27,556 sq km (10,639 sq miles).

404,000 (official estimate 1997).

14.2 per sq km.

Honiara.

35,288 (1990).

The Solomon Islands Archipelago is scattered in the southwestern Pacific, east of Papua New Guinea. The group comprises most of the Solomon Islands (those in the northwest are part of Papua New Guinea), the Ontong Java Islands, Rennell Island and the Santa Cruz Islands, which lie further to the east. The larger of the islands are 145-193km (90-120 miles) in length, while the smallest are no more than coral outcrops. The terrain is generally quite rugged, with foothills that rise gently to a peak and then fall away steeply to the sea on the other side. The capital Honiara is situated on Guadalcanal Island, which also has the highest mountain, Mount Makarakombu, at 2447m (8028ft). There are a number of dormant volcanoes scattered throughout the archipelago.

Constitutional monarchy. Gained independence from the UK in 1978. Head of State: HM Queen Elizabeth II, represented locally by Governor-General Sir John Lapli since 1999. Head of Government: Prime Minister Bartholomew Ulufa'ulu since 1997.

English is the official language. Pidgin English and over 87 different local dialects are also spoken.

More than 95% of the population are Christian.

GMT + 11.

240 volts AC, 50Hz. Australian-type flat 3-pin plugs are in use.