The 2003 CIA World Factbook

"The 2003 CIA World Factbook" by United States Central Intelligence Agency is a comprehensive geographical and statistical reference work published in the early 21st century. This annual publication provides detailed and up-to-date information about various countries and territories, covering aspects such as demographics, economics, geography, government, and military statistics. The Factbook serves as a vital resource for policymakers, researchers, and the public seeking factual data about international regions. The opening of the Factbook presents its structure and notable updates since the previous edition, emphasizing that it captures a "snapshot" of global information as of January 1, 2003. It outlines the various sections, including country listings, economic indicators, and environmental issues, while introducing new data entries such as those for natural gas within the economy category. This early portion sets the tone for a systematic and factual overview of the world, aiming to inform readers about global dynamics and country-specific insights.