geographic coordinates: 9 30 S, 147 10 E
time difference: UTC+10 (15 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)
Administrative divisions:
18 provinces, 1 autonomous region*, and 1 district**; Bougainville*,
Central, Chimbu, Eastern Highlands, East New Britain, East Sepik,
Enga, Gulf, Madang, Manus, Milne Bay, Morobe, National Capital**,
New Ireland, Northern, Sandaun, Southern Highlands, Western, Western
Highlands, West New Britain
Independence:
16 September 1975 (from the Australian-administered UN trusteeship)
National holiday:
Independence Day, 16 September (1975)
Constitution:
16 September 1975