Cape Verde, officially the Republic of Cabo Verde, is an archipelago and island country in the central Atlantic Ocean, consisting of ten volcanic islands. These islands are divided into the Windward Islands and Leeward Islands, with the capital, Praia, located on the largest island, Santiago.
Cape Verde is located about 570 kilometers (350 miles) off the coast of West Africa. The islands are of volcanic origin, featuring rugged terrain with dramatic cliffs and volcanic peaks. The climate is arid with very little rainfall, except for the higher elevations where some moisture is captured.
The economy of Cape Verde is service-oriented, with tourism being the largest industry due to its beautiful beaches, unique culture, and stable political environment. Other sectors include fishing, agriculture, and increasingly, information technology and services. The country has also embraced renewable energy, particularly wind and solar power.
Cape Verdean culture is a rich amalgamation of African and Portuguese influences:
Cape Verde is a democratic republic with a multi-party system. The President is both head of state and commander-in-chief of the armed forces, while the Prime Minister is the head of government. Elections are held regularly, and the country is noted for its political stability and freedom of speech.
Cape Verde has good relations with many countries, particularly Portugal, United States, and European Union members. It's also a member of several international organizations including the African Union, United Nations, and the Community of Portuguese Language Countries.