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         Solomon Islands Geography:     more detail
  1. Islands of Rainforest: Agroforestry, Logging and Ecotourism in Solomon Islands. (Reviews).(Book Review): An article from: The Geographical Journal by Ian Douglas, 2003-03-01
  2. Islands of Rainforest (Studies in Development Geography (SOAS)) by Edvard Hviding, Tim Bayliss-Smith, 2000-04
  3. The Peabody Museum Expedition to Bougainville, Solomon Islands, 1938-39 (Papers of the Peabody Museum of American Archaeology and Ethnology, Harvard University) by Douglas L Oliver, 1949
  4. Land resource study by J. R. F Hansell, 1975
  5. Some geographical aspects of the British Solomon Islands in the Western Pacific by John C Grover, 1957
  6. The physical environment, fauna and agriculture of the British Solomon Islands by R. J. A. W Lever, 1937
  7. From planning to "Planning": Pressures and process in Papua New Guinea and the Solomon Islands by J Herlihy, 1978
  8. OKINAWA ON THE EVE OF THE G--8 SUMMIT [*].: An article from: The Geographical Review by Jonathan Solomon Taylor, 2000-01-01
  9. Guadalcanal (World War II 50th Anniversary Series) by Wallace B. Black, Jean F. Blashfield, 1992-05
  10. Some results and implications of a population study in South Guadalcanal by Murray Chapman, 1967

81. Resources On The Solomon Islands
solomon islands People 2004 Flags, Maps, Economy, geography . solomon islands, with Flag, Map and its People, Economy, geography
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Solomon Islands
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Solomon Islands People 2004 - Flags, Maps, Economy, Geography ...

...but spoken by only 1%-2% of the population note: 120 indigenous languages. ... No claims are made regarding the accuracy of Solomon Islands People 2004 information ...
Solomon Islands 2003 - Flags, Maps, Economy, Geography, Climate ...

...spoken by only 1%-2% of the population note: 120 indigenous languages. ... All suggestions for corrections of any errors about Solomon Islands People 2003 should be ...
Solomon Islands, People, Top of Page. ... HIV/AIDS - people living with HIV/AIDS: NA. ... 11%, Seventh-Day Adventist 10%, other Protestant 5%, indigenous beliefs 4%. ...
Solomon Islands
12%, Baptist 9%, Seventh-Day Adventist 7%, other Protestant 5%, indigenous beliefs 4 ... It is thought that people have lived in the Solomon Islands since at ... The World Wide Web Virtual Library: Indigenous Studies CWIS George ... The Unofficial Vaturanga Home Page - Vaturanga People/Solomon Islands. ... Development and the Global Economy; Ethnographic Portraits of indigenous peoples in Alaska ... Solomon Islands People 2001 - Flags, Maps, Economy, Geography ...

82. Solomon Islands Flag- Answers - EnchantedLearning.com
Quiz Answers. The solomon islands flag was adopted on November 18, 1977. geography Label Me! Printouts geography Pages
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The Flag of the Solomon Islands Maps
Flags
The flag of the Solomon Islands is divided horizontally by a thin yellow line that runs from the upper right to the lower left. The top/left side is blue with five, five-pointed white stars; the right/bottom is green. The white stars represent the five main groups of islands in the Solomon Islands. The yellow represents sunshine, the blue represents water, and the green represents land. The Solomon Islands flag was adopted on November 18, 1977, just before the islands became independent from Great Britain (Independence Day was on July 7, 1978). Each year, Flag Day is celebrated in the Solomon Islands on November 18.
1. What colors are in the flag of the Solomon Islands?

83. BUBL LINK: Solomon Islands
CIA World Factbook 2003 solomon islands Basic reference information about the solomon islands, including details of geography, people, economy,
http://bubl.ac.uk/link/s/solomonislands.htm
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  • CIA World Factbook 2003: Solomon Islands Ethnologue Language Database: Solomon Islands Maps of Australia and the Pacific Social Indicators: Less Populous Countries ... World Travel Guide: Solomon Islands
  • Comments: bubl@bubl.ac.uk
    CIA World Factbook 2003: Solomon Islands
    Basic reference information about the Solomon Islands, including details of geography, people, economy, government, communications, transportation, military and transnational issues. Geographical information includes area, population, flag, maps, high and low points, co-ordinates, boundary length, border countries, climate, land use and natural resources.
    Author: CIA
    Subjects: solomon islands
    DeweyClass:
    Resource type: document
    Ethnologue Language Database: Solomon Islands
    A catalogue of all the languages and dialects spoken in the Solomon Islands, with details of the numbers of speakers of each language. Also some demographic data such as rates of literacy, blindness and deafness.
    Author: Summer Institute of Linguistics
    Subjects: solomon islands
    DeweyClass:
    Resource type: document
    Maps of Australia and the Pacific
    Set of maps produced by the CIA covering Australia, New Zealand, and all the independent countries and dependencies in the Pacific Ocean.

    84. Ashmore And Cartier Islands - Geography
    Keywords Ashmore and Cartier islands geography, Ashmore and Cartier islands, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, solomon islands, Somalia, South Africa
    http://www.classbrain.com/art_cr/publish/ashmore_cartier_geography.shtml
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    : Ashmore and Cartier Islands Last Updated: Feb 7th, 2005 - 21:06:07
    Ashmore and Cartier Islands - Geography
    By The CIA Factbook
    Oct 6, 2004, 18:19
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    Geography Ashmore and Cartier Islands Location: Southeastern Asia, islands in the Indian Ocean, midway between north-western Australia and Timor island Geographic coordinates: 12 14 S, 123 05 E Map references: Southeast Asia Area: total: 5 sq km
    note: includes Ashmore Reef (West, Middle, and East Islets) and Cartier Island
    water: sq km
    land: 5 sq km Area - comparative: about eight times the size of The Mall in Washington, DC Land boundaries: km Coastline: 74.1 km Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm contiguous zone: 12 nm exclusive fishing zone: 200 nm continental shelf: 200-m depth or to the depth of exploitation Climate: tropical Terrain: low with sand and coral Elevation extremes: lowest point: Indian Ocean m highest point: unnamed location 3 m Natural resources: fish Land use: arable land: permanent crops: other: 100% (all grass and sand) (2001) Irrigated land: sq km (1998 est.)

    85. Virgin Islands - Geography
    Virgin islands geography By CIA Factbook Jan 17, 2005, 1804 Sierra Leon, Singapore, Slovakia, Slovenia, solomon islands, Somalia, South Africa
    http://www.classbrain.com/art_cr/publish/virgin_islands_geography.shtml
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    : Virgin Islands Last Updated: Feb 7th, 2005 - 21:06:07
    Virgin Islands - Geography
    By CIA Factbook
    Jan 17, 2005, 18:04
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    Geography Virgin Islands Location: Caribbean, islands between the Caribbean Sea and the North Atlantic Ocean, east of Puerto Rico Geographic coordinates: 18 20 N, 64 50 W Map references: Central America and the Caribbean Area: total: 352 sq km
    water: 3 sq km
    land: 349 sq km Area - comparative: twice the size of Washington, DC Land boundaries: km Coastline: 188 km Maritime claims: territorial sea: 12 nm
    exclusive economic zone: 200 nm Climate: subtropical, tempered by easterly trade winds, relatively low humidity, little seasonal temperature variation; rainy season May to November Terrain: mostly hilly to rugged and mountainous with little level land Elevation extremes: lowest point: Caribbean Sea m highest point: Crown Mountain 474 m Natural resources: sun, sand, sea, surf

    86. Solomon Islands - Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia
    geography. Main article geography of the solomon islands. The solomon Island are a wide island nation that lies East of Papua New Guinea and consists of
    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Solomon_Islands
    Solomon Islands
    From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
    The Solomon Islands is a nation in the South Pacific Ocean , east of Papua New Guinea and is part of the Commonwealth of Nations . It consists of more than 990 islands, which together cover a land mass of 28,000 square kilometres. Solomon Islands (adopted November 18 Full size National motto : To Lead is to Serve Official language English Capital Honiara ... Governor-General Sir Nathaniel Waena Prime Minister Sir Allan Kemakeza Area
    Ranked 140th

    km²
    ... Ranked 160th
    17/km² Independence
    From the UK
    July 7
    Currency Solomon Islands dollar ... Calling Code
    Contents
    edit
    History
    Main article: History of the Solomon Islands The United Kingdom established a protectorate over Solomon Islands in the 1890s. Some of the most intense fighting of World War II occurred on these islands. Self-government was achieved in and independence was granted on July 7 . Current issues include corruption, land relations, government deficits, deforestation , and malaria control. Continuing civil unrest led to an almost complete breakdown in normal activity: civil servants remained unpaid for months at a time, and cabinet meetings had to be held in secret to prevent local warlords from interfering. The security forces were unable to reassert control, largely because many police and security personnel are associated with one or another of the rival gangs.

    87. Geography Of The Solomon Islands - Wikipedia, The Free Encyclopedia
    The solomon islands are a wide island nation in the South Pacific Ocean, that lies East Categories geography of solomon islands geography by country
    http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Geography_of_the_Solomon_Islands
    Geography of the Solomon Islands
    From Wikipedia, the free encyclopedia.
    edit
    Location
    The Solomon Islands are a wide island nation in the South Pacific Ocean , that lies East of Papua New Guinea and consists of many islands: Choiseul, the Shortland Islands, the New Georgia Islands Santa Isabel , the Russel Islands, the Florida Islands Malaita Guadalcanal , Sikaiana, Maramasike, Ulawa, Uki, San Cristobal , Santa Ana, Rennell, Bellona and the Santa Cruz Islands . The distance between the most western and most eastern islands is about 1500 km. Especially the Santa Cruz Islands, North of Vanuatu , (of which Tikopia is part) are isolated at more than 200 km from the other islands. Volcanoes with varying degrees of activity are situated on some of the larger islands, while many of the smaller islands are simply tiny atolls covered in sand and palm trees edit
    Climate
    The climate is tropical , though temperatures are rarely extreme due to cooling winds blowing off the surrounding seas. Daytime temperatures are normally 25 to 32 Celsius , falling about 3 to 5 at night. From April to October, the Southeast trade winds blow, gusting at times up to 30 knots or more. November to March is the wet season - the northwest

    88. TradePort Country Profiles From World Trade Press
    The solomon islands overall adult literacy is unknown. geography Note. Strategic location on sea routes between the South Pacific Ocean, the solomon
    http://www.tradeport.org/countries/solomonislands/01grw.html

    Country Profiles Home
    Country Facts - Solomon Islands
    The People
    Ethnic Composition Melanesian     Polynesian Micronesian     European     Chinese     Other    
    Religious Composition
    Anglican     Roman Catholic     United (Methodist/Presbyterian) Baptist Seventh-Day Adventist Other Protestant     Traditional Beliefs    
    Nationality
    Solomon Islander(s)
    Languages Spoken
    Melanesian pidgin in much of the country is lingua franca; English is official but spoken by only 1%-2% of the population.  There are 120 indigenous languages.
    Education and Literacy
    The Solomon Islands' overall adult literacy is unknown.
    Labor Force
    Total:  
    Agriculture Industry Services
    Geography
    Land Mass Total
    10,984 sq mi (28,450 sq km)
    Land
    10,633 sq mi (27,540 sq km)
    Water
    351 sq mi (910 sq km)
    Land Boundaries
    0 mi (0 km), island chain
    Coastline
    3,301 mi (5,313 km)
    Maritime claim
    Continental shelf: 200 nm
    Exclusive economic zone: 200 nm
    Territorial sea: 12 nm
    Note: Measured from claimed archipelagic baselines.
    Climate/Weather
    Tropical monsoon; few extremes of temperature and weather

    89. World Facts And Figures - Solomon Islands
    solomon islands. Introduction geography People Government Economy Communications Transportation Military solomon islands, geography, Top of Page
    http://www.worldfactsandfigures.com/countries/solomon_islands.php
    World Facts and Figures Home Country List Country Maps Country Flags ... Measurement Conversion Calculator Exclusive Bonus Offer for PacificPoker.com click here for Details Deposit $20 and get $30 FREE Solomon Islands Introduction Geography People Government ... Transnational Issues Solomon Islands Introduction Top of Page Background: The UK established a protectorate over the Solomon Islands in the 1890s. Some of the bitterest fighting of World War II occurred on these islands. Self-government was achieved in 1976 and independence two years later. Current issues include government deficits, deforestation, and malaria control. Solomon Islands Geography Top of Page Location: Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Papua New Guinea Geographic coordinates: 8 00 S, 159 00 E

    90. Solomon Islands Country Information From InsideOceania
    The UK established a protectorate over the solomon islands in the 1890s. geography; People; Government; Economy; Communications; Transportation
    http://www.insidecountryinfo.com/html/solomon_islands_information.html
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    Introduction

    The UK established a protectorate over the Solomon Islands in the 1890s. Some of the bitterest fighting of World War II occurred on these islands. Self-government was achieved in 1976 and independence two years later. Current issues include government deficits, deforestation, and malaria control.

    91. Solomon Islands --  Encyclopædia Britannica
    solomon islands country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. Includes a history, and notes on its geography. solomon islands
    http://www.britannica.com/eb/article-9117359
    Home Browse Newsletters Store ... Subscribe Already a member? Log in Content Related to this Topic This Article's Table of Contents Introduction The land The people The economy Administration and social conditions ... Print this Table of Contents Shopping Price: USD $1495 Revised, updated, and still unrivaled. The Official Scrabble Players Dictionary (Hardcover) Price: USD $15.95 The Scrabble player's bible on sale! Save 30%. Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary Price: USD $19.95 Save big on America's best-selling dictionary. Discounted 38%! More Britannica products Solomon Islands
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    country in the southwestern Pacific Ocean. It consists of a double chain of volcanic islands and coral atolls in Melanesia and occupies a total land area of 10,954 square miles (28,370 square kilometres). Buka and Bougainville islands, at the northwestern end of the Solomons chain, form the North Solomons province of Papua New Guinea. Honiara , on Guadalcanal Island, is
    Solomon Islands...

    92. Solomon Islands --  Britannica Student Encyclopedia
    solomon islands Consisting of eight large islands and island groups, the solomon Includes a history, and notes on its geography. solomon islands
    http://www.britannica.com/ebi/article-9277133
    Home Browse Newsletters Store ... Subscribe Already a member? Log in This Article's Table of Contents Solomon Islands Print this Table of Contents Shopping Price: USD $1495 Revised, updated, and still unrivaled. The Official Scrabble Players Dictionary (Hardcover) Price: USD $15.95 The Scrabble player's bible on sale! Save 30%. Merriam-Webster's Collegiate Dictionary Price: USD $19.95 Save big on America's best-selling dictionary. Discounted 38%! More Britannica products Solomon Islands
    Student Encyclopedia Article Page 1 of 1
    Solomon Islands
    Solomon Islands... (75 of 437 words) var mm = [["Jan.","January"],["Feb.","February"],["Mar.","March"],["Apr.","April"],["May","May"],["June","June"],["July","July"],["Aug.","August"],["Sept.","September"],["Oct.","October"],["Nov.","November"],["Dec.","December"]]; To cite this page: MLA style: "Solomon Islands." Britannica Student Encyclopedia http://www.britannica.com/ebi/article-9277133

    93. Solomon Islands Information And Online Map - Map Town Ltd.
    solomon islands, Online Map, Facts. geography People Government Economy Communications Transportation Military Transnational Issues
    http://www.maptown.com/geos/solomonislands.html

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    Introduction [Top of Page] Background: The UK established a protectorate over the Solomon Islands in the 1890s. Some of the bitterest fighting of World War II occurred on these islands. Self-government was achieved in 1976 and independence two years later. Current issues include government deficits, deforestation, and malaria control. Geography [Top of Page] Location: Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Papua New Guinea Geographic coordinates: 8 00 S, 159 00 E Map references: Oceania Area:
    total: 28,450 sq km
    land: 27,540 sq km
    water: 910 sq km Area - comparative: slightly smaller than Maryland Land boundaries: km Coastline: 5,313 km Maritime claims: measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
    continental shelf: 200 nm
    exclusive economic zone: 200 nm territorial sea: 12 nm Climate: tropical monsoon; few extremes of temperature and weather Terrain: mostly rugged mountains with some low coral atolls Elevation extremes: lowest point: Pacific Ocean m highest point: Mount Makarakomburu 2,447 m

    94. Solomon Islands (03/99) Bureau Of East Asian And Pacific Affairs
    Official exchange rate solomon islands $1=about US$0.21. geography The solomon islands form an archipelago in the Southwest Pacific about 1900 kilometers
    http://commercecan.ic.gc.ca/scdt/bizmap/interface2.nsf/vDownload/BNOTES_1189/$fi
    Solomon Islands (03/99) Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs March 1999 Background Note: Solomon Islands PROFILE OFFICIAL NAME: Solomon Islands Geography Area: Land 27,556 sq. km. (11,599 sq. mi.). Archipelago 725,197 sq. km. (280,000 sq. mi.). Cities: Capital Honiara (on the island of Guadalcanal), pop. 30,000. Other townsGizo, Auki, Kirakira. Terrain: Mountainous islands. Climate: Tropical monsoon. People Nationality: Noun and adjectiveSolomon Islander(s). Population (1997): 426,855 (45% under age 14). Annual growth rate: 3.3%. Ethnic groups (1987): Melanesian 93%, Polynesian 4%, Micronesian 1.5%, other 1.5%. Religions: Christian 95%more than one-third Anglican (Archdiocese of Melanesia), Roman Catholic 19%, South Sea Evangelical 17%, United Church (Methodist) 11%, Seventh-day Adventist 10%. Languages: English (official); about 90 vernaculars, including Solomon Islands pidgin. Education: (1995) Years compulsorynone. Attendance97% primary school; 17% secondary school. Adult literacy64%. Health: (1996) Infant mortality rate24/1,000. Life expectancy71.1 yrs. Work force (217,700, 1995): Agriculture77%. Industry and commerce7%. Services16%. Government Type: Parliamentary democracy within the Commonwealth. Constitution: May 1978. Independence: July 7,1978. Branches: ExecutiveBritish monarch represented by a governor general (head of state); prime minister (head of government). Legislative50-member Parliament elected every 4 years. Judicialhigh court plus magistrates court; system of custom land courts throughout islands. Subdivisions: Nine provinces and Honiara town. Political parties: United Party, People's Alliance Party, National Front for Progress, SAS Party, Liberal Party. Suffrage: Universal over 18. National holiday: July 7. Flag: Rectangle divided diagonally by a thin yellow line from bottom of staff to opposite top; the lower part is forest green; the upper, ocean blue containing five stars for the major island groups. Economy GNP (1995): $300 million. Annual growth rate (1991-96): 4.5%. Per capita income (1995): $910. Avg. inflation rate (1996): 10.4%. Natural resources: Forests, fish, agricultural land, marine products, gold. Agriculture: Productscopra, cocoa, palm oil, palm kernels and subsistence crops of yams, taro, bananas, pineapple. Industry: Typespalm oil milling, fish canning, sawmilling, rice milling, boats, rattan and wood furniture, fiberglass products, shell jewelry, tobacco, clothing, soap, nails, handicrafts. Trade (1995): Exports$170 million: fish, logs and timber, cocoa, copra, palm oil and kernels. Major marketsJapan 39%, U.K. 23%, U.S. 2%. Imports$152 million: machinery and transport equipment, fuel, food and beverages. Major suppliersAustralia 34%, Japan 16%, New Zealand 9%. Official exchange rate: Solomon Islands $1=about US$0.21. GEOGRAPHY The Solomon Islands form an archipelago in the Southwest Pacific about 1,900 kilometers (1,200 mi.) northeast of Australia. With terrain ranging from ruggedly mountainous islands to low-lying coral atolls, the Solomons stretch in a 1,450-kilometer (900 mi.) chain southeast from Papua New Guinea across the Coral Sea to Vanuatu. The main islands of Choiseul, New Georgia, Santa Isabel, Guadalcanal, Malaita, and Makira have rainforested mountain ranges of mainly volcanic origin, deep narrow valleys, and coastal belts lined with coconut palms and ringed by reefs. The smaller islands are atolls and raised coral reefs, often spectacularly beautiful. The Solomon Islands region is geologically active, and earth tremors are frequent. The islands' ocean-equatorial climate is extremely humid throughout the year, with a mean temperature of 27° C (80° F) and few extremes of temperature or weather. June through August is the cooler period. Though seasons are not pronounced, the northwesterly winds of November through April bring more frequent rainfall and occasional squalls or cyclones. The annual rainfall is about 305 centimeters (120 in.). More than 90% of the islands is forested. The coastal strips are sheltered by mangrove and coconut trees. Luxuriant rainforest covers the interiors of the large islands. Soil quality ranges from extremely rich volcanic to relatively infertile limestone. More than 230 varieties of orchids and other tropical flowers brighten the landscape. PEOPLE The Solomon Islanders comprise diverse cultures, languages, and customs. Of its 427,000 persons, 93.3% are Melanesian, 4% Polynesian, and 1.5% Micronesian. In addition, small numbers of Europeans and Chinese are registered. About 70 vernaculars are spoken. Most people reside in small, widely dispersed settlements along the coasts. Sixty percent live in localities with fewer than 200 persons, and only 11% reside in urban areas. The capital city of Honiara, situated on Guadalcanal, the largest island, has over 35,000 inhabitants. The other principal towns are Gizo, Auki, and Kirakira. Most Solomon Islanders are Christian, with the Anglican, Roman Catholic, South Seas Evangelical, and Seventh-day Adventist faiths predominating. About 5% of the population maintain traditional beliefs. The chief characteristics of the traditional Melanesian social structure are: The practice of subsistence economy; The recognition of bonds of kinship, with important obligations extending beyond the immediate family group; Generally egalitarian relationships, emphasizing acquired rather than inherited status; and A strong attachment of the people to the land. Most Solomon Islanders maintain this traditional social structure and find their roots in village life. HISTORY Although little prehistory of the Solomon Islands is known, material excavated on Santa Ana, Guadalcanal, and Gawa indicates that a hunter-gatherer people lived on the larger islands as early as 1000 B.C. Some Solomon Islanders are descendants of Neolithic, Austronesian-speaking peoples who migrated somewhat later to the Pacific Islands from Southeast Asia. The European discoverer of the Solomons was the Spanish explorer Alvaro de Mendana Y Neyra, who set out from Peru in 1567 to seek the legendary Isles of Solomon. British mariner Philip Carteret , entered Solomon waters in 1767. In the years that followed, visits by explorers were more frequent. Missionaries began visiting the Solomons in the mid-1800s. They made little progress at first, however, because "blackbirding"the often brutal recruitment of laborers for the sugar plantations in Queensland and Fijiled to a series of reprisals and massacres. The evils of the labor trade prompted the United Kingdom to declare a protectorate over the southern Solomons in 1893. In 1898 and 1899, more outlying islands were added to the protectorate; in 1900 the remainder of the archipelago, an area previously under German jurisdiction, was transferred to British administration. Under the protectorate, missionaries settled in the Solomons, converting most of the population to Christianity. In the early 20th century, several British and Australian firms began largescale coconut planting. Economic growth was slow, however, and the islanders benefited little. With the outbreak of World War II, most planters and traders were evacuated to Australia, and most cultivation ceased. From May 1942, when the Battle of the Coral Sea was fought, until December 1943, the Solomons were almost constantly a scene of combat. Although U.S. forces landed on Guadalcanal virtually unopposed in August 1942, they were soon engaged in a bloody fight for control of the islands' airstrip, which the U.S. forces named Henderson Field. One of the most furious sea battles ever fought took place off Savo Island, near Guadalcanal, also in August 1942. Before the Japanese completely withdrew from Guadalcanal in February 1943, over 7,000 Americans and 21,000 Japanese died. By December 1943, the Allies were in command of the entire Solomon chain. Postwar Developments Following the end of World War II, the British colonial government returned. The capital was moved from Tulagi to Honiara to take advantage of the infrastructure left behind by the U.S. military. A native movement known as the Marching Rule defied government authority. There was much disorder until some of the leaders were jailed in late 1948. Throughout the 1950s, other indigenous dissident groups appeared and disappeared without gaining strength. In 1960, an advisory council of Solomon Islanders was superseded by a legislative council, and an executive council was created as the protectorate's policymaking body. The council was given progressively more authority. In 1974, a new constitution was adopted establishing a parliamentary democracy and ministerial system of government. In mid-1975, the name Solomon Islands officially replaced that of British Solomon Islands Protectorate. On January 2, 1976, the Solomons became self-governing, and independence followed on July 7, 1978. GOVERNMENT The Solomon Islands is a parliamentary democracy within the Commonwealth, with a unicameral Parliament and a ministerial system of government. The British monarch is represented by a governor general, chosen by the Parliament for a 5-year term. The national Parliament has 50 members, elected for 4-year terms. However, Parliament may be dissolved by majority vote of its members before the completion of its term. Parliamentary representation is based on single-member constituencies. Suffrage is universal for citizens over age 18. The prime minister, elected by Parliament, chooses the other members of the cabinet. Each ministry is headed by a cabinet member, who is assisted by a permanent secretary, a career public servant, who directs the staff of the ministry. For local government, the country is divided into 10 administrative areas, of which nine are provinces administered by elected provincial assemblies, and the 10th is the town of Honiara, administered by the Honiara Town Council. Land ownership is reserved for Solomon Islanders. At the time of independence, citizenship was granted to all persons whose parents are or were both British protected persons and members of a group, tribe, or line indigenous to the Solomon Islands. The law provides that resident expatriates, such as the Chinese and Kiribati, may obtain citizenship through naturalization. Land generally is still held on a family or village basis and may be handed down from mother or father according to local custom. The islanders are reluctant to provide land for nontraditional economic undertakings, and this has resulted in continual disputes over land ownership. No military forces are maintained by the Solomon Islands, although the police force of nearly 500 includes a border protection element. The police also have responsibility for fire service, disaster relief, and maritime surveillance. The police force is headed by a commissioner, appointed by the Governor General and responsible to the prime minister. POLITICAL CONDITIONS Solomon Islands governments are characterized by weak political parties and highly unstable parliamentary coalitions. They are subject to frequent votes of no confidence, and government leadership changes frequently as a result. Cabinet changes are common. The first post-independence government was elected in August 1980. Prime Minister Peter Kenilorea was head of government until September 1981, when he was succeeded by Solomon Mamaloni as the result of a realignment within the parliamentary coalitions. Following the November 1984 elections, Kenilorea was again elected Prime Minister, to be replaced in 1986 by his former deputy Ezekiel Alebua following shifts within the parliamentary coalitions. The next election, held in early 1989, returned Solomon Mamaloni as Prime Minister. Francis Billy Hilly was elected Prime Minister following the national elections in June, 1993, and headed the government until November 1994 when a shift in parliamentary loyalties brought Solomon Mamaloni back to power. The last national election was held on August 6, 1997. Bartholomew Ulufa'alu was elected Prime Minister to head a coalition government which christened itself the Solomon Islands Alliance for Change. Former Prime Minister Mamaloni is currently Leader of the Opposition. Principal Government Officials Governor GeneralSir Moses Pitikaka Prime MinisterBartholomew Ulufa'alu Minister for Foreign AffairsPatteson Oti The Solomon Islands mission to the United Nations is located at 800 Second Avenue, Suite 400L, New York, NY 10017 (tel: 212-599-6192/93; fax: 212-661-8925). ECONOMY Although its per capita GDP of $900 ranks Solomon Islands as a middle-income developing nation, over 75% of its labor force are engaged in subsistence farming and fishing. Until 1998, when world prices for tropical timber fell steeply, timber was Solomon Islands main export product, and, in recent years, Solomon Islands forests were dangerously overexploited. Other important cash crops and exports include copra and palm oil. In 1998 Ross Mining of Australia began producing gold at Gold Ridge on Guadalcanal. Minerals exploration in other areas continues, and there are hopes for further gold production. Exploitation of Solomon Islands rich fisheries offers the best prospect for further export and domestic economic expansion. Currently, a Japanese joint venture, Solomon Tiayo Ltd., operates the only fish cannery in the country. Tourism, particularly diving, is an important service industry for Solomon Islands. Growth in that industry is hampered, however, by lack of infrastructure and transportation limitations. Solomon Islands was particularly hard hit by the Asian economic crisis. The Asian Development Bank estimates that the crash of the market for tropical timber reduced Solomon Island's GDP by between 15%-25%. About one-half of all jobs in the timber industry were lost. However, the government has said it will use the fall in demand to reform timber harvesting policies with the aim of resuming logging on a more sustainable basis. Since 1998 the Government of Solomon Islands has pursued a program of government and fiscal management reform intended to restore its financial credibility. The initial steps in the program, for which it hopes to obtain support from the World Bank and the IMF, include downsizing the public service by 5%, payment of outstanding arrears on government debt, and increasing revenues both by applying new taxes and by eliminating import and export duty exemptions granted by previous governments. Foreign aid accounts for about 13% of Solomon Islands GDP. Principal aid donors are Australia, the European Union, Japan, and the Republic of China. FOREIGN RELATIONS Countries with diplomatic missions in the Solomon Islands are Australia, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Japan. The Solomon Islands also has diplomatic relations with the Republic of China, which has a resident representative in Honiara. The U.S. Ambassador resident in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, also is accredited to Solomon Islands. The Solomon Islands' Permanent Representative to the United Nations also is accredited as its ambassador to the United States and Canada. Relations with Papua New Guinea, which had become strained because of an influx of refugees from the Bougainville rebellion and attacks on the northern islands of the Solomon Islands by elements pursuing Bougainvillean rebels, have been repaired. A peace accord on Bougainville confirmed in 1998 has removed the armed threat, but refugee return has been slow. Membership in International Organizations Solomon Islands is a member of the United Nations, Commonwealth, South Pacific Commission, South Pacific Forum, International Monetary Fund, and the European Economic Community/African, Caribbean, Pacific Group (EEC/ACP)/(Lome Convention). U.S.-SOLOMON ISLANDS RELATIONS The United States and Solomon Islands established diplomatic relations following its independence on July 7, 1978. U.S. representation is handled by the United States Embassy at Port Moresby where the Ambassador is resident. In recognition of the close ties forged between the United States and the people of the Solomon Islands during World War II, the U.S. Congress financed the construction of the Solomon Islands Parliament building. There are approximately 150 American citizens residing permanently in Solomon Islands. The two nations belong to a variety of regional organizations, including the South Pacific Commission and the South Pacific Regional Environmental Program. The United States and Solomon Islands also cooperate under the U.S.-Pacific Islands multilateral Tuna Fisheries Treaty, under which the U.S. grants $18 million per year to Pacific island parties and the latter provide access to U.S. fishing vessels. A United States National Marine Fisheries Service Officer works with the South Pacific Forum Fisheries Agency in Honiara. The United States also supports efforts to protect biodiversity in the Solomon Islands. In addition to supporting the establishment of local conservation areas, the United States supports the International Coral Reef Initiative aimed at protecting reefs in tropical nations such as Solomon Islands. U.S. military forces, through the Pacific Theater Command in Honolulu, Hawaii, carry out annual bilateral meetings as well as smallscale exercises with the Solomon Islands Police Border Protection Force. The U.S. also provides appropriate military education and training courses to national security officials. The U.S. Peace Corps has been present in the Solomon Islands since 1971. Currently, more than 70 volunteers serve throughout the country. Volunteer work is concentrated in rural community development, education, environmental management, and youth programs. There is a Peace Corps Administrative Office in Honiara. U.S. trade with Solomon Islands is limited. In 1997 U.S. exports to Solomon Islands were $2.3 million, consisting primarily of machinery and aircraft. Solomon Islands exports to the United States in that year were about $700,000, consisting primarily of fish and shell products. Principal U.S. Embassy Officials Ambassador Arma Jane Karaer (resident in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea) Peace Corps Country Director Wesley Mukoyama American Embassy Port Moresby is located on Douglas Street, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, P.O. Box 1492, Port Moresby (tel: (675) 321-1455; fax: (675) 321-3423). TRAVEL AND BUSINESS INFORMATION The U.S. Department of State's Consular Information Program provides Consular Information Sheets, Travel Warnings, and Public Announcements. Consular Information Sheets exist for all countries and include information on entry requirements, currency regulations, health conditions, areas of instability, crime and security, political disturbances, and the addresses of the U.S. posts in the country. Travel Warnings are issued when the State Department recommends that Americans avoid travel to a certain country. Public Announcements are issued as a means to disseminate information quickly about terrorist threats and other relatively short-term conditions overseas which pose significant risks to the security of American travelers. Free copies of this information are available by calling the Bureau of Consular Affairs at 202-647-5225 or via the fax-on-demand system: 202-647-3000. Consular Information Sheets and Travel Warnings also are available on the Consular Affairs Internet home page: http://travel.state.gov. Consular Affairs Tips for Travelers publication series, which contain information on obtaining passports and planning a safe trip abroad are on the internet and hard copies can be purchased from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, telephone: 202-512-1800; fax 202-512-2250. Emergency information concerning Americans traveling abroad may be obtained from the Office of Overseas Citizens Services at (202) 647-5225. For after-hours emergencies, Sundays and holidays, call 202-647-4000. Passport information can be obtained by calling the National Passport Information Center's automated system ($.35 per minute) or live operators 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (EST) Monday-Friday ($1.05 per minute). The number is 1-900-225-5674 (TDD: 1-900-225-7778). Major credit card users (for a flat rate of $4.95) may call 1-888-362-8668 (TDD: 1-888-498-3648). It also is available on the internet. Travelers can check the latest health information with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia. A hotline at 877-FYI-TRIP (877-394-8747) and a web site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel/index.htm give the most recent health advisories, immunization recommendations or requirements, and advice on food and drinking water safety for regions and countries. A booklet entitled Health Information for International Travel (HHS publication number CDC-95-8280) is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, tel. (202) 512-1800. Information on travel conditions, visa requirements, currency and customs regulations, legal holidays, and other items of interest to travelers also may be obtained before your departure from a country's embassy and/or consulates in the U.S. (for this country, see "Principal Government Officials" listing in this publication). U.S. citizens who are long-term visitors or traveling in dangerous areas are encouraged to register at the U.S. embassy upon arrival in a country (see "Principal U.S. Embassy Officials" listing in this publication). This may help family members contact you in case of an emergency. Further Electronic Information Department of State Web Site. Available on the Internet at http://state.gov, the Department of State web site provides timely, global access to official U.S. foreign policy information, including Background Notes; daily press briefings; Country Commercial Guides; directories of key officers of Foreign Service posts and more. National Trade Data Bank (NTDB). Operated by the U.S. Department of Commerce, the NTDB contains a wealth of trade-related information. It is available on the Internet (www.stat-usa.gov) and on CD-ROM. Call the NTDB Help-Line at (202) 482-1986 for more information. This site is managed by the Bureau of Public Affairs, U.S. Department of State. External links to other Internet sites should not be construed as an endorsement of the views contained therein.

    95. US Department Of State Background Note Solomon Islands Bureau Of
    geography The solomon islands form an archipelago in the Southwest Pacific about 1900 kilometers (1200 mi.) northeast of Australia.
    http://commercecan.ic.gc.ca/scdt/bizmap/interface2.nsf/vDownload/BNOTES_1193/$fi
    U.S. Department of State Background Note: Solomon Islands Bureau of East Asian and Pacific Affairs January 2003 PROFILE OFFICIAL NAME: Solomon Islands Geography Area: Land27,556 sq. km. (11,599 sq. mi.). Archipelago725,197 sq. km. (280,000 sq. mi.). Cities: CapitalHoniara (on the island of Guadalcanal), pop. 30,000. Other townsGizo, Auki, Kirakira. Terrain: Mountainous islands. Climate: Tropical monsoon. People Nationality: Noun and adjectiveSolomon Islander(s). Population (2002): 496,000 (43.4% under age 15). Annual growth rate: 2.91%. Ethnic groups (2002): Melanesian 93%, Polynesian 4%, Micronesian 1.5%, other 1.5%. Religions: Christian 95%more than one-third Anglican (Archdiocese of Melanesia), Roman Catholic 19%, South Sea Evangelical 17%, United Church (Methodist) 11%, Seventh-day Adventist 10%. Languages: English (official); about 120 vernaculars, including Solomon Islands pidgin. Education: (2002) Years compulsorynone. Attendance85% primary school; 14% secondary school. Adult literacy64%. Health: (2002) Infant mortality rate24/1,000. Life expectancy71.8 yrs. Work force (264,900; 2002): Agriculture75%. Industry and commerce5%. Services20%. Government Type: Parliamentary democracy within the Commonwealth. Constitution: May 1978. Independence: July 7,1978. Branches: ExecutiveBritish monarch represented by a governor general (head of state); prime minister (head of government). Legislative50-member Parliament elected every 4 years. Judicialhigh court plus magistrates court; system of custom land courts throughout islands. Subdivisions: Nine provinces and Honiara town. Political parties: United Party, People's Alliance Party, National Front for Progress, SAS Party, Liberal Party. Suffrage: Universal over 18. National holiday: July 7. Flag: Rectangle divided diagonally by a thin yellow line from bottom of staff to opposite top; the lower part is forest green; the upper, ocean blue containing five stars for the major island groups. Economy GNP (2001): $264.5 million. Annual growth rate (2000-02): minus 24%. Per capita income (2002): $580. Avg. inflation rate (2001): 7.9%. Natural resources: Forests, fish, agricultural land, marine products, gold. Agriculture: Productscopra, cocoa, palm oil, palm kernels and subsistence crops of yams, taro, bananas, pineapple. Industry: Typesfish canning, sawmilling, boats, rattan and wood furniture, fiberglass products, shell jewelry, tobacco, beer, clothing, soap, nails, handicrafts. Trade (2000): Exports$70 million (a 52% drop from 1999): fish, logs and timber, cocoa, copra. Major marketsJapan 39%, U.K. 23%, U.S. 2%. Imports$94 million (an 11% drop from 1999): machinery and transport equipment, fuel, food and beverages. Major suppliersAustralia 34%, Japan 16%, New Zealand 9%. GEOGRAPHY The Solomon Islands form an archipelago in the Southwest Pacific about 1,900 kilometers (1,200 mi.) northeast of Australia. With terrain ranging from ruggedly mountainous islands to low-lying coral atolls, the Solomons stretch in a 1,450-kilometer (900 mi.) chain southeast from Papua New Guinea across the Coral Sea to Vanuatu. The main islands of Choiseul, New Georgia, Santa Isabel, Guadalcanal, Malaita, and Makira have rainforested mountain ranges of mainly volcanic origin, deep narrow valleys, and coastal belts lined with coconut palms and ringed by reefs. The smaller islands are atolls and raised coral reefs, often spectacularly beautiful. The Solomon Islands region is geologically active, and earth tremors are frequent. The islands' ocean-equatorial climate is extremely humid throughout the year, with a mean temperature of 27° C (80° F) and few extremes of temperature or weather. June through August is the cooler period. Though seasons are not pronounced, the northwesterly winds of November through April bring more frequent rainfall and occasional squalls or cyclones. The annual rainfall is about 305 centimeters (120 in.). More than 90% of the islands is forested. The coastal strips are sheltered by mangrove and coconut trees. Luxuriant rainforest covers the interiors of the large islands. Soil quality ranges from extremely rich volcanic to relatively infertile limestone. More than 230 varieties of orchids and other tropical flowers brighten the landscape. PEOPLE The Solomon Islanders comprise diverse cultures, languages, and customs. Of its 496,000 persons, 93.3% are Melanesian, 4% Polynesian, and 1.5% Micronesian. In addition, small numbers of Europeans and Chinese are registered. About 120 vernaculars are spoken. Most people reside in small, widely dispersed settlements along the coasts. Sixty percent live in localities with fewer than 200 persons, and only 10% reside in urban areas. The capital city of Honiara, situated on Guadalcanal, the largest island, has more than 30,000 inhabitants. The other principal towns are Gizo, Auki, and Kirakira. Most Solomon Islanders are Christian, with the Anglican, Roman Catholic, South Seas Evangelical, and Seventh-day Adventist faiths predominating. About 5% of the population maintain traditional beliefs. The chief characteristics of the traditional Melanesian social structure are: * The practice of subsistence economy; * The recognition of bonds of kinship, with important obligations extending beyond the immediate family group; * Generally egalitarian relationships, emphasizing acquired rather than inherited status; and * A strong attachment of the people to the land. Most Solomon Islanders maintain this traditional social structure and find their roots in village life. HISTORY Although little prehistory of the Solomon Islands is known, material excavated on Santa Ana, Guadalcanal, and Gawa indicates that a hunter-gatherer people lived on the larger islands as early as 1000 B.C. Some Solomon Islanders are descendants of Neolithic, Austronesian-speaking peoples who migrated somewhat later to the Pacific Islands from Southeast Asia. The European discoverer of the Solomons was the Spanish explorer Alvaro de Mendana Y Neyra, who set out from Peru in 1567 to seek the legendary Isles of Solomon. British mariner Philip Carteret, entered Solomon waters in 1767. In the years that followed, visits by explorers were more frequent. Missionaries began visiting the Solomons in the mid-1800s. They made little progress at first, however, because "blackbirding"the often brutal recruitment of laborers for the sugar plantations in Queensland and Fijiled to a series of reprisals and massacres. The evils of the labor trade prompted the United Kingdom to declare a protectorate over the southern Solomons in 1893. In 1898 and 1899, more outlying islands were added to the protectorate; in 1900 the remainder of the archipelago, an area previously under German jurisdiction, was transferred to British administration. Under the protectorate, missionaries settled in the Solomons, converting most of the population to Christianity. In the early 20th century, several British and Australian firms began largescale coconut planting. Economic growth was slow, however, and the islanders benefited little. With the outbreak of World War II, most planters and traders were evacuated to Australia, and most cultivation ceased. From May 1942, when the Battle of the Coral Sea was fought, until December 1943, the Solomons were almost constantly a scene of combat. Although U.S. forces landed on Guadalcanal virtually unopposed in August 1942, they were soon engaged in a bloody fight for control of the islands' airstrip, which the U.S. forces named Henderson Field. One of the most furious sea battles ever fought took place off Savo Island, near Guadalcanal, also in August 1942. Before the Japanese completely withdrew from Guadalcanal in February 1943, more than 7,000 Americans and 21,000 Japanese died. By December 1943, the Allies were in command of the entire Solomon chain. Postwar Developments Following the end of World War II, the British colonial government returned. The capital was moved from Tulagi to Honiara to take advantage of the infrastructure left behind by the U.S. military. A native movement known as the Marching Rule defied government authority. There was much disorder until some of the leaders were jailed in late 1948. Throughout the 1950s, other indigenous dissident groups appeared and disappeared without gaining strength. In 1960, an advisory council of Solomon Islanders was superseded by a legislative council, and an executive council was created as the protectorate's policymaking body. The council was given progressively more authority. In 1974, a new constitution was adopted establishing a parliamentary democracy and ministerial system of government. In mid-1975, the name Solomon Islands officially replaced that of British Solomon Islands Protectorate. On January 2, 1976, the Solomons became self-governing, and independence followed on July 7, 1978. GOVERNMENT The Solomon Islands is a parliamentary democracy within the Commonwealth, with a unicameral Parliament and a ministerial system of government. The British monarch is represented by a governor general, chosen by the Parliament for a 5-year term. The national Parliament has 50 members, elected for 4-year terms. However, Parliament may be dissolved by majority vote of its members before the completion of its term. Parliamentary representation is based on single-member constituencies. Suffrage is universal for citizens over age 18. The prime minister, elected by Parliament, chooses the other members of the cabinet. Each ministry is headed by a Cabinet member, who is assisted by a permanent secretary, a career public servant, who directs the staff of the ministry. For local government, the country is divided into 10 administrative areas, of which nine are provinces administered by elected provincial assemblies, and the 10th is the town of Honiara, administered by the Honiara Town Council. Land ownership is reserved for Solomon Islanders. At the time of independence, citizenship was granted to all persons whose parents are or were both British protected persons and members of a group, tribe, or line indigenous to the Solomon Islands. The law provides that resident expatriates, such as the Chinese and Kiribati, may obtain citizenship through naturalization. Land generally is still held on a family or village basis and may be handed down from mother or father according to local custom. The islanders are reluctant to provide land for nontraditional economic undertakings, and this has resulted in continual disputes over land ownership. No military forces are maintained by the Solomon Islands, although the police force of nearly 500 includes a border protection element. The police also have responsibility for fire service, disaster relief, and maritime surveillance. The police force is headed by a commissioner, appointed by the Governor General and responsible to the prime minister. POLITICAL CONDITIONS Solomon Islands governments are characterized by weak political parties and highly unstable parliamentary coalitions. They are subject to frequent votes of no confidence, and government leadership changes frequently as a result. Cabinet changes are common. The first post-independence government was elected in August 1980. Prime Minister Peter Kenilorea was head of government until September 1981, when he was succeeded by Solomon Mamaloni as the result of a realignment within the parliamentary coalitions. Following the November 1984 elections, Kenilorea was again elected Prime Minister, to be replaced in 1986 by his former deputy Ezekiel Alebua following shifts within the parliamentary coalitions. The next election, held in early 1989, returned Solomon Mamaloni as Prime Minister. Francis Billy Hilly was elected Prime Minister following the national elections in June 1993, and headed the government until November 1994 when a shift in parliamentary loyalties brought Solomon Mamaloni back to power. The national election of August 6, 1997 resulted in Bartholomew Ulufa'alu s election as Prime Minister, heading a coalition government, which christened itself the Solomon Islands Alliance for Change. In June 2002, an insurrection mounted by militants from the island of Malaita resulted in the brief detention of Ulufa alu and his subsequent forced resignation. Manasseh Sogavare, leader of the People's Progressive Party, was chosen Prime Minister by a loose coalition of parties. New elections in December 2001 brought Sir Allan Kemakeza into the Prime Minister s chair with the support of a coalition of parties. Bartholomew Ulufa alu is currently Leader of the Opposition. Principal Government Officials Governor GeneralJohn Lapli Prime MinisterAllan Kemakeza Minister for Foreign AffairsNollen Levi The Solomon Islands mission to the United Nations is located at 800 Second Avenue, Suite 400L, New York, NY 10017 (tel: 212-599-6192/93; fax: 212-661-8925). ECONOMY Per capita GDP of $340 ranks Solomon Islands as a lesser developed nation. More than 75% of its labor force are engaged in subsistence farming and fishing. Until 1998, when world prices for tropical timber fell steeply, timber was Solomon Islands main export product, and, in recent years, Solomon Islands forests were dangerously overexploited. Other important cash crops and exports include copra and palm oil. In 1998 Ross Mining of Australia began producing gold at Gold Ridge on Guadalcanal. Minerals exploration in other areas continued. However in the wake of the ethnic violence in June 2000, exports of palm oil and gold ceased while exports of timber fell. Exploitation of Solomon Islands rich fisheries offers the best prospect for further export and domestic economic expansion. However, a Japanese joint venture, Solomon Taiyo Ltd., which operated the only fish cannery in the country, closed in mid-2000 as a result of the ethnic disturbances. Though the plant has reopened under local management, the export of tuna has not resumed. Tourism, particularly diving, is an important service industry for SolomonIslands. Growth in that industry is hampered, however, by lack of infrastructure, transportation limitations, and security concerns. Solomon Islands was particularly hard hit by the Asian economic crisis even before the ethnic violence of June 2000. The Asian Development Bank estimates that the crash of the market for tropical timber reduced Solomon Island's GDP by between 15%-25%. About one-half of all jobs in the timber industry were lost. The government has said it will reform timber harvesting policies with the aim of resuming logging on a more sustainable basis. Since 2000 the Government of Solomon Islands has become increasingly insolvent. It has exhausted its borrowing capacity; in 2001 the deficit reached 8% of GDP. It is unable to meet biweekly payrolls and has become extraordinarily dependent on funds from foreign aid accounts, which provided an estimated 50% of government expenditure in 2001. Principal aid donors are Australia, New Zealand, the European Union, Japan, and the Republic of China. FOREIGN RELATIONS Countries with diplomatic missions in the Solomon Islands are Australia, United Kingdom, New Zealand, Papua New Guinea, and Japan. The Solomon Islands also has diplomatic relations with the Republic of China, which has a resident representative in Honiara. The U.S. Ambassador resident in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, also is accredited to Solomon Islands. The Solomon Islands' Permanent Representative to the United Nations also is accredited as its ambassador to the United States and Canada. Relations with Papua New Guinea, which had become strained because of an influx of refugees from the Bougainville rebellion and attacks on the northern islands of the Solomon Islands by elements pursuing Bougainvillean rebels, have been repaired. A peace accord on Bougainville confirmed in 1998 has removed the armed threat, but refugee return has been slow. Solomon Islands is a member of the United Nations, Commonwealth, South Pacific Commission, South Pacific Forum, International Monetary Fund, and the European Economic Community/African, Caribbean, Pacific Group (EEC/ACP)/(Lome Convention). U.S.-SOLOMON ISLANDS RELATIONS The United States and Solomon Islands established diplomatic relations following its independence on July 7, 1978. U.S. representation is handled by the U.S. Embassy at Port Moresby where the ambassador is resident. In recognition of the close ties forged between the United States and the people of the Solomon Islands during World War II, the U.S. Congress financed the construction of the Solomon Islands Parliament building. There are about 95 American citizens residing permanently in Solomon Islands. The two nations belong to a variety of regional organizations, including the South Pacific Commission and the South Pacific Regional Environmental Program. The United States and Solomon Islands also cooperate under the U.S.-Pacific Islands multilateral Tuna Fisheries Treaty, under which the U.S. grants $18 million per year to Pacific island parties and the latter provide access to U.S. fishing vessels. A U.S. National Marine Fisheries Service Officer works with the South Pacific Forum Fisheries Agency in Honiara. The United States also supports efforts to protect biodiversity in the Solomon Islands. In addition to supporting the establishment of local conservation areas, the United States supports the International Coral Reef Initiative aimed at protecting reefs in tropical nations such as Solomon Islands. U.S. military forces, through the Pacific Theater Command in Honolulu, Hawaii, carry out annual bilateral meetings as well as smallscale exercises with the Solomon Islands Police Border Protection Force. The U.S. also provides appropriate military education and training courses to national security officials. The U.S. Peace Corps suspended its program in June 2000 due to the ethnic violence and breakdown in governance. More than 70 volunteers, serving throughout the country in rural community development, education, environmental management, and youth programs, were evacuated. U.S. trade with Solomon Islands is very limited. In 2001 U.S. exports to Solomon Islands were less than 5% of all exports, while Solomon Islands exports to the United States in that year were negligible. Principal U.S. Embassy Officials AmbassadorSusan Jacobs (resident in Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea) American Embassy Port Moresby is located on Douglas Street, Port Moresby, Papua New Guinea, P.O. Box 1492, Port Moresby (tel: (675) 321-1455; fax: (675) 321-3423). TRAVEL AND BUSINESS INFORMATION The U.S. Department of State's Consular Information Program provides Consular Information Sheets, Travel Warnings, and Public Announcements. Consular Information Sheets exist for all countries and include information on entry requirements, currency regulations, health conditions, areas of instability, crime and security, political disturbances, and the addresses of the U.S. posts in the country. Travel Warnings are issued when the State Department recommends that Americans avoid travel to a certain country. Public Announcements are issued as a means to disseminate information quickly about terrorist threats and other relatively short-term conditions overseas which pose significant risks to the security of American travelers. Free copies of this information are available by calling the Bureau of Consular Affairs at 202-647-5225 or via the fax-on-demand system: 202-647-3000. Consular Information Sheets and Travel Warnings also are available on the Consular Affairs Internet home page: http://travel.state.gov. Consular Affairs Tips for Travelers publication series, which contain information on obtaining passports and planning a safe trip abroad are on the internet and hard copies can be purchased from the Superintendent of Documents, U.S. Government Printing Office, telephone: 202-512-1800; fax 202-512-2250. Emergency information concerning Americans traveling abroad may be obtained from the Office of Overseas Citizens Services at (202) 647-5225. For after-hours emergencies, Sundays and holidays, call 202-647-4000. Passport information can be obtained by calling the National Passport Information Center's automated system ($.35 per minute) or live operators 8 a.m. to 8 p.m. (EST) Monday-Friday ($1.05 per minute). The number is 1-900-225-5674 (TDD: 1-900-225-7778). Major credit card users (for a flat rate of $4.95) may call 1-888-362-8668 (TDD: 1-888-498-3648). It also is available on the internet. Travelers can check the latest health information with the U.S. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention in Atlanta, Georgia. A hotline at 877-FYI-TRIP (877-394-8747) and a web site at http://www.cdc.gov/travel/index.htm give the most recent health advisories, immunization recommendations or requirements, and advice on food and drinking water safety for regions and countries. A booklet entitled Health Information for International Travel (HHS publication number CDC-95-8280) is available from the U.S. Government Printing Office, Washington, DC 20402, tel. (202) 512-1800. Information on travel conditions, visa requirements, currency and customs regulations, legal holidays, and other items of interest to travelers also may be obtained before your departure from a country's embassy and/or consulates in the U.S. (for this country, see "Principal Government Officials" listing in this publication). U.S. citizens who are long-term visitors or traveling in dangerous areas are encouraged to register at the U.S. embassy upon arrival in a country (see "Principal U.S. Embassy Officials" listing in this publication). This may help family members contact you in case of an emergency. Further Electronic Information Department of State Web Site. Available on the Internet at http://state.gov, the Department of State web site provides timely, global access to official U.S. foreign policy information, including Background Notes; daily press briefings; Country Commercial Guides; directories of key officers of Foreign Service posts and more. National Trade Data Bank (NTDB). Operated by the U.S. Department of Commerce, the NTDB contains a wealth of trade-related information. It is available on the Internet (www.stat-usa.gov) and on CD-ROM. Call the NTDB Help-Line at (202) 482-1986 for more information. *********************************************************** See http://www.state.gov/r/pa/bgn/ for all Background notes ************************************************************ To change your subscription, go to http://www.state.gov/www/listservs_cms.html

    96. CIA - The World Factbook 2002 -- Solomon Islands
    The UK established a protectorate over the solomon islands in the 1890s. Some of the most bitter fighting of World War II geography, solomon islands
    http://www.kidsnewsroom.org/elmer/infocentral/frameset/factbook/print/bp.html
    Country List World Factbook Home The World Factbook 2002 Solomon Islands Introduction Solomon Islands Background: The UK established a protectorate over the Solomon Islands in the 1890s. Some of the most bitter fighting of World War II occurred on these islands. Self-government was achieved in 1976 and independence two years later. Ethnic violence, government malfeasance, and endemic crime have undermined stability and civil society. Geography Solomon Islands Location: Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Papua New Guinea Geographic coordinates: 8 00 S, 159 00 E Map references: Oceania Area: total: 28,450 sq km
    water: 910 sq km
    land: 27,540 sq km Area - comparative: slightly smaller than Maryland Land boundaries: km Coastline: 5,313 km Maritime claims: measured from claimed archipelagic baselines
    territorial sea: 12 NM
    exclusive economic zone: 200 NM
    continental shelf: 200 NM Climate: tropical monsoon; few extremes of temperature and weather

    97. Solomon Islands Facts From ALS International
    Flag of solomon islands, solomon islands, Flag of solomon islands. Introduction geography People Government solomon islands, geography, Top of Page
    http://www.alsintl.com/countries/S/solomon.islands.html
    Solomon Islands Introduction Geography People Government ... Country List Solomon Islands Introduction Top of Page Background: The UK established a protectorate over the Solomon Islands in the 1890s. Some of the bitterest fighting of World War II occurred on these islands. Self-government was achieved in 1976 and independence two years later. Current issues include government deficits, deforestation, and malaria control. Solomon Islands Geography Top of Page Location: Oceania, group of islands in the South Pacific Ocean, east of Papua New Guinea Geographic coordinates: 8 00 S, 159 00 E Map references: Oceania Area: total: 28,450 sq km land: 27,540 sq km water: 910 sq km Area - comparative: slightly smaller than Maryland Land boundaries: km Coastline: 5,313 km Maritime claims: measured from claimed archipelagic baselines continental shelf: 200 NM exclusive economic zone: 200 NM territorial sea: 12 NM Climate: tropical monsoon; few extremes of temperature and weather Terrain: mostly rugged mountains with some low coral atolls Elevation extremes: lowest point: Pacific Ocean m highest point: Mount Makarakomburu 2,447 m

    98. TDS; Passports, Visas, Travel Documents
    geography. The solomon islands form an archipelago in the Southwest Pacific about 1900 kilometers (1200 mi.) northeast of Australia.
    http://www.traveldocs.com/sb/geog.htm
    Solomon Islands Oceania
    GEOGRAPHY The Solomon Islands form an archipelago in the Southwest Pacific about 1,900 kilometers (1,200 mi.) northeast of Australia. With terrain ranging from ruggedly mountainous islands to low-lying coral atolls, the Solomons stretch in a 1,450-kilometer (900 mi.) chain southeast from Papua New Guinea across the Coral Sea to Vanuatu. The main islands of Choiseul, New Georgia, Santa Isabel, Guadalcanal, Malaita, and Makira have rainforested mountain ranges of mainly volcanic origin, deep narrow valleys, and coastal belts lined with coconut palms and ringed by reefs. The smaller islands are atolls and raised coral reefs, often spectacularly beautiful. The Solomon Islands region is geologically active, and earth tremors are frequent. The islands' ocean-equatorial climate is extremely humid throughout the year, with a mean temperature of 27° C (80° F) and few extremes of temperature or weather. June through August is the cooler period. Though seasons are not pronounced, the northwesterly winds of November through April bring more frequent rainfall and occasional squalls or cyclones. The annual rainfall is about 305 centimeters (120 in.). More than 90% of the islands is forested. The coastal strips are sheltered by mangrove and coconut trees. Luxuriant rainforest covers the interiors of the large islands. Soil quality ranges from extremely rich volcanic to relatively infertile limestone. More than 230 varieties of orchids and other tropical flowers brighten the landscape.

    99. Te Puna Web Directory > Pacific > Regional > Solomon Islands > General And Refer
    General information about solomon islands Key facts; geography; society; economy; constitution and politics. Country profile solomon islands
    http://webdirectory.natlib.govt.nz/dir/en/pacific/regional/solomon-islands/gener
    Web Directory
    Pacific Regional Solomon Islands General and Reference See also:
    • General and Reference@ Commonwealth Secretariat. Solomon Islands
      General information about Solomon Islands: Key facts; geography; society; economy; constitution and politics.
      Country profile Solomon Islands

      General information about the Solomon Islands including an overview, politics, the media, national anthem and a timeline of historical events.
      Finding Solomon Islands

      Part of the South Pacific organizer site. Information abridged from: South Pacific handbook / David Stanley. 7th ed. Emeryville, Calif. : Avalon Travel Pub.
      GEsource world guide. Solomon Islands

      Country profile, demographics, geography/maps, economic data, articles, satellite images, links, including GEsource world guide. Resource aimed at users in further and higher education.
      Jane's Solomon Islands home page

      Provides a brief description and history of the Solomon Islands, including blackbirding, the Second World War and the Phoenix resettlement scheme. Also provides information on mythology, ethnology and tribal art. Includes a travel and accommodation directory and postcard and picture galleries.
      Solomon Islands : pearl of the Pacific
      This is the official website of the government of the Solomon Islands. It provides general information, a map, and information on tourism and investment.

    100. NetInsert - Geography In Solomon Islands
    NetInsert organize the web meta wizard netinsert Index » Information » geography. in. solomon islands, World. NetInsert web directory. No Web Pages
    http://www.netinsert.com/dir/90.0.1.8.4.1.html
    meta wizard netinsert
    Index
    Information Geography in: Solomon Islands World No Web Pages This category does not contain any web pages. A web page can be added by anyone who has a web site on the Internet. The web pages are listed in the order that they have been added. To have your web page listed first in this category submit the web address in the input field at the top of this page, and press the button for Insert Page. Help Pages Advertise More Space About NetInsert NetInsert

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