| | | After three decades as part of the UN Trust Territory of the Pacific under US administration, this westernmost cluster of the Caroline Islands opted for independent status in 1978 rather than join the Federated States of Micronesia. A Compact of Free Association with the US was approved in 1986, but not ratified until 1993. It entered into force the following year when the islands gained their independence. |
| | Country | Surface Area: 458 square km
Population: 19,409 (July 2002 est.)
Located in: Oceania, group of islands in the North Pacific Ocean
Capital City: Koror; (note: a new capital is being built about 20 km northeast of Koror)
Head of State: Tommy Esang REMENGESAU, Jr.
Prime Minister: Tommy Esang REMENGESAU, Jr.
Independent since: 1 October 1994 (from the US-administered UN Trusteeship)
Currency: US dollar (USD)
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