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            LIBYA
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Libya is a large north African
country that stretches from
the Mediterranean to, and in
some parts beyond, the Tropic
of Cancer. The Sahara Desert
covers much of the country.
The only green areas are the
scrublands found in the
northwest and the forested
hills near Benghazi. The
coastal area has mild wet
winters and hot dry summers,
but the interior has some of
the highest recorded
temperatures of anywhere in
the world. Only 14% of the
people work on the land. Many
sheep, goats and cattle are
reared, and there is an export
trade in skins, hides and
hairs. Libya is one of the
world's largest producers of
oil and natural gas.

Area (Sq. Km.): 1,759,532

Population: 4,356,000

Capital: Tripoli

Language:
Arabic

Religion:
Sunni Moslem 97%

Government Type:
Islamic Arabic Socialist
"Mass-State".

Currency: Libyan dinar

Libyan Interest Section:
119 Harley Street,
London,
W1N 1DH.
0171-486-8250

The country is effectively
closed to tourism from the
West due to the regime of
Ghaddafi. At the time of this
disk being prepared the
British Government is NOT
issuing visas. Entry to Libya
must be effected from another
North African country.

Religion: Islam (strict)

Time: GMT+2

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Foreign Office Advice:

As Britain has no diplomatic
relations with Libya, the
protection offered is limited.

Since April 1992, UN Security
Council sanctions have
included a ban on flights to
and from Libya making speedy
evacuation from Libya for
medical or other emergencies
difficult.

Safety and reliability of
internal flights may also be
affected since sanctions also
include a ban on the supply of
aircraft and components.

There have been recent
incidents of criminal violence
against foreign residents and
tourists.

It is unwise to use or carry
cameras. Harsh penalties are
imposed for the possession or
use of alcohol and for
criticising the country, its
leadership or religion.

All British Nationals should
register with the British
Iterests Section of the
Italian Embassy, Tripoli (Tel:
3331191).

For more information ring:

 Foreign Office Travel Unit

       0171-270-4129