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Kazakhstan is a Central Asian country located in the heart of Eurasia. It is bordered by Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan. Kazakhstan is the ninth-largest country in the world, with an area of 2,724,900 square kilometers. It is the largest landlocked country in the world and the second-largest in Central Asia.

Kazakhstan is a multi-ethnic nation, with over 130 ethnicities living in the country. The majority of the population is Kazakh, followed by Russian, Ukrainian, Uzbek, and Tatar. Kazakh is the official language of the country, with Russian being widely spoken.

Kazakhstan has a diverse climate, ranging from temperate in the north to semi-arid in the south. The country is home to some of the world's most spectacular scenery, including the Altai Mountains, the Caspian Sea, and the Ustyurt Plateau.

The capital of Kazakhstan is Astana, which is also the country's largest city. Other major cities include Almaty, the former capital, Shymkent, Karaganda, and Aktobe.

Kazakhstan is a popular tourist destination, with many attractions including the ancient Silk Road cities of Turkestan and Otrar, the stunning Lake Balkhash, and the world's largest ski resort, Shymbulak. The country also boasts some of the world's most spectacular natural wonders, such as the Charyn Canyon and the Singing Dunes of the Altyn-Emel National Park.

Kazakhstan is also known for its vibrant culture, with traditional music, dance, and art. The country is home to a number of UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, the Petroglyphs of Tamgaly, and the Saryarka Steppe.

Kazakhstan is a rapidly developing nation, with a strong economy and a high standard of living. The country is a member of the United Nations, the Organization for Security and Co-operation in Europe, the Commonwealth of Independent States, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization.

Frequently asked questions about Kazakhstan

Where is Kazakhstan located?

Kazakhstan is located in Central Asia, and Eastern Europe. It is bordered by China, Kyrgyzstan, Russia, Turkmenistan, and Uzbekistan.

What is the capital of Kazakhstan?

The capital of Kazakhstan is Nursultan, previously known as Astana until 2019.

What languages are spoken in Kazakhstan?

The official languages spoken in Kazakhstan are Kazakh and Russian.

What is the population of Kazakhstan?

As of 2021, the estimated population of Kazakhstan is around 19 million people.

What is the currency used in Kazakhstan?

The currency used in Kazakhstan is the Kazakhstani Tenge.

What is the climate like in Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan has an extreme continental climate, with warm summers and very cold winters.

What is the main religion of Kazakhstan?

The majority of the population practices Islam, with a minority practicing Russian Orthodox Christianity.

What is the economy of Kazakhstan like?

Kazakhstan has the largest and strongest performing economy in Central Asia. It's largely driven by oil and gas, mining, and agriculture.

What is the political system in Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan is a presidential republic where the President of Kazakhstan is both the head of state and head of government.

What are some of the major cities in Kazakhstan?

Some of the major cities in Kazakhstan include Almaty, Shymkent, Karagandy, Taraz and Pavlodar.

What wildlife is found in Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan is home to a range of wildlife including snow leopards, wolves, bears and the famous Przewalski’s horse.

What is Kazakhstan's official name?

The official name of Kazakhstan is the Republic of Kazakhstan.

What are some popular foods in Kazakhstan?

Some popular foods in Kazakhstan include Beshbarmak, a traditional Kazakh dish, as well as Kazy and Shuzhuk sausages.

What sports are popular in Kazakhstan?

Soccer, boxing and ice hockey are some of the most popular sports in Kazakhstan.

Why was the capital relocated to Nursultan?

The capital was relocated to Nursultan in 1997 for strategic, cultural and geographical reasons.

What traditional music forms are there in Kazakhstan?

Kazakh music is dominated by stringed instruments, particularly the dombra, a lute with two strings.

What are Kazakhstan's major exports?

Kazakhstan's major exports include oil, ferrous and nonferrous metals, machinery, chemicals, grain, wool, meat, and coal.

What major rivers are there in Kazakhstan?

The major rivers in Kazakhstan include the Ili, Irtysh, Ishim, and Ural.

What's the time zone of Kazakhstan?

Kazakhstan is spread across two time zones – Alma-Ata Time (GMT+6) and Oral Time (GMT+5).

What major events has Kazakhstan hosted in recent years?

Kazakhstan has hosted major events such as the 2017 Universiade, the 2011 Asian Winter Games, and the Astana Economic Forum.