Uzbekistan

Uzbekistan is a landlocked country located in Central Asia. It is bordered by five countries: Kazakhstan to the north, Kyrgyzstan to the northeast, Tajikistan to the southeast, Afghanistan to the south, and Turkmenistan to the southwest. The country is known for its rich history, particularly as a significant part of the Silk Road trade route connecting the East and West. Uzbekistan has a diverse cultural heritage with influences from Persian, Turkic, and Russian cultures. The capital and largest city is Tashkent. The official language is Uzbek, and the country has a predominantly Muslim population. Uzbekistan is recognized for its architectural and historical sites, including impressive mosques, madrasas, and ancient cities like Samarkand and Bukhara. The economy is based on agriculture, with cotton and horticulture being key sectors, and it also has substantial natural resources, including natural gas and minerals. Uzbekistan gained independence from the Soviet Union in 1991, and since then, it has been developing its national identity and economic policies.