The Republic of Latvia is a small country located in Northern Europe, bordered by the Baltic Sea to the west, Estonia to the north, Lithuania to the south, and Russia and Belarus to the east. It has a population of about 1.9 million people and its capital city is Riga, known for its beautiful architecture and vibrant culture. Latvia is a member of the European Union and NATO. Latvia has a rich history, having gained independence from Russia in 1918. The country is known for its diverse landscapes, including forests, lakes, and a long coastline. The official language is Latvian, and the nation celebrates various cultural traditions, including the popular Jāņi festival, which marks the summer solstice.