XXX is proud of his/its/her youth

English as a Second Language English Vocabulary, Grammar and Idioms
1

Hi expert teachers,

XXX (country name) is proud of his/her/its youth. As far as I know “her” is correct and "its’ may also be correct but I am unsure. However, I am confident that “his” is incorrect. If both “her” and “its” are correct. Is there any significant difference?

Many thanks.

2

No significant difference. Countries are traditionally referred to using feminine pronouns. (Also, other items. E.g. ships, aircraft.)

3

Thank you very much, BN.