Country Profile: Pakistan
Pakistan is a lower middle-income country located in Southern Asia, bordered by India, Iran, Afghanistan, and China, with access to the Arabian Sea. The nation has a diverse population of approximately 257 million people, predominantly Muslims, with significant ethnic groups including Punjabis and Pashtuns. Pakistan's economy is characterized by significant agricultural output but is hindered by high debt and corruption. Governed as a federal parliamentary republic, the country faces ongoing security challenges due to regional conflicts and internal militancy.
Geography
Pakistan is strategically positioned in Southern Asia, with a total area of 796,095 square kilometers. It features varied geography including the northern highlands, the fertile Indus River plain, and the arid Balochistan Plateau. The country experiences a mostly hot, dry desert climate, with significant natural hazards such as earthquakes and flooding.
- Highest Point: K2 at 8,611 m
- Land Borders: 7,257 km with Afghanistan, India, Iran, and China
- Climate Types: Hot, dry desert; temperate in northwest; arctic in north
People and Society
Pakistan's population is estimated to be around 257 million in 2025, with a median age of 23.2 years. The society is predominantly Muslim (96.4%), with significant ethnic diversity, including Punjabis and Pashtuns. Urbanization is rising, with about 38% of the population living in urban areas.
- Literacy Rate: 58.9% (2021 est.)
- Life Expectancy: 70.3 years (2024 est.)
- Population Growth Rate: 1.82% (2025 est.)
Economy
Pakistan has a GDP of approximately $373 billion (2024) and is recovering from economic challenges, including high inflation and external debt. The agricultural sector contributes significantly, making up 23.5% of the GDP. The country's economy is heavily reliant on textile exports and remittances from overseas Pakistanis.
- Real GDP (PPP): $1.39 trillion (2024 est.)
- Unemployment Rate: 5.5% (2024 est.)
- Poverty Rate: 21.9% (2018 est.)
Government
Pakistan is a federal parliamentary republic, with Islamabad as its capital. The political structure includes a bicameral legislature and a president serving a five-year term. The country has experienced political instability, impacting governance and economic policies over the years.
- Latest Constitution: Enacted on 14 August 1973
- Voting Age: 18 years; universal suffrage
- Most Recent Election: March 2024
Military and Security
The Pakistan Armed Forces consist of the Army, Navy, and Air Force, with significant personnel dedicated to both defense and internal security. The country has a history of conflicts with India, particularly over Kashmir, and is engaged in peacekeeping missions globally.
- Active Military Personnel: Approximately 650,000 (2025)
- Military Budget: 2.5% of GDP (2024 est.)
- Major Security Challenges: Ongoing conflict with militant groups
Energy
Pakistan's energy sector is predominantly based on fossil fuels, with electricity access reaching 95% of the population. The country is investing in renewable sources and has significant natural gas reserves.
- Installed Electricity Capacity: 43.5 million kW (2023 est.)
- Natural Gas Production: 27.476 billion cubic meters (2023 est.)
- Electricity Generation from Fossil Fuels: 60.4% of total installed capacity (2023 est.)
Environment
Environmental issues in Pakistan include water pollution, deforestation, and limited access to potable water. The country participates in multiple international environmental agreements to address these challenges.
- Annual Carbon Dioxide Emissions: 212.655 million metric tonnes (2023 est.)
- Water Resources: Total renewable water resources of 246.8 billion cubic meters (2022 est.)
- Urban Population: 38% of total population (2023)
Transportation
Pakistan has a well-developed transport infrastructure including roads, railways, and air transport, facilitating both domestic and international connectivity.
- Total Railways: 11,881 km (2021)
- Airports: 117 (2025)
- Merchant Marine: 60 vessels (2023)
Communications
The communications sector is growing with increasing mobile phone subscriptions and internet usage among the population, although access remains limited in rural areas.
- Mobile Subscriptions: 193 million (2024)
- Fixed-Line Subscriptions: 2.573 million (2023)
- Internet Users: 27% of the population (2023 est.)
Key Metrics
| Metric | Value | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Population | 257,047,044 (2025 est.) | Total estimated population |
| Area | 796,095 sq km | Total land area |
| GDP (official exchange rate) | $373.072 billion (2024 est.) | Current dollar value |
| Unemployment Rate | 5.5% (2024 est.) | Percentage of labor force |
| Energy Consumption per Capita | 14.076 million Btu/person (2023 est.) | Average energy usage |
| Birth Rate | 25.05 births/1,000 population (2025 est.) | Fertility rate |
| Life Expectancy at Birth | 70.3 years (2024 est.) | Average lifespan |
| Literacy Rate | 58.9% (2021 est.) | Population literacy |
| Urban Population | 38% (2023) | Urbanization percentage |
| Carbon Dioxide Emissions | 212.655 million metric tonnes (2023 est.) | Environmental impact |
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