Pakistan is a country located in South Asia, bordered by India to the east, Afghanistan and Iran to the west, China to the northeast, and the Arabian Sea to the south. It covers an area of approximately 881,912 square kilometers, making it the 33rd largest country in the world. With a population exceeding 225 million people, Pakistan is the sixth most populous country globally.
Pakistan gained independence from British colonial rule on August 14, 1947, as a result of the partition of India. It was established as an Islamic Republic, with Islam being the state religion. Urdu is the national language, while several regional languages are also widely spoken.
Pakistan holds strategic significance due to its geographical location, acting as a link between South and Central Asia. It has a diverse landscape, including mountainous regions like the Himalayas, fertile plains such as the Punjab, and a long coastline along the Arabian Sea.
The country has faced various challenges throughout its history, including political instability, economic issues, and conflict with neighboring countries. Pakistan is known for its rich cultural heritage, encompassing influences from various civilizations such as the Indus Valley Civilization, Persian, Greek, Arab, and Central Asian cultures.
Major sectors of Pakistan's economy include agriculture, industry, and services, with textiles, automotive, IT, and pharmaceuticals being notable industries. Islamabad serves as the capital city, while Karachi, Lahore, and Peshawar are significant economic and cultural centers.
