Kazakhstan is a country located in central Asia. It is bordered by Russia to the north, China to the east, Kyrgyzstan and Uzbekistan to the south, and Turkmenistan to the southwest. Kazakhstan has a population of approximately 18 million people, and its capital and largest city is Astana. Kazakhstan is a presidential republic, and it is one of the largest and most populous countries in the region. The economy of Kazakhstan is primarily based on oil and gas, and the country is a leading global producer of petroleum. Kazakhstan is known for its vast and beautiful landscapes, which are dominated by the steppes of the Kazakh Plateau, and its rich cultural heritage, which has been influenced by a range of Asian and European traditions.