Lithuania is rich in water. The biggest river is the Nemunas. It is 937 km long. It is navigable in its lower part. On the Baltic coastline are located some of the biggest natural deposits of yantar (amber, fossil resin of prehistoric coniferous trees), which is used in jewellery. About 30% of Lithuania’s area is occupied by venerable mixed forests. Part of them are protected in 5 national parks and 4 reserves.

Latvia is an industrial and agricultural country. Basic branches are machine building (ships), metal and woodworking, chemical, textile and food processing industry (fish tinning). 35% of the population is occupied in agriculture.

The Grand Duchy of Lithuania was founded in 1240. Over the years here ruled Poles and Russians. In 1991 it was declared an independent republic, and since 2004 it has been a member country of the European Union.

Vilnius, the capital of Lithuania since 1240, was established in 1128. The ancient part of the city is a World Heritage site from the UNESCO list.