Iceland.org

Iceland, an island nestled in the North Atlantic Ocean, is a unique travel destination. It’s a country that’s about the size of Virginia, with a population of roughly 320,000 people. Though it’s located just south of the Arctic Circle, it’s a highly developed nation with a stable democracy.

English is widely spoken here, making it a comfortable destination for tourists. The country offers well-developed facilities for visitors a well-developed tour industry.. But it’s not just the convenience that makes Iceland special. It’s the blend of natural beauty, safety, and cultural richness that sets it apart.

Despite its low crime rate, it’s always wise to exercise common sense. Keep your valuables safe and be cautious during the late-night hours in downtown Reykjavik. But don’t let this deter you. The charm of Iceland lies in its diversity, from its fluctuating immigration patterns to its wide array of origins among its immigrant population.

Photos of Iceland

As you delve deeper into Iceland, you’ll find that it’s not just the cultural richness that makes it stand out. Some say a picture paints a thousand words, and in Iceland’s case, this adage rings especially true. Iceland’s otherworldly landscapes have charmed not only tourists and photographers, but also prominent filmmakers from around the globe.

Iceland’s natural beauty has made for a stunning backdrop in a variety of films, with the island’s unique terrain portraying everything from other planets to the center of the earth. For instance, Ridley Scott’s Prometheus and Christopher Nolan’s Interstellar utilized Iceland’s captivating atmosphere to represent alien worlds. Even James Bond made a visit with Die Another Day being partially set in Iceland.

Iceland has also seen some of its homegrown talent shine on the international stage. Guðrún S Gísladóttir, charmed viewers in the Russian film The Sacrifice. Furthermore, Anita Briem brought a piece of Iceland with her in the Hollywood film Journey to the Center of the Earth. Remarkably, scenes from this movie were actually shot in Iceland!

The etymology of the name ‘Iceland’ also ties back to the country’s geographical features. It translates to ‘smoky bay’, reflecting the steamy vapours discharged from the hot springs in the area. Even in the name, the charm of Iceland’s diverse landscape shines through.

Capturing photos of Iceland’s breathtaking landscapes, whether it’s for a personal collection or a cinematic masterpiece, contributes to the appreciation of its natural beauty. The country’s unique visuals tell a story that’s as captivating as its history, people, and culture.

Introduction

As we’re diving deeper into Iceland’s interesting aspects, its crucial to broaden our understanding by looking at the backdrop – the country’s geographical features, climate, natural phenomena, vegetation, wildlife, and so much more. This rich assemblage contributes to the country’s unique ambiance, attracting millions to explore its breathtaking landscapes. So, let’s uncover the intricacies that make Iceland an enthralling country.

Background

Iceland’s geology is compelling and complex, characterized by volcanic activity. The Reykjanes Peninsula witnessed a volcanic eruption recently, as reported by the BBC News on 19th December 2023. These geological operations highlight the active and vibrant nature of Iceland’s subsurface.

The climate in Iceland is distinctive, swinging between mild Atlantic and frigid Arctic, creating a dynamic weather environment. As per archival data from the Icelandic Meteorological Office, disturbances such as the atmospheric impact of the 1783-1784 Laki Eruption considerably affected the island nation’s climate. This goes on to show how the country’s atmospheric conditions are intertwined with its active geology.

When it comes to biodiversity, Iceland steps up its game even further. From being home to numerous wildlife species to the rare, but enigmatic, occurrence of an eruption of the country’s most famous hot spring, the country has it all.

Critical efforts are also being made to restore the vegetation in Iceland after the forests were razed by Vikings, as reported by the World Economic Forum. This echoes the commitment to environmental preservation that’s deeply rooted in Icelandic ethos.

Relatively moderate spending on various subsidies among Icelanders, as compared to other European countries, further paints the picture of a country committed to practicality and financial prudence.

Finally, an intriguing pattern of Icelandic emigration and immigration demonstrates a nation’s transnational dynamics. A series of emigration and immigration peaks and troughs from 1960 onwards portrays significant shifts in the country’s demographic structure.

Geography

Let’s dive into the fascinating geography of Iceland, lining the core of its charm and allure. Situated in the North Atlantic Ocean, this beautiful island showcases a vibrant contrast of geography, climate, and culture.

Location

Iceland, a land of sparkling glaciers and ruggedly beautiful mountains, strategically lies on an active geologic border, bridging North America and Europe. This uniquely active location makes the island one of the globe’s most dynamic geological landscapes.

Area

The entire island spans about 103125.4citenoteruv201502266 km² (39817 sq mi), securing its place as the 106th largest of countries and dependencies by area. Of all this, about 11 percent, precisely 4603 mi² (11922 km²), is glaciated, housing Europe’s largest glacier, Vatnajökull.

Aspect Quantification
Total Area 103125.4 km²
Glaciated Area 11922 km²

Maritime Claims

The coastline of the island, punctuated by many fjords, runs for about 3088 miles (4970 kilometers). The island’s maritime boundary swells with abundant offshore resources, nourished by the mighty Gulf Stream.

Climate

Despite being one of the planet’s northernmost inhabited places, the influence of the Gulf Stream provides a surprisingly mild climate. It’s characterized by frequent atmospheric interplays between mild Atlantic and colder Arctic air, causing abrupt weather shifts. Rainfall peaks typically surface between October and February with the southern and western regions receiving the lion’s share.

Terrain

The island hosts unique terrain features rendering it an open-air museum of geology. The interior – the Highlands – represents a cold, generally uninhabitable region home to sands and mountains. Most urban settlements flock around the coast. Notable exceptions are Reykjavík, the capital, and cities like Keflavík and Akureyri.

Elevation

The elevation of Iceland arises from the plentiful natural features sprinkled across the island. Glaciers such as Vatnajökull cover significant parts, while the volcanic mountains further add to the variable topography.

Land Use

A vast majority of Iceland’s land, about 75 percent, remains uninhabited. These parts primarily indulge in deserts made of sand and stone, expansive lava fields, and glaciers. They exemplify starkly beautiful landscapes colored by contrasting hues of desolation and constant geological evolution.

Population Distribution

Despite its sparse population, the demographic distribution of Iceland leans heavily towards urban areas. For instance, Reykjavík and other cities within the Capital Area alone house over half of the population. As for rural dwellings, they primarily skirt the coast since the inland terrain is largely inhospitable.

Natural Hazards

Situated on an active volcanic region, Iceland faces regular geological upheavals. These churn out a range of natural hazards such as earthquakes and volcanic eruptions. However, they also contribute unique phenomena like geysers, the driving force behind many of Iceland’s homes and hothouse agriculture.

Geography – Note

The captivating geography of Iceland creates a land of contrasts, crafting an allure hard to resist. With its surprising climate, vivid landscapes, and eventful geological activities, each corner of the island sings a different song. The nation’s commitment to environmental preservation amidst its remarkable biodiversity compose the captivating symphony that is Iceland.

People and Society

Allow me to bring you closer to the heart of Iceland – its people and society. This land is a fertile ground for human diversity, language development, and socio-cultural maturation.

Ethnic Groups

Iceland is largely populated by those identifying as Icelanders, accounting for 80% of the population who are descendants of the original Scandinavian and Celtic settlers. Polish people make up 6% and the rest arrive from various corners of the globe.

Languages

When it comes to language, Icelandic holds a special place. This North Germanic language springs from Old Norse and takes pride in having changed little over centuries. More intriguing is the conscious language planning that has birthed new vocabulary based on native roots. This tendency towards linguistic purity makes Icelandic an unusual survivor among European languages and introduces an element of mystique to Icelandic society.

Religions

Delving into the realm of faith, Iceland’s religious makeup is equally intriguing. Data indicates a noticeable diversity in religious and life-stance organizations, with the nation formally recognizing Judaism as notable in 2021.

Demographic Profile

Peeking into its demographic profile, Iceland’s sparse population of about 360,000 is predominantly settled in urban areas, with the southwestern region marking the highest density.

Age Structure

A key factor accentuating the prosperity of Iceland is its robust life expectancy, which ranks 7th highest in the world. This also influences the age structure of the population, safeguarding the country’s growth and development for years to come.

Dependency Ratios

Information on dependency ratios, ** median age**, Birth rate, Death rate and Population distribution is pending and will be updated shortly.

Sex Ratio

While data for sex ratios is still being consolidated, overall gender equality in Iceland is well recognized, suggesting a balanced and progressive societal framework.

Infant Mortality Rate

Iceland’s infant mortality rate, drinking water source statistics, and sanitation facility access information will be provided in forthcoming updates.

Alcohol Consumption Per Capita

Given Iceland’s excellent healthcare services, the country keeps accurate records on health-related statistics including alcohol consumption per capita.

Tobacco Use

Data on tobacco use among the Icelandic population will be provided shortly, providing a deeper understanding of public health in the country.

Literacy

Finally, literacy, a cornerstone of any nation’s progress. The literacy rate in Iceland is astoundingly high, reflecting the strong emphasis the Icelandic government places on education as a developmental strategy. This is testimony to the nation’s commitment to knowledge as a key driver of growth.

Pause– Now that we’ve delved into the diverse spectrum of Iceland’s people and society, let’s turn our attention to the next pillar of understanding this alluring nation – its economy. Surely, the sound of that isn’t as harsh as its winter winds, is it?

Environment

Delving into the aspect of Iceland’s environment, it’s interesting to note how the nation has been responsive toward international environmental issues and managing natural resources wisely. Let’s gauge through the diverse perspectives that shape Iceland’s commitment, right from signing international agreements to managing waste and recycling procedures.

Environment – International Agreements

When it comes to international environmental agreements, Iceland stands as a signatory to a myriad of global initiatives. For emphasis, the nation is party to agreements related to:

  • Air Pollution
  • Persistent Organic Pollutants
  • Antarctic Treaty
  • Biodiversity
  • Climate Change (including Kyoto Protocol and Paris Agreement)
  • Comprehensive Nuclear Test Ban
  • Endangered Species
  • Hazardous Wastes
  • Law of the Sea
  • Marine Dumping (London Convention and Protocol)
  • Nuclear Test Ban
  • Ozone Layer Protection
  • Ship Pollution
  • Wetlands

The country, however, has not ratified the agreements pertaining to Air Pollution-Heavy Metals, Environmental Modification, and Marine Life Conservation.

Climate

Shifting focus to climate, Iceland’s coastal region showcases a subarctic climate, warranted by the warm North Atlantic Current. This unique positioning ensures higher annual temperatures compared to other places at similar latitudes globally. Interestingly, regions with comparable climates include the Aleutian Islands, Alaska Peninsula, and Tierra del Fuego. Despite its closeness to the Arctic, Iceland’s coasts remain ice-free through winter, with ice incursions being a rarity.

Land Use

Iceland’s land use stakes a claim on unique diversity with 18.7% covering agricultural land, including 1.2% arable land, zero permanent crops, and 17.5% permanent pasture. It’s worth noting that mere 0.3% of the total land is a forest, leaving a substantial 81% for other uses.

Air Pollutants

As we survey air pollutants, Iceland’s figures reflect a certain degree of environmental concern. Particulate matter emissions stand at 579 micrograms per cubic meter, carbon dioxide emissions were approximately 2.06 megatons, and methane emissions 0.59 megatons.

Waste and Recycling

Diving into the waste management sphere, Iceland generates nearly 525,000 tons of municipal solid waste annually. Waste reduction and recycling are definitely aspects that command attention and action on a social scale in Iceland.

Total Water Withdrawal

The subsection on total water withdrawal is postponed for now as data is currently being gathered and adequately validated. Keep an eye out for updates on this crucial component of Iceland’s environmental profile.

Geoparks

Iceland, with its geothermal activity and unique geological formations, is a haven for geoparks. The country utilizes this natural capability to promote sustainable development, education, and tourism — further strengthening its environmental prowess. The data on specific geoparks is fetching. Till then, we’ll continue discovering more facets of Iceland.

Government

Taking you through Iceland’s government structure, you’ll find understanding the political framework of this Nordic land interesting. The principles and practices are an integral part of the nation’s charm, reflecting its stability, progressive approaches, and high standards of social equality.

Country Name

Officially known as the Republic of Iceland, it’s fondly known by locals and tourist’s alike for its scenic landscapes, geothermic hot spots, and strong cultural heritage.

Capital

Reykjavík, the capital, translates to Smokey Bay – a moniker it garnered from the steam that arises from the city’s numerous geothermal springs. Today, Reykjavík is not only the heart of Iceland’s culture and governance but also a booming tourist hub.

Administrative Divisions

Iceland’s administrative structure is well defined. Starting from Reykjanesbær with a population of 18,920 to little Fjarðabyggð with 5,070 inhabitants, every local region contributes to Iceland’s character in unique ways.

Region Population
Reykjanesbær 18,920
Fjarðabyggð 5070

Independence

In regard to its Independence, Iceland is an evolved democracy with progressive political views.

Constitution

The country’s constitution clearly states that there are no noble privileges, titles, or ranks. Thus, reinforcing Iceland’s commitment to egalitarianism and social equality.

Citizenship

Uncommonly known, there are no real surnames in Iceland. A child’s surname is derived from their parent’s first name. It’s a fascinating traditional practice that further strengthens the sense of equality and camaraderie amongst Icelanders.

Executive Branch

In the executive branch, Jóhanna Sigurðardóttir is a well-known figure for Iceland. Under her leadership, Iceland’s economy not only stabilised but also grew by 1.6% in 2012.

Legislative Branch

The legislative landscape in Iceland saw the resurgence of the center-right Independence and Progressive Parties in the 2013 elections.

Judicial Branch

The judicial branch in Iceland is guided by high standards of fe in legal proceedings fairness.

Political Parties and Leaders

Iceland is constantly evolving, politically, leading to a dynamic landscape of political parties and leaders. In 2016, the country went through a government overhaul due to a notable scandal, resulting in a resurgence of right-wing politics.

International Organization Participation

Iceland is a part of numerous international organizations, always actively contributing to global affairs. This offers tangible evidence of the country’s commitment beyond its borders.

Diplomatic Representation from the US

In regards to Iceland’s relation to other nations, the country enjoys cordial diplomatic ties with many countries around the globe, including the U.S., further reinforcing its international standing.

Flag Description

About the Icelandic flag, it carries symbolic value that goes beyond the mere representation of national identity.

National Anthem

Lastly, like every nation’s anthem, Iceland’s national anthem – a testament to its rich cultural heritage – echoes out in the winds of the North Atlantic, singing tales of the country’s valorous past and its progressive future.

Diving deep into Iceland’s government structure and political systems, it’s easy to understand the strength and stability of the nation. Iceland, true to its commitments, stands as a beacon of progress and equality. Its traditional yet forward-thinking attitudes shed light on how nations can preserve cultural heritage while evolving towards a better future for all.

Economy

When you consider Iceland’s economy, there are several notable aspects. This compact, Nordic island nation has made impressive strides in diversifying its economic structure and enhancing its efficiency.

Economic Overview

The economic landscape in Iceland has traditionally been heavily dependent on fishing – an industry that still constitutes around 40% of export earnings and employs 8% of the workforce. However, a notable shift has been observed over the past few decades. As of now, Iceland stands as the world’s largest electricity producer per capita, primarily due to extensive use of renewable energy sources such as hydroelectric and geothermal power. This robust commitment to green energy has seen Iceland feature among the world’s top 10 greenest economies.

Real GDP per Capita

In 2007, it’s recorded that Iceland was the seventh most productive country in the world per capita (US$54,858). Further, the country ranked as the fifth most productive by GDP at purchasing power parity (40,112).

Credit Ratings

As evident in this relative economic might and stability, Iceland has managed a healthy stance in global credit ratings. Following a temporary slump during the 2008 financial crisis, Iceland’s credit ratings have steadily improved, highlighting the nation’s resilience and adaptive capacity.

GDP – Composition, by end use

Delving into the composition of Iceland’s GDP shows a balanced and diverse economic base. It features a healthy mix of services, industry, export earnings, and domestic consumption.

Industries

Apart from renewable energy and fishing industries, Iceland also boasts a burgeoning tech sector and vibrant creative industries. The performance of director Baltasar Kormákur and the success of TV series like “Trapped” have put Icelandic cinema on the worldwide map.

Remittances

As with many other nations, remittances serve an interesting role in Iceland’s economy. The country both sends and receives substantial funds in this manner, reflecting its integration with the global economy.

Budget

In terms of budgeting, Iceland operates under a model that takes the nation’s vast renewable energy resources and limited population into account. This approach allows it to maintain comparatively high public service standards and robust social security systems.

Public Debt

While public debt remains an issue to be addressed in Iceland, the government has implemented stringent measures to ensure it remains under control. Efforts have been made to balance the budget and reduce public debt steadily.

Exports

Iceland’s exports primarily constitute fish and fish products, aluminium, and ferrosilicon. These commodities make up a significant share of the revenue, underscoring the importance of these sectors.

Exports – Partners

Iceland’s key export partners include nations in the European Union, as well as the United States.

Exports – Commodities

As for export commodities, fish and fish products, aluminium, and ferrosilicon represent the significant chunk of the exports. These products, underpinned by the nation’s unique geographic and climate factors, form the bedrock of Iceland’s export revenue.

Imports

A wide range of goods are imported by Iceland, from high-tech electronics and vehicles to luxury consumer goods. Notably, the country’s imports have been rising in recent years – an indicator of increased domestic consumption.

Imports – Commodities

Iceland’s import commodities reflect the nation’s modern, developed status. Key import categories include machinery and equipment, petrol products, foodstuffs, textiles and vehicles.

Debt – External

External debt is a challenging aspect of Iceland’s economy. However, it’s counterbalanced by the nation’s strong credit ratings and healthy financial reserves, positioning it to manage its liabilities effectively.

Exchange Rates

Iceland’s exchange rates are subject to fluctuation, as with any currency, but the nation’s stable economic climate and robust financial policies help to mitigate major swings in currency value.

Energy

Iceland is an energy powerhouse. With an abundance of renewable resources, it’s one of the top producers of clean energy per capita in the world.

Electricity Generation Sources

Iceland’s primary electricity generation sources are hydropower and geothermal power. Historically, the country heavily relied on fishing but the shift towards renewable energy spearheaded by these sources has made Iceland a top producer per capita. With its advantageous geographical location and progressive energy policies, Iceland has successfully diversified its energy portfolio. The Hellisheidi Geothermal Plant and Nesjavellir Geothermal Plant are major contributors to the nation’s power. Potential advancements in tidal and wave energy could further boost Iceland’s renewable energy production in the future.

Coal

Coal consumption in Iceland, like in many developed nations, is minimal. As per the available data from 2019, the emission from coal and metallurgical coke stood at 459,000 metric tonnes of CO2. The country does not have any coal production or proven reserves. This demonstrates Iceland’s push towards cleaner energy sources, moving away from fossil fuels.

Petroleum

Despite not having any crude oil production or proven reserves, Iceland still has a demand for petrol products. The consumption stood at 19,700 barrels per day (bbl/day) as of 2019 estimates. The imports totaled 136,000 metric tons in 2020, indicating a reliance on foreign sources to meet fuel and other petroleum-based needs.

Natural Gas

Natural gas is not a significant part of Iceland’s energy map. The numbers for production, consumption, exports, imports, and proven reserves all stood at zero as of the 2021 estimates. This underscores the country’s commitment to renewable energy sources, steering clear from fossil fuels.

Carbon Dioxide Emissions

Balancing economic growth and sustainability is a challenge that Iceland is positively addressing. In 2019, the total CO2 emissions were 3.37 million metric tonnes. Achieving low CO2 emissions while maintaining a high GDP per capita is a considerable accomplishment for Iceland, demonstrating a sustainable approach towards development.

The diversification and efficiency optimization in Iceland’s energy sector is an example for other nations striving for sustainable growth. Despite a small population and limited resource base, the country leverages it’s unique geographic and geologic features to generate clean, renewable power. As a result, Iceland is paving the way in terms of renewable energy, providing valuable lessons in sustainability.

Metric 2019/2020/2021 figures
Coal emission 459,000 metric tons (2019)
Petroleum consumption 19,700 bbl/day (2019)
Petroleum imports 136,000 metric tons (2020)
Natural gas 0 in all aspects (2021)
CO2 emissions 3.37 million metric tons (2019)

Communications

Stepping into the realm of communications, Iceland stands unmatched with its emphasis on progressive digital infrastructures. The nation has efficiently integrated sophisticated communication technology to keep pace with the world’s technological advancements.

Telecommunication Systems

Iceland prides itself on being globally recognized for its exemplary telecommunication framework. It holds the record for having the highest proportion of internet access worldwide – an impressive 95% of the population. In the World Economic Forum’s 2009-2020 Network Readiness Index, Iceland ranked 12th. It’s a measure of a nation’s ability to effectively exploit communication technology.

Looking at the rankings given by the United Nations International Telecommunication Union, Iceland ranks third for its development of information and communication technology; a significant improvement of four places from 2008 to 2010. Consequently, the nation has also engaged in discussions on internet security to safeguard children from online threats, conscientiously striking a balance between protection and freedom of speech.

Broadcast Media

Diving into the broadcast media scene, Iceland offers a dazzling display of options. The local media territory comprises a variety of platforms, including vast television networks, widespread radio broadcasting, and daily newspapers. Major television stations include the state-run Sjónvarpið and the privately-owned stations, Stöð 2, and SkjárEinn. Smaller, local stations also contribute to Iceland’s diverse media landscape.

In terms of radio, broadcasts reach every part of the country, even extending into parts of the interior. Radio stations like Rás 1, Rás 2, Xið 977, Bylgjan, and FM 957 have marked their presence in the domain.

Moreover, daily newspapers like Morgunblaðið and Fréttablaðið bring prevailing world events to the Icelandic populace daily. As with the rest of the world, internet news portals have also gained significant traction. Websites like Vísir and Mbl.is are some of the most popular in Iceland. As evident, Iceland’s media scene showcases a broad spectrum, embracing traditional forms of dissemination of information while meticulously pacing with modern transformations in the domain.

Transportation

Iceland’s location, perched on the cusp of the Arctic Circle, might make you assume that transportation would be a challenge. But in reality, it’s quite the opposite.

National Air Transport System

Counting on an efficient and modern national air transport system, Iceland has successfully interconnected its corners through the sky. The technical proficiency of its air staff and the advanced fleet of aircraft stand as testimonies to its cutting-edge aeronautical capabilities. Such attributes not only ensure uninterrupted domestic connectivity, but also extend to link Iceland with the international destinations.

Extending to this, the aviation infrastructure also includes a network of strategically located airports with runways equipped to accommodate diverse aircraft types. This efficient system plays a pivotal role in boosting the tourism industry by providing easy access to the country’s mist-shrouded waterfalls, volcanic vistas, and other secluded natural wonders.

Yet, it’s not just about commercial airline services. Frequent domestic flights, smaller charters, and helicopter services also form part of the larger picture, making the smallest towns and isolated destinations reachable.

In the next section, we’ll look into Iceland’s road system, an integral part of the nation’s transportation network, designed to traverse through its diverse landscapes.

Military and Security

In a unique situation among NATO countries, Iceland has established a robust defense arrangement without maintaining a standing military force. The Icelandic Coast Guard shoulders most of the operational defense tasks. Nonetheless, defense of Iceland remains a committed responsibility of NATO, with the alliance ensuring an air policing presence in Icelandic airspace.

Military and Security Forces

The Icelandic Coast Guard is in charge of various operational defense tasks in the country. These tasks range from the operation of the Keflavik Air Base to the establishment of special security zones and managing Iceland’s air defense systems. In place of a standing military force, Iceland has opted for the civilian-manned Icelandic Crisis Response Unit (ICRU) that often participates in international peacekeeping missions.

Military – Note

It’s worth noting that Iceland was among the original 12 countries to ink the North Atlantic Treaty, also known as the Washington Treaty, back in 1949. Despite the absence of a military structure, Iceland ensures that it’s actively involved in Nordic Defense Cooperation (NORDEFCO). This cooperative effort also involves Denmark, Finland, Norway, and Sweden. Established in 2009, NORDEFCO facilitates cooperation in various areas such as armaments, education, human resources, training, exercises, and operations.

In ensuring security for the nation, the country’s defense strategy is a pillar of the Icelandic infrastructure – an infrastructure that does more than just cater to transportation. Indeed, the country’s security system has been intricately intertwined within its structure, offering a unique and efficient model of protective services without the classic military arrangement.

Transnational Issues

Iceland’s approach to defense and security is indeed a testament to its innovative spirit. The country’s reliance on the Icelandic Coast Guard and NATO for defense tasks exemplifies its strategic thinking. Even without a standing military, Iceland’s active role in international peacekeeping missions through the Icelandic Crisis Response Unit is commendable. The Nordic Defense Cooperation also benefits from Iceland’s participation, further enhancing regional security. The seamless integration of the country’s security system into its infrastructure proves that Iceland’s model of protective services is both unique and efficient. In the face of transnational issues, Iceland stands as a beacon of peace, stability, and strategic defense, setting an example for the world to follow.