Kirghizstan

Kirghizstan, or Kyrgyzstan, republic in central Asia, bordered by on the north by Kazakhstan, on the east by China, on the south by Tajikistan, and on the west by Uzbekistan. Its capital is Bishkek.

Land and climate

The country is almost entirely mountainous, it is part of the Tien Shan mountains (highest peak 24,406 feet/7440 meters). The rivers are important for irrigation and for generating electricity. The climate varies from subtropical to alpine in the high mountains.

People

About 60% of the population are Kirghiz, a Muslim people speaking a Turkic language; other inhabitants include Russians and Uzbeks. Official languages are Khirgiz and Russian. Besides Islam, one can find Christianity and Buddhism in Khirgizstan.

Economy

The wool from its sheep is an important product, and the region also has deposits of coal and natural gas. When after 1991 the economic ties with Russia disappeared, this had a disastrous effect on the Kirghiz economy.

History

Formerly one of the 15 constituent republics of the USSR (Soviet Union), the country became independent in 1991. After independence the political and economic policies of the government have been aimed at reforming the old communist structures. The country is a member of the Commonwealth of Independent States en made radical reforms during the last years.

See also: Union of Soviet Socialist Republics.