Lao People's Democratic Republic

The Lao People's Democratic Republic, commonly known as Laos, is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia. It is bordered by China, Vietnam, Thailand, Cambodia, and Myanmar. The country has a diverse geography, with mountains, forests, and the Mekong River running through it. The capital city is Vientiane, and the official language is Lao, although many people also speak English and French. The country has a long history, with the Lan Xang kingdom being established in the 14th century. Today, Laos is a one-party socialist republic, with a planned economy and a government that is closely aligned with Vietnam. The country has a relatively low standard of living, but it is rich in natural resources, including hydropower, minerals, and timber.