Andorra: Secruity AssistanceBureau of Political-Military AffairsWashington, DC July 15, 2008 Background: For 715 years, from 1278 to 1993, Andorrans lived under a unique co-principality, ruled by French and Spanish leaders (from 1607 onward, the French chief of state and the Spanish bishop of Urgel). In 1993, this feudal system was modified with the titular heads of state retained, but the government transformed into a parliamentary democracy. Long isolated and impoverished, mountainous Andorra achieved considerable prosperity since World War II through its tourist industry. Many immigrants (legal and illegal) are attracted to the thriving economy with its lack of income taxes. (CIA—The World Factbook)Security Assistance Funding: (Source: 2009 Congressional Budget Justifications for Foreign Operations) Andorra has not been designated to receive Security Assistance Funding in FY 2008. Direct Commercial Sales: (Source: 2007 Section 655 Report) In FY 2007, the Department of State authorized the export of defense articles and services valued at $82,519. |
