Papua New Guinea lies within the tropics, just south of the Equator and 160 km north of Australia. The country encompasses the eastern part of New Guinea Island, plus some 600 other islands, atolls and coral reefs. Papua New Guinea has a land area of approximately 473,189 km2. Papua New Guinea has a population of approximately 6.3 million people. This country is one of the most diverse on Earth, with over 850 indigenous languages and at least as many traditional societies. Melanesian Pidgin and Hiri Motu are the two most widely used, but English is the official language in education, business and government circles. While Christianity is the predominant religious influence, local traditional beliefs and ceremonies are maintained in remote areas. Independent since September 16, 1975, Papua New Guinea has a freely elected democratic government. Papua New Guinea became the 142nd member of the United Nations on October, 10, 1975 and is also a member of the British Commonwealth. Papua New Guinea has a vibrant economy with two distinct systems. The vast majority of people live in a traditional, non-monetary barter economy that existed long before European colonization began. Co-existing with the bartering economy is a modern economic system based on primary industries such as mining, petroleum, fishing, forestry and agriculture. Papua New Guinea’s main exports are gold, copper, oil, coffee, tea, copra, oil palm, forest and marine products.   Sources:  www.wikipedia.com www.cia.gov www.pngtourism.org www.state.gov/r/pa/ei/bgn/2797.htm Note: These websites contain third-party content which may not be affiliated with Nautilus Minerals Inc.