China

China

Official Name: People’s Republic of China (PRC, Zhōnghuá Rénmín Gònghéguó)
Location: East Asia
Capital: Beijing
Largest City: Shanghai

Geography:

  • Fourth-largest country in the world by area (~9.6 million km²).
  • Borders 14 countries: India, Russia, Mongolia, Nepal, Bhutan, Pakistan, Afghanistan, Myanmar, Laos, Vietnam, North Korea, Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan.
  • Landscapes: deserts (Gobi, Taklamakan), plateaus (Tibetan Plateau), major rivers (Yangtze, Yellow).

Population:

  • About 1.4 billion (2025), second most populous country after India.
  • Majority ethnic group: Han Chinese (~92%).
  • Recognized 55 ethnic minorities.

Languages:

  • Official: Standard Chinese (Mandarin, Putonghua).
  • Many regional languages and dialects (Cantonese, Tibetan, Uyghur, Mongolic, Zhuang).

Government:

  • One-party socialist republic led by the Communist Party of China (CPC).
  • President: Head of state.
  • Premier: Head of government.
  • Legislature: National People’s Congress.

Economy:

  • Second-largest economy in the world (nominal GDP).
  • World’s largest exporter and manufacturing hub.
  • Major industries: electronics, steel, textiles, automobiles, renewable energy, space technology.
  • Member of BRICS, WTO, UN Security Council (permanent seat).

History:

  • One of the world’s oldest civilizations (~4000 years).
  • Dynasties: Qin, Han, Tang, Song, Yuan, Ming, Qing.
  • Republic established in 1912 after Qing dynasty collapse.
  • People’s Republic of China founded on 1 October 1949 under Mao Zedong.
  • Rapid modernization and economic reforms since 1978 under Deng Xiaoping.

Culture:

  • Rich traditions in philosophy (Confucianism, Taoism), literature, painting, calligraphy, martial arts.
  • Major festivals: Chinese New Year, Mid-Autumn Festival, Dragon Boat Festival.
  • Cuisine varies by region: Sichuan (spicy), Cantonese (dim sum), Northern wheat-based dishes.
  • Strong influence in film, art, and global culture.

Symbols:

  • National Flag: Red with five yellow stars.
  • National Anthem: “March of the Volunteers.”
  • National Animal: Giant Panda (unofficial symbol).
  • National Sport (de facto): Table tennis; also excels in badminton, gymnastics, and martial arts.