Illicit drugs: illicit producer of coca, opium poppies, and cannabis; cultivation of coca in 1997—79,500 hectares, an 18% increase over 1996; potential production of cocaine in 1997—125 metric tons, a 14% increase over 1996; cultivation of opium in 1997—6,600 hectares, a 5% increase over 1996; potential production of opium in 1997—66 metric tons, a 5% increase over 1996; the world's largest processor of coca derivatives into cocaine; supplier of cocaine to the US and other international drug markets; active aerial eradication program seeks to virtually eliminate coca and opium crops
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@Comoros ———-
Introduction
Background: Comoros has had difficulty in achieving political stability, having endured 18 coups or attempted coups since receiving independence from France in 1975. Most recently, in August 1997, the islands of Anjouan and Moheli declared their independence from Comoros. An attempt in September 1997 by the government to reestablish control over the rebellious islands by force failed, and presently the Organization of African Unity is brokering negotiations to effect a reconciliation.
Geography
Location: Southern Africa, group of islands in the Mozambique Channel, about two-thirds of the way between northern Madagascar and northern Mozambique
Geographic coordinates: 12 10 S, 44 15 E
Map references: Africa
Area:
total: 2,170 sq km
land: 2,170 sq km
water: 0 sq km