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Lessons from the Troubles ... “Unless we do not now, then no one ever”

Lessons from the Troubles ... “Unless we do not now, then no one ever”
Category: Russian

There are, however, another aspect of our responsibility. He is, in my opinion, is not just our right, and duty to provide a permanent impact on the power. From power as an institution, from the presidential level, we have the right to demand compliance with its purpose - to carry out the will of the Russian people as the constituent peoples of Russia, to act in its interest.

 

In the last of my articles published in the news agency REGNUM, analyzing the lessons of Russian troubles, I talked about the importance of the acquisition of spiritual sovereignty, without which the notion of political and economic sovereignty are not working, turn into empty words. At the heart of the spiritual sovereignty of the Russian man is Russian Orthodox faith and cultural tradition, whose situation in Russia today is not all right. That is why the Institute of dynamic conservatism, where I work, confronts are two interrelated tasks. The first - to counteract the social, cultural, intellectual, spiritual and moral degradation of Russian society (using a foreign word, as applied the concept of “society” to the inhabitants of modern Russia it would be wrong: in general, they will have less). The second - to change the ideological preferences in the society, increasing it commitment to their value, semantic and ethical imperatives of the Russian tradition, the understanding of historical continuity in Russia’s destiny, faith in it and the Russian people as historical subjects, will to act to change the existing conditions in the country and in the world. This is the understanding of staff of our institute, we are colleagues considerable number of Russian people across Russia.

 

If we look closely at the conditions in which we have today to live and work, then we are forced to admit that the Russian people of today are consistently widow - deprived of their fair share of what can be considered as the most important foundations of life. He loses interest in culture, space is rapidly shrinking. He loses interest in education, the meaning and content of which is emasculated, and the shape becomes alien to the nature of the national tradition. He loses interest in the welfare, prosperity, property, and socio-economic oppression on it increases. He loses interest in politics, where more and more impudent people are alien to their interests, and those who are their mouthpiece, purposefully squeezed to the periphery. In conditions where there is neither a party nor a leader, able to fully realize his aspirations, he denied even the right to express their attitude to it: he could not vote against all and knows that if he did not go to the polls, it is only play into the hands of the mighty. He loses interest in the future, because he becomes less able to maintain their health and their children. Moreover, the future of his attempt to take away, purposefully undermining the proper relationship between parents and children, emasculating sense of sonship - the foundation of faith and unity of any nation. Russian people want even more detached from its natural time, forcing the whole year to live, two hours ahead of a natural, God-established, diurnal rhythm. Russian Orthodox Church, imposing a new calendar.

 

Fair share of the Russian man in all this should be returned. How to do it? I’ll start with no claims to the government or the condemnation of hostile forces of the Russian people, whom, in fact, a lot, but with ourselves. Our own responsibility for what is happening is very, very loud. Much has already deprived and continue to deprive themselves. Even in today’s environment through better self, a greater firmness and consistency in defending their cultural code and the right to a dignified life can do a lot, and the activities of many NGOs across Russia is that a clear confirmation. This experience needs to be spread very active.

 

There are, however, another aspect of our responsibility. He is, in my opinion, is not just our right, and duty to provide a permanent impact on the power. From power as an institution, from the presidential level, we have the right to demand compliance with its purpose - to carry out the will of the Russian people as the constituent peoples of Russia, to act in its interest. Until the contrary is obtained. Russian people do not like CT - it was introduced. Russian people do not want new educational standards - he imposed on them. We want our children to learn the basics of Orthodox culture - that are placed obstacles. We demand a decent or at least adequate funding of culture - in response, despite the protests, the transition to a system of autonomous institutions, threatening paralysis of action and the ruination of most cultural institutions. Entrepreneurs, growth-oriented development in Russia of national production and market, urged caution in developing relations with the WTO, to the same call on scientists and the public - the power remains in the position of joining the organization and, consequently, performance requirements imposed on it, disastrous for the Russian industry and agriculture. The vast majority of military experts is not the first protest against the reforms undertaken by Serdyukov, Minister of the armed forces - their restructuring continues, with predictable negative consequences for the country’s defense. These examples could go on. Apparently, we slightly extend its position does not agree with all of the above.

 

I think the majority of Russian people have an understanding that such power is not in their full power. Critics of this position, perhaps, indicate in this respect at the high ratings of confidence in the president and chairman of the government, but I’m talking about the federal government as a whole. Let’s priplyusuem to ratings of Medvedev and Putin’s ratings Gryzlov and Mironov, Shuvalov, and Volodin, Serdyukov, Kudrin, Fursenko Golikova and Khristenko, other ministers, who were placed in power, the same president and prime minister, we derive the arithmetic mean, and we all become clear. Edit this power will not be easy. Moreover, the desire to change our enemies will try to use to impose on us an even more liberal and pro-Western government. Therefore, changes in government, in my opinion, should be considered as a goal not only of the political process, but also a constant, daily process of education authorities. Rather, the education of individual state officials.

 

The capacity of relevant actions of social and political organizations today is severely limited, but they are saved, and we should use them. Great opportunities in the Russian Orthodox Church - Orthodox Church in general and, especially, its Primate. Russia today is experiencing a complex combination of troubled times and times with double temptations and temptations, and who, if not the pastors and bishops, to denounce them? In performing the song at Matins of the Blessed Virgin Mary is, as we know, this stanza: “overturn silnyya to the throne, and offered smirennyya; hunger with good things, and let bogatyaschiyasya tschi. Is not this what should be followed by Christ Church to do today? Meanwhile, the strong remain in power, continues to undergo humble sorrow, and bogatyaschiesya enjoy a special arrangement of the church hierarchy. Orthodox public criticizes the liberal pro-Western lobbies in the Russian power elite is seriously concerned about his activities, and many of the components of the lobby of businessmen and government officials marked the church decorations.

 

I am very worried that she herself Russian Orthodox Church today attracted by multiplying their property and deliberately shows the world his growing wealth. All of this represents not only a serious temptation for the laity, but also a threat to the spiritual wholeness of the clergy, that is, all the ROC as a whole. I can not judge whether intentionally our church today introduced the state of this destructive material temptation, but that the evil work without proper intent can not be, it seems to me obvious.

 

Why am I so concerned about the problem of spiritual integrity? On the one hand, because the Russian language, unlike the major European languages, the word “integrity” and “target” - same root. Just keeping its integrity, a Russian man can put in front of the right targets. It is even more so when it comes to power, which sets targets for the people. But even more important aspect of this issue stems from the fact that today the growing confrontation in the Russian society, which has both political and socio-economic, ethnic, and cultural and many other issues - is primarily a spiritual confrontation, spiritual warfare . We’re standing face to face not with a kind of mired in the material thoughts, soulless bourgeois, and the forces of the dark spirit - in fact, the spiritual followers of Cain. They have always acted in Russian history, but never the case did not reach that so hard to impose upon us the so-called “civilization” rather than a national way of life, to make Russia an accelerated pace and at the same time build a tower of Babel, and spread of Sodom and Gomorrah, and commit the sin of Ham and kiss Judas Christ Thou.

 

In order to carry on with such evil forces fight a holy and right, mortal combat, as he wrote Tvardovsky Twardowski, for the sake of life on earth, we need a powerful force. Such a force Russian man ever got above all from God. But not only. He is, as we know from the national epic and history, and many people - and from my own experience, drew her from her native land. Describing his feelings on his return from evacuation, Anna Akhmatova wrote: “As for the first time I was at her home, staring. I knew: it’s all mine - my soul and body.” Not so today to our fellow countrymen through a massive advertising campaign actively “kicked out” to rest outside of Russia? And there are millions of travel, leaving their spiritual immunity major recharge from his native land, destroying the physical immune system, especially when it comes to trips to the subtropics in the winter, leaving behind millions of dollars annually, which would remain the contribution to the national product.

 

There is another important source of strength for the Russian people - lives in unity with the people. I think many people in their personal collection of archetypes of behavior there is the same phrase Akhmatova: “I was with my people, where my people are, unfortunately, was.” Special power to give unity to the people of the Russian rulers. Recall of St. Dmitry Donskoy, who in response to the blessing of St. Sergius found for himself the only true place in the field of Kulikovo - shoulder to shoulder with ordinary Russian soldiers in the battlefield a dangerous place. Let us recall the famous Russian general Suvorov and Emperor Alexander III. Recall, finally, Stalin, remained in Moscow at the critical moment the Battle of Moscow, when virtually the entire government was evacuated to Kuibyshev. In this context we can say much about the personal qualities of a statesman or a representative government, but more importantly to apply to the theme “power and social justice.” I am deeply convinced that the future of successful policies and successful politicians in our country due to the association of conservative, traditional values with a platform of social justice. Such a synthesis at the time tried to make political party “Rodina”, but it was well known, subjected to severe pressure from the authorities.

 

I am delighted that the ROC has taken in its social concept of a clear position in support of the demands of social justice and, most recently conducting its increasingly active. Otherwise, it can not be if we ever will remember whom the Lord has put on the right hand of himself - the one who fed and heated neighbor told him his clothes, his income.

 

Normal Russian people live not only in unity with his people, and with love for his people, taking care of him. In his work “The path of spiritual renewal,” Ivan Aleksandrovich Ilyin wrote: “Love for his people is not necessarily hatred of other nations: self-affirmation is not a necessary attack, defending her does not mean the conquest of others. And so nationalism and patriotism are the phenomena of high spirit , not gusts arrogance, conceit and bloody barbarism, like trying to figure it out other modern writers do not remember the relationship and confused national spirit. ” Today, the word “nationalism” turned into almost a pejorative. In reality, however, to distort world of Russian man carried a substitution of concepts: nationalism is called that has a clear title in Russian - chauvinism.

There is also a “lite” version of the distortion, which we propose to use the word “nationalism”, the word “patriotism.” No doubt, the patriotism - a very important and necessary feeling of any citizen, but that loyalty to your country, your state. In this case, this concept moves into the background a sense of responsibility of each representative of a particular ethnic group over another’s representative. I think in many ways, precisely because of the word “nationalism” both hated most of the representatives of today’s Russian ruling class: they bear the responsibility for his brother does not want. And based on the notion of patriotism, it’s easier not to talk about their responsibilities and the responsibilities of others. First of all, ordinary citizens of the state. In other words, paying tribute to the important sense of patriotism, we have every reason in the positive side, use the concept of “nationalism”, remembering the way that without this root will not make sense and the concept of “internationalism.”

 

As confident that we can and should talk about the special leadership role of the Russian people as a state-superethnos Russia. On the duties of responsibility for the future of Russia, which lies on him, the Russian super-ethnos, or the Russian nation, far ahead of all other residents of the Russian ethnic groups. That is why we are proud to call it, call and call themselves Russian. Agreed to call emasculated the word “Russians”, a short time will have to speak not in Russian, and the “Russian” language!

 

In 1908, in a cycle of poems “On the field Kulikov,” Alexander Blok wrote that he was so clear the way to Russia that he was not afraid of obscurity - at night and overseas. ” “Let the night. Whisk. Illumine steppe fires distance. In the steppe holy smoke, flash banner ...” with certainty he wrote. He was confident in the power of the Russian spirit, able to withstand any external pressure. Today night abroad haze “again covers Russia and the large number of people in the so-called” Russian elite “is also not afraid of it. Just do not fear for another reason - they want that foreign haze and do not want to strengthen the Russian spirit, unwilling to protect its people and their country, they believe (trust in vain) that they can secure a personal peace, then what will happen to our country, they are worried a little. That is why today we are doubly can not be peace. That is why, as I wrote recently, one good and care about the future of Russia monk, we say: “If we did not and does not now, then no one ever!”.

 

This article was prepared on the basis of statements of MV Demurin at the XII St. Pafnutevskom educational readings, held in Borovsk 24-25 February 2011 10

Mikhail Demurin

PO Box

PO Box

How to ward off bullies

Dear Editors, we ask you to help find a council for young people on a daily basis musoryaschih in the entryway. Conversations with their parents do not work. Who to contact in this situation?
Alenka, visitor http://www.ng.kz

Comment

- Handle to a police inspectors - responsible spokesman Chief DVD Kostanai region Elena KASHARINA. - Just not as often come citizens in such situations. Noticed that teenagers behave like a hooligan on a staircase, called the police and believe that this is enough. But to the district took steps to address him with the statement. He is obliged to react and give the applicant an answer in writing. Based on statements by police officer will decide as to which responsibility and who may be involved: adolescents themselves or their parents for improper parenting. Also note that on this issue, few, unfortunately, applies to the administration PKSK, involves the public, for example, a senior in the house or porch. Although the quarterly meeting of the tenants are going home, which should discuss not only the communal nature, but similar problems. As practice shows, is often only by working together can bring order to the first hallway, then in the neighborhood, then the whole quarter.
 

Politics KZ

Politics KZ

“You can not break to pieces stick”

 
Masimov: “The problem is not that we’re not talking in Russian, but the fact that we do not speak Kazakh”
 

Nargis Asadova, echo.msk.ru
 
Prime Minister of Kazakhstan answered the questions of listeners of radio “Echo of Moscow”
 

On Monday, Prime Minister of Kazakhstan Karim Masimov an interview with Ekho Moskvy radio station and answered questions from listeners of radio. In particular, this is what Prime Minister spoke about the state language policy.

- Altin from Karaganda asks: “On the status of state language, you said that by 2020 95% of the population will speak the Kazakh language. Do not you think that such prospects will lead to the fact that the Russian-speaking population will go away? ”

- Firstly, we do not want Russian-speaking population went from Kazakhstan. And secondly, I think that Russian-speaking population from Kazakhstan will not go away. Because we strive to create such conditions that all were comfortable. I think that there is such a violent way to do this is impossible. That is, break to pieces stick. But to create the motivation for that was of interest to study the language, it is necessary. But on the other hand, I believe that it is normal that in Kazakhstan, the Kazakh language to speak. I think that of all former Soviet republics soon as we were, where another 95% do not speak the native language. This is normal, that is, we need this approach. But to approach this to be very careful. That is a landmark - it’s still on the young. Primarily for high school graduates, the younger generation. That is when a person over 50, it is hard to make him change his lifestyle. Young people - is another question entirely.

- But, nevertheless, there are processes such trends, even in neighboring Kyrgyzstan, for example, when we hear that they want to name all the villages with Russian names from the Soviet time remaining, in Kyrgyz. And the Russian-speaking people who live there, displeased. Whether such trends in Kazakhstan?

- I think that in 20 years of our independence under the leadership of our president to the issue in Kazakhstan has always approached very carefully. That is, you do not hear throughout this period that some have been sharp movements are made that would cause discontent of Russian-speaking population. On the contrary, I repeat, we have a problem is not that we’re not talking in Russian, but the fact that we do not speak Kazakh.

Politics KZ

Politics KZ

They do not get bored

 
Amantai-kazhi of the race dropped out, but there were no less colorful personality (Photo gdb.rferl.org)
 

Anatoly Weisskopf, “Deutsche Welle”
 
Kazakhstan has completed the nomination of presidential candidates
It turned out that over the last 15 days of his desire to run the state have expressed 23. Among them, four representatives of political parties and public associations. The other candidates - self-nominated.

 

Over the short history of presidential elections in Kazakhstan so many contenders for this post was not observed. Among them, some unemployed, retired, traditional healer and even a clairvoyant. True, the final exam on the Kazakh language is not passed, but because the CEC of “knowing in advance about the outcome of elections” by Maya Karamaevoy goodbye. Not allowed to participate in elections and ex-senator Ualikhan Kaisarov, an unemployed lawyer Eszhanov rope, a history teacher and a security guard Adalbek Kunanbayev Tolybay Baymurzin.

Two others - a pensioner of the Pavlodar region Zaure Masina and an unemployed mechanic from Ekibastuz Sovetkazy Nursi, making sure his undoubted knowledge of Kazakh language to further combat abandoned. Will not fight for the presidency and promised to bestow upon men of Kazakhstan law “On Polygamy” eccentric Amantai-kazhi, who twice failed to appear for the exam on the Kazakh language.

However, without Amant kazhi Kazakhs seem to not be bored. Of the 14, get a coveted signature lists, there are noticeable personality. Take, for example, “veteran” of all, without exception, the presidential campaigns, former champion of the Soviet Union in Greco-Roman wrestling Zhaksybaya Bazilbaeva. This is a frequenter of Kazakh opposition political activities could easily appear at an event in a pot a la Charlie Chaplin, if not to dress in crimson coat, pulled over at this incredible size of the sample cylinder mid-19 th century.

Not to disappoint his supporters and a leader of public organization “Union of Muslims of Kazakhstan” (SMC), Murat Telibekov. Press-service of the SMC owns a proposal for additional regulations, which must demonstrate the state commission a presidential candidate: virtuosity game dombra, excellent training school ride a horse or a camel, a flash assembly and disassembly of the tent, as well as the exclusive possession of the tricks of the national struggle kazaksha kures. According to the proposal of the QMS next president is obliged to jump in the height of not less than 2 m 10 cm, not to intercede for the bar in the long jump at 6 meters, 10 times to raise a weight of 50 kg, be wrung from the earth 150 times and 20 times to catch up on the bar .

Extension of two more candidates - Gani Kasimov and Mels Eleusizova, leader of the environmental movement Tabigat - The leader of the unregistered party “Alga!” Vladimir Kozlov, “this is such a panic mode even attempt any significant candidate to insert into the procedure:

- Because all the rest - is a housewife, security guards or anyone else. That is, when WCS Azat changed her mind to nominate its candidate Bulat Abilov the election, I think that the regime fell in prostration. Since the actual visibility of elections is no more.
 

Fingers do not

Fingers do not

 
“Whatever the election, with no alternative candidate Nazarbayev certainly will not stay”
 

Timur Gafurov
 
An instructive experiment is going to be held in Nepal - there the officials from several ministries will be to conquer Everest. Servants of the people have their hands to feel attraction, attracting tourists from all over the world, and at the same time to look at the ground with a bird’s-eye view, because the mountains are not only illuminate the soul, but also helping people to realize their true place in this world.
In Kazakhstan, the mountains, of course, will be lower, but we have our own summit, which is still resigned to only one person - it is the presidency. In the campaign for nomination of candidates for him, which ended on Sunday, attended by as much 22 citizen, that is 2 times higher than forecast, which is made in early February, Presidential Adviser for Political Affairs of Kazakhstan Yermukhamet Yertysbayev. However, their list is very reminiscent of Counting “On the Porch with gold ...»: verbal series” pensioner, an unemployed security guard, teacher, psychic “and wants to continue - the cobbler, the tailor - who you’ll be so, come quickly, do not keep good and honest people. ” Some of this children’s board nominees have already hastened to follow, others have not passed the filter of the linguistic committee, but record-breaking team policy “climbers” still gathered at the foot of the vertical power structure. Thus proving that whatever the early presidential elections in 2011, with no alternative candidate, Nursultan Nazarbayev, certainly will not.

This is a triumph of democracy, even a little alarmed supporters of that candidate. Not that their leader may lose, but rumors that the president’s administration is preparing a “dummy” to create an impression of struggle. How hastened to Yertysbayev, it excludes the possibility of the bases, and involvement in her government. A political scientist Sanjar MAHB went even further: he believes that nominees “may be part of the dirty technology to discredit the elections and in general as president.”

Although I am such an assumption seems strange - how can you even more to discredit the elections, the winner of which is known in advance? And how can you discredit a position that at the dawn of independence under the law was being changed, and now - again by law - has become virtually permanent? And it is not only unequal opportunities for promotion. Even if the incumbent no longer appear on billboards, in newspapers and on the screens, the idea that the next will be worse than the previous one, velas in the national consciousness and new evidence requires it. A list of nominees quickly dispel any doubts about the truth of this axiom, that could have influenced events in Egypt and Libya.

But here’s what I still care about - why in this list, which became a kind of a slice of our society, only one public servant? Our officials certainly did not live in Nepal, but the language examination would not become a barrier for them - write an essay on 2 pages, to read 3 pages of text and to speak for 15 minutes every second we can, if not the first. At this point one of two things - either our soldiers and do not dream to become a general, or this top for them is much higher than Mount Everest.

“Whatever the election, with no alternative candidate Nazarbayev certainly will not stay”
 

Do not barbecue and kebab ...

Do not barbecue and kebab ...

 
Meat on a skewer is good in any way (Photo http://www.prigotovim.ru)
 

Dora Hungry
 

But this meat is also cooked on a skewer

This dish, which even the names of the owners did not come up, I was recently treated. The idea seemed witty. Sharing. Especially because I saw almost the whole process of cooking.

Owner of the house - a big fan of meat. In the summer he comforted an endless variety of kebabs, and in the winter come from experimenting with his heaped plate, which is the mode of the grill. Said that their meat rolls invented after the failure of the kebabs, which are made of minced meat on skewers, and now he’s always stuffing it collapsed.

Then he tried to change the technology. Takes the meat, cut in both the chops. And beat it well, very strongly, almost to transparency. Then this damn lubricates the mix of mustard and mayonnaise, and gives him a little lie down. At this time, finely chop the vegetables, which is handy. When I was visiting, were on hand bell peppers, onions and parsley. Vegetable mix chef laid on a meat pancake, departing from the edges of an inch and a half. Then clocked a pancake on a skewer with vegetables inside, zashpilil edge wooden toothpicks, smeared his work from the top with mayonnaise and mustard and put to bake. Less than half an hour later, we had a delicious meat rolls. (By the way, I think that in a conventional wind mode you can do is just sprinkled like a shish kebab).

Boss, eating pork, explaining that you can borrow and beef, and mutton, and put into what you want. Says, even ... meat. Very praised rolls of beef, which was inside the finely crumbled smoked brisket with onions and mushrooms.

One nuance. Good bounces, lean meat, fat, thinning does not want. Of course, vegetables make juice, but for whom this is not enough, can cut a long but thin ribbon of fat and a spiral wrap around the roll. Our chef is planning in pepper bacon, said that it obtained such crispy and appetizing, that eat it first.

Salt this dish on the table.

 

Zimbabwe

Zimbabwe

CAPITAL
Harare.
PEOPLE
According to the 1992 census, the population was 10.4 million (in 1982 - 7,5 million). During the 1980-1990-s average population growth rate is 3,6%. In 1998 Zimbabwe’s population of 12 million people. Almost two-thirds of Zimbabweans under the age of 25 years, and nearly half - less than 15 years. In 1998 the share of urban population was 37%.
There are two basic groups: black Africans, constituting 99% of all residents, and the white community, numbering in the late 1990’s total of 101 thousand people (at the beginning of 1970 - 225 thousand). The largest ethnic groups of Africans - Shona (80%) and Ndebele. The Asian community is very small.
LANGUAGE
The official language is English. The native language of most Zimbabweans - chishona, which is spoken by the Shona. This includes people of several ethnic groups: korekore that live in the north, and manika Ndaus - in the east, Karanga, constituting almost half the population chishonoyazychnogo south of the country, and zezuru, the second largest group chishonoyazychnaya, living west of Harare. Another major African nation of Zimbabwe - Ndebele, who, as Kalanga and hlengve, speak the language sindebele. In addition, in the Zambezi valley and along the Kariba dam live Tonga-speaking chitonga and to the south along the border with South Africa - Venda.
RELIGION
Most rural African population remains committed to traditional cultures. About a quarter of Zimbabweans - Christians, including Catholics - about 40%, supporters of the Anglican Church - approx. 15% and Methodists - 10-12%. Among other religious groups associated with foreign missions - Seventh-Day Adventists and the Salvation Army. About 40% of African Christians belong to many independent African churches, which in the past, or separated from the foreign missions of faiths, or have occurred independently of them.
GEOGRAPHY
State in southern Africa. It has borders with Zambia and Mozambique in the east - with Mozambique in the south - to South Africa, south and west - with Botswana. Almost all of its territory occupied plateau Matabele and Mashona height 800-1500 m
The central part of Zimbabwe is an open plateau with heights of 1100-1850 m above sea level Almost all of the best farmland and most cities are located in upland areas characterized by a steady climate with abundant rainfall and fertile land. The peripheral areas of the country, except one in the east and the other along the border with Botswana to the west, mostly plain: in the north - pool r.Zambezi, in the south - pool r.Limpopo and south-east - pool r.Sabi. The lowest part of the country, differing in the hottest climates, is located on the south-east, in the basins of the Sabie and its tributary Runde and r.Mvenezi basin, a tributary of the Limpopo. Rivers, as a rule, rapids, shallow. Many of them dry in the dry season. Located just north of Mutare Eastern Highlands reaches a height of 2592 m above sea level (Mt. Inyangani, the highest point of Zimbabwe), and in the mountains of Chimanimani, located south of Mutare along the border with Mozambique, the top of Bing reaches 2,436 meters above sea level The main watershed of the country’s territory crosses the plateau from the south-west to north-east, and shares the watersheds of the rivers Zambezi and Limpopo, which flow into the Indian Ocean. In Zimbabwe, there is one large reservoir on the Kariba r.Zambezi along the border with Zambia, and many small - Kyle on the River. Mtilikve, Robertson and Mack Ilueyn on r.Gvebi, Shangani-Tiyabenzi on r.Tiyabenzi, etc. In the north-east of the country on r.Zambezi the famous Victoria Falls height of 107 m and a width of approx. 1500 m
CLIMATE
The climate in the north subequatorial, in the south - tropical. In summer (December-March) average temperatures do not exceed 25 C, in the winter dry season (June-August) - 17 C. Average annual precipitation reaches 400 mm. in the valley of the Limpopo River in the south and 1000 mm. in the mountains. Most rain falls from November to March.
POLITICAL STATUS
Parliamentary republic with a presidential form of government. Included in the Commonwealth. Head of state and government - the president. Legislature - unicameral parliament (National Assembly).
ECONOMY
Zimbabwe - one of the most economically developed states in Africa. The country is rich in minerals and has a developed industrial sector, a thriving commercial farming, modern well-developed basic industrial infrastructure and a fairly skilled workers.
Manages since 1980 first ZANU, and then ZANU - PF government of Zimbabwe to maintain and strengthen the system of strict state regulation, created in the period of white minority rule. The process of centralization of the economy, which lasted until 1998, was aimed at creating an enabling economic environment for the black majority. However, the system of state regulation of Zimbabwe’s economy has become the main reason for its rollback on macroeconomic indicators, in the 1990’s the country constantly hinders the execution of economic restructuring programs agreed upon with the IMF. Overstaffing of public enterprises and institutions, lack of competition in the dominance of the public sector, poor governance and corruption, the cost of sending troops to the DRC in 1998 helped exacerbate the chronic economic crisis. In 1997-1998 the Zimbabwean dollar has depreciated, hard currency reserves has slowed dramatically, sharply increased inflation, increased domestic interest rates, and trade unions have opposed government policies.
In 1997 Zimbabwe’s GDP exceeded 8.6 billion dollars, which amounted to approx. 714 dollars per capita. About 23% of the GDP accounted for by revenue from hotels, restaurants and tourism, 11% - agricultural production and 7% - the mining industry. The share of manufacturing industry, where is widely used by local agricultural and mineral commodities accounted for 8% of GDP.
CURRENCY
The Zimbabwean dollar, equal to 100 cents. In circulation are banknotes of 1, 2, 5, 10, 20, 50 and 100 dollars, coins - 1, 5, 10, 25, 50 cents and 1 dollar. Because of the high (25%), inflation rates can vary significantly even within a short period. U.S. dollars are accepted almost everywhere, the exchange can be made at banks, hotels, airport, Harare, numerous exchange offices. In markets and in the province can repay the rand and South Africa. Tips range from 5% in restaurants and hotels, up to 10-50 dollars guides and rangers in case of successful hunting. Tax obtained trophies - 20%.
TIME
Behind Moscow for 1 hour.
Main attractions
On the Zambezi River (border with Zambia), the famous Victoria Falls (height - 120 meters, length - 1700 meters, one of the largest in the world), surrounded by national park and a large picturesque dam Kariba. The steep walls of the gorge below the falls as if created for a breathtaking white water rafting, and calm within the headwaters of the Zambezi River is perfect for cruising and canoeing, is especially popular route of Victoria Falls - Zambezi Park - rapids - river TCOF - Chandu River - Victoria Falls. In Zimbabwe, preserved monumental stone structures of ancient civilization - Monomotapa (VI-XVIII centuries). In total about 400, but the most famous “Acropolis” and “temple” near Fort Victoria, decorated with stone sculptures. Harare - the gateway to the country a unique sanctuary for wildlife. In its southern suburbs are the ruins of Great Zimbabwe - the old “heart of the nation. An unforgettable experience will leave visiting mbar - of the unique African bazaar and auction of tobacco, is being done from April to October, the National Gallery and museums. National parks in Victoria Falls, Hwange, Matopo and others - full of rare animals and surprising beauty of the landscape. Zimbabwe on the basis of fully occupies a prominent place among the game in Africa - a variety of environmental conditions and species mix of opportunities for specialized hunting ranches and hunting in the wild, magnificent trophy size, very high level of service, makes it attractive for the most demanding hunter and traveler . The best sport fishing in Africa, according to specialists, is also here. Traveling around the country organized on a high level, because is one of the major sources of income. This is ensured through state licensing and strict control over the activities of guides, rangers and accompanying personnel.
RULES OF ENTRY
Need a visa and a passport which validity should not expire earlier than 3 months before the date of the tour. The visa fee - $ 105 (consular fee + overhead). Documents: 3 photos (4 x 5), personal data, passport. Turnaround time - 3 weeks. Recommended vaccinations. Because one of the world’s highest level of AIDS, recommended precautions. It is recommended to insure the trip in case of cancellation, to avoid financial loss in case of cancellation of hunting or tour due to unforeseen circumstances.
CUSTOMS REGULATIONS
Import and export of currency is not limited to, declare the sum over 50 thousand dollars. Permission required (cost - $ 250) on the import of hunting weapons and ammunition, as well as the export of hunting trophies. The import of drugs and some medicines.

Yemen

Yemen

CAPITAL
Sana’a, Aden (the former capital of the Democratic Republic of Yemen) has the status of economic capital.
PEOPLE
16,9 million people - mostly Yemenis (Arabs of Yemen).
LANGUAGE
Arabic, the majority of workers in tourism and trade talk in English.
RELIGION
State religion - Islam. Most believers - Muslims (in the south of the country’s widespread Sunni shafitskogo wing on the north - the Shia wing zeyditskogo), Judaism, etc.
GEOGRAPHY
Republic of Yemen - a state in south-west Asia, southern Arabian Peninsula. In western Yemen’s territory is washed by the waters of the Red Sea in the south and east - the Gulf of Aden and the Arabian Sea on the north by Saudi Arabia and the east - with Oman. In western and central parts of the country - low, strongly weathered mountains (highest point - city of Al-Nabi-Shayb - 3600 m). In the East - layered hills. Along the coast of the Red Sea - Desert Tihama. The total area of the country according to the UN - 528 ths. km. (Border in the north in the desert and not clearly defined). Yemen also owns a number of islands in the Red and Arabian Seas.
CLIMATE
Tropical, in most of the dry. Mean temperature changes in January - from +20 C to +25 C in June from +21 C to +32 C. The nature of climate the country is divided into several zones: the Tihama desert (where there is an absolute maximum temperatures of 45-55 C, relative humidity air up to 98%), District of Highlands, where the climate is dry continental with sharp differences of daytime and nighttime temperatures (at night and -20 C) and relative humidity of 10-20%, the area of the desert Rub al-Khali (the less significant changes in temperature) and coastal Areas of Aden, Abyan and Hadramawt, located in the tropical hot and humid climate. Precipitation from 40 to 1000 mm. year.
POLITICAL STATUS
Head of state - the president. Head of government - the Prime Minister. Legislative power is vested in a unicameral parliament (House of Representatives). Until now, Yemen is dominated tribal relations. Sheikhs have almost unlimited authority in the field. Between the authorities and tribes often conflicts occur.
CURRENCY
Yemeni real. Vilnius is not practical in any bank and store, as well as in numerous private exchange offices. Most major hotels, restaurants and shops accept credit cards (mainly American Express, MasterCard and Diners Club), in the province of their use difficult. Traveler’s checks used is limited, although becoming more widespread, they are now accepted in major shopping malls, hotels and air transport. Tipping up to 10%, although often the cost of services already included in the bill, in small private establishments is essential to specify the amount of remuneration for services in each case.
TIME
In the winter period corresponds to Moscow in summer - is behind by 1 hour.
Main attractions
Most of the country because of the climate of little use for traditional tourism, while fans of extreme rest will find a lot of interesting things - from racing through the desert in jeeps and camels, and the subjugation of low, but the beautiful local mountains to the sandy slalom and search multiple, as claimed chronicle, but buried desert medieval settlements. In the capital, be sure to visit the University, known from the I century, the Palace of Sultans in the traditional Oriental style. To the northeast of the capital lie the ruins of the ancient city of Ma’in, one of the most mysterious in the region - is still being debated on its builders and their origins. Interesting and numerous excavations of ancient civilizations Hadramaut, Saba and Himyaritskogo kingdom. Handicraft shops Yemen famous for its metal ware, weapons, and silver and gold, the splendid coinage. Across the country, scattered numerous mosques (Shibam, Taiz, Gibli), many of which are not one hundred years. In Shibam is a unique architectural complex - clay skyscrapers. This is clearly the world’s first facility of this type, numbering 10 -11 floors, white-yellow, made in the XIX century. only in baked clay, without additional connecting elements. In the Gulf Qamar and in the Kusayir, turbo and about. Kamaran are picturesque coral reefs, the dream of any diver, but considered to be sufficiently complex and dangerous to dive because of the peculiarities of local currents. Also of special interest from the standpoint of Underwater Archaeology is the Bab el-Mandeb (the Gate of Tears “) at the bottom of which lie a thousand ships crashed on the reefs of all ages and nations.
RULES OF ENTRY
The visa regime, the minimum term visa from 1 to 3 days. Documents required for obtaining a visa: 3 photos, 3 forms (in Russian, English or Arabic, passport details in the original), a passport, an invitation (if any) registered with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Yemen, a medical certificate for going abroad (for Check to work). To obtain a transit visa, you must have a passport visa neighboring states. Validity of a visa to enter - 30 days from the date of issue at the consulate. Stay in the country is not limited. Guided tours - for groups of at least 6 people. Consular fees for citizens of Russia - $ 50 for citizens of Ukraine - $ 150 for citizens of other CIS countries - $ 60. Discounts for children, have their own passport - 50%. Children who are included in the parent’s passport, enter the country without paying the visa fee. When crossing the border must present a passport with a visa and completed in Arabic or English, immigration card, which shall contain: name, date and place of birth, nationality, occupation, passport number, date and place of issue, the goal arrival in Yemen, the number of visa. For foreigners, arriving in Yemen on ordinary passports for a period exceeding one month is required to obtain a certificate of testing for HIV infection (accepted for consideration only the certificates received at the Central Blood Bank of Yemen).
CUSTOMS REGULATIONS
Import, export and exchange of national and foreign currency is unlimited. Need a bank document indicating the origin of the currency if the amount taken out over 10 thousand dollars. The import of cigarettes - 200 pcs., Alcoholic drinks - 2 bottles, food - to the extent necessary for personal consumption. The import of the country without the permission of the bank’s gold bullion, print and video with erotic content. During removal of mandatory customs control shall be weapons, antiques and art objects made of gold and precious metals.

Wallis and Futuna

Wallis and Futuna

Wallis and Futuna (territory of Wallis and Futuna (sometimes - Wallis and Futuna), fr. Territoire des Iles Wallis et Futuna) - Islands in the South Pacific, a distance of about 2 / 3 the way between Hawaii and New Zealand.

Physiographic characteristics

Geographical location and topography
Wallis and Futuna are in the south-western Pacific Ocean and consist of two island groups, located 230 km from each other (Wallace - -13.266667, -176.16666713 ° 16 ‘th. Sh. 176 ° 10’ W. E. / 13.266667 ° th. co. 176.166667 ° W. d. (G); Futuna - -14.233333, -178.11666714 ° 14 ‘th. sh. 178 ° 07’ W. etc / 14.233333 ° th. co. 178.116667 ° W. e. (G)). The closest country - archipelagos of Tonga in the south-east (400 km from Ouvéa), Samoa in the east (370 km from Ouvéa) and Fiji in the south-west (280 km from Futuna). Total area - 274 km ² [1].

Map of Wallis and Futuna
Wallis Group consists of relatively large island Ouvéa (area of 77.9 km ² [1]) and small islands. The total area of the group (including lagoon) - 159 km ² [2]. Ouvéa - low volcanic island. Highest point - PM Fakahega Lulu (Lulu-Fakahega) in height 151 m. The cones craters potuhschih volcanoes form the hills in the center and south of the island (Locke, Afaf, Lulu Luo, Jolo, Hologa, Atalika, etc.). The northern part of the island is a plain, bathed in the ancient lava flows. The ends of the country: north - the coast near the village of Waila, Eastern - Cape Tepako, South - Cape Fogo’one, Western - Cape Vaha’i'utu. Ouvéa surrounded by a barrier reef, cut with four passes through the main of which, Honikulu (Honikulu), in the south, is the channel to the port of Mata-Utu, the capital of the territory. Maximum width of the lagoon - 5 km. During the day there are two full tide and low tide. Lagoon dotted with 22 small islands (Nukufotu, Nukulaelae, Nukufufulanoa, Nukuloa, Uluiutu, Nukuteatea, Nukutapu (north), Luaniva, Tekaviki, Nukuhione, Nukuatea, Faioa, Penuel Phu Fugalei, Nukuhifala, Nukutapu (south), Nukumotu, Nuku ’ taaki’moa, Nukuaofa, Nukufetau, Nukutaakemuku, Haofa), part of which coral, and another - of volcanic origin.

With Horn (Futuna) consists of the islands of Futuna and Alofi, remote from each other at 1,7 km. Area Futuna - 83 km ² [3], Alofi - 32 km ² [4]. It is a high volcanic islands. The highest point - Mount Puke (Puke) 524 m on the mountain and Futuna Kolofau (Kolofau) 417 m at Alofi. Islands have been a recent raise and have very rugged terrain. Except for some small coastal plains of the coast of these islands are steep. Relief on. Futuna presented a number of low plateau, gradually rising to Mount Puke, separated by small valleys. Extreme points of. Futuna: North - am Fatou; East - M. Wehle, South - Maman m; west - pm Utusega. At Alofi Kolofau mountain plateau is surrounded by 150-200 m. The ends of Fr. Alofi: North - Beach Uaua Wawe; East - am Sauma, South - am Afag; western - am Mafa’a. Horn Island is geologically young, so the reefs are stationed near the landfall (approx. 50 m) and the lagoon do not form. Only in the northern part of the island has a small lagoon Alofi [5].

Geology
The islands are located near the Fiji Fracture Zone (one of the most active in terms of tectonic, located between the Australian and Pacific tectonic plates), and because of the existence of the fault that passes through the Futuna and Alofi, in these islands regularly earthquakes occur outside (the latter, the intensity of 6.5 on the Richter scale, occurred March 13, 1993).

Islands of Futuna and Alofi from space
High Island Wallis groups are composed of olivine basalt lavas and piroklazov, except for one extinct crater on Ouvéa and associated lava flows composed oligoklazovymi andesites. The low islands are composed of calcareous sand, or is to destroy the remnants of tuff cones and lava domes [6]. Lava Wallis belong to a group of alkaline lavas of the Central Pacific volcanoes [7].

Ouvéa Island was formed association of 19 lava flows of volcanic kraterov.Za exception of two young lava flows, only covered the soil, most of the island consists of lava flows mid-Pleistocene. Lava intermediate age do not exist.

Education Horn Islands began began in the Pliocene (the formation of three ancient volcanoes). Volcanic activity has stopped them in the Pleistocene. After the cessation of volcanism ostorova experienced significant uplift (500 m) [8].

Hydrology and soil
The hydrographic network on the island Ouvéa underdeveloped. On the island there are 7 large by local standards Lakes (Lano, Lalolalo, Lanumaha, Lanutavake, Lanutoli, Kikila, Alofivai). All of them except Lanutoli, fresh and filled with craters of extinct volcanoes (except Kikily). The largest lake - Kikila (17,9 ha [9]. Also along the north and the east coast is located approximately 20 saline lakes / marshes. Numerous short streams and springs. The island is covered with reddish lateritic soils rich in iron oxide and alumina, the second poorest in nitrogen and phosphorus, and therefore marginal. The same soil typical of other volcanic islands of Wallis. Soil remaining islands of the group represented by carbonate sand.

On Futuna, about 50 short rivers, the largest of which - Sauma and Leava. Coast marsh. At Alofi no permanent streams. Soils are similar to volcanic soils of Wallis.

Climate
The climate is tropical trade wind, damp, always warm, with no clearly defined dry season. Average temperatures throughout the year varies between 25-26 ° C. The hottest month - February (average temperature +30 ° C), coldest - July (average temperature of +24 ° C). Extreme temperatures zaregestirovannye for all time of observation: minimum - 18,4 ° C, max - 33,4 ° C [10]. Annual precipitation is 2500-3000 mm in Wallis (80% humidity) and nearly 4000 mm - on Futuna. Most rain falls from November to April. During this period, weak winds are blowing, but possibly also the formation of hurricanes. Since 1970, the islands hit 12 hurricanes, the strongest of which (“Raja”, December 1986) was accompanied by gusts reaching 137 km / h. The most dry month - avust - less than 134 mm of precipitation [11]

Flora and fauna
In the past, Ouvéa Islands, Futuna and Alofi were completely covered by natural forests - deaf moist interior forests and rare coastal. However, they have been cut for agricultural purposes, especially for still used rainfed slash-and-burn agriculture. Now the primary forest occupies 13% of the area of. Ouvéa, 23% to about. Futuna and 66% for Fr. Alofi [12].

Wet wood is not high. The upper tier rarely exceeds 20 m and trunk diameter less than 80 cm are not uniformly distributed types, depending on the type of soil - limestone or another. Total in the rainforest Ostrovo found 50 species of plants, among which 3 are endemic (Aglaia psilopetala, Medinilla racemosa, Meryta sp.) [12].

In the coastal forests of mangroves occur (on the small islands of Wallis), on the sands grow psammophiles, acacia, coconut palms, etc.

Blue-crowned Lorikeet
Secondary forests were formed at the site of the primary as a result of human activities and now occupy 44% of the total area of the islands. In these, the most common acalypha grandis, decaspermum fructicosum, hibiscus tiliaceus, homolanthus nutans, macaranga harveyana, melastoma denticulatum, morinda citrifolia, scaevola taccada. Is a specific vegetation type Toafa - fern thickets on ferallitovyh soils (represented mainly Dicranopteris linearis). Since 1974 began Artificial olesnenie Caribbean pine, which continues at present [12].

Terrestrial fauna is poor. In past the home (cats, dogs, pigs, chickens) animals on the islands zaregestirovano 37 [13] species of birds (including shepherds, pigeons, terns, cormorants, frigates), 27 of whom are permanent residents of the islands. The area is home to the local varieties of flying foxes (bats) - known as peka, as well as two species of gecko, and two species of lizards. Endemic Futuna are white kingfisher, Polynesian lichinkoed whistling, and rare Parrot Blue-crowned Lorikeet is found in Alofi [14]. Several kennel wild and are found on the islands. Gardens are sometimes drained snails. Many insects, especially mosquitoes (which can be dengue fever [11]).

Marine fauna is richer. Fish Lagoon Island Wallis is not poisoned by saxitoxin and can be used as food. In the lagoon are found only 2 poisonous fish: sea cat and a fish-stone. Sharks are extremely rare.

Political division
Administratively, the Wallis and Futuna Islands are divided into 3 territorial district sovpdayuschih within the boundaries of the historical kingdoms, the largest of which - Ouvéa in turn divided into three areas.

Territorial
District / District Name
French
Area km ² Population, 2008 Administrative Center
(Number of inhabitants, 2008)

History
According to ethnographic studies in 1988 (find pottery culture “Lapita” in the south of. Ouvéa) assumed that the islands were inhabited between 1000 and 1500. BC (probably about 1300 years.). Throughout the first half of the second millennium Ouvéa dominated Tongan, while residents of. Futuna resisted their conquest. Tongans have established their kingdom in 1500 to Ouvéa Futuna Islands were conquered by the Samoans at the end of XVII century.

Europeans first saw these islands April 28, 1616 near the island of Futuna and Alofi on the ship Eendracht sailed by Dutch navigators Lemur (le Maire) and Shauten (Schouten). They named the island Horn (Hoorn), after the city where they were born. Next time, these islands were visited only 11 May 1768 Louis Bougainville, but the isolation of the inhabitants was broken only 50 years old whaling ships.

O-va Ouvéa opened Englishman Samuel Wallis (in honor of his island, and got its name), who on Aug. 16, 1767 on the ship Dolphin became the anchor to the island. Further contacts with the Europeans were divided extended periods of time before the arrival of whaling ships in 1828

The first Europeans who settled here beginning in November 1837, were the French missionaries of the Society of Mary (Les Sœurs Missionnaires de la Société de Marie). They paid the local population to Catholicism. The first missionary, Fr. Futuna Pierre Marie Shanel (Pierre Marie Chanel) martyr died April 28, 1841 [15], and was canonized June 12, 1954 (declared the patron saint of Oceania).

April 5, 1842, after the uprising of the local population, missionaries demanded the protection of France. In November 1842, Wallis and Futuna, separately, were declared “free and independent under the protection of France” with the signing of contracts druzhby.19 November 1886 Queen Amelia (Amelia) with Wallis had signed a treaty officially establishing a French protectorate. Kings Sigava (Sigave) Joabe Manua Musulanu and Alo (Alo) Aliasegi the islands Futuna and Alofi also signed a treaty establishing a French protectorate, 29 September 1887. Joint protectorate “Wallis and Futuna” (les Wallis-et-Futuna) was established March 5, 1888 decision of the Minister of Colonies.

In 1917, the three traditional territory, is administered by local chiefs were annexed to France, and were transformed into the Colony of Wallis and Futuna, which was under the control of the colony of New Caledonia.

In a referendum 27 December 1959 94,4% of voters voted in favor of Wallis and Futuna integrated into the French Republic in the form of overseas territory. Status of overseas territories was established by the Act of July 29, 1961. After the constitutional reform March 28, 2003, to talk about the overseas community (Collectivité d’Outre-Mer).

Population
The dynamics of population change, Wallis and Futuna
Age pyramid Wallis and Futuna according to census 2003
The population of Wallis and Futuna [16]
Population Structure
Population 14 231 (2008)
Density 100 (2008)
The average age of 23.9
Age structure 0-19: 44.1
19-59: 47
over 60: 8.9 (2008)
Birthrate
The number of newborns
in 1000 18,7 ‰ (2003)
Population growth rate -0.95% (2008)
Number of deaths per 1000 people
Child mortality

The number and placement
The last census in 2008 [18] population of the Territory of Wallis and Futuna is 14 231 people (including people’s time, the permanent population - 13 484 [18]). In 2003 this figure stood at 14 944 [19] people. There is now a decline in population with an approximate rate of 0.95% per year. The population in Futuna decreases faster (especially in the area whitefish) than Ouvéa [20]. The main reasons are to reduce the birth rate and mass emigration of the population [19] (in particular New Caledonia). However, the predicted [21] population of Wallis and Futuna will not decline and by 2050 will amount to 15,100 people.

Approximately one third of the population lives on the island of Futuna, and two-thirds - to Ouvéa. On the island of Alofi, according to the latest census [18] lived an elderly man.

Camym largest settlement area is its capital - Mata-Utu, where [18] 1124 people. In addition to her ostrava located another 35 villages. In 2003, men accounted for 50.15% (7494) population, women 49.85% (7450) [19]. The population of Wallis and Futuna form 3089 families [19]. The average number of persons in the family - 4,8

The percentage of children under 19 years old in 2004 was 44,1% of the adult population from 19 to 59 years - 47% over 60 years - 8,9%. [19] The average life expectancy of residents of the Territory was 74.3 years: males - 73,1, women - 75,5.

Vietnam

Vietnam

CAPITAL
Hanoi.
PEOPLE
74 million. Some 60 nationalities. Most of the population (88%) - Vietnamese. In the northern part of Vietnam’s population growth was estimated at 2,2% in rural areas and 3% in urban areas (in the delta region r.Hongha respectively 1,8% and 3,4%), in the south - 3,1 and 0, 7%. Thus, the process of urbanization in the Mekong Delta is actually stopped. Moreover, in areas where the three largest center (Ho Chi Minh City, Bien Hoa and Vung Tau), and administrative centers of the four provinces, the number of rural population in the first half of 1990 increased on average by 4,4%. Significant levels of urbanization in North Vietnam were partly a consequence of land shortage and the limited possibilities for agricultural production.
GEOGRAPHY
The state in Southeast Asia, occupying the eastern part of Indochina. It has borders with China and the west - with Laos and Cambodia to the east and south by the South China Sea. In addition to the mainland, the islands belong to Vietnam Kondao, Fukok etc.
Vietnam’s territory stretches from north to south (the distance between the extreme northern and southern points - approx. 1,750 km) and in the latitudinal direction of its length from 616 km to the north (from Mongolia to Vietnam-Laos border) up to 46,5 km in the central part ( in Chungbo). The coastline is reminiscent of the letter S, is 3260 km. The situation in Viet Nam at the crossroads of several natural areas as well as the existence of an ancient geological structure determines the diversity of its natural environment. The relief of the country’s largely mountainous. Over three-quarters of the territory covered by mountains, plateaus and plains. Vietnam also belong to the islands and archipelagos. The largest of them - the Bai Thu Long, Coto, Katba, Kondao in the South China Sea, Phu Quoc in the Gulf and other area of the continental shelf - app. 500 thousand square meters. km. From neighboring countries of Vietnam separated mountain ranges.
CLIMATE
The climate is tropical monsoon, shaped by a wet summer (the southern and south-west) and dry winter (northeast) monsoon. In spring and autumn the weather is unstable - on the coast afflict typhoons. Average temperatures maloizmenchivy and range from +26 C in December to +29 C in April.
LANGUAGE
Vietnamese (official), Chinese, some English, French and Russian.
RELIGION
Main religion - Buddhism.
POLITICAL STATUS
According to the 1992 Constitution, the supreme organ of state authority is the unicameral National Assembly consisting of 450 deputies who are elected for five-year term by direct universal suffrage. Duties include parliamentarians’ appointment, suspension of authority and sending the resignation “of President, Vice-President and Prime Minister (nominated for these posts, only members of the National Assembly), as well as Chairman of the Supreme People’s Court and other senior officials. The President is the chief of the armed forces and directs the Council of National Defense and Security. President is the power to appoint with the consent of the National Assembly officials on a number of senior posts, including the posts of Chairman of the Supreme People’s Court and the Attorney General. Term of office of President - 5 years. The Prime Minister, responsible for the daily operations of the Government to appoint and dismiss cabinet members, but always with the approval of the National Assembly. The Prime Minister may revoke or suspend the execution of judgments and decisions taken at the level of ministries and departments, and is accountable to the highest legislative body of the country.
CURRENCY
New dong.
ECONOMY
After the withdrawal of military units from Cambodia in 1989, Vietnam was able to completely do away with the regime of “war communism”. Since 1986 VI Congress of the Communist Party of Vietnam has made changing the top management of the country and started the process, officially called the “upgrade” through which the country entered a period of modernization. Identified on the basis of the Congress far-reaching reforms aimed at eliminating direct government intervention in pricing, production and external trade.
To expedite the flow of funds and revive activity in the private sector in Viet Nam developed legislation relating to preferential taxation of foreign investors, are “export processing zones, and stimulate the activities of foreign banks. The country began forming the legal framework of market economy. Since 1990 a number of important laws on civil law, developed standards of business activity of firms, etc. Is being reorganized and the gradual privatization of some public sector enterprises. The number of state enterprises dropped from 12 084 in 1991 to about 6300 in 1995, mainly due to the elimination of weaker companies and associations of a number of enterprises adjacent profile. Systematically implementing a program of privatization of public sector enterprises.
The movement to market has brought impressive results. From 1990 to 1997, gross domestic product (GDP) grew at an average annual 8.9%, while actual investment increased by about 25% per year. In 1995-1997 the economic growth of Vietnam was leading among ASEAN member countries. By 2000 GDP per capita was $ 400 authorized by the authorities, foreign direct investment, which in 1991 represented approximately 2.3 billion dollars in 1997 reached 31.2 billion dollars, representing 30% of all investments. In 1991-1998 a rapid growth in exports - from 2042 million to 9356 million, or 27% a year, and imports - from 2105 to 11 million $ 390 million, or 32% per year. In 1998 the export of goods and services was estimated at 42% of GDP, import - 47% of GDP. Despite the progress, Vietnam is experiencing economic difficulties. Poor infrastructure and weak economic potential manifested in low levels of major products: Electricity - 226 kWh of coal - 117 kg of oil - 118 kg, rolled steel - 8,6 kg cement - 83,3 kg, sugar - 7,8 kg of rice - 352 kg of mineral fertilizers - 12,8 kg and volume of exports of $ 96 per capita (at 1997). In the same year, national income per capita amounted to approx. $ 300 Asian financial crisis of 1998-1999 led to the import into the country declined in value by 3% during the expansion of exports by 0,9%, while foreign investment has declined.
TIME
Ahead of Moscow for 4 hours.
Main attractions
National Park Bach Ma, Hai Van, numerous reserves and sanctuaries.

Venezuela

Venezuela

CAPITAL
Caracas.
PEOPLE
21 million people. The population is divided into 3 major ethnic groups - whites (Spaniards), mestizos and mulattos. Major national and ethnic groups: 91% - Venezuelans, 3% - Colombians, 2% - Italians, 1% - the Spaniards, 1% - the Indians.
LANGUAGE
The main language - Spanish. Also used in English, French, German.
RELIGION
Most of the believers - Catholics.
GEOGRAPHY
The country is situated on the northern coast of South America. From the north Caribbean Sea and Atlantic Ocean. Venezuela can be divided into four different in topography, climate and vegetation regions: the mountainous region of the Andes, Maracaibo basin, the Llanos (plains in the basin of the rivers Apure and Orinoco) and the Guiana highlands. In the west, in the mountains of Merida, are the highest peaks of Venezuela. In the cool fertile valleys of Merida remove the main crops of coffee. Hot dusty steppe Llanos stretch across the country from the Colombian border to the delta of the mighty Orinoco River. In the south-east of the country rises Guiana Plateau - cloudy unfriendly territory, rich deposits of bauxite and manganese, the main area of active tourism. The total area of 916.4 thousand square kilometers of the country. km.
CLIMATE
Subequatorial. Venezuela is located just north of the equator and so the temperature throughout the year remained fairly constant: +21-26 C. The average temperature in January-December - +19 C in June-July - 23 C, and varies depending on the altitude above sea level . Precipitation of 280 mm. the north-west to 3000 mm. a year on the slopes of the mountain range Cordillera de Merida. The best time to visit - from November to May when the rainy season ends, the territory of the country lies in the side of the path of the tropical storms and little risk to their destructive influence.
POLITICAL STATUS
Independent republic. Head of state and government - the president. Legislature - bicameral National Congress (Chamber of Deputies and Senate).
CURRENCY
Bolivar, which is 100 sentimentality. The wide circulation, especially in the markets and in private institutions, have U.S. dollars, the French franc and Dutch guilder. In the large department stores and hotels accept credit cards and traveler’s checks. Exchange is at the airports. banks, specialized exchange offices. Tipping of 5-10% of the total bill. In hotels and restaurants are often already included in the invoice amount, but additional tips are not prohibited. In a taxi should be rounded off a great amount of direction.
TIME
Behind Moscow for 7 hours.
Main attractions
The beaches of white sand stretches for 1700 km., The country belong to 72 tropical islands, like a set up for tourism, so that the pleasant places in abundance. The whole coast is cut by countless tiny coves, along the banks of which grow palms. Lush green palms, leaning over the emerald water of bays, creates a unique charm of this paradise of nature. Over 40% of the country covered by forests. The flat landscape is decorated with palm groves Llanos with fancy tropical flora and fauna. In the valleys - the mangrove swamp thickets are found jaguars, bears, crocodiles, anacondas, boa constrictor (Boa) and many other exotic species of plants and animals. Cumana - a picturesque town with architecture inspired by the Spanish - the first in South America, the settlement of Europeans. To the east of the town stretched national park moisten. Porlamar on Margarita Island, separated from the continent to 60 km., - The main seaside resort of the country. The island is 315 km. shoreline, dotted with beautiful beaches, numerous hotels and high-level resort areas. There is also a beauty center and Spa La Samana treatment sea salts. A colorful and diverse city of Porlamar is a zone of free trade. Finding himself once in Venezuela, you can not just rest on the island of Margarita, but also to visit the island of Trinidad (visa is not required, 19 km. To the mainland of Venezuela), three Dutch islands - each of these route lasts no longer than 50 minutes. The island of Aruba, located 20 km. from Venezuela, has a reputation as one of the best Caribbean resorts - 18 hotels on the beach with amazing white sand. Just east - the famous island of Curacao (80 km. To the Venezuelan coast, 30 miles to the islands of Bonaire and Aruba) - 8 first-class hotels, 6 of which are on the beach. The island of Bonaire, the most modest of all three of comfort and entertainment, only 4 away. On all three islands, half of the hotels have casinos and related to five stars, all clean everywhere, both in the Netherlands (and the island she and owned) and a has to rest. In Aruba, there is even a submarine, golf, canoe, catamaran, scuba diving, carnival, beautiful old city streets, as well as in Curaçao. Aruba and Curacao are among the few points of visiting American cruise ships traveling from Florida to the Caribbean. Archipelago Islas Los Roques, a fantastic world of corals, this is 340 tiny islands, offshore shoals and atolls surrounded by coral barrier reef marvelous beauty. The water near the islands, depending on the location and time of day, takes all sorts of colors - from dark blue to emerald. Complementing this idyllic picture of a sparkling white coral sand and a shining sun. Here is paradise - the National Park Archipelago of Los Roques. State of Mérida tourists visit most often, because its territory is one of the highest and most spectacular mountain peaks - Pico Bolivar. Beside him stands the peak Espejo, with the highest and longest cable car in the world - 12 km. towards an altitude difference of 1577 to 4765 meters above sea level, built by the French in 1956, with the carriages 40. San Cristobal, a modern and prosperous capital of Tachira, is best known for its bullfight and night fiesta. In Barkisimento, famous for its wines, each year on Jan. 14 held a religious procession, people from all over the country come here to participate in this colorful celebration. The most attractive tourist routes: Caracas - Ciudad Bolivar - El Dorado (the same name to the reserves and national parks Kanayma), as well as along the Caribbean coast and the Lesser Antilles. Also interesting Lagoon of Maracaibo, known as the main area-based pirates in the XV-XVII centuries, 39 national parks: Serrania de Neblina, Hawa-Sarisarinama etc.
RULES OF ENTRY
For entry into the country must have a passport, visa and obligatory vaccination against yellow fever. Consular fees are collected.
CUSTOMS REGULATIONS
Import and export of currency is not limited to the amount of over 10 thousand dollars is a declaration. Declared as gold and jewelry. The transit of narcotics and narcotic drugs, weapons, toxic chemicals. The export of stuffed animals, skins and live specimens of the rare representatives of the animal world.

Vatican City

Vatican City

CAPITAL
Vatican.
PEOPLE
Resident population - about a thousand people. Vatican citizenship has less than half that number - about 70 clerics, 54 Swiss guards, who were entrusted with protecting the Vatican and ceremonial functions, 150 Papal gendarmes and a similar number of civilians. The remaining inhabitants of the Vatican - the Italians.
GEOGRAPHY
State of Vatican City, independent state established by the Lateran Pacts (concordat) between the Roman Catholic Church and the Italian government on 11 February 1929. Located in the western part of Rome on the right bank r.Tibr. Seat of the higher authorities of the Roman Catholic Church. There are ST. Peter and the Vatican palaces, museums and library, administrative buildings, churches, homes, yards and gardens. Vatican City - the smallest nation in the world. His area of 0.44 square meters. km. Population (circa 1000) a multinational, is dominated by Italians and Swiss.
The Vatican has very close relations with Italy, through which the material support of the State of the city and the flow of visitors. Double-track railway line length of 275 meters connects the Vatican with a network of Italian railways. In 1932 was opened marble station. The Vatican has its own constitution, coat of arms, flag and other symbols of state power. He coined his own coin, has its own postal service and its radio station. In the Vatican published daily L’Osservatore Romano, as well as numerous books, mostly of religious content.
CLIMATE
Mediterranean. Average January temperatures from 0C to +12 C, in July from +20 to +28 C. Rainfall concentrated in winter.
LANGUAGE
Latin and Italian (Latin language is only used in official documents).
CURRENCY
Vatican lira (is walking along with the Italian lira).
RELIGION
Catholic.
POLITICAL STATUS
Residence head of the Catholic Church Pope, an international center for the Roman Catholic Church. Vatican City was established as an independent state in 1929 under the Lateran Pacts between the Italian government and the Pope.
TIME
Behind Moscow for 2 hours.
Main attractions
Vatican City is a grandiose architectural complex, where the temples, palaces and city walls are combined with the works of landscape art. Triumphal Entry to the Vatican is framed by colonnades of St. Peter’s Square. Colonnade lead to the Basilica of St. Peter’s - the largest Catholic church in the world. In the cathedral is a vast palace ensemble XV-XVI centuries: Chapel of Nicholas V, Borgia Apartments, Sistine Chapel (with frescoes by Michelangelo, Botticelli), loggia and stations, painted by Raphael and his pupils, majestic courtyards Belvedere and San Damatstso. In the palaces of the Vatican are world-famous museums of ancient sculpture, and in the Vatican gardens - Casino of Pius V and the building of the Vatican picture gallery, where the collected works of Italian art XIV-XVII centuries.

Vanuatu

Vanuatu

CAPITAL
Vila (Port Vila) on the island of Efate.
PEOPLE
165 thousand people, mostly Melanesians who identified themselves as “ni-Vanuatu” (literally - “the people of our land”). The remaining residents - Europeans (approximately 4%), Polynesians, Chinese and Vietnamese.
LANGUAGE
Official Languages - Bislama (pidgin, “a kind of language, consisting of a change to the English and French words with the addition of the Chinese), English and French. Local people speak 105 different dialects of Melanesian languages.
RELIGION
Most believers - Christians (especially - the Presbyterians and the English, many people - Catholics).
GEOGRAPHY
State, located in south-western Pacific Ocean, the archipelago New Hebrides, is a dual chain of islands extending from north to south-east about 900 miles. The largest island - Espiritu Santo, Malekula, Ambrym, Efate, Erromango, Maewo, Pentecost, Tanna, etc. In total in the archipelago of 80 islands covering a total area of 14,7 thousand square meters. km. of which are inhabited by less than 17%. Islands of volcanic origin, mountainous (elevation to 1810 meters), there are about 60 volcanoes (including 10 existing).
CLIMATE
Tropical wet. Monthly average temperatures range from +20 C to +27 C and little change during the year. Vanuatu is a particularly hot weather begins in December, a little cooler from April to November, with November and lasts until the end of February during the rainy season. Precipitation up to 2300 mm. per year, mostly in the winter. The water temperature varies from +24 C in January to 28 C in July.
POLITICAL STATUS
Vanuatu is part of the British Commonwealth. Republic with a presidential form of government. Legislature - unicameral National Assembly. Executive power is exercised by the government headed by the Prime Minister. Here, there is also a special Council of Chiefs, he advises Parliament on issues of national policy and the traditions.
CURRENCY
Vata (in translation from one of the local dialect - “stone”), equal to 100 centimes. Australian dollars are accepted readily in most shops and restaurants. Travel checks can be exchanged for cash in any of the offices of leading banks (opening hours on weekdays from 8.00 to 15.00). Most hotels, restaurants, shops and car rental services accept credit cards ÀÌÅÕ, VISA, Diners Club and Mastercard (in Vanuatu no representation American Express). Foreign exchange bureaus are working at the international airport of Port Vila and in most banks. Going on a trip to the outer islands, it is better to bring cash. On the islands of Vanuatu, as in general in Melanesia, is not customary to leave tips. Effective as of all international and national land law. Shops are open on weekdays from 7.30 am to 11.30 and from 13.30 to 16.30 Saturday from 7.30 am to 12.00 pm. All shops, without exception, are closed for siesta time, that is the hottest time of the day from 11.30 to 13.30. In shops and restaurants, added to the price 10% sales tax, which will go down in value of your purchase.
TIME
Ahead of Moscow for 8 hours.
Main attractions
Vanuatu is often called “pristine paradise” Oceania. Indeed, the unique combination of three cultures - English, French and Melanesian - led to the emergence of this oasis for tourists. “European” city of Port Vila and Lugenvil harmoniously coexist with numerous villages of the islanders, whose life has hardly changed over the past few centuries. Another name for Vanuatu - “a country of smiling people.” Kindness and openness of the people of ni-Vanuatu pleasantly surprises everyone who comes to the island. A characteristic feature of the island landscape are the numerous volcanoes, nine of which - acting. The most famous of them - Yasur, the most accessible and “peace” active volcano on the planet. The capital, Port Vila is located in a wide sheltered bay on the southern island of Efate and is a very picturesque city. Port Vila - a real hotbed of European culture, there are banks and hotels, many discos, bars and restaurants, as well as the airport and the main local landmark - a petrol station. In the capital’s Cultural Center presented a unique collection of Melanesian art, sacred and ritual objects, ornaments and weapons of the islanders. Port Vila is also now becoming a major offshore center of the South Pacific. If you have already visited the picturesque island of Iririki in the closed bay of Port Vila, if you have visited the French “colonial” restaurant “L’houstalet”, spent a night in the Casino Royal Palms, “tasted” cava “(this drink is not alcoholic, but he calming effect on the nervous system, wafting a pleasant drowsiness, and calmness), together with the aborigines in the pub, a trader Vics “, find out what the local market during the fair, see what it looks like a coral reef at night in the natural glow of the sea, finally, if you swim in “Cascade Falls” and swept a sailing vessel with a transparent bottom of the lagoon, you can assume that the first acquaintance with the island of Efate you took and you can now go beyond the Capital District. Port Vila and the second largest town of Vanuatu Lugenvil (Fr. Espritu Santo) form the so-called “urban area”, while the rest of the territory is considered “rural area”, where the original is preserved and the ancient culture of the Melanesians. Tannu, the most mysterious of the islands of Melanesia. Scientists believe that the rites and rituals of the locals are so unusual that one can speak of a special “culture of Tanna.” Favorite tour of all tourists is a visit to Mount Yasur crater of an active volcano. Yasur - the most “friendly” from volcanoes on the planet, here you can see the boiling lava and fireworks of sparks without the slightest risk to life. Hundreds of wild horses living in the vicinity, warm waterfalls and hot springs is a pleasant break your walk around the island. When visiting the island of Pentecost sure to pay attention to “jump into the earth” (the ancient prototype of the modern attraction “Tarzan”) is one of the oldest and most dangerous traditions of local residents. Every year (jumps are executed on the orders of the elders and wise men only in strictly certain days), the young hunters and the islanders make breath-taking jumps from a 35-meter tower, relying solely on the strength tied to the feet of vines, which should save them from imminent death. It is worth noting that the vines they prepare themselves, and additional methods of insurance is not provided at all, even taking into account not high strength of these plant ropes. Ambrym Island - one of the few parts of Vanuatu, where locals still seriously involved in magic and sorcery. For a small fee, local magicians will make your hair stood on end (without prejudice to your health, of course). You will see the ritual dances of islanders, the famous “writing on the sand” and other esoteric rituals and ceremonies, with which the locals are renowned throughout Oceania. Espritu Santo Island - a tropical forest and lost in the mountains villages completely “wild” of the islanders. When visiting the island from the traveler need not only strength and endurance, but also the ability to communicate with the locals. The conductor comes out with a group of at least 10 people, price is negotiable. On the island of Santo Espritu is also one of the most beautiful (and almost deserted) beaches on the planet - the famous “White Songs. The island gained fame as a real Mecca for divers, who are sent here to visit the Cape million dollars. After the Second World War, the Americans dropped into the ocean near the bay cars, weapons, machines and other manufactured goods after the island authorities have refused to buy it all at inflated prices. Nearby there is also the place where the war had sunk an American ship “President Coolidge”. There are several stations hire scuba divers and taught scuba diving. Each island of the archipelago has a set of first-class beaches, but in Vanuatu are no nudist beaches, and tourists are warning that there is no custom sunbathing topless.
RULES OF ENTRY
Entry of Russian citizens in Vanuatu is carried out on the basis of visa. The Australians New Zealanders, British, Americans and Canadians who come for a period not exceeding 30 days, a visa is not required. The passport must be valid for 4 months from the date of arrival in Vanuatu. Vaccination is not compulsory, but if you’re going to go to some remote island of the archipelago, it is recommended to take certain preventive measures against malaria. Clinics will be charged at the airport upon departure from the country and is 1500 VT (about 15 U.S. dollars).
CUSTOMS REGULATIONS
Import and export of foreign and local currency is not limited. Allowed duty-free passage of no more than 2 liters. wine, 2 bottles of alcoholic beverages, 200 cigarettes. Photos and video may be carried in a reasonable quantity necessary for personal use. On the import of animals must obtain a permit. For the import of seeds, plants, meat and dairy products need the permission of the Ministry of Agriculture. To remove from Vanuatu souvenirs made from coral or turtle bones, you need to obtain permission from the Department of Fisheries, otherwise these items will be confiscated.
Service Phone
A special information bureau for tourists tel.: 28-133 Police: 22-222 Ambulance: 22-100 Fire: 22-333

Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan

CAPITAL
Tashkent.
PEOPLE
According to the 1998, the population of Uzbekistan is 23 837 thousand (19 906 thousand in 1989). The population growth rate declined from 2.17% in early 1990 to 1,35% in 1997. In urban areas live on less than half the population.
For most of the Soviet period in the history of Uzbekistan have been characterized by industrialization and the related immigration of people from other parts of the Soviet Union. In the 1960’s and 1970’s, this trend weakened to start the 1980’s marked the exodus of non-indigenous population. This process accelerated after the first major outbreak of ethnic conflicts in the spring of 1989 and the proclamation of independence of Uzbekistan in 1991. Among those leaving (mainly Slavs) many skilled professionals, the departure of which adversely affects the economy of the republic.
In 1997 fertility and mortality in Uzbekistan amounted to respectively 76 and 24 in 1000. Infant mortality rate (per 1000 live births) is approx. 70, and in desert areas near the Aral Sea reaches 110. In 1997 40% of the population was younger than 15 years the share of population over 59 years amounted to 4%, and over 69 years - less than 2%.
About 80% of the population are Uzbeks, the share of Russian accounts for less than 5,5%. Of the other ethnic groups live here Tajiks (5%), Kazakhs (3%), Karakalpak (2,5%), Tatars (1.5%) and Kyrgyzstan (1%). Almost 60% of the population - rural residents, 90% of the rural population belongs to the Central Asian peoples.
The largest city in Uzbekistan - Tashkent, the capital of the country, with a population of 2,3 million people. More than half the Russian population lives in Tashkent, Uzbekistan, constituting approx. 30% of its residents. In 1966 the city suffered a devastating earthquake, but was quickly restored. In Tashkent, holds much of the industrial enterprises of the Republic, travels through the main roads, he is the center of economy, education and culture. The second-largest city - Samarkand (404 thousand). Samarkand - the capital of the Uzbek SSR until 1930 - is famous for its architectural monuments. A number of major cities located in the Fergana Valley: Namangan (300 thousand); Andijan (310 thousand), Fergana (200 thousand); Kokand (176 thousand). I should also mention Bukhara (255 thousand), an ancient city, which has long been a major cultural and political center of the Uzbek people. Nukus (189 thousand) is the capital of the Karakalpakstan autonomous republic.
LANGUAGE
Most of the representatives of major ethnic groups speak their own language. Many, especially in urban areas, as they say in Russian. But only a fraction of those from other regions of the USSR is fluent in Uzbek.
RELIGION
Almost all of the Uzbeks and other Central Asian nations - Sunni Muslims. Russian and other Slavic groups belong to the Orthodox Church. There are also small Jewish communities, including the so-called “Bukharan Jews”.
GEOGRAPHY
The Republic of Uzbekistan, a country in Central Asia. It borders Kazakhstan to the north and north-east, Turkmenistan to the south-west, Afghanistan to the south, Tajikistan to the south-east and Kyrgyzstan to the north-east.
Approximately 4 / 5 of Uzbekistan is desert plains, eastern and south-eastern districts include the mountains and foothills of the Tien Shan and the Hissar Range. Within the Turan plate Ustyurt plateau (far west), the Amu Darya delta on the southern coast of the Aral Sea and the vast desert Kyzyl Kum (Red Sands). Total deserts employs approx. 40% of the country. Mountain ranges in the east and south-east divide intermontane basins and valleys - Fergana, Kashkadarya, Surkhandarya and Chirchik Angren. The highest point in the country - 4643 m (Hissar range).
Most of the country is located between two major rivers of Central Asia - the Syr Darya and Amu Darya in the north to the south. Both originate in the highlands east of the borders of Uzbekistan and flowing in a northwesterly direction, falling into the Aral Sea. All other rivers, the largest of which are Zeravshan Chirchik, Kashkadarya and Surkhandarya belong to the basins of the Amu Darya and Syr Darya. In hot dry climate, many rivers dry up in summer, partly because most of the water used for irrigation.
The only large lake in Uzbekistan - salty Aral Sea, located on the north-west of the country on the border with Kazakhstan. The area of the Aral Sea in 1980-1990-ies greatly reduced, since most of the water flowing into a river used for irrigation. By 1998, the shoreline of the Aral Sea has receded to 80 km, and the sea itself was split into three separate reservoir.
CLIMATE
The climate of Uzbekistan is sharply continental. The summer is long, hot and dry, winters quite cold and little snow, but short. Average winter temperatures in the plains ranged from -7 to 3 ° C, average summer temperature is 26-30 ° C.
Less precipitation - 80-90 mm per year - falls in the desert. In the mountains and intermountain oases rainfall frequency, but much of the country receives less than 200 mm of rain per year, and nearly three quarters of this amount is for the winter.
CURRENCY
Sum.
ECONOMY
In the 1980’s main industrial center of the republic was the Tashkent region, where over 40% of all industrial products and 20% of agricultural products of the republic. The Ferghana Valley, which occupies 5% of the territory of Uzbekistan, gives more than 30% of the total cotton production of the republic. It is also an important area of sericulture, horticulture, horticulture and fruit processing; here focused mining and refining. Another important agricultural region - Samarkand and Kashkadarya region, where livestock is based on a large number of wool. Natural gas is produced mainly in the Kyzyl Kum desert and the region of Bukhara. Karakalpak autonomous republic is characterized by high crop cultivation of rice and cotton. Cattle breeding and production of Karakul distributed throughout the territory of Uzbekistan.
Almost half of the working population of Uzbekistan is engaged in agriculture. The big problem is unemployment. According to expert estimates, the unemployment rate is at least 20%. Particularly high number of unemployed in the Fergana Valley, where population density is 300 persons per 1 square. km, namely unemployment and lack of irrigated land link ethnic conflicts that took place here in 1989 and 1990.
Approximately 80% of total turnover in Uzbekistan accounts for railways. The railway network is the total length of approx. 3400 km connects the republic from neighboring countries. There are also 63 000 km of highways, but the number of paved roads is low, the most important of these - highway Tashkent - Termez, Tashkent - Bukhara - Muynak, Tashkent - Kokand. Almost every major city of Uzbekistan has its own airport. After the Tashkent International Airport by regular flights from many countries, including Russia, Germany, Turkey, UK, Netherlands, India and the U.S..
The most important agricultural products in Uzbekistan, in addition to cotton, are fruits, vegetables and grains (wheat, rice and maize). Especially famous Uzbek melons and grapes. During the Soviet period was done a lot of big hydro projects (such as Chirchik-Bozsuysky cascade, Farhadskaya and Charvak HPS, Great Fergana and Golodnostepsky channels) and expanded pre-existing system of irrigation canals. The majority of Uzbek families, especially in rural areas, cultivated gardens, and growing fruits and vegetables.
Cotton. The Uzbek economy has been one of the most specialized in the Soviet Union and was based almost exclusively on cotton. According to statistics from the 1980’s, cotton and cotton processing, gave more than 65% of the gross output of the republic; in these industries were employed approx. 40% of the workforce. The annual gathering of raw cotton in 1980 averaged ca. 4,5 million tons of areas under cotton, in 1986 reached almost 3.5 million hectares. Cotton served a special infrastructure, including an extensive system of irrigation, chemical fertilizer and machinery (agricultural equipment and machinery for processing of cotton).
After independence, the Uzbek government has decided to reduce the production of cotton and increase production of food crops for self-reliant republic food. Plans for the collection of raw cotton have been reduced to 4 million tons in the late 1990’s torrential rains in some areas and stagnation of the economy led to a significant reduction in the collection of cotton.
When the cultivation of cotton in Uzbekistan is widely used by manual labor, and for field work involved and the townspeople. Most of the work in the field and in the cotton mills is done by women.
Primary Energy Resources of the Republic is natural gas production is concentrated mainly in the areas Gazley and Karshi. Oil is produced mainly in the Fergana Valley and in the Bukhara region. In early 1992 in the western part of the Ferghana Valley opened a new oil field, according to preliminary estimates, one of the largest in the world. Coal production is near Tashkent, Denau and in the Fergana Valley.
Being the commercial development of deposits of nonferrous metals, including zinc, copper, lead, tungsten, and nonmetallic minerals - feldspar, quartz, limestone, turquoise. In the basin. Zarafshan and Kyzylkum mined gold. It has been reported about the extraction of uranium in the Ferghana Valley. Oil and gas sector remains solely in the hands of state companies, but in the mining industry are invited to Western firms. This is especially true of gold, which requires the use of new technologies.
Machine-building in Uzbekistan emerged mainly in the postwar period. During the war here was evacuated more than 100 industrial enterprises from the European part of USSR. However, despite the fact that the evacuation contributed to diversifying the economy of the republic, most of the industrial potential of Uzbekistan is linked to agriculture and processing of cotton. Other important sectors of the economy should be called the metallurgical, chemical, food processing and production of building materials. Foreign investment and technical assistance in the automotive industry (Andijan), electronics (Samarkand), apparel (Tashkent) give hope for further industrial development of Uzbekistan.
In carrying out privatization and other economic reforms, Uzbekistan has a much more cautious position than Kazakhstan and Kyrgyzstan, as the government fears the social and political instability. In 1994 began auctioning some service companies. In agriculture, privatization is slower than in trade and services. Strategic industries, such as heavy industry, export agriculture, mining and petroleum industry, is expected to remain in state hands. Nevertheless, in 1998 nearly 30% of Uzbekistan’s GDP was produced in the private sector.
Before the collapse of the Soviet Union’s banking system in Uzbekistan is part of the State Bank of the USSR. After independence, the country has established its own national bank, but the financial institutions in Uzbekistan remained closely associated with Russian and continued to use the ruble.

Uruguay

Uruguay

CAPITAL
Montevideo.
PEOPLE
Approximately 3.15 million people, mostly Uruguayans, descendants of Spanish colonists, XVI-XVIII centuries, and later (mid XIX - early XX centuries) immigrants from Western Europe (Spaniards, Italians, French). Uruguay - One of the most “white” countries in Latin America. As a result, development of new territories by the Spanish and antiindeyskih war indigenous population of Uruguay was almost completely wiped out. In Montevideo, there is a small Jewish community, which is one of the most representative in Latin America.
GEOGRAPHY
State of the south-east of South America. Its territory lies to the east of the River Uruguay, a country that got its name, in the south-east Atlantic Ocean to the south - the Gulf of La Plata. It shares borders with Argentina and Brazil.
In many respects, Uruguay forms a transition zone between the plains of the Argentine pampas and the rolling hills of Brazil. Along the eastern coast stretches a low-lying strip formed by sandy beaches, lagoons and dunes, spreading into the territory of 8-10 km. West lies the hilly terrain - it rises to 500 m above sea level and stretches from Montevideo in the south to the Brazilian border in the north. The highest part of this zone - range Kuchilya Grande - plays the role of the watershed between the shorter river, flowing eastward into the Atlantic Ocean and its tributaries r.Urugvay flowing westward. The tops of hills crowned with boulders of granite is resistant to destruction. West of the watershed is gently sloping terrain, broken only by narrow river valleys. In the south-west strip of the plains is reminiscent of the Argentine Pampa, and in the north-west limits of Uruguay comes to its southern extremity of the plateau of Parana and here in the landscape is dominated by flat-table elevation, which differ sharply from the undulating and hilly terrain typical of much of Uruguay.
CLIMATE
The subtropical climate of the country is moderate. Since Uruguay is located between 30 and 35 ° S in the narrow part of the continent, its climate is transitional between the temperate zone and the tropics. The winters are short and mild, very rare frosts. The average temperature in the coldest winter months of July, amounts to approx. 10 ° C. This can graze their cattle through the winter and does not require expensive facilities for the winter. Summers are warm, the average January temperature ranges between 22-27 ° C. Sometimes the hot and humid days the temperature rises above 38 ° C, but the heat easier to bear because of the cool daytime breeze. Rain is more or less evenly throughout the year and their total number increases from south to north from 970 mm in the estuary of La Plata to 1270 mm in the extreme north. Most rain falls on the autumn, but the fall season, no less than 125-150 mm of rain.
LANGUAGE
Spanish. Most of the inhabitants speak English and other European languages.
RELIGION
60% of the population belongs to the Roman Catholic Church. Are also a Methodist and Anglican churches.
POLITICAL STATUS
The head of state and government - the president, popularly elected by universal suffrage for 5 years. Legislature - bicameral Parliament (General Assembly), consisting of the Senate and House of Representatives, also elected by the people for 5 years.
ECONOMY
In 1997, gross domestic product (GDP) of Uruguay was estimated at 20.1 billion dollars after two decades of relative stagnation in the mid - late 1970’s marked economic growth, largely associated with high prices for Uruguayan wool, meat and skin on world markets; a role here played down a large external borrowing to meet the growing imports of consumer goods and oil, as well as intensive construction, costly projects of construction of highways or hydroelectric power. The increase in production by the inflation (an average of 60% per year).
The global economic downturn that began in 1980, heavily impact on Uruguay and was exacerbated by anti-inflationary monetary policy of the government. By 1984, total production decreased by almost 20%, and decreased purchasing power. Although the pace of inflation was reduced to 20% in the year to end of 1983 prices again climbed up.
In 1990 the government changed course toward a more open and free market economy, thus stimulating economic development and growth of investment. For most of this decade, the economy grew by approx. 5% per year. By the end of 1990 has decreased the rate, at the same time and managed to reduce inflation - up to 10% per year (1998). Although the situation in individual sectors of the economy somewhat different, in general, the distribution of income between different segments of the population and the number of poor people, Uruguay is one of the most prosperous countries in Latin America.
CURRENCY
Uruguayan peso, equal to 100 sentesimo. Money can be exchanged at banks (the most favorable rate), exchange with travel agencies and shopping centers, hotels and airport. Most major international credit cards are accepted in hotels, banks and shopping centers. Government Offices are open from 9:00 to 18:00 from Monday to Friday, shops - from 9:00 to 18:30 (large - up to 22:00) on weekdays and from 9:00 to 13:00 on Saturdays banks are open from 10:00 to 16:00 on weekdays. Tipping in expensive restaurants and bars make up 10% of the account (although often it is already included service charge), in cheap eateries - 1-2 pesos, cafes and beach Tipping is not accepted, the porter at the hotel or airport - 5 -10 pesos taxi driver - rounded off by a large side (using the amount of cars of different brands may vary for the inclusion of air-conditioners will be charged a fee). In Uruguay, formed by the free zone of Nueva Palmira, Colonia, and Carrasco, designed to encourage industrial, commercial and development services as well as any other activity which may be beneficial to the national economy. The property, commodities and raw materials imported into the free zone, regardless of their origin, are exempt from import tax. In addition, they can be removed from the zone at any time without paying any fees.
TIME
Behind Moscow on 6-7 hours.
Main attractions
Along the ocean coast stretches a chain of luxury resorts, the most famous of which - Punta del Este, the most modern and expensive resorts in the country, a venue for international festivals and summits. Are popular as the capital of Montevideo - a major banking and financial center, is very diverse in the city’s appearance - classicism is combined with the widespread baroque modernism - the old buildings of colonial times. Ultra-modern buildings are surrounded by parks and beautiful bridges connecting the shores of the great river. Also of interest are thermal springs, well equipped oceanfront, city Piriapolis and Colonia. There are about 10 national parks: Cape Polonia, Santa Teresa, etc.
RULES OF ENTRY
To enter a visa (valid for 90 days and may be renewed) and passport. The usual term of documents at the Embassy 4 - 7 working days. Needed a passport, 1 application form with photo and invitation (tourist, private or official), a copy of the ticket. Traveling with children on official invitation is difficult. Getting around the country for Russian tourists is not limited.
CUSTOMS REGULATIONS
Import and export of foreign currency is unlimited. No exchange controls. Prohibited import and export of drugs, firearms, ammunition, drugs, radioactive materials, animal skins and stuffed animals and birds.