West Africa, Gulf of Guinea.

GMT.

1,001 sq km (386.5 sq miles).

199,579 (2007 estimate).

199.4 per sq km.

São Tomé.

São Tomé e Príncipe comprises two main islands (Saõ Tomé and Príncipe) and the islets Cabras, Gago Coutinho, Pedras Tinhosas and Ilheu dos Rolas (which is crossed by the Equator line). These lie approximately 200km (120 miles) off the west coast of Gabon, in the Gulf of Guinea. The country is rugged and has a great deal of forest cover and few natural resources. The landscape is varied, combining mountains, tropical forest and beaches.

Republic. Gained independence from Portugal in 1975.

President Fradique de Menezes since 2001.

Prime Minister Patrice Trovoada since 2008.

President Fradique de Menezes, a wealthy cocoa exporter, was elected in July 2001 and re-elected in 2006.

In July 2003, a week-long military coup toppled his government while he was on a private visit to Nigeria. President de Menezes returned after an agreement to restore democratic rule was reached with the coup leaders.

The president wants revenues from new offshore oil fields to be used to improve public services. He is keen to reduce São Tomé e Príncipe's isolation and favours stronger ties with West Africa.

Mr De Menezes is the country's third president, after Miguel Trovoada, who served two five-year terms, the maximum permitted by the constitution (1990-2001) and Pinto da Costa (1975-1991).

The president's ruling MDFM-PCD coalition failed to secure a parliamentary majority in the 2006 elections. In February 2008, it entered a power-sharing deal with the opposition Independent Democratic Action (ADI) party, whose leader, Patrice Trovoada, became prime minister.

Portuguese is the official language. Creole is also spoken. Some English is spoken, but French is more common.

Roman Catholic majority (70%), with a number of other Christian denominations also represented.

220 volts AC.

The Portuguese influence is very strong. People are friendly and courteous. Every greeting is accompanied by a handshake. Normal social courtesies should be observed. Alcohol is available and smoking is acceptable.

Photography: Visitors wishing to photograph local people should ask permission first.