Belarus is a landlocked country located in Eastern Europe. It shares borders with Russia to the east, Ukraine to the south, Poland to the west, Lithuania and Latvia to the northwest. The capital and largest city of Belarus is Minsk.
Often referred to as the "White Russia," Belarus gained its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. It is known for its rich history and cultural heritage, which encompasses various influences from neighboring countries, particularly Russia.
With a population of approximately 9.5 million people, Belarus is primarily a homogeneous society, with the vast majority of its population being ethnic Belarusians. Belarusian and Russian are the official languages, reflecting the country's linguistic diversity.
Belarus has a mixed economy, with agriculture and heavy industries playing crucial roles. The country is known for its production of machinery, automobiles, and chemicals. Additionally, it possesses significant agricultural resources, including grain, potatoes, dairy products, and meat.
Belarus has a presidential system of government, where the President serves as both the head of state and government. The current President, Alexander Lukashenko, has been in power since 1994. However, Belarus has faced criticism for its limited political freedoms and human rights violations.
Despite its small size, Belarus boasts a flourishing cultural scene, with captivating theater performances, world-renowned ballet, and a growing contemporary arts scene. The country also offers natural beauty, with national parks and picturesque landscapes, making it an emerging tourist destination.
