The Lao People's Democratic Republic, commonly known as Laos, is a landlocked country in Southeast Asia. It shares borders with China, Vietnam, Cambodia, Thailand, and Myanmar. The capital city is Vientiane, and the official language is Lao. The country is known for its mountainous terrain, rich cultural heritage, and the Mekong River, which plays a vital role in its economy and transportation. Laos has a population of approximately 7 million people and is governed by a single-party socialist republic. The economy is primarily based on agriculture, with rice being the main crop. Tourism is also significant, attracting visitors to its natural beauty, ancient temples, and UNESCO World Heritage sites like Luang Prabang.