Kyrgyzstan

Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked country in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan to the north, Uzbekistan to the west, Tajikistan to the southwest and China to the east. Its capital and largest city is Bishkek. Kyrgyzstan's terrain is mountainous, with its highest point being Jengish Chokusu (7,439 m). Lake Issyk-Kul is the largest lake in the country. The majority of the population (70%) are ethnic Kyrgyz, with significant minorities of Uzbeks (14%), Russians (9%) and others (7%). Russian is the official language, while Kyrgyz is the national language. The majority of the population are Muslims (85%), with a significant minority of Christians (9%). Kyrgyzstan is a member of the United Nations, the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation, the Eurasian Economic Union, and the Collective Security Treaty Organisation. Kyrgyzstan was formerly a part of the Soviet Union, and became independent in 1991. Since then, it has undergone a number of political and economic reforms. Kyrgyzstan is a relatively poor country, with a GDP per capita of just $1,700. However, it has been making good progress in recent years, with strong economic growth and improving human development indicators.