In 1958 Mauritania was granted autonomous status within the French Community. The current flag replaced the French tricolor on April 1, 1959, and no changes were made to the design at independence (Nov. 28, 1960). The green background of the flag and its star and crescent are traditional Muslim symbols that have been in use for centuries.

Mauritania Official name: Al-Jumhuriyah al-Islamiyah al-Muritaniyah (Arabic) (Islamic Republic of Mauritania). Form of government: unitary multiparty republic with two legislative houses (Senate [56]; National Assembly [79]). Head of state and government: President assisted by the Prime Minister. Population (1998): 2,511,000. Population projection: (2000) 2,660,000; (2010) 3,582,000. Natural increase rate per 1,000 population (1996): 31.7 (world avg. 15.7). Land use (1994): forested 4.3%; meadows and pastures 38.3%; agricultural and under permanent cultivation 0.2%; desert 57.2%. Gross national product (1996): U.S.$1,089,000,000 (U.S.$470 per capita).

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