Overview of Lithuania

Profile

Lithuania is an Eastern European republic that was among the first to regain independence from the Soviet Union in 1990. Joined EU and NATO in 2004, the eurozone in 2015, and OECD in 2018, advancing European and Atlantic integration at the fastest pace in the Baltic region. One-third of the territory is forested, with flat hills, countless lakes, and unique landscapes like the Curonian Spit. Basketball enjoys national sport-level popularity, with thriving literature, music, and high-tech industries like lasers. While embracing minority and religious diversity, it strongly preserves its unique language and ancient ethnic culture.

Official name: Republic of Lithuania
Common name: Lithuania
Numeric code: 440
Alpha-3 code: LTU
Alpha-2 code: LT
Population: About 2.8 million (2023)
Population density: About 44 people/km²
Primary languages: Lithuanian
Major religions: Roman Catholicism
National anthem: Tautiška giesmė (National Hymn)
Calling code: +370
Internet TLD: .lt

History

Originated from 13th-century Grand Duchy of Lithuania, gained independence in 1918, annexed by USSR in 1940, regained independence in 1990.

King Mindaugas established the Grand Duchy of Lithuania in mid-13th century, commanding Eastern Europe''s largest territory in medieval times. The 1569 Union of Lublin formed a federation with Poland, losing independence in late 18th-century partitions. Re-emerged as a republic in 1918 after WWI but was annexed by USSR in 1940. After German occupation during WWII, became Soviet constituent republic again. The Sąjūdis movement from 1989 peaked independence efforts during the "Singing Revolution." Independence declared on March 11, 1990, with UN membership in 1991. Subsequently pursued EU and NATO membership, market economy transition, adopting euro in 2015, to the present Fourth Republic under 2010 constitution.

Geography & climate

Gentle hills and plains formed by glaciers, mixed forests covering one-third, over 10,000 lakes, diverse landscapes including Baltic coastal Curonian Spit.

Humid continental climate (western areas influenced by oceanic climate)

Area: Europe / 65300 km²
Capital: Vilnius
Largest city: Vilnius
Coastal status: Yes
Major lakes: Lake Vištytis, Lake Dūkštas, Lake Drūkšiai, Lake Plateliai
Bordering countries: Latvia, Belarus, Poland, Russia (Kaliningrad Oblast)

Natural resources

Forest resources (spruce, birch), Peat, Groundwater, Amber, Limestone, Clay, Small amount of crude oil, Wind power resources, Biomass, Agricultural soil

Politics

Government: Semi-presidential republic and parliamentary cabinet system

Economy

Currency: Euro (EUR)

GDP (nominal): About 74 billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): About 144 billion USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Lithuanian

Time zone: Eastern European Time (EET), Eastern European Summer Time (EEST)

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Lithuanians, Poles, Russians, Belarusians, Ukrainians, Jews, Tatars

Life expectancy

About 75.2 years (2022)

Literacy rate

99.8%

National sports

Basketball, Football, Ice hockey, Athletics (discus throw, etc.), Rally racing