aid $43 million (1994-95) Currency: 1 Nepalese rupee (NR) = 100 paisa Exchange rates: Nepalese rupees (NRs) per US$1 - 56.636 (January 1996), 51.890 (1995), 49.398 (1994), 48.607 (1993), 42.718 (1992), 37.255 (1991) Fiscal year: 16 July - 15 July Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 101 km; note - all in Terai close to Indian border narrow gauge: 101 km 0.762-m gauge Highways: total: 9,933 km paved: 3,421 km unpaved: 6,512 km (1995 est.) Ports: none Airports: total: 43 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: 27 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 10 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 82,774 (1995 est.) Telephone system: poor telephone and telegraph service; fair radiotelephone communication service domestic: NA international: radiotelephone communications; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 88, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 690,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 (1988 est.) Televisions: 45,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Royal Nepalese Army, Royal Nepalese Army Air Service, Nepalese Police Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 5,329,345 males fit for military service: 2,768,887 males reach military age (17) annually: 254,590 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $36 million, 1.2% of GDP (FY92/93) ====================================================================== @Netherlands ----------- Map --- Location: 52 30 N, 5 45 E -- Western Europe, bordering the North Sea, between Belgium and Germany Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and blue; similar to the flag of Luxembourg, which uses a lighter blue and is longer Geography --------- Location: Western Europe, bordering the North Sea, between Belgium and Germany Geographic coordinates: 52 30 N, 5 45 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Prins Alexanderpolder -7 m highest point: Vaalserberg 321 m 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, Tropical Timber 94 Geographic note: located at mouths of three major European rivers (Rhine, Maas or Meuse, and Schelde) People ------ Population: 15,568,034 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 18% (male 1,457,694; female 1,393,402) 15-64 years: 68% (male 5,412,402; female 5,228,579) 65 years and over: 14% (male 836,934; female 1,239,023) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.56% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 12.08 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.7 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 2.25 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.68 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 4.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 77.73 years male: 74.91 years female: 80.68 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.51 children born/woman (1996 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% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Kingdom of the Netherlands conventional short form: Netherlands local long form: Koninkrijk de Nederlanden local short form: Nederland Data code: NL Type of government: 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) is a constitutional monarch; Heir Apparent WILLEM-ALEXANDER (born 27 April 1967), Prince of Orange, son of Queen BEATRIX head of government: Prime Minister Willem (Wim) KOK (since 22 August 1994) and Vice Prime Ministers Hans DIJKSTAL (since 22 August 1994) and Hans VAN MIERLO (since 22 August 1994) were appointed by the queen cabinet: Cabinet was 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; election last held 9 June 1995 (next to be held 9 June 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (75 total) number of seats by party NA Second Chamber (Tweede Kamer): members directly elected for four-year terms; elections last held 3 May 1994 (next to be held in 1998); results - PvdA 24.3%, CDA 22.3%, VVD 20.4%, D'66 16.5%, other 16.5%; seats - (150 total) PvdA 37, CDA 34, VVD 31, D'66 24, other 24 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (De Hoge Raad), justices are nominated for life by the crown from a list compiled by the Second Chamber of the Staten Generaal Political parties and leaders: Christian Democratic Appeal (CDA), Hans HELGERS; Labor (PvdA), Felix ROTTENBERG; Liberal (VVD), Frits BOLKESTEIN; Democrats '66 (D66), Hans VAN MIERLO; a host of minor parties 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) International organization participation: AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, Benelux, BIS, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD, ECE, ECLAC, EIB, ESA, ESCAP, EU, FAO, G-10, 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 III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNITAR, UNMIH, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WEU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Adriaan JACOBOVITS DE SZEGED chancery: (temporary) 4200 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016 telephone: [1] (202) 244-5300 FAX: [1] (202) 362-3430 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, 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $301.9 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $19,500 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 3.4% industry: 26.9% services: 69.7% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.25% (1995) Labor force: 6.4 million (1993) by occupation: services 73%, manufacturing and construction 23%, agriculture 4% (1994) Unemployment rate: 7.1% (fourth quarter 1995) Budget: revenues: $109.9 billion expenditures: $122.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.) Industries: agroindustries, metal and engineering products, electrical machinery and equipment, chemicals, petroleum, fishing, construction, microelectronics Industrial production growth rate: 1% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 17,520,000 kW production: 72.4 billion kWh consumption per capita: 5,100 kWh (1993) Agriculture: grains, potatoes, sugar beets, fruits, vegetables; livestock Illicit drugs: important gateway for cocaine, heroin, and hashish entering Europe; European producer of illicit amphetamines and other synthetic drugs Exports: $146 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: metal products, chemicals, processed food and tobacco, agricultural products partners: EU 73% (Germany 28%, Belgium-Luxembourg 13%, UK 9%), Central and Eastern Europe 2%, US 5% (1994) Imports: $133 billion (c.i.f., 1995) commodities: raw materials and semifinished products, consumer goods, transportation equipment, crude oil, food products partners: EU 56% (Germany 21%, Belgium-Luxembourg 11%, UK 8.5%), US 8.6% (1994) External debt: 0 Economic aid: donor: ODA, $2.525 billion (1993) Currency: 1 Netherlands guilder, gulden, or florin (f.) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Netherlands guilders, gulden, or florins (f.) per US$1 - 1.6365 (January 1996), 1.6057 (1995), 1.8200 (1994), 1.8573 (1993), 1.7585 (1992), 1.8697 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 2,891 km standard gauge: 2,891 km 1.435-m gauge; 2857 km are in common carrier service (1,991 km electrified) and 34 km serve tourists Highways: total: 104,831 km paved: 92,251 km (including 2,118 km of expressways) unpaved: 12,580 km (1992 est.) 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: 352 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,681,133 GRT/3,379,762 DWT ships by type: bulk 1, cargo 206, chemical tanker 21, combination bulk 3, container 34, liquefied gas tanker 13, livestock carrier 1, multifunction large-load carrier 2, oil tanker 38, railcar carrier 1, refrigerated cargo 16, roll-on/roll-off cargo 11, short-sea passenger 3, specialized tanker 2 note: many Dutch-owned ships are operating under the registry of Netherlands Antilles (1995 est.) Airports: total: 28 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 8 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 6 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 with paved runways under 914 m: 7 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 8.272 million (1983 est.) Telephone system: highly developed and well maintained; extensive redundant system of multiconductor cables, supplemented by microwave radio relay domestic: nationwide cellular telephone system; microwave radio relay international: 5 submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 2 Atlantic Ocean), 1 Eutelsat, and 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions) Radio broadcast stations: AM 3 (relays 3), FM 12 (repeaters 39), shortwave 0 Radios: 13.755 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 8 (repeaters 7) Televisions: 7.4 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- 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: 4,191,998 males fit for military service: 3,670,253 males reach military age (20) annually: 94,013 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $8.2 billion, 2.1% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Netherlands Antilles -------------------- (part of the Dutch realm) Map --- Location: 12 15 N, 68 45 W -- 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 Flag ---- Description: 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 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 Geographic coordinates: 12 15 N, 68 45 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 960 sq km land area: 960 sq km comparative area: more than five 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 lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Mount Scenery 862 m 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 are rarely threatened; Sint Maarten, Saba, and Sint Eustatius are subject to hurricanes from July to October international agreements: party to - Whaling (extended from Netherlands) People ------ Population: 208,968 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 1.03% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 15.98 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.29 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.37 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.95 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.72 male(s)/female all ages: 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 8.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 77.06 years male: 74.78 years female: 79.46 years (1996 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 est.) total population: 98% male: 98% female: 99% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Netherlands Antilles local long form: none local short form: Nederlandse Antillen Data code: NT Type of government: 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 (of the Netherlands since 30 April 1980) is a constitutional monarch, represented by Governor General Jaime SALEH (since NA October 1989), who was appointed for a six-year term by the queen head of government: Prime Minister Miguel POURIER (since 25 February 1994) was appointed by the Staten cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the Staten Legislative branch: unicameral Staten: elections last held 25 February 1994 (next to be held NA March 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (23 total) PAR 8, PNP 3, SPA 2, PDB 2, UPB 1, MAN 2, DP 1, WIPM 1, DP-St.E 1, DP-St.M 1, Nos Patria 1 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), Broertje JANJA 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 Saba: Windward Islands People's Movement (WIPM Saba), Ray HASSELL; Saba Democratic Labor Movement, Steve HASSELL; Saba Unity Party, Carmen SIMMONDS Sint Eustatius: Democratic Party of Sint Eustatius (DP-St.E), Julian WOODLEY; Windward Islands People's Movement (WIPM); St. Eustatius Alliance (SEA), Ingrid WHITFIELD Sint Maarten: Democratic Party of Sint Maarten (DP-St.M), Sarah WESTCOTT-WILLIAMS; Patriotic Movement of Sint Maarten (SPA), Vance JAMES; Serious Alternative People's Party (SAPP) Julian ROLLOCKS International organization participation: Caricom (observer), ECLAC (associate), Interpol, IOC, UNESCO (associate), UPU, WMO, WToO (associate) Diplomatic representation in US: none (self-governing part of the Netherlands) US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Consul General James L. WILLIAMS consulate general(s): J.B. Gorsiraweg #1, 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Tourism and offshore finance are the mainstays of this small economy, which is closely tied to the outside world. The islands enjoy a high per capita income and a well-developed 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1.92 billion (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 1.8% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $10,400 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.5% (1994 est.) Labor force: 89,000 by occupation: government 65%, industry and commerce 28% (1983) Unemployment rate: 13.4% (1993 est.) Budget: revenues: $209 million expenditures: $232 million, including capital expenditures of $8 million (1992 est.) Industries: tourism (Curacao and Sint Maarten), petroleum refining (Curacao), petroleum transshipment facilities (Curacao and Bonaire), light manufacturing (Curacao) Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 200,000 kW production: 810 million kWh consumption per capita: 4,054 kWh (1993) Agriculture: 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 Exports: $1.3 billion (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: petroleum products 98% partners: US 39%, Brazil 9%, Colombia 6% Imports: $1.8 billion (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: crude petroleum 64%, food, manufactures partners: Venezuela 26%, US 18%, Colombia 6%, Netherlands 6%, Japan 5% External debt: $1.95 billion (December 1995) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Netherlands Antillean guilder, gulden, or florin (NAf.) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Netherlands Antillean guilders, gulden, or florins (NAf.) per US$1 - 1.790 (fixed rate since 1989) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 944 km paved: 299 km unpaved: 645 km (1985 est.) Ports: Kralendijk, Philipsburg, Willemstad Merchant marine: total: 119 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,141,003 GRT/1,490,958 DWT ships by type: bulk 1, cargo 38, chemical tanker 7, combination bulk 1, container 2, liquefied gas tanker 4, multifunction large-load carrier 18, oil tanker 9, passenger 4, refrigerated cargo 27, roll-on/roll-off cargo 8 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 4 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: NA Telephone system: generally adequate facilities domestic: extensive interisland microwave radio relay links international: 2 submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 9, FM 4, shortwave 0 Radios: 205,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 64,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Royal Netherlands Navy, Marine Corps, Royal Netherlands Air Force, National Guard, Police Force Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the Netherlands ====================================================================== @New Caledonia ------------- (overseas territory of France) Map --- Location: 21 30 S, 165 30 E -- Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Australia Flag ---- Description: three horizontal bands, blue (top), red, and green, with a yellow disk enclosing a black symbol centered to the hoist side; the flag of France is used for official occasions Geography --------- Location: Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Australia Geographic coordinates: 21 30 S, 165 30 E Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 19,060 sq km land area: 18,575 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: Matthew and Hunter Islands claimed by France and Vanuatu Climate: tropical; modified by southeast trade winds; hot, humid Terrain: coastal plains with interior mountains lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Mont Panie 1,628 m 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 People ------ Population: 187,784 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 30% (male 28,941; female 27,929) 15-64 years: 64% (male 61,263; female 59,673) 65 years and over: 6% (male 4,750; female 5,228) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.72% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 21.75 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 4.88 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0.31 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.91 male(s)/female all ages: 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 13.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 74.35 years male: 71.06 years female: 77.8 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.53 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 91% male: 92% female: 90% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: NC Type of government: 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 (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995) represented by High Commissioner and President of the Council of Government Dominque BUR (since NA), who was appointed by the French Ministry of the Interior head of government: President of the Territorial Assembly Pierre FROGIER (since NA) was elected by the members of the Assembly cabinet: Consultative Committee Legislative branch: unicameral Territorial Assembly: elections last held 9 July 1995 (next to be held NA July 2001); results - percent by party NA; seats - (54 total) RPCR 22, NCPT 7, other anti-independence parties 6, FLNKS 12, other pro-independence parties 7 French Senate: elections last held 27 September 1992 (next to be held NA September 2001); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) RPCR 1 French National Assembly: elections last held 21 March 1993 (next to be held 21 and 28 March 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (2 total) RPCR 2 Judicial branch: Court of Appeal 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), Rock WAMYTAN; Melanesian moderate Kanak Socialist Liberation (LKS), Nidoish NAISSELINE; National Front (FN), extreme right, Guy GEORGE; Caledonie Demain (CD), right-wing, Bernard MARANT; Union Oceanienne (UO), conservative, Michel HEMA; Front Uni de Liberation Kanak (FULK), proindependence, Clarence UREGEI; Union Caledonian (UC), Francois BURCK, president; "1999" (new party calling for an autonomous state), Philippe PENTECOST; Nouvelle-Caledonie Pour Toute (NCPT) International organization participation: 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: three horizontal bands, blue (top), red, and green, with a yellow disk enclosing a black symbol centered to the hoist side; the flag of France is used for official occasions Economy ------- Economic overview: New Caledonia has more than 20% of the world's known nickel resources. In recent years, the economy has suffered because of depressed international demand for nickel, the principal source of export earnings. Only a negligible amount of the land is suitable for cultivation, and food accounts for about 25% of imports. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $8,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 5% industry: 35% services: 60% (1992 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.4% (1990) Labor force: 70,044 (1988) by occupation: agriculture 32%, industry 20%, services 40%, mines 8% (1992) Unemployment rate: 15% (1994) Budget: revenues: $540 million expenditures: $540 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1991 est.) Industries: nickel mining and smelting Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 250,000 kW production: 1.2 billion kWh consumption per capita: 6,178 kWh (1993) Agriculture: vegetables; beef, other livestock products Exports: $477 million (f.o.b., 1992) commodities: nickel metal 22%, nickel ore partners: France 32.2%, Japan 23.5%, Germany 6.7%, US 3.6%, India 1.2% Imports: $926 million (c.i.f., 1992) commodities: foods, fuels, minerals, machines, electrical equipment partners: France 46.3%, ECE 14.9%, Australia 10.2%, Japan 6.3%, New Zealand 4.4% External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 CFP franc (CFPF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: Comptoirs Francais du Pacifique francs (CFPF) per US$1 - 91.00 (January 1996), 90.75 (1995), 100.93 (1994), 102.96 (1993), 96.24 (1992), 102.57 (1991); note - linked at the rate of 18.18 to the French franc Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 6,340 km paved: 634 km unpaved: 5,706 km (1987 est.) Ports: Mueo, Noumea, Thio Merchant marine: total: 1 roll-on/roll-off ship (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 3,079 GRT/724 DWT (1995 est.) Airports: total: 28 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 with paved runways under 914 m: 12 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 12 (1995 est.) Heliports: 7 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 38,748 (1993 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 5, FM 3, shortwave 0 Radios: 97,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 7 Televisions: 47,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: French Armed Forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, Gendarmerie); Police Force Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France ====================================================================== @New Zealand ----------- Map --- Location: 41 00 S, 174 00 E -- Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, southeast of Australia Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, southeast of Australia Geographic coordinates: 41 00 S, 174 00 E 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Cook 3,764 m 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; volcanic activity 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, Tropical Timber 94 Geographic note: about 80% of the population lives in cities People ------ Population: 3,547,983 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 23% (male 420,900; female 400,159) 15-64 years: 65% (male 1,161,522; female 1,154,536) 65 years and over: 12% (male 177,182; female 233,684) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.12% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 15.78 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.72 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 3.17 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.76 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 6.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 77.01 years male: 73.96 years female: 80.21 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.01 children born/woman (1996 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% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: New Zealand abbreviation: NZ Data code: NZ Type of government: 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 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) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General Sir Michael HARDIE BOYS (since 21 March 1996) head of government: Prime Minister James BOLGER (since 29 October 1990) and Deputy Prime Minister Donald McKINNON (since 2 November 1990) were appointed by the governor general cabinet: Executive Council was appointed by the governor general on the recommendation of the prime minister Legislative branch: unicameral House of Representatives (commonly called Parliament): elections last held 6 November 1993 (next must be called by November 1996); results - NP 35.2%, NZLP 34.7%, Alliance 18.3%, New Zealand First 8.3%; seats - (99 total) NP 50, NZLP 45, Alliance 2, New Zealand First Party 2 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, Jim ANDERTON; Democratic Party, Dick RYAN; New Zealand Liberal Party, Hanmish MACINTYRE and Gilbert MYLES; Green Party, no official leader; Mana Motuhake, Sandra LEE; Socialist Unity Party (SUP, pro-Soviet), leader NA; New Zealand First, Winston PETERS; United New Zealand (UNZ), Clive MATTHEWSON; Conservative Party (formerly Right of Centre Party), Trevor ROGERS; Association of Consumers and Taxpayers, New Zealand (ACT), Richard PREBBLE; Christian Democrats, Graeme LEE; Christian Heritage Party (CH), Rev. Graham CAPILL note: the New Zealand Liberal, New Labor, Democratic, and Mana Motuhake parties formed a coalition called the Alliance Party in September 1991; the Green Party joined the coalition in May 1992; the National Party government formed a coalition with the United New Zealand Party in February 1996; the coalition will be valid through the 1996 elections International organization participation: ANZUS (US suspended security obligations to NZ on 11 August 1986), APEC, AsDB, Australia Group, C, CCC, CP, EBRD, ESCAP, FAO, 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 III, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Lionel John WOOD chancery: 37 Observatory Circle NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 328-4800 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 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Since 1984 the government has been reorienting an agrarian economy dependent on a guaranteed British market toward a more industrialized, open, free market economy that can compete on the global scene. The government has hoped that dynamic growth would boost real incomes, broaden and deepen the technological capabilities of the industrial sector, reduce inflationary pressures, and permit the expansion of welfare benefits. The initial results were mixed: 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. Growth continued strong in 1995, and inflation remains among the lowest in the industrial world. The government announced its first budget surplus in 16 years in FY94/95 and forecasts a surplus of $5.0 billion in FY97/98. The government intends to use the surplus to reduce the debt, increase social spending, and cut taxes - by $1.35 billion over two years beginning in 1996. Per capita GDP now is up to the levels of the big West European economies. GDP: purchasing power parity - $62.3 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 5.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $18,300 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 7.3% industry: 25.9% services: 66.8% (1990) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2% (FY95/96) Labor force: 1,634,500 (September 1995) by occupation: services 64.6%, industry 25.0%, agriculture 10.4% (1994) Unemployment rate: 6.1% (October 1995) Budget: revenues: $22.18 billion expenditures: $20.28 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY95/96 est.) Industries: food processing, wood and paper products, textiles, machinery, transportation equipment, banking and insurance, tourism, mining Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 7,520,000 kW production: 30.5 billion kWh consumption per capita: 8,401 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, barley, potatoes, pulses, fruits, vegetables; wool, meat, dairy products; fish catch reached a record 503,000 metric tons in 1988 Exports: $13.41 billion (1995) commodities: wool, lamb, mutton, beef, fish, cheese, chemicals, forestry products, fruits and vegetables, manufactures partners: Australia 20%, Japan 15%, US 12%, UK 6% Imports: $13.62 billion (1995) 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) Economic aid: donor: ODA, $98 million (1993) Currency: 1 New Zealand dollar (NZ$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: New Zealand dollars (NZ$) per US$1 - 1.5138 (January 1996), 1.5235 (1995), 1.6844 (1994), 1.8495 (1993), 1.8584 (1992), 1.7265 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 3,973 km narrow gauge: 3,973 km 1.067-m gauge (504 km electrified) Highways: total: 93,348 km paved: 54,142 km (including 141 km of expressways) unpaved: 39,206 km (1992 est.) Waterways: 1,609 km; of little importance to transportation Pipelines: petroleum products 160 km; natural gas 1,000 km; condensate (liquefied petroleum gas - LPG) 150 km Ports: Auckland, Christchurch, Dunedin, Tauranga, Wellington Merchant marine: total: 17 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 162,220 GRT/213,749 DWT ships by type: bulk 6, cargo 1, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 3, railcar carrier 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 5 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 113 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: 31 with paved runways under 914 m: 50 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 21 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1.7 million (1986 est.) Telephone system: excellent international and domestic systems domestic: NA international: submarine cables to Australia and Fiji; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 64, FM 2, shortwave 0 Radios: 3.215 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 14 (1986 est.) Televisions: 1.53 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: New Zealand Army, Royal New Zealand Navy, Royal New Zealand Air Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 927,212 males fit for military service: 780,976 males reach military age (20) annually: 27,433 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $556 million, 1% of GDP (FY93/94) ====================================================================== @Nicaragua --------- Map --- Location: 13 00 N, 85 00 W -- Middle America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Costa Rica and Honduras Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Middle America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Costa Rica and Honduras Geographic coordinates: 13 00 N, 85 00 W 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 border countries: 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; maritime boundary dispute with Honduras Climate: tropical in lowlands, cooler in highlands Terrain: extensive Atlantic coastal plains rising to central interior mountains; narrow Pacific coastal plain interrupted by volcanoes lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Mogoton 2,438 m 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 international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea People ------ Population: 4,272,352 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 44% (male 951,254; female 938,599) 15-64 years: 53% (male 1,105,069; female 1,164,144) 65 years and over: 3% (male 49,027; female 64,259) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.67% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 33.83 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.01 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -1.17 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.04 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.95 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.76 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 45.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 65.72 years male: 63.41 years female: 68.13 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.03 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Nicaraguan(s) adjective: Nicaraguan Ethnic divisions: mestizo (mixed Amerindian and white) 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 (1995 est.) total population: 65.7% male: 64.6% female: 66.6% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Nicaragua conventional short form: Nicaragua local long form: Republica de Nicaragua local short form: Nicaragua Data code: NU Type of government: republic Capital: Managua Administrative divisions: 15 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento), 2 autonomous regions* (regions autonomista, singular - region autonomista); Boaco, Carazo, Chinandega, Chontales, Esteli, Granada, Jinotega, Leon, Madriz, Managua, Masaya, Matagalpa, Nueva Segovia, Atlantica Norte*, Atlantica Sur*, Rio San Juan, Rivas 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) was elected for a six-year term (amended to a five-year term in July 1995) by universal suffrage; Vice President Julia MENA Rivera (since 22 October 1995) replaced Virgilio GODOY, who resigned to run for the presidency in 1996 as required by law; election last held 25 February 1990 (next to be held 20 October 1996); results - Violeta Barrios de CHAMORRO (UNO) 54.7%, Daniel ORTEGA Saavedra (FSLN) 40.8%, other 4.5% cabinet: Cabinet Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Asamblea Nacional): elections last held 25 February 1990 (next to be held NA October 1996); results - UNO coalition 53.9%, Sandinista bloc 40.8%, PSC 1.6%, MUR 1.0%; seats - (92 total) UNO coalition 53 (Center Group 9, UDC 6, PSD 5, APC 5, PLC 5, PLI 4, PND 3, PAN 3, PNC 3, MDN 2, PCdeN 2, independents 6) and Sandinista bloc 39 (MRS 16, BUS-Sandinista 9, FSLN 8, Sandinista Group of Reflection 4, FSLN-independents 2) Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges elected for a six-year term (amended to a seven-year term in July 1995) by the National Assembly Political parties and leaders: right: Liberal Constitutionalist Party (PLC), Arnold ALEMAN; Conservative Popular Alliance Party (APC), Myriam ARGUELLO; Independent Liberal Party for National Unity (PLIUN), Carlos GUERRA Gallardo; Conservative Action Movement (MAC); Conservative Party of Nicaragua (PCN - formed in 1992 by the merger of the Conservative Social Party or PSC with the Democratic Conservative Party or PCD and the Conservative party of Labor or PCL), Fernando AGUERO; National Conservative Party (PNC), Adolfo CALERO, Noel VIDUARRE center right: Neoliberal Party (PALI), Ricardo VEGA Garcia; Nicaraguan Resistance Party (PRN), Fabio GADEA, Enrique QUINONEZ; Independent Liberal Party (PLI), Wilfredo NAVARRO; National Project (PRONAL), Antonio LACAYO Oyanguren; Nicaraguan Democratic Alliance Party (PADENIC), Pedro MAYORGA Knilands; Nationalist Liberal Party (PLN), Roberto CASTILLO Quant; Party for Liberal Unity (PUL), Haroldo MONTEALEGRE; Fuerza '96, Francesco MAYORGA center left: Christian Democratic Union (UDC), Luis Humberto GUZMAN; Nicaraguan Democratic Movement (MDN), Alfredo GUZMAN; Social Democratic Party (PSD), Adolfo JARQUIN; National Justice Party (PJN), Jorge DIAZ Cruz; National Action Party (PAN), Delvis MONTIEL; Renovating Action Movement (MAR), Pablo HERNANDEZ; Sandinista Renovation Movement (MRS), Sergio RAMIREZ; Social Christian Party (PCS), Erick RAMIREZ; Democratic Action Party (PAD), Eden PASTORA; "Up with Nicaragua" (Arriba Nicaragua), Alvaro ROBELO; National Democratic Party (PND), Alfredo CESAR Aquirre; Communist Party of Nicaragua (PCdeN), Eli ALTIMIRANO Perez left: Sandinista National Liberation Front (FSLN), Daniel ORTEGA; Revolutionary Workers' Party (PRT), Bonifacio MIRANDA; Popular Action Movement-Marxist-Leninist (MAP-ML), Isidro TELLEZ; Nicaraguan Socialist Party (PSN), Gustavo TABLADA; Unidad Nicaraguense de Obreros, Campesinos, y Profesionales (UNOCP), Rosalio GONZALEZ Urbina; Central American Unionist Party (PUCA), Blanca ROJAS Echaverry note: the UNO coalition that won the 1990 elections no longer exists; the different blocs that formerly were united under the UNO umbrella and their opposition to the Sandinistas now act and vote independently 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 International organization participation: BCIE, CACM, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, 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, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Roberto Genaro MAYORGA Cortes chancery: 1627 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 939-6570 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 through 666013, 666015 through 18, 666026, 666027, 666032 through 33 FAX: [505] (2) 669074 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: The Nicaraguan economy, devastated during the 1980s by economic mismanagement and civil war, is beginning to rebound. Since March 1991, when President CHAMORRO launched an ambitious economic stabilization program, 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. After rising again to an estimated 20% in 1993, the annual inflation rate was 11.7% in 1994 and 11.4% in 1995. While economic growth was flat in 1992 and negative in 1993, the 1995 growth rate is about 4%, thanks to surges in most export categories. Recent legislation (November 1995) authorizing the privatization of the TELCOR telecommunications company and resolving the issue of property confiscated by the previous Sandinista government may reassure potential investors. The government's efforts to liberalize trade include a December 1995 decision to stop requiring exporters to bring their foreign exchange earnings into Nicaragua. On the debt front, the Nicaraguan Government launched a successful debt buyback program in 1995, purchasing 73% of its $1.373 billion commercial debt inherited from previous governments. Progress also occurred on reducing bilateral debt in November 1995 as Nicaragua reached an agreement with Germany, reducing Nicaragua's $616 million debt to the former GDR by 80%. Debt reduction agreements with Paris Club creditors and rescheduling with the US also took place. Unemployment remains a pressing problem, however, with roughly half the country's population unemployed or underemployed. GDP: purchasing power parity - $7.1 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.2% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,700 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 11.4% (1995 est.) Labor force: 1.086 million by occupation: services 43%, agriculture 44%, industry 13% (1986) Unemployment rate: 20% substantial underemployment (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $389 million expenditures: $551 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.) Industries: food processing, chemicals, metal products, textiles, clothing, petroleum refining and distribution, beverages, footwear Industrial production growth rate: 1.4% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 460,000 kW production: 1.64 billion kWh (1994) consumption per capita: 376 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, bananas, sugarcane, cotton, rice, corn, cassava (tapioca), citrus, beans; beef, veal, pork, poultry, dairy products Illicit drugs: transshipment point for cocaine destined for the US Exports: $525.5 million (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: meat, coffee, cotton, sugar, seafood, gold, bananas partners: US, Central America, Canada, Germany Imports: $870 million (c.i.f., 1995 est.) commodities: consumer goods, machinery and equipment, petroleum products partners: Central America, US, Venezuela, Japan External debt: $11.7 billion (1994) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 gold cordoba (C$) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: gold cordobas (C$) per US$1 - 7.98 (December 1995), 6.72 (1994), 5.62 (1993), 5.00 (1992), 4.27 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 0 km narrow gauge: 0 km 1.067-m gauge; note - part of the previous 376 km system was closed and dismantled in 1993 and, in 1994, the remainder was closed, the track and rolling stock being sold for scrap Highways: total: 26,000 km paved: 4,000 km unpaved: 22,000 km (1993 est.) note: there is a 368.5 km portion of the Pan-American Highway which is not included in the total 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: 148 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: 107 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 32 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 66,810 (1993 est.) Telephone system: low-capacity microwave radio relay and wire system being expanded; connected to Central American Microwave System domestic: wire and microwave radio relay international: satellite earth stations - 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region) and 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 45, FM 0, shortwave 3 Radios: 1.037 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 7 (1994 est.) Televisions: 260,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Ground Forces, Navy, Air Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 988,883 males fit for military service: 608,753 males reach military age (18) annually: 47,786 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $28.1 million, NA% of GDP (1996) ====================================================================== @Niger ----- Map --- Location: 16 00 N, 8 00 E -- Western Africa, southeast of Algeria Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, southeast of Algeria Geographic coordinates: 16 00 N, 8 00 E 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 border countries: Algeria 956 km, Benin 266 km, Burkina Faso 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 Faso 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 lowest point: Niger River 200 m highest point: Mont Greboun 1,944 m 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 - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 9,113,001 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 48% (male 2,233,157; female 2,138,096) 15-64 years: 50% (male 2,202,413; female 2,317,188) 65 years and over: 2% (male 117,337; female 104,810) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.99% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 54.46 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 24.57 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.95 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.12 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 117.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 40.66 years male: 41.05 years female: 40.25 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 7.44 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 13.6% male: 20.9% female: 6.6% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Niger conventional short form: Niger local long form: Republique du Niger local short form: Niger Data code: NG Type of government: republic Capital: Niamey Administrative divisions: 7 departments (departements, singular - departement), and 1 capital district* (capitale district); Agadez, Diffa, Dosso, Maradi, Niamey*, Tahoua, Tillaberi, Zinder Independence: 3 August 1960 (from France) National holiday: Republic Day, 18 December (1958) Constitution: the constitution of January 1993 was revised by national referendum on 12 May 1996 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 Colonel Ibrahim BARE Mainassara (since 28 January 1996 when he ousted President Mahamane OUSMANE in a coup); Mahamane OUSMANE had been elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 17 March 1993 (next to be held 7 July 1996) head of government: Prime Minister Boukary ADJI (since NA January 1996) appointed by President BARE cabinet: National Salvation Council was appointed by President BARE Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly: elected by proportional representation for a five-year term; election last held 12 January 1995 (next to be held NA September 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (83 total) MNSD-NASSARA 29, CDS 24, PNDS 12, ANDP-Z 9, UDFP 3, UDPS 2, PADN 2, PPN-RDA 1, UPDP 1; note - this National Assembly dissolved by President BARE after the coup on 28 January 1996 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 International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, Entente, FAO, FZ, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, 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, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Adamou SEYDOU chancery: 2204 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 483-4224 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Niger is one of the world's poorest countries, with recent GDP growth barely matching the rapid growth of population. The economy is centered on subsistence agriculture, animal husbandry, and reexport trade, and increasingly less on uranium, its major export throughout the 1970s and 1980s. Uranium revenues dropped by almost 50% between 1983 and 1990 with the end of the uranium boom. Terms of trade with 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $5.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6.7% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $600 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 38.5% industry: 17.9% services: 43.6% (1993) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 35.6% (1994 est.) Labor force: 2.5 million wage earners (1982) by occupation: agriculture 90%, industry and commerce 6%, government 4% Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $188 million expenditures: $400 million, including capital expenditures of $125 million (1993 est.) Industries: cement, brick, textiles, food processing, chemicals, slaughterhouses, and a few other small light industries; uranium mining Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 60,000 kW production: 200 million kWh consumption per capita: 42 kWh (1992) Agriculture: cowpeas, cotton, peanuts, millet, sorghum, cassava (tapioca), rice; cattle, sheep, goats Exports: $232 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: uranium ore 67%, livestock products 20%, cowpeas, onions partners: France 77%, Nigeria 8%, Cote d'Ivoire, Italy Imports: $234 million (c.i.f., 1994 est.) commodities: consumer goods, primary materials, machinery, vehicles and parts, petroleum, cereals partners: France 23%, Cote d'Ivoire, Germany, Italy, Japan External debt: $1.41 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: CFA francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 500.56 (January 1996), 499.15 (1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991) 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 October - 30 September Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 11,258 km paved: 3,265 km unpaved: 7,993 km (1990 est.) Waterways: Niger river is navigable 300 km from Niamey to Gaya on the Benin frontier from mid-December through March Ports: none Airports: total: 23 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: 2 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 11 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 14,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: small system of wire, radiotelephone communications, and microwave radio relay links concentrated in southwestern area domestic: wire, radiotelephone communications, and microwave radio relay; domestic satellite system with 3 earth stations and 1 planned international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 15, FM 5, shortwave 0 Radios: 500,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 18 Televisions: 38,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, Republican Guard, National Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,920,244 males fit for military service: 1,035,218 males reach military age (18) annually: 92,132 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $32 million, 1.3% of GDP (FY92/93) ====================================================================== @Nigeria ------- Map --- Location: 10 00 N, 8 00 E -- Western Africa, bordering the Gulf of Guinea, between Benin and Cameroon Flag ---- Description: three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and green Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, bordering the Gulf of Guinea, between Benin and Cameroon Geographic coordinates: 10 00 N, 8 00 E 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 border countries: 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 vicinity of 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 ICJ 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Chappal Waddi 2,419 m 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 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, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification People ------ Population: 103,912,489 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 45% (male 23,455,266; female 23,245,099) 15-64 years: 52% (male 27,645,106; female 26,553,135) 65 years and over: 3% (male 1,522,862; female 1,491,021) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.05% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 42.89 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 12.71 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0.34 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.02 male(s)/female all ages: 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 72.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 54.34 years male: 53.06 years female: 55.65 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.24 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Nigerian(s) adjective: Nigerian Ethnic divisions: non-Africans 27,000 north: Hausa and Fulani note: Hausa and Fulani, Yoruba, and Ibos together make up 65% of population southwest: Yoruba southeast: Ibos Religions: Muslim 50%, Christian 40%, indigenous beliefs 10% Languages: English (official), Hausa, Yoruba, Ibo, Fulani Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 57.1% male: 67.3% female: 47.3% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Federal Republic of Nigeria conventional short form: Nigeria Data code: NI Type of government: military government; Nigeria has been ruled by one military regime after another since 31 December 1983; on 1 October 1995, the present military government announced it will turn power over to democratically elected civilian authorities in October 1998 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; note - some new administrative units may have been created 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 military takeover of 17 November 1993 House of Representatives: suspended after military takeover of 17 November 1993 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges appointed by the Armed Forces Ruling Council; Federal Court of Appeal, judges are appointed by the federal government on the advice of the Advisory Judicial Committee Political parties and leaders: note: political party system suspended after the military takeover of 17 November 1993; the military regime has made successive promises to allow political parties to register at various times in 1996 International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, C (suspended), CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, G-15, G-19, G-24, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, MINURSO, NAM, OAU, OPEC, PCA, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNAMIR, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Zubair Mahmud KAZAURE chancery: 1333 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036 telephone: [1] (202) 986-8400 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 Flag: three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), white, and green Economy ------- Economic overview: The oil-rich Nigerian economy continues to be hobbled by political instability, corruption, and poor macroeconomic management. Nigeria's unpopular military rulers failed to make significant progress in diversifying the economy away from overdependence on the capital intensive oil sector which provides almost all foreign exchange earnings and about 80% of budgetary revenues. Regime officials also appear divided on how to redress fundamental economic imbalances that result in troublesome inflation, the steady depreciation of the naira, and the discouragement of investors. The government's domestic and international arrears continue to limit economic growth and prevent an agreement with the IMF and bilateral creditors on debt relief. The largely subsistence agricultural sector has failed to keep up with rapid population growth, and Nigeria, once a large net exporter of food, now must import food. GDP: purchasing power parity - $135.9 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.6% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,300 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 38% industry: 22% services: 40% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 57% (1994 est.) Labor force: 42.844 million by occupation: agriculture 54%, industry, commerce, and services 19%, government 15% Unemployment rate: 28% (1992 est.) Budget: revenues: $2.7 billion expenditures: $6.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $1.8 billion (1994 est.) Industries: crude oil, coal, tin, columbite, palm oil, peanuts, cotton, rubber, wood, hides and skins, textiles, cement and other construction materials, food products, footwear, chemicals, fertilizer, printing, ceramics, steel Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 4,570,000 kW production: 11.3 billion kWh consumption per capita: 109 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cocoa, peanuts, palm oil, rubber, corn, rice, sorghum, millet, cassava (tapioca), yams; cattle, sheep, goats, pigs; fishing and forest 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 Exports: $9.9 billion (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: oil 98%, cocoa, rubber partners: US 52%, EC 34% Imports: $7.5 billion (c.i.f., 1993) commodities: machinery, transportation equipment, manufactured goods, chemicals, food and animals partners: EC 50%, US 13%, Japan 7% External debt: $32.5 billion (1993) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 naira (N) = 100 kobo Exchange rates: naira (N) per US$1 - 21.886 (January 1996), 21.895 (1995), 21.996 (1994), 22.065 (1993), 17.298 (1992), 9.909 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 3,557 km (1995) narrow gauge: 3,505 km 1.067-m gauge standard gauge: 52 km 1.435-m gauge Highways: total: 112,140 km paved: 31,500 km unpaved: 80,640 km (1991 est.) Waterways: 8,575 km consisting of the 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: 33 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 387,552 GRT/636,578 DWT ships by type: bulk 1, cargo 16, chemical tanker 3, oil tanker 12, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 66 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: 8 with paved runways under 914 m: 18 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 12 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 492,204 (1990 est.) Telephone system: average system limited by poor maintenance; major expansion in progress domestic: microwave radio relay, coaxial cable, and 20 domestic satellite earth stations carry intercity traffic international: satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean); 1 coaxial submarine cable Radio broadcast stations: AM 35, FM 17, shortwave 0 Radios: 20 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 28 Televisions: 3.8 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary Police Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 23,739,192 males fit for military service: 13,587,780 males reach military age (18) annually: 1,065,410 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $172 million, about 1% of GDP (1992) ====================================================================== @Niue ---- (free association with New Zealand) Map --- Location: 19 02 S, 169 52 W -- Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Tonga Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Tonga Geographic coordinates: 19 02 S, 169 52 W Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 260 sq km land area: 260 sq km comparative area: 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location near Mutalau settlement 68 m 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 are not naturally very abundant natural hazards: typhoons international agreements: signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea Geographic note: one of world's largest coral islands People ------ Population: 2,174 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: -0.62% (1996 est.) Birth rate: NA births/1,000 population Death rate: NA deaths/1,000 population Net migration rate: NA migrant(s)/1,000 population Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female 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: 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Niue Data code: NE Type of government: 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 (of the UK since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch; the queen and New Zealand are represented by New Zealand High Commissioner Warren SEARELL (since NA August 1993) head of government: Premier Frank Fakaotimanava LUI (acting premier since NA December 1992, premier since 12 March 1993) was reelected by the Legislative Assembly; election last held 23 February 1996 (next to be held NA March 1999) cabinet: Cabinet consists of the premier and three ministers Legislative branch: unicameral Legislative Assembly: elections last held 23 February 1996 (next to be held NA March 1999); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (20 total, 6 elected) NPP 9, independents 11 Judicial branch: Appeal Court of New Zealand; High Court Political parties and leaders: Niue Peoples Party (NPP), Young VIVIAN International organization participation: 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $2.4 million (1993 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $1,200 (1993 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5% (1992) 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 Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $5.5 million expenditures: $6.3 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1985 est.) Industries: tourism, handicrafts, food processing Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 1,500 kW production: 2.7 million kWh consumption per capita: 1,490 kWh (1992) Agriculture: coconuts, passion fruit, honey, limes, taro, yams, cassava (tapioca), sweet potatoes; pigs, poultry, beef cattle 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 Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 New Zealand dollar (NZ$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: New Zealand dollars (NZ$) per US$1 - 1.5138 (January 1996), 1.5235 (1995), 1.6844 (1994), 1.8495 (1993), 1.8584 (1992), 1.7265 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 229 km unpaved: 229 km Ports: none; offshore anchorage only Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 1 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 276 (1992 est.) Telephone system: domestic: single-line telephone system connects all villages on island international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0 (1987 est.) Radios: 1,000 Television broadcast stations: 0 Televisions: 312 (1991 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Police Force Defense note: defense is the responsibility of New Zealand ====================================================================== @Norfolk Island -------------- (territory of Australia) Map --- Location: 29 02 S, 167 57 E -- Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Australia Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Oceania, island in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Australia Geographic coordinates: 29 02 S, 167 57 E 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Bates 319 m 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 People ------ Population: 2,209 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: -0.68% (1996 est.) Birth rate: NA births/1,000 population Death rate: NA deaths/1,000 population Net migration rate: NA migrant(s)/1,000 population Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female 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: 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Territory of Norfolk Island conventional short form: Norfolk Island Data code: NF Type of government: 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: based on the laws of Australia, local ordinances and acts; English common law applies in matters not covered by either Australian or Norfolk Island law Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch; the queen and Australia are represented by Administrator Alan Gardner KERR (since NA April 1992) who was appointed by the governor general of Australia head of government: Assembly President and Chief Minister John Terrence BROWN (since NA) was elected for not more than three years by the Legislative Assembly cabinet: Executive Council is made up of executive members of the Legislative Assembly 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: none International organization participation: 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $NA GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $NA GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: 1,395 (1991 est.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $4.6 million expenditures: $4.8 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY92/93) Industries: tourism Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 7,000 kW production: 8 million kWh consumption per capita: 3,160 kWh (1990) Agriculture: Norfolk Island pine seed, Kentia palm seed, cereals, vegetables, fruit; cattle, poultry Exports: $1.5 million (f.o.b., FY91/92) commodities: postage stamps, seeds of the Norfolk Island pine and Kentia palm, small quantities of avocados partners: Australia, Pacific Islands, NZ, Asia, Europe Imports: $17.9 million (c.i.f., FY91/92) commodities: NA partners: Australia, Pacific Islands, NZ, Asia, Europe External debt: $NA Economic aid: none Currency: 1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Australian dollars ($A) per US$1 - 1.3477 (January 1996), 1.3486 (1995), 1.3667 (1994), 1.4704 (1993), 1.3600 (1992), 1.2835 (1991), 1.2799 (1990) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 80 km paved: 53 km unpaved: 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1,087 (1983 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: radiotelephone service with Sydney (Australia) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 2,000 (1991 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 Televisions: 900 (1991 est.) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of Australia ====================================================================== @Northern Mariana Islands ------------------------ (commonwealth in political union with the US) Map --- Location: 15 12 N, 145 45 E -- Oceania, islands in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to the Philippines Flag ---- Description: blue with a white five-pointed star superimposed on the gray silhouette of a latte stone (a traditional foundation stone used in building) in the center, surrounded by a wreath Geography --------- Location: Oceania, islands in the North Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to the Philippines Geographic coordinates: 15 12 N, 145 45 E Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 477 sq km land area: 477 sq km comparative area: 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location on Agrihan 965 m 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 Geographic note: strategic location in the North Pacific Ocean People ------ Population: 52,284 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 3.04% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 33.05 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 4.61 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 37.96 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 67.43 years male: 65.53 years female: 69.48 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.69 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 97% male: 97% female: 96% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Commonwealth of the Northern Mariana Islands conventional short form: Northern Mariana Islands Data code: CQ Type of government: 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 (of the United States) William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993); Vice President Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993) head of government: Governor Froilan C. TENORIO (since NA January 1994) and Lieutenant Governor Jesus C. BORJA (since NA January 1994) were elected for four-year terms by universal suffrage; election last held in NA November 1993 (next to be held NA November 1997); results - Froilan C. TENORIO (Democrat) was elected governor with 56% of the vote 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 International organization participation: ESCAP (associate), SPC 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, surrounded by a wreath Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $524 million (1994 est.) note: GDP numbers reflect US spending GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $10,500 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 6.5% (1994 est.) Labor force: 7,476 total indigenous labor force; 2,699 unemployed; 21,188 foreign workers (1990) by occupation: NA Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $190.4 million expenditures: $190.4 million, including capital expenditures of $19.1 million (FY94/95) Industries: tourism, construction, light industry, handicrafts Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 105,000 kW production: NA kWh consumption per capita: NA kWh Agriculture: coconuts, fruits, vegetables; cattle 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: $NA Economic aid: none Currency: 1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: US currency is used Fiscal year: 1 October - 30 September Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 381.5 km (1991 est.) paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Waterways: none Ports: Saipan, Tinian Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 5 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with paved runways under 914 m: 1 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 13,618 (1993 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0 (1984) Radios: 15,350 (1987 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 note: there are 2 cable TV stations Televisions: 10,650 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US ====================================================================== @Norway ------ Map --- Location: 62 00 N, 10 00 E -- Northern Europe, bordering the North Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Sweden Flag ---- Description: 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) Geography --------- Location: Northern Europe, bordering the North Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Sweden Geographic coordinates: 62 00 N, 10 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Norwegian Sea 0 m highest point: Glittertinden 2,472 m 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 international agreements: party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, 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, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 4,383,807 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 19% (male 434,848; female 411,668) 15-64 years: 65% (male 1,446,746; female 1,396,150) 65 years and over: 16% (male 288,789; female 405,606) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.48% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 11.96 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 10.68 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 3.57 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.71 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 4.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 77.53 years male: 74.63 years female: 80.61 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.63 children born/woman (1996 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% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Kingdom of Norway conventional short form: Norway local long form: Kongeriket Norge local short form: Norge Data code: NO Type of government: 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) is a hereditary monarch; Heir Apparent Crown Prince HAAKON MAGNUS (born 20 July 1973) head of government: Prime Minister Gro Harlem BRUNDTLAND (since 3 November 1990) was appointed by the king with the approval of the Storting cabinet: State Council was appointed by the king with the approval 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 NA September 1997); results - Labor 37.1%, Center Party 18.5%, Conservatives 15.6%, Christian People's 8.4%, Socialist Left 7.9%, Progress 6%, Left Party 3.6%, Red Electoral Alliance 1.2%; seats - (165 total) Labor 67, Center Party 32, Conservatives 18, Christian People's 13, Socialist Left 13, Progress 10, Left Party 1, Red Electoral Alliance 1, unawarded 10 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), justices appointed by the king Political parties and leaders: Labor Party, Thorbjorn JAGLAND; Conservative Party, Jan PETERSEN; Center Party, Anne ENGER LAHNSTEIN; Christian People's Party, Valgerd HAUGLAND; Socialist Left, Erik SOLHEIM; Norwegian Communist, Kare Andre NILSEN; Progress Party, Carl I. HAGEN; Liberal, Odd Einar DORUM; Left Party; Red Electoral Alliance, Erling FOLKVORD International organization participation: AfDB, AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD, ECE, EFTA, ESA, FAO, 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, NC, NEA, NIB, NSG, OECD, OSCE, PCA, UN, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNITAR, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UPU, WEU (associate), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Kjeld VIBE chancery: 2720 34th Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 333-6000 FAX: [1] (202) 337-0870 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) Economy ------- Economic 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 more than 50% of GDP and results in one of the highest average tax burdens in the world (46%). A small country with a high dependence on international trade, 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. Norway imports more than half its food needs. Economic growth, only 1.6% in 1993, moved up to 5.5% in 1994 and remained strong in 1995. Oslo opted to stay out of the EU during a referendum in November 1994. GDP: purchasing power parity - $106.2 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $24,500 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 2.9% industry: 34.7% services: 62.4% (1991) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.5% (1995 est.) Labor force: 2.13 million by occupation: services 71%, industry 23%, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 6% (1993) Unemployment rate: 8% (including people in job-training programs; November 1995) Budget: revenues: $48.6 billion expenditures: $53 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.) Industries: petroleum and gas, food processing, shipbuilding, pulp and paper products, metals, chemicals, timber, mining, textiles, fishing Industrial production growth rate: 7.4% (1994) Electricity: capacity: 27,280,000 kW production: 118 billion kWh consumption per capita: 23,735 kWh (1993) Agriculture: oats, other grains; beef, milk; livestock output exceeds value of crops; among world's top 10 fishing nations; fish catch of 1.76 million metric tons in 1989 Illicit drugs: transshipment point for drugs shipped via the CIS and Baltic states for the European market Exports: $34.7 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: petroleum and petroleum products 43%, metals and products 11%, foodstuffs (mostly fish) 9%, chemicals and raw materials 25%, natural gas 6.0%, ships 5.4% partners: EU 77.8% (UK 20.8%, Germany 12.4%, France 8.12%), Sweden 9.4%, US 6.7%, Japan 1.9% (1994) Imports: $27.3 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: machinery and equipment and manufactured consumer goods 54%, chemicals and other industrial inputs 39%, foodstuffs 6% partners: EU 68.9% (Germany 13.9%, UK 10.4%, Denmark 7.4%), Sweden 15%, US 7.4%, Japan 6.0% (1994) External debt: $NA Economic aid: donor: ODA, $1.014 billion (1993) Currency: 1 Norwegian krone (NKr) = 100 oere Exchange rates: Norwegian kroner (NKr) per US$1 - 6.4160 (January 1996), 6.3352 (1995), 7.0576 (1994), 7.0941 (1993), 6.2145 (1992), 6.4829 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 4,027 km standard gauge: 4,027 km 1.435-m gauge (2422 km electrified; 96 km double track) (1995) Highways: total: 88,922 km paved: 61,356 km (including 75 km of expressways) unpaved: 27,566 km (1990 est.) 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: 712 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 19,278,205 GRT/32,209,679 DWT ships by type: bulk 114, cargo 98, chemical tanker 83, combination bulk 10, combination ore/oil 31, container 15, liquefied gas tanker 87, oil tanker 148, passenger 10, passenger-cargo 2, railcar carrier 1, refrigerated cargo 13, roll-on/roll-off cargo 49, short-sea passenger 21, vehicle carrier 30 note: the government has created an internal register, the Norwegian International Ship Register (NIS), as a subset of the Norwegian register; ships on the NIS enjoy many benefits of flags of convenience and do not have to be crewed by Norwegians (1995 est.) Airports: total: 102 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: 11 with paved runways under 914 m: 60 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 5 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 2.39 million (1986 est.) Telephone system: high-quality domestic and international telephone, telegraph, and telex services domestic: NA domestic satellite earth stations international: 2 buried coaxial cable systems; 4 coaxial submarine cables; satellite earth stations - NA Eutelsat, NA Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean), and 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions); note - Norway shares the Inmarsat earth station with the other Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and Sweden) Radio broadcast stations: AM 46, FM 493 (350 private and 143 government), shortwave 0 Radios: 3.3 million (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 54 (repeaters 2,100) Televisions: 1.5 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Norwegian Army, Royal Norwegian Navy (includes Coast Artillery and Coast Guard), Royal Norwegian Air Force, Home Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,125,302 males fit for military service: 937,309 males reach military age (20) annually: 28,328 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $3.7 billion, 2.9% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Oman ---- Map --- Location: 21 00 N, 57 00 E -- Middle East, bordering the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, and Persian Gulf, between Yemen and UAE Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Middle East, bordering the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Oman, and Persian Gulf, between Yemen and UAE Geographic coordinates: 21 00 N, 57 00 E 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 border countries: 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, but Administrative Line 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 lowest point: Arabian Sea 0 m highest point: Jabal ash Sham 2,980 m Natural resources: petroleum, copper, asbestos, some marble, limestone, chromium, gypsum, natural gas Land use: arable land: 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 dust storms in interior; periodic droughts international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Hazardous Wastes Geographic note: strategic location with small foothold on Musandam Peninsula controlling Strait of Hormuz, a vital transit point for world crude oil People ------ Population: 2,186,548 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 46% (male 511,664; female 493,369) 15-64 years: 51% (male 609,423; female 513,042) 65 years and over: 3% (male 26,623; female 32,427) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.53% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 37.86 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 4.44 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 1.84 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.19 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.82 male(s)/female all ages: 1.1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 27.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 70.53 years male: 68.59 years female: 72.57 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.09 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Omani(s) adjective: Omani Ethnic divisions: Arab, Baluchi, South Asian (Indian, Pakistani, Sri Lankan, Bangladeshi), African Religions: Ibadhi Muslim 75%, Sunni Muslim, Shi'a Muslim, Hindu Languages: Arabic (official), English, Baluchi, Urdu, Indian dialects Literacy: NA Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Sultanate of Oman conventional short form: Oman local long form: Saltanat Uman local short form: Uman Data code: MU Type of government: 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) is a hereditary monarch; cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the sultan Legislative branch: unicameral Consultative Council (Majlis ash Shura): a 60-member body with advisory powers only Judicial branch: none; traditional Islamic judges and a nascent civil court system, administered by region Political parties and leaders: none Other political or pressure groups: NA International organization participation: 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, UN Security Council (temporary), 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 Road, NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 387-1980 through 1982 FAX: [1] (202) 745-4933 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Frances D. COOK embassy: address NA, Muscat mailing address: P. O. Box 202, Code No. 115, Medinat Qaboos, 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Economic performance is closely tied to the fortunes of the oil industry. Petroleum accounts for nearly 90% of export earnings, about 75% of government revenues, and roughly 40% of GDP. Oman has proved oil reserves of 4 billion barrels, equivalent to about 20 years' supply at the current rate of extraction. Agriculture is carried on at a subsistence level and the general population depends on imported food. The government is encouraging private investment, both domestic and foreign, as a prime force for further economic development. GDP: purchasing power parity - $19.1 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $10,800 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 3% industry: 60% services: 37% Inflation rate (consumer prices): -0.7% (1994 est.) Labor force: 454,000 by occupation: agriculture 37% (1993 est.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $4.7 billion expenditures: $5.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: crude oil production and refining, natural gas production, construction, cement, copper Industrial production growth rate: 3% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 1,540,000 kW production: 6 billion kWh consumption per capita: 3,407 kWh (1993) Agriculture: dates, limes, bananas, alfalfa, vegetables; camels, cattle; annual fish catch averages 100,000 metric tons Exports: $4.8 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: petroleum 87%, reexports, fish, processed copper, textiles partners: Japan 35%, South Korea 15.8%, US 9%, China 8%, Thailand 5% (1994) Imports: $4 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.) commodities: machinery, transportation equipment, manufactured goods, food, livestock, lubricants partners: UAE 27% (largely reexports), Japan 20%, UK 15%, US 5%, Germany 4% (1993) External debt: $3 billion (1993) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $82 million (1993) 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 25,948 km paved: 4,930 km (including 413 km of expressways) unpaved: 21,018 km (1992 est.) Pipelines: crude oil 1,300 km; natural gas 1,030 km Ports: Matrah, Mina' al Fahl, Mina' Raysut Merchant marine: total: 3 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 16,306 GRT/8,210 DWT ships by type: cargo 1, passenger 1, passenger-cargo 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 129 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: 34 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 3 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 3 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 57 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 26 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 150,000 (1994 est.) Telephone system: modern system consisting of open wire, microwave, and radiotelephone communication stations; limited coaxial cable domestic: open wire, microwave, radiotelephone communications, and a domestic satellite system with 8 earth stations international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) and 1 Arabsat Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 4, shortwave 1 Radios: 1.043 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 9 Televisions: 1.195 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary (includes Royal Oman Police) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 532,113 males fit for military service: 301,747 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $1.82 billion, 13.7% of GDP (1996) ====================================================================== @Pacific Ocean ------------- Map --- Location: 0 00 N, 160 00 W -- body of water between Antarctica, Asia, Australia, and the Western Hemisphere Geography --------- Location: body of water between Antarctica, Asia, Australia, and the Western Hemisphere Geographic coordinates: 0 00 N, 160 00 W 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: planetary air pressure systems and resultant wind patterns exhibit remarkable uniformity in the south and east; trade winds and westerly winds are well-developed patterns, modified by seasonal fluctuations; tropical cyclones (hurricanes) may form south of Mexico from June to October and affect Mexico and Central America; continental influences cause climatic uniformity to be much less pronounced in the eastern and western regions at the same latitude in the North Pacific Ocean; the western Pacific is monsoonal - a rainy season occurs during the summer months, when moisture-laden winds blow from the ocean over the land, and a dry season during the winter months, when dry winds blow from the Asian land mass back to the ocean; tropical cyclones (typhoons) may strike southeast and East Asia from May to December 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 Marianas Trench, which is the world's deepest lowest point: Marianas Trench -10,924 m highest point: sea level 0 m 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 the loss of their food source; ships subject to superstructure icing in extreme north from October to May and in extreme south from May to October; persistent fog in the northern Pacific can be a maritime hazard from June to December international agreements: NA Geographic 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 Government ---------- Data code: none; the US Government has not approved a standard for hydrographic codes - see the Cross-Reference List of Hydrographic Codes appendix Economy ------- Economic 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. Transportation -------------- Ports: Bangkok (Thailand), Hong Kong, Kao-hsiung (Taiwan), Los Angeles (US), Manila (Philippines), Pusan (South Korea), San Francisco (US), Seattle (US), Shanghai (China), Singapore, Sydney (Australia), Vladivostok (Russia), Wellington (NZ), Yokohama (Japan) Communications -------------- Telephone system: international: several submarine cables with network nodal points on Guam and Hawaii ====================================================================== @Pakistan -------- Map --- Location: 30 00 N, 70 00 E -- Southern Asia, bordering the Arabian Sea, between India and Iran Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern Asia, bordering the Arabian Sea, between India and Iran Geographic coordinates: 30 00 N, 70 00 E 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 border countries: 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 dispute with Afghanistan (Durand Line); water-sharing problems over the Indus (Wular Barrage) 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: K2 (Mt. Godwin-Austen) 8,611 m 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) 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 Geographic note: controls Khyber Pass and Bolan Pass, traditional invasion routes between Central Asia and the Indian Subcontinent People ------ Population: 129,275,660 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 42% (male 28,286,823; female 26,640,019) 15-64 years: 53% (male 35,396,281; female 33,733,798) 65 years and over: 5% (male 2,621,721; female 2,597,018) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.24% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 36.16 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 11.22 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -2.6 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.01 male(s)/female all ages: 1.05 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 96.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 58.46 years male: 57.7 years female: 59.25 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.25 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Pakistani(s) adjective: Pakistani Ethnic divisions: Punjabi, Sindhi, Pashtun (Pathan), Baloch, Muhajir (immigrants from India and their descendants) Religions: Muslim 97% (Sunni 77%, Shi'a 20%), Christian, Hindu, and other 3% Languages: Punjabi 48%, Sindhi 12%, Siraiki (a Punjabi variant) 10%, Pashtu 8%, Urdu (official) 8%, Balochi 3%, Hindko 2%, Brahui 1%, English (official and lingua franca of Pakistani elite and most government ministries), Burushaski, and other 8% Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 37.8% male: 50% female: 24.4% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Islamic Republic of Pakistan conventional short form: Pakistan former: West Pakistan Data code: PK Type of government: 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 (since 13 November 1993) was elected for a five-year term by Parliament; election last held 13 November 1993 (next to be held no later than 14 October 1998); results - LEGHARI was elected by Parliament and the four provincial assemblies head of government: Prime Minister Benazir BHUTTO (since 19 October 1993) was elected by the National Assembly cabinet: Cabinet was elected by the National Assembly 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, judicial chiefs are appointed by the president; Federal Islamic (Shari'at) Court 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); Pakhtun Quami Party (PKQP), Mohammed AFZAL Khan opposition: Pakistan Muslim League, Nawaz Sharif faction (PML/N), Nawaz SHARIF; Awami National Party (ANP), Ajmal Khan KHATTAK; Pakistan Islamic Front (PIF); Balochistan National Movement, Mengal Group (BNM/M), Sardar Akhtar MENGAL; Mohajir Quami Movement, Altaf faction (MQM/A), Altaf HUSSAIN; Jamiat-al-Hadith (JAH); Jamhoori Watan Party (JWP), Akbar Khan BUGTI frequently shifting: Mutaheda Deeni Mahaz (MDM), Maulana Sami-ul-HAQ, the MDM includes Jamiat Ulema-i-Pakistan, Niazi faction (JUP/NI) and Anjuman Sepah-i-Sahaba Pakistan (ASSP); Islami-Jamhoori-Mahaz (IJM-Islamic Democratic Front) includes Jamiat Ulema-i-Islami, Fazlur Rehman group (JUI/F); Pakistan Muslim League, Functional Group (PML/F), Pir PAGARO; Pakistan National Party (PNP); Milli Yakjheti Council (MYC) is an umbrella organization which includes Jamaat-i-Islami (JI), Qazi Hussain AHMED, Jamiat Ulema-i-Islam, Sami-ul-Haq faction (JUI/S), Tehrik-I-Jafria Pakistan (TJP), Allama Sajid NAQVI, and Jamiat Ulema-i-Pakistan, Noorani faction (JUP/NO) 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 International organization participation: AsDB, C, CCC, CP, ECO, ESCAP, FAO, G-19, G-24, G-77, 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, UNAMIR, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMIH, UNOMIG, UNOMIL, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Maleeha LODHI chancery: 2315 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 939-6200 FAX: [1] (202) 387-0484 consulate(s) general: Los Angeles and New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Thomas SIMONS, Jr. embassy: Diplomatic Enclave, Ramna 5, Islamabad mailing address: P. O. Box 1048, Unit 6220, APO AE 09812-2200 telephone: [92] (51) 826161 through 826179 FAX: [92] (51) 214222 consulate(s) general: Karachi, Lahore consulate(s): Peshawar 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Pakistan is a poor, highly populated Third World country struggling to make the difficult transition to the modern world of high technology and internationalized markets. Prime Minister Benazir BHUTTO has been under pressure from the IMF and other donors to continue the economic reforms and austerity measures begun by her predecessor, caretaker Prime Minister Moeen QURESHI (July-October 1993). The IMF suspended a $1.5 billion Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility (ESAF) in mid-1995 because Pakistan slowed the pace of economic reform. Islamabad's most recent budget - announced in June 1995 - reversed some reforms agreed to by the IMF earlier that year, including a slowing of tariff reform. In mid-December 1995, however, the IMF approved a $600 million standby arrangement and urged Pakistan to move forward with economic liberalization. Islamabad has agreed to new economic targets with the IMF, which could lay the basis for a return to an ESAF in 1996. Little progress was made in the privatization of large state-owned units in 1995. The sale of the power plant Kot Addu - scheduled for April 1995 - was stalled by opposition from labor unions. The sale of a 26% share of United Bank Limited and the Pakistan Telecommunications Corporation to strategic investors was due to take place in 1995 but has been pushed back to 1996. On the plus side real GDP grew 4.7% in 1995, up from 3.9% in 1994: GDP should grow even faster in 1996 as a result of an above average cotton crop. Secondly, Islamabad reduced the budget deficit to 5.6% of GDP at the end of FY94/95, down from 8% two years earlier. Thirdly, Pakistan attracted $1.6 billion in foreign direct and portfolio investment in FY94/95, more than double inflows of $650 million in the previous fiscal year; financial agreements were reached on five power projects in 1995, including the 1,300-MW $1.8 billion Hab River project. Despite these improvements, the economy remains vulnerable to crisis. Foreign exchange reserves fell dramatically in 1995, reaching a low of about $1 billion in early December 1995 - only five weeks of import cover - before rising to $1.5 billion by yearend. The trade deficit rose to $2 billion for the first six months of FY94/95, triple the deficit of $600 million during the same period in FY93/94. The government responded to this situation with a package of stabilization reforms on 28 October 1995 which included a 7% devaluation of the rupee, supplementary duties of 10% on many imports, and higher petroleum prices. Islamabad hopes these moves will help make its exports more competitive. For the long run, Pakistan must deal with serious problems of deteriorating infrastructure, low literacy levels, and persistent law and order problems in Karachi. GDP: purchasing power parity - $274.2 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.7% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,100 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 24% industry: 27% services: 49% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 13% (1995 est.) Labor force: 36 million by occupation: agriculture 46%, mining and manufacturing 18%, services 17%, other 19% note: extensive export of labor Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $11.9 billion expenditures: $12.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95) Industries: textiles, food processing, beverages, construction materials, clothing, paper products, shrimp Industrial production growth rate: 5% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 12,530,000 kW (1995) production: 43.3 billion kWh (1995) consumption per capita: 389 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cotton, wheat, rice, sugarcane, fruits, vegetables; milk, beef, mutton, eggs Illicit drugs: major illicit producer of opium and hashish for the international drug trade; remains world's fourth largest opium producer (155 metric tons in 1995); major center for processing Afghan heroin and key transit area for Southwest Asian heroin moving to Western market Exports: $8.7 billion (1995 est.) commodities: cotton, textiles, clothing, rice, leather, carpets partners: US, Japan, Hong Kong, Germany, UK, UAE, France Imports: $10.7 billion (1995 est.) commodities: petroleum, petroleum products, machinery, transportation equipment, vegetable oils, animal fats, chemicals partners: Japan, US, Germany, UK, Saudi Arabia, Malaysia, South Korea External debt: $26 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $697 million (1993) note: $2.5 billion (includes bilateral and multilateral aid but no US commitments) (FY93/94); $3 billion (includes bilateral and multilateral aid but no US commitments) (FY94/95) Currency: 1 Pakistani rupee (PRe) = 100 paisa Exchange rates: Pakistani rupees (PRs) per US$1 - 34.339 (January 1996), 31.643 (1995), 30.567 (1994), 28.107 (1993), 25.083 (1992), 23.801 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 8,163 km broad gauge: 7,718 km 1.676-m gauge (293 km electrified; 1,037 km double track) narrow gauge: 445 km 1.000-m gauge; 661 km less than 1.000-m gauge (1995 est.) Highways: total: 205,304 km paved: 104,735 km unpaved: 100,569 km (1995 est.) Pipelines: crude oil 250 km; petroleum products 885 km; natural gas 4,044 km (1987) Ports: Karachi, Port Muhammad bin Qasim Merchant marine: total: 24 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 345,606 GRT/560,641 DWT ships by type: bulk 3, cargo 19, oil tanker 1, passenger-cargo 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 100 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 12 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 19 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 25 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 11 with paved runways under 914 m: 18 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 7 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 8 (1995 est.) Heliports: 6 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1.572 million (1993 est.) Telephone system: the domestic system is mediocre, but adequate for government and business use, in part because major businesses have established their own private systems; since 1988, the government has promoted investment in the national telecommunications system on a priority basis; despite major improvements in trunk and urban systems, telecommunication services are still not readily available to the major portion of the population domestic: microwave radio relay international: satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean); microwave radio relay to neighboring countries Radio broadcast stations: AM 26, FM 8, shortwave 11 Radios: 11.3 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 29 Televisions: 2.08 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Civil Armed Forces, National Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 30,519,339 males fit for military service: 18,720,175 males reach military age (17) annually: 1,437,208 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $3.1 billion, 5.3% of GDP (FY95/96) ====================================================================== @Palau ----- Map --- Location: 7 30 N, 134 30 E -- Oceania, group of islands in the North Pacific Ocean, southeast of the Philippines Flag ---- Description: light blue with a large yellow disk (representing the moon) shifted slightly to the hoist side Geography --------- Location: Oceania, group of islands in the North Pacific Ocean, southeast of the Philippines Geographic coordinates: 7 30 N, 134 30 E 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 the depth of exploitation exclusive fishing zone: 12 nm extended fishing zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 3 nm International disputes: none Climate: wet season May to November; hot and humid Terrain: varying geologically from the high, mountainous main island of Babelthuap to low, coral islands usually fringed by large barrier reefs lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Ngerchelchauus 242 m 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 Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 16,952 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 1.71% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 21.61 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.61 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 2.12 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 25.07 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 71.01 years male: 69.14 years female: 73.02 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.79 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 92% male: 93% female: 90% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Palau conventional short form: Palau local long form: Beluu er a Belau local short form: Belau former: Trust Territory of the Pacific Islands Data code: PS Type of government: constitutional government in free association with the US; the Compact of Free Association entered into force 1 October 1994 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) and Vice President Tommy E. REMENGESAU Jr. (since 1 January 1993) were elected for four-year terms by popular vote; election last held 4 November 1992 (next to be held NA November 1996); results - Kuniwo NAKAMURA 50.7%, Johnson TORIBIONG 49.3% cabinet: Cabinet 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 Political parties and leaders: Palau Nationalist Party, Polycarp BASILIUS International organization participation: ESCAP (associate), SPC, SPF, UN, WHO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires ad interim Isaac Ngewakl SOALADAOB chancery: 2000 L Street NW, Suite 407, Washington, DC 20036 telephone: [1] (202) 452-6814 FAX: [1] (202) 452-6281 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Richard G. WATKINS embassy: address NA, Koror mailing address: P.O. Box 6028, Republic of Palau 96940 telephone: [680] 488-2920, 2990 FAX: [680] 488-2911 Flag: light blue with a large yellow disk (representing the moon) shifted slightly to the hoist side Economy ------- Economic 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 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. Reducing budgeted operating expenditures - which have increased 56% from 1989 to 1993 - will be the biggest challenge for the government over the next several years. GDP: purchasing power parity - $81.8 million (1994 est.) note: GDP numbers reflect US spending GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $5,000 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: NA by occupation: NA Unemployment rate: 20% (1986) Budget: revenues: $17 million expenditures: $57 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: tourism, craft items (from shell, wood, pearls), some commercial fishing and agriculture Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 16,000 kW production: 22 million kWh consumption per capita: 1,540 kWh (1990) Agriculture: coconuts, copra, cassava (tapioca), sweet potatoes 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) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA note: the compact of "free association" with the US, entered into after the end of the UN trusteeship on 1 October 1994, provides Palau with $500 million in US aid over 15 years in return for furnishing military facilities Currency: 1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: US currency is used Fiscal year: 1 October - 30 September Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 61 km paved: 36 km unpaved: 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 2 437 m: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1,500 (1988 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: 9,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 2 Televisions: 1,600 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: NA Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US ====================================================================== @Palmyra Atoll ------------- (territory of the US) Map --- Location: 5 52 N, 162 06 W -- Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to American Samoa Flag ---- Description: the flag of the US is used Geography --------- Location: Oceania, atoll in the North Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to American Samoa Geographic coordinates: 5 52 N, 162 06 W 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: very low lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 2 m 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 Geographic note: about 50 islets covered with dense vegetation, coconut trees, and balsa-like trees up to 30 meters tall People ------ Population: uninhabited Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Palmyra Atoll Data code: LQ Type of government: 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 Flag: the flag of the US is used Economy ------- Economic overview: no economic activity Transportation -------------- Highways: much of the road and many causeways built during World War II are unserviceable and overgrown Ports: West Lagoon Airports: airstrip has been overgrown by vegetation and is no longer serviceable Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US ====================================================================== @Panama ------ Map --- Location: 9 00 N, 80 00 W -- Middle America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Colombia and Costa Rica Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Middle America, bordering both the Caribbean Sea and the North Pacific Ocean, between Colombia and Costa Rica Geographic coordinates: 9 00 N, 80 00 W 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Volcan de Chiriqui 3,475 m 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, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Tropical Timber 94 Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 2,655,094 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 33% (male 445,382; female 426,111) 15-64 years: 62% (male 828,384; female 806,205) 65 years and over: 5% (male 71,823; female 77,189) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.64% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 23.2 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.42 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -1.42 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.04 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.93 male(s)/female all ages: 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 29.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 73.92 years male: 71.19 years female: 76.75 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.71 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 90.8% male: 91.4% female: 90.2% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Panama conventional short form: Panama local long form: Republica de Panama local short form: Panama Data code: PM Type of government: 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), First Vice President Tomas Gabriel ALTAMIRANO DUQUE (since 1 September 1994), Second Vice President Felipe Alejandro VIRZI Lopez (since 1 September 1994) were elected for five-year terms by popular vote; election last held 8 May 1994 (next to be held 9 May 1999); results - Ernesto PEREZ BALLADARES (PRD) 33%, Mireya MOSCOSO DE GRUBER (PA) 29%, Ruben BLADES (MPE) 17%, Ruben Dario CARLES (MOLIRENA) 16% cabinet: Cabinet was 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), nine judges appointed for 10-year terms; five superior courts; three courts of appeal Political parties and leaders: governing coalition: Democratic Revolutionary Party (PRD), Gerardo GONZALEZ; Liberal Republican Party (PLR), Rodolfo CHIARI; Labor Party (PALA), Carlos Lopez GUEVARA other parties: Solidarity Party (PS), Samuel LEWIS GALINDO; Nationalist Republican Liberal Movement (MOLIRENA), Delia CARDENAS; Authentic Liberal Party (PLA), Arnulfo ESCALONA; Arnulfista Party (PA), Mireya MOSCOSO DE GRUBER; Christian Democratic Party (PDC), Ruben AROSEMENA; Liberal Party (PL), Roberto ALEMAN Zubieta; Papa Egoro Movement (MPE), Gloria YOUNG; Civic Renewal Party (PRC), Tomas HERRERA; National Unity Mission Party (MUN), Jose Manuel PAREDES; Independent Democratic Union (UDI), Jacinto CARDENAS; National Renovation Movement (MORENA), Pedro VALLERINO 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) International organization participation: AG (associate), ECLAC, FAO, G-77, 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, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Ricardo Alberto ARIAS chancery: 2862 McGill Terrace NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 483-1407 consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Houston, Miami, New Orleans, New York, San Francisco, San Juan (Puerto Rico), Tampa US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador William John HUGHES embassy: Avenida Balboa and Calle 38, Apartado 6959, Panama City 5 mailing address: American Embassy Panama, Unit 0945, APO AA 34002 telephone: [507] 227-1377 FAX: [507] 227-1964 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Because of its key geographic location, Panama's economy is service-based, heavily weighted toward banking, commerce, and tourism. The manufacturing and agriculture sectors have become inefficient under protectionist policies. After fast growth during the early 1990s, the economy has slowed down in the last two years, with GDP growth at 2.8% in 1994 and in 1995. The slowdown has been due mostly to a reduction in construction activities and stagnation in the Colon Free Zone and financial services, the three fastest growing sectors early in the decade. To counter the slowdown, the PEREZ BALLADARES administration has launched an economic reform program designed to reverse unemployment, attract foreign investment, cut back the size of government, and modernize the economy. In 1995, Panama reached an agreement in principle to reschedule its commercial debt - one of the highest in the world in per capita terms - which will allow the country to reenter international financial markets. Panama should complete all requirements to join the World Trade Organization (WTrO) in 1996. GDP: purchasing power parity - $13.6 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.8% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $5,100 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 10% industry: 16% services: 74% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.1% (1995) 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 Unemployment rate: 13.8% (1995) Budget: revenues: $1.86 billion expenditures: $1.86 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995) Industries: construction, petroleum refining, brewing, cement and other construction materials, sugar milling Industrial production growth rate: 0.4% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 960,000 kW production: 2.8 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,047 kWh (1993) Agriculture: bananas, rice, corn, coffee, sugarcane, vegetables; livestock; fishing (shrimp) Illicit drugs: major cocaine transshipment point and major drug money laundering center; minor producer of coca leaf; active eradication program Exports: $548 million (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: bananas 43%, shrimp 11%, sugar 4%, clothing 5%, coffee 2% partners: US 39%, EU, Central America and Caribbean Imports: $2.45 billion (c.i.f., 1995) 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.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $58 million (1993) Currency: 1 balboa (B) = 100 centesimos Exchange rates: balboas (B) per US$1 - 1.000 (fixed rate) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 355 km broad gauge: 76 km 1.524-m gauge narrow gauge: 279 km 0.914-m gauge Highways: total: 10,103 km paved: 3,233 km unpaved: 6,870 km (1992 est.) Waterways: 800 km navigable by shallow draft vessels; 82 km Panama Canal Pipelines: crude oil 130 km Ports: Balboa, Cristobal, Coco Solo North, Vacamonte Merchant marine: total: 3,758 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 69,960,500 GRT/107,632,713 DWT ships by type: bulk 902, cargo 1,050, chemical tanker 168, combination bulk 40, combination ore/oil 19, container 307, liquefied gas tanker 155, livestock carrier 7, multifunction large-load carrier 3, oil tanker 488, passenger 31, passenger-cargo 5, refrigerated cargo 295, roll-on/roll-off cargo 93, short-sea passenger 34, specialized tanker 11, vehicle carrier 150 note: a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 83 countries among which are Japan 1,212, Greece 360, Hong Kong 263, Taiwan 203, South Korea 198, US 160, China 152, Singapore 118, UK 79, Switzerland 67, and Norway 58 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 99 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: 60 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 18 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 273,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: domestic and international facilities well developed domestic: NA international: 1 coaxial submarine cable; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); connected to the Central American Microwave System Radio broadcast stations: AM 91, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 564,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 23 Televisions: 420,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Panamanian Public Forces (PPF; includes the National Police, National Maritime Service, National Air Service, and Institutional Protective Service); Judicial Technical Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 705,427 males fit for military service: 484,571 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $78 million, NA% of GDP (1995); note - for police and security forces ====================================================================== @Papua New Guinea ---------------- Map --- Location: 6 00 S, 147 00 E -- 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 Flag ---- Description: 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 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 Geographic coordinates: 6 00 S, 147 00 E 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 border country: 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Wilhelm 4,509 m 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; mud slides 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 - Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Tropical Timber 94 Geographic note: shares island of New Guinea with Indonesia; one of world's largest swamps along southwest coast People ------ Population: 4,394,537 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 40% (male 906,709; female 860,534) 15-64 years: 57% (male 1,303,084; female 1,195,245) 65 years and over: 3% (male 59,513; female 69,452) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.29% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 32.93 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 10.01 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.09 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.86 male(s)/female all ages: 1.07 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 60.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 57.25 years male: 56.4 years female: 58.15 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.45 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 72.2% male: 81% female: 62.7% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Independent State of Papua New Guinea conventional short form: Papua New Guinea abbreviation: PNG Data code: PP Type of government: 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: 19 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General Wiwa KOROWI (since 11 November 1991), who was appointed by the National Executive Council head of government: Prime Minister Sir Julius CHAN (since 30 August 1994) and Deputy Prime Minister Chris HAIVETA (since 7 September 1994) were appointed by the governor general cabinet: National Executive Council was appointed by the governor general on recommendation of the prime minister Legislative branch: unicameral National Parliament (sometimes referred to as the House of A: 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, the chief justice is appointed by the governor general on the proposal of the National Executive Council after consultation with the minister responsible for justice, other judges are appointed by the Judicial and Legal Services Commission Political parties and leaders: Papua New Guinea United Party (Pangu Party), Chris HAIVETA; People's Democratic Movement (PDM), Paias WINGTI; People's Action Party (PAP), Akoka DOI; People's Progress Party (PPP), Sir Julius CHAN; United Party (UP), Paul TORATO; Papua Party (PP), Galeva KWARARA; National Party (NP), Paul PORA; Melanesian Alliance (MA), Fr. John MOMIS International organization participation: ACP, APEC, AsDB, C, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Kepas Isimel WATANGIA chancery: 3rd floor, 1615 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 745-3680 FAX: [1] (202) 745-3679 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Richard W. TEARE embassy: Douglas Street, Port Moresby mailing address: P. O. Box 1492, Port Moresby telephone: [675] 321-1455 FAX: [675] 321-3423 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 the bulk 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. In 1995, Port Moresby reached agreement with the IMF and World Bank on a structural adjustment program. PNG will receive loans totaling $350 million over the next two years from a variety of lenders including the Fund, the Bank, the Australian Government, and the Japanese Export-Import Bank. The loans will be provided only if Port Moresby implements significant reforms to liberalize trade and investment policies, reduce the public sector, and promote sustainable development of the forestry sector. At the start of 1996, 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $10.2 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: -3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,400 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 15% (1995) Labor force: 1.941 million by occupation: agriculture 64% (1993 est.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $1.86 billion expenditures: $1.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: copra crushing, palm oil processing, plywood production, wood chip production; mining of gold, silver, and copper; construction, tourism Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 490,000 kW production: 1.8 billion kWh consumption per capita: 390 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, cocoa, coconuts, palm kernels, tea, rubber, sweet potatoes, fruit, vegetables; poultry, pork Exports: $2.4 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: gold, copper ore, oil, logs, palm oil, coffee, cocoa, lobster partners: Australia, Japan, US, Singapore, New Zealand Imports: $1.4 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.) commodities: machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, food, fuels, chemicals partners: Australia, Japan, UK, New Zealand, Netherlands External debt: $3.2 billion (1995) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $291 million (1993) Currency: 1 kina (K) = 100 toea Exchange rates: kina (K) per US$1 - 0.7552 (October 1995), 0.9950 (1994), 1.0221 (1993), 1.0367 (1992), 1.0504 (1991); note - the government floated the kina on 10 October 1994 Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 19,088 km paved: 640 km unpaved: 18,448 km (1988 est.) 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/27,114 DWT ships by type: bulk 2, cargo 3, combination ore/oil 5, container 1, roll-on/roll-off 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 451 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 12 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 5 with paved runways under 914 m: 371 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 11 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 51 (1995 est.) Heliports: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 63,212 (1986 est.) Telephone system: services are adequate and being improved; facilities provide radiotelephone and telegraph, coastal radio, aeronautical radio, and international radio communication services domestic: mostly radiotelephone international: submarine cables to Australia and Guam; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean); international radio communication service Radio broadcast stations: AM 31, FM 2, shortwave 0 Radios: 298,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 2 (1987 est.) Televisions: 10,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Papua New Guinea Defense Force (includes Army, Navy, Air Force, and Special Operations Unit) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,143,015 males fit for military service: 635,923 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $40 million, 0.9% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Paracel Islands --------------- Map --- Location: 16 30 N, 112 00 E -- 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 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 Geographic coordinates: 16 30 N, 112 00 E 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 lowest point: South China Sea 0 m highest point: unnamed location on Rocky Island 14 m 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 People ------ Population: no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are scattered Chinese garrisons Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Paracel Islands Data code: PF Economy ------- Economic overview: no economic activity 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) (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephone system: domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: NA Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: occupied by China ====================================================================== @Paraguay -------- Map --- Location: 23 00 S, 58 00 W -- Central South America, northeast of Argentina Flag ---- Description: 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) Geography --------- Location: Central South America, northeast of Argentina Geographic coordinates: 23 00 S, 58 00 W 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 border countries: 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: subtropical; substantial rainfall in the eastern portions, becoming semiarid in the 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 lowest point: junction of Rio Paraguay and Rio Parana 46 m highest point: Cerro San Rafael 850 m 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 1958-85); 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 - Desertification, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Wetlands Geographic note: landlocked; lies between Argentina, Bolivia, and Brazil People ------ Population: 5,504,146 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 41% (male 1,144,644; female 1,096,430) 15-64 years: 55% (male 1,518,661; female 1,513,577) 65 years and over: 4% (male 106,121; female 124,713) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.67% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 30.97 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 4.31 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.85 male(s)/female all ages: 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 23.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 73.84 years male: 72.33 years female: 75.43 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.15 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Paraguayan(s) adjective: Paraguayan Ethnic divisions: mestizo (mixed Spanish and Indian) 95%, whites 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 (1995 est.) total population: 92.1% male: 93.5% female: 90.6% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Paraguay conventional short form: Paraguay local long form: Republica del Paraguay local short form: Paraguay Data code: PA Type of government: republic Capital: Asuncion Administrative divisions: 17 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Alto Paraguay, Alto Parana, Amambay, Boqueron, Caaguazu, Caazapa, Canindeyu, Central, Concepcion, Cordillera, Guaira, Itapua, Misiones, Neembucu, 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) and Vice President Roberto Angel SEIFART (since 15 August 1993) were elected for five-year terms by popular vote; election last held 9 May 1993 (next to be held NA May 1998); results - Juan Carlos WASMOSY 40.09%, Domingo LAINO 32.06%, Guillermo CABALLERO VARGAS 23.04% cabinet: Council of Ministers was 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 NA 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 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), judges appointed on the proposal of the Counsel of Magistrates (Consejo de la Magistratura) Political parties and leaders: Colorado Party, Luis Maria ARGANA, president; Authentic Radical Liberal Party (PLRA), Domingo LAINO; National Encounter (EN), Guillermo CABALLERO VARGAS; Christian Democratic Party (PDC), Miguel MONTANER; Febrerista Revolutionary Party (PRF), Euclides ACEVEDO; Popular Democratic Party (PDP), Hugo RICHER Other political or pressure groups: Confederation of Workers (CUT); Roman Catholic Church International organization participation: AG (observer), CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, 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, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Jorge PRIETO CONTI chancery: 2400 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 483-6960 through 6962 FAX: [1] (202) 234-4508 consulate(s) general: Miami and New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Robert E. SERVICE embassy: 1776 Avenida Mariscal Lopez, Casilla Postal 402, Asuncion mailing address: 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) Economy ------- Economic overview: Paraguay has a market economy marked by a large informal sector. The formal economy is largely oriented toward services, but 45% of the population derive their living from agricultural activity, often on a subsistence basis. The economy has grown an average of 3% to 4% over the past five years. Population has increased at 3% a year over the same period leaving per capita income nearly stagnant. The informal sector is marked by both reexport of imported consumer goods (electronics, whiskeys, perfumes, cigarettes and office equipment) to neighboring countries as well as by the activities of thousands of microenterprises and urban street vendors. The Paraguayan Government has stated publicly that it will continue its economic reform agenda in close coordination with its Mercosur (Southern Cone Common Market) partners. In 1995, the government also promised to undertake efforts to formalize the financial sector, after a financial shock forced the bail-out of the second and third largest banks. Paraguay's continued integration into Mercosur also offers potential for growth; it is closely linked with the success of foreign investment promotion. Non-traditional exports, such as finished agricultural products, light manufactures, and small consumer items, are growing rapidly. Government reform efforts, including privatization, have continued, but with little success in 1995. GDP: purchasing power parity - $17 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.2% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $3,200 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 25.7% industry: 25.8% services: 48.5% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 10.5% (1995) Labor force: 1.692 million (1993 est.) by occupation: agriculture 45% Unemployment rate: 12% (1995) Budget: revenues: $1.25 billion (1995 est.) expenditures: $1.66 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: meat packing, oilseed crushing, milling, brewing, textiles, other light consumer goods, cement, construction Industrial production growth rate: 1.3% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 6,530,000 kW production: 26.5 billion kWh (1992) consumption per capita: NA note: much of the electricity produced in Paraguay is exported to Brazil and domestic consumption cannot be determined Agriculture: cotton, sugarcane, soybeans, corn, wheat, tobacco, cassava (tapioca), fruits, vegetables; beef, pork, eggs, milk; timber Illicit drugs: illicit producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; transshipment point for Bolivian cocaine headed for Europe and the US Exports: $819.5 million (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: cotton, soybeans, timber, vegetable oils, meat products, coffee, tung oil partners: EU 37%, Brazil 25%, Argentina 10%, Chile 6%, US 6% Imports: $2.871 billion (c.i.f., 1995) commodities: capital goods, foodstuffs, consumer goods, raw materials, fuels partners: Brazil 30%, EU 20%, US 18%, Argentina 8%, Japan 7% External debt: $1.38 billion (yearend 1995) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $38 million (1993) Currency: 1 guarani (G) = 100 centimos Exchange rates: guaranies (G) per US$ - 2,003.8 (January 1996), 1,970.4 (1995), 1,911.5 (1994), 1,744.3 (1993), 1,500.3 (1992), 1,325.2 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 971 km standard gauge: 441 km 1.435-m gauge narrow gauge: 60 km 1.000-m gauge other: 470 km various gauges (privately owned) Highways: total: 21,834 km paved: 1,778 km unpaved: 20,056 km (1987 est.) Waterways: 3,100 km Ports: Asuncion, Villeta, San Antonio, Encarnacion Merchant marine: total: 16 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 21,323 GRT/23,907 DWT ships by type: cargo 13, oil tanker 2, roll-on/roll-off 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 739 with paved runways over 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: 438 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 25 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 266 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 88,730 (1985 est.) Telephone system: meager telephone service; principal switching center is Asuncion domestic: fair microwave radio relay network international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 40, FM 0, shortwave 7 Radios: 775,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 5 Televisions: 370,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy (includes Naval Air and Marines), Air Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,334,638 males fit for military service: 968,297 males reach military age (17) annually: 58,398 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $94 million, 0.6% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Peru ---- Map --- Location: 10 00 S, 76 00 W -- Western South America, bordering the South Pacific Ocean, between Chile and Ecuador Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Western South America, bordering the South Pacific Ocean, between Chile and Ecuador Geographic coordinates: 10 00 S, 76 00 W 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 border countries: 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) lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Nevado Huascaran 6,768 m 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, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands Geographic note: shares control of Lago Titicaca, world's highest navigable lake, with Bolivia People ------ Population: 24,523,408 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 35% (male 4,360,379; female 4,214,970) 15-64 years: 61% (male 7,480,747; female 7,375,825) 65 years and over: 4% (male 497,775; female 593,712) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.74% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 24.33 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.13 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.76 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.84 male(s)/female all ages: 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 52.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 69.13 years male: 66.97 years female: 71.39 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.04 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 88.7% male: 94.5% female: 83% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Peru conventional short form: Peru local long form: Republica del Peru local short form: Peru Data code: PE Type of government: 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) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 9 April 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - Alberto FUJIMORI 64.42%, Javier PEREZ de CUELLAR 21.80%, Mercedes CABANILLAS 4.11%, other 9.67% cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president note: Prime Minister Alberto PANDOLFI Arbulu (since 3 April 1996) does not exercise executive power; this power is in the hands of the president Legislative branch: unicameral Congress: elections last held 9 April 1995 (next to be held NA April 2000); results - C90/NM 52.1%, UPP 14%, 11 other parties 33.9%; seats - (120 total, when installed on 28 July 1995) C90/NM 67, UPP 17, APRA 8, FIM 6, (CODE)-Pais Posible 5, AP 4, PPC 3, Renovacion 3, IU 2, OBRAS 2, MIA 1, FRENATRACA 1, FREPAP 1 Judicial branch: Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justicia), judges are appointed by the National Council of the Judiciary 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) International organization participation: AG, CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-11, G-15, G-19, G-24, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO (correspondent), ITU, LAES, LAIA, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Ricardo V. LUNA MENDOZA chancery: 1700 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036 telephone: [1] (202) 833-9860 through 9869 FAX: [1] (202) 659-8124 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: Avenida Encalada, Cuadra 17, Monterrico, Lima mailing address: P. O. Box 1995, Lima 1; American Embassy (Lima), APO AA 34031 telephone: [51] (12) 21-1202 FAX: [51] (12) 21-3543 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: The Peruvian economy has become increasingly market-oriented, with major privatizations completed since 1990 in the mining, electricity, and telecommunications industries. In the 1980s, the economy suffered from hyperinflation, declining per capita output, and mounting external debt. 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 fell by 2.8%, in part because a warmer-than-usual El Nino current resulted in a 30% drop in the fish catch, but the economy rebounded as strong foreign investment helped push growth to 6% in 1993, about 13% in 1994, and 6.8% in 1995. GDP: purchasing power parity - $87 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6.8% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $3,600 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 10.2% (1995 est.) Labor force: 8 million (1992) by occupation: agriculture, mining and quarrying, manufacturing, construction, transport, services Unemployment rate: 15%; extensive underemployment (1992 est.) Budget: revenues: $8.5 billion expenditures: $9.3 billion including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.) Industries: mining of metals, petroleum, fishing, textiles, clothing, food processing, cement, auto assembly, steel, shipbuilding, metal fabrication Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 4,190,000 kW production: 11.2 billion kWh consumption per capita: 448 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, cotton, sugarcane, rice, wheat, potatoes, plantains, coca; poultry, red meats, dairy products, wool; fish catch of 6.9 million metric tons (1990) Illicit drugs: world's largest coca leaf producer with about 115,300 hectares under cultivation in 1995; 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 Exports: $5.6 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: copper, zinc, fishmeal, crude petroleum and byproducts, lead, refined silver, coffee, cotton partners: US 19%, Japan 9%, Italy, Germany Imports: $7.4 billion (f.o.b., 1995 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.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $363 million (1993) Currency: 1 nuevo sol (S/.) = 100 centimos Exchange rates: nuevo sol (S/.) per US$1 - 2.350 (January 1996), 2.253 (1995), 2.195 (1994), 1.988 (1993), 1.246 (1992), 0.773 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 2,041 km standard gauge: 1,726 km 1.435-m gauge narrow gauge: 315 km 0.914-m gauge (1994) Highways: total: 69,942 km paved: 13,538 km unpaved: 56,404 km (1987 est.) 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, Matarani, Paita, Puerto Maldonado, Salaverry, San Martin, Talara, Iquitos, Pucallpa, Yurimaguas note: Iquitos, Pucallpa, and Yurimaguas are all on the upper reaches of the Amazon and its tributaries Merchant marine: total: 9 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 77,584 GRT/144,030 DWT ships by type: bulk 2, cargo 7 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 230 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: 12 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 6 with paved runways under 914 m: 96 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 2 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 22 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 71 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 779,306 (1990 est.) Telephone system: adequate for most requirements domestic: nationwide microwave radio relay system and a domestic satellite system with 12 earth stations international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 273, FM 0, shortwave 144 Radios: 5.7 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 140 Televisions: 2 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army (Ejercito Peruano), Navy (Marina de Guerra del Peru; includes Naval Air, Marines, and Coast Guard), Air Force (Fuerza Aerea del Peru), National Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 6,441,513 males fit for military service: 4,347,460 males reach military age (20) annually: 255,067 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $998 million, 1.6% of GDP (1996) ====================================================================== @Philippines ----------- Map --- Location: 13 00 N, 122 00 E -- Southeastern Asia, archipelago between the Philippine Sea and the South China Sea, east of Vietnam Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Asia, archipelago between the Philippine Sea and the South China Sea, east of Vietnam Geographic coordinates: 13 00 N, 122 00 E 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 lowest point: Philippine Sea 0 m highest point: Mount Apo 2,954 m 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 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; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Tropical Timber 94 People ------ Population: 74,480,848 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 38% (male 14,486,214; female 14,026,873) 15-64 years: 58% (male 21,403,784; female 21,968,259) 65 years and over: 4% (male 1,165,810; female 1,429,908) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.18% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 29.51 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -1.06 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.97 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.82 male(s)/female all ages: 0.99 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 35.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 65.91 years male: 63.14 years female: 68.83 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.69 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 94.6% male: 95% female: 94.3% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of the Philippines conventional short form: Philippines local long form: Republika ng Pilipinas local short form: Pilipinas Data code: RP Type of government: 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: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state and head of government: President Fidel Valdes RAMOS (since 30 June 1992) and Vice President Joseph Ejercito ESTRADA (since 30 June 1992) were elected for six-year terms by popular vote; election last held 11 May 1992 (next to be held NA May 1998); results - Fidel Valdes RAMOS won 23.6% of the vote, a narrow plurality cabinet: Executive Secretary was appointed by the president with the consent of the Commission of Appointments Legislative branch: bicameral Congress (Kongreso) Senate (Senado): elections last held 8 May 1995 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (24 total) LDP 14, Lakas/NUCD 5, NPC 2, LP 1, PRP 1, independent 1 House of Representatives (Kapulungan Ng Mga Kinatawan): elections last held 8 May 1995 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (204 total) Lakas/NUCD 129, LDP 29, NPC (opposition) 25, LP 6, PDP 3, KBL/NPC 1, results pending 11 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, justices are appointed for four-year terms by the president on recommendation of the Judicial and Bar Council Political parties and leaders: Democratic Filipino Struggle (Laban ng Demokratikong Pilipino, LDP), Edgardo ANGARA; People Power-National Union of Christian Democrats (Lakas ng EDSA-NUCD or Lakas-NUCD); Raul MANGLAPUS, president and Jose DE VENECIA, secretary general; Liberal Party (LP), Raul DAZA; National People's Coalition (NPC), Eduardo COJUANGCO; People's Reform Party (PRP), Miriam DEFENSOR-SANTIAGO; New Society Movement (Kilusan Bagong Lipunan, KBL), Imelda MARCOS; Nacionalista Party (NP), Salvador H. LAUREL, president; Filipino Democratic Party (Partido Demokratikong Philipinas or PDP), Jose COJUANGCO, is part of the ruling coalition with the LDP International organization participation: APEC, AsDB, ASEAN, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-24, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, Mekong Group, NAM, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNMIH, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Raul Chaves RABE chancery: 1600 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036 telephone: [1] (202) 467-9300 FAX: [1] (202) 328-7614 consulate(s) general: Agana (Guam), Chicago, Honolulu, Los Angeles, New York, San Francisco, and Seattle consulate(s): San Diego and San Jose (Saipan) US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador-designate Thomas C. HUBBARD embassy: 1201 Roxas Boulevard, Ermita Manila 1000 mailing address: APO AP 96440 telephone: [63] (2) 521-71-16 FAX: [63] (2) 522-43-61 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: The Philippine economy, primarily a mixture of agriculture and light industry, continued its third year of recovery in 1995, led by growth in exports and investments. Officials have targeted 5%-6% growth for 1996 after achieving 4.8% growth in 1995. The government is continuing its economic reforms to enable the Philippines to move closer to the development of the newly industrialized countries of East Asia. The strategy includes improving infrastructure and plans to overhaul the tax system to bolster government revenues. GDP: purchasing power parity - $179.7 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.8% (1995) GDP per capita: $2,530 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 22% industry: 30% services: 48% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 8.1% (1995) Labor force: 24.12 million by occupation: agriculture 46%, industry and commerce 16%, services 18.5%, government 10%, other 9.5% (1989) Unemployment rate: 9.5% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $14.1 billion expenditures: $13.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995) Industries: textiles, pharmaceuticals, chemicals, wood products, food processing, electronics assembly, petroleum refining, fishing Industrial production growth rate: 1.4% (1993) Electricity: capacity: 6,770,000 kW production: 20.4 billion kWh consumption per capita: 278 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rice, coconuts, corn, sugarcane, bananas, pineapples, mangoes; pork, eggs, beef; fish catch of 2 million metric tons annually 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 and Golden Triangle heroin bound for the US Exports: $17.4 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: electronics, textiles, coconut products, copper, fish partners: US 39%, Japan 15%, Germany 5%, Hong Kong 5%, UK 5% (1994) Imports: $26.5 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: raw materials 40%, capital goods 25%, petroleum products 10% partners: Japan 24%, US 18%, Singapore 7%, Taiwan 6%, South Korea 5% (1994) External debt: $41 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $934 million (1993) Currency: 1 Philippine peso (P) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: Philippine pesos (P) per US$1 - 26.206 (December 1995), 25.714 (1995), 26.417 (1994), 27.120 (1993), 25.512 (1992), 27.479 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 499 km narrow gauge: 499 km 1.067-m gauge (1993) Highways: total: 160,633 km paved: 22,489 km unpaved: 138,144 km (1992 est.) 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 Island, Iligan, Iloilo, Jolo, Legaspi, Manila, Masao, Puerto Princesa, San Fernando, Subic Bay, Zamboanga Merchant marine: total: 535 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 8,033,849 GRT/13,101,188 DWT ships by type: bulk 230, cargo 126, chemical tanker 3, combination bulk 11, container 12, liquefied gas tanker 9, livestock carrier 12, oil tanker 44, passenger 2, passenger-cargo 12, refrigerated cargo 19, roll-on/roll-off cargo 12, short-sea passenger 18, vehicle carrier 25 note: a flag of convenience registry; Japan owns 22 ships, Hong Kong 4, Switzerland 1, Taiwan 1, Denmark 1, and UK 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 235 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: 25 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 31 with paved runways under 914 m: 104 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 3 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 63 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 887,229 (1993 est.) Telephone system: good international radiotelephone and submarine cable services; domestic and interisland service adequate domestic: domestic satellite system with 11 earth stations international: submarine cables to Hong Kong, Guam, Singapore, Taiwan, and Japan; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 2 Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 261, FM 55, shortwave 0 Radios: 9.03 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 29 Televisions: 7 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy (includes Coast Guard and Marine Corps), Air Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 18,722,509 males fit for military service: 13,221,513 males reach military age (20) annually: 767,056 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $1 billion, 1.4% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Pitcairn Islands ---------------- (dependent territory of the UK) Map --- Location: 25 04 S, 130 06 W -- Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Peru to New Zealand Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Peru to New Zealand Geographic coordinates: 25 04 S, 130 06 W 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 exclusive economic 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Pawala Valley Ridge 347 m 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 People ------ Population: 56 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 0% (1996 est.) Birth rate: NA births/1,000 population Death rate: NA deaths/1,000 population Net migration rate: NA migrant(s)/1,000 population Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Pitcairn, Henderson, Ducie, and Oeno Islands conventional short form: Pitcairn Islands Data code: PC Type of government: 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 (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch, represented by UK High Commissioner to New Zealand and Governor (non-resident) of the Pitcairn Islands Robert John ALSTON (since NA August 1994); Commissioner (non-resident) G. D. HARRAWAY (since NA; is the liaison person between the governor and the Island Council) head of government: Island Magistrate and Chairman of the Island Council Jay WARREN (since NA); the island magistrate is elected every three years Legislative branch: unicameral Island Council: elections take place each December; election last held NA December 1995 (next to be held NA December 1996); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (11 total, 5 elected) all independents Judicial branch: Island Court, island magistrate presides over the court and is elected every three years Political parties and leaders: none Other political or pressure groups: NA International organization participation: 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $NA GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $NA GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: 14 able-bodied men (1993) by occupation: no business community in the usual sense; some public works; subsistence farming and fishing Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $588,000 expenditures: $583,000, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993/94 est.) Industries: postage stamps, handicrafts Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 110 kW production: 300,000 kWh consumption per capita: 5,360 kWh (1990) Agriculture: wide variety of fruits and vegetables 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 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 - 1.5138 (January 1996), 1.5235 (1995), 1.6844 (1994), 1.8495 (1993), 1.8584 (1992), 1.7265 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 6.4 km paved: 0 km unpaved: 6.4 km Ports: Bounty Bay Merchant marine: none Airports: none Communications -------------- Telephones: 24 Telephone system: party line telephone service on the island domestic: NA international: radiotelephone Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 0 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK ====================================================================== @Poland ------ Map --- Location: 52 00 N, 20 00 E -- Central Europe, east of Germany Flag ---- Description: two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red; similar to the flags of Indonesia and Monaco which are red (top) and white Geography --------- Location: Central Europe, east of Germany Geographic coordinates: 52 00 N, 20 00 E Map references: Europe Area: total area: 312,683 sq km land area: 304,510 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than New Mexico Land boundaries: total: 2,888 km border countries: Belarus 605 km, Czech Republic 658 km, Germany 456 km, Lithuania 91 km, Russia (Kaliningrad Oblast) 206 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 lowest point: Raczki Elblaskie -2 m highest point: Rysy 2,499 m Natural resources: coal, sulfur, copper, natural gas, silver, lead, salt Land use: arable land: 48% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 13% forest and woodland: 29% other: 10% (1992) Irrigated land: 1,000 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: situation has improved since 1989 due to decline in heavy industry and increased environmental concern by postcommunist governments; air pollution nonetheless remains serious because of sulfur dioxide emissions from coal-fired power plants, and the resulting acid rain has caused forest damage; water pollution from industrial and municipal sources is also a problem, as is disposal of hazardous wastes natural hazards: NA international agreements: party to - Air Pollution, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Biodiversity, Law of the Sea Geographic note: historically, an area of conflict because of flat terrain and the lack of natural barriers on the North European Plain People ------ Population: 38,642,565 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 22% (male 4,399,649; female 4,188,824) 15-64 years: 66% (male 12,754,272; female 12,930,275) 65 years and over: 12% (male 1,654,526; female 2,715,019) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.14% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 11.92 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 10.08 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.4 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.61 male(s)/female all ages: 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 12.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 72.1 years male: 68.02 years female: 76.41 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.69 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 99% male: 99% female: 98% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Poland conventional short form: Poland local long form: Rzeczpospolita Polska local short form: Polska Data code: PL Type of government: 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 Aleksander KWASNIEWSKI (since 23 December 1995) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election first round held 5 November 1995, second round held 19 November 1995 (next to be held NA November 2000); results - second round Aleksander KWASNIEWSKI 51.7%, Lech WALESA 48.3% head of government: Prime Minister Wlodimierz CIMOSZEWICZ (since 7 February 1996), Deputy Prime Ministers Roman JAGIELINSKI (since NA), Grzegorz KOLODKO (since NA), and Miroslaw PIETRIEWICZ (since NA) were appointed by the Sejm cabinet: Council of Ministers is responsible to the president and the Sejm; the prime minister appointed and the Sejm approved the Council of Ministers Legislative branch: bicameral National Assembly (Zgromadzenie Narodowe) post-communist parties (PSL 34, SLD 37), post-Solidarity parties (UW 6, NSZZ 12, BBWR 2), non-communist, non-Solidarity (independents 7, unaffiliated 1, vacant 1) post-communist parties (SLD 171, PSL 132), post-Solidarity parties (UW 74, UP 41, BBWR 16), non-communist, non-Solidarity (KPN 22) note: four seats are constitutionally assigned to ethnic German parties Sejm: elections last held 19 September 1993 (next to be held no later than 19 September 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (460 total) Senate (Senat): elections last held 19 September 1993 (next to be held no later than 19 September 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (100 total) Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the president on the recommendation of the National Council of Judiciary Political parties and leaders: post-Communist: Democratic Left Alliance (SLD) (Social Democracy of Poland), Jozef OLEKSY; Polish Peasant Party (PSL), Waldemar PAWLAK post-Solidarity parties: Freedom Union (UW; Democratic Union and Liberal Democratic Congress merged to form Freedom Union), Leszek BALCEROWICZ; Christian-National Union (ZCHN), Marian PILKA; Center Alliance Party (PC), Jaroslaw KACZYNSKI; Peasant Alliance (PL), Gabriel JANOWSKI; Solidarity Caucus (NSZZ), Marian KRZAKLEWSKI; Union of Labor (UP), Ryszard BUGAJ; Christian-Democratic Party (PCHD), Pawel LACZKOWSKI; Conservative Party, Aleksander HALL; Nonparty Reform Bloc (BBWR) non-Communist non-Solidarity: Confederation for an Independent Poland (KPN), Leszek MOCZULSKI; German Minority (MN), Georg PORYLKA; Union of Real Politics (UPR), Janusz KORWIN-MIKKE; Democratic Party (SD), Antoni MACKIEWICZ Other political or pressure groups: powerful Roman Catholic Church; Solidarity (trade union); All Poland Trade Union Alliance (OPZZ), trade union International organization participation: Australia Group, BIS, BSEC (observer), CBSS, CCC, CE, CEI, CERN, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarset, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, NACC, NAM (guest), NSG, OAS (observer), OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNDOF, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIFIL, UNIKOM, UNMOT, UNOMIG, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UPU, WCL, WEU (associate partner), WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Jerzy KOZMINSKI chancery: 2640 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 234-3800 through 3802 FAX: [1] (202) 328-6271 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, Unit 1340, APO AE 09213-1340 telephone: [48] (2) 628-30-41 FAX: [48] (2) 628-82-98 consulate(s) general: Krakow Flag: two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red; similar to the flags of Indonesia and Monaco which are red (top) and white Economy ------- Economic overview: In 1995, Poland continued to make good progress in the difficult transition to a market economy that began on 1 January 1990, when the new democratic government instituted "shock therapy" by decontrolling prices, slashing subsidies, and drastically reducing import barriers. Although real GDP fell sharply in 1990 and 1991, in 1992 Poland became the first country in the region to resume economic growth with a 2.6% increase. Growth advanced to 3.8% in 1993, 5.2% in 1994, and 6.5% in 1995. Most of the growth since 1991 had come from the booming private sector, which now accounts for about 60% of GDP, due in large part to the creation of new private firms. The slow pace of privatization picked up somewhat in 1995, as 512 smaller state enterprises were transferred to private National Investment Funds under the Mass Privatization Program, but large-scale industry remains largely in state hands. Industrial production increased 10.2% in 1995, following a 13.2% rise in 1994, yet remains about 13% below the 1989 level. Inflation, which had approached 1,200% annually in early 1990, fell to 21.6% in December 1995, as the government held the 1995 budget deficit to less than 3% of GDP. After peaking at 16.9% in July 1994, unemployment gradually fell to 14.9% in December 1995 - although the rate still approaches 30% in some regions. The trade and current account balances officially are in deficit but in fact both have comfortable surpluses because of large, unrecorded sales to cross-border visitors. Prospects for 1996 are good, with the government promising to push privatization and social welfare reform. Economic growth should remain above 5%, with inflation dropping below 20% by yearend 1996 and unemployment continuing its slow decline. As for external debt, the burden was sharply reduced by reschedulings and write-offs of both private and official debt during 1991-94. GDP: purchasing power parity - $226.7 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $5,800 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 7% industry: 38% services: 55% (1993) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 21.6% (December 1995) Labor force: 17.743 million (1994 annual average) by occupation: industry and construction 32.0%, agriculture 27.6%, trade, transport, and communications 14.7%, government and other 25.7% (1992) Unemployment rate: 14.9% (December 1995) Budget: revenues: $34.5 billion expenditures: $37.8 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: machine building, iron and steel, coal mining, chemicals, shipbuilding, food processing, glass, beverages, textiles Industrial production growth rate: 10.2% (1995) Electricity: capacity: 31,120,000 kW production: 133.7 billion kWh consumption per capita: 3,000 kWh (1993) Agriculture: potatoes, milk, fruits, vegetables, wheat; poultry and eggs; pork, beef 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 Exports: $22.2 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: intermediate goods 27.5%, machinery and transport equipment 19.8%, miscellaneous manufactures 20.5%, foodstuffs 11.6%, fuels 9.1% (1994) partners: Germany 35.7%, Netherlands 5.9%, Russia 5.4%, Italy 4.9% (1994) Imports: $23.4 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: machinery and transport equipment 28.9%, intermediate goods 20.2%, chemicals 14.7%, fuels 10.4%, miscellaneous manufactures 9.9% partners: Germany 27.5%, Italy 8.4%, Russia 6.8%, UK 5.3% (1994) External debt: $42.1 billion (yearend 1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: Western governments and institutions pledged $22 billion in grants and loans during 1990-94, but much of the money has not been disbursed Currency: 1 zloty (Zl) = 100 groszy Exchange rates: zlotych (Zl) per US$1 - 2.55 (January 1996) 2.4250 (1995); note - a currency reform on 1 January 1995 replaced 10,000 old zlotys with 1 new zloty; 22,723 (1994), 18,115 (1993), 13,626 (1992), 10,576 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 25,166 km broad gauge: 656 km 1.520-m gauge standard gauge: 22,655 km 1.435-m gauge (11,496 km electrified; 8,978 km double track) narrow gauge: 1,855 km various gauges including 1.000-m, 0.785-m, 0.750-m, and 0.600-m (1995) Highways: total: 367,000 km (excluding farm, factory, and forest roads) paved: 235,247 km (including 257 km of expressways) unpaved: 131,753 km (1992 est.) 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: 131 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,093,491 GRT/3,167,660 DWT ships by type: bulk 73, cargo 36, chemical tanker 4, container 7, oil tanker 1, passenger 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 4, short-sea passenger 5 note: Poland owns an additional 18 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 179,913 DWT operating under the registries of The Bahamas, Liberia, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Vanuatu, and Cyprus (1995 est.) 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 2 437 m: 10 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 32 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 18 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 5 million (1994) Telephone system: underdeveloped and outmoded system; government aims to have 10 million phones in service by the year 2000 domestic: cable, open wire, and microwave radio relay international: satellite earth stations - NA Intelsat, NA Eutelsat, 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions), and 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean Region) Radio broadcast stations: AM 27, FM 27, shortwave 0 Radios: 10.9 million (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 40 (Russian repeaters 5) Televisions: 9.6 million Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 10,267,551 males fit for military service: 7,994,460 males reach military age (19) annually: 324,960 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $2.4 billion, 2.4% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Portugal -------- Map --- Location: 39 30 N, 8 00 W -- Southwestern Europe, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Spain Flag ---- Description: two vertical bands of green (hoist side, two-fifths) and red (three-fifths) with the Portuguese coat of arms centered on the dividing line Geography --------- Location: Southwestern Europe, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, west of Spain Geographic coordinates: 39 30 N, 8 00 W 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 border country: 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 and not recognized by the UN Climate: maritime temperate; cool and rainy in north, warmer and drier in south Terrain: mountainous north of the Tagus, rolling plains in south lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Ponta do Pico in Azores 2,351 m 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 Geographic note: Azores and Madeira Islands occupy strategic locations along western sea approaches to Strait of Gibraltar People ------ Population: 9,865,114 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 18% (male 888,157; female 843,309) 15-64 years: 68% (male 3,249,973; female 3,414,793) 65 years and over: 14% (male 601,913; female 866,969) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.02% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 10.53 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 10.2 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.18 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.95 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.69 male(s)/female all ages: 0.92 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 7.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.31 years male: 71.52 years female: 79.31 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.36 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 85% male: 89% female: 82% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Portuguese Republic conventional short form: Portugal local long form: Republica Portuguesa local short form: Portugal Data code: PO Type of government: 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 Jorge SAMPAIO (since 9 March 1996) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 14 January 1996 (next to be held NA January 2001); results - Jorge SAMPAIO (Socialist) 53.8%, Anibal CAVACO SILVA (Conservative) 46.2% head of government: Prime Minister Antonio Manuel de Oliviera GUTERRES (since 28 October 1995) was appointed by the president following the October 1995 legislative elections Council of State: acts as a consultative body to the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister Legislative branch: unicameral Assembly of the Republic (Assembleia da Republica): elections last held 1 October 1995 (next to be held NA October 1999); results - PSD 34.0%, PS 43.8%, CDU 8.6%, CDS/PP 9.1%; seats - (230 total) PSD 88, PS 112, CDU 15, CDS/PP 15 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Supremo Tribunal de Justica), judges appointed for life by the Conselho Superior da Magistratura Political parties and leaders: Social Democratic Party (PSD), Marcelo Rebelo DE SOUSA; Portuguese Socialist Party (PS), Antonio GUTERRES; Party of Democratic Renewal (PRD), Pedro CANAVARRO; Portuguese Communist Party (PCP), Carlos CARVALHAS; Social Democratic Center (CDS), Manuel MONTEIRO; National Solidarity Party (PSN), Manuel SERGIO; Center Democratic Party (CDS); United Democratic Coalition (CDU; communists) International organization participation: AfDB, Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD, ECE, ECLAC, EIB, EU, FAO, 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, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UPU, WCL, WEU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Fernando Antonio de Lacerda ANDRESEN GUIMARAES chancery: 2125 Kalorama Road NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 328-8610 FAX: [1] (202) 462-3726 consulate(s) general: Boston, New York, Newark (New Jersey), and San Francisco consulate(s): Los Angeles, New Bedford (Massachusetts), Providence (Rhode Island) US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Elizabeth Frawley BAGLEY embassy: Avenida das Forcas Armadas, 1600 Lisbon mailing address: PSC 83, 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Portugal's short-term economic fundamentals are strong - the economy grew by 2.8% in 1995, with similar growth expected in 1996 and 1997, and unemployment is among the lowest in the EU. The Socialist government has pledged its dedication both to meeting the Maastricht monetary convergence criteria and to increasing social spending, including provision of a guaranteed minimum income. The government's 1996 budget, passed in March 1996, includes a budget deficit target of 4.2%, to be attained largely through cuts in non-social-service government spending and income from an ambitious privatization program. As for the long run, Portugal hopes for a steady modernization of its capital plant, its work force, and its infrastructure in order to catch up with the productivity and income levels of the Big Four economies of Western Europe. GDP: purchasing power parity - $116.2 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.8% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $11,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 6% industry: 35.8% services: 58.2% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 4.6% (1995 est.) Labor force: 4.24 million (1994 est.) by occupation: services 54.5%, manufacturing 24.4%, agriculture, forestry, fisheries 11.2%, construction 8.3%, utilities 1.0%, mining 0.5% (1992) Unemployment rate: 7.1% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $31 billion expenditures: $41 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994) Industries: textiles and footwear; wood pulp, paper, and cork; metalworking; oil refining; chemicals; fish canning; wine; tourism Industrial production growth rate: 2.1% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 8,220,000 kW production: 29.5 billion kWh consumption per capita: 2,642 kWh (1993) Agriculture: grain, potatoes, olives, grapes; sheep, cattle, goats, poultry, meat, dairy products Illicit drugs: important gateway country for Latin American cocaine entering the European market; transshipment point for hashish from North Africa to Europe Exports: $18.9 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: clothing and footwear, machinery, cork and paper products, hides partners: EU 75.1%, other developed countries 12.4% (US 5.2%) (1995) Imports: $24.1 billion (c.i.f., 1995) commodities: machinery and transport equipment, agricultural products, chemicals, petroleum, textiles partners: EU 71%, other developed countries 10.9% (US 2.5%), less developed countries 12.9% (1995) External debt: $11.8 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: donor: ODA, $248 million (1993) recipient: ODA, $70 million (1993) Currency: 1 Portuguese escudo (Esc) = 100 centavos Exchange rates: Portuguese escudos (Esc) per US$1 - 151.61 (January 1996), 149.97 (1995), 165.99 (1994), 160.80 (1993), 135.00 (1992), 144.48 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 3,068 km broad gauge: 2,761 km 1.668-m gauge (464 km electrified; 426 km double track) narrow gauge: 307 km 1.000-m gauge note: in 1992, Portugal had 3,588 km of track of which 464 km were electrified Highways: total: 70,176 km (statistics for continental Portugal only) paved: 60,351 km (including 519 km of expressways) unpaved: 9,825 km (1992 est.) 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: 72 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 795,725 GRT/1,418,538 DWT ships by type: bulk 7, cargo 35, chemical tanker 5, container 5, liquefied gas tanker 4, oil tanker 12, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1, short-sea passenger 1 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; Portugal owns an additional 25 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 155,776 DWT operating under the registries of Panama and Malta (1995 est.) Airports: total: 67 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: 30 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 2,236,411 (1993 est.) Telephone system: domestic: generally adequate integrated network of coaxial cables, open wire, microwave radio relay, and domestic satellite earth stations international: 6 submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), NA Eutelsat; tropospheric scatter to Azores; note - an earth station for Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean Region) is planned Radio broadcast stations: AM 57, FM 66 (repeaters 22), shortwave 0 Radios: 2.2 million (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 66 (repeaters 23) Televisions: 2,970,892 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy (includes Marines), Air Force, National Republican Guard, Fiscal Guard, Public Security Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,498,965 males fit for military service: 2,014,653 males reach military age (20) annually: 83,427 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $1.9 billion, 2.4% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Puerto Rico ----------- (commonwealth associated with the US) Map --- Location: 18 15 N, 66 30 W -- Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of the Dominican Republic Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, island between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of the Dominican Republic Geographic coordinates: 18 15 N, 66 30 W 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 lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Cerro de Punta 1,338 m Natural resources: some copper and nickel, potential for onshore and offshore 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 Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 3,819,023 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 25% (male 484,038; female 461,175) 15-64 years: 65% (male 1,201,841; female 1,279,707) 65 years and over: 10% (male 174,274; female 217,988) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.18% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 15.56 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.46 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -6.35 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.94 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.8 male(s)/female all ages: 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 12.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.38 years male: 71.13 years female: 79.89 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.94 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 89% male: 90% female: 88% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Commonwealth of Puerto Rico conventional short form: Puerto Rico Data code: RQ Type of government: 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 (of the US) 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) was elected for a four-year term by direct suffrage; election last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held 5 November 1996); results - Pedro ROSSELLO (PNP) 50%, Victoria MUNOZ (PPD) 46%, Fernando MARTIN (PIP) 4% 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, justices appointed by the governor with the consent of the Senate; Superior Courts, justices appointed by the governor with the consent of the Senate; Municipal Courts, justices appointed by the governor with the consent of the Senate 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 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 International organization participation: Caricom (observer), ECLAC (associate), FAO (associate), ICFTU, Interpol (subbureau), IOC, WCL, WFTU, WHO (associate), WToO (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 Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $29.7 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3.3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $7,800 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.9% (1994) Labor force: 1.2 million (1993) by occupation: government 22%, manufacturing 17%, trade 20%, construction 6%, communications and transportation 5%, other 30% (1993) Unemployment rate: 16% (1994) Budget: revenues: $5.1 billion expenditures: $5.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95) Industries: pharmaceuticals, electronics, apparel, food products, instruments, tourism 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) Agriculture: sugarcane, coffee, pineapples, plantains, bananas; cattle, chickens 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: $NA Economic aid: none Currency: 1 US dollar (US$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: US currency is used Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 96 km narrow gauge: 96 km 1.000-m gauge, rural, narrow-gauge system for hauling sugarcane; no passenger service Highways: total: NA km paved: 13,762 km (1982 est.) unpaved: NA km Ports: Guanica, Guayanilla, Guayama, Playa de Ponce, San Juan Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 23 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: 8 with paved runways under 914 m: 7 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1,166,231 (1992 est.) Telephone system: modern system, integrated with that of the US by high-capacity submarine cable and Intelsat with high-speed data capability domestic: digital telephone system with about 1 million lines (1990 est.); cellular telephone service international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat; submarine cable to US Radio broadcast stations: AM 50, FM 63, shortwave 0 Radios: 2.565 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 9 note: cable television available with US programs (1990 est.) Televisions: 952,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: paramilitary National Guard, Police Force Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US ====================================================================== @Qatar ----- Map --- Location: 25 30 N, 51 15 E -- Middle East, peninsula bordering the Persian Gulf and Saudi Arabia Flag ---- Description: maroon with a broad white serrated band (nine white points) on the hoist side Geography --------- Location: Middle East, peninsula bordering the Persian Gulf and Saudi Arabia Geographic coordinates: 25 30 N, 51 15 E 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 border country: 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; 1965 boundary with Saudi Arabia, renegotiated and revised in 1992, but not official depiction Climate: desert; hot, dry; humid and sultry in summer Terrain: mostly flat and barren desert covered with loose sand and gravel lowest point: Persian Gulf 0 m highest point: Qurayn Aba al Bawl 103 m 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, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea Geographic note: strategic location in central Persian Gulf near major petroleum deposits People ------ Population: 547,761 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 30% (male 82,147; female 83,552) 15-64 years: 68% (male 263,107; female 109,177) 65 years and over: 2% (male 6,609; female 3,169) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.39% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 21.03 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 3.6 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 6.43 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 0.96 male(s)/female under 15 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 2.41 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 2.09 male(s)/female all ages: 1.8 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 19.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 73.35 years male: 70.75 years female: 75.84 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.28 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 79.4% male: 79.2% female: 79.9% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: State of Qatar conventional short form: Qatar local long form: Dawlat Qatar local short form: Qatar note: pronounced gutter Data code: QA Type of government: 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 Batnah, 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 HAMAD bin Khalifa Al Thani (since 27 June 1995 when, as crown prince, he ousted his father, Amir KHALIFA bin Hamad Al Thani, in a bloodless coup) is an absolute monarch; Deputy Prime Minister ABDALLAH bin Khalifa Al Thani (since NA July 1995); note - Amir HAMAD who also holds the positions of minister of defense and commander-in-chief of the armed forces, has not yet selected a new crown prince cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the amir Legislative branch: unicameral Advisory Council (Majlis al-Shura): the constitution calls for elections for part of this consultative body, but no elections have been held since 1970, when there were partial elections to the body; Council members have had their terms extended every four years since; seats - (30 total) Judicial branch: Court of Appeal Political parties and leaders: none International organization participation: ABEDA, AFESD, AL, AMF, CCC, ESCWA, FAO, G-77, 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, WTrO 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] (202) 338-0111 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Patrick N. THEROS embassy: 149 Armed Bin Ali St., Fariq 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 petroleum and the diversification of the economy. GDP: purchasing power parity - $10.7 billion (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: -1% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $20,820 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 1% industry: 50% services: 49% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3% (1993 est.) Labor force: 233,000 (1993 est.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $2.5 billion expenditures: $3.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY95/96) Industries: crude oil production and refining, fertilizers, petrochemicals, steel reinforcing bars, cement Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 1,520,000 kW production: 4.5 billion kWh consumption per capita: 8,415 kWh (1993) Agriculture: fruits, vegetables; poultry, dairy products, beef; fish (all on small scale) Exports: $2.9 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: petroleum products 75%, steel, fertilizers partners: Japan 61%, Australia 5%, UAE 4%, Singapore 4% (1994) Imports: $2 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.) commodities: machinery and equipment, consumer goods, food, chemicals partners: Germany 14%, Japan 12%, UK 11%, US 9%, Italy 5% (1994) External debt: $1.5 billion (1993 est.) Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 Qatari riyal (QR) = 100 dirhams Exchange rates: Qatari riyals (QR) per US$1 - 3.6400 riyals (fixed rate) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 1,191 km paved: 1,028 km unpaved: 163 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 467,447 GRT/771,483 DWT ships by type: combination ore/oil 2, container 3, cargo 11, oil tanker 3 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 3 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 160,717 (1992 est.) Telephone system: modern system centered in Doha domestic: NA international: tropospheric scatter to Bahrain; microwave radio relay to Saudi Arabia and UAE; submarine cable to Bahrain and UAE; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 Arabsat Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0 Radios: 201,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 3 (1988 est.) Televisions: 205,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Public Security Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 220,635 males fit for military service: 115,403 males reach military age (18) annually: 4,115 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Reunion ------- (overseas department of France) Map --- Location: 21 06 S, 55 36 E -- Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar Flag ---- Description: the flag of France is used Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar Geographic coordinates: 21 06 S, 55 36 E 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Piton des Neiges 3,069 m Natural resources: fish, arable land Land use: arable land: 16% permanent crops: 3% meadows and pastures: 5% forest and woodland: 35% other: 41% (1993) 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 People ------ Population: 679,198 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 32% (male 112,413; female 107,187) 15-64 years: 62% (male 207,386; female 214,308) 65 years and over: 6% (male 15,610; female 22,294) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.93% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 24.01 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 4.75 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.97 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.7 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 7.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 74.77 years male: 71.71 years female: 77.98 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.72 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Reunionese (singular and plural) adjective: Reunionese Ethnic divisions: French, African, Malagasy, Chinese, Pakistani, Indian Religions: Roman Catholic 94%, Hindu, Islam, Buddhist Languages: French (official), Creole widely used Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1982 est.) total population: 79% male: 76% female: 80% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Department of Reunion conventional short form: Reunion local long form: none local short form: Ile de la Reunion Data code: RE Type of government: overseas department of France Capital: Saint-Denis Administrative divisions: overseas department of France; there are no first-order divisions as defined by the US Government but there are four arrondissements, 24 communes, and 47 cantons 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 (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995) represented by Prefect Pierre STEINMETZ (since NA) who was appointed by the French Ministry of the Interior head of government: President of the General Council Christophe PAYET (since NA) Legislative branch: unicameral General Council and unicameral Regional Council General Council: elections last held NA March 1994 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (47 total) PCR 12, PS 12, UDF 11, RPR 5, others 7 Regional Council: elections last held 25 June 1993 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (45 total) UPF 17, Free-Dom Movement 13, PCR 9, PS 6 French Senate: elections last held 24 September 1992 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (3 total) RPR 1, FRA 1, independent 1 French National Assembly: elections last held 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (5 total) PS 1, PCR 1, UPF 1, RPR 1, UDF-CDS 1 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 - includes RPR and UDF); Free-Dom Movement, Marguerite SUDRE International organization participation: FZ, IOC, 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $2.9 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.7% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $4,300 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: 242,169 (1993) by occupation: agriculture 30%, industry 21%, services 49% (1981) Unemployment rate: 35% (February 1991) Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA Industries: sugar, rum, cigarettes, handicraft items Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 180,000 kW production: 1 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,454 kWh (1993) Agriculture: sugarcane, vanilla, tobacco, tropical fruits, vegetables, corn Exports: $174 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: sugar 63%, rum and molasses 4%, perfume essences 2%, lobster 3%, (1993) partners: France, Mauritius, Bahrain, South Africa, Italy, Madagascar Imports: $2.08 billion (c.i.f., 1993) commodities: manufactured goods, food, beverages, tobacco, machinery and transportation equipment, raw materials, and petroleum products partners: France, Mauritius, Bahrain, South Africa, Italy, Madagascar External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: substantial annual subsidies from France Currency: 1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.0056 (January 1996), 4.9915 (1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632 (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 2,784 km paved: 2,187 km unpaved: 597 km (1987 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 191,647 (1993 est.) Telephone system: adequate system; principal center is Saint-Denis domestic: modern open wire and microwave radio relay network international: radiotelephone communication to Comoros, France, Madagascar; new microwave route to Mauritius; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 3, FM 13, shortwave 0 Radios: 151,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 (repeaters 18) Televisions: 116,181 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: French forces (Army, Navy, Air Force, and Gendarmerie) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 176,609 males fit for military service: 90,784 males reach military age (18) annually: 5,728 (1996 est.) Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France ====================================================================== @Romania ------- Map --- Location: 46 00 N, 25 00 E -- Southeastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Bulgaria and Ukraine Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Bulgaria and Ukraine Geographic coordinates: 46 00 N, 25 00 E Map references: 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Black Sea 0 m highest point: Moldoveanu 2,544 m 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 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 Geographic note: controls most easily traversable land route between the Balkans, Moldova, and Ukraine People ------ Population: 21,657,162 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 20% (male 2,180,023; female 2,088,496) 15-64 years: 68% (male 7,261,160; female 7,393,531) 65 years and over: 12% (male 1,138,583; female 1,595,369) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: -1.21% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 9.77 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 12.27 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -9.6 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.71 male(s)/female all ages: 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 23.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 69.42 years male: 65.51 years female: 73.57 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.25 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 97% male: 98% female: 95% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Romania local long form: none local short form: Romania Data code: RO Type of government: 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) was elected for a four-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 27 September 1992, with runoff between top two candidates on 11 October 1992 (next to be held NA 1996); results - Ion ILIESCU 61.4%, Emil CONSTANTINESCU 38.6% head of government: Prime Minister Nicolae VACAROIU (since NA November 1992) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was 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, judges are appointed by the president on recommendation of the Superior Council of Magistrates 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), Ion DIACONESCU; 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; Liberal Party 1993 (PL-93) 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 International organization participation: ACCT, BIS, BSEC, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, G- 9, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarset, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC, NAM (guest), NSG, OAS (observer), OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNAVEM III, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UPU, WCL, WEU (associate partner), WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Mircea Dan GEOANA chancery: 1607 23rd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 332-4846, 4848, 4851 FAX: [1] (202) 232-4748 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, 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Romania, one of the poorer East European countries moving away from the command economy, posted its third straight year of growth in 1995. Bucharest also was successful in reducing its inflation rate to 25% - less than half the 1994 rate - because of tight monetary and fiscal policies, while unemployment fell to 9% as the private sector hired more workers. Despite these successes on the economic front, Romania has lagged much of Central and Eastern Europe in the restructuring process. The private sector accounted for only 40% of GDP in 1995 with over 90% of industry remaining in state hands. Privatization is slated to pick up in 1996, but Bucharest faces other economic problems that could stall recovery, including a growing budget deficit, limited reform of the agricultural and energy sectors, and accumulated decay of the infrastructure. GDP: purchasing power parity - $105.7 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 5.4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $4,600 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 19.6% industry: 36.3% services: 44.1% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 25% (1995) Labor force: 11.3 million (1992) by occupation: industry 38%, agriculture 28%, other 34% (1989) Unemployment rate: 8.9% (December 1995) Budget: revenues: $5.35 billion expenditures: $6.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: mining, timber, construction materials, metallurgy, chemicals, machine building, food processing, petroleum production and refining Industrial production growth rate: 3.3% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 22,180,000 kW production: 50.8 billion kWh consumption per capita: 2,076 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, corn, sugar beets, sunflower seed, potatoes, grapes; milk, eggs, meat Illicit drugs: transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and Latin American cocaine transiting the Balkan route Exports: $6.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: textiles and footwear 23.8%, metals and metal products 17.3%, fuels and mineral products 11.6%, machinery and transport equipment 14.8%, chemicals 7.9%, food and agricultural goods 6.5%, other 18.1% (1994) partners: developing countries 30.3%, East and Central Europe 8.4%, Russia 3.4%, OECD 57.9% (EU 50%, US 3.1%) (1994) Imports: $7.1 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: fuels and minerals 26.8%, machinery and transport equipment 25.1%, textiles and footwear 12.3%, food and agricultural goods 9.3%, chemicals 7.9%, other 18.6% (1994) partners: OECD 60% (EU 44.5%, US 6.5%), East and Central Europe 6.1%, developing countries 16.6%, Russia 13.8%, other 3.5% (1994) External debt: $4.7 billion (1995) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $81 million (1993) Currency: 1 leu (L) = 100 bani Exchange rates: lei (L) per US$1 - 2,599.24 (January 1996), 2,033.28 (1995), 1,655.09 (1994), 760.05 (1993), 307.95 (1992), 76.39 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 11,374 km broad gauge: 60 km 1.524-m gauge standard gauge: 10,887 km 1.435-m gauge (3,866 km electrified; 3,060 km double track) narrow gauge: 427 km 0.760-m gauge (1994) Highways: total: 153,014 km paved: 78,037 km (including 113 km of expressways) unpaved: 74,977 km (1992 est.) 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: 233 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,425,729 GRT/3,641,741 DWT ships by type: bulk 39, cargo 166, container 2, oil tanker 13, passenger 1, passenger-cargo 1, railcar carrier 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 9 note: Romania owns an additional 15 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,078,490 DWT operating under the registries of Liberia, Malta, Cyprus, and The Bahamas (1995 est.) 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 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 17 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 108 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 2.3 million (1990 est.) Telephone system: domestic: poor service; 89% of telephone network is automatic; trunk network is microwave radio relay; roughly 3,300 villages with no service (February 1990 est.) international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat; new digital international direct-dial exchanges are in Bucharest (1993 est.) Radio broadcast stations: AM 12, FM 5, shortwave 0 Radios: 4.64 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 13 (1990 est.) Televisions: 4.58 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Paramilitary Forces, Civil Defense Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 5,572,383 males fit for military service: 4,693,376 males reach military age (20) annually: 198,125 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $885 million, 3.0% of GDP (1995) Original publicaton at http://www.odci.gov/cia/publications/nsolo/wfb-all.htm (June 17, 1997). ====================================================================== @Russia ------ Map --- Location: 60 00 N, 100 00 E -- Northern Asia (that part west of the Urals is sometimes included with Europe), bordering the Arctic Ocean, between Europe and the North Pacific Ocean Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of white (top), blue, and red 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 Geographic coordinates: 60 00 N, 100 00 E 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: 19,913 km border countries: 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, Kazakstan 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) 206 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 lowest point: Caspian Sea -28 m highest point: Mount El'brus 5,633 m 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% 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, 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, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 148,178,487 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 21% (male 15,792,573; female 15,213,854) 15-64 years: 67% (male 48,145,679; female 51,125,902) 65 years and over: 12% (male 5,403,066; female 12,497,413) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: -0.07% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 10.15 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 16.34 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 5.47 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.94 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.43 male(s)/female all ages: 0.88 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 24.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 63.24 years male: 56.51 years female: 70.31 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.42 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 98% male: 100% female: 97% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Russian Federation conventional short form: Russia local long form: Rossiyskaya Federatsiya local short form: Rossiya former: Russian Soviet Federative Socialist Republic Data code: RS Type of government: 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 Chechnya 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 Executive branch: chief of state: President Boris Nikolayevich YEL'TSIN (since 12 June 1991) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage under the constitution of 12 December 1993, but subsequent presidents, beginning with the 16 June 1996 election, will serve a four-year term; election last held 12 June 1991 (next to be held 16 June 1996); results - percent of vote NA; note - no vice president; if the president dies in office, cannot exercise his powers because of ill health, is impeached, or resigns, the premier succeeds him; the premier serves as acting president until a new presidential election is held, which must be within three months head of government: Premier and Chairman of the Russian Federation Government Viktor Stepanovich CHERNOMYRDIN (since 14 December 1992), First Deputy Premiers and First Deputy Chairmen of the Government Oleg SOSKOVETS (since 30 April 1993) and Vladimir KADANNIKOV (since 25 January 1996) were appointed by the president on approval of the Dumas Security Council: originally established as a presidential advisory body in June 1991, but restructured in March 1992, with responsibility for managing individual and state security Presidential Administration: drafts presidential edicts and provides staff and policy support to the entire executive branch cabinet: Ministries of the Government or "Government" was appointed by the president Group of Assistants: schedules president's appointments, processes presidential edicts and other official documents, and houses the president's press service and primary speechwriters Council of Heads of Republics: includes the leaders of the 21 ethnic-based Republics Council of Heads of Administrations: includes the leaders of the 66 autonomous territories and regions, and the mayors of Moscow and St. Petersburg Presidential Council: prepares policy papers for the president Legislative branch: bicameral Federal Assembly Federation Council: 178 seats, filled ex-officio by the top executive and legislative officials in each of the 89 federal administrative units (oblasts, krays, republics, autonomous okrugs and oblasts, and the cities of Moscow and St. Petersburg) State Duma: elections last held 17 December 1995 (next to be held NA December 1999); results - percent of vote received by parties clearing the 5% threshold entitling them to a proportional share of the 225 party list seats: Communist Party of the Russian Federation 22.3%, Liberal Democratic Party of Russia 11.2%, Our Home Is Russia 10.1%, Yabloko Bloc 6.9%; seats - (450 total - half elected in single-member districts and half elected from national party lists) Communist Party of the Russian Federation 157, Independents 78, Our Home Is Russia 55, Liberal Democratic Party of Russia 51, Yabloko Bloc 45, Agrarian Party of Russia 20, Russia's Democratic Choice 9, Power To the People 9, Congress of Russian Communities 5, Forward, Russia! 3, Women of Russia 3, other parties 15 Judicial branch: Constitutional Court, judges are appointed by the Federation Council on recommendation of the president; Supreme Court (highest court for criminal, civil, and administrative cases), judges are appointed by the Federation Council on recommendation of the president; Superior Court of Arbitration (highest court that resolves economic disputes), judges are appointed by the Federation Council on recommendation of the president Political parties and leaders: pro-market democrats: Our Home Is Russia, Viktor CHERNOMYRDIN; Yabloko Bloc, Grigoriy YAVLINSKIY; Russia's Democratic Choice Party, Yegor GAYDAR; Forward, Russia!, Boris FEDOROV centrists/special interest parties: Congress of Russian Communities, Yuriy SKOKOV; Women of Russia, Alevtina FEDULOVA and Yekaterina LAKHOVA anti-market and/or ultranationalist parties: Communist Party of the Russian Federation, Gennadiy ZYUGANOV; Liberal Democratic Party of Russia, Vladimir ZHIRINOVSKIY; Agrarian Party, Mikhail LAPSHIN; Power To the People, Nikolay RYZHKOV and Sergey BABURIN; Russian Communist Workers' Party, Viktor ANPILOV and Viktor TYULKIN note: some 269 political parties, blocs, and associations tried to gather enough signatures to run slates of candidates in the 17 December 1995 Duma elections; 43 succeeded Other political or pressure groups: NA International organization participation: BSEC, CBSS, CCC, CE, CERN (observer), CIS, EBRD, ECE, ESCAP, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarset, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, MINURSO, MTCR, NACC, NSG, OAS (observer), OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UN Security Council, UNAMIR, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMIH, UNOMIG, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant), ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Yuliy Mikhaylovich VORONTSOV chancery: 2650 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007 telephone: [1] (202) 298-5700 through 5704 FAX: [1] (202) 298-5735 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] (095) 252-24-51 through 59 FAX: [7] (095) 956-42-61 consulate(s) general: St. Petersburg, Vladivostok, Yekaterinburg Flag: three equal horizontal bands of white (top), blue, and red Economy ------- Economic 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. The break-up of the USSR into 15 successor states in late 1991 destroyed major economic links that have been only partially replaced. As a result of these dislocations and the failure of the government to implement a rigorous and consistent reform program, output in Russia has dropped by one-third since 1990 (instead of the one-half previously estimated). On the one hand, President YEL'TSIN's government has made substantial strides in converting to a market economy since launching its economic reform program in January 1992 by freeing nearly all prices, slashing defense spending, eliminating the old centralized distribution system, completing an ambitious voucher privatization program in 1994, establishing private financial institutions, and decentralizing foreign trade. On the other hand, Russia has made little progress in a number of key areas that are needed to provide a solid foundation for the transition to a market economy; and the strong showing of the communists and nationalists in the Duma elections in December 1995 casts a shadow over prospects for further reforms. In 1995, the new cash privatization program went slower than planned. The state claims that the nonstate sector produced approximately 70% of GDP in 1995, up from 62% in 1994, although these figures apparently include many enterprises that have only nominally moved out of state control. Moscow has been slow to develop the legal framework necessary to fully support a market economy and to encourage foreign investment. Stockholder rights remain ill-defined and the Duma has yet to adopt a land code that would allow development of land markets as sources of needed capital. Russia's securities market remains largely unregulated and suffers from the lack of a comprehensive securities law. In addition, Moscow has yet to develop a social safety net that would allow faster restructuring by relieving enterprises of the burden of providing social benefits for their workers. Most rank-and-file Russians perceive they are worse off because of growing crime and health problems, the drop in real wages, the great rise in wage arrears, and the widespread threat of unemployment. The number of Russians living below the official poverty level rose by 10% to 36.6 million people, or 25% of the population. The decline in output slowed during 1995, and some sectors showed signs of a turnaround; analysts forecast the resumption of growth in 1996 - at a low rate. Russian official data, which fail to capture a considerable portion of private sector output and employment, show that GDP declined by 4% in 1995, as compared with a 15% decline in 1994. Despite continued declines in agricultural and industrial production, unemployment climbed only slowly to about 8% of the work force by yearend because government policies aimed at softening the impact of reforms have created incentives for enterprises to keep workers on the rolls even as production slowed to a crawl. Moscow renewed tightened financial policies in early 1995 and succeeded in reducing monthly consumer price inflation from 18% in January to about 3% in December, the lowest monthly rate since the beginning of reform. According to official trade statistics, Russia ran a $19.9 billion trade surplus for 1995, up from $15.9 billion in 1994. It continued to shift its trade away from the other former Soviet republics toward the West, with the CIS countries' share of Russian trade falling to 22% in 1995. Russia made good progress with official and commercial creditors in 1995 in resolving the issue of its $105 billion in Soviet-era debts. When completed, these Paris Club and London Club rescheduling agreements will reduce Russia's repayment liabilities from $20 billion to less than $5 billion annually through the end of the decade. Capital flight reportedly continued to be a problem in 1995, with billions of additional dollars in assets being moved abroad, primarily to bank accounts in Europe. GDP: purchasing power parity - $796 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994) GDP real growth rate: -4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $5,300 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 6% industry: 41% services: 53% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 7% monthly average (1995 est.) Labor force: 85 million (1993) by occupation: production and economic services 83.9%, government 16.1% Unemployment rate: 8.2% (December 1995) with considerable additional underemployment Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA 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; shipbuilding; road and rail transportation equipment; communications equipment; agricultural machinery, tractors, and construction equipment; electric power generating and transmitting equipment; medical and scientific instruments; consumer durables, textiles, foodstuffs, handicrafts Industrial production growth rate: -3% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 213,100,000 kW production: 876 billion kWh consumption per capita: 5,800 kWh (1994) Agriculture: grain, sugar beets, sunflower seed, vegetables, fruits (because of its northern location does not grow citrus, cotton, tea, and other warm climate products); meat, milk 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 Exports: $77.8 billion (f.o.b., 1995) 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: $57.9 billion (c.i.f., 1995) commodities: machinery and equipment, consumer goods, medicines, meat, grain, sugar, semifinished metal products partners: Europe, North America, Japan, Third World countries, Cuba External debt: $130 billion (yearend 1995) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $2.8 billion (1993) note: US commitments, including Ex-Im (1990-95), $14 billion (1990-95); other countries, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments (1990-95), $125 billion Currency: 1 ruble (R) = 100 kopeks Exchange rates: rubles per US$1 - 4,640 (29 December 1995), 3,550 (29 December 1994), 1,247 (27 December 1993) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 154,000 km; note - 87,000 km in common carrier service (38,000 km electrified); 67,000 km serve specific industries and are not available for common carrier use broad gauge: 154,000 km 1.520-m gauge (1 January 1994) Highways: total: 934,000 km (including 445,000 km which serve specific industries or farms and are not available for common carrier use) paved: NA km unpaved: NA km (1994 est.) Waterways: total navigable routes in general use 101,000 km; routes with navigation guides serving the Russian River Fleet 95,900 km; routes with night navigational aids 60,400 km; man-made navigable routes 16,900 km (1 January 1994) 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: 745 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 6,730,178 GRT/9,385,565 DWT ships by type: barge carrier 2, bulk 25, cargo 406, chemical tanker 6, combination bulk 21, combination ore/oil 17, container 31, multifunction large-load carrier 3, oil tanker 134, passenger 4, passenger-cargo 5, refrigerated cargo 19, roll-on/roll-off cargo 54, short-sea passenger 16, specialized tanker 2 note: Russia owns an additional 163 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,276,829 DWT operating under the registries of Malta, Cyprus, Liberia, Panama, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Honduras, The Bahamas, and Vanuatu (1995 est.) 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 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 134 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 291 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 1,392 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 25.4 million (1993 est.) Telephone system: total pay phones for long distant calls 34,100; enlisting foreign help, by means of joint ventures, to speed up the modernization of its telecommunications system; in 1992, only 661,000 new telephones were installed compared with 855,000 in 1991, and in 1992 the number of unsatisfied applications for telephones reached 11,000,000; expanded access to international electronic mail service available via Sprint network; the inadequacy of Russian telecommunications is a severe handicap to the economy, especially with respect to international connections domestic: NMT-450 analog cellular telephone networks are operational and growing in Moscow and St. Petersburg; intercity fiber-optic cable installation remains limited international: international traffic is inadequately handled by a system of satellites, landlines, microwave radio relay, and outdated submarine cables; much of this traffic passes through the international gateway switch in Moscow which carries most of the international traffic for the other countries of the Commonwealth of Independent States; a new Russian Intersputnik satellite will link Moscow and St. Petersburg with Rome from whence calls will be relayed to destinations in Europe and overseas; satellite earth stations - NA Intelsat, 4 Intersputnik (2 Atlantic Ocean Region and 2 Indian Ocean Region), NA Eutelsat, 1 Inmarsat (Pacific Ocean Region), and NA Orbita Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA; note - there are about 1,050 (including AM, FM, and shortwave) radio broadcast stations throughout the country Radios: 50 million (1993 est.)(radio receivers with multiple speaker systems for program diffusion 74,300,000) Television broadcast stations: 7,183 Televisions: 54.85 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Ground Forces, Navy, Air Forces, Air Defense Forces, Strategic Rocket Forces Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 38,673,991 males fit for military service: 30,224,738 males reach military age (18) annually: 1,105,004 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP note: the Intelligence Community estimates that defense spending in Russia fell by about 20% in real terms in 1995, reducing Russian defense outlays to about one-fifth of peak Soviet levels in the late 1980s ====================================================================== @Rwanda ------ Map --- Location: 2 00 S, 30 00 E -- Central Africa, east of Zaire Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Central Africa, east of Zaire Geographic coordinates: 2 00 S, 30 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Rusizi River 950 m highest point: Volcan Karisimbi 4,519 m 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, Desertification, Law of the Sea Geographic note: landlocked; predominantly rural population People ------ Population: 6,853,359 (July 1996 est.) note: genocide and civil war in 1994 killed more than 1 million Rwandans and forced more than 2 million to flee to neighboring countries Age structure: 0-14 years: 46% (male 1,582,928; female 1,573,536) 15-64 years: 51% (male 1,734,716; female 1,772,722) 65 years and over: 3% (male 78,854; female 110,603) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 16.49% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 38.83 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 20.33 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 146.43 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) note: since April 1994, more than two million refugees have fled the civil strife between the Hutu and Tutsi factions in Rwanda and crossed into Zaire, Burundi, and Tanzania; close to 800,000 Rwandan Tutsis who fled civil strife in earlier years have returned to Rwanda, and 90,000 of the Hutu refugees are going home despite the perceived danger of doing so; the ethnic violence continues and in 1996 could produce further refugee flows as well as discourage returns Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.71 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 118.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 40.12 years male: 39.72 years female: 40.53 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.99 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Rwandan(s) adjective: Rwandan Ethnic divisions: Hutu 80%, Tutsi 19%, Twa (Pygmoid) 1% Religions: Roman Catholic 65%, Protestant 9%, Muslim 1%, indigenous beliefs and other 25% Languages: Kinyarwanda (official), French (official), Kiswahili (Swahili) used in commercial centers Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 60.5% male: 69.8% female: 51.6% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Rwanda conventional short form: Rwanda local long form: Republika y'u Rwanda local short form: Rwanda Data code: RW Type of government: republic; presidential system 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); installed by force by the Tutsi Rwandan Patriotic Front; no date set for elections; president is normally elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; Vice President Maj. Gen. Paul KAGAME (since NA) head of government: Prime Minister Celestin RWIGEMA (since NA September 1995) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Assemblee Nationale): sworn in on 25 November 1994; seats - (70 total) RPF 19, MDR 13, PSD 13, PL 13, PDC 6, PSR 2, PDI 2, other 2 Judicial branch: Constitutional Court, consists of the Court of Cassation and the Council of State in joint session Political parties and leaders: significant parties include: Rwandan Patriotic Front (RPF), Alexis KANYARENGWE, chairman; Democratic Republican Movement (MDR); Liberal Party (PL); Democratic and Socialist Party (PSD); Christian Democratic Party (PDC); Islamic Democratic Party (PDI); Rwandan Socialist Party (PSR); National Movement for Democracy and Development (MRND), former ruling party Other political or pressure groups: Rwanda Patriotic Army (RPA), the RPF military wing, Maj. Gen. Paul KAGAME, commander; Rally for the Democracy and Return (RDR) International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, CEEAC, CEPGL, ECA, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM, OAU, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Theogene RUDASINGWA chancery: 1714 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 232-2882 FAX: [1] (202) 232-4544 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Robert GRIBBIN III embassy: Boulevard de la Revolution, Kigali mailing address: B. P. 28, Kigali telephone: [250] 756 01 through 03, 721 26, 771 47 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Rwanda is a poor African nation suffering bitterly from ethnic-based civil war. The agricultural sector dominates the economy; coffee and tea normally make up 80%-90% of total exports. The amount of fertile land is limited, however, and deforestation and soil erosion continue to create problems. Manufacturing focuses mainly on the processing of agricultural products. Weak international prices since 1986 have caused the economy to contract and per capita GDP to decline. A structural adjustment program with the World Bank began in October 1990. Ethnic-based insurgency since 1990 has devastated wide areas, especially in the north, and displaced hundreds of thousands of people. A peace accord in mid-1993 temporarily ended most of the fighting, but resumption of large-scale civil warfare in April 1994 in the capital city Kigali and elsewhere has been taking thousands of lives and severely affecting short-term economic prospects. The economy suffers massively from failure to maintain the infrastructure, looting, neglect of important cash crops, and lack of health care facilities. GDP in 1994 may have dropped by as much as half. The further decline of GDP in 1995 was much smaller and was more than offset by aid from the outside. Because of the severe damage to real property and the decline in public discipline, recovery of domestic production toward previous levels is proceeding slowly. GDP: purchasing power parity - $3.8 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: -2.7% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $400 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 52% industry: 13% services: 35% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 64% (1994 est.) Labor force: 3.6 million by occupation: agriculture 93%, government and services 5%, industry and commerce 2% Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA (1992 est.) 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 Industrial production growth rate: -50% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 60,000 kW production: 190 million kWh consumption per capita: 23 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, tea, pyrethrum (insecticide made from chrysanthemums), bananas, beans, sorghum, potatoes; livestock Exports: $52 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: coffee 63%, tea, cassiterite, wolframite, pyrethrum partners: Germany, Belgium, Italy, Uganda, UK, France, US Imports: $37 million (1994 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.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA 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 - 401.27 (2nd quarter 1994), 168.20 (1993), 133.35 (1992), 125.14 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 13,173 km paved: 1,186 km unpaved: 11,987 km (1990 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 6,400 (1983 est.) Telephone system: telephone system does not provide service to the general public but is intended for business and government use domestic: the capital, Kigali, is connected to the centers of the prefectures by microwave radio relay; the remainder of the network depends on wire and HF radiotelephone international: international connections employ microwave radio relay to neighboring countries and satellite communications to more distant countries; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) in Kigali (includes telex and telefax service) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: 630,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: Army, Gendarmerie Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,582,656 males fit for military service: 805,722 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $112.5 million, 7% of GDP (1992) ====================================================================== @Saint Helena ------------ (dependent territory of the UK) Map --- Location: 15 56 S, 5 42 W -- Southern Africa, island in the South Atlantic Ocean, west of Angola, about two-thirds of the way from South America to Africa Flag ---- Description: blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Saint Helenian shield centered on the outer half of the flag; the shield features a rocky coastline and three-masted sailing ship Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, island in the South Atlantic Ocean, west of Angola, about two-thirds of the way from South America to Africa Geographic coordinates: 15 56 S, 5 42 W Map references: Africa Area: total area: 410 sq km land area: 410 sq km comparative area: nearly two times the size of Washington, DC note: includes Ascension, Gough Island, Inaccessible Island, Nightingale Island, and Tristan da Cunha Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 60 km Maritime claims: exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: none Climate: tropical; marine; mild, tempered by trade winds Terrain: rugged, volcanic; small scattered plateaus and plains lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Queen Mary's Peak 2,060 m Natural resources: fish Land use: arable land: 7% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 7% forest and woodland: 3% other: 83% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: NA natural hazards: active volcanism on Tristan da Cunha international agreements: NA Geographic note: Napoleon Bonaparte's place of exile and burial (his remains were taken to Paris in 1840); harbors at least 40 species of plants unknown anywhere else in the world; Ascension is a breeding ground for sea turtles and sooty terns People ------ Population: 6,782 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 0.31% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 9.39 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.33 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 35.14 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.34 years male: 73.28 years female: 77.16 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.12 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Saint Helenian(s) adjective: Saint Helenian Ethnic divisions: NA Religions: Anglican (majority), Baptist, Seventh-Day Adventist, Roman Catholic Languages: English Literacy: age 20 and over can read and write (1987 est.) total population: 97% male: 97% female: 98% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Saint Helena Data code: SH Type of government: dependent territory of the UK Capital: Jamestown Administrative divisions: 1 administrative area and 2 dependencies*; Ascension*, Saint Helena, Tristan da Cunha* Independence: none (dependent territory of the UK) National holiday: Celebration of the Birthday of the Queen, 10 June 1989 (second Saturday in June) Constitution: 1 January 1989 Legal system: NA Suffrage: NA years of age Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (of the UK since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch head of government: Governor and Commander in Chief David Leslie SMALLMAN (since NA 1995) cabinet: Executive Council consists of the governor, three ex-officio officers, and five elected members of the Legislative Council Legislative branch: unicameral Legislative Council: elections last held NA July 1993 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (15 total, 12 elected) independents 15 Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: none International organization participation: ICFTU 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 Saint Helenian shield centered on the outer half of the flag; the shield features a rocky coastline and three-masted sailing ship Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy depends primarily on financial assistance from the UK. The local population earns some income from fishing, the raising of livestock, and sales of handicrafts. Because there are few jobs, a large proportion of the work force has left to seek employment overseas. GDP: purchasing power parity - $NA GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $NA GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: 2,416 (1991 est.) by occupation: professional, technical, and related workers 8.7%, managerial, administrative, and clerical 12.8%, sales people 8.1%, farmer, fishermen, etc. 5.4%, craftspersons, production process workers 14.7%, others 50.3% (1987) note: a large proportion of the work force has left to seek employment overseas Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $11.2 million expenditures: $11 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY92/93) Industries: crafts (furniture, lacework, fancy woodwork), fishing Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 9,800 kW production: 10 million kWh consumption per capita: NA kWh (1993) Agriculture: maize, potatoes, vegetables; timber production being developed; crawfishing on Tristan da Cunha Exports: $27,400 (f.o.b., FY92/93) commodities: fish (frozen and salt-dried skipjack, tuna), handicrafts partners: South Africa, UK Imports: $9.8 million (c.i.f., FY92/93) commodities: food, beverages, tobacco, fuel oils, animal feed, building materials, motor vehicles and parts, machinery and parts partners: UK, South Africa External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Saint Helenian pound (LS) = 100 pence Exchange rates: Saint Helenian pounds (LS) per US$1 - 0.6535 (January 1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991); note - the Saint Helenian pound is at par with the British pound Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: NA km (mainland 118 km, Ascension NA km, Tristan da Cunha NA km) paved: 180.7 km (mainland 98 km, Ascension 80 km, Tristan da Cunha 2.70 km) unpaved: NA km (mainland 20 km, Ascension NA km, Tristan da Cunha NA km) Ports: Georgetown, Jamestown Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 1 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 550 Telephone system: domestic: automatic network; HF radiotelephone to Ascension, then into worldwide submarine cable and satellite networks international: major coaxial submarine cable relay point between South Africa, Portugal, and UK at Ascension; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 2,500 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK ====================================================================== @Saint Kitts and Nevis --------------------- Map --- Location: 17 20 N, 62 45 W -- Caribbean, islands in the Caribbean Sea, about one-third of the way from Puerto Rico to Trinidad and Tobago Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, islands in the Caribbean Sea, about one-third of the way from Puerto Rico to Trinidad and Tobago Geographic coordinates: 17 20 N, 62 45 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 269 sq km land area: 269 sq km comparative area: twice 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 lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Mount Liamuiga 1,156 m Natural resources: NEGL 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 People ------ Population: 41,369 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 35% (male 7,371; female 7,026) 15-64 years: 58% (male 12,090; female 12,057) 65 years and over: 7% (male 1,162; female 1,663) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.98% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 23.28 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9.21 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -4.28 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.7 male(s)/female all ages: 0.99 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 18.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 66.86 years male: 63.84 years female: 70.06 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.52 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 97% male: 97% female: 98% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Federation of Saint Kitts and Nevis conventional short form: Saint Kitts and Nevis former: Federation of Saint Christopher and Nevis Data code: SC Type of government: 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), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Governor General Dr. Cuthbert Montraville SEBASTIAN (since 1 January 1996), previously Governor General of the West Indies Associated States (since NA November 1981) head of government: Prime Minister Dr. Denzil DOUGLAS (since 6 July 1995) and Deputy Prime Minister Sam CONDOR (since 6 July 1995) were appointed by the governor general cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the governor general in consultation with the prime minister Legislative branch: unicameral House of Assembly: elections last held 3 July 1995 (next to be held by July 2000); results - SKLNP 58%, PAM 41%; seats - (14 total, 11 elected) SKNLP 7, PAM 1, NRP 1, CCM 2 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), Joseph PARRY; Concerned Citizens Movement (CCM), Vance AMORY International organization participation: ACP, C, Caricom, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFRCS, IMF, Interpol, IOC, OAS, OECS, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMIH, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Erstein Mallet EDWARDS chancery: 3216 New Mexico Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016 telephone: [1] (202) 686-2636 FAX: [1] (202) 686-5740 US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Saint Kitts and Nevis; US interests are monitored by the 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. Most food is imported. The newly elected government has undertaken a program designed to revitalize the faltering sugar sector. It is also working to improve revenue collection in order to better fund social programs. GDP: purchasing power parity - $220 million (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $5,380 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 6.2% industry: 35.7% services: 58.1% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): -0.9% (1995) Labor force: 18,172 (June 1995); by occupation - services 69%, manufacturing 31% Unemployment rate: 4.3% (May 1995) Budget: revenues: $100.2 million expenditures: $100.1 million, including capital expenditures of $41.4 million (1996 est.) Industries: sugar processing, tourism, cotton, salt, copra, clothing, footwear, beverages Industrial production growth rate: 5.9% (1992 est.) Electricity: capacity: 15,800 kW production: 45 million kWh consumption per capita: 990 kWh (1993) Agriculture: sugarcane, rice, yams, vegetables, bananas; fishing potential not fully exploited Illicit drugs: transshipment point for South American drugs destined for the US Exports: $35.4 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: machinery, food, electronics, beverages and tobacco partners: US 46.6%, UK 26.4%, Caricom nations 9.8% (1994) Imports: $112.4 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: machinery, manufactures, food, fuels partners: US 45%, Caricom nations 18.8%, UK 12.5%, Canada 4.2%, Japan 4.2%, (1994) External debt: $45.3 million (1994 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.7000 (fixed rate since 1976) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 58 km narrow gauge: 58 km 0.762-m gauge on Saint Kitts to serve sugarcane plantations (1995) Highways: total: 300 km paved: 125 km unpaved: 175 km Ports: Basseterre, Charlestown Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 2 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 3,800 (1986 est.) Telephone system: good interisland VHF/UHF/SHF radiotelephone connections and international link via Antigua and Barbuda and Saint Martin (Guadeloupe and Netherlands Antilles) domestic: interisland links are handled by VHF/UHF/SHF radiotelephone international: international calls are carried by radiotelephone to Antigua and Barbuda and from there switched to submarine cable or to Intelsat, or carried to Saint Martin (Guadeloupe and Netherlands Antilles) by radiotelephone and switched to Intelsat Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 25,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 4 Televisions: 9,500 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Royal Saint Kitts and Nevis Police Force, Coast Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Saint Lucia ----------- Map --- Location: 13 53 N, 60 68 W -- Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago Flag ---- Description: blue with a gold isosceles triangle below a black arrowhead; the upper edges of the arrowhead have a white border Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, island in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago Geographic coordinates: 13 53 N, 60 68 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 620 sq km land area: 610 sq km comparative area: 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 lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Mount Gimie 950 m 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 People ------ Population: 157,862 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 34% (male 27,068; female 26,491) 15-64 years: 61% (male 47,470; female 48,612) 65 years and over: 5% (male 3,136; female 5,085) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.14% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 22.03 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.02 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -4.62 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.07 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.62 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 20 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 70.09 years male: 66.52 years female: 73.91 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.31 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Saint Lucian(s) adjective: Saint Lucian Ethnic divisions: African descent 90.3%, mixed 5.5%, East Indian 3.2%, white 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 est.) total population: 67% male: 65% female: 69% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Saint Lucia Data code: ST Type of government: 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), a hereditary monarch, is 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) was appointed by the governor general cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister Legislative branch: bicameral Parliament Senate: consists of an 11-member body, six appointed on the advice of the prime minister, three on the advice of the leader of the opposition, and two after consultation with religious, economic, and social groups House of Assembly: elections last held 27 April 1992 (next to be held by April 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (17 total) UWP 11, SLP 6 Judicial branch: Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, jurisdiction extends to Anguilla, Antigua and Barbuda, the British Virgin Islands, Dominica, Grenada, Montserrat, Saint Kitts and Nevis, Saint Lucia, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Political parties and leaders: United Workers' Party (UWP), Vaughn LEWIS; Saint Lucia Labor Party (SLP), Julian HUNTE; Progressive Labor Party (PLP), Jon ODLUM; Citizen's Democratic Party (CDP) Calixte GEORGE International organization participation: ACCT (associate), ACP, C, Caricom, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, 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, UNMIH, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Dr. Joseph Edsel EDMUNDS chancery: 3216 New Mexico Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016 telephone: [1] (202) 364-6792 through 6795 FAX: [1] (202) 364-6728 consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Saint Lucia; the Ambassador to Saint Lucia 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 Iris in mid-1995 caused the loss of 20% of the year's banana crop. Increased competition from Latin American bananas will probably further reduce market prices, exacerbating Saint Lucia's need to diversify its economy in coming years, e.g., by expanding tourism, manufacturing, and construction. GDP: purchasing power parity - $640 million (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $4,080 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 13.8% industry: 17.4% services: 68.8% (1992 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 0.8% (1993) Labor force: 43,800 by occupation: agriculture 43.4%, services 38.9%, industry and commerce 17.7% (1983 est.) Unemployment rate: 25% (1993 est.) Budget: revenues: $121 million expenditures: $127 million, including capital expenditures of $104 million (1992 est.) Industries: clothing, assembly of electronic components, beverages, corrugated cardboard boxes, tourism, lime processing, coconut processing Industrial production growth rate: 3.5% (1990 est.) Electricity: capacity: 20,000 kW production: 112 million kWh consumption per capita: 693 kWh (1993) Agriculture: bananas, coconuts, vegetables, citrus, root crops, cocoa Illicit drugs: transit country for South American drugs destined for the US and Europe Exports: $122.8 million (f.o.b., 1992) commodities: bananas 60%, clothing, cocoa, vegetables, fruits, coconut oil partners: UK 56%, US 22%, Caricom countries19% (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 countries 17%, UK 14%, Japan 7%, Canada 4% (1991) External debt: $222.7 million (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.7000 (fixed rate since 1976) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 760 km paved: 500 km unpaved: 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 26,000 (1992 est.) Telephone system: domestic: system is automatically switched international: direct microwave radio relay link with Martinique and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; tropospheric scatter to Barbados; international calls beyond these countries are carried by Intelsat from Martinique Radio broadcast stations: AM 4, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: 104,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 cable Televisions: 26,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Royal Saint Lucia Police Force, Coast Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $5.0 million, 2.0% of GDP (1991); note - for police forces ====================================================================== @Saint Pierre and Miquelon ------------------------- (territorial collectivity of France) Map --- Location: 46 50 N, 56 20 E -- Northern North America, islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, south of Newfoundland (Canada) Flag ---- Description: a yellow sailing ship rides on a dark blue background with a black wave line under the ship; on the hoist side, a vertical band is divided into three parts: the top part is red with a green diagonal cross extending to the corners overlaid by a white cross dividing the square into four sections; the middle part has a white background with an ermine pattern; the third part has a red background with two stylized yellow lions outlined in black, one on top of the other; the flag of France is used for official occasions Geography --------- Location: Northern North America, islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, south of Newfoundland (Canada) Geographic coordinates: 46 50 N, 56 20 E Map references: North America Area: total area: 242 sq km land area: 242 sq km comparative area: 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; in 1992 an arbitration panel awarded the islands an exclusive economic zone area of 12,348 sq km to settle the dispute Climate: cold and wet, with much mist and fog; spring and autumn are windy Terrain: mostly barren rock lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Morne de la Grande Montagne 240 m 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 Geographic note: vegetation scanty People ------ Population: 6,809 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 0.77% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 12.82 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.7 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0.59 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 9.95 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 76.34 years male: 74.76 years female: 78.25 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.65 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Frenchman(men), Frenchwoman(women) adjective: French Ethnic divisions: Basques and Bretons (French fishermen) Religions: Roman Catholic 99% Languages: French Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1982 est.) total population: 99% male: 99% female: 99% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: SB Type of government: 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 (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995) represented by Prefect Rene MAURICE (since NA) who was appointed by the French Ministry of the Interior head of government: President of the General Council Gerard GRIGNON (since NA) 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, 15 from Saint Pierre, 4 from Miquelon) Socialist Party (PS) holds majority of seats French Senate: elections last held NA September 1995 (next to be held NA September 2004); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) RPR 1 French National Assembly: elections last held 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held NA June 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) UDF 1 Judicial branch: Superior Tribunal of Appeals (Tribunal Superieur d'Appel) Political parties and leaders: Socialist Party (PS); Rassemblement pour la Republique (RPR); Union pour la Democratie Francaise (UDF) International organization participation: FZ, WFTU Diplomatic representation in US: none (territorial collectivity of France) US diplomatic representation: none (territorial collectivity of France) Flag: a yellow sailing ship rides on a dark blue background with a black wave line under the ship; on the hoist side, a vertical band is divided into three parts: the top part is red with a green diagonal cross extending to the corners overlaid by a white cross dividing the square into four sections; the middle part has a white background with an ermine pattern; the third part has a red background with two stylized yellow lions outlined in black, one on top of the other; the flag of France is used for official occasions Economy ------- Economic 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 1992, an arbitration panel awarded the islands an exclusive economic zone of 12,348 sq km to settle a longstanding territorial dispute with Canada, although it represents only 25% of what France had sought. The islands are heavily subsidized by France. Imports come primarily from Canada and France. GDP: purchasing power parity - $68 million (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $10,000 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: 2,980 (1994) by occupation: NA Unemployment rate: 9.6% (1994) Budget: revenues: $28 million expenditures: $28 million, including capital expenditures of $7.8 million (1992 est.) Industries: fish processing and supply base for fishing fleets; tourism Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 10,000 kW production: 50 million kWh consumption per capita: 6,013 kWh (1993) Agriculture: vegetables; cattle, sheep, pigs; fish catch of 20,500 metric tons (1989) Exports: $13.74 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: fish and fish products, fox and mink pelts partners: US 58%, France 17%, UK 11%, Canada, Portugal (1990) Imports: $42 million (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: meat, clothing, fuel, electrical equipment, machinery, building materials partners: Canada, France, US, Netherlands, UK External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 French franc (F) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: French francs (F) per US$1 - 5.0056 (January 1996), 4.9915 (1995), 5.520 (1994), 5.6632 (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 120 km paved: 60 km unpaved: 60 km (1985 est.) Ports: Saint Pierre Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 2 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 note: new airport to open June 1996 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 3,300 (1992 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: radiotelephone communication with most countries in the world; 1 earth station in French domestic satellite system Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 3, shortwave 0 Radios: 6,300 (1990 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 Televisions: 2,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France ====================================================================== @Saint Vincent and the Grenadines -------------------------------- Map --- Location: 13 15 N, 61 12 W -- Caribbean, islands in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago Flag ---- Description: three vertical bands of blue (hoist side), gold (double width), and green; the gold band bears three green diamonds arranged in a V pattern Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, islands in the Caribbean Sea, north of Trinidad and Tobago Geographic coordinates: 13 15 N, 61 12 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 340 sq km land area: 340 sq km comparative area: 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 lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Soufriere 1,234 m Natural resources: NEGL 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 on the island of Saint Vincent is a constant threat international agreements: party to - Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Ship Pollution, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification Geographic note: the administration of the islands of the Grenadines group is divided between Saint Vincent and the Grenadines and Grenada People ------ Population: 118,344 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 33% (male 19,742; female 19,106) 15-64 years: 62% (male 36,576; female 36,381) 65 years and over: 5% (male 2,702; female 3,837) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.64% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 19.36 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.4 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -7.56 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.7 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 16.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 72.94 years male: 71.43 years female: 74.49 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.04 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Saint Vincentian(s) or Vincentian(s) adjective: Saint Vincentian or Vincentian Ethnic divisions: African descent, white, 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 est.) total population: 96% male: 96% female: 96% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Data code: VC Type of government: 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), a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General David JACK (since 29 September 1989) head of government: Prime Minister James F. MITCHELL (since 30 July 1984); the governor general appoints the leader of the majority party to the position of prime minister; Deputy Prime Minister Carlyle DOUGAN (since 17 September 1995) was appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister cabinet: Cabinet was 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 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) International organization participation: ACP, C, Caricom, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, ITU, OAS, OECS, OPANAL, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Kingsley C.A. LAYNE chancery: 1717 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Suite 102, Washington, DC 20036 telephone: [1] (202) 462-7806, 7846 FAX: [1] (202) 462-7807 US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; the Ambassador to Saint Vincent and the Grenadines 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 Economy ------- Economic 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. The government has been relatively unsuccessful at introducing new industries, and high unemployment rates of 35%-40% continue. The continuing dependence on a single crop represents the biggest obstacle to the islands' development; tropical storms wiped out substantial portions of crops in both 1994 and 1995. GDP: purchasing power parity - $240 million (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 0.4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,060 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 24% industry: 33.1% services: 42.9% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): -0.2% (1995) Labor force: 67,000 (1984 est.) by occupation: agriculture, industry, services, other (1980 est.) Unemployment rate: 35%-40% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $80 million expenditures: $118 million, including capital expenditures of $39 million (1996 est.) Industries: food processing, cement, furniture, clothing, starch Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 16,600 kW production: 50 million kWh consumption per capita: 436 kWh (1993) Agriculture: bananas, coconuts, sweet potatoes, spices; small numbers of cattle, sheep, pigs, goats; small fish catch used locally Illicit drugs: transshipment point for South American drugs destined for the US and Europe Exports: $57.1 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: bananas, eddoes and dasheen (taro), arrowroot starch, tennis racquets partners: UK 54%, Caricom countries 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 countries 21%, UK 18%, Trinidad and Tobago 13% External debt: $74.9 million (1993) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.7000 (fixed rate since 1976) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 1,100 km paved: 330 km unpaved: 770 km Ports: Kingstown Merchant marine: total: 611 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,690,104 GRT/9,367,014 DWT ships by type: bulk 106, cargo 305, chemical tanker 20, combination bulk 9, combination ore/oil 4, container 33, liquefied gas tanker 4, livestock carrier 5, oil tanker 58, passenger 1, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated cargo 35, roll-on/roll-off cargo 25, short-sea passenger 2, specialized tanker 1, vehicle carrier 2 note: a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 24 countries among which are Croatia 42, Russia 14, Slovenia 9, China 9, Germany 2, Serbia 2, Hong Kong 2, Latvia 1, Ukraine 1, and Poland 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 6 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 with paved runways under 914 m: 4 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 6,189 (1983 est.) Telephone system: domestic: islandwide, fully automatic telephone system; VHF/UHF radiotelephone from Saint Vincent to the other islands of the Grenadines international: VHF/UHF radiotelephone from Saint Vincent to Barbados; new SHF radiotelephone to Grenada and to Saint Lucia; access to Intelsat earth station in Martinique through Saint Lucia Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 76,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 cable Televisions: 20,600 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Royal Saint Vincent and the Grenadines Police Force, Coast Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @San Marino ---------- Map --- Location: 43 46 N, 12 25 E -- Southern Europe, an enclave in central Italy Flag ---- Description: 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) Geography --------- Location: Southern Europe, an enclave in central Italy Geographic coordinates: 43 46 N, 12 25 E 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 border country: 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 lowest point: Fiume Ausa 55 m highest point: Monte Titano 749 m 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: current issues: NA natural hazards: NA international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution Geographic note: landlocked; smallest independent state in Europe after the Holy See and Monaco; dominated by the Apennines People ------ Population: 24,521 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 16% (male 1,978; female 1,967) 15-64 years: 68% (male 8,401; female 8,249) 65 years and over: 16% (male 1,648; female 2,278) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.82% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 10.81 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.79 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 5.14 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.72 male(s)/female all ages: 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 5.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 81.32 years male: 77.34 years female: 85.3 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.52 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 96% male: 97% female: 95% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of San Marino conventional short form: San Marino local long form: Repubblica di San Marino local short form: San Marino Data code: SM Type of government: 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 Piero Paolo GASPERONI and Captain Regent Pietro BUGLI (for the period 1 April-30 September 1996) were elected by the Great and General Council for a six-month term head of government: Secretary of State for Foreign and Political Affairs Gabriele GATTI (since NA July 1986) was elected for a five-year term by the Great and General Council; election last held NA 1993 (next to be held NA 1998) cabinet: Congress of State was elected for a five-year term by the Great and General Council 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 assumed 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%, AP 7.7%, MD 5.3%, RC 3.3%; seats - (60 total) PDCS 26, PSS 14, PDP 11, AP 4, MD 3, RC 2 Judicial branch: Council of Twelve (Consiglio dei XII) 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), Massimo TONTI; Popular Alliance (AP), Tito MASI; Communist Refoundation (RC), Paolo GIOVAGNOLI International organization participation: CE, ECE, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM (guest), OSCE, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: San Marino does not have an embassy in the US honorary consulate(s) general: Washington and New York honorary consulate(s): Detroit US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in San Marino; the US 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) Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $380 million (1993 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.4% (1993 est.) GDP per capita: $15,800 (1993 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5.5% (1993) Labor force: 14,874 (1993 est.) by occupation: industry 40%, agriculture 2% Unemployment rate: 4.9% (December 1993) Budget: revenues: $320 million expenditures: $320 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: tourism, textiles, electronics, ceramics, cement, wine Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: supplied by Italy Agriculture: wheat, grapes, maize, olives; cattle, pigs, horses, meat, cheese, hides Exports: trade data are included with the statistics for Italy; commodities: building stone, lime, wood, chestnuts, wheat, wine, baked goods, hides, and ceramics Imports: trade data are included with the statistics for Italy; commodities: wide variety of consumer manufactures, food External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Italian lire (Lit) = 100 centesimi; note - also mints its own coins Exchange rates: Italian lire (Lit) per US$1 - 1,583.8 (January 1996), 1,629.2 (1995), 1,612.4 (1994), 1,573.7 (1993), 1,232.4 (1992), 1,240.6 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km; note - there is a 1.5 km cable railway connecting the city of San Marino to Borgo Maggiore Highways: total: 220 km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Ports: none Airports: none Communications -------------- Telephones: 22,300 (1992 est.) Telephone system: domestic: automatic telephone system completely integrated into Italian system international: microwave radio relay and cable connections to Italian network; no satellite earth stations Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA (1 private radio broadcast station) Radios: 12,535 (1991 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 (1991 est.) note: receives broadcasts from Italy Televisions: 7,500 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Voluntary Military Force, Police Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: $3.7 million (1% of GDP) (1992 est.) ====================================================================== @Sao Tome and Principe --------------------- Map --- Location: 1 00 N, 7 00 E -- Western Africa, island in the Atlantic Ocean, straddling the Equator, west of Gabon Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, island in the Atlantic Ocean, straddling the Equator, west of Gabon Geographic coordinates: 1 00 N, 7 00 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 960 sq km land area: 960 sq km comparative area: more than five 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Pico de Sao Tome 2,024 m 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, Desertification People ------ Population: 144,128 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 40% (male 29,103; female 28,633) 15-64 years: 55% (male 39,749; female 39,960) 65 years and over: 5% (male 2,973; female 3,710) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.58% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 34.39 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.55 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.8 male(s)/female all ages: 0.99 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 61.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 63.87 years male: 61.95 years female: 65.83 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.33 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Sao Tomean(s) adjective: Sao Tomean Ethnic divisions: mestico, angolares (descendants of Angolan slaves), forros (descendants 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 est.) total population: 73% male: 85% female: 62% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: TP Type of government: 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) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 3 March 1991 (next to be held 30 June 1996); results - Miguel TROVOADA was elected without opposition in Sao Tome's first multiparty presidential election head of government: Prime Minister Armindo UAZ de ALMEIDA (since 29 December 1995) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was 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 (next to be held NA); results - MLSTP 27%, PCD-GR 25.5%, ADI 25.5%; seats - (55 total) MLSTP 27, PCD-GR 14, ADI 14 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the National Peoples Assembly 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), Patrice TROVOADA; other small parties International organization participation: 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, WToO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: Sao Tome and Principe does not have an embassy in the US, but does have a Permanent Mission to the UN, headed by First Secretary Domingos AUGUSTO Ferreira, located at 122 East 42nd Street, Suite 1604, New York, NY 10168, telephone [1] (212) 697-4211 US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Sao Tome and Principe; the 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 3 to 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 has hovered around 1.5% since 1991. GDP: purchasing power parity - $138 million (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 1.5% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $1,000 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 28% industry: 14% services: 58% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 38% (1994 est.) Labor force: most of population mainly engaged in subsistence agriculture and fishing; shortages of plantation labor and of skilled workers Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $58 million expenditures: $114 million, including capital expenditures of $54 million (1993 est.) Industries: light construction, textiles, soap, beer; fish processing; timber Industrial production growth rate: 1% (1991) Electricity: capacity: 5,000 kW production: 17 million kWh consumption per capita: 105 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cocoa, coconuts, palm kernels, copra, cinnamon, pepper, coffee, bananas, papaya, beans; poultry; fish Exports: $7.1 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: cocoa 85%-90%, copra, coffee, palm oil partners: Netherlands, Germany, China, Portugal Imports: $23.8 million (c.i.f., 1994 est.) commodities: machinery and electrical equipment, food products, petroleum partners: France, Belgium, Japan, Angola, Italy, US External debt: $250 million (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 dobra (Db) = 100 centimos Exchange rates: dobras (Db) per US$1 - 1,610 (May 1995), 129.59 (1 July 1993), 230 (1992), 260.0 (November 1991), 122.48 (December 1988), 72.827 (1987) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 298 km paved: 198 km unpaved: 100 km (1987 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 2 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 2,200 (1986 est.) Telephone system: domestic: minimal system international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 2, shortwave 0 Radios: 33,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 (1992 est.) Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Security Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 34,986 males fit for military service: 18,343 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Saudi Arabia ------------ Map --- Location: 25 00 N, 45 00 E -- Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea, north of Yemen Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Middle East, bordering the Persian Gulf and the Red Sea, north of Yemen Geographic coordinates: 25 00 N, 45 00 E 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 border countries: 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; location and status of boundary with UAE is not final, defacto boundary reflects 1974 agreement; Kuwaiti ownership of Qaruh and Umm al Maradim islands is disputed by Saudi Arabia; 1965 boundary with Qatar, renegotiated and revised in 1992, but not official depiction Climate: harsh, dry desert with great extremes of temperature Terrain: mostly uninhabited, sandy desert lowest point: Persian Gulf 0 m highest point: Jabal Sawda' 3,133 m 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 Geographic note: extensive coastlines on Persian Gulf and Red Sea provide great leverage on shipping (especially crude oil) through Persian Gulf and Suez Canal People ------ Population: 19,409,058 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 43% (male 4,228,660; female 4,103,622) 15-64 years: 55% (male 6,393,384; female 4,240,535) 65 years and over: 2% (male 227,789; female 215,068) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.45% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 38.32 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.36 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 1.55 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.51 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.06 male(s)/female all ages: 1.27 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 46.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 69 years male: 67.25 years female: 70.84 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.45 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 62.8% male: 71.5% female: 50.2% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: SA Type of government: 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 (Eastern Province), '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) is an absolute monarch; Crown Prince and First Deputy Prime Minister ABDALLAH bin Abd al-Aziz Al Saud (half-brother to the king, heir to the throne since 13 June 1982, regent from 1 January to 22 February 1996) cabinet: Council of Ministers is dominated by royal family members appointed by the king Legislative branch: a consultative council composed 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 International organization participation: 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, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ISO, ITU, NAM, OAPEC, OAS (observer), OIC, OPEC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO (applicant) 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] (202) 342-3800 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-Riyadh, Unit 61307, APO AE 09803-1307; International Mail: P. O. Box 94309, Riyadh 11693 telephone: [966] (1) 488-3800 FAX: [966] (1) 488-7360 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: This is a well-to-do oil-based economy with strong government controls over major economic activities. About 40% of GDP comes from the private sector. Economic (as well as political) ties with the US are especially strong. The petroleum sector accounts for roughly 75% of budget revenues, 35% of GDP, and 90% of 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 over 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 1996, the country looks to its policies of maintaining moderate fiscal reforms, restraining public spending, and encouraging non-oil exports. GDP: purchasing power parity - $189.3 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 0% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $10,100 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 9% industry: 50% services: 41% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5% (1995 est.) Labor force: 6 million-7 million by occupation: government 40%, industry, construction, and oil 25%, services 30%, agriculture 5% Unemployment rate: 6.5% (1992 est.) Budget: revenues: $35.1 billion expenditures: $40 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.) Industries: crude oil production, petroleum refining, basic petrochemicals, cement, two small steel-rolling mills, construction, fertilizer, plastics Industrial production growth rate: 17% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 17,550,000 kW production: 46 billion kWh consumption per capita: 2,430 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, barley, tomatoes, melons, dates, citrus; mutton, chickens, eggs, milk Illicit drugs: death penalty for traffickers; increasing consumption of heroin and cocaine Exports: $41.7 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: petroleum and petroleum products 90% partners: US 17%, Japan 17%, South Korea 8%, Singapore 7%, France 5% (1994) Imports: $21.3 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: machinery and equipment, chemicals, foodstuffs, motor vehicles, textiles partners: US 21%, Japan 12%, UK 8%, Germany 8%, Italy 5% (1994) External debt: $18.9 billion (December 1989 est., includes short-term trade credits) Economic aid: donor: 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) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 1,390 km standard gauge: 1,390 km 1.435-m gauge (448 km double track) (1992) Highways: total: 151,532 km paved: 60,613 km unpaved: 90,919 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, Ra's al Khafji, Al Mishab, Ras Tanura, Yanbu' al Bahr, Yanbu' al Sinaiyah Merchant marine: total: 76 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 944,946 GRT/1,322,167 DWT ships by type: bulk 1, cargo 13, 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 13, short-sea passenger 9 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 175 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 30 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 11 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: 13 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 4 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 66 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 24 (1995 est.) Heliports: 4 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1.46 million (1993) Telephone system: modern system domestic: extensive microwave radio relay 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; satellite earth stations - 5 Intelsat (3 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean), 1 Arabsat, and 1 Inmarsat (Indian Ocean region) Radio broadcast stations: AM 43, FM 13, shortwave 0 Radios: 5 million (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 80 Televisions: 4.5 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Land Force (Army), Navy, Air Force, Air Defense Force, National Guard, Coast Guard, Frontier Forces, Public Security Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 5,405,828 males fit for military service: 3,005,900 males reach military age (18) annually: 165,010 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $12.1 billion, 8.5% of GDP (1996) ====================================================================== @Senegal ------- Map --- Location: 14 00 N, 14 00 W -- Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea-Bissau and Mauritania Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea-Bissau and Mauritania Geographic coordinates: 14 00 N, 14 00 W 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location in the Futa Jaldon foothills 581 m 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 international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Marine Dumping Geographic note: The Gambia is almost an enclave of Senegal People ------ Population: 9,092,749 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 48% (male 2,188,338; female 2,197,015) 15-64 years: 49% (male 2,111,330; female 2,336,987) 65 years and over: 3% (male 128,939; female 130,140) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.37% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 45.46 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 11.76 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.9 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.99 male(s)/female all ages: 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 64 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 56.49 years male: 53.75 years female: 59.3 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.31 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 33.1% male: 43% female: 23.2% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Senegal conventional short form: Senegal local long form: Republique du Senegal local short form: Senegal Data code: SG Type of government: 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) was elected for a seven-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 21 February 1993 (next to be held NA February 2000); results - Abdou DIOUF (PS) 58.4%, Abdoulaye WADE (PDS) 32.03%, other 9.57% head of government: Prime Minister Habib THIAM (since 7 April 1991) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was 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 International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, FZ, G-15, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, PCA, UN, UNAMIR, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UPU, WADB, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Mamadou Mansour SECK chancery: 2112 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 234-0540, 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 of that year. After years of foot-dragging, the government has passed a liberalized labor code which should lower the cost of labor and improve the manufacturing sector's competitiveness. Inroads also have been made in closing tax loopholes, eliminating monopoly power in several sectors, and privatizing state owned firms. At the same time, the government is holding the line on current fiscal expenditure under the watchful eyes of international organizations on which it depends for substantial support. The IMF, in mid-1995, announced that the government met most economic targets as called for in its Enhanced Structural Adjustment Facility agreement and released the second $50 million tranche. The country's narrow resource base, environmental degradation, and untamed population growth will continue to hold back improvement in living standards over the medium term. GDP: purchasing power parity - $14.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,600 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 6.1% (1995) Labor force: 2.509 million (77% are engaged in subsistence farming; 175,000 wage earners) by occupation: private sector 40%, government and parapublic 60% Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $876 million expenditures: $197.7 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.) Industries: agricultural and fish processing, phosphate mining, petroleum refining, construction materials Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 230,000 kW production: 720 million kWh consumption per capita: 79 kWh (1993) Agriculture: peanuts, millet, corn, sorghum, rice, cotton, tomatoes, green vegetables; cattle, poultry, pigs; fish catch of 409,000 metric tons in 1992 Illicit drugs: transshipment point for Southwest and Southeast Asian heroin moving to Europe and North America; illicit cultivator of cannabis Exports: $940 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: fish, ground nuts (peanuts), petroleum products, phosphates, cotton partners: France, other EU countries, Cote d'Ivoire, Mali Imports: $1.1 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.) commodities: foods and beverages, consumer goods, capital goods, petroleum partners: France, other EU countries, Nigeria, Cote d'Ivoire, Algeria, China, Japan External debt: $3.8 billion (1993) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $439 million (1993) Currency: 1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: CFA francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 500.56 (January 1996), 499.15 (1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991) 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 904 km narrow gauge: 904 km 1.000-meter gauge (70 km double track) (1995) Highways: total: 13,850 km paved: 3,900 km unpaved: 9,950 km (1990 est.) Waterways: 897 km total; 785 km on the Senegal river, and 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 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 17 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 8 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 1 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 4 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 55,000 (1993 est.) Telephone system: domestic: above-average urban system; microwave radio relay and cable trunk system international: 3 submarine cables; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 8, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 850,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 61,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, National Police (Surete Nationale) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,864,239 males fit for military service: 973,170 males reach military age (18) annually: 90,154 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $82 million, 2.1% of GDP (1996 est.) ====================================================================== @Serbia and Montenegro --------------------- 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. Map --- Location: 44 00 N, 21 00 E -- Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea, between Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea, between Albania and Bosnia and Herzegovina Geographic coordinates: 44 00 N, 21 00 E Map references: 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 border countries: 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: 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 lowest point: Adriatic Sea 0 m highest point: Daravica 2,656 m 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 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 Geographic note: controls one of the major land routes from Western Europe to Turkey and the Near East; strategic location along the Adriatic coast People ------ Population: total population: 10,614,558 (July 1996 est.) Montenegro: 635,442 (July 1996 est.) Serbia: 9,979,116 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: Montenegro - 0-14 years: 22% (male 71,075; female 67,402) Montenegro - 15-64 years: 67% (male 215,889; female 213,290) Montenegro - 65 years and over: 11% (male 27,868; female 39.918) (July 1996 est.) Serbia - 0-14 years: 21% (male 1,104,274; female 1,026,994) Serbia - 15-64 years: 66% (male 3,332,809; female 3,293,788) Serbia - 65 years and over: 13% (male 515,001; female 706,250) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: Montenegro: 0.39% (1996 est.) Serbia: 0.39% (1996 est.) Birth rate: Montenegro: 11.86 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Serbia: 13.98 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: Montenegro: 7.76 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Serbia: 10.25 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: Montenegro: -0.2 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Serbia: 0.12 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: Montenegro - at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female Montenegro - under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female Montenegro - 15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female Montenegro - 65 years and over: 0.7 male(s)/female Montenegro - all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Serbia - at birth: 1.08 male(s)/female Serbia - under 15 years: 1.08 male(s)/female Serbia - 15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female Serbia - 65 years and over: 0.73 male(s)/female Serbia - all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: Montenegro: 27.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Serbia: 22.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: Montenegro - total population: 74.88 years Montenegro - male: 70.86 years Montenegro - female: 79.11 years (1996 est.) Serbia - total population: 71.98 years Serbia - male: 68.97 years Serbia - female: 75.22 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: Montenegro: 1.53 children born/woman (1996 est.) Serbia: 2 children born/woman (1996 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Serbia and Montenegro local long form: none local short form: Srbija-Crna Gora note: Serbia and Montenegro has self-proclaimed itself the "Federal Republic of Yugoslavia," but the US view is that the Socialist Federal Republic of Yugoslavia (SFRY) has dissolved and that none of the successor republics represents its continuation Data code: Serbia: SR Montenegro: MW Type of government: 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: St. Vitus Day, 28 June 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) was elected for a four-year term by the Federal Assembly; 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) was nominated by the president; Deputy Prime Ministers Jovan ZEBIC (since NA March 1993), Uros KLIKOVAC (since 15 September 1994), and Nikola SAINOVIC (since 15 September 1995) 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; note - seats are filled on a proportional basis to reflect the composition of the legislatures of the republics of Montenegro and Serbia 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), judges are elected by the Federal Assembly; Constitutional Court, judges are elected by the Federal Assembly 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: the 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 chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Counselor, Charge d'Affaires ad interim Zoran POPOVIC chancery: 2410 California St. NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 462-6566 US diplomatic representation: the US and Serbia and Montenegro do not maintain full diplomatic relations chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Chief of Mission Rudolf V. PERINA embassy: address NA, Belgrade mailing address: Unit 1310, APO AE 09213-1310 telephone: [381] (11) 645655 FAX: [381] (11) 645332 Economy ------- Economic overview: The swift collapse of the Yugoslav federation in 1991 has been followed by highly destructive warfare, the destabilization of republic boundaries, and the breakup of important interrepublic trade flows. Serbia and Montenegro faces major economic problems; output has dropped sharply, particularly in 1993. Like the other former Yugoslav republics, it depended on its sister republics for large amounts of energy supplies and manufactures. Wide differences in climate, mineral resources, and levels of technology among the republics accentuated this interdependence, as did the communist practice of concentrating much industrial output in a small number of giant plants. The breakup of many of the trade links, the sharp drop in output as industrial plants lost suppliers and markets, and the destruction of physical assets in the fighting all have contributed to the economic difficulties of the republics. One singular factor in the economic situation of Serbia and Montenegro is the continuation in office of a communist government that is primarily interested in political and military mastery, not economic reform. Hyperinflation ended with the establishment of a new currency unit in June 1993; prices were relatively stable in 1994. Reliable statistics are hard to come by; the GDP estimate of $2,000 per capita is extremely rough. The economy is recovering extremely slowly following the suspension of UN sanctions in December 1995. GDP: purchasing power parity - $20.6 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 20% (1994 est.) Labor force: 2,640,909 by occupation: industry, mining 40% (1990) Unemployment rate: more than 40% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA 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 Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 10,400,000 kW production: 34 billion kWh consumption per capita: 2,400 kWh (1994 est.) Agriculture: cereals, fruits, vegetables, tobacco, olives; cattle, sheep, goats Illicit drugs: transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin moving to Western Europe on the Balkan route 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 External debt: $4.2 billion (1993 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Yugoslav New Dinar (YD) = 100 paras Exchange rates: Yugoslav New Dinars (YD) per US $1 - official rate: 1.5; black market rate: 2 to 3 (early 1995) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 3,960 km standard gauge: 3,960 km 1.435-m gauge (1,341 km electrified) (1992) Highways: total: 46,019 km paved: 26,949 km unpaved: 19,070 km (1990 est.) 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 21 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 326,133 GRT/544,600 DWT (controlled by Montenegrin beneficial owners) ships by type: bulk 9, cargo 8, container 3, short-sea passenger ferry 1 note: ships operate under the flags of Malta, Panama, and Cyprus; no ships remain under Yugoslav flag (1995 est.) Serbia: total 2 bulk ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 42,916 GRT/77,103 DWT (controlled by Serbian beneficial owners) note: all under the flag of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines; no ships remain under Yugoslav flag (1995 est.) Airports: total: 44 (Serbia 39, Montenegro 5) with paved runways over 3 047 m: 2 (Serbia 2, Montenegro 0) with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 5 (Serbia 3, Montenegro 2) with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 5 (Serbia 4, Montenegro 1) with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 (Serbia 2, Montenegro 0) with paved runways under 914 m: 14 (Serbia 14, Montenegro 0) with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 (Serbia 2, Montenegro 0) with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 14 (Serbia 12, Montenegro 2) (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 700,000 Telephone system: domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 26, FM 9, shortwave 0 Radios: 2.015 million Television broadcast stations: 18 Televisions: 1 million Defense ------- 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: 173,942 Montenegro - males fit for military service: 140,728 Montenegro - males reach military age (19) annually: 5,226 Serbia - males age 15-49: 2,546,549 Serbia - males fit for military service: 2,041,239 (1996 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 ====================================================================== @Seychelles ---------- Map --- Location: 4 35 S, 55 40 E -- Eastern Africa, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar Flag ---- Description: five oblique bands of blue (hoist side), yellow, red, white, and green (bottom) radiating from the bottom of the hoist side Geography --------- Location: Eastern Africa, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, northeast of Madagascar Geographic coordinates: 4 35 S, 55 40 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 455 sq km land area: 455 sq km comparative area: 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Morne Seychellois 905 m 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 Geographic note: 40 granitic and about 50 coralline islands People ------ Population: 77,575 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 31% (male 12,005; female 11,835) 15-64 years: 63% (male 24,003; female 24,946) 65 years and over: 6% (male 1,669; female 3,117) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.76% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 21.02 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7.31 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -6.14 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.54 male(s)/female all ages: 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 12.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 69.24 years male: 64.23 years female: 74.39 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.09 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 58% male: 56% female: 60% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Seychelles conventional short form: Seychelles Data code: SE Type of government: 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) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 20-23 July 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); results - President France Albert RENE (SPPF) reelected with 59.5% of the vote, Sir James MANCHAM (DP) 36.72% cabinet: Council of Ministers was 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 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), Wavel RAMKALAWAN - a coalition of the following parties: Seychelles Party (PS), Wavel RAMKALAWAN; Seychelles Democratic Movement (MSPD), Jacques HONDOUL; Seychelles Liberal Party (SLP), Ogilvie BERLOUIS; New Democratic Party , Christopher GILL (former member of DP) Other political or pressure groups: trade unions; Roman Catholic Church International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, C, ECA, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, NAM, OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Marc Michael R. MARENGO chancery: (temporary) 820 Second Avenue, Suite 900F, New York, NY 10017 telephone: [1] (212) 687-9766, 9767 FAX: [1] (212) 922-9177 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Carl Burton STOKES embassy: 4th Floor, Victoria House, Box 251, Victoria, Mahe mailing address: Box 148, Victoria; Unit 62501, APO AE 09815-2501 telephone: [248] 225256 FAX: [248] 225189 Flag: five oblique bands of blue (hoist side), yellow, red, white, and green (bottom) radiating from the bottom of the hoist side Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $430 million (1993 est.) GDP real growth rate: -2% (1993 est.) GDP per capita: $6,000 (1993 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3.9% (1993 est.) Labor force: 27,700 (1985) by occupation: industry and commerce 31%, services 21%, government 20%, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 12%, other 16% (1985) Unemployment rate: 9% (1987) Budget: revenues: $227.4 million expenditures: $263 million, including capital expenditures of $54 million (1993 est.) Industries: tourism, processing of coconut and vanilla, fishing, coir (coconut fiber) rope factory, boat building, printing, furniture, beverage Industrial production growth rate: 4% (1992) Electricity: capacity: 30,000 kW production: 110 million kWh consumption per capita: 1,399 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coconuts, cinnamon, vanilla, sweet potatoes, cassava (tapioca), bananas; broiler chickens; expansion of tuna fishing under way 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.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Seychelles rupee (SRe) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Seychelles rupees (SRe) per US$1 - 4.9257 (January 1996), 4.7620 (1995), 5.0559 (1994), 5.1815 (1993), 5.1220 (1992), 5.2893 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 269 km paved: 187 km unpaved: 82 km (1988 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 8,300 (1982 est.) Telephone system: domestic: radiotelephone communications between islands in the archipelago international: direct radiotelephone communications with adjacent island countries and African coastal countries; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 34,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 2 Televisions: 8,200 (1991 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Coast Guard, Marines, National Guard, Presidential Protection Unit, Police Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 21,547 males fit for military service: 10,883 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Sierra Leone ------------ Map --- Location: 8 30 N, 11 30 W -- Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea and Liberia Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of light green (top), white, and light blue Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Guinea and Liberia Geographic coordinates: 8 30 N, 11 30 W 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Loma Mansa (Bintimani) 1,948 m 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, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Environmental Modification People ------ Population: 4,793,121 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 45% (male 1,057,824; female 1,092,291) 15-64 years: 52% (male 1,197,547; female 1,298,834) 65 years and over: 3% (male 75,066; female 71,559) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 4.14% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 47.13 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 18.24 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 12.52 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 0.97 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.92 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.05 male(s)/female all ages: 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 135.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 47.47 years male: 44.56 years female: 50.47 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.36 children born/woman (1996 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 in English, Mende, Temne, or Arabic (1995 est.) total population: 31.4% male: 45.4% female: 18.2% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Sierra Leone conventional short form: Sierra Leone Data code: SL Type of government: constitutional democracy 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; subsequently amended several times 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: President Ahmad Tejan KABBAH (inaugurated 29 March 1996); election held 26-27 February 1996 (next to be held NA 2000) cabinet: Ministers of State appointed by the president with the approval of the House of Representatives; the cabinet is responsible to the president Legislative branch: unicameral House of Representatives: elections last held NA February 1996 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats (80 total, 68 elected, 12 filled by paramount chiefs elected in separate elections) SLPP 27, UNPP 17, PDP 12, APC 5, NUP 4, DCP 3; note - first elections since the former House of Representatives was shut down by the military coup of 29 April 1992 Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: 15 parties registered for the February 1996 elections; National Peoples Party (NPP), Andrew TURAY; Democratic Center Party (DCP), Abu KOROMA; Peoples Progressive Party (PPP), Edward KAMARA, chairman; Coalition for Progress Party (CPP), Geredine WILLIAMS-SARHO; National Unity Movement (NUM); United National Peoples Party (UNPP); Peoples Democratic Party (PDP), Thaimu BANGURA, chairman; All Peoples Congress (APC), S. A. T. KOROMA, chairman; National Republican Party (NRP); Social Democratic Party (SDP); Peoples National Convention (PNC), I. B. KARGBO, chairman; National Unity Party (NUP), A. O. D. GEORGE, chairman; Sierra Leone Peoples Party (SLPP), Paul DUNBAR, chairman; National Democratic Alliance (NDA); National Alliance for Democracy Party (NADP) International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, G-77, 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, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: (vacant) chancery: 1701 19th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 939-9261 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador John L. HIRSCH embassy: Corner of Walpole and Siaka Stevens Streets, Freetown mailing address: use embassy street address telephone: [232] (22) 226481 through 226485 FAX: [232] (22) 225471 Flag: three equal horizontal bands of light green (top), white, and light blue Economy ------- Economic overview: Sierra Leone has substantial mineral, agricultural, and fishery resources. However, the economic and social infrastructure is not well developed, and serious social disorders continue to push down production, exports, and the value of the leone. Agriculture employs about two-thirds of the working population, with subsistence agriculture dominating the sector. Manufacturing consists mainly of the processing of raw materials and of light manufacturing for the domestic market. The mining of diamonds, bauxite, and rutile is the major source of hard currency. The government has worked hard to meet its IMF- and World Bank-mandated stabilization targets, holding down fiscal deficits, and retiring much of its domestic debt - but at a steep cost in terms of forgone capital investments and social spending. Moreover, the economic 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 Leone's fragile economy. GDP: purchasing power parity - $4.4 billion (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: -4% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $960 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 40% industry: 17% services: 43% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 24% (1994 est.) Labor force: 1.369 million (1981 est.) by occupation: agriculture 65%, industry 19%, services 16% (1981 est.) note: only about 65,000 wage earners (1985) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $75 million expenditures: $128 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95 est.) Industries: mining (diamonds, bauxite, rutile); small-scale manufacturing (beverages, textiles, cigarettes, footwear); petroleum refining Industrial production growth rate: $NA Electricity: capacity: 130,000 kW production: 220 million kWh consumption per capita: 44 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rice, coffee, cocoa, palm kernels, palm oil, peanuts; poultry, cattle, sheep, pigs; fish catch was 65,000 metric tons in 1994 Exports: $115 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: rutile 51%, bauxite 20%, diamonds 16%, coffee 6%, cocoa 7%, fish (1989) partners: US, UK, Belgium, Germany, other Western Europe Imports: $150 million (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: foodstuffs 38%, machinery and equipment 44%, fuels and lubricants 18% (1989) partners: US, EU countries, Japan, China, Nigeria External debt: $1.4 billion (yearend 1993) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 leone (Le) = 100 cents Exchange rates: leones (Le) per US$1 - 951.63 (January 1996), 755.22 (1995), 586.74 (1994), 567.46 (1993), 499.44 (1992), 295.34 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 84 km used on a limited basis because the mine at Marampa is closed narrow gauge: 84 km 1.067-m gauge Highways: total: 11,674 km paved: 1,284 km unpaved: 10,390 km (1992 est.) Waterways: 800 km; 600 km navigable year round Ports: Bonthe, Freetown, Pepel Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 5 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 17,526 (1991 est.) Telephone system: marginal telephone and telegraph service domestic: national microwave radio relay system made unserviceable by military activities international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: 980,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 45,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Police, Security Forces Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,019,093 males fit for military service: 494,451 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $14 million, 2.6% of GDP (FY92/93) ====================================================================== @Singapore --------- Map --- Location: 1 22 N, 103 48 E -- Southeastern Asia, islands between Malaysia and Indonesia Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Asia, islands between Malaysia and Indonesia Geographic coordinates: 1 22 N, 103 48 E Map references: Southeast Asia Area: total area: 632.6 sq km land area: 622.6 sq km comparative area: slightly more than three 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 lowest point: Singapore Strait 0 m highest point: Bukit Timah 166 m 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 - Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change Geographic note: focal point for Southeast Asian sea routes People ------ Population: 3,396,924 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 22% (male 379,076; female 358,739) 15-64 years: 72% (male 1,220,131; female 1,219,412) 65 years and over: 6% (male 97,882; female 121,684) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.9% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 16.28 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 4.56 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 7.29 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.8 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 4.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.13 years male: 75.07 years female: 81.39 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.65 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 91.1% male: 95.9% female: 86.3% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Singapore conventional short form: Singapore Data code: SN Type of government: 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) was elected for a six-year term by popular vote; election last held 28 August 1993 (next to be held NA August 1999); results - ONG Teng Cheong was elected with 59% of the vote in the country's first popular election for president head of government: Prime Minister GOH Chok Tong (since 28 November 1990) and Deputy Prime Ministers LEE Hsien Loong (since 28 November 1990) and Tony TAN Keng Yam (since 1 August 1995) were appointed by the president cabinet: Cabinet was 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, chief justice is appointed by the president with the advice of the prime minister, other judges are appointed by the president with the advice of the chief justice Political parties and leaders: government: People's Action Party (PAP), GOH Chok Tong, secretary general opposition: Singapore Democratic Party (SDP), CHEE Soon Juan; Workers' Party (WP), J. B. JEYARETNAM; National Solidarity Party (NSP), leader NA; Barisan Sosialis (BS, Socialist Front), leader NA; Singapore People's Party (SPP), SIN Kek Tong International organization participation: APEC, AsDB, ASEAN, C, CCC, CP, ESCAP, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ISO, ITU, Mekong Group, NAM, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNIKOM, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Sellapan Rama NATHAN chancery: 3501 International Place NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 537-3100 FAX: [1] (202) 537-0876 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 8.9% growth in 1995, with prospects for 7%-8% growth in 1996. In 1995, the manufacturing and financial and business services sectors led economic growth. Rising labor costs continue to be a threat to Singapore's competitiveness, and the government's strategy to address this problem includes increasing productivity, improving infrastructure, and encouraging higher value-added industries. In applied technology, per capita output, investment, and labor discipline, Singapore has key attributes of a developed country. GDP: purchasing power parity - $66.1 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 8.9% (1995) GDP per capita: $22,900 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NEGL% industry: 28% services: 72% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.7% (1995) 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) Unemployment rate: 2.6% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $17.3 billion expenditures: $12.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $4.5 billion (FY95/96 est.) Industries: petroleum refining, electronics, oil drilling equipment, rubber processing and rubber products, processed food and beverages, ship repair, entrepot trade, financial services, biotechnology Industrial production growth rate: 10% (1995) Electricity: capacity: 4,510,000 kW production: 17 billion kWh consumption per capita: 5,590 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rubber, copra, fruit, vegetables; poultry Illicit drugs: transit point for Golden Triangle heroin going to the US, Western Europe, and the Third World; also a money-laundering center Exports: $119.6 billion (1995) 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: $125.9 billion (1995) commodities: aircraft, petroleum, chemicals, foodstuffs partners: Japan 22%, Malaysia 16%, US 15%, Taiwan 4%, Saudi Arabia 4% (1994) External debt: $3.2 million (1994) Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 Singapore dollar (S$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Singapore dollars (S$) per US$1 - 1.4214 (January 1996), 1.4174 (1995), 1.5274 (1994), 1.6158 (1993), 1.6290 (1992), 1.7276 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 38.6 km narrow gauge: 38.6 km 1.000-m gauge Highways: total: 2,989 km paved: 2,905 km (including 111.6 km of expressways) unpaved: 84 km (1994 est.) Ports: Singapore Merchant marine: total: 646 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 12,915,788 GRT/20,292,580 DWT ships by type: bulk 110, cargo 118, chemical tanker 18, combination bulk 3, combination ore/oil 8, container 92, liquefied gas tanker 13, multifunction large-load carrier 4, oil tanker 234, refrigerated cargo 5, roll-on/roll-off cargo 13, short-sea passenger 1, specialized tanker 3, vehicle carrier 24 note: a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 22 countries among which are Japan 39, Hong Kong 27, Denmark 24, Germany 20, Sweden 14, Thailand 14, Belgium 12, Norway 9, Indonesia 7, and US 7 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 8 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: 3 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1.23 million (1993 est.) Telephone system: good domestic facilities; good international service domestic: NA international: submarine cables to Malaysia (Sabah and Peninsular Malaysia), Indonesia, and the Philippines; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean), and 1 Inmarsat (Pacific Ocean region) Radio broadcast stations: AM 13, FM 4, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 2 (1987 est.) Televisions: 1.05 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, People's Defense Force, Police Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,025,300 males fit for military service: 752,382 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $3.9 billion, 4.3% of GDP (1995 est.) ====================================================================== @Slovakia -------- Map --- Location: 48 40 N, 19 30 E -- Central Europe, south of Poland Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Central Europe, south of Poland Geographic coordinates: 48 40 N, 19 30 E Map references: 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Bodrok River 94 m highest point: Gerlachovka 2,655 m 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, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 5,374,362 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 22% (male 605,379; female 579,232) 15-64 years: 67% (male 1,777,100; female 1,812,555) 65 years and over: 11% (male 234,377; female 365,719) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.34% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 12.62 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9.35 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0.12 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.64 male(s)/female all ages: 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 10.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 73.01 years male: 69.01 years female: 77.21 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.65 children born/woman (1996 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Slovak Republic conventional short form: Slovakia local long form: Slovenska Republika local short form: Slovensko Data code: LO Type of government: parliamentary democracy Capital: Bratislava Administrative divisions: 4 departments (kraje, singular - kraj) Bratislava, Zapadoslovensky, Stredoslovensky, Vychodoslovensky Independence: 1 January 1993 (from Czechoslovakia) National holiday: Slovak Constitution Day, 1 September (1992) 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) was elected for a five-year term by the National Parliament; election last held 8 February 1993 (next to be held NA 1998) head of government: Prime Minister Vladimir MECIAR (since 12 December 1994) was appointed by the president cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president on recommendation of the prime minister Legislative branch: unicameral National Parliament (Narodni Rada): elections last held 30 September-1 October 1994 (next to be held by October 1998); results - HZDS 35%, SDL 10.4%, Hungarian coalition (Hungarian Christian Democrats, Hungarian Civic Party, Coexistence) 10.2%, KDH 10.1%, DU 8.6%, ZRS 7.3%, SNS 5.4%; seats - (150 total) governing coalition 83 (HZDS 61, ZRS 13, SNS 9), opposition 67 (SDL 18, Hungarian coalition 17, KDH 17, DU 15) Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges are elected by the National Parliament 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 Other political or pressure groups: Green Party; Social Democratic Party of Slovakia; Slovak Christian Union International organization participation: Australia Group, BIS, BSEC (observer), CCC, CE (guest), CEI, CERN, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarset, Intelsat, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC, NSG, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WEU (associate partner), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Branislav LICHARDUS chancery: (temporary) Suite 380, 2201 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007 telephone: [1] (202) 965-5161 FAX: [1] (202) 965-5166 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Ralph JOHNSON embassy: Hviezdoslavovo Namestie 4, 81102 Bratislava mailing address: use embassy street address telephone: [42] (7) 533-0861, 533-3338 FAX: [42] (7) 533-5439 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Since its separation from the Czech Republic on 1 January 1993, Slovakia has continued the difficult transformation from a centrally controlled economy to a modern market-oriented economy. Macroeconomic performance improved steadily in 1994 and 1995 - with 4.8% and 6% growth, respectively. But privatization progressed only in fits and starts. Strong export performance boosted growth in both years, with consumption and investment rebounding. Unemployment fell to 12.8% in November 1995, the lowest level since mid-1993, and inflation dropped from 26% in 1993 to 7.5% in 1995. The federal government deficit fell from 7% of GDP in 1993 to less than 2% in 1994-95, as growth boosted revenues. Positive international financial performance led Standard & Poor's to raise its rating of the National Bank of Slovakia's foreign currency debt to just one step below investment grade. The trade and current accounts are both in surplus, and foreign currency reserves held by the central bank have climbed to $3.5 billion. Foreign debt of $4.6 billion - about the same as Romania's - is the lowest in Central and Eastern Europe and the second lowest per capita. Bratislava made the Slovak crown convertible for current account transactions on 1 October 1995. Slovakia continued to have difficulty attracting foreign investment, however, because of perceived political uncertainty and vacillations in privatization policy. The government as well as the OECD projects 5% growth in 1996 and 1997. GDP: purchasing power parity - $39 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $7,200 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 6.7% industry: 47.6% services: 45.7% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 7.5% (1995 est.) Labor force: 2.484 million by occupation: industry 33.2%, agriculture 12.2%, construction 10.3%, communication and other 44.3% (1990) Unemployment rate: 13% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $6.1 billion expenditures: $6.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: metal and metal products; food and beverages; electricity, gas, coke, oil, and nuclear fuel; chemicals and manmade fibers; machinery; paper and printing; earthenware and ceramics; transport vehicles; textiles; electrical and optical apparatus; rubber products Industrial production growth rate: 7.8% (January-August 1995) Electricity: capacity: 6,300,000 kW production: 20.9 billion kWh consumption per capita: 3,609 kWh (1993) Agriculture: grains, potatoes, sugar beets, hops, fruit; hogs, cattle, poultry; forest products Illicit drugs: transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin bound for Western Europe Exports: $8.8 billion (f.o.b., January-November 1995) commodities: machinery and transport equipment; chemicals; fuels, minerals, and metals; agricultural products partners: Czech Republic 35.4%, Germany 18.9%, Austria 5.0%, Italy 4.7%, Hungary 4.6%, Poland 4.4%, Russia 3.6%, Ukraine 2.1%, France 2.0%, Netherlands 1.7% (January-October 1995) Imports: $8.7 billion (f.o.b., January-November 1995) commodities: machinery and transport equipment; fuels and lubricants; manufactured goods; raw materials; chemicals; agricultural products partners: Czech Republic 28.1%, Russia 16.8%, Germany 14.3%, Austria 5.2%, Italy 4.5%, Poland 2.9%, US 2.3%, France 2.3%, Hungary 2.2%, Netherlands 1.7%, Ukraine 1.5% (January-October 1995) External debt: $4.6 billion hard currency indebtedness (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $104 million (1993) Currency: 1 koruna (Sk) = 100 halierov Exchange rates: koruny (Sk) per US$1 - 29.587 (August 1995), 29.447 (November 1994), 32.045 (1994), 30.770 (1993), 28.26 (1992), 29.53 (1991); note - values before 1993 reflect Czechoslovak exchange rate Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 3,660 km broad gauge: 102 km 1.520-m gauge standard gauge: 3,507 km 1.435-m gauge (1378 km electrified) narrow gauge: 51 km (46 km 1,000-m gauge; 5 km 0.750-m gauge) (1995) Highways: total: 17,737 km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km (1993 est.) Waterways: 172 km on the Danube Pipelines: petroleum products NA km; natural gas 2,700 km Ports: Bratislava, Komarno Merchant marine: total: 4 cargo ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 17,010 GRT/22,039 DWT (1995 est.) Airports: total: 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 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 10 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 11 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1,362,178 (1992 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA; note - there is 1 station of NA type Radios: 1.1 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: 1.6 million (1994 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Air and Air Defense Forces, Civil Defense, Railroad Units Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,442,321 males fit for military service: 1,104,901 males reach military age (18) annually: 48,695 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $430 million, 3.0% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Slovenia -------- Map --- Location: 46 00 N, 15 00 E -- Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea, between Croatia and Italy Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea, between Croatia and Italy Geographic coordinates: 46 00 N, 15 00 E Map references: Europe Area: total area: 20,256 sq km land area: 20,256 sq km comparative area: slightly larger than New Jersey Land boundaries: total: 1,207 km border countries: Austria 324 km, Croatia 546 km, Italy 235 km, Hungary 102 km Coastline: 46.6 km Maritime claims: NA International disputes: maritime border dispute with Croatia over direct access to the sea in the Adriatic; 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 lowest point: Adriatic Sea 0 m highest point: Triglav 2,864 m 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, Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Biodiversity, Law of the Sea People ------ Population: 1,951,443 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 17% (male 172,778; female 163,695) 15-64 years: 70% (male 682,501; female 678,781) 65 years and over: 13% (male 91,819; female 161,869) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: -0.27% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 8.27 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9.4 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -1.57 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.57 male(s)/female all ages: 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 7.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.09 years male: 71.4 years female: 79 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.13 children born/woman (1996 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Slovenia conventional short form: Slovenia local long form: Republika Slovenije local short form: Slovenija Data code: SI Type of government: 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: National 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) was reelected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 6 December 1992 (next to be held NA 1997); results - Milan KUCAN reelected head of government: Prime Minister Janez DRNOVSEK (since 14 May 1992) was nominated by the president and elected by the National Assembly cabinet: Council of Ministers was nominated by the prime minister and elected by the National Assembly Legislative branch: unicameral; advisory National Council National Assembly: elections last held 6 December 1992 (next to be held Fall 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (90 total) LDS 22, SKD 15, ZLSD 14, SNS 12, SLS 10, DSS 6, ZS 5, SDSS 4, Hungarian minority 1, Italian minority 1; note - seating as of January 1996 is as follows: LDS 30, SKD 15, ZLSD 14, SLS 12, DSS 4, SDSS 4, SNS 4, SND 3, Hungarian minority 1, Italian minority 1, independents 2 National Council: the Council is an advisory body with no direct legislative powers; in the election of 6 December 1992, 40 members were elected to represent local, professional, and socioeconomic interests (next election to be held NA Fall 1996) Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges are elected by the National Assembly on recommendation of the Judicial Council; Constitutional Court, judges elected for nine-year terms by the National Assembly and nominated by the president 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 Party (SLS), Marjan PODOBNIK, chairman; United List (former Communists and allies - ZLSD), Janez KOCIJANCIC, chairman; Slovene National Party (SNS), Zmago JELINCIC, chairman; Democratic Party (DSS), Tone PERSAK, chairman; Greens of Slovenia (ZS), Dusan PLUT, chairman, note - Greens merged with the LDS; Slovene National Right (SND), Saso LAP, chairman note: parties have changed as of the December 1992 elections Other political or pressure groups: none International organization participation: CCC, CE, CEI, EBRD, ECE, FAO, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC, NAM (guest), OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Ernest PETRIC chancery: 1525 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036 telephone: [1] (202) 667-5363 FAX: [1] (202) 667-4563 consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Victor JACKOVICH embassy: address NA, Ljubljana mailing address: P.O. Box 254, Prazakova 4, 61000 Ljubljana; 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Slovenia appears to be making a solid economic recovery, fulfilling the promise it showed at the time of Yugoslavia's breakup. Its per capita GDP is now the highest in Central and Eastern Europe and not far below the levels in the poorer West European countries. Slovenia has benefited from strong ties to Western Europe and suffered comparatively small physical damage during Yugoslavia's breakup. The beginning was difficult, however. Real GDP fell 15% in 1991-92, while inflation soared to 200% in 1992 and unemployment reached 9%. The turning point came in 1993, when real GDP grew 1%, unemployment leveled off, and inflation slowed dramatically. In 1994, real GDP rose 5.5%, tapering off to an estimated 4.8% in 1995, while inflation and unemployment both were down to about 8% by late 1995. The government gets good marks from foreign observers for fiscal policy - the budget deficit has not exceeded 1% of GDP in any year since 1991, and the current account balance has remained in surplus throughout the transition period, with the exception of 1995. The Slovene privatization program, which began in 1994, involves about 1,400 firms, but only 412 have been privatized. The rest are expected to reach private hands by end-1996, but that does not include firms in so-called strategic industries, such as telecommunications and energy. Foreign investment jumped to an estimated $150 million in 1995 from $83.7 million in 1994. With inflation and unemployment expected to continue edging down, the outlook for 1996 is generally good. A slowdown in Western Europe - which buys 70% of Slovenia's exports - could hurt exports, however, lowering GDP growth to about 4% and perhaps pushing the current account into a small deficit. GDP: purchasing power parity - $22.6 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.8% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $11,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 5.3% industry: 39.9% services: 54.8% (1992 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 8% (December 1995 est.) Labor force: 786,036 by occupation: agriculture 2%, manufacturing and mining 46% Unemployment rate: 8% (December 1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $6.6 billion expenditures: $6.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (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 Industrial production growth rate: 2% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 2,700,000 kW production: 8.9 billion kWh consumption per capita: 4,470 kWh (1993) Agriculture: potatoes, hops, wheat, sugar beets, corn, grapes; cattle, sheep, poultry Illicit drugs: transit point for Southwest Asian heroin bound for Western Europe Exports: $8.3 billion (f.o.b., 1995 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 30.9%, former Yugoslavia 14.0%, Italy 14.1%, France 8.9%, Austria 6.4%, CEFTA (Central European Free Trade Agreement) countries 5% (January-August 1995 est.) Imports: $9.1 billion (f.o.b., 1995 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 23.3%, Italy 16.8%, former Yugoslavia 7.0%, France 8.5%, Austria 9.7% (January-August 1995 est.) External debt: $2.9 billion (1995) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $5 million (1993) Currency: 1 tolar (SlT) = 100 stotins Exchange rates: tolars (SlT) per US$1 - 121.27 (November 1995), 118.9 (1995), 128.81 (1994), 113.24 (1993), 81.29 (1992), 27.57 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 1,201 km standard gauge: 1,201 km 1.435-m gauge (electrified 499 km) (1994) Highways: total: 14,794 km paved: 13,314 km (including 187 km of expressways) unpaved: 1,480 km (1994 est.) Waterways: NA Pipelines: crude oil 290 km; natural gas 305 km Ports: Izola, Koper, Piran Merchant marine: total: 14 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 229,727 GRT/290,456 DWT (controlled by Slovenian owners) ships by type: bulk 9, cargo 1, container 4 note: ships operate under the flags of Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, Singapore, Liberia, and Antigua and Barbuda; no ships remain under the Slovenian flag (1995 est.) 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 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 527,800 (1993 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM 6, FM 5, shortwave 0 note: there are more than 20 regional and local radio broadcast stations Radios: 596,100 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 7 note: there are more than 20 local cable television broadcast stations Televisions: 454,400 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Slovene Defense Forces Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 525,925 males fit for military service: 419,456 males reach military age (19) annually: 15,350 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: 13.5 billion tolars, 3.6% of GDP (1995 est.); note - conversion of the military budget into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results ====================================================================== @Solomon Islands --------------- Map --- Location: 8 00 S, 159 00 E -- Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Papua New Guinea Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Papua New Guinea Geographic coordinates: 8 00 S, 159 00 E 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Makarakomburu 2,447 m 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 - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea People ------ Population: 412,902 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 46% (male 96,241; female 92,722) 15-64 years: 51% (male 107,482; female 104,293) 65 years and over: 3% (male 6,129; female 6,035) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.35% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 37.91 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 4.41 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.02 male(s)/female all ages: 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 25.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 71.14 years male: 68.67 years female: 73.74 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.43 children born/woman (1996 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Solomon Islands former: British Solomon Islands Data code: BP Type of government: parliamentary democracy Capital: Honiara Administrative divisions: 7 provinces and 1 town*; Central, Guadalcanal, Honiara*, Isabel, Makira, Malaita, Temotu, Western note: there may be two new provinces of Choiseul (Lauru) and Rennell/Bellona and the administrative unit of Honiara may have been abolished 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) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General Moses PITAKAKA (since 10 June 1994) who was appointed for up to five years by the queen on the advice of Parliament head of government: Prime Minister Solomon MAMALONI (since 7 November 1994) was elected by and from Parliament; Deputy Prime Minister Danny PHILIP (since NA October 1995) was appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister from among the members of Parliament cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister from among the members of Parliament Legislative branch: unicameral National Parliament: elections last held 26 May 1993 (next to be held NA 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (47 total) GNUR 21, PAP 7, NAPSI 5, SILP 4, UP 4, independents 6 Judicial branch: High Court Political parties and leaders: National Unity and Reconciliation Group (GNUR), Solomon MAMALONI; People's Alliance Party (PAP); National Action Party (NAPSI), leader NA; Solomon Islands Labor Party (SILP), leader NA; United Party (UP), leader NA; Nationalist Front for Progress (NFP), Andrew NORI; Labor Party (LP), Joses TUHANUKU; Christian Fellowship, leader NA International organization participation: 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: Solomon Islands do not have an embassy in the US; the ambassador to the US traditionally resides in Honiara (Solomon Islands) US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Solomon Islands (embassy closed July 1993); the ambassador to Papua New Guinea is accredited to the Solomon Islands 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 government of the Solomon Islands is nearing financial insolvency. In mid-1995 the central bank suspended interest and principal payments on government bonds and treasury bills held by financial institutions and the general public. The government has taken no steps to restrain expenditure or address the deficit, which is expected to be considerably higher than the $20 million forecasted in the 1996 budget. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1 billion (1992 est.) GDP real growth rate: 8% (1992 est.) GDP per capita: $2,590 (1992 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 13% (1994) Labor force: 26,842 by occupation: services 41.5%, agriculture, forestry, and fishing 23.7%, commerce, transport, and finance 21.7%, construction, manufacturing, and mining 13.1% (1992 est.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $81.3 million expenditures: $101.9 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: copra, fish (tuna) Industrial production growth rate: -3.8% (1991 est.) Electricity: capacity: 21,000 kW production: 30 million kWh consumption per capita: 80 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cocoa, beans, coconuts, palm kernels, rice, potatoes, vegetables, fruit; cattle, pigs; timber; fish Exports: $94 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: fish 46%, timber 31%, palm oil 5%, cocoa, copra partners: Japan 39%, UK 23%, Thailand 9%, Australia 5%, US 2% (1991) Imports: $101 million (c.i.f., 1993) 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.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Solomon Islands dollar (SI$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Solomon Islands dollars (SI$) per US$1 - 3.3713 (2d quarter 1995), 3.2914 (1994), 3.1877 (1993), 2.9281 (1992), 2.7148 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 1,300 km paved: 30 km unpaved: 1,270 km note: in addition, there are 800 km of private logging and plantation roads of varied surface (1982 est.) Ports: Aola Bay, Honiara, Lofung, Noro, Viru Harbor, Yandina Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 30 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: 18 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 9 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 5,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 4, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 38,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 (1987 est.) Televisions: 2,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: no regular military forces; Solomon Islands National Reconnaissance and Surveillance Force; Royal Solomon Islands Police (RSIP) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Somalia ------- Map --- Location: 10 00 N, 49 00 E -- Eastern Africa, bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, east of Ethiopia Flag ---- Description: light blue with a large white five-pointed star in the center; design based on the flag of the UN (Italian Somaliland was a UN trust territory) Geography --------- Location: Eastern Africa, bordering the Gulf of Aden and the Indian Ocean, east of Ethiopia Geographic coordinates: 10 00 N, 49 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Shimbiris 2,450 m 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 Geographic note: strategic location on Horn of Africa along southern approaches to Bab el Mandeb and route through Red Sea and Suez Canal People ------ Population: 9,639,151 (July 1996 est.) note: this estimate was derived from an official census taken in 1987 by the Somali Government with the cooperation of the UN and the US Bureau of the Census; population estimates are updated year by year between census years by factoring growth rates into them, and by taking account of refugee movements, and of losses due to famine; lower estimates of Somalia's population in mid-1996 (on the order of 6.0 to 6.5 million) have been made by aid and relief agencies, based on the number of persons being fed; population counting in Somalia is complicated by the large numbers of nomads and by refugee movements in response to famine and clan warfare Age structure: 0-14 years: 44% (male 2,143,775; female 2,139,104) 15-64 years: 52% (male 2,609,911; female 2,387,620) 65 years and over: 4% (male 182,991; female 175,750) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.1% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 44.17 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 13.22 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.09 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.04 male(s)/female all ages: 1.05 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 121.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 55.49 years male: 55.18 years female: 55.8 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 7.01 children born/woman (1996 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% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Somalia former: Somali Republic Data code: SO Type of government: 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, which became independent from the Italian-administered UN trusteeship on 1 July 1960, to form the Somali Republic) National holiday: NA Constitution: 25 August 1979, presidential approval 23 September 1979 Legal system: NA Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: Somalia has no functioning government; the United Somali Congress (USC) ousted the regime of Major General Mohamed SIAD Barre on 27 January 1991; the present political situation is one of anarchy, marked by interclan fighting and random banditry Legislative branch: unicameral People's Assembly People's Assembly (Golaha Shacbiga): not functioning Judicial branch: Supreme Court (not functioning) Political parties and leaders: the United Somali Congress (USC) ousted the former regime on 27 January 1991; formerly the only party was the Somali Revolutionary Socialist Party (SRSP), headed by former President and Commander in Chief of the Army Major General Mohamed SIAD Barre Other political or pressure groups: numerous clan and subclan factions are currently vying for power International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, CAEU, ECA, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGADD, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO (observer) Diplomatic representation in US: Somalia does not have an embassy in the US (ceased operations on 8 May 1991) US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Somalia; US interests are represented by the US Embassy in Nairobi at Moi Avenue and Haile Selassie Avenue; mail address: P. O. Box 30137, Unit 64100, Nairobi; APO AE 09831; telephone: [254] (2) 334141; FAX [254] (2) 340838 Flag: light blue with a large white five-pointed star in the center; design based on the flag of the UN (Italian Somaliland was a UN trust territory) Economy ------- Economic overview: One of the world's poorest and least developed countries, Somalia has few resources. Moreover, much of the economy has been devastated by the civil war. Agriculture is the most important sector, with livestock accounting for about 40% of GDP and about 65% of export earnings. Nomads and seminomads, who are dependent upon livestock for their livelihood, make up a large portion of the population. Crop production generates only 10% of GDP and employs about 20% of the work force. The main export crop is bananas; sugar, sorghum, and corn are grown for the domestic market. The small industrial sector is based on the processing of agricultural products and accounts for less than 10% of GDP; most facilities have been shut down because of the civil strife. The greatly increased political turmoil of 1991-93 resulted in a substantial drop in agricultural output, with widespread famine. In 1994 economic conditions stabilized in the countryside, followed in 1995 by slight improvements. However, ongoing civil strife in Mogadishu and outlying areas is interfering with any substantial recovery. GDP: purchasing power parity - $3.6 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $500 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA Labor force: 3.7 million (very few are skilled laborers)(1993 est.) by occupation: agriculture (mostly pastoral nomadism) 71%, industry and services 29% Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: a few small industries, including sugar refining, textiles, petroleum refining (mostly shut down) Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 75,000 kW prior to the civil war, but now largely shut down due to war damage; some localities operate their own generating plants, providing limited municipal power; note - UN and relief organizations use their own portable power systems production: NA kWh consumption per capita: NA kWh Agriculture: bananas, sorghum, corn, mangoes, sugarcane; cattle, sheep, goats; fishing potential largely unexploited Exports: $100 million (1995 est.) commodities: bananas, live animals, fish, hides partners: Saudi Arabia, other Gulf states, Italy, US (bananas) Imports: $249 million (1990 est.) commodities: petroleum products, foodstuffs, construction materials partners: US 13%, Italy, FRG, Kenya, UK, Saudi Arabia (1986) External debt: $1.9 billion (1989) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Somali shilling (So. Sh.) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Somali shillings (So. Sh.) per US$1 - approximately 7,000 (January 1996), 5,000 (1 January 1995), 2,616 (1 July 1993), 4,200 (December 1992), 3,800.00 (December 1990), 490.7 (1989), Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 22,500 km paved: 2,700 km unpaved: 19,800 km (1992 est.) Pipelines: crude oil 15 km Ports: Bender Cassim (Boosaaso), Berbera, Chisimayu (Kismaayo), Merca, Mogadishu Merchant marine: total: 2 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,529 GRT/6,892 DWT ships by type: cargo 1, refrigerated cargo 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 52 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 3 with paved runways 2 438 to 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: 6 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 4 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 15 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 20 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 9,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: the public telecommunications system was completely destroyed or dismantled by the civil war factions; all relief organizations depend on their own private systems domestic: recently, local cellular telephone systems have been established in Mogadishu and in several other population centers international: international connections are available from Mogadishu by satellite Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA (there are at least five radio broadcast stations of NA type) Radios: 350,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 (Somalia's only TV station was demolished during the civil strife, sometime in 1991) Televisions: 113,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: NA; note - no functioning central government military forces; clan militias continue to battle for control of key economic or political prizes Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,333,994 males fit for military service: 1,301,954 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @South Africa ------------ Map --- Location: 29 00 S, 24 00 E -- Southern Africa, at the southern tip of the continent of Africa Flag ---- Description: two equal width horizontal bands of red (top) and blue separated by a central green band which splits into a horizontal Y, the arms of which end at the corners of the hoist side, embracing a black isoceles triangle from which the arms are separated by narrow yellow bands; the red and blue bands are separated from the green band and its arms by narrow white stripes Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, at the southern tip of the continent of Africa Geographic coordinates: 29 00 S, 24 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Njesuthi 3,408 m 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 international agreements: party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the Sea Geographic note: South Africa completely surrounds Lesotho and almost completely surrounds Swaziland People ------ Population: 41,743,459 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 36% (male 7,578,639; female 7,428,123) 15-64 years: 60% (male 12,356,753; female 12,516,467) 65 years and over: 4% (male 744,806; female 1,118,671) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.76% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 27.91 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 10.32 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.67 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 48.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 59.47 years male: 57.21 years female: 61.8 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.43 children born/woman (1996 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: 11 official languages, including Afrikaans, English, Ndebele, Pedi, Sotho, Swazi, Tsonga, Tswana, Venda, Xhosa, Zulu Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 81.8% male: 81.9% female: 81.7% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of South Africa conventional short form: South Africa abbreviation: RSA Data code: SF Type of government: republic Capital: Pretoria (administrative); Cape Town (legislative); Bloemfontein (judicial) Administrative divisions: 9 provinces; Eastern Cape, Free State, Gauteng, KwaZulu-Natal, Mpumalanga, North-West, Northern Cape, Northern Province, 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); note - on 8 May 1996, the Constitutional Assembly voted 421 to two to pass a new constitution which, after certification by the Constitutional Court, will gradually go into effect over a three-year period and come into full force with the next national elections in April 1999 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: President Nelson MANDELA (since 10 May 1994); Deputy Executive Presidents Thabo MBEKI (since 10 May 1994) and Frederik W. DE KLERK (since 10 May 1994) were elected by the National Assembly 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; moreover, any party that wins 20 or more seats in the National Assembly is entitled to become a member of the governing coalition; currently, the ANC, the IFP, and the NP constitute a Government of National Unity (GNU) cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president Legislative branch: bicameral National Assembly: elections last held 26-29 April 1994 (next to be held NA April 1999); results - ANC 62.6%, NP 20.4%, IFP 10.5%, FF 2.2%, DP 1.7%, PAC 1.2%, ACDP 0.5%, other 0.9%; seats - (400 total) ANC 252, NP 82, IFP 43, FF 9, DP 7, PAC 5, ACDP 2 Senate: the Senate is composed of members who are nominated by the nine provincial parliaments (which are elected in parallel with the National Assembly) and has special powers to protect regional interests, including the right to limited self-determination for ethnic minorities; seats - (90 total) ANC 61, NP 17, FF 4, IFP 5, DP 3 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 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), Tony LEON, president; Pan-Africanist Congress (PAC), Clarence MAKWETU, president; African Christian Democratic Party (ACDP), Kenneth MESHOE, president note: in addition to these seven parties which received seats in the National Assembly, 11 other parties won votes in the national elections in April 1994 Other political or pressure groups: NA International organization participation: BIS, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ISO, ITU, MTCR, NAM, OAU, SACU, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Franklin SONN chancery: 3051 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 232-4400 consulate(s) general: Beverly Hills (California), Chicago, and New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador James A. JOSEPH 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 horizontal Y, the arms of which end at the corners of the hoist side, embracing a black isoceles triangle from which the arms are separated by narrow yellow bands; the red and blue bands are separated from the green band and its arms by narrow white stripes 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 a steady export-led growth path, and to cut back the enormous numbers of unemployed. The economy in recent years has absorbed less than 5% of the more than 300,000 workers entering the labor force annually. Local economists estimate that the economy must grow between 5% and 6% in real terms annually to absorb all of the new entrants, much less reduce the accumulated total. GDP: purchasing power parity - $215 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3.3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $4,800 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 8.7% (1995) Labor force: 14.2 million economically active (1996) by occupation: services 35%, agriculture 30%, industry 20%, mining 9%, other 6% Unemployment rate: 32.6% (1996 est.); an additional 11% underemployment Budget: revenues: $30.5 billion expenditures: $38 billion, including capital expenditures of $2.6 billion (FY94/95 est.) Industries: mining (world's largest producer of platinum, gold, chromium), automobile assembly, metalworking, machinery, textile, iron and steel, chemical, fertilizer, foodstuffs Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 39,750,000 kW production: 163 billion kWh consumption per capita: 3,482 kWh (1993) Agriculture: corn, wheat, sugarcane, fruits, vegetables; cattle, poultry, sheep, wool, milk, beef 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; illicit cultivation of marijuana Exports: $27.9 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: gold 27%, other minerals and metals 20%-25%, food 5%, chemicals 3% (1994) partners: Italy, Japan, US, Germany, UK, other EU countries, Hong Kong Imports: $27 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: machinery 32%, transport equipment 15%, chemicals 11%, oil, textiles, scientific instruments (1994) partners: Germany, US, Japan, UK, Italy External debt: $22 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA note: current aid pledges include US $600 million over three years ending in 1996; UK $150 million over three years; Australia $21 million over three years; Japan $1.3 billion over two years ending in 1996; EU $833 million over five years Currency: 1 rand (R) = 100 cents Exchange rates: rand (R) per US$1 - 3.6417 (January 1996), 3.6266 (1995), 3.5490 (1994), 3.2636 (1993), 2.8497 (1992), 2.7563 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 21,431 km narrow gauge: 20,995 km 1.067-m gauge (9,087 km electrified); 436 km 0.610-m gauge (1995) Highways: total: 182,329 km paved: 55,428 km (including 2,040 km of expressways) unpaved: 126,901 km (1991 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 667 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 10 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 4 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 44 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 75 with paved runways under 914 m: 221 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 33 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 280 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 5,206,235 (1993 est.) Telephone system: the system is the best developed, most modern, and has the highest capacity in Africa domestic: consists of carrier-equipped open-wire lines, coaxial cables, microwave radio relay links, fiber-optic cable, and radiotelephone communication stations; key centers are Bloemfontein, Cape Town, Durban, Johannesburg, Port Elizabeth, and Pretoria international: 1 submarine cable; satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 2 Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 14, FM 286, shortwave 0 Radios: 12.1 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 67 (1987 est.) Televisions: 3.45 million (1990 est.) Defense ------- Branches: South African National Defense Force (SANDF; includes Army, Navy, Air Force, and Medical Services), South African Police Service (SAPS) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 10,686,976 males fit for military service: 6,502,265 males reach military age (18) annually: 424,854 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $2.9 billion, 2.2% of GDP (FY95/96) ====================================================================== @South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands -------------------------------------------- (dependent territory of the UK) Map --- Location: 54 30 S, 37 00 W -- Southern South America, islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, east of the tip of South America Flag ---- Description: the flag of the UK is used Geography --------- Location: Southern South America, islands in the South Atlantic Ocean, east of the tip of South America Geographic coordinates: 54 30 S, 37 00 W 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Paget 2,915 m 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 Geographic 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 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands conventional short form: none Data code: SX Type of government: 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 (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952), a hereditary monarch, is represented by Commissioner David Everard TATHAM (since August 1992; resident at Stanley, Falkland Islands) Legislative branch: no elections Judicial branch: none Flag: the flag of the UK is used Economy ------- Economic 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) Transportation -------------- Highways: total: NA km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Ports: Grytviken Airports: none Communications -------------- Telephones: NA Telephone system: domestic: NA international: coastal radiotelephone station at Grytviken Radio broadcast stations: AM 0, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 0 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK ====================================================================== @Spain ----- Map --- Location: 40 00 N, 4 00 W -- Southwestern Europe, bordering the Bay of Biscay, Mediterranean Sea, and North Atlantic Ocean, southwest of France Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southwestern Europe, bordering the Bay of Biscay, Mediterranean Sea, and North Atlantic Ocean, southwest of France Geographic coordinates: 40 00 N, 4 00 W 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 border countries: Andorra 65 km, France 623 km, Gibraltar 1.2 km, Portugal 1,214 km note: excludes the length of the boundary between the places of sovereignty and Morocco 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Pico de Teide on Canary Islands 3,718 m 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 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 Geographic note: strategic location along approaches to Strait of Gibraltar People ------ Population: 39,181,114 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 16% (male 3,237,942; female 3,055,881) 15-64 years: 68% (male 13,380,956; female 13,352,582) 65 years and over: 16% (male 2,566,728; female 3,587,025) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.16% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 10.04 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.86 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0.44 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.07 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.72 male(s)/female all ages: 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 6.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.26 years male: 74.95 years female: 81.81 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.26 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 96% male: 98% female: 94% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Kingdom of Spain conventional short form: Spain local short form: Espana Data code: SP Type of government: 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) is a hereditary monarch head of government: Prime Minister Jose Maria AZNAR (since 5 May 1996) was proposed by the king and voted into office by the National Assembly on 4 May 1996; AZNAR's Popular Party defeated Felipe GONZALEZ Marques's Socialist Workers Party in the 3 March 1996 legislative election; Deputy Prime Minister (vacant) cabinet: Council of Ministers was 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 3 March 1996 (next to be held by March 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (256 total) PP 132, PSOE 96, CiU 11, PNV 6, IU 2, others 9 Congress of Deputies (Congreso de los Diputados): elections last held 3 March 1996 (next to be held by March 2000); results - PP 38.9%, PSOE 37.5%, IU 10.7%, CiU 4.6%; seats - (350 total) PSOE 141, PP 156, IU 21, CiU 16, other 16 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Tribunal Supremo) Political parties and leaders: principal national parties from right to left: Popular Party (PP), Jose Maria AZNAR Lopez; Spanish Socialist Workers Party (PSOE), Felipe GONZALEZ Marquez, secretary general; Spanish Communist Party (PCE), Julio ANGUITA Gonzalez; United Left (IU - a coalition of parties including the PCE, a branch of the PSOE, and other small parties), Julio ANGUITA Gonzalez chief regional parties: Convergence and Union (CiU), Jordi PUJOL, secretary general (a coalition of the Democratic Convergence of Catalonia (CDC), Pere ESTEVE, and the Democratic Union of Catalonia (UDC), Josep Antoni DURAN LLEIDA); Basque Nationalist Party (PNV), Xabier ARZALLUS Antia and Jose Antonio ARDANZA; Basque United People (HB or Herri Batasuna, ETA's political wing), Juan Cruz IDIGORAS; 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); Workers Confederation (CC.OO); the Socialist General Union of Workers (UGT), and the smaller independent Workers Syndical Union (USO); business and landowning interests; the Catholic Church; Opus Dei; university students International organization participation: AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD, ECE, ECLAC, EIB, ESA, EU, FAO, G- 8, 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, OSCE, PCA, UN, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNU, UPU, WCL, WEU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Jaime De OJEDA Eiseley chancery: 2375 Pennsylvania Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20037 telephone: [1] (202) 452-0100, 728-2340 FAX: [1] (202) 833-5670 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, 577-2301 FAX: [34] (1) 577-5735 consulate(s) general: Barcelona 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Spain, with a mixed capitalist economy and a per capita GDP two-thirds that of the four leading economies of Western Europe, has shared with these countries the recession of the early 1990s, the gradual upturn of 1994-95, and the ongoing controversies over the timing and terms of European economic union. Reduction of the budget deficit - at 5.9% of GDP in 1995 - to meet the Maastricht monetary convergence criterion of 3% by 1997 remains the primary goal of Spanish economic policy, but political pressures had kept the Socialist government from implementing the full range of reforms necessary to meet this goal. Spain's official unemployment rate of 23% is the highest in the EU, and the troubled Socialists had been reluctant to cut social spending. Parliament rejected the administration's proposed 1996 budget because of political wrangling - not because of great differences with the substance of the spending plan - forcing the government to continue spending at 1995 levels and use piecemeal decrees to raise consumption taxes to a level consistent with inflation. The conservative opposition Popular Party, now in power after ending 13 years of Socialist rule in the spring of 1996, has promised to cut government spending, loosen regulations on financial markets, and lower taxes to spur job creation. The conservatives have stated support for Spain's role in the EU but also have cautioned against harming Spain's economy by moving too quickly to meet the criteria for monetary union. GDP: purchasing power parity - $565 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $14,300 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 3.6% industry: 33.6% services: 62.8% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 4.3% (1995) Labor force: 11.837 million by occupation: services 59%, industry 21%, agriculture 11%, construction 9% (1993 est.) Unemployment rate: 22.8% (yearend 1995) Budget: revenues: $96.8 billion expenditures: $122.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $5.7 billion (1994 est.) Industries: textiles and apparel (including footwear), food and beverages, metals and metal manufactures, chemicals, shipbuilding, automobiles, machine tools, tourism Industrial production growth rate: 7% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 43,800,000 kW production: 148 billion kWh consumption per capita: 3,545 kWh (1993) Agriculture: grain, vegetables, olives, wine grapes, sugar beets, citrus; beef, pork, poultry, dairy products; 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 Exports: $85 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: cars and trucks, semifinished manufactured goods, foodstuffs, machinery partners: EU 68.7%, US 4.9%, other developed countries 7.9% (1994) Imports: $110 billion (c.i.f., 1995) commodities: machinery, transport equipment, fuels, semifinished goods, foodstuffs, consumer goods, chemicals partners: EU 60.9%, US 7.3%, other developed countries 11.5%, Middle East 6.2% (1994) External debt: $90 billion (1993 est.) Economic aid: donor: ODA, $1.213 billion (1993) Currency: 1 peseta (Pta) = 100 centimos Exchange rates: pesetas (Ptas) per US$1 - 123.19 (January 1996), 124.69 (1995), 133.96 (1994), 127.26 (1993), 102.38 (1992), 103.91 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 14,343 km broad gauge: 12,139 km 1.668-m gauge (6,510 km electrified; 2,295 km double track) standard gauge: 488 km 1.435-m gauge (488 km electrified) narrow gauge: 1,716 km (privately owned: 1,669 km 1.000-m gauge, 489 km electrified; 28 km 0.914-m gauge, 28 km electrified; government owned: 19 km 1.000-m gauge, all electrified) Highways: total: 331,961 km paved: 328,641 km (including 2,700 km of expressways) unpaved: 3,320 km (1991 est.) 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: 147 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 874,688 GRT/1,391,421 DWT ships by type: bulk 9, cargo 36, chemical tanker 11, combination ore/oil 1, container 8, liquefied gas tanker 4, oil tanker 25, passenger 2, refrigerated cargo 12, roll-on/roll-off cargo 32, short-sea passenger 6, specialized tanker 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 96 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: 15 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 13 with paved runways under 914 m: 28 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 12 (1995 est.) Heliports: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 12.6 million (1990 est.) Telephone system: generally adequate, modern facilities domestic: NA international: 22 coaxial submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean), NA Eutelsat, NA Inmarsat, and NA Marecs; tropospheric scatter to adjacent countries Radio broadcast stations: AM 190, FM 406 (repeaters 134), shortwave 0 Radios: 12 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 100 (repeaters 1,297) Televisions: 15.7 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Marines, Civil Guard, National Police, Coastal Civil Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 10,360,209 males fit for military service: 8,370,197 males reach military age (20) annually: 341,670 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $6.3 billion, 1.4% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Spratly Islands --------------- Map --- Location: 8 38 N, 111 55 E -- Southeastern Asia, group of reefs in the South China Sea, about two-thirds of the way from southern Vietnam to the southern Philippines Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Asia, group of reefs in the South China Sea, about two-thirds of the way from southern Vietnam to the southern Philippines Geographic coordinates: 8 38 N, 111 55 E Map references: Southeast Asia Area: total area: NA sq km but less than 5 sq km land area: less than 5 sq km comparative area: NA note: includes 100 or so islets, coral reefs, and sea mounts scattered over the South China Sea Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 926 km Maritime claims: NA International disputes: 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 economic zone, which encompasses Louisa Reef, but has not publicly claimed the island Climate: tropical Terrain: flat lowest point: South China Sea 0 m highest point: unnamed location on Southwest Cay 4 m Natural resources: fish, guano, undetermined oil and natural gas potential 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; serious maritime hazard because of numerous reefs and shoals international agreements: NA Geographic note: strategically located near several primary shipping lanes in the central South China Sea; includes numerous small islands, atolls, shoals, and coral reefs People ------ Population: no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are scattered garrisons Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Spratly Islands Data code: PG Economy ------- Economic overview: Economic activity is limited to commercial fishing. The proximity to nearby oil- and gas-producing sedimentary basins suggests the potential for oil and gas deposits, but the region is largely unexplored, and there are no reliable estimates of potential reserves; commercial exploitation has yet to be developed. Industries: none Transportation -------------- Ports: none Airports: total: 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephone system: domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: NA Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: about 50 small islands or reefs are occupied by China, Malaysia, the Philippines, Taiwan, and Vietnam ====================================================================== @Sri Lanka --------- Map --- Location: 7 00 N, 81 00 E -- Southern Asia, island in the Indian Ocean, south of India Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern Asia, island in the Indian Ocean, south of India Geographic coordinates: 7 00 N, 81 00 E 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 lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Pidurutalagala 2,524 m 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, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Marine Life Conservation Geographic note: strategic location near major Indian Ocean sea lanes People ------ Population: 18,553,074 (July 1996 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: 28% (male 2,673,943; female 2,559,569) 15-64 years: 66% (male 6,023,759; female 6,171,964) 65 years and over: 6% (male 553,940; female 569,899) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.13% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 17.89 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.8 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.78 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.97 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 20.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 72.35 years male: 69.77 years female: 75.06 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.05 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 90.2% male: 93.4% female: 87.2% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Democratic Socialist Republic of Sri Lanka conventional short form: Sri Lanka former: Ceylon Data code: CE Type of government: 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) was elected for a six-year term by popular vote; note - Sirimavo BANDARANAIKE is the prime minister; in Sri Lanka the president is considered to be both the chief of state and the head of the government, this is in contrast to the more common practice of dividing the roles between the president and the prime minister when both offices exist; election last held 9 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 2000); results - Chandrika Bandaranaike KUMARATUNGA (People's Alliance) 62%, Srima DISSANAYAKE (United National Party) 37%, other 1% cabinet: Cabinet was 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, judges are appointed by the Judicial Service Commission 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), Dingiri Banda WIJETUNGA; 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 International organization participation: AsDB, C, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-24, G-77, 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, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Jayantha Cudah Bandara DHANAPALA chancery: 2148 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 483-4025 through 4028 FAX: [1] (202) 232-7181 consulate(s): New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador A. Peter BURLEIGH embassy: 210 Galle Road, Colombo 3 mailing address: P. O. Box 106, Colombo telephone: [94] (1) 448007 FAX: [94] (1) 437345 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Industry - dominated by the fast-growing apparel industry - has surpassed agriculture as the main source of export earnings. The economy has been plagued by high rates of unemployment since the late 1970s. Economic growth accelerated in 1991-94 as domestic conditions began to improve and conditions for foreign investment brightened. In 1995, however, the government's emphasis on populist measures and its preoccupation with the stepped-up Tamil insurgency have clouded Sri Lanka's economic prospects and discouraged foreign investors. A further problem for 1996 is the need to curb government overspending. GDP: purchasing power parity - $65.6 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $3,600 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 24% industry: 24% services: 52% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 8.4% (1994 est.) Labor force: 6.1 million by occupation: agriculture 45%, services 37%, industry 18% (1993 est.) Unemployment rate: 13% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $2.7 billion expenditures: $3.7 billion, including capital expenditures of $851 million (1995) Industries: processing of rubber, tea, coconuts, and other agricultural commodities; clothing, cement, petroleum refining, textiles, tobacco Industrial production growth rate: 9% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 1,410,000 kW production: 3.2 billion kWh consumption per capita: 168 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rice, sugarcane, grains, pulses, oilseed, roots, spices, tea, rubber, coconuts; milk, eggs, hides, meat Exports: $3.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: garments and textiles, teas, diamonds, other gems, petroleum products, rubber products, other agricultural products, marine products, graphite partners: US 34.7%, UK, Germany, Japan, Netherlands, France (1994) Imports: $4.8 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: textiles and textile materials, machinery and equipment, transport equipment, food, petroleum, building materials partners: Japan, India, UK, Hong Kong, South Korea, Taiwan, Singapore, China (1994) External debt: $8.8 billion (1994 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $423 million (1993) Currency: 1 Sri Lankan rupee (SLRe) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Sri Lankan rupees (SLRes) per US$1 - 54.158 (January 1996), 51.252 (1995), 49.415 (1994), 48.322 (1993), 43.830 (1992), 41.372 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 1,484 km broad gauge: 1,459 km 1.676-m gauge narrow gauge: 25 km .762-m gauge (1995) Highways: total: 94,651 km paved: 25,749 km unpaved: 68,902 km (1990) 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 220,508 GRT/329,410 DWT ships by type: bulk 2, cargo 13, container 1, oil tanker 2, refrigerated cargo 8 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 13 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 6 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 6 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 175,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: very inadequate domestic service, good international service domestic: NA international: submarine cables to Indonesia and Djibouti; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 12, FM 5, shortwave 0 Radios: 3.525 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 5 Televisions: 865,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Police Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 5,085,306 males fit for military service: 3,960,070 males reach military age (18) annually: 180,825 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $640 million, 4.4% of GDP (1996) ====================================================================== @Sudan ----- Map --- Location: 15 00 N, 30 00 E -- Northern Africa, bordering the Red Sea, between Egypt and Eritrea Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and black with a green isosceles triangle based on the hoist side Geography --------- Location: Northern Africa, bordering the Red Sea, between Egypt and Eritrea Geographic coordinates: 15 00 N, 30 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Red Sea 0 m highest point: Kinyeti 3,187 m Natural resources: petroleum; small reserves of 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 international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling Geographic note: largest country in Africa; dominated by the Nile and its tributaries People ------ Population: 31,547,543 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 46% (male 7,389,616; female 7,080,044) 15-64 years: 52% (male 8,219,080; female 8,172,544) 65 years and over: 2% (male 387,961; female 298,298) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.48% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 41.08 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 11.46 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 5.17 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.3 male(s)/female all ages: 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 76 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 55.12 years male: 54.2 years female: 56.09 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.89 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 46.1% male: 57.7% female: 34.6% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: SU Type of government: transitional - previously ruling military junta; presidential and National Assembly elections held in March 1996; new constitution to be drafted by the National Assembly Capital: Khartoum Administrative divisions: 9 states (wilayat, singular - wilayat or wilayah*); A'ali an Nil (Upper Nile), Al Wusta*, Al Istiwa'iyah* (Equatoria), Al Khartum, Ash Shamaliyah*, Ash Sharqiyah*, Bahr al Ghazal, Darfur, Kurdufan note: on 14 February 1994, the 9 states comprising Sudan were divided into 26 new states; the following spellings have been reported but not approved by the US Board on Geographic Names (Bahr Aljebal, Blue Nile, Bohayrat, East Equatoria, Gedarif, Gezira, Jungle, Kassala, Khartoum, North, North Bahr Alghazal, North Darfur, North Kordofan, Red Sea, River Nile, Sinnar, South Darfur, South Kordofan, Unity, Upper Nile, Warab, West Bahr Alghazal, West Darfur, West Kordofan, West Equatoria, White Nile) 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; new constitution to be drafted following national elections held in March 1996 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: NA years of age; universal, but noncompulsary Executive branch: chief of state and head of government: President Lt. General Umar Hasan Ahmad al-BASHIR (since 16 October 1993) was elected to a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 6-17 March 1996 (next to be held NA 2001); results - President al-BASHIR won 75.7% of the vote and defeated about forty other candidates; First Vice President Major General al-Zubayr Muhammad SALIH (since 19 October 1993), Second Vice President (Police) Maj. General George KONGOR AROP (since NA February 1994) note: al-BASHIR, as chairman of the Revolutionary Command Council for National Salvation (RCC), assumed power on 30 June 1989 and served concurrently as chief of state, chairman of the RCC, prime minister, and minister of defense until 16 October 1993 when he was appointed president by the RCC; upon its dissolution on 16 October 1993, the RCC's executive and legislative powers were devolved to the president and the Transitional National Assembly (TNA), Sudan's appointed legislative body, which has since been replaced by the National Assembly which was elected in March 1996 cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president; note - on 30 October 1993, President al-BASHIR announced a new, predominantly civilian cabinet, consisting of 20 federal ministers, most of whom retained their previous cabinet positions; on 9 February 1995, he abolished three ministries and redivided their portfolios to create several new ministries; these changes increased National Islamic Front presence at the ministerial level and consolidated its control over the Ministry of Foreign Affairs; President al-BASHIR's government is dominated by members of Sudan's National Islamic Front, a fundamentalist political organization formed from the Muslim Brotherhood in 1986; front leader Hasan al-TURABI dominates much of Khartoum's overall domestic and foreign policies; President al-BASHIR is expected to name a new cabinet following the elections held in March 1996 Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly: elections last held 6-17 March 1996 (next to be held NA); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (400 total, 275 directly elected, and 125 elected by a supra assembly of interest groups known as the National Congress); note - March 1996 elections were held on a nonparty basis and parties are to be banned in the new National Assembly 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 International organization participation: ABEDA, ACP, AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, CAEU, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGADD, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNU, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (observer) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador-designate Mahdi IBRAHIM chancery: 2210 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 338-8565 through 8570 FAX: [1] (202) 667-2406 US diplomatic representation: operations in Khartoum were suspended in February 1996; Ambassador to Sudan Timothy M. CARNEY and several members of the mission have relocated to Nairobi, Kenya and operate out of the US Embassy there; the embassy is located at the corner of Moi Avenue and Haile Selassie Avenue; mailing address: P. O. Box 30137, Unit 64100, APO AE 09831; telephone: [254] (2) 334141; FAX: [254] (2) 340838 Flag: three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and black with a green isosceles triangle based on the hoist side Economy ------- Economic overview: Sudan is buffeted by civil war, chronic political instability, adverse weather, high inflation, a drop in remittances from abroad, and counterproductive economic policies. The private sector's main areas of activity are agriculture and trading, with most private industrial investment predating 1980. Agriculture employs 80% of the work force. Industry mainly processes agricultural items. Sluggish economic performance over the past decade, attributable largely to declining annual rainfall, has reduced levels of per capita income and consumption. A large foreign debt and huge arrearages continue to cause difficulties. In 1990 the International Monetary Fund took the unusual step of declaring 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, measures it has partially implemented. The government's continued prosecution of the civil war and its growing international isolation continued to inhibit growth in the nonagricultural sectors of the economy during 1995. Agricultural production in 1995, while fairly good, was not up to the bumper crop level of 1994. GDP: purchasing power parity - $25 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 0% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $800 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 33% industry: 17% services: 50% (1992 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 66% (1995 est.) Labor force: 8.9 million (1993 est.) by occupation: agriculture 80%, industry and commerce 10%, government 6% note: labor shortages for almost all categories of skilled employment (1983 est.) Unemployment rate: 30% (FY92/93 est.) Budget: revenues: $382 million expenditures: $1.06 billion, including capital expenditures of $91 million (1995 est.) Industries: cotton ginning, textiles, cement, edible oils, sugar, soap distilling, shoes, petroleum refining Industrial production growth rate: 6.8% (FY92/93 est.) Electricity: capacity: 500,000 kW production: 1.3 billion kWh consumption per capita: 42 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cotton, oilseed, sorghum, millet, wheat, gum arabic; sheep Exports: $535 million (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: cotton 24%, livestock/meat 13%, gum arabic 11% partners: EU 39%, Saudi Arabia 19%, Japan 9%, US 3% (1993) Imports: $1.1 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.) commodities: foodstuffs, petroleum products, manufactured goods, machinery and equipment, medicines and chemicals, textiles partners: EU 31%, Libya 19%, Egypt 5%, Saudi Arabia 5%, US 5% (1993) External debt: $18 billion (yearend 1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $387 million (1993) Currency: 1 Sudanese pound (LSd) = 100 piastres Exchange rates: Sudanese pounds (LSd) per US$1 - official rate: 750.0 (November 1995), 277.8 (1994), 153.8 (1993), 69.4 (1992), 5.4288 (1991); market rate: 571.02 (August 1995), 289.61 (1994), 159.31 (1993), 97.43 (1992), 6.96 (1991) note: the market rate is a unified exchange rate determined by a committee of local bankers, without official intervention, and is quoted uniformly by all commercial banks Fiscal year: calendar year note: prior to July 1995, Sudan had a fiscal year that began on 1 July and ended on 30 June; as a transition to their new fiscal year, a six-month budget was implemented for 1 July - 31 December 1995; the new calendar year (1 January - 31 December) fiscal year became effective 1 January 1996 Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 5,516 km narrow gauge: 4,800 km 1.067-m gauge; 716 km 1.6096-m gauge plantation line Highways: total: 19,885 km paved: 1,989 km unpaved: 17,896 km (1986 est.) 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/57,985 DWT ships by type: cargo 3, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 56 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 8 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 3 with paved runways under 914 m: 7 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 13 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 25 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 77,215 (1983 est.) Telephone system: large, well-equipped system by African standards, but barely adequate and poorly maintained by modern standards domestic: consists of microwave radio relay, cable, radiotelephone communications, tropospheric scatter, and a domestic satellite system with 14 earth stations international: satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) and 1 Arabsat Radio broadcast stations: AM 11, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 6.67 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 3 Televisions: 2.06 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Popular Defense Force Militia Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 7,152,884 males fit for military service: 4,399,445 males reach military age (18) annually: 329,460 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Suriname -------- Map --- Location: 4 00 N, 56 00 W -- Northern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between French Guiana and Guyana Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Northern South America, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between French Guiana and Guyana Geographic coordinates: 4 00 N, 56 00 W 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: unnamed location in the coastal plain -2 m highest point: Wilhelmina Gebergte 1,286 m 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, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Law of the Sea Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 436,418 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 34% (male 74,959; female 71,500) 15-64 years: 62% (male 136,287; female 132,407) 65 years and over: 4% (male 9,930; female 11,335) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.6% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 24.15 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.84 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -2.36 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.88 male(s)/female all ages: 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 29.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 70.04 years male: 67.51 years female: 72.7 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.68 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 93% male: 95.1% female: 91% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Suriname conventional short form: Suriname local long form: Republiek Suriname local short form: Suriname former: Netherlands Guiana, Dutch Guiana Data code: NS Type of government: 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) and Prime Minister Jules R. AJODHIA (since 16 September 1991), who is also the vice president, were elected for five-year terms by the National Assembly; election last held 6 September 1991 (next to be held NA May 1996); results - elected by the National Assembly - Ronald VENETIAAN (NF) 80% (645 votes), Jules WIJDENBOSCH (NDP) 14% (115 votes), Hans PRADE (DA '91) 6% (49 votes) cabinet: Cabinet of Ministers was appointed by the president from among the 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, justices nominated for life 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), a coalition of two parties (AF, and BEP) formed in January 1991, Winston JESSURUN; Alternative Forum (AF), Gerard BRUNINGS; Party for Brotherhood and Unity in Politics (BEP), Caprino ALLENDY; Pendawa Lima, Marsha JAMIN; National Democratic Party (NDP), Desire BOUTERSE; Progressive Workers' and Farm Laborers' Union (PALU), Ir Iwan KROLIS; The Alliance, a combination of three parties (DP, HPP, PVF), Ernie BRUNINGS; Democratic Party (DP), Ernie BRUNINGS; Reformed Progressive Party (HPP), Harry KISOENSINGH; Party of the Federation of Land Workers PVF), Jwan SITAL 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 International organization participation: ACP, Caricom, ECLAC, FAO, G-77, IADB, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFAD, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, ITU, LAES, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMIH, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Willem A. UDENHOUT chancery: Suite 108, 4301 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 244-7488, 7490 through 7492 FAX: [1] (202) 244-5878 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, American Embassy Paramaribo, Department of State, Washington, DC, 20521-3390 telephone: [597] 472900, 477881, 476459 FAX: [597] 420800 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy is dominated by the bauxite industry, which accounts for upwards of 15% of GDP and more than 65% of export earnings. Following a dismal year in 1994 which saw the value of the Surinamese currency plummet by about 80%, inflation rise to more than 600%, and national output fall for the fifth consecutive year, nearly all economic indicators improved in 1995. The VENETIAAN government unified the exchange rate and the currency gained some of its lost value. In addition, inflation fell to double digits and tax revenues increased sufficiently to nearly erase the budget deficit. The release of substantial development aid from the Netherlands - which had been held up due to the government's failure to initiate economic reforms - also helped buoy the economy. Suriname's economic prospects for the medium term will depend on continued implementation of needed economic restructuring; the outcome of the national elections in May 1996 will be an important factor in determining future government policy. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1.3 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 0.7% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,950 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 21.6% industry: 23.7% services: 54.7% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 62% (1995) Labor force: 98,240 by occupation: agriculture, industry, services Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $300 million expenditures: $700 million, including capital expenditures of $70 million (1994 est.) Industries: bauxite mining, alumina and aluminum production, lumbering, food processing, fishing Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 420,000 kW production: 1.4 billion kWh consumption per capita: 3,123 kWh (1993) Agriculture: paddy rice, bananas, palm kernels, coconuts, plantains, peanuts; beef, chicken; forest products and shrimp of increasing importance Illicit drugs: transshipment point for South American drugs destined for the US and Europe Exports: $293.6 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: alumina, aluminum, shrimp and fish, rice, bananas partners: Norway 33%, Netherlands 26%, US 13%, Japan 6%, Brazil 6%, UK 3% (1992) Imports: $194.3 million (f.o.b., 1994 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.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Surinamese guilder, gulden, or florin (Sf.) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Surinamese guilders, gulden, or florins (Sf.) per US$1 - central bank midpoint rate: 402.32 (December 1995), 442.23 (1995), 134.12 (1994); parallel rate: 412 (December 1995), 510 (December 1994), 109 (January 1994) note: beginning July 1994, the central bank midpoint exchange rate was unified and became market determined Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 166 km (single track) standard gauge: 80 km 1.435-m gauge narrow gauge: 86 km 1.000-m gauge Highways: total: 4,470 km paved: 1,162 km unpaved: 3,308 km (1990) 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, New 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 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 38 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 31 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 6 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 43,522 (1992 est.) Telephone system: international facilities good domestic: microwave radio relay network international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 5, FM 14, shortwave 1 Radios: 290,256 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 6 (1987 est.) Televisions: 59,598 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: National Army (includes small Navy and Air Force elements), Civil Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 119,010 males fit for military service: 70,400 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Svalbard -------- (territory of Norway) Map --- Location: 78 00 N, 20 00 E -- Northern Europe, islands between the Arctic Ocean, Barents Sea, Greenland Sea, and Norwegian Sea, north of Norway Flag ---- Description: the flag of Norway is used Geography --------- Location: Northern Europe, islands between the Arctic Ocean, Barents Sea, Greenland Sea, and Norwegian Sea, north of Norway Geographic coordinates: 78 00 N, 20 00 E Map references: Arctic Region Area: total area: 62,049 sq km land area: 62,049 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than West Virginia note: includes Spitsbergen and Bjornoya (Bear Island) Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 3,587 km Maritime claims: exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm unilaterally claimed by Norway but not recognized by Russia territorial sea: 4 nm International disputes: focus of maritime boundary dispute in the Barents Sea between Norway and Russia Climate: arctic, tempered by warm North Atlantic Current; cool summers, cold winters; North Atlantic Current flows along west and north coasts of Spitsbergen, keeping water open and navigable most of the year Terrain: wild, rugged mountains; much of high land ice covered; west coast clear of ice about one-half of the year; fjords along west and north coasts lowest point: Arctic Ocean 0 m highest point: Newtontoppen 1,717 m Natural resources: coal, copper, iron ore, phosphate, zinc, wildlife, fish Land use: arable land: 0% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 0% forest and woodland: 0% other: 100% (no trees and the only bushes are crowberry and cloudberry) Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: NA natural hazards: ice floes often block up the entrance to Bellsund (a transit point for coal export) on the west coast and occasionally make parts of the northeastern coast inaccessible to maritime traffic international agreements: NA Geographic note: northernmost part of the Kingdom of Norway; consists of nine main islands; glaciers and snowfields cover 60% of the total area People ------ Population: 2,715 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: -4.01% (1996 est.) Birth rate: NA births/1,000 population Death rate: NA deaths/1,000 population Net migration rate: NA migrant(s)/1,000 population Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female 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 Ethnic divisions: Russian and Ukrainian 62%, Norwegian 38%, other NEGL% (1994) Languages: Russian, Norwegian Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Svalbard Data code: SV Type of government: territory of Norway administered by the Ministry of Industry, Oslo, through a governor (sysselmann) residing in Longyearbyen, Spitsbergen; by treaty (9 February 1920) sovereignty was given to Norway Capital: Longyearbyen Independence: none (territory of Norway) National holiday: NA Legal system: NA Executive branch: Chief of State: King HARALD V (of Norway since 17 January 1991) is a hereditary monarch Head of Government: Governor Ann-Krisitin OLSEN (since NA) and Assistant Governor Jan-Atle HANSEN (since NA September 1993) are responsible to the Polar Department of the Ministry of Justice note: Norwegian inhabitants participate in Norwegian national elections International organization participation: none Flag: the flag of Norway is used Economy ------- Economic overview: Coal mining is the major economic activity on Svalbard. By treaty (9 February 1920), the nationals of the treaty powers have equal rights to exploit mineral deposits, subject to Norwegian regulation. Although US, UK, Dutch, and Swedish coal companies have mined in the past, the only companies still mining are Norwegian and Russian. The settlements on Svalbard are essentially company towns. The Norwegian state-owned coal company employs nearly 60% of the Norwegian population on the island, runs many of the local services, and provides most of the local infrastructure. There is also some trapping of seal, polar bear, fox, and walrus. Labor force: NA Budget: revenues: $11.6 million expenditures: $11.6 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 21,000 kW production: 45 million kWh consumption per capita: 13,860 kWh (1992) Currency: 1 Norwegian krone (NKr) = 100 oere Exchange rates: Norwegian kroner (NKr) per US$1 - 6.4160 (January 1996), 6.3352 (1995), 7.0576 (1994), 7.0941 (1993), 6.2145 (1992), 6.4829 (1991) Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: NA km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Ports: Barentsburg, Longyearbyen, Ny-Alesund, Pyramiden Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 4 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 3 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: NA Telephone system: domestic: local telephone service international: satellite earth station - 1 of NA type (for communication with Norwegian mainland only) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 1 (repeaters 2), shortwave 0 note: there are five meteorological/radio stations Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: demilitarized by treaty (9 February 1920) ====================================================================== @Swaziland --------- Map --- Location: 26 30 S, 31 30 E -- Southern Africa, between Mozambique and South Africa Flag ---- Description: three horizontal bands of blue (top), red (triple width), and blue; the red band is edged in yellow; centered in the red band is a large black and white shield covering two spears and a staff decorated with feather tassels, all placed horizontally Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, between Mozambique and South Africa Geographic coordinates: 26 30 S, 31 30 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 17,360 sq km land area: 17,200 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than New Jersey Land boundaries: total: 535 km border countries: Mozambique 105 km, South Africa 430 km Coastline: 0 km (landlocked) Maritime claims: none (landlocked) 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: varies from tropical to near temperate Terrain: mostly mountains and hills; some moderately sloping plains lowest point: Great Usutu River 21 m highest point: Emlembe 1,862 m Natural resources: asbestos, coal, clay, cassiterite, hydropower, forests, small gold and diamond deposits, quarry stone, and talc Land use: arable land: 11% permanent crops: NEGL meadows and pastures: 62% forest and woodland: 7% other: 20% Irrigated land: 640 sq km (1993 est.) Environment: current issues: limited access to potable water; wildlife populations being depleted because of excessive hunting; overgrazing; soil degradation; soil erosion natural hazards: NA international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the Sea Geographic note: landlocked; almost completely surrounded by South Africa People ------ Population: 998,730 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 46% (male 227,634; female 229,129) 15-64 years: 52% (male 247,156; female 271,096) 65 years and over: 2% (male 9,864; female 13,851) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.24% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 42.91 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 10.56 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 0.99 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.91 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.71 male(s)/female all ages: 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 88.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 57.26 years male: 53.25 years female: 61.4 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.05 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Swazi(s) adjective: Swazi Ethnic divisions: African 97%, European 3% Religions: Christian 60%, indigenous beliefs 40% Languages: English (official, government business conducted in English), siSwati (official) Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 76.7% male: 78% female: 75.6% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Kingdom of Swaziland conventional short form: Swaziland Data code: WZ Type of government: monarchy; independent member of Commonwealth Capital: Mbabane (administrative); Lobamba (legislative) Administrative divisions: 4 districts; Hhohho, Lubombo, Manzini, Shiselweni Independence: 6 September 1968 (from UK) National holiday: Somhlolo (Independence) Day, 6 September (1968) Constitution: none; constitution of 6 September 1968 was suspended 12 April 1973; a new constitution was promulgated 13 October 1978, but has not been formally presented to the people Legal system: based on South African Roman-Dutch law in statutory courts and Swazi traditional law and custom in traditional courts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: NA; note - no suffrage before September 1993; 55 of the 65 seats in the House of Assembly were filled by popular vote in the elections of September and October 1993; of a population of less than 1 million, the electorate numbered 283,693 Executive branch: chief of state: King MSWATI III (since 25 April 1986) is a hereditary monarch head of government: Prime Minister Prince Jameson Mbilini DLAMINI (since 12 November 1993); appointed by the king cabinet: Cabinet; designated by the king Legislative branch: bicameral Parliament is advisory Senate: consists of 30 members (10 appointed by the House of Assembly and 20 appointed by the king) House of Assembly: elections last held 26 September and 11 October 1993 (next to be held NA); results - balloting is done on a nonparty basis; of the total of 65 seats, 10 are appointed by the king and 55 are elected by secret, popular vote; candidates for election are nominated by the local council of each constituency and for each constituency the three candidates with the most votes in the first round of voting are narrowed to a single winner by a second round Judicial branch: High Court, judges are appointed by the king; Court of Appeal, judges are appointed by the king Political parties and leaders: note: political parties are banned by the constitution promulgated on 13 October 1978; illegal parties are prohibited from holding large public gatherings illegal parties: Peoples' United Democratic Movement (PUDEMO), Mario MASUKU; Swaziland Youth Congress (SWAYOCO), Benedict TSABEDZE; Swaziland Communist Party (SWACOPA), Mphandlana SHONGWE; Swaziland Liberation Front (FROLISA); Convention for Full Democracy in Swaziland (COFUDESWA), Sabelo DLAMINI; Swaziland National Front (SWANAFRO); Ngwane Socialist Revolutionary Party (NGWASOREP) International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, NAM, OAU, PCA, SACU, SADC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Mary Madzandza KHANYA chancery: 3400 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 362-6683, 6685 FAX: [1] (202) 244-8059 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador John T. SPROTT embassy: Central Bank Building, Warner Street, Mbabane mailing address: P. O. Box 199, Mbabane telephone: [268] 46441 through 46445 FAX: [268] 45959 Flag: three horizontal bands of blue (top), red (triple width), and blue; the red band is edged in yellow; centered in the red band is a large black and white shield covering two spears and a staff decorated with feather tassels, all placed horizontally Economy ------- Economic overview: This small landlocked economy is based largely on subsistence agriculture, which occupies more than 60% of the population. Manufacturing features a number of agroprocessing factories. Mining has declined in importance in recent years; high-grade iron ore deposits were depleted by 1978, and health concerns cut world demand for asbestos. Exports of sugar and forestry products are the main earners of hard currency. Surrounded by South Africa, except for a short border with Mozambique, Swaziland is heavily dependent on South Africa, from which it receives 90% of its imports and to which it sends about half of its exports. Remittances from Swazi workers in South African mines supplement domestically produced income by as much as 20%. Overgrazing, soil depletion, and drougth persist as problems for the future. GDP: purchasing power parity - $3.6 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.6% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $3,700 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 25% industry: 40% services: 35% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 14.7% (1995 est.) Labor force: 160,355 (1986 est.) by occupation: private sector about 65%, public sector 35% Unemployment rate: 15% (1992 est.) Budget: revenues: $342 million expenditures: $410 million, including capital expenditures of $130 million (1994 est.) Industries: mining (coal and asbestos), wood pulp, sugar Industrial production growth rate: 4.2% (1993 est.) Electricity: capacity: 120,000 kW production: 410 million kWh consumption per capita: 1,003 kWh (1993) Agriculture: sugarcane, cotton, maize, tobacco, rice, citrus, pineapples, corn, sorghum, peanuts; cattle, goats, sheep Exports: $798 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: sugar, edible concentrates, wood pulp, cotton yarn, asbestos partners: South Africa 50%, EU countries, Canada Imports: $827 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: motor vehicles, machinery, transport equipment, petroleum products, foodstuffs, chemicals partners: South Africa 90%, Switzerland, UK 2.6% External debt: $240 million (1992) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 lilangeni (E) = 100 cents Exchange rates: emalangeni (E) per US$1 - 3.6417 (January 1996), 3.6266 (1995), 3.5490 (1994), 3.2636 (1993), 2.8497 (1992), 2.7563 (1991), 2.5863 (1990); note - the Swazi emalangeni is at par with the South African rand Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 297 km; note - includes 71 km which are not in use narrow gauge: 297 km 1.067-m gauge (single track) Highways: total: 2,960 km paved: 804 km unpaved: 2,156 km (1993 est.) Ports: none Airports: total: 17 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 10 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 6 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 30,364 (1993 est.) Telephone system: domestic: system consists of carrier-equipped, open-wire lines and low-capacity, microwave radio relay international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 7, FM 6, shortwave 0 Radios: 129,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 10 Televisions: 12,500 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Umbutfo Swaziland Defense Force (Army), Royal Swaziland Police Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 220,097 males fit for military service: 127,285 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $22 million, NA% of GDP (FY93/94) ====================================================================== @Sweden ------ Map --- Location: 62 00 N, 15 00 E -- Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, Gulf of Bothnia, and Skagerrak, between Finland and Norway Flag ---- Description: 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) Geography --------- Location: Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, Gulf of Bothnia, and Skagerrak, between Finland and Norway Geographic coordinates: 62 00 N, 15 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Baltic Sea 0 m highest point: Kebnekaise 2,111 m 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 international agreements: party to - Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea Geographic note: strategic location along Danish Straits linking Baltic and North Seas People ------ Population: 8,900,954 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 19% (male 860,940; female 815,967) 15-64 years: 64% (male 2,884,687; female 2,794,593) 65 years and over: 17% (male 654,439; female 890,328) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.56% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 11.55 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 11.43 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 5.48 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.74 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 4.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 78.06 years male: 75.62 years female: 80.63 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.72 children born/woman (1996 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 Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1979 est.) total population: 99% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Kingdom of Sweden conventional short form: Sweden local long form: Konungariket Sverige local short form: Sverige Data code: SW Type of government: 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 1523, Gustav VASA was elected king; 6 June 1809, a constitutional monarchy was 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) is a constitutional monarch; Heir Apparent Princess VICTORIA Ingrid Alice Desiree, daughter of the King (born 14 July 1977) head of government: Prime Minister Goran PERSSON (since 21 March 1996) was elected by the Riksdag cabinet: Cabinet was 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 4.0% of votes for a seat in parliament Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Hogsta Domstolen), judges are appointed by the government (prime minister and cabinet) Political parties and leaders: Social Democratic Party, Goran PERSSON; Moderate Party (conservative), Carl BILDT; Liberal People's Party, Maria LEISSNER; Center Party, Olof JOHANSSON; Christian Democratic Party, Alf SVENSSON; New Democracy Party, Vivianne FRANZEN; Left Party (VP; Communist), Gudrun SCHYMAN; Communist Workers' Party, Rolf HAGEL; Green Party, no formal leader but party spokesperson is Briger SCHLAUG International organization participation: AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD, ECE, EIB, ESA, EU, FAO, G- 6, G- 8, G- 9, G-10, 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), NC, NEA, NIB, NSG, OECD, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMOGIP, UNOMIG, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UPU, WEU (observer), WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Carl Henrik Sihver LILJEGREN chancery: 1501 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20005 telephone: [1] (202) 467-2600 FAX: [1] (202) 467-2699 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) Economy ------- Economic overview: Aided by 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 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 1993, agriculture accounted for only 2% of GDP and 2% of the jobs. In recent years, however, this extraordinarily favorable picture has been clouded by budgetary difficulties, inflation, growing unemployment, and a gradual loss of competitiveness in international markets. In November 1992, Sweden broke its tie to the EC's ECU (European Currency Unit), and depreciation of the krona has boosted export competitiveness and helped lift Sweden out of its 1991-93 recession. To curb the budget deficit and bolster confidence in the economy, the government adopted an adjustment program in November 1994 that aims to eliminate the government budget deficit and to stabilize the debt to GDP ratio. Sweden has harmonized its economic policies with those of the EU, which it joined at the start of 1995. GDP: purchasing power parity - $177.3 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $20,100 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 2% industry: 27% services: 71% (1993) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.6% (1995) 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) Unemployment rate: 7.8% (December 1995) plus about 6% in training programs Budget: revenues: $109.4 billion expenditures: $146.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY95/96) Industries: iron and steel, precision equipment (bearings, radio and telephone parts, armaments), wood pulp and paper products, processed foods, motor vehicles Industrial production growth rate: 11.7% (1994) Electricity: capacity: 34,560,000 kW production: 141 billion kWh consumption per capita: 14,891 kWh (1993) Agriculture: grains, sugar beets, potatoes; meat, milk Illicit drugs: transshipment point for narcotics shipped via the former Soviet Republics and Baltic states for the European market Exports: $61.2 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: machinery, motor vehicles, paper products, pulp and wood, iron and steel products, chemicals, petroleum and petroleum products partners: EU 59.1% (Germany 13.2%, UK 10.2%, Denmark 6.9%, France 5.1%), Norway 8.1%, Finland 4.8%, US 8.0% (1994) Imports: $51.8 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: machinery, petroleum and petroleum products, chemicals, motor vehicles, foodstuffs, iron and steel, clothing partners: EU 62.6% (Germany 18.4%, UK 9.5%, Denmark 6.6%, France 5.5%), Finland 6.3%, Norway 6.1%, US 8.5% (1994) External debt: $66.5 billion (1994) Economic aid: donor: ODA, $1.769 billion (1993) Currency: 1 Swedish krona (SKr) = 100 oere Exchange rates: Swedish kronor (SKr) per US$1 - 6.7240 (January 1996), 7.1333 (1995), 7.7160 (1994), 7.7834 (1993), 5.8238 (1992), 6.0475 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 January - 31 December (Sweden changed its fiscal year from 1 July - 30 June in 1995) Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 12,624 km (includes 953 km of privately-owned railways) standard gauge: 11,767 km 1.435-m gauge (7,320 km electrified and 1,152 km double track) other: 857 km NA-m gauge (1995) Highways: total: 135,859 km paved: 97,818 km (including 936 km of expressways) unpaved: 38,041 km (1991 est.) 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: 169 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,993,422 GRT/2,183,215 DWT ships by type: bulk 10, cargo 35, chemical tanker 24, combination ore/oil 1, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 32, railcar carrier 2, refrigerated cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 38, short-sea passenger 7, specialized tanker 4, vehicle carrier 14 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 251 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: 85 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 26 with paved runways under 914 m: 127 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 4 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 7.41 million (1986 est.) Telephone system: excellent domestic and international facilities; automatic system domestic: coaxial and multiconductor cable carry most voice traffic; parallel microwave radio relay network carries some additional telephone channels international: 5 submarine coaxial cables; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean), 1 Eutelsat, and 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean regions); note - Sweden shares the Inmarsat earth station with the other Nordic countries (Denmark, Finland, Iceland, and Norway) Radio broadcast stations: AM 5, FM 360 (mostly repeaters), shortwave 0 Radios: 7.272 million (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 880 (mostly repeaters) Televisions: 3.5 million Defense ------- Branches: Swedish Army, Royal Swedish Navy, Swedish Air Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,133,816 males fit for military service: 1,867,031 males reach military age (19) annually: 51,357 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $5.8 billion, 2.5% of GDP (FY94/95) ====================================================================== @Switzerland ----------- Map --- Location: 47 00 N, 8 00 E -- Central Europe, east of France Flag ---- Description: red square with a bold, equilateral white cross in the center that does not extend to the edges of the flag Geography --------- Location: Central Europe, east of France Geographic coordinates: 47 00 N, 8 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Lake Maggiore 195 m highest point: Dufourspitze 4,634 m 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, Tropical Timber 94 Geographic note: landlocked; crossroads of northern and southern Europe; along with southeastern France and northern Italy, contains the highest elevations in Europe People ------ Population: 7,207,060 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 17% (male 638,728; female 610,546) 15-64 years: 68% (male 2,495,325; female 2,405,226) 65 years and over: 15% (male 424,394; female 632,841) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.59% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 11.35 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9.64 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 4.2 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.67 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 5.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 77.62 years male: 74.58 years female: 80.82 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.47 children born/woman (1996 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% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: 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) Data code: SZ Type of government: 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 Jean-Pascal DELAMURAZ (1996 calendar year; presidency rotates annually); Vice President Arnold KOLLER (term runs concurrently with that of president); the president is appointed each year from the Federal Council by the Federal Assembly cabinet: Federal Council (German - Bundesrat, French - Censeil Federal, Italian - Consiglio Federale) was elected for a four-year term by the Federal Assembly from among its own members 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 1995 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (46 total) PRD 17, PDC 17, UDC 4, PSS 3, LPS 3, LdU 1, Ticino League 1 National Council: (German - Nationalrat, French - Conseil National, Italian - Consiglio Nazionale); elections last held 20 October 1995 (next to be held NA October 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (200 total) PRD 45, PSS 54, PDC 34, UDC 30, GPS 8, LPS 7, FPS 6, LdU 6, SD 3, EVP 3, PdA 2, Ticino League 2 Judicial branch: Federal Supreme Court, judges elected for six-year terms by the Federal Assembly Political parties and leaders: Radical Free Democratic Party (PRD), Franz STEINEGGER, president; Social Democratic Party (PSS), Peter BODENMANN, president; Christian Democratic People's Party (PDC), Anton COTTIER, president; Swiss People's Party (UDC), Hans UHLMANN, president; Green Party (GPS), Verena DIENER, president; Freedom Party (FPS), Roland BORER; Liberal Party (LPS), Christoph EYMANN, president; Alliance of Independents' Party (LdU), Monica WEBER, president; Ticino League, Giuliano BIGNASCA, president; and other minor parties including Swiss Democratic Party (SD), Workers' Party (PdA), and the Evangelical People's Party (EVP); note - see elections International organization participation: AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, CCC, CE, CERN, EBRD, ECE, EFTA, ESA, FAO, G- 8, G-10, 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), NEA, NSG, OAS (observer), OECD, OSCE, PCA, UN (observer), UNAMIR, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNITAR, UNMOT, UNOMIG, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Carlo JAGMETTI chancery: 2900 Cathedral Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 745-7900 FAX: [1] (202) 387-2564 consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, Pago Pago (American Samoa), and San Francisco US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant) embassy: Jubilaeumstrasse 93, 3005 Bern mailing address: use embassy street address telephone: [41] (31) 357 70 11 FAX: [41] (31) 357 73 44 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Switzerland, a fundamentally prosperous and stable modern economy with a per capita GDP roughly 10% above that of the big West European economies, is experiencing short-term difficulties. After recovering slowly in 1994-95 from recession, the Swiss economy remains weak, mainly because of the strong Swiss franc and weak growth in Swiss export market, especially in other European countries. Over the near term, growth may average barely 1%, with more than one-half of this increase resulting from growth in inventories. Weak domestic consumer demand is the principal culprit; stagnation in real disposable income is combining with a reluctance to reduce saving rates in the face of an uncertain employment outlook. Switzerland's leading sectors, including financial services, biotechnology, pharmaceuticals, and special-purpose machines, will therefore be more reliant on export markets at the same time they are being squeezed by the strong franc. Consequently, growth in machinery and equipment investment, for example, is expected to taper off. On the other side, import growth has been fueled by the strong franc; there are growing indications that Swiss manufacturers are substituting imported inputs for domestic ones. GDP: purchasing power parity - $158.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 1.2% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $22,400 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 3% industry: 33.5% services: 63.5% (1991) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.8% (1995 est.) 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) Unemployment rate: 3.3% (1995) Budget: revenues: $31 billion expenditures: $36.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995) Industries: machinery, chemicals, watches, textiles, precision instruments Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 15,430,000 kW production: 58 billion kWh consumption per capita: 6,699 kWh (1993) Agriculture: grains, fruits, vegetables; meat, eggs Illicit drugs: money-laundering center; transit country for South American cocaine and Southwest Asian heroin 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 Economic aid: donor: ODA, $793 million (1993) Currency: 1 Swiss franc, franken, or franco (SwF) = 100 centimes, rappen, or centesimi Exchange rates: Swiss francs, franken, or franchi (SwF) per US$1 - 1.1810 (January 1996), 1.1825 (1995), 1.3677 (1994), 1.4776 (1993), 1.4062 (1992), 1.4340 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 5,719 km (1,432 km double track) standard gauge: 3,283 km 1.435-m gauge (99% electrified; 310 km nongovernment owned) narrow gauge: 1,255 km 1.000-m gauge (99% electrified; 1,181 km nongovernment owned) other: 1,181 km NA-m gauge (1995) Highways: total: 71,118 km paved: 71,118 km (including 1,514 km of expressways) unpaved: 0 km (1992 est.) 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: 23 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 410,581 GRT/727,744 DWT ships by type: bulk 14, cargo 1, chemical tanker 4, oil tanker 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1, specialized tanker 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 67 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 4 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 4 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: 40 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 5,622,976 (1986 est.) Telephone system: excellent domestic and international services domestic: extensive cable and microwave radio relay networks international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean and Indian Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 7, FM 265, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 18 (repeaters 1,322) Televisions: 2.513 million (1994 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Air Force and Antiaircraft Command, Frontier Guards, Fortification Guards Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,893,587 males fit for military service: 1,623,414 males reach military age (20) annually: 41,425 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $3.74 billion, 1.4% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Syria ----- Map --- Location: 35 00 N, 38 00 E -- Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Lebanon and Turkey Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Middle East, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Lebanon and Turkey Geographic coordinates: 35 00 N, 38 00 E 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 border countries: 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: Golan Heights is Israeli occupied; Hatay question with Turkey; dispute over Turkey's water development plans for the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers; Syrian troops in northern, central, and eastern 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 hitting Damascus Terrain: primarily semiarid and desert plateau; narrow coastal plain; mountains in west lowest point: unnamed location near Lake Tiberias -200 m highest point: Mount Hermon 2,814 m 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 international agreements: party to - Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Desertification, Environmental Modification Geographic note: there are 42 Israeli settlements and civilian land use sites in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights (August 1995 est.) People ------ Population: 15,608,648 (July 1996 est.) note: in addition, there are 31,300 people living in the Israeli-occupied Golan Heights - 16,500 Arabs (15,000 Druze and 1,500 Alawites) and 14,800 Israeli settlers (August 1995 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 47% (male 3,738,671; female 3,557,474) 15-64 years: 50% (male 4,013,355; female 3,843,466) 65 years and over: 3% (male 227,249; female 228,433) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.37% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 39.56 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.86 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1 male(s)/female all ages: 1.05 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 40 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 67.13 years male: 65.94 years female: 68.38 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.91 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 70.8% male: 85.7% female: 55.8% Government ---------- Name of country: 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) Data code: SY Type of government: republic under 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) was reelected for a seven-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 2 December 1991 (next to be held NA December 1998); results - President Hafiz al-ASAD was reelected for a fourth seven-year term with 99.98% of the vote; note - President ASAD seized power in the November 1970 coup, assumed presidential powers 22 February 1971, and was confirmed as president in the 12 March 1971 national elections; Vice Presidents 'Abd al-Halim ibn Said KHADDAM (since NA), Rifaat al-ASAD (since NA), and Muhammad Zuhayr MASHARIQA (since 11 March 1984) were appointed by the president head of government: Prime Minister Mahmud ZUBI (since 1 November 1987), Deputy Prime Ministers Lt. Gen. Mustafa TALAS (since 11 March 1984), Salim YASIN (since NA December 1981), and Rashid AKHTARINI (since 4 July 1992) were appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was 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 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (250 total) National Progressive Front 167, independents 83 Judicial branch: Supreme Constitutional Court, justices are appointed for four-year terms by the president; High Judicial Council; Court of Cassation; State Security Courts Political parties and leaders: National Progressive Front includes: the ruling Arab Socialist Renaissance (Ba'th) Party, Hafiz al-ASAD, president of the republic, secretary general of the party, and chairman of the National Progressive Front; Syrian Arab Socialist Party (ASP), 'Abd al-Ghani KANNUT; Arab Socialist Union (ASU), Jamal ATASSI; Syrian Communist Party (SCP), Wisal FARHAH; Arab Socialist Unionist Movement, Sami SOUFAN; and Democratic Socialist Union Party, Ghassan UTHMAN Other political or pressure groups: non-Ba'th parties have little effective political influence; Communist party ineffective; conservative religious leaders; Muslim Brotherhood International organization participation: 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, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Walid MUALEM chancery: 2215 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 232-6313 FAX: [1] (202) 234-9548 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, 333-0788, 332-0783 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: During 1990-92 Syria's state-dominated economy benefited from the Gulf war, increased oil production, good weather, and economic reform. Economic growth averaged roughly 10%. The war led to a Syrian aid windfall of nearly $5 billion from Arab, European, and Japanese donors. Most positive economic trends ended in 1993 due to the dissipation of the Gulf war boom, a domestic financial crisis, and economic policy missteps. Economic growth has dropped below 5%, income inequality is increasing, the government budget deficit is growing, and international accounts are weakening. For the long run, Syria's economy is saddled with a large number of poorly performing public sector firms and low industrial productivity. Oil production is likely to ebb by the end of the decade. Unemployment will likely rise as the more than 60% of the population under age 20 moves into the labor force. The economic benefits of any peace treaty with Israel will depend in large part on the pace of economic reform. GDP: purchasing power parity - $91.2 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $5,900 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 30% industry: 25% services: 45% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 15.1% (1994 est.) Labor force: 4.7 million (1995 est.) by occupation: services 42%, industry 36%, agriculture 22% (1990 est.) Unemployment rate: 8% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $2.5 billion expenditures: $3.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.) Industries: textiles, food processing, beverages, tobacco, phosphate rock mining, petroleum Industrial production growth rate: 5% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 4,160,000 kW production: 13.2 billion kWh consumption per capita: 865 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, barley, cotton, lentils, chickpeas; beef, lamb, eggs, poultry, milk Illicit drugs: a transit point for Lebanese and Turkish refined cocaine going to Europe and heroin and hashish bound for regional and Western markets Exports: $3.5 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: petroleum 66%, cotton, fruits and vegetables 14%, textiles 9%, animal products 4%, industrial products 3% partners: EU 61%, Arab countries 24%, former CEMA countries, China, Yugoslavia 5%, US and Canada 3% (1993 est.) Imports: $5.4 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: machinery 25%, metal products 16%, transport equipment 15%, foodstuffs 12%, textiles 10% partners: EU 37%, former CEMA countries, China, Yugoslavia 17%, US and Canada 7%, Arab countries 6% (1993 est.) External debt: $21.2 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $259 million (1993) Currency: 1 Syrian pound (LS) = 100 piastres Exchange rates: Syrian pounds (LS) per US$1 - 11.225 (official fixed rate), 26.6 ("blended rate" used by the UN and diplomatic missions), 42.0 ("neighboring country rate" - applies to most state enterprise imports), 48.0 - 52.0 (offshore rate) (1994) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 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 712 km of expressways) unpaved: 7,261 km (1991 est.) Waterways: 870 km; minimal economic importance Pipelines: crude oil 1,304 km; petroleum products 515 km Ports: Baniyas, Jablah, Latakia, Tartus Merchant marine: total: 99 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 294,355 GRT/454,990 DWT ships by type: bulk 12, cargo 85, livestock carrier 1, vehicle carrier 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 99 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: 1 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 62 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 13 (1995 est.) Heliports: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 541,465 (1992 est.) Telephone system: fair system currently undergoing significant improvement and digital upgrades, including fiber-optic technology domestic: coaxial cable and microwave radio relay network international: satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) and 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean region); 1 submarine cable; coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to Iraq, Jordan, Lebanon, and Turkey; participant in Medarabtel Radio broadcast stations: AM 9, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: 3.392 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 17 Televisions: 700,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- 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: 3,590,557 males fit for military service: 2,011,610 males reach military age (19) annually: 164,598 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $875 million, 8% of GDP (1994 est.); note - based on official budget data that understate actual spending ====================================================================== @Taiwan ------ Map --- Location: 23 30 N, 121 00 E -- 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 Flag ---- Description: red with a dark blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner bearing a white sun with 12 triangular rays 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 Geographic coordinates: 23 30 N, 121 00 E Map references: Southeast Asia Area: total area: 35,980 sq km land area: 32,260 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller 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 lowest point: South China Sea 0 m highest point: Yu Shan 3,997 m 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 People ------ Population: 21,465,881 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 23% (male 2,605,495; female 2,436,864) 15-64 years: 69% (male 7,505,344; female 7,252,188) 65 years and over: 8% (male 907,310; female 758,680) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.89% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 15.01 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.52 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.61 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.08 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.07 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.2 male(s)/female all ages: 1.06 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 76.02 years male: 73.43 years female: 78.82 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.76 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 86% male: 93% female: 79% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Taiwan local long form: none local short form: T'ai-wan Data code: TW Type of government: 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); note - 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 (succeeded to the presidency following the death of President CHIANG Ching-kuo 13 January 1988, elected by the National Assembly 21 March 1990, reelected by popular vote in the first-ever direct elections for president 23 March 1996); election last held 23 March 1996 (next to be held NA 2000); results - LI Teng-hui 54%, PENG Ming-min 21%, LIN Yang-kang 15%, and CHEN Li-an 10%; Vice President-elect LIEN Chan (to be inaugurated 20 May 1996) head of government: Premier (President of the Executive Yuan) LIEN Chan (since 23 February 1993) and Vice Premier (Vice President of the Executive Yuan) HSU Li-teh (since 23 February 1993) were appointed by the president; note - LIEN Chan will continue to serve as premier until 20 May 1996 when he will be inaugurated as vice president; a new premier is expected to be appointed sometime in May 1996 cabinet: Executive Yuan was appointed by the president Legislative branch: unicameral Legislative Yuan and unicameral National Assembly Legislative Yuan: elections last held 2 December 1995 (next to be held NA December 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (164 total) KMT 85, DPP 54, CNP 21, independents 4; note - since the election, there has been a change in the distribution of seats - KMT 83, DPP 54, CNP 21, independents 6 National Assembly: elections last held 23 March 1996 (next to be held NA 2000); results - KMT 55%, DPP 30%, CNP 14%, other 1%; seats - (334 total) KMT 183, DPP 99, CNP 46, other 6 Judicial branch: Judicial Yuan, justices nominated and appointed for nine-year terms by the president Political parties and leaders: Kuomintang (KMT, Nationalist Party), LI Teng-hui, chairman; Democratic Progressive Party (DPP), leader NA; Chinese New Party (CNP), leader NA; Labor Party (LP), leader NA 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 International organization participation: APEC, AsDB, BCIE, ICC, IOC, WCL, WTrO (applicant) 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: none; 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, FAX [886] (2) 702-7675, and in Kao-hsiung at #2 Chung Cheng 3d Road, telephone [886] (7) 224-0154 through 0157, FAX [886] (7) 223-8237, and the American Trade Center at Room 3207 International Trade Building, Taipei World Trade Center, 333 Keelung Road Section 1, Taipei 10548, 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 GDP has averaged about 9% a year during the past three decades. Export growth has been even faster and has provided the impetus for industrialization. Inflation and unemployment are 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $290.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $13,510 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 3.6% industry: 37.3% services: 59.1% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 4% (1995 est.) Labor force: 8.874 million by occupation: services 49%, industry 39%, agriculture 11% (1993 est.) Unemployment rate: 1.6% (1995) Budget: revenues: $30.3 billion expenditures: $30.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1991 est.) Industries: electronics, textiles, chemicals, clothing, food processing, plywood, sugar milling, cement, shipbuilding, petroleum refining Industrial production growth rate: 4.5% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 21,460,000 kW production: 108 billion kWh consumption per capita: 4,789 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rice, wheat, corn, soybeans, vegetables, fruit, tea; pigs, poultry, beef, milk; fish catch increasing, reached 1.4 million metric tons in 1988 Illicit drugs: an important heroin transit point; also a drug money laundering center 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%, EU 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%, EU countries 17.6% (1993 est.) External debt: $620 million (1992 est.) Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 New Taiwan dollar (NT$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: New Taiwan dollars per US$1 - 27.4 (1995), 26.2 (1994), 26.6 (1993), 25.4 (1992), 25.748 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: 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: 19,860 km paved: 17,119 km (including 382 km of expressways) unpaved: 2,741 km (1990 est.) 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 5,812,534 GRT/8,885,092 DWT ships by type: bulk 50, cargo 29, combination bulk 3, combination ore/oil 1, container 83, oil tanker 19, refrigerated cargo 11, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 38 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 8 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 12 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 4 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 6 with paved runways under 914 m: 7 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 10,253,773 (1993 est.) Telephone system: best developed system in Asia outside of Japan domestic: extensive microwave radio relay trunk system on east and west coasts international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Pacific Ocean and 1 Indian Ocean); submarine cables 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: 6.66 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy (includes Marines), Air Force, Coastal Patrol and Defense Command, Armed Forces Reserve Command, Combined Service Forces Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 6,278,159 males fit for military service: 4,849,057 males reach military age (19) annually: 204,313 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $11.5 billion, 3.6% of GDP (FY96/97) ====================================================================== @Tajikistan ---------- Tajikistan has experienced three changes of government since it gained independence in September 1991. The current president, Emomali RAHMONOV, was elected in November 1994, yet has been in power since 1992. The country is suffering through its third year of a civil conflict, with no clear end in sight. Underlying the conflict are deeply rooted regional and clan-based animosities that pit a government consisting of people primarily from the Kulob (Kulyab), Khujand (Leninabad), and Hisor (Hissar) regions against a secular and Islamic-led opposition from the Gharm, Gorno-Badakhshan, and Qurghonteppa (Kurgan-Tyube) regions. Government and opposition representatives have held periodic rounds of UN-mediated peace talks and agreed in September 1994 to a cease-fire which has been periodically extended. Russian-led peacekeeping troops are deployed throughout the country, and Russian-commanded border guards are stationed along the Tajik-Afghan border. Map --- Location: 39 00 N, 71 00 E -- Central Asia, west of China Flag ---- Description: three horizontal stripes of red (top), a wider stripe of white, and green; a gold crown surmounted by seven five-pointed gold stars is located in the center of the white stripe Geography --------- Location: Central Asia, west of China Geographic coordinates: 39 00 N, 71 00 E Map references: Commonwealth of Independent 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 border countries: 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 Islamic fighters in Tajikistan's civil war based in northern Afghanistan Climate: midlatitude continental, hot summers, mild winters; semiarid to polar in Pamir Mountains Terrain: Pamir and Altai Mountains dominate landscape; western Fergana Valley in north, Kofarnihon and Vakhsh Valleys in southwest lowest point: Syrdariya 300 m highest point: Qullai Kommunizm 7,495 m Natural resources: significant hydropower potential, some petroleum, uranium, mercury, brown coal, lead, zinc, antimony, tungsten Land use: arable land: 6% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 23% forest and woodland: 0% other: 71% Irrigated land: 6,940 sq km (1990) Environment: current issues: inadequate sanitation facilities; increasing levels of soil salinity; industrial pollution; excessive pesticides; part of the basin of the shrinking Aral Sea suffers from severe overutilization of available water for irrigation and associated pollution natural hazards: NA international agreements: NA Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 5,916,373 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 43% (male 1,282,846; female 1,258,302) 15-64 years: 53% (male 1,546,264; female 1,566,365) 65 years and over: 4% (male 110,705; female 151,891) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.54% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 33.78 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.43 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -9.93 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.73 male(s)/female all ages: 0.99 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 113.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 64.45 years male: 60.84 years female: 68.24 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.38 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Tajik(s) adjective: Tajik Ethnic divisions: Tajik 64.9%, Uzbek 25%, Russian 3.5% (declining because of emigration), other 6.6% Religions: Sunni Muslim 80%, Shi'a Muslim 5% Languages: Tajik (official), Russian widely used in government and business Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1989 est.) total population: 98% male: 99% female: 97% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Tajikistan conventional short form: Tajikistan local long form: Jumhurii Tojikistan local short form: none former: Tajik Soviet Socialist Republic Data code: TI Type of government: republic Capital: Dushanbe Administrative divisions: 2 oblasts (viloyatho, singular - viloyat) and one autonomous oblast* (viloyati avtonomii); Viloyati Avtonomii Badakhshoni Kuni* (Khorugh - formerly Khorog), Viloyati Khatlon (Qurghonteppa - formerly Kurgan-Tyube), Viloyati Leninobod (Khujand - formerly Leninabad) note: the administrative center names are in parentheses Independence: 9 September 1991 (from Soviet Union) National holiday: National Day, 9 September (1991) Constitution: new constitution adopted 6 November 1994 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 Emomali RAHMONOV (since 6 November 1994; was Head of State and Assembly Chairman since NA November 1992) was elected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 6 November 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - Emomali RAHMONOV 58%, Abdumalik ABDULLAJANOV 40% head of government: Prime Minister Yahyo AZIMOV (since 8 February 1996) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president who proposes them to the Supreme Assembly for approval Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Majlisi Oli): elections last held 26 February and 12 March 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; estimated seats - (181 total) Communist Party and affiliates 100, People's Party 10, Party of People's Unity 6, Party of Economic and Political Renewal 1, other 64 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the president Political parties and leaders: People's Party of Tajikistan, Abdumajid DOSTIYEV; Party of People's Unity, Abdumalik ABDULLOJONOR; Tajik Communist Party, Shodi SHABDOLOV; Democratic Party, Jumaboy NIYAZOV, chairman; Islamic Renaissance Party (IRP), Mohammed Sharif HIMMATZODA, chairman; Rebirth (Rastokhez), Takhir ABDUZHABOROV; Lali Badakhshan Society, Atobek AMIRBEK; Tajikistan Party of Economic and Political Renewal (TPEPR); Citizenship, Patriotism, Unity Party, Bobokhon MAHMADOV; Adolatho "Justices" Party, Abdurahmon KARIMOV, chairman Other political or pressure groups: Tajikistan Opposition Movement based in northern Afghanistan, Seyed Abdullah NURI, chairman International organization participation: CIS, EBRD, ECE, ECO, ESCAP, FAO, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, ILO, IMF, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), IOC, IOM, ITU, NACC, OIC, OSCE, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO (observer) Diplomatic representation in US: Tajikistan does not have an embassy in the US, but has a mission at the UN: address - 136 East 67th Street, New York, NY 10021, telephone - [1] (212) 472-7645, FAX - [1] (212) 628-0252 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador R. Grant SMITH embassy: interim chancery, Oktyabrskaya Hotel, 105A Prospect Rudaki, Dushanbe 734001 mailing address: Octyabrskaya Hotel, 105A Prospect Rudaki, Dushanbe, Tajikistan 734001 telephone: [7] (3772) 21-03-56 FAX: Telex (787) 20116 Flag: three horizontal stripes of red (top), a wider stripe of white, and green; a gold crown surmounted by seven five-pointed gold stars is located in the center of the white stripe Economy ------- Economic overview: Tajikistan had the next-to-lowest per capita GDP in the former USSR, the highest rate of population growth, and an extremely low standard of living. Agriculture dominates the economy, with cotton being the most important crop. Mineral resources, varied but limited in amount, include silver, gold, uranium, and tungsten. Industry is limited to a large aluminum plant, hydropower facilities, and small obsolete factories mostly in light industry and food processing. The Tajik economy has been gravely weakened by four years of civil conflict and by the loss of subsidies and markets for its products, which has left Tajikistan dependent on Russia and Uzbekistan and on international humanitarian assistance for much of its basic subsistence needs. Moreover, constant political turmoil and the continued dominance by former communist officials have impeded the introduction of meaningful economic reforms. The regime has made only halfhearted efforts to stabilize the economy and promote reform. GDP: purchasing power parity - $6.4 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994) GDP real growth rate: -12.4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,040 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 28% monthly average (1995 est.) Labor force: 1.95 million (1992) by occupation: agriculture and forestry 43%, government and services 24%, industry 14%, trade and communications 11%, construction 8% (1990) Unemployment rate: 3.3% includes only officially registered unemployed; also large numbers of underemployed workers and unregistered unemployed people (December 1995) Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: aluminum, zinc, lead, chemicals and fertilizers, cement, vegetable oil, metal-cutting machine tools, refrigerators and freezers Industrial production growth rate: -5% (1995) Electricity: capacity: 3,800,000 kW production: 14.8 billion kWh consumption per capita: 2,400 kWh (1995) Agriculture: cotton, grain, fruits, grapes, vegetables; cattle, sheep, goats Illicit drugs: illicit cultivation of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for CIS consumption; used as transshipment point for illicit drugs from Southwest Asia to Western Europe and North America Exports: $707 million (1995) commodities: cotton, aluminum, fruits, vegetable oil, textiles partners: Russia, Kazakstan, Ukraine, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan Imports: $690 million (1995) commodities: fuel, chemicals, machinery and transport equipment, textiles, foodstuffs partners: Russia, Uzbekistan, Kazakstan External debt: $635 million (of which $250 million to Russia) (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $22 million (1993) note: commitments, $885 million (disbursements $115 million) (1992-95) Currency: introduced its own currency, the Tajik ruble, in May 1995 Exchange rates: Tajik rubles per US$1 - 284 (January 1996) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 480 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines (1990) Highways: total: 32,752 km paved: 21,119 km unpaved: 11,633 km (1992 est.) Pipelines: natural gas 400 km (1992) Ports: none Airports: total: 59 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: 7 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 9 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 36 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 303,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: poorly developed and not well maintained; many towns are not reached by the national network domestic: cable and microwave radio relay international: linked by cable and microwave radio relay to other CIS republics, and by leased connections to the Moscow international gateway switch; Dushanbe linked by Intelsat to international gateway switch in Ankara (Turkey); satellite earth stations - 1 Orbita and 2 Intelsat Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA; note - there is one state-owned radio broadcast station Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 1 note: 1 Intelsat earth station provides TV receive-only service from Turkey Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: Army (being formed), Presidential National Guard, Security Forces (internal and border troops) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,358,106 males fit for military service: 1,115,149 males reach military age (18) annually: 58,691 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: 180 billion rubles, 3.4% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Tanzania -------- Map --- Location: 6 00 S, 35 00 E -- Eastern Africa, bordering the Indian Ocean, between Kenya and Mozambique Flag ---- Description: divided diagonally by a yellow-edged black band from the lower hoist-side corner; the upper triangle (hoist side) is green and the lower triangle is blue Geography --------- Location: Eastern Africa, bordering the Indian Ocean, between Kenya and Mozambique Geographic coordinates: 6 00 S, 35 00 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 945,090 sq km land area: 886,040 sq km comparative area: slightly larger than twice the size of California note: includes the islands of Mafia, Pemba, and Zanzibar Land boundaries: total: 3,402 km border countries: Burundi 451 km, Kenya 769 km, Malawi 475 km, Mozambique 756 km, Rwanda 217 km, Uganda 396 km, Zambia 338 km Coastline: 1,424 km Maritime claims: exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: boundary dispute with Malawi in Lake Nyasa; Tanzania-Zaire-Zambia tripoint in Lake Tanganyika may no longer be indefinite since it has been informally reported that the indefinite section of the Zaire-Zambia boundary has been settled Climate: varies from tropical along coast to temperate in highlands Terrain: plains along coast; central plateau; highlands in north, south lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: Kilimanjaro 5,895 m Natural resources: hydropower potential, tin, phosphates, iron ore, coal, diamonds, gemstones, gold, natural gas, nickel Land use: arable land: 5% permanent crops: 1% meadows and pastures: 40% forest and woodland: 47% other: 7% Irrigated land: 1,530 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: soil degradation; deforestation; desertification; destruction of coral reefs threatens marine habitats; recent droughts affected marginal agriculture natural hazards: the tsetse fly and lack of water limit agriculture; flooding on the central plateau during the rainy season international agreements: party to - Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Desertification Geographic note: Kilimanjaro is highest point in Africa People ------ Population: 29,058,470 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 45% (male 6,536,911; female 6,576,752) 15-64 years: 52% (male 7,360,370; female 7,739,500) 65 years and over: 3% (male 396,128; female 448,809) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.15% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 41.31 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 19.47 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -10.36 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) note: the total number of Rwandan and Burundian refugees in Tanzania is about 750,000 Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 0.99 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.95 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.88 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 105.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 42.34 years male: 40.95 years female: 43.78 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.67 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Tanzanian(s) adjective: Tanzanian Ethnic divisions: mainland: native African (95% Bantu, consisting of well over 100 tribes) 99%, Asian, European, and Arab 1% Zanzibar: Arab, mixed Arab and native African, native African Religions: mainland: Christian 45%, Muslim 35%, indigenous beliefs 20% Zanzibar: Muslim more than 99% Languages: Kiswahili or Swahili (official), Kiunguju (name for Swahili in Zanzibar), English (official, primary language of commerce, administration, and higher education), Arabic (widely spoken in Zanzibar), many local languages note: Kiswahili (Swahili) is the mother tongue of Bantu people living in Zanzibar and nearby coastal Tanzania; although Kiswahili is Bantu in structure and origin, its vocabulary draws on a variety of sources, including Arabic and English, and it has become the lingua franca of central and eastern Africa; the first language of most people is one of the local languages Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write Kiswahili (Swahili), English, or Arabic (1995 est.) total population: 67.8% male: 79.4% female: 56.8% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: United Republic of Tanzania conventional short form: Tanzania former: United Republic of Tanganyika and Zanzibar Data code: TZ Type of government: republic Capital: Dar es Salaam note: some government offices have been transferred to Dodoma, which is planned as the new national capital by the end of the 1990s Administrative divisions: 25 regions; Arusha, Dar es Salaam, Dodoma, Iringa, Kigoma, Kilimanjaro, Lindi, Mara, Mbeya, Morogoro, Mtwara, Mwanza, Pemba North, Pemba South, Pwani, Rukwa, Ruvuma, Shinyanga, Singida, Tabora, Tanga, Zanzibar Central/South, Zanzibar North, Zanzibar Urban/West, Ziwa Magharibi Independence: 26 April 1964; Tanganyika became independent 9 December 1961 (from UK-administered UN trusteeship); Zanzibar became independent 19 December 1963 (from UK); Tanganyika united with Zanzibar 26 April 1964 to form the United Republic of Tanganyika and Zanzibar; renamed United Republic of Tanzania 29 October 1964 National holiday: Union Day, 26 April (1964) Constitution: 25 April 1977; major revisions October 1984 Legal system: based on English common law; judicial review of legislative acts limited to matters of interpretation; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Benjamin MKARA (since 22 November 1995) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 29 October-19 November 1995 (next to be held 29 October 2000); results - Benjamin MKARA 62%, MREMA 28%, LIPUMBA 6%, CHEYO 4%; Vice President Omar Ali JUMA (since 22 November 1995); President of Zanzibar Salmin AMOUR (since 27 October 1995); election last held 22 October 1995 (next to be held 22 October 2000); results - Salmin AMOUR 50.2%, HAMAD 49.8% head of government: Prime Minister Fredrick SUMAYE (since 27 November 1995) was appointed by the president cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president from the members of the National Assembly Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Bunge): elections last held 29 October-19 November 1995 (next to be held 29 October 2000); results - percent of total vote by party NA; seats - (274 total, 232 elected) CCM 186, opposition parties 46; of the 42 seats which are not elected some are filled by presidential appointment and others are designated by law for specific officials Judicial branch: Court of Appeal; High Court Political parties and leaders: Chama Cha Mapinduzi (CCM or Revolutionary Party), Ali Hassan MWINYI; Civic United Front (CUF), Seif Sharif HAMAD; National Convention for Construction and Reform (NCCR), Lyatonga (Augustine) MREMA; Union for Multiparty Democracy (UMD), Abdullah FUNDIKIRA; Chama Cha Demokrasia na Maendeleo (CHADEMA), Edwin I. M. MTEI, chairman; Democratic Party (unregistered), Reverend MTIKLA; United Democratic Party (UDP), John CHEYO International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, EADB, ECA, FAO, G- 6, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ISO, ITU, NAM, OAU, SADC, UN, UNAVEM III, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Mustafa Salim NYANG'ANYI chancery: 2139 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 939-6125 FAX: [1] (202) 797-7408 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador J. Brady ANDERSON embassy: 36 Laibon Road (off Bagamoyo Road), Dar es Salaam mailing address: P. O. Box 9123, Dar es Salaam telephone: [255] (51) 66010 through 66015 FAX: [255] (51) 66701 Flag: divided diagonally by a yellow-edged black band from the lower hoist-side corner; the upper triangle (hoist side) is green and the lower triangle is blue Economy ------- Economic overview: Tanzania is one of the poorest countries in the world. The economy is heavily dependent on agriculture, which accounts for 58% of GDP, provides 85% of exports, and employs 90% of the work force. Topography and climatic conditions, however, limit cultivated crops to only 5% of the land area. Industry accounts for 8% of GDP and is mainly limited to processing agricultural products and light consumer goods. The economic recovery program announced in mid-1986 has generated notable increases in agricultural production and financial support for the program by bilateral donors. The World Bank, the International Monetary Fund, and bilateral donors have provided funds to rehabilitate Tanzania's deteriorated economic infrastructure. Growth in 1991-94 has featured a pickup in industrial production and a substantial increase in output of minerals, led by gold. Recent banking reforms have helped increase private sector growth and investment. GDP: purchasing power parity - $23.1 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.7% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $800 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 58% industry: 8% services: 34% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 25% (1994 est.) Labor force: 13.495 million by occupation: agriculture 90%, industry and commerce 10% (1986 est.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $495 million expenditures: $631 million, including capital expenditures of $118 million (1990 est.) Industries: primarily agricultural processing (sugar, beer, cigarettes, sisal twine), diamond and gold mining, oil refining, shoes, cement, textiles, wood products, fertilizer Industrial production growth rate: 9.3% (1990) Electricity: capacity: 440,000 kW production: 880 million kWh consumption per capita: 30 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, sisal, tea, cotton, pyrethrum (insecticide made from chrysanthemums), cashews, tobacco, cloves (Zanzibar), corn, wheat, cassava (tapioca), bananas, fruits, vegetables; cattle, sheep, goats Illicit drugs: growing role in transshipment of Southwest Asian heroin destined for European and US markets Exports: $462 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: coffee, cotton, tobacco, tea, cashew nuts, sisal partners: Germany, UK, Japan, Netherlands, Kenya, Hong Kong, US Imports: $1.4 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: manufactured goods, machinery and transportation equipment, cotton piece goods, crude oil, foodstuffs partners: Germany, UK, US, Japan, Italy, Denmark External debt: $6.7 billion (1993) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Tanzanian shilling (TSh) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Tanzanian shillings (TSh) per US$1 - 558.18 (December 1995), 574.76 (1995), 509.63 (1994), 405.27 (1993), 297.71 (1992), 219.16 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 3,569 km (1995) narrow gauge: 2,600 km 1.000-m gauge; 969 km 1.067-m gauge note:: the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA), which operates 1,860 km of 1.067-m narrow gauge track between Dar es Salaam and New Kapiri M'poshi in Zambia is not a part of Tanzania Railways Corporation; 969 km are in Tanzania and 891 km are in Zambia; because of the difference in gauge, this system does not connect to Tanzania Railways Highways: total: 55,600 km paved: 20,572 km (including 50 km of expressways) unpaved: 35,028 km (1992 est.) Waterways: Lake Tanganyika, Lake Victoria, Lake Nyasa Pipelines: crude oil 982 km Ports: Bukoba, Dar es Salaam, Kigoma, Lindi, Mkoani, Mtwara, Musoma, Mwanza, Tanga, Wete, Zanzibar Merchant marine: total: 8 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 30,371 GRT/41,269 DWT ships by type: cargo 3, oil tanker 2, passenger-cargo 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 111 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: 6 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 28 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 15 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 57 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 137,000 (1989 est.) Telephone system: fair system operating below capacity domestic: open wire, microwave radio relay, tropospheric scatter international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 12, FM 4, shortwave 0 Radios: 640,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 2 (1987 est.) Televisions: 45,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Tanzanian People's Defense Force (TPDF; includes Army, Navy, and Air Force), paramilitary Police Field Force Unit, Militia Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 6,499,244 males fit for military service: 3,765,193 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $69 million, NA% of GDP (FY94/95) ====================================================================== @Thailand -------- Map --- Location: 15 00 N, 100 00 E -- Southeastern Asia, bordering the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, southeast of Burma Flag ---- Description: five horizontal bands of red (top), white, blue (double width), white, and red Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Asia, bordering the Andaman Sea and the Gulf of Thailand, southeast of Burma Geographic coordinates: 15 00 N, 100 00 E 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 border countries: 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 Cambodia in dispute; maritime boundary with Cambodia 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 lowest point: Gulf of Thailand 0 m highest point: Doi Inthanon 2,576 m 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 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 Geographic note: controls only land route from Asia to Malaysia and Singapore People ------ Population: 58,851,357 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 25% (male 7,627,916; female 7,351,264) 15-64 years: 69% (male 19,994,884; female 20,576,141) 65 years and over: 6% (male 1,468,814; female 1,832,338) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.03% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 17.29 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 7 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.97 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.8 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 33.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 68.6 years male: 64.89 years female: 72.49 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.89 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 93.8% male: 96% female: 91.6% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Kingdom of Thailand conventional short form: Thailand Data code: TH Type of government: 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 (Bangkok), Lampang, Lamphun, Loei, Lop Buri, Mae Hong Son, Maha Sarakham, Mukdahan, Nakhon Nayok, Nakhon Pathom, Nakhon Phanom, Nakhon Ratchasima, Nakhon Sawan, Nakhon Si Thammarat, Nan, Narathiwat, Nong Bua Lamphu, Nong Khai, Nonthaburi, Pathum Thani, Pattani, Phangnga, Phatthalung, Phayao, Phetchabun, Phetchaburi, Phichit, Phitsanulok, Phra Nakhon Si Ayutthaya, Phrae, Phuket, Prachin Buri, Prachuap Khiri Khan, Ranong, Ratchaburi, Rayong, Roi Et, Sa Kaeo, Sakon Nakhon, Samut Prakan, Samut Sakhon, Samut Songkhram, Sara Buri, Satun, Sing Buri, Sisaket, Songkhla, Sukhothai, Suphan Buri, 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: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: King PHUMIPHON Adunyadet (since 9 June 1946) is a constitutional monarch; Heir Apparent Crown Prince WACHIRALONGKON (born 28 July 1952) head of government: Prime Minister BANHAN Sinlapa-acha (since 13 July 1995); prime minister must be appointed from among the members of the House of Representatives cabinet: Council of Ministers Privy Council: NA Legislative branch: bicameral National Assembly (Rathasapha) Senate (Wuthisapha): consists of a 270-member appointed body House of Representatives (Sapha Phuthaen Ratsadon): elections last held 2 July 1995 (next to be held 2 July 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (391 total) TNP 93, DP 86, NAP 56, NDP 53, PDP 23, SAP 23, NTP 18, TCP 18, LDP 10, SP 8, MP 3 Judicial branch: Supreme Court (Sandika), judges appointed by the king Political parties and leaders: Thai Nation Party (TNP or Chat Thai Party), BANHAN Sinlapa-acha; Democratic Party (DP or Prachathipat Party), CHUAN Likphai; New Aspiration Party (NAP or Khwamwang Mai), Gen. CHAWALIT Yongchaiyut; National Development Party (NDP or Chat Phattana), CHATCHAI Chunhawan; Phalang Dharma Party (PDP or Phalang Tham), THAKSIN Chinnawat; Social Action Party (SAP or Kitsangkhom Party), MONTRI Phongphanit; Thai Leadership Party (NTP or Nam Thai), Amnuai Wirawan; Thai Citizen's Party (TCP or Prachakon Thai), SAMAK Sunthonwet; Liberal Democratic Party (LDP or Seri Tham), ATHIT Urairat; Solidarity Party (SP or Ekkaphap Party), UTHAI Phimchaichon; Mass Party (MP or Muanchon), Pol. Cpt. CHALOEM Yubamrung International organization participation: APEC, AsDB, ASEAN, CCC, CP, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, Mekong Group, NAM, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador NIT Phibunsongkhram chancery: 1024 Wisconsin Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007 telephone: [1] (202) 944-3600 FAX: [1] (202) 944-3611 consulate(s) general: Chicago, Los Angeles, and New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador William H. ITOH 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 Flag: five horizontal bands of red (top), white, blue (double width), white, and red Economy ------- Economic overview: One of the more advanced developing countries in Asia, Thailand depends on exports of manufactures - including high-technology goods - and the development of the service sector to fuel the country's rapid growth, averaging 9% since 1989. Most of Thailand's recent imports have been for capital equipment and raw materials, although imports of consumer goods are beginning to rise. Thailand's 35% domestic savings rate is a key source of capital for the economy, and the country is also benefiting from rising investment from abroad. Prime Minister BANHAN's government - Thailand's sixth government in five years - undoubtedly will continue Bangkok's probusiness policies despite some concerns that it is relaxing Bangkok's traditional fiscal austerity. BANHAN is beginning to address Thailand's serious infrastructure bottlenecks, especially in the transport and telecommunications sectors. Over the longer term, Bangkok must produce more college graduates with technical training and upgrade workers' skills to continue its rapid economic development. GDP: purchasing power parity - $416.7 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 8.6% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $6,900 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 10.2% industry: 30.6% services: 59.2% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5.8% (1995) Labor force: 32,152,600 by occupation: agriculture 57%, industry 17%, commerce 11%, services (including government) 15% (1993 est.) Unemployment rate: 2.7% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $28.4 billion expenditures: $28.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $6.1 billion (FY94/95) Industries: tourism; 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 Industrial production growth rate: 13.3% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 12,810,000 kW production: 56.8 billion kWh consumption per capita: 909 kWh (1993) Agriculture: rice, cassava (tapioca), rubber, corn, sugarcane, coconuts, soybeans Illicit drugs: a minor producer of opium, heroin, and marijuana; major illicit transit point for heroin en route to the international drug market from Burma and Laos; eradication efforts have reduced the area of cannabis cultivation and shifted some production to neighboring countries; opium poppy cultivation has been reduced by eradication efforts; also a drug money laundering center; rapidly growing role in amphetamine production for regional consumption; increasing indigenous abuse of methamphetamine and heroin Exports: $45.1 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: manufactures 73%, agricultural products and fisheries 21%, raw materials 5%, fuels 1% partners: US 21.0%, Japan 17.1%, Singapore 13.6%, Hong Kong 5.3%, Germany 3.5%, UK 3.0%, Netherlands 2.8%, Malaysia 2.4% Imports: $53.9 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: manufactures 80%, fuels 6.9%, raw materials 6.6%, foodstuffs 4.3% partners: Japan 30.4%, US 11.9%, Singapore 6.3%, Germany 5.8%, Taiwan 5.1%, Malaysia 4.9%, South Korea 3.7%, China 2.6% External debt: $53.7 billion (1994) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $624 million (1993) Currency: 1 baht (B) = 100 satang Exchange rates: baht (B) per US$1 - 25.300 (January 1996), 25.000 (1995 est.), 25.150 (1994), 25.319 (1993), 25.400 (1992), 25.517 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 October - 30 September Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 4,623 km narrow gauge: 4,623 km 1.000-m gauge (99 km double track) Highways: total: 54,388 km paved: 48,786 km (including 171 km of expressways) unpaved: 5,602 km (1992 est.) 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: 259 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,559,037 GRT/2,498,812 DWT ships by type: bulk 32, cargo 143, chemical tanker 3, container 11, liquefied gas tanker 12, oil tanker 45, passenger 1, refrigerated cargo 7, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2, short-sea passenger 1, specialized tanker 2 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 98 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: 12 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 22 with paved runways under 914 m: 36 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 12 (1995 est.) Heliports: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1,553,200 (1994 est.) Telephone system: service to general public inadequate; bulk of service to government activities provided by multichannel cable and microwave radio relay network domestic: microwave radio relay and multichannel cable; domestic satellite system being developed international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 200 (in government-controlled network), FM 100 (in government-controlled network), shortwave 0 Radios: 10.75 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 11 (in government-controlled network) Televisions: 3.3 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Royal Thai Army, Royal Thai Navy (includes Royal Thai Marine Corps), Royal Thai Air Force, Paramilitary Forces Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 16,835,334 males fit for military service: 10,182,904 males reach military age (18) annually: 592,268 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $4.0 billion, 2.5% of GDP (FY94/95) ====================================================================== @The Bahamas ----------- Map --- Location: 24 15 N, 76 00 W -- Caribbean, chain of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of Florida Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of aquamarine (top), gold, and aquamarine with a black equilateral triangle based on the hoist side Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, chain of islands in the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of Florida Geographic coordinates: 24 15 N, 76 00 W 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Alvernia 63 m 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, Whaling Geographic note: strategic location adjacent to US and Cuba; extensive island chain People ------ Population: 259,367 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 28% (male 36,331; female 35,771) 15-64 years: 67% (male 84,107; female 89,193) 65 years and over: 5% (male 5,449; female 8,516) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.05% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 18.73 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.74 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -2.54 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.02 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.94 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.64 male(s)/female all ages: 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 23.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 72.53 years male: 67.98 years female: 77.16 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.97 children born/woman (1996 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 literacy not available (1995 est.) total population: 98.2% male: 98.5% female: 98% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Commonwealth of The Bahamas conventional short form: The Bahamas Data code: BF Type of government: 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) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General Sir Orville TURNQUEST (since 2 January 1995) who was appointed by the queen head of government: Prime Minister Hubert Alexander INGRAHAM (since 19 August 1992) and Deputy Prime Minister Frank WATSON (since NA) were appointed by the governor general cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the governor general 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 International organization participation: 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, UNMIH, 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] (202) 319-2660 FAX: [1] (202) 319-2668 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; P.O. Box 9009, Miami, FL 33159; Nassau, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-3370 (pouch) telephone: [1] (809) 322-1181, 328-2206 FAX: [1] (809) 328-7838 Flag: three equal horizontal bands of aquamarine (top), gold, and aquamarine with a black equilateral triangle based on the hoist side Economy ------- Economic overview: The Bahamas is a stable, developing nation with an economy heavily dependent on tourism and offshore banking. Tourism alone accounts for more than 50% of GDP and directly or indirectly employs 40% of the archipelago's labor force. A slowdown in the expansion of the tourism sector - especially stopover travel from Europe - led to a reduction in the country's GDP growth rate in 1995, down to an estimated 2% from 3.5% in 1994. The construction sector benefited from hotel rehabilitation and the government's ongoing housing development program. Earnings from exports of vegetable and citrus production have been decreasing since 1993 but are expected to increase in 1996 due to storm damage to crops in Florida. The overall growth prospects through 1996 will depend heavily on the fortunes of the tourism sector and continued income growth in the US, which accounts for the majority of tourist visits. GDP: purchasing power parity - $4.8 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $18,700 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 3% industry: 35% services: 62% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.5% (1994) Labor force: 136,900 (1993) by occupation: government 30%, tourism 40%, business services 10%, agriculture 5% (1995 est.) Unemployment rate: 15% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $665 million expenditures: $725 million, including capital expenditures of $94 million (FY95/96 est.) Industries: tourism, banking, cement, oil refining and transshipment, salt production, rum, aragonite, pharmaceuticals, spiral-welded steel pipe Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 424,000 kW production: 929 million kWh consumption per capita: 3,200 kWh (1993) Agriculture: citrus, vegetables; poultry Illicit drugs: transshipment point for cocaine and marijuana bound for US and Europe; also a money-laundering center Exports: $224.257 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: pharmaceuticals, cement, rum, crawfish, refined petroleum products partners: US 51%, UK 7%, Norway 7%, France 6%, Italy 5% Imports: $1.08 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: foodstuffs, manufactured goods, crude oil, vehicles, electronics partners: US 55%, Japan 17%, Nigeria 12%, Denmark 7%, Norway 6% External debt: $407.8 million (December 1994) Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 Bahamian dollar (B$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Bahamian dollar (B$) per US$1 - 1.00 (fixed rate) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 2,386 km paved: 1,342 km unpaved: 1,044 km (1986 est.) Ports: Freeport, Matthew Town, Nassau Merchant marine: total: 956 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 22,592,285 GRT/35,765,965 DWT ships by type: bulk 176, cargo 182, chemical tanker 43, combination bulk 9, combination ore/oil 19, container 53, liquefied gas tanker 20, oil tanker 180, passenger 53, refrigerated cargo 147, roll-on/roll-off cargo 47, short-sea passenger 13, vehicle carrier 14 note: a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 48 countries among which are Norway 155, Greece 124, US 84, Denmark 63, Netherlands 44, Sweden 36, Finland 34, France 29, Japan 29, and Belgium 24 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 55 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: 17 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 8 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 119,000 (1987 est.) Telephone system: domestic: totally automatic system; highly developed international: tropospheric scatter and submarine cable to Florida; 3 coaxial submarine cables; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 3, FM 2, shortwave 0 Radios: 200,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1 (1986 est.) Televisions: 60,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Royal Bahamas Defense Force (Coast Guard only), Royal Bahamas Police Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $20 million, 3.8% of GDP (FY95/96) ====================================================================== @The Gambia ---------- Map --- Location: 13 28 N, 16 34 W -- Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and Senegal Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of red (top), blue with white edges, and green Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean and Senegal Geographic coordinates: 13 28 N, 16 34 W Map references: Africa Area: total area: 11,300 sq km land area: 10,000 sq km comparative area: slightly more than twice the size of Delaware Land boundaries: total: 740 km border country: Senegal 740 km Coastline: 80 km Maritime claims: contiguous zone: 18 nm continental shelf: not specified exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: short section of boundary with Senegal is indefinite Climate: tropical; hot, rainy season (June to November); cooler, dry season (November to May) Terrain: flood plain of the Gambia River flanked by some low hills lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 53 m Natural resources: fish Land use: arable land: 16% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 9% forest and woodland: 20% other: 55% Irrigated land: 120 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: deforestation; desertification; water-borne diseases prevalent natural hazards: rainfall has dropped by 30% in the last 30 years international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Desertification Geographic note: almost an enclave of Senegal; smallest country on the continent of Africa People ------ Population: 1,204,984 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 46% (male 276,782; female 275,683) 15-64 years: 51% (male 307,405; female 312,736) 65 years and over: 3% (male 17,278; female 15,100) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.55% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 44.44 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 13.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 4.72 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.14 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 80.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 52.96 years male: 50.74 years female: 55.24 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.06 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Gambian(s) adjective: Gambian Ethnic divisions: African 99% (Mandinka 42%, Fula 18%, Wolof 16%, Jola 10%, Serahuli 9%, other 4%), non-Gambian 1% Religions: Muslim 90%, Christian 9%, indigenous beliefs 1% Languages: English (official), Mandinka, Wolof, Fula, other indigenous vernaculars Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 38.6% male: 52.8% female: 24.9% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of The Gambia conventional short form: The Gambia Data code: GA Type of government: republic under multiparty democratic rule note:: nominally a republic, The Gambia has had a military government since 22 July 1994; the military authority has promised to return control to a democratically-elected government in July 1996 Capital: Banjul Administrative divisions: 5 divisions and 1 city*; Banjul*, Lower River, MacCarthy Island, North Bank, Upper River, Western Independence: 18 February 1965 (from UK; 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, 18 February (1965) Constitution: 24 April 1970; suspended July 1994 Legal system: based on a composite of English common law, Koranic law, and customary law; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations Suffrage: 21 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state and head of government: Chairman of the Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council Capt. Yahya A. J. J. JAMMEH (since the military coup of 22 July 1994); Vice Chairman of the Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council Capt. Edward SINGHATEH (since March 1995); last popular election held on 29 April 1992; results - Sir Dawda JAWARA (PPP) 58.5%, Sherif Mustapha DIBBA (NCP) 22.2%, Assan Musa CAMARA (GPP) 8.0% (prior to the 22 July 1994 coup, next election had been scheduled for April 1997) cabinet: Cabinet normally is appointed by the president from members of the House of Representatives (present cabinet appointed by Chairman of the Armed Forces Provisional Ruling Council) Legislative branch: unicameral House of Representatives: last popular election held on 29 April 1992 (next to be held NA April 1997); results - PPP won 58.1% of votes; seats - (43 total, 36 elected) PPP 30, NCP 6 note: following the military coup on 22 July 1994, all elective offices were dissolved; in April 1996, the military government announced that voter registrations would begin in May and democratic elections would be held in October 1996 Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: the following political parties were active on 22 July 1994, after which time political activity was banned by the military government: People's Progressive Party (PPP), Dawda K. JAWARA (in exile), secretary general; National Convention Party (NCP), Sheriff DIBBA (in exile); Gambian People's Party (GPP), Hassan Musa CAMARA; United Party (UP), leader NA; People's Democratic Organization of Independence and Socialism (PDOIS), leader NA; People's Democratic Party (PDP), Jabel SALLAH International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, FAO, G-77, 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, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Counselor, Charge d'Affaires ad interim Tombong SAIDY chancery: Suite 1000, 1155 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005 telephone: [1] (202) 785-1399, 1379, 1425 FAX: [1] (202) 785-1430 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Gerald A. SCOTT embassy: Fajara, Kairaba Avenue, Banjul mailing address: P. M. B. No. 19, Banjul telephone: [220] 392856, 392858, 391970, 391971 FAX: [220] 392475 Flag: three equal horizontal bands of red (top), blue with white edges, and green Economy ------- Economic overview: The Gambia has no important mineral or other natural resources and has a limited agricultural base. About 75% of the population is engaged in crop production and livestock raising. Small-scale manufacturing activity features the processing of peanuts, fish, and hides. A sustained structural adjustment program, including a liberalized trade policy, had fostered a respectable 4% annual rate of growth in 1990-93. Reexport trade normally constitutes one-third of economic activity; however, border closures associated with Senegal's monetary crisis in late 1993 led to a halving of reexport trade, reducing government revenues in turn. The 50% devaluation of the CFA franc in January 1994 has made Senegalese goods more competitive and apparently prompted a relaxation of Senegalese controls, paving the way for a comeback in reexports. But, in response to the military's takeover in July 1994, cuts in foreign trade and a decline in tourism have undermined economic growth. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1.1 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,100 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 27% industry: 15% services: 58% (1993) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 1.7% (1994) Labor force: 400,000 (1986 est.) by occupation: agriculture 75.0%, industry, commerce, and services 18.9%, government 6.1% Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $91.4 million expenditures: $90 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY95/96 est.) Industries: processing peanuts, fish, and hides; tourism; beverages; agricultural machinery assembly, woodworking, metalworking; clothing Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 30,000 kW production: 70 million kWh consumption per capita: 64 kWh (1993) Agriculture: peanuts, millet, sorghum, rice, corn, cassava (tapioca), palm kernels; cattle, sheep, goats; forest and fishing resources not fully exploited Exports: $35 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: peanuts and peanut products, fish, cotton lint, palm kernels partners: Japan 60%, Europe 29%, Africa 5%, US 1%, other 5% (1989) Imports: $209 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: foodstuffs, manufactures, raw materials, fuel, machinery and transport equipment partners: Europe 57%, Asia 25%, USSR and Eastern Europe 9%, US 6%, other 3% (1989) External debt: $386 million (1993 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 dalasi (D) = 100 butut Exchange rates: dalasi (D) per US$1 - 9.555 (August 1996), 9.576 (1994), 9.129 (1993), 8.888 (1992), 8.803 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 2,386 km paved: 764 km unpaved: 1,622 km (1990 est.) Waterways: 400 km Ports: Banjul Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 1 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 11,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: domestic: adequate network of microwave radio relay and open wire international: microwave radio relay links to Senegal and Guinea-Bissau; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 3, FM 2, shortwave 0 Radios: 180,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: NA Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, National Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 267,188 males fit for military service: 134,611 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $14 million, 3.8% of GDP (FY93/94) ====================================================================== @Togo ---- Map --- Location: 8 00 N, 1 10 E -- Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Benin and Ghana Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Western Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Benin and Ghana Geographic coordinates: 8 00 N, 1 10 E 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 border countries: Benin 644 km, Burkina Faso 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Pic Baumann 986 m 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 People ------ Population: 4,570,530 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 49% (male 1,116,030; female 1,105,957) 15-64 years: 49% (male 1,085,774; female 1,163,374) 65 years and over: 2% (male 46,089; female 53,306) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.56% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 46.23 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 10.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.93 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.86 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 84.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 57.87 years male: 55.7 years female: 60.1 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.75 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Togolese (singular and plural) adjective: Togolese Ethnic divisions: native African (37 tribes; largest and most important are Ewe, Mina, and Kabre) 99%, European and Syrian-Lebanese less than 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 (sometimes spelled Kabiye; the two major African languages in the north) Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 51.7% male: 67% female: 37% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Togo conventional short form: Togo local long form: Republique Togolaise local short form: none former: French Togo Data code: TO Type of government: 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) reelected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 25 August 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); all major opposition parties boycotted the election; Gen. EYADEMA won 96.5% of the vote head of government: Prime Minister Edem KODJO (since April 1994) appointed by the president 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 three seats of the Action Committee for Renewal (CAR) and the Togolese Union for Democracy (UTD), lowering their total to 34 and six seats, respectively; the remaining three seats have not been filled 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; Togolese Union for Democracy (UTD), Edem KODJO; Action Committee for Renewal (CAR), Yao AGBOYIBOR; Union for Democracy and Solidarity (UDS), Antoine FOLLY; Pan-African Sociodemocrats Group (GSP), an alliance of three radical parties: CDPA, PDR, and PSP; Democratic Convention of African Peoples (CDPA), Leopold GNININVI; Party for Democracy and Renewal (PDR), Zarifou AYEVA; Pan-African Social Party (PSP), Francis AGBAGLI; Union of Forces for Change (UFC), Gilchrist OLYMPIO (in exile); Union of Justice and Democracy (UJD), Lal TAXPANDJAN 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 International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, ECA, ECOWAS, Entente, FAO, FZ, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, MINURSO, NAM, OAU, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMIH, UPU, WADB, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Kossivi OSSEYI chancery: 2208 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 234-4212 FAX: [1] (202) 232-3190 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Johnny YOUNG 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: This small sub-Saharan economy is heavily dependent on subsistence agriculture, which provides employment for more than 60% of the labor force. Cocoa, coffee, and cotton together generate about 30% of 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 effort, supported by the World Bank and the IMF, to implement economic reform measures, encourage foreign investment, and bring revenues in line with expenditures has stalled. Political unrest, including private and public sector strikes throughout 1992 and 1993, has jeopardized the reform program, shrunk the tax base, and disrupted vital economic activity. Although strikes had ended in 1994, political unrest and lack of funds prevented the government from taking advantage of the 50% currency devaluation of 12 January 1994. Resumption of World Bank and IMF flows will depend on implementation of several controversial moves toward privatization and on downsizing the military, on which the regime depends to stay in power. GDP: purchasing power parity - $4.1 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $900 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 49.2% industry: 17.7% services: 33.1% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 8.8% (1995 est.) Labor force: 1.538 million (1993 est.) by occupation: agriculture 64%, industry 9%, services 21%. unemployed 6% (1981 est.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $165 million expenditures: $274 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: phosphate mining, agricultural processing, cement; handicrafts, textiles, beverages Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 34,000 kW production: 41.004 million kWh consumption per capita: 9 kWh (1990) Agriculture: coffee, cocoa, cotton, yams, cassava (tapioca), corn, beans, rice, millet, sorghum; meat; annual fish catch of 10,000-14,000 tons Illicit drugs: increasingly used as transit hub by heroin traffickers Exports: $162.2 (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: phosphates, cotton, cocoa, coffee partners: EC 40%, Africa 16%, US 1% (1990) Imports: $212 million (c.i.f., 1994) 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) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: CFA francs (CFAF) per US$1 - 500.56 (January 1996), 499.15 (1995), 555.20 (1994), 283.16 (1993), 264.69 (1992), 282.11 (1991) 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 525 km (1995) narrow gauge: 525 km 1.000-m gauge Highways: total: 7,545 km paved: 1,833 km unpaved: 5,712 km (1993 est.) Waterways: 50 km Mono river Ports: Kpeme, Lome Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 8 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: 4 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 12,000 (1987 est.) Telephone system: fair system based on network of microwave radio relay routes supplemented by open-wire lines domestic: microwave radio relay and open-wire lines international: satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) and 1 Symphonie Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 795,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 3 (relays 2) Televisions: 24,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, Gendarmerie Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 975,746 males fit for military service: 512,196 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $48 million, 2.9% of GDP (1993) ====================================================================== @Tokelau ------- (territory of New Zealand) Map --- Location: 9 00 S, 172 00 W -- Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand Flag ---- Description: the flag of New Zealand is used Geography --------- Location: Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand Geographic coordinates: 9 00 S, 172 00 W Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 10 sq km land area: 10 sq km comparative area: about 17 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 101 km Maritime claims: exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: none Climate: tropical; moderated by trade winds (April to November) Terrain: coral atolls enclosing large lagoons lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 5 m Natural resources: NEGL 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: very limited natural resources and overcrowding are contributing to emigration to New Zealand natural hazards: lies in Pacific typhoon belt international agreements: NA People ------ Population: 1,482 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: -1.35% (1996 est.) Birth rate: NA births/1,000 population Death rate: NA deaths/1,000 population Net migration rate: NA migrant(s)/1,000 population Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female 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: Tokelauan(s) adjective: Tokelauan Ethnic divisions: Polynesian Religions: Congregational Christian Church 70%, Roman Catholic 28%, other 2% note: on Atafu, all Congregational Christian Church of Samoa; on Nukunonu, all Roman Catholic; on Fakaofo, both denominations, with the Congregational Christian Church predominant Languages: Tokelauan (a Polynesian language), English Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Tokelau Data code: TL Type of government: territory of New Zealand Capital: none; each atoll has its own administrative center Administrative divisions: none (territory of New Zealand) Independence: none (territory of New Zealand) National holiday: Waitangi Day, 6 February (1840) (Treaty of Waitangi established British sovereignty over New Zealand) Constitution: administered under the Tokelau Islands Act of 1948, as amended in 1970 Legal system: British and local statutes Suffrage: NA Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch; the queen and New Zealand are represented by Administrator Lindsay WATT (since NA March 1993) who was appointed by the Minister of Foreign Affairs and Trade in New Zealand head of government: Official Secretary Casimilo J. PEREZ (since NA), Tokelau Apia Liaison Office Legislative branch: unicameral General Fono: seats - (45 total, 15 chosen by each of the three atoll's Council of Elders or Taupulega) Judicial branch: High Court in Niue; Supreme Court in New Zealand Political parties and leaders: none International organization participation: SPC, WHO (associate) Diplomatic representation in US: none (territory of New Zealand) US diplomatic representation: none (territory of New Zealand) Flag: the flag of New Zealand is used Economy ------- Economic overview: Tokelau's small size, isolation, and lack of resources greatly restrain economic development and confine agriculture to the subsistence level. The people must rely on aid from New Zealand to maintain public services, annual aid being substantially greater than GDP. The principal sources of revenue come from sales of copra, postage stamps, souvenir coins, and handicrafts. Money is also remitted to families from relatives in New Zealand. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1.5 million (1993 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $1,000 (1993 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: NA Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $430,830 expenditures: $2.8 million, including capital expenditures of $37,300 (1987 est.) Industries: small-scale enterprises for copra production, wood work, plaited craft goods; stamps, coins; fishing Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 200 kW production: 300,000 kWh consumption per capita: 180 kWh (1990) Agriculture: coconuts, copra, breadfruit, papaya, bananas; pigs, poultry, goats Exports: $98,000 (f.o.b., 1983) commodities: stamps, copra, handicrafts partners: NZ Imports: $323,400 (c.i.f., 1983) commodities: foodstuffs, building materials, fuel partners: NZ External debt: 0 Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 New Zealand dollar (NZ$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: New Zealand dollars (NZ$) per US$1 - 1.5138 (January 1996), 1.5235 (1995), 1.6844 (1994), 1.8495 (1993), 1.8584 (1992), l.7265 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: NA km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Ports: none; offshore anchorage only Merchant marine: none Airports: none; lagoon landings by amphibious aircraft from Western Samoa Communications -------------- Telephones: NA Telephone system: domestic: radiotelephone service between islands international: radiotelephone service to Western Samoa Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA note: each atoll has a radio broadcast station of NA type that broadcasts shipping and weather reports Radios: 1,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: NA Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of New Zealand ====================================================================== @Tonga ----- Map --- Location: 20 00 S, 175 00 W -- Oceania, archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand Flag ---- Description: red with a bold red cross on a white rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner Geography --------- Location: Oceania, archipelago in the South Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand Geographic coordinates: 20 00 S, 175 00 W Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 748 sq km land area: 718 sq km comparative area: four times the size of Washington, DC Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 419 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; modified by trade winds; warm season (December to May), cool season (May to December) Terrain: most islands have limestone base formed from uplifted coral formation; others have limestone overlying volcanic base lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: on Kao Island 1,033 m Natural resources: fish, fertile soil Land use: arable land: 25% permanent crops: 55% meadows and pastures: 6% forest and woodland: 12% other: 2% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: deforestation results as more and more land is being cleared for agriculture and settlement; some damage to coral reefs from starfish and indiscriminate coral and shell collectors; overhunting threatens native sea turtle populations natural hazards: cyclones (October to April); earthquakes and volcanic activity on Fonuafo'ou international agreements: party to - Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Law of the Sea Geographic note: archipelago of 170 islands (36 inhabited) People ------ Population: 106,466 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 0.82% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 27.33 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.26 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -1.29 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 40.26 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 69.04 years male: 67.03 years female: 71.4 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.75 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Tongan(s) adjective: Tongan Ethnic divisions: Polynesian, Europeans about 300 Religions: Christian (Free Wesleyan Church claims over 30,000 adherents) Languages: Tongan, English Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write a simple message in Tongan or English (1976 est.) total population: 100% male: 100% female: 100% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Kingdom of Tonga conventional short form: Tonga former: Friendly Islands Data code: TN Type of government: hereditary constitutional monarchy Capital: Nuku'alofa Administrative divisions: three island groups; Ha'apai, Tongatapu, Vava'u Independence: 4 June 1970 (emancipation from UK protectorate) National holiday: Emancipation Day, 4 June (1970) Constitution: 4 November 1875, revised 1 January 1967 Legal system: based on English law Suffrage: 21 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: King Taufa'ahau TUPOU IV (since 16 December 1965) is a constitutional monarch head of government: Prime Minister Baron VAEA (since 22 August 1991) and Deputy Prime Minister S. Langi KAVALIKU (since 22 August 1991) were appointed for life by the king cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the king Privy Council: consists of the king and the Cabinet Legislative branch: unicameral Legislative Assembly (Fale Alea): elections last held 3-4 February 1993 (next to be held NA February 1996); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (30 total, 12 reserved for cabinet ministers sitting ex officio, nine for nobles selected by the country's 33 nobles, and nine for elected people's representatives) 6 proreform, 3 traditionalist Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the king Political parties and leaders: Tonga People's Party, Viliami FUKOFUKA International organization participation: ACP, AsDB, C, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IMF, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, ITU, Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO Diplomatic representation in US: Tonga does not have an embassy in the US; Ambassador Sione KITE, resides in London consulate(s) general: San Francisco US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Tonga; the ambassador to Fiji is accredited to Tonga Flag: red with a bold red cross on a white rectangle in the upper hoist-side corner Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy's base is agriculture, which contributes 40% to GDP. Squash, coconuts, bananas, and vanilla beans are the main crops, and agricultural exports make up two-thirds of total exports. The country must import a high proportion of its food, mainly from New Zealand. The manufacturing sector accounts for only 11% of GDP. Tourism is the primary source of hard currency earnings, but the country also remains dependent on sizable external aid and remittances to offset its trade deficit. The economy continued to grow in 1993-95 largely because of a rise in squash exports, increased aid flows, and several large construction projects. The government is now turning its attention to further development of the private sector and the reduction of the budget deficit. GDP: purchasing power parity - $228 million (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,160 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 40% (1995 est.) industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3% (1993) Labor force: 32,013 (1990 est.) by occupation: agriculture 70% (1995 est.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $44 million expenditures: $86 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: tourism, fishing Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 6,000 kW production: 30 million kWh consumption per capita: 231 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coconuts, copra, bananas, vanilla beans, cocoa, coffee, ginger, black pepper Exports: $20.3 million (f.o.b., FY93/94) commodities: squash, vanilla, fish, root crops, coconut oil partners: Japan 59%, US 14%, Australia 6%, NZ 6% (FY93/94) Imports: $57.8 million (c.i.f., FY93/94) commodities: food products, machinery and transport equipment, manufactures, fuels, chemicals partners: NZ 44%, Australia 22%, US 8%, Japan 7% (FY93/94) External debt: $48.4 million (FY93/94) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 pa'anga (T$) = 100 seniti Exchange rates: pa'anga (T$) per US$1 - 1.2753 (December 1995), 1.2709 (1995), 1.3202 (1994), 1.3841 (1993), 1.3471 (1992), 1.2961 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 432 km paved: 280 km unpaved: 152 km (1987 est.) Ports: Neiafu, Nuku'alofa, Pangai Merchant marine: total: 4 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 9,990 GRT/14,884 DWT ships by type: cargo 1, liquefied gas tanker 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 6 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 2 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 3,500 (1986 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 66,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 Televisions: 1,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Tonga Defense Services, Maritime Division, Royal Tongan Marines, Tongan Royal Guards, Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Trinidad and Tobago ------------------- Map --- Location: 11 00 N, 61 00 W -- Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, northeast of Venezuela Flag ---- Description: red with a white-edged black diagonal band from the upper hoist side Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, northeast of Venezuela Geographic coordinates: 11 00 N, 61 00 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 5,130 sq km land area: 5,130 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Delaware Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 362 km Maritime claims: contiguous zone: 24 nm continental shelf: 200 nm or to the outer edge of the continental margin exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: none Climate: tropical; rainy season (June to December) Terrain: mostly plains with some hills and low mountains lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: El Cerro del Aripo 940 m Natural resources: petroleum, natural gas, asphalt Land use: arable land: 14% permanent crops: 17% meadows and pastures: 2% forest and woodland: 44% other: 23% Irrigated land: 220 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: water pollution from agricultural chemicals, industrial wastes, and raw sewage; oil pollution of beaches; deforestation; soil erosion natural hazards: outside usual path of hurricanes and other tropical storms international agreements: party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity People ------ Population: 1,272,385 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 30% (male 193,134; female 186,649) 15-64 years: 64% (male 413,426; female 404,175) 65 years and over: 6% (male 33,791; female 41,210) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.08% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 16.25 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.9 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -8.58 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.82 male(s)/female all ages: 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 18.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 70.3 years male: 67.91 years female: 72.77 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.99 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Trinidadian(s), Tobagonian(s) adjective: Trinidadian, Tobagonian Ethnic divisions: black 43%, East Indian (a local term - primarily immigrants from northern India) 40%, mixed 14%, white 1%, Chinese 1%, other 1% Religions: Roman Catholic 32.2%, Hindu 24.3%, Anglican 14.4%, other Protestant 14%, Muslim 6%, none or unknown 9.1% Languages: English (official), Hindi, French, Spanish Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 97.9% male: 98.8% female: 97% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Trinidad and Tobago conventional short form: Trinidad and Tobago Data code: TD Type of government: parliamentary democracy Capital: Port-of-Spain Administrative divisions: 8 counties, 3 municipalities*, and 1 ward**; Arima*, Caroni, Mayaro, Nariva, Port-of-Spain*, Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint Patrick, San Fernando*, Tobago**, Victoria Independence: 31 August 1962 (from UK) National holiday: Independence Day, 31 August (1962) Constitution: 1 August 1976 Legal system: based on English common law; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Noor Mohammed HASSANALI (since 18 March 1987) was elected by an electoral college of members of the Senate and House of Representatives head of government: Prime Minister Basdeo PANDAY (since 9 November 1995) was appointed from among the members of Parliament cabinet: Cabinet was appointed from among the members of Parliament Legislative branch: bicameral Parliament Senate: consists of a 31-member body appointed by the president House of Representatives: elections last held 6 November 1995 (next to be held by December 2001); results - PNM 52%, UNC 42.2%, NAR 5.2%; seats - (36 total) PNM 17, UNC 17, NAR 2; the UNC formed a coalition with the NAR Judicial branch: Court of Appeal, judges are appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister; Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister Political parties and leaders: People's National Movement (PNM), Patrick MANNING; United National Congress (UNC), Basdeo PANDAY; National Alliance for Reconstruction (NAR), A. N. R. ROBINSON; Movement for Social Transformation (MOTION), David ABDULLAH; National Joint Action Committee (NJAC), Makandal DAAGA; Republican Party, Nello MITCHELL; National Development Party (NDP), Carson CHARLES; Movement for Unity and Progress (MUP), Hulsie BHAGGAN International organization participation: ACP, C, Caricom, CCC, CDB, ECLAC, FAO, G-24, G-77, IADB, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ISO, ITU, LAES, NAM, OAS, OPANAL, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMIH, UNU, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Corinne Averille McKNIGHT chancery: 1708 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036 telephone: [1] (202) 467-6490 FAX: [1] (202) 785-3130 consulate(s) general: New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Brian J. DONNELLY embassy: 15 Queen's Park West, Port-of-Spain mailing address: P. O. Box 752, Port-of-Spain telephone: [1] (809) 622-6372 through 6376, 6176 FAX: [1] (809) 628-5462 Flag: red with a white-edged black diagonal band from the upper hoist side Economy ------- Economic overview: Trinidad and Tobago's oil- and petrochemical-dependent economy enjoys a high per capita income, although living standards have declined since the boom years of 1973-82. The country managed to record a second successive year of economic growth in 1995, the first period of substantial expansion since the early 1980s. A broad economic reform program, including the floating of the exchange rate, trade and capital market liberalization, and an extensive privatization program by the previous administration has left the incoming PANDAY government in a relatively sound economic position. Trinidad and Tobago's economic prospects continue to depend heavily on world petroleum prices, however, and further progress toward diversification will be an important challenge in the medium term. GDP: purchasing power parity - $16.2 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $12,100 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 4.8% industry: 44.5% services: 50.7% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5.4% (1995) Labor force: 404,500 by occupation: construction and utilities 13%, manufacturing, mining, and quarrying 14%, agriculture 11%, services 62% (1993 est.) Unemployment rate: 17.8% (December 1995) Budget: revenues: $1.65 billion expenditures: $1.61 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.) Industries: petroleum, chemicals, tourism, food processing, cement, beverage, cotton textiles Industrial production growth rate: 1% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 1,150,000 kW production: 3.9 billion kWh consumption per capita: 2,740 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cocoa, sugarcane, rice, citrus, coffee, vegetables; poultry Illicit drugs: transshipment point for South American drugs destined for the US and Europe and producer of cannabis Exports: $2.2 billion (f.o.b., 1995) commodities: petroleum and petroleum products, chemicals, steel products, fertilizer, sugar, cocoa, coffee, citrus, flowers partners: US 48%, Caricom countries15%, Latin America 9%, EU 5% (1994) Imports: $996 million (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: machinery, transportation equipment, manufactured goods, food, live animals partners: US 47.7%, Venezuela 10%, UK 8.3%, other EU 8% (1994) External debt: $2 billion (1994) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $10 million (1993) Currency: 1 Trinidad and Tobago dollar (TT$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Trinidad and Tobago dollars (TT$) per US$1 - 5.9412 (January 1996), 5.9192 (1995), 5.9249 (1994), 5.3511 (1993), 4.2500 (fixed rate 1989-1992); note - effective 13 April 1993, the exchange rate of the TT$ is market-determined as opposed to the prior fixed relationship to the US dollar Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: note: minimal agricultural railroad system near San Fernando; railway service was discontinued in 1968 Highways: total: 8,352 km paved: 3,978 km unpaved: 4,374 km (1987 est.) Pipelines: crude oil 1,032 km; petroleum products 19 km; natural gas 904 km Ports: Pointe-a-Pierre, Point Fortin, Point Lisas, Port-of-Spain, Scarborough, Tembladora Merchant marine: total: 2 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,928 GRT/5,571 DWT ships by type: cargo 1, oil tanker 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 5 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 170,000 (1992 est.) Telephone system: excellent international service; good local service domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean); tropospheric scatter to Barbados and Guyana Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 4, shortwave 0 Radios: 700,000 (1993 est.) Television broadcast stations: 5 (1987 est.) Televisions: 400,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Trinidad and Tobago Defense Force (includes Ground Forces, Coast Guard, and Air Wing), Trinidad and Tobago Police Service Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 351,835 males fit for military service: 252,532 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $83 million, NA% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Tromelin Island --------------- (possession of France) Map --- Location: 15 52 S, 54 25 E -- Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar Flag ---- Description: the flag of France is used Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, island in the Indian Ocean, east of Madagascar Geographic coordinates: 15 52 S, 54 25 E Map references: Africa 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: 3.7 km Maritime claims: contiguous zone: 12 nm continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: claimed by Madagascar, Mauritius, and Seychelles Climate: tropical Terrain: sandy lowest point: Indian Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 7 m Natural resources: fish Land use: arable land: 0% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 0% forest and woodland: 0% other: 100% (scattered bushes) Irrigated land: 0 sq km Environment: current issues: NA natural hazards: NA international agreements: NA Geographic note: climatologically important location for forecasting cyclones; wildlife sanctuary People ------ Population: uninhabited Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Tromelin Island local long form: none local short form: Ile Tromelin Data code: TE Type of government: French possession administered by Commissioner of the Republic, resident in Reunion Capital: none; administered by France from Reunion Independence: none (possession of France) Flag: the flag of France is used Economy ------- Economic overview: no economic activity Transportation -------------- Ports: none; offshore anchorage only Airports: total: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Communications note: important meteorological station Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France ====================================================================== @Tunisia ------- Map --- Location: 34 00 N, 9 00 E -- Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Algeria and Libya Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Northern Africa, bordering the Mediterranean Sea, between Algeria and Libya Geographic coordinates: 34 00 N, 9 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: Shatt al Gharsah -17 m highest point: Jabal ash Shanabi 1,544 m 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, Desertification, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Hazardous Wastes, Marine Life Conservation Geographic note: strategic location in central Mediterranean People ------ Population: 9,019,687 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 34% (male 1,583,636; female 1,489,784) 15-64 years: 61% (male 2,738,013; female 2,719,998) 65 years and over: 5% (male 254,403; female 233,853) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.81% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 24.03 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.18 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.74 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.08 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.09 male(s)/female all ages: 1.03 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 35.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 72.6 years male: 71.27 years female: 74.03 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.92 children born/woman (1996 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 (1995 est.) total population: 66.7% male: 78.6% female: 54.6% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Tunisia conventional short form: Tunisia local long form: Al Jumhuriyah at Tunisiyah local short form: Tunis Data code: TS Type of government: 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) was reelected for a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 20 March 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - President Zine El Abidine BEN ALI was reelected without opposition head of government: Prime Minister Hamed KAROUI (since 26 September 1989) was appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was 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 International organization participation: ABEDA, ACCT, AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, AMU, BSEC (observer), CCC, ECA, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ISO, ITU, MINURSO, NAM, OAS (observer), OAU, OIC, OSCE (partner), UN, UNAMIR, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNITAR, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Mohamed Azzouz ENNAIFER chancery: 1515 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20005 telephone: [1] (202) 862-1850 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 4.2% in 1991-95, and inflation has been moderate. Growth in tourism and IMF support have been key elements in this solid record. Drought, especially in the south, held back GDP growth in 1995. Further privatization and further improvements in government administrative efficiency are among the challenges for the future. GDP: purchasing power parity - $37.1 billion (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 4.4% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $4,250 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 15% industry: 30% services: 55% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 5.5% (1995 est.) Labor force: 2.917 million (1993 est.) by occupation: services 55%, industry 23%, agriculture 22% (1995 est.) note: shortage of skilled labor Unemployment rate: 16.2% (1993 est.) Budget: revenues: $4.3 billion expenditures: $5.5 billion, including capital expenditures to $NA (1993 est.) Industries: petroleum, mining (particularly phosphate and iron ore), tourism, textiles, footwear, food, beverages Industrial production growth rate: 5% (1989) Electricity: capacity: 1,410,000 kW production: 5.4 billion kWh consumption per capita: 595 kWh (1993) Agriculture: olives, dates, oranges, almonds, grain, sugar beets, grapes; poultry, beef, dairy products Exports: $4.7 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: hydrocarbons, agricultural products, phosphates and chemicals partners: EU countries 75%, Middle East 10%, Algeria 2%, India 2%, US 1% Imports: $6.6 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: industrial goods and equipment 57%, hydrocarbons 13%, food 12%, consumer goods partners: EU countries 70%, US 5%, Middle East 2%, Japan 2%, Switzerland 1%, Algeria 1% External debt: $7.7 billion (1993 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $221 million (1993) Currency: 1 Tunisian dinar (TD) = 1,000 millimes Exchange rates: Tunisian dinars (TD) per US$1 - 0.9635 (January 1996), 0.9458 (1995), 1.0116 (1994), 1.0037 (1993), 0.8844 (1992), 0.9246 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 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 (1993 est.) Highways: total: 29,183 km paved: 17,510 km (including 52 km of expressways) unpaved: 11,673 km (1989 est.) 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 125,840 GRT/164,277 DWT ships by type: bulk 6, cargo 4, chemical tanker 3, oil tanker 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 3, short-sea passenger 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 29 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: 3 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 3 with paved runways under 914 m: 6 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 6 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 233,000 (1987 est.) Telephone system: the system is above the African average; key centers are Sfax, Sousse, Bizerte, and Tunis domestic: trunk facilities consist of open-wire lines, coaxial cable, and microwave radio relay international: 5 submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) and 1 Arabsat with back-up control station; coaxial cable and microwave radio relay to Algeria and Libya; participant in Medarabtel Radio broadcast stations: AM 7, FM 8, shortwave 0 Radios: 1,693,527 (1991 est.) Television broadcast stations: 19 Televisions: 670,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary forces, National Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,354,513 males fit for military service: 1,349,728 males reach military age (20) annually: 91,866 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $535 million, 2.8% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Turkey ------ Map --- Location: 39 00 N, 35 00 E -- Southwestern Asia (that part west of the Bosporus is sometimes included with Europe), bordering the Black Sea, between Bulgaria and Georgia, and bordering the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, between Greece and Syria Flag ---- Description: red with a vertical white crescent (the closed portion is toward the hoist side) and white five-pointed star centered just outside the crescent opening Geography --------- Location: Southwestern Asia (that part west of the Bosporus is sometimes included with Europe), bordering the Black Sea, between Bulgaria and Georgia, and bordering the Aegean Sea and the Mediterranean Sea, between Greece and Syria Geographic coordinates: 39 00 N, 35 00 E Map references: Middle East Area: total area: 780,580 sq km land area: 770,760 sq km comparative area: slightly larger than Texas Land boundaries: total: 2,627 km border countries: Armenia 268 km, Azerbaijan 9 km, Bulgaria 240 km, Georgia 252 km, Greece 206 km, Iran 499 km, Iraq 331 km, Syria 822 km Coastline: 7,200 km Maritime claims: exclusive economic zone: in Black Sea only - to the maritime boundary agreed upon with the former USSR territorial sea: 6 nm in the Aegean Sea,; 12 nm in the Black Sea and in the Mediterranean Sea International disputes: complex maritime, air and territorial disputes with Greece in Aegean Sea; Cyprus question; Hatay question with Syria; dispute with downstream riparians (Syria and Iraq) over water development plans for the Tigris and Euphrates Rivers Climate: temperate; hot, dry summers with mild, wet winters; harsher in interior Terrain: mostly mountains; narrow coastal plain; high central plateau (Anatolia) lowest point: Mediterranean Sea 0 m highest point: Mount Ararat 5,166 m Natural resources: antimony, coal, chromium, mercury, copper, borate, sulfur, iron ore Land use: arable land: 30% permanent crops: 4% meadows and pastures: 12% forest and woodland: 26% other: 28% Irrigated land: 22,200 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: water pollution from dumping of chemicals and detergents; air pollution, particularly in urban areas; deforestation natural hazards: very severe earthquakes, especially in northern Turkey, along an arc extending from the Sea of Marmara to Lake Van international agreements: party to - Air Pollution, Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Desertification, Environmental Modification Geographic note: strategic location controlling the Turkish Straits (Bosporus, Sea of Marmara, Dardanelles) that link Black and Aegean Seas People ------ Population: 62,484,478 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 32% (male 10,192,195; female 9,836,045) 15-64 years: 62% (male 19,859,717; female 19,187,769) 65 years and over: 6% (male 1,571,451; female 1,837,301) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.67% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 22.26 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.52 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.86 male(s)/female all ages: 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 43.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 71.92 years male: 69.53 years female: 74.43 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.58 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Turk(s) adjective: Turkish Ethnic divisions: Turkish 80%, Kurdish 20% Religions: Muslim 99.8% (mostly Sunni), other 0.2% (Christian and Jews) Languages: Turkish (official), Kurdish, Arabic Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 82.3% male: 91.7% female: 72.4% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Turkey conventional short form: Turkey local long form: Turkiye Cumhuriyeti local short form: Turkiye Data code: TU Type of government: republican parliamentary democracy Capital: Ankara Administrative divisions: 79 provinces (iller, singular - il); Adana, Adiyaman, Afyon, Agri, Aksaray, Amasya, Ankara, Antalya, Ardahan, Artvin, Aydin, Balikesir, Bartin, Batman, Bayburt, Bilecik, Bingol, Bitlis, Bolu, Burdur, Bursa, Canakkale, Cankiri, Corum, Denizli, Diyarbakir, Edirne, Elazig, Erzincan, Erzurum, Eskisehir, Gazi Antep, Giresun, Gumushane, Hakkari, Hatay, Icel, Iggdir, Isparta, Istanbul, Izmir, Kahraman Maras, Karabuk, Karaman, Kars, Kastamonu, Kayseri, Kilis, Kirikkale, Kirklareli, Kirsehir, Kocaeli, Konya, Kutahya, Malatya, Manisa, Mardin, Mugla, Mus, Nevsehir, Nigde, Ordu, Rize, Sakarya, Samsun, Sanli Urfa, Siirt, Sinop, Sirnak, Sivas, Tekirdag, Tokat, Trabzon, Tunceli, Usak, Van, Yalova, Yozgat, Zonguldak note: Karabuk, Kilis, and Yalova are three new Turkish provinces mentioned in the 24 December 1995 election results Independence: 29 October 1923 (successor state to the Ottoman Empire) National holiday: Anniversary of the Declaration of the Republic, 29 October (1923) Constitution: 7 November 1982 Legal system: derived from various continental legal systems; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Suleyman DEMIREL (since 16 May 1993) was elected for a seven-year term by the National Assembly head of government: Prime Minister Mesut YILMAZ (since 12 March 1996) and Deputy Prime Minister Nahit MENTESE (since 12 March 1996) were appointed by the president National Security Council: advisory body to the president and the cabinet cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on nomination of the prime minister Legislative branch: unicameral Grand National Assembly of Turkey: (Turkiye Buyuk Millet Meclisi) elections last held 24 December 1995 (next to be held by December 2000); results - RP 21.38%, DYP 19.18%, ANAP 19.65%, DSP 14.64%, CHP 10.71%, independent 0.48%; seats - 550 total) RP 158, DYP 135, ANAP 133, DSP 75, CHP 49 note: seats held by various parties are subject to change due to defections, creation of new parties, and ouster or death of sitting deputies; current seats by party are as follows: RP 158, DYP 135, ANAP 126, DSP 75, CHP 49, BBP 7 Judicial branch: Constitutional Court, judges appointed by the president; Court of Appeals, judges are elected by the Supreme Council of Judges and Prosecutors Political parties and leaders: True Path Party (DYP), Tansu CILLER; Motherland Party (ANAP), Mesut YILMAZ; Welfare Party (RP), Necmettin ERBAKAN; Democratic Left Party (DSP), Bulent ECEVIT; Nationalist Action Party (MHP), Alparslan TURKES; New Party (YP), Yusuf Bozkurt OZAL; Republican People's Party (CHP), Deniz BAYKAL; Workers' Party (IP), Dogu PERINCEK; Nation Party (MP), Aykut EDIBALI; Democrat Party (DP), Murat UZMAN; Grand Unity Party (BBP), Muhsin YAZICIOGLU; Rebirth Party (YDP), Hasan Celal GUZEL; People's Democracy Party (HADEP), Murat BOZLAK; Main Path Party (ANAYOL), Gurcan BASER; Democratic Target Party (DHP), Abdulkadir Yasar TURK; Liberal Party (LP), Besim TIBUK; New Democracy Movement (YDH), Cem BOYNER; Labor Party (EP), Abdullah Levent TUZER; Democracy and Peace Party (DBP), Refik KARAKOC; Freedom and Solidarity Praty (ODP), Ufuk URAS Other political or pressure groups: Turkish Confederation of Labor (Turk-Is), Bayram MERAL; Confederation of Revolutionary Workers Unions (DISK), Ridvan BUDAK; Moral Rights Workers Union (Hak-Is), Salim USLU; Turkish Industrialists' and Businessmen's Association (TUSIAD), Halis KOMILI; Turkish Union of Chambers of Commerce and Commodity Exchanges (TOBB), Ali Osman ULUSOY; Turkish Confederation of Employers' Unions (TISK), Refik BAYDUR; Independent Industrialists and Businessmen's Association (MUSIAD), Erol YARAR International organization participation: AsDB, BIS, BSEC, CCC, CE, CERN (observer), EBRD, ECE, ECO, FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC, NATO, NEA, OECD, OIC, OSCE, PCA, UN, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNOMIG, UNRWA, UPU, WEU (associate), WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Nuzhet KANDEMIR chancery: 1714 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036 telephone: [1] (202) 659-8200 consulate(s) general: Chicago, Houston, Los Angeles, and New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Marc GROSSMAN embassy: 110 Ataturk Boulevard, Ankara mailing address: PSC 93, Box 5000, APO AE 09823 telephone: [90] (312) 468-6110 FAX: [90] (312) 467-0019 consulate(s) general: Istanbul consulate(s): Adana Flag: red with a vertical white crescent (the closed portion is toward the hoist side) and white five-pointed star centered just outside the crescent opening Economy ------- Economic overview: The Turkish economy consists of a mixture, on the one hand, of modern industry and commerce, and, on the other hand, of time-honored village agriculture and crafts. Since World War II, it has become increasingly integrated into the West European economic arena, for example, as a member of OECD. The economy has improved significantly since the 1994 crisis, when the economy experienced a sharp drop and inflation hit triple digits. The crisis - sparked by the downgrading in January 1994 of Turkey's international credit rating by two US rating agencies - stemmed from years of loose monetary and fiscal policies that had exacerbated inflation and allowed the public debt, money supply, and current account deficit to explode. In April 1994, then Prime Minister CILLER introduced a stabilization package that paved the way for a $950 million IMF standby loan. However, because the government missed key macroeconomic targets in 1995 and the December national election produced months of political wrangling, the IMF put the agreement - and release of remaining funds - on hold. The new center-right minority government that finally has emerged will find it difficult to balance the need for new austerity measures and tough structural reforms with the pressure for continued buoyant growth. Ankara is also likely to face internal opposition to policies it must implement as part of the Turkey-EU customs union agreement - which came into force on 1 January 1996 - because many industries are unfit for EU competition and much-needed revenues will decline with the elimination of import tariffs and surcharges. Meanwhile, Ankara's heavy debt repayment schedule in 1996 makes it necessary for Turkish leaders to bolster the confidence of both domestic and foreign investors. GDP: purchasing power parity - $345.7 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 6.8% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $5,500 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 15.5% industry: 33.2% services: 51.3% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 94% (1995) Labor force: 20.9 million by occupation: agriculture 46%, services 31%, industry 23% note: about 1.5 million Turks work abroad (1994) Unemployment rate: 10.2% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $30.2 billion expenditures: $35 billion, including capital expenditures of $2.8 billion (1995) Industries: textiles, food processing, mining (coal, chromite, copper, boron), steel, petroleum, construction, lumber, paper Industrial production growth rate: 8.8% (1995) Electricity: capacity: 18,710,000 kW production: 71 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,079 kWh (1993) Agriculture: tobacco, cotton, grain, olives, sugar beets, pulses, citrus; livestock Illicit drugs: major transit route for Southwest Asian heroin and hashish to Western Europe and the US via air, land, and sea routes; major Turkish, Iranian, and other international trafficking organizations operate out of Istanbul; laboratories to convert imported morphine base into heroin are in remote regions of Turkey as well as near Istanbul; government maintains strict controls over areas of legal opium poppy cultivation and output of poppy straw concentrate Exports: $20.7 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: textiles and apparel 37%, steel products 12%, fruits and vegetables 11% (1994) partners: Germany 22%, Russia 8%, US 8%, Italy 6% (1994) Imports: $32.6 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: machinery 25%, fuels 17%, raw materials 11%, foodstuffs 5% (1994) partners: Germany 16%, US 10%, Italy 9%, Russia 8% (1994) External debt: $73.8 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $195 million (1993) note: aid for Gulf war efforts from coalition allies (1991), $4.1 billion; aid pledged for Turkish Defense Fund, $2.5 billion Currency: Turkish lira (TL) Exchange rates: Turkish liras (TL) per US$1 - 60,502.1 (January 1996), 45,845.1 (1995), 29,608.7 (1994), 10,984.6 (1993), 6,872.4 (1992), 4,171.8 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 10,386 km standard gauge: 10,386 km 1.435-m gauge (1,088 km electrified) Highways: total: 386,704 km paved: 45,683 km (including 862 km of expressways) unpaved: 341,021 km (1992 est.) Waterways: about 1,200 km Pipelines: crude oil 1,738 km; petroleum products 2,321 km; natural gas 708 km Ports: Gemlik, Hopa, Iskenderun, Istanbul, Izmir, Izmit, Mersin, Samsun, Trabzon Merchant marine: total: 465 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,509,741 GRT/9,494,434 DWT ships by type: bulk 139, cargo 212, chemical tanker 18, combination bulk 7, combination ore/oil 12, container 2, liquefied gas tanker 4, livestock carrier 1, oil tanker 43, passenger-cargo 1, refrigerated cargo 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 15, short-sea passenger 7, specialized tanker 2 note: Turkey owns an additional 18 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 247,369 DWT operating under the registries of Malta, Panama, Libya, and Greece (1995 est.) Airports: total: 104 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 17 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 19 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 12 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 18 with paved runways under 914 m: 28 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 8 (1995 est.) Heliports: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 6.89 million (1990 est.) Telephone system: fair domestic and international systems domestic: trunk microwave radio relay network; limited open-wire network international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean), 1 Eutelsat, and 2 Inmarsat (Indian and Atlantic Ocean regions); 1 submarine cable Radio broadcast stations: AM 15, FM 94, shortwave 0 Radios: 9.4 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 357 Televisions: 10.53 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Land Forces, Navy (includes Naval Air and Naval Infantry), Air Force, Coast Guard, Gendarmerie Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 16,937,828 males fit for military service: 10,312,010 males reach military age (20) annually: 637,456 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $6.0 billion, 4% of GDP (1995); note - figures do not include about $7 billion for the government's counterinsurgency effort against the separatist Kurdistan Workers' Party (PKK) ====================================================================== @Turkmenistan ------------ Map --- Location: 40 00 N, 60 00 E -- Central Asia, bordering the Caspian Sea, between Iran and Kazakstan Flag ---- Description: green field, including a vertical stripe on the hoist side, with a claret vertical stripe in between containing five white, black, and orange carpet guls (an asymmetrical design used in producing rugs) associated with five different tribes; a white crescent and five white stars in the upper left corner to the right of the carpet guls Geography --------- Location: Central Asia, bordering the Caspian Sea, between Iran and Kazakstan Geographic coordinates: 40 00 N, 60 00 E Map references: Commonwealth of Independent 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 border countries: Afghanistan 744 km, Iran 992 km, Kazakstan 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 lowest point: Sarygamysh Koli -110 m highest point: Ayrybaba 3,139 m Natural resources: petroleum, natural gas, coal, sulfur, 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; signed, but not ratified - Climate Change, Desertification Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 4,149,283 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 39% (male 826,637; female 804,385) 15-64 years: 56% (male 1,154,415; female 1,188,173) 65 years and over: 5% (male 65,447; female 110,226) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.82% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 29.12 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.89 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -2.08 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.97 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.59 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 81.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 61.48 years male: 56.68 years female: 66.52 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.62 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Turkmen(s) adjective: Turkmen Ethnic divisions: Turkmen 73.3%, Russian 9.8%, Uzbek 9%, Kazak 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 est.) total population: 98% male: 99% female: 97% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Turkmenistan local long form: none local short form: Turkmenistan former: Turkmen Soviet Socialist Republic Data code: TX Type of government: 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 Saparmurat NIYAZOV (since 27 October 1990, when the first direct presidential election occured) was elected to a five-year term by universal suffrage; election last held 21 June 1992 (next to be held NA 2002); results - Saparmurad NIYAZOV 99.5% (ran unopposed); note - a 15 January 1994 referendum extended NIYAZOV's term an additional five years until 2002 (99.99% approval) head of government: Prime Minister (vacant); Deputy Prime Ministers Mukhamed ABALAKOV (since NA), Babamurad BAZAROV (since NA), Hekim ISHANOV (since NA), Valeriy OTCHERTSOV (since NA), Yagmur OVEZOV (since NA), Matkarim RAJAPOV (since NA), Pirkuly ODEYEV (since NA), Rejep SAPAROV (since NA), Boris SHIKHMURADOV (since NA), Batyr SARJAYEV (since NA), Amannazar ILAMANOV (since NA), Ilaman SHYKHYYEV (since NA) were appointed by the president cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president note: NIYAZOV has been asked by various local groups, most recently on 26 October 1995 at the annual elders meeting, to be "president for life," but that would require an amendment to the constitution Legislative branch: under the 1992 constitution, there are two parliamentary bodies, a unicameral People's Council (Halk Maslahaty - having more than 100 members and meeting infrequently) and a 50-member unicameral Assembly (Majlis) Assembly (Majlis): elections last held 11 December 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (50 total) Democratic Party 45, other 5; note - all 50 preapproved by President NIYAZOV Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: Democratic Party of Turkmenistan, Saparmurat NIYAZOV; Party for Democratic Development, Durdymurat HOJA-MUHAMEDOV, chairman; Agzybirlik, Nurberdy NURMAMEDOV, cochairman, Hubayberdi HALLIYEV, cochairman note: formal opposition parties are outlawed; unofficial, small opposition movements exist underground or in foreign countries International organization participation: CCC, CIS, EBRD, ECE, ECO, ESCAP, FAO, IBRD, ICAO, IDB, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NACC, OIC, OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UPU, WHO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (observer) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Halil UGUR chancery: 1511 K Street NW, Suite 412, Washington, DC 20005 telephone: [1] (202) 737-4800 FAX: [1] (202) 737-1152 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Michael W. COTTER embassy: 9 Pushkin Street, Ashgabat mailing address: use embassy street address telephone: [7] (3632) 35-00-45, 35-00-46, 35-00-42, Tie Line [8] 962-0000 FAX: [7] (3632) 51-13-05 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 asymmetrical design used in producing rugs) associated with five different tribes; a white crescent and five white stars in the upper left corner to the right of the carpet guls Economy ------- Economic overview: Turkmenistan is largely desert country with nomadic cattle raising, intensive agriculture in irrigated oases, and huge gas and oil resources. One-half of its irrigated land is planted in cotton making it the world's tenth largest producer. It also has the world's fifth largest reserves of natural gas and substantial oil resources. Until the end of 1993, Turkmenistan had experienced less economic disruption than other former Soviet states because its economy received a boost from higher prices for oil and gas and a sharp increase in hard currency earnings. In 1994, 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. The economy remained depressed through 1995 while inflation soared. Furthermore, with an authoritarian ex-communist regime in power and a tribally based social structure, Turkmenistan has taken a cautious approach to economic reform, hoping to use gas and cotton sales to sustain its inefficient economy. For 1996, Turkmenistan will face continuing constraints on its earnings because of its customers' inability to pay for their gas and a below average cotton crop in 1995. Turkmenistan is working hard to open new gas export channels through Iran and Turkey, but these will take many years to realize. GDP: purchasing power parity - $11.5 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994) GDP real growth rate: -10% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,820 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 32.5% industry: 33.4% services: 34.1% (1991 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 25% monthly average (1994 est.) Labor force: 1.642 million (January 1994) by occupation: agriculture and forestry 44%, industry and construction 20%, other 36% (1992) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: natural gas, oil, petroleum products, textiles, food processing Industrial production growth rate: -7% (1995) Electricity: capacity: 2,480,000 kW production: 9.8 billion kWh consumption per capita: 2,400 kWh (1995) Agriculture: cotton, grain; livestock 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 Exports: $1.9 billion to states outside the FSU (1995) commodities: natural gas, cotton, petroleum products, electricity, textiles, carpets partners: Ukraine, Russia, Kazakstan, Uzbekistan, Georgia, Azerbaijan, Armenia, Eastern Europe, Turkey, Argentina Imports: $777 million from states outside the FSU (1995) commodities: machinery and parts, grain and food, plastics and rubber, consumer durables, textiles partners: Russia, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan, Kazakstan, Turkey External debt: $400 million (of which $275 million to Russia) (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $10 million (1993) note: commitments, $1,830 million ($375 million drawn), 1992-95 Currency: Turkmenistan introduced its national currency, the manat, on 1 November 1993 Exchange rates: manats per US$1 - 2,400 (January 1996) note: government established a unified rate in mid-January 1996 Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 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: NA km unpaved: NA km (1990 est.) Waterways: the Amu Darya is an important inland waterway 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 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: NA Telephone system: poorly developed domestic: NA international: linked by cable and microwave radio relay 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; satellite earth stations - 1 Orbita and 1 Intelsat Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA; note - there is at least one state-owned radio broadcast station of NA type Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: NA Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: Army, Air and Air Defense, Republic Security Forces (internal and border troops), National Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,024,398 males fit for military service: 834,803 males reach military age (18) annually: 41,697 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: 4.5 billion manats, 3.0% of GDP (1995); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results ====================================================================== @Turks and Caicos Islands ------------------------ (dependent territory of the UK) Map --- Location: 21 45 N, 71 35 W -- Caribbean, two island groups in the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of The Bahamas Flag ---- Description: blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the colonial shield centered on the outer half of the flag; the shield is yellow and contains a conch shell, lobster, and cactus Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, two island groups in the North Atlantic Ocean, southeast of The Bahamas Geographic coordinates: 21 45 N, 71 35 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 430 sq km land area: 430 sq km comparative area: 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 389 km Maritime claims: exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: none Climate: tropical; marine; moderated by trade winds; sunny and relatively dry Terrain: low, flat limestone; extensive marshes and mangrove swamps lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Blue Hills 49 m Natural resources: spiny lobster, conch Land use: arable land: 2% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 0% forest and woodland: 0% other: 98% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: limited natural fresh water resources, private cisterns collect rainwater natural hazards: frequent hurricanes international agreements: NA Geographic note: 30 islands (eight inhabited) People ------ Population: 14,302 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 2.14% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 12.85 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.15 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 13.74 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 12.57 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.4 years male: 73.46 years female: 77.07 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.86 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: none adjective: none Ethnic divisions: African Religions: Baptist 41.2%, Methodist 18.9%, Anglican 18.3%, Seventh-Day Adventist 1.7%, other 19.9% (1980) Languages: English (official) Literacy: age 15 and over has ever attended school (1970 est.) total population: 98% male: 99% female: 98% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Turks and Caicos Islands Data code: TK Type of government: dependent territory of the UK Capital: Grand Turk Administrative divisions: none (dependent territory of the UK) Independence: none (dependent territory of the UK) National holiday: Constitution Day, 30 August (1976) Constitution: introduced 30 August 1976, suspended in 1986, restored and revised 5 March 1988 Legal system: based on laws of England and Wales with a small number adopted from Jamaica and The Bahamas Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (of the United Kingdom since 6 February 1953) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor Martin BOURKE (since NA February 1993) who was appointed by the queen head of government: Chief Minister Derek H. TAYLOR (since 31 January 1995) was appointed by the governor cabinet: Executive Council consists of three ex officio members and five appointed by the governor from the Legislative Council Legislative branch: unicameral Legislative Council: elections last held 31 January 1995 (next to be held by NA 2000); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (20 total, 13 elected) PDM 8, PNP 4, independent (Norman SAUNDERS) 1 Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: Progressive National Party (PNP), Washington MISSICK; People's Democratic Movement (PDM), Derek H. TAYLOR; United Democratic Party (UDP), Wendal SWANN International organization participation: Caricom (associate), CDB, Interpol (subbureau) 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 colonial shield centered on the outer half of the flag; the shield is yellow and contains a conch shell, lobster, and cactus Economy ------- Economic overview: The Turks and Caicos economy is based on tourism, fishing, and offshore financial services. Most food for domestic consumption is imported; there is some subsistence farming - mainly corn, cassava, citrus, and beans - on the Caicos Islands. The tourism sector expanded in 1995, posting a 10% increase in the first quarter as compared to the same period in 1994. The US was the leading source of tourists in 1995, accounting for upward of 70% of arrivals or about 60,000 visitors. Major sources of government revenue include fees from offshore financial activities and customs receipts as the Islands rely on imports for nearly all consumption and capital goods. GDP: purchasing power parity - $80.8 million (1992 est.) GDP real growth rate: -1.5% (1992 est.) GDP per capita: $6,000 (1992 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: 4,848 (1990 est.) by occupation: majority engaged in fishing and tourist industries; some subsistence agriculture Unemployment rate: 12% (1992) Budget: revenues: $31.9 million (1995) expenditures: $30.4 million (1995), including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: fishing, tourism, offshore financial services Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 9,050 kW production: 11.1 million kWh consumption per capita: 860 kWh (1992) Agriculture: corn, beans; fish Illicit drugs: transshipment point for South American narcotics destined for the US Exports: $6.8 million (f.o.b., 1993) commodities: lobster, dried and fresh conch, conch shells partners: US, UK Imports: $42.8 million (1993) commodities: food and beverages, tobacco, clothing, manufactures, construction materials partners: US, UK External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: US currency is used Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 121 km paved: 24 km unpaved: 97 km Ports: Grand Turk, Providenciales Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 7 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: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1,359 (1988 est.) Telephone system: fair cable and radiotelephone services domestic: NA international: 2 submarine cables; satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 3, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 7,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: television programs are available from a cable network, and broadcasts from the Bahamas can be received in the islands Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the UK ====================================================================== @Tuvalu ------ Map --- Location: 8 00 S, 178 00 E -- Oceania, island group consisting of nine coral atolls in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to Australia Flag ---- Description: 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 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 Geographic coordinates: 8 00 S, 178 00 E Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 26 sq km land area: 26 sq km comparative area: 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 5 m 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 international agreements: party to - Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Law of the Sea People ------ Population: 10,146 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 36% (male 1,865; female 1,798) 15-64 years: 59% (male 2,831; female 3,162) 65 years and over: 5% (male 227; female 263) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.51% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 23.95 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.87 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.9 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.86 male(s)/female all ages: 0.94 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 27.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 63.34 years male: 62.15 years female: 64.59 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.11 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Tuvaluan(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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Tuvalu former: Ellice Islands Data code: TV Type of government: 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) is a hereditary monarch, represented by Governor General Manuella TULAGA (since NA June 1994) who was appointed by the queen on recommendation of the prime minister head of government: Prime Minister Kamuta LATASI (since 10 December 1993) and Deputy Prime Minister Otinielu TAUSI (since 10 December 1993) were elected by and from the members of Parliament cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the governor general on recommendation of the prime minister Legislative branch: unicameral Parliament (Fale I Fono): members elected for four-year terms; elections last held 25 November 1993 (next to be held by NA 1997); results - percent of vote NA; seats - (12 total) independents 12 Judicial branch: High Court Political parties and leaders: none International organization participation: ACP, AsDB, C (special), ESCAP, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UNESCO, UPU, WHO Diplomatic representation in US: Tuvalu does not have an embassy in the US US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in ====================================================================== @Uganda ------ Map --- Location: 1 00 N, 32 00 E -- Eastern Africa, west of Kenya Flag ---- Description: six equal horizontal bands of black (top), yellow, red, black, yellow, and red; a white disk is superimposed at the center and depicts a red-crested crane (the national symbol) facing the hoist side Geography --------- Location: Eastern Africa, west of Kenya Geographic coordinates: 1 00 N, 32 00 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 236,040 sq km land area: 199,710 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Oregon Land boundaries: total: 2,698 km border countries: Kenya 933 km, Rwanda 169 km, Sudan 435 km, Tanzania 396 km, Zaire 765 km Coastline: 0 km (landlocked) Maritime claims: none (landlocked) International disputes: none Climate: tropical; generally rainy with two dry seasons (December to February, June to August); semiarid in northeast Terrain: mostly plateau with rim of mountains lowest point: Lake Albert 621 m highest point: Margherita (Mount Stanley) 5,110 m Natural resources: copper, cobalt, limestone, salt Land use: arable land: 23% permanent crops: 9% meadows and pastures: 25% forest and woodland: 30% other: 13% Irrigated land: 90 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: draining of wetlands for agricultural use; deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; poaching is widespread natural hazards: NA international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Environmental Modification Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 20,158,176 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 50% (male 5,006,615; female 4,972,831) 15-64 years: 48% (male 4,842,908; female 4,874,471) 65 years and over: 2% (male 231,156; female 230,195) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.24% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 45.92 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 20.72 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -2.8 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) note: Uganda is host to refugees from a number of neighboring countries, including Zaire, Sudan, and Rwanda; probably in excess of 100,000 southern Sudanese fled to Uganda during the past year; many of the 8,000 Rwandans who took refuge in Uganda have returned home Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1 male(s)/female all ages: 1 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 99.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 40.29 years male: 39.98 years female: 40.6 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.61 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Ugandan(s) adjective: Ugandan Ethnic divisions: Baganda 17%, Karamojong 12%, Basogo 8%, Iteso 8%, Langi 6%, Rwanda 6%, Bagisu 5%, Acholi 4%, Lugbara 4%, Bunyoro 3%, Batobo 3%, European, Asian, Arab 1%, other 23% Religions: Roman Catholic 33%, Protestant 33%, Muslim 16%, indigenous beliefs 18% Languages: English (official), Luganda, Swahili, Bantu languages, Nilotic languages Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 61.8% male: 73.7% female: 50.2% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Uganda conventional short form: Uganda Data code: UG Type of government: republic Capital: Kampala Administrative divisions: 39 districts; Apac, Arua, Bundibugyo, Bushenyi, Gulu, Hoima, Iganga, Jinja, Kabale, Kabarole, Kalangala, Kampala, Kamuli, Kapchorwa, Kasese, Kibale, Kiboga, Kisoro, Kitgum, Kotido, Kumi, Lira, Luwero, Masaka, Masindi, Mbale, Mbarara, Moroto, Moyo, Mpigi, Mubende, Mukono, Nebbi, Ntungamo, Pallisa, Rakai, Rukungiri, Soroti, Tororo Independence: 9 October 1962 (from UK) National holiday: Independence Day, 9 October (1962) Constitution: 8 October 1995; adopted by the interim, 284-member Constituent Assembly, charged with debating the draft constitution that had been proposed in May 1993; the Constituent Assembly was dissolved on promulgation of the constitution in October 1995 Legal system: in 1995, the government restored the legal system to one based on English common law and customary law and reinstituted a normal judicial system; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Lt. Gen. Yoweri Kaguta MUSEVENI (since seizing power 29 January 1986); election last held 9 May 1996 (next to be held NA); results - Yoweri Kaguta MUSEVENI 74%, Paul K. SSEMOGERERE 24%, Muhammad MAYANJA 2%; note - this was the first popular direct presidential election since independence in 1962 head of government: Prime Minister Kintu MUSOKE (since 18 November 1994); cabinet: Cabinet, appointed by the president Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly: elections last held in 1980; note - the National Assembly was dissolved in July 1985 following a military coup and was succeeded on 1 February 1986 by the interim National Resistance Council, initially consisting of 23 appointed members, but by early-1989 enlarged to 278 members, of whom 210 were indirectly elected; the National Resistance Council, which had served as Uganda's acting legislature for more than 10 years, was dissolved on 15 June 1996 to prepare for the popular election of a new legislature on 27 June 1996 in keeping with the provisions of the new constitution Judicial branch: Court of Appeal; High Court Political parties and leaders: only officially recognized party - National Resistance Movement (NRM), Yoweri MUSEVENI note: Ugandan People's Congress (UPC), Milton OBOTE; Democratic Party (DP), Paul SSEMOGEERE; and Conservative Party (CP), Joshua S. MAYANJA-NKANGI continue to exist but the new constitution confirms the suspension of political party activity until 2001 Other political or pressure groups: Lord's Resistance Army (LRA); West Nile Bank Front (WNBF) International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, EADB, ECA, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IGADD, ILO, IMF, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OAU, OIC, PCA, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNITAR, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Stephen Kapimpina KATENTA-APULI chancery: 5911 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011 telephone: [1] (202) 726-7100 through 7102, 0416 FAX: [1] (202) 726-1727 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador E. Michael SOUTHWICK embassy: Parliament Avenue, Kampala mailing address: P. O. Box 7007, Kampala telephone: [256] (41) 259792, 259793, 259795 FAX: [256] (41) 259794 Flag: six equal horizontal bands of black (top), yellow, red, black, yellow, and red; a white disk is superimposed at the center and depicts a red-crested crane (the national symbol) facing the hoist side Economy ------- Economic overview: Uganda has substantial natural resources, including fertile soils, regular rainfall, and sizable mineral deposits of copper and cobalt. Agriculture is the most important sector of the economy, employing over 80% of the work force. Coffee is the major export crop and accounts for the bulk of export revenues. Since 1986 the government - with the support of foreign countries and international agencies - has acted to rehabilitate and stabilize the economy by undertaking currency reform, raising producer prices on export crops, increasing prices of petroleum products, and improving civil service wages. The policy changes are especially aimed at dampening inflation and boosting production and export earnings. In 1990-94, the economy turned in a solid performance based on continued investment in the rehabilitation of infrastructure, improved incentives for production and exports, and gradually improving domestic security. The economy again prospered in 1995 with rapid growth, low inflation, growing foreign investment, a trimmed bureaucracy, and the continued return of exiled Indian-Ugandan entrepreneurs. GDP: purchasing power parity - $16.8 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 7.1% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $900 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 55% industry: 12% services: 33% (1995) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 6.1% (1995) Labor force: 8.361 million (1993 est.) by occupation: agriculture 86%, industry 4%, services 10% (1980 est.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $574 million expenditures: $1.07 billion, including capital expenditures of $328 million (1994/95 est.) Industries: sugar, brewing, tobacco, cotton textiles, cement Industrial production growth rate: 15% (1994) Electricity: capacity: 162,000 kW production: 603 million kWh consumption per capita: 30 kWh (1990) Agriculture: coffee, tea, cotton, tobacco, cassava (tapioca), potatoes, corn, millet, pulses; beef, goat meat, milk, poultry Exports: $424 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: coffee 97%, cotton, tea partners: US 25%, UK 18%, France 11%, Spain 10% Imports: $870 million (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: petroleum products, machinery, cotton piece goods, metals, transportation equipment, food partners: Kenya 25%, UK 14%, Italy 13% External debt: $3.2 billion (1994) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Ugandan shilling (USh) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Ugandan shillings (USh) per US$1 - 1,032.6 (November 1995), 979.4 (1994), 1,195.0 (1993), 1,133.8 (1992), 734.0 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 1,241 km single track narrow gauge: 1,241 km 1.000-m gauge note:: a program to rehabilitate the railroad is underway (1995) Highways: total: 30,320 km paved: 3,480 km unpaved: 26,840 km (1987 est.) Waterways: Lake Victoria, Lake Albert, Lake Kyoga, Lake George, Lake Edward; Victoria Nile, Albert Nile Ports: Entebbe, Jinja, Port Bell Merchant marine: total: 3 roll-on/roll-off cargo ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,091 GRT/2,743 DWT (1995 est.) Airports: total: 21 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 2 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 7 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 5 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 5 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 54,900 (1989 est.) Telephone system: fair system domestic: microwave radio relay and radiotelephone communications stations international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 10, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 2.04 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 9 (1987 est.) Televisions: 193,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Wing Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 4,359,286 males fit for military service: 2,365,157 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $56 million, 1.7% of budget (FY93/94) ====================================================================== @Ukraine ------- Map --- Location: 49 00 N, 32 00 E -- Eastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Poland and Russia Flag ---- Description: two equal horizontal bands of azure (top) and golden yellow represent grainfields under a blue sky Geography --------- Location: Eastern Europe, bordering the Black Sea, between Poland and Russia Geographic coordinates: 49 00 N, 32 00 E Map references: Commonwealth of Independent 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 border countries: 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; dispute with Romania over continental shelf of the Black Sea under which signifcant gas and oil deposits may exist; 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 lowest point: Black Sea 0 m highest point: Hora Hoverla 2,061 m Natural resources: iron ore, coal, manganese, natural gas, oil, salt, sulfur, 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) 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, Biodiversity, 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, Climate Change, Law of the Sea Geographic note: strategic position at the crossroads between Europe and Asia; second-largest country in Europe People ------ Population: 50,864,009 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 20% (male 5,139,034; female 4,936,901) 15-64 years: 66% (male 16,135,671; female 17,433,600) 65 years and over: 14% (male 2,318,629; female 4,900,174) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: -0.4% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 11.17 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 15.16 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0.03 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.93 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.47 male(s)/female all ages: 0.86 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 22.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 66.8 years male: 61.54 years female: 72.32 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.6 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 98% male: 100% female: 97% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Ukraine local long form: none local short form: Ukrayina former: Ukrainian Soviet Socialist Republic Data code: UP Type of government: 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: adopted 28 June 1996 Legal system: based on civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Leonid D. KUCHMA (since 19 July 1994) was elected for a five-year term by direct popular vote; election last held 26 June and 10 July 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - Leonid KUCHMA 52.15%, Leonid KRAVCHUK 45.06% head of government: Prime Minister Yevhen MARCHUK (since NA June 1995), First Deputy Prime Minister Pavlo LAZARENKO (since NA), and eight deputy prime ministers were appointed by the president and approved by the Supreme Council cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president and approved by the Supreme Council National Security Council: originally created in 1992, but significantly revamped and strengthened under President KUCHMA; members include the president, prime minister, ministers of finance, environment, justice, internal affairs, foreign economic relations, economic and foreign affairs; the NSC staff is tasked with developing national security policy on domestic and international matters and advising the president Presidential Administration: helps draft presidential edicts and provides policy support to the president Council of Regions: advisory body created by President KUCHMA in September 1994; includes the chairmen of Oblast and 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 - most recent repeat election held in April 1996 filling 422 of 450 seats as follows: independents 238, Communist 95, Rukh 22, Agrarians 18, Socialist 15, Republicans 11, Congress of Ukrainian Nationalists 5, Labor 5, Party of Democratic Revival 4, Democratic Party of Ukraine 2, Social Democrats 2, Civil Congress 2, Conservative Republicans 1, Party of Economic Rivival of Crimea 1, Christian Democrats 1, vacant 28 Judicial branch: Supreme Court is the highest judicial body; Constitutional Court has exclusive jurisdiction over interpretation of the constitution and laws Political parties and leaders: Green Party of Ukraine, Vitaliy KONONOV, leader; Liberal Party of Ukraine, Volodymyr SHCHERBAN; Liberal Democratic Party of Ukraine, Volodymyr KLYMCHUK, chairman; Democratic Party of Ukraine, Volodymyr Oleksandrovych YAVORIVSKIY, chairman; People's Party of Ukraine; Peasants' Party of Ukraine; Party of Democratic Rebirth (Revival) of Ukraine, Volodymyr FILENKO, chairman; Social Democratic Party of Ukraine, Vasyl ONOPENKO, 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, Yuriy ZUBKO, chairman; Ukrainian Peasants' Democratic Party, Serhiy PLACHINDA, chairman; Ukrainian Republican Party, Bondan YAROSHPSKYY, chairman; Ukrainian National Conservative Party; Ukrainian People's Movement for Restructuring (Rukh), Vyacheslav CHORNOVIL, chairman; Ukrainian Communist Party, Petr SYMONENKO; Agrarian Party; Congress of Ukrainian Nationalists, Slava STESTKO; Civil Congress, O. BAZYLUK; Party of Economic Revival of Crimea; Progressive Socialist Party of Ukraine, Nataliya VITRENKO and Volodymyr MARCHENKO, leaders; People's Democratic Party, Anatoliy MATVIYENKO, chairman Other political or pressure groups: New Ukraine (Nova Ukrayina); Congress of National Democratic Forces International organization participation: BSEC, CCC, CE, CIS, EBRD, ECE, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNMOT, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Yuriy Mikolayevych SHCHERBAK chancery: 3350 M Street NW, Washington, DC 20007 telephone: [1] (202) 333-0606 FAX: [1] (202) 333-0817 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: [380] (44) 244-7345 FAX: [380] (44) 244-7350 Flag: two equal horizontal bands of azure (top) and golden yellow represent grainfields under a blue sky Economy ------- Economic overview: After Russia, the Ukrainian republic was far and away the most important economic component of the former Soviet Union, producing about four times the output of the next-ranking republic. Its fertile black soil generated more than one-fourth of Soviet agricultural output, and its farms provided substantial quantities of meat, milk, grain, and vegetables to other republics. Likewise, its diversified heavy industry supplied equipment and raw materials to industrial and mining sites in other regions of the former USSR. In early 1992, the Ukrainian Government liberalized most prices and erected a legal framework for privatization, but widespread resistance to reform within the government and the legislature soon stalled reform efforts and led to some backtracking. Loose monetary policies pushed inflation to hyperinflationary levels in late 1993. Since his election in July 1994, President KUCHMA has developed a comprehensive economic reform program, maintained financial discipline, and removed almost all controls over prices and foreign trade. Implementation of KUCHMA's economic agenda is encountering considerable resistance from parliament, entrenched bureaucrats, and industrial interests. However, should KUCHMA succeed in implementing aggressive market reforms during 1996, the economy may stabilize and possibly achieve real growth in the range of 0.5%-1%. GDP: purchasing power parity - $174.6 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994) GDP real growth rate: -4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $3,370 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 31% industry: 43% services: 26% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 9% monthly average (1995) 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) Unemployment rate: 0.7% officially registered; large number of unregistered or underemployed workers (December 1995) Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: coal, electric power, ferrous and nonferrous metals, machinery and transport equipment, chemicals, food-processing (especially sugar) Industrial production growth rate: -11% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 54,380,000 kW production: 192.1 billion kWh consumption per capita: 3,200 kWh (1995 est.) Agriculture: grain, sugar beets, vegetables; meat, milk 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 Exports: $11.3 billion (1995) commodities: coal, electric power, ferrous and nonferrous metals, chemicals, machinery and transport equipment, grain, meat partners: other FSU countries, China, Italy, Switzerland Imports: $10.7 billion (1995) commodities: energy, machinery and parts, transportation equipment, chemicals, textiles partners: other FSU countries, Germany, Poland, Czech Republic External debt: $8.8 billion (including $4.5 billion to Russia) (late 1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $220 million (1993) note: commitments, 1992-95, $4.5 billion ($4.1 billion drawn) Currency: on 2 September 1996, Ukraine introduced the long-awaited hryvnia (plural hryvni) as its national currency, replacing the karbovanets (in circulation since 12 November 1992) at a rate of 100,000 karbovantsi to 1 hryvnia Exchange rates: hryvnia per US$1 - 1.76 (2 September 1996) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 23,350 km broad gauge: 23,350 km 1.524-m gauge (8,600 km electrified) Highways: total: 169,964 km paved: 168,094 km (including 1,767 km of expressways) unpaved: 1,870 km (1992 est.) Waterways: 4,400 km navigable waterways, of which 1,672 km were on the Pryp''yat' and Dnipro (1990) 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: 353 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 3,262,341 GRT/4,356,374 DWT ships by type: barge carrier 5, bulk 39, cargo 217, chemical tanker 2, combination bulk 1, container 11, multifunction large-load carrier 3, oil tanker 21, passenger 7, passenger-cargo 5, railcar carrier 2, refrigerated cargo 5, roll-on/roll-off cargo 32, short-sea passenger 3 (1995 est.) 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 2 437 m: 16 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 37 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 476 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: NA Telephone system: system is unsatisfactory both for business and for personal use; 3.56 million applications for telephones had not been satisfied as of January 1991; electronic mail services have been established in Kiev, Odessa, and Luhans'k by Sprint domestic: an NMT-450 analog cellular telephone network operates in Kiev (Kyyiv) and allows direct dialing of international calls through Kiev's digital exchange international: calls to other CIS countries are carried by landline or microwave radio relay; calls to 167 other countries are carried by satellite or by the 150 leased lines through the Moscow international gateway switch; satellite earth stations - NA Intelsat, 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian Ocean Regions), and NA Intersputnik Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA; note - there are at least two radio broadcast stations of NA type Radios: 15 million (1990) Television broadcast stations: at least 2 Televisions: 17.3 million (1992) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Internal Troops, National Guard, Border Troops Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 12,388,788 males fit for military service: 9,716,127 males reach military age (18) annually: 362,000 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: 1.35 billion hryvni, less than 2% of GDP (Ukrainian Government's forecast for 1996); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results ====================================================================== @United Arab Emirates -------------------- Map --- Location: 24 00 N, 54 00 E -- Middle East, bordering the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf, between Oman and Saudi Arabia Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and black with a thicker vertical red band on the hoist side Geography --------- Location: Middle East, bordering the Gulf of Oman and the Persian Gulf, between Oman and Saudi Arabia Geographic coordinates: 24 00 N, 54 00 E Map references: Middle East Area: total area: 75,581 sq km land area: 75,581 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Maine Land boundaries: total: 867 km border countries: Oman 410 km, Saudi Arabia 457 km Coastline: 1,318 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: location and status of boundary with Saudi Arabia is not final, defacto boundary reflects 1974 agreement; no defined boundary with most of Oman, but Administrative Line in far north; claims two islands in the Persian Gulf occupied by Iran: Lesser Tunb (called Tunb as Sughra in Arabic by UAE and Jazireh-ye Tonb-e Kuchek in Persian by Iran) and Greater Tunb (called Tunb al Kubra in Arabic by UAE and Jazireh-ye Tonb-e Bozorg in Persian by Iran); claims island in the Persian Gulf jointly administered with Iran (called Abu Musa in Arabic by UAE and Jazireh-ye Abu Musa in Persian by Iran); in 1992, the dispute over Abu Musa and the Tunb islands became more acute when 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 Climate: desert; cooler in eastern mountains Terrain: flat, barren coastal plain merging into rolling sand dunes of vast desert wasteland; mountains in east lowest point: Persian Gulf 0 m highest point: Jabal Yibir 1,527 m Natural resources: petroleum, natural gas Land use: arable land: 0% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 2% forest and woodland: 0% other: 98% Irrigated land: 50 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: lack of natural freshwater resources being overcome by desalination plants; desertification; beach pollution from oil spills natural hazards: frequent sand and dust storms international agreements: party to - Endangered Species, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Law of the Sea Geographic note: strategic location along southern approaches to Strait of Hormuz, a vital transit point for world crude oil People ------ Population: 3,057,337 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 35% (male 542,848; female 519,952) 15-64 years: 64% (male 1,277,829; female 683,282) 65 years and over: 1% (male 22,246; female 11,180) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 4.33% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 26.43 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 3.03 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 19.91 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.87 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.99 male(s)/female all ages: 1.52 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 20.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 72.74 years male: 70.64 years female: 74.94 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.46 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Emiri(s) adjective: Emiri Ethnic divisions: Emiri 19%, other Arab and Iranian 23%, South Asian 50%, other expatriates (includes Westerners and East Asians) 8% (1982) note: less than 20% are UAE citizens (1982) Religions: Muslim 96% (Shi'a 16%), Christian, Hindu, and other 4% Languages: Arabic (official), Persian, English, Hindi, Urdu Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write but definition of literacy not available (1995 est.) total population: 79.2% male: 78.9% female: 79.8% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: United Arab Emirates conventional short form: none local long form: Al Imarata al Arabiyah al Muttahidah local short form: none former: Trucial States abbreviation: UAE Data code: TC Type of government: federation with specified powers delegated to the UAE central government and other powers reserved to member emirates Capital: Abu Dhabi Administrative divisions: 7 emirates (imarat, singular - imarah); Abu Zaby (Abu Dhabi), 'Ajman, Al Fujayrah, Ash Shariqah (Sharjah), Dubayy (Dubai), Ra's al Khaymah, Umm al Qaywayn Independence: 2 December 1971 (from UK) National holiday: National Day, 2 December (1971) Constitution: 2 December 1971 (provisional) Legal system: federal court system introduced in 1971; all emirates except Dubayy (Dubai) and Ra's al Khaymah have joined the federal system; all emirates have secular and Islamic law for civil, criminal, and high courts Suffrage: none Executive branch: chief of state: President ZAYID bin Sultan Al Nuhayyan (since 2 December 1971), ruler of Abu Zaby (Abu Dhabi) (since NA 1966) and Vice President MAKTUM bin Rashid al-Maktum (since 8 October 1990), ruler of Dubayy (Dubai) were elected by the Supreme Council of Rulers head of government: Prime Minister MAKTUM bin Rashid al-Maktum (since 8 October 1990), ruler of Dubayy (Dubai) and Deputy Prime Minister SULTAN bin Zayid Al Nuhayyan (since 20 November 1990) were appointed by the president Supreme Council of Rulers: composed of the seven emirate rulers, the council is the highest constitutional authority in the UAE; establishes general policies and sanctions federal legislation, Abu Zaby (Abu Dhabi) and Dubayy (Dubai) rulers have effective veto power; council meets four times a year cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president Legislative branch: unicameral Federal National Council (Majlis Watani Itihad); no elections; reviews legislation, but cannot change or veto Judicial branch: Union Supreme Court, judges appointed by the president Political parties and leaders: none Other political or pressure groups: NA International organization participation: ABEDA, AfDB, AFESD, AL, AMF, CAEU, CCC, ESCWA, FAO, G-77, GCC, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NAM, OAPEC, OIC, OPEC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Muhammad bin Husayn al-SHAALI chancery: Suite 600, 3000 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20007 telephone: [1] (202) 338-6500 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador David C. LITT embassy: Al-Sudan Street, Abu Dhabi mailing address: P. O. Box 4009, Abu Dhabi; American Embassy Abu Dhabi, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-6010 (pouch) telephone: [971] (2) 436691, 436692 FAX: [971] (2) 434771 consulate(s) general: Dubai Flag: three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and black with a thicker vertical red band on the hoist side Economy ------- Economic overview: The UAE has an open economy with one of the world's highest incomes per capita and with a sizable annual trade surplus. Its wealth is based on oil and gas output (about 33% of GDP), and the fortunes of the economy fluctuate with the prices of those commodities. Since 1973, the UAE has undergone a profound transformation from an impoverished region of small desert principalities to a modern state with a high standard of living. At present levels of production, crude oil reserves should last for over 100 years. Although much stronger economically than most Gulf states, the UAE faces similar problems with weak international oil prices and the pressures for cuts in OPEC oil production quotas. The UAE Government is encouraging increased privatization within the economy. GDP: purchasing power parity - $70.1 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3.3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $24,000 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 2% industry: 55% services: 43% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 4.6% (1994 est.) Labor force: 794,400 (1993 est.) by occupation: industry and commerce 56%, services 38%, agriculture 6% (1990 est.) note: 80% of labor force is foreign (est.) Unemployment rate: NEGL% (1988) Budget: revenues: $4.6 billion expenditures: $4.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: petroleum, fishing, petrochemicals, construction materials, some boat building, handicrafts, pearling Industrial production growth rate: -1.1% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 4,760,000 kW production: 16.5 billion kWh consumption per capita: 5,796 kWh (1993) Agriculture: dates, vegetables, watermelons; poultry, eggs, dairy products; fish Illicit drugs: growing role as heroin transshipment and money-laundering center Exports: $25.3 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: crude oil 66%, natural gas, reexports, dried fish, dates partners: Japan 45%, India 6%, Oman 6%, South Korea 5%, Iran 5% (1994) Imports: $21.7 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: manufactured goods, machinery and transport equipment, food partners: Japan 11%, UK 8%, Germany 8%, US 8%, Italy 7% (1994) External debt: $11.6 billion (1994 est.) Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 Emirian dirham (Dh) = 100 fils Exchange rates: Emirian dirhams (Dh) per US$1 - 3.6710 (fixed rate) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 3,000 km paved: 3,000 km unpaved: 0 km (1993 est.) Pipelines: crude oil 830 km; natural gas, including natural gas liquids, 870 km Ports: 'Ajman, Al Fujayrah, Das Island, Khawr Fakkan, Mina' Jabal 'Ali, Mina' Khalid, Mina' Rashid, Mina' Saqr, Mina' Zayid, Umm al Qaywayn Merchant marine: total: 57 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,068,980 GRT/1,876,504 DWT ships by type: bulk 2, cargo 17, chemical tanker 2, container 7, liquefied gas tanker 1, livestock carrier 1, oil tanker 22, refrigerated cargo 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 3 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 36 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 9 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: 3 with paved runways under 914 m: 10 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 7 (1995 est.) Heliports: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 677,793 (1993 est.) Telephone system: modern system consisting of microwave radio relay and coaxial cable; key centers are Abu Dhabi and Dubai domestic: microwave radio relay and coaxial cable international: satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (1 Atlantic Ocean and 2 Indian Ocean) and 1 Arabsat; submarine cables to Qatar, Bahrain, India, and Pakistan; tropospheric scatter to Bahrain; microwave radio relay to Saudi Arabia Radio broadcast stations: AM 8, FM 3, shortwave 0 Radios: 545,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 12 Televisions: 170,000 (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary (includes Federal Police Force) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,102,080 males fit for military service: 599,439 males reach military age (18) annually: 21,250 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $1.59 billion, 4.3% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @United Kingdom -------------- Map --- Location: 54 00 N, 2 00 W -- Western Europe, islands including the northern one-sixth of the island of Ireland between the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea, northwest of France Flag ---- Description: blue with the red cross of Saint George (patron saint of England) edged in white superimposed on the diagonal red cross of Saint Patrick (patron saint of Ireland) which is superimposed on the diagonal white cross of Saint Andrew (patron saint of Scotland); known as the Union Flag or Union Jack; the design and colors (especially the Blue Ensign) have been the basis for a number of other flags including dependencies, Commonwealth countries, and others Geography --------- Location: Western Europe, islands including the northern one-sixth of the island of Ireland between the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Sea, northwest of France Geographic coordinates: 54 00 N, 2 00 W Map references: Europe Area: total area: 244,820 sq km land area: 241,590 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Oregon note: includes Rockall and Shetland Islands Land boundaries: total: 360 km border country: Ireland 360 km Coastline: 12,429 km Maritime claims: continental shelf: as defined in continental shelf orders or in accordance with agreed upon boundaries exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: Northern Ireland question with Ireland; Gibraltar question with Spain; Argentina claims Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas); Argentina claims South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands; Mauritius claims island of Diego Garcia in British Indian Ocean Territory; Rockall continental shelf dispute involving Denmark, Iceland, and Ireland (Ireland and the UK have signed a boundary agreement in the Rockall area); territorial claim in Antarctica (British Antarctic Territory) Climate: temperate; moderated by prevailing southwest winds over the North Atlantic Current; more than one-half of the days are overcast Terrain: mostly rugged hills and low mountains; level to rolling plains in east and southeast lowest point: Fenland -4 m highest point: Ben Nevis 1,343 m 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 land: 1,570 sq km (1989) Environment: current issues: sulfur dioxide emissions from power plants contribute to air pollution; some rivers polluted by agricultural wastes and coastal waters polluted because of large-scale disposal of sewage at sea natural hazards: NA 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 Geographic note: lies near vital North Atlantic sea lanes; only 35 km from France and now linked by tunnel under the English Channel; because of heavily indented coastline, no location is more than 125 km from tidal waters People ------ Population: 58,489,975 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 20% (male 5,853,545; female 5,565,153) 15-64 years: 65% (male 19,050,420; female 18,797,406) 65 years and over: 15% (male 3,753,361; female 5,470,090) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.22% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 13.12 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 11.24 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0.3 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.69 male(s)/female all ages: 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 6.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 76.41 years male: 73.78 years female: 79.17 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 1.82 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Briton(s), British (collective plural) adjective: British Ethnic divisions: English 81.5%, Scottish 9.6%, Irish 2.4%, Welsh 1.9%, Ulster 1.8%, West Indian, Indian, Pakistani, and other 2.8% Religions: Anglican 27 million, Roman Catholic 9 million, Muslim 1 million, Presbyterian 800,000, Methodist 760,000, Sikh 400,000, Hindu 350,000, Jewish 300,000 (1991 est.) note: the UK does not include a question on religion in its census Languages: English, Welsh (about 26% of the population of Wales), Scottish form of Gaelic (about 60,000 in Scotland) Literacy: age 15 and over has completed five or more years of schooling (1978 est.) total population: 99% male: NA% female: NA% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland conventional short form: United Kingdom abbreviation: UK Data code: UK Type of government: constitutional monarchy Capital: London Administrative divisions: 47 counties, 7 metropolitan counties, 26 districts, 9 regions, and 3 islands areas England: 39 counties, 7 metropolitan counties*; Avon, Bedford, Berkshire, Buckingham, Cambridge, Cheshire, Cleveland, Cornwall, Cumbria, Derby, Devon, Dorset, Durham, East Sussex, Essex, Gloucester, Greater London*, Greater Manchester*, Hampshire, Hereford and Worcester, Hertford, Humberside, Isle of Wight, Kent, Lancashire, Leicester, Lincoln, Merseyside*, Norfolk, Northampton, Northumberland, North Yorkshire, Nottingham, Oxford, Shropshire, Somerset, South Yorkshire*, Stafford, Suffolk, Surrey, Tyne and Wear*, Warwick, West Midlands*, West Sussex, West Yorkshire*, Wiltshire Northern Ireland: 26 districts; Antrim, Ards, Armagh, Ballymena, Ballymoney, Banbridge, Belfast, Carrickfergus, Castlereagh, Coleraine, Cookstown, Craigavon, Down, Dungannon, Fermanagh, Larne, Limavady, Lisburn, Londonderry, Magherafelt, Moyle, Newry and Mourne, Newtownabbey, North Down, Omagh, Strabane Scotland: 9 regions, 3 islands areas*; Borders, Central, Dumfries and Galloway, Fife, Grampian, Highland, Lothian, Orkney*, Shetland*, Strathclyde, Tayside, Western Isles* Wales: 8 counties; Clwyd, Dyfed, Gwent, Gwynedd, Mid Glamorgan, Powys, South Glamorgan, West Glamorgan Dependent areas: Anguilla, Bermuda, British Indian Ocean Territory, British Virgin Islands, Cayman Islands, Falkland Islands, Gibraltar, Guernsey, Hong Kong (scheduled to become a Special Administrative Region of China on 1 July 1997), Jersey, Isle of Man, Montserrat, Pitcairn Islands, Saint Helena, South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands, Turks and Caicos Islands Independence: 1 January 1801 (United Kingdom established) National holiday: Celebration of the Birthday of the Queen (second Saturday in June) Constitution: unwritten; partly statutes, partly common law and practice Legal system: common law tradition with early Roman and modern continental influences; no judicial review of Acts of Parliament; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction, with reservations Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: Queen ELIZABETH II (since 6 February 1952) is a hereditary monarch; Heir Apparent Prince CHARLES (son of the queen, born 14 November 1948) head of government: Prime Minister John MAJOR (since 28 November 1990) is the leader of the party which holds the majority in the House of Commons and must have the consent of the monarch cabinet: Cabinet of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister Legislative branch: bicameral Parliament House of Lords: consists of a 1,200-member body, four-fifths are hereditary peers, two archbishops, 24 other senior bishops, serving and retired Lords of Appeal in Ordinary, other life peers, Scottish peers House of Commons: elections last held 9 April 1992 (next to be held by NA April 1997); results - Conservative 41.9%, Labor 34.5%, Liberal Democratic 17.9%, other 5.7%; seats - (651 total) Conservative 336, Labor 271, Liberal Democratic 20, other 24 Judicial branch: House of Lords, several Lords of Appeal in Ordinary are appointed by the monarch for life Political parties and leaders: Conservative and Unionist Party, John MAJOR; Labor Party, Anthony (Tony) Blair; Liberal Democrats (LD), Jeremy (Paddy) ASHDOWN; Scottish National Party, Alex SALMOND; Welsh National Party (Plaid Cymru), Dafydd Iwan WIGLEY; Ulster Unionist Party (Northern Ireland), David TRIMBLE; Democratic Unionist Party (Northern Ireland), Rev. Ian PAISLEY; Social Democratic and Labor Party (SDLP, Northern Ireland), John HUME; Sinn Fein (Northern Ireland), Gerry ADAMS; Alliance Party (Northern Ireland), John ALDERDICE Other political or pressure groups: Trades Union Congress; Confederation of British Industry; National Farmers' Union; Campaign for Nuclear Disarmament International organization participation: AfDB, AG (observer), AsDB, Australia Group, BIS, C, CCC, CDB (non-regional), CE, CERN, EBRD, ECA (associate), ECE, ECLAC, EIB, ESA, ESCAP, EU, FAO, G- 5, G- 7, G-10, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IEA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, MTCR, NACC, NATO, NEA, NSG, OECD, OSCE, PCA, SPC, UN, UN Security Council, UNAVEM III, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNFICYP, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNOMIG, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNRWA, UNU, UPU, WCL, WEU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO, ZC Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Sir John Olav KERR chancery: 3100 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 462-1340 FAX: [1] (202) 898-4255 consulate(s) general: Atlanta, Boston, Chicago, Cleveland, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco consulate(s): Dallas, Miami, and Seattle US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador William J. CROWE, Jr. embassy: 24/31 Grosvenor Square, London, W. 1A1AE mailing address: PSC 801, Box 40, London; FPO AE 09498-4040 telephone: [44] (71) 499-9000 FAX: [44] (71) 409-1637 consulate(s) general: Belfast, Edinburgh Flag: blue with the red cross of Saint George (patron saint of England) edged in white superimposed on the diagonal red cross of Saint Patrick (patron saint of Ireland) which is superimposed on the diagonal white cross of Saint Andrew (patron saint of Scotland); known as the Union Flag or Union Jack; the design and colors (especially the Blue Ensign) have been the basis for a number of other flags including dependencies, Commonwealth countries, and others Economy ------- Economic overview: The UK is one of the world's great trading powers and financial centers, and its economy ranks among the four largest in Western Europe. The economy is essentially capitalistic; over the past 13 years the ruling Tories have greatly reduced public ownership and contained the growth of social welfare programs. Agriculture is intensive, highly mechanized, and efficient by European standards, producing about 60% of food needs with only about 1% of the labor force. The UK has large coal, natural gas, and oil reserves, and primary energy production accounts for 12% of GDP, one of the highest shares of any industrial nation. Services, particularly banking, insurance, and business services, account by far for the largest proportion of GDP while industry continues to decline in importance, now employing only 25% of the work force. The economy registered 3.9% GDP growth in 1994, the best rate for six years, but slipped back to 2.7% in 1995. Exports and manufacturing output have been the primary engines of growth. Unemployment is gradually falling. Inflation is at a tolerable 3%. A major economic policy question for the UK in the 1990s is the terms on which it participates in the financial and economic integration of Europe. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1.1384 trillion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.7% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $19,500 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 1.7% industry: 27.7% services: 70.6% (1993) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 3.1% (November 1995) Labor force: 28.048 million by occupation: services 62.8%, manufacturing and construction 25.0%, government 9.1%, energy 1.9%, agriculture 1.2% (June 1992) Unemployment rate: 8% (December 1995) Budget: revenues: $388.9 billion expenditures: $447.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY94/95 est.) Industries: production machinery including machine tools, electric power equipment, automation equipment, railroad equipment, shipbuilding, aircraft, motor vehicles and parts, electronics and communications equipment, metals, chemicals, coal, petroleum, paper and paper products, food processing, textiles, clothing, and other consumer goods Industrial production growth rate: 1.9% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 65,360,000 kW production: 303 billion kWh consumption per capita: 5,123 kWh (1993) Agriculture: cereals, oilseed, potatoes, vegetables; cattle, sheep, poultry; fish Illicit drugs: gateway country for Latin American cocaine entering the European market; producer of synthetic drugs; transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin; money-laundering center Exports: $200.4 billion (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: manufactured goods, machinery, fuels, chemicals, semifinished goods, transport equipment partners: EU countries 56.4% (Germany 12.7%, France 9.9%, Netherlands 7.0%), US 13.1% Imports: $221.9 billion (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: manufactured goods, machinery, semifinished goods, foodstuffs, consumer goods partners: EU countries 54.9% (Germany 14.6%, France 10.0%, Netherlands 6.7%), US 12.2% External debt: $16.2 billion (June 1992) Economic aid: donor: ODA, $2.908 billion (1993) Currency: 1 British pound (L) = 100 pence Exchange rates: British pounds (L) per US$1 - 0.6535 (January 1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 April - 31 March Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 17,561 km broad gauge: 434 km 1.600-m gauge (190 km double track); note - all 1.600-m gauge track, of which 357 km is in common carrier use, is in Northern Ireland standard gauge: 16,892 km 1.435-m gauge (4,928 km electrified; 12,591 km double or multiple track); note - 16,532 km of 1.435-m routes are in common carrier service; the remaining 360 km are operated by a total of 40 tourist or other private companies narrow gauge: 235 km 0.260-m, 0.311-m, 0.381-m, 0.600-m, 0.610-m, 0.686-m, 0.760-m, 0.762-m, 0.800-m, 0.825-m, 0.914-m and 1.067-m gauges; note - these short, narrow-gage lines are operated by a total of 25 tourist and other private firms (1995) Highways: total: 386,243 km (1993 est.) paved: NA km (including 3,237 km of expressways in Great Britain) unpaved: NA km Waterways: 3,200 km under British Waterways Board Pipelines: crude oil (almost all insignificant) 933 km; petroleum products 2,993 km; natural gas 12,800 km Ports: Aberdeen, Belfast, Bristol, Cardiff, Grangemouth, Hull, Leith, Liverpool, London, Manchester, Medway, Sullom Voe, Tees, Tyne Merchant marine: total: 151 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 3,191,969 GRT/3,861,239 DWT ships by type: bulk 10, cargo 21, chemical tanker 2, container 24, liquefied gas tanker 2, oil tanker 56, passenger 8, passenger-cargo 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 12, short-sea passenger 14, specialized tanker 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 388 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 9 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 29 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 103 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 59 with paved runways under 914 m: 166 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 22 (1995 est.) Heliports: 10 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 29.5 million (1987 est.) Telephone system: technologically advanced domestic and international system domestic: equal mix of buried cables, microwave radio relay, and fiber-optic systems international: 40 coaxial submarine cables; satellite earth stations - 10 Intelsat (7 Atlantic Ocean and 3 Indian Ocean), 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic Ocean region), and 1 Eutelsat; at least 8 large international switching centers Radio broadcast stations: AM 225, FM 525 (mostly repeaters), shortwave 0 Radios: 70 million Television broadcast stations: 207 (repeaters 3,210) Televisions: 20 million Defense ------- Branches: Army, Royal Navy (includes Royal Marines), Royal Air Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 14,515,077 males fit for military service: 12,102,431 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $35.1 billion, 3.1% of GDP (FY95/96) ====================================================================== @United States ------------- Map --- Location: 38 00 N, 97 00 W -- North America, bordering both the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Pacific Ocean, between Canada and Mexico Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: North America, bordering both the North Atlantic Ocean and the North Pacific Ocean, between Canada and Mexico Geographic coordinates: 38 00 N, 97 00 W Map references: North America Area: total area: 9,372,610 sq km land area: 9,166,600 sq km comparative area: about one-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 border countries: Canada 8,893 km (including 2,477 km with Alaska), Cuba 29 km (US Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay), Mexico 3,326 km note: Guantanamo Naval Base is leased by the US and thus remains part of Cuba 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 lowest point: Death Valley -86 m highest point: Mount McKinley 6,194 m 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% 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; mud slides 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 Geographic note: world's fourth-largest country (after Russia, Canada, and China) People ------ Population: 266,476,278 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 22% (male 29,718,390; female 28,335,934) 15-64 years: 65% (male 86,225,056; female 87,411,573) 65 years and over: 13% (male 13,850,234; female 20,021,655) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.91% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 14.8 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.8 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 3.1 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.69 male(s)/female all ages: 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 6.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.95 years male: 72.65 years female: 79.41 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.06 children born/woman (1996 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 can read and write (1979 est.) total population: 97% male: 97% female: 97% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: United States of America conventional short form: United States abbreviation: US or USA Data code: US Type of government: 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 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) and Vice President Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993) were elected for four-year terms by a college of representatives elected directly from each state; election last held 3 November 1992 (next to be held 5 November 1996); results - William Jefferson CLINTON (Democratic Party) 43.2%, George BUSH (Republican Party) 37.7%, Ross PEROT (independent) 19.0%, other 0.1% cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president with Senate approval Legislative branch: bicameral Congress Senate: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held 5 November 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (100 total) Republican Party 54, Democratic Party 46 House of Representatives: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held 5 November 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (435 total) Republican Party 231, Democratic Party 203, independent 1 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, justices are appointed for life by the president with confirmation by the Senate Political parties and leaders: Republican Party, Haley BARBOUR, national committee chairman and Jeanie AUSTIN, co-chairman; Democratic Party, David C. WILHELM, national committee chairman; several other groups or parties of minor political significance International organization participation: 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, 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, UNCRO, UNCTAD, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNMIH, UNOMIG, UNPREDEP, UNPROFOR, UNRWA, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO, 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: The US has the most powerful, diverse, and technologically advanced economy in the world, with a per capita GDP of $27,500, the largest among major industrial nations. In this market-oriented economy, private individuals and business firms make most of the decisions, and government purchases of goods and services are made predominantly in the marketplace. US business firms enjoy considerably greater flexibility than their counterparts in Western Europe and Japan in decisions to expand capital plant, lay off surplus workers, and develop new products. At the same time, they face higher barriers to entry in their rivals' home markets than the barriers to entry of foreign firms in US markets. In all economic sectors, US firms are at or near the forefront in technological advances, especially in computers, medical equipment, and aerospace, although their advantage has steadily narrowed since the end of World War II. The onrush of technology largely explains the gradual development of a "two-tier labor market" in which those at the bottom lack the education and professional/technical skills of those at the top and, more and more, fail to get pay raises, health insurance coverage, and other benefits. The years 1994-95 witnessed moderate gains in real output, low inflation rates, and a drop in unemployment below 6%. The capture of both houses of Congress by the Republicans in the elections of 8 November 1994 has intensified the debate over how the US should address its major economic problems. These problems include inadequate investment in economic infrastructure, rapidly rising medical costs of an aging population, sizable budget and trade deficits, and stagnation of family income in the lower economic groups. The outlook for 1996 is for continued moderate growth, low inflation, and about the same level of unemployment. GDP: purchasing power parity - $7.2477 trillion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2.1% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $27,500 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 2% industry: 23% services: 75% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 2.5% (1995) Labor force: 132.304 million (includes unemployed) (1995) by occupation: managerial and professional 28.3%, technical, sales and administrative support 30.0%, services 13.5%, manufacturing, mining, transportation, and crafts 25.3%, farming, forestry, and fishing 2.8% Unemployment rate: 5.6% (December 1995) Budget: revenues: $1.258 trillion expenditures: $1.461 trillion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994) 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 Industrial production growth rate: 5.4% (1994 est.) Electricity: capacity: 695,120,000 kW production: 3.1 trillion kWh consumption per capita: 11,236 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, other grains, corn, fruits, vegetables, cotton; beef, pork, poultry, dairy products; forest products; fish 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 Exports: $578 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) 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: $751 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.) 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 Economic aid: donor: ODA, $9.721 billion (1993) Currency: 1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: British pounds: (L) per US$ - 0.6535 (January 1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992), 0.5652 (1991) Canadian dollars: (Can$) per US$ - 1.3666 (January 1996), 1.3724 (1995), 1.3656 (1994), 1.2901 (1993), 1.2087 (1992), 1.1457 (1991) French francs: (F) per US$ - 5.0056 (January 1996), 4.9915 (1995), 5.5520 (1994), 5.6632 (1993), 5.2938 (1992), 5.6421 (1991) Italian lire: (Lit) per US$ - 1,583.8 (January 1996), 1,629.6 (1995), 1,612.4 (1994), 1,573.7 (1993), 1,232.4 (1992), 1,240.6 (1991) Japanese yen: (Y) per US$ - 105.84 (January 1996), 94.06 (1995), 102.21 (1994), 111.20 (1993), 126.65 (1992), 134.71 (1991) German deutsche marks: (DM) per US$ - 1.4617 (January 1996), 1.4331 (1995), 1.6228 (1994), 1.6533 (1993), 1.5617 (1992), 1.6595 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 October - 30 September Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 240,000 km mainline routes (nongovernment owned) standard gauge: 240,000 km 1.435-m gauge (1989) Highways: total: 6,284,488 km paved: 5,574,341 km (in 1991, included 85,267 km of expressways) unpaved: 710,147 km (1993 est.) Waterways: 41,009 km of navigable inland channels, exclusive of the Great Lakes 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: 322 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 10,716,000 GRT/15,259,000 DWT ships by type: bulk 21, cargo 20, chemical tanker 17, intermodal 125, liquefied gas tanker 14, passenger-cargo 2, tanker 110, tanker tug-barge 13 note: in addition, there are 190 government-owned vessels (1995 est.) Airports: total: 13,387 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 179 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 201 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1,204 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2,361 with paved runways under 914 m: 7,720 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 7 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 151 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1,563 (1995 est.) Heliports: 63 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 182.558 million (1987 est.) Telephone system: domestic: large system of fiber-optic cable, microwave radio relay, coaxial cable, and domestic satellites international: 24 ocean cable systems in use; satellite earth stations - 61 Intelsat (45 Atlantic Ocean and 16 Pacific Ocean) (1990 est.), 5 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean region), and 4 Inmarsat (Pacific and Atlantic Ocean regions) Radio broadcast stations: AM 4,987, FM 4,932, shortwave 0 Radios: 540.5 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 1,092 (in addition, there are about 9,000 cable TV systems) Televisions: 215 million (1993 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Department of the Army, Department of the Navy (includes Marine Corps), Department of the Air Force note: the Coast Guard falls under the Department of Transportation, but in wartime reports to the Department of the Navy Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 69,302,573 males fit for military service: NA males reach military age (18) annually: 1,864,580 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $272.2 billion, 3.8% of GDP (1995 est.) ====================================================================== @Uruguay ------- Map --- Location: 33 00 S, 56 00 W -- Southern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Argentina and Brazil Flag ---- Description: nine equal horizontal stripes of white (top and bottom) alternating with blue; there is a white square in the upper hoist-side corner with a yellow sun bearing a human face known as the Sun of May and 16 rays alternately triangular and wavy Geography --------- Location: Southern South America, bordering the South Atlantic Ocean, between Argentina and Brazil Geographic coordinates: 33 00 S, 56 00 W Map references: South America Area: total area: 176,220 sq km land area: 173,620 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller than Washington State Land boundaries: total: 1,564 km border countries: Argentina 579 km, Brazil 985 km Coastline: 660 km Maritime claims: continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation territorial sea: 200 nm; overflight and navigation guaranteed beyond 12 nm International disputes: short section of boundary with Argentina is in dispute; two short sections of the boundary with Brazil are in dispute - Arroyo de la Invernada (Arroio Invernada) area of the Rio Cuareim (Rio Quarai) and the islands at the confluence of the Rio Cuareim (Rio Quarai) and the Uruguay River Climate: warm temperate; freezing temperatures almost unknown Terrain: mostly rolling plains and low hills; fertile coastal lowland lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Cerro Catedral 514 m Natural resources: fertile soil, hydropower potential, minor minerals Land use: arable land: 8% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 78% forest and woodland: 4% other: 10% Irrigated land: 1,100 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: substantial pollution from Brazilian industry along border; one-fifth of country affected by acid rain generated by Brazil; water pollution from meat packing/tannery industry; inadequate solid/hazardous waste disposal natural hazards: seasonally high winds (the pampero is a chilly and occasional violent wind which blows north from the Argentine pampas), droughts, floods; because of the absence of mountains, which act as weather barriers, all locations are particularly vulnerable to rapid changes in weather fronts international agreements: party to - Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation People ------ Population: 3,238,952 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 24% (male 405,041; female 386,155) 15-64 years: 63% (male 1,004,089; female 1,035,336) 65 years and over: 13% (male 170,109; female 238,222) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 0.7% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 17.02 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9.05 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.99 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.97 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.71 male(s)/female all ages: 0.95 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 15.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 74.94 years male: 71.8 years female: 78.25 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.32 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Uruguayan(s) adjective: Uruguayan Ethnic divisions: white 88%, mestizo 8%, black 4% Religions: Roman Catholic 66% (less than one-half of the adult population attends church regularly), Protestant 2%, Jewish 2%, nonprofessing or other 30% Languages: Spanish, Brazilero (Portuguese-Spanish mix on the Brazilian frontier) Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 97.3% male: 96.9% female: 97.7% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Oriental Republic of Uruguay conventional short form: Uruguay local long form: Republica Oriental del Uruguay local short form: Uruguay Data code: UY Type of government: republic Capital: Montevideo Administrative divisions: 19 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Artigas, Canelones, Cerro Largo, Colonia, Durazno, Flores, Florida, Lavalleja, Maldonado, Montevideo, Paysandu, Rio Negro, Rivera, Rocha, Salto, San Jose, Soriano, Tacuarembo, Treinta y Tres Independence: 25 August 1828 (from Brazil) National holiday: Independence Day, 25 August (1828) Constitution: 27 November 1966, effective February 1967, suspended 27 June 1973, new constitution rejected by referendum 30 November 1980 Legal system: based on Spanish civil law system; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal and compulsory Executive branch: chief of state and head of government: President Julio Maria SANGUINETTI (since 1 March 1995) and Vice President Hugo BATALLA (since 1 March 1995) were elected for five-year terms by popular vote; election last held 27 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1999) cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president Legislative branch: bicameral General Assembly (Asamblea General) Chamber of Senators (Camara de Senadores): elections last held 27 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1999); results - Colorado 36%, Blanco 34 %, Encuentro Progresista 27%, New Sector 3%; seats - (30 total) Colorado 11, Blanco 10, Encuentro Progresista 8, New Sector 1 Chamber of Representatives (Camara de Representantes): elections last held 27 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1999); results - Colorado 32%, Blanco 31%, Encuentro Progresista 31%, New Sector 5%; seats - (99 total) Colorado 32, Blanco 31, Encuentro Progresista 31, New Sector 5 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges are nominated by the president and elected for 10-year terms by the General Assembly Political parties and leaders: National (Blanco) Party, Alberto VOLONTE Berro; Colorado Party, Jorge BATLLE; Broad Front Coalition, 12 member Executive Secretariat (as of 11 March 1996); New Sector Coalition, Hugo BATALLA; Encuentro Progresista (EP), Tabare VAZQUEZ International organization participation: AG (observer), CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-11, G-77, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICRM, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, LAES, LAIA, Mercosur, MINURSO, NAM (observer), OAS, OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UNAMIR, UNAVEM III, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNMOGIP, UNMOT, UNOMIG, UNOMIL, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Alvaro DIEZ DE MEDINA SUAREZ chancery: 1918 F Street NW, Washington, DC 20006 telephone: [1] (202) 331-1313 through 1316 consulate(s) general: Los Angeles, Miami, and New York US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Thomas J. DODD embassy: Lauro Muller 1776, Montevideo mailing address: APO AA 34035 telephone: [598] (2) 23 60 61, 48 77 77 FAX: [598] (2) 48 86 11 Flag: nine equal horizontal stripes of white (top and bottom) alternating with blue; there is a white square in the upper hoist-side corner with a yellow sun bearing a human face known as the Sun of May and 16 rays alternately triangular and wavy Economy ------- Economic overview: Uruguay's small economy benefits from a favorable climate for agriculture and substantial hydropower potential. Economic development has been restrained in recent years by high - though declining - inflation and extensive government regulation. The SANGUINETTI government's conservative monetary and fiscal policies are aimed at continuing to reduce inflation, currently at 35.4%; other priorities include extensive reform of the social security system and increased investment in education. Uruguay went into recession during second quarter 1995 and ended the year with an estimated 2% fall in GDP and a two percentage point rise in unemployment to 11%. This was partly due to Argentina's recession and the slowdown in Brazilian growth in 1995, which contributed to declines in the Uruguayan manufacturing, construction, and service sectors. However, despite its Mercosur (Southern Cone Common Market) partners' troubles, Uruguayan trade expanded and potential new markets are being explored through Mercosur negotiations with neighboring countries and the European Union (EU). Uruguay also recently augmented its transport and agricultural sector ties with the US. The economy is expected to come out of recession as regional growth prospects improve. GDP: purchasing power parity - $24.4 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: -2.4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $7,600 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 10.5% industry: 27.5% services: 62% (1994) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 35.4% (1995 est.) Labor force: 1.355 million (1991 est.) by occupation: government 25%, manufacturing 19%, agriculture 11%, commerce 12%, utilities, construction, transport, and communications 12%, other services 21% (1988 est.) Unemployment rate: 11% (1995) Budget: revenues: $3.03 billion expenditures: $3.37 billion with capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.) Industries: meat processing, wool and hides, sugar, textiles, footwear, leather apparel, tires, cement, petroleum refining, wine Industrial production growth rate: -19% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 2,070,000 kW production: 9 billion kWh consumption per capita: 1,575 kWh (1993) Agriculture: wheat, rice, corn, sorghum; livestock; fishing Exports: $2.3 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: wool and textile manufactures, beef and other animal products, leather, rice partners: Brazil, Argentina, US, China, Italy Imports: $3.1 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.) commodities: machinery and equipment, vehicles, chemicals, minerals, plastics partners: Brazil, Argentina, US, Nigeria External debt: $4.95 billion (1995) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $91 million (1993) Currency: 1 Uruguayan peso ($Ur) = 100 centesimos Exchange rates: Uruguayan pesos ($Ur) per US$1 - 7.12 (January 1996), 5.6 (January 1995), 5.0529 (1994), 3.9484 (1993), 3.0270 (1992), 2.0188 (1991) note: on 1 March 1993 the former new peso (N$Ur) was replaced as Uruguay's unit of currency by the peso which is equal to 1,000 of the new pesos Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 2,070 km (461 km closed; additional 460 km only partially operational) standard gauge: 2,070 km 1.435-m gauge Highways: total: 49,600 km paved: 6,656 km unpaved: 42,944 km (1988 est.) Waterways: 1,600 km; used by coastal and shallow-draft river craft Ports: Fray Bentos, Montevideo, Nueva Palmira, Paysandu, Punta del Este Merchant marine: total: 3 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 71,405 GRT/110,939 DWT ships by type: cargo 1, container 1, oil tanker 1 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 66 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: 8 with paved runways under 914 m: 36 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 14 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 451,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: some modern facilities domestic: most modern facilities concentrated in Montevideo; new nationwide microwave radio relay network international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 99, FM 0, shortwave 9 Radios: 1.89 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 26 Televisions: 725,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy (includes Naval Air Arm, Coast Guard, Marines), Air Force, Grenadier Guards, Coracero Guard, Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 783,890 males fit for military service: 636,454 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $256 million, 1.5% of GDP (1994) ====================================================================== @Uzbekistan ---------- Map --- Location: 41 00 N, 64 00 E -- Central Asia, north of Afghanistan Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Central Asia, north of Afghanistan Geographic coordinates: 41 00 N, 64 00 E Map references: Commonwealth of Independent 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 border countries: Afghanistan 137 km, Kazakstan 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; Fergana Valley in east surrounded by mountainous Tajikistan and Kyrgyzstan; shrinking Aral Sea in west lowest point: Saryqamish Kuli -12 m highest point: Adelunga Toghi 4,301 m 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, Desertification, Environmental Modification, Ozone Layer Protection; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 23,418,381 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 40% (male 4,732,585; female 4,618,503) 15-64 years: 55% (male 6,441,052; female 6,540,479) 65 years and over: 5% (male 416,571; female 669,191) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.87% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 29.86 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.02 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -3.13 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.98 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.62 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 79.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 64.6 years male: 60.44 years female: 68.97 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.69 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Uzbek(s) adjective: Uzbek Ethnic divisions: Uzbek 71.4%, Russian 8.3%, Tajik 4.7%, Kazak 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 est.) total population: 97% male: 98% female: 96% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Uzbekistan conventional short form: Uzbekistan local long form: Uzbekiston Respublikasi local short form: none former: Uzbek Soviet Socialist Republic Data code: UZ Type of government: 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 Islom KARIMOV (since 24 March 1990, when he was elected president by the then Supreme Soviet) was elected for a five-year term by popular vote; election last held 29 December 1991 (next to be held NA 2000); results - Islam KARIMOV 86%, Mukhammad SOLIKH 12%, other 2%; note - the 26 March 1995 referendum extended KARIMOV's term until 2000 (99.6% approval) head of government: Prime Minister Otkir SULTONOV (since December 1995), First Deputy Prime Minister Ismoil JURABEKOV (since NA), Deputy Prime Ministers Viktor CHIZHEN (since NA), Bakhtiyor HAMIDOV (since NA), Kayim HAQQULOV (since NA), Rim GINIYATULLIN (since NA), Saidmukhtor SAIDQOSIMOV (since NA), Mirabror USMONOV (since NA), Murat SHARIFKHOJAYEV (since NA), Uktam ISMAILOV (since NA), Rustam YUNUSOV (since NA) were appointed by the president cabinet: Cabinet of Ministers was appointed by the president with approval of the Supreme Assembly Legislative branch: unicameral Supreme Assembly (Oliy Majlis): elections last held 25 December 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (250 total) People's Democratic Party 207, Fatherland Progress Party 12, other 31; note - final runoffs were held 22 January 1995; seating was as follows: People's Democratic Party 69, Fatherland Progress Party 14, Social Democratic Party 47, local government 120 Judicial branch: Supreme Court, judges are nominated by the president and confirmed by the Supreme Assembly Political parties and leaders: People's Democratic Party (PDP; formerly Communist Party), Islom A. KARIMOV, chairman; Fatherland Progress Party (FPP), Anwar YULDASHEV, chairman; Social Democratic Party, Anvar JORABAYEV, chairman Other political or pressure groups: Birlik (Unity) People's Movement (BPM), Ibrahim BURIYEV, chairman; Islamic Rebirth Party (IRP), Abdullah UTAYEV, chairman; Erk (Freedom) Democratic Party was banned 9 December 1992 note: UTAYEV (IRP) is either in prison or in exile International organization participation: AsDB, CCC, CIS, EBRD, ECE, ECO, ESCAP, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Interpol, IOC, ISO, ITU, NACC, NAM, OIC (observer), OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Fatiq TESHABAYEV chancery: (temporary) Suites 619 and 623, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005 telephone: [1] (202) 638-4266, 4267 FAX: [1] (202) 638-4268 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Stanley T. ESCUDERO embassy: 82 Chilanzarskaya, Tashkent mailing address: use embassy street address telephone: [7] (3712) 77-14-07, 77-10-81, 77-69-86 FAX: [7] (3712) 89-13-35 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Uzbekistan is a dry, landlocked country of which 10% consists of intensely cultivated, irrigated river valleys. It was one of the poorest republics of the former Soviet Union with more than 60% of its population living in overpopulated rural communities. At the same time, Uzbekistan is the world's third largest cotton exporter, a major producer of gold and natural gas, and a regionally significant producer of chemicals and machinery. Following independence, the government sought to prop up its Soviet-style command economy with subsidies and tight controls on production and prices. Faced with high rates of inflation, however, the government stepped up the pace of reform in mid-1994, by introducing tighter monetary policies, expanding privatization, reducing the role of the state in the economy, and improving the environment for foreign investors. Nevertheless, the state continues to be a dominating influence in the economy, and reforms have so far failed to induce far-reaching structural changes. GDP: purchasing power parity - $54.7 billion (1995 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994) GDP real growth rate: -1% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,370 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 7.7% monthly average (January-October 1995 est.) Labor force: 8.234 million by occupation: agriculture and forestry 43%, industry and construction 22%, other 35% (1992) Unemployment rate: 0.4% includes only officially registered unemployed; large numbers of underemployed workers (December 1995) Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: textiles, food processing, machine building, metallurgy, natural gas Industrial production growth rate: 0% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 11,690,000 kW production: 47.5 billion kWh consumption per capita: 2,130 kWh (1994) Agriculture: cotton, vegetables, fruits, grain; livestock Illicit drugs: illicit cultivator of cannabis and opium poppy; mostly for CIS consumption; government eradication programs; used as transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe Exports: $3.1 billion (1995) commodities: cotton, gold, natural gas, mineral fertilizers, ferrous metals, textiles, food products partners: Russia, Ukraine, Eastern Europe, US Imports: $2.9 billion (1995) commodities: grain, machinery and parts, consumer durables, other foods partners: principally other FSU countries, Czech Republic External debt: $1.285 billion (of which $510 million to Russia) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $71 million (1993) note: commitments, $2,915 million ($135 million in disbursements) (1992-95) 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 - 35.8 (end December 1995), 25 (yearend 1994) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 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: NA km unpaved: NA km (1990 est.) 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 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 7 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 216 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 1.458 million (1995 est.) Telephone system: poorly developed domestic: NMT-450 analog cellular network established in Tashkent international: linked by landline or microwave radio relay with CIS member states and to other countries by leased connection via the Moscow international gateway switch; new Intelsat links to Tokyo and Ankara give Uzbekistan international access independent of Russian facilities; satellite earth stations - NA Orbita and NA Intelsat Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA; note - there is at least one state-owned broadcast station of NA type Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 2 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: Army, Air and Air Defense, Security Forces (internal and border troops), National Guard Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 5,672,621 males fit for military service: 4,623,960 males reach military age (18) annually: 231,293 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: 164 million soms, 3.7% of GDP (1993); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results ====================================================================== @Vanuatu ------- Map --- Location: 16 00 S, 167 00 E -- Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to Australia Flag ---- Description: two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and green with a black isosceles triangle (based on the hoist side) all separated by a black-edged yellow stripe in the shape of a horizontal Y (the two points of the Y face the hoist side and enclose the triangle); centered in the triangle is a boar's tusk encircling two crossed namele leaves, all in yellow Geography --------- Location: Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about three-quarters of the way from Hawaii to Australia Geographic coordinates: 16 00 S, 167 00 E Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 14,760 sq km land area: 14,760 sq km comparative area: slightly larger than Connecticut note: includes more than 80 islands Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 2,528 km Maritime claims: measured from claimed archipelagic baselines contiguous zone: 24 nm continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: claims Matthew and Hunter Islands east of New Caledonia Climate: tropical; moderated by southeast trade winds Terrain: mostly mountains of volcanic origin; narrow coastal plains lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Tabwemasana 1,877 m Natural resources: manganese, hardwood forests, fish Land use: arable land: 1% permanent crops: 5% meadows and pastures: 2% forest and woodland: 1% other: 91% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: a majority of the population does not have access to a potable and reliable supply of water natural hazards: tropical cyclones or typhoons (January to April); volcanism causes minor earthquakes international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Marine Dumping, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution; signed, but not ratified - Desertification, Law of the Sea People ------ Population: 177,504 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 40% (male 36,409; female 35,105) 15-64 years: 57% (male 51,969; female 48,901) 65 years and over: 3% (male 2,802; female 2,318) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.17% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 30.57 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 8.84 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.04 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 1.21 male(s)/female all ages: 1.06 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 64.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 60.13 years male: 58.27 years female: 62.09 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.01 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Ni-Vanuatu (singular and plural) adjective: Ni-Vanuatu Ethnic divisions: indigenous Melanesian 94%, French 4%, Vietnamese, Chinese, Pacific Islanders Religions: Presbyterian 36.7%, Anglican 15%, Catholic 15%, indigenous beliefs 7.6%, Seventh-Day Adventist 6.2%, Church of Christ 3.8%, other 15.7% Languages: English (official), French (official), pidgin (known as Bislama or Bichelama) Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1979 est.) total population: 53% male: 57% female: 48% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Vanuatu conventional short form: Vanuatu former: New Hebrides Data code: NH Type of government: republic Capital: Port-Vila Administrative divisions: 6 provinces; Malampa, Penama, Sanma, Shefa, Tafea, Torba Independence: 30 July 1980 (from France and UK) National holiday: Independence Day, 30 July (1980) Constitution: 30 July 1980 Legal system: unified system being created from former dual French and British systems Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Jean Marie LEYE (since 2 March 1994) was elected for a five-year term by an electoral college consisting of Parliament and the presidents of the regional councils head of government: Prime Minister Maxime Carlot KORMAN (since 23 February 1996) was elected by Parliament from among its members; Deputy Prime Minister Donald KALPOKAS (since 23 February 1996) was appointed by the prime minister from among members of Parliament; note - Prime Minister VOHOR resigned 7 February 1996 when faced with a no-confidence vote in Parliament; Parliament then convened an extraordinary session and voted 30 to 20 to elect Maxime Carlot KORMAN as the new prime minister cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the prime minister, responsible to Parliament Legislative branch: unicameral Parliament: elections last held 30 November 1995 (next to be held NA November 1999); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (50 total) UMP 17, VP 14, NUP 9, MPP 5, TU 2, Na-Griamel Movement 1, Friend Melanesian Party 1, independent 1; note - after the election, a coalition was formed by the Union of Moderate Parties and the National United Party to form a new government on 14 December 1995, but political party associations are fluid note: the National Council of Chiefs advises on matters of custom and land Judicial branch: Supreme Court, chief justice is appointed by the president after consultation with the prime minister and the leader of the opposition, three other justices are appointed by the president on the advice of the Judicial Service Commission Political parties and leaders: Union of Moderate Parties (UMP), Serge VOHOR; National United Party (NUP), Walter LINI; Unity Front (UF) includes the Vanuatu Party (VP), Donald KALPOKAS, Melanesian Progressive Party (MPP), Barak SOPE, Tan Union (TU), Vincent BOULEKONE, and the Na-Griamel Movement, Frankie STEVENS; Friend Melanesian Party, leader NA; People's Democratic Party (PDP), Sethy REGENVANU; Independence Front (IF), Patrick CROWBY International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AsDB, C, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFC, IFRCS, IMF, IMO, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), IOC, ITU, NAM, Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WMO Diplomatic representation in US: Vanuatu does not have an embassy in the US US diplomatic representation: the US does not have an embassy in Vanuatu; the ambassador to Papua New Guinea is accredited to Vanuatu Flag: two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and green with a black isosceles triangle (based on the hoist side) all separated by a black-edged yellow stripe in the shape of a horizontal Y (the two points of the Y face the hoist side and enclose the triangle); centered in the triangle is a boar's tusk encircling two crossed namele leaves, all in yellow Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy is based primarily on subsistence farming which provides a living for the bulk of the population. Fishing and tourism are the other mainstays of the economy, with 43,000 visitors in 1992. Mineral deposits are negligible; the country has no known petroleum deposits. A small light industry sector caters to the local market. Tax revenues come mainly from import duties. GDP: purchasing power parity - $210 million (1994 est.) GDP real growth rate: 2% (1994 est.) GDP per capita: $1,220 (1994 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 7% (1995 est.) Labor force: 66,597 (1989 est.) by occupation: agriculture 65%, services 32%, industry 3% (1995 est.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $74.8 million expenditures: $76.1 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.) Industries: food and fish freezing, wood processing, meat canning Industrial production growth rate: 3.4% (1993 est.) Electricity: capacity: 17,000 kW production: 30 million kWh consumption per capita: 181 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coconuts, cocoa, coffee, taro, yams, coconuts, fruits, vegetables; fish Exports: $24.6 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: copra, beef, cocoa, timber, coffee partners: EU 32%, Japan 29%, Australia 11%, New Caledonia 7% (1993) Imports: $78.6 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: machines and vehicles, food and beverages, basic manufactures, raw materials and fuels, chemicals partners: Australia 41%, France 15%, NZ 11%, Japan 9%, Fiji 6% (1992) External debt: $38.2 million (yearend 1993) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 vatu (VT) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: vatu (VT) per US$1 - 114.40 (January 1996), 112.11 (1995), 116.41 (1994), 121.58 (1993), 113.39 (1992), 111.68 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 1,021 km paved: 238 km unpaved: 783 km (1987 est.) Ports: Forari, Port-Vila, Santo (Espiritu Santo) Merchant marine: total: 112 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,587,286 GRT/2,173,970 DWT ships by type: bulk 38, cargo 29, chemical tanker 3, combination bulk 1, container 3, liquefied gas tanker 5, livestock carrier 1, oil tanker 6, refrigerated cargo 16, vehicle carrier 10 note: a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 20 countries among which are Japan 37, US 19, Netherlands 10, Greece 6, Hong Kong 6, China 4, Canada 4, UAE 3, Russia 2, and Australia 2 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 31 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: 17 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 11 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 3,000 (1987 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 0 (1987 est.) Televisions: 2,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: no regular military forces; Vanuatu Police Force (VPF; includes the paramilitary Vanuatu Mobile Force or VMF) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Venezuela --------- Map --- Location: 8 00 N, 66 00 W -- Northern South America, bordering the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, between Colombia and Guyana Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Northern South America, bordering the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, between Colombia and Guyana Geographic coordinates: 8 00 N, 66 00 W 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 border countries: 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 ====================================================================== @Vietnam ------- Map --- Location: 16 00 N, 106 00 E -- Southeastern Asia, bordering the Gulf of Thailand, Gulf of Tonkin, and South China Sea, between China and Cambodia Flag ---- Description: red with a large yellow five-pointed star in the center Geography --------- Location: Southeastern Asia, bordering the Gulf of Thailand, Gulf of Tonkin, and South China Sea, between China and Cambodia Geographic coordinates: 16 00 N, 106 00 E Map references: Southeast Asia Area: total area: 329,560 sq km land area: 325,360 sq km comparative area: slightly larger than New Mexico Land boundaries: total: 3,818 km border countries: Cambodia 982 km, China 1,281 km, Laos 1,555 km Coastline: 3,444 km (excludes islands) 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: maritime boundary with Cambodia not defined; involved in a complex dispute over the Spratly Islands in the South China Sea with China, Malaysia, Philippines, Taiwan, and possibly Brunei; unresolved maritime boundary with Thailand; maritime boundary dispute with China in the Gulf of Tonkin; Paracel Islands in the South China Sea occupied by China but claimed by Vietnam and Taiwan; offshore islands and sections of boundary with Cambodia are in dispute Climate: tropical in south; monsoonal in north with hot, rainy season (mid-May to mid-September) and warm, dry season (mid-October to mid-March) Terrain: low, flat delta in south and north; central highlands; hilly, mountainous in far north and northwest lowest point: South China Sea 0 m highest point: Ngoc Linh 3,143 m Natural resources: phosphates, coal, manganese, bauxite, chromate, offshore oil deposits, forests Land use: arable land: 22% permanent crops: 2% meadows and pastures: 1% forest and woodland: 40% other: 35% Irrigated land: 18,300 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: logging and slash-and-burn agricultural practices are contributing to deforestation; soil degradation; water pollution and overfishing threatening marine life populations; inadequate supplies of potable water because of groundwater contamination natural hazards: occasional typhoons (May to January) with extensive flooding international agreements: party to - Biodiversity, Climate Change, Endangered Species, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Ozone Layer Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands; signed, but not ratified - Hazardous Wastes, Nuclear Test Ban People ------ Population: 73,976,973 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 36% (male 13,739,304; female 12,988,929) 15-64 years: 59% (male 20,956,735; female 22,448,944) 65 years and over: 5% (male 1,548,513; female 2,294,548) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.57% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 23 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 6.95 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -0.35 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.93 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.68 male(s)/female all ages: 0.96 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 38.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 67.02 years male: 64.69 years female: 69.48 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.69 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Vietnamese (singular and plural) adjective: Vietnamese Ethnic divisions: Vietnamese 85%-90%, Chinese 3%, Muong, Thai, Meo, Khmer, Man, Cham Religions: Buddhist, Taoist, Roman Catholic, indigenous beliefs, Islam, Protestant Languages: Vietnamese (official), French, Chinese, English, Khmer, tribal languages (Mon-Khmer and Malayo-Polynesian) Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1995 est.) total population: 93.7% male: 96.5% female: 91.2% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Socialist Republic of Vietnam conventional short form: Vietnam local long form: Cong Hoa Chu Nghia Viet Nam local short form: Viet Nam abbreviation: SRV Data code: VM Type of government: Communist state Capital: Hanoi Administrative divisions: 50 provinces (tinh, singular and plural), 3 municipalities* (thu do, singular and plural); An Giang, Ba Ria-Vung Tau, Bac Thai, Ben Tre, Binh Dinh, Binh Thuan, Can Tho, Cao Bang, Dac Lac, Dong Nai, Dong Thap, Gia Lai, Ha Bac, Ha Giang, Ha Noi*, Ha Tay, Ha Tinh, Hai Hung, Hai Phong*, Ho Chi Minh*, Hoa Binh, Khanh Hoa, Kien Giang, Kon Tum, Lai Chau, Lam Dong, Lang Son, Lao Cai, Long An, Minh Hai, Nam Ha, Nghe An, Ninh Binh, Ninh Thuan, Phu Yen, Quang Binh, Quang Nam-Da Nang, Quang Ngai, Quang Ninh, Quang Tri, Soc Trang, Son La, Song Be, Tay Ninh, Thai Binh, Thanh Hoa, Thua Thien-Hue, Tien Giang, Tra Vinh, Tuyen Quang, Vinh Long, Vinh Phu, Yen Bai Independence: 2 September 1945 (from France) National holiday: Independence Day, 2 September (1945) Constitution: 15 April 1992 Legal system: based on communist legal theory and French civil law system Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Le Duc ANH (since 23 September 1992) was elected for a five-year term by the National Assembly from among its members head of government: Prime Minister Vo Van KIET (since 9 August 1991) was appointed by the president from among the members of the National Assembly; First Deputy Prime Minister Phan Van KHAI (since 10 August 1991) and Deputy Prime Ministers Nguyen KHANH (since NA February 1987) and Tran Duc LUONG (since NA February 1987) were appointed by the prime minister cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the president on proposal of the prime minister and ratification of the National Assembly Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly (Quoc-Hoi): elections last held 19 July 1992 (next to be held NA July 1997); results - CPV is the only party; seats - (395 total) CPV or CPV-approved 395 Judicial branch: Supreme People's Court, chief justice is elected for a five-year term by the National Assembly on the recommendation of the president Political parties and leaders: only party - Communist Party of Vietnam (CPV), DO MUOI, general secretary International organization participation: ACCT, AsDB, ASEAN, CCC, ESCAP, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, Mekong Group, NAM, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires ad interim Le Van BANG chancery: 1233 20th Street NW, Washington, DC 20036, Suite 501 telephone: [1] (202) 861-0737 FAX: [1] (202) 861-0917 note: on 11 July 1995, President CLINTON announced the normalization of diplomatic relations with Vietnam; the liaison offices in both countries were upgraded to full embassies on 5 August 1995 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires L. Desaix ANDERSON embassy: 7 Lang Ha Road, Ba Dinh District, Hanoi mailing address: PSC 461, Box 400, FPO AP 96521-0002 telephone: [84] (4) 431500 FAX: [84] (4) 350484 note: on 11 July 1995, President CLINTON announced the normalization of diplomatic relations with Vietnam; the liaison offices in both countries were upgraded to full embassies on 5 August 1995 Flag: red with a large yellow five-pointed star in the center Economy ------- Economic overview: Vietnam's economic performance has been impressive in 1990-95, with real growth averaging over 8% annually. Much of this growth comes from a surge in foreign investment outlays which are estimated at $750 million in 1995, up 50% from 1993 levels. Utilization rates for official development assistance are also increasing, rising to an estimated $535 million in 1995. Foreign capital is contributing to a boom in commercial construction and strong growth in services and industrial output. Crude oil remains the country's largest single export but now accounts for only one-quarter of total exports, slightly more than manufactures. Imports are dominated by capital and intermediate goods closely related to investment outlays. Vietnamese authorities may not be moving quickly enough to establish the financial and legal infrastructure needed to sustain growth through the remainder of the decade. Reform of the banking sector is proceeding slowly, raising concerns that the country will be unable to tap sufficient domestic savings to maintain rapid growth. Administrative and legal barriers are leading to costly delays for foreign investors, raising doubts about Vietnam's ability to maintain the inflow of foreign capital. While government officials are leading an effort to accelerate reform, their continuing ideological bias in favor of state intervention and control of the economy may slow progress toward a more liberalized investment environment. Even with the strong growth of the economy, unemployment at 25% remains a major problem. GDP: purchasing power parity - $97 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 9.5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,300 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 28% industry: 28% services: 44% (1995 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 14% (1995) Labor force: 32.7 million by occupation: agricultural 65%, industrial and service 35% (1990 est.) Unemployment rate: 25% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $4.67 billion expenditures: $5 billion, including capital expenditures of $1.36 billion (1995 est.) Industries: food processing, textiles, machine building, mining, cement, chemical fertilizer, glass, tires, oil Industrial production growth rate: 14% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 4,470,000 kW production: 20 billion kWh consumption per capita: 200 kWh (1995 est.) Agriculture: paddy rice, corn, potatoes, rubber, soybeans, coffee, tea, bananas; poultry, pigs; fish catch of 943,100 metric tons (1989 est.) Illicit drugs: opium producer and increasingly important transit point for Southeast Asian heroin destined for the US and Europe; growing opium addiction; possible small-scale heroin production Exports: $5.3 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: crude oil, rice, marine products, coffee, rubber, tea, and garments partners: Japan, Singapore, Taiwan, Hong Kong, France, South Korea Imports: $7.5 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: petroleum products, machinery and equipment, steel products, fertilizer, raw cotton, grain partners: Singapore, South Korea, Japan, France, Hong Kong, Taiwan External debt: $7.3 billion Western countries; $4.5 billion CEMA debts primarily to Russia; $9 billion to $18 billion nonconvertible debt (former CEMA, Iraq, Iran) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $57 million (1993) note: $2.31 billion in credits and grants pledged by international donors for 1996 Currency: 1 new dong (D) = 100 xu Exchange rates: new dong (D) per US$1 - 11,193 (1995 average), 11,000 (October 1994), 10,800 (November 1993), 8,100 (July 1991), 7,280 (December 1990), 3,996 (March 1990) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 2,835 km (in addition, there are 224 km not restored to service after war damage) standard gauge: 151 km 1.435-m gauge narrow gauge: 2,454 km 1.000-m gauge other gauge: 230 km NA-m dual gauge (three rails) Highways: total: 105,000 km paved: 10,500 km unpaved: 94,500 km (1993 est.) Waterways: 17,702 km navigable; more than 5,149 km navigable at all times by vessels up to 1.8 m draft Pipelines: petroleum products 150 km Ports: Da Nang, Haiphong, Ho Chi Minh City, Hon Gai, Qui Nhon, Nha Trang Merchant marine: total: 112 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 569,269 GRT/947,938 DWT ships by type: bulk 3, cargo 95, oil tanker 10, refrigerated cargo 3, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1 note: Vietnam owns an additional 9 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 120,320 DWT operating under the registries of Honduras, Panama, The Bahamas, and Malta (1995 est.) Airports: total: 48 with paved runways over 3 047 m: 8 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 3 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 5 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 13 with paved runways under 914 m: 7 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 5 with unpaved runways under 914 m: 5 (1994 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 800,000 (1995 est.) Telephone system: while Vietnam's telecommunication sector lags far behind other countries in Southeast Asia, Hanoi has made considerable progress since 1991 in upgrading the system; Vietnam has digitized fully 100% of provincial switch boards, while fiber-optic and microwave transmission systems have been extended from Hanoi, Da Nang, and Ho Chi Minh City to all provinces; the density of telephone receivers nationwide doubled from 1993 to 1995, but is still far behind other countries in the region; Vietnam's telecommunications strategy aims to increase telephone density to 30 per 1,000 inhabitants by the year 2000 and authorities estimate that approximately $2.7 billion will be spent on telecommunications upgrades through the end of the decade domestic: NA international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean region) Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM 228, shortwave 0 Radios: 7.215 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 36 (repeaters 77) Televisions: 2.9 million (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: People's Army of Vietnam (PAVN) (includes Ground Forces, Navy, and Air Force) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 18,593,129 males fit for military service: 11,769,955 males reach military age (17) annually: 796,312 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $544 million, 2.7% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Virgin Islands -------------- (territory of the US) Map --- Location: 18 20 N, 64 50 W -- Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Puerto Rico Flag ---- Description: white with a modified US coat of arms in the center between the large blue initials V and I; the coat of arms shows a yellow eagle holding an olive branch in one talon and three arrows in the other with a superimposed shield of vertical red and white stripes below a blue panel Geography --------- Location: Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Puerto Rico Geographic coordinates: 18 20 N, 64 50 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total area: 352 sq km land area: 349 sq km comparative area: twice the size of Washington, DC Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 188 km Maritime claims: exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: none Climate: subtropical, tempered by easterly trade winds, relatively low humidity, little seasonal temperature variation; rainy season May to November Terrain: mostly hilly to rugged and mountainous with little level land lowest point: Caribbean Sea 0 m highest point: Crown Mountain 474 m Natural resources: sun, sand, sea, surf Land use: arable land: 15% permanent crops: 6% meadows and pastures: 26% forest and woodland: 6% other: 47% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: lack of natural freshwater resources natural hazards: rarely affected by hurricanes; frequent and severe droughts, floods, and earthquakes international agreements: NA Geographic note: important location along the Anegada Passage - a key shipping lane for the Panama Canal; Saint Thomas has one of the best natural, deepwater harbors in the Caribbean People ------ Population: 97,120 (July 1996 est.) note: West Indian (45% born in the Virgin Islands and 29% born elsewhere in the West Indies) 74%, US mainland 13%, Puerto Rican 5%, other 8% Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: -0.06% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 17.57 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.2 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -12.94 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 12.54 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 75.29 years male: 73.6 years female: 77.2 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 2.29 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Virgin Islander(s) adjective: Virgin Islander Ethnic divisions: black 80%, white 15%, other 5% Religions: Baptist 42%, Roman Catholic 34%, Episcopalian 17%, other 7% Languages: English (official), Spanish, Creole Literacy: NA Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Virgin Islands of the United States conventional short form: Virgin Islands former: Danish West Indies Data code: VQ Type of government: organized, unincorporated territory of the US administered by the Office of Territorial and International Affairs, US Department of the Interior Capital: Charlotte Amalie Administrative divisions: none (territory of the US) National holiday: Transfer Day, 31 March (1917) (from Denmark to US) Constitution: Revised Organic Act of 22 July 1954 Legal system: based on US laws Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal; note - indigenous inhabitants are US citizens but do not vote in US presidential elections Executive branch: chief of state: President (of the United States) William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993); Vice President Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993) head of government: Governor Dr. Roy L. SCHNEIDER (since 5 January 1995) and Lieutenant Governor Kenneth E. MAPP (since 5 January 1995) were elected for four-year terms by universal suffrage; election last held 22 November 1994 (next to be held NA November 1998); results - Dr. Roy L. SCHNEIDER (ICM) 54.7%, former Lieutenant Governor Derek HODGE 42.6% Legislative branch: unicameral Senate: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held 5 November 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (15 total) Democrats 7, independents 7, Republican 1 US House of Representatives: elections last held 8 November 1994 (next to be held 5 November 1996); results - Victor O. FRAZER (ICM) 54.5%, Eileen R. PETERSON (Democrat) 45.5%; seats - (1 total) ICM 1; note - the Virgin Islands elects one representative to the US House of Representatives Judicial branch: US District Court, handles civil matters over $50,000, felonies (persons 15 years of age and over), and federal cases, judges are appointed by the president; Territorial Court, handles civil matters up to $50,000, small claims, juvenile, domestic, misdemeanors, and traffic cases, judges appointed by the governor Political parties and leaders: Democratic Party, Marilyn STAPLETON; Independent Citizens' Movement (ICM), Virdin C. BROWN; Republican Party, Charlotte-Poole DAVIS International organization participation: ECLAC (associate), IOC Diplomatic representation in US: none (territory of the US) US diplomatic representation: none (territory of the US) Flag: white with a modified US coat of arms in the center between the large blue initials V and I; the coat of arms shows a yellow eagle holding an olive branch in one talon and three arrows in the other with a superimposed shield of vertical red and white stripes below a blue panel Economy ------- Economic overview: Tourism is the primary economic activity, accounting for more than 70% of GDP and 70% of employment. The manufacturing sector consists of textile, electronics, pharmaceutical, and watch assembly plants. The agricultural sector is small, most food being imported. International business and financial services are a small but growing component of the economy. One of the world's largest petroleum refineries is at Saint Croix. GDP: purchasing power parity - $1.2 billion (1987 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $12,500 (1987 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: 47,443 (1990 est.) by occupation: agriculture, industry, services, other (1990 est.) Unemployment rate: 3.7% (1992) Budget: revenues: $364.4 million expenditures: $364.4 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1990 est.) Industries: tourism, petroleum refining, watch assembly, rum distilling, construction, pharmaceuticals, textiles, electronics Industrial production growth rate: 12% (year NA) Electricity: capacity: 320,000 kW production: 970 million kWh consumption per capita: 9,172 kWh (1993) Agriculture: truck garden products, fruit, vegetables, sorghum; Senepol cattle Exports: $2.8 billion (f.o.b., 1990) commodities: refined petroleum products partners: US, Puerto Rico Imports: $3.3 billion (c.i.f., 1990) commodities: crude oil, foodstuffs, consumer goods, building materials partners: US, Puerto Rico External debt: $NA Economic aid: $NA Currency: 1 United States dollar (US$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: US currency is used Fiscal year: 1 October - 30 September Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 856 km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Ports: Charlotte Amalie, Christiansted, Cruz Bay, Port Alucroix Merchant marine: none Airports: total: 2 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 2 note: international airports on Saint Thomas and Saint Croix (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 60,000 (1990 est.) Telephone system: domestic: modern, uses fiber-optic cable and microwave radio relay international: submarine cable and satellite communications; satellite earth stations - NA Radio broadcast stations: AM 4, FM 8, shortwave 0 (1988) Radios: 105,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 4 (1988 est.) Televisions: 65,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US ====================================================================== @Wake Island ----------- (territory of the US) Map --- Location: 19 17 N, 166 36 E -- Oceania, island in the North Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to the Northern Mariana Islands Flag ---- Description: the flag of the US is used Geography --------- Location: Oceania, island in the North Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to the Northern Mariana Islands Geographic coordinates: 19 17 N, 166 36 E 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: unnamed location 6 m 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 Geographic note: strategic location in the North Pacific Ocean; emergency landing location for transpacific flights People ------ Population: no indigenous inhabitants; there are 302 US military and contract personnel (July 1995 est.) Population growth rate: 0% (1996 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 Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Wake Island Data code: WQ Type of government: 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 flag of the US is used Economy ------- Economic 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 Transportation -------------- Railways: 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 (1995 est.) Transportation 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 Communications -------------- Telephones: NA Telephone system: satellite communications; 1 DSN circuit off the Overseas Telephone System (OTS) domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM 0, FM NA, shortwave NA note: Armed Forces Radio/Television Service (AFRTS) radio service provided by satellite Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: NA note: Armed Forces Radio/Television Service (AFRTS) television service provided by satellite Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of the US ====================================================================== @Wallis and Futuna ----------------- (overseas territory of France) Map --- Location: 13 18 S, 176 12 W -- Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand Flag ---- Description: a white modified Maltese cross centered on a red background; the flag of France outlined in white on two sides is in the upper hoist quadrant; the flag of France is used for official occasions Geography --------- Location: Oceania, islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about two-thirds of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand Geographic coordinates: 13 18 S, 176 12 W Map references: Oceania Area: total area: 274 sq km land area: 274 sq km comparative area: slightly larger than Washington, DC note: includes Ile Uvea (Wallis Island), Ile Futuna (Futuna Island), Ile Alofi, and 20 islets Land boundaries: 0 km Coastline: 129 km Maritime claims: exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: none Climate: tropical; hot, rainy season (November to April); cool, dry season (May to October); rains 2,500-3,000 mm per year (80% humidity); average temperature 26.6 degrees C Terrain: volcanic origin; low hills lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Mount Singavi 765 m Natural resources: NEGL Land use: arable land: 5% permanent crops: 20% meadows and pastures: 0% forest and woodland: 0% other: 75% Irrigated land: NA sq km Environment: current issues: deforestation (only small portions of the original forests remain) largely as a result of the continued use of wood as the main fuel source; as a consequence of cutting down the forests, the mountainous terrain of Futuna is particularly prone to erosion; there are no permanent settlements on Alofi because of the lack of natural fresh water resources natural hazards: NA international agreements: NA Geographic note: both island groups have fringing reefs People ------ Population: 14,659 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 1.11% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 24.38 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.02 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -8.23 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 23.59 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 72.76 years male: 72.16 years female: 73.4 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Wallisian(s), Futunan(s), or Wallis and Futuna Islanders adjective: Wallisian, Futunan, or Wallis and Futuna Islander Ethnic divisions: Polynesian Religions: Roman Catholic 100% Languages: French, Wallisian (indigenous Polynesian language) Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1969 est.) total population: 50% male: 50% female: 50% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Territory of the Wallis and Futuna Islands conventional short form: Wallis and Futuna local long form: Territoire des Iles Wallis et Futuna local short form: Wallis et Futuna Data code: WF Type of government: overseas territory of France Capital: Mata-Utu (on Ile Uvea) Administrative divisions: none (overseas territory of France); there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are three kingdoms named Wallis, Sigave, Alo Independence: none (overseas territory of France) Constitution: 28 September 1958 (French Constitution) Legal system: French legal system Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President (of France) Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995), represented by High Administrator Leon-Alexandre LEGRAND (since NA) was appointed by the French Ministry of the Interior head of government: President of the Territorial Assembly Mikaele TAUHAVILI (since NA) cabinet: Council of the Territory consists of three kings and three members appointed by the high administrator on advice of the Territorial Assembly note: there are three traditional kings with limited powers Legislative branch: unicameral Territorial Assembly (Assemblee Territoriale): elections last held 22 March 1992 (next to be held NA March 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (20 total) RPR 9, Taumu'a Lelei 11 French Senate: elections last held 24 September 1989 (next to be held by NA September 1998); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) RPR 1 French National Assembly: elections last held 21 and 28 March 1992 (next to be held by NA September 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (1 total) MRG 1; note - Wallis and Futuna elect one deputy Judicial branch: none; justice generally administered under French law by the high administrator, but the three traditional kings administer customary law and there is a magistrate in Mata-Utu Political parties and leaders: Rally for the Republic (RPR); Union Populaire Locale (UPL); Union Pour la Democratie Francaise (UDF); Lua kae tahi (Giscardians); Mouvement des Radicaux de Gauche (MRG); Taumu'a Lelei International organization participation: FZ, SPC Diplomatic representation in US: none (overseas territory of France) US diplomatic representation: none (overseas territory of France) Flag: a white modified Maltese cross centered on a red background; the flag of France outlined in white on two sides is in the upper hoist quadrant; the flag of France is used for official occasions Economy ------- Economic overview: The economy is limited to traditional subsistence agriculture, with about 80% of the labor force earning its livelihood from agriculture (coconuts and vegetables), livestock (mostly pigs), and fishing. About 4% of the population is employed in government. Revenues come from French Government subsidies, licensing of fishing rights to Japan and South Korea, import taxes, and remittances from expatriate workers in New Caledonia. Wallis and Futuna imports food - particularly sugar, rice, and beef - fuel, clothing, machinery, and transport equipment, but its exports are negligible, consisting of copra and handicrafts. GDP: purchasing power parity - $28.7 million (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $2,500 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: NA by occupation: agriculture, livestock, and fishing 80%, government 4% (est.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $14.04 million expenditures: $14.04 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1994 est.) Industries: copra, handicrafts, fishing, lumber Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 1,200 kW production: 1 million kWh consumption per capita: 70 kWh (1990) Agriculture: yams, taro, bananas; pigs, goats Exports: $370,000 (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: copra, handicrafts partners: NA Imports: $13.5 million (c.i.f., 1995 est.) commodities: foodstuffs, manufactured goods, transportation equipment, fuel, clothing partners: France, Australia, New Zealand External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 CFP franc (CFPF) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: Comptoirs Francais du Pacifique francs (CFPF) per US$1 - 91.00 (January 1996), 90.75 (1995), 100.94 (1994), 102.96 (1993), 96.24 (1992), 102.57 (1991); note - linked at the rate of 18.18 to the French franc Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 120 km (Ile Uvea 100 km, Ile Futuna 20 km) paved: 16 km (all on Ile Uvea) unpaved: 104 km (Ile Uvea 84 km, Ile Futuna 20 km) Waterways: none Ports: Leava, Mata-Utu Merchant marine: total: 1 oil tanker (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 26,000 GRT/40,000 DWT (1995 est.) Airports: total: 2 with paved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 340 (1985 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 0 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Defense note: defense is the responsibility of France ====================================================================== @West Bank --------- The Israel-PLO Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements ("the DOP"), signed in Washington on 13 September 1993, provides for a transitional period not exceeding five years of Palestinian interim self-government in the Gaza Strip and the West Bank. Permanent status negotiations began on 5 May 1996. Map --- Location: 32 00 N, 35 15 E -- Middle East, west of Jordan Geography --------- Location: Middle East, west of Jordan Geographic coordinates: 32 00 N, 35 15 E Map references: Middle East Area: total area: 5,860 sq km land area: 5,640 sq km comparative area: slightly smaller 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 border countries: 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 current status subject to the Israeli-Palestinian Interim Agreement - permanent status to be determined through further negotiation 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 lowest point: Dead Sea -408 m highest point: Tall Asur 1,022 m Natural resources: NEGL 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 Geographic note: landlocked; highlands are main recharge area for Israel's coastal aquifers; there are 202 Israeli settlements and civilian land use sites in the West Bank and 26 in East Jerusalem (August 1995 est.) People ------ Population: 1,427,741 (July 1996 est.) note: in addition, there are 127,600 Israeli settlers in the West Bank and 153,700 in East Jerusalem (August 1995 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 45% (male 332,628; female 315,968) 15-64 years: 51% (male 368,180; female 362,880) 65 years and over: 4% (male 20,495; female 27,590) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 4.99% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 38.78 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 4.66 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 15.76 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.02 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.74 male(s)/female all ages: 1.02 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 28.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 71.76 years male: 70.17 years female: 73.44 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 5.2 children born/woman (1996 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 Government ---------- Government note: Under the Israeli-PLO Declaration of Principles on Interim Self-Government Arrangements ("the DOP"), Israel agreed to transfer certain powers and responsibilities to the Palestinian Authority, a Palestinian Legislative Council, elected in January 1996, as part of interim self-governing arrangements in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. A transfer of powers and responsibilities for the Gaza Strip and Jericho has taken place pursuant to the Israel-PLO 4 May 1994 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. A transfer of powers and responsibilities in additional areas of the West Bank has taken place pursuant to the Israel-PLO 28 September 1995 Interim Agreement. The DOP provides that Israel will retain responsibility during the transitional period for external security and for internal security and public order of settlements and Israelis. Permanent status is to be determined through direct negotiations within five years. Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: West Bank Data code: WE Economy ------- Economic 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. The area's economic situation has worsened since Israel imposed stringent border restrictions in 1995 and 1996. GDP: purchasing power parity - $3.7 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3%-4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,500 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 33% industry: 7% services: 60% (1995 est., includes Gaza Strip) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 14% (1995 est.) 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 Israeli settlers Unemployment rate: 25%-30% (1995 est.) Budget: $NA 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 Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: NA kW production: NA kWh consumption per capita: NA kWh 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 Agriculture: olives, citrus and other fruits, vegetables; beef, dairy products Exports: $116 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: olives, fruit, vegetables partners: Jordan, Israel Imports: $791 million (c.i.f., 1994 est.) commodities: food, consumer goods, construction materials partners: Jordan, Israel External debt: $NA Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA note: $410 million (est.) disbursed from international aid pledged in 1995 (includes aid to Gaza Strip) 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 - 3.1295 (January 1996), 3.0113 (1995), 3.0111 (1994), 2.8301 (1993), 2.4591 (1992), 2.2791 (1991); Jordanian dinars (JD) per US$1 - 0.7090 (January 1996), 0.7005 (1995), 0.6987 (1994), 0.6928 (1993), 0.6797 (1992), 0.6808 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year (since 1 January 1992) Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: NA km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km 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 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: NA note: 8% of Palestinian households have telephones (1992 est.) Telephone system: domestic: 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 broadcast station is planned for Jericho Televisions: NA; note - 54% of Palestinian households have televisions (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: NA Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Western Sahara -------------- Map --- Location: 24 30 N, 13 00 W -- Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Mauritania and Morocco Geography --------- Location: Northern Africa, bordering the North Atlantic Ocean, between Mauritania and Morocco Geographic coordinates: 24 30 N, 13 00 W Map references: Africa Area: total area: 266,000 sq km land area: 266,000 sq km comparative area: about the size of Colorado Land boundaries: total: 2,046 km border countries: 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 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 lowest point: Sebjet Tah -55 m highest point: unnamed location 463 m 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 People ------ Population: 222,631 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: NA 15-64 years: NA 65 years and over: NA Population growth rate: 2.46% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 46.51 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 18.02 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -3.94 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: NA male(s)/female under 15 years: NA male(s)/female 15-64 years: NA male(s)/female 65 years and over: NA male(s)/female all ages: NA male(s)/female Infant mortality rate: 145.82 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 47.01 years male: 46 years female: 48.34 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.85 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Sahrawi(s), Sahraoui(s) adjective: Sahrawian, Sahraouian Ethnic divisions: Arab, Berber Religions: Muslim Languages: Hassaniya Arabic, Moroccan Arabic Literacy: NA Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: none conventional short form: Western Sahara Data code: WI Type of government: 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 defacto control of Morocco) Executive branch: none International organization participation: none Diplomatic representation in US: none US diplomatic representation: none Economy ------- Economic 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. GDP: purchasing power parity - $NA GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $NA GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): NA% Labor force: 12,000 by occupation: animal husbandry and subsistence farming 50% Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $NA expenditures: $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA Industries: phosphate mining, handicrafts Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 60,000 kW production: 79 million kWh consumption per capita: 339 kWh (1993) Agriculture: fruits and vegetables (grown in the few oases); camels, sheep, goats (kept by the nomads) Exports: $NA commodities: phosphates 62% partners: Morocco claims and administers Western Sahara, so trade partners are included in overall Moroccan accounts Imports: $NA 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 Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 Moroccan dirham (DH) = 100 centimes Exchange rates: Moroccan dirhams (DH) per US$1 - 8.607 (January 1996), 8.540 (1995), 9.203 (1994), 9.299 (1993), 8.538 (1992), 8.707 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 6,200 km paved: 0 km unpaved: 6,200 km Ports: Ad Dakhla, Cabo Bojador, El Aaiun Airports: total: 12 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 3 with paved runways under 914 m: 3 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 5 (1995 est.) Heliports: 1 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 2,000 Telephone system: sparse and limited system domestic: NA international: tied into Morocco's system by microwave radio relay, tropospheric scatter, and satellite; satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) linked to Rabat, Morocco Radio broadcast stations: AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 2 Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: NA Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Western Samoa ------------- Map --- Location: 13 35 S, 172 20 W -- Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand Flag ---- Description: red with a blue rectangle in the upper hoist-side quadrant bearing five white five-pointed stars representing the Southern Cross constellation Geography --------- Location: Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand Geographic coordinates: 13 35 S, 172 20 W 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 lowest point: Pacific Ocean 0 m highest point: Mauga Silisili 1,857 m 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, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, Ozone Layer Protection People ------ Population: 214,384 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 40% (male 43,540; female 42,185) 15-64 years: 56% (male 62,742; female 57,323) 65 years and over: 4% (male 4,089; female 4,505) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.37% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 31.12 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 5.75 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -1.67 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.1 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.91 male(s)/female all ages: 1.06 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 34.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 68.73 years male: 66.35 years female: 71.24 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 3.93 children born/woman (1996 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 est.) total population: 97% male: 97% female: 97% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Independent State of Western Samoa conventional short form: Western Samoa Data code: WS Type of government: 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 New Zealand-administered UN trusteeship) 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 5 April 1963); upon his death, a new chief of state will be elected by the Legislative Assembly to serve a five-year term head of government: Prime Minister TOFILAU Eti Alesana (since 7 April 1988) was appointed by the chief of state with approval of the Legislative Assembly cabinet: Cabinet was appointed by the chief of state with the prime minister's advice Legislative branch: unicameral Legislative Assembly (Fono): elections last held 5 April 1991 (next to be held 26 April 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (47 total) HRPP 28, SNDP 18, independents 1 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; Samoan Progressive Conservative Party, LEOTA Ituau Ale; Samoa All People's Party (SAPP), Matatumua MAIMOAGA International organization participation: 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, WMO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Tuiloma Neroni SLADE chancery: 820 Second Avenue, Suite 800, New York, NY 10017 telephone: [1] (212) 599-6196, 6197 FAX: [1] (212) 599-0797 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Josiah Horton BEEMAN (Ambassador to New Zealand and Western Samoa, resides in Wellington, New Zealand) 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Agriculture employs more than one-half of the labor force, contributes 50% to GDP, and furnishes 90% of exports. The bulk of export earnings comes from the sale of coconut oil and copra. The economy depends on emigrant remittances and foreign aid to supplement GDP and to support a level of imports much greater than export earnings. Tourism has become the most important growth industry. The economy continued to falter in 1994, as remittances and tourist earnings remained low. Production of taro, the primary food export crop, dropped 97% in 1993/94 when a fungal disease threatened the country's basic food crops. Nevertheless, the government is relying on recovery and further expansion in agricultural production to sustain economic growth of around 5% over the next several years. GDP: purchasing power parity - $415 million (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 5% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $1,900 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 50% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 18% (1994) Labor force: 45,635 (1986 est.) by occupation: agriculture 65%, services 30%, industry 5% (1995 est.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $78.6 million expenditures: $81.9 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.) Industries: timber, tourism, food processing, fishing Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 29,000 kW production: 50 million kWh consumption per capita: 200 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coconuts, bananas, taro, yams 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) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 tala (WS$) = 100 sene Exchange rates: tala (WS$) per US$1 - 2.5195 (January 1996), 2.4722 (1995), 2.5349 (1994), 2.5681 (1993), 2.4655 (1992), 2.3975 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 2,030 km paved: 373 km unpaved: 1,657 km (1988 est.) 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 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 3 with paved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 2 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 7,500 (1988 est.) Telephone system: domestic: NA international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Pacific Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0 Radios: 76,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 0 (1987 est.) Televisions: 6,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: no regular armed services; Western Samoa Police Force Manpower availability: males age 15-49: NA males fit for military service: NA Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @World ----- Map --- 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 15 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 Faso, Burundi, Central African Republic, Chad, Czech Republic, Ethiopia, Holy See (Vatican City), Hungary, Kazakstan, 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: the greatest ocean depth is the Marianas Trench at 10,924 m in the Pacific Ocean lowest point: Dead Sea -408 m highest point: Mount Everest 8,848 m 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% 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: selected international environmental agreements are included under the Environment entry for each country and in the Selected International Environmental Agreements appendix People ------ Population: 5,771,939,007 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 31% (male 919,402,570; female 874,330,478) 15-64 years: 62% (male 1,824,524,365; female 1,776,639,084) 65 years and over: 7% (male 162,216,128; female 213,712,993) Population growth rate: 1.4% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 23 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.06 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.05 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 1.03 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.76 male(s)/female all ages: 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 60 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 62 years male: 61 years female: 64 years Total fertility rate: 2.9 children born/woman (1996 est.) Government ---------- Data code: none; there is no FIPS 10-4 country code for the World, so the Factbook uses the "W" data code from DIAM 65-18 "Geopolitical Data Elements and Related Features," Data Standard No. 3, March 1984, published by the Defense Intelligence Agency; see the Cross-Reference List of Country Data Codes appendix Administrative divisions: 266 nations, dependent areas, other, and miscellaneous entries Legal system: varies by individual country; 186 (not including Yugoslavia) are parties to the UN International Court of Justice (ICJ or World Court) Economy ------- Economic overview: Real global output - gross world product (GWP) - again rose 3% in 1995, with the newly industrializing Third World countries setting the pace. And once more, results varied widely among regions and countries. Average growth of 2.5% in the GDP of industrialized countries (56% of GWP in 1995) and average growth of 5% in the GDP of less developed countries (38% of GWP) were partly offset by a small 1.5% drop in the GDP of the former USSR/Eastern Europe area (only 6% of GWP). With the notable exception of Japan at 3.1%, unemployment was typically 6%-12% in the industrial world. The US accounted for 22% of GWP in 1995; Western Europe accounted for 21%; and Japan accounted for 8%. These are the three "economic superpowers" presumably destined to compete for mastery in international markets on into the 21st century. As for the less developed countries: China, India, and the Four Dragons - South Korea, 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 continued its progress in moving toward "market-friendly" economies. The 15 ex-Soviet countries typically experienced further declines in output, although considerably less than in 1992-94. Externally, the nation-state, as a bedrock economic-political institution, is steadily losing control over international flows of people, goods, funds, and technology. Internally, the central government in a number of cases is losing control over resources as separatist regional movements - typically based on ethnicity - gain momentum, e.g., in the successor states of the former Soviet Union, in the former Yugoslavia, in India, and in Canada. In Western Europe, governments face the difficult political problem of channeling resources away from welfare programs in order to increase investment and strengthen incentives to seek employment. The addition of nearly 100 million people each year to an already overcrowded globe is exacerbating the problems of 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 specific economic developments in each country, see the individual country entries in this volume.) GDP: GWP (gross world product) - purchasing power parity - $33.7 trillion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $5,900 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): all countries: 25% developed countries: 2% to 6% typically developing countries: 10% to 60% typically (1995 est.) note: national inflation rates vary widely in individual cases, from stable prices in Japan to hyperinflation in a number of Third World countries Labor force: 2.24 billion (1992) by occupation: NA Unemployment rate: 30% combined unemployment and underemployment in many non-industrialized countries; developed countries typically 6%-12% unemployment (1995 est.) Industries: dominated by the onrush of technology, especially in computers, robotics, telecommunications, and medicines and medical equipment; most of these advances take place in OECD nations; only a small portion of non-OECD countries have succeeded in rapidly adjusting to these technological forces; the rapid development of new industrial (and agricultural) technology is complicating already grim environmental problems Industrial production growth rate: 5% (1995 est.) Electricity: capacity: 2,773,000,000 kW production: 11.601 trillion kWh consumption per capita: 1,937 kWh (1993) Agriculture: the whole gamut of crops, livestock, forest products, and fish Exports: $4.3 trillion (f.o.b., 1995 est.) commodities: the whole range of industrial and agricultural goods and services partners: in value, about 75% of exports from the developed countries Imports: $4.4 trillion (c.i.f., 1995 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: $2 trillion for less developed countries (1995 est.) Economic aid: worldwide traditional foreign aid $50 billion (1995 est.) Transportation -------------- Railways: 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 Societe Nationale des Chemins-de-Fer Francais (SNCF) Le Train a Grande Vitesse (TGV) - Atlantique line broad gauge: 251,153 km standard gauge: 710,754 km narrow gauge: 239,430 km Highways: total: NA km paved: NA km unpaved: NA km Ports: Chiba, Houston, Kawasaki, Kobe, Marseille, Mina' al Ahmadi (Kuwait), New Orleans, New York, Rotterdam, Yokohama Merchant marine: total: 25,521 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 442,276,527 GRT/701,647,274 DWT ships by type: barge carrier 22, bulk 5,308, cargo 8,089, chemical tanker 920, combination bulk 307, combination ore/oil 279, container 1,938, liquefied gas tanker 709, livestock carrier 52, multifunction large-load carrier 62, oil tanker 4,320, passenger 298, passenger-cargo 117, railcar carrier 21, refrigerated cargo 1,022, roll-on/roll-off cargo 1,034, short-sea passenger 484, specialized tanker 81, vehicle carrier 458 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: NA Telephone system: domestic: NA international: NA Radio broadcast stations: AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: NA Televisions: NA Defense ------- Branches: ground, maritime, and air forces at all levels of technology Defense expenditures: probably a small decline in 1995 in aggregate real expenditure on arms worldwide and somewhat less than three-quarters of a trillion dollars in money terms, or roughly 2% of gross world product (1995 est.) ====================================================================== @Yemen ----- Map --- Location: 15 00 N, 48 00 E -- Middle East, bordering the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Red Sea, between Oman and Saudi Arabia Flag ---- Description: three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and black; similar to the flag of Syria which has two green stars 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 Geography --------- Location: Middle East, bordering the Arabian Sea, Gulf of Aden, and Red Sea, between Oman and Saudi Arabia Geographic coordinates: 15 00 N, 48 00 E Map references: Middle East Area: total area: 527,970 sq km land area: 527,970 sq km comparative area: slightly larger than twice the size of Wyoming note: includes Perim, Socotra, the former Yemen Arab Republic (YAR or North Yemen), and the former People's Democratic Republic of Yemen (PDRY or South Yemen) Land boundaries: total: 1,746 km border countries: Oman 288 km, Saudi Arabia 1,458 km Coastline: 1,906 km Maritime claims: contiguous zone: 18 nm in the North; 24 nm in the South continental shelf: 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm International disputes: large section of boundary with Saudi Arabia not defined; a dispute with Eritrea over sovereignty of the Hanish Islands in the southern Red Sea has been submitted to arbitration under the auspices of the International Court of Justice Climate: mostly desert; hot and humid along west coast; temperate in western mountains affected by seasonal monsoon; extraordinarily hot, dry, harsh desert in east Terrain: narrow coastal plain backed by flat-topped hills and rugged mountains; dissected upland desert plains in center slope into the desert interior of the Arabian Peninsula lowest point: Arabian Sea 0 m highest point: Jabal an Nabi Shu'ayb 3,760 m Natural resources: petroleum, fish, rock salt, marble, small deposits of coal, gold, lead, nickel, and copper, fertile soil in west Land use: arable land: 6% permanent crops: 0% meadows and pastures: 30% forest and woodland: 7% other: 57% Irrigated land: 3,100 sq km (1989 est.) Environment: current issues: very limited natural fresh water resources; inadequate supplies of potable water; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification natural hazards: sandstorms and dust storms in summer international agreements: party to - Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban; signed, but not ratified - Biodiversity, Climate Change Geographic note: controls Bab el Mandeb, the strait linking the Red Sea and the Gulf of Aden, one of world's most active shipping lanes People ------ Population: 13,483,178 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 48% (male 3,302,489; female 3,122,246) 15-64 years: 50% (male 3,327,682; female 3,364,787) 65 years and over: 2% (male 158,018; female 207,956) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 3.56% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 45.22 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 9.59 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.05 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.06 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.99 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.76 male(s)/female all ages: 1.01 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 71.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 59.58 years male: 58.23 years female: 60.99 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 7.29 children born/woman (1996 est.) Nationality: noun: Yemeni(s) adjective: Yemeni Ethnic divisions: predominantly Arab; Afro-Arab concentrations in western coastal locations; South Asians in southern regions; small European communities in major metropolitan areas Religions: Muslim including Sha'fi (Sunni) and Zaydi (Shi'a), small numbers of Jewish, Christian, and Hindu Languages: Arabic Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write (1990 est.) total population: 38% male: 53% female: 26% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Yemen conventional short form: Yemen local long form: Al Jumhuriyah al Yamaniyah local short form: Al Yaman Data code: YM Type of government: republic Capital: Sanaa Administrative divisions: 17 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Abyan, Aden, Al Bayda, Al Hudaydah, Al Jawf, Al Mahrah, Al Mahwit, Ataq, Dhamar, Hadhramaut, Hajjah, Ibb, Lahij, Ma'rib, Sa'dah, San'a', Ta'izz note: there may be a new governorate for the capital city of Sanaa Independence: 22 May 1990 Republic of Yemen was established on 22 May 1990 with the merger of the Yemen Arab Republic {Yemen (Sanaa) or North Yemen} and the Marxist-dominated People's Democratic Republic of Yemen {Yemen (Aden) or South Yemen}; previously North Yemen had become independent on NA November 1918 (from the Ottoman Empire) and South Yemen had become independent on 30 November 1967 (from the UK) National holiday: Proclamation of the Republic, 22 May (1990) Constitution: 16 May 1991; amended 29 September 1994 Legal system: based on Islamic law, Turkish law, English common law, and local tribal customary law; does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction Suffrage: 18 years of age; universal Executive branch: chief of state: President Lt. Gen. Ali Abdallah SALIH (since 22 May 1990, the former president of North Yemen, assumed office upon the merger of North and South Yemen) was elected for a five-year term by the House of Representatives; election last held 1 October 1994 (next to be held NA 1999); Vice President Maj. Gen. Abd al-Rab Mansur al-HADI (since NA October 1994) was appointed by the president head of government: Prime Minister Abd al-Aziz ABD AL-GHANI (since NA October 1994) was appointed by the president; Deputy Prime Ministers Abd al-Wahhab al-ANISI (since NA October 1994), Dr. Abd al-Karim Ali al-IRYANI (since NA October 1994), Dr. Muhammad Said al-ATTAR (since NA October 1994), and Abd al-Qadir al-BA JAMAL (since NA October 1994) cabinet: Council of Ministers was appointed by the president on advice of the prime minister Legislative branch: unicameral House of Representatives: elections last held 27 April 1993 (next to be held NA May 1997); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (301 total) GPC 124, Islaah 61, YSP 55, others 13, independents 47, election nullified 1 Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: over 40 political parties are active in Yemen, but only three project significant influence; since the May-July 1994 civil war, President SALIH's General People's Congress (GPC) and Shaykh Abdallah bin Husayn al-AHMAR's Yemeni Grouping for Reform, or Islaah, have joined to form a coalition government; the Yemeni Socialist Party (YSP), headed by Ali Salih UBAYD, has regrouped as a loyal opposition Other political or pressure groups: NA International organization participation: ACC, AFESD, AL, AMF, CAEU, CCC, ESCWA, FAO, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICRM, IDA, IDB, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, ITU, NAM, OIC, UN, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant) Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Muhsin Ahmad al-AYNI chancery: Suite 705, 2600 Virginia Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20037 telephone: [1] (202) 965-4760, 4761 FAX: [1] (202) 337-2017 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador David G. NEWTON embassy: Dhahr Himyar Zone, Sheraton Hotel District, Sanaa mailing address: P. O. Box 22347, Sanaa telephone: [967] (1) 238843 through 238852 FAX: [967] (1) 251563 Flag: three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and black; similar to the flag of Syria which has two green stars 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Whereas the northern city Sanaa is the political capital of a united Yemen, the southern city Aden, with its refinery and port facilities, is the economic and commercial capital. Future economic development depends heavily on Western-assisted development of the country's moderate oil resources. Former South Yemen's willingness to merge stemmed partly from the steady decline in Soviet economic support. The low level of domestic industry and agriculture has made northern Yemen dependent on imports for practically all of its essential needs. Once self-sufficient in food production, northern Yemen has become a major importer. Land once used for export crops - cotton, fruit, and vegetables - has been turned over to growing a shrub called qat, whose leaves are chewed for their stimulant effect by Yemenis and which has no significant export market. Economic growth in former South Yemen has been constrained by a lack of incentives, partly stemming from centralized control over production decisions, investment allocation, and import choices. Yemen's large trade deficits have been compensated for by remittances from Yemenis working abroad and by foreign aid. Since the Gulf crisis, remittances have dropped substantially. High inflation and political divisions hinder the development of a forward-looking economic policy. GDP: purchasing power parity - $37.1 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: 3.6% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $2,520 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 21% industry: 24% services: 55% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 71.3% (1994 est.) Labor force: no reliable estimates exist, most people are employed in agriculture and herding or as expatriate laborers; services, construction, industry, and commerce account for less than one-half of the labor force Unemployment rate: 30% (1995 est.) Budget: revenues: $1.4 billion expenditures: $1.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.) Industries: crude oil production and petroleum refining; small-scale production of cotton textiles and leather goods; food processing; handicrafts; small aluminum products factory; cement Industrial production growth rate: NA% Electricity: capacity: 810,000 kW production: 1.8 billion kWh consumption per capita: 149 kWh (1993) Agriculture: grain, fruits, vegetables, qat (mildly narcotic shrub), coffee, cotton; dairy products, poultry, meat; fish Exports: $1.1 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: crude oil, cotton, coffee, hides, vegetables, dried and salted fish partners: US 17%, Japan 16%, Singapore 15%, China 13% (1994) Imports: $1.8 billion (c.i.f., 1994 est.) commodities: textiles and other manufactured consumer goods, petroleum products, sugar, grain, flour, other foodstuffs, cement, machinery, chemicals partners: US 11%, UK 7%, France 7%, Germany 5%, Japan 5% (1994) External debt: $8 billion (1996) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $148 million (1993) Currency: Yemeni rial (new currency) Exchange rates: Yemeni rials per US$1 - 12.010 (official fixed rate); 90 (market rate, December 1994) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: 0 km Highways: total: 51,392 km paved: 4,831 km unpaved: 46,561 km (1992 est.) Pipelines: crude oil 644 km; petroleum products 32 km Ports: Aden, Al Hudaydah, Al Mukalla, Mocha, Nishtun Merchant marine: total: 3 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 12,059 GRT/18,563 DWT ships by type: cargo 1, oil tanker 2 (1995 est.) Airports: total: 41 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: 1 with paved runways under 914 m: 3 with unpaved runways over 3 047 m: 2 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 8 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 9 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 10 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 131,655 (1992 est.) Telephone system: since unification in 1990, efforts have been made to create a national telecommunications network domestic: the network consists of microwave radio relay, cable, and tropospheric scatter international: satellite earth stations - 3 Intelsat (2 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean), 1 Intersputnik (Atlantic Ocean region), and 2 Arabsat; microwave radio relay to Saudi Arabia and Djibouti Radio broadcast stations: AM 4, FM 1, shortwave 0 Radios: NA Television broadcast stations: 10 Televisions: 350,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary (includes Police) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,985,764 males fit for military service: 1,685,517 males reach military age (18) annually: 145,161 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: $NA, NA% of GDP ====================================================================== @Zaire ----- Map --- Location: 0 00 N, 25 00 E -- Central Africa, northeast of Angola Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Central Africa, northeast of Angola Geographic coordinates: 0 00 N, 25 00 E Map references: Africa Area: total area: 2,345,410 sq km land area: 2,267,600 sq km comparative area: slightly more than one-fourth the size of US Land boundaries: total: 10,271 km border countries: 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 has been informally 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 lowest point: Atlantic Ocean 0 m highest point: Margherita Peak (Mount Stanley) 5,110 m 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 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 Geographic 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 People ------ Population: 46,498,539 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 48% (male 11,161,347; female 11,124,583) 15-64 years: 49% (male 11,197,097; female 11,783,524) 65 years and over: 3% (male 539,775; female 692,213) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.67% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 48.1 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 16.9 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: -14.56 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 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 returned to their homes in 1995 despite fear of the ongoing violence; additionally, Zaire is host to about 100,000 Angolan, and about 100,000 Sudanese refugees Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.95 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.78 male(s)/female all ages: 0.97 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 108 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 46.7 years male: 44.97 years female: 48.47 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.64 children born/woman (1996 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 (official), Lingala (a lingua franca trade language), Kingwana (a dialect of Kiswahili or Swahili), Kikongo, Tshiluba Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write in French, Lingala, Kingwana, or Tshiluba (1995 est.) total population: 77.3% male: 86.6% female: 67.7% Government ---------- Name of country: 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 Data code: CG Type of government: 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) elected for a seven-year term by popular vote; election last held 29 July 1984 (next to be held by 9 July 1997); results - President MOBUTU was reelected without opposition head of government: Prime Minister Leon KENGO wa Dondo (since 14 June 1994) elected by the High Council of the Republic 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 International organization participation: ACCT, ACP, AfDB, CCC, CEEAC, CEPGL, ECA, FAO, G-19, G-24, G-77, 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, WToO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador TATANENE Manata chancery: 1800 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 234-7690, 7691 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Daniel H. SIMPSON embassy: 310 Avenue des Aviateurs, Kinshasa mailing address: Unit 31550, APO AE 09828 telephone: [243] (12) 21533 through 21535 FAX: [243] (88) 43805, ext. 2308 or 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 Economy ------- Economic 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 IMF nor put in place the financial measures advocated by it. Although short-term prospects for improvement remain doubtful, improved political stability would boost Zaire's long-term potential to effectively exploit its vast mineral and agricultural resources. GDP: purchasing power parity - $16.5 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: -7.4% (1995 est.) GDP per capita: $400 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: NA% industry: NA% services: NA% Inflation rate (consumer prices): 12% monthly average (1995 est.) Labor force: 14.51 million (1993 est.) by occupation: agriculture 65%, industry 16%, services 19% (1991 est.) Unemployment rate: NA% Budget: revenues: $479 million expenditures: $479 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.) Industries: mining, mineral processing, consumer products (including textiles, footwear, cigarettes, processed foods and beverages), cement, diamonds Industrial production growth rate: -20% (1993) Electricity: capacity: 2,830,000 kW production: 6.2 billion kWh consumption per capita: 133 kWh (1993) Agriculture: coffee, sugar, palm oil, rubber, tea, quinine, cassava (tapioca), palm oil, bananas, root crops, corn, fruits; wood products Illicit drugs: illicit producer of cannabis, mostly for domestic consumption Exports: $419 million (f.o.b., 1994) commodities: copper, coffee, diamonds, cobalt, crude oil partners: US, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, UK, Japan, South Africa Imports: $382 million (c.i.f., 1994) commodities: consumer goods, foodstuffs, mining and other machinery, transport equipment, fuels partners: South Africa, US, Belgium, France, Germany, Italy, Japan, UK External debt: $11.3 billion (December 1993 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $NA Currency: 1 zaire (Z) = 100 makuta Exchange rates: new zaires (Z) per US$1 - 10,618 (October 1995), 1,194 (1994), 3 (1993); zaire (Z) per US$1 - 645,549 (1992), 15,587 (1991) note: on 22 October 1993 the new zaire, equal to 3,000,000 old zaires, was introduced Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 5,138 km (1995); 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: 145,000 km paved: 290 km unpaved: 144,710 km (1991 est.) 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: 217 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: 82 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 17 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 94 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 34,000 (1991 est.) Telephone system: domestic: barely adequate wire and microwave radio relay service in and between urban areas; domestic satellite system with 14 earth stations international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 10, FM 4, shortwave 0 Radios: 3.87 million (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 18 Televisions: 55,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Navy, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, paramilitary Civil Guard, Special Presidential Division Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 10,025,536 males fit for military service: 5,108,385 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $46 million, 1.5% of GDP (1990) ====================================================================== @Zambia ------ Map --- Location: 15 00 S, 30 00 E -- Southern Africa, east of Angola Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, east of Angola Geographic coordinates: 15 00 S, 30 00 E 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 border countries: 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 has been informally 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 lowest point: Zambezi river 329 m highest point: in Mafinga Hills 2,301 m 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 Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 9,159,072 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 49% (male 2,272,981; female 2,244,403) 15-64 years: 48% (male 2,157,106; female 2,256,935) 65 years and over: 3% (male 110,433; female 117,214) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 2.11% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 44.73 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 23.65 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: 0 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.96 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.94 male(s)/female all ages: 0.98 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 96.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 36.31 years male: 36.15 years female: 36.46 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 6.55 children born/woman (1996 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), major vernaculars - Bemba, Kaonda, Lozi, Lunda, Luvale, Nyanja, Tonga, and about 70 other indigenous languages Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write in English (1995 est.) total population: 78.2% male: 85.6% female: 71.3% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Zambia conventional short form: Zambia former: Northern Rhodesia Data code: ZA Type of government: 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) elected for a five-year term by popular vote; Vice President General Godfrey MIYANDA (since NA August 1994) appointed by the president; election last held 31 October 1991 (next to be held October 1996); results - Frederick CHILUBA 84%, Kenneth KAUNDA 16% cabinet: Cabinet, appointed by the president from among the members of the National Assembly Legislative branch: unicameral National Assembly: elections last held 31 October 1991 (next to be held October 1996); results - percent of vote by party NA; seats - (150 total) MMD 125, UNIP 25; note - the MMD's majority was weakened by the defection of 13 of its parliamentary members during 1993 and the defeat of its candidates in four of the resulting byelections Judicial branch: Supreme Court, justices are appointed by the president Political parties and leaders: Movement for Multiparty Democracy (MMD), Frederick CHILUBA; United National Independence Party (UNIP), Kenneth KAUNDA; National Party (NP), Humphrey MULEMBIA; Labor Party (LP), Chibiza MFUNI; Zambia Democratic Congress (ZDC), Dean MUNG'OMBA; Liberal Progressive Front (LPF), Roger CHONGWE, president International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-19, G-77, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat, Interpol, IOC, IOM, ITU, NAM, OAU, SADC, UN, UNAMIR, UNAVEM III, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Dunstan Weston KAMANA chancery: 2419 Massachusetts Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008 telephone: [1] (202) 265-9717 through 9719 FAX: [1] (202) 332-0826 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) 250-955, 252-230 FAX: [260] (1) 252-225 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Despite continuing progress in privatization and budgetary reform, Zambia's economy is showing little improvement. Inflation, while slowing somewhat, continues to be a major concern to the CHILUBA government. Four of Zambia's 20 banks collapsed in 1995, and the nation's debt stood at about $7 billion. Zambia's copper mining sector, which accounts for over 80% of the nation's foreign currency intake, is struggling. Production rates are down as are world copper prices. Food production is insufficient to meet the country's needs due to previous droughts and an end to government subsidization of agriculture. While the government's economic program aims for 6% growth in each of the next three years, a growth rate of 3-5% is more likely. GDP: purchasing power parity - $8.9 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: NA% GDP per capita: $900 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 32% industry: 22% services: 46% (1994 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 55% (1994 est.) Labor force: 3.4 million by occupation: agriculture 85%, mining, manufacturing, and construction 6%, transport and services 9% Unemployment rate: 22% (1991) Budget: revenues: $665 million expenditures: $767 million, including capital expenditures of $300 million (1991 est.) Industries: copper mining and processing, construction, foodstuffs, beverages, chemicals, textiles, fertilizer Industrial production growth rate: -1% (1992) Electricity: capacity: 2,440,000 kW production: 7.8 billion kWh consumption per capita: 650 kWh (1993) Agriculture: corn, sorghum, rice, peanuts, sunflower seed, tobacco, cotton, sugarcane, cassava (tapioca); cattle, goats, beef, eggs Illicit drugs: increasingly a regional transshipment center for methaqualone and heroin Exports: $1.075 billion (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: copper, zinc, cobalt, lead, tobacco partners: EU countries, Japan, South Africa, US, India, Thailand, Malaysia Imports: $845 million (f.o.b., 1994 est.) commodities: machinery, transportation equipment, foodstuffs, fuels, manufactures partners: EU countries, Japan, Saudi Arabia, South Africa, US External debt: $7 billion (1995 est.) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $734 million (1993) Currency: 1 Zambian kwacha (ZK) = 100 ngwee Exchange rates: Zambian kwacha (ZK) per US$1 - 909.09 (December 1995), 833.33 (1995), 769.23 (1994), 434.78 (1993), 156.25 (1992), 61.7284 (1991) Fiscal year: calendar year Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 2,164 km (1995) narrow gauge: 2,164 km 1.067-m gauge (13 km double track) note: the total includes 891 km of the Tanzania-Zambia Railway Authority (TAZARA), which operates 1,860 km of 1.067-m narrow gauge track between Dar es Salaam and New Kapiri M'poshi where it connects to the Zambia Railways system; TAZARA is not a part of Zambia Railways Highways: total: 37,359 km paved: 6,575 km (including 56 km of expressways) unpaved: 30,784 km (1992 est.) Waterways: 2,250 km, including Zambezi and Luapula rivers, Lake Tanganyika Pipelines: crude oil 1,724 km Ports: Mpulungu Airports: total: 104 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: 4 with paved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 2 with paved runways under 914 m: 35 with unpaved runways 2 438 to 3 047 m: 1 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 4 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 54 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 80,900 (1987 est.) Telephone system: facilities are among the best in Sub-Saharan Africa domestic: high-capacity microwave radio relay connects most larger towns and cities international: satellite earth stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 11, FM 5, shortwave 0 Radios: 1,889,140 Television broadcast stations: 9 Televisions: 215,000 (1995 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Army, Air Force, paramilitary forces, Police Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 1,934,845 males fit for military service: 1,020,851 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $96 million, 2.7% of GDP (1995) ====================================================================== @Zimbabwe -------- Map --- Location: 20 00 S, 30 00 E -- Southern Africa, northeast of Botswana Flag ---- Description: 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 Geography --------- Location: Southern Africa, northeast of Botswana Geographic coordinates: 20 00 S, 30 00 E 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 border countries: 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 lowest point: junction of the Lundi and Savi rivers 162 m highest point: Inyangani 2,592 m Natural resources: coal, chromium ore, asbestos, gold, nickel, copper, iron ore, vanadium, lithium, tin, platinum group metals Land use: arable land: 7% permanent crops: NEGL (coffee) meadows and pastures: 13% 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 Geographic note: landlocked People ------ Population: 11,271,314 (July 1996 est.) Age structure: 0-14 years: 44% (male 2,513,606; female 2,481,478) 15-64 years: 53% (male 2,935,188; female 3,030,270) 65 years and over: 3% (male 152,244; female 158,528) (July 1996 est.) Population growth rate: 1.41% (1996 est.) Birth rate: 32.34 births/1,000 population (1996 est.) Death rate: 18.2 deaths/1,000 population (1996 est.) Net migration rate: NA migrant(s)/1,000 population (1996 est.) note: there is a small but steady flow of Zimbabweans into South Africa in search of better paid employment Sex ratio: at birth: 1.03 male(s)/female under 15 years: 1.01 male(s)/female 15-64 years: 0.97 male(s)/female 65 years and over: 0.96 male(s)/female all ages: 0.99 male(s)/female (1996 est.) Infant mortality rate: 72.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1996 est.) Life expectancy at birth: total population: 41.85 years male: 41.91 years female: 41.78 years (1996 est.) Total fertility rate: 4.09 children born/woman (1996 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 (the language of the Ndebele, sometimes called Ndebele), numerous but minor tribal dialects Literacy: age 15 and over can read and write in English (1995 est.) total population: 85% male: 90% female: 80% Government ---------- Name of country: conventional long form: Republic of Zimbabwe conventional short form: Zimbabwe former: Southern Rhodesia Data code: ZI Type of government: parliamentary democracy Capital: Harare Administrative divisions: 8 provinces and 2 cities* with provincial status; Bulawayo*, Harare*, 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) was nominated by the House of Assembly (if more than one nomination, electoral college of members of the House of Assembly elect the president); election last held 26-27 March 1996 (next to be held NA March 2002); results - Robert MUGABE 92.7%, Abel MUZOREWA 4.8%; Ndabaningi SITHOLE 2.4%; Co-Vice President Simon Vengai MUZENDA (since 31 December 1987); Co-Vice President Joshua M. NKOMO (since 6 August 1990) was appointed by the president cabinet: Cabinet was 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-Ndonga 2 Judicial branch: Supreme Court Political parties and leaders: Zimbabwe African National Union-Patriotic Front (ZANU-PF), Robert MUGABE; Zimbabwe African National Union-NDONGA (ZANU-NDONGA), Ndabaningi SITHOLE; Zimbabwe Unity Movement (ZUM), Edgar TEKERE; Democratic Party (DP), Emmanuel MAGOCHE; Forum Party of Zimbabwe, Enock DUMBUTSHENA; United Parties, Abel MUZOREWA International organization participation: ACP, AfDB, C, CCC, ECA, FAO, G-15, G-77, 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 III, UNCTAD, UNESCO, UNIDO, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO Diplomatic representation in US: chief of mission: Ambassador Amos Bernard Muvengwa MIDZI chancery: 1608 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009 telephone: [1] (202) 332-7100 FAX: [1] (202) 483-9326 US diplomatic representation: chief of mission: Ambassador Johnnie 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 Economy ------- Economic overview: Agriculture employs 70% of the labor force of this landlocked nation and supplies almost 40% of exports. Mining accounts for only 5% of both GDP and employment, but minerals and metals account for about 40% of exports. Severe drought caused GDP to drop 8% in 1992, with growth rebounding to 2% in 1993 and 4.5% in 1994, only to drop by 2.4% in 1995. The government is continuing to push its IMF/World Bank structural adjustment program aimed at encouraging exports and foreign investment. Officials face the difficult task of restraining expenditures in their effort to keep inflation within bounds. GDP: purchasing power parity - $18.1 billion (1995 est.) GDP real growth rate: -2.4% (1995) GDP per capita: $1,620 (1995 est.) GDP composition by sector: agriculture: 18.3% industry: 35.3% services: 46.4% (1993 est.) Inflation rate (consumer prices): 25.8% (1995) Labor force: 4.228 million (1993 est.) by occupation: agriculture 70%, transport and services 22%, industry 8% Unemployment rate: at least 45% (1994 est.) Budget: revenues: $1.7 billion expenditures: $2.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $253 million (FY92/93) Industries: mining, steel, clothing and footwear, chemicals, foodstuffs, fertilizer, beverage, transportation equipment, wood products Industrial production growth rate: 10% (1994) Electricity: capacity: 2,040,000 kW production: 9 billion kWh consumption per capita: 913 kWh (1993) Agriculture: corn, cotton, tobacco, wheat, coffee, sugarcane, peanuts; cattle, sheep, goats, pigs Exports: $2.2 billion (f.o.b., 1995 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., 1995 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: $4.4 billion (1994) Economic aid: recipient: ODA, $362 million (1993) Currency: 1 Zimbabwean dollar (Z$) = 100 cents Exchange rates: Zimbabwean dollars (Z$) per US$1 -9.3633 (January 1996), 8.6580 (1995), 8.1500 (1994), 6.4725 (1993), 5.0942 (1992), 3.4282 (1991) Fiscal year: 1 July - 30 June Transportation -------------- Railways: total: 2,759 km (1995) narrow gauge: 2,759 km 1.067-m gauge (313 km electrified; 42 km double track) (1995 est.) Highways: total: 91,078 km paved: 14,572 km unpaved: 76,506 km (1992 est.) Waterways: Lake Kariba is a potential line of communication Pipelines: petroleum products 212 km Ports: Binga, Kariba Airports: total: 403 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: 8 with paved runways under 914 m: 185 with unpaved runways 1 524 to 2 437 m: 1 with unpaved runways 914 to 1 523 m: 198 (1995 est.) Communications -------------- Telephones: 301,000 (1990 est.) Telephone system: system was once one of the best in Africa, but now suffers from poor maintenance domestic: consists of microwave radio relay links, open-wire lines, and radiotelephone communication stations international: satellite earth station - 1 Intelsat (Atlantic Ocean) Radio broadcast stations: AM 8, FM 18, shortwave 0 Radios: 890,000 (1992 est.) Television broadcast stations: 8 (1986 est.) Televisions: 280,000 (1992 est.) Defense ------- Branches: Zimbabwe National Army, Air Force of Zimbabwe, Zimbabwe Republic Police (includes Police Support Unit, Paramilitary Police) Manpower availability: males age 15-49: 2,629,880 males fit for military service: 1,632,391 (1996 est.) Defense expenditures: exchange rate conversion - $236 million, 3.4% of GDP (FY95/96) ====================================================================== *** END OF THE PROJECT GUTENBERG EBOOK THE 1996 CIA WORLD FACTBOOK *** Updated editions will replace the previous one—the old editions will be renamed. Creating the works from print editions not protected by U.S. copyright law means that no one owns a United States copyright in these works, so the Foundation (and you!) can copy and distribute it in the United States without permission and without paying copyright royalties. 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