Kazakhstan: Quick Facts
- Capital city: Astana
- 9th largest country in the world and the largest landlocked nation.
- Population: about 20 million.
- Gained independence on 16 December 1991.
- Borders: Russia (North) • China (East) • Kyrgyzstan & Uzbekistan (South) • Caspian Sea (West).
- Home to over 130 ethnic groups, including Kazakh, Russian, Korean, German, Ukrainian, and many others.
- Known as the birthplace of the apple: wild apple forests still exist today.
- Rich in natural resources and an important global commodity producer.
- Hosted Expo 2017: “Future Energy” in Astana.
- Lake Balkhash is unique: one side is fresh water, the other is saline.
- Highest point: Mount Khan Tengri: 7,010 m (23,000 ft).
- Lowest point: Karagiye Depression: 132 m (433 ft) below sea level.”