Afghanistan has struggled with conflict and instability during its recent history.
Samoa is a conservative, Christian society made up of nine volcanic islands.
Australia is home to a competitive economy and indigenous Aborigines.
Bangladesh is one of the world's most densely populated countries.
Closely allied with India, Bhutan is a small kingdom with two political parties.
Though a tiny nation, the sultanate Brunei has one the highest GDPs in Asia.
Cambodian civil wars led to the communist Khmer Rouge seizing control.
Communist-ruled China is the world's most populous country.
The Cook Islands comprise 15 volcanic islands in the South Pacific.
East Timor's struggle for independence lasted nearly 30 years.
Micronesia consists of about 600 islands.
Ethnic conflicts and coups have impacted Fiji's politics and tourism industry.
The French Polynesia is a territory composed of five island groups.
The territory Guam is an important part of the US's military strategies.
The territory Hong Kong boasts a robust, ever- expanding economy.
The world's biggest democracy, India is a growing global power.
