Countries Starting with P
How many countries starting with letter P? There are 11 countries that start with the letter “P.” Here is a detailed description of each:
1. Pakistan (English: Pakistan)
Pakistan, located in South Asia, shares borders with India, Afghanistan, Iran, and China. With a rich cultural heritage spanning millennia, Pakistan is home to ancient civilizations like the Indus Valley Civilization. Its diverse landscapes include mountains, plains, and coastal areas. Major cities like Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad serve as hubs of culture, commerce, and governance. Pakistan’s economy is diverse, with agriculture, industry, and services playing significant roles. The country faces challenges such as political instability, security concerns, and socio-economic disparities. However, it continues to make strides in various fields, including technology, education, and arts.
- Continent: Asia
- Capital: Islamabad
- Largest City: Karachi
- Population: Over 225 million
- Area: 881,913 square kilometers
- Official Languages: Urdu, English
- Currency: Pakistani Rupee
- Political System: Federal Parliamentary Republic
2. Palau (English: Palau)
Palau is an archipelago located in the western Pacific Ocean. Known for its pristine coral reefs, turquoise waters, and lush forests, Palau is a paradise for nature lovers and divers. The nation consists of over 500 islands, with the most populous being Koror. Palau’s economy relies heavily on tourism, fishing, and agriculture, with efforts to promote sustainable development and environmental conservation. The country also boasts a rich cultural heritage, with traditional practices and beliefs still prevalent among its people.
- Continent: Oceania
- Capital: Ngerulmud
- Largest City: Koror
- Population: Approximately 18,000
- Area: 459 square kilometers
- Official Languages: Palauan, English
- Currency: United States Dollar
- Political System: Unitary Presidential Republic
3. Palestine (English: Palestine)
Situated in the Middle East, Palestine encompasses the West Bank, Gaza Strip, and parts of Jerusalem. The region has been at the center of the Israeli-Palestinian conflict for decades, with ongoing disputes over land, sovereignty, and self-determination. Despite the challenges, Palestine has a rich history and cultural heritage, with landmarks like the Dome of the Rock and the Church of the Nativity. The economy faces obstacles due to political instability and restrictions on movement and trade. However, Palestinians continue to strive for peace, independence, and economic prosperity.
4. Panama (English: Panama)
Panama, located in Central America, is known for its iconic canal, which connects the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans. The Panama Canal plays a vital role in global trade and maritime transportation. Beyond the canal, Panama offers diverse attractions, including tropical rainforests, Caribbean beaches, and indigenous cultures. The capital city, Panama City, is a modern metropolis with a historic district showcasing colonial architecture. Panama’s economy is driven by services such as banking, tourism, and logistics. The country also benefits from the Colon Free Trade Zone, one of the largest free-trade zones in the world. Despite economic growth, Panama faces challenges related to income inequality, corruption, and environmental conservation.
- Continent: North America
- Capital: Panama City
- Largest City: Panama City
- Population: Over 4.4 million
- Area: 75,417 square kilometers
- Official Language: Spanish
- Currency: Panamanian Balboa, United States Dollar
- Political System: Unitary Presidential Constitutional Republic
5. Papua New Guinea (English: Papua New Guinea)
Papua New Guinea occupies the eastern half of the island of New Guinea, as well as numerous smaller islands in the Pacific Ocean. It is one of the most culturally diverse countries globally, with over 800 indigenous languages spoken. The country’s rugged terrain includes dense rainforests, mountain ranges, and coastal plains. Port Moresby serves as the capital and main economic hub. Papua New Guinea’s economy relies heavily on agriculture, mining, and natural resources. However, challenges such as infrastructure development, healthcare, and education persist. Despite these challenges, Papua New Guinea’s people are known for their resilience, rich cultural traditions, and hospitality.
- Continent: Oceania
- Capital: Port Moresby
- Largest City: Port Moresby
- Population: Over 9 million
- Area: 462,840 square kilometers
- Official Languages: English, Tok Pisin, Hiri Motu
- Currency: Papua New Guinean Kina
- Political System: Unitary Parliamentary Constitutional Monarchy
6. Paraguay (English: Paraguay)
Paraguay is a landlocked country in South America, bordered by Argentina, Brazil, and Bolivia. Known as the “Heart of South America,” Paraguay boasts diverse landscapes, including the Gran Chaco region, subtropical forests, and the Paraguay River basin. Asunción, the capital city, is one of the oldest in South America and features colonial architecture and cultural landmarks. Paraguay’s economy relies on agriculture, with soybeans, cattle, and hydroelectric power being significant contributors. The country is also known for its unique cultural heritage, including Guarani traditions, music, and crafts.
- Continent: South America
- Capital: Asunción
- Largest City: Asunción
- Population: Over 7 million
- Area: 406,752 square kilometers
- Official Languages: Spanish, Guarani
- Currency: Paraguayan Guarani
- Political System: Unitary Presidential Constitutional Republic
7. Peru (English: Peru)
Peru, located on the western coast of South America, is renowned for its ancient civilizations, including the Inca Empire. The country’s diverse geography encompasses the Andes Mountains, Amazon rainforest, and Pacific coastline. Lima, the capital city, is a vibrant metropolis with a blend of colonial and modern architecture. Peru is famous for archaeological sites such as Machu Picchu, as well as culinary delights like ceviche and pisco sour. The economy is driven by mining, agriculture, tourism, and manufacturing. Despite progress in economic development, Peru faces challenges such as poverty, inequality, and environmental conservation.
- Continent: South America
- Capital: Lima
- Largest City: Lima
- Population: Over 33 million
- Area: 1,285,216 square kilometers
- Official Languages: Spanish, Quechua
- Currency: Peruvian Sol
- Political System: Unitary Presidential Constitutional Republic
8. Philippines (English: Philippines)
The Philippines is an archipelago comprising over 7,000 islands in Southeast Asia. It is known for its stunning beaches, vibrant festivals, and rich biodiversity. Manila, the capital city, is a bustling metropolis with a blend of Spanish colonial and modern architecture. The Philippines has a diverse cultural heritage influenced by Malay, Spanish, American, and Chinese cultures. The economy is driven by services such as business process outsourcing, remittances from overseas Filipino workers, and agriculture. Despite economic growth, the country grapples with issues such as poverty, corruption, and natural disasters.
- Continent: Asia
- Capital: Manila
- Largest City: Quezon City
- Population: Over 110 million
- Area: 300,000 square kilometers
- Official Languages: Filipino, English
- Currency: Philippine Peso
- Political System: Unitary Presidential Constitutional Republic
9. Pitcairn Islands (English: Pitcairn Islands)
The Pitcairn Islands are a group of four volcanic islands in the southern Pacific Ocean, with Pitcairn being the only inhabited island. The islands are a British Overseas Territory, known for their remote location and rich maritime history. Pitcairn Island is home to the descendants of the HMS Bounty mutineers and Tahitian companions. The economy relies on fishing, tourism, and handicrafts. Despite its isolation, the Pitcairn Islands have gained international attention for their environmental conservation efforts and marine reserves.
10. Poland (English: Poland)
Poland is a country located in Central Europe, bordered by Germany, Czech Republic, Slovakia, Ukraine, Belarus, Lithuania, and Russia. It has a rich history, with landmarks such as the medieval Old Town of Kraków and the Auschwitz-Birkenau concentration camp memorial. Warsaw, the capital city, blends historic architecture with modern development. Poland has a diversified economy, with sectors including manufacturing, agriculture, and services. The country is known for its cultural contributions in music, literature, and cinema. Despite its tumultuous past, Poland has undergone significant economic and social transformation since the fall of communism, joining the European Union in 2004 and becoming a key player in regional politics and economics.
- Continent: Europe
- Capital: Warsaw
- Largest City: Warsaw
- Population: Over 38 million
- Area: 312,696 square kilometers
- Official Language: Polish
- Currency: Polish Złoty
- Political System: Unitary Parliamentary Republic
11. Portugal (English: Portugal)
Portugal, located on the Iberian Peninsula in Southern Europe, is known for its rich history, stunning coastline, and vibrant culture. Lisbon, the capital, is famed for its colorful neighborhoods, historic monuments, and lively atmosphere. Portugal’s maritime heritage is evident in cities like Porto, known for its port wine production, and in historic sites like the Belem Tower and Jeronimos Monastery. The country’s economy is diversified, with industries such as tourism, agriculture, wine production, and renewable energy. Portuguese cuisine features dishes like bacalhau (salted cod), pastéis de nata (custard tarts), and grilled sardines. Portugal is also known for its Fado music, a soulful genre that expresses longing and saudade (nostalgia).
- Continent: Europe
- Capital: Lisbon
- Largest City: Lisbon
- Population: Over 10 million
- Area: 92,090 square kilometers
- Official Language: Portuguese
- Currency: Euro
- Political System: Unitary Semi-Presidential Republic