Basic information about Syria

This first briefing should be an introduction to your AOI(Area of Interest).  I'm Looking for basic information; govt system, population, social system, religion(s), economics [imports and exports], and a map. After that, I want to know what is my AOI known for?  Plus, any notable current events.  This should be one page, two page maximum 300 words, double spaced, size 14 font.