Nur-Sultan
Approximately 18 million people.
Tenge (KZT)
December 16, 1991
Kazakhstan, the world’s largest landlocked country, is located in Central Asia, bordered by Russia to the north, China to the east, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan to the south, and the Caspian Sea to the west. Known for its vast steppes, deserts, and diverse cultural heritage, Kazakhstan has a rich history dating back millennia.
Kazakhstan’s landscape is incredibly diverse, ranging from the Caspian Sea’s flat western plains to the Altai Mountains in the east, and the semi-arid steppes of the central region. The country is known for its natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals, which have played a crucial role in its economic development.
Culturally, Kazakhstan is a melting pot of various ethnic groups, with Kazakhs forming the majority, followed by significant Russian, Uzbek, and Ukrainian minorities. This diversity is reflected in the country’s languages, with Kazakh and Russian being the official languages.
Kazakhstan has experienced rapid economic growth since gaining independence, driven primarily by its vast reserves of oil, gas, and minerals. The country has invested heavily in infrastructure, education, and healthcare, aiming to diversify its economy beyond the extractive industries. Major cities like Almaty and Nur-Sultan serve as hubs of economic activity and culture.
Kazakhstan is a presidential republic, where the President holds significant power. The current President is Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, who succeeded Nursultan Nazarbayev in 2019 after his nearly 30-year rule. The political system has been criticized for its lack of political pluralism and restrictions on freedom of speech.
Kazakhstan plays an active role in international diplomacy, particularly within the framework of the Commonwealth of Independent States (CIS) and the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO). It has pursued a policy of multilateralism and maintains diplomatic relations with countries worldwide.
In summary, Kazakhstan is a country with a rich cultural heritage, diverse geography, and a rapidly developing economy. Despite its challenges, it continues to assert itself on the world stage as a key player in Central Asia. As it looks towards the future, Kazakhstan aims to further develop its economy, improve governance, and strengthen its international partnerships.
