Kazakhstan is a country located in Central Asia and Eastern Europe. It is the world’s largest landlocked country and the ninth largest country overall, with a population of approximately 19 million people.

Kazakhstan gained its independence from the Soviet Union in 1991 and has since become a major economic power in the region due to its vast reserves of natural resources, particularly oil, gas, and minerals. The country has a diverse culture, with influences from its nomadic past and its history as a part of the Silk Road trading network.

Kazakhstan is also home to various tourist attractions, including the beautiful Almaty mountains, the ancient city of Turkistan, and the Baikonur Cosmodrome, which is the world’s first and largest operational space launch facility.

ABOUT

Kazakhstan, officially known as the Republic of Kazakhstan, is a landlocked country located in Central Asia and Eastern Europe. It shares borders with Russia to the north and west, China to the east, Kyrgyzstan to the southeast, Uzbekistan to the south, and Turkmenistan to the southwest, and also has a coastline along the Caspian Sea. The capital city is Astana, which was renamed Nur-Sultan from 2019 to 2022. Previously, Almaty was the country’s capital until 1997. Kazakhstan is the world’s largest landlocked country and the ninth-largest country in the world by land area. The population of the country is 19 million, with a low population density of fewer than six people per square kilometer.

The majority of the population are ethnic Kazakhs, while ethnic Russians form a significant minority. The country is officially secular, but it is a Muslim-majority nation, with a sizable Christian community among the ethnic Russian population.

The territory of Kazakhstan has been inhabited by various nomadic groups and empires throughout history. The ancient Iranian Scythians lived there, and the Achaemenid Persian Empire expanded towards the southern territory of the modern country. The Turkic nomads, who trace their ancestry to many Turkic states such as the First Turkic Khaganate and the Second Turkic Khaganate, have lived in the country since the 6th century. In the 13th century, the Mongol Empire under Genghis Khan subjugated the territory. In the 15th century, the Kazakh Khanate was established on much of the land that later became modern Kazakhstan, as a result of the disintegration of the Golden Horde.

By the 18th century, the Kazakh Khanate disintegrated into three parts, which were absorbed and conquered by the Russian Empire. By the mid-19th century, the Russians nominally ruled all of Kazakhstan as part of the Russian Empire and abolished slavery that the Kazakhs had practiced. Following the Russian Revolution of 1917 and the subsequent Russian Civil War, the territory of Kazakhstan was reorganized several times. In 1936, it was established as the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic within the Soviet Union. Kazakhstan was the last of the Soviet republics to declare independence during the dissolution of the Soviet Union from 1988 to 1991. The country’s government has been described as authoritarian by human rights organizations, and the human rights situation in Kazakhstan is considered poor.

Kazakhstan is an important player in Central Asia’s economy and politics, generating 60% of the region’s GDP, mainly through its oil and gas industry. The country also has vast mineral resources. Kazakhstan is a democratic, unitary, constitutional republic de jure, but de facto, it is an authoritarian regime with no free elections. Despite this, it has the highest Human Development Index ranking in the region. Kazakhstan is a member state of various international organizations, including the United Nations, World Trade Organization, Commonwealth of Independent States, Shanghai Cooperation Organization, Eurasian Economic Union, Collective Security Treaty Organization, Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Organization of Turkic States, and International Organization of Turkic Culture.

NAME AND ETYMOLOGY

Kazakhstan’s name and etymology are derived from the Kazakh language and have evolved over time.

The earliest reference to the region was recorded in Chinese chronicles in the 2nd century BC, where it was referred to as the “Land of the Kangju” or “Kangju”. The name was also later mentioned in Persian and Arabic sources, where it was known as “Kashkun” or “Kashkani”.

The modern name of “Kazakhstan” comes from the Kazakh language, which is a Turkic language closely related to Turkish, Azerbaijani, and other Central Asian languages. In Kazakh, the country’s name is written as Қазақстан (Qazaqstan) and pronounced as [qɑzɑqˈstɑn].

The first part of the name, “Qazaq,” is believed to have originated from the ancient Turkic word “kaz,” which means “to wander” or “to move about freely.” The suffix “stan” is a Persian and Turkic word that means “land of” or “place of,” commonly used in Central Asian countries.

The modern spelling of “Kazakhstan” was adopted after the country gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991. Prior to that, the name was spelled “Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic” in English and “Qazaq Sovettik Sotsialistik Respublikasy” in Kazakh.

Overall, the name “Kazakhstan” can be interpreted as “Land of the Wanderers” or “Land of the Free People.” It reflects the nomadic traditions of the Kazakh people, who have a rich history of traveling across the vast steppes of Central Asia.

HISTORY

Kazakhstan is a transcontinental country located mainly in Central Asia and partly in Eastern Europe. Its territory has been inhabited by various nomadic groups and empires throughout history. In antiquity, the Scythians, an ancient Iranian nomadic people, lived in the region, and the Achaemenid Persian Empire expanded towards the southern part of the modern country.

Turkic nomads, who trace their ancestry to many Turkic states such as the First Turkic Khaganate and the Second Turkic Khaganate, have inhabited the country since the 6th century. In the 13th century, the territory was conquered by the Mongol Empire under Genghis Khan. In the 15th century, the Kazakh Khanate was established on much of the land that would later form the territory of modern Kazakhstan, as a result of the disintegration of the Golden Horde.

By the 18th century, the Kazakh Khanate had disintegrated into three jüz, which were absorbed and conquered by the Russian Empire. By the mid-19th century, the Russians nominally ruled all of Kazakhstan as part of the Russian Empire and abolished the institution of slavery in 1859.

Following the 1917 Russian Revolution and the subsequent outbreak of the Russian Civil War, the territory of Kazakhstan was reorganized several times. In 1936, it was established as the Kazakh Soviet Socialist Republic within the Soviet Union. Kazakhstan was the last of the Soviet republics to declare independence during the dissolution of the Soviet Union from 1988 to 1991.

Since independence, Kazakhstan has developed into a significant regional power, both economically and politically. It is the world’s largest landlocked country and the ninth-largest country by land area. Kazakhstan is rich in natural resources, particularly oil, gas, and minerals, and it generates 60 percent of the region’s GDP through its oil and gas industry.

Kazakhstan is a member state of several international organizations, including the United Nations, World Trade Organization, Commonwealth of Independent States, Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, Eurasian Economic Union, Collective Security Treaty Organization, Organization for Security and Cooperation in Europe, Organization of Islamic Cooperation, Organization of Turkic States, and International Organization of Turkic Culture. However, human rights organizations have criticized the Kazakh government for its authoritarian tendencies and poor human rights record.

GOVERNMENT AND POLITICS

The government of Kazakhstan is a presidential republic, where the President serves as both the head of state and head of government. The President is elected by popular vote for a maximum of two consecutive terms and has extensive powers, including the ability to dissolve parliament, appoint and dismiss the Prime Minister and other top officials, and veto legislation.

The Parliament of Kazakhstan is bicameral, consisting of the Majilis (Lower House) and the Senate (Upper House). The Majilis has 107 members who are elected for five-year terms, while the Senate has 47 members, 15 of whom are appointed by the President and the remaining 32 are elected by local assemblies for six-year terms.

Political parties are allowed to operate in Kazakhstan, but the ruling party, Nur Otan, dominates the political landscape. Other major parties include the Ak Zhol Democratic Party and the Communist People’s Party of Kazakhstan.

Kazakhstan has been criticized for its limited political freedoms and lack of free and fair elections. Human rights organizations have accused the government of suppressing political opposition, restricting freedom of speech and the press, and using the legal system to silence critics.

Kazakhstan is a member of several international organizations, including the United Nations, World Trade Organization, and the Shanghai Cooperation Organization. It has also been a vocal proponent of regional integration in Central Asia and is a member of the Eurasian Economic Union and the Collective Security Treaty Organization.

ECONOMY

Kazakhstan has the largest economy in Central Asia, primarily driven by its vast natural resources such as oil, natural gas, and minerals. The country has made significant progress in diversifying its economy in recent years, with a focus on developing the non-oil sector, promoting foreign investment, and implementing economic reforms.

The oil and gas sector remains the main driver of Kazakhstan’s economy, accounting for about 60% of the country’s exports and around a third of its GDP. The country is among the world’s top ten oil producers and has the second-largest oil reserves among former Soviet republics after Russia. The country is also a significant producer of natural gas and minerals, including copper, zinc, and uranium.

Kazakhstan has made efforts to develop its non-oil sector, with a focus on manufacturing, agriculture, and services. The government has launched several initiatives to attract foreign investment, including creating special economic zones and offering tax incentives. The country is strategically located along the New Silk Road, an initiative by China to connect Asia, Europe, and Africa through trade and infrastructure projects.

Kazakhstan is a member of the Eurasian Economic Union (EEU), a regional trade bloc that includes Russia, Belarus, Armenia, and Kyrgyzstan. The country has also signed several trade agreements with other countries, including China, the United States, and the European Union.

Despite its economic progress, Kazakhstan still faces several challenges, including corruption, a lack of diversification, and an underdeveloped financial sector. The country has implemented several economic reforms to address these issues, including improving the business climate, strengthening the banking sector, and reducing red tape.

GEOGRAPHY

Kazakhstan is a transcontinental country located in both Central Asia and Eastern Europe. It is the world’s largest landlocked country and the ninth-largest country by land area. Kazakhstan borders Russia to the north and west, China to the east, Kyrgyzstan to the southeast, Uzbekistan to the south, and Turkmenistan to the southwest. The country has a diverse landscape, including vast steppes, deserts, mountains, and forests. The Caspian Sea lies to the west of the country, and it is the world’s largest inland body of water. The country has a varied climate, ranging from arid and semi-arid to temperate and continental. Kazakhstan is rich in natural resources, including oil, gas, coal, uranium, and metals. The country’s geography has played a significant role in its history, economy, and culture.

TRANSPORT

Transportation in Kazakhstan includes a variety of modes, such as road, rail, air, and water transport.

Road transport is the primary mode of transportation in Kazakhstan, with a road network of over 200,000 kilometers (124,274 miles). The country has several major highways, including the A1 highway that runs from the Russian border to the Chinese border, and the A2 highway that connects the capital city of Nur-Sultan (formerly Astana) with Almaty, the largest city in Kazakhstan.

Rail transport is also an important mode of transportation in Kazakhstan, with a total railway network of over 15,000 kilometers (9,320 miles). The country’s railway system connects it to China, Russia, Uzbekistan, and Turkmenistan, among other countries.

Air transport is mainly operated by the state-owned Air Astana and several other smaller airlines. Kazakhstan has several international airports, including the Nursultan Nazarbayev International Airport in Nur-Sultan, the Almaty International Airport in Almaty, and the Aktau International Airport in Aktau.

Water transport is limited in Kazakhstan, as the country is landlocked, with no direct access to the sea. However, it has several rivers and inland waterways, which are mainly used for shipping goods and transporting people. The major inland port is located in the city of Atyrau, on the Caspian Sea.

INDUSTRY SECTORS

Kazakhstan’s economy is dominated by its extractive industry sectors, particularly oil and gas. The country is one of the world’s leading producers of uranium, and it also has significant deposits of coal, copper, gold, and other minerals. Agriculture is another important sector, with wheat, barley, and other crops grown in the fertile northern regions.

In recent years, the Kazakh government has made efforts to diversify the economy and encourage the development of non-extractive industries. This has led to the growth of industries such as manufacturing, construction, and telecommunications.

The country has also established a number of special economic zones, which offer tax incentives and other benefits to attract foreign investment. These zones are focused on industries such as information technology, engineering, and pharmaceuticals.

Tourism is another growing sector, with the country’s natural beauty and cultural heritage attracting increasing numbers of visitors each year. The government has invested in infrastructure and promotion to develop this industry further.

DEMOGRAPHICS

Kazakhstan has a population of around 19 million people, with a relatively low population density of fewer than 6 people per square kilometer. Ethnic Kazakhs make up the majority of the population, accounting for around 70% of the total, while ethnic Russians form a significant minority, comprising around 20% of the population. Other minority ethnic groups include Uzbeks, Ukrainians, Uighurs, Tatars, and Germans.

The population of Kazakhstan has been growing steadily over the years, although the growth rate has slowed down in recent years. The country has a relatively young population, with a median age of around 30 years old. The fertility rate is slightly below replacement level, at around 1.9 children per woman.

Kazakhstan is a multi-ethnic and multi-cultural society, with over 130 different ethnic groups living within its borders. The country has a policy of promoting cultural diversity and tolerance, and there are several government programs in place to support minority languages and cultures.

Kazakhstan is also home to a significant number of refugees and internally displaced persons (IDPs). Many of these individuals are ethnic Kazakhs who were displaced during the Soviet era or as a result of the conflict in neighboring Afghanistan. There are also refugees from other neighboring countries, such as Uzbekistan, Kyrgyzstan, and Tajikistan, who have fled to Kazakhstan due to political instability, conflict, or economic hardship.

EDUCATION

Education in Kazakhstan is overseen by the Ministry of Education and Science. The education system in Kazakhstan consists of three levels: primary education (grades 1-4), basic education (grades 5-9), and secondary education (grades 10-11 or 12).

Primary education is compulsory and free of charge, and it is the responsibility of local governments to provide education to all children. Basic education is also compulsory, but not free of charge, and is aimed at preparing students for secondary education. Secondary education is divided into two levels: general secondary education and vocational secondary education.

Higher education is provided by universities, institutes, and colleges. There are also specialized higher education institutions, such as technical and vocational colleges. The admission process to universities is competitive and based on standardized tests, with the most prestigious universities being located in the largest cities, such as Almaty and Nur-Sultan.

The literacy rate in Kazakhstan is high, with nearly 100% of the population over the age of 15 being able to read and write. However, there are still disparities in educational attainment between urban and rural areas, as well as between ethnic groups. The government has taken steps to improve access to education and to address these disparities, including implementing policies to increase enrollment in rural areas and providing financial assistance to low-income families.

HEALTHCARE

The healthcare system in Kazakhstan has been improving steadily in recent years, but it still faces some challenges. The government has been investing in the healthcare sector, including building new hospitals and clinics, upgrading medical equipment, and training medical professionals.

Kazakhstan has a universal healthcare system, which means that every citizen is entitled to healthcare services free of charge or at a reduced cost. However, the quality of healthcare services can vary widely across the country, with better facilities and services found in major cities.

The country also faces challenges in terms of healthcare infrastructure in rural areas, where medical facilities and professionals are often limited. This can make it difficult for people in remote areas to access healthcare services, which can lead to a disparity in health outcomes between urban and rural populations.

Kazakhstan has also been affected by the COVID-19 pandemic, with the government implementing measures to control the spread of the virus. The country has been conducting vaccinations against COVID-19 since the beginning of 2021, and as of April 2023, around 60% of the population has received at least one dose of a COVID-19 vaccine.

Overall, while there is still room for improvement, Kazakhstan’s healthcare system has made significant strides in recent years, and the government’s continued investment in healthcare infrastructure and training of medical professionals is expected to lead to further improvements in the future.

CULTURE

Kazakhstan has a diverse and rich culture that reflects its nomadic past and the influences of its many ethnic groups. The country is home to more than 130 different ethnic groups, including the Kazakhs, Russians, Uzbeks, Ukrainians, Tatars, Germans, and Koreans, among others.

Traditional Kazakh culture is based on nomadic lifestyles and is deeply rooted in the natural world. The Kazakh people have a rich oral history and a strong tradition of storytelling, poetry, and music. Traditional Kazakh music is characterized by the use of the dombra, a two-stringed instrument, and the kuis, a type of instrumental music that is played on the dombra.

Kazakh cuisine is also influenced by its nomadic past and the country’s geographic location. Meat dishes, such as beshbarmak (boiled meat with noodles) and kazy (smoked horse meat sausage), are popular, as are dairy products, including kurt (dried sour cream balls) and kymyz (fermented mare’s milk). Bread, often in the form of flatbreads called lepyoshka, is also a staple of the Kazakh diet.

Religion has also played an important role in Kazakh culture, with Islam being the dominant religion. However, the country is officially a secular state, and other religions, including Christianity and Judaism, are also practiced.

Kazakhstan is also known for its traditional crafts, including embroidery, weaving, and the production of felt and leather goods. The country has a number of museums and cultural centers, including the National Museum of Kazakhstan in Nur-Sultan, which houses exhibits on Kazakh history, culture, and art.

In addition to its traditional culture, Kazakhstan is also home to a growing contemporary arts scene, with a number of galleries and arts festivals showcasing the work of Kazakh artists and performers.

NATURAL RESOURCES

Kazakhstan is known for its abundant natural resources, which play a significant role in the country’s economy. The country is one of the world’s leading producers of oil, gas, and minerals such as uranium, copper, gold, and zinc.

The oil and gas industry is the backbone of Kazakhstan’s economy, accounting for more than 60% of the country’s GDP. The country has significant oil reserves, estimated at 30 billion barrels, and is the second-largest oil producer among the former Soviet republics after Russia. Kazakhstan is also a major producer of natural gas, with proven reserves of over 1.1 trillion cubic meters.

Apart from oil and gas, Kazakhstan is rich in minerals. The country is the world’s leading producer of uranium, with more than 40% of the world’s reserves located within its borders. Kazakhstan also has significant deposits of other minerals, such as copper, gold, iron ore, lead, and zinc.

In addition to its energy and mineral resources, Kazakhstan also has vast agricultural land and is one of the world’s largest producers of wheat, barley, and other grains. The country also has significant livestock production, including cattle, sheep, and horses.

Kazakhstan is also home to diverse flora and fauna, with various species of animals and plants found across the country. The country’s natural beauty and biodiversity have led to the establishment of several national parks and protected areas, including the Altyn Emel National Park, Korgalzhyn Nature Reserve, and the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve.

ENVIRONMENTAL ISSUES

Kazakhstan faces various environmental issues, including air and water pollution, soil degradation, deforestation, and desertification. The country has a high level of greenhouse gas emissions due to its heavy reliance on fossil fuels and industrial activities. Kazakhstan is also vulnerable to the effects of climate change, including droughts, floods, and extreme temperatures.

The Aral Sea, once one of the world’s largest lakes, has significantly shrunk due to Soviet-era irrigation projects, leaving behind a devastated ecosystem and health problems for nearby populations. The country has taken steps to address the issue by building a dam to prevent the remaining water from evaporating and planting trees to reduce the impacts of salt and dust storms.

Kazakhstan is also home to a diverse range of wildlife, including endangered species such as the Saiga antelope and snow leopard. However, habitat loss and hunting have threatened these species. The government has established protected areas and implemented conservation programs to address these issues.

The country has made efforts to transition to a greener economy, investing in renewable energy and implementing energy-efficient measures in buildings and industries. Kazakhstan has set targets to reduce greenhouse gas emissions and increase the share of renewable energy in its energy mix.

HUMAN RIGHTS

Kazakhstan has faced criticism for its human rights record. Human rights organizations have accused the government of restricting political freedoms, suppressing dissent, and committing torture and other forms of ill-treatment. In addition, there have been reports of restrictions on religious freedom, mistreatment of ethnic minorities, and limits on freedom of the press.

The government has taken some steps to address these concerns, including establishing a National Human Rights Commission and adopting new legislation on torture and freedom of information. However, implementation of these measures has been uneven, and many human rights activists continue to face harassment and persecution.

One notable area of concern is the treatment of political opposition and independent journalists. There have been numerous cases of individuals being imprisoned on politically motivated charges, and there are reports of torture and mistreatment of detainees. In addition, there have been allegations of extrajudicial killings and disappearances of opposition figures.

Another area of concern is the situation of ethnic minorities, particularly the Uighurs and other Turkic peoples. There have been reports of discrimination, restrictions on religious freedom, and arbitrary detention of individuals from these groups.

Despite these challenges, Kazakhstan has made some progress in advancing human rights. The government has taken steps to improve prison conditions and reduce the use of torture, and there have been efforts to increase transparency and accountability in government. In addition, Kazakhstan has ratified a number of international human rights treaties, including the International Covenant on Civil and Political Rights and the Convention against Torture and Other Cruel, Inhuman or Degrading Treatment or Punishment.

FOODS

Kazakh cuisine is characterized by its nomadic roots and is heavily influenced by the country’s geography and climate. The traditional Kazakh diet consists mainly of meat, dairy products, and grains.

One of the most famous dishes in Kazakhstan is Beshbarmak, which is made from boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) and served on a bed of flat noodles, topped with onion and served with a bowl of broth. Another popular meat dish is Kuyrdak, made from sheep or goat organs, usually the liver, heart, and kidneys, fried with onions and spices.

Dairy products are also an important part of Kazakh cuisine. One of the most popular dairy products is Kumys, which is fermented mare’s milk. Another is Shubat, which is made from fermented camel’s milk. Both Kumys and Shubat are believed to have medicinal properties and are considered to be healthy drinks.

Bread is a staple food in Kazakhstan, and one of the most popular types is baursak, which is a deep-fried dough ball. It is often served with tea and can be sweet or savory.

Tea is the most popular beverage in Kazakhstan, and it is often served with sweets or snacks. Some of the most popular sweets include Chak-chak, which is a fried dough dessert covered in honey or syrup, and Kurt, which is a dried cheese snack that can be sweet or savory.

TRAVEL DESTINATIONS

Kazakhstan has a diverse range of travel destinations, from bustling cities to serene natural landscapes. Here are some popular destinations to visit:

• Almaty: Known as the cultural capital of Kazakhstan, Almaty is a modern city with a rich history. Visitors can explore museums, art galleries, and traditional markets, as well as enjoy outdoor activities such as hiking in the nearby mountains.
• Astana (Nur-Sultan): The capital city of Kazakhstan, Astana (recently renamed Nur-Sultan) is a showcase of modern architecture and design. Visitors can explore the futuristic buildings, parks, and museums, as well as enjoy shopping and dining.
• Baikonur Cosmodrome: Located in the desert steppes of Kazakhstan, Baikonur Cosmodrome is the world’s oldest and largest space launch facility. Visitors can take a guided tour of the facility and witness a rocket launch.
• Charyn Canyon: Often compared to the Grand Canyon in the United States, Charyn Canyon is a natural wonder located in southeastern Kazakhstan. Visitors can hike and explore the colorful rock formations and enjoy the stunning views.
• Kolsai Lakes: Located in the Tien Shan Mountains in southeastern Kazakhstan, Kolsai Lakes is a series of three alpine lakes with crystal-clear water. Visitors can hike, fish, and camp in the surrounding area.
• Shymkent: The third-largest city in Kazakhstan, Shymkent is known for its rich history and cultural heritage. Visitors can explore the ancient ruins of the city’s Silk Road past, as well as enjoy modern amenities such as shopping and dining.
• Turkestan: Located in southern Kazakhstan, Turkestan is an ancient city with a rich history and cultural significance. Visitors can explore the mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi, a UNESCO World Heritage Site, as well as other historical sites and museums.

These are just a few of the many travel destinations that Kazakhstan has to offer.

CELEBRITIES

Kazakhstan has produced several notable personalities in various fields. Here are some of them:

• Nursultan Nazarbayev – He was the first president of Kazakhstan, serving from 1991 until 2019. He played a pivotal role in the country’s transition to a market economy and oversaw the development of the capital city of Astana (now Nur-Sultan).
• Dimash Kudaibergen – He is a singer, songwriter, and multi-instrumentalist who rose to fame after participating in the Chinese singing competition show “Singer” in 2017. He is known for his wide vocal range and has gained a large following both in Kazakhstan and internationally.
• Khabib Nurmagomedov – He is a retired mixed martial artist who was born in Dagestan, Russia, but represents Kazakhstan in international competitions. He is regarded as one of the greatest MMA fighters of all time and retired with a perfect 29-0 record.
• Aliya Mustafina – She is a retired artistic gymnast who competed for Kazakhstan in international competitions. She won four Olympic medals, including a gold in the uneven bars at the 2012 London Olympics.
• Gennady Golovkin – He is a professional boxer who has held multiple middleweight world championships. He is known for his powerful punches and has a record of 41 wins, 1 loss, and 1 draw.
• Timur Bekmambetov – He is a film director and producer who has worked on both Hollywood and Russian productions. He is known for his films “Night Watch” and “Wanted,” and has received critical acclaim for his unique visual style.
• Zarina Diyas – She is a professional tennis player who has represented Kazakhstan in international competitions. She has won multiple WTA titles and reached a career-high ranking of No. 31 in the world.

These are just a few examples of the many talented individuals who have come from Kazakhstan.

NEWSPAPERS

Some of the major newspapers in Kazakhstan are:

• Kazakhstanskaya Pravda – This is the official newspaper of the Kazakh government and is published in Russian language.
• Egemen Kazakhstan – This is one of the oldest and most widely circulated newspapers in Kazakhstan, published in Kazakh language.
• Liter – This is a weekly literary newspaper published in Almaty, focusing on contemporary Kazakh literature.
• Forbes Kazakhstan – This is the Kazakh edition of the popular Forbes business magazine, covering business news, economics, and finance.
• The Astana Times – This is an English language newspaper based in Astana, covering local news, politics, business, and culture.
• Novaya Gazeta – This is a Russian-language newspaper based in Almaty, known for its investigative journalism and critical reporting on the government.
• Vremya – This is a daily newspaper published in Russian language, covering local and international news, business, and sports.

TV CHANNELS

Kazakhstan has a variety of TV channels that broadcast in different languages, including Kazakh, Russian, and English. Here are some of the major TV channels in the country:

• Khabar TV – a state-owned TV channel that broadcasts news, current affairs, and cultural programs in Kazakh and Russian.
• Kazakh TV – a state-owned TV channel that promotes Kazakh culture and heritage, and broadcasts in Kazakh, Russian, and English.
• Channel 7 – a private TV channel that broadcasts news, entertainment, and sports programs in Kazakh and Russian.
• Channel 31 – a private TV channel that broadcasts news, documentaries, and entertainment programs in Kazakh and Russian.
• STV – a private TV channel that broadcasts news, talk shows, and entertainment programs in Kazakh and Russian.
• Astana TV – a state-owned TV channel that broadcasts news, cultural programs, and events from the capital city, Nur-Sultan (formerly known as Astana).
• Almaty TV – a state-owned TV channel that broadcasts news, cultural programs, and events from the country’s largest city, Almaty.
• These are just a few of the many TV channels available in Kazakhstan, and the country also receives international TV channels through satellite and cable providers.

RADIO

Kazakhstan has a diverse radio landscape, with both state-run and private radio stations broadcasting throughout the country. Some of the most popular radio stations in Kazakhstan include:

• Kazakh Radio – the state-run radio station of Kazakhstan, broadcasting in Kazakh, Russian, and other languages.
• Europa Plus Kazakhstan – a popular commercial radio station broadcasting contemporary music and entertainment programs.
• Hit FM Kazakhstan – another commercial radio station featuring popular music, news, and talk shows.
• Radio NS – a private radio station broadcasting in Russian and featuring a mix of music, news, and talk shows.
• Radio Shalkar – a popular private radio station based in the city of Shymkent, broadcasting in Kazakh and featuring music, news, and cultural programming.
• Radio Sputnik Kazakhstan – a Russian-language radio station operated by the Russian state-owned media company Rossiya Segodnya, broadcasting news and commentary on current events.

These are just a few examples of the many radio stations available in Kazakhstan, catering to a variety of interests and language preferences.

FACTS

Here are some interesting and random facts about Kazakhstan:

• Kazakhstan is the world’s ninth-largest country by land area.
• The country is located in both Central Asia and Eastern Europe.
• Kazakhstan is the largest landlocked country in the world.
• The population of Kazakhstan is around 19 million people.
• The capital city of Kazakhstan is Nur-Sultan (previously known as Astana).
• Kazakhstan has two official languages: Kazakh and Russian.
• The Kazakh language uses the Cyrillic alphabet.
• Kazakhstan became independent from the Soviet Union in 1991.
• The currency of Kazakhstan is the tenge.
• Kazakhstan is rich in natural resources, including oil, gas, and minerals.
• The country has the world’s largest uranium reserves.
• The Baikonur Cosmodrome, the world’s first and largest operational space launch facility, is located in Kazakhstan.
• The Kazakh steppe covers much of the country and is one of the largest remaining grasslands in the world.
• Lake Baikal, the world’s largest freshwater lake by volume, is partially located in Kazakhstan.
• The ancient Silk Road passed through Kazakhstan, connecting China to Europe.
• Kazakhstan is home to several UNESCO World Heritage Sites, including the Mausoleum of Khoja Ahmed Yasawi in Turkistan and the Petroglyphs within the Archaeological Landscape of Tamgaly.
• The national dish of Kazakhstan is beshbarmak, a dish made of boiled meat (usually lamb or beef) and noodles.
• Horse meat is a common food item in Kazakhstan.
• Kazakhstan has a diverse population, with many ethnic groups including Kazakhs, Russians, Uzbeks, Ukrainians, and Germans.
• Kazakhstan has a continental climate, with hot summers and cold winters.
• The Kazakh national instrument is the dombra, a two-stringed lute.
• Kazakhstan is the birthplace of the apple, with wild apples growing in the country’s Tien Shan mountains.
• The first and only Olympic gold medal for Kazakhstan was won by boxer Bakhtiyar Artayev in 2004.
• Kazakhstan is the world’s largest producer of uranium, accounting for around 40% of global production.
• The country has a well-developed railway network, with the Trans-Siberian Railway passing through the northern part of the country.
• The Kazakhstani tenge has been the world’s worst-performing currency over the past decade.
• Kazakhstan has a diverse range of landscapes, including mountains, deserts, and lakes.
• The country is home to several national parks and nature reserves, including Altyn Emel National Park and the Aksu-Zhabagly Nature Reserve.
• Kazakhstan is the second-largest country in the world without access to the sea, after Uzbekistan.
• The Kazakh flag features a golden sun with 32 rays, representing the unity of the country’s different ethnic groups.