Djibouti the capital of which country. Little country

In the solar and desert African country, under the name Djibouti, there will always be a place for travelers who are tired of crowded resorts and eager to wander through endless expanses of untouched nature. However, there are comforters of comfort here, where to relax.

Djibouti on the world map

The Republic of Djibouti is located in East Africa in the area of \u200b\u200bthe famous Peninsula called African Rog.

He is also called Somalia. The Northern neighbor of this state is Eritrea, and from the south and west side it borders with sunny. In addition, Somaliland is another neighbor of Djibouti, the existence of which is still not recognized by many states. The country has access to the sea from the east side, namely is washed, which refers to Indian. Total length coastline There are approximately 314 kilometers.

Republic of Djibouti

By Djibouti Square takes about 23 thousand square kilometers, they live a little more than 800 thousand people. The largest city in the country is its capital with the same name Djibouti. At the head of state, the president named Ismail Omar Gelle. Until 1977, the republic was under the control of the French state. That is why today the French language is still on the list of officials, along with Arabic. The local population owns both languages \u200b\u200bperfectly, but it does not prevent everyone to talk among themselves at the local Afar dialect. Almost all residents of the country are confessing Muslim. Only five percent of them belong to the adherents of Christian religion.

Few people know that Djibouti is considered one of the most important international African ports. This country can rightfully be called a small sea power. Another important feature of Djibouti can be considered a good geographical location. Despite the fact that this state is rather poor, it can boast political stability. That is why the UN organization sent her observers here, and various international organizations followed their example. It is also known that American military garrisons are located in Djibouti, but this does not affect the movement of tourists through the state.

Relief Djibouti mountainous and hilly, occasionally intermittent with high plateau. For the territory of this country, quite active volcanic activities are characterized, which does not stop at present. The cones of extinct volcanoes high peaks are highlighted against the background of smooth transitions of the mountain landscape. In the very center of Djibouti, you can see deserted plains with a stony and sandy surface. Small low-rise plots are filled with salted lakes.

As for sources fresh water, there are practically no rivers in this African country. There are small rivers, which manifest after the rainy season, but gradually dry out. That is why more important role in Djibouti is assigned to lakes. In the heart of the country there is a major lake called Assass. His coast is considered the lowest geographical point of the country and the entire African continent. In addition, this reservoir is also one of the most saline in the world. As for the highest point of the state, it is represented by a vertex called Moussa Ali, which has about 2028 meters in height.

The vegetation in Djibouti is rather poor, which is characteristic of a deserted and semi-desert terrain. You can meet several types of grassy plants, but they grow very rarely. Small forest plantings are available only on some hills and mountain slopes. Juniper, acacia and olive trees grow in Djibouti. Occasionally, fish palms are found, more often in small oases in the middle of the desert.

You will also not noticize the special variety of the animal world in Djibouti, but sacking, antelopes and hyenals live in oases. Forest areas are monkeys, as well as reptiles and most different species insects. The water of the Adenian Bay is rich in fish.

State flag of Djibouti

As you know, the Republic of Djibouty more than a century belonged to France. It was the French who took care of the construction of the capital of the state, which is now an important seaside port of Africa. However, in June 1977, this country finally gained independence and its national flag.

The rectangular cloth is separated horizontally into two isometric strips of heavenly blue and green. On top of them in the left side of the flag, a snow-white triangle is depicted, occupying almost half of the canvas. A pentagonal red star is placed in the very center of this triangular element. Each component and color marked on the Djibouti state flag has a special symbolic value.

The blue band tells about the clarity and purity of the sky over the heads and endless marine expanses. Green strip personifies the wealth of local nature and its beauty. The white triangle is responsible for the world, to which the residents of Djibouti sought for so long. In addition, blue and green color can be associated with local tribes. As for the Red Star, it acts as the symbol of the independence and unity of the people in this country.

Climate Features in Djibouti

In this state is always very hot. The tropical climate here is different here not only by high temperatures, but also excessive dry air. In January, the average temperature indicator numbers 26 degrees with a plus sign, in July this indicator rises to 36 degrees. Throughout the year, the temperature ranges from 27-32 degrees with a plus sign.

For a large amount of precipitation, residents of Djibouti should not count. Every year no less than 50 millimeters of precipitation falls here, but not more than 150. The maximum amount of precipitation falls in the Mabla Mountain area and about 500 millimeters. The hot and dry season in Djibouti starts in May and ends in September. That is why the period from October to April is most suitable for tourist travel.

Rest and entertainment in Djibouti

Since the only international airport in the country is located in the capital of this East African state, the journey of any tourist will certainly begin with this city. Here, it is definitely something to admire, contrary to the popular belief that the architecture of the countries of the African region cannot boast of interesting offers:

• Presidential palace "This architectural masterpiece is created in a neomavritarian style, which will definitely attract your gaze. Although in most Muslim countries to attend such important national shrines is prohibited, there is no such restriction in Djibouti, therefore it is impossible to miss such a chance.
• MosqueHamouli. - Especially important item for visiting in this state, if you confess Muslim.
• Tropical aquarium- In this place you can get closer to the exotic inhabitants of the tropics.
• MarketLe. MARCHE Central - If you want to buy a couple of interesting things of local production, without a walk in this bazar can not do.
• Dzhibuti restaurants - Journey to the exotic country is quite difficult to imagine without gastronomic tourism. If you like to eat delicious, Djibouti will surprise you with their culinary manifold. It is necessary to have lunch or dinner at the Arabic restaurant. No less interesting can the establishments representing the Pan-African cuisine. Special attention deserves raw hammer beef. It is scattered with fragrant seasonings and herbs, and served with a sharp Berber sauce.

If you want comfort to spend time in this desert country, you should stop your choice at the Sheraton Djibouti 4 * or Djibouti Palace Kempinski 5 *. In local rooms you can relax from exotic and truly enjoy the atmosphere. At your service your own beach, luxury pools and spa salons. Women will certainly like relaxing and rejuvenating body treatments, as well as a magical ayurvedic massage. Hotel tourists can enjoy a couple fascinating excursions. Among the favorite entertainment, visitors are worth mentioning football, golf, fishing, or even walks through the air.

However, go to Djibouti only for the sake of sunny beaches and luxury hotel rooms would be stupid. Thousands of travelers come here to plunge into all the delights of ecotourism. You can infinitely listen to stories about the picturesque lava plateaus, high volcanoes, which have long been falling asleep, hot springs and salted lakes.

These reservoirs are distinguished not only by the high content of salts, but also a characteristic snow-white raid, which literally takes you to North Pole. The mandatory point of the plan can be considered the lake Assal, but experienced travelers know that there is another interesting reservoir called Lac Lip. The local population calls him a hole of demons, as it is the lake among the frightening volcanic relief.

The city of Djibouti has not yet become a popular tourist center, but in fact it lies main feature. It is on such desert African lands that can admire the virgin sea coast, according to which pink flamingos worn carelessly. In this country, freedom-loving dolphins are not afraid to splashing at the shore itself. Even in the capital of Djibouti, you can relax from noisy industrial cities. Exceptional this state make multiple volcanoes. Some of them still empty thin jets of ash smoke, others continue to sleep with a non-sidewalk.

If you like long-calm walks under the sail or diving, you will not have to miss Djibouti. Not far from the reserves on the islands of Mush and Maskali, which are located in the zone of the Tajur Gulf, you can even swim with cute whale sharks.

For Relph Djibouti, the alternation of mountain ranges, lava plateau with cones of extinct volcanoes. The territory is highly seismic, everywhere there are hot springs. The Northeast is occupied by the sangs of the Danakil Ridge (the highest point is Musa-Ali Mountain, 2022 m). The rest of the country to the west of the Gulf of Tajura, deeply cut into the mainland, is within the depression of Danakil, covered with almost lifeless lavs. The central part of Djibouti makes up stony, sandy and clay plains, low sections of which are engaged in salted lakes. The largest of them - Assal - lies 153 m below sea level. Small rivers dry annually. Tropical climate, very hot: The average monthly temperatures range from 27 to 32 ° C, precipitation in most areas falls from 50 to 100-150 mm per year. The hottest period is from May to September. The country is dominated by deserts and semi-deserts with a rarefied cover from cereals and shrubs. Only on the more wet slopes of the mountains are growing with trellies from tree juniper, acacia, mimosis, and in a few oases you can find palm trees. As much as poor and animal world (a few antelope-origins, hyenas and jackals, in the forests - monkeys), but coastal waters are famous for the wealth of coral reefs, abundance of fish.

The population of the country is 942,333 people (2016), mostly two people - Afara and Issa, in many respects preserving traditional lines and social organization, but quite a lot of and non-cried inhabitants - Arabs, Somalis, French and other people from Europe. Although state language is Arabic, most commonly used in the cities of French. The city of Djibouti, in which half of the population lives, is divided into two parts - the port on the Marabuth and Heron peninsulas and trade, business and residential neighborhoods. At the Ocean's shores, the presidential palace built in Neomavritarian style, but most of the city buildings have typical features of the colonial style.

Djibouti - relatively recently founded by Europeans city-port on the ancient Earth Kush, inhabited by nomadic and semi-oral tribes of Afar (Arabic - Danakil) and Issa.
Kushytskaya community has developed in East Africa 10-12 thousand years ago; By the end of the III mil. BC. e. There was a king king. In III-I thousand BC e. The ancient Egyptians organized here regular expeditions for precious incenses and other wealth. During the elevation of the Ethiopian Aksunsky kingdom in the IV-VI centuries. n. e. A little east of modern Djibouti arises an important port of Zeila, later the decline. Through Zail, ships were held from India and from the Indonesian islands of spices. The "path of spices" was the monopoly of the Arab merchants who in the VII century. turned most of the indigenous people of North Africa in Islam; Sultanates began to form. In the XII century Asphara and Somalia were formed on the coast of Sultanate Adal (from the Ethiopian name of the Afarov), which existed until the XVI century. and opposed the neighboring Christian Ethiopia. Then the Portuguese joined the game: first, they opened an alternative way to India; Secondly, from 1499 to 1530, they captured the entire Somali Coast. In 1530-1559 There was a devastating war between Somali, Egyptian Mamluki and Turks against Ethiopians and Portuguese. Abyssinia defeated (Ethiopian Christian State).
The French government tried to entrenched the African Horn from the middle of the XIX century, when the French diplomat Ferdinanda de Lessps had an idea of \u200b\u200b"artificial Bosphorus" (Suez Canal). In 1862, the French secured their rights to the land of Afar and Issa and anchor parking in the side of the contract with the ruler of Tajura. In 1881, French joint-stock companies were established on the development of the territory. In 1888, Catalan Captain Elo Pino founded a trading factor in which the modern city of Djibouti grew up.

Due to its exclusively favorable geographical position, Djibouti received the nickname of the pearl of the Tajur Gulf. A city founded in 1888 as a port, and today lives mainly at the expense of his shipyards. The colonial division into European and African regions is still very noticeable. The urbanized part near the port and the central square of Menelik with beautiful old houses in Ottoman and Neomavritarian style is very different from the poor District of Balbal.
The colors of the Dzhibutian flag personify the sea and the sky (blue), the earth (green) and the world (white), and the green is the color of the people of Afar, the blue is the color of the people of Issa, red - the memory of the struggle for the independence and symbol of unity. And on the flag of french Foreign Legiondeployed in Djibouti, green symbolizes the country, red - blood ...
More than half of the country lives in the capital, and its entire economy is built around the international port and free economic zone of Djibouti. Chief Foreign Policy Partner - France; From colonial times in Djibouti, the largest French military base in Africa remained, where a significant part of the French Foreign Legion was stationed. There is also a major American military base. Foreign presence in Djibouti increased dramatically during the international operation against Somali Pirates (since 2009, the United States of the Bay is controlled by the United States of the Navy 27 countries, and their main base is the port of Djibouti).
The internal policy is dictated by the relationship between the two main ethnic groups - Afar and Issu. If the Afair people dominated during colonial mode, then after the declaration of independence in 1977, the clan of the people of Issa came to power: first Hasan Guedied aphidon, since 1999 his nephew was the current President Ismail Omar Gelle. Aphar discontent broke out in civil War 1992-2000, which ended with the agreement on the Authority section. And in the adjacent territories, conflicts are not stopped, so the mass of refugees and illegal immigrants replenished the ranks of the inhabitants of the Dzhibutian capital; They dares in the poor "folk quarter" of Balbala, not like a business center, with his embassies, hotels and government buildings.

general information

Location: On the peninsula in the south-eastern part of the Republic of Djibouti, on the coast (), south of the Bab El Mandeban Strait, African Rog, Northeast Africa.

Official status: The capital of the Republic of Djibouti, according to the status of equal to the district.

The year of foundation: 1888

Capital status: 1894-1967: Residence of the colonial administration of the French coast of Somalia. 1967-1977: Center of the French territory of Afarov and Issa - the overseas territory of France. From 1977 to the present: the capital of the Republic of Djibouti.

Languages: French and Arabic - official; Somali, Afar.

Ethnic composition: Somali (Issa, Abgal, Dalol) - 60%, AFAR - 35%, Others - 5% (French, Italians, Ethies, Arabs - people from Yemen). Many refugees from Ethiopia and Somalia.

Religions: Islam - 94%, Christianity - 5%, other (Buddhism, Hinduism, traditional beliefs) - 1%.

Currency unit: Djibui Franc.

Port: Djibouti.

Airport: Djibouti Ambuli International Airport.

Railway transport: Line from Djibouti to a length of 784 km.

Numbers

Area: 630 km 2 with agglomeration (urbanized Central region - approx. 100 km 2).
Population: 604,000 people (In 2012, statistics include agglomeration).

Population density: 958.7 people / km 2.

Center height: 14 m.
58% of the total population of Djibouti lives in the capital (2012).
Distance to Somali border: 19 km.

Climate and weather

Tropical desert.

The average temperature of January: + 26 ° С.

The average temperature of July: + 36 ° С.

The average annual amount of precipitation: 50-130 mm (drop out of heels, can lead to flood).
Relative humidity: on the coast - up to 100%.

Economy

GDP: $ 2.231 billion (2011), per capita - $ 2,600 (2011) - country statistics.
The status of a leading economic object belongs to the seabed, whose share in the formation of GDP is about 30%.

Import: textiles, alcohol, etc. Drinks, food and industrial goods, oil.

Exportation: skins, coffee (from Ethiopia; In general, more than half of Ethiopian exports go through the port of Djibouti), wax, skin, salt.

Minerals: Gypsum, clay, limestone, stone and cook salt, pumice, perlite and Putzzolan. Extraction of cook salt (salt evaporation from sea water on Lake Assal).
Industry: Port Industry (shipyard); Food.

Fisheries (Barracuda, Muren, Tuna, Skat Manta), sea fishing (crab, mother of pearl, pearls, sponge, corals).

Agriculture: Oasis crop production (Palm palm tree, sorghum, vegetables, figs, mudflows), nomadic and semi-oral cattle breeding (goats, sheep, camels).
Traditional crafts: Treatment of skins and leather, silverware with pearls, pearl, amber and coral, skin embossing, cane products, souvenirs.

Services: Transport, Trade, Financial, Tourism.

sights

■ Natural: Bay Covers Harrab, she is the same lacquer - a salty lake, known as the "pit of the demons" due to gloomy lava landscapes with volcanic cones; Solen Lake Assal about 100 km from the capital; National Park "Relic Forest Dae" (Dei-Forest); Reserved Islands of Moskali and Mucha; Desert Plains of the Pet-Vara and Gran Bar; Coral reefs (and sunken ships of different eras) in the Gulf of Tajura; Beaches Choj-Ambado and Dorale.
■ City of Djibouti: Seaport, Central Square Menelik and Presidential Palace in Neomavritish style, Le Marshe-Central Market, Le-Pecher's Fish Market, Hamudi Mosque (1906), La Escala Theater, Old Ottoman-style houses. Tropical aquarium. National Stadium Stad-du-Ville. University of Djibouti.

Curious facts

■ The name of Djibouti on one of the hypotheses occurred from the AFAROV language and means "Palm Fiber Rug".
■ "People's" Djibouti Quarter and the Djibouti Favorite Football Club is called "Balbala". What does it mean for djibaltsev, not quite understandable, and in turkic languages Balbap is "Pratzur" or Vertical Stone Idol "Grandfather".

Republic of Djibouti

The Republic of Djibouti is located in the northeast of Africa (African Rog), between Ethiopia and Somalia, on the coasts of the Gulf of the Gulf and the Bab El Mongland, connecting the Indian Ocean with the Red Sea. The state area is 22,000 square meters. kilometers - in fact, the country consists of the capital of the same name with a population of 300,000 people and several more small settlements (In total, in the state 540,000 inhabitants). By the way, this is the most important port of Africa, so Djibouti can be called a small nautical power. There is an international airport in the country to which from Moscow is the easiest to get through Dubai or Paris.

Official language The states are Arabic, although French is widespread, and part of the population speaks in the language of Afar. Good luck geographical position And political stability made this country extremely convenient for the location of observers and representatives of all kinds of international organizations, primarily the UN, as well as spies of all stripes and foreign military garrisons (on the notes of the ladies: the most American soldiers here). What, however, does not prevent free movement of foreign tourists throughout the country.

City aesthetics

Once in Djibouti, it is worth visiting the presidential palace in Nesomavritarian style (near him you can walk freely, which is rare for Muslim countries); Hamouli Mosque, L "Escale Theater, a tropical aquarium and the LE MARCHE Central market (here, in particular, it is perfectly legally able to buy a" cat ", very popular in the east weak natural stimulator). The city is famous for restaurants of Arab and Pan-African cuisines; be sure to try local dishes. - For example, raw ground beef, polished with all sorts of eastern seasonings with burning Berber sauce.

There are only two hotels in the city: Sheraton Djibouti 4 * and Djibouti Palace Kempinski 5 *. In both hotels there are pools, and Kempinski also own sandy beach and the SPA & Wellness Center, in which visitors offer all sorts of face and body treatments and Ayurvedic massage. In hotels, you can order excursions, airfares, fishing in the open sea; In their possession - fields for playing football and golf, and in Kempinski there is a disco and even a casino.

Ecotourism

A typical country landscape is mountain ranges, extinct volcanoes and lava plateaus, there are hot springs and unique salty lakes - because of the white salt, salt sometimes it seems that you are on the North Pole. The most famous lake - Assassal, running at an altitude of 153 meters below sea level (this is the lowest point of Africa!). And Lake Luck Local Local residents nicknamed the "hole of the demons" - due to the mysterious, rushing fear of volcanic relief.

Tourists in Djibouti are a little while. Here you can still meet the virgin shores and wild flamingos, with the first rays of the sunshine with a pink veil into the sky; And the dolphins are not afraid to swim almost to the shore itself.

It seems that the noisy industrial world remains somewhere in the past life, and in Djibouti - silence and peace, a volcanic "Martian" landscape with gray lava jets, and the purest white sand beaches, and the purest white sand beaches. So divers, surfers, fans of snorkeling and yachting here Razdat. In the area of \u200b\u200bthe Bab El Mandeban Strait there are coral reefs, dangerous due to underwater flows, but very popular with divers from all over the world: by different estimates, at the bottom of the Strait, it rests from 1500 to 6000 sunken ships of various countries and eras.

The best beaches near the city feature - Dorale and Choir-Ambado. You can rent a boat and make a voyage to the protected Islands of Maskali and Musha in the Tajursky Gulf, in order to strengthen and swim along with whale sharks (do not worry: a person is not included in the diet of these animals) or to go fishing outdoors. In a hundred kilometers in the south-west of the capital, the exotic deserted terrain of Ali-Sabjeh was spread out - a large salty plain, which was chosen by the sandy windsurfers.

Opinion of a specialist

Elena Athasanova,
Deputy General Director of the Travel Company "A-Class"

"If you are a fairly experienced traveler and want new impressions, I want to take a break from noise, bustle and other costs of civilization, feel Robinzon Cruise or interests you underwater world And high-quality diving - then you should go to Djibouti. This African country at the ocean and the sea will leave you with a lot of exotic impressions. If earlier Djibouti was popular with European and American travelers who prefer "wild" tourism, then more recently have conditions for those who are accustomed to comfort and appreciates good service. By the way, the local population is tuned towards tourists very friendly and hospitable.

In addition to the contemplation of unique natural landscapes and animal peace, you can go through the course of SPA procedures in Djibouti or play casino. Business tourism uses success - various companies are happy to spend seminars and conferences in Djibouti. And the airfare through Dubai allows you to organize the combined tours of the UAE - Djibouti. "

Helpful information

Visa

need for citizens of Russia. In Russia there is no diplomatic missions of Djibouti. You can get a visa in advance at Djibouti embassies in Europe (for example in Paris or Berlin) or directly at the point of entry into Djibouti. To do this, it is necessary to present a passport and the completed immigration card (issued on the spot). The cost of a visa for 10 days - 12 euros, for 1 month - 20 euros. At Djibouti Airport with departing passengers is charged 20 euros.

Currency

djibui Frank (international designation - DJF, within the country - DFR). 1 Euro \u003d 254 DJF.

Hotels

• Sheraton Djibouti, BP 1924 Plateau de Serpent, Djibouti. The cost of accommodation is from 98 euros per day per room.
• Djibouti Palace Kempinski, Ilot Du Heron, P.O. Box 1960, DJIBOUTI. The cost of accommodation is from 190 euros per day per room.

Maria Zhelikhovskaya

The content of the article

DjiboutiDjibouti Republic. State in the northeastern part of Africa. Capital - G. G. G. G. G. (547.1 thousand people - 2003). Territory - 23.2 thousand square meters. km. Administrative-territorial division - 5 districts. Population- 712 thousand people. (2004). Official language- French and Arabic. Religion- Islam, Christianity. Currency unit - Djibui Franc. National holiday - June 27 - Independence Day (1977). Djibouti - UN member since 1977, the Organization of African Unity (OAU) since 1977, and from 2002 its successor - the African Union (AS), the Non-Aligned League, the League of Arab States (Lag) since 1977, the Organization of the Islamic Conference (OIC), the total market in Eastern and South Africa (Komes) from 1994, as well as an associate member of the European Union.

Geographical position and border.

The continental state is located in the district of African horns and on O-Wah masked, Mush and seven brothers. It borders in the north with Eritrea, in the north-west, south-west and south - with Ethiopia, in the south-east - with Somalia, the east coast is washed by the water of the Aden Bay of the Indian Ocean. The length of the coastline is 350 km.

Nature.

Djibouti is in the zone of the incessant volcanic activity. Mountains alternate with lavva plateau, many extinct volcanoes. The Tajursky Bay is located 60 km away. The highest point is Musa-Ali Mountain (2021 m). Minerals - Gypsum, clay, limestone, stone and table salt, pempes, perlit and Pozzzolan. There are geothermal sources.

Climate

- Tropical, hot and dry. Average monthly air temperature + 27-35 ° C. Maximum - + 42-43 ° - They are achieved in July. The average annual precipitation is 45-130 mm per year. The greatest number Moisture (500 mm) falls in the mountains of the year and Mabla. There are no permanent rivers. Large lakes - Assassal (salty) and Abbe (freshwater). Lack of drinking water is one of the main problems.

Flora

mostly desert and semi-desert (cereal, various acacias). In the relict forest, give (mountain range of the year) Juniper, olive tree, male, thuja, ficus drazen, etc., in the valleys - the palm tree and palm trees. Mangrove forests are preserved on the coast and islands. Antelope Kudo and Sassa, Warts, Hyien, Wild Cats, Mongos, Medicles, Sea Turtles, Monkeys, Sugar Fox, Shakals, Many birds (approx. 240 species, among rare types of ostriches), reptiles (including Varana , cobra and pythons), butterflies and insects. In the coastal waters of the abundance of fish, crabs and lobsters.

Population.

The average population density is 29.9 people. per quarter. KM (2002). The average annual population increase is 2.1%. Birth rate - 40.39 per 1000 people, mortality - 19.42 per 1000 people. Children's mortality - 105.54 per 1000 newborns. 43.2% of the population are children under 14 years old. Residents who have reached the 65-year age - 3.1%. The life expectancy is 43.12 years old (men - 41.83, women - 44.44). (All data for 2004). More than 45% of the population is below poverty line (2003).

Djibouti is a polyethnic state. OK. 60% of the population make up Somali peoples (including 48% - Issa (Nationalities Abgal, Dalol, etc.)), 35% - Afara (or Danakil), 5% - Europeans (most French and Italians), Arabs (in The main people from Yemen), Ethiopia, etc. More than 100 thousand djibalians lead a nomadic or half-blood lifestyle. The languages \u200b\u200bof communication of the overwhelming part of the population are AFAR and Somalia.

In Djibouti high rates of urbanization. Big cities (in thousand people): Ali-Saby (8), Tajur (7.5), Dikkil (6.5), skies (5) - 2003. Urban population - approx. 70% (2/3 he lives in the capital) - 2003.

The issue of repatriation of refugees and illegal immigrants (100 thousand people - 2003) from Iraq, Yemen, Rwanda, Somalia, Sudan, Eritrea and Ethiopia is acute. Djibui refugees live in Ethiopia, Kenya (approx. 20 thousand people. - 2001). From 2000, Djibouti became one of the new ways of African refugees (through Moscow and Tallinn) to Sweden.

Religion.

Djibouti is a secular state. 94% of the population - Muslims of the Sunni direction (there is also a small number of shiites). Islam began to spread in 9th century. AD Christians make up 5%, OK. 1% of Djibutians confess Buddhism and Hinduism (2003). Representatives of some nations parallel to preserve the commitment of traditional beliefs.

State Device and Politics

State device.

Presidential republic. The 1992 Constitution approved by a referendum of September 4 of the same year. The head of state and the commander-in-chief of the armed forces is the president, who is elected by universal direct and secret ballot for 6 years. The president may take this post no more than two deadlines. Legislative power is carried out by a unicameral parliament (National Assembly), consisting of 65 deputies who are elected by universal and secret ballot for a 5-year term.

The state flag is a rectangular cloth, divided into two horizontal stripes of light blue (above) and light green. On the left (the strip is imposed on the strip, the white isceitable triangle is imposed, in the center of which there is a five-pointed star of red.

Administrative device.

The country is divided into 5 districts, which consist of municipalities. The head of the districts are the Commissioners of the Republic (prefects, at the same time being mayors of district centers).

Judicial system.

Based on the modern right, Muslim and traditional (ordinary) right. Supreme, highest appellate, so-called Safety Tribunal, Sharia courts, criminal courts of districts, as well as courts on labor issues. Since 2000, the Ministry of Justice is making measures to form a single legal system in the country.

Armed Forces and Defense.

Armed Forces were created in 1977. In 2002, they had 9.6 thousand people: army - 9.2 thousand people, naval forces - 200 people, air Force - 200 people. There are also semi-universal divisions of gendarmerie (1.2 thousand people) and national security forces (3 thousand people) - 2002. Since 1992, there is a universal military service for men aged 18-25 years. Defense spending in 2003 amounted to $ 26.5 million (4.4% of GDP).

On the territory of the country from colonial times, the largest military base of France in Africa (2850 people - 2004) remains. Franco-Dzhibutian military maneuvers are regularly held. Djibouti during the first war in the Persian Gulf (1990-1991) was used as an operating base of the US troops. In the beginning. The 2000s are placed here a regional anti-terrorist center (1500 US soldiers).

Foreign policy.

It is based on non-aligned and neutrality policy. The main foreign policy partner is France. Djibouti promotes the development of cooperation between the countries of the African Horn: in 1985-1986 the country made an initiative to create an IGAD (intergovernmental organization of development), participated in the settlement of the instracted and Somali conflicts.

Diplomatic relations between the USSR and Djibouti are installed on April 3, 1978. On January 6, 1992, the Government of Djibouti recognized the Russian Federation by the USSR successor. Signed agreements on trade (1990) and cultural cooperation (1995). National frames for Djibouti were preparing in universities of the USSR and the Russian Federation.

Political organizations.

There was a multi-party system (there are more than 20 political parties). The most influential ones: " People's Association for Progress, Nop"(Rassemblement Populaire Pour Le Progrès, RPP), Leader - Ismail Omar Gelleh (Ismael Omar Gelleh), gene. sec. - Mohamed Ali Mohamed (Mohamed Ali Mohamed). The ruling party, the only legal party in 1981-1992, created. in 1979; " Party Democratic Update, PDO"(Parti du Renouveau Démocratique, PRD) Chairman - Abdillahi Hamareiteh (Abdillahi Hamareiteh), gene. sec. - Maki Humed Gaba (Maki Houmed Gaba). Fundamentals. In 1992. He advocated the creation of a democratic government formed on the basis of a parliamentary majority; " Union of the Democratic Alliance,» (Alliance Républicaine Pour La Démocratie, Ard), Preyed. - Ahmed Dini Ahmed (AHMED DINI AHMED), (ADAN MOHAMED ABDOU). Main opposition party, Created. in 2002; " Front for restoring unity and democracy, fried"(Front Pour La Restauration De L" Unité et de la démocratie, frud), Chairman - Ali Mohamed Daud (Ali Mohamed Daoud), a gene. - Ugurok Kifleh Ahmed (OUGOUH KIFLEH AHMED). Founded in 1991 as a military group of Afarov After split (1994), one of its factions in March 1996 was legalized as a party.

Trade union associations.

Universal labor union, here (Union Générale du Travail). Created in 1977, until 1992 was called "Universal Association of Djibouti Workers". Combines 22 professional unions in their ranks of 17 thousand members. Chairman - Yusuf Mohamed (Yussuf Mohamed), Secretary General - Aden Mohamed Ardou.

ECONOMY

Djibouti is one of the least economically developed states of the world. The basis of the farm is the agricultural sector. Frequent droughts are applied serious damage to the farm (last time in 2000). In the area of \u200b\u200bthe port of Djibouti, a free economic zone has been created.

Labor resources.

Economically active population - 315 thousand people, including in the agrarian sector - 248 thousand people. (2000).

Agriculture.

Share in GDP - 3.5% (2003). In its structure, animal husbandry prevails - breeding camels, goats, cattle, sheep and donkeys. Agriculture developed weakly, the area of \u200b\u200bthe processed lands is approx. one%. Grow vegetables (mostly tomatoes), watermelons and melons. Fisheries develops (Barracuda, Vull, Karangi, Merena, Moray, Tuna, Skata Manta, etc.). The population is also engaged in hunting, pearl, coral and sea sponges.

Industry.

Developed weakly. In 2003, its share in GDP was 15.8%. The manufacturing industry is represented by enterprises for processing agricultural products (confectionery factories, flour and dairy plants, plants for primary seafood processing, as well as to evaporate seawater salt, mineral water production plant), paper, leather, construction and pharmaceutical industries are developing.

International trade.

The volume of imports significantly exceeds the volume of exports: in 2002 imports (US dollars) amounted to 665 million, and exports - 155 million. The import of imports make up soft drinks, oil and petroleum products, food, transport equipment and chemicals. Main import partners: Saudi Arabia (19.7%), Ethiopia (10.9%), China (9.2%), France (6.5%) and United Kingdom (5.1%) - 2003. Major products Exports - coffee (transit), re-export, animal skins and selected skin. The main partners in exports - Somalia (63.9%), Yemen (22.5%) and Ethiopia (4.7%) - 2003.

Energy.

The basis of the fuel and energy balance is imported oil and petroleum products, as well as charcoal. Work 6 TPPs. Studies are underway on the use of alternative energy sources (including geothermal waters).

Transport.

Transport network is more developed in southern Districts. An important place in its structure belongs to the seaport in G. Tozhibuti (opened in 1888, in 2000 its expansion began) - a transit point for international paths from Europe and the Mediterranean to Eastern Africa and the countries of the Asia-Pacific region. Others seaports - Aden and Jedda. Sea merchant fleet in 2004 numbered 1 ship. The length of railways (are part of the total with Ethiopia railway) - 121 km. The first branch (G. Khibuti-Dauva (Ethiopia)) was built in 1902. The total length of roads is more than 3.5 thousand km (with a solid coating - 500 km). There are 13 airports and runways (3 of them have a solid coating). Ambuli International Airport (6 km from the capital) is one of the largest in Africa. (All data for 2003).

Finance and credit.

Monetary unit - Djibui Franc (DJF), consisting of 100 centimes. Current of the national currency: 1 USD \u003d 177.72 DJF (NC. 2004).

Tourism.

The country has the potential for the development of a tourist business - the presence of a rather branched infrastructure, sandy beaches and picturesque landscapes of the Tajur Gulf, conditions for yacht sports and underwater hunting. In 1998, 20 thousand foreign tourists (mostly French) visited the country. Attractions: Tropical Aquarium, Central Market, Dorale Beach (G. Legibuti), Reserved Islands Maskali and Musha in the Gulf of Tajur, National Lesopark Dai, as well as an exotic desert terrain, reminding the lunar landscape, near G.Ali-Sabie.

Underwater hunting (including on marine turtles) is prohibited by law. (Nevertheless, its meat enters many local dishes). Fishing fishing is allowed only under license. Prohibited production and removal from the country of corals and shells.

Society and culture

Education.

The foundations of the education system are laid in the 1910s. Mandatory 6-year primary education (Officially free), which children receive from 6 years. The secondary education (7 years) begins with 12 years of age and takes place in two stages - 4 and 3 years. In 2001, elementary schools attended 37.9 thousand children of relevant age. There are several dozen kokranic schools. Average technical I. higher education Djibui youth receives abroad (mainly in France, in the con. The 1990s of Djibouti students also studied in Russian universities). OK. 55% of graduates after graduation at home are not returned. With con. 2000 began the implementation of the education system reform program. Promptically 67.9% of the population (78% of men and 58.4% of women) - 2003.

Health.

Infectious disease predominate (including tuberculosis) disease. Lack of pure drinking water (permanent access to it in 2000 had approx. 90% of the population) leads to outbreaks of intestinal infectious diseases. In 2003, there were 9.1 thousand patients with AIDS and HIV-infected, 690 people died. The growth rate of the incidence of AIDS is 2.9% per year (2003).

In 2000, 91% of the population had access to health care, and health expenditures were 5% of GDP. In terms of child mortality, Djibouti among African countries is among the top ten. According to the UN Humanitarian Development Report (2001), the Republic of Djibouti in the ranking of countries was in 153th place. Frames of doctors are preparing abroad (Algeria, Morocco, Tunisia, France and Russia). In addition to France, Germany, Iraq and Libya provided financial assistance to the health care system.

Architecture.

She is inherent mixing Arab, African and Western European styles. The traditional view of the dwelling is a small single or two-storey house under a flat roof, surrounded by a terrace and gallery. Pretty thick walls, protecting from heat, erected from Mad Parabor blocks (local construction material coral origin). Windows and doors are wooden, decorated with carvings. Nomadic peoples of the housing serve as leather tents or huts from mats. In G. Legibuti, quarters built in a colonial style were preserved. Modern construction uses aluminum, reinforced concrete structures and glass.

Fine arts and art crafts.

Professional painting and sculpture are in the formation stage. The name of the young artist Robert (pseudonym Mohammed Hussein) is widely known. Art crafts are common - weaving products from the cane, the manufacture of souvenirs (stuffed representatives of the water world, a variety of shells, crafts from stone and corals).

Literature.

Based on the traditions of oral folk creativity Afarov and Issa, experiencing a significant influence of France's literature. Popular folklore (legends, myths, legends and fairy tales). In the 1990s, in French, Afar and Somali, several collections of legends and fairy tales of local peoples were published. The circle of writers is not a few. Modern writers - Abdurahman Vabery (live in France, two collections of young author stories are included in the mandatory school Program Djibouti), Dager Ahmed. Popular poet A. Vais.

Music and theater.

The game on musical instruments, songs and dances are an integral part of the original culture. Traditional music is performed on Tamamam. In the 20th century It was influenced by modern European and Arab musical cultures. The birth of the National Theater began in con. 1980s. At the Palace of the People (built in G. Lezhibuti in 1985) there are several musical and dance and theatrical teams. In the capital there is an amateur Salin Theater, on the stage of which touring foreign artists speak (in 1989, the ensemble "Russian Song" was performed with concerts).

The development of national literature, musical and visual arts Promotes the active interaction of the creative intelligentsia of the country with numerous francophone organizations (including the French cultural center. A. Rembo) and the Götte Institute (Germany), which regularly conduct cultural events.

Press, broadcasting, television and internet.

Published: in French and arabic - the weekly newspaper "La Nation de Djibouti" (La Nation de Djibouti - "People of Djibouti", irregularly coming out an application to him in Somalia), on french - Official Journal of the Government "Journal of Office De La Rail De La République de Djibouti -" Official newspaper of the Republic of Djibouti "), LE PROGRE newspaper (Le Progrès - Progress) - Printed Organ of the Right NOP, Weekly "Le Renouveau" - "updated") - the printed organ PDA and others.

"The Djibouti Information Agency, Agezh" (Agence Djiboutienne D "Information, Adji) was created in 1978, operates since 1982. The government service and television service operates from 1956 (in 1991 a modern multi-storey studio), daily transmissions are conducted in French, Arabic and AFAR Languages, as well as the Somalia language. TV shows are broadcast only for G. G. Legibuti and its suburbs. There are 6.5 thousand Internet users (2003).

HISTORY

Preolonional period.

The territory of modern Djibouti was populated long before the start of the new era. In 3 c. BC e. Merchants from Greece, India, Persia and South Arabia penetrated here. In the beginning. 9- con. 14 centuries. The territory of Djibouti was part of Muslim state Education Iyphat. The Turkish-Portuguese rivalry for the control over Djibouti ended with the victory of Portugal (14 century), but in the 17th century. Power again captured the Sultanates.

Colonial period.

France made attempts to entrenched on the coast of the Gulf of the Gulf from the 1850s. In 1888, on the coast, the French was founded by the Sea Port of Djibouti. From 1896 new colony with administrative center In G. Lezhibuti began to be called the French Coast of Somalia. Trade was actively developed, the French colonists created agricultural and pastoral farms. Introduction to the operation of joint Djibusesco-Ethiopian railway (1917) turned the country to an important military-strategic point in Indian Ocean. In 1946, the colony received the status of the overseas territory of France.

The first political party - the Democratic Union of Somalia (DSS) - was created in 1958. In the 1960s, parties on an ethnic basis are created: "Party of People's Movement" (PND), "Democratic Union of Afarov" (DSA) and others. Growth of political activity In the colony forced France in 1967 to provide her expanded autonomy, she also received a new name - "French territory of Afarov and Issa" (Ftai). In 1975, the first inter-ethnic party was founded - the African People's League for Independence (ANLN), which initiated the initiator of the country's independence. On the referendum held on May 8, 1977, 98.7% of the Djibouti population spoke for independence.

The period of independent development.

On June 27, 1977, the independent state of the Djibouti Republic was proclaimed. The President of Anlan Hassan Gulid Aptidon was elected president of the country. Attempts to maintain ethnic balance between Issa and Afairi were taken (in the first two years of independence, the composition of the government changed three times). In March 1979, on the basis of Anlan, the Party "People's Association for progress "(NOP) led by H.G.Gulid. After re-election, a single-party regime mode was introduced into the new presidential period in 1981. Tensions in relations between Afrai and Issa in Nach. 1900s led to armed clashes. In 1991-1994, opposition military group of Afarov Fued ("Front for the restoration of unity and democracy" was performed against the government.

In 1992, a multiparty was introduced under pressure from the opposition and international financial institutions. In the presidential election, 1993 won H.G.Gulid again. Fued renewed an armed confrontation by the authorities. After long negotiations, the government recognized the Fued Leading Party. Moderate wing of the party leadership in the parliamentary elections 1997 was in a single coalition with the ruling NGO. The radical part of the FFF continued anti-government performances before signing a peace treaty between them in May 2001.

In 1999, H.G.Gulid, having received 74.1% of the vote, re-elected president for a new six-year term. For financial assistance The IMF began the implementation of economic reforms, calculated until 2002. The volume of GDP in 2002 amounted to $ 619 million, its growth is 3.5%. The inflation rate in 2002 was 2%.

Djibouti in the 21st century

The next parliamentary elections took place on January 10, 2003. Under the conditions of the boycott of elections, by some opposition parties (rent, Fued, etc.), the ruling NOP party won their victory.

The country is implemented by the macroeconomic development program, calculated for 2001-2010. One of the priorities of modern internal politicians Governments - Fighting hunger and decrease in poverty. A serious problem is unemployment (among young people reaches 60%). The main financial donors are France, the UAE and Saudi Arabia. Since 2002, close relations with France began to be folded. In the beginning. 2005 The authorities raised France rent for the use of military infrastructure to 30 million euros per year.

The presidential election was scheduled for April 8, 2005. The current president is the only official candidate. Fued extended an appeal to the people of Djibouti with a call to "rally against the presidential elections", and France and the United States, carrying out the military presence in Djibouti, is to "support the transition to democracy in the country."

Lyubov Prokopenko