Head of state: President Choummaly SAYASONE
Head of government: Thongsing THAMMAVONG
Type of state: people’s republic
Land area: 236,800km2
Capital: Vientiane
Population: 6.44 millions
Ethnic groups: Lao, Kha, Thai, Hmong
Religions: 70% Buddhism, 30% other
Language: Lao
Currency: Kip (LAK)
Gross domestic product (GDP) 2010: USD 7,49 billions
Change over previous year: +8.4%
Per capita GDP: USD 1,164
Swiss colony: 122 persons
Swiss exports 2010: CHF 1.33 million
Change over previous year: -41.1%
Swiss imports 2010: CHF 1.33 million
Change over previous year: +92%