Belarus

Belarus is a landlocked country located in Eastern Europe. Bordered by Russia to the northeast and east, Ukraine to the south, Poland to the west, and Lithuania and Latvia to the northwest, it is known for its flat terrain, vast forests, and many rivers. The capital and largest city is Minsk. Belarus has a rich cultural heritage, influenced by its history of various political dominations and its Slavic roots, and it is known for traditional music, cuisine, and festivals. The official languages are Belarusian and Russian, with a population that primarily identifies as Belarusian. The country has a mixed economy that includes state ownership of key industries alongside private enterprise. Belarus gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, leading to a unique political landscape characterized by a strong central government.