A
landlocked country is commonly defined as one enclosed or nearly enclosed by land.
[1][2][3][4] As of 2008, there are 44 landlocked countries in the world.
A sea that is almost landlocked is connected to the oceans by a strait only, such as the Baltic Sea, the Mediterranean Sea, and the Black Sea. This may be of strategic importance, with one or two other countries controlling the entrance, and/or be relevant for tides and freshwater content.
An island country can be conversely considered waterlocked[5] as it is entirely surrounded by water. In such cases, one must cross water to reach land abroad.
Historically, being landlocked was regarded as a disadvantageous position. It cuts the country off from sea resources such as fishing, but more importantly cuts off access to seaborne trade which, even today, makes up a large percentage of international trade. Around the world, coastal regions tend to be wealthier and more heavily populated than inland ones.
