Bahrain - Country Profile

Full name: Kingdom of Bahrain
Population: 791,000 (UN, 2009)
Capital: Manama
Area: 717 sq km (277 sq miles)
Major language: Arabic
Major religion: Islam
Life expectancy: 74 years (men), 77 years (women) (UN)
Monetary unit: 1 Bahraini dinar = 1,000 fils
Main exports: Petroleum and petroleum products, aluminium
GNI per capita: US $19,350 (World Bank, 2007)
Internet domain: .bh
International dialling code: +973

 

 

 

 Bahrain - whose name means "two seas" - was a time when the Sumerians as an island paradise where a wise and brave, to be taken to demonstrate that enjoy eternal life. It 'was one of the first states in the Persian Gulf to discover oil and build refineries and as such has benefited from oil wealth before most of its neighbours. 

 

Bahrain never reached the level of production from Kuwait and Saudi Arabia enjoyed and was forced to diversify its economy Khalifa. In the country from 1783 to the family of Bani Utbah that were sold with the Persians. Since 1861, when he signed with Britain, which was signed until independence in 1971 Bahrain was virtually a British protectorate. The king is the supreme authority, and family members of the main Sunni Muslim political and military positions. 

 

There have long been tensions between Sunni and Shiite Muslim majority in Bahrain. Sometimes the disorder was extended -. In 2001, the emir of Bahrain has strongly supported the time King - the country into a constitutional monarchy with an elected parliament and, in turn, an independent judiciary. The elections are due in 2002, 40 members of the European Parliament, the Council of Delegates held. The survey was the first time in nearly 30 years. 

 

The new body, including dozens of Shiite members. The country has more freedom of expression and monitor with experience say that the human rights situation has improved. However, continued opposition groups and activists, political reforms, including greater powers of an elected assembly, press -. Bahrain, an archipelago of over 30 - a paradise for tourists in the region, taking advantage of its relaxed social environment. Closely allied with the United States is home to the U.S. Navy 's Fifth Fleet.

 

King: Sheikh Hamad bin Isa Al Khalifah