Question: What is the smallest country in South America both in terms of area and population?
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Suriname.
The smallest country in South America, both in terms of area and population, is Suriname. Located on the northeastern coast of the continent, Suriname shares borders with Brazil to the south, Guyana to the west, and French Guiana to the east, with the Atlantic Ocean to the north. It is the least extensive sovereign nation in South America, covering an area of approximately 163,821 square kilometers (63,252 square miles), making it significantly smaller than most other countries on the continent.
In terms of population, Suriname also ranks as the least populous independent country in South America. As of recent estimates, it has a population of around 600,000 people, which is much lower compared to other nations in the region. The capital and largest city, Paramaribo, is home to a significant portion of the country’s inhabitants and serves as its political, economic, and cultural hub.
Suriname’s small size and low population density contribute to its largely unspoiled natural environment. Over 90% of the country is covered by dense tropical rainforests, which are part of the Amazon biome. The country’s economy is primarily driven by natural resources, including bauxite, gold, and oil, along with agriculture and fishing.
Culturally, Suriname is one of the most ethnically diverse nations in South America. Its population consists of various ethnic groups, including Creoles, Hindustani (of Indian descent), Javanese, Maroons, Indigenous peoples, and Europeans. Dutch is the official language, making Suriname the only Dutch-speaking country in South America, a legacy of its colonial past.
Despite its small size, Suriname plays an active role in regional organizations such as the Caribbean Community (CARICOM) and the Union of South American Nations (UNASUR). Its strategic location and natural resources make it an important part of the continent’s geopolitical landscape.
