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"World Atlas Introduction",1,0,0,0
Learn all sorts of facts about the countries of the world in the World Atlas section. Each entry contains information about different aspects of the country, such as its climate, population, religion, and natural resources.
Click on the \INext Page\i button to begin reading this chapter.
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"Afghanistan (Atlas)",2,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Asia, north and west of \JPakistan\j, east of Iran
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 33 00 N, 65 00 E
\BMap references:\b Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 647,500 sq km
\Iland:\i 647,500 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Texas
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,529 km
\Iborder countries:\i China 76 km, \JIran\j 936 km, \JPakistan\j 2,430 km, Tajikistan 1,206 km, Turkmenistan 744 km, Uzbekistan 137 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BClimate:\b arid to semiarid; cold winters and hot summers
\BTerrain:\b mostly rugged mountains; plains in north and southwest
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Amu Darya 258 m
\Ihighest point:\i Nowshak 7,485 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jnatural gas\j, \Jpetroleum\j, \Jcoal\j, copper, talc, barites, sulfur, lead, zinc, iron ore, salt, precious and semiprecious stones
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 12%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 46%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 3%
\Iother:\i 39% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 30,000 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b damaging earthquakes occur in Hindu \JKush\j mountains; flooding
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b soil degradation; overgrazing; deforestation (much of the remaining forests are being cut down for fuel and building materials); desertification\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Desertification, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban \Isigned, but not ratified:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 146.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 46.34 years
\Imale:\i 46.89 years
\Ifemale:\i 45.76 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.07 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Afghan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Afghan
\BEthnic groups:\b Pashtun 38%, Tajik 25%, Uzbek 6%, Hazara 19%, minor ethnic groups (Aimaks, Turkmen, Baloch, and others)
\BReligions:\b Sunni Muslim 84%, Shi'a Muslim 15%, other 1%
\BLanguages:\b Pashtu 35%, Afghan Persian (Dari) 50%, Turkic languages (primarily Uzbek and Turkmen) 11%, 30 minor languages (primarily Balochi and Pashai) 4%, much bilingualism
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 31.5%
\Imale:\i 47.2%
\Ifemale:\i 15% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Islamic State of Afghanistan
\Iconventional short form:\i Afghanistan
\Ilocal long form:\i Dowlat-e Eslami-ye Afghanestan
\Inote:\i there may be two new provinces of Nurestan (Nuristan) and Khowst
\BIndependence:\b 19 August 1919 (from UK control over Afghan foreign affairs)
\BNational holiday:\b Victory of the Muslim Nation, 28 April; Remembrance Day for Martyrs and Disabled, 4 May; Independence Day, 19 August
\BConstitution:\b none
\BLegal system:\b a new legal system has not been adopted but all factions tacitly agree they will follow Islamic law (Shari'a)
\BSuffrage:\b undetermined; previously males 15-50 years of age
\BExecutive branch:\b on 27 September 1996, the ruling members of the Afghan Government were displaced by members of the Islamic Taliban movement; the Islamic State of \JAfghanistan\j has no functioning government at this time, and the country remains divided among fighting factions \Inote:\i the Taliban have declared themselves the legitimate government of \JAfghanistan\j; the UN has deferred a decision on credentials and the Organization of the Islamic Conference has left the Afghan seat vacant until the question of legitimacy can be resolved through negotiations among the warring factions; the country is essentially divided along ethnic lines; the Taliban controls the capital of Kabul and approximately two-thirds of the country including the predominately ethnic Pashtun areas in southern \JAfghanistan\j; opposing factions have their stonghold in the ethnically diverse north - General DOSTAM's National Islamic Movement controls several northcentral provinces and Commander MASOOD controls the ethnic Tajik majority areas of the northeast
\BLegislative branch:\b non-functioning as of June 1993
\BJudicial branch:\b non-functioning as of March 1995, although there are local Shari'a (Islamic law) courts throughout the country
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Taliban (Religious Students Movement), Mohammad OMAR; Supreme Defense Council of \JAfghanistan\j [comprised of Jumbesh-i-Melli Islami (National Islamic Movement), Abdul Rashid DOSTAM; Jamiat-i-Islami (Islamic Society), Burhanuddin RABBANI and Ahmad Shah MASOOD; and Hizbi Wahdat-Khalili faction (Islamic Unity Party), Abdul Karim KHALILI]; other smaller parties are Hizbi Islami-Gulbuddin (Islamic Party), Gulbuddin HIKMATYAR faction; Hizbi Islami-Khalis (Islamic Party), Yunis KHALIS faction; Ittihad-i-Islami Barai Azadi \JAfghanistan\j (Islamic Union for the Liberation of \JAfghanistan\j), Abdul Rasul SAYYAF; Harakat-Inqilab-i-Islami (Islamic Revolutionary Movement), Mohammad Nabi MOHAMMADI; Jabha-i-Najat-i-Milli \JAfghanistan\j (\JAfghanistan\j National Liberation Front), Sibghatullah MOJADDEDI; Mahaz-i-Milli-Islami (National Islamic Front), Sayed Ahamad GAILANI; Hizbi Wahdat-Akbari faction (Islamic Unity Party), Mohammad Akbar AKBARI; Harakat-i-Islami (Islamic Movement), Mohammed Asif MOHSENI
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b tribal elders represent traditional Pashtun leadership; Afghan refugees in \JPakistan\j, \JAustralia\j, US, and elsewhere have organized politically; \JPeshawar\j, \JPakistan\j-based groups such as the Coordination Council for National Unity and Understanding in \JAfghanistan\j (CUNUA), Ishaq GAILANI; Writers Union of Free \JAfghanistan\j (WUFA), A. Rasul AMIN; Mellat (Social Democratic Party), leader NA
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Yar Mohammed MOHABBAT
\Ichancery:\i 2341 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 234-3770, 3771
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 328-3516
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\Iconsulate(s):\i Washington, DC
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b the US embassy in Kabul has been closed since January 1989 due to security concerns
\BFlag description:\b three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and black with a gold emblem centered on the three bands; the emblem features a temple-like structure with Islamic inscriptions above and below, encircled by a wreath on the left and right and by a bolder Islamic inscription above, all of which are encircled by two crossed scimitars
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b \JAfghanistan\j is an extremely poor, landlocked country, highly dependent on farming and livestock raising (sheep and goats). Economic considerations have played second fiddle to political and military upheavals during more than 17 years of war, including the nearly 10-year Soviet military occupation (which ended 15 February 1989). During the war one-third of the population fled the country, with \JPakistan\j and \JIran\j sheltering a combined peak of more than 6 million refugees. Now, only 750,000 registered Afghan refugees remain in \JPakistan\j and about 1.2 million in \JIran\j. Another 1 million have probably moved into and around urban areas within \JAfghanistan\j. Gross domestic product has fallen substantially over the past 17 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 medical care. Inflation remains a serious problem throughout the country, with one estimate putting the rate at 240% in Kabul in 1996. Numerical data are likely to be either unavailable or unreliable.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $18.1 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $800 (1996 est.)
\Icommodities:\i fruits and nuts, handwoven carpets, wool, cotton, hides and pelts, precious and semi-precious gems
\Ipartners:\i FSU, \JPakistan\j, \JIran\j, \JGermany\j, India, UK, \JBelgium\j, Luxembourg, Czechoslovakia\BImports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $150 million (1996 est.)
\Icommodities:\i food and \Jpetroleum\j products; most consumer goods
\Ipartners:\i FSU, \JPakistan\j, \JIran\j, \JJapan\j, \JSingapore\j, India, South Korea, \JGermany\j \BDebt - external:\b $2.3 billion (March 1991 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA; about $56 million in UN aid plus additional bilateral aid and aid in kind (1996)
\Inote:\i US provided $450 million in bilateral assistance (1985-93); US continues to contribute to multilateral assistance through the UN programs of food aid, \Jimmunization\j, land mine removal, and a wide range of aid to refugees and displaced persons
the free market exchange rates rather than the official exchange rate, which
is a fixed rate of 50.600 afghanis to the dollar \BFiscal year:\b 21 March - 20 March
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 31,200 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i very limited \Jtelephone\j and telegraph service
\Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) linked only to \JIran\j and 1 Intersputnik (\JAtlantic Ocean\j Region)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 6, FM 0, shortwave 2
\BRadios:\b 1.8 million (1996 est.); note - about 60% of families own a radio
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\Inote:\i one \Jtelevision\j station run by Jumbesh faction provides intermittent service
\BTelevisions:\b 100,000 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 24.6 km
\Ibroad gauge:\i 9.6 km 1.524-m gauge from Gushgy (Turkmenistan) to Towraghondi; 15 km 1,524-m gauge from Termiz (Uzbekistan) to Kheyrabad transshipment point on south bank of Amu Darya
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 21,000 km
\Ipaved:\i 2,793 km
\Iunpaved:\i 18,207 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 1,200 km; chiefly Amu Darya, which handles vessels up to about 500 DWT \BPipelines:\b \Jpetroleum\j products - Uzbekistan to Bagram and Turkmenistan to Shindand; \Jnatural gas\j 180 km
\BPorts and harbors:\b Kheyrabad, Shir Khan
\BAirports:\b 33 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 16
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 3
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 4
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
\Iunder 914 m:\i 7 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 17
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 3
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 12
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 2 (1996 est.)
\BHeliports:\b 3 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b NA; note - the military does not exist on a national basis; 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 groups
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 22 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 5,813,298 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 3,118,004 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 231,250 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $NA
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b\BDisputes - international:\b some support from RABBANI and MASOOD to anti-government Islamic fighters in Tajikistan's \Jcivil war\j; support to Islamic militants worldwide by some factions; question over which group should hold \JAfghanistan\j's seat at the UN
\BIllicit drugs:\b world's second-largest illicit opium producer after \JBurma\j (1,230 metric tons in 1996 - down 2% from 1995) and a major source of \Jhashish\j
#
"Albania (Atlas)",3,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and Ionian Sea, between \JGreece\j and \JSerbia\j and Montenegro
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 41 00 N, 20 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 28,750 sq km
\Iland:\i 27,400 sq km
\Iwater:\i 1,350 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Maryland
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 720 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JGreece\j 282 km, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 151 km, \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j 287 km (114 km with \JSerbia\j, 173 km with \JMontenegro\j)
\BCoastline:\b 362 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b mild temperate; cool, cloudy, wet winters; hot, clear, dry summers; interior is cooler and wetter
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains and hills; small plains along coast
\Inote:\i some new administrative units may have been created
\BIndependence:\b 28 November 1912 (from \JOttoman Empire\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 28 November (1912)
\BConstitution:\b an interim basic law was approved by the People's Assembly on 29 April 1991; a draft constitution was rejected by popular referendum in the fall of 1994 and a new draft is pending
\BLegal system:\b has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President of the Republic Sali BERISHA (since 9 April 1992)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister of the interim National Reconciliation Government Bashkim FINO (since 12 March 1997)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the president
\Ielections:\i president elected by the People's Assembly for a five-year term; election last held NA 1992 (next to be held NA March 1997); prime minister appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i Sali BERISHA elected president; percent of People's Assembly vote - NA
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral People's Assembly or Kuvendi Popullor (140 seats; most members are elected by direct popular vote and some by proportional vote for four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 26 May 1996 (next tentatively scheduled for 29 June 1997)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - DP 122, PS 10, RP 3, UHP 3, Balli Kombetar 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, chairman of the Supreme Court is elected by the People's Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JAlbanian\j Socialist Party or PS (formerly the Albania Workers Party) [Fatos NANO, chairman]; Democratic Party or PD [Tritan SHEHU]; \JAlbanian\j Republican Party or PR [Sabri GODO]; Social Democratic Party or SDP [Skender GJINUSHI]; Democratic Alliance Party or DAP [Neritan CEKA, chairman]; Unity for Human Rights Party or PBDNJ [Vasil MELO, chairman]; Movement for Democracy Party or LDP [ruled by committee of Genc RULI, Alfred SERREQI, Dashimir SHEHI, Maksim KONOMI]; Balli Kombetar [Hysen SELFO]
\Ichancery:\i Suite 1000, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 223-4942, 8187
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 628-7342
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Marisa R. LINO (15 July 1996)
\Iembassy:\i Rruga E. Labinoti 103, Tirane
\Imailing address:\i PSC 59, Box 100 (A), APO AE 09624
\Itelephone:\i [355] (42) 328-75, 335-20
\IFAX:\i [355] (42) 322-22
\BFlag description:\b red with a black two-headed eagle in the center
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b An extremely poor country by European standards, \JAlbania\j is making the difficult transition to a more open-market economy. The economy rebounded in 1993-95 after a severe depression accompanying the collapse of the previous centrally planned system in 1990 and 1991. However, a weakening of government resolve to maintain stabilization policies in the election year of 1996 contributed to renewal of inflationary pressures, spurred by the budget deficit which exceeded 12%. The collapse of financial pyramid schemes in early 1997 - which had attracted deposits from a substantial portion of \JAlbania\j's adult population - triggered unrest in much of the south in early 1997. The economy continues to be buoyed by remittances of some 20% of the labor force which works abroad, mostly in \JGreece\j and \JItaly\j. These remittances supplement GDP and help offset the large foreign trade deficit. Most agricultural land was privatized in 1992, substantially improving peasant incomes. Overall economic performance is likely to be substantially worse in 1997; inflation will easily top 50% and GDP may drop by 5% or more.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $4.4 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 5% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $1,290 (1996 est.)
\Itotal:\i 1.692 million (1994 est.) (including 352,000 emigrant workers and 261,000 domestically unemployed)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture (nearly all private) 49.5%, private sector 22.2%, state (nonfarm) sector 28.3% (including state-owned industry 7.8%); note - includes only those domestically employed
\BUnemployment rate:\b 13% (1996 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $624 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $996 million, including capital expenditures of $NA
\Idomestic:\i obsolete wire system; no longer provides a \Jtelephone\j for every village; in 1992, following the fall of the communist government, peasants cut the wire to about 1,000 villages and used it to build fences
\Iinternational:\i inadequate; international traffic carried by microwave radio relay from the Tirane exchange to \JItaly\j and Greece
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 17, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 577,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 9
\BTelevisions:\b 300,000 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 670 km
\Istandard gauge:\i 670 km 1.435-m gauge (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 15,500 km
\Ipaved:\i 4,650 km
\Iunpaved:\i 10,850 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 43 km plus \JAlbanian\j sections of Lake Scutari, Lake \JOhrid\j, and Lake Prespa (1990)
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 145 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 55 km; \Jnatural gas\j 64 km (1991)\BPorts and harbors:\b \JDurres\j, Sarande, Shengjin, Vlore
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Interior Ministry Troops, Border Guards
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 19 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 738,082 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 600,403 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 31,823 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $42 million (1996)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 1.5% to 2.0% (1996)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b the \JAlbanian\j Government supports protection of the rights of ethnic Albanians outside of its borders; Albanian majority in \JKosovo\j seeks independence from Serbian Republic; Albanians in Macedonia claim discrimination in education, access to public-sector jobs and representation in governments outside of its borders; \JAlbanian\j majority in \JKosovo\j seeks independence from Serbian Republic; Albanians in Macedonia claim discrimination in education, access to public-sector jobs and representation in government
\BIllicit drugs:\b increasingly active transshipment point for Southwest Asian opiates, \Jhashish\j, and cannabis transiting the Balkan route and \Jcocaine\j from \JSouth America\j destined for Western Europe; limited opium and cannabis production; ethnic \JAlbanian\j narcotrafficking organizations active in Central and Eastern Europe
#
"Algeria (Atlas)",4,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Africa, bordering the \JMediterranean Sea\j, between Morocco and Tunisia
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 28 00 N, 3 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,381,740 sq km
\Iland:\i 2,381,740 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly less than 3.5 times the size of Texas
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 6,343 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JLibya\j 982 km, Mali 1,376 km, \JMauritania\j 463 km, Morocco 1,559 km, \JNiger\j 956 km, \JTunisia\j 965 km, Western Sahara 42 km
\BCoastline:\b 998 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive fishing zone:\i 32-52 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b arid to semiarid; mild, wet winters with hot, dry summers along coast; drier with cold winters and hot summers on high plateau; sirocco is a hot, dust/sand-laden wind especially common in summer
\BTerrain:\b mostly high plateau and desert; some mountains; narrow, discontinuous coastal plain
\BNatural hazards:\b mountainous areas subject to severe earthquakes; mud slides
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b soil erosion from overgrazing and other poor farming practices; \Jdesertification\j; dumping of raw sewage, \Jpetroleum\j refining wastes, and other industrial effluents is leading to the \Jpollution\j of rivers and coastal waters; \JMediterranean Sea\j, in particular, becoming polluted from oil wastes, soil erosion, and \Jfertilizer\j runoff; inadequate supplies of potable water
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Desertification, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands \Isigned, but not ratified:\i Nuclear Test Ban
\BGeography - note:\b second-largest country in Africa (after \JSudan\j)
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 61.6%
\Imale:\i 73.9%
\Ifemale:\i 49% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Democratic and Popular Republic of Algeria
\Iconventional short form:\i Algeria
\Ilocal long form:\i Al Jumhuriyah al Jaza'iriyah ad Dimuqratiyah ash Shabiyah
\Ilocal short form:\i Al Jaza'ir
\BData code:\b AG
\BGovernment type:\b republic
\BNational capital:\b Algiers
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 48 provinces (wilayas, singular - wilaya); Adrar, Ain Defla, Ain Temouchent, Alger, Annaba, Batna, Bechar, Bejaia, Biskra, Blida, Bordj Bou Arreridj, Bouira, Boumerdes, Chlef, Constantine, Djelfa, El Bayadh, El Oued, El Tarf, Ghardaia, Guelma, Illizi, Jijel, Khenchela, Laghouat, Mascara, Medea, Mila, Mostaganem, M'Sila, Naama, Oran, Ouargla, Oum el Bouaghi, Relizane, Saida, Setif, Sidi Bel Abbes, Skikda, Souk Ahras, Tamanghasset, Tebessa, Tiaret, Tindouf, Tipaza, Tissemsilt, Tizi Ouzou, Tlemcen
\BIndependence:\b 5 July 1962 (from \JFrance\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Anniversary of the Revolution, 1 November (1954)
\BConstitution:\b 19 November 1976, effective 22 November 1976; revised 3 November 1988, 23 February 1989, and 28 November 1996; note - referendum approving the revisions of 28 November 1996 was signed into law 7 December 1996
\BLegal system:\b socialist, based on French and Islamic law; judicial review of legislative acts in ad hoc Constitutional Council composed of various public officials, including several Supreme Court justices; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Abdelaziz BOUTEFLIKA (since April 1999)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Ahmed OUYAHIA (since 31 December 1995)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the prime minister
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a five-year term; prime minister appointed by the president
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament consists of the National People's Assembly or Al-Majlis Ech-Chaabi Al-Watani (380 seats; members elected by popular vote to serve four-year terms; suspended since 1992) and the Council of Nations (144 seats; one-third of the members appointed by the president, two-thirds elected by indirect vote; members serve six-year terms; created as a result of the constitutional revision of November 1996)
\Ielections:\i National People's Assembly - first-round held 26 December 1991; second round canceled by the military after President BENDJEDID resigned 11 January 1992, effectively suspending the assembly (next election scheduled for 5 June 1997)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - the fundamentalist FIS won 188 of the 231 seats contested in the first round of the 1991 elections\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Islamic Salvation Front (FIS, outlawed April 1992), Ali BELHADJ, Dr. Abassi MADANI, Rabeh KEBIR (self-exile in \JGermany\j); National Liberation Front (FLN), Boualem BENHAMOUDA, secretary general; Socialist Forces Front (FFS), Hocine Ait AHMED, secretary general (self-exile in \JSwitzerland\j); Movement of a Peaceful Society (Hamas), Mahfoud NAHNAH, chairman; Rally for Culture and Democracy (RCD), Said SAADI, secretary general; Algerian Renewal Party (PRA), Noureddine BOUKROUH, chairman; Nahda Movement (Al Nahda), Abdallah DJABALLAH, president; Democratic National Rally (RND), Abdelkader BENSALAH, chairman; Movement for Democracy in Algeria (MDA), Ahmed Ben BELLA
\Inote:\i the government established a multiparty system in September 1989 and,
as of 31 December 1990, over 50 legal parties existed; a new party law was
\Imailing address:\i B. P. Box 549, Alger-Gare, 16000 Algiers
\Itelephone:\i [213] (2) 69-11-86, 69-12-55
\IFAX:\i [213] (2) 69-39-79
\BFlag description:\b two equal vertical bands of green (hoist side) and white with a red, five-pointed star within a red crescent; the crescent, star, and color green are traditional symbols of \JIslam\j (the state religion)
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b The \Jhydrocarbons\j sector is the backbone of the economy, accounting for roughly 57% of government revenues, 25% of GDP, and almost all export earnings; \JAlgeria\j has the fifth-largest reserves of \Jnatural gas\j in the world and is the second largest gas exporter; and it ranks fourteenth for oil reserves. \JAlgiers\j' efforts to reform one of the most centrally planned economies in the Arab world began after the 1986 collapse of world oil prices plunged the country into a severe recession. In 1989, the government launched a comprehensive, IMF-supported program to achieve economic stabilization and to introduce market mechanisms into the economy. Despite substantial progress toward economic adjustment, in 1992 the reform drive stalled as \JAlgiers\j became embroiled in political turmoil. In September 1993, a new government was formed, and one priority was the resumption and acceleration of the structural adjustment process. Buffeted by the slump in world oil prices and burdened with a heavy foreign debt, \JAlgiers\j concluded a one-year standby arrangement with the IMF in April 1994. Following a Paris Club debt rescheduling in 1995, a robust harvest, and elevated oil prices, the economy experienced a strong recovery and key economic improvements. Recent and planned investments in developing hydrocarbon resources are likely to increase growth and export earnings.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $115.9 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 4% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $4,000 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i government 29.5%, agriculture 22%, construction and public works 16.2%, industry 13.6%, commerce and services 13.5%, transportation and communication 5.2% (1989)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 28% (1996 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $14.3 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $17.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
\Idomestic:\i excellent service in north but sparse in south; domestic \Jsatellite\j system with 12 \Jearth\j stations (20 additional domestic \Jearth\j stations are planned) \Iinternational:\i 5 submarine cables; microwave radio relay to \JItaly\j, \JFrance\j, \JSpain\j, Morocco, and \JTunisia\j; coaxial cable to Morocco and \JTunisia\j; participant in Medarabtel; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations - 2 Intelsat (1 \JAtlantic Ocean\j and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 Intersputnik, and 1 Arabsat
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 26, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 6 million (1991 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 18
\BTelevisions:\b 2 million (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,772 km
\Istandard gauge:\i 3,616 km 1.435-m gauge (301 km electrified; 215 km double track)
\Inarrow gauge:\i 1,156 km 1.055-m gauge
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 102,424 km
\Ipaved:\i 70,570 km (including 6,080 km of expressways)
\Iships by type:\i bulk 9, cargo 27, chemical tanker 7, liquefied gas tanker 11, oil tanker 5, roll-on/roll-off cargo 13, short-sea passenger 5, specialized tanker 1
(1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 119 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 66
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 8
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 24
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 13
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 4
\Iunder 914 m:\i 17 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 53
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 3
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 19
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 31 (1996 est.)
\BHeliports:\b 1 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b National Popular Army, Navy, Air Force, Territorial Air Defense, National Gendarmerie
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 19 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 7,666,961 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 4,700,502 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 337,630 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $1.3 billion (1994)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 2.7% (1994)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b part of southeastern region claimed by \JLibya\j; land boundary dispute with \JTunisia\j settled in 1993
#
"American Samoa (Atlas)",5,0,0,0
\BAffiliation:\b (territory of the US)
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, group of islands in the South \JPacific Ocean\j, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 14 20 S, 170 00 W
\BMap references:\b Oceania
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 199 sq km
\Iland:\i 199 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\Inote:\i includes Rose Island and Swains Island
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly larger than Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 116 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical marine, moderated by southeast trade winds; annual rainfall averages 124 inches; rainy season from November to April, dry season from May to October; little seasonal \Jtemperature\j variation
\BTerrain:\b five volcanic islands with rugged peaks and limited coastal plains, two \Jcoral\j atolls (Rose Island, Swains Island)
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JPacific Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Lata 966 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpumice\j, pumicite
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 5%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 10%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 0%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 70%
\Iother:\i 15% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b typhoons common from December to March
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b limited natural fresh \Jwater\j resources; the \Jwater\j division of the government has spent substantial funds in the past few years to improve \Jwater\j catchments and pipelines
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b Pago Pago has one of the best natural deepwater harbors in the South Pacific Ocean, sheltered by shape from rough seas and protected by peripheral mountains from high winds; strategic location in the South Pacific Ocean
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 61,819 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.72% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 35.23 births/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.01 deaths/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 6 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Itotal population:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 18.78 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 72.91 years
\Imale:\i 71.03 years
\Ifemale:\i 74.85 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 4.16 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BReligions:\b Christian Congregationalist 50%, Roman Catholic 20%, Protestant denominations and other 30%
\BLanguages:\b Samoan (closely related to Hawaiian and other Polynesian languages), English
\Inote:\i most people are bilingual
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 97%
\Imale:\i 98%
\Ifemale:\i 97% (1980 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of American Samoa
\Iconventional short form:\i American Samoa
\Iabbreviation:\i AS
\BData code:\b AQ
\BDependency status:\b unincorporated and unorganized territory of the US; administered by the US Department of Interior, Office of Territorial and International Affairs
\BGovernment type:\b NA
\BNational capital:\b Pago Pago
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (territory of the US)
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of the US)
\BNational holiday:\b Territorial Flag Day, 17 April (1900)
\BConstitution:\b ratified 1966, in effect 1967
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President of the US William Jefferson CLINTON (since 20 January 1993) and Vice President Albert GORE, Jr. (since 20 January 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i Governor Tauese P. SUNIA (since 3 January 1997) and Lieutenant Governor Togiola Tulafono (since 3 January 1997)
\Icabinet:\i NA
\Ielections:\i governor and lieutenant governor elected on the same ticket by popular vote for four-year terms; election last held 3 November 1996 (next to be held 7 November 2000)
\Ielection results:\i Tauese P. SUNIA elected governor of \JAmerican Samoa\j; percent of vote - Tauese P. SUNIA (Democrat) 51%, Peter REID (Independent) 49%
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Fono or Legislative Assembly consists of the \JHouse of Representatives\j (21 seats - 20 of which are elected by popular vote and 1 is an appointed, nonvoting delegate from Swains Island; members serve two-year terms) and the Senate (18 seats; members are elected from local chiefs who serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i \JHouse of Representatives\j - last held 5 November 1996 (next to be held NA November 1998); Senate - last held 3 November 1996 (next to be held 7 November 2000)
\Ielection results:\i \JHouse of Representatives\j - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - NA; Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - NA
\Inote:\i \JAmerican Samoa\j elects one delegate to the US \JHouse of Representatives\j; elections last held 5 November 1996 (next to be held NA November 1998); results - Eni R. F. H. FALEOMAVAEGA reelected as delegate
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court, \Jchief justice\j and associate justices are appointed by the US Secretary of the Interior
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none (territory of the US)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b none (territory of the US)
\BFlag description:\b blue with a white triangle edged in red that is based on the outer side and extends to the hoist side; a brown and white American \Jbald eagle\j flying toward the hoist side is carrying two traditional Samoan symbols of authority, a staff and a war club
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Economic activity is strongly linked to the US, with which \JAmerican Samoa\j conducts the great bulk of its foreign trade. Tuna fishing and \Jtuna\j processing plants are the backbone of the private sector, with canned \Jtuna\j the primary export. The \Jtuna\j canneries and the government are by far the two largest employers. Other economic activities include a slowly developing tourist industry. Transfers from the US Government add substantially to \JAmerican Samoa\j's economic well-being. According to one observer, attempts by the government to develop a larger and broader economy are restrained by Samoa's remote location, its limited transportation, and its devastating hurricanes.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $128 million (1991 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $2,600 (1991 est.)
\BGDP - composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\BInflation rate - consumer price index:\b NA %
\BLabor force:\b
\Itotal:\i 14,400 (1990)
\Iby occupation:\i government 33%, \Jtuna\j canneries 34%, other 33% (1990)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 12% (1991)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $97 million ($43 million in local revenue and $54 million in grant revenue)
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA (FY90/91)
\BIndustries:\b \Jtuna\j canneries (largely dependent on foreign fishing vessels), handicrafts
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b NA%
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 33,000 kW (1993)
\BElectricity - production:\b 100 million kWh (1994)
\BElectricity - consumption per capita:\b 1,743 kWh (1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i materials for canneries 56%, food 8%, \Jpetroleum\j products 7%, machinery and parts 6%
\Ipartners:\i US 62%, \JJapan\j 9%, NZ 7%, \JAustralia\j 11%, \JFiji\j 4%, other 7%
\BDebt - external:\b $NA
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\Inote:\i important financial support from the US
\BCurrency:\b 1 US dollar (US$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b US currency is used
\BFiscal year:\b 1 October - 30 September
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 9,000 (1994 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i good telex, telegraph, facsimile and cellular phone services; domestic \Jsatellite\j system with 1 Comsat \Jearth\j station
\Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (\JPacific Ocean\j)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 8,000 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 350 km
\Ipaved:\i 150 km
\Iunpaved:\i 200 km
\BPorts and harbors:\b Aunu'u (new construction), Auasi, Faleosao, Ofu, Pago Pago, Ta'u
\BMerchant marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b 3 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 3
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iunder 914 m:\i 2 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of the US
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
#
"Andorra (Atlas)",6,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southwestern Europe, between \JFrance\j and Spain
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 42 30 N, 1 30 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 450 sq km
\Iland:\i 450 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 125 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JFrance\j 60 km, \JSpain\j 65 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BClimate:\b temperate; snowy, cold winters and warm, dry summers
\BTerrain:\b rugged mountains dissected by narrow valleys
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Riu Valira 840 m
\Ihighest point:\i Coma Pedrosa 2,946 m
\BNatural resources:\b hydropower, mineral \Jwater\j, timber, iron ore, lead
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 2%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 56%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 22%
\Iother:\i 20% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b snowslides, avalanches
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b deforestation; overgrazing of mountain meadows contributes to soil erosion \BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i none of the selected agreements
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i none of the selected agreements
\BGeography - note:\b landlocked
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 64,000 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 14% (male 4,788; female 4,452)
\I15-64 years:\i 74% (male 25,291; female 21,807)
\I65 years and over:\i 12% (male 3,903; female 3,759) (July 1997 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.72% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 10.67 births/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.2 deaths/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 1.77 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\Iconventional long form:\i Principality of Andorra
\Iconventional short form:\i Andorra
\Ilocal long form:\i Principat d'Andorra
\Ilocal short form:\i Andorra
\BData code:\b AN
\BGovernment type:\b parliamentary democracy (since March 1993) that retains as its heads of state a coprincipality; the two princes are the president of \JFrance\j and Spanish bishop of Seo de Urgel, who are represented locally by officials called veguers
\BNational capital:\b \JAndorra\j la Vella
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 7 parishes (parroquies, singular - parroquia); \JAndorra\j, Canillo, Encamp, La Massana, Les Escaldes, Ordino, Sant Julia de Loria
\BIndependence:\b 1278
\BNational holiday:\b Mare de Deu de Meritxell, 8 September
\BConstitution:\b \JAndorra\j's first written constitution was drafted in 1991; adopted 14 March 1993
\BLegal system:\b based on French and Spanish civil codes; no judicial review of legislative acts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i French Coprince Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995) and Spanish Episcopal Coprince Monseigneur Juan MARTI Alanis (since 31 January 1971); note - each coprince is represented by a veguer (current names NA)
\Ihead of government:\i Executive Council President Marc FORNE Molne (since 21 December 1994)
\Icabinet:\i Executive Council designated by the executive council president
\Ielections:\i executive council president elected by the General Council and formally appointed by the coprinces; election last held 16 February 1997 (next to be held NA 2001)
\Ielection results:\i Marc FORNE Molne elected executive council president; percent of General Council vote - NA
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral General Council of the Valleys or Consell General de las Valls (28 seats; members are elected by direct popular vote, 14 from a single national \Jconstituency\j and 14 to represent each of the 7 parishes; members serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 16 February 1997 (next to be held February 2001)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - UL 57%, AND 21%, IDN 7%, ND 7%, other 8%;
seats by party - UL 16, AND 6, ND 2, IDN 2, UPO 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of \JAndorra\j at Perpignan (\JFrance\j) two civil judges appointed by the veguers, one appeals judge appointed by the coprinces alternately; Ecclesiastical Court of the Bishop of Seo de Urgel (\JSpain\j); Tribunal of the Courts or Tribunal des \JCortes\j presided over by the two civil judges, one appeals judge, the veguers, and two members of the General Council
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Democratic Group or AND [Oscar RIBAS Reig and Jordi FARRAS]; Liberal Union or UL [Francesc CERQUEDA]; New Democracy or ND [Jaume BARTOMEU]; Andorran National Coalition or CNA [Antoni CERQUEDA]; National Democratic Initiative or IDN [Vincenc MATEU]; Liberal Party of Andorra (Partit Liberal d'Andorra) or PLA [Marc FORNE]; Unio Parroquial d'Ordino or UDO
\Inote:\i there are two other small parties
\BInternational organization participation:\b CE, ECE, ICRM, IFRCS, \JInterpol\j, IOC, ITU, UN, \JUNESCO\j, WIPO, WToO
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Juli MINOVES-TRIQUELL (also Permanent Representative to the
UN)
\Ichancery:\i 2 United Nations Plaza, 25th Floor, New York, NY 10017
\Itelephone:\i [1] (212) 750-8064
\IFAX:\i [1] (212) 750-6630
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b the US does not have an embassy in Andorra; US interests in Andorra are represented by the Consulate General's office in \JBarcelona\j (\JSpain\j); mailing address: Paseo Reina Elisenda, 23, 08034 \JBarcelona\j, \JSpain\j; \Jtelephone\j: (343) 280-2227; FAX: (343) 205-7705; note - Consul General Maurice S. PARKER makes periodic visits to Andorra
\BFlag description:\b three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), yellow, and red with the national coat of arms centered in the yellow band; the coat of arms features a quartered shield; similar to the flags of Chad and \JRomania\j that do not have a national coat of arms in the center
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Tourism, the mainstay of \JAndorra\j's tiny, well-to-do economy, accounts for roughly 80% of GDP. An estimated 10 million tourists visit annually, attracted by \JAndorra\j's duty-free status and by its summer and winter resorts. \JAndorra\j's comparative advantage has recently eroded as the economies of neighboring \JFrance\j and \JSpain\j have been opened up, providing broader availability of goods and lower tariffs. The banking sector, with its "tax haven" status, also contributes substantially to the economy. Agricultural production is limited by a scarcity of arable land, and most food has to be imported. The principal livestock activity is sheep raising. Manufacturing consists mainly of cigarettes, cigars, and furniture. \JAndorra\j is a member of the EU Customs Union and is treated as an EU member for trade in manufactured goods (no tariffs) and as a non-EU member for agricultural products.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.2 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $18,000 (1995 est.)
\BGDP - composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\BInflation rate - consumer price index:\b NA%
\BLabor force:\b NA
\BUnemployment rate:\b 0%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $138 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $177 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1993)
\Idomestic:\i modern system with microwave radio relay connections between exchanges
\Iinternational:\i landline circuits to \JFrance\j and Spain
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 10,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b 7,000 (1991 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 269 km
\Ipaved:\i 198 km
\Iunpaved:\i 71 km (1991 est.)
\BPorts and harbors:\b none
\BAirports:\b none
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of \JFrance\j and Spain
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
#
"Angola (Atlas)",7,0,0,0
\BIntroduction\b
\BCurrent issues:\b Civil war has been the norm since independence from \JPortugal\j on 11 November 1975. A cease-fire lasted from 31 May 1991 until October 1992 when the insurgent National Union for the Total Independence of \JAngola\j (UNITA) refused to accept its defeat in internationally monitored elections and fighting resumed throughout much of the countryside. The two sides signed another peace accord on 20 November 1994 and the cease-fire is generally holding, but military tensions persist and banditry is increasing. In order to bring armed insurgents under government control the peace accord of 20 November 1994 provided for the \Jintegration\j of former UNITA insurgents into the Angolan armed forces. Military \Jintegration\j began in June 1996 and a Government of National Unity and Reconciliation was installed in April 1997. Efforts which began in May 1997 to extend government into UNITA-occupied areas are proceeding slowly. The original 7,200-man UN peacekeeping force began a phased drawdown in late 1996. All UN peacekeepers are scheduled to depart by September 1997 but a small UN military observer force will probably remain in Angola through 1998.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, bordering the South \JAtlantic Ocean\j, between Namibia
and Democratic Republic of the Congo
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 12 30 S, 18 30 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,246,700 sq km
\Iland:\i 1,246,700 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly less than twice the size of Texas
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,198 km
\Iborder countries:\i Democratic Republic of the \JCongo\j 2,511 km of which 220 km is the boundary of discontiguous Cabinda province, Republic of the \JCongo\j 201 km, \JNamibia\j 1,376 km, \JZambia\j 1,110 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,600 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive fishing zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 20 nm
\BClimate:\b semiarid in south and along coast to \JLuanda\j; north has cool, dry season
(May to October) and hot, rainy season (November to April)
\BTerrain:\b narrow coastal plain rises abruptly to vast interior plateau
\BNatural hazards:\b locally heavy rainfall causes periodic flooding on the plateau
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b the overuse of pastures and subsequent soil erosion attributable to population pressures; \Jdesertification\j; deforestation of tropical rain forest, in response to both international demand for tropical timber and to domestic use as fuel, resulting in loss of \Jbiodiversity\j; soil erosion contributing to water \Jpollution\j and siltation of rivers and dams; inadequate supplies of potable water
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Law of the Sea
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Desertification
\BGeography - note:\b Cabinda is separated from rest of country by \JCongo\j (\JKinshasa\j)
\BIndependence:\b 11 November 1975 (from \JPortugal\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 11 November (1975)
\BConstitution:\b 11 November 1975; revised 7 January 1978, 11 August 1980, 6 March 1991, and 26 August 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on Portuguese civil law system and customary law; recently modified to accommodate political pluralism and increased use of free markets
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Jose Eduardo DOS \JSANTOS\j (since 21 September 1979)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Fernando Jose de Franca Vieira Dias VAN DUNEM (since 8 June 1996)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the president
\Ielections:\i President DOS \JSANTOS\j originally elected without opposition under a one-party system and stood for reelection in \JAngola\j's first multiparty elections in 28-29 September 1992, the last elections to be held, (next to be held NA); prime minister appointed by the president and answerable to the Assembly
\Ielection results:\i DOS \JSANTOS\j received 49.6% of the total vote, making a run-off election necessary between him and second-place Jonas SAVIMBI; the run-off was not held and SAVIMBI's National Union for the Total Independence of \JAngola\j (UNITA) disputed the results of the first election; the \Jcivil war\j was resumed
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Assembly or Assembleia Nacional (223 seats; members elected by proportional vote to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 29-30 September 1992 (next to be held NA)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - MPLA 54%, UNITA 34%, others 12%; seats by party - NA
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court or Tribunal da Relacao, judges of the Supreme Court are appointed by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Popular Movement for the Liberation of \JAngola\j or MPLA [Jose Eduardo DOS SANTOS], is the ruling party and has been in power since 1975; National Union for the Total Independence of \JAngola\j or UNITA [Jonas SAVIMBI], is the largest opposition party and engaged in years of armed resistance to the government \Inote:\i about a dozen minor parties participated in the 1992 elections but won few seats and have little influence in the National Assembly
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Front for the Liberation of the Enclave of Cabinda or FLEC
\Inote:\i FLEC is waging a small-scale, highly factionalized, armed struggle for the independence of Cabinda Province
\Imailing address:\i C.P. 6484, \JLuanda\j; American Embassy, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-2550 (pouch)
\Itelephone:\i [244] (2) 345-481, 346-418
\IFAX:\i [244] (2) 346-924
\BFlag description:\b two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and black with a centered yellow
emblem consisting of a five-pointed star within half a cogwheel crossed by a machete (in the style of a hammer and sickle)
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b \JAngola\j is an economy in disarray. Despite its abundant natural resources, output per capita is among the world's lowest. Subsistence agriculture provides the main livelihood for 80%-90% of the population but accounts for about 12% of GDP. Oil production and the supporting activities are vital to the economy, contributing about 50% to GDP. Notwithstanding the signing of a peace accord in November 1994, sporadic violence continues, millions of land mines remain, and many farmers are 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, arable land, and large oil deposits - \JAngola\j will need to observe the cease-fire, implement the peace agreement, and reform government policies. Despite the high \Jinflation\j and political difficulties, total output grew an estimated 9% in 1996, largely due to increased oil production.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $8.3 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 9% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $800 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 85%, industry 15% (1985 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b extensive unemployment and underemployment affecting more than half the population (1994 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $928 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $2.5 billion, including capital expenditures of $963 million (1992 est.)\BIndustries:\b \Jpetroleum\j; diamonds, iron ore, \Jphosphates\j, feldspar, \Jbauxite\j, uranium, and gold; cement; basic metal products; fish processing; food processing; brewing; \Jtobacco\j products; sugar; textiles;
\Icommodities:\i crude oil 90%, diamonds, refined \Jpetroleum\j products, gas, \Jcoffee\j, sisal, fish and fish products, timber, cotton
\Ipartners:\i US 70%, EU
\BImports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $1.7 billion (f.o.b., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i capital equipment (machinery and electrical equipment), vehicles and spare parts; medicines, food, textiles and clothing; substantial military supplies
\BExchange rates:\b new kwanza (NKz) per US$1 - 201,994 (November 1996), 900,000 (25 April 1995), 600,000 (10 January 1995), 90,000 (1 June 1994), 7,000 (16 December 1993), 3.884 (July 1993), 550 (April 1992)
\Inote:\i black market rates - new Kwanza (NKz) per US$1 - 1,900,000 (6 April 1995), 180,000 (1 June 1994), 50,000 (16 December 1993)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 78,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b \Jtelephone\j service limited mostly to government and business use; HF radiotelephone used extensively for military links
\Idomestic:\i limited system of wire, microwave radio relay, and tropospheric scatter
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 21.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 77.02 years
\Imale:\i 74.07 years
\Ifemale:\i 80.08 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.01 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Anguillan(s)
\Iadjective:\i Anguillan
\BEthnic groups:\b black
\BReligions:\b Anglican 40%, Methodist 33%, Seventh-Day Adventist 7%, Baptist 5%, Roman Catholic 3%, other 12%
\BLanguages:\b English (official)
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 12 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 95%
\Imale:\i 95%
\Ifemale:\i 95% (1984 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Anguilla
\BData code:\b AV
\BDependency status:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BGovernment type:\b NA
\BNational capital:\b The Valley
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b \JAnguilla\j Day, 30 May
\BConstitution:\b \JAnguilla\j Constitutional Order 1 April 1982; amended 1990
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II of the UK (since 6 February 1952); represented by Governor Alan HOOLE (since 1 November 1995)
\Ihead of government:\i Chief Minister Hubert HUGHES (since 16 March 1994)
\Icabinet:\i Executive Council appointed by the governor from among the elected members of the House of Assembly
\Ielections:\i none; the queen is a hereditary monarch; governor appointed by the queen; chief minister appointed by the governor from among the members of the House of Assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral House of Assembly (11 seats total, 7 elected by direct popular vote; members serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 16 March 1994 (next to be held March 1999)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - ANA 2, AUP 2, ADP 2, independent 1
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court, judge provided by Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JAnguilla\j National Alliance or ANA [Osbourne FLEMING]; \JAnguilla\j United Party or AUP [Hubert HUGHES]; \JAnguilla\j Democratic Party or ADP [Victor BANKS] \BInternational organization participation:\b Caricom (observer), CDB, \JInterpol\j (subbureau), OECS (associate), ECLAC (associate)
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BFlag description:\b blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the
Anguillan coat of arms centered in the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms depicts three orange dolphins in an interlocking circular design on a white background with blue wavy \Jwater\j below
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b \JAnguilla\j has few natural resources, and the economy depends heavily on high-class tourism, offshore banking, lobster fishing, and remittances from emigrants. Output growth had averaged about 7% in recent years, mainly as a result of a boom in tourism thanks to economic expansion in \JNorth America\j and the UK. The economy, and especially the tourism sector, suffered a setback in late 1995 due to the effects of Hurricane Luis in September. Agricultural output had only just begun to recover from a \Jdrought\j in 1994 when Luis hit. Anguillan officials have put substantial effort into developing the offshore financing sector. A comprehensive package of financial services legislation was enacted in late 1994. In the medium term, prospects for the economy will depend on the tourism sector and, therefore, on continuing income growth in the industrialized nations.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $52 million (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b -4.3% (1995 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $7,400 (1995 est.)
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly less than 1.5 times the size of the US
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\Inote:\i see entry on International disputes
\BCoastline:\b 17,968 km
\BMaritime claims:\b none, but see entry on International disputes
\BClimate:\b severe low temperatures vary with latitude, elevation, and distance from the ocean; East \JAntarctica\j is colder than West \JAntarctica\j because of its higher elevation; Antarctic Peninsula has the most moderate climate; higher temperatures occur in January along the coast and average slightly below freezing
\BTerrain:\b about 98% thick continental ice sheet and 2% barren rock, with average elevations between 2,000 and 4,000 meters; mountain ranges up to about 5,000 meters; ice-free coastal areas include parts of southern Victoria Land, Wilkes Land, the Antarctic Peninsula area, and parts of Ross Island on McMurdo Sound; glaciers form ice shelves along about half of the coastline, and floating ice shelves constitute 11% of the area of the continent
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Vinson Massif 5,140 m
\BNatural resources:\b none presently exploited; iron ore, \Jchromium\j, copper, gold, nickel, \Jplatinum\j and other minerals, and \Jcoal\j and \Jhydrocarbons\j have been found in small, uncommercial quantities
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 0%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100% (ice 98%, barren rock 2%)
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km (1993)
\BNatural hazards:\b katabatic (gravity-driven) winds blow coastward from the high interior; frequent blizzards form near the foot of the plateau; cyclonic storms form over the ocean and move clockwise along the coast; volcanism on Deception Island and isolated areas of West \JAntarctica\j; other seismic activity rare and weak
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b in 1995 it was reported that the ozone shield, which protects the Earth's surface from harmful ultraviolet radiation, had dwindled to the lowest level recorded over \JAntarctica\j since 1975 when measurements were first taken
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i none of the selected agreements
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i none of the selected agreements
\BGeography - note:\b the coldest, windiest, highest, and driest continent; during summer, more solar radiation reaches the surface at the South Pole than is received at the Equator in an equivalent period; mostly uninhabitable
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous inhabitants; note - there are seasonally staffed research stations; Summer (January) population - over 4,115 total; Argentina 207, \JAustralia\j 268, \JBelgium\j 13, \JBrazil\j 80, \JChile\j 256, China NA, \JEcuador\j NA, \JFinland\j 11, \JFrance\j 78, \JGermany\j 32, Greenpeace 12, India 60, \JItaly\j 210, \JJapan\j 59, South Korea 14, Netherlands 10, NZ 264, \JNorway\j 23, \JPeru\j 39, \JPoland\j NA, South Africa 79, \JSpain\j 43, Sweden 10, UK 116, Uruguay NA, US 1,666, former USSR 565 (1989-90); Winter (July) population - over 1,046 total; Argentina 150, \JAustralia\j 71, \JBrazil\j 12, \JChile\j 73, China NA, \JFrance\j 33, \JGermany\j 19, Greenpeace 5, India 1, \JJapan\j 38, South Korea 14, NZ 11, \JPoland\j NA, South Africa 12, UK 69, Uruguay NA, US 225, former USSR 313 (1989-90); Year-round stations - 42 total; Argentina 6, \JAustralia\j 3, \JBrazil\j 1, \JChile\j 3, China 2, \JFinland\j 1, \JFrance\j 1, \JGermany\j 1, India 1, \JJapan\j 2, South Korea 1, NZ 1, \JPoland\j 1, South Africa 3, UK 5, Uruguay 1, US 3, former USSR 6 (1990-91); Summer-only stations - over 38 total; Argentina 7, \JAustralia\j 3, \JChile\j 5, \JGermany\j 3, India 1, \JItaly\j 1, \JJapan\j 4, NZ 2, \JNorway\j 1, \JPeru\j 1, South Africa 1, \JSpain\j 1, Sweden 2, UK 1, US numerous, former USSR 5 (1989-90); note - the disintegration of the former USSR has placed the status and future of its Antarctic facilities in doubt; stations may be subject to closings at any time because of ongoing economic difficulties
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Antarctica
\BData code:\b AY
\BGovernment type:\b Antarctic Treaty Summary - The Antarctic Treaty, signed on 1 December 1959 and entered into force on 23 June 1961, establishes the legal framework for the management of \JAntarctica\j. Administration is carried out through consultative member meetings - the 18th Antarctic Treaty Consultative Meeting was in \JJapan\j in April 1993. Currently, there are 42 treaty member nations: 26 consultative and 16 acceding. Consultative (voting) members include the seven nations that claim portions of \JAntarctica\j as national territory (some claims overlap) and 19 nonclaimant nations. The US and some other nations that have made no claims have reserved the right to do so. The US does not recognize the claims of others. The year in parentheses indicates when an acceding nation was voted to full consultative (voting) status, while no date indicates the country was an original 1959 treaty signatory. Claimant nations are - Argentina, \JAustralia\j, \JChile\j, \JFrance\j, \JNew Zealand\j, \JNorway\j, and the UK. Nonclaimant consultative nations are - \JBelgium\j, \JBrazil\j (1983), China (1985), \JEcuador\j (1990), \JFinland\j (1989), \JGermany\j (1981), India (1983), \JItaly\j (1987), \JJapan\j, South Korea (1989), Netherlands (1990), \JPeru\j (1989), \JPoland\j (1977), South Africa, \JSpain\j (1988), Sweden (1988), Uruguay (1985), the US, and \JRussia\j. Acceding (nonvoting) members, with year of accession in parentheses, are - \JAustria\j (1987), \JBulgaria\j (1978), Canada (1988), \JColombia\j (1988), \JCuba\j (1984), Czech Republic (1993), Denmark (1965), \JGreece\j (1987), \JGuatemala\j (1991), \JHungary\j (1984), North Korea (1987), Papua New Guinea (1981), \JRomania\j (1971), \JSlovakia\j (1993), \JSwitzerland\j (1990), and \JUkraine\j (1992). Article 1 - area to be used for peaceful purposes only; military activity, such as weapons testing, is prohibited, but military personnel and equipment may be used for scientific research or any other peaceful purpose; Article 2 - freedom of scientific investigation and cooperation shall continue; Article 3 - free exchange of information and personnel in cooperation with the UN and other international agencies; Article 4 - does not recognize, dispute, or establish territorial claims and no new claims shall be asserted while the treaty is in force; Article 5 - prohibits nuclear explosions or disposal of radioactive wastes; Article 6 - includes under the treaty all land and ice shelves south of 60 degrees 00 minutes south; Article 7 - treaty-state observers have free access, including aerial observation, to any area and may inspect all stations, installations, and equipment; advance notice of all activities and of the introduction of military personnel must be given; Article 8 - allows for \Jjurisdiction\j over observers and scientists by their own states; Article 9 - frequent consultative meetings take place among member nations; Article 10 - treaty states will discourage activities by any country in \JAntarctica\j that are contrary to the treaty; Article 11 - disputes to be settled peacefully by the parties concerned or, ultimately, by the ICJ; Articles 12, 13, 14 - deal with upholding, interpreting, and amending the treaty among involved nations; Other agreements - more than 170 recommendations adopted at treaty consultative meetings and ratified by governments include - Agreed Measures for the Conservation of Antarctic Fauna and Flora (1964); Convention for the Conservation of Antarctic Seals (1972); Convention on the Conservation of Antarctic Marine Living Resources (1980); a mineral resources agreement was signed in 1988 but was subsequently rejected; in 1991 the Protocol on Environmental Protection to the Antarctic Treaty was signed and awaits ratification; this agreement provides for the protection of the Antarctic environment through five specific annexes on marine \Jpollution\j, fauna, and flora, environmental impact assessments, waste management, and protected areas; it also prohibits all activities relating to mineral resources except scientific research; 21 parties have ratified Protocol as of April 1996
\BLegal system:\b US law, including certain criminal offenses by or against US nationals, such as murder, may apply to areas not under \Jjurisdiction\j of other countries. Some US laws directly apply to \JAntarctica\j. For example, the Antarctic Conservation Act, 16 U.S.C. section 2401 et seq., provides civil and criminal penalties for the following activities, unless authorized by regulation of statute:
The taking of native mammals or birds; the introduction of nonindigenous plants and animals; entry into specially protected or scientific areas; the discharge or disposal of pollutants; and the importation into the US of certain items from \JAntarctica\j. Violation of the Antarctic Conservation Act carries penalties of up to $10,000 in fines and 1 year in prison. The Departments of Treasury, Commerce, Transportation, and Interior share enforcement responsibilities. Public Law 95-541, the US Antarctic Conservation Act of 1978, requires expeditions from the US to \JAntarctica\j to notify, in advance, the Office of Oceans and Polar Affairs, Room 5801, Department of State, Washington, DC 20520, which reports such plans to other nations as required by the Antarctic Treaty. For more information contact Permit Office, Office of Polar Programs, National Science Foundation, Arlington, Virginia 22230 (703) 306-1031.
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b No economic activity at present except for fishing off the coast and small-scale tourism, both based abroad.
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BTransportation\b
\BPorts and harbors:\b none; offshore anchorage
\BAirports:\b 42 landing facilities at different locations operated by 16 national governments party to the Treaty; one additional air facility operated by commercial (non-governmental) tourist organization; \Jhelicopter\j pads at 32 of these locations; runways at 10 locations are gravel, \Jsea ice\j, \Jglacier\j ice, or compacted snow surface suitable for wheeled fixed-wing \Jaircraft\j; no paved runways; 17 locations have snow-surface skiways limited to use by ski-equipped planes - 1 skiway greater than 3,000 m, 19 runways/skiways 1,000 to 3,000 m, 2 runways/skiways less than 1,000 m, and 5 of unspecified or variable length; airports generally subject to severe restrictions and limitations resulting from extreme seasonal and geographic conditions; airports do not meet ICAO standards; advance approval from the respective governmental or non-governmental operating organization required for landing (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary - note:\b 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
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b Antarctic Treaty defers claims (see Antarctic Treaty Summary above); sections (some overlapping) claimed by Argentina, \JAustralia\j, \JChile\j, \JFrance\j (Adelie Land), \JNew Zealand\j (Ross Dependency), \JNorway\j (Queen Maud Land), and UK; the US and most other nations do not recognize the territorial claims of other nations and have made no claims themselves (the US reserves the right to do so); no formal claims have been made in the sector between 90 degrees west and 150 degrees west
#
"Antigua and Barbuda (Atlas)",10,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, islands between the \JCaribbean Sea\j and the North \JAtlantic Ocean\j, east-southeast of Puerto Rico
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 17 03 N, 61 48 W
\BMap references:\b \JCentral America\j and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 440 sq km
\Iland:\i 440 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\Inote:\i includes Redonda
\BArea - comparative:\b 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 153 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 24 nm
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical marine; little seasonal \Jtemperature\j variation
\BTerrain:\b mostly low-lying \Jlimestone\j and \Jcoral\j islands with some higher volcanic areas
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JCaribbean Sea\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Boggy Peak 402 m
\BNatural resources:\b negligible; pleasant climate fosters tourism
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 18%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 9%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 11%
\Iother:\i 62% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b hurricanes and tropical storms (July to October); periodic droughts
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b \Jwater\j management - a major concern because of limited natural fresh \Jwater\j resources - is further hampered by the clearing of trees to increase crop production, causing rainfall to run off quickly
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Desertification
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 63,739 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 26% (male 8,514; female 8,221)
\I15-64 years:\i 68% (male 21,499; female 21,891)
\I65 years and over:\i 6% (male 1,571; female 2,043) (July 1997 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.44% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 17.27 births/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.98 deaths/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -6.95 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BReligions:\b Anglican (predominant), other Protestant sects, some Roman Catholic \BLanguages:\b English (official), local dialects
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over has completed five or more years of schooling
\Itotal population:\i 89%
\Imale:\i 90%
\Ifemale:\i 88% (1960 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Antigua and Barbuda
\BData code:\b AC
\BGovernment type:\b parliamentary democracy
\BNational capital:\b Saint John's
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 6 parishes and 2 dependencies*; Barbuda*, Redonda*, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Mary, Saint Paul, Saint Peter, Saint Philip
\BIndependence:\b 1 November 1981 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 1 November (1981)
\BConstitution:\b 1 November 1981
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II of the UK (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General James B. CARLISLE (since NA 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Lester Bryant BIRD (since 8 March 1994)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
\Ielections:\i none; the queen is a hereditary monarch; governor general chosen by the queen on the advice of the prime minister; prime minister appointed by the governor general
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament consists of the Senate (17-member body appointed by the governor general) and the \JHouse of Representatives\j (17 seats; members are elected by proportional representation to serve 5-year terms)
\Ielections:\i \JHouse of Representatives\j - last held 8 March 1994 (next to be held NA 1999)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - ALP 11, UPP 5, independent 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (based in Saint Lucia), one judge of the Supreme Court is a resident of the islands and presides over the Court of Summary Jurisdiction
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Antigua Labor Party or ALP [Lester Bryant BIRD]; United Progressive Party or UPP [Baldwin SPENCER], a coalition of three opposition political parties - the United National Democratic Party or UNDP; the Antigua Caribbean Liberation Movement or ACLM; and the Progressive Labor Movement or PLM
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Antigua Trades and Labor Union or ATLU [William ROBINSON]; People's Democratic Movement or PDM [Hugh MARSHALL]
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Lionel Alexander HURST
\Ichancery:\i 3216 New Mexico Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 362-5211, 5166, 5122
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 362-5225
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Miami
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b the US does not have an embassy in Antigua and Barbuda (embassy closed 30 June 1994); the US Ambassador to \JBarbados\j is accredited to Antigua and Barbuda
\BFlag description:\b red with an inverted isosceles triangle based on the top edge of the flag; the triangle contains three horizontal bands of black (top), light blue, and white with a yellow rising \Jsun\j in the black band
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Tourism continues to be by far the dominant activity in the economy but the combined share in GDP of transport and communications, trade, and public utilities has increased markedly in recent years. Tourism's direct contribution to output in 1994 was about 20%. In addition, increased tourist arrivals helped spur growth in the construction and transport sectors. The dual island nation's agricultural production is mainly directed to the domestic market; the sector is constrained by the limited \Jwater\j supply and labor shortages that reflect the pull of higher wages in tourism and construction. Manufacturing comprises enclave-type assembly for export with major products being bedding, handicrafts, and electronic components. Prospects for economic growth in the medium term will continue to depend on income growth in the industrialized world, especially in the US, which accounts for about half of all tourist arrivals.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $446 million (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 4.7% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $6,800 (1996 est.)
\Icommodities:\i \Jpetroleum\j products 48%, manufactures 23%, food and live animals 4%, machinery and transport equipment 17%
\Ipartners:\i OECS 26%, \JBarbados\j 15%, \JGuyana\j 4%, Trinidad and Tobago 2%, US 0.3%
\BImports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $350.8 million (f.o.b., 1996 est.)
\Icommodities:\i food and live animals, machinery and transport equipment, manufactures, chemicals, oil
\Ipartners:\i US 27%, UK 16%, Canada 4%, OECS 3%, other 50%
\BDebt - external:\b $435 million (1996 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.70 (February 1997; fixed rate since 1976)
\BFiscal year:\b 1 April - 31 March
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 6,700
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i good automatic \Jtelephone\j system
\Iinternational:\i 1 coaxial submarine cable; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (\JAtlantic Ocean\j); tropospheric scatter to Saba (Netherlands \JAntilles\j) and Guadeloupe\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 4, FM 2, shortwave 2
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2
\BTelevisions:\b 28,000 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 77 km
\Inarrow gauge:\i 64 km 0.760-m gauge; 13 km 0.610-m gauge (used almost exclusively for handling sugarcane)
\BIllicit drugs:\b considered a long-time but relatively minor transshipment point for \Jnarcotics\j bound for the US and Europe and recent transshipment point for heroin from Europe to the US; potentially more significant as a drug money-laundering
#
"Arctic Ocean (Atlas)",11,0,0,0
\BGeography\b
\BLocation:\b body of \Jwater\j mostly north of the \JArctic\j Circle
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 90 00 N, 0 00 E
\BMap references:\b \JArctic\j Region
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 14.056 million sq km
\Inote:\i includes Baffin Bay, Barents Sea, Beaufort Sea, Chukchi Sea, East Siberian Sea, \JGreenland\j Sea, Hudson Bay, Hudson Strait, Kara Sea, Laptev Sea, Northwest Passage, and other tributary \Jwater\j bodies
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly less than 1.5 times the size of the US; smallest of the world's four oceans (after \JPacific Ocean\j, \JAtlantic Ocean\j, and Indian Ocean)
\BCoastline:\b 45,389 km
\BClimate:\b polar climate characterized by persistent cold and relatively narrow annual \Jtemperature\j ranges; winters characterized by continuous darkness, cold and stable \Jweather\j conditions, and clear skies; summers characterized by continuous daylight, damp and foggy \Jweather\j, and weak cyclones with rain or snow
\BTerrain:\b central surface covered by a perennial drifting polar icepack that averages about 3 meters in thickness, although pressure ridges may be three times that size; clockwise drift pattern in the Beaufort Gyral Stream, but nearly \Jstraight line\j movement from the New Siberian Islands (\JRussia\j) to Denmark Strait (between \JGreenland\j and \JIceland\j); 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)
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Fram Basin -4,665 m
\Ihighest point:\i sea level 0 m
\BNatural resources:\b sand and gravel aggregates, placer deposits, polymetallic nodules, oil and gas fields, fish, marine mammals (seals and whales)
\BNatural hazards:\b ice islands occasionally break away from northern Ellesmere Island; icebergs calved from glaciers in western \JGreenland\j and extreme northeastern Canada; \Jpermafrost\j in islands; virtually icelocked from October to June; ships subject to superstructure icing from October to May
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b endangered marine species include walruses and whales; fragile \Jecosystem\j slow to change and slow to recover from disruptions or damage
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i none of the selected agreements
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i none of the selected agreements
\BGeography - note:\b major chokepoint is the southern Chukchi Sea (northern access to the \JPacific Ocean\j via the Bering Strait); strategic location between \JNorth America\j and \JRussia\j; shortest marine link between the extremes of eastern and western \JRussia\j, floating research stations operated by the US and \JRussia\j; maximum snow cover in March or April about 20 to 50 centimeters over the frozen ocean; snow cover lasts about 10 months
\BGovernment\b
\BData code:\b none; the US Government has not approved a standard for hydrographic codes - see the Cross-Reference List of Hydrographic Data Codes appendix
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Economic activity is limited to the exploitation of natural resources, including \Jpetroleum\j, \Jnatural gas\j, fish, and seals.
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephone system:\b
\Iinternational:\i no submarine cables
\BTransportation\b
\BPorts and harbors:\b Churchill (Canada), \JMurmansk\j (\JRussia\j), Prudhoe Bay (US)
\BTransportation - note:\b sparse network of air, ocean, river, and land routes; the Northwest Passage (\JNorth America\j) and Northern Sea Route (Eurasia) are important seasonal waterways
\BMilitary\b
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b some maritime disputes; Svalbard is the focus of a maritime boundary dispute between \JNorway\j and \JRussia\j
#
"Argentina (Atlas)",12,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern \JSouth America\j, bordering the South \JAtlantic Ocean\j, between \JChile\j and Uruguay
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 34 00 S, 64 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,766,890 sq km
\Iland:\i 2,736,690 sq km
\Iwater:\i 30,200 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly less than three-tenths the size of the US
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 9,665 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBolivia\j 832 km, \JBrazil\j 1,224 km, \JChile\j 5,150 km, \JParaguay\j 1,880 km, Uruguay 579 km
\BCoastline:\b 4,989 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 24 nm
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b mostly temperate; arid in southeast; subantarctic in southwest
\BTerrain:\b rich plains of the Pampas in northern half, flat to rolling plateau of \JPatagonia\j in south, rugged \JAndes\j along western border
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Salinas Chicas -40 m
\Ihighest point:\i Cerro Aconcagua 6,962 m
\BNatural resources:\b fertile plains of the pampas, lead, zinc, tin, copper, iron ore, \Jmanganese\j, \Jpetroleum\j, uranium
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 9%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 52%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 19%
\Iother:\i 19% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 17,000 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b San Miguel de \JTucuman\j and \JMendoza\j areas in the \JAndes\j subject to earthquakes; pamperos are violent windstorms that can strike the Pampas and northeast; heavy flooding
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b erosion results from inadequate flood controls and improper land use practices; irrigated soil degradation; \Jdesertification\j; air \Jpollution\j in Buenos Aires and other major cities; \Jwater\j \Jpollution\j in urban areas; rivers becoming polluted due to increased \Jpesticide\j and \Jfertilizer\j use
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Desertification, Marine Life Conservation
\BGeography - note:\b second-largest country in \JSouth America\j (after \JBrazil\j); strategic location relative to sea lanes between South Atlantic and South Pacific Oceans (Strait of Magellan, \JBeagle\j Channel, Drake Passage)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 19.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 74.31 years
\Imale:\i 70.67 years
\Ifemale:\i 78.12 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.69 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Argentine(s)
\Iadjective:\i Argentine
\BEthnic groups:\b white 85%, mestizo, Amerindian, or other nonwhite groups 15%
\BReligions:\b nominally Roman Catholic 90% (less than 20% practicing), Protestant 2%, Jewish 2%, other 6%
\BLanguages:\b Spanish (official), English, Italian, German, French
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 96.2%
\Imale:\i 96.2%
\Ifemale:\i 96.2% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Argentine Republic
\Iconventional short form:\i Argentina
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica Argentina
\Ilocal short form:\i Argentina
\BData code:\b AR
\BGovernment type:\b republic
\BNational capital:\b Buenos Aires
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 23 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia), and 1 federal district* (distrito federal); Buenos Aires; Catamarca; Chaco; Chubut; Cordoba; Corrientes; Distrito Federal*; Entre Rios; Formosa; Jujuy; La Pampa; La \JRioja\j; \JMendoza\j; Misiones; Neuquen; Rio Negro; \JSalta\j; San Juan; San Luis; Santa Cruz; Santa Fe; Santiago del Estero; Tierra del Fuego, Antartida e Islas del Atlantico Sur; Tucuman
\Inote:\i the US does not recognize any claims to Antarctica
\BIndependence:\b 9 July 1816 (from \JSpain\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Revolution Day, 25 May (1810)
\BConstitution:\b 1 May 1853; revised August 1994
\BLegal system:\b mixture of US and West European legal systems; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Carlos Saul MENEM (since 8 July 1989); Vice President Carlos RUCKAUF (since 8 July 1995); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Ihead of government:\i President Carlos Saul MENEM (since 8 July 1989); Vice President Carlos RUCKAUF (since 8 July 1995); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the president
\Ielections:\i president and vice president elected on the same ticket by popular vote for four-year terms; election last held 14 May 1995 (next to be held May 1999)\Ielection results:\i Carlos Saul MENEM reelected president; percent of vote - NA
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Congress or Congreso Nacional consists of the Senate (72 seats; three members appointed by each of the provincial legislatures, one-third of the members appointed every three years to a 9-year term) and the Chamber of Deputies (257 seats; one-half of the members elected every two years to four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i Senate - last held NA May 1995 (next to be held NA 1998); Chamber of Deputies - last held 14 May 1995; (next to be held NA October 1997)
\Ielection results:\i Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - PJ 38, others 34; Chamber of Deputies - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - PJ 132, UCR 68, Frepaso 26, other 31
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), the nine Supreme Court judges are appointed by the president with approval of the Senate
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Justicialist Party or PJ [Carlos Saul MENEM] (Peronist umbrella political organization); Radical Civic Union or UCR [Rodolfo TERRAGNO] (moderately left-of-center party); Union of the Democratic Center or UCD (conservative party); Dignity and Independence Political Party or MODIN [Aldo RICO] (right-wing party); Front for a Country in Solidarity or Frepaso (a four party coalition) [leader Carlos ALVAREZ]; several provincial parties
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Peronist-dominated labor movement; General Confederation of Labor or CGT (Peronist-leaning umbrella labor organization); Argentine Industrial Union (manufacturers' association); Argentine Rural Society (large landowners' association); business organizations; students; the Roman \JCatholic Church\j; the Armed Forces
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Raul Enrique GRANILLO OCAMPO
\Ichancery:\i 1600 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 939-6400 through 6403
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 332-3171
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JAtlanta\j, \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, \JNew Orleans\j, New York, \JSan Francisco\j, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador James R. CHEEK has returned to Washington; replacement not yet appointed
\Iembassy:\i 4300 \JColombia\j, 1425 Buenos Aires
\Imailing address:\i Unit 4334, APO AA 34034
\Itelephone:\i [54] (1) 777-4533, 4534
\IFAX:\i [54] (1) 777-0197
\BFlag description:\b three equal horizontal bands of light blue (top), white, and light blue; centered in the white band is a radiant yellow \Jsun\j with a human face known as the Sun of May
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Argentina benefits from rich natural resources, 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 50 years. Argentines have responded to price stability by repatriating capital and investing in domestic industry. Growth averaged more than 8% between 1991 and 1994, then fell to 4.6% in 1995, largely in reaction to the Mexican peso crisis. The economy grew at 4.4% in 1996, with the strongest growth occurring in the second half of the year. Unemployment increased slightly - to over 17% - and Buenos Aires was forced to renegotiate fiscal targets with the IMF. Although the economy is expected to grow by at least 5% in 1997, unemployment and fiscal concerns will continue to challenge the MENEM administration.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $296.9 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 4.4% (1996)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $8,600 (1996 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b 12,000 public telephones; extensive modern system but many families do not have telephones; despite extensive use of microwave radio relay, the telephone system frequently grounds out during rainstorms, even in Buenos Aires
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay and a domestic \Jsatellite\j system with 40 \Jearth\j stations serve the trunk network
\BPorts and harbors:\b \JBahia\j Blanca, Buenos Aires, Comodoro Rivadavia, Concepcion del Uruguay, La Plata, Mar del Plata, Necochea, Rio Gallegos, Rosario, Santa Fe, Ushuaia
\BMilitary branches:\b Argentine Army, Navy of the Argentine Republic, Argentine Air Force, National Gendarmerie, Argentine Naval Prefecture (Coast Guard only), National Aeronautical Police Force
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 20 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 8,932,491 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 7,244,682 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 321,345 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $4.6 billion (1996)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 1.6% (1996)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b short section of the boundary with \JChile\j is indefinite; claims British-administered Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas); claims British-administered South Georgia and the South Sandwich Islands; territorial claim in Antarctica
\BIllicit drugs:\b increasing use as a transshipment country for \Jcocaine\j headed for Europe and the US
#
"Armenia (Atlas)",13,0,0,0
\BIntroduction\b
\BCurrent issues:\b Armenia's leaders remain preoccupied by Armenia's nine-year old conflict with \JAzerbaijan\j over the Nagorno-Karabakh enclave. Although a cease-fire has been in effect since May 1994, the sides have not made substantial progress toward a peaceful resolution. President TER-PETROSSIAN's latitude on the issue may be further constrained by his controversial reelection in September 1996. When supporters of the main opposition candidate stormed the parliament following the announcement of TER-PETROSSIAN's victory, MVD forces were called in to restore order. The subsequent political standoff between government and opposition supporters diminished in late 1996 as the government has gradually attempted reconciliation. Despite these political problems, the Armenian government has been pursuing its aggressive economic reform program, although implementation of its privatization program stalled in late 1996.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southwestern Asia, east of Turkey
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 40 00 N, 45 00 E
\BMap references:\b Commonwealth of Independent States
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 29,800 sq km
\Iland:\i 28,400 sq km
\Iwater:\i 1,400 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Maryland
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,254 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAzerbaijan\j-proper 566 km, \JAzerbaijan\j-Naxcivan exclave 221 km, Georgia 164 km, \JIran\j 35 km, Turkey 268 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BClimate:\b highland continental, hot summers, cold winters
\BTerrain:\b high Armenian Plateau with mountains; little forest land; fast flowing rivers; good soil in Aras River valley
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Debed River 400 m
\Ihighest point:\i Aragats Lerr 4,095 m
\BNatural resources:\b small deposits of gold, copper, molybdenum, zinc, alumina
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 17%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 3%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 24%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 15%
\Iother:\i 41% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 2,870 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b occasionally severe earthquakes; droughts
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b soil \Jpollution\j from toxic chemicals such as DDT; \Jenergy\j blockade, the result of conflict with \JAzerbaijan\j, has led to deforestation when citizens scavenged for firewood; \Jpollution\j of Hrazdan (Razdan) and Aras Rivers; the draining of Sevana Lich, a result of its use as a source for hydropower, threatens drinking \Jwater\j supplies; restart of Metsamor nuclear power plant without adequate (IAEA-recommended) safety and backup systems
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban, Wetlands
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 40.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 66.9 years
\Imale:\i 62.69 years
\Ifemale:\i 71.32 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.71 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Armenian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Armenian
\BEthnic groups:\b Armenian 93%, Azeri 3%, Russian 2%, other (mostly Yezidi \JKurds\j) 2% (1989) \Inote:\i as of the end of 1993, virtually all Azeris had emigrated from Armenia\BReligions:\b Armenian Orthodox 94%
\BLanguages:\b Armenian 96%, Russian 2%, other 2%
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 99%
\Imale:\i 99%
\Ifemale:\i 98% (1989 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Armenia
\Iconventional short form:\i Armenia
\Ilocal long form:\i Hayastani Hanrapetut'yun
\Ilocal short form:\i Hayastan
\Iformer:\i Armenian Soviet Socialist Republic; Armenian Republic
\BIndependence:\b 28 May 1918 (First Armenian Republic); 23 September 1991 (from \JSoviet Union\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Referendum Day, 21 September
\BConstitution:\b adopted by nationwide referendum 5 July 1995
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Robert KOCHARIAN (31 March 1998)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Robert KOCHARIAN (since 20 March 1997)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the president
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 22 September 1996 (next to be held NA September 2001); prime minister appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i Robert KOCHARIAN won a landslide victory in the presidential run-off against Karen Demirchyan, polling more than 60 per cent of the vote. Mr. Kocharyan, a hardliner in Armenia's conflict with \JAzerbaijan\j over the Nagorno-Karabakh region, was instrumental in forcing last month's resignation of former president, Levon Ter-Petrosyan, who favored compromise in regional peace negotiations.
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Assembly or Azgayin Zhoghov (190 seats; members serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 5 July 1995 (next to be held NA 2000)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - Republican Bloc 159 (ANM 63, DLP-Hanrapetutyun Bloc 6, Republic Party 4, CDU 3, Intellectual Armenia 3, Social Democratic Party 2, independents 78), SWM 8, ACP 7, NDU 5, NSDU 3, DLP 1, ARF 1, other 4, vacant 2
\IRepublic Bloc (Hanrapetoutioun):\i Armenian National Movement or ANM [Husik LAZARIAN, chairman]; Democratic Liberal Party [Orthosis GYONJIAN, chairman]; Republican Party [Ashot NAVARSARDIAN, chairman]; Christian Democratic Union or CDU [Azat ARSHAKIAN, chairman]; Intellectual Armenia [H. TOKMAJIAN]; Social Democratic (Hnchakian) Party [Yeghia NAJARIAN] \Iopposition parties:\i Shamiram Women's Movement or SWM [Shoger MATEVOSIAN]; Armenian Communist Party or ACP [Sergey BADALYAN]; National Democratic Union or NDU [Davit VARDANIAN and Vasgen MANUKIAN]; Union of National Self-Determination or NSDU [Paruir HAIRIKIAN, chairman]; Democratic Liberal Party or DLP [Rouben MIRZAKHANIAN, chairman]; Armenian Revolutionary Federation or ARF [Rouben HAKOBIAN, chairman] \BInternational organization participation:\b BSEC, CCC, CE (guest), \JCIS\j, EBRD, ECE, ESCAP, FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Intelsat, \JInterpol\j, IOC, IOM, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NACC, NAM (observer), OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO (applicant)
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Ruben SHUGARIAN
\Ichancery:\i 2225 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 319-1976
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 319-2982
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Los Angeles
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Peter TOMSEN
\Iembassy:\i 18 Gen Bagramian, Yerevan
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [374] (2) 151-144, 524-661
\IFAX:\i [374] (2) 151-550
\BFlag description:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), blue, and gold
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Under the old Soviet central planning system, Armenia had developed a modern industrial sector, supplying machine building tools, textiles, and other manufactured goods to sister republics in exchange for raw materials and \Jenergy\j. Since the implosion of the USSR in December 1991, Armenia has switched to small-scale agriculture away from the large agroindustrial complexes of the Soviet area. The privatization of industry has been at a much slower pace. Armenia is a food importer and its mineral deposits (gold, \Jbauxite\j) are small. The ongoing conflict with \JAzerbaijan\j over the ethnic Armenian-dominated region of Nagorno-Karabakh and the embargoes imposed by \JAzerbaijan\j and Turkey contributed to a severe economic decline in the early 1990s. By 1994, however, the Armenian Government had launched an ambitious IMF-sponsored economic program that has resulted in positive growth rates in 1995 and 1996. Armenia also managed to slash \Jinflation\j and to privatize most small and medium-sized enterprises. The chronic \Jenergy\j shortages Armenia suffered in recent years has been partially offset by the \Jenergy\j supplied by one of its nuclear power plants at Metsamor, which in 1996 supplied about 40% of the country's \Jenergy\j needs, according to the Armenian Government. Moreover, Armenia is expanding its \Jenergy\j imports from \JIran\j.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $9.7 billion (1996 estimate as extrapolated
from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 4% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $2,800 (1996 est.)
\BElectricity - consumption per capita:\b 1,462 kWh (1995 est.)
\BAgriculture - products:\b fruit (especially grapes), vegetables; vineyards near Yerevan are famous for brandy and other liqueurs; minor livestock sector
\BExports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $273 million (f.o.b., 1996)
\Icommodities:\i gold and jewelry, aluminum, transport equipment, electrical equipment, scrap metal
\Icommodities:\i grain, other foods, fuel, other energy
\Ipartners:\i \JIran\j, \JRussia\j, Turkmenistan, Georgia, US, EU
\BDebt - external:\b $850 million (of which $75 million to \JRussia\j) (1995 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\Inote:\i commitments (excluding \JRussia\j), $1,385 million ($675 million in disbursements) (1992-95)
\BCurrency:\b 1 dram = 100 luma (introduced new currency in November 1993)
\BExchange rates:\b dram per US$1 - 443 (December 1996), 401.8 (end December 1995), 406 (end December 1994)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 650,000
\BTelephone system:\b joint venture agreement to install fiber-optic cable and construct facilities for cellular \Jtelephone\j service is in the implementation phase
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i international connections to other former Soviet republics are by landline or microwave radio relay and to other countries by \Jsatellite\j and by leased connection through the Moscow international gateway switch; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 10, FM 3, shortwave NA (1991)
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\Inote:\i 100% of population receives Armenian and Russian TV programs
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 825 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines\Ibroad gauge:\i 825 km 1.520-m gauge (1992)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 7,720 km
\Ipaved:\i 7,496 km
\Iunpaved:\i 224 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b NA km
\BPipelines:\b \Jnatural gas\j 900 km (1991)
\BPorts and harbors:\b none
\BAirports:\b 11 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 5
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 2
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 2 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 6
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 3
\Iunder 914 m:\i 1 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Air Force, Air Defense Force, Security Forces (internal and border troops)
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 907,579 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 722,715 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 30,942 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $75 million (1992)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b Armenia supports ethnic Armenians in the Nagorno-Karabakh region of \JAzerbaijan\j in the longstanding, separatist conflict against the Azerbaijani Government; traditional demands on former Armenian lands in Turkey have subsided
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit cultivator of cannabis mostly for domestic consumption; used as a transshipment point for illicit drugs to Western Europe and the US
#
"Aruba (Atlas)",14,0,0,0
\I(part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands)\i
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, island in the \JCaribbean Sea\j, north of Venezuela
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 12 30 N, 69 58 W
\BMap references:\b \JCentral America\j and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 193 sq km
\Iland:\i 193 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly larger than Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 68.5 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical marine; little seasonal \Jtemperature\j variation
\BTerrain:\b flat with a few hills; scant vegetation
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JCaribbean Sea\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Jamanota 188 m
\BNatural resources:\b negligible; white sandy beaches
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 11%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i NA%
\Iforests and woodland:\i NA%
\Iother:\i 89% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b lies outside the Caribbean hurricane belt
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b NA
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 68,031 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 22% (male 7,814; female 7,127)
\I15-64 years:\i 69% (male 22,544; female 24,656)
\I65 years and over:\i 9% (male 2,433; female 3,457) (July 1997 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.39% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 14.2 births/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.32 deaths/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -3.97 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 82%, Protestant 8%, Hindu, Muslim, Confucian, Jewish
\BLanguages:\b Dutch (official), Papiamento (a Spanish, Portuguese, Dutch, English \Jdialect\j), English (widely spoken), Spanish
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Aruba
\BData code:\b AA
\BDependency status:\b part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; full autonomy in internal affairs obtained in 1986 upon separation from the Netherlands Antilles
\BGovernment type:\b NA
\BNational capital:\b Oranjestad
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands)
\BIndependence:\b none (part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands; in 1990, \JAruba\j requested and received from the Netherlands cancellation of the agreement to automatically give independence to the island in 1996)
\BNational holiday:\b Flag Day, 18 March
\BConstitution:\b 1 January 1986
\BLegal system:\b based on Dutch civil law system, with some English \Jcommon law\j influence\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen \JBEATRIX\j Wilhelmina Armgard of the Netherlands (since 30 April 1980), represented by Governor General Olindo KOOLMAN (since 1 January 1992)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Jan (Henny) H. EMAN (since 29 July 1994) and Deputy Prime Minister Glenbert F. CROES
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers elected by the Staten
\Ielections:\i the queen is a constitutional monarch; governor general appointed for a six-year term by the queen; prime minister and deputy prime minister elected by the Staten for a four-year term; election last held 29 July 1994 (next to be held by July 1998)
\Ielection results:\i Jan (Henny) H. EMAN elected prime minister; percent of legislative vote - NA; Glenbert F. CROES elected deputy prime minister; percent of legislative vote - NA
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Legislature or Staten (21 seats; members elected by direct popular vote and serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 29 July 1994 (next to be held by NA July 1998)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - AVP 10, MEP 9, OLA 2\BJudicial branch:\b Joint High Court of Justice
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Electoral Movement Party or MEP [Nelson ODUBER]; Aruban People's Party or AVP [Jan (Henny) H. EMAN]; National Democratic Action or ADN [Pedro Charro KELLY]; New Patriotic Party or PPN [Eddy WERLEMEN]; Aruban Patriotic Party or PPA [Benny NISBET]; Aruban Democratic Party or PDA [Leo BERLINSKI]; Democratic Action '86 or AD '86 [Arturo ODUBER]; Aruban Liberal Party or OLA [Glenbert CROES]
\Inote:\i governing coalition includes the AVP and OLA
\BInternational organization participation:\b ECLAC (associate), \JInterpol\j, IOC, \JUNESCO\j (associate), WCL, WToO (associate) \BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none (represented by the Kingdom of the Netherlands)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b none (part of the Kingdom of the Netherlands)
\BFlag description:\b blue with two narrow horizontal yellow stripes across the lower portion and a red, four-pointed star outlined in white in the upper hoist-side corner
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Tourism is the mainstay of the Aruban economy, although offshore banking and oil refining and storage are also important. The rapid growth of the tourism sector over the last decade has resulted in a substantial expansion of other activities. Construction has boomed, with hotel capacity five times the 1985 level. In addition, the reopening of the country's oil refinery in 1993, a major source of employment and foreign exchange earnings, has further spurred growth. 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.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.4 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 5% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $21,000 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of the Kingdom of the Netherlands
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
\BIllicit drugs:\b drug money-laundering center and transit point for \Jnarcotics\j bound for the US and Europe; added to the US list of major drug producing or drug transit countries in December 1996
#
"Ashmore and Cartier Islands (Atlas)",15,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, islands in the Indian Ocean, northwest of \JAustralia\j \BGeographic coordinates:\b 12 14 S, 123 05 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 5 sq km
\Iland:\i 5 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\Inote:\i includes Ashmore Reef (West, Middle, and East Islets) and Cartier Island
\BArea - comparative:\b about eight times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 74.1 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 12 nm
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
\Iexclusive fishing zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 3 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical
\BTerrain:\b low with sand and coral
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 3 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 0%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100% (all grass and sand)
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km (1993)
\BNatural hazards:\b surrounded by shoals and reefs that can pose maritime hazards
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b NA
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b Ashmore Reef National Nature Reserve established in August 1983
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous inhabitants
\Inote:\i there are only seasonal caretakers
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of Ashmore and Cartier Islands
\Iconventional short form:\i Ashmore and Cartier Islands
\BData code:\b AT
\BDependency status:\b territory of \JAustralia\j; administered by the Australian Ministry for Sport, Territories, and Local Government
\BNational capital:\b none; administered from \JCanberra\j, Australia
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (territory of \JAustralia\j)
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of \JAustralia\j)
\BLegal system:\b relevant laws of the \JNorthern Territory\j of Australia
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none (territory of \JAustralia\j)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b none (territory of \JAustralia\j)
\BFlag description:\b the flag of \JAustralia\j is used
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation\b
\BPorts and harbors:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BMilitary\b\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of \JAustralia\j; periodic visits by the Royal Australian Navy and Royal Australian Air Force
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
#
"Atlantic Ocean (Atlas)",16,0,0,0
\BGeography\b
\BLocation:\b body of \Jwater\j between Africa, Europe, \JAntarctica\j, and the Western Hemisphere
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 0 00 N, 25 00 W
\BMap references:\b World
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 82.217 million sq km
\Inote:\i includes Baltic Sea, \JBlack Sea\j, \JCaribbean Sea\j, Davis Strait, Denmark Strait, Drake Passage, Gulf of Mexico, \JMediterranean Sea\j, North Sea, Norwegian Sea, Scotia Sea, Weddell Sea, and other tributary \Jwater\j bodies
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly less than nine times the size of the US; second-largest of the world's four oceans (after the \JPacific Ocean\j, but larger than Indian Ocean or \JArctic\j Ocean)
\BCoastline:\b 111,866 km
\BClimate:\b tropical cyclones (hurricanes) develop off the coast of Africa near Cape Verde and move westward into the \JCaribbean Sea\j; hurricanes can occur from May to December, but are most frequent from August to November \BTerrain:\b surface usually covered with \Jsea ice\j in \JLabrador\j Sea, Denmark Strait, and Baltic Sea from October to June; clockwise warm \Jwater\j gyre (broad, circular system of currents) in the northern Atlantic, counterclockwise warm \Jwater\j 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
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Puerto Rico Trench -8,605 m
\Ihighest point:\i sea level 0 m
\BNatural resources:\b oil and gas fields, fish, marine mammals (seals and whales), sand and gravel aggregates, placer deposits, polymetallic nodules, precious stones \BNatural hazards:\b icebergs common in Davis Strait, Denmark Strait, and the northwestern \JAtlantic Ocean\j from February to August and have been spotted as far south as \JBermuda\j and the Madeira Islands; icebergs from \JAntarctica\j occur in the extreme southern \JAtlantic Ocean\j; ships subject to superstructure icing in extreme northern Atlantic from October to May and extreme southern Atlantic from May to October; persistent \Jfog\j can be a maritime hazard from May to September
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b endangered marine species include the \Jmanatee\j, seals, sea lions, turtles, and whales; drift net fishing is hastening the decline of fish stocks and contributing to international disputes; municipal sludge \Jpollution\j off eastern US, southern \JBrazil\j, and eastern Argentina; oil \Jpollution\j in \JCaribbean Sea\j, Gulf of Mexico, Lake \JMaracaibo\j, Mediterranean Sea, and North Sea; industrial waste and municipal sewage \Jpollution\j in Baltic Sea, North Sea, and Mediterranean Sea
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i none of the selected agreements
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i none of the selected agreements
\BGeography - note:\b major choke points include the Dardanelles, Strait of \JGibraltar\j, access to the Panama and Suez Canals; strategic straits include the Strait of Dover, Straits of \JFlorida\j, Mona Passage, The Sound (Oresund), and Windward Passage; the Equator divides the Atlantic Ocean into the North Atlantic Ocean and South Atlantic Ocean
\BGovernment\b
\BData code:\b none; the US Government has not approved a standard for hydrographic codes - see the Cross-Reference List of Hydrographic Data Codes appendix
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b The \JAtlantic Ocean\j provides some of the world's most heavily trafficked sea routes, between and within the Eastern and Western Hemispheres. Other economic activity includes the exploitation of natural resources, e.g., fishing, the dredging of \Jaragonite\j sands (The \JBahamas\j), and production of crude oil and \Jnatural gas\j (\JCaribbean Sea\j, Gulf of Mexico, and North Sea).
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephone system:\b
\Iinternational:\i numerous submarine cables with most between continental Europe and the UK, between \JNorth America\j and the UK, and in the Mediterranean; numerous direct links across Atlantic via \Jsatellite\j networks
\BTransportation\b
\BPorts and harbors:\b Alexandria (\JEgypt\j), \JAlgiers\j (\JAlgeria\j), Antwerp (\JBelgium\j), \JBarcelona\j (\JSpain\j), Buenos Aires (Argentina), \JCasablanca\j (Morocco), Colon (Panama), \JCopenhagen\j (Denmark), \JDakar\j (\JSenegal\j), Gdansk (\JPoland\j), \JHamburg\j (\JGermany\j), \JHelsinki\j (\JFinland\j), Las Palmas (Canary Islands, \JSpain\j), Le Havre (\JFrance\j), \JLisbon\j (\JPortugal\j), London (UK), \JMarseille\j (\JFrance\j), \JMontevideo\j (Uruguay), Montreal (Canada), Naples (\JItaly\j), \JNew Orleans\j (US), New York (US), Oran (\JAlgeria\j), Oslo (\JNorway\j), \JPiraeus\j (\JGreece\j), \JRio de Janeiro\j (\JBrazil\j), Rotterdam (Netherlands), Saint Petersburg (\JRussia\j), Stockholm (Sweden)
\BTransportation - note:\b Kiel Canal and Saint Lawrence Seaway are two important waterways
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b some maritime disputes
#
"Australia (Atlas)",17,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, continent between the Indian Ocean and the South Pacific Ocean
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 27 00 S, 133 00 E
\BMap references:\b Oceania
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 7,686,850 sq km
\Iland:\i 7,617,930 sq km
\Iwater:\i 68,920 sq km
\Inote:\i includes Lord Howe Island and Macquarie Island
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than the US
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 25,760 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 24 nm
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b generally arid to semiarid; temperate in south and east; tropical in north
\BTerrain:\b mostly low plateau with deserts; fertile plain in southeast
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Lake Eyre -15 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Kosciusko 2,229 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jbauxite\j, \Jcoal\j, iron ore, copper, tin, silver, uranium, nickel, \Jtungsten\j, mineral sands, lead, zinc, diamonds, \Jnatural gas\j, petroleum
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 6%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 54%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 19%
\Iother:\i 21% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 21,070 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b cyclones along the coast; severe droughts
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b soil erosion from overgrazing, industrial development, urbanization, and poor farming practices; soil \Jsalinity\j rising due to the use of poor quality \Jwater\j; \Jdesertification\j; clearing for agricultural purposes threatens the natural habitat of many unique animal and plant species; the \JGreat Barrier Reef\j off the northeast coast, the largest \Jcoral\j reef in the world, is threatened by increased shipping and its popularity as a tourist site; limited natural fresh \Jwater\j resources
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Desertification
\BGeography - note:\b world's smallest continent but sixth-largest country; population concentrated along the eastern and southeastern coasts; regular, tropical, invigorating, sea breeze known as "the Doctor" occurs along the west coast in the summer
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 5.26 deaths/1,000 live births (1998 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 79.89 years
\Imale:\i 76.95 years
\Ifemale:\i 82.98 years (1998 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.82 children born/woman (1998 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Australian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Australian
\BEthnic groups:\b Caucasian 92%, Asian 7%, Aboriginal and other 1%
\BReligions:\b Anglican 26.1%, Roman Catholic 26%, other Christian 24.3%, non-Christian 11%
\BLanguages:\b English, native languages
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 100%
\Imale:\i 100%
\Ifemale:\i 100% (1980 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Commonwealth of Australia
\Iconventional short form:\i Australia
\BData code:\b AS
\BGovernment type:\b democratic, federal-state system recognizing the British Monarch as sovereign
\BNational capital:\b Canberra
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 6 states and 2 territories*; \JAustralian Capital Territory\j*, \JNew South Wales\j, \JNorthern Territory\j*, \JQueensland\j, South Australia, \JTasmania\j, Victoria, Western Australia
\BDependent areas:\b Ashmore and Cartier Islands, Christmas Island, Cocos (Keeling) Islands, Coral Sea Islands, Heard Island and McDonald Islands, Norfolk Island
\BIndependence:\b 1 January 1901 (federation of UK colonies)
\BNational holiday:\b \JAustralia\j Day, 26 January (1788)
\BConstitution:\b 9 July 1900, effective 1 January 1901
\BLegal system:\b based on English \Jcommon law\j; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II of the UK (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General Sir William DEANE (since 16 February 1996)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister John Winston HOWARD (since 11 March 1996); Deputy Prime Minister John Duncan ANDERSON (since July 1999)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet selected from among the members of Federal Parliament by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
\Ielections:\i none; the queen is a hereditary monarch; governor general appointed by the queen; following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party or leader of a majority coalition is usually appointed prime minister by the governor general for a three-year term
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Federal Parliament consists of the Senate (76 seats - 12 from each of the six states and two from each of the two territories; one-half of the members elected every three years by popular vote to serve six-year terms) and the \JHouse of Representatives\j (148 seats; members elected by popular vote on the basis of proportional representation to serve three-year terms; no state can have fewer than five representatives)
\Ielections:\i Senate - last held March 1999 (next to be held 2002); \JHouse of Representatives\j - last held March 1999 (next to be held 2002)
\Ielection results:\i Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - Liberal-National 37, Labor 29, Australian Democrats 8, Greens 1, independent 1; note - subsequent to the election, there has been a change in the distribution of seats; the new distribution is as follows - Liberal-National 37, Labor 28, Australian Democrats 7, Greens 2, independents 2; \JHouse of Representatives\j - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - Liberal-National 94, Labor 49, independent 5
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court, the \JChief Justice\j and six other justices are appointed by the governor general
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
\Igovernment:\i coalition of Liberal Party, John Winston HOWARD, and National Party, John Duncan ANDERSON
\Iopposition:\i Australian Labor Party, Kim BEAZLEY; Australian Democratic Party, Meg LEES; Green Party, Bob BROWN
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Australian Democratic Labor Party (anti-Communist Labor Party splinter group); Peace and Nuclear Disarmament Action (Nuclear Disarmament Party splinter group) \BInternational organization participation:\b 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, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, \JInterpol\j, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, MINUGUA, MTCR, NAM (guest), NEA, NSG, OECD, PCA, Sparteca, SPC, SPF, UN, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNFICYP, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNITAR, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO, ZC
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Andrew Sharp PEACOCK
\Ichancery:\i 1601 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 797-3000
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 797-3168
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JAtlanta\j, \JHonolulu\j, Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Genta Hawkins HOLMES
\Iembassy:\i Moonah Place, Yarralumla, \JCanberra\j, \JAustralian Capital Territory\j 2600
\Imailing address:\i APO AP 96549
\Itelephone:\i [61] (6) 270-5000
\IFAX:\i [61] (6) 270-5970
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Melbourne, Perth, and Sydney
\BFlag description:\b blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and a large seven-pointed star in the lower hoist-side quadrant; the remaining half is a representation of the Southern Cross \Jconstellation\j in white with one small five-pointed star and four, larger, seven-pointed stars
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b \JAustralia\j has a prosperous Western-style capitalist economy, with a per capita GDP above the levels in highly industrialized West European countries. Rich in natural resources, \JAustralia\j is a major exporter of agricultural products, minerals, metals, and \Jfossil\j fuels. Commodities account for about 57% of the value of total exports, so that a downturn in world commodity prices can have a big impact on the economy. The government is pushing for increased exports of manufactured goods, but competition in international markets continues to be severe. \JAustralia\j has suffered from the low growth and high unemployment characterizing the OECD countries in the early 1990s, but the economy has expanded at reasonably steady rates in recent years. In addition to high unemployment, short-term economic problems include a balancing of output growth and inflationary pressures and the stimulation of exports to offset rising imports, especially given the economic crisis in Asia.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $394 billion (1997 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 3.3% (1997 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $21,400 (1997 est.)
\Icommodities:\i \Jcoal\j, gold, meat, wool, \Jalumina\j, iron ore, wheat, machinery and transport
equipment
\Ipartners:\i \JJapan\j 20%, ASEAB 16%, South Korea 9%, US 9%, NZ 8%, UK, \JTaiwan\j, Hong Kong, China (1997)
\BImports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $67 billion (f.o.b., 1997 est.)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transport equipment, computers and office machines, telecommunication equipment and parts; crude oil and \Jpetroleum\j products
\Ipartners:\i US 22%, \JJapan\j 17%, December 1996)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Idonor:\i ODA, $1.43 billion (FY97/98)
\BCurrency:\b 1 Australian dollar ($A) = 100 cents
\Iships by type:\i bulk 31, cargo 3, chemical tanker 4, combination bulk 1, container 5, liquefied gas tanker 4, oil tanker 10, roll-on/roll-off cargo 5, passenger 1 (1997 est.)
\BAirports:\b 419 (1997 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 259
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 8
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 13
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 111
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 119
\Iunder 914 m:\i 8 (1997 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 160
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 22
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 123
\Iunder 914m:\i 15 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Australian Army, Royal Australian Navy, Royal Australian Air Force
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 17 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 4,873,392 (1998 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 4,206,104 (1998 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 128,524 (1998 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $8.2 billion (FY97/98)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 1.9% (FY97/98)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b territorial claim in \JAntarctica\j (Australian Antarctic Territory)
\BIllicit drugs:\b \JTasmania\j is one of the world's major suppliers of licit opiate products;
government maintains strict controls over areas of opium poppy cultivation and output of poppy straw concentrate
#
"Austria (Atlas)",18,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Europe, north of \JItaly\j and Slovenia
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 47 20 N, 13 20 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 83,850 sq km
\Iland:\i 82,730 sq km
\Iwater:\i 1,120 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Maine
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,564 km
\Iborder countries:\i Czech Republic 362 km, \JGermany\j 784 km, \JHungary\j 366 km, \JItaly\j 430 km, \JLiechtenstein\j 37 km, \JSlovakia\j 91 km, \JSlovenia\j 330 km, \JSwitzerland\j 164 km \BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BClimate:\b temperate; continental, cloudy; cold winters with frequent rain in lowlands
and snow in mountains; cool summers with occasional showers
\BTerrain:\b in the west and south mostly mountains (Alps); along the eastern and
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b some forest degradation caused by air and soil \Jpollution\j; soil \Jpollution\j results from the use of agricultural chemicals; air \Jpollution\j results from emissions by \Jcoal\j- and oil-fired power stations and industrial plants and from trucks transiting \JAustria\j between northern and southern Europe
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeography - note:\b landlocked; strategic location at the crossroads of central Europe with many easily traversable \JAlpine\j passes and valleys; major river is the Danube; population is concentrated on eastern lowlands because of steep slopes, poor soils, and low temperatures elsewhere
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 5.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 77.15 years
\Imale:\i 73.96 years
\Ifemale:\i 80.51 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.37 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Austrian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Austrian
\BEthnic groups:\b German 99.4%, Croatian 0.3%, Slovene 0.2%, other 0.1%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 85%, Protestant 6%, other 9%
\BLanguages:\b German
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 99% (1974 est.)
\Imale:\i NA%
\Ifemale:\i NA%
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Austria
\Iconventional short form:\i Austria
\Ilocal long form:\i Republik Oesterreich
\Ilocal short form:\i Oesterreich
\BData code:\b AU
\BGovernment type:\b federal republic
\BNational capital:\b Vienna
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 states (Bundeslaender, singular - Bundesland); Burgenland, Kaernten, Niederoesterreich, Oberoesterreich, \JSalzburg\j, Steiermark, Tirol, Vorarlberg, Wien
\BIndependence:\b 1156 (from \JBavaria\j)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 26 October (1955)
\BConstitution:\b 1920; revised 1929 (reinstated 1 May 1945)
\BLegal system:\b civil law system with \JRoman law\j origin; judicial review of legislative acts by the Constitutional Court; separate administrative and civil/penal supreme courts; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal; compulsory for presidential elections
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Thomas KLESTIL (since 8 July 1992)
\Ihead of government:\i Chancellor Viktor KLIMA (since 28 January 1997); Vice Chancellor Wolfgang SCHUESSEL (since 22 April 1995)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers chosen by the president on the advice of the chancellor
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a six-year term; presidential election last held 24 May 1992 (next to be held NA 1998); chancellor chosen by the president from the majority party in the National Council; vice chancellor chosen by the president on the advice of the chancellor
\Ielection results:\i Thomas KLESTIL elected president; percent of vote, second ballot - Thomas KLESTIL 57%, Rudolf STREICHER 43%
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Federal Assembly or Bundesversammlung consists of Federal Council or Bundesrat (63 members; members represent each of the provinces on the basis of population, but with each province having at least three representatives) and the National Council or Nationalrat (183 seats; members elected by direct popular vote to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i National Council - last held 17 December 1995 (next to be held Fall 1999)
\Ielection results:\i National Council - percent of vote by party - SPOe 38.3%, OeVP 28.3%, FPOe 22.1%, Greens 4.6%, LF 5.3%, other 1.4%; seats by party - SPOe 71, OeVP 53, FPOe 40, Greens 9, LF 10
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Judicial Court or Oberster Gerichtshof; Administrative Court or Verwaltungsgerichtshof; Constitutional Court or Verfassungsgerichtshof
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Social Democratic Party of \JAustria\j or SPOe [Viktor KLIMA, chairman]; Austrian People's Party or OeVP [Wolfgang SCHUESSEL, chairman]; Freedom Movement or FPOe (formerly the Freedom Party of Austria or FPOe [Joerg HAIDER, chairman]; Communist Party or KPOe [Walter SILBERMAYER, chairman]; The Greens [Madeleine PETROVIC]; Liberal Forum or LF [Heide SCHMIDT]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Federal Chamber of Trade and Commerce; Austrian Trade Union Federation (primarily Socialist) or OeGB; three composite leagues of the Austrian People's Party or OeVP representing business, labor, and farmers; OeVP-oriented League of Austrian Industrialists or VOeI; Roman \JCatholic Church\j, including its chief lay organization, Catholic Action
\Ichancery:\i 3524 International Court NW, Washington, DC 20008-3035
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 895-6700
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 895-6750
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Los Angeles, and New York
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Swanee G. HUNT
\Iembassy:\i Boltzmanngasse 16, A-1091, Vienna
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [43] (1) 313-39
\IFAX:\i [43] (1) 310-0682
\BFlag description:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and red
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b \JAustria\j has a well-developed market economy with a sizable - but falling - proportion of nationalized industry, an extensive social safety net, and a high standard of living. \JAustria\j's economy is closely integrated with \JGermany\j and other EU members - \JAustria\j joined the EU on 1 January 1995. Since the early 1980s, the Austrian economy has experienced stable growth. EU membership has had a positive impact on foreign investment and has helped to lower \Jinflation\j. In April 1996, the government passed a two-year austerity budget - including cuts in social allowances, a freeze on civil servants' wages, and new \Jenergy\j and capital gains taxes - designed to bring the economy in line with the Maastricht criteria for membership in the European Economic and Monetary Union (EMU). EMU convergence has become a top priority for Austria. Despite Austria's generally favorable prospects, the economy faces a number of medium-term challenges; for example, fiscal tightening is constraining expected growth, and unemployment is expected to increase.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $157.6 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 1.1% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $19,700 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i services 56.4%, industry and crafts 35.4%, agriculture and \Jforestry\j 8.1%
\Inote:\i an estimated 200,000 Austrians are employed in other European countries; foreign laborers in Austria number 177,840, about 5% of labor force (1988)\BUnemployment rate:\b 6.2% (December 1996)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $61.2 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $71 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b food, iron and steel, machines, textiles, chemicals, electrical, paper and pulp, tourism, mining, motor vehicles
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b 0.6% (1996 est.)
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 17.43 million kW (1994)
\BMilitary branches:\b Army (includes Flying Division)
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 19 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,107,905 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 1,754,823 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 46,298 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $2.1 billion (1995)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 1% (1995)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and South American \Jcocaine\j destined for Western Europe
#
"Azerbaijan (Atlas)",19,0,0,0
\BIntroduction\b
\BCurrent issues:\b \JAzerbaijan\j continues to be plagued by an unresolved nine-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 Azerbaijani refugees in the process. Both sides have generally observed a Russian-mediated cease-fire in place since May 1994, and support the OSCE-mediated peace process, now entering its fifth year. Nevertheless, \JBaku\j and Xankandi (Stepanakert, Nagorno-Karabakh region) remain far apart on most substantive issues from the placement and composition of a peacekeeping force to the enclave's ultimate political status, and prospects for a negotiated settlement remain dim.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southwestern Asia, bordering the \JCaspian Sea\j, between \JIran\j and Russia\BGeographic coordinates:\b 40 30 N, 47 30 E
\BMap references:\b Commonwealth of Independent States
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 86,600 sq km
\Iland:\i 86,100 sq km
\Iwater:\i 500 sq km
\Inote:\i 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
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Maine
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,013 km
\Iborder countries:\i Armenia (with \JAzerbaijan\j-proper) 566 km, Armenia (with \JAzerbaijan\j-Naxcivan exclave) 221 km, Georgia 322 km, \JIran\j (with \JAzerbaijan\j-proper) 432 km, \JIran\j (with \JAzerbaijan\j-Naxcivan exclave) 179 km, \JRussia\j 284 km, Turkey 9 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\Inote:\i \JAzerbaijan\j borders the \JCaspian Sea\j (800 km, est.)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BClimate:\b dry, semiarid steppe
\BTerrain:\b large, flat Kur-Araz Lowland (much of it below sea level) with Great Caucasus Mountains to the north, Qarabag (Karabakh) Upland in west; \JBaku\j lies on Abseron (Apsheron) Peninsula that juts into Caspian Sea
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JCaspian Sea\j -28 m
\Ihighest point:\i Bazarduzu Dagi 4,485 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, \Jnatural gas\j, iron ore, nonferrous metals, alumina
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 18%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 5%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 25%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 11%
\Iother:\i 41% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 10,000 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b droughts; some lowland areas threatened by rising levels of the Caspian Sea
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b local scientists consider the Abseron (Apsheron) Peninsula (including \JBaku\j and Sumqayit) and the \JCaspian Sea\j to be the ecologically most devastated area in the world because of severe air, \Jwater\j, and soil \Jpollution\j; soil \Jpollution\j results from the use of DDT as a \Jpesticide\j and also from toxic defoliants used in the production of cotton
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 80.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 63.52 years
\Imale:\i 59.27 years
\Ifemale:\i 67.99 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.77 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Azerbaijani(s)
\Iadjective:\i Azerbaijani
\BEthnic groups:\b Azeri 90%, Dagestani Peoples 3.2%, Russian 2.5%, Armenian 2.3%, other 2% (1995 est.)
\Inote:\i almost all Armenians live in the separatist Nagorno-Karabakh region\BReligions:\b Muslim 93.4%, Russian Orthodox 2.5%, Armenian Orthodox 2.3%, other 1.8% (1995 est.)
\Inote:\i religious affiliation is still nominal in \JAzerbaijan\j; actual practicing adherents are much lower
\BLanguages:\b Azeri 89%, Russian 3%, Armenian 2%, other 6% (1995 est.)
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 59 rayons (rayonlar; rayon - singular), 11 cities* (saharlar; sahar - singular), 1 autonomous republic** (muxtar respublika); Abseron Rayonu, Agcabadi Rayonu, Agdam Rayonu, Agdas Rayonu, Agstafa Rayonu, Agsu Rayonu, AliBayramli Sahari*, Astara Rayonu, Baki Sahari*, Balakan Rayonu, Barda Rayonu, Beylaqan Rayonu, Bilasuvar Rayonu, Cabrayil Rayonu, Calilabad Rayonu, Daskasan Rayonu, Davaci Rayonu, Fuzuli Rayonu, Gadabay Rayonu, Ganca Sahari*, Goranboy Rayonu, Goycay Rayonu, Haciqabul Rayonu, Imisli Rayonu, Ismayilli Rayonu, Kalbacar Rayonu, Kurdamir Rayonu, Lacin Rayonu, Lankaran Rayonu, Lankaran Sahari*, Lerik Rayonu, Masalli Rayonu, Mingacevir Sahari*, Naftalan Sahari*, Naxcivan Muxtar Respublikasi**, Neftcala Rayonu, Oguz Rayonu, Qabala Rayonu, Qax Rayonu, Qazax Rayonu, Qobustan Rayonu, Quba Rayonu, Qubadli Rayonu, Qusar Rayonu, Saatli Rayonu, Sabirabad Rayonu, \JSaki\j Rayonu, \JSaki\j Sahari*, Salyan Rayonu, Samaxi Rayonu, Samkir Rayonu, Samux Rayonu, Siyazan Rayonu, Sumqayit Sahari*, \JSusa\j Rayonu, \JSusa\j Sahari*, \JTartar\j Rayonu, Tovuz Rayonu, Ucar Rayonu, Xacmaz Rayonu, Xankandi Sahari*, Xanlar Rayonu, Xizi Rayonu, Xocali Rayonu, Xocavand Rayonu, Yardimli Rayonu, Yevlax Rayonu, Yevlax Sahari*, Zangilan Rayonu, Zaqatala Rayonu, Zardab Rayonu
\BIndependence:\b 30 August 1991 (from \JSoviet Union\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 28 May
\BConstitution:\b adopted 12 November 1995
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Heydar ALIYEV (since 18 June 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Artur RASIZADE (since NA November 1996); First Deputy Prime Ministers \JAbbas\j ABBASOV (since NA), Samed SADYKOV (since NA), Vahid AKHMEDOV (since NA), Elchin EFENDIYEV (since NA)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the president and confirmed by the National Assembly
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote to a five-year term; election last held 3 October 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); prime minister and first deputy prime ministers appointed by the president and confirmed by the National Assembly\Ielection results:\i Heydar ALIYEV elected president; percent of vote - Heydar ALIYEV 97% \BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Assembly or Milli Mejlis (125 seats; members serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 12 and 26 November 1995 (next to be held NA 2000)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - NA
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JAzerbaijan\j Popular Front or APF [Ebulfez ELCIBEY, chairman]; Musavat Party [Isa GAMBAR, chairman]; National Independence Party [Etibar MAMEDOV, chairman]; Social Democratic Party or SDP [Araz ALIZADE, chairman]; Communist Party [Ramiz AKHMEDOV, chairman]; People's Freedom Party [Yunus OGUZ, chairman]; Independent Social Democratic Party [Arif YUNUSOV and Leila YUNOSOVA, cochairmen]; New \JAzerbaijan\j Party [Heydar ALIYEV, chairman]; Boz Gurd Party [Iskander HAMIDOV, chairman]; \JAzerbaijan\j Democratic Independence Party [Qabil HUSEYNLI, chairman]; Islamic Party of \JAzerbaijan\j [Ali Akram, chairman]; Ana Veten Party [Fazail AGAMALIYEV]; \JAzerbaijan\j Democratic Party [Sardar Jalaloglu MAMEDOV]; \JAzerbaijan\j Democratic Party of Proprietors or DPOP [Makhmud MAMEDOV]; \JAzerbaijan\j Patriotic Solidarity Party [Sabir RUSTAMHANLI]; \JAzerbaijan\j Republic Reform Party [Fuad ASADOV]; Communist Party of \JAzerbaijan\j (unregistered) [Sayad SAYADOV]; Equality of the Peoples Party [Faukhraddin AYDAYEV]; Independent \JAzerbaijan\j Party [Nizami SULEYMANOV]; Labor Party of \JAzerbaijan\j [Sabutai HAJIYEV]; Liberal-Democratic Party of \JAzerbaijan\j [Lyudmila NIKOLAYEVNA]; National Enlightenment Party [Hajy Osman EFENDIYEV]; National Liberation Party [Panak SHAKHSEVEV]; Peasant Party [Firuz MUSTAFAYEV]; Radical Party of \JAzerbaijan\j [Malik SHARIFOV]; United \JAzerbaijan\j Party [Kerrar ABILOV]; Vetan Adzhagy Party [Zakir TAGIYEV]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b self-proclaimed Armenian Nagorno-Karabakh Republic; Talysh independence movement; Sadval, Lezgin movement
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Hafiz Mir Jalal PASHAYEV
\Ichancery:\i (temporary) Suite 700, 927 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005 or P.O. Box 28790, Washington, DC 20038-8790
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 842-0001
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 842-0004
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Richard D. KAUZLARICH
\Iembassy:\i Azadliq Prospekti 83, Baku
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [9] (9412) 96-03-35
\IFAX:\i [9] (9412) 96-04-69
\BFlag description:\b three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), red, and green; a crescent and eight-pointed star in white are centered in red band
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b \JAzerbaijan\j is less developed industrially than either Armenia or Georgia, the other Transcaucasian states. It resembles the Central Asian states in its majority nominally Muslim population, high structural unemployment, and low standard of living. The economy's most prominent products are oil, cotton, and gas. Production from the Caspian oil and gas field has been in declin for several years, but the November 1994 ratification of the $7.5 billion oil deal with a consortium of Western companies should generate the funds needed to spur future industrial development. \JAzerbaijan\j shares all the formidable problems of the ex-Soviet republics in making the transition from a command to a market economy, but its considerable \Jenergy\j resources brighten its long-term prospects. \JBaku\j has only recently begun making progress on economic reform, and old economic ties and structures are slowly being replaced. A major short-term obstacle to economic progress, including stepped up foreign investment, is the continuing conflict with Armenia over the ethnic Armenian-dominated region of Nagorno-Karabakh. Trade with \JRussia\j and the other former Soviet republics is declining in importance while trade is building up with the nations of Europe, Turkey, \JIran\j and the UAE.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $11.9 billion (1996 estimate as extrapolated
from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 1.2% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $1,550 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture and \Jforestry\j 32%, industry and construction 26%, other 42% (1990)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 1.1% includes officially registered unemployed; also large numbers of unregistered unemployed and underemployed workers (December 1996)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $565 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $682 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.)
\BIndustries:\b \Jpetroleum\j and \Jnatural gas\j, \Jpetroleum\j products, oilfield equipment; steel, iron ore, cement; chemicals and \Jpetrochemicals\j; textiles
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b -8% (1996 est.)
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 5.24 million kW (1994)
\BTelephone system:\b 202,000 persons waiting for \Jtelephone\j installations (January 1991 est.)\Idomestic:\i \Jtelephone\j service is of poor quality and inadequate; a joint venture to establish a cellular \Jtelephone\j system in the \JBaku\j area is operational \Iinternational:\i cable and microwave radio relay connections to former Soviet republics; connection through Moscow international gateway switch to other countries; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations - 1 Intelsat and 1 Intersputnik (Intelsat provides service to Turkey and through Turkey to 200 more countries; Intersputnik provides direct service to New York)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b 1 state-owned radio broadcast station
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2
\Inote:\i domestic and Russian TV programs are received locally and Turkish and
Iranian TV is received from an Intelsat \Jsatellite\j through a receive-only earth
station
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,125 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines\Ibroad gauge:\i 2,125 km 1.520-m gauge (1,278 km electrified) (1993)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 57,770 km
\Ipaved:\i 54,188 km
\Iunpaved:\i 3,582 km (1995 est.)
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 1,130 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 630 km; \Jnatural gas\j 1,240 km \BPorts and harbors:\b \JBaku\j (Baki)
\BAirports:\b 69 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 29
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 2
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 6
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 17
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 3
\Iunder 914 m:\i 1 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 40
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 7
\Iunder 914 m:\i 33 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Border Guards
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,982,747 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 1,596,087 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 69,524 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b 33.5 billion manats (1994); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b Armenia supports ethnic Armenians in the Nagorno-Karabakh region of \JAzerbaijan\j in the longstanding, separatist conflict against the Azerbaijani Government; \JCaspian Sea\j boundaries are not yet determined among Azerbaijan, \JIran\j, Kazakstan, \JRussia\j, and Turkmenistan
\BIllicit drugs:\b limited cultivation of cannabis and opium poppy, mostly for \JCIS\j consumption; limited government eradication program; transshipment point for opiates to Western Europe
#
"Bahrain (Atlas)",20,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JMiddle East\j, archipelago in the Persian Gulf, east of Saudi Arabia
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 26 00 N, 50 33 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 620 sq km
\Iland:\i 620 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b 3.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 161 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 24 nm
\Icontinental shelf:\i extending to boundaries to be determined
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b arid; mild, pleasant winters; very hot, humid summers
\BTerrain:\b mostly low desert plain rising gently to low central escarpment
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Persian Gulf 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Jabal ad Dukhan 122 m
\BNatural resources:\b oil, associated and nonassociated \Jnatural gas\j, fish
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b \Jdesertification\j resulting from the degradation of limited arable land, periods of \Jdrought\j, and dust storms; coastal degradation (damage to coastlines, \Jcoral\j reefs, and sea vegetation) resulting from oil spills and other discharges from large tankers, oil refineries, and distribution stations; no natural fresh \Jwater\j resources so that \Jgroundwater\j and sea water are the only sources for all water needs
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, \JOzone Layer\j Protection
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i none of the selected agreements
\BGeography - note:\b close to primary Middle Eastern \Jpetroleum\j sources; strategic location in Persian Gulf which much of Western world's \Jpetroleum\j must transit to reach open ocean
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 603,318 (July 1997 est.)
\Inote:\i includes 221,182 non-nationals (July 1997 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 16.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 74.63 years
\Imale:\i 72.1 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.24 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.04 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Bahraini(s)
\Iadjective:\i Bahraini
\BEthnic groups:\b Bahraini 63%, Asian 13%, other Arab 10%, Iranian 8%, other 6%
\BReligions:\b Shi'a Muslim 75%, Sunni Muslim 25%
\BLanguages:\b Arabic, English, \JFarsi\j, Urdu
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 85.2%
\Imale:\i 89.1%
\Ifemale:\i 79.4% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i State of Bahrain
\Iconventional short form:\i Bahrain
\Ilocal long form:\i Dawlat al Bahrayn
\Ilocal short form:\i Al Bahrayn
\BData code:\b BA
\BGovernment type:\b traditional monarchy
\BNational capital:\b Manama
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 12 municipalities (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
\Inote:\i all municipalities administered from Manama
\BIndependence:\b 15 August 1971 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 16 December (1971)
\BConstitution:\b 26 May 1973, effective 6 December 1973
\BLegal system:\b based on Islamic law and English common law
\BSuffrage:\b none
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i HAMAD bin Isa bin Salman Al Khalifa (since March 1998) \Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister KHALIFA bin Salman Al Khalifa (since 19 January 1970)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the amir
\Ielections:\i none; the amir is a traditional Arab monarch; prime minister appointed by the amir
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Assembly was dissolved 26 August 1975 and legislative powers were assumed by the Cabinet; appointed Advisory Council established 16 December 1992
\BJudicial branch:\b High Civil Appeals Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b political parties prohibited
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b several small, clandestine leftist and Islamic fundamentalist groups are active; following the arrest of a popular Shi'a cleric, Shi'a activists have fomented unrest sporadically since late 1994, demanding the return of an elected National Assembly and an end to unemployment
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Muhammad ABD AL-GHAFFAR Abdallah
\Ichancery:\i 3502 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 342-0741, 342-0742
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 362-2192
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador David M. RANSOM (scheduled to depart in June 1997)
\Iembassy:\i Building No. 979, Road 3119 (next to Al-Ahli Sports Club), Zinj District, Manama
\Imailing address:\i FPO AE 09834-5100; International Mail Box 26431, \JManama\j (International Mail)
\Itelephone:\i [973] 273-300
\IFAX:\i [973] 275-418
\BFlag description:\b red with a white serrated band (eight white points) on the hoist side
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b In \JBahrain\j, \Jpetroleum\j production and processing account for about 60% of export receipts, 60% of government revenues, and 30% of GDP. Economic conditions have fluctuated with the changing fortunes of oil since 1985, for example, during and following the Gulf crisis of 1990-91. With its highly developed communication and transport facilities, \JBahrain\j is home to numerous multinational firms with business in the Gulf. A large share of exports consists of \Jpetroleum\j products made from imported crude. Construction proceeds on several major industrial projects. Unemployment, especially among the young, and the depletion of both oil and underground \Jwater\j resources are major long-term economic problems.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $7.7 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 3% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $13,000 (1996 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b modern system; good domestic services and excellent international connections\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i tropospheric scatter to \JQatar\j and UAE; microwave radio relay to Saudi \JArabia\j; submarine cable to \JQatar\j, UAE, and Saudi \JArabia\j; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations - 2 Intelsat (1 \JAtlantic Ocean\j and 1 Indian Ocean) and 1 Arabsat
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 15 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 216,444 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 119,781 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $256 million (1994)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 6.4% (1994)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b territorial dispute with \JQatar\j over the Hawar Islands; maritime boundary with \JQatar\j
#
"Baker Island (Atlas)",21,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, \Jatoll\j in the North \JPacific Ocean\j, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to Australia
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 0 13 N, 176 31 W
\BMap references:\b Oceania
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 1.4 sq km
\Iland:\i 1.4 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b about 2.5 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 4.8 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b equatorial; scant rainfall, constant wind, burning sun
\BTerrain:\b low, nearly level \Jcoral\j island surrounded by a narrow fringing reef
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JPacific Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 8 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jguano\j (deposits worked until 1891)
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 0%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km (1993)
\BNatural hazards:\b the narrow fringing reef surrounding the island can be a maritime hazard
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b no natural fresh \Jwater\j resources
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b treeless, sparse, and scattered vegetation consisting of grasses, prostrate vines, and low growing shrubs; primarily a nesting, roosting, and foraging habitat for seabirds, shorebirds, and marine wildlife
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited
\Inote:\i American civilians evacuated in 1942 after Japanese air and naval attacks during World War II; occupied by US military during World War II, but abandoned after the war; public entry is by special-use permit only and generally restricted to scientists and educators; a cemetery and cemetery ruins are located near the middle of the west coast
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Baker Island
\BData code:\b FQ
\BDependency status:\b unincorporated territory of the US; administered by the Fish and Wildlife Service of the US Department of the Interior as part of the National Wildlife Refuge system
\BNational capital:\b none; administered from Washington, DC
\BFlag description:\b the flag of the US is used
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation\b
\BPorts and harbors:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only; note - there is one boat landing area along the middle of the west coast
\BAirports:\b 1 abandoned World War II runway of 1,665 m
\BTransportation - note:\b there is a \Jday\j beacon near the middle of the west coast
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of the US; visited annually by the US Coast Guard
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
#
"Bangladesh (Atlas)",22,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Asia, bordering the Bay of Bengal, between \JBurma\j and India
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 24 00 N, 90 00 E
\BMap references:\b Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 144,000 sq km
\Iland:\i 133,910 sq km
\Iwater:\i 10,090 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Wisconsin
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,246 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBurma\j 193 km, India 4,053 km
\BCoastline:\b 580 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 18 nm
\Icontinental shelf:\i up to the outer limits of the continental margin
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical; cool, dry winter (October to March); hot, humid summer (March to June); cool, rainy monsoon (June to October)
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat alluvial plain; hilly in southeast
\BNatural hazards:\b droughts, cyclones; much of the country routinely flooded during the summer monsoon season
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b many people are landless and forced to live on and cultivate flood-prone land; limited access to potable \Jwater\j; \Jwater\j-borne diseases prevalent; \Jwater\j \Jpollution\j especially of fishing areas results from the use of commercial pesticides; intermittent \Jwater\j shortages because of falling \Jwater\j tables in the northern and central parts of the country; soil degradation; deforestation; severe overpopulation
\Inote:\i there may be two new divisions named Barisal and Sylhet
\BIndependence:\b 16 December 1971 (from \JPakistan\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 26 March (1971)
\BConstitution:\b 4 November 1972, effective 16 December 1972, suspended following coup of 24 March 1982, restored 10 November 1986, amended many times
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Shahabuddin AHMED (since 9 October 1996); note - the president's duties are normally ceremonial, but with the 13th amendment to the constitution ("Caretaker Government Amendment"), the president's role becomes significant at times when Parliament is dissolved and a caretaker government is installed - at presidential direction - to supervise the elections
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina WAJED (since 23 June 1996)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet selected by the prime minister and appointed by the president\Ielections:\i president elected by National Parliament for a five-year term; election last held 24 July 1996 (next to be held by NA October 2001); following legislative elections, the leader of the party that wins the most seats is usually appointed prime minister by the president
\Ielection results:\i Shahabuddin AHMED elected president without opposition; percent of National Parliament vote - NA
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Parliament or Jatiya Sangsad (330 seats; 300 elected by popular vote from single territorial constituencies, 30 seats reserved for women; members serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 12 June 1996 (next to be held NA 2001)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - AL 33.87%, BNP 30.87%; seats by party - AL 178, BNP 113, JP 33, JI 3, other 2, election still to be held 1; note - the elections of 12 June 1996 brought to power an Awami League government for the first time in twenty-one years; held under a neutral, caretaker administration, the elections were characterized by a peaceful, orderly process and massive voter turnout, ending a bitter two-year impasse between the former BNP and opposition parties that had paralyzed National Parliament and led to widespread street violence
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, the Chief Justices and other judges are appointed by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JBangladesh\j Nationalist Party (BNP), Khaleda ZIAur RAHMAN; Awami League (AL), Sheikh Hasina WAJED; Jatiyo Party (JP), Hussain Mohammad ERSHAD; Jamaat-E-Islami (JI), Motiur Rahman NIZAMI; \JBangladesh\j Communist Party (BCP), Saifuddin Ahmed MANIK
\BFlag description:\b green with a large red disk slightly to the hoist side of center; green is the traditional color of Islam
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Despite sustained domestic and international efforts to improve economic and demographic prospects, \JBangladesh\j remains one of the world's poorest, most densely populated, and least developed nations. Annual GDP growth has averaged over 4% in recent years from a low base. Its economy is largely 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 \Jenergy\j resources (\Jnatural gas\j), inadequate power supplies, and slow implementation of economic reforms. Frequent strikes that crippled the economy in 1995 and early 1996 subsided after Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina WAJED's Awami League government assumed power in mid-1996, allowing a return to normal economic activity. The current government has made some headway improving the climate for foreign investors and liberalizing the capital markets; for example, it has negotiated with foreign firms for oil and gas exploration, better countrywide distribution of cooking gas, and the construction of \Jnatural gas\j pipelines and power plants. Progress on other economic reforms has been halting because of opposition from the bureaucracy, public sector unions, and other vested interest groups.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $155.1 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 4.7% (1996)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $1,260 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary forces (includes \JBangladesh\j Rifles, \JBangladesh\j Ansars, Armed Police Reserve, Village Defense Parties, National Cadet Corps)
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 32,797,816 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 19,406,790 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $481 million (FY95/96)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 1.7% (FY95/96)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b a portion of the boundary with India in dispute; \JBangladesh\j and India signed a treaty 12 December 1996 to share \Jwater\j from the Ganges
\BIllicit drugs:\b transit country for illegal drugs produced in neighboring countries
#
"Barbados (Atlas)",23,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, island between the \JCaribbean Sea\j and the North \JAtlantic Ocean\j, northeast of Venezuela
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 10 N, 59 32 W
\BMap references:\b \JCentral America\j and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 430 sq km
\Iland:\i 430 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b 2.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 97 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical; rainy season (June to October)
\BTerrain:\b relatively flat; rises gently to central highland region
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JAtlantic Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Hillaby 336 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, fish, natural gas
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b \Jpollution\j of coastal waters from waste disposal by ships; soil erosion; illegal solid waste disposal threatens contamination of aquifers
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Biodiversity
\BGeography - note:\b easternmost Caribbean island
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 258,756 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 24% (male 31,025; female 30,197)
\I15-64 years:\i 66% (male 83,977; female 87,208)
\I65 years and over:\i 10% (male 10,002; female 16,347) (July 1997 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.12% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 15.35 births/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 8.25 deaths/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -5.87 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 17.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 74.6 years
\Imale:\i 71.84 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.43 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.88 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Barbadian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Barbadian
\BEthnic groups:\b black 80%, white 4%, other 16%
\BReligions:\b Protestant 67% (Anglican 40%, Pentecostal 8%, Methodist 7%, other 12%), Roman Catholic 4%, none 17%, unknown 3%, other 9% (1980)
\BLanguages:\b English
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over has ever attended school
\Itotal population:\i 97.4%
\Imale:\i 98%
\Ifemale:\i 96.8% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Barbados
\BData code:\b BB
\BGovernment type:\b parliamentary democracy
\BNational capital:\b Bridgetown
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 11 parishes; Christ Church, Saint Andrew, Saint George, Saint James, Saint John, Saint Joseph, Saint Lucy, Saint Michael, Saint Peter, Saint Philip, Saint Thomas
\Inote:\i the city of \JBridgetown\j may be given parish status
\BIndependence:\b 30 November 1966 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 30 November (1966)
\BConstitution:\b 30 November 1966
\BLegal system:\b English \Jcommon law\j; no judicial review of legislative acts
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II of the UK (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General Sir Clifford Straughn HUSBANDS (since 1 June 1996)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Owen Seymour ARTHUR (since 6 September 1994); Deputy Prime Minister Billie MILLER (since 6 September 1994)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
\Ielections:\i none; the queen is a hereditary monarch; governor general appointed by the queen; prime minister appointed by the governor general
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament consists of the Senate (21-member body appointed by the governor general) and the House of Assembly (28 seats; members are elected by direct popular vote to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i House of Assembly - last held 6 September 1994 (next to be held by January 1999)
\Ielection results:\i House of Assembly - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - BLP 19, DLP 8, NDP 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Judicature, judges are appointed by the Service Commissions for the Judicial and Legal Service
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Democratic Labor Party or DLP [David THOMPSON]; \JBarbados\j Labor Party or BLP [Owen ARTHUR]; National Democratic Party or NDP [Richard HAYNES]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b \JBarbados\j Workers Union [Leroy TROTMAN]; People's Progressive Movement [Eric SEALY]; Workers' Party of \JBarbados\j [Dr. George BELLE]; Clement Payne Labor Union [David COMMISSIONG]
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Courtney N. BLACKMAN
\Ichancery:\i 2144 Wyoming Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 939-9218, 9219
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 332-7467
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Miami and New York
\Iconsulate(s):\i Los Angeles
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Jeanette W. HYDE
\Iembassy:\i Canadian Imperial Bank of Commerce Building, Broad Street, Bridgetown
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 302, \JBridgetown\j; FPO AA 34055
\Itelephone:\i [1] (246) 436-4950
\IFAX:\i [1] (246) 429-5246
\BFlag description:\b three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), gold, and blue with the head of a black trident centered on the gold band; the trident head represents independence and a break with the past (the colonial coat of arms contained a complete trident)
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Historically, the Barbadian economy had been dependent on sugarcane cultivation and related activities, but in recent years the production has diversified into manufacturing and tourism. The start of the Port Charles Marina project in Speightstown helped the tourism industry continue to expand in 1996. The industry generated $331.8 million by the end of June and was expected to double by the end of the year. Prime Minister Owen ARTHUR called for "prudent" financial management to ensure that economic growth would continue. As part of his plan, the Prime Minister introduced a controversial Value Added Tax (VAT) in an effort to reform the tax administration process. The VAT will be administered at 15% for most industries and 7% for the tourism industry. The government has also continued its efforts to promote regional \Jintegration\j initiatives, to reduce the unacceptably high unemployment rate, and to encourage direct foreign investment.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $2.65 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 3.5% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $10,300 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i services and government 41%, commerce 15%, manufacturing and construction 18%, transportation, storage, communications, and financial institutions 8%, agriculture 6%, utilities 2% (1992 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 16.2% (1996)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $550 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $710 million, including capital expenditures of $86 million (FY95/96 est.)
\BIndustries:\b tourism, sugar, light manufacturing, component assembly for export
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b 7.7% (1995)
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 153,000 kW (1995)
\BElectricity - production:\b 644 million kWh (1995)
\BElectricity - consumption per capita:\b 2,208 kWh (1995 est.)
\BMilitary branches:\b Royal \JBarbados\j Defense Force (includes Ground Forces and Coast Guard), Royal \JBarbados\j Police Force
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 71,547 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 49,446 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $NA
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes -international:\b none
\BIllicit drugs:\b one of many Caribbean transshipment points for \Jnarcotics\j bound for the US and Europe
#
"Bassas da India (Atlas)",24,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, islands in the southern Mozambique Channel, about one-half of the way from Madagascar to Mozambique
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 21 30 S, 39 50 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 0.2 sq km
\Iland:\i 0.2 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b about one-third the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 35.2 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical
\BTerrain:\b a volcanic rock 2.4 meters high
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 3 m
\BNatural resources:\b none
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 0%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100% (all rock)
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km (1993)
\BNatural hazards:\b maritime hazard since it is usually under \Jwater\j during high tide and surrounded by reefs; subject to periodic cyclones
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b NA
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Bassas da India
\BData code:\b BS
\BDependency status:\b possession of \JFrance\j; administered by a high commissioner of the Republic, resident in Reunion
\BNational capital:\b none; administered by \JFrance\j from Reunion
\BIndependence:\b none (possession of \JFrance\j)
\BFlag description:\b the flag of \JFrance\j is used
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b no economic activity
\BTransportation\b
\BPorts and harbors:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of France
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b claimed by Madagascar
#
"Belarus (Atlas)",25,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Europe, east of Poland
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 53 00 N, 28 00 E
\BMap references:\b Commonwealth of Independent States
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 207,600 sq km
\Iland:\i 207,600 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Kansas
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,098 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JLatvia\j 141 km, \JLithuania\j 502 km, \JPoland\j 605 km, \JRussia\j 959 km, \JUkraine\j 891 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BClimate:\b cold winters, cool and moist summers; transitional between continental and maritime
\BTerrain:\b generally flat and contains much marshland
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Nyoman River 90 m
\Ihighest point:\i Dzyarzhynskaya Hara 346 m
\BNatural resources:\b forests, \Jpeat\j deposits, small quantities of oil and natural gas
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 29%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 15%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 34%
\Iother:\i 21% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 1,000 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b NA
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b soil \Jpollution\j from \Jpesticide\j use; southern part of the country contaminated with fallout from 1986 nuclear reactor accident at Chornobyl' in northern Ukraine
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, \JBiodiversity\j, Environmental Modification, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Climate Change, Law of the Sea
\Inote:\i administrative divisions have the same names as their administrative centers (exceptions have the administrative center name following in parentheses) \BIndependence:\b 25 August 1991 (from \JSoviet Union\j); the Belarusian Supreme Soviet issued a proclamation of independence; on 17 July 1990 Belarus issued a declaration of sovereignty
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 3 July (1990); note - date set by referendum of November 1996
\BConstitution:\b referendum of 27 November 1996 (declared illegitimate by the international community) adopted a new constitution massing power in the hands of the president; signed into law on 28 November 1996
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Aleksandr LUKASHENKO (since 20 July 1994)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Sergey LING (acting since NA November 1996, confirmed NA February 1997); First Deputy Prime Minister Pyotr PROKOPOVICH (since NA); Deputy Prime Ministers Vladimir GARKUN (since NA), Valeriy KOKAREV (since NA), Vladimir RUSAKEVICH (since NA), Vasyl DALGALYOV (since NA)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 24 June and 10 July 1994 (next to be held NA 2001 because of the additional two years provided by the November 1996 referendum); prime minister appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i Aleksandr LUKASHENKO elected president; percent of vote - Aleksandr
LUKASHENKO 85%, Vyacheslav KEBICH 15%
\Inote:\i first presidential elections took place in June-July 1994
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament established by the 28 November Constitution consists of the Council of the Republic (64 seats; the president appoints 8 and each oblast plus the Minsk city government elect 8) and the Chamber of Representatives (110 seats; note - present members came from the defunct Supreme Soviet)
\Ielections:\i last held May and November-December 1995 (two rounds, each with a run-off; next to be held NA 2000)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - 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; note - after the November 1996 referendum, seats for the Chamber of Representatives were filled by former Supreme Soviet members as follows: PKB 24, Agrarian 14, Party of Peoples Concord 5, LDPB 1, UPNAZ 1, Green World Party 1, Belarusian Social Sports Party 1, Ecological Party 1, Republican Party of Labor and Justice 1, independents 60; 58 of the 64 seats in the Council of the Republic have been appointed/elected\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the president; Constitutional Court, half of the judges appointed by the president and half appointed by the Chamber of Representatives
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Belarusian Communist Party or KPB [Yefrem SOKOLOV and Viktor CHIKIN, chairmen]; Agrarian Party [Aleksandr PAVLOV, chairman]; Civic Accord Bloc (United Civic Party) or CAB [Stanislav BOGDANKEVICH, chairman]; Party of People's Concord [Leonid SECHKO, chairman]; Party of All-Belarusian Unity and Concord or UPNAZ [Dmitriy BULAKOV, chairman]; Belarusian Social-Democrat Hramada or SDBP [Nikolai STATKEVICH, chairman]; Belarusian Patriotic Movement (Belarusian Patriotic Party) or BPR [Anatol BARANKEVICH]; Green Party of Belarus [Nikolai KARTASH, chairman]; Republican Party of Labor and Justice [Anatol NETYLKIN, chairman]; Belarus Peasants or BSP [Yevgeniy LUGIN, chairman]; Belarusian Popular Front or NFB [Levon BARSHEVSKIY, acting chairman]; Belarusian Social Sports Party [Aleksandr ALEKSANDROVICH, chairman]; Ecological Party [Liudmila YELIZAROVA, chairman]; National Democratic Party of Belarus or NDPB [Viktor NAUMENKO, chairman]; United Democratic Party of Belarus or ADPB [Aleksandr DOBROVOLSKIY]; Belarusian Socialist Party or SPB [Vyacheslav KUZNETSOV]; Slavic Assembly or SAB [Nikolai SYARECHEV]; Liberal-Democratic Party or LDPB [Sergei GAIDUKEVICH, chairman]; Belarusian Christian-Democratic Unity or BKDZ [Petr SILKO]; Polish Democratic Union or PDZ [Konstantin TARASEVICH]; Party of Beer Lovers [Yuriy GONCHAR]; Party of Communists Belarusian or PKB [Sergei KALYAKIN and Vasiliy NOVIKOV, chairmen]; Belarusian Labor Party or BPP [Aleksandr BUKHVOSTOV] \BInternational organization participation:\b BIS, CCC, CEI, \JCIS\j, EBRD, ECE, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, Inmarsat, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), \JInterpol\j, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NACC, OSCE, PCA, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNIDO, UPU, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO (applicant)
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador-designate Valeriy TSEPKALO
\Ichancery:\i 1619 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 986-1604
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 986-1805
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Kenneth Spencer YALOWITZ
\Iembassy:\i Starovilenskaya
46-220002, Minsk
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i [375] (172) 31-50-00
\IFAX:\i [375] (172) 34-78-53
\BFlag description:\b red horizontal band (top) and green horizontal band one-half the width
of the red band; a white vertical stripe of white on the hoist side bears
in red the Belarusian national ornament
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b At the time of independence in late 1991, \JBelarus\j was one of the most
developed of the former Soviet states, inheriting a modern - by Soviet standards - machine building sector and robust agricultural sector. However, the breakup of the \JSoviet Union\j and its traditional trade ties in December 1991, as well as the government's failure to embrace market reforms, has resulted in a sharp economic decline. Privatization is virtually nonexistent and the system of state orders and distribution persists. Although President LUKASHENKO pronounces his 1995 macro stabilization policies a success - annual \Jinflation\j dropped from 2,220% in 1994 to 244% in 1995 - the IMF has criticized his exchange rate policies and suspended Minsk's $300 million standby program in November 1995. The overvalued ruble has especially hurt Belarusian exporters, most of which now operate at a loss. In addition, the January 1995 Customs Union agreement with \JRussia\j - which required Minsk to adjust its foreign trade practices to mirror Moscow's - has resulted in higher import tariffs for Belarusian consumers; tariffs rose from 5%-20% to 20%-40%. In general, as of the beginning of 1997, Belarus has badly lagged in moving away from the old centrally planned policies of the former USSR.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $51.9 billion (1996 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 3% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $5,000 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i industry and construction 36%, agriculture and \Jforestry\j 19%, services 45% (1995)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 3.1% officially registered unemployed (December 1996); large numbers of underemployed workers
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b tractors, metal-cutting machine tools, off-highway dump trucks up to 110-metric-ton load capacity, wheel-type \Jearth\j movers for construction and mining, eight-wheel-drive, high-flotation trucks with cargo capacity of 25 metric tons for use in \Jtundra\j and roadless areas, equipment for animal husbandry and livestock feeding, motorcycles, \Jtelevision\j sets, chemical fibers, \Jfertilizer\j, linen fabric, wool fabric, radios, refrigerators, other consumer goods
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b 3.2% (1996 est.)
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 7.21 million kW (1994)
\BTelephone system:\b \Jtelephone\j service inadequate for the purposes of either business or the population; about 70% of the telephones are in homes; over 750,000 applications from households for telephones remain unsatisfied (1992 est.); new investment centers on international connections and business needs
\Idomestic:\i the new NMT-450 analog cellular system is now operating in Minsk
\Iinternational:\i international traffic is carried by the Moscow international gateway switch and also by \Jsatellite\j; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations - 1 Intelsat (through Canada) and 1 Eutelsat (through the UK)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 35, FM 18, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 3.17 million (1991 est.) (5,615,000 with multiple speaker systems for program diffusion)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2 (one national and one private; the license of the private station was suspended during the parliamentary elections of 1994)
\BTelevisions:\b 3.5 million (1992 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,488 km
\Ibroad gauge:\i 5,488 km 1.520-m gauge (873 km electrified) (1993)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 51,547 km
\Ipaved:\i 50,825 km
\Iunpaved:\i 722 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b NA km; note - \JBelarus\j has extensive and widely used canal and river systems
\Inote:\i claims 5% of former Soviet fleet (1995 est.)
\BAirports:\b 118 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 36
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 2
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 18
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 5
\Iunder 914 m:\i 11 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 82
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 1
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 6
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 4
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 9
\Iunder 914 m:\i 62 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Air Force, Air Defense Force, Interior Ministry Troops, Border Guards
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,659,236 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 2,083,696 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 77,496 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b 2.4 trillion rubles (1997); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b treaty with \JLithuania\j defining the border awaits demarcation
\BIllicit drugs:\b limited cultivation of opium poppy and cannabis, mostly for the domestic market; transshipment point for illicit drugs to \JRussia\j and Western Europe
#
"Belgium (Atlas)",26,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Europe, bordering the North Sea, between \JFrance\j and the Netherlands \BGeographic coordinates:\b 50 50 N, 4 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 30,510 sq km
\Iland:\i 30,230 sq km
\Iwater:\i 280 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b about the size of Maryland
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,385 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JFrance\j 620 km, \JGermany\j 167 km, Luxembourg 148 km, Netherlands 450 km \BCoastline:\b 64 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontinental shelf:\i median line with neighbors
\Iexclusive fishing zone:\i median line with neighbors (extends about 68 km from coast)
\BTerrain:\b flat coastal plains in northwest, central rolling hills, rugged mountains of Ardennes Forest in southeast
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i North Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Signal de Botrange 694 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jcoal\j, natural gas
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 24%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 20%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 21%
\Iother:\i 34%
\BIrrigated land:\b 10 sq km including Luxembourg (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b flooding is a threat in areas of reclaimed coastal land, protected from the sea by concrete dikes
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b Meuse River, a major source of drinking \Jwater\j, polluted from steel production wastes; other rivers polluted by animal wastes and fertilizers; industrial air \Jpollution\j contributes to \Jacid rain\j in neighboring countries
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Law of the Sea
\BGeography - note:\b crossroads of Western Europe; majority of West European capitals within 1,000 km of Brussels which is the seat of both the EU and NATO
\Inote:\i constitutional reforms passed by Parliament in 1993 theoretically increased the number of provinces to 10 by splitting the province of Brabant into two new provinces, Flemish Brabant and \JWalloon\j Brabant, but this has not been confirmed by the US Government
\BIndependence:\b 4 October 1830 (from the Netherlands)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 21 July (\Jascension\j of King LEOPOLD to the throne in 1831) \BConstitution:\b 7 February 1831, last revised 14 July 1993; parliament approved a constitutional package creating a federal state
\BLegal system:\b civil law system influenced by English constitutional theory; judicial review of legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i King ALBERT II (since 9 August 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Jean-Luc DEHAENE (since 6 March 1992)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the king and approved by Parliament \Ielections:\i none; the king is a constitutional monarch; prime minister appointed by the king and then approved by Parliament
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament consists of a Senate or Senaat in Flemish, Senat in French (71 seats; 40 members are directly elected, 31 will be indirectly elected at a later date; members serve four-year terms) and a Chamber of Deputies or Kamer van Volksvertegenwoordigers in Flemish, Chambre des Representants in French (150 seats; members are directly elected by proportional representation to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i Senate and Chamber of Deputies - last held 21 May 1995 (next to be held by the end of 1999)
\Ielection results:\i Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - 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 - percent of vote by party - 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 by party - 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 \Inote:\i as a result of the 1993 constitutional revision that furthered \Jdevolution\j into a federal state, there are now three levels of government (federal, regional, and linguistic community) with a complex division of responsibilities; this reality leaves six governments each with its own legislative assembly; for other acronyms of the listed parties see Political parties and leaders
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Justice or Hof van Cassatie in Flemish, Cour de Cassation in French, judges are appointed for life by the Belgian monarch
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Flemish Christian Democrats or CVP (Christian People's Party) [Marc VAN PEEL, president]; Francophone Christian Democrats or PSC (Social Christian Party) [Gerard DEPREZ, president]; Flemish Socialist Party or SP [Louis TOBBACK, president]; Francophone Socialist Party or PS [Philippe BUSQUIN, president]; Flemish Liberal Democrats or VLD [Herman DE CROO, president]; Francophone Liberal Reformation Party or PRL [Louis MICHEL, president]; Francophone Democratic Front or FDF [Olivier MAINGAIN, president]; Volksunie or VU [Bert ANCIAUX, president]; Vlaams Blok or VB; National Front or FN [Frank VANHECKE, president]; AGALEV (Flemish Greens) [no president]; ECOLO (Francophone Greens) [no president]; other minor parties
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Christian and Socialist Trade Unions; Federation of Belgian Industries; numerous other associations representing bankers, manufacturers, middle-class artisans, and the legal and medical professions; various organizations represent the cultural interests of Flanders and Wallonia; various peace groups such as the Flemish Action Committee Against Nuclear Weapons and Pax Christi
\Ichancery:\i 3330 Garfield Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 333-6900
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 333-3079
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JAtlanta\j, \JChicago\j, Los Angeles, and New York
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Alan J. BLINKEN
\Iembassy:\i 27 Boulevard du Regent, B-1000 Brussels
\Imailing address:\i APO AE 09724, PSC 82, Box 002, Brussels
\Itelephone:\i [32] (2) 508-2111
\IFAX:\i [32] (2) 511-2725
\BFlag description:\b three equal vertical bands of black (hoist side), yellow, and red; the design was based on the flag of France
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b This highly developed private enterprise economy has capitalized on its central geographic location, highly developed transport network, and diversified industrial and commercial base. Industry is concentrated mainly in the populous Flemish area in the north, although the government is encouraging reinvestment in the southern region of \JWalloon\j. With few natural resources, \JBelgium\j must import substantial quantities of raw materials and export a large volume of manufactures, making its economy unusually dependent on the state of world markets. Two-thirds of its trade is with other EU countries. The economy grew at a strong 4% annual pace during the period 1988-90, slowed to 1% in 1991-92, dropped by 1.5% in 1993, recovered with moderate 2.3% growth in 1994 and 1995, and fell off again to 1.4% in 1996, with continued substantial unemployment. \JBelgium\j's public debt has risen to 140% of GDP, and the government is trying to control its expenditures to bring the figure more into line with other industrialized countries.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $204.8 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 1.4% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $20,300 (1996 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b highly developed, technologically advanced, and completely automated domestic and international \Jtelephone\j and telegraph facilities
\Iships by type:\i bulk 1, cargo 7, chemical tanker 4, combination bulk 2, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 10 (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 42 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 39
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 6
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 9
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 1
\Iunder 914 m:\i 21 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 3
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 3 (1996 est.)
\BHeliports:\b 1 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, National Gendarmerie
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 19 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,559,951 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 2,122,673 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 63,005 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $4.6 billion (1995)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 1.7% (1995)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
\BIllicit drugs:\b source of precursor chemicals for South American \Jcocaine\j processors; transshipment point for \Jcocaine\j, heroin, \Jhashish\j, and marijuana entering Western Europe
#
"Belize (Atlas)",27,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle America, bordering the \JCaribbean Sea\j, between \JGuatemala\j and Mexico \BGeographic coordinates:\b 17 15 N, 88 45 W
\BMap references:\b \JCentral America\j and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 22,960 sq km
\Iland:\i 22,800 sq km
\Iwater:\i 160 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Massachusetts
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 516 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JGuatemala\j 266 km, Mexico 250 km
\BCoastline:\b 386 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm in the north, 3 nm in the south; note - from the mouth of the Sarstoon River to Ranguana Cay, \JBelize\j's territorial sea is 3 nm; according to \JBelize\j's Maritime Areas Act, 1992, the purpose of this limitation is to provide a framework for the negotiation of a definitive agreement on territorial differences with Guatemala
\BClimate:\b tropical; very hot and humid; rainy season (May to February)
\BTerrain:\b flat, swampy coastal plain; low mountains in south
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JCaribbean Sea\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Victoria Peak 1,160 m
\BNatural resources:\b arable land potential, timber, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 2%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 2%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 92%
\Iother:\i 3% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 20 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b frequent, devastating hurricanes (September to December) and coastal flooding (especially in south)
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b deforestation; \Jwater\j \Jpollution\j from sewage, industrial effluents, agricultural runoff
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Ship Pollution, Whaling
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i none of the selected agreements
\BGeography - note:\b national capital moved 80 km inland from \JBelize\j City to Belmopan because of hurricanes; only country in \JCentral America\j without a coastline on the North Pacific Ocean
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 224,663 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 43% (male 48,921; female 47,057)
\I15-64 years:\i 54% (male 61,133; female 59,466)
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 3,965; female 4,121) (July 1997 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.42% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 31.91 births/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.61 deaths/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -2.12 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 62%, Protestant 30% (Anglican 12%, Methodist 6%, Mennonite 4%, Seventh-Day Adventist 3%, Pentecostal 2%, \JJehovah\j's Witnesses 1%, other 2%), none 2%, other 6% (1980)
\BLanguages:\b English (official), Spanish, Mayan, Garifuna (\JCarib\j)
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 14 and over has ever attended school
\Itotal population:\i 70.3%
\Imale:\i 70.3%
\Ifemale:\i 70.3% (1991 est.)
\Inote:\i other sources list the \Jliteracy\j rate as high as 75%
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Belize
\Iformer:\i British Honduras
\BData code:\b BH
\BGovernment type:\b parliamentary democracy
\BNational capital:\b Belmopan
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 6 districts; \JBelize\j, Cayo, Corozal, Orange Walk, Stann Creek, Toledo\BIndependence:\b 21 September 1981 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 21 September (1981)
\BConstitution:\b 21 September 1981
\BLegal system:\b English law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II of the UK (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General Sir Colville YOUNG (since 17 November 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Manuel ESQUIVEL (since July 1993); Deputy Prime Minister Dean BARROW (since NA July 1993)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the governor general on the advice of the prime minister
\Ielections:\i none; the queen is a hereditary monarch; governor general appointed by the queen; prime minister appointed by the governor general
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Assembly consists of the Senate (8 members; members are appointed for five-year terms, five on the advice of the prime minister, two on the advice of the leader of the opposition, and one after consultation with the \JBelize\j Advisory Council - this council serves as an independent body to advise the governor general with respect to difficult decisions such as granting pardons, commutations, stays of execution, the removal of justices of appeal who appear to be incompetent, etc.) and the National Assembly (29 seats; members are elected by direct popular vote to serve five-year terms)\Ielections:\i National Assembly - last held 30 June 1993 (next to be held no later than September 1998)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - PUP 13, UDP 15, NABR 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, the \Jchief justice\j is appointed by the governor general on advice of the prime minister
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b People's United Party or PUP [Said MUSA]; United Democratic Party or UDP [Manuel ESQUIVEL, Dean BARROW]; National Alliance for Belizean Rights or NABR [Philip GOLDSON]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Society for the Promotion of Education and Research or SPEAR [Assad SHOMAN]; United Workers Front
\Ichancery:\i 2535 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 332-9636
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 332-6888
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Los Angeles
\Iconsulate(s):\i New York
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador George Charles BRUNO
\Iembassy:\i Gabourel Lane and Hutson Street, \JBelize\j City
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 286, Unit 7401, APO AA 34025
\Itelephone:\i [501] (2) 77161 through 77163
\IFAX:\i [501] (2) 30802
\BFlag description:\b blue with a narrow red stripe along the top and the bottom edges; centered is a large white disk bearing the coat of arms; the coat of arms features a shield flanked by two workers in front of a mahogany tree with the related motto SUB UMBRA FLOREO (I Flourish in the Shade) on a scroll at the bottom, all encircled by a green garland
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b The small, essentially private enterprise economy is based primarily on agriculture, agro-based industry, and merchandising, with tourism and construction assuming increasing importance. Agriculture accounts for about 20% of GDP and provides 75% of export earnings, while sugar, the chief crop, accounts for almost 40% of hard currency earnings. The US, \JBelize\j's main trading partner, is assisting in efforts to reduce dependency on sugar with an agricultural diversification program.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $649 million (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 3% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $2,960 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary branches:\b \JBelize\j Defense Force (includes Army, Navy, Air Force, and Volunteer
Guard), \JBelize\j National Police
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 54,163 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 32,176 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 2,471 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $8.1 million (FY95/96)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b border with \JGuatemala\j in dispute; talks to resolve the dispute are ongoing \BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for \Jcocaine\j; small-scale illicit producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; minor money-laundering
#
"Benin (Atlas)",28,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the North \JAtlantic Ocean\j, between \JNigeria\j and Togo
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 9 30 N, 2 15 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 112,620 sq km
\Iland:\i 110,620 sq km
\Iwater:\i 2,000 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Pennsylvania
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,989 km
\Iborder countries:\i Burkina Faso 306 km, \JNiger\j 266 km, \JNigeria\j 773 km, \JTogo\j 644 km
\BCoastline:\b 121 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iterritorial sea:\i 200 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, humid in south; semiarid in north
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat to undulating plain; some hills and low mountains
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JAtlantic Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Tanekas 641 m
\BNatural resources:\b small offshore oil deposits, \Jlimestone\j, marble, timber
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 13%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 4%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 4%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 31%
\Iother:\i 48% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 100 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b hot, dry, dusty \Jharmattan\j wind may affect north in winter
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b recent droughts have severely affected marginal agriculture in north; inadequate supplies of potable \Jwater\j; poaching threatens wildlife populations; deforestation; desertification
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 102.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 53.15 years
\Imale:\i 51.15 years
\Ifemale:\i 55.21 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.56 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Beninese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Beninese
\BEthnic groups:\b African 99% (42 ethnic groups, most important being Fon, Adja, \JYoruba\j, Bariba), Europeans 5,500
\BReligions:\b indigenous beliefs 70%, Muslim 15%, Christian 15%
\BLanguages:\b French (official), Fon and \JYoruba\j (most common vernaculars in south), tribal languages (at least six major ones in north)
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 37%
\Imale:\i 48.7%
\Ifemale:\i 25.8% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Benin
\Iconventional short form:\i Benin
\Ilocal long form:\i Republique du Benin
\Ilocal short form:\i Benin
\Iformer:\i Dahomey
\BData code:\b BN
\BGovernment type:\b republic under multiparty democratic rule; dropped \JMarxism\j-\JLeninism\j December 1989; democratic reforms adopted February 1990; transition to multiparty system completed 4 April 1991
\BNational capital:\b Porto-Novo
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 6 provinces; Atakora, Atlantique, Borgou, Mono, Oueme, Zou
\BIndependence:\b 1 August 1960 (from \JFrance\j)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 1 August (1990)
\BConstitution:\b 2 December 1990
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law and customary law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Mathieu KEREKOU (since 4 April 1996); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Ihead of government:\i President Mathieu KEREKOU (since 4 April 1996); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government; Prime Minister Adrien HOUNGBEDJI (since 9 April 1996) acts as assistant to the president; a prime minister is not provided for in the constitution but was appointed by President KEREKOU with the permission of the constitutional court
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers headed by the prime minister; all are appointed by the president
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 18 March 1996 (next to be held March 2001)
\Ielection results:\i Mathieu KEREKOU elected president; percent of vote - Mathieu KEREKOU 52.49%, Nicephore SOGLO 47.51%
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Assembly or Assemblee Nationale (83 seats; members are elected by direct popular vote to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 28 March 1995 (next to be held NA 1999)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - RB 20, PRD 19, FARD-ALAFIA 10, PSD 7, NCC 3, RDL-VIVOTEN 3, Communist Party 2, Alliance Chameleon 1, RDP 1, other 17
\BJudicial branch:\b Constitutional Court or Cour Constitutionnelle, Supreme Court or Cour Supreme, High Court of Justice
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Alliance of the National Party for Democracy and Development or PNDD and the Democratic Renewal Party or PRD [Pascal Chabi KAO]; Action for Renewal and Development or FARD-ALAFIA [Mathieu KEREKOU]; Alliance of the Social Democratic Party or PSD and the National Union for Solidarity and Progress or UNSP [Bruno AMOUSSOU]; Alliance Chameleon; Alliance for Democracy and Progress or ADP [Adekpedjon AKINDES]; Alliance for Social Democracy or ASD [Robert DOSSOU]; Assembly of Liberal Democrats for National Reconstruction or RDL [Severin ADJOVI]; Communist Party of Benin, [Pascal FATONDJI, First Secretary]; Our Common Cause or NCC [Albert TEVOEDJRE]; Rally for Democracy and Progress or RDP; The Renaissance Party of Benin or RB [Nicephore SOGLO]
\Inote:\i as of February 1996, more than 80 political parties were officially recognized
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Lucien Edgar TONOUKOUIN
\Ichancery:\i 2737 Cathedral Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 232-6656, 6657, 6658
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 265-1996
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador John M. YATES
\Iembassy:\i Rue Caporal Bernard Anani, Cotonou
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 2012, Cotonou
\Itelephone:\i [229] 30-06-50, 30-05-13, 30-17-92
\IFAX:\i [229] 30-14-39, 30-19-74
\BFlag description:\b two equal horizontal bands of yellow (top) and red with a vertical green band on the hoist side
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b The economy of Benin remains underdeveloped and dependent on subsistence agriculture, cotton production, and regional trade. Growth in real output, which had averaged a sound 4% in 1990-95, rose to 5.5% in 1996. Rapid population growth offset much of this growth in output. Inflation jumped to 55% in 1994 (compared to 3% in 1993) following the 50% currency \Jdevaluation\j in January 1994, but has subsided gradually over the past two years, with 14.5% \Jinflation\j in 1995 and a target of 4.5% \Jinflation\j in 1996. Commercial and transport activities, which make up a large part of GDP, are extremely vulnerable to developments in \JNigeria\j as evidenced by decreased reexport trade in 1994 due to a severe contraction in Nigerian demand. Support by the Paris Club and official bilateral creditors has eased the external debt situation in recent years. The government, still burdened with money-losing state enterprises and a bloated civil service, has been gradually implementing a World Bank supported structural adjustment program since 1991.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $8.2 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 5.5% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $1,440 (1996 est.)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2
\BTelevisions:\b 20,000 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 578 km (single track)
\Inarrow gauge:\i 578 km 1.000-m gauge (1995 est.)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 8,460 km
\Ipaved:\i 2,656 km
\Iunpaved:\i 5,804 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b navigable along small sections, important only locally
\BPorts and harbors:\b \JCotonou\j, Porto-Novo
\BMerchant marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b 5 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 2
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 2 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 3
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 2 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Armed Forces (includes Army, Navy, Air Force), National Gendarmerie
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,261,059
\Ifemales age 15-49:\i 1,333,966 (1997 est.)
\Inote:\i both sexes are liable for military service
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 645,660 (1997 est.)
\Ifemales:\i 675,243 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 64,028
\Ifemales:\i 63,056 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $33 million (1994)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 3.2% (1994)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for \Jnarcotics\j associated with Nigerian trafficking
organizations and most commonly destined for Western Europe and the US
#
"Bermuda (Atlas)",29,0,0,0
\I(dependent territory of the UK)\i
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JNorth America\j, group of islands in the North \JAtlantic Ocean\j, east of \JNorth Carolina\j (US)
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 32 20 N, 64 45 W
\BMap references:\b North America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 50 sq km
\Iland:\i 50 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b about 0.3 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 103 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive fishing zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b subtropical; mild, humid; gales, strong winds common in winter
\BTerrain:\b low hills separated by fertile depressions
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JAtlantic Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Town Hill 76 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jlimestone\j, pleasant climate fostering tourism
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i NA%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i NA%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 20%
\Iother:\i 80% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b hurricanes (June to November)
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b \Jasbestos\j disposal; \Jwater\j pollution
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b consists of about 360 small \Jcoral\j islands with ample rainfall, but no rivers or freshwater lakes; some reclaimed land was leased by US Government from 1941 to 1995
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 62,569 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.75% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 14.92 births/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 7.3 deaths/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.13 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Itotal population:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 13.16 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 75.03 years
\Imale:\i 73.36 years
\Ifemale:\i 76.97 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.79 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Bermudian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Bermudian
\BEthnic groups:\b black 61%, white and other 39%
\BReligions:\b Anglican 28%, Roman Catholic 15%, African Methodist Episcopal (Zion) 12%, Seventh-Day Adventist 6%, Methodist 5%, other 34% (1991)
\BLanguages:\b English
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 98%
\Imale:\i 98%
\Ifemale:\i 99% (1970 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Bermuda
\BData code:\b BD
\BDependency status:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BGovernment type:\b NA
\BNational capital:\b Hamilton
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 parishes and 2 municipalities*; Devonshire, Hamilton, Hamilton*, Paget, Pembroke, Saint George*, Saint Georges, Sandys, Smiths, \JSouthampton\j, Warwick\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b \JBermuda\j Day, 24 May
\BConstitution:\b 8 June 1968
\BLegal system:\b English law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II of the UK (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor John MASEFIELD (since June 1997)
\Ihead of government:\i Premier Pamela GORDON (since 25 March 1997); Deputy Premier Jerome DILL (since 1 September 1995)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet nominated by the premier, appointed by the governor
\Ielections:\i none; the queen is a hereditary monarch; governor appointed by the queen; premier appointed by the governor
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament consists of the Senate (an 11-member body appointed by the governor) and the House of Assembly (40 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 5 October 1993 (next to be held by NA October 1998)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - UBP 50%, PLP 46%, independents 4%; seats by party - UBP 22, PLP 18
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b United \JBermuda\j Party or UBP [Pamela GORDON]; Progressive Labor Party or PLP [Jennifer SMITH]; National Liberal Party or NLP [Charles JEFFERS]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b \JBermuda\j Industrial Union or BIU [Derrick BURGESS]
\BInternational organization participation:\b Caricom (observer), CCC, ICFTU, \JInterpol\j (subbureau), IOC
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Consul General Robert A. FARMER
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Crown Hill, 16 Middle Road, Devonshire, Hamilton
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box HM325, Hamilton HMBX; American Consulate General Hamilton, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-5300
\Itelephone:\i [1] (441) 295-1342
\IFAX:\i [1] (441) 295-1592
\BFlag description:\b red with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Bermudian coat of arms (white and blue shield with a red lion holding a scrolled shield showing the sinking of the ship Sea Venture off \JBermuda\j in 1609) centered on the outer half of the flag
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b \JBermuda\j enjoys one of the highest per capita incomes in the world, having successfully exploited its location by providing financial services for international firms and luxury tourist facilities for 200,000 visitors annually. The tourist industry attracts 91% of its business from \JNorth America\j. The industrial sector is small, and agriculture is severely limited by a lack of suitable land. About 80% of food needs are imported. International business contributes over 60% of \JBermuda\j's economic output; a failed independence vote in late 1995 can be partially attributed to Bermudian's fear of scaring away foreign firms.\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.8 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 2.4% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $29,000 (1996 est.)
\Inote:\i a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 11 countries among which are UK 26, Canada 12, US 9, \JNorway\j 7, Hong Kong 4, \JNigeria\j 4, Sweden 4, \JSwitzerland\j 2, Mexico 1, and \JRomania\j 1; \JBermuda\j owns 48 additional ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 5,911,678 DWT that operate under Australian, Bahamian, Hong Kong, Liberian, Panamanian and Singaporean registry (1996 est.)\BAirports:\b 1 (1996 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b violent storms coming down from the \JHimalayas\j are the source of the country's name which translates as Land of the Thunder Dragon; frequent landslides during the rainy season
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b soil erosion; limited access to potable water
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Nuclear Test Ban
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Law of the Sea
\BGeography - note:\b landlocked; strategic location between China and India; controls several key Himalayan mountain passes
\BReligions:\b Lamaistic \JBuddhism\j 75%, Indian- and Nepalese-influenced \JHinduism\j 25%
\BLanguages:\b Dzongkha (official), Bhotes speak various Tibetan dialects, Nepalese speak various Nepalese dialects
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 42.2%
\Imale:\i 56.2%
\Ifemale:\i 28.1% (1995 est.)
\BPeople - note:\b refugee issue over the presence in \JNepal\j of approximately 100,000 Bhutanese refugees, 90% of whom are in seven United Nations Office of the High Commissioner for Refugees (UNHCR) camps
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Kingdom of Bhutan
\Iconventional short form:\i Bhutan
\BData code:\b BT
\BGovernment type:\b monarchy; special treaty relationship with India
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 17 December (1907) (Ugyen WANGCHUCK became first hereditary king)
\BConstitution:\b no written constitution or bill of rights
\Inote:\i \JBhutan\j uses 1953 Royal decree for the Constitution of the National Assembly
\BLegal system:\b based on Indian law and English \Jcommon law\j; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b each family has one vote in village-level elections
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i King Jigme Singye WANGCHUCK (since 24 July 1972); note - the king is both the chief of state and head of government
\Ihead of government:\i King Jigme Singye WANGCHUCK (since 24 July 1972); note - the king is both the chief of state and head of government
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers (Lhengye Shungtsog) appointed by the king
\Inote:\i there is also a Royal Advisory Council (Lodoi Tsokde), members nominated by the king
\Ielections:\i none; the king is a hereditary monarch
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Assembly or Tshogdu (150 seats; 105 elected from village constituencies, 12 represent religious bodies, and 33 are designated by the king to represent government and other secular interests; members serve three-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held NA (next to be held NA)
\Ielection results:\i NA
\BJudicial branch:\b the Supreme Court of Appeal is the king; High Court, judges appointed by the king
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b no legal parties
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Buddhist \Jclergy\j; Indian merchant community; ethnic Nepalese organizations leading militant antigovernment campaign
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none; note - \JBhutan\j has a Permanent Mission to the UN, headed by Ugyen TSERING; address: 2 United Nations Plaza, 27th Floor, New York, NY 10017; \Jtelephone\j [1] (212) 826-1919; the Bhutanese mission to the UN has consular \Jjurisdiction\j in the US
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\Ihonorary consulate(s):\i \JSan Francisco\j; Washington, DC
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b the US and \JBhutan\j have no formal diplomatic relations, although informal contact is maintained between the Bhutanese and US Embassy in New Delhi (India) \BFlag description:\b divided diagonally from the lower hoist side corner; the upper triangle is yellow and the lower triangle is orange; centered along the dividing line is a large black and white dragon facing away from the hoist side
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b The economy, one of the world's smallest and least developed, is based on agriculture and \Jforestry\j, which provide the main livelihood for 90% of the population and account for about 40% of GDP. Agriculture consists largely of subsistence farming and animal husbandry. Rugged mountains dominate the terrain and make the building of roads and other \Jinfrastructure\j difficult and expensive. The economy is closely aligned with India's through strong trade and monetary links. The industrial sector is small and technologically backward, with most production of the cottage industry type. Most development projects, such as road construction, rely on Indian migrant labor. \JBhutan\j's hydropower potential and its attraction for tourists are key resources; however, the government limits the number of tourists to 4,000 per year to minimize foreign influence. The Bhutanese Government has made some progress in expanding the nation's productive base and improving social welfare, but growth continues to be constrained by the government's desire to protect the country's environment and cultural traditions. Growth picked up in 1995 and the country's balance of payments remained strong with comfortable reserves. The cautious fiscal stance planned for FY95/96 suggests continued economic stability in 1996. However, excessive controls and uncertain policies in areas like industrial licensing, trade, labor, and finance continue to hamper foreign investment.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.3 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 6.9% (1995 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $730 (1995 est.)
\Itotal value:\i $113.6 million (c.i.f., FY94/95 est.)
\Icommodities:\i fuel and lubricants, grain, machinery and parts, vehicles, fabrics, rice
\Ipartners:\i India 77%, \JJapan\j, UK, \JGermany\j, US
\BDebt - external:\b $141 million (October 1994)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 ngultrum (Nu) = 100 chetrum; note - Indian currency is also legal tender
\BExchange rates:\b ngultrum (Nu) per US$1 - 35.872 (January 1997), 35.433 (1996), 32.427 (1995), 31.374 (1994), 30.493 (1993), 25.918 (1992); note - the Bhutanese ngultrum is at par with the Indian rupee
\BFiscal year:\b 1 July - 30 June
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 4,620 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i domestic \Jtelephone\j service is very poor with very few telephones in use
\Iinternational:\i international \Jtelephone\j and telegraph service is by landline through India; a \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station was planned (1990)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0 (1990)
\BRadios:\b 23,000 (1989 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0 (1990 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 200 (1985 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,210 km
\Ipaved:\i 0 km
\Iunpaved:\i 2,210 km (1995 est.)
\BPorts and harbors:\b none
\BAirports:\b 2 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Royal \JBhutan\j Army, Palace Guard, Militia
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 455,556 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 243,156 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 18,290 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $NA
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
#
"Bolivia (Atlas)",31,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central \JSouth America\j, southwest of Brazil
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 17 00 S, 65 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,098,580 sq km
\Iland:\i 1,084,390 sq km
\Iwater:\i 14,190 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly less than three times the size of Montana
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 6,743 km
\Iborder countries:\i Argentina 832 km, \JBrazil\j 3,400 km, \JChile\j 861 km, \JParaguay\j 750 km, \JPeru\j 900 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BClimate:\b varies with altitude; humid and tropical to cold and semiarid
\BTerrain:\b rugged \JAndes\j Mountains with a highland plateau (\JAltiplano\j), hills, lowland plains of the Amazon Basin
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 65.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 60.34 years
\Imale:\i 57.46 years
\Ifemale:\i 63.38 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 4.18 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Bolivian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Bolivian
\BEthnic groups:\b \JQuechua\j 30%, Aymara 25%, mestizo (mixed white and Amerindian ancestry)
25%-30%, white 5%-15%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 95%, Protestant (Evangelical Methodist)
\BLanguages:\b Spanish (official), \JQuechua\j (official), Aymara (official)
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 83.1%
\Imale:\i 90.5%
\Ifemale:\i 76% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Bolivia
\Iconventional short form:\i Bolivia
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de Bolivia
\Ilocal short form:\i Bolivia
\BData code:\b BL
\BGovernment type:\b republic
\BNational capital:\b La Paz (seat of government); Sucre (legal capital and seat of judiciary)\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Chuquisaca, Cochabamba, Beni, La Paz, Oruro, Pando, \JPotosi\j, Santa Cruz, Tarija
\BIndependence:\b 6 August 1825 (from \JSpain\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 6 August (1825)
\BConstitution:\b 2 February 1967; revised in August 1994
\BLegal system:\b based on Spanish law and Napoleonic Code; has not accepted compulsory
ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age, universal and compulsory (married); 21 years of age,
universal and compulsory (single)
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Gonzalo SANCHEZ DE LOZADA Bustamente (since 6 August 1993);
Vice President Victor Hugo CARDENAS Conde (since 6 August 1993); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Ihead of government:\i President Gonzalo SANCHEZ DE LOZADA Bustamente (since 6 August 1993);
Vice President Victor Hugo CARDENAS Conde (since 6 August 1993); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the president from a panel of candidates proposed by the Senate
\Ielections:\i president and vice president elected on the same ticket by popular vote for four-year terms; election last held 6 June 1993 (next to be held June 1997); Constitutional reforms extend presidential and vice presidential terms to 5 years beginning in 1997
\Ielection results:\i Gonzalo SANCHEZ DE LOZADA elected president; percent of vote - 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
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Congress or Congreso Nacional consists of Chamber of Senators or Camara de Senadores (27 seats; members are directly elected by popular vote to serve four-year terms) and Chamber of Deputies or Camara de Diputados (130 seats; members are directly elected by popular vote to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i Chamber of Senators and Chamber of Deputies - last held 6 June 1993 (next to be held June 1997); Constitutional reforms extend congressional terms to 5 years beginning in 1997
\Ielection results:\i Chamber of Senators - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - MNR 17, ADN 4, MIR 4, CONDEPA 1, UCS 1; Chamber of Deputies - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - MNR 52, UCS 20, ADN 17, MIR 17, CONDEPA 13, MBL 7, ARBOL 1, ASD 1, EJE 1, PDC 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges appointed for a 10-year term by National Congress
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \ILeft Parties:\i Free \JBolivia\j Movement or MBL [Antonio ARANIBAR]; Patriotic Axis of Convergence or EJE-P [Ramiro BARRANECHEA]; April 9 Revolutionary Vanguard or VR-9 [Carlos SERRATE]; Alternative of Democratic Socialism or ASD [Jerjes JUSTINIANO]; Revolutionary Front of the Left or FRI [Oscar ZAMORA]; Bolivian Communist Party or PCB [Marcos DOMIC]; United Left or IU [Marcos DOMIC]; Assembly for the Sovereignty of the People or ASP [Evo MORALES]; Front of National Salvation or FSN [Manual MORALES Davila]; Socialist Party One or PS-1; Bolivian Socialist \JFalange\j or FSB; Socialist Unzaguista Movement or MAS
\ICenter-Left Parties:\i Movement of the Revolutionary or MIR [Jaime PAZ ZAMORA]; Christian Democrat or PDC [Benjamin MIGUEL]; New Youth Force [Alfonso SAAVEDRA Bruno]
\ICenter Party:\i Nationalist Revolutionary Movement or MNR [Gonzalo SANCHEZ DE LOZADA]\ICenter-Right Parties:\i Nationalist Democratic Action or ADN [Hugo BANZER]; New Republican Force or NFR [Manfred REYES VILLA]
\IPopulist Parties:\i Civic Solidarity Union or UCS [Johnny FERNANDEZ]; Conscience of the Fatherland or CONDEPA [Remedios LOZA Alvarado]; Solidarity and Democracy or SYD; Unity and Progress Movement or MUP [Ivo KULJIS]; Popular Patriotic Movement or MPP [Julio MANTILLA]
\IEvangelical Party:\i Bolivian Renovating Alliance or ARBOL [Marcelo FERNANDEZ, Hugo VILLEGAS]\IIndigenous Parties:\i Tupac Katari Revolutionary Liberation Movement or MRTK-L [Victor Hugo CARDENAS Conde]; Nationalist Katarista Movement or MKN [Fernando UNTOJA]; Front of Katarista Unity or FULKA [Genaro FLORES]; Katarismo National Unity or KND [Filepe KITTELSON]
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Fernando Alvaro COSSIO
\Ichancery:\i 3014 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 483-4410 through 4412
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 328-3712
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Los Angeles, Miami, New York, and San Francisco
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Curtis Warren KAMMAN
\Iembassy:\i Avenida Arce 2780, San Jorge, La Paz
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 425, La Paz; APO AA 34032
\Itelephone:\i [591] (2) 430251
\IFAX:\i [591] (2) 433900
\BFlag description:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), yellow, and green with the coat of arms centered on the yellow band; similar to the flag of \JGhana\j, which has a large black five-pointed star centered in the yellow band
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b With its long history of semifeudal social controls, dependence on volatile prices for its mineral exports, and bouts of hyperinflation, \JBolivia\j has remained one of the poorest and least developed Latin American countries. However, \JBolivia\j has experienced generally improving economic conditions since the PAZ Estenssoro administration (1985-89) introduced market-oriented policies which reduced 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 \JBolivia\j'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 include the signing of a \Jfree trade\j agreement with Mexico and the Southern Cone Common Market (Mercosur) as well as the privatization of the state airline, phone company, railroad, electric power company, and oil company. Furthermore, SANCHEZ DE LOZADA sponsored legislation creating private social security accounts for all adult Bolivians and capitalized these new accounts with the state's remaining 50% share in the privatized companies.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $21.5 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 3.9% (1996)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $3,000 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary branches:\b Army (Ejercito Boliviano), Navy (Fuerza Naval Boliviana, includes Marines), Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Boliviana), National Police Force (Policia Nacional de Bolivia)
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 19 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,811,952 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 1,178,259 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 80,606 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $145 million (1996)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 1.9% (1996)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b has wanted a sovereign corridor to the South \JPacific Ocean\j since the Atacama area was lost to \JChile\j in 1884; dispute with \JChile\j over Rio Lauca \Jwater\j rights
\BIllicit drugs:\b world's third-largest cultivator of \Jcoca\j (after \JPeru\j and \JColombia\j) with an estimated 48,100 hectares under cultivation in 1996, a one percent decrease in overall cultivation of \Jcoca\j over 1995 levels; \JBolivia\j, however, is the second-largest producer of \Jcoca\j leaf; even so, voluntary and forced eradication programs resulted in leaf production dropping from 85,000 metric tons in 1995 to 75,100 tons in 1996; government considers all but 12,000 hectares illicit; intermediate \Jcoca\j products and \Jcocaine\j exported to or through \JColombia\j and \JBrazil\j to the US and other international drug markets; alternative crop program aims to reduce illicit coca cultivation.
#
"Bosnia and Herzegovina (Atlas)",32,0,0,0
\BIntroduction\b
\BCurrent issues:\b 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. In 1995-96, a \JNATO\j-led international peacekeeping force (IFOR) of 60,000 troops served in Bosnia to implement and monitor the military aspects of the agreement. IFOR was succeeded by a smaller, \JNATO\j-led Stabilization Force (SFOR) whose mission is to deter renewed hostilities. SFOR will remain in place until June 1998. 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. The Federation, formed by the Muslims and Croats in March 1994, is one of two entities (the other being the Bosnian Serb-led Republika Srpska) that comprise Bosnia and Herzegovina.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea and Croatia
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 44 00 N, 18 00 E
\BMap references:\b Bosnia and Herzegovina, Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 51,233 sq km
\Iland:\i 51,233 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than West Virginia
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,459 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JCroatia\j 932 km, \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j 527 km (312 km with \JSerbia\j, 215 km with \JMontenegro\j)
\BCoastline:\b 20 km
\BMaritime claims:\b NA
\BClimate:\b hot summers and cold winters; areas of high elevation have short, cool summers and long, severe winters; mild, rainy winters along coast
\BNatural hazards:\b frequent and destructive earthquakes
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b air \Jpollution\j from metallurgical plants; sites for disposing of urban waste are limited; widespread casualties, \Jwater\j shortages, and destruction of \Jinfrastructure\j because of the 1992-95 civil strife
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Air Pollution, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i none of the selected agreements
\BGeography - note:\b within Bosnia and Herzegovina's recognized borders, the country is divided into a joint Muslim-Croat Federation (about 51% of the territory) and a Serb Republic, The Republika Srpska [RS] (about 49% of the territory); the region called Herzegovina is contiguous to \JCroatia\j and traditionally has been settled by an ethnic Croat majority
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 3,222,584 (July 1997 est.)
\Inote:\i all data dealing with population is subject to considerable error because of the dislocations caused by military action and ethnic cleansing
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 37 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 59.42 years
\Imale:\i 54.58 years
\Ifemale:\i 64.59 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.09 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Bosnian(s), Herzegovinian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Bosnian, Herzegovinian
\BEthnic groups:\b Serb 40%, Muslim 38%, Croat 22% (est.)
\BReligions:\b Muslim 40%, Orthodox 31%, Catholic 15%, Protestant 4%, other 10%
\BLanguages:\b Serbo-Croatian (often called Bosnian) 99%
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Bosnia and Herzegovina
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Bosna i Hercegovina
\BData code:\b BK
\BGovernment type:\b emerging democracy
\BNational capital:\b Sarajevo
\BAdministrative divisions:\b there are no first-order administrative divisions approved by the US Government, but it has been reported that the Muslim/Croat Federation is comprised of 10 cantons called by either number or name - Goradzde (5), Livno (10), Middle Bosnia (6), Neretva (7), Posavina (2), \JSarajevo\j (9), Tuzla Podrinje (3), Una Sana (1), West Herzegovina (8), Zenica Doboj (4)
\BIndependence:\b NA April 1992 (from Yugoslavia)
\BNational holiday:\b Republika Srpska - "Republic Day", 9 January; Independence Day, 1 March; Bosnia - "Republic Day", 25 November
\BConstitution:\b the Dayton Agreement, signed 14 December 1995, included a new constitution now in force
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 16 years of age, if employed; 18 years of age, universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Chairman of the Presidency Alija IZETBEGOVIC (since 14 September 1996); other members of the three-member rotating presidency: Kresimir ZUBAK (since 14 September 1996 - Croat) and Momcilo KRAJISNIK (since 14 September 1996 - Serb)
\Ihead of government:\i Cochairman of the Council of Ministers Haris SILAJDZIC (since NA January 1997); Cochairman of the Council of Ministers Boro BOSIC (since NA January 1997) NA
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers nominated by the council chairmen
\Inote:\i president of the Muslim-Croat Federation of Bosnia and Herzegovina: Vladimir SOLJIC (since March 1997); president of the Republika Srpska: Biljana PLAVSIC (since September 1996)
\Ielections:\i the three presidency members (one each Muslim, Croat, Serb) are elected by direct election (first election for a two-year term, thereafter for a four-year term); the president with the most votes becomes the chairman; election last held 14 September 1996 (next to be held September 1998); the cochairmen are nominated by the presidency
\Ielection results:\i Alija IZETBEGOVIC elected chairman of the collective presidency with the highest number of votes; percent of vote - Alija IZETBEGOVIC received 80% of the Muslim vote to Haris SILAJDZIC's 14%; Kresimir ZUBAK received 88% of the Croat vote to Ivo KOMSIC's 11%; Momcilo KRAJISNIK received 68% of the Serb vote to Mladen IVANIC's 30%
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliamentary Assembly or Skupstina consists of the National \JHouse of Representatives\j or Vijece Opcina (42 seats - 14 Serb, 14 Croat, and 14 Muslim; members serve NA-year terms) and the House of Peoples or Vijece Gradanstvo (15 seats - 5 Muslim, 5 Croat, 5 Serb; members serve NA-year terms) \Ielections:\i National \JHouse of Representatives\j - elections last held 14 September 1996 (next to be held NA); note - the House of Peoples are elected by the Muslim-Croat Federation's 140-seat \JHouse of Representatives\j (two-thirds) and the Bosnian Serb Republic's 83-seat National Assembly (one-third)
\Ielection results:\i National \JHouse of Representatives\j: two-thirds chosen from the Muslim-Croat Federation: percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - SDA 16, HDZ-BiH 7, Joint List of Social Democrats 3, Party for Bosnia and Herzegovina 2; one-third chosen from the Bosnian Serb Republic: percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - SDS 9, SDA 3, Democratic Patriotic Front/Union for Peace and Progress 2
\Inote:\i the Muslim-Croat Federation has a \JHouse of Representatives\j with 140 seats: seats by party - SDA 80, HDZ-BiH 33, Party for Bosnia and Herzegovina 11, Joint List of Social Democrats 10, other 6; the Republika Srpska has a National Assembly with 83 seats: seats by party - SDS 50, Democratic Patriotic Front/Union for Peace and Progress 10, Serb Radical Party 7, SDA 6, other 10
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Party of Democratic Action or SDA [Alija IZETBEGOVIC]; Croatian Democratic Union of BiH or HDZ-BiH [Bozo RAJIC]; Serb Democratic Party or SDS [Alexander BUHA, acting president]; Party for Bosnia [Haris SILAJDZIC]; Joint List of Social Democrats; Democratic Patriotic Front/Union for Peace and Progress; Civic Democratic Party or GDS [Ibrahim SPAHIC]; Croatian Peasants' Party of BiH or HSS [Stanko STISKOVIC]; Independent Serbian Democratic Party or NSDS [Milorad DODIK]; Liberal Bosniak Organization or LBO [Muhamed FILIPOVIC]; Liberal Party or LS [Rasim KADIC, president]; Muslim-Bosniac Organization or MBO [Adil ZULFIKARPASIC]; Republican Party of Bosnia and Herzegovina [Stjepan KLJUIC]; Serb Civic Council or SGV [Mirko PEJANOVIC]; Serb Consultative Council [Ljubomir BERBEROVIC]; Social Democratic Party or SDP (formerly the Democratic Party of Socialists or DSS) [Zlatko LAGUMOZIJA, president]; Socialist Party of Republika Srpska [Zivko RADISIC]; Union of Social Democrats or SSDB [Selim BESLAGIC]; United Left of the Bosnian Serb Republic or ULRS [Mile IVOSEVIC]; Yugoslav United Left or JUL [CAREVIC]; Social Liberal Party [Miodrag ZIVANOVIC]; Serb Radical Party [Miodrag RAKIC]; Serb Patriotic Party [Slavko ZUPLJANIN]; Serb Homeland Party; Party of Serbian Unity; Republik Srpska Independent Social Democrats [Branko DOKIC, president]; Serb Party of Posavina and \JKrajina\j [Predrag LAZAREVIC]; National Democratic Union [Fikret ABDIC]
\Inote:\i 82 parties are registered for the September 1997 municipal elections
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b NA
\BInternational organization participation:\b CE (guest), CEI, ECE, FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFAD, IFC, ILO, IMF, IMO, Intelsat, \JInterpol\j, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, NAM (guest), OIC (observer), OSCE, UN, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Sven ALKALAJ
\Ichancery:\i Suite 760, 1707 L Street NW, Washington, DC 20036
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 833-3612, 3613, 3615
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 833-2061
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Robert BEECROFT
\Iembassy:\i 43 Ul. Djure Djakovica, Sarajevo
\Imailing address:\i American Embassy \JSarajevo\j, US Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-7130 \Itelephone:\i [387] (71) 445-700
\IFAX:\i [387] (71) 659-722
\BFlag description:\b white with a large blue shield; the shield contains white fleurs-de-lis with a white diagonal band running from the upper hoist corner to the lower outer side
\BGovernment - note:\b Until declaring independence in spring 1992, Bosnia and Herzegovina existed as a republic in the Federal Republic of Yugoslavia. Bosnia was partitioned by fighting during 1992-95 and governed by competing ethnic factions. Bosnia's current governing structures were created by the Dayton Accords, the 1995 peace agreement which was officially signed in Paris on 14 December 1995 by Bosnian President IZETBEGOVIC, Croatian President TUDJMAN, and Serbian President MILOSEVIC. This agreement retained Bosnia's exterior border and created a joint multi-ethnic and democratic government. This national government - based on proportional representation similar to that which existed in the former socialist regime - is charged with conducting foreign, economic, and fiscal policy. The Dayton Accords also recognized a second tier of government, comprised of two entities - a joint Muslim-Croat Federation and the Bosnian Serb Republika Srpska (RS) - each presiding over roughly one-half the territory. These Federation and RS governments are charged with overseeing internal functions. As mandated by the Dayton Accords, the Bosnians on 14 September 1996 participated in the first post-war elections of national, entity, and cantonal leaders. The Bosnians have been slow to form and install new joint institutions. A new Federation cabinet was sworn in 18 December 1996 and the new Bosnian central government cabinet was confirmed on 3 January 1997.
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Bosnia and Herzegovina ranked next to The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia as the poorest republic in the old Yugoslav federation. Although agriculture has been almost all in private hands, farms have been small and inefficient, and the republic traditionally has been a net importer of food. Industry has been greatly overstaffed, one reflection of the rigidities of communist central planning and management. TITO had pushed the development of military industries in the republic with the result that Bosnia hosted a large share of Yugoslavia's defense plants. The bitter interethnic warfare in Bosnia caused production to plummet by perhaps 90% since 1990, unemployment to soar, and human misery to multiply. No reliable economic statistics for 1992-96 are available, although output almost certainly is well below $1,000 per head. In the Federation, unemployment remains in the 40%-50% range and \Jinflation\j is low. By contrast, growth in the Republika Srpska in 1996 was flat and \Jinflation\j surpassed 30%. The country receives substantial amounts of humanitarian aid from the international community. Wide regional differences
in war damage and access to the outside world have resulted in substantial
variations in living conditions among local areas.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.9 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $600 (1995 est.)
\BGDP - composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\BInflation rate - consumer price index:\b NA%
\BLabor force:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,026,254
\Iby occupation:\i NA%
\BUnemployment rate:\b officially about 70% but probably much lower, perhaps 40%-50% (1996 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b steel, \Jcoal\j, iron ore, lead, zinc, \Jmanganese\j, \Jbauxite\j, vehicle assembly, textiles, \Jtobacco\j products, wooden furniture, tank and \Jaircraft\j assembly, domestic appliances, oil refining; much of capacity damaged or shut down (1995)
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b NA%
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 3.991 million kW (1991)
\BCurrency:\b 1 dinar = 100 para; Croatian kuna used in Croat-held area; old and new Serbian dinars used in Serb-held area; the deutsche mark (DM) has supplanted local currencies throughout Bosnia
\BExchange rates:\b NA
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 727,000
\BTelephone system:\b \Jtelephone\j and telegraph network is in need of modernization and expansion; many urban areas are below average when compared with services in other former Yugoslav republics
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i no \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 9, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 840,000
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 6
\BTelevisions:\b 1,012,094
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,021 km (electrified 795 km; operating as diesel or steam until grids are repaired)
\Istandard gauge:\i 1,021 km 1.435-m gauge (1995); note - some segments need repair and/or reconstruction
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 21,168 km
\Ipaved:\i 11,436 km
\Iunpaved:\i 9,732 km (1991 est.)
\Inote:\i roads need maintenance and repair
\BWaterways:\b NA km; Sava blocked by downed bridges
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 174 km; \Jnatural gas\j 90 km (1992); note - pipelines now disrupted
\BPorts and harbors:\b Bosanski Brod (access to Ploce, \JCroatia\j)
\BMerchant marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b 24 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 14
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 3
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 1
\Iunder 914 m:\i 7 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 10
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 9 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Army
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 19 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 865,763 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 696,202 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 23,771 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $NA
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b disputes with \JSerbia\j over Serbian populated areas
\BIllicit drugs:\b transit point for minor regional marijuana trafficking routes
#
"Botswana (Atlas)",33,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, north of South Africa
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 22 00 S, 24 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 600,370 sq km
\Iland:\i 585,370 sq km
\Iwater:\i 15,000 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Texas
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,013 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JNamibia\j 1,360 km, South Africa 1,840 km, Zimbabwe 813 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BClimate:\b semiarid; warm winters and hot summers
\BTerrain:\b predominately flat to gently rolling tableland; \JKalahari\j Desert in southwest
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i junction of the Limpopo and Shashe Rivers 513 m
\Ihighest point:\i Tsodilo Hill 1,489 m
\BNatural resources:\b diamonds, copper, nickel, salt, soda ash, \Jpotash\j, \Jcoal\j, iron ore, silver
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 1%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 46%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 47%
\Iother:\i 6% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 20 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b periodic droughts; seasonal August winds blow from the west, carrying sand and dust across the country, which can obscure visibility
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b overgrazing; \Jdesertification\j; limited fresh \Jwater\j resources
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Desertification, \JEndangered Species\j, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i none of the selected agreements
\BGeography - note:\b landlocked; population concentrated in eastern part of the country
\BEthnic groups:\b Batswana 95%, Kalanga, Basarwa, and Kgalagadi 4%, white 1%
\BReligions:\b indigenous beliefs 50%, Christian 50%
\BLanguages:\b English (official), Setswana
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 69.8%
\Imale:\i 80.5%
\Ifemale:\i 59.9% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Botswana
\Iconventional short form:\i Botswana
\Iformer:\i Bechuanaland
\BData code:\b BC
\BGovernment type:\b parliamentary republic
\BNational capital:\b Gaborone
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 10 districts and four town councils*; Central, Chobe, \JFrancistown\j*, \JGaborone\j*, Ghanzi, Kgalagadi, Kgatleng, Kweneng, Lobatse*, Ngamiland, North-East, Selebi-Phikwe*, South-East, Southern
\BIndependence:\b 30 September 1966 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 30 September (1966)
\BConstitution:\b March 1965, effective 30 September 1966
\BLegal system:\b based on Roman-Dutch law and local customary law; judicial review limited to matters of interpretation; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Sir Ketumile MASIRE (since 13 July 1980); Vice President Festus MOGAE (since 9 March 1992); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Ihead of government:\i President Sir Ketumile MASIRE (since 13 July 1980); Vice President Festus MOGAE (since 9 March 1992); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the president
\Ielections:\i president elected by the National Assembly for a five-year term; election last held 15 October 1994 (next to be held NA October 1999); vice president appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i Sir Ketumile MASIRE elected president; percent of National Assembly vote - NA
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament consists of the House of Chiefs (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) and the National Assembly (44 seats, 40 members are directly elected by popular vote and 4 appointed by the majority party; members serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i National Assembly - elections last held 15 October 1994 (next to be held October 1999)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - BDP 27, BNF 13
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court; Court of Appeal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JBotswana\j Democratic Party or BDP [Sir Ketumile MASIRE]; \JBotswana\j Freedom Party or BFP [leader NA]; \JBotswana\j National Front or BNF [Kenneth KOMA]; \JBotswana\j People's Party or BPP [Knight MARIPE]; Independence Freedom Party or IFP [Motsamai MPHO]
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Archibald Mooketsa MOGWE
\Ichancery:\i Suite 7M, 3400 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 244-4990, 4991
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 244-4164
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Robert C. KRUEGER (14 June 1996)
\Iembassy:\i address NA, Gaborone
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 90, Gaborone
\Itelephone:\i [267] 353982
\IFAX:\i [267] 356947
\BFlag description:\b light blue with a horizontal white-edged black stripe in the center
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Agriculture still provides a livelihood for more than 80% of the population but supplies only about 50% of food needs and accounts for only 4% of GDP. Subsistence farming and \Jcattle\j raising predominate. The sector is plagued by erratic rainfall and poor soils. Substantial mineral deposits were found in the 1970s and the mining sector grew from 25% of GDP in 1980 to 33% in 1995. The unemployment rate remains a problem at 21%. On the plus side is the substantial positive trade balance.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $4.6 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 5% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $3,100 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i 220,000 formal sector employees, including 14,300 who are employed in various mines in South Africa; most others are engaged in \Jcattle\j raising and subsistence agriculture (1992 est.)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 21% (1995 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $1.8 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $1.9 billion, including capital expenditures of $613 million (FY95/96)
\BIndustries:\b diamonds, copper, nickel, \Jcoal\j, salt, soda ash, \Jpotash\j; livestock processing\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b 4.6% (FY92/93)
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 197,000 kW (1993)
\BElectricity - production:\b 950 million kWh (1994)
\BElectricity - consumption per capita:\b 747 kWh (1993 est.)
\Icommodities:\i diamonds 71%, copper and nickel 5%, meat 3%
\Ipartners:\i Europe 81%, Southern African Customs Union (SACU) 14%, Zimbabwe 3%
\BImports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $1.5 billion (c.i.f., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i foodstuffs, vehicles and transport equipment, textiles, \Jpetroleum\j products\Ipartners:\i Southern African Customs Union (SACU) 78%, Europe 8%, Zimbabwe 6%
\BDebt - external:\b $691 million (1994)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $189 million (1993)
\BCurrency:\b 1 pula (P) = 100 thebe
\BExchange rates:\b pula (P) per US$1 - 3.6417 (January 1997), 3.3014 (1996), 2.7716 (1995), 2.6831 (1994), 2.4190 (1993), 2.1327 (1992)
\BFiscal year:\b 1 April - 31 March
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 19,109 (1985 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b sparse system
\Idomestic:\i small system of open-wire lines, microwave radio relay links, and a few radiotelephone communication stations
\Iinternational:\i microwave radio relay links to \JZambia\j, Zimbabwe and South Africa; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 7, FM 13, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0 (1988 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 13,800 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 971 km
\Inarrow gauge:\i 971 km 1.067-m gauge (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 11,800 km
\Ipaved:\i 1,676 km
\Iunpaved:\i 10,124 km (1995 est.)
\BPorts and harbors:\b none
\BAirports:\b 80 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 34
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 1
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 9
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 1
\Iunder 914 m:\i 22 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 46
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 43 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b \JBotswana\j Defense Force (includes Army and Air Wing), \JBotswana\j National Police
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 343,929 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 180,692 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 17,632 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $199 million (FY93/94)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 5.2% (FY93/94)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b quadripoint with \JNamibia\j, Democratic Republic of the \JCongo\j, and Zimbabwe is in disagreement; dispute with \JNamibia\j over uninhabited Kasikili (Sidudu) Island in Linyanti (Chobe) River remained unresolved in January 1996 and the parties have agreed to refer the matter to the ICJ
#
"Bouvet Island (Atlas)",34,0,0,0
\I(territory of \JNorway\j) \i
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, island in the South \JAtlantic Ocean\j, south-southwest of the Cape of Good Hope (South Africa)
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 54 26 S, 3 24 E
\BMap references:\b Antarctic Region
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 58 sq km
\Iland:\i 58 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b about 0.3 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 29.6 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iterritorial sea:\i 4 nm
\BClimate:\b antarctic
\BTerrain:\b volcanic; maximum elevation about 800 meters; coast is mostly inaccessible
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JAtlantic Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 780 m
\BNatural resources:\b none
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 0%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100% (all ice)
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km (1993)
\BNatural hazards:\b NA
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b NA
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b covered by glacial ice
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Bouvet Island
\BData code:\b BV
\BDependency status:\b territory of Norway
\BFlag description:\b the flag of \JNorway\j is used
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b no economic activity; declared a nature reserve
\BCommunications\b
\BCommunications - note:\b automatic meteorological station
\BTransportation\b
\BPorts and harbors:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of Norway
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
#
"Brazil (Atlas)",35,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern \JSouth America\j, bordering the Atlantic Ocean
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 10 00 S, 55 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 8,511,965 sq km
\Iland:\i 8,456,510 sq km
\Iwater:\i 55,455 sq km
\Inote:\i includes Arquipelago de Fernando de Noronha, Atol das Rocas, Ilha da Trindade, Ilhas Martin Vaz, and Penedos de Sao Pedro e Sao Paulo
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than the US
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 14,691 km
\Iborder countries:\i Argentina 1,224 km, \JBolivia\j 3,400 km, \JColombia\j 1,643 km, French Guiana 673 km, \JGuyana\j 1,119 km, \JParaguay\j 1,290 km, \JPeru\j 1,560 km, Suriname 597 km, Uruguay 985 km, Venezuela 2,200 km
\BCoastline:\b 7,491 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 24 nm
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200 nm
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b mostly tropical, but temperate in south
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat to rolling lowlands in north; some plains, hills, mountains, and narrow coastal belt
\BNatural hazards:\b recurring droughts in northeast; floods and occasional frost in south\BEnvironment - current issues:\b 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 \Jwater\j \Jpollution\j in \JRio de Janeiro\j, Sao Paulo, and several other large cities; land degradation and \Jwater\j \Jpollution\j caused by improper mining activities
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands, Whaling
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Desertification, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeography - note:\b largest country in \JSouth America\j; shares common boundaries with every South American country except \JChile\j and Ecuador
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 53.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 61.42 years
\Imale:\i 56.78 years
\Ifemale:\i 66.3 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.29 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Brazilian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Brazilian
\BEthnic groups:\b white (includes Portuguese, German, Italian, Spanish, Polish) 55%, mixed white and black 38%, black 6%, other (includes Japanese, Arab, Amerindian) 1%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic (nominal) 70%
\BLanguages:\b Portuguese (official), Spanish, English, French
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 83.3%
\Imale:\i 83.3%
\Ifemale:\i 83.2% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Federative Republic of Brazil
\Iconventional short form:\i Brazil
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica Federativa do Brasil
\Ilocal short form:\i Brasil
\BData code:\b BR
\BGovernment type:\b federal republic
\BNational capital:\b Brasilia
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 26 states (estados, singular - estado) and 1 federal district* (distrito federal); Acre, Alagoas, Amapa, Amazonas, \JBahia\j, Ceara, Distrito Federal*, Espirito Santo, Goias, Maranhao, Mato Grosso, Mato Grosso do Sul, Minas Gerais, Para, Paraiba, Parana, Pernambuco, Piaui, \JRio de Janeiro\j, Rio Grande do Norte, Rio Grande do Sul, Rondonia, Roraima, Santa Catarina, Sao Paulo, Sergipe, Tocantins \BIndependence:\b 7 September 1822 (from \JPortugal\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 7 September (1822)
\BConstitution:\b 5 October 1988
\BLegal system:\b based on Roman codes; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b voluntary between 16 and 18 years of age and over 70; compulsory over 18 and under 70 years of age
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Fernando Henrique CARDOSO (since 1 January 1995); Vice President Marco MACIEL (since 1 January 1995); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Ihead of government:\i President Fernando Henrique CARDOSO (since 1 January 1995); Vice President Marco MACIEL (since 1 January 1995); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the president
\Ielections:\i president and vice president elected on the same ticket by popular vote for four-year terms; election last held 3 October 1994 (next to be held NA October 1998)
\Ielection results:\i Fernando Henrique CARDOSO elected president; percent of vote - 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
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Congress or Congresso Nacional consists of the Federal Senate or Senado Federal (81 seats; three members from each state or federal district elected according to the principle of majority to serve eight-year terms; one-third elected after a four year period, two-thirds elected after the next four-year period ) and the Chamber of Deputies or Camara dos Deputados (513 seats; members are elected by proportional representation to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i Federal Senate - last held 3 October 1994 for two-thirds of Senate (next to be held October 1998 for one-third of the Senate); Chamber of Deputies - last held 3 October 1994 (next to be held October 1998)
\Ielection results:\i Federal Senate - percent of vote by party - PMBD 28%, PFL 22%, PSDB 12%, PPR 7%, PDT 7%, PT 6%, PTB 6%, other 12%; seats by party - NA; Chamber of Deputies - percent of vote by party - PMDB 21%, PFL 18%, PDT 7%, PSDB 12%, PPR 10%, PTB 6%, PT 10%, other 16%; seats by party - NA
\Inote:\i party totals since the fall of 1994 have changed considerably due to extensive party-switching
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Federal Tribunal, judges are appointed for life by the president and confirmed by the Senate
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Brazilian Democratic Movement Party or PMDB [Paes DE ANDRADE, president]; Liberal Front Party or PFL [Jose JORGE, president]; Workers' Party or PT [Jose DIRCEU, president]; Brazilian Workers' Party or PTB [Rodrigues PALMA, president]; Democratic Labor Party or PDT [Leonel BRIZOLA, president]; Brazilian Progressive Party or PPB [Espiridiao AMIN, president]; Brazilian Social Democracy Party or PSDB [Artur DA TAVOLA, president]; Popular Socialist Party or PPS [Roberto FREIRE, president]; Communist Party of Brazil or PCdoB [Joao AMAZONAS, chairman]; Liberal Party or PL [Alvaro VALLE, president]; Progressive Reform Party or PPR [Esperido AMIN, president]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b left wing of the \JCatholic Church\j and labor unions allied to leftist Workers' Party are critical of government's social and economic policies
\BInternational organization participation:\b AfDB, AG (observer), BIS (pending member), CCC, ECLAC, FAO, G-11, G-15, G-19, G-24, \JG-7\j7, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, \JInterpol\j, IOC, IOM (observer), ISO, ITU, LAES, LAIA, Mercosur, MTCR, NAM (observer), OAS, OPANAL, PCA, RG, UN, UNAVEM III, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNPREDEP, UNTAES, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Paulo Tarso FLECHA de LIMA
\Ichancery:\i 3006 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 238-2700
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 238-2827
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, San Juan (Puerto Rico), and San Francisco
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Melvyn LEVITSKY
\Iembassy:\i Avenida das Nacoes, Lote 3, \JBrasilia\j, Distrito Federal
\Imailing address:\i Unit 3500, APO AA 34030
\Itelephone:\i [55] (61) 321-7272
\IFAX:\i [55] (61) 225-9136
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JRio de Janeiro\j, Sao Paulo
\Iconsulate(s):\i Recife
\BFlag description:\b green with a large yellow diamond in the center bearing a blue celestial globe with 27 white five-pointed stars (one for each state and the Federal District) arranged in the same pattern as the night sky over \JBrazil\j; the globe has a white equatorial band with the motto ORDEM E PROGRESSO (Order and Progress)
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Possessing large and well-developed agricultural, mining, manufacturing, and service sectors, \JBrazil\j's economy outweighs that of all other South American countries and is expanding its presence in world markets. Prior to the institution of a stabilization plan - the Plano Real (Real Plan) - in mid-1994, stratospheric \Jinflation\j rates had disrupted economic activity and discouraged foreign investment. Since then, tight monetary policy has brought \Jinflation\j under control - consumer prices increased by only 10% in 1996 compared to more than 1,000% in 1994. At the same time, GDP growth slowed from 5.7% in 1994 to 2.9% in 1996 due to tighter credit. The steadily appreciating currency has also encouraged imports, contributing to a growing trade deficit, and depressed export growth. \JBrazil\j's more stable economy allowed it to \Jweather\j the fallout in 1995 from the Mexican peso crisis relatively well, and record levels of foreign investment have since flowed in, helping to swell official foreign exchange reserves to $60 billion in 1996; stock markets reflected this increased investor confidence, gaining 53% in dollar terms. President CARDOSO remains committed to further reducing \Jinflation\j in 1997 and putting \JBrazil\j on track for expanded economic growth, but he faces several key challenges. Fiscal reforms requiring constitutional amendments are stalled in the Brazilian legislature; in their absence, the government is continuing to run deficits and has limited room to relax its interest and exchange rate policies much if it wants to keep \Jinflation\j under control. High interest rates have made servicing domestic debt dramatically more burdensome for both public and private sector entities, contributing to federal and state budget problems and a surge in bankruptcies.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.022 trillion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 2.9% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $6,300 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i services 42%, agriculture 31%, industry 27%
\BUnemployment rate:\b 5.2% (1996 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $86 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $90 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995)
\BIndustries:\b textiles, shoes, chemicals, cement, lumber, iron ore, tin, steel, \Jaircraft\j, motor vehicles and parts, other machinery and equipment
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b 3.5% (1995 est.)
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 59.036 million kW (1995)
(1994); CR$ per US$1 - 390.845 (January 1994), 88.449 (1993), 4.513 (1992) \Inote:\i on 1 August 1993 the cruzeiro real (CR$), equal to 1,000 cruzeiros, was introduced; another new currency, the real (R$) was introduced on 1 July 1994, equal to 2,750 cruzeiro reais
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 14,426,673 (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b good working system
\Idomestic:\i extensive microwave radio relay system and a domestic \Jsatellite\j system with 64 \Jearth\j stations
\Inote:\i \JBrazil\j owns 16 additional ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 1,270,275 DWT that operate under Bahamian, Liberian, Panamanian, and St. Vincent and the Grenadines registry (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 2,871 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,658
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 5
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 19
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 125
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 304
\Iunder 914 m:\i 1,205 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,213
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 67
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 1,146 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Brazilian Army, Brazilian Navy (includes Marines), Brazilian Air Force,
Federal Police (paramilitary)
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 45,876,084 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 30,843,947 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 1,756,732 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $6.736 billion (1994)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 1.1% (1994)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b short section of the boundary with \JParaguay\j, just west of Salto das Sete Quedas (Guaira Falls) on the Rio Parana, has not been precisely delimited; 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
\BIllicit drugs:\b limited illicit producer of cannabis, minor \Jcoca\j cultivation in the Amazon region, mostly used for domestic consumption; government has a large-scale eradication program to control cannabis; important transshipment country for Bolivian and Colombian \Jcocaine\j headed for the US and Europe
#
"British Indian Ocean Territory (Atlas)",36,0,0,0
British Indian Ocean Territory
\I(dependent territory of the UK)\i
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Asia, archipelago in the Indian Ocean, about one-half the way from Africa to Indonesia
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 6 00 S, 71 30 E
\BMap references:\b World
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 60 sq km
\Iland:\i 60 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\Inote:\i includes the entire Chagos Archipelago
\BArea - comparative:\b about 0.3 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 698 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive fishing zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 3 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical marine; hot, humid, moderated by trade winds
\BTerrain:\b flat and low (up to four meters in elevation)
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location on Diego Garcia 15 m
\BNatural resources:\b coconuts, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i NA%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i NA%
\Iforests and woodland:\i NA%
\Iother:\i 100% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km (1993)
\BNatural hazards:\b NA
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b NA
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b archipelago of 2,300 islands; Diego Garcia, largest and southernmost
island, occupies strategic location in central Indian Ocean; island is site of joint US-UK military facility
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous inhabitants
\Inote:\i there are UK-US military personnel and civilian contractors; civilian inhabitants, known as the Ilois, evacuated to \JMauritius\j before construction of UK-US military facilities
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i British Indian Ocean Territory
\Iconventional short form:\i none
\Iabbreviation:\i BIOT
\BData code:\b IO
\BDependency status:\b dependent territory of the UK; administered by a commissioner, resident
in the Foreign and Commonwealth Office in London
\BNational capital:\b none
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II of the UK (since 6 February 1952)
\Ihead of government:\i Commissioner David Ross MACLENNAN (since NA 1994); Administrator Don CAIRNS (since NA); note - both reside in the UK
\Icabinet:\i NA
\Ielections:\i none; the queen is a hereditary monarch; commissioner and administrator appointed by the queen
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BFlag description:\b white with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and six blue wavy horizontal stripes bearing a palm tree and yellow crown centered on the outer half of the flag
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b All economic activity is concentrated on the largest island of Diego Garcia, where joint UK-US defense facilities are located. Construction projects and various services needed to support the military installations are done by military and contract employees from the UK, \JMauritius\j, the \JPhilippines\j, and the US. There are no industrial or agricultural activities on the islands.
\BElectricity - capacity:\b NA kW
\Inote:\i electricity supplied by the US military
\BElectricity - production:\b NA kWh
\Inote:\i electricity supplied by the US military
\BElectricity - consumption per capita:\b NA kWh
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\BTelephone system:\b facilities for military needs only
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km
\Ipaved:\i short stretch of paved road of NA km between port and airfield on Diego
Garcia
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts and harbors:\b Diego Garcia
\BAirports:\b 1 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 1 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of the UK
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b the island of Diego Garcia is claimed by Mauritius
#
"British Virgin Islands (Atlas)",37,0,0,0
\I(dependent territory of the UK) \i
\BGeography\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, between the \JCaribbean Sea\j and the North \JAtlantic Ocean\j, east of Puerto Rico
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 18 30 N, 64 30 W
\BMap references:\b \JCentral America\j and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 150 sq km
\Iland:\i 150 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\Inote:\i includes the island of Anegada
\BArea - comparative:\b about 0.9 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 80 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive fishing zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 3 nm
\BClimate:\b subtropical; humid; temperatures moderated by trade winds
\BNatural hazards:\b hurricanes and tropical storms (July to October)
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b limited natural fresh \Jwater\j resources (except for a few seasonal streams and springs on Tortola, most of the islands' \Jwater\j supply comes from wells and rainwater catchment)
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b strong ties to nearby US Virgin Islands and Puerto Rico
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 13,368 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.32% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 20.13 births/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.03 deaths/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -0.9 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Itotal population:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 18.99 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 72.83 years
\Imale:\i 70.99 years
\Ifemale:\i 74.8 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.25 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i British Virgin Islander(s)
\Iadjective:\i British Virgin Islander
\BEthnic groups:\b black 90%, white, Asian
\BReligions:\b Protestant 86% (Methodist 45%, Anglican 21%, Church of God 7%, Seventh-Day Adventist 5%, Baptist 4%, \JJehovah\j's Witnesses 2%, other 2%), Roman Catholic 6%, none 2%, other 6% (1981)
\BLanguages:\b English (official)
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 97.8% (1991 est.)
\Imale:\i NA%
\Ifemale:\i NA%
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i British Virgin Islands
\Iabbreviation:\i BVI
\BData code:\b VI
\BDependency status:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BGovernment type:\b NA
\BNational capital:\b Road Town
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Territory Day, 1 July
\BConstitution:\b 1 June 1977
\BLegal system:\b English law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II of the UK (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor David MACKILLIGIN (since NA June 1995)
\Ihead of government:\i Chief Minister Ralph T. O'NEAL (since 15 May 1995; appointed after the death of former Chief Minister H. Lavity STOUTT)
\Icabinet:\i Executive Council appointed by the governor from members of the Legislative Council
\Ielections:\i none; the queen is a hereditary monarch; governor appointed by the queen; chief minister appointed by the governor from among the members of the Legislative Council
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Legislative Council (13 seats; members are elected by direct popular vote, 1 member from each of 9 electoral districts, 4 at large members; members serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 20 February 1995 (next to be held NA February 2000)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - VIP 6, CCM 2, UP 2, independents 3
\BJudicial branch:\b Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court, one judge of the Supreme Court is a resident of the islands and presides over the High Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b United Party or UP [Conrad MADURO]; Virgin Islands Party or VIP [Ralph T. O'NEAL]; Concerned Citizens Movement or CCM [E. Walwyln BREWLEY]; Independent People's Movement or IPM [Omar HODGE and Allen O'NEAL]
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BFlag description:\b blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Virgin Islander coat of arms centered in the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms depicts a woman flanked on either side by a vertical column of six oil lamps above a scroll bearing the Latin word VIGILATE (Be Watchful)
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b The economy, one of the most prosperous in the Caribbean, is highly dependent on tourism, which generates an estimated 45% of the national income. In 1985, the government began offering offshore registration to companies wishing to incorporate in the islands, and incorporation fees now generate substantial revenues. The adoption of a comprehensive insurance law in late 1994, which provides a blanket of confidentiality with regulated statutory gateways for investigation of criminal offenses, is expected to make the British Virgin Islands even more attractive to international business. Livestock raising is the most important agricultural activity; poor soils limit the islands' ability to meet domestic food requirements. Because of traditional close links with the US Virgin Islands, the British Virgin Islands have used the dollar as their currency since 1959.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $135 million (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 4% (1995 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $10,200 (1995 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b typhoons, earthquakes, and severe flooding are very rare
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b NA
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JEndangered Species\j, Law of the Sea, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i none of the selected agreements
\BGeography - note:\b 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
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 23 February (1984)
\BConstitution:\b 29 September 1959 (some provisions suspended under a State of Emergency since December 1962, others since independence on 1 January 1984)
\BLegal system:\b based on Islamic law
\BSuffrage:\b none
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Sultan and Prime Minister His Majesty Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji HASSANAL Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah (since 5 October 1967); note - the sultan is both the chief of state and head of government
\Ihead of government:\i Sultan and Prime Minister His Majesty Paduka Seri Baginda Sultan Haji HASSANAL Bolkiah Mu'izzaddin Waddaulah (since 5 October 1967); note - the sultan is both the chief of state and head of government
\Icabinet:\i Council of Cabinet Ministers appointed and presided over by the sultan; deals with executive matters
\Inote:\i there is also a Religious Council (members appointed by the sultan) that advises on religious matters, a Privy Council (members appointed by the sultan) that deals with constitutional matters, and the Council of Succession (members appointed by the sultan) that determines the succession to the throne if the need arises
\Ielections:\i none; the sultan is a traditional Islamic monarch
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Legislative Council or Majlis Masyuarat Megeri (a privy council that serves only in a consultative capacity; NA seats; members appointed by the sultan)
\Ielections:\i last held in March 1962
\Inote:\i in 1970 the Council was changed to an appointive body by decree of the sultan; an elected Legislative Council is being considered as part of constitutional reform, but elections are unlikely for several years
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, \Jchief justice\j and judges are sworn in by the sultan for three-year terms
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JBrunei\j United National Party (inactive), Anak HASANUDDIN, chairman; \JBrunei\j National Solidarity Party (the first legal political party and now banned), Mohamad HATTA bin Maji Zainal Abidin, secretary general; \JBrunei\j Peoples Party (banned), Sheik A. M. AZAHARI, leader; \JBrunei\j National Democratic Party or BNDP (deregistered), Haji Abdul LATIF bin Abdul Hamad, president
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador-designate Pengiran Anak Dato Haji PUTEH
\Ichancery:\i \JWatergate\j, Suite 300, 3rd floor, 2600 Virginia Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20037
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 342-0159
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 342-0158
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Glen Robert RASE
\Iembassy:\i Third Floor, Teck Guan Plaza, Jalan Sultan, Bandar Seri Begawan
\Imailing address:\i American Embassy Box B, Bandar Seri Begawan, APO AP 96440
\Itelephone:\i [673] (2) 229670
\IFAX:\i [673] (2) 225293
\BFlag description:\b yellow with two diagonal bands of white (top, almost double width) and black starting from the upper hoist side; the national emblem in red is superimposed at the center; the emblem includes a swallow-tailed flag on top of a winged column within an upturned crescent above a scroll and flanked by two upraised hands
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b This small, wealthy 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 \Jnatural gas\j, with revenues from the \Jpetroleum\j sector accounting for perhaps half of GDP. Per capita GDP is among the highest in the Third World, and substantial income from overseas investment supplements income from domestic production. The government provides for all medical services and subsidizes food and housing. The government is beginning to show progress on its basic policy of diversifying the economy away from oil and gas. \JBrunei\j's leaders are concerned that steadily increased \Jintegration\j in the world economy will undermine internal social cohesion.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $4.6 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 2% (1995 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $15,800 (1995 est.)
\Itotal:\i 119,000 (1993 est.); note - includes members of the Army
\Iby occupation:\i government 48%, production of oil, \Jnatural gas\j, services, and construction 42%, agriculture, \Jforestry\j, and fishing 4%, other 6% (1986 est.)
\Inote:\i 33% of labor force is foreign (1988)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 4.8% (1994 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $2.5 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $2.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $768 million (1995 est.)
\BIndustries:\b \Jpetroleum\j, \Jpetroleum\j refining, liquefied \Jnatural gas\j, construction
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b 2% (1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transport equipment, manufactured goods, food, chemicals
\Ipartners:\i \JSingapore\j 29%, UK 19%, US 13%, \JMalaysia\j 9%, \JJapan\j 5% (1994 est.)
\BDebt - external:\b $0
\BEconomic aid:\b $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 Bruneian dollar (B$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b Bruneian dollars (B$) per US$1 - 1.4061 (January 1997), 1.4100 (1996), 1.4174 (1995), 1.5274 (1994), 1.6158 (1993), 1.6290 (1992); note - the Bruneian dollar is at par with the \JSingapore\j dollar
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 76,900 (1993)
\BTelephone system:\b service throughout country is adequate for present needs; international service good to adjacent Malaysia
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations - 2 Intelsat (1 Indian Ocean and 1 \JPacific Ocean\j)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 4, FM 4, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 115,000 (1993)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 (1984 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 78,000 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 13 km (private line)
\Inarrow gauge:\i 13 km 0.610-m gauge
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,120 km
\Ipaved:\i 388 km
\Iunpaved:\i 732 km (1995)
\BWaterways:\b 209 km; navigable by craft drawing less than 1.2 m
\BPorts and harbors:\b Bandar Seri Begawan, Kuala Belait, Muara, Seria, Tutong
\BMerchant marine:\b
\Itotal:\i 7 liquefied gas tankers (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 348,476 GRT/340,635 DWT (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 2 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 1 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1996 est.)
\BHeliports:\b 3 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Land Forces, Navy, Air Force, Royal \JBrunei\j Police
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 85,327 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 49,466 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 3,014 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $312 million (1994)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 6.2% (1994)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b may wish to purchase the Malaysian salient that divides the country; all of the Spratly Islands are claimed by China, \JTaiwan\j, and Vietnam; parts of them are claimed by Malaysia and the \JPhilippines\j; in 1984, \JBrunei\j established an exclusive fishing zone that encompasses Louisa Reef, but has not publicly claimed the island
#
"Bulgaria (Atlas)",39,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Europe, bordering the \JBlack Sea\j, between \JRomania\j and Turkey
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 43 00 N, 25 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 110,910 sq km
\Iland:\i 110,550 sq km
\Iwater:\i 360 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly larger than Tennessee
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,808 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JGreece\j 494 km, The Former Yugoslav Republic of Macedonia 148 km, \JRomania\j 608 km, \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j 318 km (all with \JSerbia\j), Turkey 240 km
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains with lowlands in north and southeast
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JBlack Sea\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Musala 2,925 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jbauxite\j, copper, lead, zinc, \Jcoal\j, timber, arable land
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 37%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 2%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 16%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 35%
\Iother:\i 10% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 12,370 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b earthquakes, landslides
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b air \Jpollution\j from industrial emissions; rivers polluted from raw sewage, heavy metals, detergents; deforestation; forest damage from air \Jpollution\j and resulting \Jacid rain\j; soil contamination from heavy metals from metallurgical plants and industrial wastes
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol
\BGeography - note:\b strategic location near Turkish Straits; controls key land routes from Europe to \JMiddle East\j and Asia
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 13.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 71.65 years
\Imale:\i 68.06 years
\Ifemale:\i 75.44 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.14 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Bulgarian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Bulgarian
\BEthnic groups:\b Bulgarian 85.3%, Turk 8.5%, Gypsy 2.6%, Macedonian 2.5%, Armenian 0.3%, Russian 0.2%, other 0.6%
\BReligions:\b Bulgarian Orthodox 85%, Muslim 13%, Jewish 0.8%, Roman Catholic 0.5%, Uniate Catholic 0.2%, Protestant, Gregorian-Armenian, and other 0.5%
\BLanguages:\b Bulgarian, secondary languages closely correspond to ethnic breakdown
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 98%
\Imale:\i 99%
\Ifemale:\i 97% (1992 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Bulgaria
\Iconventional short form:\i Bulgaria
\BData code:\b BU
\BGovernment type:\b emerging democracy
\BNational capital:\b Sofia
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 provinces (oblasti, singular - oblast); Burgas, Grad Sofiya, Khaskovo, Lovech, Montana, \JPlovdiv\j, Ruse, Sofiya, Varna
\BIndependence:\b 22 September 1908 (from \JOttoman Empire\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 3 March (1878)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 12 July 1991
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system with Soviet law influence; accepts compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Petar STOYANOV (since 22 January 1997); Vice President Todor KAVALDZHIEV (since 22 January 1997)
\Ihead of government:\i Chairman of the Council of Ministers (Prime Minister) Ivan Kostov (since 19 May 1997); Deputy Prime Ministers Aleksandur BOZHKOV (since 12 February 1997 Evgeniy BAKURDZHIEV (since 21 May 1997), Veselin METODIEV (since 21 May 1997)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers elected by the National Assembly
\Ielections:\i president and vice president elected on the same ticket by popular vote for five-year terms; election last held 27 October and 3 November 1996 (next to be held NA 2001); chairman of the Council of Ministers (prime minister) appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i Petar STOYANOV elected president; percent of vote - Petar STOYANOV 59.73%
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Assembly or Narodno Sobranie (240 seats; members are popularly elected to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 19 April 1997 (next to be held NA 2001)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - UDF 52%, BSP 22%, ANS 7%, Euro-left 5.5%,
BBB 4.95%; seats by party - UDF 137, BSP 58, ANS 19, Euro-left 14, BBB 12
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, chairman appointed for a seven-year term by the president; Constitutional Court, 12 justices appointed or elected for a nine-year term
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Bulgarian Socialist Party or BSP [Georgi PURVANOV, chairman]; Union of Democratic Forces or UDF (an alliance of pro-Democratic parties) [Ivan KOSTOV]; Euro-left [Alexander TOMOV]; Alliance for National Salvation or ANS (coalition led mainly by Movement for Rights and Freedoms or MRF [Ahmed DOGAN]); Bulgarian Business Bloc or BBB [George GANCHEV]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Democratic Alliance for the Republic or DAR; New Union for Democracy or NUD; Ecoglasnost; Podkrepa Labor Confederation; Fatherland Union; Bulgarian Communist Party or BCP; Confederation of Independent Trade Unions of Bulgaria or KNSB; Bulgarian Agrarian National Union - United or BZNS; Bulgarian Democratic Center; "Nikola Petkov" Bulgarian Agrarian National Union; Internal Macedonian Revolutionary Organization - Union of Macedonian Societies or IMRO-UMS; numerous regional, ethnic, and national interest groups with various agendas
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Snezhana Damianova BOTUSHAROVA
\Ichancery:\i 1621 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 387-7969
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 234-7973
\Iconsulate(s):\i New York
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Avis T. BOHLEN (22 July 1996)
\Iembassy:\i 1 Saborna Street, Sofia
\Imailing address:\i Embassy Sofia, Department of State, Washington, DC 50521-5740
\Itelephone:\i [359] (2) 980-52-41 through 48
\IFAX:\i [359] (2) 981-89-77
\BFlag description:\b three equal horizontal bands of white (top), green, and red; the national emblem formerly on the hoist side of the white stripe has been removed - it contained a rampant lion within a wreath of wheat ears below a red five-pointed star and above a ribbon bearing the dates 681 (first Bulgarian state established) and 1944 (liberation from Nazi control)
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b One of the poorest countries of central Europe, \JBulgaria\j has slowly continued the process of moving from its old command economy towards a market-oriented economy. Slow advancement on economic reforms pitched the economy into crisis in 1996, marked by a banking system in turmoil, a depreciating currency, \Jinflation\j of 311% and contracting production and foreign trade. Foreign exchange reserves dwindled to extremely low levels ($518 million), while dramatically hiked interest rates added to the domestic debt burden and stifled growth. GDP fell by 10% in 1996, after experiencing 2.6% growth in 1995. Privatization of state-owned industries stagnated, although the first auction of a mass privatization program was undertaken in late 1996. Lagging progress on structural reforms led to postponement of IMF disbursements under a $580 million standby loan agreed to in July. In November 1996, the IMF proposed a currency board as \JBulgaria\j's best chance to restore confidence in the lev, eliminate discretionary spending, and avoid hyperinflation. The government has pledged to sell some of the country's most attractive state assets to the highest foreign bidders in 1997. The Bulgarian economy is projected to have another year of negative growth (minus 5%), and inflation near 700% in 1997, assuming introduction of a currency board in July of 1997.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $39.9 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b -10% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $4,630 (1996 est.)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and equipment 12.8%; agriculture and food 21.9%; textiles
and apparel 14%; metals and ores 19.7%; chemicals 16.9%; minerals and fuels 9.3% (1995)
\Ipartners:\i OECD 50.0% (EU 37.2%); \JCIS\j and Central and Eastern Europe 32.4%; Arab countries 5.8%; other 11.8% (1995)
\BImports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $4.1 billion (c.i.f., 1996 est.)
\Icommodities:\i fuels, minerals, and raw materials 30.1%; machinery and equipment 23.6%; textiles and apparel 11.6%; agricultural products 10.8%; metals and ores 6.8%; chemicals 12.3%; other 4.8% (1995)
\Ipartners:\i OECD 45.5% (EU 38.1%); \JCIS\j and Central and Eastern European countries 41.1%; Arab countries 1.8%; other 11.6% (1995)
\BTelephone system:\b almost two-thirds of the lines are residential; 67% of Sofia households
have telephones (November 1988 est.)
\Idomestic:\i extensive but antiquated transmission system of coaxial cable and microwave radio relay; \Jtelephone\j service is available in most villages
\Iinternational:\i direct dialing to 36 countries; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations - 1 Intersputnik
(\JAtlantic Ocean\j Region); Intelsat available through a Greek \Jearth\j station
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 20, FM 15, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 29 (Russian repeater in Sofia 1)
\BTelevisions:\b 2.1 million (May 1990 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,292 km
\Istandard gauge:\i 4,047 km 1.435-m gauge (2,650 km electrified; 917 double track)
\Iother gauge:\i 245 km 0.760-m gauge (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 36,777 km
\Ipaved:\i 33,798 km (including 314 km of expressways)
\Inote:\i \JBulgaria\j owns an additional 6 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 151,855
DWT operating under the registries of \JLiberia\j and Malta (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 355 (1994 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 116
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 1
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 17
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 10
\Iunder 914 m:\i 88 (1994 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 239
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 2
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 10
\Iunder 914 m:\i 226 (1994 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Navy, Air and Air Defense Forces, Border Troops, Internal Troops
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 19 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,052,731 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 1,711,729 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 62,908 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $418.6 million (1996)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 2.0% to 2.5% (1996)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
\BIllicit drugs:\b major European transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and, to a lesser degree, South American \Jcocaine\j for the European market; limited producer of precursor chemicals; significant producer of amphetamines, much of which are consumed in the \JMiddle East\j
#
"Burkina Faso (Atlas)",40,0,0,0
\BGeography\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, north of Ghana
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 00 N, 2 00 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 274,200 sq km
\Iland:\i 273,800 sq km
\Iwater:\i 400 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly larger than Colorado
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,192 km
\Iborder countries:\i Benin 306 km, \JGhana\j 548 km, Cote d'Ivoire 584 km, Mali 1,000 km, \JNiger\j 628 km, \JTogo\j 126 km
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat to dissected, undulating plains; hills in west and southeast
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Black Volta River 200 m
\Ihighest point:\i Tena \JKourou\j 749 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jmanganese\j, \Jlimestone\j, marble; small deposits of gold, \Jantimony\j, copper, nickel, \Jbauxite\j, lead, \Jphosphates\j, zinc, silver
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 13%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 22%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 50%
\Iother:\i 15% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 200 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b recurring droughts
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b recent droughts and \Jdesertification\j severely affecting agricultural activities, population distribution, and the economy; overgrazing; soil degradation; deforestation
\BNational holiday:\b Anniversary of the Revolution, 4 August (1983)
\BConstitution:\b 2 June 1991
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system and customary law
\BSuffrage:\b none
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Captain Blaise COMPAORE (since 15 October 1987)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Kadre' De'sire' OUE'DRAOGO (since 6 February 1996)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the president on the recommendation of the prime minister
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a seven-year term; election last held 1 December 1991 (next to be held NA 1998); prime minister appointed by the president with the consent of the legislature
\Ielection results:\i Blaise COMPAORE elected president with 90.4% percent of the votes of those who voted (the abstention rate was 74.7%)
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Assembly of People's Deputies or Assemblee des Deputes Populaires (111 seats; members are popularly elected to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 11 May 1997 (next to be held NA 2002)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - CDP 97, PDP 6, RDA 2, ADF 2; note - 4 contested seats are to be filled in special election on 19 June 1997 by order of the Supreme Court
\Inote:\i the current law also provides for a second consultative chamber, which has not been formally constituted
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court; Appeals Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Organization for People's Democracy - Labor Movement or ODP-MT (ruling party at time of 1992 elections but was subsumed, with about a dozen smaller parties, into the powerful CDP in February 1996); African Democratic Assembly or RDA [Gerard Kango OUEDRAOGO]; Alliance for Democracy and Federation or ADF [Herman YAMEOGO]; Burkinabe Socialist Bloc or BSB [Earnest Nongma OUEDRAOGO, president]; Burkinabe Environmentalist Party or UVDB; Congress for Democracy and Progress or CDP [Din Salif SAWADAGO] (the strongest party in the 1997 legislative elections); Front for Social Forces or FFS [Fide'le KIENTEGA]; National Convention of Progressive Patriots-Social Democratic Party or CNPP-PSD [Moussa BOLY] (not prominent in 1997); Party for Democracy and Progress or PDP [Joseph KI-ZERBO]; Party for Progress and Social Development or PPDS; Party for African Independence or PAI
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b committees for the defense of the revolution; watchdog/political action groups throughout the country in both organizations and communities
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Gaetan R. OUEDRAOGO
\Ichancery:\i 2340 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 332-5577, 6895
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Sharon P. WILKINSON (16 July 1996)
\Iembassy:\i Avenue Raoul Follerau, Ouagadougou
\Imailing address:\i 01 B. P. 35, Ouagadougou
\Itelephone:\i [226] 306723 through 306725
\IFAX:\i [226] 303890
\BFlag description:\b two equal horizontal bands of red (top) and green with a yellow five-pointed star in the center; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b One of the poorest countries in the world, landlocked Burkina Faso has a high population density and a high population growth rate, few natural resources, and a fragile soil. Over 80% of the population is engaged in subsistence agriculture which is highly vulnerable to variations in rainfall. Industry remains dominated by unprofitable government-controlled corporations. Following the African franc currency \Jdevaluation\j in January 1994 the government updated its development program in conjunction with international agencies, and exports and economic growth have increased.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $8 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 5.4% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $740 (1996 est.)
\BLabor force:\b NA (most adults are employed in subsistence agriculture)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 80%, industry 15%, commerce, services, and government 5% \Inote:\i 20% of male labor force migrates annually to neighboring countries for seasonal employment (1984)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $483 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $548 million, including capital expenditures of $189 million (1992)
\Inote:\i beginning 12 January 1994 the CFA franc was devalued to CFAF 100 per French franc from CFAF 50 at which it had been fixed since 1948
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 21,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b all services only fair
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay, open wire, and radiotelephone communication stations
\Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (\JAtlantic Ocean\j)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 2 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 49,000 (1991 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 622 km (517 km from Ouagadougou to the Cote d'Ivoire border and 105
km from Ouagadougou to Kaya)
\Inarrow gauge:\i 622 km 1.000-m gauge (1995 est.)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 12,506 km
\Ipaved:\i 2,001 km
\Iunpaved:\i 10,505 km (1995 est.)
\BPorts and harbors:\b none
\BAirports:\b 22 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 10
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 1
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\Iunder 914 m:\i 8 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 12
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 9 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Air Force, National Gendarmerie, National Police, People's Militia
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,219,544 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 1,137,882 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $104 million (1994)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 6.4% (1994)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
#
"Burundi (Atlas)",41,0,0,0
\BIntroduction\b
\BCurrent issues:\b in a number of waves since October 1993, hundreds of thousands of refugees have fled the ethnic violence between the Hutu and Tutsi factions in \JBurundi\j and crossed into \JRwanda\j, \JTanzania\j, and Democratic Republic of the \JCongo\j, formerly Zaire; since October 1996, an estimated 92,000 \JBurundi\j Hutus who fled to Zaire have been forced to return to \JBurundi\j by Tutsi rebel forces in Zaire, leaving an estimated 35,000 still dispersed there; in \JBurundi\j, the ethnic violence between the Hutus and the Tutsis continued in 1996, causing an estimated additional 150,000 \JBurundi\j Hutus to flee to \JTanzania\j, thus raising their numbers in that country to about 250,000
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Africa, east of Democratic Republic of the Congo
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 3 30 S, 30 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 27,830 sq km
\Iland:\i 25,650 sq km
\Iwater:\i 2,180 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Maryland
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 974 km
\Iborder countries:\i Democratic Republic of the \JCongo\j 233 km, \JRwanda\j 290 km, \JTanzania\j 451 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BClimate:\b equatorial; high plateau with considerable altitude variation (772 m to 2,760 m); average annual \Jtemperature\j varies with altitude from 23 to 17 degrees \Jcentigrade\j but is generally moderate as the average altitude is about 1,700 m; average annual rainfall is about 150 cm; wet seasons from February to May and September to November, and dry seasons from June to August and December to January
\BTerrain:\b hilly and mountainous, dropping to a plateau in east, some plains
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b 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
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Endangered Species
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Desertification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban
\BGeography - note:\b landlocked; straddles crest of the Nile-\JCongo\j watershed
\BIndependence:\b 1 July 1962 (from UN trusteeship under Belgian administration)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 1 July (1962)
\BConstitution:\b 13 March 1992; provides for establishment of a plural political system
\BLegal system:\b based on German and Belgian civil codes and customary law; does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b NA years of age; universal adult
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Pierre BUYOYA (interim president since 27 September 1996)
note - former President NTIBANTUNGANYA was overthrown in a coup on 25 July 1996 and has taken refuge in the US ambassador's residence in Bujumbura; former Major (retired) Pierre BUYOYA has not been recognized as president of \JBurundi\j by the US or most other governments
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Pascal-Firmin NDIMIRA (since 31 July 1996)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by prime minister
\Ielections:\i NA
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Assembly or Assemblee Nationale (81 seats; members are popularly elected on a proportional basis to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 29 June 1993 (next to be held NA 1998)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - FRODEBU 71%, UPRONA 21.4%; seats by party - (81 total) FRODEBU 65, UPRONA 16; other parties won too small shares of the vote to win seats in the assembly
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court or Cour Supreme
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Unity for National Progress or UPRONA [Charles MUKASI, president]; \JBurundi\j Democratic Front or FRODEBU [Jean MINANI, president]; Organization of the People of \JBurundi\j or RPB [Sylvestre SINDAYIGAYA]; Socialist Party of \JBurundi\j or PSB; People's Reconciliation Party or PRP [Mathias HITIMANA, leader]; opposition parties, legalized in March 1992, include \JBurundi\j African Alliance for the Salvation or ABASA, Rally for Democracy and Economic and Social Development or RADDES [Cyrille SIGEJEJE, chairman], and Party for National Redress or PARENA [Jean-Baptiste BAGAZA, leader]
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Severin NTAHOMVUKIYE
\Ichancery:\i Suite 212, 2233 \JWisconsin\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 342-2574
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Morris N. HUGHES, Jr. (27 June l996)
\Iembassy:\i Avenue des Etats-Unis, Bujumbura
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 1720, Bujumbura
\Itelephone:\i [257] (2) 23454
\IFAX:\i [257] (2) 22926
\BFlag description:\b divided by a white diagonal cross into red panels (top and bottom) and green panels (hoist side and outer side) with a white disk superimposed at the center bearing three red six-pointed stars outlined in green arranged in a triangular design (one star above, two stars below)
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b \JBurundi\j is a landlocked, resource-poor country in an early stage of economic development. The economy is predominately agricultural with roughly 90% of the population dependent on subsistence agriculture. Its economic health depends on the \Jcoffee\j crop, which accounts for 80% of foreign exchange earnings. The ability to pay for imports therefore rests largely on the vagaries of the climate and the international \Jcoffee\j market. As part of its economic reform agenda, launched in February 1991 with IMF and World Bank support, \JBurundi\j is trying to diversify its agricultural exports, attract foreign investment in industry, and modernize government budgetary practices. Since October 1993 the nation has suffered from massive ethnic-based violence which has resulted in the death of perhaps 100,000 persons and the displacement of a million others. Production continued to fall in 1996; foods, medicines, and electricity are in extremely short supply. An impoverished and disorganized government can hardly implement the needed reform programs.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $4 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b -3.7% (1995 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $600 (1995 est.)
\Idomestic:\i sparse system of open wire, radiotelephone communications, and low-capacity microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 4,500 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 14,480 km
\Ipaved:\i 1,028 km
\Iunpaved:\i 13,452 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b Lake Tanganyika
\BPorts and harbors:\b Bujumbura
\BAirports:\b 3 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 1 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 2
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 2 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Army (includes naval and air units), paramilitary Gendarmerie
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 16 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,346,737 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 700,914 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 70,013 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $25 million (1993)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 2.6% (1993)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
#
"Cambodia (Atlas)",42,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, bordering the Gulf of \JThailand\j, between \JThailand\j and Vietnam
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 00 N, 105 00 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 181,040 sq km
\Iland:\i 176,520 sq km
\Iwater:\i 4,520 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Oklahoma
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,572 km
\Iborder countries:\i Laos 541 km, \JThailand\j 803 km, Vietnam 1,228 km
\BCoastline:\b 443 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 24 nm
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200 nm
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical; rainy, monsoon season (May to November); dry season (December to April); little seasonal \Jtemperature\j variation
\BTerrain:\b mostly low, flat plains; mountains in southwest and north
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Gulf of \JThailand\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Phnum Aoral 1,810 m
\BNatural resources:\b timber, \Jgemstones\j, some iron ore, \Jmanganese\j, \Jphosphates\j, hydropower potential
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 13%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 11%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 66%
\Iother:\i 10% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 920 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b monsoonal rains (June to November); flooding; occasional droughts
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b logging activities throughout the country and strip mining for gems in the western region along the border with \JThailand\j are resulting in habitat loss and declining \Jbiodiversity\j (in particular, destruction of mangrove swamps threatens natural fisheries); deforestation; soil erosion; in rural areas, a majority of the population does not have access to potable water
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Desertification, \JEndangered Species\j, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping \BGeography - note:\b a land of paddies and forests dominated by the Mekong River and Tonle Sap
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 106 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 50.25 years
\Imale:\i 48.79 years
\Ifemale:\i 51.79 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.81 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Cambodian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Cambodian
\BEthnic groups:\b Khmer 90%, Vietnamese 5%, Chinese 1%, other 4%
\BReligions:\b Theravada \JBuddhism\j 95%, other 5%
\BLanguages:\b Khmer (official), French
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 35%
\Imale:\i 48%
\Ifemale:\i 22% (1990 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Kingdom of Cambodia
\Iconventional short form:\i Cambodia
\Ilocal long form:\i Preahreacheanachakr Kampuchea
\Ilocal short form:\i Kampuchea
\BData code:\b CB
\BGovernment type:\b multiparty liberal democracy under a constitutional monarchy established in September 1993
\BNational capital:\b Phnom Penh
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 22 provinces (khett, singular and plural) and 1 municipality* (krong, singular and plural); Banteay Mean Cheay, Batdambang, Kampong Cham, Kampong Chhnang, Kampong Spoe, Kampong Thum, Kampot, Kandal, Kaoh Kong, Keb*, Kracheh, Mondol Kiri, Otdar Mean Cheay, Phnum Penh, Pouthisat, Preah Seihanu (Sihanoukville), Preah Vihear, Prey Veng, Rotanah Kiri, Siem Reab, Stoeng Treng, Svay Rieng, Takev
\BIndependence:\b 9 November 1949 (from \JFrance\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 9 November 1949
\BConstitution:\b promulgated 21 September 1993
\BLegal system:\b currently being defined
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i King Norodom SIHANOUK (reinstated 24 September 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i power shared between First Prime Minister Prince Norodom RANARIDDH (since NA 1993) and Second Prime Minister HUN SEN (since NA 1993)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the king
\Ielections:\i none; the king is a constitutional monarch; prime ministers appointed by the king
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Assembly (120 seats; members elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 23 May 1993 (next to be held NA 1998)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - FUNCINPEC 58, CPP 51, BLDP 10, MOLINAKA 1
\Inote:\i the May 1993 elections were for the Constituent Assembly which became the National Assembly after the new constitution was promulgated in September 1993
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court provided for by the constitution has not yet been established and the future judicial system is yet to be defined by law
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National United Front for an Independent, Neutral, Peaceful, and Cooperative \JCambodia\j (FUNCINPEC), Prince NORODOM RANARIDDH; Cambodian Pracheachon Party or Cambodian People's Party (CPP), CHEA SIM; Buddhist Liberal Democratic Party (BLDP), SON SANN faction; Buddhist Liberal Democratic Party (BLDP), IENG MOULY faction; Democratic \JKampuchea\j (DK, also known as the Khmer Rouge), KHIEU SAMPHAN; Movement Pour La Liberation Nationale Khmere (MOLINAKA), PROM NEAKAREACH; Khmer Nation Party (KNP), SAM RAINSY
\Ichancery:\i 4500 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20011
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 726-7742
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 726-8381
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Kenneth M. QUINN
\Iembassy:\i 27 EO Street 240, Phnom Penh
\Imailing address:\i Box P, APO AP 96546
\Itelephone:\i [855] (23) 426436, 426438
\IFAX:\i [855] (23) 426811
\BFlag description:\b three horizontal bands of blue (top), red (double width), and blue with a white three-towered temple representing Angkor Wat outlined in black in the center of the red band
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b The Cambodian economy - virtually destroyed by decades of war - is slowly recovering. Government leaders are moving toward restoring fiscal and monetary discipline and have established good working relations with international financial institutions. Growth, starting from a low base, has been strong in 1991-96. 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 \Jinfrastructure\j in the countryside will hinder development and will contribute to a growing imbalance in growth between urban and rural areas over the near term. Moreover, the government's lack of experience in administering economic and technical assistance programs and rampant corruption among officials will slow the growth of critical public sector investment. The decline of \Jinflation\j from the 1992 rate of more than 50% is one of the bright spots.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $7.7 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 7.4% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $710 (1996 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b service barely adequate for government requirements and virtually nonexistent for general public
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i landline international service limited to Vietnam and other adjacent countries; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 5, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 5
\BTelevisions:\b 70,000 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 603 km
\Inarrow gauge:\i 603 km 1.000-m gauge
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 35,769 km
\Ipaved:\i 2,683 km
\Iunpaved:\i 33,086 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 3,700 km navigable all year to craft drawing 0.6 m; 282 km navigable to craft drawing 1.8 m
\BPorts and harbors:\b Kampong Saom (Sihanoukville), Kampot, Krong Kaoh Kong, Phnom Penh
\BMilitary branches:\b Khmer Royal Armed Forces (KRAF) - created in 1993 by the merger of the Cambodian People's Armed Forces and the two noncommunist resistance armies; note - the KRAF is also known as the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF);
Resistance forces - National Army of Democratic \JKampuchea\j (Khmer Rouge)
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,418,916 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 1,348,065 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 97,361 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $160 million (1996)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b offshore islands and sections of the boundary with Vietnam are in dispute; maritime boundary with Vietnam not defined; parts of border with \JThailand\j in dispute; maritime boundary with \JThailand\j not clearly defined
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment country for Golden Triangle heroin en route to West; possibly becoming money-laundering center; high-level \Jnarcotics\j-related corruption reportedly involving government, military, and police; possible small-scale opium, heroin, and \Jamphetamine\j production; large producer of cannabis for the international market
#
"Cameroon (Atlas)",43,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the Bight of \JBiafra\j, between Equatorial Guinea and Nigeria
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 6 00 N, 12 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 475,440 sq km
\Iland:\i 469,440 sq km
\Iwater:\i 6,000 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly larger than California
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,591 km
\Iborder countries:\i Central African Republic 797 km, Chad 1,094 km, Republic of the \JCongo\j 523 km, Equatorial Guinea 189 km, \JGabon\j 298 km, \JNigeria\j 1,690 km
\BCoastline:\b 402 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iterritorial sea:\i 50 nm
\BClimate:\b varies with terrain, from tropical along coast to semiarid and hot in north
\BTerrain:\b diverse, with coastal plain in southwest, dissected plateau in center, mountains in west, plains in north
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JAtlantic Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Fako 4,095 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, \Jbauxite\j, iron ore, timber, hydropower potential
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 13%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 2%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 4%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 78%
\Iother:\i 3% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 210 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b recent volcanic activity with release of poisonous gases
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b \Jwater\j-borne diseases are prevalent; deforestation; overgrazing; \Jdesertification\j; poaching; overfishing
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Law of the Sea, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Desertification, Nuclear Test Ban
\BGeography - note:\b sometimes referred to as the hinge of Africa
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 10 provinces; Adamaoua, Centre, Est, Extreme-Nord, Littoral, Nord, Nord-Ouest, Ouest, Sud, Sud-Ouest
\BIndependence:\b 1 January 1960 (from UN trusteeship under French administration)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 20 May (1972)
\BConstitution:\b 20 May 1972
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system, with \Jcommon law\j influence; does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Paul BIYA (since 6 November 1982)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Peter Mafany MUSONGA (since 19 September 1996)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the president
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 11 October 1992 (next to be held NA October 1997); prime minister appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i President Paul BIYA reelected; percent of vote - Paul BIYA 40%, SDF candidate John FRU NDI 36%, UNDP candidate Bello Bouba MAIGARI 19%; note - election held amid widespread allegations of fraud
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Assembly or Assemblee Nationale (180 seats; members are elected by direct popular vote to serve five-year terms; note - the president can either lengthen or shorten the term of the legislature)
\Ielections:\i last held 11 May 1997 (next to be held NA 2002)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - CDPM 109, SDF 43, UNDP 13, UDC 5, UPC-K 1, MDR 1, MLJC I; note - 7 contested seats will be filled in an election at a time to be set by the Supreme Court
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JCameroon\j People's Democratic Movement or CPDM (government-controlled and the only party until legalization of opposition parties in 1990) [Paul BIYA, president] \Imajor opposition parties:\i Cameroonian Democratic Union or UDC [Adamou NDAM NJOYA]; Movement for the Defense of the Republic or MDR [Dakole DAISSALA, leader]; National Union for Democracy and Progress or UNDP [Maigari BELLO BOUBA, chairman]; Social Democratic Front or SDF [John FRU NDI, leader]; Union of Cameroonian Populations or UPC [Ndeh NTUMAZAH, leader]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Alliance for Change or FAC; \JCameroon\j Anglophone Movement or CAM
\Ichancery:\i 2349 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 265-8790 through 8794
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Charles H. TWINING
\Iembassy:\i Rue Nachtigal, Yaounde
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 817, Yaounde; Pouch American Embassy DOS, Washington, DC 20521-2520 \Itelephone:\i [237] 23-40-14, 23-05-12
\IFAX:\i [237] 23-07-53
\BFlag description:\b three equal vertical bands of green (hoist side), red, and yellow with a yellow five-pointed star centered in the red band; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Because of its offshore oil resources and favorable agricultural conditions, \JCameroon\j has one of the best-endowed primary commodity economies in sub-Saharan Africa. Still, it faces many of the serious problems facing other underdeveloped countries, such as political instability, a top-heavy civil service, and a generally unfavorable climate for business enterprise. The development of the oil sector led to rapid economic growth between 1970 and 1985. Growth came to an abrupt halt in 1986, precipitated by steep declines in the prices of major exports: \Jcoffee\j, \Jcocoa\j, and \Jpetroleum\j. Export earnings were cut by almost one-third, and inefficiencies in fiscal management were exposed. Since 1990, the government has embarked on various IMF and World Bank programs designed to spur business investment, increase efficiency in agriculture, improve trade and recapitalize the nation's banks. Political instability, following suspect elections in 1992, has limited the effectiveness of aid programs. Currently, \JCameroon\j receives only minimal assistance from the IMF and the World Bank. Although the 50% \Jdevaluation\j of the currency of 12 January 1994 improved the potential for export growth, mismanagement remains and is the main barrier to economic improvement. The \Jdevaluation\j led to a spurt in \Jinflation\j to 48% in 1994, but it moderated in 1995-96. Progress toward privatization of remaining state industry remains slow.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $17.5 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 3.4% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $1,230 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Navy (includes Naval Infantry), Air Force, National Gendarmerie, Presidential Guard
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 3,211,508 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 1,623,228 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 156,208 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $102 million (FY93/94)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b demarcation of international boundaries in vicinity of Lake Chad, the lack of which led to border incidents in the past, is completed and awaits ratification by \JCameroon\j, Chad, \JNiger\j, and \JNigeria\j; dispute with \JNigeria\j over land and maritime boundaries in the vicinity of the Bakasi Peninsula has been referred to the International Court of Justice
#
"Canada (Atlas)",44,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern \JNorth America\j, bordering the North \JAtlantic Ocean\j and North \JPacific Ocean\j, north of the conterminous US
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 60 00 N, 95 00 W
\BMap references:\b North America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 9,976,140 sq km
\Iland:\i 9,220,970 sq km
\Iwater:\i 755,170 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly larger than US
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 8,893 km
\Iborder countries:\i US 8,893 km (includes 2,477 km with \JAlaska\j)
\BCoastline:\b 243,791 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
\Iexclusive fishing zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b varies from temperate in south to subarctic and arctic in north
\BTerrain:\b mostly plains with mountains in west and lowlands in southeast
\BNatural hazards:\b continuous \Jpermafrost\j in north is a serious obstacle to development; cyclonic storms form east of the Rocky Mountains, a result of the mixing of air masses from the \JArctic\j, Pacific, and North American interior, and produce most of the country's rain and snow
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b air \Jpollution\j and resulting \Jacid rain\j severely affecting lakes and damaging forests; metal smelting, \Jcoal\j-burning utilities, and vehicle emissions impacting on agricultural and forest productivity; ocean waters becoming contaminated due to agricultural, industrial, mining, and \Jforestry\j activities
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Desertification, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands, Whaling
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea
\BGeography - note:\b second-largest country in world (after \JRussia\j); strategic location between \JRussia\j and US via north polar route; nearly 90% of the population is concentrated within 161 km of the US/Canada border
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 5.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 78.96 years
\Imale:\i 75.61 years
\Ifemale:\i 82.48 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.66 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Canadian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Canadian
\BEthnic groups:\b \JBritish Isles\j origin 40%, French origin 27%, other European 20%, Amerindian 1.5%, other, mostly Asian 11.5%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 45%, United Church 12%, Anglican 8%, other 35% (1991)
\BLanguages:\b English (official), French (official)
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 97% (1986 est.)
\Imale:\i NA%
\Ifemale:\i NA%
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Canada
\BData code:\b CA
\BGovernment type:\b confederation with parliamentary democracy
\BNational capital:\b Ottawa
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 10 provinces and 2 territories*; Alberta, British Columbia, \JManitoba\j, New \JBrunswick\j, Newfoundland, Northwest Territories*, \JNova Scotia\j, \JOntario\j, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan, \JYukon\j Territory*
\Inote:\i the Northwest Territories will be split in two as of April 1999; the eastern section will be renamed Nunavut, the west is as yet unnamed
\BIndependence:\b 1 July 1867 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b \JCanada Day\j, 1 July (1867)
\BConstitution:\b 17 April 1982 (Constitution Act); originally, the machinery of the government was set up in the British \JNorth America\j Act of 1867; charter of rights and unwritten customs
\BLegal system:\b based on English \Jcommon law\j, except in Quebec, where civil law system based on French law prevails; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II of the UK (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor General Romeo LeBLANC (since 8 February 1995)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Jean CHRETIEN (since 4 November 1993)
\Icabinet:\i Federal Ministry chosen by the prime minister from among the members of his own party sitting in Parliament
\Ielections:\i none; the queen is a hereditary monarch; governor general appointed by the queen on the advice of the prime minister; following legislative elections, the leader of the majority party in the \JHouse of Commons\j is automatically designated by the governor general to become prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament or Parlement consists of the Senate or Senat (a body whose members are appointed to serve until reaching 75 years of age by the governor general and selected on the advice of the prime minister; its normal limit is 104 senators) and the \JHouse of Commons\j or Chambre des Communes (295 seats; note - number of seats will rise to 301 at the time of the next election; members elected by direct popular vote to serve five-year terms)\Ielections:\i \JHouse of Commons\j - last held 25 October 1993 (next to be held by 3 November 1998)
\Ielection results:\i percent of votes by party - Liberal Party 41%, Reform Party 19%, Tories 16%, Bloc Quebecois 14%, New Democratic Party 7%, other 3%; seats by party - Liberal Party 177, Bloc Quebecois 53, Reform Party 52, New Democratic Party 9, Progressive Conservative Party 2, independents 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the prime minister through the governor general
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Liberal Party [Jean CHRETIEN]; Bloc Quebecois [Michel GAUTHIER (until March 1997)]; Reform Party [Preston MANNING]; New Democratic Party [Alexa MCDONOUGH]; Progressive Conservative Party [Jean CHAREST]
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 866, Ogdensburg, NY 13669-0430
\Itelephone:\i [1] (613) 238-5335, 4470
\IFAX:\i [1] (613) 238-5720
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JCalgary\j, \JHalifax\j, Montreal, Quebec, Toronto, and Vancouver
\BFlag description:\b three vertical bands of red (hoist side), white (double width, square), and red with a red maple leaf centered in the white band
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b As an affluent, high-tech industrial society, Canada today closely resembles the US in per capita output, market-oriented economic system, and pattern of production. Since World War II, the impressive growth of the manufacturing, mining, and service sectors has transformed the nation from a largely rural economy into one primarily industrial and urban. Canada started the 1990s in recession, and real rates of growth have averaged only 1.1% so far this decade. Because of slower growth, Canada still faces high unemployment - especially in Quebec and the Maritime Provinces - and a large public sector debt. With its great natural resources, skilled labor force, and modern capital plant, however, Canada will enjoy better economic prospects in the future. The continuing constitutional impasse between English- and French-speaking areas is raising the possibility of a split in the confederation, making foreign investors somewhat edgy.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $721 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 1.4% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $25,000 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i services 74%, manufacturing 15%, agriculture 3%, construction 5%, other 3% (1994)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 9.7% (December 1996)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $94.3 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $115.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $1.7 billion (FY95/96 est.)
\BIndustries:\b processed and unprocessed minerals, food products, wood and paper products, transportation equipment, chemicals, fish products, \Jpetroleum\j and natural gas
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b 1.3% (1996)
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 113.65 million kW (1994)
\BElectricity - consumption per capita:\b 16,137 kWh (1995 est.)
\BAgriculture - products:\b wheat, \Jbarley\j, oilseed, \Jtobacco\j, fruits, vegetables; dairy products; forest products; commercial fisheries provide annual catch of 1.5 million metric tons, of which 75% is exported
\Itotal:\i 70,176 km; note - there are two major transcontinental freight railway systems: Canadian National (privatized November 1995) and Canadian Pacific Railway; passenger service provided by government-operated firm VIA, which has no trackage of its own
\Istandard gauge:\i 70,000 km 1.435-m gauge (63 km electrified)
\Inarrow gauge:\i 176 km 0.914-m gauge (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1.021 million km
\Ipaved:\i 358,371 km (including 19,000 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 662,629 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 3,000 km, including Saint Lawrence Seaway
\BPipelines:\b crude and refined oil 23,564 km; \Jnatural gas\j 74,980 km
\BPorts and harbors:\b Becancour (Quebec), Churchill, \JHalifax\j, Montreal, New Westminister, Prince Rupert, Quebec, Saint John (New \JBrunswick\j), Saint John's (Newfoundland), Seven Islands, Sydney, Three Rivers, Thunder Bay, Toronto, Vancouver, Windsor
\Inote:\i does not include ships used exclusively in the Great Lakes (1996 est.) \BAirports:\b 1,139 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 816
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 17
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 15
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 138
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 229
\Iunder 914 m:\i 417 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 323
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 55
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 268 (1996 est.)
\BHeliports:\b 17 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b 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)
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 17 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 8,160,914 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 7,007,901 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 208,138 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $9 billion (FY95/96)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 1.6% (FY95/96)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b maritime boundary disputes with the US (Dixon Entrance, Beaufort Sea, Strait of Juan de Fuca, Machias Seal Island); Saint Pierre and Miquelon is focus of maritime boundary dispute between Canada and \JFrance\j; in 1992 an \Jarbitration\j panel awarded the islands an exclusive economic zone area of 12,348 sq km to settle the dispute
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of cannabis for the domestic drug market; use of hydroponics technology permits growers to plant large quantities of high-quality marijuana indoors; growing role as a transit point for heroin and \Jcocaine\j entering the US market
#
"Cape Verde (Atlas)",45,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, group of Islands in the North \JAtlantic Ocean\j, west of Senegal
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 16 00 N, 24 00 W
\BMap references:\b World
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,030 sq km
\Iland:\i 4,030 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly larger than Rhode Island
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 965 km
\BMaritime claims:\b measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b temperate; warm, dry summer; precipitation meager and very erratic
\BTerrain:\b steep, rugged, rocky, volcanic
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JAtlantic Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Pico 2,829 m
\BNatural resources:\b salt, \Jbasalt\j rock, pozzuolana (a siliceous volcanic ash used to produce hydraulic cement), \Jlimestone\j, \Jkaolin\j, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 11%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 6%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 83% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 30 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b prolonged droughts; \Jharmattan\j wind can obscure visibility; volcanically and seismically active
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b overgrazing of livestock and improper land use such as the cultivation of crops on steep slopes has led to soil erosion; demand for wood used as fuel has resulted in deforestation; \Jdesertification\j; environmental damage has threatened several species of birds and reptiles; overfishing
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Desertification, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i none of the selected agreements
\BGeography - note:\b strategic location 500 km from west coast of Africa near major north-south sea routes; important communications station; important sea and air refueling site
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 49.6 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 70.04 years
\Imale:\i 66.76 years
\Ifemale:\i 73.42 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.2 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Cape Verdean(s)
\Iadjective:\i Cape Verdean
\BEthnic groups:\b \JCreole\j (mulatto) 71%, African 28%, European 1%
\BReligions:\b \JRoman Catholicism\j fused with indigenous beliefs
\BLanguages:\b Portuguese, Crioulo, a blend of Portuguese and West African words
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 71.6%
\Imale:\i 81.4%
\Ifemale:\i 63.8% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Cape Verde
\Iconventional short form:\i Cape Verde
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de Cabo Verde
\Ilocal short form:\i Cabo Verde
\BData code:\b CV
\BGovernment type:\b republic
\BNational capital:\b Praia
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 14 districts (concelhos, singular - concelho); Boa Vista, Brava, Fogo, Maio, Paul, \JPraia\j, Porto Novo, Ribeira Grande, Sal, Santa Catarina, Santa Cruz, Sao Nicolau, Sao Vicente, Tarrafal
\BIndependence:\b 5 July 1975 (from \JPortugal\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 5 July (1975)
\BConstitution:\b new constitution came into force 25 September 1992
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Antonio MASCARENHAS Monteiro (since 22 March 1991)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Carlos Alberto Wahnon de Carvalho VEIGA (since 13 January 1991)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the prime minister from among the members of the People's National Assembly
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 18 February 1996 (next to be held NA February 2001); prime minister nominated by the People's National Assembly and appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i Antonio MASCARENHAS Monteiro elected president; percent of vote - Antonio MASCARENHAS Monteiro (independent) 80.1%
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral People's National Assembly or Assembleia Nacional Popular (72 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms) \Ielections:\i last held 17 December 1995 (next to be held NA 2000)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - MPD 59%, PAICV 28%, PCD 6%; seats by party - MPD 50, PAICV 21, PCD 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Tribunal of Justice or Supremo Tribunal de Justia
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Movement for Democracy or MPD [Prime Minister Carlos VEIGA, founder and chairman]; African Party for Independence of Cape Verde or PAICV [Pedro Verona Rodrigues PIRES, chairman]; Party for Democratic Convergence or PCD; Social Democratic Party or PSD [leader NA]
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Alberto Santos SILVA CARLOS
\Ichancery:\i 3415 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 965-6820
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 965-1207
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Boston
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Lawrence Neal BENEDICT (17 June 1996)
\Iembassy:\i Rua Abilio Macedo 81, Praia
\Imailing address:\i C. P. 201, Praia
\Itelephone:\i [238] 61 56 16
\IFAX:\i [238] 61 13 55
\BFlag description:\b three horizontal bands of light blue (top, double width), white (with a horizontal red stripe in the middle third), and light blue; a circle of 10 yellow five-pointed stars is centered on the hoist end of the red stripe and extends into the upper and lower blue bands
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Cape Verde's low per capita GDP reflects a poor natural resource base, serious \Jwater\j shortages exacerbated by cycles of long-term \Jdrought\j, and a high birthrate. The economy is service oriented, with commerce, transport, and public services accounting for almost 70% of GDP. Although nearly 70% of the population lives in rural areas, the share of agriculture in GNP is only 14%, of which fishing accounts for 4%. About 90% of food must be imported. The fishing potential, mostly lobster and \Jtuna\j, is not fully exploited. Cape Verde annually runs a high trade deficit, financed by remittances from emigrants and foreign aid, which form important supplements to GDP. Economic reforms, launched by the new democratic government in 1991, are aimed at developing the private sector and attracting foreign investment to diversify the economy. Prospects for 1997 depend heavily on the maintenance of aid flows, remittances, and the momentum of the government's development program.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $472 million (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 4.7% (1995 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $1,000 (1995 est.)
\Idomestic:\i interisland microwave radio relay system
\Iinternational:\i 2 coaxial submarine cables; HF radiotelephone to \JSenegal\j and Guinea-\JBissau\j; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (\JAtlantic Ocean\j)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 6, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 7,000 (1991 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,100 km
\Ipaved:\i 858 km
\Iunpaved:\i 242 km (1995 est.)
\BPorts and harbors:\b \JMindelo\j, \JPraia\j, Tarrafal
\BMerchant marine:\b
\Itotal:\i 3 (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 4,032 GRT/5,966 DWT
\Iships by type:\i cargo 2, chemical tanker 1 (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 6 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 6
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 5 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b People's Revolutionary Armed Forces (FARP; includes Army and Navy), Security Service
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 78,622 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 44,870 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $3.4 million (1994)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
\BIllicit drugs:\b increasingly used as a transshipment point for illicit drugs moving from \JLatin America\j and Africa destined for Western Europe
#
"Cayman Islands (Atlas)",46,0,0,0
\I(dependent territory of the UK) \i
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, island group in \JCaribbean Sea\j, nearly one-half of the way from \JCuba\j to Honduras
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 19 30 N, 80 30 W
\BMap references:\b \JCentral America\j and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 260 sq km
\Iland:\i 260 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b 1.5 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 160 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive fishing zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical marine; warm, rainy summers (May to October) and cool, relatively dry winters (November to April)
\BTerrain:\b low-lying \Jlimestone\j base surrounded by \Jcoral\j reefs
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JCaribbean Sea\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i The Bluff 43 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish, climate and beaches that foster tourism
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 8%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 23%
\Iother:\i 69% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b hurricanes (July to November)
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b no natural fresh \Jwater\j resources, drinking \Jwater\j supplies must be met by rainwater catchment
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b important location between \JCuba\j and Central America
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 36,153 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 4.25% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 14.24 births/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.98 deaths/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 33.2 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\Inote:\i major destination for Cubans trying to migrate to the US
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Itotal population:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 8.4 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 77.1 years
\Imale:\i 75.37 years
\Ifemale:\i 78.81 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.37 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Caymanian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Caymanian
\BEthnic groups:\b mixed 40%, white 20%, black 20%, expatriates of various ethnic groups 20%
\BReligions:\b United Church (Presbyterian and Congregational), Anglican, Baptist, Roman Catholic, Church of God, other Protestant denominations
\BLanguages:\b English
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over has ever attended school
\Itotal population:\i 98%
\Imale:\i 98%
\Ifemale:\i 98% (1970 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i \JCayman\j Islands
\BData code:\b CJ
\BDependency status:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BGovernment type:\b NA
\BNational capital:\b George Town
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 8 districts; Creek, Eastern, Midland, South Town, Spot Bay, Stake Bay, West End, Western
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Constitution Day (first Monday in July)
\BConstitution:\b 1959, revised 1972 and 1992
\BLegal system:\b British \Jcommon law\j and local statutes
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II of the UK (since 6 February 1952)
\Ihead of government:\i Governor and President of the Executive Council John OWEN (since 15 September 1995)
\Icabinet:\i Executive Council (three members appointed by the governor, four members elected by the Legislative Assembly)
\Ielections:\i none; the queen is a hereditary monarch; the governor is appointed by the queen
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Legislative Assembly (18 seats, 3 official members and 15 elected by popular vote; members serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 20 November 1996 (next to be held NA November 2000)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote - NA; seats - National Team coalition 9, independents 6
\BJudicial branch:\b Grand Court; \JCayman\j Islands Court of Appeal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b no formal political parties
\BInternational organization participation:\b Caricom (observer), CDB, \JInterpol\j (subbureau), IOC
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BFlag description:\b blue, with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Caymanian coat of arms on a white disk centered on the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms includes a \Jpineapple\j and turtle above a shield with three stars (representing the three islands) and a scroll at the bottom bearing the motto HE HATH FOUNDED IT UPON THE SEAS
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b With no direct taxation, the Islands are a thriving offshore financial center; 28,000 foreign companies do business with the 600 registered banks and trust companies; banking assets exceed $500 billion. 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 \JNorth America\j. Total tourist arrivals exceeded one million visitors in 1995 and again in 1996. About 90% of the islands' food and consumer goods must be imported. The Caymanians enjoy one of the highest outputs per capita and one of the highest standards of living in the world.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $860 million (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 4.5% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $23,800 (1996 est.)
\Inote:\i a flag of convenience registry; \JGreece\j owns 7 ships, US 7, UK 5, India 1, \JJapan\j 1, \JNorway\j 1, Sweden 1, \JSwitzerland\j 1, and United Arab Emirates 1 (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 3 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 2
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Royal \JCayman\j Islands Police Force (RCIPF)
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of the UK
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
\BIllicit drugs:\b vulnerable to drug money-laundering and drug transshipment
#
"Central African Republic (Atlas)",47,0,0,0
\BIntroduction\b
\BCurrent issues:\b in 1996 the Central African Republic experienced three mutinies by dissident elements of the armed forces which demanded back pay as well as political and military reforms; continuing violence in 1997 between the government and rebel military and civilian groups over pay issues, living conditions, and lack of opposition party representation in the government has destroyed many businesses in the capital, reducing tax revenues and exacerbating the government's problems in meeting expenses
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Africa, north of Democratic Republic of the Congo
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 7 00 N, 21 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 622,980 sq km
\Iland:\i 622,980 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Texas
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,203 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JCameroon\j 797 km, Chad 1,197 km, Democratic Republic of the \JCongo\j 1,577 km, Republic of the \JCongo\j 467 km, \JSudan\j 1,165 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, dry winters; mild to hot, wet summers
\BTerrain:\b vast, flat to rolling, monotonous plateau; scattered hills in northeast and southwest
\BNatural hazards:\b hot, dry, dusty \Jharmattan\j winds affect northern areas; floods are common
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b tap \Jwater\j is not potable; poaching has diminished its reputation as one of the last great wildlife refuges; \Jdesertification\j; deforestation
\BIndependence:\b 13 August 1960 (from \JFrance\j)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 1 December (1958) (proclamation of the republic)
\BConstitution:\b passed by referendum 29 December 1994; adopted 7 January 1995
\BLegal system:\b based on French law
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Ange PATASSE (since 22 October 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Michel GBEZERA-BRIA (since January 1997)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a 6-year term; election last held 19 September 1993 (next to be held October 1999); prime minister appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i Ange PATASSE elected president; percent of vote - PATASSE 52.45%, Abel GOUMBA 45.62%
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Assembly or Assemblee Nationale (85 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 19 September 1993 (next to be held October 1998)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - MLPC 34, RDC 13, PLD 7, FPP 7, ADP 6, PSD 3, CN 3, MDREC 1, PRC 1, FC 1, MESAN 1, independents supporting David DACKO 6, independents 2
\Inote:\i the National Assembly is advised by the Economic and Regional Council or Conseil Economique et Regional; when they sit together they are called the Congress or Congres
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court or Cour Supreme, judges appointed by the president; Constitutional Court, judges appointed by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Alliance for Democracy and Progress or ADP [Tchapka BREDE]; Central African Democratic Assembly or RDC [Andre KOLINGBA]; Central African Republican Party or PRC; Civic Forum or FC [Gen. Timothee MALENDOMA]; Democratic Movement for the Renaissance and Evolution of Central Africa or MDREC [Joseph BENDOUNGA]; Liberal Democratic Party or PLD [Nestor KOMBO-NAGUEMON]; Movement for the Liberation of the Central African People or MLPC [the party of the president, Ange Felix PATASSE]; Movement for Democracy and Development or MDD [David DACKO]; National Convention or CN [David GALIAMBO]; Patriotic Front for Progress or FPP [Abel GOUMBA]; Social Democratic Party or PSD [Enoch Derant LAKOUE]; Social Evolution Movement of Black Africa or MESAN [Prosper LAVODRAMA and Joseph NGBANGADIBO]
\Ichancery:\i 1618 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 483-7800, 7801
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 332-9893
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Mosina H. JORDAN
\Iembassy:\i Avenue David Dacko, Bangui
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 924, Bangui
\Itelephone:\i [236] 61 02 00, 61 25 78, 61 02 10
\IFAX:\i [236] 61 44 94
\BFlag description:\b four equal horizontal bands of blue (top), white, green, and yellow with a vertical red band in center; there is a yellow five-pointed star on the hoist side of the blue band
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Subsistence agriculture, together with \Jforestry\j, remains the backbone of the economy of the Central African Republic (CAR), with more than 70% of the population living in outlying areas. The agricultural sector generates half of GDP. Timber has accounted for about 16% of export earnings and the diamond industry for nearly 54%. 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. The 50% \Jdevaluation\j of the currencies of 14 Francophone African nations on 12 January 1994 had mixed effects on the CAR's economy. Diamond, timber, \Jcoffee\j, and cotton exports increased, leading an estimated rise of GDP of 7% in 1994 and nearly 5% in 1995. Inflation, however, remains a problem. Moreover, ongoing violence between the government and rebel military and civilian groups over pay issues, living conditions, and opposition party political representation has destroyed many businesses in the capital, reducing tax revenues for the government, and delaying negotiations for an IMF financial aid agreement.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $2.5 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 4.8% (1995 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $800 (1995 est.)
\Ipartners:\i \JFrance\j 16%, \JBelgium\j-Luxembourg 40.1%, \JItaly\j, \JJapan\j, US, \JSpain\j, \JIran\j, Democratic Republic of the Congo, Republic of the Congo
\BImports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $176 million (f.o.b., 1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i food, textiles, \Jpetroleum\j products, machinery, electrical equipment, motor vehicles, chemicals, pharmaceuticals, consumer goods, industrial products\Ipartners:\i \JFrance\j 37%, other EU countries, \JJapan\j 24%, \JAlgeria\j, \JCameroon\j, Namibia\BDebt - external:\b $890 million (1994 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 Communaute Financiere Africaine franc (CFAF) = 100 centimes
\Inote:\i beginning 12 January 1994, the CFA franc was devalued to CFAF 100 per French franc from CFAF 50 at which it had been fixed since 1948
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 16,867 (1992 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b fair system
\Idomestic:\i network consists principally of microwave radio relay and low-capacity, low-powered radiotelephone communication
\Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (\JAtlantic Ocean\j)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 7,500 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 23,810 km
\Ipaved:\i 429 km
\Iunpaved:\i 23,381 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 800 km; traditional trade carried on by means of shallow-draft dugouts; Oubangui is the most important river
\BPorts and harbors:\b Bangui, Nola
\BAirports:\b 43 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 11
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
\Iunder 914 m:\i 8 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 32
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 10
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 21 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Central African Army (includes Republican Guard), Air Force, National Gendarmerie, Police Force
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 755,441 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 393,765 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $30 million (1994)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 2.3% (1994)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
#
"Chad (Atlas)",48,0,0,0
\BIntroduction\b
\BHistorical perspective:\b After enduring decades of civil warfare among ethnic groups as well as invasions by \JLibya\j, Chad got started toward a more stable state with the seizure of the government in early December 1990 by former northern guerrilla leader Idress DEBY. His transitional government eventually suppressed armed rebellion in all quarters of the country, settled the territorial dispute with \JLibya\j on terms favorable to Chad, produced a democratic constitution which was ratified by popular referendum in March 1996, held multiparty national presidential elections in June and July 1996 (DEBY won with 67% of the vote), and held multiparty elections to the National Assembly in January and February 1997, in which Idress DEBY's party, Patriotic Salvation Movement or MPS, won a majority of the seats.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Africa, south of Libya
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 15 00 N, 19 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 1.284 million sq km
\Iland:\i 1,259,200 sq km
\Iwater:\i 24,800 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly more than three times the size of California
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,968 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JCameroon\j 1,094 km, Central African Republic 1,197 km, \JLibya\j 1,055 km, \JNiger\j 1,175 km, \JNigeria\j 87 km, \JSudan\j 1,360 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BClimate:\b tropical in south, desert in north
\BTerrain:\b broad, arid plains in center, desert in north, mountains in northwest, lowlands in south
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Djourab Depression 175 m
\Ihighest point:\i Emi Koussi 3,415 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j (unexploited but exploration under way), uranium, natron, \Jkaolin\j, fish (Lake Chad)
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b inadequate supplies of potable \Jwater\j; improper waste disposal in rural areas contributes to soil and \Jwater\j \Jpollution\j; desertification
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 118.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 47.88 years
\Imale:\i 45.49 years
\Ifemale:\i 50.37 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 5.79 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Chadian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Chadian
\BEthnic groups:\b Muslims (\JArabs\j, Toubou, Hadjerai, Fulbe, Kotoko, Kanembou, Baguirmi, Boulala, Zaghawa, and Maba), non-Muslims (Sara, Ngambaye, Mbaye, Goulaye, Moundang, Moussei, Massa), nonindigenous 150,000 (of whom 1,000 are French)\BReligions:\b Muslim 50%, Christian 25%, indigenous beliefs (mostly \Janimism\j) 25% \BLanguages:\b French (official), Arabic (official), Sara and Sango (in south), more than 100 different languages and dialects
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write in French or Arabic
\BIndependence:\b 11 August 1960 (from \JFrance\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 11 August (1960)
\BConstitution:\b 31 March 1995, passed by referendum
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system and Chadian customary law; does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Lt. Gen. Idriss DEBY (since 4 December 1990)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Djimasta KOIBLA (since 9 April 1995); appointed by the president
\Icabinet:\i Council of State appointed by the president on the recommendation of the prime minister
\Ielections:\i the constitution provides for the election of a president by direct popular vote to serve a term of five years; if no candidate receives at least 50% of the total vote, the two candidates receiving the most votes must stand for a second round of voting; last held 2 June and 11 July 1996 (next to be held NA 2001); the prime minister is appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i in the first round of voting none of the 15 candidates received the required 50% of the total vote; percent of vote, first round - Lt. Gen. Idress DEBY 47.8 %; percent of vote, second round - Lt. Gen. DEBY 69.1%, Wadal Abdelkader KAMOUGUE 30.9%; President DEBY reappointed Prime Minister Djimasta KOIBLA
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Assembly (125 seats; members serve four-year terms); replaces the Higher Transitional Council or the Conseil Superieur de Transition \Ielections:\i National Assembly - last held in two rounds on 5 January and 23 February 1997, (next to be held NA 2001); in the first round of voting on 5 January 1997 some candidates won clear victories by receiving 50% or more of the vote; where that did not happen, the two highest scoring candidates stood for a second round of voting
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - MPS 65, URD 29, UNDR 15, RDP 3, others 13
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Patriotic Salvation Movement or MPS [Maldom Bada ABBAS, chairman], originally in opposition but now the party in power and the party of the president; National Union for Development and Renewal or UNDR [Saleh KEBZABO, leader]; Rally for Democracy and Progress or RDP [Lal Mahamat CHOUA, leader]; Union for Renewal and Democracy or URD [Gen. Wadal Abdelkader KAMOUGUE, leader]; note - in mid-1996 Chad had about 60 political parties, of which these are the most prominent in the new National Assembly
\BFlag description:\b three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), yellow, and red; similar to the flag of \JRomania\j; also similar to the flag of \JAndorra\j, which has a national coat of arms featuring a quartered shield centered in the yellow band; design was based on the flag of France
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Unfavorable climate, geographic remoteness, poor resource endowment, and lack of \Jinfrastructure\j make Chad one of the most underdeveloped countries in the world. Its economy is hobbled by political turmoil, \Jdrought\j, and food shortages. Consequently the economy has shown little progress in recent years in overcoming a severe setback brought on by \Jcivil war\j in the late 1980s. About 85% 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 food shortages in several regions. Of all the Francophone countries in Africa, Chad has benefited the least from the 50% \Jdevaluation\j of their currencies on 12 January 1994. Despite an increase in external financial aid and price increases for cotton - the primary source of foreign exchange - the corrupt and enfeebled government bureaucracy continues to postpone payment of public sector salaries and to dampen economic enterprise by neglecting payments to domestic suppliers. The \Jdevaluation\j resulted in stepped-up \Jinflation\j of 41% in 1994; \Jinflation\j fell to 9% in 1995 but it remains high compared with other Francophone countries. In one favorable development, Chad in December 1996 concluded an agreement with ESSO/Chad (EXXON) for drilling and extracting \Jpetroleum\j at Doba. Oil will be piped through \JCameroon\j for export.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $3.3 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 2.6% (1995 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $600 (1995 est.)
\Inote:\i beginning 12 January 1994 the CFA franc was devalued to CFAF 100 per French franc from CFAF 50 at which it had been fixed since 1948
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 5,000 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b primitive system
\Idomestic:\i fair system of radiotelephone communication stations
\Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (\JAtlantic Ocean\j)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 6, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 (1987 est.)
\Inote:\i limited TV service; many facilities are inoperative
\BTelevisions:\b 7,000 (1991 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 32,700 km
\Ipaved:\i 262 km
\Iunpaved:\i 32,438 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 2,000 km navigable
\BPorts and harbors:\b none
\BAirports:\b 46 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 15
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 1
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 3
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\Iunder 914 m:\i 10 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 31
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 14
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 17 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Armed Forces (includes Ground Force, Air Force, and Gendarmerie), Republican Guard, Police
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 20 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,603,194 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 830,777 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 65,906 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $74 million (1994)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 11.1% (1994)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b demarcation of international boundaries in the vicinity of Lake Chad, the lack of which has led to border incidents in the past, is completed and awaiting ratification by \JCameroon\j, Chad, \JNiger\j, and \JNigeria\j
#
"Chile (Atlas)",49,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern \JSouth America\j, bordering the South \JAtlantic Ocean\j and South \JPacific Ocean\j, between Argentina and Peru
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 30 00 S, 71 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 756,950 sq km
\Iland:\i 748,800 sq km
\Iwater:\i 8,150 sq km
\Inote:\i includes Isla de Pascua (Easter Island) and Isla Sala y Gomez
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than twice the size of Montana
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 6,171 km
\Iborder countries:\i Argentina 5,150 km, \JBolivia\j 861 km, \JPeru\j 160 km
\BCoastline:\b 6,435 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 24 nm
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200 nm
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b temperate; desert in north; cool and damp in south
\BTerrain:\b low coastal mountains; fertile central valley; rugged \JAndes\j in east
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JPacific Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Cerro Aconcagua 6,962 m
\BNatural resources:\b copper, timber, iron ore, nitrates, precious metals, molybdenum
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 5%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 18%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 22%
\Iother:\i 55% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 12,650 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b severe earthquakes; active volcanism; tsunamis
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b air \Jpollution\j from industrial and vehicle emissions; \Jwater\j \Jpollution\j from raw sewage; deforestation contributing to loss of \Jbiodiversity\j; soil erosion; desertification
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Desertification, Law of the Sea
\BGeography - note:\b strategic location relative to sea lanes between Atlantic and Pacific Oceans (Strait of Magellan, \JBeagle\j Channel, Drake Passage); Atacama Desert is one of world's driest regions
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 13.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 74.73 years
\Imale:\i 71.5 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.95 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.17 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Chilean(s)
\Iadjective:\i Chilean
\BEthnic groups:\b white and white-Amerindian 95%, Amerindian 3%, other 2%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 89%, Protestant 11%, Jewish
\BLanguages:\b Spanish
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 95.2%
\Imale:\i 95.4%
\Ifemale:\i 95% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Chile
\Iconventional short form:\i Chile
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de Chile
\Ilocal short form:\i Chile
\BData code:\b CI
\BGovernment type:\b republic
\BNational capital:\b Santiago
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 13 regions (regiones, singular - region); Aisen del General Carlos Ibanez del Campo, Antofagasta, Araucania, Atacama, Bio-Bio, Coquimbo, Libertador General Bernardo O'Higgins, Los Lagos, Magallanes y de la Antartica Chilena, Maule, Region Metropolitana, Tarapaca, Valparaiso
\Inote:\i the US does not recognize claims to Antarctica
\BIndependence:\b 18 September 1810 (from \JSpain\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 18 September (1810)
\BConstitution:\b 11 September 1980, effective 11 March 1981; amended 30 July 1989
\BLegal system:\b based on Code of 1857 derived from Spanish law and subsequent codes influenced by French and Austrian law; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Eduardo FREI Ruiz-Tagle (since 11 March 1994); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Ihead of government:\i President Eduardo FREI Ruiz-Tagle (since 11 March 1994); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the president
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a six-year term; election last held 11 December 1993 (next to be held NA December 1999)
\Ielection results:\i Eduardo FREI Ruiz-Tagle elected president; percent of vote - Eduardo FREI Ruiz-Tagle (PDC) 58%, Arturo ALESSANDRI 24.4%, other 17.6%
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Congress or Congreso Nacional consists of the Senate or Senado (46 seats, 38 elected by popular vote; members serve eight-year terms - one half elected every four years) and the Chamber of Deputies or Camara de Diputados (120 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i Senate - last held 11 December 1993 (next to be held NA December 1997); Chamber of Deputies - last held 11 December 1993 (next to be held NA December 1997)
\Ielection results:\i Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - Coalition of Parties for Democracy 21 (PDC 13, PS 4, PPD 3, PR 1), Union for the Progress of \JChile\j 15 (RN 11, UDI 3, UCC 1), right-wing independents 2; Chamber of Deputies - percent of vote by party - Coalition of Parties for Democracy 53.95% (PDC 27.16%, PS 12.01%, PPD 11.82%, PR 2.96%), Union for the Progress of \JChile\j 30.57% (RN 15.25%, UDI 12.13%, UCC 3.19%); seats by party - Coalition of Parties for Democracy 70 (PDC 37, PPD 15, PR 2, PS 15, left-wing independent 1), Union for the Progress of \JChile\j 47 (RN 30, UDI 15, UCC 2), right-wing independents 3; note - subsequent to the election, the Radical Party (PR) became the Radical Social Democratic Party (PRSD)
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges are appointed by the president, the president of the Supreme Court is elected by the 17-member court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Coalition of Parties for Democracy or CPD consists mainly of: Christian Democratic Party or PDC [Enrique KRAUSS]; Socialist Party or PS [Camilo ESCALONA]; Party for Democracy or PPD [Sergio BITAR]; Radical Social Democratic Party or PRSD [Anselmo SULE]; Union for the Progress of \JChile\j or UPP consists mainly of three parties: National Renewal or RN [Alberto ESPINA]; Independent Democratic Union or UDI [Jovino NOVOA]; Center Center Union or UCC [Francisco Javier ERRAZURIZ]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b revitalized university student federations at all major universities; labor - United Labor Central or CUT includes trade unionists from the country's five largest labor confederations; Roman Catholic Church
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador John BIEHL Del Rios
\Ichancery:\i 1732 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20036
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 785-1746
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 887-5579
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, Philadelphia, \JSan Francisco\j, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Gabriel GUERRA-MONDRAGON
\Iembassy:\i Avenida Andres Bello 2800, Santiago
\Imailing address:\i APO AA 34033
\Itelephone:\i [56] (2) 232-2600
\IFAX:\i [56] (2) 330-3710
\BFlag description:\b two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red; there is a blue square the same height as the white band at the hoist-side end of the white band; the square bears a white five-pointed star in the center; design was based on the US flag
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b \JChile\j has a prosperous, essentially free market economy. Civilian governments - which took over from the military in March 1990 - have continued to reduce the government's role in the economy while shifting the emphasis of public spending toward social programs. Growth in real GDP averaged more than 6.5% in 1991-1996, and \Jinflation\j is nearing a 40-year low. \JChile\j's currency and foreign reserves also are strong, as sustained foreign capital inflows - driven in part by state privatizations - have more than offset occasional current account deficits and public debt buybacks. President FREI, who took office in March 1994, has placed improving \JChile\j's education system and developing foreign export markets at the top of his economic agenda. Despite this progress, the Chilean economy remains largely dependent on a few sectors - particularly copper mining, fishing, and \Jforestry\j. Success in meeting the government's goal of sustained annual economic growth of 5% depends largely on world prices for these commodities, continued foreign investor confidence, and the government's ability to maintain a conservative fiscal stance. In 1996, Chile became an associate member of Mercosur and concluded a Free Trade Agreement with Canada.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $120.6 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 6.5% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $8,400 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i services 38.3% (includes government 12%), industry and commerce 33.8%, agriculture, \Jforestry\j, and fishing 19.2%, mining 2.3%, construction 6.4% (1990)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 6.5% (1996 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $17 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $17 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.)
\BIndustries:\b copper, other minerals, foodstuffs, fish processing, iron and steel, wood and wood products, transport equipment, cement, textiles
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b 4.8% (1995)
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 5.964 million kW (1995)
\BMilitary branches:\b Army of the Nation, National Navy (includes Naval Air, Coast Guard, and Marines), Air Force of the Nation, Carabineros of \JChile\j (National Police), Investigations Police
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 19 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 3,867,676 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 2,874,235 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 125,586 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $2.8 billion (1997); note - includes earnings from CODELCO Company; may exclude costs of pensions and internal security
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 3.5% (1997)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b short section of the southern boundary with Argentina is indefinite; \JBolivia\j has wanted a sovereign corridor to the South \JPacific Ocean\j since the Atacama area was lost to \JChile\j in 1884; dispute with \JBolivia\j over Rio Lauca \Jwater\j rights; territorial claim in \JAntarctica\j (Chilean Antarctic Territory) partially overlaps Argentine and British claims
\BIllicit drugs:\b a minor transshipment country for \Jcocaine\j destined for the US and Europe; booming economy has made it more attractive to traffickers seeking to launder drug profits
#
"China (Atlas)",50,0,0,0
\I(also see separate \JTaiwan\j entry)\i
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Asia, bordering the East China Sea, Korea Bay, Yellow Sea, and South China Sea, between North Korea and Vietnam
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 35 00 N, 105 00 E
\BMap references:\b Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 9,596,960 sq km
\Iland:\i 9,326,410 sq km
\Iwater:\i 270,550 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than the US
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 22,143.34 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAfghanistan\j 76 km, \JBhutan\j 470 km, \JBurma\j 2,185 km, Hong Kong 30 km, India 3,380 km, Kazakstan 1,533 km, North Korea 1,416 km, \JKyrgyzstan\j 858 km, Laos 423 km, Macau 0.34 km, \JMongolia\j 4,673 km, \JNepal\j 1,236 km, \JPakistan\j 523 km, \JRussia\j (northeast) 3,605 km, \JRussia\j (northwest) 40 km, Tajikistan 414 km, Vietnam 1,281 km
\BCoastline:\b 14,500 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 24 nm
\Icontinental shelf:\i claim to shallow areas of East China Sea and Yellow Sea
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b extremely diverse; tropical in south to subarctic in north
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains, high plateaus, deserts in west; plains, deltas, and hills in east
\BNatural hazards:\b frequent typhoons (about five per year along southern and eastern coasts); damaging floods; tsunamis; earthquakes; droughts
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b air \Jpollution\j from the overwhelming use of high-sulfur \Jcoal\j as a fuel, produces \Jacid rain\j which is damaging forests; \Jwater\j shortages experienced throughout the country, particularly in urban areas; future growth in \Jwater\j usage threatens to outpace supplies; \Jwater\j \Jpollution\j from industrial effluents; much of the population does not have access to potable \Jwater\j; less than 10% of sewage receives treatment; deforestation; estimated loss of one-fifth of agricultural land since 1949 to soil erosion and economic development; \Jdesertification\j; trade in endangered species
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Desertification
\BGeography - note:\b world's fourth-largest country (after \JRussia\j, Canada, and US)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 37.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 69.98 years
\Imale:\i 68.61 years
\Ifemale:\i 71.5 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.81 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Chinese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Chinese
\BEthnic groups:\b Han Chinese 91.9%, Zhuang, Uygur, Hui, Yi, Tibetan, Miao, Manchu, Mongol, Buyi, Korean, and other nationalities 8.1%
\BReligions:\b Daoism (Taoism), \JBuddhism\j, Muslim 2%-3%, Christian 1% (est.)
\Inote:\i officially atheist, but traditionally pragmatic and eclectic
\BLanguages:\b Standard Chinese or Mandarin (Putonghua, based on the \JBeijing\j \Jdialect\j), Yue (\JCantonese\j), Wu (Shanghaiese), Minbei (Fuzhou), Minnan (Hokkien-Taiwanese), Xiang, Gan, \JHakka\j dialects, minority languages (see Ethnic divisions entry)
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 81.5%
\Imale:\i 89.9%
\Ifemale:\i 72.7% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i People's Republic of China
\Iconventional short form:\i China
\Ilocal long form:\i Zhonghua Renmin Gongheguo
\Ilocal short form:\i Zhong Guo
\Iabbreviation:\i PRC
\BData code:\b CH
\BGovernment type:\b Communist state
\BNational capital:\b Beijing
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 23 provinces (sheng, singular and plural), 5 autonomous regions* (zizhiqu, singular and plural), and 3 municipalities** (shi, singular and plural); Anhui, \JBeijing\j**, 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*, \JXizang\j* (\JTibet\j), Yunnan, Zhejiang
\Inote:\i China considers \JTaiwan\j its 23rd province
\BIndependence:\b 221 BC (unification under the Qin or Ch'in Dynasty 221 BC; Qing or Ch'ing Dynasty replaced by the Republic on 12 February 1912; People's Republic established 1 October 1949)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 1 October (1949)
\BConstitution:\b most recent promulgated 4 December 1982
\BLegal system:\b a complex amalgam of custom and statute, largely criminal law; rudimentary civil code in effect since 1 January 1987; new legal codes in effect since 1 January 1980; continuing efforts are being made to improve civil, administrative, criminal, and commercial law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President JIANG Zemin (since 27 March 1993) and Vice President RONG Yiren (since 27 March 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i Premier Zhu Rongji (17 March 1998); Vice Premiers, 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)
\Icabinet:\i State Council appointed by the National People's Congress (NPC)
\Ielections:\i president and vice president elected by the National People's Congress for five-year terms; election last held 27 March 1993 (next to be held NA March 1998); premier and vice premiers nominated by the president, confirmed by the National People's Congress
\Ielection results:\i JIANG Zemin elected by the Eighth National People's Congress; percent
of National People's Congress vote - NA
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National People's Congress or Quanguo Renmin Daibiao Dahui
(2,977 seats; members indirectly elected at county or \Jxian\j level to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held NA March 1993 (next to be held NA March 1998)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote - NA; seats - NA
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme People's Court, judges appointed by the National People's Congress
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Chinese Communist Party (CCP), JIANG Zemin, general secretary of the Central Committee; eight registered small parties controlled by CCP
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b no meaningful political opposition groups exist
\BInternational organization participation:\b AfDB, APEC, AsDB, BIS (pending member), CCC, ESCAP, FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICC, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, \JInterpol\j, IOC, ISO, ITU, LAIA (observer), Mekong Group, MINURSO, NAM (observer), PCA, UN, UN Security Council, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNHCR, UNIDO, UNIKOM, UNITAR, UNTSO, UNU, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant)
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador LI Daoyu
\Ichancery:\i 2300 Connecticut Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 328-2500 through 2502
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, New York, and San Francisco
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador James R. SASSER
\Iembassy:\i Xiu Shui Bei Jie 3, 100600 Beijing
\Imailing address:\i PSC 461, Box 50, FPO AP 96521-0002
\BFlag description:\b red with a large yellow five-pointed star and four smaller yellow five-pointed stars (arranged in a vertical arc toward the middle of the flag) in the upper hoist-side corner
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Beginning in late 1978 the Chinese leadership has been trying to move the economy from a sluggish Soviet-style centrally planned economy to one that is more market-oriented but still within a rigid political framework of Communist Party control. To this end the authorities switched to a system of household responsibility in agriculture in place of the old collectivization, increased the authority of local officials and plant managers in industry, permitted a wide variety of small-scale enterprise in services and light manufacturing, and opened the economy to increased foreign trade and investment. The result has been a quadrupling of GDP since 1978. Agricultural output doubled in the 1980s, and industry also posted major gains, especially in coastal areas near Hong Kong and opposite \JTaiwan\j, where foreign investment helped spur output of both domestic and export goods. On the darker side, the leadership has often experienced in its hybrid system the worst results of \Jsocialism\j (bureaucracy, lassitude, corruption) and of \Jcapitalism\j (windfall gains and stepped-up \Jinflation\j). \JBeijing\j thus has periodically backtracked, retightening central controls at intervals. In 1992-96 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 1995-96 \Jinflation\j dropped sharply, reflecting tighter monetary policies and stronger measures to control food prices. At the same time, the government struggled to (a) collect revenues due from provinces, businesses, and individuals; (b) reduce corruption 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 and many of which have been losing the ability to pay full wages and pensions. From 60 to 100 million surplus rural workers are adrift between the villages and the cities, many subsisting through part-time low-paying 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 maintaining growth in living standards. Another long-term threat to continued rapid economic growth is the deterioration in the environment, notably air \Jpollution\j, soil erosion, and the steady fall of the \Jwater\j table especially in the north. China continues to lose arable land because of erosion and economic development; furthermore, the regime gives insufficient priority to agricultural research. The next few years will witness increasing tensions between a highly centralized political system and an increasingly decentralized economic system. Rapid economic growth likely will continue but at a declining rate.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $3.39 trillion (1996 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1995 with use of official Chinese growth figure for 1996; the result may overstate China's GDP by as much as 25%)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 9.7% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $2,800 (1996 est.)
\Inote:\i beginning 1 January 1994, the People's Bank of China quotes the midpoint rate against the US dollar based on the previous \Jday\j's prevailing rate in the interbank foreign exchange market
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 20 million (1994 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b domestic and international services are increasingly available for private use; unevenly distributed domestic system serves principal cities, industrial centers, and most townships
\Idomestic:\i \Jtelephone\j lines are being expanded to 100 million by 1996; interprovincial fiber-optic trunk lines and cellular \Jtelephone\j systems have been installed; a domestic \Jsatellite\j system with 55 \Jearth\j stations is in place
\Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations - 5 Intelsat (4 \JPacific Ocean\j and 1 Indian Ocean), 1 Intersputnik (Indian Ocean Region) and 1 Inmarsat (Pacific and Indian Ocean Regions); several international fiber-optic links to \JJapan\j, South Korea, and Hong Kong
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 274, FM NA, shortwave 0
\Inote:\i China owns an additional 270 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 8,754,413 DWT operating under the registries of Panama, Hong Kong, Malta, \JLiberia\j, Vanuatu, Cyprus, Saint Vincent and the Grenadines, \JMarshall Islands\j, and \JSingapore\j (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 206 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 192
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 18
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 65
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 90
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 13
\Iunder 914 m:\i 6 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 14
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 8
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 5
\Iunder 914 m:\i 1 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b People's Liberation Army (PLA), which includes the Ground Forces, Navy (includes Marines and Naval Aviation), Air Force, Second Artillery Corps (the strategic missile force), People's Armed Police (internal security troops, nominally subordinate to Ministry of Public Security, but included by the Chinese as part of the "armed forces" and considered to be an adjunct to the PLA in wartime)
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 356,848,321 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 196,780,527 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 9,872,055 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b the officially announced but suspect figure is 70.2 billion yuan (1995 est.); note - conversion of the defense budget into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b boundary with India in dispute; disputed sections of the boundary with \JRussia\j remain to be settled; boundary with Tajikistan in dispute; short section of the boundary with North Korea is indefinite; involved in a complex dispute over the Spratly Islands with \JMalaysia\j, \JPhilippines\j, Taiwan, Vietnam, and possibly \JBrunei\j; maritime boundary dispute with Vietnam in the Gulf of Tonkin; Paracel Islands occupied by China, but claimed by Vietnam and Taiwan; claims Japanese-administered Senkaku-shoto (Senkaku Islands/Diaoyu Tai), as does Taiwan
\BIllicit drugs:\b major transshipment point for heroin produced in the Golden Triangle; growing domestic drug abuse problem
#
"Christmas Island (Atlas)",51,0,0,0
\I(territory of \JAustralia\j) \i
\BGeography\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, island in the Indian Ocean, south of Indonesia
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 10 30 S, 105 40 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 135 sq km
\Iland:\i 135 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b about 0.7 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 138.9 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 12 nm
\Iexclusive fishing zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 3 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical; heat and \Jhumidity\j moderated by trade winds
\BTerrain:\b steep cliffs along coast rise abruptly to central plateau
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Murray Hill 361 m
\BNatural resources:\b phosphate
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i NA%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i NA%
\Iforests and woodland:\i NA%
\Iother:\i 100% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b the narrow fringing reef surrounding the island can be a maritime hazard
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b NA
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b located along major sea lanes of Indian Ocean
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 743 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b -8.98% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b NA births/1,000 population
\BDeath rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 population
\BNet migration rate:\b NA migrant(s)/1,000 population
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Itotal population:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 live births
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i NA years
\Imale:\i NA years
\Ifemale:\i NA years
\BTotal fertility rate:\b NA children born/woman
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Christmas Islander(s)
\Iadjective:\i Christmas Island
\BEthnic groups:\b Chinese 61%, Malay 25%, European 11%, other 3%, no indigenous population
\BReligions:\b Buddhist 55%, Christian 15%, Muslim 10%, other 20% (1991)
\BLanguages:\b English
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of Christmas Island
\Iconventional short form:\i Christmas Island
\BData code:\b KT
\BDependency status:\b territory of Australia
\BGovernment type:\b NA
\BNational capital:\b The Settlement
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (territory of \JAustralia\j)
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of \JAustralia\j)
\BNational holiday:\b NA
\BConstitution:\b Christmas Island Act of 1958
\BLegal system:\b under the authority of the governor general of \JAustralia\j and Australian law
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II of the UK (since 6 February 1952), represented by the Australian governor general
\Ihead of government:\i Administrator (vacant); Official Secretary Merrilyn CHILVERS (since NA) is serving as acting administrator
\Ielections:\i none; the queen is a hereditary monarch; administrator appointed by the governor general of Australia and represents the queen and Australia
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Christmas Island Shire Council (9 seats; members elected by popular vote to serve one-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held NA December 1996 (next to be held NA December 1997)
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none (territory of \JAustralia\j)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b none (territory of \JAustralia\j)
\BFlag description:\b the flag of \JAustralia\j is used
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Phosphate mining had been the only significant economic activity, but in December 1987 the Australian Government closed the mine. In 1990, the mine was reopened by private operators. Australian-based Casinos \JAustria\j International Ltd. built a $45 million casino on Christmas Island.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $NA
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $NA
\BGDP - composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\BInflation rate - consumer price index:\b NA%
\BLabor force:\b
\Itotal:\i NA
\Iby occupation:\i tourism 400 people, mining 100 people
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\Inote:\i external \Jtelephone\j and telex services are provided by INTELSAT satellite
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 500 (1992)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 350 (1992)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b 24 km to serve phosphate mines
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts and harbors:\b Flying Fish Cove
\BMerchant marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b 1
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of Australia
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
#
"Clipperton Island (Atlas)",52,0,0,0
\I(possession of \JFrance\j)\i
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle America, \Jatoll\j in the North \JPacific Ocean\j, 1,120 km southwest of Mexico
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 10 17 N, 109 13 W
\BMap references:\b World
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 7 sq km
\Iland:\i 7 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b about 12 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 11.1 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical, humid, average \Jtemperature\j 20-32 degrees C, rains May-October
\BTerrain:\b \Jcoral\j atoll
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JPacific Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Rocher Clipperton 29 m
\BNatural resources:\b none
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 0%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100% (all \Jcoral\j)
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km (1993)
\BNatural hazards:\b subject to tornadoes
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b NA
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b reef about 8 km in circumference
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b uninhabited
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Clipperton Island
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Ile Clipperton
\Iformer:\i sometimes called Ile de la Passion
\BData code:\b IP
\BDependency status:\b possession of \JFrance\j; administered by \JFrance\j from French \JPolynesia\j by a high commissioner of the Republic
\BFlag description:\b the flag of \JFrance\j is used
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b The only economic activity is a \Jtuna\j fishing station.
\BTransportation\b
\BPorts and harbors:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of France
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
#
"Cocos (Keeling) Islands (Atlas)",53,0,0,0
\I(territory of \JAustralia\j)\i
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Asia, group of islands in the Indian Ocean, south of \JIndonesia\j, about one-half of the way from \JAustralia\j to Sri Lanka
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 12 30 S, 96 50 E
\BMap references:\b Southeast Asia
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 14 sq km
\Iland:\i 14 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\Inote:\i includes the two main islands of West Island and Home Island
\BArea - comparative:\b about 24 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 2.6 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive fishing zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 3 nm
\BClimate:\b pleasant, modified by the southeast trade wind for about nine months of the year; moderate rainfall
\BTerrain:\b flat, low-lying \Jcoral\j atolls
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 5 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i NA%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i NA%
\Iforests and woodland:\i NA%
\Iother:\i 100% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b cyclones may occur in the early months of the year
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b fresh \Jwater\j resources are limited to rainwater accumulations in natural underground reservoirs
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b two \Jcoral\j atolls thickly covered with coconut palms and other vegetation
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 617 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.98% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b NA births/1,000 population
\BDeath rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 population
\BNet migration rate:\b NA migrant(s)/1,000 population
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Itotal population:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 live births
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i NA years
\Imale:\i NA years
\Ifemale:\i NA years
\BTotal fertility rate:\b NA children born/woman
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Cocos Islander(s)
\Iadjective:\i Cocos Islander
\BEthnic groups:\b Europeans, Cocos Malays
\BReligions:\b Sunni Muslim 57%, Christian 22%, other 21% (1981 est.)
\BLanguages:\b English, Malay
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of Cocos (Keeling) Islands
\Iconventional short form:\i Cocos (Keeling) Islands
\BData code:\b CK
\BDependency status:\b territory of Australia
\BGovernment type:\b NA
\BNational capital:\b West Island
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (territory of \JAustralia\j)
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of \JAustralia\j)
\BNational holiday:\b NA
\BConstitution:\b Cocos (Keeling) Islands Act of 1955
\BLegal system:\b based upon the laws of \JAustralia\j and local laws
\BSuffrage:\b NA
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II of the UK (since 6 February 1952), represented by the Australian governor general
\Ihead of government:\i Administrator (acting) Jarl ANDERSSON (since NA)
\Icabinet:\i NA
\Ielections:\i none; the queen is a hereditary monarch; administrator appointed by the governor general of Australia and represents the queen and Australia
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Cocos (Keeling) Islands Shire Council (NA seats)
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b none
\BInternational organization participation:\b WMO
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none (territory of \JAustralia\j)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b none (territory of \JAustralia\j)
\BFlag description:\b the flag of \JAustralia\j is used
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Grown throughout the islands, coconuts are the sole cash crop. Copra and fresh coconuts are the major export earners. Small local gardens and fishing contribute to the food supply, but additional food and most other necessities must be imported from \JAustralia\j.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $NA
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $NA
\BGDP - composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i NA%
\Iindustry:\i NA%
\Iservices:\i NA%
\BInflation rate - consumer price index:\b NA%
\BLabor force:\b NA
\Inote:\i the Cocos Islands Cooperative Society Ltd. employs construction workers, stevedores, and lighterage worker operations; tourism employs others
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\Iinternational:\i \Jtelephone\j, telex, and facsimile communications with \JAustralia\j and elsewhere via \Jsatellite\j; 1 \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station of NA type
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 300 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\Inote:\i intermittent \Jtelevision\j service via satellite
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\BPorts and harbors:\b none; lagoon \Janchorage\j only
\BMerchant marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b 1
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of Australia
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
#
"Colombia (Atlas)",54,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern \JSouth America\j, bordering the \JCaribbean Sea\j, between Panama and Venezuela, and bordering the North \JPacific Ocean\j, between \JEcuador\j and Panama
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 4 00 N, 72 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,138,910 sq km
\Iland:\i 1,038,700 sq km
\Iwater:\i 100,210 sq km
\Inote:\i includes Isla de Malpelo, Roncador Cay, Serrana Bank, and Serranilla Bank
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly less than three times the size of Montana
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 7,408 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBrazil\j 1,643 km, \JEcuador\j 590 km, Panama 225 km, \JPeru\j 2,900 km, Venezuela 2,050 km
\BCoastline:\b 3,208 km (\JCaribbean Sea\j 1,760 km, North \JPacific Ocean\j 1,448 km)
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical along coast and eastern plains; cooler in highlands
\BTerrain:\b flat coastal lowlands, central highlands, high \JAndes\j Mountains, eastern lowland plains
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b deforestation; soil damage from overuse of pesticides; air \Jpollution\j, especially in Bogota, from vehicle emissions
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 24.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 73.14 years
\Imale:\i 70.28 years
\Ifemale:\i 76.09 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.31 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Colombian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Colombian
\BEthnic groups:\b mestizo 58%, white 20%, mulatto 14%, black 4%, mixed black-Amerindian 3%, Amerindian 1%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 95%
\BLanguages:\b Spanish
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 91.3%
\Imale:\i 91.2%
\Ifemale:\i 91.4% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Colombia
\Iconventional short form:\i Colombia
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de Colombia
\Ilocal short form:\i Colombia
\BData code:\b CO
\BGovernment type:\b republic; executive branch dominates government structure
\BNational capital:\b Bogota
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 32 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento) and 1 capital district* (distrito capital); Amazonas, Antioquia, Arauca, Atlantico, Bolivar, Boyaca, Caldas, Caqueta, Casanare, Cauca, Cesar, Choco, Cordoba, Cundinamarca, Guainia, Guaviare, Huila, La Guajira, Magdalena, Meta, Narino, Norte de Santander, Putumayo, Quindio, Risaralda, San Andres y \JProvidencia\j, Santa Fe de Bogota*, Santander, Sucre, Tolima, Valle del Cauca, Vaupes, Vichada
\BIndependence:\b 20 July 1810 (from \JSpain\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 20 July (1810)
\BConstitution:\b 5 July 1991
\BLegal system:\b based on Spanish law; a new criminal code modeled after US procedures was enacted in 1992-93; judicial review of executive and legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Andres Pastrana (since 7 August 1998); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Ihead of government:\i President Andres Pastrana (since 7 August 1998); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a four-year term; election last held May 1998; vice president elected by popular vote for a four-year term in a new procedure that replaces the traditional designation of vice presidents by newly elected presidents
\Ielection results:\i Ernesto SAMPER Pizano hands over to his successor, Andres Pastrana
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Congress or Congreso consists of the Senate or Senado (102 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve four-year terms) and the \JHouse of Representatives\j or Camara de Representantes (161 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i Senate - last held March 1998; \JHouse of Representatives\j - last held March 1998
\Ielection results:\i Not available
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Justice (Corte Suprema de Justical), highest court of criminal law, judges are selected from the nominees of the Higher Council of Justice for eight-year terms; Council of State, highest court of administrative law, judges are selected from the nominees of the Higher Council of Justice for eight-year terms; Constitutional Court, guards integrity and supremacy of the constitution, rules on constitutionality of laws, amendments to the constitution, and international treaties
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Liberal Party or PL [Emilio LEBOLO Castellanos]; Conservative Party or PC [Fabio VALENCIA Cossio]; New Democratic Force or NDF [Andres PASTRANA Arango]; Democratic Alliance M-19 or AD/M-19 is a coalition of small leftist parties and dissident liberals and conservatives; Patriotic Union (UP) is a legal political party formed by Revolutionary Armed Forces of \JColombia\j (FARC) and Colombian Communist Party (PCC); National Salvation Movement or MSN [Dr. Alvaro GOMEZ Hurtado]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b two largest insurgent groups active in \JColombia\j - Revolutionary Armed Forces of \JColombia\j or FARC; and National Liberation Army or ELN
\BFlag description:\b three horizontal bands of yellow (top, double-width), blue, and red; similar to the flag of \JEcuador\j, which is longer and bears the Ecuadorian coat of arms superimposed in the center
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Boasting a diversified and stable economy, \JColombia\j has enjoyed \JLatin America\j'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 Latin American countries, \JColombia\j did not default on any of its official debts during the "lost decade" of the 1980s. Since 1990, when Bogota introduced a comprehensive reform program that opened the economy to foreign trade and investment, GDP growth has averaged more than 4% annually. Growth has been fueled in recent years by the rapid expansion of the oil sector, progress in the construction and financial service industries, and an influx of foreign capital. Direct foreign investment, especially in the oil industry, is rising at a rapid rate. In 1996, oil overtook \Jcoffee\j as \JColombia\j's main export. Non-\Jpetroleum\j economic growth slowed, however, due mostly to high interest rates - the result of high government spending and a tight monetary policy - and a real appreciation of the exchange rate. Business confidence was also damaged by a political crisis stemming from allegations President SAMPER solicited contributions from drug traffickers during the 1994 campaign. The slowdown in the growth of labor-intensive industries such as manufacturing has caused unemployment to rise to 11.5% by the end of 1996 and interfered with President SAMPER'S plans to lower the country's poverty rate, which has remained at about 40% despite the expanding economy.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $201.4 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 2.1% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $5,400 (1996 est.)
\Iships by type:\i bulk 5, cargo 6, container 1, multi-function large load carrier 2, oil tanker 3 (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 913 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 606
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 2
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 9
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 32
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 36
\Iunder 914 m:\i 527 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 307
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 1
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 34
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 272 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Army (Ejercito Nacional), Navy (Armada Nacional, includes Marines and Coast Guard), Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Colombiana), National Police (Policia Nacional)
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 10,285,806 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 6,909,846 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 348,802 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $2 billion (1995)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 2.8% (1995)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b maritime boundary dispute with Venezuela in the Gulf of Venezuela; territorial dispute with \JNicaragua\j over Archipelago de San Andres y \JProvidencia\j and Quita
Sueno Bank
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of \Jcoca\j, opium poppies, and cannabis; about 50,900 hectares of \Jcoca\j under cultivation in 1995; the world's largest processor of \Jcoca\j derivatives into \Jcocaine\j; supplier of \Jcocaine\j to the US and other international drug markets; active aerial eradication program seeks to virtually eliminate coca and opium crops
#
"Comoros (Atlas)",55,0,0,0
\BIntroduction\b
\BHistorical perspective:\b \JComoros\j has had difficulty in achieving political stability, having endured 18 coups or attempted coups since receiving independence from \JFrance\j in 1975.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, group of islands in the Mozambique Channel, about two-thirds of the way between northern Madagascar and northern Mozambique
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 12 10 S, 44 15 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,170 sq km
\Iland:\i 2,170 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly more than 12 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 340 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical marine; rainy season (November to May)
\BTerrain:\b volcanic islands, interiors vary from steep mountains to low hills
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Kartala 2,360 m
\BNatural resources:\b negligible
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 35%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 10%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 7%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 18%
\Iother:\i 30% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b cyclones and tsunamis possible during rainy season (December to April); Mount Kartala on Grand Comore is an active volcano
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b soil degradation and erosion results from crop cultivation on slopes without proper terracing; deforestation
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, \JOzone Layer\j Protection
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Desertification
\BGeography - note:\b important location at northern end of \JMozambique\j Channel
\BReligions:\b Sunni Muslim 86%, Roman Catholic 14%
\BLanguages:\b Arabic (official), French (official), Comoran (a blend of \JSwahili\j and Arabic)
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 57.3%
\Imale:\i 64.2%
\Ifemale:\i 50.4% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Federal Islamic Republic of the Comoros
\Iconventional short form:\i Comoros
\Ilocal long form:\i Republique Federale Islamique des Comores
\Ilocal short form:\i Comores
\BData code:\b CN
\BGovernment type:\b independent republic
\BNational capital:\b Moroni
\BAdministrative divisions:\b three islands; Grand Comore (Njazidja), Anjouan (Nzwani), and Moheli (Mwali)
\Inote:\i there are also four municipalities named Domoni, Fomboni, \JMoroni\j, and Mutsamudu
\BIndependence:\b 6 July 1975 (from \JFrance\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 6 July (1975)
\BConstitution:\b 7 June 1992
\BLegal system:\b French and Muslim law in a new consolidated code
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Mohamed TAKI Abdulkarim (died November 1998)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Ahmed ABDOU (since 27 December 1996)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the president
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote to a five-year term; election last held 16 March 1996 (next to be held NA March 2001); prime minister appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i Mohamed TAKI Abdulkarim elected president; share of vote - 64%
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral legislature consists of the Senate (15 seats; members selected by regional councils for six-year terms) and a Federal Assembly or Assemblee Federale (43 seats; members elected by popular vote to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 1 and 8 December 1996 (next to be held NA December 2000)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - RND 39, RND candidate running as independent 1, FNJ 3
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court or Cour Supreme), two members are appointed by the president, two members are elected by the Federal Assembly, one by the Council of each island, and former presidents of the republic
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Rassemblement National pour le Development or RND [Mohamed TAKI Abdulkarim], party of the government; Front National pour la Justice or FNJ, Islamic party in opposition
\Inote:\i under a new constitution ratified in October 1996, a two party system was established; President Mohamed TAKI Abdulkarim called for all parties to dissolve and join him in creating the RND; the Constitution stipulates that only parties that win six seats in the Federal Assembly (two from each island) are permitted to be in opposition, but if no party accomplishes that the second most successful party will be in opposition; in the elections of December 1996 the FNJ appeared to qualify as opposition
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant) Charge d'Affaires ad interim Mahmoud M. ABOUD (ambassador to the US and Canada)
\Ichancery:\i (temporary) care of the Permanent Mission of the Federal and Islamic Republic of the \JComoros\j to the United Nations, 336 East 45th Street, 2nd Floor, New York, NY 10017
\Itelephone:\i [1] (212) 972-8010
\IFAX:\i [1] (212) 983-4712
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b the US does not have an embassy in Comoros; the ambassador to \JMauritius\j is accredited to Comoros
\BFlag description:\b green with a white crescent in the center of the field, its points facing downward; there are four white five-pointed stars placed in a line between the points of the crescent; the crescent, stars, and color green are traditional symbols of \JIslam\j; the four stars represent the four main islands of the archipelago - Mwali, Njazidja, Nzwani, and \JMayotte\j (a territorial collectivity of \JFrance\j, but claimed by \JComoros\j); the design, the most recent of several, is described in the constitution approved by referendum on 7 June 1992
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b One of the world's poorest countries, \JComoros\j is made up of three islands that have inadequate transportation links, a young and rapidly increasing population, and few natural resources. The low educational level of the labor force contributes to a subsistence level of economic activity, high unemployment, and a heavy dependence on foreign grants and technical assistance. Agriculture, including fishing, hunting, and \Jforestry\j, is the leading sector of the economy. It contributes nearly 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 the bulk 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, to promote tourism, and to reduce the high population growth rate. Continued foreign support is essential if the goal of 4% annual GDP growth is to be
reached in the late 1990s.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $370 million (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b -2.3% (1995 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $650 (1995 est.)
\Inote:\i beginning 12 January 1994, the Comoran franc was devalued to 75 per French franc from 50 per French franc at which it had been fixed since 1948
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 3,770 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b sparse system of microwave radio relay and HF radiotelephone communication stations
\Idomestic:\i HF radiotelephone communications and microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i HF radiotelephone communications to Madagascar and Reunion
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b 200 (1991 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 875 km
\Ipaved:\i 669 km
\Iunpaved:\i 206 km (1995 est.)
\BPorts and harbors:\b Fomboni, \JMoroni\j, Mutsamudu
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the South \JAtlantic Ocean\j, between \JAngola\j and Gabon
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 1 00 S, 15 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 342,000 sq km
\Iland:\i 341,500 sq km
\Iwater:\i 500 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Montana
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,504 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAngola\j 201 km, \JCameroon\j 523 km, Central African Republic 467 km, Democratic Republic of the \JCongo\j 2,410 km, \JGabon\j 1,903 km
\BCoastline:\b 169 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iterritorial sea:\i 200 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical; rainy season (March to June); dry season (June to October); constantly high temperatures and \Jhumidity\j; particularly enervating climate astride the Equator
\BTerrain:\b coastal plain, southern basin, central plateau, northern basin
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b air \Jpollution\j from vehicle emissions; \Jwater\j \Jpollution\j from the dumping of raw sewage; tap \Jwater\j is not potable; deforestation
\BReligions:\b Christian 50%, animist 48%, Muslim 2%
\BLanguages:\b French (official), African languages (Lingala and Kikongo are the most widely used)
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 74.9%
\Imale:\i 83.1%
\Ifemale:\i 67.2% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of the Congo
\Iconventional short form:\i none
\Ilocal long form:\i Republique du Congo
\Ilocal short form:\i none
\Iformer:\i Congo\Brazzaville, Congo
\BData code:\b CF
\BGovernment type:\b republic
\BNational capital:\b Brazzaville
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 regions (regions, singular - region) and 1 commune*; Bouenza, \JBrazzaville\j*, Cuvette, Kouilou, Lekoumou, Likouala, Niari, Plateaux, Pool, Sangha
\BIndependence:\b 15 August 1960 (from \JFrance\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Congolese National Day, 15 August (1960)
\BConstitution:\b new constitution approved by referendum March 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system and customary law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Pascal LISSOUBA (since August 1992)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister David Charles GANAO (since 2 September 1996)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the president
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 16 August 1992 (next was to be held 27 July 1997 but armed clashes between political parties in early July seemed likely to delay it); prime minister appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i Pascal LISSOUBA elected president; percent of vote - Pascal LISSOUBA 61%
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament consists of the National Assembly or Assemblee Nationale (125 seats; members are elected by direct popular vote to serve five-year terms) and the Senate (60 seats; members are elected by local and regional councils to serve six-year terms)
\Ielections:\i National Assembly - last held 3 October 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); Senate - last held November 1996 (next to be held NA 2002)
\Ielection results:\i National Assembly - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - UPADS 64, URD/PCT 58, others 3; Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - UPADS 23, MCDDI 14, RDD 8, RDPS 5, PCT 2, others 8
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b the most important of the many political parties are Congolese Labor Party or PCT [Denis SASSOU-NGUESSO, president]; Association for Democracy and Development or RDD [Joachim Yhombi OPANGO, president]; Association for Democracy and Social Progress or RDPS [Jean-Pierre Thystere TCHICAYA, president]; Congolese Movement for Democracy and Integral Development or MCDDI [Bernard KOLELAS, leader]; Pan-African Union for Social Development or UPADS [Pascal LISSOUBA, leader]; Union of Democratic Forces or UFD [David Charles GANAO, leader]; Union for Democratic Renewal or URD; Union for Development and Social
Progress or UDPS [Jean-Michael BOKAMBA-YANGOUMA, leader]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Union of Congolese Socialist Youth or UJSC; Congolese Trade Union Congress or CSC; Revolutionary Union of Congolese Women or URFC; General Union of Congolese Pupils and Students or UGEEC
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Dieudonne Antoine GANGA
\Ichancery:\i 4891 \JColorado\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20011
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 726-5500
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 726-1860
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador J. Aubrey HOOKS (10 June 1996)
\Iembassy:\i Avenue Amilcar Cabral, Brazzaville
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 1015, Brazzaville
\Itelephone:\i [242] 83 20 70
\IFAX:\i [242] 83 63 38
\BFlag description:\b divided diagonally from the lower hoist side by a yellow band; the upper triangle (hoist side) is green and the lower triangle is red; uses the popular pan-African colors of Ethiopia
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b The economy is a mixture of village agriculture and handicrafts, an industrial sector based largely on oil, support services, and a government characterized by budget problems and overstaffing. Oil has supplanted \Jforestry\j as the mainstay of the economy, providing about 90% of government revenues and exports. In the early 1980s, rapidly rising oil revenues enabled the government 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 government has mortgaged a substantial portion of its oil earnings, contributing to the government's shortage of revenues. The 12 January 1994 \Jdevaluation\j of Franc Zone currencies by 50% resulted in \Jinflation\j of 61% in 1994 but \Jinflation\j has subsided since. Recent efforts to implement economic reforms have begun to show progress; the government and the IMF signed an aid agreement in mid-1996.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $4.9 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 0.9% (1995 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $1,960 (1995 est.)
\Inote:\i beginning 12 January 1994, the CFA franc was devalued to CFAF 100 per French franc from CFAF 50 at which it had been fixed since 1948
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 18,000 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b services barely adequate for government use; key exchanges are in \JBrazzaville\j, \JPointe-Noire\j, and Loubomo; inter-city lines frequently out of order
\Idomestic:\i primary network consists of microwave radio relay and coaxial cable
\Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (\JAtlantic Ocean\j)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 4, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 4 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 8,500 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 795 km (includes 285 km private track)
\Inarrow gauge:\i 795 km 1.067-m gauge (1995 est.)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 12,760 km
\Ipaved:\i 1,238 km
\Iunpaved:\i 11,522 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b the \JCongo\j and Ubangi (Oubangui) Rivers provide 1,120 km of commercially navigable \Jwater\j transport; other rivers are used for local traffic only
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 25 km
\BPorts and harbors:\b \JBrazzaville\j, Impfondo, Ouesso, Oyo, Pointe-Noire
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Navy (includes Marines), Air Force, National Police
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 20 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 601,771 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 306,757 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 26,081 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $110 million (1993)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 3.8% (1993)
\BMilitary - note:\b under the terms of a 1994 peace agreement, which ended two years of civil strife, members of militias who supported the three main political parties are being integrated into the military forces
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b long segment of boundary with Democratic Republic of the \JCongo\j along the \JCongo\j River is indefinite (no division of the river or its islands has been made)
#
"Cook Islands (Atlas)",57,0,0,0
\I(free association with \JNew Zealand\j) \i
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, group of islands in the South \JPacific Ocean\j, about one-half of the way from Hawaii to New Zealand
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 21 14 S, 159 46 W
\BMap references:\b Oceania
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 240 sq km
\Iland:\i 240 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b 1.3 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 120 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical; moderated by trade winds
\BTerrain:\b low \Jcoral\j atolls in north; volcanic, hilly islands in south
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JPacific Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Te Manga 652 m
\BNatural resources:\b NEGL
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 9%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 13%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i NA%
\Iforests and woodland:\i NA%
\Iother:\i 78% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b typhoons (November to March)
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b NA
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Law of the Sea
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 19,776 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.08% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 22.7 births/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 5.2 deaths/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -6.65 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Itotal population:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 24.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 71.14 years
\Imale:\i 69.2 years
\Ifemale:\i 73.1 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.22 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Cook Islander(s)
\Iadjective:\i Cook Islander
\BEthnic groups:\b Polynesian (full blood) 81.3%, Polynesian and European 7.7%, Polynesian and non-European 7.7%, European 2.4%, other 0.9%
\BReligions:\b Christian (majority of populace are members of the Cook Islands Christian Church)
\BLanguages:\b English (official), Maori
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Cook Islands
\BData code:\b CW
\BDependency status:\b free association with \JNew Zealand\j; Cook Islands is fully responsible for internal affairs; \JNew Zealand\j retains responsibility for external affairs, in consultation with the Cook Islands
\BIndependence:\b none (became self-governing in free association with \JNew Zealand\j on 4 August 1965 and has the right at any time to move to full independence by unilateral action)
\BNational holiday:\b Constitution Day, 4 August
\BConstitution:\b 4 August 1965
\BLegal system:\b based on \JNew Zealand\j law and English common law
\BSuffrage:\b NA years of age; universal adult
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II of the UK (since 6 February 1952), represented by Apenera SHORT (since NA); New Zealand High Commissioner Darryl DUNN (since NA 1994), representative of New Zealand
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Sir Geoffrey A. HENRY (since 1 February 1989); Deputy Prime Minister Inatio AKARURU (since 1 February 1989)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet chosen by the prime minister; collectively responsible to Parliament
\Ielections:\i none; the queen is a hereditary monarch; the queen's representative is appointed by the queen; the \JNew Zealand\j high commissioner is appointed by the \JNew Zealand\j Government; following legislative elections, the leader of the party that wins the most seats usually becomes prime minister
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Parliament (25 seats; members elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 6 March 1994 (next to be held by NA 1999)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - Cook Islands Party 20, Democratic Party 3, Democratic Alliance Party 2
\Inote:\i the House of Arikis (chiefs) advises on traditional matters, but has no legislative powers
\BJudicial branch:\b High Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Cook Islands Party, Geoffrey HENRY; Democratic Party, Sir Thomas DAVIS; Democratic Alliance Party, Norman GEORGE
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none (self-governing in free association with \JNew Zealand\j)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b none (self-governing in free association with \JNew Zealand\j)
\BFlag description:\b blue, with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and a large circle of 15 white five-pointed stars (one for every island) centered in the outer half of the flag
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Like other South Pacific island nations, the Cook Islands' economic development is hindered by the isolation of the country from foreign markets, lack of natural resources, periodic devastation from natural disasters, and inadequate \Jinfrastructure\j. Agriculture provides the economic base with major exports made up of copra and \Jcitrus\j fruit. Manufacturing activities are limited to a fruit-processing plant and several clothing factories. Trade deficits are made up for by remittances from emigrants and by foreign aid, largely from \JNew Zealand\j. In 1996, the government declared \Jbankruptcy\j, citing a $120 million public debt. Efforts to exploit tourism potential and expanding the mining and fishing industries have not been enough to adequately deal with the financial crisis. In an effort to stem further erosion of the tenuous economic situation, the government slashed public service salaries by 50%, condensed the number of government ministries from 52 to 22, reduced the number of civil servants by more than half, began selling government assets, and closed all overseas diplomatic posts except for the one in \JNew Zealand\j.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $57 million (1993 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $3,000 (1993 est.)
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $1.275 million from \JAustralia\j (FY96/97 est.); $5.4 million in budget support and $3.2 million in project and training aid from \JNew Zealand\j, the country's largest source of aid (FY95/96)
\BCurrency:\b 1 \JNew Zealand\j dollar (NZ$) = 100 cents
\Idomestic:\i the individual islands are connected by a combination of \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations, microwave systems, and VHF and HF radiotelephone; within the islands, service is provided by small exchanges connected to subscribers by open wire, cable, and fiber-optic cable
\Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (\JPacific Ocean\j)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 1, shortwave 1
\BRadios:\b 13,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 studio and 8 low-powered repeaters achieve good coverage on the island of Rarotonga
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b no permanent fresh \Jwater\j resources
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b important nesting area for birds and turtles
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous inhabitants
\Inote:\i there is a staff of four at the meteorological station
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Coral Sea Islands Territory
\Iconventional short form:\i Coral Sea Islands
\BData code:\b CR
\BDependency status:\b territory of \JAustralia\j; administered by the Ministry for Sport, Territories, and Local Government
\BNational capital:\b none; administered from \JCanberra\j, Australia
\BIndependence:\b none (territory of \JAustralia\j)
\BLegal system:\b the laws of \JAustralia\j, where applicable, apply
\BExecutive branch:\b administered by the Minister for the Arts, Sport, the Environments and Territories of Australia
\BFlag description:\b the flag of \JAustralia\j is used
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b no economic activity
\BCommunications\b
\BCommunications - note:\b there are automatic \Jweather\j relay stations on many of the isles and reefs relaying data to the mainland
\BTransportation\b
\BPorts and harbors:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of \JAustralia\j; visited regularly by the Royal Australian Navy; Australia has control over the activities of visitors
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
#
"Costa Rica (Atlas)",59,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle America, bordering both the \JCaribbean Sea\j and the North \JPacific Ocean\j, between \JNicaragua\j and Panama
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 10 00 N, 84 00 W
\BMap references:\b \JCentral America\j and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 51,100 sq km
\Iland:\i 50,660 sq km
\Iwater:\i 440 sq km
\Inote:\i includes Isla del Coco
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than West Virginia
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 639 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JNicaragua\j 309 km, Panama 330 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,290 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical; dry season (December to April); rainy season (May to November)
\BTerrain:\b coastal plains separated by rugged mountains
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JPacific Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Cerro Chirripo 3,810 m
\BNatural resources:\b hydropower potential
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 6%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 5%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 46%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 31%
\Iother:\i 12% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 1,200 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b occasional earthquakes, hurricanes along Atlantic coast; frequent flooding of lowlands at onset of rainy season; active volcanoes
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b deforestation, largely a result of the clearing of land for \Jcattle\j ranching; soil erosion
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Wetlands
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Desertification, Marine Life Conservation
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 13.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 75.82 years
\Imale:\i 73.41 years
\Ifemale:\i 78.36 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.85 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Costa Rican(s)
\Iadjective:\i Costa Rican
\BEthnic groups:\b white (including mestizo) 96%, black 2%, Amerindian 1%, Chinese 1%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 95%
\BLanguages:\b Spanish (official), English spoken around Puerto Limon
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 94.8%
\Imale:\i 94.7%
\Ifemale:\i 95% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Costa Rica
\Iconventional short form:\i Costa Rica
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de Costa Rica
\Ilocal short form:\i Costa Rica
\BData code:\b CS
\BGovernment type:\b democratic republic
\BNational capital:\b San Jose
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 7 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Alajuela, Cartago, Guanacaste, Heredia, Limon, Puntarenas, San Jose
\BIndependence:\b 15 September 1821 (from \JSpain\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
\BConstitution:\b 9 November 1949
\BLegal system:\b based on Spanish civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Jose Maria FIGUERES Olsen (since 8 May 1994); First Vice President Rodrigo OREAMUNO Blanco (since 8 May 1994), Second Vice President Rebeca GRYNSPAN Mayufis (since 8 May 1994); note - president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Ihead of government:\i President Jose Maria FIGUERES Olsen (since 8 May 1994); First Vice President Rodrigo OREAMUNO Blanco (since 8 May 1994), Second Vice President Rebeca GRYNSPAN Mayufis (since 8 May 1994); note - president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet selected by the president
\Ielections:\i president and vice presidents elected on the same ticket by popular vote for four-year terms; election last held 6 February 1994 (next to be held NA February 1998)
\Ielection results:\i Jose Maria FIGUERES Olsen elected president; percent of vote - Jose Maria FIGUERES Olsen (PLN) 49.7%, Miquel Angel RODRIGUEZ (PUSC) 47.5%
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Legislative Assembly or Asamblea Legislativa (57 seats; members are elected by direct popular vote to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 6 February 1994 (next to be held NA February 1998)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - PLN 28, PUSC 25, minority parties 4
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), justices are elected for eight-year terms by the Legislative Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Liberation Party or PLN [Rolando ARAYA]; Social Christian Unity Party or PUSC [Rafael Angel CALDERON Fournier]; National Integration Party or PIN [Walter MUNOZ]; National Agrarian Party or PAN; People's Party of Costa Rica or PPC [Lenin CHACON Vargas]; Agricultural Union Party or PUAC [Juan Guillermo BRENES Castillo]; Democratic Force Party or FD [Isaac Felipe AZOFEIFA Bolanos]; People United [Humberto VARGAS Carbonell]; Patriotic Front Party; New Democratic Party or PDN [Rodrigo GUTIERREZ)]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Costa Rican Confederation of Democratic Workers or CCTD (Liberation Party affiliate); Confederated Union of Workers or CUT (Communist Party affiliate); Authentic Confederation of Democratic Workers or CATD (Communist Party affiliate); Chamber of Coffee Growers; National Association for Economic Development or ANFE; Free Costa Rica Movement or MCRL (rightwing militants); National Association of Educators or ANDE; Federation of Public Service Workers or FTSP
\BInternational organization participation:\b AG (observer), BCIE, CACM, ECLAC, FAO, \JG-7\j7, IADB, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IDA, IFAD, IFC, IFRCS, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat, \JInterpol\j, IOC, IOM, ISO, ITU, LAES, LAIA (observer), NAM (observer), OAS, OPANAL, UN, UN Security Council (temporary), UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNIDO, UNU, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Sonia PICADO
\Ichancery:\i 2114 S Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 234-2945
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 265-4795
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Albuquerque, \JAtlanta\j, \JChicago\j, Durham, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, \JNew Orleans\j, New York, Philadelphia, \JSan Antonio\j, \JSan Diego\j, \JSan Francisco\j, San Juan (Puerto Rico), and Tampa
\Iconsulate(s):\i Austin
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Peter Jon DE VOS
\Iembassy:\i Pavas Road, San Jose
\Imailing address:\i APO AA 34020
\Itelephone:\i [506] 220-3939
\IFAX:\i [506] 220-2305
\BFlag description:\b five horizontal bands of blue (top), white, red (double width), white, and blue, with the coat of arms in a white disk on the hoist side of the red band
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Costa Rica's basically stable and progressive economy depends especially on tourism and the export of bananas, \Jcoffee\j, and other agricultural products. Poverty has been substantially reduced over the past 15 years, and a strong social safety net has been put in place. Recent trends, however, have been disappointing. Economic growth slipped from 4.3% in 1994 to 2.5% in 1995, and to 0.9% in 1996. Inflation rose to 22.5% in 1995 from 13.5% in 1994, then dropped back to 13.9% in 1996. Unemployment appears moderate at little more than 5% but substantial underemployment continues. Furthermore, substantial government deficits have undermined efforts to maintain the quality of social services. The government thus faces a formidable set of problems: to curb \Jinflation\j, reduce the deficit, encourage domestic savings, and improve public sector efficiency while increasing the role of the private sector, all this in harmony with IMF agreements.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $19 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b -0.9% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $5,500 (1996 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b very good domestic \Jtelephone\j service
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i connected to Central American Microwave System; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (\JAtlantic Ocean\j)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 71, FM 0, shortwave 13
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 18
\BTelevisions:\b 340,000 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 950 km
\Inarrow gauge:\i 950 km 1.067-m gauge (260 km electrified)
\Inote:\i the entire system was scheduled to be shut down on 31 June 1995 because of insolvency
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 35,600 km
\Ipaved:\i 5,945 km
\Iunpaved:\i 29,655 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b about 730 km, seasonally navigable
\BPipelines:\b \Jpetroleum\j products 176 km
\BPorts and harbors:\b Caldera, Golfito, Moin, Puerto Limon, Puerto Quepos, Puntarenas
\BMerchant marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b 143 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 115
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 2
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 16
\Iunder 914 m:\i 96 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 28
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 28 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Coast Guard, Air Section, Ministry of Public Security Force (Fuerza Publica) note - during 1996, the Ministry of Public Security reorganized and eliminated the Civil Guard, Rural Assistance Guard, and Frontier Guards as separate entities; they are now under the Ministry and operate on a geographic command basis performing ground security, law enforcement, counternarcotics, and national security (border patrol) functions; the Constitution prohibits armed forces
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 940,666 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 631,426 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 34,422 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $55 million (1995)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 2% (1995)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment country for \Jcocaine\j and heroin from \JSouth America\j; illicit production of cannabis on small, scattered plots
#
"Cote d'Ivoire (Atlas)",60,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the North \JAtlantic Ocean\j, between \JGhana\j and Liberia
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 8 00 N, 5 00 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 322,460 sq km
\Iland:\i 318,000 sq km
\Iwater:\i 4,460 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly larger than New Mexico
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,110 km
\Iborder countries:\i Burkina Faso 584 km, \JGhana\j 668 km, Guinea 610 km, \JLiberia\j 716 km, Mali 532 km
\BCoastline:\b 515 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200 nm
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical along coast, semiarid in far north; three seasons - warm and dry (November to March), hot and dry (March to May), hot and wet (June to October)
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat to undulating plains; mountains in northwest
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Gulf of Guinea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mont Nimba 1,752 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, diamonds, \Jmanganese\j, iron ore, \Jcobalt\j, \Jbauxite\j, copper
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 8%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 4%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 41%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 22%
\Iother:\i 25% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 680 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b coast has heavy surf and no natural harbors; during the rainy season torrential flooding is possible
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b deforestation (most of the country's forests - once the largest in West Africa - have been cleared by the timber industry); \Jwater\j \Jpollution\j from sewage
and industrial and agricultural effluents
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 99.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 44.81 years
\Imale:\i 43.63 years
\Ifemale:\i 46.03 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.06 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Ivorian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Ivorian
\BEthnic groups:\b Baoule 23%, Bete 18%, Senoufou 15%, \JMalinke\j 11%, Agni, foreign Africans (mostly Burkinabe and Malians, about 3 million), non-Africans 130,000 to 330,000 (French 30,000 and Lebanese 100,000 to 300,000)
\BReligions:\b indigenous 25%, Muslim 60%, Christian 12%
\BLanguages:\b French (official), 60 native dialects with Dioula the most widely spoken
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 40.1%
\Imale:\i 49.9%
\Ifemale:\i 30% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Cote d'Ivoire
\Iconventional short form:\i Cote d'Ivoire
\Ilocal long form:\i Republique de Cote d'Ivoire
\Ilocal short form:\i Cote d'Ivoire
\Iformer:\i Ivory Coast
\BData code:\b IV
\BGovernment type:\b republic; multiparty presidential regime established 1960
\BNational capital:\b Yamoussoukro
\Inote:\i although Yamoussoukro has been the capital since 1983, Abidjan remains the administrative center; foreign governments, including the US, maintain official presences in Abidjan
\BConstitution:\b 3 November 1960; has been amended numerous times, last time November 1990
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system and customary law; judicial review in the Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Henri Konan BEDIE (since 7 December 1993); note - succeeded to the presidency following the death of President Felix HOUPHOUET-BOIGNY, who had served continuously since November 1960
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Daniel Kablan DUNCAN (since 10 December 1993)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the prime minister
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 22 October 1995 (next to be held October 2000); prime minister appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i Henri Konan BEDIE elected president; percent of vote - Henri Konan BEDIE 96%
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Assembly or Assemblee Nationale (175 seats; members are elected by direct popular vote to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i elections last held 27 November 1995 (next to be held November 2000) \Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - PDCI 150, RDR 13, FPI 12
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Democratic Party of the Cote d'Ivoire or PDCI [Henri Konan BEDIE]; Rally of the Republicans or RDR [Djeny KOBINA]; Ivorian Popular Front or FPI [Laurent GBAGBO]; Ivorian Worker's Party or PIT [Francis WODIE]; Ivorian Socialist Party or PSI [Morifere BAMBA]; over 20 smaller parties
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Koffi Moise KOUMOUE-KOFFI
\Ichancery:\i 2424 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 797-0300
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Lannon WALKER
\Iembassy:\i 5 Rue Jesse Owens, Abidjan
\Imailing address:\i 01 B. P. 1712, Abidjan
\Itelephone:\i [225] 21 09 79
\IFAX:\i [225] 22 32 59
\BFlag description:\b three equal vertical bands of orange (hoist side), white, and green; similar to the flag of Ireland, which is longer and has the colors reversed - green (hoist side), white, and orange; also similar to the flag of \JItaly\j, which is green (hoist side), white, and red; design was based on the flag of France
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Cote d'Ivoire is among the world's largest producers and exporters of \Jcoffee\j, \Jcocoa\j beans, and palm-kernel oil. Consequently, the economy is highly sensitive to fluctuations in international prices for \Jcoffee\j and \Jcocoa\j and to \Jweather\j conditions. Despite attempts by the government to diversify the economy, it is still largely dependent on agriculture and related activities, which engage roughly 85% of the population. After several years of lagging performance, the Ivorian economy began a comeback in 1994, due to improved prices for \Jcocoa\j and \Jcoffee\j, growth in nontraditional primary exports such as pineapples and \Jrubber\j, limited trade and banking liberalization, offshore oil and gas discoveries, and generous external financing and debt rescheduling by multilateral lenders and \JFrance\j. The 50% \Jdevaluation\j of Franc Zone currencies on 12 January 1994 caused a one-time jump in the \Jinflation\j rate to 32% for 1994, but this rate fell to 8% by 1996, in part as the economy adjusted to the \Jdevaluation\j. Moreover, government adherence to donor-mandated reforms led to a jump in growth rates - 6.5% in GDP in 1996.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $23.9 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 6.5% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $1,620 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, paramilitary Gendarmerie, Presidential Guard
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 3,478,429 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 1,811,508 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 164,364 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $140 million (1993)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 1.4% (1993)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of cannabis, mostly for local consumption; minor transshipment point for Southwest and Southeast Asian heroin to Europe and occasionally to the US
#
"Croatia (Atlas)",61,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southeastern Europe, bordering the Adriatic Sea, between Bosnia and Herzegovina and Slovenia
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 45 10 N, 15 30 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 56,538 sq km
\Iland:\i 56,410 sq km
\Iwater:\i 128 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than West Virginia
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,197 km
\Iborder countries:\i Bosnia and Herzegovina 932 km, \JHungary\j 329 km, \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j 266 km (241 km with \JSerbia\j; 25 km with Montenego), \JSlovenia\j 670 km
\BCoastline:\b 5,790 km (mainland 1,778 km, islands 4,012 km)
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b Mediterranean and continental; continental climate predominant with hot summers and cold winters; mild winters, dry summers along coast
\BTerrain:\b geographically diverse; flat plains along Hungarian border, low mountains and highlands near Adriatic coast, coastline, and islands
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Adriatic Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Dinara 1,830 m
\BNatural resources:\b oil, some \Jcoal\j, \Jbauxite\j, low-grade iron ore, \Jcalcium\j, natural \Jasphalt\j,
silica, mica, clays, salt
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 21%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 2%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 20%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 38%
\Iother:\i 19% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 30 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b frequent and destructive earthquakes
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b air \Jpollution\j (from metallurgical plants) and resulting \Jacid rain\j is damaging the forests; coastal \Jpollution\j from industrial and domestic waste; widespread casualties and destruction of \Jinfrastructure\j in border areas affected by civil strife
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Air Pollution, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Desertification
\BGeography - note:\b controls most land routes from Western Europe to \JAegean Sea\j and Turkish
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 21 counties (zupanijas, zupanija - singular): Bjelovar-Bilogora, City of Zagreb, \JDubrovnik\j-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
\BIndependence:\b 25 June 1991 (from Yugoslavia)
\BNational holiday:\b Statehood Day, 30 May (1990)
\BConstitution:\b adopted on 22 December 1990
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal (16 years of age, if employed)
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Franjo TUDJMAN (since 30 May 1990)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Zlatko MATESA (since NA November 1995); 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-HODAK (since November 1995)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the president
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 4 August 1992 (next to be held 15 June 1997); prime minister and deputy prime ministers appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i President Franjo TUDJMAN reelected; percent of vote - Franjo TUDJMAN
56%, Dobroslav PARAGA 5%
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Assembly or Sabor consists of the House of Districts or Zupanijski Dom (68 seats - 63 directly elected by popular vote, 5 presidentially appointed;
members serve four-year terms) and \JHouse of Representatives\j or the Zastupnicki Dom (127 seats; members are directly elected by popular vote to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i House of Districts - last held 13 April 1997 (next to be held NA 2001);
House of Representatives - last held 29 October 1995 (next to be held NA 1999)
\Ielection results:\i House of Districts - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party -
HDZ 42, HDZ/HSS 11, HSS 2, IDS 2, SDP/PGS/HNS 2, SDP/HNS 2, HSLS/HSS/HNS 1, HSLS 1; note - in some districts certain parties ran as coalitions, while in others they ran alone; \JHouse of Representatives\j - percent of vote by party - HDZ 45.23%, HSS\IDS/HNS/HKDU/SBHS 18.26%, HSLS 11.55%, SDP 8.93%, HSP 5.01%; seats by party - HDZ 75, HSLS 12, HSS 10, SDP 10, IDS 4, HSP 4, HNS 2, SNS 2, HND 1, ASH 1, HKDU 1, SBHS 1, independents 4
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges appointed for eight-year terms by the Judicial
Council of the Republic, which is elected by the House of Representatives; Constitutional Court, judges appointed for eight-year terms by the Judicial Council of the Republic, which is elected by the House of Representatives
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Croatian Democratic Union or HDZ [Franjo TUDJMAN, president]; Croatian Democratic Independents or HND [Stjepan MESIC, president]; Croatian Social Liberal Party or HSLS [Vlado GOTOVAC, president]; Social Democratic Party of Croatia or SDP [Ivica RACAN]; Croatian Party of Rights or HSP [Ante DAPIC]; Croatian Peasants' Party or HSS [Zlatko TOMCIC]; Croatian People's Party or HNS [Radimir CACIC, president]; Serbian National Party or SNS [Milan DJUKIC]; Action of the Social Democrats of Croatia or ASH [Silvija DEGEN]; Croatian
Christian Democratic Union or HKDU [Marko VASELICA, president]; Istrian Democratic Assembly or IDS [Ivan JACKOVIC]; Slanvonsko-Baranja Croatian Party or SBHS; Primorje Gorski Kotar Alliance
\Ichancery:\i 2343 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 588-5899
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 588-8936
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Peter W. GALBRAITH
\Iembassy:\i Andrije Hebranga 2, Zagreb
\Imailing address:\i US Embassy, \JZagreb\j, Department of State, Washington, DC 20521-5080 \Itelephone:\i [385] (1) 455-55-00
\IFAX:\i [385] (1) 455-85-85
\BFlag description:\b red, white, and blue horizontal bands with Croatian coat of arms (red
and white checkered)
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Before the dissolution of Yugoslavia, the Republic of \JCroatia\j, after
Slovenia, was the most prosperous and industrialized area, with a per capita output perhaps one-third above the Yugoslav average. \JCroatia\j faces considerable economic problems stemming from: the legacy of longtime communist mismanagement of the economy; 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. 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 - partially macroeconomic
stabilization policies - and it has normalized relations with its creditors. Yet it still is struggling with privatization of large state enterprises and with bank reform. The draft 1997 budget boosts expenditures on the repair and upgrading of \Jinfrastructure\j. In 1996, the substantial trade deficit was partially offset by increased earnings from tourism.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $21.4 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 4% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $4,300 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i industry and mining 31.1%, agriculture 4.3%, government 19.1% (including
education and health), other 45.5% (1993)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 13% (yearend 1996)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $3.86 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $3.72 billion, including capital expenditures of $320 million (1994 est.)
\BIndustries:\b chemicals and plastics, machine tools, fabricated metal, \Jelectronics\j,
pig iron and rolled steel products, aluminum, paper, wood products, construction materials, textiles, shipbuilding, \Jpetroleum\j and \Jpetroleum\j refining, food and beverages; tourism
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b 0% (1995)
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 3.59 million kW (1994)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transport equipment 13.6%, miscellaneous manufactures 27.6%, chemicals 14.2%, food and live animals 12.2%, raw materials 6.1%, fuels and lubricants 9.4%, beverages and \Jtobacco\j 2.7% (1993)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transport equipment 23.1%, fuels and lubricants 8.8%, food and live animals 9.0%, chemicals 14.2%, miscellaneous manufactured articles 16.0%, raw materials 3.5%, beverages and \Jtobacco\j 1.4% (1993)
\Inote:\i \JCroatia\j owns an additional 105 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,875,941 DWT operating under the registries of Malta, \JLiberia\j, Cyprus, Panama, Antigua and Barbuda, and Saint Vincent and the Grenadines (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 68 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 60
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 2
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 6
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 2
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 3
\Iunder 914 m:\i 47 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 8
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 7 (1996 est.)
\BHeliports:\b 2 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Ground Forces, Naval Forces, Air and Air Defense Forces, Frontier Guard,
Home Guard
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 19 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,190,814 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 946,063 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 35,464 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $1.56 billion (1996)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 10% (1996)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b Eastern Slavonia, which was held by ethnic Serbs during the ethnic conflict, is currently being overseen by the UN Transitional Administration for Eastern Slavonia; reintegration of Eastern Slavonia into \JCroatia\j will occur in 1997; \JCroatia\j and \JItaly\j have not resolved a bilateral issue dating from WWII over property and ethnic minority rights; maritime border dispute with \JSlovenia\j over direct access to the sea in the Adriatic; the border issue is currently under negotiation; \JSerbia\j and \JMontenegro\j is disputing \JCroatia\j's claim to the Prevlaka Peninsula in southern \JCroatia\j because it controls the entrance to \JKotor\j Bay in \JMontenegro\j; Prevlaka is currently under observation by the UN military observer mission in Prevlaka (UNMOP)
\BIllicit drugs:\b transit point along the Balkan route for Southwest Asian heroin to Western
Europe; a minor transit point for maritime shipments of South American \Jcocaine\j bound for Western Europe
#
"Cuba (Atlas)",62,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, island between the \JCaribbean Sea\j and the North \JAtlantic Ocean\j south of Florida
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 21 30 N, 80 00 W
\BMap references:\b \JCentral America\j and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 110,860 sq km
\Iland:\i 110,860 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Pennsylvania
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 29 km
\Iborder countries:\i US Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay 29 km
\Inote:\i Guantanamo Naval Base is leased by the US and thus remains part of Cuba
\BCoastline:\b 3,735 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical; moderated by trade winds; dry season (November to April); rainy season (May to October)
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat to rolling plains with rugged hills and mountains in the southeast
\BNatural hazards:\b 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
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b \Jpollution\j of \JHavana\j Bay; overhunting threatens wildlife populations; deforestation
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Desertification, Marine Life Conservation \BGeography - note:\b largest country in Caribbean
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 8.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 75.2 years
\Imale:\i 72.83 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.71 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.54 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Cuban(s)
\Iadjective:\i Cuban
\BEthnic groups:\b mulatto 51%, white 37%, black 11%, Chinese 1%
\BReligions:\b nominally Roman Catholic 85% prior to CASTRO assuming power; Protestants, \JJehovah\j's Witnesses, Jews, and Santeria are also represented
\BLanguages:\b Spanish
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 95.7%
\Imale:\i 96.2%
\Ifemale:\i 95.3% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Cuba
\Iconventional short form:\i Cuba
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de Cuba
\Ilocal short form:\i Cuba
\BData code:\b CU
\BGovernment type:\b Communist state
\BNational capital:\b Havana
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 14 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia) and 1 special municipality* (municipio especial); Camaguey, Ciego de Avila, \JCienfuegos\j, Ciudad de La Habana, Granma, Guantanamo, Holguin, Isla de la Juventud*, La Habana, Las Tunas, Matanzas, Pinar del Rio, Sancti Spiritus, Santiago de \JCuba\j, Villa Clara
\BIndependence:\b 20 May 1902 (from \JSpain\j 10 December 1898; administered by the US from 1898 to 1902)
\BNational holiday:\b Rebellion Day, 26 July (1953); Liberation Day, 1 January (1959)
\BConstitution:\b 24 February 1976
\BLegal system:\b based on Spanish and American law, with large elements of Communist legal theory; does not accept compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 16 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President of the Council of State and President of the Council of Ministers Fidel CASTRO Ruz (prime minister from February 1959 until 24 February 1976 when office was abolished; president since 2 December 1976); 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); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Ihead of government:\i President of the Council of State and President of the Council of Ministers Fidel CASTRO Ruz (prime minister from February 1959 until 24 February 1976 when office was abolished; president since 2 December 1976); 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); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers proposed by the president of the Council of State, appointed by the National Assembly
\Inote:\i there is also a Council of State whose members are elected by the National Assembly
\Ielections:\i president and vice president elected by the National Assembly; election last held 15 March 1993 (next to be held NA)
\Ielection results:\i Fidel CASTRO Ruz elected president; percent of legislative vote - NA; Raul CASTRO Ruz elected vice president; percent of legislative vote - NA
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Assembly of People's Power or Asemblea Nacional del Poder Popular (589 seats, elected directly from slates approved by special candidacy commissions; members serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 24 February 1993 (next to be held NA 1998)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote - NA; seats - NA
\BJudicial branch:\b People's Supreme Court (Tribunal Supremo Popular), president, vice president, and other judges are elected by the National Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b only party - Cuban Communist Party or PCC [Fidel CASTRO Ruz, first secretary]
\BInternational organization participation:\b CCC, ECLAC, FAO, \JG-7\j7, IAEA, ICAO, ICRM, IFAD, IFRCS, IHO, ILO, IMO, Inmarsat, Intelsat (nonsignatory user), \JInterpol\j, IOC, ISO, ITU, LAES, LAIA (observer), NAM, OAS (excluded from formal participation since 1962), PCA, UN, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNIDO, UNOMIG, UPU, WCL, WFTU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none; note - \JCuba\j has an Interests Section in the Swiss Embassy, headed by Principal Officer Fernando REMIREZ DE ESTENOZ; address: Cuban Interests Section, Swiss Embassy, 2630 16th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009; \Jtelephone\j: [1] (202) 797-8609, 8610, and 8615
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b none; note - the US does have an Interests Section in the Swiss Embassy, headed by Principal Officer Michael G. KOZAK; address: USINT, Swiss Embassy, Calzada between L and M, Vedado Seccion, \JHavana\j; \Jtelephone\j: 33-3551 through 3559 and 33-3543 through 3547 (operator assistance required); FAX: 33-3700; protecting power in \JCuba\j is Switzerland
\BFlag description:\b five equal horizontal bands of blue (top and bottom) alternating with white; a red equilateral triangle based on the hoist side bears a white five-pointed star in the center
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b The state plays the primary role in the economy and controls practically all foreign trade. The government has undertaken several reforms in recent years to stem excess liquidity, increase labor incentives, and alleviate serious shortages of food, consumer goods, and services. The liberalized agricultural markets introduced in October 1994, at which state and private farmers sell above-quota production at unrestricted prices, have broadened legal consumption alternatives and reduced black market prices. Government efforts to lower subsidies to unprofitable enterprises and to shrink the money supply caused the peso's black market value to move from a peak of 120 to the dollar in the summer of 1994 to a low of 18-20 to the dollar in late September before climbing to 20-21 at the end of 1996. New taxes helped drive down the number of legally registered self-employed workers from 208,000 in January 1996 to 180,000 by December. \JHavana\j announced in 1995 that GDP declined by 35% during 1989-1993, the result of lost Soviet aid and domestic inefficiencies. The drop in GDP apparently halted in 1994, when \JCuba\j reported a 0.7% growth. Government officials claimed that GDP increased by 2.5% in 1995 and 7.8% in 1996. Export earnings rose an estimated 40% in 1996 to $2.1 billion, largely on the strength of increased sugar shipments to \JRussia\j and higher nickel production through a joint venture with a Canadian firm. With the economic recovery, imports rose for the second straight year, growing by an estimated 26% to $3.5 billion. Living standards for the average Cuban, however, have not improved significantly.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $16.2 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 7.8% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $1,480 (1996 est.)
\BGDP - composition by sector:\b
\Iagriculture:\i 7%
\Iindustry:\i 31%
\Iservices:\i 62% (1996 est.)
\BInflation rate - consumer price index:\b NA%
\BLabor force:\b
\Itotal:\i 4.71 million economically active population (1989); 3,527,000 employed in state civilian sector (1989)
\Iby occupation:\i services and government 30%, industry 22%, agriculture 20%, commerce 11%, construction 10%, transportation and communications 7% (June 1990)
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b sugar, \Jpetroleum\j, food, \Jtobacco\j, textiles, chemicals, paper and wood products, metals (particularly nickel), cement, fertilizers, consumer goods, agricultural machinery
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b 6% (1995 est.)
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 4.082 million kW (1995)
\Iships by type:\i cargo 11, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 4, refrigerated cargo 6
\Inote:\i \JCuba\j owns an additional 38 ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 548,170 DWT operating under the registries of Panama, Cyprus, Malta, \JBelize\j, and \JMauritius\j (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 162 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 130
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 7
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 7
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 14
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 10
\Iunder 914 m:\i 92 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 32
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 31 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b 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); Border Guards (TGF), which are controlled by the Interior Ministry
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 17 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 3,053,716
\Ifemales age 15-49:\i 3,007,277 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 1,896,023 (1997 est.)
\Ifemales:\i 1,861,886 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 61,934
\Ifemales:\i 58,648 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $NA
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b roughly 4% (1995 est.)
\BMilitary - note:\b Moscow, for decades the key military supporter and supplier of \JCuba\j, cut off almost all military aid by 1993
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b US Naval Base at Guantanamo Bay is leased to US and only mutual agreement or US abandonment of the area can terminate the lease
\BIllicit drugs:\b lesser transshipment point for \Jcocaine\j bound for the US
#
"Cyprus (Atlas)",63,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JMiddle East\j, island in the \JMediterranean Sea\j, south of Turkey
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 35 00 N, 33 00 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 9,250 sq km (note - 3,355 sq km are in the Turkish area)
\Iland:\i 9,240 sq km
\Iwater:\i 10 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b about 0.6 times the size of Connecticut
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 648 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b temperate, Mediterranean with hot, dry summers and cool, wet winters
\BTerrain:\b central plain with mountains to north and south; scattered but significant plains along southern coast
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b \Jwater\j resource problems (no natural reservoir catchments, seasonal disparity in rainfall; sea \Jwater\j intrusion to island's largest aquifier); \Jwater\j \Jpollution\j from sewage and industrial wastes; coastal degradation; loss of wildlife habitats from urbanization
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Air Pollution, \JBiodiversity\j, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Whaling
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 8.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 76.54 years
\Imale:\i 74.38 years
\Ifemale:\i 78.81 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.17 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Cypriot(s)
\Iadjective:\i Cypriot
\BEthnic groups:\b Greek 78% (99.5% of the Greeks live in the Greek area; 0.5% of the Greeks live in the Turkish area), Turkish 18% (1.3% of the Turks live in the Greek area; 98.7% of the Turks live in the Turkish area), other 4% (99.2% of the other ethnic groups live in the Greek area; 0.8% of the other ethnic groups live in the Turkish area)
\BReligions:\b Greek Orthodox 78%, Muslim 18%, Maronite, Armenian Apostolic, and other 4%
\BLanguages:\b Greek, Turkish, English
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 94%
\Imale:\i 98%
\Ifemale:\i 91% (1987 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Cyprus
\Iconventional short form:\i Cyprus
\Inote:\i the Turkish area refers to itself as the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" (TRNC)
\BData code:\b CY
\BGovernment type:\b republic
\Inote:\i 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
\BNational capital:\b Nicosia
\Inote:\i the Turkish area's capital is Lefkosa (\JNicosia\j)
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 6 districts; \JFamagusta\j, Kyrenia, Larnaca, \JLimassol\j, \JNicosia\j, \JPaphos\j; note - Turkish area administrative divisions include Kyrenia, all but a small part of \JFamagusta\j, and small parts of \JNicosia\j and Larnaca
\BIndependence:\b 16 August 1960 (from UK)
\Inote:\i Turkish area proclaimed self-rule on 13 February 1975 from Republic of Cyprus
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 1 October
\Inote:\i Turkish area celebrates 15 November as Independence Day
\BConstitution:\b 16 August 1960; negotiations to create the basis for a new or revised
constitution to govern the island and to better relations between Greek and Turkish Cypriots have been held intermittently; in 1975 Turkish Cypriots created their own constitution and governing bodies within the "Turkish Federated State of Cyprus," which was renamed the "Turkish Republic of Northern Cyprus" in 1983; a new constitution for the Turkish area passed by referendum on 5 May 1985
\BLegal system:\b based on \Jcommon law\j, with civil law modifications
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Glafcos CLERIDES (since 28 February 1993); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government; post of vice president is currently vacant; under the 1960 constitution, the post is reserved for a Turkish Cypriot
\Ihead of government:\i President Glafcos CLERIDES (since 28 February 1993); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government; post of vice president is currently vacant; under the 1960 constitution, the post is reserved for a Turkish Cypriot
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed jointly by the president and vice president \Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 14 February 1993 (next to be held NA February 1998)
\Ielection results:\i Glafcos CLERIDES elected president; percent of vote - Glafcos CLERIDES 50.3%, Yeoryios VASSILIOU 49.7%
\Inote:\i Rauf R. DENKTASH has been "president" of the Turkish area since 13 February 1975 (president elected by popular vote for a five-year term); 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%; Dervis EROGLU has been "prime minister" of the Turkish area since 16 August 1996; there is a Council of Ministers (cabinet) in the Turkish area
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral - Greek area: \JHouse of Representatives\j or Vouli Antiprosopon (80 seats of which only 56 assigned to the Greek Cypriots are filled; members are elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms); Turkish area: Assembly of the Republic or Cumhuriyet Meclisi (50 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i Greek area: last held 26 May 1996 (next to be held May 2001); Turkish area: last held 12 December 1993 (next to be held December 1998)
\Ielection results:\i Greek area: \JHouse of Representatives\j - percent of vote by party - DISY 34.5%, AKEL (Communist) 33.0%, DIKO 16.4%, EDEK 8.1%, KED 3.7%, others 4.1%; seats by party - DISY 20, AKEL (Communist) 19, DIKO 10, EDEK 5, KED 2; Turkish area: Assembly of the Republic - percent of vote by party - UBP 29.9%, DP 29.2%, CTP 24.2% TKP 13.3%, others 3.4%; seats by party - UBP (conservative) 17, DP 15, CTP 13, TKP 5
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the Supreme Council of Judicature
\Inote:\i there is also a Supreme Court in the Turkish area
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Greek area: Progressive Party of the Working People or AKEL (Communist Party) [Dimitrios CHRISTOFIAS]; Democratic Rally or DISY [Ioannis MATSIS]; Democratic Party or DIKO [Spyros KYPRIANOU]; United Democratic Union of Cyprus or EDEK [Vassos LYSSARIDIS]; Liberal Party or KP [Nikolaos ROLANDIS]; Free Democrats Movement or KED [Yeoryios VASSILIOU]; New Horizons [Nikolaos KOUTSOU, secretary general]; Ecologists [Yeoryios PERDHIKIS]; Turkish area: National Unity Party or UBP [Dervis EROGLU]; Communal Liberation Party or TKP [Mustafa AKINCI]; Republican Turkish Party or CTP [Mehmet ALI TALAT]; Free Democratic Party or HDP [Ismet KOTAK]; Nationalist Justice Party or MAP [Zorlu TORE]; Unity and Sovereignty Party or BEP [Arif Salih KIRDAG]; Democratic Party or DP [Serdar DENKTASH]; the HDP, MAP, and VP merged under the label National Struggle Unity Party (MMBP) to compete in the 12 December 1993 legislative election
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Pan-Cyprian Labor Federation or PEO (Communist controlled); Confederation of Cypriot Workers or SEK (pro-West); Federation of Turkish Cypriot Labor Unions or Turk-Sen; Confederation of Revolutionary Labor Unions or Dev-Is
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Andreas NIKOLAIDES
\Ichancery:\i 2211 R Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 462-5772
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 483-6710
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\Inote:\i representative of the Turkish area in the US is Namik KORHAN, office at 1667 K Street NW, Washington, DC, \Jtelephone\j [1] (202) 887-6198
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Kenneth C. BRILL (26 June 1996)
\Iembassy:\i corner of Metochiou and Ploutarchou Streets, Engomi, Nicosia
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 4536, \JNicosia\j, Cyprus
\Itelephone:\i [357] (2) 476100
\IFAX:\i [357] (2) 465944
\BFlag description:\b white with a copper-colored silhouette of the island (the name Cyprus is derived from the Greek word for copper) above two green crossed olive branches in the center of the flag; the branches symbolize the hope for peace and reconciliation between the Greek and Turkish communities
\Inote:\i the Turkish Cypriot flag has a horizontal red stripe at the top and bottom between which is a red crescent and red star on a white field
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b The Greek Cypriot economy is small and prosperous, but highly susceptible to external shocks. Industry contributes 23% to GDP and employs 25% of the labor force, while the service sector contributes 72% to GDP and employs 62% of the labor force. Erratic growth rates in the 1990s reflect the economy's vulnerability to swings in tourist arrivals (caused by fluctuations in political and economic conditions in Western Europe and the \JMiddle East\j) and the need for structural changes in the economy. One bright spot has been the low rate of \Jinflation\j. In 1996 Cyprus fully satisfied all the Maastricht convergence criteria. 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. To compensate for the economy's weakness, Turkey provides direct and indirect aid to nearly every sector. In January 1997, Turkey signed a $250 million economic cooperation accord with the Turkish Cypriot area to support tourism, education, and industry.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $8.8 billion (Greek area: purchasing power parity - $8,300,000,000; Turkish area: purchasing power parity - $536,000,000) (1996 est.)
\Irevenues:\i Greek area - $2.9 billion, Turkish area - $149 million
\Iexpenditures:\i Greek area - $3.3 billion, including capital expenditures of $453 million, Turkish area - $304 million, including capital expenditures of $20 million (1996)
\BIndustries:\b food, beverages, textiles, chemicals, metal products, tourism, wood products
\Inote:\i a flag of convenience registry; includes ships from 49 countries among which are \JGreece\j 723, \JGermany\j 172, \JRussia\j 45, Netherlands 32, \JJapan\j 30, \JBelgium\j 26, \JCuba\j 26, \JLatvia\j 17, UK 15, and US 14; Cyprus owns 71 additional ships (1,000 GRT or over) totaling 2,491,740 DWT that operate under the registries of Antigua and Barbuda, The \JBahamas\j, Hong Kong, \JLiberia\j, Malta, Panama, \JSyria\j, and UK (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 15 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 14
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 8
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 3
\Iunder 914 m:\i 3 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1996 est.)
\BHeliports:\b 4 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Greek area: Greek Cypriot National Guard (GCNG; includes air and naval elements); Hellenic Forces Regiment on Cyprus (ELDYK); Greek Cypriot Police;, Turkish area: Turkish Cypriot Security Force (TCSF), Turkish Forces Regiment on Cyprus (KTKA), Turkish mainland army units
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 192,593 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 132,412 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 6,038 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $405 million (1996)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 5.4% (1996)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b 1974 hostilities divided the island into two de facto autonomous areas, a Greek area controlled by the Cypriot Government (59% of the island's land area) and a Turkish-Cypriot area (37% of the island), that are separated by a UN buffer zone (4% of the island); there are two UK sovereign base areas within the Greek Cypriot portion of the island
\BIllicit drugs:\b transit point for heroin and \Jhashish\j via air routes and container traffic to Europe, especially from \JLebanon\j and Turkey; some \Jcocaine\j transits as well
#
"Czech Republic (Atlas)",64,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Europe, southeast of Germany
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 49 45 N, 15 30 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 78,703 sq km
\Iland:\i 78,645 sq km
\Iwater:\i 58 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than South Carolina
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,881 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAustria\j 362 km, \JGermany\j 646 km, \JPoland\j 658 km, \JSlovakia\j 215 km
\BTerrain:\b \JBohemia\j in the west consists of rolling plains, hills, and plateaus surrounded by low mountains; Moravia in the east consists of very hilly country
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Elbe River 115 m
\Ihighest point:\i Snezka 1,602 m
\BNatural resources:\b hard \Jcoal\j, soft \Jcoal\j, \Jkaolin\j, clay, graphite
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 41%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 2%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 11%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 34%
\Iother:\i 12% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 240 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b NA
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b air and \Jwater\j \Jpollution\j in areas of northwest \JBohemia\j and in northern Moravia around \JOstrava\j present health risks; \Jacid rain\j damaging forests
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Wetlands
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol
\BGeography - note:\b landlocked; strategically located astride some of oldest and most significant land routes in Europe; Moravian Gate is a traditional military corridor between the North European Plain and the Danube in central Europe
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 6.9 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 73.86 years
\Imale:\i 70.49 years
\Ifemale:\i 77.42 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.17 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Czech(s)
\Iadjective:\i Czech
\Inote:\i 300,000 Slovaks declared themselves Czech citizens in 1994
\BEthnic groups:\b Czech 94.4%, Slovak 3%, Polish 0.6%, German 0.5%, Gypsy 0.3%, Hungarian 0.2%, other 1%
\BReligions:\b atheist 39.8%, Roman Catholic 39.2%, Protestant 4.6%, Orthodox 3%, other 13.4%
\BLanguages:\b Czech, Slovak
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age NA and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 99% (est.)
\Imale:\i NA%
\Ifemale:\i NA%
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Czech Republic
\Iconventional short form:\i Czech Republic
\Ilocal long form:\i Ceska Republika
\Ilocal short form:\i Ceska Republika
\BData code:\b EZ
\BGovernment type:\b parliamentary democracy
\BNational capital:\b Prague
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 8 regions (kraje, kraj - singular); Jihocesky, Jihomoravsky, Praha, Severocesky, Severomoravsky, Stredocesky, Vychodocesky, Zapadocesky
\BIndependence:\b 1 January 1993 (from \JCzechoslovakia\j)
\BNational holiday:\b National Liberation Day, 8 May; Founding of the Republic, 28 October \BConstitution:\b ratified 16 December 1992; effective 1 January 1993
\BLegal system:\b civil law system based on Austro-Hungarian codes; has not accepted compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j; legal code modified to bring it in line with Organization on Security and Cooperation in Europe (OSCE) obligations and to expunge Marxist-Leninist legal theory
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Vaclav HAVEL (since 26 January 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Vaclav KLAUS (since NA June 1992); Deputy Prime Ministers Ivan KOCARNIK (since NA June 1992), Josef LUX (since NA June 1992), Josef ZIELENIEC (since NA June 1992)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the president on the recommendation of the prime minister
\Ielections:\i president elected by Parliament for a five-year term; election last held 26 January 1993 (next to be held NA January 1998); prime minister appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i Vaclav HAVEL elected president; percent of parliamentary vote - NA
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament or Parlament consists of the Senate (81 seats;
members are elected by popular vote to serve staggered two-, four-, and six-year terms) and the Chamber of Deputies or Snemovna Poslancu (200 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i Senate - last held 15-16 and 22-23 November 1996 (next to be held NA
November 1998 - to replace/re-elect 20 senators serving two-year terms); Chamber
of Deputies - last held 31 May-1 June 1996 (next to be held NA May 2000)
\Ielection results:\i Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - governing coalition (ODS 32, KDU-CSL 13, ODA 7), opposition (CSSD 25, KCSM 2, DEU 1, independent 1); Chamber of Deputies - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - governing coalition (ODS 68, KDU-CSL 18, ODA 13), opposition (CSSD 61, KCSM 22, SPR-RSC 18)
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, chairman and deputy chairmen are appointed by the president; Constitutional Court, chairman and deputy chairmen are appointed by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
\Igoverning coalition:\i Civic Democratic Party or ODS [Vaclav KLAUS, chairman]; Civic Democratic Alliance or ODA [Michael ZANTOVSKY, chairman]; Christian Democratic Union-Czech People's Party or KDU-CSL [Josef LUX, chairman]
\Iopposition:\i Czech Social Democrats or CSSD - left opposition [Milos ZEMAN, chairman]; Communist Party or KSCM - left opposition [Miroslav GREBENICEK, chairman]; Assembly for the Republic or SPR-RSC - extreme right radical [Miroslav SLADEK, chairman]; Democratic Union or DEU [Ratibor MAJZLIK, chairman]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Czech-Moravian Chamber of Trade Unions; Civic Movement
\Ichancery:\i 3900 Spring of Freedom Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 274-9101, 9102
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 966-8540
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Los Angeles
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Jenonne R. WALKER
\Iembassy:\i Trziste 15, 11801 \JPrague\j 1
\Imailing address:\i Unit 1330, APO AE 09213
\Itelephone:\i [420] (2) 5732-0663
\IFAX:\i [420] (2) 5732-0920
\BFlag description:\b two equal horizontal bands of white (top) and red with a blue isosceles triangle based on the hoist side (almost identical to the flag of the former \JCzechoslovakia\j)
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Western observers view the Czech Republic as one of the most politically and economically stable post-Communist states. Its key macroeconomic indicators are, in the aggregate, the best in the region, and public opinion polls show strong support for reform. The country emerged from recession in 1994 with 2.6% growth and reached about 5% growth in both 1995 and 1996 while keeping a balanced budget and reorienting exports to the EU. Inflation and unemployment of 8.7% and 3.3% respectively in 1996 are among the lowest in the region. \JPrague\j's mass privatization program, including its innovative distribution of ownership shares to Czech citizens via "coupon vouchers," has made the most rapid progress in Eastern Europe. About 80% of the economy is in private hands or is partially privatized. The Czech Republic appears to be the East European frontrunner in economic \Jintegration\j with the West; for example, in 1996 it began to strengthen its \Jbankruptcy\j law and to improve the transparency of stock market operations. It was the first post-Communist member of the OECD and is expected to be in the next group of new EU members. Its solid economic performance has led Standard and Poor's to upgrade the country's sovereign credit rating to "A" and has attracted over $6.7 billion in direct foreign investment to Czech industry between 1990 and September 1996 - one quarter from the US. \JPrague\j's biggest macroeconomic concerns now are mounting trade and current account deficits. In addition, the Czech economy still faces transition problems. The government continues to exert too much direct and indirect influence on the privatized economy, and the management of privatized firms sometimes is ineffective. Insufficient regulation and lack of public information in the capital markets and the banking system, combined with a shortage of experienced financial analysts, limit the ability to distribute new credit efficiently. The judicial system also has trouble speedily processing \Jbankruptcy\j cases. \JPrague\j has promised to overhaul its \Jbankruptcy\j law and improve stock market and bank operations, but it will take years to ensure compliance. \JPrague\j forecasts a balanced budget, 4.5% GDP growth, 3.3% unemployment and 7.5% to 8% \Jinflation\j for 1997.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $114.3 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 5% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $11,100 (1996 est.)
\Icommodities:\i manufactured goods 32.4%, machinery and transport equipment 26.3%, chemicals 10.4%, raw materials and fuel 11.3% (1995)
\Ipartners:\i EU 55.1%, Eastern Europe, excluding \JSlovakia\j, and \JCIS\j countries 16.9%, \JSlovakia\j 16.2%, developing countries 6.6%, EFTA 1.8% (1995)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transport equipment 35.6%, manufactured goods 17.9%, chemicals 13.2%, raw materials and fuels 14.4% (1994)
\Ipartners:\i EU 56.4%, Eastern Europe, excluding \JSlovakia\j, and \JCIS\j countries 15.7%, \JSlovakia\j 13.1%, developing countries 6.0%, EFTA 2.5% (1995)
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Air and Air Defense Forces, Civil Defense, Railroad Units
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 2,715,759 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 2,068,143 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 84,516 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $1.22 billion (1996)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 2.2% (1996)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b \JLiechtenstein\j claims \Jrestitution\j for 1,600 sq km of Czech territory confiscated from its royal family in 1918; the Czech Republic insists that \Jrestitution\j does not go back before February 1948, when the communists seized power; individual Sudeten German claims for \Jrestitution\j of property confiscated in connection with their expulsion after World War II; unresolved property issues with \JSlovakia\j over redistribution of property of the former Czechoslovak federal government
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for Southwest Asian heroin and \Jhashish\j and Latin American \Jcocaine\j to Western Europe; domestic consumption - especially of locally produced synthetic drugs - on the rise
#
"Denmark (Atlas)",65,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, on a peninsula north of Germany
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 56 00 N, 10 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 43,094 sq km
\Iland:\i 42,394 sq km
\Iwater:\i 700 sq km
\Inote:\i includes the island of Bornholm in the Baltic Sea and the rest of metropolitan Denmark, but excludes the Faroe Islands and Greenland
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly less than twice the size of Massachusetts
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 68 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JGermany\j 68 km
\BCoastline:\b 7,314 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 4 nm
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 3 nm
\BClimate:\b temperate; humid and overcast; mild, windy winters and cool summers
\BTerrain:\b low and flat to gently rolling plains
\BNatural hazards:\b 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
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b air \Jpollution\j, principally from vehicle and power plant emissions; \Jnitrogen\j and \Jphosphorus\j \Jpollution\j of the North Sea; drinking and surface \Jwater\j becoming polluted from animal wastes and pesticides
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Desertification, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands, Whaling
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Law of the Sea
\BGeography - note:\b controls Danish Straits (\JSkagerrak\j and Kattegat) linking Baltic and North Seas; about one-quarter of the population lives in Copenhagen
\Inote:\i there is one other city, Fredericksberg, mentioned by some sources, but the US government has not recognized it as a first-order administrative division; see separate entries for the Faroe Islands and \JGreenland\j, which are part of the Danish realm and self-governing administrative divisions
\BIndependence:\b 10th century first organized as a unified state; in 1849 became a constitutional monarchy
\BNational holiday:\b Birthday of the Queen, 16 April (1940)
\BConstitution:\b 1849 was the original constitution; there was a major overhaul 5 June 1953, allowing for a unicameral legislature and a female chief of state
\BLegal system:\b civil law system; judicial review of legislative acts; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen MARGRETHE II (since 14 January 1972); Heir Apparent Crown Prince FREDERIK, elder son of the queen (born 26 May 1968)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Poul Nyrup RASMUSSEN (since 25 January 1993)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the queen
\Ielections:\i none; the queen is a constitutional monarch; prime minister appointed by the queen
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Parliament or Folketing (179 seats; members are elected on the basis of proportional representation to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 21 September 1994 (next to be held not later than September 1998)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - Social Democrats 34.6%, Liberals 23.3%, Conservatives 15.0%, Socialist People's Party 7.3%, Progress Party 6.4%, Social Liberals 4.6%, Unity List 3.1%, Center Democrats 2.8%, Christian People's Party 1.8%; seats by party - Social Democrats 63, Liberals 44, Conservatives 28, Socialist People's Party 13, Progress Party 11, Social Liberals 8, Unity List 6, Center Democrats 5, independent 1; note - Progress Party split up in spring of 1995: Progress Party retained 7 seats, Danish People's Party 4 seats
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are appointed by the monarch for life
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Social Democratic Party [Poul Nyrup RASMUSSEN]; Conservative Party [Hans ENGELL]; Liberal Party [Uffe ELLEMANN-JENSEN]; Socialist People's Party [Holger K. NIELSEN]; Progress Party [Kirsten JAKOBSEN]; Center Democratic Party [Mimi JAKOBSEN]; Social Liberal Party [Marianne JELVED]; Unity Party [none]; Danish People's Party [Pia KJAERSGAARD]
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Knud-Erik TYGESEN
\Ichancery:\i 3200 Whitehaven Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 234-4300
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 328-1470
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Los Angeles, and New York
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Edward E. ELSON
\Iembassy:\i Dag Hammarskjolds Alle 24, 2100 Copenhagen
\Imailing address:\i PSC 73, APO AE 09716
\Itelephone:\i [45] (31) 42 31 44
\IFAX:\i [45] (35) 43 02 23
\BFlag description:\b red with a white cross that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side, and that design element of the Dannebrog (Danish flag) was subsequently adopted by the other Nordic countries of \JFinland\j, \JIceland\j, \JNorway\j, and Sweden
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b This thoroughly modern market 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 a net exporter of food. The center-left coalition government will concentrate on reducing the persistently high unemployment rate and the budget deficit as well as following the previous government's policies of maintaining low \Jinflation\j and a current account surplus. The coalition also vows to maintain a stable currency. The coalition has lowered marginal income taxes while maintaining overall tax revenues; boosted industrial competitiveness through labor market and tax reforms and increased research and development funds; and improved welfare services for the neediest while cutting paperwork and delays. Prime Minister RASMUSSEN's reforms focus on adapting Denmark to the criteria for European \Jintegration\j by 1999; \JCopenhagen\j has won from the European Union (EU) the right to opt out of the European Monetary Union (EMU). Denmark is, in fact, one of the few EU countries likely to fit into the EMU on time.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $118.2 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 2% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $22,700 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i private services 40%, government services 30%, manufacturing and mining 19%, construction 6%, agriculture, \Jforestry\j, and fishing 5% (1995)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 8.2% (November 1996)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $62.1 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $66.4 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996 est.)
\BIndustries:\b food processing, machinery and equipment, textiles and clothing, chemical products, \Jelectronics\j, construction, furniture, and other wood products, shipbuilding
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b 3.4% (1996)
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 9.458 million kW 000 kW
\BElectricity - production:\b 34.6 billion kWh
\BElectricity - consumption per capita:\b 6,411 kWh (1995)
\BTelephones:\b 4.025 million (1995 est.), of which 822,000 are mobile telephones
\BTelephone system:\b excellent \Jtelephone\j and telegraph services
\Idomestic:\i buried and submarine cables and microwave radio relay form trunk network, four cellular radio communications systems
\Iinternational:\i 18 submarine optical fiber cables linking Denmark with \JNorway\j, Sweden, \JRussia\j, \JPoland\j, \JGermany\j, the Netherlands, UK, Faroe Islands, \JIceland\j, and Canada; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations - 6 Intelsat; 10 Eutelsat; 1 Orion; 1 Inmarsat (Blaavand-Atlantic-East); note - the Nordic countries (Denmark, \JFinland\j, \JIceland\j, \JNorway\j, and Sweden) share the Danish \Jearth\j station and the Eik, \JNorway\j, station for world-wide Inmarsat access
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 3, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 50 (1996 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 3 million (1996 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,848 km (499 km privately owned and operated)
\Istandard gauge:\i 2,848 km 1.435-m gauge (326 km electrified; 760 km double track) (1995)\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 71,420 km
\Ipaved:\i 71,420 km (including 830 km of expressways)
\Inote:\i 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 (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 109 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 102
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 2
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 7
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 13
\Iunder 914 m:\i 77 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 7
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 6 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Royal Danish Army, Royal Danish Navy, Royal Danish Air Force, Home Guard
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 20 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,333,279 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 1,146,099 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 33,532 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $2.9 billion (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 1.6% (1997 est.)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b Rockall continental shelf dispute involving \JIceland\j, Ireland, and the UK (Ireland and the UK have signed a boundary agreement in the Rockall area)
#
"Djibouti (Atlas)",66,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Africa, bordering the Gulf of Aden and the \JRed Sea\j, between Eritrea and Somalia
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 11 30 N, 43 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 22,000 sq km
\Iland:\i 21,980 sq km
\Iwater:\i 20 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Massachusetts
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 508 km
\Iborder countries:\i Eritrea 113 km, \JEthiopia\j 337 km, \JSomalia\j 58 km
\BCoastline:\b 314 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 24 nm
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b desert; torrid, dry
\BTerrain:\b coastal plain and plateau separated by central mountains
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Asal -155 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mousa Alli 2,028 m
\BNatural resources:\b geothermal areas
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i NA%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 9%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 91% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b earthquakes; droughts; occasional cyclonic disturbances from the Indian Ocean bring heavy rains and flash floods
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b inadequate supplies of potable \Jwater\j; desertification
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Law of the Sea, Ship Pollution
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Desertification
\BGeography - note:\b strategic location near world's busiest shipping lanes and close to Arabian oilfields; terminus of rail traffic into \JEthiopia\j; mostly wasteland
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 27 June (1977)
\BConstitution:\b multiparty constitution approved in referendum 4 September 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system, traditional practices, and Islamic law
\BSuffrage:\b NA years of age; universal adult
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President HASSAN GOULED Aptidon (since 24 June 1977)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister BARKAT Gourad Hamadou (since 30 September 1978)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers responsible to the president
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote to a six-year term; election last held 7 May 1993 (next to be held NA 1999)
\Ielection results:\i President HASSAN GOULED reelected; percent of vote - NA
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Chamber of Deputies or Chambre des Deputes (65 seats; members are elected to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 18 December 1992 (next to be held NA 1997)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote - NA; seats - RPP 65; note - RPP (the ruling party) dominated
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Cour Supreme)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
\Iruling party:\i People's Progress Assembly or RPP [Hassan GOULED Aptidon]
\Iother parties:\i Democratic Renewal Party or PRD [Mohamed Jama ELABE]; Democratic National Party or PND [ADEN Robleh Awaleh]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Front for the Restoration of Unity and Democracy or FRUD, and affiliates; Movement for Unity and Democracy or MUD
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador ROBLE Olhaye Oudine
\Ichancery:\i Suite 515, 1156 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 331-0270
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 331-0302
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Terri ROBL
\Iembassy:\i Plateau du Serpent, Boulevard Marechal Joffre, Djibouti
\Imailing address:\i B. P. 185, Djibouti
\Itelephone:\i [253] 35 39 95
\IFAX:\i [253] 35 39 40
\BFlag description:\b two equal horizontal bands of light blue (top) and light green with a white isosceles triangle based on the hoist side bearing a red five-pointed star in the center
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b The economy is based on service activities connected with the country's strategic location and status as a \Jfree trade\j 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 40% to 50% continues to be a major problem. Per capita consumption dropped an estimated 35% over the last six years because of recession, \Jcivil war\j, and a high population growth rate (including immigrants and refugees). Faced with a multitude of economic difficulties, the government has fallen in arrears on long term external debt and has been struggling to meet the stipulations of foreign aid donors.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $500 million (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b -3.1% (1995 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $1,200 (1995 est.)
\BCurrency:\b 1 Djiboutian franc (DF) = 100 centimes
\BExchange rates:\b Djiboutian francs (DF) per US$1 - 177.721 (fixed rate since 1973)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 7,200 (1986 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b \Jtelephone\j facilities in the city of Djibouti are adequate as are the microwave radio relay connections to outlying areas of the country
\Idomestic:\i microwave radio relay network
\Iinternational:\i submarine cable to Jiddah, Suez, \JSicily\j, Marseilles, Colombo, and \JSingapore\j; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean) and 1 Arabsat; MEDARABTEL regional microwave radio relay \Jtelephone\j network
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 17,000 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 97 km (Djibouti segment of the Addis Ababa-Djibouti railroad)
\BMilitary branches:\b Djibouti National Army (includes Navy and Air Force), National Security Force (Force Nationale de Securite), National Police Force
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 103,569 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 60,751 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $26 million (1989)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
#
"Dominica (Atlas)",67,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, island between the \JCaribbean Sea\j and the North \JAtlantic Ocean\j, about one-half of the way from Puerto Rico to Trinidad and Tobago
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 30 N, 61 20 W
\BMap references:\b \JCentral America\j and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 750 sq km
\Iland:\i 750 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly more than four times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 148 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 24 nm
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical; moderated by northeast trade winds; heavy rainfall
\BTerrain:\b rugged mountains of volcanic origin
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JCaribbean Sea\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Morne Diablatins 1,447 m
\BNatural resources:\b timber
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 9%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 13%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 3%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 67%
\Iother:\i 8% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b flash floods are a constant threat; destructive hurricanes can be expected during the late summer months
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b NA
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Whaling
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i none of the selected agreements
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 66,633 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 28% (male 9,287; female 9,115)
\I15-64 years:\i 63% (male 21,364; female 20,617)
\I65 years and over:\i 9% (male 2,569; female 3,681) (July 1997 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b -1.26% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 17.72 births/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 6.24 deaths/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -24.04 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 9.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 77.6 years
\Imale:\i 74.74 years
\Ifemale:\i 80.6 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.92 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Dominican(s)
\Iadjective:\i Dominican
\BEthnic groups:\b black, \JCarib\j Amerindian
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 77%, Protestant 15% (Methodist 5%, Pentecostal 3%, Seventh-Day Adventist 3%, Baptist 2%, other 2%), none 2%, unknown 1%, other 5%
\BLanguages:\b English (official), French patois
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over has ever attended school
\Itotal population:\i 94%
\Imale:\i 94%
\Ifemale:\i 94% (1970 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Commonwealth of Dominica
\Iconventional short form:\i Dominica
\BData code:\b DO
\BGovernment type:\b parliamentary democracy
\BNational capital:\b Roseau
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 10 parishes; Saint Andrew, Saint David, Saint George, Saint John, Saint Joseph, Saint Luke, Saint Mark, Saint Patrick, Saint Paul, Saint Peter
\BIndependence:\b 3 November 1978 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 3 November (1978)
\BConstitution:\b 3 November 1978
\BLegal system:\b based on English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Crispin Anselm SORHAINDO (since 25 October 1993)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Edison C. JAMES (since 12 June 1995)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the president on the advice of the prime minister\Ielections:\i president elected by the House of Assembly for a five-year term; election last held 4 October 1993 (next to be held NA October 1998); prime minister appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i Crispin Anselm SORHAINDO elected president; percent of legislative vote - NA
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral House of Assembly (30 seats, 9 appointed senators, 21 elected by popular vote representatives; members serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 12 June 1995; byelections held 13 August 1996 (next to be held by October 2000)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - UWP 12, DLP 5, DFP 4
\BJudicial branch:\b Eastern Caribbean Supreme Court (located in Santa Lucia), one of the six judges must reside in Dominica and preside over the Court of Summary Jurisdiction
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Dominica Freedom Party or DFP [Charles SAVERIN]; Dominica Labor Party or DLP [Rosie DOUGLAS]; United Workers Party or UWP [Edison JAMES]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Dominica Liberation Movement or DLM (a small leftist party)
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Edward I. WATTY (non-resident)
\Ichancery:\i 3216 New Mexico Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20016
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 364-6781
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 364-6791
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b the US does not have an embassy in Dominica; the Ambassador to Dominica resides in \JBridgetown\j (\JBarbados\j), but travels frequently to Dominica
\BFlag description:\b green with a centered cross of three equal bands - the vertical part is yellow (hoist side), black, and white - the horizontal part is yellow (top), black, and white; superimposed in the center of the cross is a red disk bearing a sisserou parrot encircled by 10 green five-pointed stars edged in yellow; the 10 stars represent the 10 administrative divisions (parishes)
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b The economy is dependent on agriculture and thus is highly vulnerable to climatic conditions, notably tropical storms. Agriculture, primarily bananas, accounts for 26% of GDP and employs 40% of the labor force. Development of the tourist industry remains difficult because of the rugged coastline, lack of beaches, 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 government is attempting to develop an offshore financial industry in order to diversify the island's production base.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $208 million (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 1.7% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $2,500 (1996 est.)
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b -10% (1994 est.)
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 15,000 kW (1994)
\BElectricity - production:\b 52 million kWh (1994)
\BElectricity - consumption per capita:\b 479 kWh (1994 est.)
\BAgriculture - products:\b bananas, \Jcitrus\j, mangoes, root crops, coconuts; \Jforestry\j and fisheries potential not exploited
\BExports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $40 million (f.o.b., 1996)
\Icommodities:\i bananas 70%, soap, bay oil, vegetables, \Jgrapefruit\j, oranges
\Ipartners:\i UK 55%, Caricom countries, \JItaly\j, US
\BImports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $122 million (f.o.b., 1996)
\Icommodities:\i manufactured goods, machinery and equipment, food, chemicals
\Ipartners:\i US 25%, Caricom, UK, \JJapan\j, Canada
\BDebt - external:\b $110 million (1996 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 EC dollar (EC$) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b East Caribbean dollars (EC$) per US$1 - 2.70 (February 1997; fixed rate since 1976)
\BFiscal year:\b 1 July - 30 June
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 14,613 (1993 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i fully automatic network
\Iinternational:\i microwave radio relay and SHF radiotelephone links to Martinique and \JGuadeloupe\j; VHF and UHF radiotelephone links to Saint Lucia
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 3, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 45,000 (1993 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1 cable
\BTelevisions:\b 5,200 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 765 km
\Ipaved:\i 385 km
\Iunpaved:\i 380 km (1995 est.)
\BPorts and harbors:\b Portsmouth, Roseau
\BMerchant marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b 2 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 2
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 1
\Iunder 914 m:\i 1 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Commonwealth of Dominica Police Force (includes Special Service Unit, Coast Guard)
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i NA
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $NA
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for \Jnarcotics\j bound for the US and Europe; minor cannabis producer
#
"Dominican Republic (Atlas)",68,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Caribbean, eastern two-thirds of the island of \JHispaniola\j, between the \JCaribbean Sea\j and the North \JAtlantic Ocean\j, east of Haiti
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 19 00 N, 70 40 W
\BMap references:\b \JCentral America\j and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 48,730 sq km
\Iland:\i 48,380 sq km
\Iwater:\i 350 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly more than twice the size of New Hampshire
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 275 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JHaiti\j 275 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,288 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 24 nm
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200 nm or to the edge of the continental margin
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 6 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical maritime; little seasonal \Jtemperature\j variation; seasonal variation in rainfall
\BTerrain:\b rugged highlands and mountains with fertile valleys interspersed
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 46 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 69.39 years
\Imale:\i 67.21 years
\Ifemale:\i 71.69 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.1 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Dominican(s)
\Iadjective:\i Dominican
\BEthnic groups:\b white 16%, black 11%, mixed 73%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 95%
\BLanguages:\b Spanish
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 82.1%
\Imale:\i 82%
\Ifemale:\i 82.2% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Dominican Republic
\Iconventional short form:\i none
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica Dominicana
\Ilocal short form:\i none
\BData code:\b DR
\BGovernment type:\b republic
\BNational capital:\b Santo Domingo
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 29 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia) and 1 district* (distrito); Azua, Baoruco, Barahona, Dajabon, Distrito Nacional*, Duarte, Elias Pina, El Seibo, Espaillat, Hato Mayor, Independencia, La Altagracia, La Romana, La Vega, Maria Trinidad Sanchez, Monsenor Nouel, Monte Cristi, Monte Plata, Pedernales, Peravia, Puerto Plata, Salcedo, Samana, Sanchez Ramirez, San Cristobal, San Juan, San Pedro de Macoris, Santiago, Santiago Rodriguez, Valverde
\BIndependence:\b 27 February 1844 (from \JHaiti\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 27 February (1844)
\BConstitution:\b 28 November 1966
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil codes
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age, universal and compulsory; married persons regardless of age
\Inote:\i members of the armed forces and police cannot vote
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Leonel FERNANDEZ Reyna (since 16 August 1996); Vice President Jaime David FERNANDEZ Mirabal (since 16 August 1996); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government \Ihead of government:\i President Leonel FERNANDEZ Reyna (since 16 August 1996); Vice President Jaime David FERNANDEZ Mirabal (since 16 August 1996); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet nominated by the president
\Ielections:\i president and vice president elected on the same ticket by popular vote for four-year term; election last held 16 May 1996; runoff election held 30 June 1996 (next to be held 16 May 2000)
\Ielection results:\i President FERNANDEZ elected to his first term; percent of vote - Leonel FERNANDEZ (PLD) 51.25%, Jose Francisco PENA Gomez (PRD) 48.75%
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral National Congress or Congreso Nacional consists of the Senate or Senado (30 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve four-year terms) and the Chamber of Deputies or Camara de Diputados (120 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i Senate - last held 30 May 1994 (next to be held NA May 1998); Chamber of Deputies - last held 16 May 1994 (next to be held NA May 1998)
\Ielection results:\i Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - PRSC 15, PLD 1, PRD 14; Chamber of Deputies - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - PLD 13, PRSC 50, PRD 57
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges are elected by a Council made up of legislative and executive members with the president presiding
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
\Imajor parties:\i Social Christian Reformist Party or PRSC [Joaquin BALAGUER Ricardo]; Dominican Liberation Party or PLD [Lidio CADET]; Dominican Revolutionary Party or PRD [Jose Franciso PENA Gomez]; Independent Revolutionary Party or PRI \Iminor parties:\i National Veterans and Civilian Party or PNVC [Juan Rene BEAUCHAMPS Javier]; Liberal Party of the Dominican Republic or PLRD [Andres Van Der HORST]; Democratic Quisqueyan Party or PQD [Elias WESSIN Chavez]; National Progressive Force or FNP [Marino VINICIO Castillo]; Popular Christian Party or PPC [Rogelio DELGADO Bogaert]; Dominican Communist Party or PCD [Narciso ISA Conde]; Dominican Workers' Party or PTD [Ivan RODRIGUEZ]; Anti-Imperialist Patriotic Union or UPA [Ignacio RODRIGUEZ Chiappini]; Alliance for Democracy Party or APD [Maximilano Rabelais PUIG Miller, Nelsida MARMOLEJOS, Vicente BENGOA]; Democratic Union or UD [Fernando ALVAREZ Bogaert]
\Inote:\i in 1983 several leftist parties, including the PCD, joined to form the Dominican Leftist Front or FID; however, they still retain individual party structures
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Collective of Popular Organizations or COP
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Bernardo VEGA Boyrie
\Ichancery:\i 1715 22nd Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 332-6280, 6281
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 265-8057
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, Los Angeles, Mayaguez (Puerto Rico), Miami, \JNew Orleans\j, New York, Philadelphia, \JSan Francisco\j, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
\Iconsulate(s):\i Charlotte Amalie (Virgin Islands), \JDetroit\j, Houston, Jacksonville, Mobile, and Ponce (Puerto Rico)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Donna Jean HRINAK
\Iembassy:\i corner of Calle Cesar Nicolas Penson and Calle Leopoldo Navarro, Santo Domingo
\Imailing address:\i Unit 5500, APO AA 34041
\Itelephone:\i [1] (809) 221-2171, 221-8100
\IFAX:\i [1] (809) 686-7437
\BFlag description:\b a centered white cross that extends to the edges, divides the flag into four rectangles - the top ones are blue (hoist side) and red, the bottom ones are red (hoist side) and blue; a small coat of arms is at the center of the cross
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Economic reforms launched in late 1994 contributed to exchange rate stabilization, reduced \Jinflation\j, and strong GDP growth in 1995-96. In 1996, there was increased mineral and \Jpetroleum\j exploration, and a new investment law that allows for repatriation of capital dividends has drawn more investment to the island. Upon coming to power in August 1996, President FERNANDEZ nevertheless inherited a trouble-ridden economy hampered by a pressured peso, a large external debt, nearly bankrupt state-owned enterprises, and a manufacturing sector hindered by daily power outages. In December, FERNANDEZ presented a bold economic reform package - including such reforms as the \Jdevaluation\j of the peso, income tax cuts, a 50% increase in sales taxes, reduced import tariffs, and increased \Jgasoline\j prices - in an attempt to create a market-oriented economy that can compete internationally. The legislature, however, has been slow to act on several of the economic measures.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $29.8 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 7.3% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $3,670 (1996 est.)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 120, FM 0, shortwave 6
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 18 (1987 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 728,000 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 757 km
\Istandard gauge:\i 375 km 1.435-m gauge (Central Romana Railroad)
\Inarrow gauge:\i 142 km 0.762-m gauge (Dominica Government Railway); 240 km operated by sugar companies in various gauges (0.558-m, 0.762-m, 1.067-m gauges) (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 12,300 km
\Ipaved:\i 6,064 km
\Iunpaved:\i 6,236 km (1995 est.)
\BPipelines:\b crude oil 96 km; \Jpetroleum\j products 8 km
\BPorts and harbors:\b Barahona, La Romana, Puerto Plata, San Pedro de Macoris, Santo Domingo
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 10 August (1809) (independence of \JQuito\j)
\BConstitution:\b 10 August 1979
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal, compulsory for literate persons ages 18-65, optional for other eligible voters
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Jamil Mahuad (since 10 August 1998); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Ihead of government:\i President Jamil Mahuad (since 11 February 1997); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Inote:\i Jamil Mahuad, 49, winner of July 12 elections as candidate for the Popular Democracy Party, takes office as \JEcuador\j's 41st president, replacing President Fabian Alarcon, who was elected by Congress in February 1997 after Abdala Bucaram was ejected by congressional vote.
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the president
\Ielections:\i Not available
\Ielection results:\i Not available
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Congress or Congreso Nacional (82 seats; 12 members are popularly elected at large nationally to serve four-year terms; 70 members are popularly elected by province for two-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held July 12 1998
\Ielection results:\i Not available
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
\ICenter-Right parties:\i Social Christian Party or PSC [Jaime NEBOT Saadi, president]; Ecuadorian Conservative Party or PCE [Freddy BRAVO]
\ICenter-Left parties:\i Democratic Left or ID [Rodrigo BORJA Cevallos, leader]; Popular Democracy or DP [Jamil MAHUAD, leader]; Radical Alfarista Front or FRA [Fabian ALARCON, director]
\IPopulist parties:\i Roldosist Party or PRE [Abdala BUCARAM Ortiz, director]; Concentration of Popular Forces or CFP [Averroes BUCARAM, leader]; Popular Revolutionary Action or APRE [Frank VARGAS Passos, leader]; Pachakutik-New Country or P-NP [Freddy EHLERS]
\IFar-Left parties:\i Popular Democratic Movement or MPD [Juan Jose CASTELLO, leader]
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Fernando FLORES
\Ichancery:\i 2535 15th Street NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 234-7200
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, \JNew Orleans\j, New York, Philadelphia, and San Francisco
\Iconsulate(s):\i Newark
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Leslie ALEXANDER
\Iembassy:\i Avenida 12 de Octubre and Avenida Patria, Quito
\Imailing address:\i APO AA 34039
\Itelephone:\i [593] (2) 562-890
\IFAX:\i [593] (2) 502-052
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Guayaquil
\BFlag description:\b three horizontal bands of yellow (top, double width), blue, and red with the coat of arms superimposed at the center of the flag; similar to the flag of \JColombia\j that is shorter and does not bear a coat of arms
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b \JEcuador\j has substantial oil resources and rich agricultural areas. As an exporter of primary products such as oil, bananas, and shrimp, fluctuations in world market prices can have a substantial domestic impact. Growth has been uneven in recent years as the government has repeatedly initiated ill-conceived fiscal stabilization measures. The populist government of Abdala BUCARAM Ortiz proposed a major currency reform in 1996, but popular discontent with new austerity measures and rampant official corruption undermined his government's position. Congress replaced BUCARAM with Fabian ALARCON in February 1997. ALARCON has adopted a minimalist economic program that puts off major decisions until the next elected government takes office in August 1998. \JEcuador\j has joined the Word Trade Organization in 1996, but has failed to comply with many of its accession commitments. Growth slowed to 2.0% in 1996, due to a lack of investment caused by political uncertainty and high domestic interest
rates.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $47 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 2% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $4,100 (1996 est.)
\Iships by type:\i container 2, liquefied gas tanker 1, oil tanker 14, passenger 2, refrigerated cargo 1 (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 179 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 143
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 2
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 6
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 11
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 13
\Iunder 914 m:\i 111 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 36
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 33 (1996 est.)
\BHeliports:\b 1 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Army (Ejercito Ecuatoriano), Navy (Armada Ecuatoriana, includes Marines), Air Force (Fuerza Aerea Ecuatoriana), National Police
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 20 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 3,077,812 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 2,079,537 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 125,185 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $390.2 million (1996)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 2.1% (1996)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b three sections of the boundary with \JPeru\j are in dispute
\BIllicit drugs:\b significant transit country for derivatives of \Jcoca\j originating in \JColombia\j, \JBolivia\j, and \JPeru\j; minor illicit producer of \Jcoca\j; importer of precursor chemicals used in production of illicit \Jnarcotics\j; important money-laundering hub
#
"Egypt (Atlas)",70,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Africa, bordering the \JMediterranean Sea\j, between \JLibya\j and the Gaza Strip
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 27 00 N, 30 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,001,450 sq km
\Iland:\i 995,450 sq km
\Iwater:\i 6,000 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly more than three times the size of New Mexico
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,689 km
\Iborder countries:\i Gaza Strip 11 km, Israel 255 km, \JLibya\j 1,150 km, \JSudan\j 1,273 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,450 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 24 nm
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b desert; hot, dry summers with moderate winters
\BTerrain:\b vast desert plateau interrupted by Nile valley and delta
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b agricultural land being lost to urbanization and windblown sands; increasing soil salinization below \JAswan\j High Dam; \Jdesertification\j; oil \Jpollution\j threatening \Jcoral\j reefs, beaches, and marine habitats; other \Jwater\j \Jpollution\j from agricultural pesticides, raw sewage, and industrial effluents; very limited natural fresh \Jwater\j resources away from the Nile which is the only perennial \Jwater\j source; rapid growth in population overstraining natural resources
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Desertification, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands, Whaling
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i none of the selected agreements
\BGeography - note:\b controls \JSinai\j Peninsula, only land bridge between Africa and remainder of Eastern Hemisphere; controls Suez Canal, shortest sea link between Indian Ocean and \JMediterranean Sea\j; size, and juxtaposition to Israel, establish its major role in Middle Eastern geopolitics
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 71 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 61.75 years
\Imale:\i 59.8 years
\Ifemale:\i 63.8 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.5 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Egyptian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Egyptian
\BEthnic groups:\b Eastern Hamitic stock (Egyptians, Bedouins, and Berbers) 99%, Greek, Nubian, Armenian, other European (primarily Italian and French) 1%
\BReligions:\b Muslim (mostly Sunni) 94% (official estimate), Coptic Christian and other 6% (official estimate)
\BLanguages:\b Arabic (official), English and French widely understood by educated classes
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 51.4%
\Imale:\i 63.6%
\Ifemale:\i 38.8% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Arab Republic of Egypt
\Iconventional short form:\i Egypt
\Ilocal long form:\i Jumhuriyat Misr al-Arabiyah
\Ilocal short form:\i none
\Iformer:\i United Arab Republic (with \JSyria\j)
\BData code:\b EG
\BGovernment type:\b republic
\BNational capital:\b Cairo
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 26 governorates (muhafazat, singular - muhafazah); Ad Daqahliyah, Al Bahr al Ahmar, Al Buhayrah, Al Fayyum, Al Gharbiyah, Al Iskandariyah, Al Isma'iliyah, Al Jizah, Al Minufiyah, Al Minya, Al Qahirah, Al Qalyubiyah, Al \JWadi\j al Jadid, Ash Sharqiyah, As Suways, \JAswan\j, Asyut, Bani Suwayf, Bur Sa'id, Dumyat, Janub Sina', Kafr ash Shaykh, Matruh, Qina, Shamal Sina', Suhaj
\BIndependence:\b 28 February 1922 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Anniversary of the Revolution, 23 July (1952)
\BConstitution:\b 11 September 1971
\BLegal system:\b based on English \Jcommon law\j, Islamic law, and Napoleonic codes; judicial review by Supreme Court and Council of State (oversees validity of administrative decisions); accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal and compulsory
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Mohammed Hosni MUBARAK (since 14 October 1981)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Kamal Ahmed El-GANZOURI (since 4 January 1996)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the president
\Ielections:\i president nominated by the People's Assembly for a six-year term, the nomination must then be validated by a national, popular referendum; national referendum last held 4 October 1993 (next to be held NA October 1999); prime minister appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i national referendum validated President MUBARAK's nomination by the People's Assembly to a third term
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral system consists of the People's Assembly or Majlis al-Sha'b (454 seats; 444 elected by popular vote, 10 appointed by the president; members serve five-year terms) and the Advisory Council or Majlis al-Shura - which functions only in a consultative role (264 seats; 176 elected by popular vote, 88 appointed by the president; members serve NA-year terms)
\Ielections:\i People's Assembly - last held 29 November 1995 (next to be held NA 2000); Advisory Council - last held 7 June 1995 (next to be held NA)
\Ielection results:\i People's Assembly - percent of vote by party - NDP 72%, independents 25%, opposition 3%; seats by party - NDP 317, independents 114, NWP 6, NPUG 5, Nasserist Arab Democratic Party 1, Liberals 1; Advisory Council - percent of vote by party - NDP 99%, independents 1%; seats by party - NA
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Constitutional Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Democratic Party (NDP), President Mohammed Hosni MUBARAK, leader, is the dominant party; legal opposition parties are as follows: New Wafd Party (NWP), Fu'ad SIRAJ AL-DIN; Socialist Labor Party (SLP), Ibrahim SHUKRI; National Progressive Unionist Grouping (NPUG), Khalid Muhi al-DIN; Socialist Liberal Party, Mustafa Kamal MURAD; Democratic Unionist Party, Mohammed 'Abd-al-Mun'im TURK; Umma Party, Ahmad al-SABAHI; Misr al-\JFatah\j Party (Young \JEgypt\j Party), leader NA; Nasserist Arab Democratic Party, Dia' al-din DAWUD; Democratic Peoples' Party, Anwar AFIFI; The Greens Party, Kamal KIRAH; Social Justice Party, Muhammad 'ABDAL-'AL
\Inote:\i formation of political parties must be approved by government
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b despite a constitutional ban against religious-based parties, the technically illegal Muslim Brotherhood constitutes MUBARAK's potentially most significant political opposition; MUBARAK tolerated limited political activity by the Brotherhood for his first two terms, but has moved more aggressively in the past two years to block its influence; trade unions and professional associations are officially sanctioned
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Ahmed Maher El SAYED
\Ichancery:\i 3521 International Court NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 895-5400
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 244-4319, 5131
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, Houston, New York, and San Francisco
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Edward S. WALKER, Jr.
\Iembassy:\i (North Gate) 8, Kamel El-Din Salah Street, Garden City, Cairo
\Imailing address:\i Unit 64900, APO AE 09839-4900
\Itelephone:\i [20] (2) 3557371
\IFAX:\i [20] (2) 3572000
\Ibranch office:\i Alexandria
\BFlag description:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), white, and black with the national emblem (a shield superimposed on a golden eagle facing the hoist side above a scroll bearing the name of the country in Arabic) centered in the white band; similar to the flag of Yemen, which has a plain white band; also similar to the flag of \JSyria\j that has two green stars and to the flag of \JIraq\j, which has three green stars (plus an Arabic inscription) in a horizontal line centered in the white band
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b By the end of the 1980s \JEgypt\j - hit by the collapse of the world oil market and servicing a foreign debt totaling about $50 billion - faced crises in virtually all economic sectors. Problems of low productivity and poor economic management were compounded by the adverse social effects of large population growth rates, high \Jinflation\j, and massive urban overcrowding. In the face of these pressures, in 1991, \JEgypt\j undertook wide-ranging macroeconomic stabilization and structural reform measures. This reform effort has been supported by three successive IMF arrangements, the last of which was concluded in October 1996. \JEgypt\j's reform efforts - and its participation in the Gulf war coalition - also led to massive debt relief under the Paris Club arrangements. \JEgypt\j's foreign debt fell to about $31 billion at yearend 1996. Although the pace of reform has been uneven and slower than envisaged under the IMF programs, substantial progress has been made in improving macroeconomic performance - budget deficits have been slashed while foreign reserves in 1996 were at an all-time high - and in moving toward a more decentralized, market-oriented economy. \JEgypt\j was able to capitalize on its progress during the third \JMiddle East\j/North Africa economic conference which it hosted in November 1996. \JEgypt\j's President MUBARAK told reporters that \JEgypt\j had concluded deals worth $10 billion in investment during the conference, 20 times the country's estimated total direct foreign investment for the 1995/96 fiscal year. According to press reports, \JEgypt\j and foreign investors agreed on nine megaprojects, including the export of liquefied \Jnatural gas\j from \JEgypt\j to Turkey, estimated at $2 billion to $4 billion. \JEgypt\j has a broad-based inventory of geographic, human, and physical assets which in a liberalized market environment could spur rapid, sustainable growth into the next century. But rapid population growth continues to cast a shadow over economic prospects.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $183.9 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 4.9% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $2,900 (1996 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b large system by Third World standards but inadequate for present requirements and undergoing extensive upgrading
\Idomestic:\i principal centers at Alexandria, \JCairo\j, Al Mansurah, Ismailia, Suez, and Tanta are connected by coaxial cable and microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations - 2 Intelsat (\JAtlantic Ocean\j and Indian Ocean), 1 Arabsat, and 1 Inmarsat; 5 coaxial submarine cables; tropospheric scatter to \JSudan\j; microwave radio relay to Israel; participant in Medarabtel
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 39, FM 6, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 41
\BTelevisions:\b 5 million (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,751 km
\Istandard gauge:\i 4,751 km 1,435-m gauge (42 km electrified; 951 km double track)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 50,000 km
\Ipaved:\i 15,000 km
\Iunpaved:\i 35,000 km (1990 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 3,500 km (including the Nile, Lake Nasser, Alexandria-\JCairo\j 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
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Air Defense Command
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 20 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 16,942,953 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 10,987,037 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 672,197 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $3.28 billion (FY95/96)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 8.2% (FY95/96)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b administrative boundary with \JSudan\j does not coincide with international boundary creating the "Hala'ib Triangle," a barren area of 20,580 sq km
\BIllicit drugs:\b a transit point for Southwest Asian and Southeast Asian heroin and opium moving to Europe and the US; popular transit stop for Nigerian couriers; large domestic consumption of \Jhashish\j from \JLebanon\j and \JSyria\j
#
"El Salvador (Atlas)",71,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Middle America, bordering the North \JPacific Ocean\j, between \JGuatemala\j and Honduras
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 13 50 N, 88 55 W
\BMap references:\b \JCentral America\j and the Caribbean
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 21,040 sq km
\Iland:\i 20,720 sq km
\Iwater:\i 320 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Massachusetts
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 545 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JGuatemala\j 203 km, \JHonduras\j 342 km
\BCoastline:\b 307 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iterritorial sea:\i 200 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical; rainy season (May to October); dry season (November to April)
\BTerrain:\b mostly mountains with narrow coastal belt and central plateau
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 30.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 69.27 years
\Imale:\i 65.89 years
\Ifemale:\i 72.81 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.13 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Salvadoran(s)
\Iadjective:\i Salvadoran
\BEthnic groups:\b mestizo 94%, Amerindian 5%, white 1%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 75%
\Inote:\i there is extensive activity by Protestant groups throughout the country; by the end of 1992, there were an estimated 1 million Protestant evangelicals in El Salvador
\BLanguages:\b Spanish, Nahua (among some Amerindians)
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 71.5%
\Imale:\i 73.5%
\Ifemale:\i 69.8% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of El Salvador
\Iconventional short form:\i El Salvador
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de El Salvador
\Ilocal short form:\i El Salvador
\BData code:\b ES
\BGovernment type:\b republic
\BNational capital:\b San Salvador
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 14 departments (departamentos, singular - departamento); Ahuachapan, Cabanas, Chalatenango, Cuscatlan, La Libertad, La Paz, La Union, Morazan, San Miguel, \JSan Salvador\j, Santa Ana, San Vicente, Sonsonate, Usulutan
\BIndependence:\b 15 September 1821 (from \JSpain\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 15 September (1821)
\BConstitution:\b 20 December 1983
\BLegal system:\b based on civil and \JRoman law\j, with traces of \Jcommon law\j; judicial review of legislative acts in the Supreme Court; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Armando CALDERON Sol (since 1 June 1994); Vice President Enrique
BORGO Bustamante (since 1 June 1994); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Ihead of government:\i President Armando CALDERON Sol (since 1 June 1994); Vice President Enrique BORGO Bustamante (since 1 June 1994); note - the president is both the chief
of state and head of government
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers
\Ielections:\i president and vice president elected on the same ticket by popular vote for five-year terms; election last held 20 March 1994, with a run-off election held 24 April 1994 (next to be held NA March 1999)
\Ielection results:\i Armando CALDERON Sol elected president; percent of vote - Armando CALDERON SOL (ARENA) 49.03%, Ruben ZAMORA Rivas (\JCD\j/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 and the results were as follows - Armando CALDERON SOL (ARENA) 68.35%, Ruben ZAMORA Rivas (\JCD\j/FMLN/MNR) 31.65%
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Legislative Assembly or Asamblea Legislativa (84 seats; members are elected by direct popular vote to serve three-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 16 March 1997 (next to be held NA March 2000)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - ARENA 35.4%, FMLN 34.3%, PCN 8.1%, PDC 7.9%, \JCD\j 3.8%, PRSC 3.4%, PLD 3.2%, MU 2.1%, PD 1.0%, other 0.8%; seats by party - ARENA 28, FMLN 27, PCN 11, PDC 9, PRSC 3, \JCD\j 2, PLD 2, MU 1, PD 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court (Corte Suprema), judges are selected by the Legislative Assembly
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Republican Alliance or ARENA [Gloria SALGUERO Gross, president]; Farabundo Marti National Liberation Front or FMLN [Salvador SANCHEZ Ceren (aka Leonel GONZALEZ), general coordinator]; Christian Democratic Party or PDC [Ronal UMANA, secretary general]; National Conciliation Party or PCN [Ciro CRUZ Zepeda, secretary general]; Democratic Convergence or \JCD\j [Ruben ZAMORA, secretary general]; Unity Movement Party or MU [Jorge MARTINEZ Menendez, president]; Liberal Democratic Party or PLD [Kirio Waldo SALGADO, founder]; Democratic Party or PD (breakaway from FMLN) [Joaquin VILLALOBOS, founder, Ana Guadalupe MARTINEZ, leader]; Social Christian Renovation Party or PRSC (breakaway from PDC) [Abraham RODRIGUEZ, founder]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b labor organizations - Salvadoran Communal Union or UCS (peasant association); General Confederation of Workers or CGT (moderate); United Workers Front or FUT; business organizations - Productive Alliance or AP (conservative); National Federation of Salvadoran Small Businessmen or FENAPES (conservative)
\Ichancery:\i 2308 \JCalifornia\j Street NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 265-9671, 9672
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JChicago\j, \JDallas\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, \JNew Orleans\j, New York, and San Francisco
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Anne PATTERSON
\Iembassy:\i Final Boulevard Santa Elena, Station Antiguo Cuscatlan, San Salvador
\Imailing address:\i Unit 3116, APO AA 34023
\Itelephone:\i [503] 278-4444
\IFAX:\i [503] 278-6011
\BFlag description:\b three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), white, and blue with the national coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms features a round emblem encircled by the words REPUBLICA DE EL SALVADOR EN LA AMERICA CENTRAL; similar to the flag of \JNicaragua\j, which has a different coat of arms centered in the white band - it features a triangle encircled by the words REPUBLICA DE NICARAGUA on top and AMERICA CENTRAL on the bottom; also similar to the flag of \JHonduras\j, which has five blue stars arranged in an X pattern centered in the white band
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b El Salvador possesses a fast-growing entrepreneurial economy in which 90% of economic activity is in private hands, with growth averaging 5% since 1990. Yet, because the 1980s were a decade of \Jcivil war\j and stagnation, per capita GDP has not regained the level of the late 1970s. The rebound in the 1990s stems from the government program, in conjunction with the IMF, of privatization, deregulation, and fiscal stabilization. The economy now is oriented more toward manufacturing and services compared with agriculture. The sizable trade deficits are in the main covered by remittances from the large number of Salvadorans abroad.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $12.2 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 3% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $2,080 (1996 est.)
\Inote:\i as of 1 June 1990, the rate is based on the average of the buying and selling rates, set on a weekly basis, for official receipts and payments, imports of \Jpetroleum\j, and \Jcoffee\j exports; prior to that date, a system of floating was in effect
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 300,000 (1996 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i nationwide microwave radio relay system
\Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (\JAtlantic Ocean\j); connected to
Central American Microwave System
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 18, FM 80, shortwave 2
\BRadios:\b 1 million (1996 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 11 (1996 est.)
\BTelevisions:\b 600,000 (1996 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 602 km (single track; note - some sections abandoned, unusable, or operating at reduced capacity)
\Inarrow gauge:\i 602 km 0.914-m gauge
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 12,320 km
\Ipaved:\i 1,712 km (including 110 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 10,608 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b Rio Lempa partially navigable
\BPorts and harbors:\b Acajutla, Puerto Cutuco, La Libertad, La Union, Puerto El Triunfo
\BMerchant marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b 72 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 52
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 1
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 2
\Iunder 914 m:\i 48 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 20
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 20 (1996 est.)
\BHeliports:\b 1 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,330,498 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 844,314 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 64,530 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $101 million (1996)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 0.9% (1996)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b land boundary dispute with \JHonduras\j mostly resolved by 11 September 1992 International Court of Justice (ICJ) decision; with respect to the maritime boundary in the Golfo de Fonseca, ICJ referred to an earlier agreement in this century and advised that some tripartite resolution among El Salvador, \JHonduras\j and \JNicaragua\j likely would be required
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for \Jcocaine\j; marijuana produced for local consumption
#
"Equatorial Guinea (Atlas)",72,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the Bight of \JBiafra\j, between \JCameroon\j and Gabon
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 2 00 N, 10 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 28,050 sq km
\Iland:\i 28,050 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Maryland
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 539 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JCameroon\j 189 km, \JGabon\j 350 km
\BCoastline:\b 296 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical; always hot, humid
\BTerrain:\b coastal plains rise to interior hills; islands are volcanic
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JAtlantic Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount \JMalabo\j 3,008 m
\BNatural resources:\b timber, \Jpetroleum\j, small unexploited deposits of gold, \Jmanganese\j, uranium
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 5%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 4%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 4%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 46%
\Iother:\i 41% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b violent windstorms
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b tap \Jwater\j is not potable; desertification
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, \JEndangered Species\j, Nuclear Test Ban, Ship Pollution
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Desertification, Law of the Sea
\BGeography - note:\b insular and continental regions rather widely separated
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 78.5%
\Imale:\i 89.6%
\Ifemale:\i 68.1% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Equatorial Guinea
\Iconventional short form:\i Equatorial Guinea
\Ilocal long form:\i Republica de Guinea Ecuatorial
\Ilocal short form:\i Guinea Ecuatorial
\Iformer:\i Spanish Guinea
\BData code:\b EK
\BGovernment type:\b republic in transition to multiparty democracy
\BNational capital:\b Malabo
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 7 provinces (provincias, singular - provincia); Annobon, \JBioko\j Norte, \JBioko\j Sur, Centro Sur, Kie-Ntem, Litoral, Wele-Nzas
\BIndependence:\b 12 October 1968 (from \JSpain\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 12 October (1968)
\BConstitution:\b new constitution 17 November 1991
\BLegal system:\b partly based on Spanish civil law and tribal custom
\BSuffrage:\b NA years of age; universal adult
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Teodoro OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO (since 3 August 1979)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Serafin Seriche DOUGAN (since April 1996); Vice Prime Minister Francisco Javier Ndongo MBENGONO (since April 1996)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the president
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote to a seven-year term; election last held 25 February 1996 (next to be held NA February 2003)
\Ielection results:\i President OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO reelected without opposition; percent of popular vote - NA
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral House of Peoples Representatives or Camara de Representantes del Pueblo (80 seats; members are directly elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 21 November 1993 (next to be held November 1998)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - PDGE 68, CSD 6, UDS 5, CLD 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Tribunal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
\Iruling party:\i Democratic Party for Equatorial Guinea or PDGE [Brig. Gen. (Ret.) Teodoro OBIANG NGUEMA MBASOGO]
\Iopposition parties:\i Convergence for Social Democracy or CSD [Santiago Obama Ndong, president]; Democratic Social Union or UDS [Camelo MODU, general secretary]; Liberal Democratic Convention or CLD [Alfonso Nsue MIFUMU, president]; Liberal Party or PL [Santos PASCUAL]; National Democratic Union or UDENA [Jose MECHEBA Ikaka, president]; Party of the Social Democratic Coalition or PCSD [Buenaventura Moswi M'Asumu, general coordinater]; Party of Progress or PP [Severo MOTO Nsa, president]; Popular Action of Equatorial Guinea or APGE [Casiano Masi Edu]; Popular Union or UP [Juan BITUI, president]; Party for Progress of Equatorial Guinea or PPGE [Severo Moto NSA, president]; Progressive Democratic Alliance or ADP [Antonio-Ebang Mbele Abang, president]; Social Democratic and Popular Convergence or CSDP [Secundino Oyono Agueng Ada, general secretary]; Social Democratic Party or PSD [Benjamin-Gabriel Balingha Balinga Alene, general secretary]; Socialist Party of Equatorial Guinea or PSGE [Tomas MICHEBE Fernandez, general secretary]
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Pastor Micha ONDO BILE
\Ichancery:\i Suite 405, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 393-0525
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 393-0348
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b 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
\BFlag description:\b three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and red with a blue isosceles triangle based on the hoist side and the coat of arms centered in the white band; the coat of arms has six yellow six-pointed stars (representing the mainland and five offshore islands) above a gray shield bearing a silk-cotton tree and below which is a scroll with the motto UNIDAD, PAZ, JUSTICIA (Unity, Peace, Justice)
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Farming, \Jforestry\j, and fishing account for about half of GDP. Subsistence farming predominates. Although pre-independence Equatorial Guinea counted on \Jcocoa\j production for hard currency earnings, the deterioration of the rural economy under successive brutal regimes has diminished potential for agriculture-led growth. A number of aid programs sponsored by the World Bank and the IMF have been cut off since 1993 because of the government's gross corruption and mismanagement. Businesses, for the most part, are owned by government officials and their family members. Undeveloped natural resources include \Jtitanium\j, iron ore, \Jmanganese\j, uranium, and alluvial gold. Oil exploration, taking place under concessions offered to US, French, and Spanish firms, has been moderately successful and has contributed to Equatorial Guinea's strong growth rates in the early 1990s. The country responded favorably to the \Jdevaluation\j of the CFA franc in January 1994.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $328 million (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 11.2% (1995 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $800 (1995 est.)
\Inote:\i beginning 12 January 1994, the CFA franc was devalued to CFAF 100 per French franc from CFAF 50 at which it had been fixed since 1948
\BFiscal year:\b 1 April - 31 March
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 2,000 (1987 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b poor system with adequate government services
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i international communications from Bata and \JMalabo\j to African and European countries; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (Indian Ocean)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 2, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Rapid Intervention Force, National Police
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 95,788 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 48,696 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $2.5 million (FY93/94)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b maritime boundary dispute with \JGabon\j because of disputed sovereignty over islands in Corisco Bay
#
"Eritrea (Atlas)",73,0,0,0
\BIntroduction\b
\BHistorical perspective:\b on 29 May 1991, ISAIAS Afworke, secretary general of the Peoples' Front for Democracy and Justice (PFDJ), which then served 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 referendum resulted in a landslide vote for independence which was proclaimed on 27 April 1993
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Africa, bordering the \JRed Sea\j, between Djibouti and Sudan
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 15 00 N, 39 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 121,320 sq km
\Iland:\i 121,320 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly larger than Pennsylvania
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,630 km
\Iborder countries:\i Djibouti 113 km, \JEthiopia\j 912 km, \JSudan\j 605 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,234 km total; mainland on \JRed Sea\j 1,151 km, islands in \JRed Sea\j 1,083 km
\BMaritime claims:\b NA
\BClimate:\b hot, dry desert strip along \JRed Sea\j coast; cooler and wetter in the central highlands (up to 61 cm of rainfall annually); semiarid in western hills and lowlands; rainfall heaviest during June-September except on coastal desert
\BTerrain:\b dominated by extension of Ethiopian north-south trending highlands, descending on the east to a coastal desert plain, on the northwest to hilly terrain and on the southwest to flat-to-rolling plains
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Kobar Sink -75 m
\Ihighest point:\i Soira 3,013 m
\BNatural resources:\b gold, \Jpotash\j, zinc, copper, salt, probably oil (\Jpetroleum\j geologists are prospecting for it), fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 12%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 48%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 20%
\Iother:\i 19% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 280 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b frequent droughts
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b deforestation; \Jdesertification\j; soil erosion; overgrazing; loss of \Jinfrastructure\j from civil warfare
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Desertification, Endangered Species
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i none of the selected agreements
\BGeography - note:\b strategic geopolitical position along world's busiest shipping lanes; Eritrea retained the entire coastline of \JEthiopia\j along the \JRed Sea\j upon de jure independence from \JEthiopia\j on 27 April 1993
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 117.2 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 50.61 years
\Imale:\i 48.85 years
\Ifemale:\i 52.42 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.47 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Eritrean(s)
\Iadjective:\i Eritrean
\BEthnic groups:\b ethnic Tigrinya 50%, Tigre and Kunama 40%, Afar 4%, Saho (\JRed Sea\j coast dwellers) 3%
\BReligions:\b Muslim, Coptic Christian, Roman Catholic, Protestant
\BLanguages:\b Afar, Amharic, Arabic, Italian, Tigre and Kunama, Tigrinya, minor tribal languages
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i State of Eritrea
\Iconventional short form:\i Eritrea
\Ilocal long form:\i Hagere Ertra
\Ilocal short form:\i Ertra
\Iformer:\i Eritrea Autonomous Region in Ethiopia
\BData code:\b ER
\BGovernment type:\b transitional government
\Inote:\i following a successful referendum on independence for the Autonomous Region of Eritrea on 23-25 April 1993, a National Assembly, composed entirely of the Peoples' Front for Democracy and Justice or PFDJ, was established as a transitional legislature; a Constitutional Commission was also established to draft a constitution; ISAIAS Afworki was elected president by the transitional legislature pending the promulgation of a constitution and popular elections
\Inote:\i in May 1995 the National Assembly adopted a resolution stating that the administrative structure of Eritrea, which had been established by former colonial powers, would consist of only six provinces when the new constitution, then being drafted, would go into effect sometime in 1998; the new provinces, which have not been recommended by the US Board on Geographic Names for recognition by the US government, pending acceptable definition of the boundaries, are: Anseba, Debub, Debubawi, Gash-Barka, Maakel, and Semanawi Keyih Bahri
\BIndependence:\b 27 May 1993 (from \JEthiopia\j; formerly the Eritrea Autonomous Region)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day (independence from \JEthiopia\j), 24 May (1993)
\BConstitution:\b transitional "constitution" decreed 19 May 1993; the promulgation of a draft constitution is expected in 1998
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BSuffrage:\b NA; note - the transitional constitution of 19 May 1993 did not provide rules for suffrage, but it seems likely that the final version of the constitution, to be promulgated some time in 1998, will follow the example set in the referendum of 1993 and extend suffrage to all persons 18 years of age or older
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President ISAIAS Afworki (since 8 June 1993); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Ihead of government:\i President ISAIAS Afworki (since 8 June 1993); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Icabinet:\i State Council is the collective executive authority
\Inote:\i the president is head of the State Council and National Assembly
\Ielections:\i president elected by the National Assembly; election last held 8 June 1993 (next to be held NA 1997)
\Ielection results:\i ISAIAS Afworki elected president; percent of National Assembly vote - ISAIAS Afworki 95%
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral National Assembly (150 seats; term limits not established pending new constitution)
\Ielections:\i 75 members of the PFDJ Central Committee (the old Central Committee of the EPLF) and 75 directly elected members serve as the country's legislative body until country-wide elections are held in 1997
\BJudicial branch:\b Judiciary
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b People's Front for Democracy and Justice or PFDJ, the only party recognized by the government [ISAIAS Afworki, PETROS Solomon]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Eritrean Islamic Jihad or EIJ; Eritrean Liberation Front or ELF [ABDULLAH Muhammed]; Eritrean Liberation Front - United Organization or ELF-UO [Mohammed Said NAWUD]; Eritrean Liberation Front - Revolutionary Council or ELF-RC [Ahmed NASSER]
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador AMDEMICHAEL Berhane Khasai
\Ichancery:\i 1708 New Hampshire Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20009
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 319-1991
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 319-1304
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador John HICKS
\Iembassy:\i Franklin D. Roosevelt St., Asmara
\Imailing address:\i P.O. Box 211, Asmara
\Itelephone:\i [291] (1) 120004
\IFAX:\i [291] (1) 127584
\BFlag description:\b red isosceles triangle (based on the hoist side) dividing the flag into two right triangles; the upper triangle is green, the lower one is blue; a gold wreath encircling a gold olive branch is centered on the hoist side of the red triangle
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b With independence from \JEthiopia\j on 27 April 1993, Eritrea faced the bitter economic problems of a small, desperately poor African country. Most of the population must continue to depend on subsistence farming. Domestic output (GDP) is substantially augmented by worker remittances from abroad. Government revenues come from custom duties and income and sales taxes. Road construction is a top domestic priority. Shortages persist in housing, education, and health care. Eritrea has inherited the entire coastline of \JEthiopia\j and has long-term prospects for revenues from the development of offshore oil, offshore fishing, and tourism. \JEthiopia\j is largely dependent on Eritrean ports for its foreign commerce.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $2 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 3.9% (1995 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $570 (1995 est.)
\Ipartners:\i \JEthiopia\j, Saudi \JArabia\j, \JItaly\j, United Arab Emirates
\BDebt - external:\b $162 million (1995 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $NA
\BCurrency:\b 1 birr (Br) = 100 cents; at present, Ethiopian currency used; note - new Eritrean currency, the nakfa, to be circulated in 1997
\BExchange rates:\b birr (Br) per US$1 (end of the period) - 6.4260 (December 1996), 6.4260 (1996), 6.3200 (1995), 5.9500 (1994), 5.000 (fixed rate 1992-93); note - following independence from \JEthiopia\j, Eritrea continued to use Ethiopian currency\Inote:\i since May 1993, the birr market rate has been determined in an interbank market supported by weekly wholesale auction; prior to that date, the official rate was pegged to US$1 = 5.000 birr
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i very inadequate; about 4 telephones per 100 families, most of which are in Asmara; government is seeking international tenders to improve the system
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave 0
\Inarrow gauge:\i 307 km 0.950-m gauge (1995 est.)
\Inote:\i nonoperational since 1978 except for an about 5 km stretch that was reopened in \JMassawa\j in 1994; rehabilitation of the remainder and of the rolling stock is under way; links Ak'ordat and Asmara (formerly Asmera) with the port of \JMassawa\j (formerly Mits'iwa)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,930 km
\Ipaved:\i 841 km
\Iunpaved:\i 3,089 km (1995 est.)
\BPorts and harbors:\b Assab (Aseb), \JMassawa\j (Mits'iwa)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $40 million (1995)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b a dispute with Yemen over sovereignty of the Hanish Islands in the southern \JRed Sea\j has been submitted to \Jarbitration\j under the auspices of the ICJ
#
"Estonia (Atlas)",74,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and Gulf of \JFinland\j, between \JLatvia\j and Russia
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 59 00 N, 26 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 45,226 sq km
\Iland:\i 43,211 sq km
\Iwater:\i 2,015 sq km
\Inote:\i includes 1,520 islands in the Baltic Sea
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than New Hampshire and \JVermont\j combined
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 633 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JLatvia\j 339 km, \JRussia\j 294 km
\BCoastline:\b 3,794 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i limits to be fixed in coordination with neighboring states
\BNatural hazards:\b flooding occurs frequently in the spring
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b air heavily polluted with sulfur dioxide from oil-shale burning power plants in northeast; contamination of soil and \Jgroundwater\j with \Jpetroleum\j products, chemicals at former Soviet military bases; \JEstonia\j has more than 1,400 natural and manmade lakes, the smaller of which in agricultural areas are heavily affected by organic waste; coastal sea water is polluted in many locations
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 14.1 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 68.38 years
\Imale:\i 62.39 years
\Ifemale:\i 74.67 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.29 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Estonian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Estonian
\BEthnic groups:\b Estonian 64.2%, Russian 28.7%, Ukrainian 2.7%, Byelorussian 1.5%, Finn 1%, other 1.9% (1995)
\BReligions:\b Evangelical Lutheran, others include Baptist, Methodist, 7th Day Adventist, Roman Catholic, Pentecostal, Word of Life, 7th Day Baptist, Judaism
\BLanguages:\b Estonian (official), \JLatvian\j, Lithuanian, Russian, other
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 100%
\Imale:\i 100%
\Ifemale:\i 100% (1989 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Estonia
\Iconventional short form:\i Estonia
\Ilocal long form:\i Eesti Vabariik
\Ilocal short form:\i Eesti
\Iformer:\i Estonian Soviet Socialist Republic
\BData code:\b EN
\BGovernment type:\b republic
\BNational capital:\b Tallinn
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 15 counties (maakonnad, singular - maakond): Harju maakond (\JTallinn\j), 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)
\Inote:\i administrative divisions have the same names as their administrative centers (exceptions have the administrative center name following in parentheses)
\BIndependence:\b 6 September 1991 (from \JSoviet Union\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 24 February (1918)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 28 June 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system; no judicial review of legislative acts
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Lennart MERI (since 21 October 1992)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Tiit VAHI (acting since NA March 1995; confirmed 17 April 1995)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the prime minister, approved by Parliament \Ielections:\i president elected by Parliament for a five-year term; if he or she does not secure two-thirds of the votes after 3 rounds of balloting, then an electoral
assembly (made up of Parliament plus members of local governments) elects the president, choosing between the two candidates with the largest percentage of votes; election last held August-September 1996 (next to be held fall 2001); prime minister nominated by the president and approved by Parliament \Ielection results:\i Lennart MERI elected president by an electoral assembly after Parliament was unable to break a deadlock between MERI and RUUTEL; percent of electoral assembly vote - Lennert MERI 61%, Arnold RUUTEL 39%
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Parliament or Riigikogu (101 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 5 March 1995 (next to be held NA 1999)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - KMU 32.22%, RE 16.18%, K 14.17%, Pro Patria and ERSP 7.85%, M 5.98%, Our Home is \JEstonia\j and Right-Wingers 5.0%; seats by party - KMU 41, RE 19, K 16, Pro Patria 8, Our Home is \JEstonia\j 6, M 6, Right-Wingers 5
\BJudicial branch:\b National Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Coalition Party and Rural Union or KMU [Tiit VAHI, chairman] made up of 4 parties: Coalition Party, Country People's Party/Farmer's Assembly, Rural Union, and Pensioners' and Families' League; Reform Party-Liberals or RE [Siim KALLAS, chairman]; Center Party or K [Edgar SAVISAAR, chairman]; Union of Pro Patria or Fatherland League (Isamaa) [Toivo JURGENSON, chairman]; National Independence Party or ERSP [Kelam TUNNE, chairman]; Our Home is \JEstonia\j made up of 2 parties: United Peoples Party and the Russian People's Party of \JEstonia\j; United Peoples Party [Viktor ANDREJEV, chairman]; Russian Party of \JEstonia\j [Nikolai MASPANOV, chairman]; Moderates or 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]; Republican Conservative [Vootele HANSEN]; Development/Progressive Party [Andra VEIDEMANN, chairwoman], note - party was created by defectors from Center Party in late spring 1996, now holds 6 or 7 seats in Parliament \BInternational organization participation:\b BIS, CBSS, CCC, CE, EBRD, ECE, EU (applicant), FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, ICFTU, ICRM, IFC, IFRCS, IHO (pending member), ILO, IMF, IMO, \JInterpol\j, IOC, ISO (correspondent), ITU, NACC, OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNMIBH, UPU, WEU (associate partner), WHO, WIPO, WMO, WTrO (applicant)
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires Lauri LEPIK
\Ichancery:\i 2131 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 588-0101
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 588-0108
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Lawrence P. TAYLOR
\Iembassy:\i Kentmanni 20, \JTallinn\j EE 0001
\Imailing address:\i American Embassy, \JTallinn\j; PSC 78, Box T; APO AE 09723
\Itelephone:\i [372] (6) 312-021
\IFAX:\i [372] (6) 312-025
\BFlag description:\b pre-1940 flag restored by Supreme Soviet in May 1990 - three equal horizontal bands of blue (top), black, and white
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b \JEstonia\j continues to experience strong economic growth after its economy bottomed out in 1993. Bolstered by a widespread national desire to reintegrate into Western Europe, \JEstonia\j has adhered to disciplined fiscal and financial policies and has led the FSU countries in pursuing economic reform. Monthly \Jinflation\j has been held to 2% in 1995-96. Following four years of decline, \JEstonia\j's GDP grew at 3% in 1995 and 1996. Despite these positive economic indicators, the current account deficit is widening. The resident IMF representative in \JEstonia\j has been worried since early 1996 about a rising public sector deficit boosted by local government spending. Small- and medium-scale privatization is essentially complete, and large-scale privatization is progressing gradually. In 1996, \JEstonia\j's national airline was privatized; in 1997 \JEstonia\j plans to privatize large \Jinfrastructure\j, i.e., Eesti Energia, \JTallinn\j Port, Estonian Telecom, and Oil Shale. Estonia has successfully reoriented its trade toward the West, two-thirds of exports now going to Western markets. Estonia's \Jfree trade\j 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 \Jfree trade\j agreement.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $8.1 billion (1996 estimate as extrapolated from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 3% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $5,560 (1996 est.)
\Inote:\i Western commitments $285 million (including international financial institutions)
\BCurrency:\b 1 Estonian kroon (EEK) = 100 cents (introduced in August 1992)
\BExchange rates:\b krooni (EEK) per US$1 - 12.6 (January 1997), 12.410 (December 1996), 12.034 (1996), 11.465 (1995), 12.991 (1994), 13.223 (1993); note - krooni are tied to the German deutsche mark at a fixed rate of 8 to 1
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 400,000 (1994 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b system is antiquated; improvements are being made piecemeal, with emphasis on business needs and international connections; there are still about 150,000 unfulfilled requests for subscriber service
\Idomestic:\i substantial investment has been made in cellular systems which are operational throughout Estonia
\Iinternational:\i international traffic is carried to the other former Soviet republics by landline or microwave radio relay and to other countries partly by leased connection to the Moscow international gateway switch and partly by a new \JTallinn\j-Helsinki fiber-optic, submarine cable which gives \JEstonia\j access to international circuits everywhere; access to the international packet-switched digital network via Helsinki
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b 3 commercial broadcast stations, 1 government broadcast station (1994)\BRadios:\b 710,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 4 (1993)
\Inote:\i provide Estonian programs as well as Moscow Ostenkino's first and second programs
\BTelevisions:\b 600,000 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,018 km common carrier lines only; does not include dedicated industrial lines
\Ibroad gauge:\i 1,018 km 1.520-m gauge (132 km electrified) (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 14,992 km
\Ipaved:\i 8,096 km (including 65 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 6,896 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 500 km perennially navigable
\BPipelines:\b \Jnatural gas\j 420 km (1992)
\BPorts and harbors:\b Haapsalu, Narva, Paldiski, Parnu, Tallinn
\BMilitary branches:\b Ground Forces, Navy/Coast Guard, Air and Air Defense Force (not officially sanctioned), Maritime Border Guard, Volunteer Defense League (Kaitseliit), Security Forces (internal and border troops)
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 353,616 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 277,489 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 10,396 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $35 million (1995)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 1.5% (1995)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b Estonian and Russian negotiators reached a technical border agreement in December 1996, which Estonia is prepared to sign and ratify in January 1997; Estonia had claimed over 2,000 sq km territory in the Narva and Pechory regions in Russia - based on boundary established under the 1920 Peace Treaty of Tartu
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for opiates and cannabis from Southwest Asia and
the Caucasus, and \Jcocaine\j from \JLatin America\j to Western Europe and Scandinavia
#
"Ethiopia (Atlas)",75,0,0,0
\BIntroduction\b
\BHistorical perspective:\b on 28 May 1991 the Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front (EPRDF) toppled the authoritarian government of MENGISTU Haile-Mariam and took control in Addis Ababa; a new constitution was promulgated in December 1994 and national and regional popular elections were held in May and June 1995
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Eastern Africa, west of Somalia
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 8 00 N, 38 00 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,127,127 sq km
\Iland:\i 1,119,683 sq km
\Iwater:\i 7,444 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly less than twice the size of Texas
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,311 km
\Iborder countries:\i Djibouti 337 km, Eritrea 912 km, \JKenya\j 830 km, \JSomalia\j 1,626 km, \JSudan\j 1,606 km
\BCoastline:\b 0 km (landlocked)
\BMaritime claims:\b none (landlocked)
\BClimate:\b tropical monsoon with wide topographic-induced variation
\BTerrain:\b high plateau with central mountain range divided by Great Rift Valley
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Denakil -125 m
\Ihighest point:\i Ras Dashen Terara 4,620 m
\BNatural resources:\b small reserves of gold, \Jplatinum\j, copper, potash
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 12%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 40%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 25%
\Iother:\i 22% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 1,900 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b geologically active Great Rift Valley susceptible to earthquakes, volcanic eruptions; frequent droughts
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; desertification
\I65 years and over:\i 3% (male 745,554; female 861,739) (July 1997 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.67% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 45.59 births/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 17.56 deaths/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -1.32 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\Inote:\i repatriation of Ethiopians who fled to \JSudan\j, \JKenya\j and \JSomalia\j for refuge from war and \Jfamine\j in earlier years, is expected to continue in 1997; entry into Ethiopia of Sudanese and Somalis fleeing the fighting in their own countries is also continuing in 1997
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 121.5 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 46.62 years
\Imale:\i 45.48 years
\Ifemale:\i 47.8 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 6.94 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Ethiopian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Ethiopian
\BEthnic groups:\b Oromo 40%, \JAmhara\j and Tigrean 32%, Sidamo 9%, Shankella 6%, Somali 6%, Afar 4%, Gurage 2%, other 1%
\BReligions:\b Muslim 45%-50%, Ethiopian Orthodox 35%-40%, animist 12%, other 3%-8% \BLanguages:\b Amharic (official), Tigrinya, Orominga, Guaraginga, Somali, Arabic, English (major foreign language taught in schools)
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 35.5%
\Imale:\i 45.5%
\Ifemale:\i 25.3% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Federal Democratic Republic of Ethiopia
\Iconventional short form:\i Ethiopia
\Ilocal long form:\i YeItyop'iya Federalawi Demokrasiyawi Ripeblik
\Ilocal short form:\i YeItyop'iya
\Iabbreviation:\i FDRE
\BData code:\b ET
\BGovernment type:\b federal republic
\BNational capital:\b Addis Ababa
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 9 ethnically-based administrative regions (astedader akababiwach, singular - astedader akababi) and 1 federal capital*: Addis Ababa*; Afar; \JAmhara\j; Benshangul/Gumaz; Gambela; Harar; Oromia; Somali; Southern Nations, Nationalities and Peoples; Tigray
\BIndependence:\b oldest independent country in Africa and one of the oldest in the world - at least 2,000 years
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, 28 May (1991) (defeat of Mengistu regime)
\BConstitution:\b new constitution promulgated in December 1994
\BLegal system:\b NA
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President NEGASSO Gidada (since 22 August 1995)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister MELES Zenawi (since NA August 1995)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers as provided in the December 1994 constitution; ministers are selected by the prime minister and approved by the Council of People's Representatives
\Ielections:\i president elected by the Council of People's Representatives for a six-year term; election last held June 1995 (next to be held NA 2001); prime minister designated by the party in power following legislative elections
\Ielection results:\i NEGASSO Gidada elected president; percent of vote by the Council of People's Representatives - NA
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament consists of the Council of the Federation or upper chamber (117 seats; members are chosen by state assemblies to serve five-year terms) and the Council of People's Representatives or lower chamber (548 seats; members are directly elected by popular vote from single-member districts to serve five-year terms); note - the upper chamber represents the ethnic interests of the regional governments
\Ielections:\i regional and national popular elections were held in May and June 1995
(next to be held NA 2000) and the Federal Parliamentary Assembly assumed legislative power on 21 August 1995
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote - NA; seats - NA; note - EPRDF won nearly all seats \BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court, judges are elected by the national legislature
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Ethiopian People's Revolutionary Democratic Front or EPRDF [MELES Zenawi]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Oromo Liberation Front or OLF; All \JAmhara\j 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
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador BERHANE Gebre-Christos
\Ichancery:\i 2134 Kalorama Road NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 234-2281, 2282
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 328-7950
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador David H. SHINN (17 June 1996)
\Iembassy:\i Entoto Street, Addis Ababa
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 1014, Addis Ababa
\Itelephone:\i [251] (1) 550666
\IFAX:\i [251] (1) 552191
\BFlag description:\b three equal horizontal bands of green (top), yellow, and red with a yellow pentagram and single yellow rays emanating from the angles between the points on a light blue disk centered on the three bands; \JEthiopia\j is the oldest independent country in Africa, and the colors of her flag were so often adopted by other African countries upon independence that they became known as the pan-African colors
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b \JEthiopia\j continues to face difficult economic problems as one of the poorest and least developed countries in the world. Its economy is based on agriculture, which accounts for more than half of GDP, 90% of exports, and 80% of total employment; \Jcoffee\j generates 60% of export earnings. The agricultural sector suffers from frequent periods of \Jdrought\j, poor cultivation practices, and deterioration of internal security conditions. The manufacturing sector is heavily dependent on inputs from the agricultural sector. Over 90% of large-scale industry, but less than 10% of agriculture, is state-run. The government is considering selling off a portion of state-owned plants and is implementing reform measures that are gradually liberalizing the economy. A major medium-term problem is the improvement of roads, \Jwater\j supply, and other parts of an \Jinfrastructure\j badly neglected during years of civil strife.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $24.8 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 7.7% (1995 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $430 (1995 est.)
\Icommodities:\i food and live animals, \Jpetroleum\j and \Jpetroleum\j products, chemicals (1995)
\Ipartners:\i Saudi \JArabia\j 13.3%, \JItaly\j 11.6%, US 10.2%, \JGermany\j 9.1%, \JJapan\j (1993)
\BDebt - external:\b $4.3 billion (1995 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $367 million (FY95/96)
\BCurrency:\b 1 birr (Br) = 100 cents
\BExchange rates:\b birr (Br) per US$1 (end of period) - 6.4260 (December 1996), 6.4260 (1996), 6.3200 (1995), 5.9500 (1994), 5.0000 (fixed rate 1992-93); fixed at 2.070 before 1992
\Inote:\i since May 1993, the birr market rate has been determined in an interbank market supported by weekly wholesale auction; prior to that date, the official rate was pegged to US$1 = 5.000 birr
\BFiscal year:\b 8 July - 7 July
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 100,000 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b open wire and microwave radio relay system adequate for government use \Idomestic:\i open wire and microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i open wire to \JSudan\j and Djibouti; microwave radio relay to \JKenya\j and Djibouti; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations - 3 Intelsat (1 \JAtlantic Ocean\j and 2 \JPacific Ocean\j)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 4, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 9.9 million (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 1
\BTelevisions:\b 100,000 (1993 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 681 km (Ethiopian segment of the Addis Ababa-Djibouti railroad)
\Inarrow gauge:\i 681 km 1.000-m gauge
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 28,360 km
\Ipaved:\i 4,254 km
\Iunpaved:\i 24,106 km (1995 est.)
\BPorts and harbors:\b none; \JEthiopia\j is landlocked but by agreement with Eritrea may use the ports of Assab and Massawa
\BMilitary branches:\b Ground Forces, Air Force, Police
\Inote:\i following the secession of Eritrea, \JEthiopia\j's naval facilities remained in Eritrea's possession; current reorganization plans do not include a navy
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 13,257,668 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 6,889,800 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 605,030 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $110 million (1996)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b most of the southern half of the boundary with \JSomalia\j is a Provisional Administrative Line; territorial dispute with \JSomalia\j over the Ogaden
\BIllicit drugs:\b transit hub for heroin originating in Southwest and Southeast Asia and destined for Europe and \JNorth America\j as well as \Jcocaine\j destined for markets in southern Africa; cultivates qat (chat) for local use and regional export
#
"Europa Island (Atlas)",76,0,0,0
\I(possession of \JFrance\j)\i
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southern Africa, island in the Mozambique Channel, about one-half of the way from southern Madagascar to southern Mozambique
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 22 20 S, 40 22 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 28 sq km
\Iland:\i 28 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b about 0.16 times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 22.2 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical
\BTerrain:\b NA
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i unnamed location 24 m
\BNatural resources:\b negligible
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i NA%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i NA%
\Iforests and woodland:\i NA%
\Iother:\i NA%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km (1993)
\BNatural hazards:\b NA
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b NA
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b wildlife sanctuary
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous inhabitants
\Inote:\i there is a small military garrison
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Europa Island
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Ile Europa
\BData code:\b EU
\BDependency status:\b possession of \JFrance\j; administered by a high commissioner of the Republic, resident in Reunion
\BNational capital:\b none; administered by \JFrance\j from Reunion
\BIndependence:\b none (possession of \JFrance\j)
\BFlag description:\b the flag of \JFrance\j is used
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b no economic activity
\BCommunications\b
\BCommunications - note:\b 1 meteorological station
\BTransportation\b
\BPorts and harbors:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\BAirports:\b 1 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 1 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of France
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b claimed by Madagascar
\BLocation:\b Southern \JSouth America\j, islands in the South \JAtlantic Ocean\j, east of southern Argentina
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 51 45 S, 59 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 12,170 sq km
\Iland:\i 12,170 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\Inote:\i includes the two main islands of East and West Falkland and about 200 small islands
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Connecticut
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,288 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200 nm
\Iexclusive fishing zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b cold marine; strong westerly winds, cloudy, humid; rain occurs on more than half of days in year; occasional snow all year, except in January and February, but does not accumulate
\BTerrain:\b rocky, hilly, mountainous with some boggy, undulating plains
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JAtlantic Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Usborne 705 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish, wildlife
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 99%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 1% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b strong winds persist throughout the year
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b NA
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b deeply indented coast provides good natural harbors; short growing season
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 2,432 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i NA
\I15-64 years:\i NA
\I65 years and over:\i NA
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 2.43% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b NA births/1,000 population
\BDeath rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 population
\BNet migration rate:\b NA migrant(s)/1,000 population
\BSex ratio:\b
\Iat birth:\i NA male(s)/female
\Iunder 15 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I15-64 years:\i NA male(s)/female
\I65 years and over:\i NA male(s)/female
\Itotal population:\i NA male(s)/female
\BInfant mortality rate:\b NA deaths/1,000 live births
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i NA years
\Imale:\i NA years
\Ifemale:\i NA years
\BTotal fertility rate:\b NA children born/woman
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Falkland Islander(s)
\Iadjective:\i Falkland Island
\BEthnic groups:\b British
\BReligions:\b primarily Anglican, Roman Catholic, United Free Church, \JEvangelist\j Church, \JJehovah\j's Witnesses, Lutheran, Seventh-Day Adventist
\BLanguages:\b English
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Colony of the Falkland Islands
\Iconventional short form:\i Falkland Islands (Islas Malvinas)
\BData code:\b FA
\BDependency status:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BGovernment type:\b NA
\BNational capital:\b Stanley
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Liberation Day, 14 June (1982)
\BConstitution:\b 3 October 1985
\BLegal system:\b English common law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II of the UK (since 6 February 1952)
\Ihead of government:\i Governor Richard RALPH (since 29 January 1996)
\Icabinet:\i Executive Council; three members elected by the Legislative Council, two ex-officio members (chief executive and the financial secretary), and the governor
\Ielections:\i none; the queen is a hereditary monarch; governor appointed by the queen
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Legislative Council (10 seats, 8 elected; members are elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held NA October 1993 (next was to be held NA October 1998)
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BFlag description:\b blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Falkland Island coat of arms in a white disk centered on the outer half of the flag; the coat of arms contains a white ram (sheep raising is the major economic activity) above the sailing ship Desire (whose crew discovered the islands) with a scroll at the bottom bearing the motto DESIRE THE RIGHT
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b The economy was formerly based on agriculture, mainly sheep farming, which directly or indirectly employs most of the work force. Dairy farming supports domestic consumption; crops furnish winter fodder. Exports feature shipments of high-grade wool to the UK and the sale of postage stamps and coins. Rich stocks of fish in the surrounding waters are not presently exploited by the islanders. So far, efforts to establish a domestic fishing industry have been unsuccessful. The economy has diversified since 1987, when the government began selling fishing licenses to foreign trawlers operating within the Falklands exclusive fishing zone. These license fees total more than $40 million per year and support the island's health, education, and welfare system. To encourage tourism, the Falkland Islands Development Corporation has built three lodges for visitors attracted by the abundant wildlife and \Jtrout\j fishing. The islands are now self-financing except for defense. The British Geological Survey announced a 200-mile oil exploration zone around the islands in 1993, and early seismic surveys suggest substantial reserves capable of producing 500,000 barrels per \Jday\j. 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.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $NA
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $NA
\Inote:\i UK, ODA and OOF bilateral commitments totaled $18 million (1993-94)
\BCurrency:\b 1 Falkland pound (£F) = 100 pence
\BExchange rates:\b Falkland pound (£F) per US$1 - 0.6023 (January 1997), 0.6403 (1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992); note - the Falkland pound is at par with the British pound
\BFiscal year:\b 1 April - 31 March
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 1,180 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i government-operated radiotelephone and private VHF/CB radiotelephone networks provide effective service to almost all points on both islands
\Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (\JAtlantic Ocean\j) with links through
\BMilitary branches:\b British Forces Falkland Islands (includes Army, Royal Air Force, Royal Navy, and Royal Marines), Police Force
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $NA
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of the UK
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b administered by the UK, claimed by Argentina
#
"Faroe Islands (Atlas)",78,0,0,0
\I(part of the Danish realm)\i
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Europe, island group between the Norwegian Sea and the north \JAtlantic Ocean\j, about one-half of the way from \JIceland\j to Norway
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 62 00 N, 7 00 W
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,399 sq km
\Iland:\i 1,399 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km (some lakes and streams)
\BArea - comparative:\b eight times the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,117 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive fishing zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 3 nm
\BClimate:\b mild winters, cool summers; usually overcast; foggy, windy
\BTerrain:\b rugged, rocky, some low peaks; cliffs along most of coast
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JAtlantic Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Slaettaratindur 882 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish, whales
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 6%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 0%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 94% (1996)
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b NA
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b NA
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b archipelago of 17 inhabited islands and one uninhabited island, and a few uninhabited islets; strategically located along important sea lanes in northeastern Atlantic; precipitous terrain limits habitation to small coastal lowlands
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 39,873 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 25% (male 4,960; female 4,812)
\I15-64 years:\i 60% (male 12,913; female 11,117)
\I65 years and over:\i 15% (male 2,708; female 3,363) (July 1997 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b -6.36% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 11.46 births/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 9.05 deaths/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b -38.75 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 10.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 78.37 years
\Imale:\i 75.41 years
\Ifemale:\i 81.32 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.37 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Faroese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Faroese
\BEthnic groups:\b Scandinavian
\BReligions:\b Evangelical Lutheran
\BLanguages:\b Faroese (derived from Old Norse), Danish
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\Inote:\i similar to Denmark proper
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Faroe Islands
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Foroyar
\BData code:\b FO
\BDependency status:\b part of the Danish realm; self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark
\BGovernment type:\b NA
\BNational capital:\b Torshavn
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)
\BIndependence:\b none (part of the Danish realm; self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)
\BNational holiday:\b Birthday of the Queen, 16 April (1940)
\BConstitution:\b 5 June 1953 (Danish constitution)
\BLegal system:\b Danish
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen MARGRETHE II of Denmark (since 14 January 1972), represented by High Commissioner Ms. Vibeke LARSEN, chief administrative officer (since mid-1995)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Edmund JOENSEN (since 15 September 1994)
\Icabinet:\i Landsstyri elected by the Faroese Parliament
\Ielections:\i the queen is a constitutional monarch; high commissioner appointed by the queen; following legislative elections, the leader of the party that wins the most seats is usually elected prime minister by the Faroese Parliament; election last held NA 1994 (next to be held NA 1998)
\Ielection results:\i Edmund JOENSEN elected prime minister; percent of parliamentary vote - 23.4%
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Faroese Parliament or Logting (32 seats; members are elected on a proportional basis from the seven constituencies to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 7 July 1994 (next to be held by NA July 1998)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - Unionist Party 23.4%, People's Party 16.0%, Social Democrats 15.4%, Republicans 13.7%, Workers' Party 9.5%, Christian People 6.3%, Center Party 5.8%, Home Rule Party 5.6%; seats by party - Unionist Party 8, People's Party 6, Social Democrats 5, Republicans 4, Workers' Party 3, Christian People 2, Center Party 2, Home Rule Party 2
\Inote:\i election of 2 seats to the Danish Parliament was last held on 21 September 1994 (next to be held by September 1998); results - percent of vote by party - Unionist Party 22.5%, People's Party 21.7%; seats by party - Unionist Party 1, People's Party 1
\BJudicial branch:\b none
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Social Democratic Party [Joannes EIDESGAARD]; Workers' Party [Alis JACOBSEN]; Home Rule Party [Helena Dam A NEYSTABO]; Unionist Party [Edmund JOENSEN]; Republican Party [Heini O. HEINESEN]; Center Party [Tordur NICLASEN]; Christian People's Party [Niels Pauli DANIELSEN]; People's Party [Arnfinn KALLSBERG]
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b none (self-governing overseas administrative division of Denmark)
\BFlag description:\b white with a red cross outlined in blue that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side in the style of the Dannebrog (Danish flag)
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b The Faroese economy in 1995 and 1996 saw a noticeable upturn after several years of decline brought on by a drop in fish catches and declining prices and by over-spending by the Faroese Home Rule Government (FHRG). In the early 1990s, property values plummeted, and the FHRG had to bail out and merge the two largest Faroese banks. Fishing is now improving; wage costs are increasing; the FHRG's budget is almost in balance; and the large foreign debt has come down significantly. Nevertheless, the total dependence on fishing makes the Faroese economy extremely vulnerable, and the reduction in the foreign debt is at the cost of low investment. Oil finds close to the Faroese area give hope for deposits in the immediate Faroese area, which may lay the basis for an eventual economic rebound. Aided by a substantial annual subsidy from Denmark, the Faroese have a standard of living comparable to the Danes and other Scandinavians. \BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $800 million (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 6% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $16,300 (1996 est.)
\BElectricity - consumption per capita:\b 4,043 kWh (1995)
\BAgriculture - products:\b milk, potatoes, vegetables; sheep; salmon farming; fish
\BExports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $362 million (f.o.b., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i fish and fish products 92%, animal feedstuffs, transport equipment (ships)
\Ipartners:\i Denmark 22.2%, UK 25.8%, \JGermany\j 9.7%, \JFrance\j 8.3%, \JNorway\j 6.2%, US 2.0%
\BImports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $315.6 (c.i.f., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transport equipment 17.0%, consumer goods 33%, raw materials and semi-manufactures 26.9%, fuels 11.4%, fish and salt 6.7%
\Ipartners:\i Denmark 34.5%, \JNorway\j 15.9%, UK 8.4% \JGermany\j 7.8%, Sweden 5.8%, US 1.5%
\BDebt - external:\b $767 million (1995 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b receives an annual subsidy from Denmark of about $150 million (1995)
\BNatural hazards:\b cyclonic storms can occur from November to January
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b deforestation; soil erosion
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Whaling
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i none of the selected agreements
\BGeography - note:\b includes 332 islands of which approximately 110 are inhabited
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 17 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 66 years
\Imale:\i 63.66 years
\Ifemale:\i 68.46 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.78 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Fijian(s)
\Iadjective:\i Fijian
\BEthnic groups:\b Fijian 49%, Indian 46%, European, other Pacific Islanders, overseas Chinese, and other 5%
\BReligions:\b Christian 52% (Methodist 37%, Roman Catholic 9%), Hindu 38%, Muslim 8%, other 2%
\Inote:\i Fijians are mainly Christian, Indians are Hindu, and there is a Muslim minority (1986)
\BLanguages:\b English (official), Fijian, Hindustani
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 91.6%
\Imale:\i 93.8%
\Ifemale:\i 89.3% (1995 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Fiji
\Iconventional short form:\i Fiji
\BData code:\b FJ
\BGovernment type:\b republic
\Inote:\i military coup leader Maj. Gen. Sitiveni RABUKA formally declared \JFiji\j a republic on 6 October 1987
\BNational capital:\b Suva
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 4 divisions and 1 dependency*; Central, Eastern, Northern, Rotuma*, Western
\BIndependence:\b 10 October 1970 (from UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 10 October (1970)
\BConstitution:\b 10 October 1970 (suspended 1 October 1987); a new constitution was proposed on 23 September 1988 and promulgated on 25 July 1990; the 1990 constitution is under review; the review is scheduled to be completed by 1997
\BLegal system:\b based on British system
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Ratu Sir Kamisese MARA (acting president since 15 December 1993, president since 12 January 1994); First Vice President Ratu Sir Josaia TAIVAIQIA (since 12 January 1994); Second Vice President Ratu Inoke TAKIVEIKATA (since 12 January 1994)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Mahendra CHAUDHRY (since May 1999)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the prime minister from among the members of Parliament and is responsible to Parliament
\Inote:\i there is also a Presidential Council that advises the president on matters of national importance and a Great Council of Chiefs which consists of the highest ranking members of the traditional chiefly system
\Ielections:\i president elected by the Great Council of Chiefs for a five-year term; prime minister appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i Ratu Sir Kamisese MARA elected president; percent of Great Council of Chiefs vote - NA
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament consists of the Senate (34 seats; 24 reserved for ethnic Fijians, 9 for Indians and others, and 1 for the island of Rotuma; members appointed by the president to serve five-year terms) and the \JHouse of Representatives\j (70 seats; 37 reserved for ethnic Fijians, 27 for ethnic Indians, and 6 for independents and others; members elected by popular vote on a communal basis to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i \JHouse of Representatives\j - last held 18-25 February 1994 (next to be held NA 1999)
\Ielection results:\i \JHouse of Representatives\j - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - SVT 31, NFP 20, FLP 7, FAP 5, GVP 4, independents 2, ANC 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Fijian Political Party (SVT - primarily Fijian), leader Maj. Gen. Sitivini RABUKA; National Federation Party (NFP; primarily Indian), Jai Ram REDDY; Fijian Nationalist Party (FNP), Sakeasi BUTADROKA; 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
\Inote:\i 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
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Ratu Napolioni MASIREWA
\Ichancery:\i Suite 240, 2233 \JWisconsin\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 337-8320
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 337-1996
\Iconsulate(s):\i New York
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Don Lee GEVIRTZ
\Iembassy:\i 31 Loftus Street, Suva
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 218, Suva
\Itelephone:\i [679] 314466
\IFAX:\i [679] 300081
\BFlag description:\b light blue with the flag of the UK in the upper hoist-side quadrant and the Fijian shield centered on the outer half of the flag; the shield depicts a yellow lion above a white field quartered by the cross of Saint George featuring stalks of sugarcane, a palm tree, bananas, and a white dove
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b \JFiji\j, 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. Sugar processing makes up one-third of industrial activity. Roughly 250,000 tourists visit each year. Political uncertainty and \Jdrought\j, however, contribute to substantial fluctuations in earnings from tourism and sugar and to the emigration of skilled workers. In 1992, growth was approximately 3%, based on growth in tourism and a lessening of labor-management disputes in the sugar and gold-mining sectors. In 1993, the government's budgeted growth rate of 3% was not achieved because of a decline in non-sugar agricultural output and damage from Cyclone Kina. Growth in 1994 of 5% was largely attributable to increased tourism and expansion in the manufacturing sector.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $5.1 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 5% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $6,500 (1996 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b modern local, interisland, and international (wire/radio integrated) public and special-purpose \Jtelephone\j, telegraph, and teleprinter facilities; regional radio communications center
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i access to important cable link between US and Canada and NZ and \JAustralia\j; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (\JPacific Ocean\j)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 7, FM 1, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b 12,000 (1992 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 597 km; note - belongs to the government-owned \JFiji\j Sugar Corporation
\Inarrow gauge:\i 597 km 0.610-m gauge (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,370 km
\Ipaved:\i 1,655 km
\Iunpaved:\i 1,715 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 203 km; 122 km navigable by motorized craft and 200-metric-ton barges
\BPorts and harbors:\b Labasa, Lautoka, Levuka, Savusavu, Suva
\Iships by type:\i chemical tanker 2, oil tanker 1, passenger 1, roll-on/roll-off cargo 2 (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 21 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 18
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 1
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 1
\Iunder 914 m:\i 15 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 3
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 3 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Republic of \JFiji\j Military Forces (RFMF; includes army, navy, and a small air wing)
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 210,048 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 115,766 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 8,986 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $32 million (1997)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 5% (1997)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
#
"Finland (Atlas)",80,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea, Gulf of Bothnia, and Gulf of \JFinland\j, between Sweden and Russia
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 64 00 N, 26 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 337,030 sq km
\Iland:\i 305,470 sq km
\Iwater:\i 31,560 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Montana
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,628 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JNorway\j 729 km, Sweden 586 km, \JRussia\j 1,313 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,126 km (excludes islands and coastal indentations)
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 6 nm
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
\Iexclusive fishing zone:\i 12 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm (in the Gulf of \JFinland\j - 3 nm)
\BClimate:\b cold temperate; potentially subarctic, but comparatively mild because of moderating influence of the North Atlantic Current, Baltic Sea, and more than 60,000 lakes
\BTerrain:\b mostly low, flat to rolling plains interspersed with lakes and low hills
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Baltic Sea 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Haltiatunturi 1,328 m
\BNatural resources:\b timber, copper, zinc, iron ore, silver
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 8%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 0%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 76%
\Iother:\i 16% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 640 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b NA
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b air \Jpollution\j from manufacturing and power plants contributing to \Jacid rain\j; \Jwater\j \Jpollution\j from industrial wastes, agricultural chemicals; habitat loss threatens wildlife populations
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Desertification, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands, Whaling\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Air Pollution-Sulphur 94
\BGeography - note:\b long boundary with \JRussia\j; \JHelsinki\j is northernmost national capital on European continent; population concentrated on small southwestern coastal plain
\BLanguages:\b Finnish 93.5% (official), Swedish 6.3% (official), small Lapp- and Russian-speaking minorities
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 100% (1980 est.)
\Imale:\i NA%
\Ifemale:\i NA%
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Republic of Finland
\Iconventional short form:\i Finland
\Ilocal long form:\i Suomen Tasavalta
\Ilocal short form:\i Suomi
\BData code:\b FI
\BGovernment type:\b republic
\BNational capital:\b Helsinki
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 12 provinces (laanit, singular - laani); Ahvenanmaa, Hame, Keski-Suomi, Kuopio, Kymi, Lappi, Mikkeli, \JOulu\j, Pohjois-Karjala, Turku ja Pori, Uusimaa, Vaasa
\BIndependence:\b 6 December 1917 (from \JRussia\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 6 December (1917)
\BConstitution:\b 17 July 1919
\BLegal system:\b civil law system based on Swedish law; Supreme Court may request legislation interpreting or modifying laws; accepts compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j, with reservations
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Martti AHTISAARI (since 1 March 1994)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Paavo LIPPONEN (since 13 April 1995) and Deputy Prime Minister Sauli NIINISTO (since 13 April 1995)
\Icabinet:\i Council of State or Valtioneuvosto appointed by the president, responsible to Parliament
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a six-year term; election last held 31 January-6 February 1994 (next to be held NA January 2000); prime minister and deputy prime minister appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i Martti AHTISAARI elected president; percent of vote - Martti AHTISAARI 54%, Elisabeth REHN 46%
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Parliament or Eduskunta (200 seats; members are elected by popular vote on a proportional basis to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 19 March 1995 (next to be held NA March 1999)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - 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 by party - 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
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court or Korkein Oikeus, judges appointed by the president
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b
\Igovernment coalition:\i Social Democratic Party [Paavo LIPPONEN]; National Coalition (conservative) Party [Sauli NIINISTO]; Leftist Alliance (Communist) People's Democratic League
and Democratic Alternative [Claes ANDERSSON]; Swedish People's Party [(Johan) Ole NORRBACK]; Green League [Pekka HAAVISTO]
\Iother:\i Center Party [Esko AHO]; Finnish Christian League [Toimi KANKAANNIEMI]; Rural Party [Raimo VISTBACKA]; Liberal People's Party [Tuulikki UKKOLA]; Greens Ecological Party or EPV; Young Finns [Risto PENTTILA]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Finnish Communist Party-Unity [Yrjo HAKANEN]; Constitutional Rightist Party; Finnish Pensioners Party; Communist Workers Party [Timo LAHDENMAKI]
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Jaakko Tapani LAAJAVA
\Ichancery:\i 3301 \JMassachusetts\j Avenue NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 298-5800
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 298-6030
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i Los Angeles and New York
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Derek N. SHEARER
\Iembassy:\i Itainen Puistotie 14A, FIN-00140, Helsinki
\Imailing address:\i APO AE 09723
\Itelephone:\i [358] (9) 171931
\IFAX:\i [358] (9) 174681
\BFlag description:\b white with a blue cross that extends to the edges of the flag; the vertical part of the cross is shifted to the hoist side in the style of the Dannebrog (Danish flag)
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b \JFinland\j has a highly industrialized, largely free-market economy, with per capita output equaling that of the UK, \JFrance\j and \JItaly\j. Its key economic sector is manufacturing - principally the wood, metals, and \Jengineering\j industries. Trade is important, with the export of goods representing about 30% of GDP. Except for timber and several minerals, \JFinland\j depends on imports of raw materials, \Jenergy\j, 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 has come back from the recession of 1990-92, which had been caused by economic overheating, depressed foreign markets, and the dismantling of the barter system between \JFinland\j and the former \JSoviet Union\j under which Soviet oil and gas had been exchanged for Finnish manufactured goods. The Finns voted in an October 1994 referendum to enter the EU, and \JFinland\j officially joined the Union on 1 January 1995. Attempts to cut the unacceptably high rate of unemployment and increasing \Jintegration\j with Western Europe will dominate the economic picture over the next few years.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $97.1 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 2.5% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $19,000 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i public services 30.4%, industry 20.9%, commerce 15.0%, finance, insurance, and business services 10.2%, agriculture and \Jforestry\j 8.6%, transport and communications 7.7%, construction 7.2%
\BUnemployment rate:\b 16.6% (1996)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $25.9 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $35 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995 est.)
\BIndustries:\b metal products, shipbuilding, pulp and paper, copper refining, foodstuffs, chemicals, textiles, clothing
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b 7.4% (1995)
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 14.14 million kW (1994)
\BElectricity - consumption per capita:\b 12,373 kWh (1995 est.)
\BAgriculture - products:\b \Jcereals\j, sugar beets, potatoes; dairy \Jcattle\j; annual fish catch about 160,000 metric tons
\BExports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $29.7 billion (f.o.b., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i paper and pulp, machinery, chemicals, metals, timber
\Ipartners:\i EU 46.5% (\JGermany\j 13.4%, UK 10.3%), Sweden 11%, US 7.2%, \JJapan\j 2.1%, FSU 8.6% (1994)
\BImports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $23.2 billion (c.i.f., 1994)
\Icommodities:\i foodstuffs, \Jpetroleum\j and \Jpetroleum\j products, chemicals, transport equipment, iron and steel, machinery, textile yarn and fabrics, fodder grains
\Ipartners:\i EU 44% (\JGermany\j 15%, UK 8.3%), Sweden 10.4%, US 7.6%, \JJapan\j 6.5%, FSU 10.3 (1994)
\BDebt - external:\b $30 billion (December 1993)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Idonor:\i ODA, $355 million (1993)
\BCurrency:\b 1 markka (FMk) or Finmark = 100 pennia
\BTelephone system:\b good service from cable and microwave radio relay network
\Idomestic:\i cable and microwave radio relay
\Iinternational:\i 1 submarine cable; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations - access to Intelsat transmission service via a Swedish \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station, 1 Inmarsat (Atlantic and Indian
Ocean Regions); note - \JFinland\j shares the Inmarsat \Jearth\j station with the other Nordic countries (Denmark, \JIceland\j, \JNorway\j, and Sweden)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 6, FM 105, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 4.98 million (1991 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 235
\BTelevisions:\b 1.92 million (1995 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 5,895 km
\Ibroad gauge:\i 5,895 km 1.524-m gauge (1,993 km electrified; 480 km double- or more-track) (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 77,722 km
\Ipaved:\i 48,965 km (including 394 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 28,757 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 6,675 km total (including Saimaa Canal); 3,700 km suitable for steamers
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 17 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,298,576 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 1,068,503 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 32,985 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $1.9 billion (1995)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 1.6% (1995)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
\BIllicit drugs:\b minor transshipment point for Latin American \Jcocaine\j for the West European market
#
"France (Atlas)",81,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Europe, bordering the Bay of Biscay and English Channel, between \JBelgium\j and Spain southeast of the UK; bordering the \JMediterranean Sea\j, between \JItaly\j and Spain
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 46 00 N, 2 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 547,030 sq km
\Iland:\i 545,630 sq km
\Iwater:\i 1,400 sq km
\Inote:\i includes only metropolitan \JFrance\j, but excludes the overseas administrative divisions
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly less than twice the size of Colorado
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,892.4 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAndorra\j 60 km, \JBelgium\j 620 km, \JGermany\j 451 km, \JItaly\j 488 km, Luxembourg 73 km, Monaco 4.4 km, \JSpain\j 623 km, \JSwitzerland\j 573 km
\BCoastline:\b 3,427 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 24 nm
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm (does not apply to the Mediterranean)
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b generally cool winters and mild summers, but mild winters and hot summers along the Mediterranean
\BTerrain:\b mostly flat plains or gently rolling hills in north and west; remainder is mountainous, especially \JPyrenees\j in south, Alps in east
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Rhone River delta -2 m
\Ihighest point:\i \JMont Blanc\j 4,807 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jcoal\j, iron ore, \Jbauxite\j, fish, timber, zinc, potash
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 33%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 2%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 20%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 27%
\Iother:\i 18% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 16,300 sq km (1995 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b flooding
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b some forest damage from \Jacid rain\j; air \Jpollution\j from industrial and vehicle emissions; \Jwater\j \Jpollution\j from urban wastes, agricultural runoff
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Marine Life Conservation, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands, Whaling
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Desertification
\BGeography - note:\b largest West European nation; occasional strong, cold, dry, north-to-northwesterly wind known as mistral
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 5.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 78.38 years
\Imale:\i 74.44 years
\Ifemale:\i 82.53 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.66 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Frenchman(men), Frenchwoman(women)
\Iadjective:\i French
\BEthnic groups:\b Celtic and Latin with Teutonic, Slavic, North African, Indochinese, Basque minorities
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 90%, Protestant 2%, Jewish 1%, Muslim (North African workers) 1%, unaffiliated 6%
\BLanguages:\b French 100%, rapidly declining regional dialects and languages (Provencal, Breton, Alsatian, Corsican, \JCatalan\j, Basque, Flemish)
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 99%
\Imale:\i 99%
\Ifemale:\i 99% (1980 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i French Republic
\Iconventional short form:\i France
\Ilocal long form:\i Republique Francaise
\Ilocal short form:\i France
\BData code:\b FR
\BGovernment type:\b republic
\BNational capital:\b Paris
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 22 regions (regions, singular - region); \JAlsace\j, \JAquitaine\j, Auvergne, Basse-Normandie, Bourgogne, Bretagne, Centre, Champagne-Ardenne, Corse, Franche-Comte, Haute-Normandie, Ile-de-\JFrance\j, Languedoc-Roussillon, Limousin, Lorraine, Midi-\JPyrenees\j, Nord-Pas-de-\JCalais\j, Pays de la Loire, Picardie, Poitou-Charentes, \JProvence\j-Alpes-Cote d'Azur, Rhone-Alpes
\Inote:\i metropolitan \JFrance\j is divided into 22 regions (including the "territorial collectivity" of Corse or \JCorsica\j) and is subdivided into 96 departments; see separate entries for the overseas departments (French Guiana, \JGuadeloupe\j, Martinique, Reunion) and the overseas territorial collectivities (\JMayotte\j, Saint Pierre and Miquelon)
\BDependent areas:\b Bassas da India, Clipperton Island, Europa Island, French \JPolynesia\j, French Southern and Antarctic Lands, Glorioso Islands, Juan de Nova Island, New Caledonia, Tromelin Island, Wallis and Futuna
\Inote:\i the US does not recognize claims to Antarctica
\BIndependence:\b 486 (unified by Clovis)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
\BConstitution:\b 28 September 1958, amended concerning election of president in 1962, amended to comply with provisions of EC \JMaastricht Treaty\j in 1992; amended to tighten \Jimmigration\j laws 1993
\BLegal system:\b civil law system with indigenous concepts; review of administrative but not legislative acts
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Lionel JOSPIN (since 3 June 1997)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the president on the suggestion of the prime minister
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a seven-year term; election last held 23 April and 7 May 1995 (next to be held by May 2002); prime minister appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i Jacques CHIRAC elected president; percent of vote, second ballot - Jacques CHIRAC 52.64%, Lionel JOSPIN 47.36%
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral Parliament or Parlement consists of the Senate or Senat (321 seats - 296 for metropolitan \JFrance\j, 13 for overseas departments and territories, and 12 for French nationals abroad; members are indirectly elected by an electoral college to serve nine-year terms; elected by thirds every three years) and the National Assembly or Assemblee Nationale (577 seats; members are elected under a single-member majoritarian system to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i Senate - last held 24 September 1995 (next to be held September 1998); National Assembly - last held 25 May-1 June 1997 (next to be held NA May 2002)\Ielection results:\i Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - RPR 94, UDF 127, PS 75, PCF 15, other 10; National Assembly - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - PS 245, RPR 140, UDF 109, PCF 37, PRS 13, Ecologists 8, MDC 7, LDI-MPF 1, FN 1, various left 9, various right 7
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court of Appeals or Cour de Cassation, judges are appointed by the president from nominations of the High Council of the Judiciary
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Rally for the Republic or RPR [Alain JUPPE, president]; Union for French Democracy or UDF (coalition of PR, FD, RAD, PPDF) [Francois LEOTARD]; Republican Party or PR [Francois LEOTARD]; Democratic Force or FD [Francois BAYROU]; Socialist Party or PS [Lionel JOSPIN]; Radical Party or RRRS [Andre ROSSINOT, Aymeri de MONTESQUIEU]; Communist Party or PCF [Robert HUE]; National Front or FN [Jean-Marie LE PEN]; The Greens [Dominique VOYNET]; Generation Ecology or GE [Brice LALONDE]; Citizens Movement or MDC [Jean Pierre CHEVENEMENT]; National Center of Independents and Peasants or CNIP [Jean-Antoine GIANSILY]; Radical Socialist Party or PRS; Movement for \JFrance\j or LDI-MPF
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Communist-controlled labor union (Confederation Generale du Travail) or CGT, nearly 2.4 million members (claimed); Socialist-leaning labor union (Confederation Francaise Democratique du Travail) or CFDT, about 800,000 members (est.); independent labor union or Force Ouvriere, 1 million members (est.); independent white-collar union or Confederation Generale des Cadres, 340,000 members (claimed); National Council of French Employers (Conseil National du Patronat Francais) or CNPF or Patronat
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Francois V. BUJON DE L'ESTANG
\Ichancery:\i 4101 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 944-6000
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 944-6166
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JAtlanta\j, \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, \JHonolulu\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, \JNew Orleans\j, New York, \JSan Francisco\j, and San Juan (Puerto Rico)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Pamela C. HARRIMAN (died in office 2 February 1997)
\Iembassy:\i 2 Avenue Gabriel, 75382 Paris Cedex 08
\BFlag description:\b three equal vertical bands of blue (hoist side), white, and red; known as the French Tricouleur (Tricolor); the design and colors are similar to a number of other flags, including those of \JBelgium\j, Chad, Ireland, Cote d'Ivoire, and Luxembourg; the official flag for all French dependent areas
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b One of the four West European trillion-dollar economies, the French economy features considerable state control over its capitalistic market system. In running important industrial segments (railways, airlines, electricity, telecommunications), administering an exceptionally generous social welfare system, and staffing an enormous bureaucracy, the state spends about 55% of GDP. \JFrance\j has substantial agricultural resources and a diversified modern industrial sector. Large tracts of fertile land, the application of modern technology, and subsidies have combined to make it the leading agricultural producer in Western Europe. Largely self-sufficient in agricultural products, \JFrance\j is a major exporter of wheat and dairy products. The industrial sector generates about one-quarter of GDP, and the growing services sector has become crucial to the economy. Following stagnation and recession in 1991-93, French GDP expanded 2.4% in 1994 and in 1995 but at only 1.3% in 1996. Persistently high unemployment still poses a major problem for the government, as will the need to cut back on government spending to keep the economy internationally competitive and enable \JFrance\j to qualify for European Economic and Monetary Union, slated to introduce a common European currency in January 1999. The government also has laid plans to sell off much of its stake in the telecommunications and defense industries in 1997 as part of its bid to make domestic companies more competitive with foreign rivals. However, the socialist victory at the polls in June 1997 casts doubt on \JFrance\j's future policy toward economic union and privatization of domestic economic activity.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.22 trillion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 1.3% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $20,900 (1996 est.)
\BElectricity - consumption per capita:\b 6,278 kWh (1995 est.)
\BAgriculture - products:\b wheat, \Jcereals\j, sugar beets, potatoes, wine grapes; beef, dairy products; fish catch of 850,000 metric tons ranks among world's top 20 countries and is all used domestically
\BExports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $275 billion (f.o.b., 1996)
\Icommodities:\i machinery and transportation equipment, chemicals, foodstuffs, agricultural products, iron and steel products, textiles and clothing
\Ipartners:\i \JGermany\j 17%, \JItaly\j 9%, UK 9%, \JSpain\j 8%, \JBelgium\j-Luxembourg 8%, US 6%, Netherlands 4.5%, \JJapan\j 2%, \JRussia\j 0.7% (1996)
\BImports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $255.5 billion f.o.b., 1996)
\Icommodities:\i crude oil, machinery and equipment, agricultural products, chemicals, iron and steel products
\Ipartners:\i \JGermany\j 17%, \JItaly\j 10%, US 8%, \JBelgium\j-Luxembourg 8%, UK 8%, \JSpain\j 7%, Netherlands 5%, \JJapan\j 3%, \JRussia\j 1.5% (1996)
\Idomestic:\i extensive cable and microwave radio relay; extensive introduction of fiber-optic cable; domestic \Jsatellite\j system
\Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations - 2 Intelsat (with total of 5 antennas - 2 for Indian Ocean and 3 for \JAtlantic Ocean\j), NA Eutelsat, 1 Inmarsat (\JAtlantic Ocean\j Region); HF radiotelephone communications with more than 20 countries \BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 41, FM 800 (mostly repeaters), shortwave 0
\Istandard gauge:\i 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
\Inarrow gauge:\i 599 km 1.000-m gauge
\Inote:\i does not include 33 tourist railroads, totaling 469 km, many being of very narrow gauge (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,512,700 km
\Ipaved:\i 812,700 km (including 9,140 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 700,000 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 14,932 km; 6,969 km heavily traveled
\BPorts and harbors:\b \JBordeaux\j, Boulogne, \JCherbourg\j, Dijon, Dunkerque, La Pallice, Le Havre, Lyon, \JMarseille\j, Mullhouse, \JNantes\j, Paris, \JRouen\j, Saint Nazaire, Saint Malo, Strasbourg
\Iships by type:\i bulk 5, cargo 3, chemical tanker 4, combination bulk 1, container 7, liquefied gas tanker 3, multi-function large load carrier 1, oil tanker 13, passenger 2, roll-on/roll-off cargo 5, short-sea passenger 7, specialized tanker 1
\Inote:\i \JFrance\j also maintains a captive register for French-owned ships in the Kerguelen Islands (French Southern and Antarctic Lands) (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 460 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 382
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 13
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 26
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 91
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 73
\Iunder 914 m:\i 179 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 78
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 3
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 75 (1996 est.)
\BHeliports:\b 3 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Army (includes Marines), Navy (includes Naval Air), Air Force (includes Air Defense, National Gendarmerie
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 14,800,821 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 12,315,337 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 394,362 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $47.7 billion (1995)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 2.5% (1995)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b Madagascar claims Bassas da India, Europa Island, Glorioso Islands, Juan de Nova Island, and Tromelin Island; \JComoros\j claims \JMayotte\j; \JMauritius\j claims Tromelin Island; \JSeychelles\j claims Tromelin Island; Suriname claims part of French Guiana; territorial claim in \JAntarctica\j (Adelie Land); Saint Pierre and Miquelon is focus of maritime boundary dispute between Canada and \JFrance\j; in 1992 an \Jarbitration\j panel awarded the islands an exclusive economic zone area of 12,348 sq km to settle the dispute; claims Matthew and Hunter Islands east of New Caledonia
\BIllicit drugs:\b transshipment point for and consumer of South American \Jcocaine\j and Southwest Asian heroin
#
"French Guiana (Atlas)",82,0,0,0
\I(overseas department of \JFrance\j)\i
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Northern \JSouth America\j, bordering the North \JAtlantic Ocean\j, between \JBrazil\j and Suriname
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 4 00 N, 53 00 W
\BMap references:\b South America
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 91,000 sq km
\Iland:\i 89,150 sq km
\Iwater:\i 1,850 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Indiana
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,183 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JBrazil\j 673 km, Suriname 510 km
\BCoastline:\b 378 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical; hot, humid; little seasonal \Jtemperature\j variation
\BTerrain:\b low-lying coastal plains rising to hills and small mountains
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JAtlantic Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Bellevue de l'Inini 851 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jbauxite\j, timber, gold (widely scattered), cinnabar, \Jkaolin\j, fish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 0%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 83%
\Iother:\i 17% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 20 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b high frequency of heavy showers and severe thunderstorms; flooding
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b NA
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b mostly an unsettled wilderness
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 156,946 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 32% (male 25,267; female 24,146)
\I15-64 years:\i 63% (male 54,051; female 45,489)
\I65 years and over:\i 5% (male 4,014; female 3,979) (July 1997 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 3.62% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 24.19 births/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.56 deaths/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 16.57 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 14 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 76.06 years
\Imale:\i 72.84 years
\Ifemale:\i 79.45 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.38 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i French Guianese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i French Guianese
\BEthnic groups:\b black or mulatto 66%, white 12%, East Indian, Chinese, Amerindian 12%, other 10%
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic
\BLanguages:\b French
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 83%
\Imale:\i 84%
\Ifemale:\i 82% (1982 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Department of Guiana
\Iconventional short form:\i French Guiana
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Guyane
\BData code:\b FG
\BDependency status:\b overseas department of France
\BGovernment type:\b NA
\BNational capital:\b Cayenne
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (overseas department of \JFrance\j)
\BIndependence:\b none (overseas department of \JFrance\j)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
\BConstitution:\b 28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
\BLegal system:\b French legal system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President of \JFrance\j Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995), represented by Prefect Pierre DARTOUT (since NA)
\Ihead of government:\i President of the General Council Stephan PHINERA (since NA March 1994) \Icabinet:\i NA
\Ielections:\i representative of the French Government appointed by the president of \JFrance\j on the advice of the French Ministry of Interior; presidents of the General and Regional Councils are appointed by the members of those councils, who vote on party lines
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral General Council or Conseil General (19 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve six-year terms) and a unicameral Regional Council or Conseil Regional (31 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve six-year terms)
\Ielections:\i General Council - last held NA March 1994 (next to be held NA 2000); Regional Council - last held 22 March 1992 (next to be held NA 1998)
\Ielection results:\i General Council - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - PSG 8, FDP 4, RPR 1, other left 2, other right 2, other 2; Regional Council - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - PSG 16, FDG 10, RPR 2, independents 3
\Inote:\i one seat was elected to the French Senate on 24 September 1989 (next to be held NA September 1998); results - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - FDG 1; 2 seats were elected to the French National Assembly on 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held 25 May-1 June 1997 - special election); results - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - RPR 1, independent (left) 1
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Appeals or Cour d'Appel (highest local court based in Martinique with \Jjurisdiction\j over Martinique, \JGuadeloupe\j, and French Guiana)
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Guianese Socialist Party or PSG [Leone MICHOTTE]; Socialist Party or PS [Jean BART] (may be a subset of PSG); Nationalist Popular Party of \JGuyana\j (Parti Nationaliste Populaire Guiana) or PNPG [Jose DORCY]; Union of Social Democrats (Union des Socialistes Democates) or USD [Leon BERTRAND] (umbrella group of RPR and UDF); Rally for the Republic or RPR [Leon BERTRAND]; Union for French Democracy or UDF [R. CHOW-CHINE]; \JGuyana\j Democratic Front or FDG [Georges OTHILY]; Walwari Committee [Christine TAUBIRA-DELANON]; Action Democrate Guiana or ADG [Andre LECANTE]; Forces de Progres or FDP
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none (overseas department of \JFrance\j)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b none (overseas department of \JFrance\j)
\BFlag description:\b the flag of \JFrance\j is used
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b The economy is tied closely to that of \JFrance\j through subsidies and imports. Besides the French space center at \JKourou\j, fishing and \Jforestry\j are the most important economic activities, with exports of fish and fish products (mostly shrimp) accounting for more than 60% of total revenue in 1992. The large reserves of tropical hardwoods, not fully exploited, support an expanding sawmill industry that provides sawn logs for export. Cultivation of crops is limited to the coastal area, where the population is largely concentrated. French Guiana is heavily dependent on imports of food and \Jenergy\j. Unemployment is a serious problem, particularly among younger workers.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $800 million (1993 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $6,000 (1993 est.)
\Idomestic:\i fair open wire and microwave radio relay system
\Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (\JAtlantic Ocean\j)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 5, FM 7, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 79,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 9
\BTelevisions:\b 22,000 (1992 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,817 km (national 432 km, departmental 385 km, community 1,000 km)\Ipaved:\i 727 km
\Iunpaved:\i 1,090 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b 460 km, navigable by small oceangoing vessels and river and coastal steamers; 3,300 km navigable by native craft
\BPorts and harbors:\b Cayenne, Degrad des \JCannes\j, Saint-Laurent du Maroni
\BMerchant marine:\b none
\BAirports:\b 10 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 7
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 1
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 2
\Iunder 914 m:\i 4 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 3
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 3 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b French Forces, Gendarmerie
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 44,799 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 29,033 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $NA
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of France
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b Suriname claims area between Riviere Litani and Riviere Marouini (both headwaters of the Lawa)
\BIllicit drugs:\b small amount of marijuana grown for local consumption; minor transshipment point to Europe
#
"French Polynesia (Atlas)",83,0,0,0
\I(overseas territory of \JFrance\j)\i
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JOceania\j, archipelago in the South \JPacific Ocean\j, about one-half of the way from \JSouth America\j to Australia
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 15 00 S, 140 00 W
\BMap references:\b Oceania
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 4,167 sq km (118 islands and atolls)
\Iland:\i 3,660 sq km
\Iwater:\i 507 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly less than one-third the size of Connecticut
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,525 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical, but moderate
\BTerrain:\b mixture of rugged high islands and low islands with reefs
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JPacific Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mount Orohena 2,241 m
\BNatural resources:\b timber, fish, cobalt
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 1%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 6%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 5%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 31%
\Iother:\i 57% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b occasional cyclonic storms in January
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b NA
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b includes five archipelagoes; Makatea in French \JPolynesia\j is one of the three great phosphate rock islands in the \JPacific Ocean\j - the others are Banaba (Ocean Island) in Kiribati and Nauru
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 233,488 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 34% (male 39,958; female 38,492)
\I15-64 years:\i 62% (male 75,450; female 69,441)
\I65 years and over:\i 4% (male 5,063; female 5,084) (July 1997 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 1.89% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 23.27 births/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 4.95 deaths/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0.59 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 13.7 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 72.17 years
\Imale:\i 69.81 years
\Ifemale:\i 74.65 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 2.77 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i French Polynesian(s)
\Iadjective:\i French Polynesian
\BEthnic groups:\b Polynesian 78%, Chinese 12%, local French 6%, metropolitan French 4% \BReligions:\b Protestant 54%, Roman Catholic 30%, other 16%
\BLanguages:\b French (official), Tahitian (official)
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 14 and over can read and write, but definition of \Jliteracy\j not available
\Itotal population:\i 98%
\Imale:\i 98%
\Ifemale:\i 98% (1977 est.)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of French Polynesia
\Iconventional short form:\i French Polynesia
\Ilocal long form:\i Territoire de la Polynesie Francaise
\Ilocal short form:\i Polynesie Francaise
\BData code:\b FP
\BDependency status:\b overseas territory of \JFrance\j since 1946
\BGovernment type:\b NA
\BNational capital:\b Papeete
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (overseas territory of \JFrance\j); 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
\Inote:\i Clipperton Island is administered by \JFrance\j from French Polynesia
\BIndependence:\b none (overseas territory of \JFrance\j)
\BNational holiday:\b National Day, Taking of the Bastille, 14 July (1789)
\BConstitution:\b 28 September 1958 (French Constitution)
\BLegal system:\b based on French system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President of \JFrance\j Jacques CHIRAC (since 17 May 1995), represented by High Commissioner of the Republic Dominique BUR (since NA)
\Ihead of government:\i President of the Territorial Government of French \JPolynesia\j Gaston FLOSSE (since 4 April 1991); President of the Territorial Assembly Tinomana EBB (since NA)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers; president submits a list of members of the Territorial Assembly for approval by them to serve as ministers
\Ielections:\i high commissioner appointed by the president of \JFrance\j on the advice of the French Ministry of Interior; president of the Territorial Government and the president of the Territorial Assembly are elected by the members of the assembly
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Territorial Assembly or Assemblee Territoriale (41 seats; members are elected by popular vote to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 12 May 1996 (next to be held NA March 2001)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - People's Rally for the Republic (Gaullist) 22, Polynesian Liberation Front 10, New Fatherland Party 5, other 4
\Inote:\i one seat was elected to the French Senate on 24 September 1989 (next to be held NA September 1998); results - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - NA; two seats were elected to the French National Assembly on 21 and 28 March 1993 (next to be held 25 May-1 June 1997 - special election); results - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - People's Rally for the Republic (Gaullist) 2
\BJudicial branch:\b Court of Appeal or Cour d'Appel; Court of the First Instance or Tribunal de Premiere Instance; Court of Administrative Law or Tribunal Administratif
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b People's Rally for the Republic (Tahoeraa Huiraatira) [Gaston FLOSSE]; Polynesian Union Party (includes Te Tiarama and Here Ai'a Party) [Jean JUVENTIN]; Polynesian Liberation Front (Tavini Huiraatira) [Oscar TEMARU]; New Fatherland Party (Ai'a Api) [Emile VERNAUDON]; Independent Party (Ia Mana Te Nunaa) [Jacques DROLLET]; Te Aratia Ote Nunaa [Tinomana EBB]; Haere i Mua [Alexandre LEONTIEFF]; other small parties
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none (overseas territory of \JFrance\j)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b none (overseas territory of \JFrance\j)
\BFlag description:\b two narrow red horizontal bands encase a wide white band; centered on the white band is a disk with blue and white wave pattern on the lower half and gold and white ray pattern on the upper half; a stylized red, blue and white ship rides on the wave pattern; the French flag is used for official occasions
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Since 1962, when \JFrance\j stationed military personnel in the region, French \JPolynesia\j has changed from a subsistence economy to one in which a high proportion of the work force is either employed by the military or supports the tourist industry. Tourism accounts for about 20% of GDP and is a primary source of hard currency earnings. The territory will continue to benefit from a five-year (1994-98) development agreement with \JFrance\j aimed principally at creating new jobs.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.76 billion (1995 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $8,000 (1995 est.)
\BExchange rates:\b Comptoirs Francais du Pacifique francs (CFPF) per US$1 - 98.48 (January 1997), 93.00 (1996), 90.75 (1995), 100.94 (1994), 102.96 (1993), 96.24 (1992); note - linked at the rate of 18.18 to the French franc
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 33,200 (1983 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (\JPacific Ocean\j)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 5, FM 2, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 116,000 (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 6
\BTelevisions:\b 35,000 (1992 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b 0 km
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 792 km
\Ipaved:\i 792 km (1995 est.)
\BPorts and harbors:\b Mataura, \JPapeete\j, Rikitea, Uturoa
\Iships by type:\i chemical tanker 1, passenger-cargo 2, refrigerated cargo 1 (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b 41 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 35
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 2
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 5
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 13
\Iunder 914 m:\i 15 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 6
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 6 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b French Forces (includes Army, Navy, Air Force), Gendarmerie
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of France
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
#
"French Southern and Antarctic Lands (Atlas)",84,0,0,0
\I(overseas territory of \JFrance\j)\i
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b South of Africa, islands in the southern Indian Ocean, about equidistant between Africa, \JAntarctica\j, and \JAustralia\j; note - French Southern and Antarctic Lands includes Ile \JAmsterdam\j, Ile Saint-Paul, Iles Crozet, and Iles Kerguelen in the southern Indian Ocean, along with the French-claimed sector of \JAntarctica\j, "Adelie Land"; the US does not recognize the French claim to "Adelie Land"
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 43 00 S, 67 00 E
\BMap references:\b Antarctic Region
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 7,781 sq km
\Iland:\i 7,781 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\Inote:\i includes Ile \JAmsterdam\j, Ile Saint-Paul, Iles Crozet and Iles Kerguelen; excludes "Adelie Land" claim of about 500,000 sq km in \JAntarctica\j that is not recognized by the US
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly less than 1.3 times the size of Delaware
\BLand boundaries:\b 0 km
\BCoastline:\b 1,232 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm from Iles Kerguelen only
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b antarctic
\BTerrain:\b volcanic
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i Indian Ocean 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mont Ross on Kerguelen 1,850 m
\BNatural resources:\b fish, crayfish
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 0%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 0%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 0%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 0%
\Iother:\i 100%
\BIrrigated land:\b 0 sq km (1993)
\BNatural hazards:\b Ile \JAmsterdam\j and Ile Saint-Paul are extinct volcanoes
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b NA
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b remote location in the southern Indian Ocean
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b no indigenous inhabitants
\Inote:\i there were 134 (1996) mostly researchers whose numbers vary from winter (July) to summer (January)
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Territory of the French Southern and Antarctic Lands
\Iconventional short form:\i French Southern and Antarctic Lands
\Ilocal long form:\i Territoire des Terres Australes et Antarctiques Francaises
\Ilocal short form:\i Terres Australes et Antarctiques Francaises
\BData code:\b FS
\BDependency status:\b overseas territory of \JFrance\j since 1955; administered by a high commissioner of the Republic
\BNational capital:\b none; administered from Paris, France
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (overseas territory of \JFrance\j); there are no first-order administrative divisions as defined by the US Government, but there are 3 districts named Ile Crozet, Iles Kerguelen, and Iles Saint-Paul et \JAmsterdam\j; excludes "Adelie Land" claim in \JAntarctica\j that is not recognized by the US
\BIndependence:\b none (overseas territory of \JFrance\j)
\BFlag description:\b the flag of \JFrance\j is used
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Economic activity is limited to servicing meteorological and geophysical research stations and French and other fishing fleets. The fish catches landed on Iles Kerguelen by foreign ships are exported to \JFrance\j and Reunion.
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $24.5 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996)
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM NA, FM NA, shortwave NA
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b NA
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BTransportation\b
\BPorts and harbors:\b none; offshore \Janchorage\j only
\Inote:\i a subset of the French register allowing French-owned ships to operate under more liberal taxation and manning regulations than permissible under the main French register (1996 est.)
\BAirports:\b none
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary - note:\b defense is the responsibility of France
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b "Adelie Land" claim in \JAntarctica\j is not recognized by the US
#
"Gabon (Atlas)",85,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the \JAtlantic Ocean\j at the Equator, between Republic of the \JCongo\j and Equatorial Guinea
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 1 00 S, 11 45 E
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 267,670 sq km
\Iland:\i 257,670 sq km
\Iwater:\i 10,000 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Colorado
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,551 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JCameroon\j 298 km, Republic of the \JCongo\j 1,903 km, Equatorial Guinea 350 km
\BCoastline:\b 885 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 24 nm
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical; always hot, humid
\BTerrain:\b narrow coastal plain; hilly interior; savanna in east and south
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JAtlantic Ocean\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mont Iboundji 1,575 m
\BNatural resources:\b \Jpetroleum\j, \Jmanganese\j, uranium, gold, timber, iron ore
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 1%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 1%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 18%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 77%
\Iother:\i 3% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 40 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b NA
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b deforestation; poaching
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 87.8 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 56.05 years
\Imale:\i 53.13 years
\Ifemale:\i 50.06 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 3.85 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i Gabonese (singular and plural)
\Iadjective:\i Gabonese
\BEthnic groups:\b Bantu tribes including four major tribal groupings (Fang, Eshira, Bapounou, Bateke), other Africans and Europeans 154,000, including 6,000 French and 11,000 persons of dual nationality
\BReligions:\b Christian 55%-75%, Muslim less than 1%, animist
\BLanguages:\b French (official), Fang, Myene, Bateke, Bapounou/Eschira, Bandjabi
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\BIndependence:\b 17 August 1960 (from \JFrance\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 17 August (1960) (\JGabon\j granted full independence from \JFrance\j)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 14 March 1991
\BLegal system:\b based on French civil law system and customary law; judicial review of legislative acts in Constitutional Chamber of the Supreme Court; compulsory ICJ \Jjurisdiction\j not accepted
\BSuffrage:\b 21 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President El Hadj Omar BONGO (since 2 December 1967)
\Ihead of government:\i Prime Minister Paulin OBAME Nguema (since 9 December 1994)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed by the prime minister in consultation with the president
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 5 December 1993 (next to be held NA 1998); prime minister appointed by the president
\Ielection results:\i President Omar BONGO reelected; percent of vote - Omar BONGO 51%
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral legislature consists of a Senate (91 seats) and a National Assembly or Assemblee Nationale (120 seats); members are elected by direct popular vote to serve five-year terms
\Ielections:\i National Assembly - last held in December 1996 (next to be held in December 2001); Senate - last held 12 January 1997 (next to be held in January 2002)\Ielection results:\i National Assembly - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - PDG 100, Morena-Bucherons/RNB 8, PUP 3, CLR 3, FAR 1, UPG 1, USG 2, PGP 2; Senate - percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - PDG 51, RNB 17, PGP 4, ADERA 3, RDP 1, others 15
\Inote:\i the provision of the constitution for the establishment of a senate was implemented in the 12 January 1997 elections
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court or Cour Supreme consisting of three chambers - Judicial, Administrative, and Accounts; Constitutional Court; Courts of Appeal (2); Court of State Security; County Courts
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Action Forum for Renewal or FAR [Leon MBOU-YEMBI, secretary general]; Circle of Liberal Reformers or CLR [General Jean Boniface ASSELE]; Gabonese Democratic Party or PDG, former sole party [Simplice Guedet MANZELA, secretary general]; Gabonese Party for Progress or PGP [Pierre-Louis AGONDJO-OKAWE, president]; Gabonese People's Union or UPG [Pierre MAMBOUNDOU]; Gabonese Socialist Union or USG [Dr. Serge Mba BEKALE]; National Recovery Movement - Lumberjacks or Morena-Bucherons/RNB [Fr. Paul M'BA-ABESSOLE]; People's Unity Party or PUP [Louis Gaston MAYILA]; ADERA
\BFlag description:\b three equal horizontal bands of green (top), yellow, and blue
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Notwithstanding its serious ongoing economic problems, \JGabon\j enjoys a per capita income three times that of most nations of sub-Saharan Africa. \JGabon\j depended on timber and \Jmanganese\j until oil was discovered offshore in the early 1970s. The oil sector now accounts for 50% of GDP. Real GDP growth has been feeble since 1991 and \JGabon\j continues to face fluctuating prices for its oil, timber, \Jmanganese\j, and uranium exports. Despite an abundance of natural wealth and a manageable rate of population growth, the economy is hobbled by poor fiscal management. In 1992, the fiscal deficit widened to 2.4% of GDP, and \JGabon\j failed to settle arrears on its bilateral debt, leading to a cancellation of rescheduling agreements with official and private creditors. Devaluation of its Francophone currency by 50% on 12 January 1994 sparked a one-time inflationary surge, to 35%; the rate dropped to 6% in 1996. The IMF provided a one-year standby arrangement in 1994-95 and a three-year Enhanced Financing Facility (EFF) at near commercial rates beginning in late 1995. Those agreements mandate progress in privatization and fiscal discipline. \JFrance\j provided additional financial support in January 1997 after \JGabon\j had met IMF targets for mid-1996.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $6.3 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 2.6% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $5,400 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture 65%, industry and commerce, services
\BUnemployment rate:\b 10%-14% (1993 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $1.3 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $1.6 billion, including capital expenditures of $311 million (1993 est.)
\BIndustries:\b food and beverage; textile; lumbering and plywood; cement; \Jpetroleum\j extraction and refining; \Jmanganese\j, uranium, and gold mining; chemicals; ship repair
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b NA%
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 301,000 kW (1992)
\BElectricity - production:\b 930 million kWh (1994)
\BElectricity - consumption per capita:\b 744 kWh (1994 est.)
\BAgriculture - products:\b \Jcocoa\j, \Jcoffee\j, sugar, \Jpalm oil\j; \Jrubber\j; okoume (a tropical softwood); \Jcattle\j; small fishing operations (provide a catch of about 30,000 metric tons)
\Inote:\i beginning 12 January 1994, the CFA franc was devalued to CFAF 100 per French franc from CFAF 50 at which it had been fixed since 1948
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 22,000 (1991 est.)
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i adequate system of cable, microwave radio relay, tropospheric scatter, radiotelephone communication stations, and a domestic \Jsatellite\j system with 12 \Jearth\j stations
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Navy, Air Force, Republican Guard (charged with protecting the president and other senior officials), National Gendarmerie, National Police
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 20 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 275,520 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 140,777 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 11,293 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $154 million (1993)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 2.4% (1993)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b maritime boundary dispute with Equatorial Guinea because of disputed sovereignty over islands in Corisco Bay
#
"Gaza Strip (Atlas)",86,0,0,0
\BIntroduction\b
\BCurrent issues:\b 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. Under the DOP, Israel agreed to transfer certain powers and responsibilities to the Palestinian Authority, which includes a Palestinian Legislative Council elected in January 1996, as part of interim self-governing arrangements in the West Bank and Gaza Strip. A transfer of powers and responsibilities for the Gaza Strip and Jericho has taken place pursuant to the Israel-PLO 4 May 1994 \JCairo\j Agreement on the Gaza Strip and the Jericho Area and in additional areas of the West Bank pursuant to the Israel-PLO 28 September 1995 Interim Agreement. The DOP provides that Israel will retain responsibility during the transitional period for external security and for internal security and public order of settlements and Israelis. Permanent status is to be determined through direct negotiations which began on 5 May 1996.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b \JMiddle East\j, bordering the \JMediterranean Sea\j, between \JEgypt\j and Israel
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 31 25 N, 34 20 E
\BMap references:\b Middle East
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 360 sq km
\Iland:\i 360 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly more than twice the size of Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 62 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JEgypt\j 11 km, Israel 51 km
\BCoastline:\b 40 km
\BMaritime claims:\b Israeli occupied with current status subject to the Israeli-Palestinian Interim Agreement - permanent status to be determined through further negotiation
\BClimate:\b temperate, mild winters, dry and warm to hot summers
\BTerrain:\b flat to rolling, sand- and dune-covered coastal plain
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JMediterranean Sea\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Abu 'Awdah (Joz Abu 'Auda) 105 m
\BNatural resources:\b NEGL
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 24%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 39%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 0%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 11%
\Iother:\i 26% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 120 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b NA
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b \Jdesertification\j; salination of fresh water
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i none of the selected agreements
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i none of the selected agreements
\BGeography - note:\b there are 24 Israeli settlements and civilian land use sites in the Gaza Strip (August 1996 est.)
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 987,869 (July 1997 est.)
\Inote:\i in addition, there are 5,000 Israeli settlers in the Gaza Strip (August 1996 est.)
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 26 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 72.46 years
\Imale:\i 71.12 years
\Ifemale:\i 73.87 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 7.68 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i NA
\Iadjective:\i NA
\BEthnic groups:\b Palestinian Arab and other 99.4%, Jewish 0.6%
\BReligions:\b Muslim (predominantly Sunni) 98.7%, Christian 0.7%, Jewish 0.6%
\BLanguages:\b Arabic, \JHebrew\j (spoken by Israeli settlers and many Palestinians), English (widely understood)
\BLiteracy:\b NA
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Gaza Strip
\Ilocal long form:\i none
\Ilocal short form:\i Qita Ghazzah
\BData code:\b GZ
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Economic progress in the Gaza Strip has been hampered by tight Israeli security restrictions. 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. The Persian Gulf crisis and its aftershocks has dealt blows to Gaza since August 1990. Worker remittances from the Gulf states have dropped, unemployment and popular unrest have increased, and living standards have fallen. The withdrawal of Israel from the Gaza Strip in May 1994 has added to the set of adjustment problems. This series of disruptions has meant a sharp decline in employment in Israel since 1991 and a drop in GDP as a whole. An estimated 378,000 persons were in refugee camps in 1996.\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b -1% to -2% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $1,100 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i construction 33.4%, agriculture 20.0%, commerce, restaurants, and hotels
14.9%, industry 10.0%, other services 21.7% (1991)
\Inote:\i excluding Israeli settlers
\BUnemployment rate:\b 35% to 40% (1996 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $684 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $779 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1996)
\Inote:\i includes West Bank
\BIndustries:\b generally small family businesses that produce textiles, soap, olive-wood carvings, and mother-of-pearl souvenirs; the Israelis have established some small-scale modern industries in an industrial center
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year (since 1 January 1992)
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b NA
\Inote:\i 3.1% of Palestinian households have telephones
\BTelephone system:\b
\Idomestic:\i NA
\Iinternational:\i NA
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 0, FM 0, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA; note - 95% of Palestinian households have radios (1992 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 0
\BTelevisions:\b NA; note - 59% of Palestinian households have televisions (1992 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km; note - one line, abandoned and in disrepair, little trackage remains
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\Inote:\i small, poorly developed road network
\BPorts and harbors:\b Gaza
\BAirports:\b 1 (1996 est.)
\Inote:\i new international airport under construction and scheduled to open in June 1997
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 1
\Iunder 914 m:\i 1 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b NA
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i NA
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i NA
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $NA
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b West Bank and Gaza Strip are Israeli occupied with current status subject to the Israeli-Palestinian Interim Agreement - permanent status to be determined through further negotiation
#
"Georgia (Atlas)",87,0,0,0
\BIntroduction\b
\BCurrent issues:\b 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 since spring 1994, 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 1995, Georgia adopted a new constitution and conducted generally free and fair nationwide presidential and parliamentary elections. In 1996, the government focused its attention to implementing an ambitious economic reform program and professionalizing its parliament. Violence and organized crime were sharply curtailed in 1995 and 1996, but corruption remains rife.
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southwestern Asia, bordering the \JBlack Sea\j, between Turkey and Russia
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 42 00 N, 43 30 E
\BMap references:\b Commonwealth of Independent States
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 69,700 sq km
\Iland:\i 69,700 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than South Carolina
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1,461 km
\Iborder countries:\i Armenia 164 km, \JAzerbaijan\j 322 km, \JRussia\j 723 km, Turkey 252 km
\BCoastline:\b 310 km
\BMaritime claims:\b NA
\BClimate:\b warm and pleasant; Mediterranean-like on \JBlack Sea\j coast
\BTerrain:\b largely mountainous with Great Caucasus Mountains in the north and Lesser Caucasus Mountains in the south; Kolkhida Lowland opens to the \JBlack Sea\j in the west; Mtkvari River Basin in the east; good soils in river valley flood plains, foothills of Kolkhida Lowland
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JBlack Sea\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Mt'a Mqinvartsveri (Gora Kazbek) 5,048 m
\BNatural resources:\b forests, hydropower, \Jmanganese\j deposits, iron ore, copper, minor \Jcoal\j and oil deposits; coastal climate and soils allow for important tea and \Jcitrus\j growth
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i 9%
\Ipermanent crops:\i 4%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i 25%
\Iforests and woodland:\i 34%
\Iother:\i 28% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b 4,000 sq km (1993 est.)
\BNatural hazards:\b NA
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b air \Jpollution\j, particularly in Rust'avi; heavy \Jpollution\j of Mtkvari River and the \JBlack Sea\j; inadequate supplies of potable \Jwater\j; soil \Jpollution\j from toxic chemicals
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Law of the Sea, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution
\Inote:\i administrative divisions have the same names as their administrative centers (exceptions have the administrative center name following in parentheses)
\BIndependence:\b 9 April 1991 (from \JSoviet Union\j)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 26 May (1991)
\BConstitution:\b adopted 17 October 1995
\BLegal system:\b based on civil law system
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Eduard Amvrosiyevich SHEVARDNADZE (previously elected chairman of the Government Council 10 March 1992, Council has since been disbanded; previously elected chairman of Parliament 11 October 1992; elected president 5 November 1995); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Ihead of government:\i President Eduard Amvrosiyevich SHEVARDNADZE (previously elected chairman of the Government Council 10 March 1992, Council has since been disbanded; previously elected chairman of Parliament 11 October 1992; elected president 5 November 1995); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet of Ministers
\Ielections:\i president elected by popular vote for a five-year term; election last held 5 November 1995 (next to be held NA April 2001)
\Ielection results:\i Eduard SHEVARDNADZE elected president; percent of vote - Eduard SHEVARDNADZE 74%
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Supreme Council or Umaghiesi Sabcho (235 seats; members are elected to serve five-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 5 November 1995 (next to be held NA November 2000)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - CUG 24%, NDP 8%, All Georgia Revival Union 7%, all other parties received less than 5% each; seats by party - NA
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Citizens Union of Georgia or CUG [Eduard SHEVARDNADZE, Zurab ZHVANIA, general secretary]; National Democratic Party or 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 or GPF [Nodar NATADZE, chairman]; Charter 1991 Party [Tedo PAATASHVILI]; Georgian Social Democratic Party or GSDP [Guram MUCHAIDZE, secretary general]; All Georgia Union for Revival [Alsan ABASHIDZE]; Christian Democratic Union or CDU [Irakli SHENGELAYA]; Democratic Georgia Union or DGU [Avtandil MARGIANI]; National Independence Party or NIP [Irakliy TSERETELI, chairman]; Georgian Monarchists' Party or GMP [Temur ZHORZHOLIANI]; Greens Party; Agrarian Party of Georgia or APG [Roin LIPARTELIANI]; United Communist Party of Georgia or UCP [Panteleimon GIORGADZE, chairman]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b supporters of ousted President Zviad GAMSAKHURDIA (deceased 1 January 1994) remain a source of opposition; separatist elements in the breakaway region of Abkhazia
\BInternational organization participation:\b BSEC, CCC, CE (guest), \JCIS\j, EBRD, ECE, FAO, IAEA, IBRD, ICAO, IDA, IFAD, IFC, ILO, IMF, IMO, Inmarsat, \JInterpol\j, IOC, IOM (observer), ITU, NACC, OSCE, PFP, UN, UNCTAD, \JUNESCO\j, UNIDO, UPU, WHO, WIPO, WMO, WToO, WTrO (applicant)
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Tedo JAPARIDZE
\Ichancery:\i (temporary) Suite 424, 1511 K Street NW, Washington, DC 20005
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 393-5959
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 393-4537
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador William H. COURTNEY
\Iembassy:\i
25 Antoneli Street, T'bilisi 380026
\Imailing address:\i use embassy street address
\Itelephone:\i 995-32-989-967 or 995-32-933-803 (operator assisted)
\IFAX:\i tie-line FAX 997-0200; 933-759 or 938-951
\BFlag description:\b maroon field with small rectangle in upper hoist side corner; rectangle divided horizontally with black on top, white below
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Georgia's economy has traditionally revolved around \JBlack Sea\j tourism; cultivation of \Jcitrus\j fruits, tea, and grapes; mining of \Jmanganese\j and copper; and output of a small industrial sector producing wine, metals, machinery, chemicals, and textiles. The country imports the bulk of its \Jenergy\j needs, including \Jnatural gas\j and oil products. Its only sizable internal \Jenergy\j resource is hydropower. Despite the severe damage the economy has suffered due to civil strife, Georgia, with the help of the IMF and World Bank, has made substantial economic gains in 1995-96, pushing GDP growth and slashing \Jinflation\j. Georgia had been suffering from acute \Jenergy\j shortages, although \Jenergy\j deliveries improved in 1996. Georgia is pinning its hopes for long-term recovery on the development of an international transportation corridor through the key \JBlack Sea\j ports of P'ot'i and Bat'umi. The decision in 1996 to construct an early Caspian oil pipeline through Georgia underscores the viability of such a corridor and may spur greater western investment in the economy. A growing trade deficit and political uncertainties \Jcloud\j the short-term economic picture.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $7.1 billion (1996 estimate as extrapolated
from World Bank estimate for 1994)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 11% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $1,350 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i industry and construction 31%, agriculture and \Jforestry\j 25%, other 44% (1990)
\BUnemployment rate:\b 21% (1996 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $NA
\Iexpenditures:\i $NA, including capital expenditures of $NA
\BIndustries:\b steel, \Jaircraft\j, machine tools, foundry equipment, electric locomotives, tower cranes, electric welding equipment, machinery for food preparation and meat packing, electric motors, process control equipment, trucks, tractors, textiles, shoes, chemicals, wood products, wine
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b 7.7% (1996 est.)
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 4.56 million kW (1994)
\Icommodities:\i \Jcitrus\j fruits, tea, wine, other agricultural products; diverse types of machinery; ferrous and nonferrous metals; textiles; chemicals; fuel re-exports\Ipartners:\i \JRussia\j, Turkey, Armenia, \JAzerbaijan\j, \JBulgaria\j (1996)
\BImports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $647 million (c.i.f., 1995)
\Icommodities:\i fuel, grain and other foods, machinery and parts, transport equipment \Ipartners:\i \JRussia\j, Turkey, \JAzerbaijan\j (1996); note - EU and US send humanitarian food shipments
\BDebt - external:\b $1.6 billion (1996 est.)
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Irecipient:\i ODA, $28 million (1993)
\Inote:\i commitments, 1992-95, $1,200 million ($675 million disbursements)
\BCurrency:\b lari introduced September 1995 replacing the coupon
\BExchange rates:\b lari per US$1 (end of period) - 1.28 (December 1996), 1.24 (December 1995)
\Iinternational:\i landline to \JCIS\j members and Turkey; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Eutelsat; leased connections with other countries via the Moscow international gateway switch; international electronic mail and telex service available
\Itotal:\i 1,583 km in common carrier service; does not include industrial lines\Ibroad gauge:\i 1,583 km 1.520-m gauge (1993)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 21,000 km
\Ipaved:\i NA km
\Iunpaved:\i NA km
\Inote:\i Georgia reports 19,635 km of "hard surfaced" roads which combine the lengths of paved and graveled roads; 1,365 km of unsurfaced or dirt roads are reported separately (1995 est.)
\BTransportation - note:\b transportation network is in poor condition and disrupted by ethnic conflict, criminal activities, and fuel shortages; network lacks maintenance and repair
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Ground Forces, Navy, Air Force, Air Defense Forces, National Guard, Republic Security Forces (internal and border troops)
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 1,288,694 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 1,020,609 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 40,799 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b 38.2 trillion coupons (1995); note - conversion of defense expenditures into US dollars using the current exchange rate could produce misleading results
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b NA%
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
\BIllicit drugs:\b limited cultivation of cannabis and opium poppy, mostly for domestic consumption; used as transshipment point for opiates to Western Europe
#
"Germany (Atlas)",88,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Central Europe, bordering the Baltic Sea and the North Sea, between the Netherlands and \JPoland\j, south of Denmark
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 51 00 N, 9 00 E
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 356,910 sq km
\Iland:\i 349,520 sq km
\Iwater:\i 7,390 sq km
\Inote:\i includes the formerly separate Federal Republic of \JGermany\j, the German Democratic Republic, and Berlin, following formal unification on 3 October 1990
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Montana
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 3,621 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JAustria\j 784 km, \JBelgium\j 167 km, Czech Republic 646 km, Denmark 68 km, \JFrance\j 451 km, Luxembourg 138 km, Netherlands 577 km, \JPoland\j 456 km, \JSwitzerland\j 334 km
\BCoastline:\b 2,389 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b temperate and marine; cool, cloudy, wet winters and summers; occasional warm, tropical foehn wind; high relative humidity
\BTerrain:\b lowlands in north, uplands in center, Bavarian Alps in south
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b emissions from \Jcoal\j-burning utilities and industries and lead emissions from vehicle exhausts (the result of continued use of leaded fuels) contribute to air \Jpollution\j; \Jacid rain\j, resulting from sulfur dioxide emissions, is damaging forests; heavy \Jpollution\j in the Baltic Sea from raw sewage and industrial effluents from rivers in eastern \JGermany\j; hazardous waste disposal
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Air Pollution, Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 85, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, Desertification, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Air Pollution-Sulphur 94
\BGeography - note:\b strategic location on North European Plain and along the entrance to the Baltic Sea
\BInfant mortality rate:\b 5.3 deaths/1,000 live births (1997 est.)
\BLife expectancy at birth:\b
\Itotal population:\i 76.81 years
\Imale:\i 73.64 years
\Ifemale:\i 80.16 years (1997 est.)
\BTotal fertility rate:\b 1.24 children born/woman (1997 est.)
\BNationality:\b
\Inoun:\i German(s)
\Iadjective:\i German
\BEthnic groups:\b German 91.5%, Turkish 2.4%, Italians 0.7%, Greeks 0.4%, \JPoles\j 0.4%, other 4.6% (made up largely of people fleeing the war in the former Yugoslavia)
\BReligions:\b Protestant 38%, Roman Catholic 34%, Muslim 1.7%, unaffiliated or other 26.3%
\BLanguages:\b German
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i age 15 and over can read and write
\Itotal population:\i 99% (1977 est.)
\Imale:\i NA%
\Ifemale:\i NA%
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i Federal Republic of Germany
\Iconventional short form:\i Germany
\Ilocal long form:\i Bundesrepublik Deutschland
\Ilocal short form:\i Deutschland
\BData code:\b GM
\BGovernment type:\b federal republic
\BNational capital:\b Berlin
\Inote:\i the shift from \JBonn\j to Berlin will take place over a period of years, with \JBonn\j retaining many administrative functions and several ministries even after parliament moves in 1999
\BAdministrative divisions:\b 16 states (laender, singular - land); \JBaden\j-Wuerttemberg, Bayern, Berlin, Brandenburg, Bremen, \JHamburg\j, Hessen, Mecklenburg-Vorpommern, Niedersachsen, Nordrhein-Westfalen, Rheinland-Pfalz, Saarland, Sachsen, Sachsen-Anhalt, \JSchleswig\j-Holstein, Thueringen \BIndependence:\b 18 January 1871 (German Empire unification); divided into four zones of occupation (UK, US, USSR, and later, \JFrance\j) in 1945 following World War II; Federal Republic of \JGermany\j (FRG or West \JGermany\j) proclaimed 23 May 1949 and included the former UK, US, and French zones; German Democratic Republic (GDR or East \JGermany\j) proclaimed 7 October 1949 and included the former USSR zone; unification of West \JGermany\j and East \JGermany\j took place 3 October 1990;
all four power rights formally relinquished 15 March 1991
\BNational holiday:\b German Unity Day (Day of Unity), 3 October (1990)
\BConstitution:\b 23 May 1949, known as Basic Law; became constitution of the united German people 3 October 1990
\BLegal system:\b civil law system with indigenous concepts; judicial review of legislative acts in the Federal Constitutional Court; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Johannes RAU (since May 1999)
\Ihead of government:\i Chancellor Gerhard SHROEDER (since 30 September 1998)
\Icabinet:\i Cabinet appointed by the president upon the proposal of the chancellor
\Ielections:\i president elected by the Federal Convention including members of the Federal Assembly and an equal number of members elected by the Land Parliaments for a five-year term; election last held September 1998; chancellor elected by an absolute majority of the Federal Assembly for a four-year term
\Ielection results:\i Johannes RAU elected president; percent of Federal Convention vote - NA; Gerhard SHROEDER elected chancellor; percent of Federal Assembly - NA
\BLegislative branch:\b bicameral chamber (no official name for the two chambers as a whole) consists of the Federal Assembly or Bundestag (656 seats usually, but 672 for the 1994 term; 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; members serve four-year terms) and the Federal Council or Bundesrat (68 votes; state governments are directly represented by votes; each has 3 to 6 votes depending on population and are required to vote as a block)
\Ielection results:\i Federal Assembly - percent of vote by party - NA
\BJudicial branch:\b Federal Constitutional Court or Bundesverfassungsgericht, half the judges are elected by the Bundestag and half by the Bundesrat
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b Christian Democratic Union or CDU [Helmut KOHL, chairman]; Christian Social Union or CSU [Theo WAIGEL, chairman]; Free Democratic Party or FDP [Wolfgang GERHARDT, chairman]; Social Democratic Party or SPD [Gerhard SCHROEDER, chairman]; Alliance '90/Greens [Gunda ROESTEL, Juergen TRITTIN, cochairpersons]; Party of Democratic Socialism or PDS [Lothar BISKY, chairman]; Republikaner [Rolf SCHLIERER, chairman]; National Democratic Party or NPD [Ellen-Doris SCHERER]; Communist Party or DKP [Rolf PRIEMER and Heinz STEHR, cochairpersons]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b employers' organizations, expellee, refugee, trade unions, and veterans groups
\Ichancery:\i 4645 Reservoir Road NW, Washington, DC 20007
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 298-4000
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 298-4249
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JAtlanta\j, \JBoston\j, \JChicago\j, \JDetroit\j, Houston, Los Angeles, Miami, New York, \JSan Francisco\j, Seattle
\Iconsulate(s):\i Wellington (\JAmerican Samoa\j)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador (vacant); Charge d'Affaires James D. BINDENAGEL
\Iembassy:\i Deichmanns Aue 29, 53170 Bonn
\Imailing address:\i APO AE 09080, PSC 117, Bonn
\Itelephone:\i [49] (228) 3391
\IFAX:\i [49] (228) 339-2663
\Ibranch office:\i Berlin
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i \JDusseldorf\j, Frankfurt am Main, \JHamburg\j, \JLeipzig\j, Munich
\BFlag description:\b three equal horizontal bands of black (top), red, and gold
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b \JGermany\j, the world's third-most powerful economy, is gearing up for the European Economic and Monetary Union in 1999. One key economic priority is meeting the Maastricht criteria for entry into EMU, a goal complicated by record unemployment and stagnating growth. The government has implemented an austerity budget in its attempt to get the deficit down to 3% of GDP as required by Maastricht, but further cuts probably will be necessary and there is little consensus among the parties or elites about next steps toward that end. In recent years business and political leaders have become increasingly concerned about \JGermany\j's apparent decline in attractiveness as a business location. They cite the increasing preference of German companies to locate new manufacturing facilities - long the strength of the postwar economy - in foreign countries, including the US, rather than in \JGermany\j, so they can be closer to their markets and avoid \JGermany\j's high taxes and labor costs. At the same time, \JGermany\j faces its own unique problem of bringing its eastern area up to scratch after 45 years of communist rule. Despite substantial progress toward economic \Jintegration\j, the eastern states will continue to rely on the annual subsidy of approximately $100 billion from the western part into the next century. Assistance from the west helped the east to average nearly 8% annual economic growth in 1992-95, even though the overall German economy had averaged less than 2% growth; growth in the east, however, tumbled to 2% in 1996, with unemployment a particularly severe problem.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $1.7 trillion (western: purchasing power parity - $1.56 trillion; eastern: purchasing power parity - $142 billion) (1996 est.)
\Iexpenditures:\i $832.1 billion, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995)
\BIndustries:\b western: among world's largest and technologically advanced producers of iron, steel, \Jcoal\j, cement, chemicals, machinery, vehicles, machine tools, \Jelectronics\j, food and beverages; eastern: metal fabrication, chemicals, brown \Jcoal\j, shipbuilding, machine building, food and beverages, textiles, \Jpetroleum\j refining
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b 1.3% (1996 est.)
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 109.73 million kW (1994)
\Icommodities:\i manufactures 88.2% (including machines and machine tools, chemicals, motor vehicles, iron and steel products), agricultural products 5.0%, raw materials 2.3%, fuels 1.0%, other 3.5% (1995)
\Ipartners:\i EU 57.7% (\JFrance\j 11.7%, UK 8.1%, \JItaly\j 7.6%, Netherlands 7.5%, \JBelgium\j-Luxembourg 6.5%, \JAustria\j 5.5%), Eastern Europe 8.0%, other West European countries 7.5%, US 7.3%, NICs 5.6%, \JJapan\j 2.5%, OPEC 2.2%, China 1.4% (1996 est. for first 10 months)
\Icommodities:\i manufactures 74.2%, agricultural products 9.9%, fuels 6.4%, raw materials 5.9%, other 3.6% (1995)
\Ipartners:\i EU 55.5% (\JFrance\j 10.8%, Netherlands 8.6%, \JItaly\j 8.4%, \JBelgium\j-Luxembourg 6.6%, UK 6.4%, \JAustria\j 3.9%), Eastern Europe 8.7%, other West European countries 7.2%, US 6.8%, \JJapan\j 5.3%, NICs 5.3%, China 2.4%, OPEC 1.7%, other 7.1% (1995)
\BDebt - external:\b $NA
\BEconomic aid:\b
\Idonor:\i ODA, $9 billion (1996 est.)
\BCurrency:\b 1 deutsche mark (DM) = 100 pfennige
\BExchange rates:\b deutsche marks (DM) per US$1 - 1.6043 (January 1997), 1.5048 (1996), 1.4331 (1995), 1.6228 (1994), 1.6533 (1993), 1.5617 (1992)
\BFiscal year:\b calendar year
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 44 million
\BTelephone system:\b \JGermany\j has one of the world's most technologically advanced telecommunications systems; as a result of intensive capital expenditures since reunification, the formerly backward system of the eastern part of the country is being rapidly modernized and integrated with that of the western part \Idomestic:\i the region which was formerly West \JGermany\j is served by an extensive system of automatic \Jtelephone\j exchanges connected by modern networks of fiber-optic cable, coaxial cable, microwave radio relay, and a domestic \Jsatellite\j system; cellular \Jtelephone\j service is widely available and includes roaming service to many foreign countries; since the reunification of \JGermany\j, the \Jtelephone\j system of the eastern region has been upgraded and enjoys many of the advantages of the national system \Iinternational:\i \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j stations - 14 Intelsat (12 \JAtlantic Ocean\j and 2 Indian Ocean), 1 Eutelsat, 1 Inmarsat (\JAtlantic Ocean\j region), 2 Intersputnik (1 \JAtlantic Ocean\j region and 1 Indian Ocean region); 6 submarine cable connections; 2 HF radiotelephone communication centers; tropospheric scatter links \BRadio broadcast stations:\b western - AM 80, FM 470, shortwave 0; eastern - AM 23, FM 17, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b 70 million (1991 est.)
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 246 (repeaters 6,000); note - there are 15 Russian repeaters in eastern Germany
\BTelevisions:\b 44.8 million (1992 est.)
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i 43,966 km
\Istandard gauge:\i 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\Inarrow gauge:\i 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
\Inote:\i in addition to the DB system there are 54 privately-owned industrial or excursion railways, ranging in route length from 2 km to 632 km, with a total length of 3,465 km (1995)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 639,800 km
\Ipaved:\i 504,800 km (including 11,013 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 135,000 km all-\Jweather\j, graveled (1993 est.)
\BWaterways:\b western - 5,222 km, of which almost 70% are usable by craft of 1,000-metric-ton capacity or larger; major rivers include the Rhine and Elbe; Kiel Canal is an important connection between the Baltic Sea and North Sea; eastern - 2,319 km (1988)
\Inote:\i includes ships from the former East Germany and West Germany
\BAirports:\b 613 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with paved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 544
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 13
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 63
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 69
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 51
\Iunder 914 m:\i 348 (1996 est.)
\BAirports - with unpaved runways:\b
\Itotal:\i 69
\Iover 3,047 m:\i 2
\I2,438 to 3,047 m:\i 5
\I1,524 to 2,437 m:\i 7
\I914 to 1,523 m:\i 55 (1996 est.)
\BHeliports:\b 65 (1996 est.)
\BMilitary\b
\BMilitary branches:\b Army, Navy (includes Naval Air Arm), Air Force, Medical Corps, Border Police, Coast Guard
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 20,918,653 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 17,939,494 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 450,147 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $42.8 billion (1995)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 1.5% (1995)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
\BIllicit drugs:\b source of precursor chemicals for South American \Jcocaine\j processors; transshipment point for and consumer of Southwest Asian heroin and \Jhashish\j, Latin American \Jcocaine\j, and European-produced synthetic drugs
#
"Ghana (Atlas)",89,0,0,0
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Western Africa, bordering the Gulf of Guinea, between Cote d'Ivoire and Togo
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 8 00 N, 2 00 W
\BMap references:\b Africa
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 238,540 sq km
\Iland:\i 230,020 sq km
\Iwater:\i 8,520 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b slightly smaller than Oregon
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 2,093 km
\Iborder countries:\i Burkina Faso 548 km, Cote d'Ivoire 668 km, \JTogo\j 877 km
\BCoastline:\b 539 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Icontiguous zone:\i 24 nm
\Icontinental shelf:\i 200 nm
\Iexclusive economic zone:\i 200 nm
\Iterritorial sea:\i 12 nm
\BClimate:\b tropical; warm and comparatively dry along southeast coast; hot and humid in southwest; hot and dry in north
\BTerrain:\b mostly low plains with dissected plateau in south-central area
\BNatural hazards:\b dry, dusty, \Jharmattan\j winds occur from January to March; droughts
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b recent \Jdrought\j in north severely affecting agricultural activities; deforestation; overgrazing; soil erosion; poaching and habitat destruction threatens wildlife populations; water \Jpollution\j; inadequate supplies of potable water
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Law of the Sea, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Tropical Timber 94, Wetlands, Whaling
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Desertification, Marine Life Conservation
\BGeography - note:\b Lake Volta is the world's largest artificial lake; northeasterly \Jharmattan\j wind (January to March)
\BNational holiday:\b Independence Day, 6 March (1957)
\BConstitution:\b new constitution approved 28 April 1992
\BLegal system:\b based on English \Jcommon law\j and customary law; has not accepted compulsory ICJ jurisdiction
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i President Jerry John RAWLINGS (since 3 November 1992); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Ihead of government:\i President Jerry John RAWLINGS (since 3 November 1992); note - the president is both the chief of state and head of government
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers; president nominates members subject to approval by the Parliament
\Ielections:\i president and vice president elected by popular vote for four-year terms;
election last held 7 December 1996 (next to be held NA 2000)
\Ielection results:\i Jerry John RAWLINGS elected president; percent of vote - Rawlings 58.8%
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral Parliament (200 seats; members are elected by direct popular vote to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 7 December 1996 (next to be held NA December 2000)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - NA; seats by party - NDC 126, NPP 65, PCP 5, PNC 1, to be determined 3
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b National Democratic Congress or NDC [Dr. Huudu YAHAYA]; New Patriotic Party or NPP [Peter Ala ADJETY]; People's Heritage Party or PHP [Alex ERSKINE]; National Convention Party or NCP [Sarpong Kuman Kuman]; Every Ghanian Living Everywhere or EGLE [Ashang OKINE]; Peoples Convention Party or PCP [P. K. DONKOS-AYIFL, acting chairman]; Peoples National Convention or PNC [Edward MAHAMA]
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Designate Harry SAWYERS
\Ichancery:\i 3512 International Drive NW, Washington, DC 20008
\Itelephone:\i [1] (202) 686-4520
\IFAX:\i [1] (202) 686-4527
\Iconsulate(s) general:\i New York
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b
\Ichief of mission:\i Ambassador Edward BRYNN
\Iembassy:\i Ring Road East, East of Danquah Circle, Accra
\Imailing address:\i P. O. Box 194, Accra
\Itelephone:\i [233] (21) 775348
\IFAX:\i [233] (21) 775747
\BFlag description:\b three equal horizontal bands of red (top), yellow, and green with a large black five-pointed star centered in the yellow band; uses the popular pan-African colors of \JEthiopia\j; similar to the flag of \JBolivia\j, which has a coat of arms centered in the yellow band
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b Well endowed with natural resources, \JGhana\j has twice the per capita output of the poorer countries in West Africa. Even so, \JGhana\j remains heavily dependent on international financial and technical assistance. \JGhana\j has made steady progress in liberalizing its economy since 1983. Overall growth continued at a rate of approximately 5% in 1995 and 1996, due largely to increased gold, timber, and \Jcocoa\j production - major sources of foreign exchange. The economy, however, continues to revolve around subsistence agriculture, which accounts for almost half of GDP and employs 55% of the work force, mainly small landholders. In 1995-96, \JGhana\j has made mixed progress under a three-year structural adjustment program in cooperation with the IMF. On the minus side, public sector wage increases, regional peacekeeping commitments, and the containment of internal unrest in the underdeveloped north have led to continued inflationary deficit financing, depreciation of the cedi, and rising public discontent with \JGhana\j's austerity program.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $27 billion (1996 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b 5% (1996 est.)
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $1,530 (1996 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i agriculture and fishing 54.7%, industry 18.7%, sales and clerical 15.2%, professional 3.7%, services, transportation, and communications 7.7%
\BUnemployment rate:\b 10% (1993 est.)
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $1.05 billion
\Iexpenditures:\i $1.2 billion, including capital expenditures of $178 million (1993)
\Inarrow gauge:\i 953 km 1.067-m gauge (32 km double track) (1995 est.)
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 37,561 km
\Ipaved:\i 9,353 km (including 21 km of expressways)
\Iunpaved:\i 28,208 km (1995 est.)
\BWaterways:\b Volta, Ankobra, and Tano Rivers provide 168 km of perennial navigation for launches and lighters; Lake Volta provides 1,125 km of arterial and feeder waterways
\BMilitary manpower - military age:\b 18 years of age
\BMilitary manpower - availability:\b
\Imales age 15-49:\i 4,254,386 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - fit for military service:\b
\Imales:\i 2,365,286 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary manpower - reaching military age annually:\b
\Imales:\i 178,560 (1997 est.)
\BMilitary expenditures - dollar figure:\b $30 million (1994)
\BMilitary expenditures - percent of GDP:\b 0.8% (1994)
\BTransnational Issues\b
\BDisputes - international:\b none
\BIllicit drugs:\b illicit producer of cannabis for the international drug trade; transit hub for Southwest and Southeast Asian heroin and South American \Jcocaine\j destined for Europe and the US
#
"Gibraltar (Atlas)",90,0,0,0
\I(dependent territory of the UK)\i
\BGeography:\b
\BLocation:\b Southwestern Europe, bordering the Strait of \JGibraltar\j, which links the \JMediterranean Sea\j and the North \JAtlantic Ocean\j, on the southern coast of Spain
\BGeographic coordinates:\b 36 11 N, 5 22 W
\BMap references:\b Europe
\BArea:\b
\Itotal:\i 6.5 sq km
\Iland:\i 6.5 sq km
\Iwater:\i 0 sq km
\BArea - comparative:\b about 11 times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC
\BLand boundaries:\b
\Itotal:\i 1.2 km
\Iborder countries:\i \JSpain\j 1.2 km
\BCoastline:\b 12 km
\BMaritime claims:\b
\Iterritorial sea:\i 3 nm
\BClimate:\b Mediterranean with mild winters and warm summers
\BTerrain:\b a narrow coastal lowland borders the Rock of Gibraltar
\BElevation extremes:\b
\Ilowest point:\i \JMediterranean Sea\j 0 m
\Ihighest point:\i Rock of \JGibraltar\j 426 m
\BNatural resources:\b NEGL
\BLand use:\b
\Iarable land:\i NA%
\Ipermanent crops:\i NA%
\Ipermanent pastures:\i NA%
\Iforests and woodland:\i NA%
\Iother:\i 100% (1993 est.)
\BIrrigated land:\b NA sq km
\BNatural hazards:\b NA
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b limited natural freshwater resources, so large concrete or natural rock water catchments collect rain water
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i NA
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i NA
\BGeography - note:\b strategic location on Strait of \JGibraltar\j that links the North Atlantic
Ocean and Mediterranean Sea
\BPeople\b
\BPopulation:\b 28,913 (July 1997 est.)
\BAge structure:\b
\I0-14 years:\i 20% (male 3,121; female 2,725)
\I15-64 years:\i 66% (male 10,771; female 8,278)
\I65 years and over:\i 14% (male 1,629; female 2,389) (July 1997 est.)
\BPopulation growth rate:\b 0.48% (1997 est.)
\BBirth rate:\b 13.45 births/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BDeath rate:\b 8.78 deaths/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BNet migration rate:\b 0.14 migrant(s)/1,000 population (1997 est.)
\BReligions:\b Roman Catholic 74%, Protestant 11% (\JChurch of England\j 8%, other 3%), Muslim 8%, Jewish 2%, none or other 5% (1981)
\BLanguages:\b English (used in schools and for official purposes), Spanish, Italian, Portuguese, Russian
\BLiteracy:\b
\Idefinition:\i NA
\Itotal population:\i above 95%
\Imale:\i NA%
\Ifemale:\i NA%
\BGovernment\b
\BCountry name:\b
\Iconventional long form:\i none
\Iconventional short form:\i Gibraltar
\BData code:\b GI
\BDependency status:\b dependent territory of the UK
\BGovernment type:\b NA
\BNational capital:\b Gibraltar
\BAdministrative divisions:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BIndependence:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BNational holiday:\b Commonwealth Day (second Monday of March)
\BConstitution:\b 30 May 1969
\BLegal system:\b English law
\BSuffrage:\b 18 years of age; universal, plus other UK subjects resident six months or more
\BExecutive branch:\b
\Ichief of state:\i Queen ELIZABETH II of the UK (since 6 February 1952), represented by Governor Admiral Sir Richard LUCE (NA February 1997)
\Ihead of government:\i Chief Minister Peter CARUANA (since 17 May 1996)
\Icabinet:\i Council of Ministers appointed from among the elected members of the House of Assembly by the governor in consultation with the chief minister
\Inote:\i there is also a \JGibraltar\j Council that advises the governor
\Ielections:\i none; the queen is a hereditary monarch; governor appointed by the queen; chief minister appointed by the governor
\BLegislative branch:\b unicameral House of Assembly (18 seats, 15 elected; members are elected by popular vote to serve four-year terms)
\Ielections:\i last held 16 May 1996 (next to be held NA 2000)
\Ielection results:\i percent of vote by party - SD 53%, SL 42%, NP 3%; seats by party - SD 8, SL 7
\BJudicial branch:\b Supreme Court; Court of Appeal
\BPolitical parties and leaders:\b \JGibraltar\j Socialist Labor Party or SL [Joe BOSSANO]; \JGibraltar\j Labor Party/Association for the Advancement of Civil Rights or GCL/AACR [Adolfo CANEPA]; \JGibraltar\j Social Democrats or SD [Peter CARUANA]; \JGibraltar\j National Party or NP [Joe GARCIA]
\BPolitical pressure groups and leaders:\b Housewives Association; Chamber of Commerce; \JGibraltar\j Representatives Organization
\BDiplomatic representation in the US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BDiplomatic representation from the US:\b none (dependent territory of the UK)
\BFlag description:\b two horizontal bands of white (top, double width) and red with a three-towered red castle in the center of the white band; hanging from the castle gate is a gold key centered in the red band
\BEconomy\b
\BEconomy - overview:\b \JGibraltar\j benefits from an extensive shipping trade, offshore banking, and its position as an international conference center. The British military presence has been sharply reduced and now contributes about 11% to the local economy. The financial sector accounts for 15% of GDP; tourism, shipping services fees, and duties on consumer goods also generate revenue. Because more than 70% of the economy is in the public sector, changes in government spending have a major impact on the level of employment.
\BGDP:\b purchasing power parity - $205 million (1993 est.)
\BGDP - real growth rate:\b NA%
\BGDP - per capita:\b purchasing power parity - $6,600 (1993 est.)
\Iby occupation:\i services 60%, industry 40%, agriculture NEGL
\BUnemployment rate:\b NA%
\BBudget:\b
\Irevenues:\i $111.6 million
\Iexpenditures:\i $115.6 million, including capital expenditures of $NA (1995-96)
\BIndustries:\b tourism, banking and finance, construction, commerce; support to large UK naval and air bases; \Jtobacco\j, mineral waters, beer, canned fish
\BIndustrial production growth rate:\b NA%
\BElectricity - capacity:\b 33,000 kW (1993)
\BElectricity - production:\b 90 million kWh (1994)
\BElectricity - consumption per capita:\b NA kWh
\BAgriculture - products:\b none
\BExports:\b
\Itotal value:\i $57 million (f.o.b., 1993)
\Icommodities:\i (principally reexports) \Jpetroleum\j 51%, manufactured goods 41%, other 8%
\BExchange rates:\b \JGibraltar\j pounds (£G) per US$1 - 0.6023 (January 1997), 0.6403 (1996), 0.6335 (1995), 0.6529 (1994), 0.6658 (1993), 0.5664 (1992); note - the \JGibraltar\j pound is at par with the British pound
\BFiscal year:\b 1 July - 30 June
\BCommunications\b
\BTelephones:\b 19,356 (1994)
\BTelephone system:\b adequate, automatic domestic system and adequate international facilities
\Idomestic:\i automatic exchange facilities
\Iinternational:\i radiotelephone; microwave radio relay; \Jsatellite\j \Jearth\j station - 1 Intelsat (\JAtlantic Ocean\j)
\BRadio broadcast stations:\b AM 1, FM 6, shortwave 0
\BRadios:\b NA
\BTelevision broadcast stations:\b 4
\BTelevisions:\b NA
\BTransportation\b
\BRailways:\b
\Itotal:\i NA km; 1.000-m gauge system in dockyard area only
\BHighways:\b
\Itotal:\i 49.9 km (including 12.9 km public highways)
\BEnvironment - current issues:\b air pollution; \Jwater\j pollution
\BEnvironment - international agreements:\b
\Iparty to:\i Air Pollution, Antarctic-Environmental Protocol, Antarctic Treaty, \JBiodiversity\j, Climate Change, \JEndangered Species\j, Environmental Modification, Hazardous Wastes, Law of the Sea, Marine Dumping, Nuclear Test Ban, \JOzone Layer\j Protection, Ship Pollution, Tropical Timber 83, Wetlands
\Isigned, but not ratified:\i Air Pollution-Nitrogen Oxides, Air Pollution-Sulphur 94, Air Pollution-Volatile Organic Compounds, Desertification, Tropical Timber 94
\BGeography - note:\b strategic location dominating the \JAegean Sea\j and southern approach to
Turkish Straits; a peninsular country, possessing an archipelago of about 2,000 islands
