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 Mahmud AHMADI-NEJAD 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 $40 billion in foreign
exchange reserves, but have not eased economic hardships such as
high unemployment and inflation. The proportion of the economy
devoted to the development of weapons of mass destruction remains a
contentious issue with leading Western nations.
GDP (purchasing power parity):
$569.9 billion (2005 est.)
GDP (official exchange rate):
$181.2 billion (2005 est.)
GDP - real growth rate:
6.9% (2005 est.)
GDP - per capita (PPP):
$8,400 (2005 est.)
GDP - composition by sector: agriculture: 11.6% industry: 42.4% services: 46% (2005 est.)
Labor force: 23.68 million note: shortage of skilled labor (2005 est.)