Belarus
Belarus, officially known as the Republic of Belarus, is a landlocked country in Eastern Europe bordered by Russia to the northeast, Ukraine to the south, Poland to the west, and Lithuania and Latvia to the northwest. Its capital and most populous city is Minsk. Belarus covers an area of 207,600 square kilometers and has a population of approximately 9.4 million people as of 2021. The country has a rich history and cultural heritage, with roots dating back to the Grand Duchy of Lithuania and later the Polish-Lithuanian Commonwealth. Belarusian and Russian are the two official languages, reflecting the country's complex history and the influence of its larger neighbor, Russia. The landscape of Belarus is characterized by flat terrain, dense forests, and numerous rivers and lakes. The country is often referred to as "the lungs of Europe" due to its vast tracts of well-preserved primeval forests, particularly the Białowieża Forest, which is a UNESCO World Heritage Site and home to the rare European bison. Belarus has a continental climate with cold winters and warm summers. Economically, Belarus has a diverse industrial base, with major sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, and services. The country is known for its production of tractors, trucks, and agricultural machinery, as well as for its IT sector, which has been growing rapidly in recent years. However, the economy also faces challenges such as a lack of structural reforms and heavy reliance on Russia for energy supplies and markets for its goods. Politically, Belarus is a presidential republic with a strong executive branch. Alexander Lukashenko has been the president since 1994, and his administration has been criticized for authoritarian practices, lack of political freedoms, and human rights abuses. The country has been subject to various sanctions by Western countries due to these concerns. Belarus has a rich cultural scene with traditions in literature, music, and art. The country celebrates numerous festivals throughout the year, showcasing its folk music, dance, and crafts. Belarusians take pride in their national cuisine, which includes dishes such as draniki (potato pancakes), borscht (beet soup), and kolduny (stuffed dumplings). Despite not being a major tourist destination, Belarus offers visitors a unique experience with its tranquil countryside, historical castles, and Soviet-era architecture. The country has been gradually opening up to tourism, with visa-free travel options available for short stays in certain regions. Belarus also played co-host to the 2019 European Games, which brought increased international attention to the nation's sporting facilities and cultural attractions.
