Belarus

Belarus is a landlocked country located in Eastern Europe. Bordered by Lithuania and Latvia to the northwest, Poland to the west, Ukraine to the south, and Russia to the east and northeast, it has a rich history influenced by various cultures and nations. The capital and largest city is Minsk. Belarus has a mixed economy, with state ownership in significant sectors, and is known for its strong industrial base. The country is characterized by its flat terrain and numerous rivers, forests, and lakes. The official languages are Belarusian and Russian. Since gaining independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, Belarus has often been noted for its political landscape, which includes a centralized government and a longstanding presidency.