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Background
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A land of vast distances and rich natural resources, Canada became a self-governing dominion in 1867 while retaining ties to the British crown. Economically and technologically the nation has developed in parallel with the US, its neighbor to the south across an unfortified border. Canada faces the political challenges of meeting public demands for quality improvements in health care and education services, as well as responding to the particular concerns of predominantly francophone Quebec. Canada also aims to develop its diverse energy resources while maintaining its commitment to the environment.
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Population
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33,759,742 (July 2010 est.)
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Government type
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10 provinces and 3 territories*; Alberta, British Columbia, Manitoba, New Brunswick, Newfoundland and Labrador, Northwest Territories*, Nova Scotia, Nunavut*, Ontario, Prince Edward Island, Quebec, Saskatchewan, Yukon Territory*
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Administrative divisions
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a parliamentary democracy, a federation, and a constitutional monarchy
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Independence
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Canada Day, 1 July (1867)
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International organization participation
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two vertical bands of red (hoist and fly side, half width) with white square between them; an 11-pointed red maple leaf is centered in the white square; the maple leaf has long been a Canadian symbol; the official colors of Canada are red and white
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Economy - overview
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Market value of publicly traded shares
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transportation equipment, chemicals, processed and unprocessed minerals, food products, wood and paper products, fish products, petroleum and natural gas
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Agriculture - products
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-13% (2009 est.)
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Industries
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620.7 billion kWh (2007 est.)
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Industrial production growth rate
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536.1 billion kWh (2007 est.)
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Electricity - production
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55.73 billion kWh (2008 est.)
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Oil - production
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2.421 million bbl/day (2008 est.)
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Internet country code
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25.086 million (2008)
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