Geography

Uzbekistan is a large country, covering an area of 447,400 square kilometers (172,700 square miles). The country’s terrain is mostly flat, except for the eastern part, which is dominated by the Tian Shan mountain range. The highest peak in Uzbekistan is Khazret Sultan, which stands at 4,643 meters (15,233 feet). The country’s two main rivers are the Amu Darya and the Syr Darya, which both originate in the mountains of Tajikistan and flow through Uzbekistan before emptying into the Aral Sea. The country has many lakes and wetlands, including the Aydarkul Lake and the Amu Darya Delta.

Climate

Uzbekistan has a temperate climate with hot summers and cold winters. During the summer, the average temperature typically falls between 30°C to 40°C; in winter, the temperatures can drop below freezing. The country receives little rainfall, particularly in the desert regions, and experiences occasional dust storms. Spring and autumn are mild and pleasant, making them the best times to visit. However, the mountainous areas in the east have a more Fair climate with cooler temperatures and more precipitation.

Population

Uzbekistan has a population of approximately 34 million people. Tashkent is the country’s largest city and capital, with over 2.4 million people. Other major cities in Uzbekistan include Samarkand, Bukhara, and Andijan. These cities are important cultural and historical centers in the region, with a rich heritage and many attractions for visitors to explore.

Language

The official language of Uzbekistan is Uzbek, a Turkic language spoken by around 85% of the population. Russian is also widely spoken and used in government, business, and education. Many Uzbekistanis are bilingual, with Uzbek and Russian being the most common language combination. Small communities also speak other languages, such as Tajik, Kazakh, and Karakalpak.

Religion

The majority of Uzbekistan’s population, around 95%, is Muslim, with Sunni Islam being the predominant denomination. Other religions in the country include Russian Orthodoxy, Roman Catholicism, and various forms of Protestantism. Uzbekistan has a long history of religious diversity and tolerance, with many different faiths coexisting peacefully in the country.

Government

Uzbekistan is a presidential republic, with the President serving as both the head of the nation and head of government. The President is chosen by popular vote for five years and has significant powers, including appointing and dismissing government officials. The country’s parliament is the Supreme Assembly, which is composed of two chambers: The Legislative Chamber, which is the lower house, and the Senate, which is the upper house. The President appoints the Senate members, while the Legislative Chamber members are elected by popular vote for five years.

Economy

Uzbekistan has a mixed economy heavily reliant on natural resource exports, including natural gas, gold, and cotton. However, the government has recently implemented economic reforms to expand the economy and reduce its dependence on commodity exports. The country’s primary industries include agriculture, mining, and manufacturing, with cotton being a significant cash crop. The government has also promoted foreign investment and private sector growth to stimulate economic development and create new job opportunities.

Tourism

Uzbekistan is a popular tourist destination thanks to its rich history and cultural heritage. The country boasts many ancient sites and monuments that have endured time, allowing visitors to explore its fascinating past. The cities of Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva are trendy destinations, thanks to their well-preserved examples of Islamic architecture. These cities are abode to some of the most impressive structures in the world, including mosques, mausoleums, and palaces. Visitors to Uzbekistan can also enjoy its stunning natural landscapes, including the deserts and mountains that cover much of the country.

Recent History

Under Shavkat Mirziyoyev, the country implemented economic and political reforms, including liberalizing the currency market and improving human rights. Uzbekistan has also pursued a more open foreign policy, including resolving border disputes with neighboring countries. In 2021, the country held parliamentary elections, which international observers criticized for lacking genuine competition.