Russia is part of the founding nations behind the BRICS emerging nations block. The country also hosted the first-ever BRICS Summit in 2009 in St. Petersburg under then-President Dmitry Medvedev. Here’s what you need to know about the biggest country on the planet.
WATCH: Russia country profile
At half the size of the moon, or roughly the size of the planet Puto. Russia spans across 17 million square kilometres, 37-thousand km of which is an impressive coastline.
It has 11 time zones and borders 14 countries. There are three oceans and 13 seas. Russia also has 20% of the worlds drinking water.
At Lake Baikal which has a depth of over 1600 meters and stretches more than 31 700 kilometres. Within the vast landscape lies extensive mountain ranges. Large acres of forestry which is home to abundant wildlife.
Russia is also home to over 150 ethnic groups, each with their unique culture. But there are very little to no culturally-cased conflicts among its people.
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National pride and common traditions underpin the diverse, multicultures that make up its people. Russia is characterised by its unique architecture, which has its roots in the ancient Byzantine culture.
These structures remain beautifully preserved and well maintained despite their age and have stood the test of time.
People of numerous religions, including Russian Orthodox Christianity, Islam, Judaism and Buddhism have coexisted throughout centuries.
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The three main cultures, Christianity, Islam and Buddism, are practised through an intricate tapestry of multi-sectarian beliefs. Russia is the largest economy in Europe and the fifth largest globally.
The country has advanced and well-structured railways running across over 11700 kilometres.
This impressive railway forms part of a well-oiled public transport machine, reducing dependency on privately owned vehicles.
It’s also a leader in gas, fuel and oil exports.
