What defines a 'powerful' country?

In your opinion, what are the parameters for a 'powerful' or 'strong' country?

What should the welfare index, financial index, defense rank, world rank, or any criterion of this game, be in order that a country is considered 'powerful'?

Further, what is meant by a country which can provide 'ideal life' to her people, using this game as an example?

This is a subjective question and I'd love to know about others' analysis.

My opinion is there is too much country focus. There are countries that serve larger goals. Ones that form a player's space program, strategic program, have military significance, or simply generate income but countries are not "powerful". Players can be powerful.

I think it would be a country that has the ability to defend itself and also have a strong economy, which my country does not lol..but I do think with a detailed game like this, it takes time and a lot of effort to get to a point well your established. Im learning something new everyday about this game

"Powerful" has different meanings here but if you're 'safe' you're powerful enough. An 'ideal life' is what quality of wine, meat, cars do you feel your pop. needs. Decent medical care, an education, maybe even good roads. Aries is right about the focus of multiple countries. It is what you make it.