Kazakhstan, the largest country in Central Asia and the ninth largest globally (2,724,900 km²), is a land of immense scale. Equivalent in size to Western Europe, it’s the world’s largest landlocked country, bordering Russia, China, Kyrgyzstan, Uzbekistan, Turkmenistan, and the Caspian Sea. Its 7,591 km border with Russia is the second-longest worldwide. Stretching 1,700 km north to south and over 3,000 km east to west, Kazakhstan’s geography is as diverse as its size.

With a population exceeding 20 million and a density of 7.5 people per km², Kazakhstan is a vibrant mix of cultures. Kazakhs comprise over 70% of the population, alongside significant communities of Russians (15.2%), Uzbeks (3.3%), and other ethnic groups. This diversity extends to religion, with Sunni Muslims representing over 70% and Christians over 26%, alongside other faiths. This rich tapestry of over 120 ethnic groups and nearly 4,000 religious organizations contributes to Kazakhstan’s unique cultural identity.

Kazakhstan’s economy thrives on its abundant natural resources, including minerals, hydrocarbons, and rare earth metals. This has attracted substantial foreign investment, contributing to a GDP of $292.55 billion (+3.5% in 2024) and a GDP per capita of $14.57 thousand. The nation is a global leader in uranium production and export (over 45% of the world’s total) and ranks 18th in gold reserves, with significant production increases in recent years. The country is also focusing on developing its transport infrastructure with 13 international transport corridors, including the important “Middle Corridor” (TITR).

Kazakhstan operates as a presidential republic, with the President as head of state and the Prime Minister as head of government. Executive power rests with the government, while legislative power is exercised by the bicameral Parliament (Mazhilis and Senate). The current President is Kassym-Jomart Tokayev (re-elected in 2022), and the Prime Minister is Olzhas Bektenov (appointed in 2024).