As a landlocked nation in Southeast Asia, the Lao People's Democratic Republic is surrounded by China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand and Myanmar, covering an area of 236,800 square km. Vientiane serves as its capital. 

Among its population of nearly 5.9 million, most are Buddhists. Lao is the country's official language. 

Laos abounds in minerals, including tin, lead, kalium, copper, iron and gold, but only a few minerals were mined. The country is also rich in water resources. 

Agriculture serves as the pillar of Laos' national economy. Rice, corn,potato, coffee and tobacco are the main agricultural products.