Sa ‘oloto Tuto ‘atasi o Samoa

Note: There is considerable confusion regarding Samoan proper names, the terminal component being generally accorded benchmark status in this article as a matter of convenience.

Political Status: Independent state since January 1, 1962; member of the Commonwealth since 1970; under mixed political system approximating a constitutional monarchy.

Area: 1,097 sq. mi. (2,842 sq. km.).

Population: 176,710 (2001C); 189,400 (2007E).

Major Urban Center (2005E): APIA (40,700).

Official Languages: English, Samoan.

Monetary Unit: Tala (official rate November 1, 2008: 2.83 tala = $1US).

Head of State: Tuiatua Tupua Tamasese Taisi Tupuola Tufuga EFI; elected by the Legislative Assembly and installed on June 20, 2007, succeeding Susuga Malietoa TANUMAFILI II, who had died on May 12.

Prime Minister: Tuila'epa Sailele MALIELEGAOI (Human Rights Protection Party); confirmed by the ...