5 Facts of Kazakhstan

The capital of Kazakhstan is Astana

The central Asian nation of Kazakhstan declared its independence from the former Soviet Union in December of 1991. Kazakhstan shares borders with Russia, China, Turkmenistan, Uzbekistan and Kyrgyzstan. The nation also has a large coastline on the Caspian Sea, a major source of oil export revenue.

5 Facts You Might Not Know

1

Kazakhstan is the ninth largest nation on earth. The country's diverse geography spans 14 provinces that cover over one million square miles, making Kazakhstan larger than all of Western Europe combined. The nation's vast geography consists of vast plains, high mountain peaks as well as arid valleys.

2

Kazakhstan is home to one of the youngest populations on earth. It's 15 million inhabitants are an average age of 30,2 years as of 2011. Over sixty percent of Kazaks live in urban populations. The nation's many diverse ethnic groups live in relative harmony. The nation's modern culture is a blend of Western influence and Turkish nomadic traditions.

3

Though elections of the president and parliament members are held every five years, public criticism of the president and government officials of Kazakhstan is considered a criminal offense. And while the country is home to over 1,000 newspapers and 250 TV stations, nearly all are government-run or have ties to political backers.

4

Kazaki cuisine is largely centered on entrees comprised of boiled lamb and horse meat, a cultural tradition which dates back to the nation's nomadic roots. Milk from donkeys, camels, cows and sheep is also a popular staple.

5

Kazakhstani's won eight medals in the 2004 Summer Olympics - the most medals of any Western Asian nation. Soccer, cycling, ice hockey and boxing are the nation's most popular sporst. Rugby union is also increasingly popular. The Kazakhstan Premier League is the top division of Kazakhi soccer and is comprised of 12 professional clubs.