Argentina is the eighth largest country in the world. Its topography ranges from its central fertile plains to the Andes in the West and a semi-arid zone in the southern region of Patagonia. The climate varies from subtropical to subantarctic, with a wide belt of moderate temperatures well suited for agriculture.

The majority of the Argentine population is of Italian and Spanish descent. Immigrants from diverse origins such as German, French, Swiss, Polish and British have also settled in Argentina.

This diversity resulted in the shaping of a strong cultural character. In Argentina, culture is everywhere: in the tango parlors or in the music halls; in the open-air theatres or at the Colón Opera House; in the fine art museums or in the cities' streets.

Most Argentines belong to the middle class. The literacy rate is 97%, and the enrollment rate in primary, secondary and graduate schools is very high. Education is free at all levels. The labor force's skills and training levels are comparable to those of the developed countries.

A Federal Republic since the proclamation of the Constitution in 1853 - lastly modified in 1994 - Argentina holds a democratic, pluralistic political system. Apart from the national elections, citizens vote for their local and provincial authorities on a regular basis in the 23 existing Provinces and the capital city of Buenos Aires. Since the re-establishment of democracy in 1983, an atmosphere of freedom and open debate has characterized Argentina's domestic politics.