Diplomatic representation from the US:
none; note - protecting power in Iran is Switzerland
Flag description:
three equal horizontal bands of green (top), white, and red; the
national emblem (a stylized representation of the word Allah in the
shape of a tulip, a symbol of martyrdom) in red is centered in the
white band; ALLAH AKBAR (God is Great) in white Arabic script is
repeated 11 times along the bottom edge of the green band and 11
times along the top edge of the red band
Economy Iran
Economy - overview:
Iran's economy is marked by a bloated, inefficient state sector,
over reliance on the oil sector, and statist policies that create
major distortions throughout. Most economic activity is controlled
by the state. Private sector activity is typically small-scale -
workshops, farming, and services. President KHATAMI has continued to
follow the market reform plans of former President RAFSANJANI, with
limited progress. Relatively high oil prices in recent years have
enabled Iran to amass some $22 billion in foreign exchange reserves,
but have not eased economic hardships such as high unemployment and
inflation. In December 2003 a major earthquake devastated the city
of Bam in southeastern Iran, killing more than 30,000 people.
GDP:
purchasing power parity - $478.2 billion (2003 est.)
GDP - real growth rate:
6.1% (2003 est.)
GDP - per capita:
purchasing power parity - $7,000 (2003 est.)
GDP - composition by sector: agriculture: 12.5% industry: 41.2% services: 46.2% (2003 est.)
Investment (gross fixed):
28.6% of GDP (2003)
Population below poverty line:
40% (2002 est.)