Turks and Caicos Islands

From ArticleWorld

Situated in the Atlantic Ocean to the southeast of the Bahama Islands, the two Island groups of are a part of British West Indies. Though the islands remained under the control of Jamaica from 1848 to 1962, since 1962 the islands have been declared as a British overseas territory. Consisting of more than 30 Cays and islands, most of which except six are uninhabited. The capital is located at Cockburn Town on Grand Turk. The islands have a population of about 20,556 of which 90% are black and the remaining are of European or North American ethnicity. About 40% of the populace are Baptists while 16% are Methodists, 18% Anglican, 12% follow the Church of God and others make up the remaining 14%. The official language is English. The landscape consists of low lying lands, marshes, and mangrove swamps. The climate is generally sunny and dry with moderate winds. Hurricanes are known to be frequent occurrences on the islands. The major agricultural products are corn, beans, and cassava, citrus fruits, along with fish. The main sources of economic income comes from tourism, fishing, and offshore financial services. It is observed that most of the capitals goods and food products required for local consumption are imported. The islands' main exports are dried and fresh conch, conch shells, and lobsters. The charges levied on offshore financial services and custom levies form a major part of the local government's income. The government is lead by the chief of the state, namely Queen Elizabeth through the British governor who is duly appointed by the monarch. The administration is carried through the cabinet consisting of members appointed by the governor from the members of the Legislative council. The leader of the party that secures the majority in legislative elections is appointed the Chief Minister. The two political parties are People's Democratic Movement and the Progressive National Party. The Supreme Court is the highest court of law in the country. The official currency is the US dollar.