Latvia is situated in the northeastern part of Europe.
It shares borders with Estonia to the north, Lithuania to the south, Russia to the east, and Belarus to the southeast. To the west, Latvia has a coastline along the Baltic Sea.
Capital and Largest City
The capital of Latvia is Riga, which is also the largest city in the country.
Population
Latvia has a population of approximately 1.8 million people.
Language
The official language of Latvia is Latvian. Russian is also widely spoken, especially in urban areas.
History
Latvia has a rich history that includes periods of rule by various foreign powers, including the German Teutonic Knights, the Swedish Empire, and the Russian Empire. It gained independence after World War I in 1918 and remained independent until it was occupied by the Soviet Union during World War II. Latvia regained its independence in 1991 after the collapse of the Soviet Union.
Government
Latvia is a parliamentary republic with a President as the head of state and a Prime Minister as the head of government.
Economy
Latvia has a diverse economy with key sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, and services. It has a strong focus on trade, and its strategic location on the Baltic Sea has made it an important transportation and logistics hub.
The country is part of the Eurozone and uses the Euro (EUR) as its official currency.
Culture
Latvia has a rich cultural heritage, including traditional music, dance, and festivals. The Latvian Song and Dance Festival, held every five years, is a significant cultural event.
The country is known for its beautiful landscapes, which include forests, lakes, and a picturesque coastline along the Baltic Sea.
Education and Science
Latvia has a well-developed education system and is home to several universities and research institutions. The University of Latvia in Riga is one of the oldest and most prominent educational institutions in the country.
Tourism
Latvia attracts tourists with its historic architecture, including medieval Old Towns and castles in cities like Riga and Cesis. The country’s natural beauty also appeals to visitors, with opportunities for hiking, cycling, and exploring national parks.
The Latvian seaside resorts along the Baltic coast are popular destinations during the summer months.
European Union and NATO
Latvia is a member of the European Union (EU) and NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization).
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