Pakistan, officially known as the Islamic Republic of Pakistan, is a vibrant country located in South Asia. With a population of over 249 million people, it is the world’s fifth-most populous nation and boasts the largest Muslim population. Covering an area of 881,913 square kilometers, Pakistan is the 33rd-largest country in the world. Bordered by India to the east, Afghanistan to the west, Iran to the southwest, and China to the northeast, Pakistan enjoys a strategic geographical position. It has a coastline along the Arabian Sea and the Gulf of Oman, offering access to crucial maritime routes. Pakistan’s geography is characterized by remarkable diversity. The Thar Desert stretches across its eastern region, contrasting with the rugged mountain ranges of the Hindu Kush and the Pamirs in the north. In fact, Pakistan is home to the second tallest peak on Earth, K2, standing at an awe-inspiring height of 28,250 feet (8,611 meters). Its mountainous landscapes mesmerize with their majestic beauty and host over 300 glaciers. Rich in history and culture, Pakistan has been the site of ancient civilizations, including the Indus Valley civilization and the Gandhara civilization. The country’s heritage is a tapestry woven with influences from various empires and dynasties that have ruled its territories throughout history, from the Achaemenids to the British Raj. Today, Pakistan is a federal parliamentary republic, with Islamabad as its capital and Karachi as its largest city and economic hub. It embraces a mixed economic system, blending free-market principles with government intervention. As a member of the South Asian Association for Regional Cooperation (SAARC), Pakistan actively participates in regional affairs, aiming to foster collaboration and deepen ties within the South Asian region.