I.R. of Iran is located at 25 to 40 degree of southern geographical latitude up to 44 to 63.5 degree of eastern geographical longitude from meridian of Greenwich. Therefore, all of Iran's land is in the North Temperate Zone at south-west of Asia and Middle-East. Total area of Iran is 1,648,000 sqkm where fills about 2/3 of Iranian plateau and 1/25 of Asia. Iran is a mountainous country with a colorful nature and various climates. More than half of Iran's land consists of mountains elevation and less than 1/4 of its area includes arable lands. This country has several rich mines and natural resources. Iran's heights of mountains are divided to four chains of northern, western, southern mountains as well as central and eastern mountains. From very ancient times, different races such as Lor, Kord, Turk, Gilak, Balouch and some other races have been living on this third period ancient land, who had a remarkable role in foundation of modern civilization. Currently, Iran's total population is estimated about 70,049,262 persons according to the latest formal census which was accomplished in November 2006.
