About Uzbekistan

Located in Central Asia, Uzbekistan is a doubly landlocked country bordered by Kazakhstan, Kyrgyzstan, Tajikistan and Turkmenistan. It occupies a strategic position along the historic Silk Road, which contributed to its long-standing role as a center of trade, culture, and intellectual development.

Uzbekistan has a population of over 37 million people, making it the most populous country in Central Asia. Its capital and largest city is Tashkent, a major political, economic, and cultural hub. Other historically significant cities include Samarkand, Bukhara, and Khiva, which are recognized for their well-preserved Islamic architecture and UNESCO-listed heritage sites.

Covering an area of approximately 448,978 square kilometres (173,351 square miles), Uzbekistan features diverse landscapes ranging from the Kyzylkum Desert to fertile agricultural zones such as the Fergana Valley, as well as mountainous regions in the east. The country has a mixed economy with strong contributions from natural resources, agriculture, and an expanding industrial and service sector.