Uruguay
Uruguay (formally the Oriental Republic of Uruguay) is the second smallest country on the continent of South America and shares borders with Argentina and Brazil. Despite its small size, it is one of the most economically developed countries in the region and ranked 52nd highest in the global quality of life index in 2010. The country is considered a multiparty presidential representative democratic republic, with the President being the head of state as well as the head of government.
Uruguay is an important member of the United Nations and a valuable partner in South America. With nearly 2600 men and women currently in service, Uruguay is also the 10th largest contributor of military troops and police to the UN Peacekeeping operations. In fact, the majority of Uruguay's military is deployed as UN Peacekeepers.
Furthermore, Uruguay is known to have strong political and cultural links with its neighbors and especially Europe. In recent years, its connections to the countries of North America have also increased. Additionally, Uruguay is a founding member of the free trade agreement MERCOSUR and a member of the Rio Group for multilateral security issues. Representatives of the country have recently been chosen to chair the Free Trade Area of the Americas (FTAA) and the World Trade Organization (WTO) agricultural committees.