Overview of Kazakhstan

Profile

Kazakhstan is located in northern Central Asia and was the last among the former Soviet republics to declare independence. Most of the territory consists of steppes and deserts, but it also encompasses high mountain ranges such as the Tien Shan and Altai Mountains. Rich in oil, natural gas, and uranium, the country achieved rapid growth post-independence through energy exports. With a population of about 20 million, over 100 ethnic groups coexist, including Kazakhs, Russians, Germans, and Uzbeks. The capital, Astana, is a planned city known for futuristic architecture and serves as the financial and administrative center. In foreign policy, Kazakhstan plays a regional leadership role while balancing relations with Russia, China, and Western countries.

Official name: Republic of Kazakhstan
Common name: Kazakhstan
Numeric code: 398
Alpha-3 code: KAZ
Alpha-2 code: KZ
Population: Approximately 20 million (2024)
Population density: Approximately 7 people/km²
Primary languages: Kazakh, Russian
Major religions: Islam, Russian Orthodox Church
National anthem: Менің Қазақстаным (Meniñ Qazaqstanym / My Kazakhstan)
Calling code: +7
Internet TLD: .kz

History

The Kazakh Khanate was established in the 15th century, incorporated into the Russian Empire in the 19th century, and gained independence in 1991.

The Kazakh steppes, long inhabited by nomadic peoples, came under Mongol rule in the 13th century, after which the Kazakh Khanate rose to prominence. From the 18th century, the region was incorporated into the Russian Empire, and during the Soviet era, nuclear test sites and space facilities were built. Kazakhstan declared independence in December 1991. Under the long presidency of Nursultan Nazarbayev, the country pursued market reforms and resource development. Since 2019, President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev has continued these reforms.

Geography & climate

The west features the Caspian lowland, the center is endless Kazakh steppe, and the east and southeast have the Altai and Tien Shan mountain ranges. Salt lakes and semi-deserts are scattered throughout.

Typical continental climate (dry with large temperature variations)

Area: Asia / 2724900 km²
Capital: Astana
Largest city: Almaty
Coastal status: No
Major lakes: Caspian Sea, Aral Sea, Lake Balkhash, Lake Zaysan, Lake Tengiz
Bordering countries: Russia, China, Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, Turkmenistan

Natural resources

Petroleum, Natural gas, Uranium, Chromium, Manganese, Copper, Lead, Zinc, Gold, Coal, Iron ore, Rare earths, Silver, Phosphate rock, Sulfur

Politics

Government: Presidential republic

Economy

Currency: Tenge (KZT)

GDP (nominal): 259.3 Billion USD (2023)

GDP (PPP): 716.2 Billion USD (2023)

Language & timezone

Primary languages: Kazakh, Russian

Time zone: Kazakhstan Eastern Time, Kazakhstan Western Time

Culture & customs

Ethnic groups

Kazakhs, Russians, Uzbeks, Ukrainians, Uyghurs, Tatars, Germans, Koreans, Chechens

Life expectancy

Approximately 71.1 years

Literacy rate

99.8%

National sports

Kokpar (horseback ball game), Kazakh Wrestling, Football, Ice Hockey, Cycling, Boxing, Weightlifting, Judo