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Turkmenistan

WHO code: TKM
ISO2: TM
ISO3: TKM
Country code: +993
Country groups:
  • WHO_EURO
  • CIS
  • CARINFONET
  • EURO_SURVEIL
General notes

Turkmenistan - statistical data

Turkmenistan is a landlocked country located in Central Asia, bordered by Kazakhstan to the northwest, Uzbekistan to the north and east, Afghanistan to the southeast, and Iran to the south. The country has a total area of 488,100 square kilometers, with a diverse landscape that includes deserts, mountains, and the Caspian Sea coast.

With a population of approximately 6 million people, Turkmenistan is a relatively sparsely populated country. The majority of the population is ethnic Turkmen, with significant minorities of Uzbeks, Russians, and other ethnic groups. The country has a relatively young population, with a median age of 27 years. The capital city, Ashgabat, is the largest city in the country and serves as the political and cultural center of Turkmenistan.

Land of Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan, a country rich in natural resources and cultural heritage, is known for its vast landscapes and diverse ecosystems. The land of Turkmenistan is characterized by its deserts, mountains, and plains, providing a unique environment for a variety of plant and animal species. The country's diverse geography also plays a significant role in shaping its climate, with hot summers and cold winters being common throughout the region.

The land of Turkmenistan is not only home to a diverse range of flora and fauna but also holds great significance for the country's economy and society. The agricultural sector, for example, plays a crucial role in providing food and employment for the population, with cotton being a major cash crop. Additionally, the country's natural gas reserves are among the largest in the world, making Turkmenistan an important player in the global energy market.

In conclusion, the land of Turkmenistan is a fascinating blend of natural beauty, economic potential, and cultural significance. With its diverse landscapes and rich resources, the country offers a unique environment for both wildlife and human inhabitants.

Climate of Turkmenistan

The climate of Turkmenistan is characterized by extreme continental conditions, with hot summers and cold winters. The country experiences very little precipitation throughout the year, with most of the rainfall occurring in the form of sporadic showers during the spring and autumn months. The lack of significant bodies of water and mountain ranges in Turkmenistan also contributes to its arid climate.

The summer months in Turkmenistan are typically very hot, with temperatures often exceeding 40 degrees Celsius. The winter months, on the other hand, can be quite cold, with temperatures dropping below freezing in some parts of the country. The combination of these temperature extremes, along with the lack of precipitation, creates challenging conditions for agriculture and water resources management in Turkmenistan.

Overall, the climate of Turkmenistan is harsh and unforgiving, with limited opportunities for sustainable development. As the country continues to face the challenges of climate change and water scarcity, it is crucial for policymakers and stakeholders to work together to implement effective strategies for adapting to and mitigating the impacts of these environmental challenges.

Languages of Turkmenistan

Turkmenistan is a country with a rich linguistic diversity, reflecting its historical and cultural heritage. The official language of Turkmenistan is Turkmen, which is a Turkic language that is spoken by the majority of the population. In addition to Turkmen, Russian is also widely spoken and used in official and business settings. This bilingualism is a result of Turkmenistan's history as a part of the Soviet Union, where Russian was the lingua franca.

Furthermore, Turkmenistan is home to several other minority languages, such as Uzbek, Kazakh, and Tatar, spoken by various ethnic groups within the country. These languages are an important part of Turkmenistan's cultural mosaic, contributing to its linguistic diversity and richness. The government of Turkmenistan has made efforts to promote and preserve these minority languages, recognizing the importance of linguistic diversity in maintaining cultural identity.

Overall, the languages of Turkmenistan play a crucial role in shaping the country's identity and cultural landscape. The coexistence of Turkmen, Russian, and various minority languages reflects the country's multicultural heritage and history. As Turkmenistan continues to develop and modernize, it is important to value and preserve its linguistic diversity as a key aspect of its national identity.

 

Demographic trends

Turkmenistan, located in Central Asia, is experiencing significant demographic trends that are shaping the country's population dynamics. With a population of over 6 million people, Turkmenistan is characterized by a relatively young population, with a median age of around 27 years. However, the country is also experiencing a gradual aging of its population, with a declining birth rate and increasing life expectancy.

One of the key demographic trends in Turkmenistan is urbanization, with a growing number of people moving from rural areas to cities in search of better economic opportunities. This trend is leading to the concentration of the population in urban areas, particularly in the capital city of Ashgabat. As a result, Turkmenistan is facing challenges related to urban infrastructure, housing, and social services.

Another important demographic trend in Turkmenistan is the gender imbalance, with more women than men in the population. This imbalance is partly due to higher male mortality rates, particularly among working-age men. As a result, Turkmenistan is facing challenges related to gender disparities in areas such as employment, education, and healthcare. Overall, these demographic trends are shaping the future of Turkmenistan and will have implications for the country's social and economic development.

Turkmenistan interesting facts

Turkmenistan, a country rich in culture and history, boasts a number of fascinating facts that make it a unique destination. One interesting fact about Turkmenistan is its famous Darvaza Gas Crater, also known as the Door to Hell. This natural gas field collapsed into a cavern in 1971, leading to the decision to set it on fire to prevent the spread of methane gas. The crater has been burning continuously ever since, creating a surreal and mesmerizing sight in the Karakum Desert.

Another intriguing aspect of Turkmenistan is its impressive marble-clad capital city of Ashgabat, known for its grandiose architecture and pristine streets. The city holds the Guinness World Record for having the highest density of white marble buildings in the world, with many structures adorned with intricate gold accents and colorful mosaics. This dedication to architectural splendor reflects the country's commitment to showcasing its cultural heritage and creating a visually stunning environment for its residents and visitors.

Turkmenistan is also home to the Akhal-Teke horse, a breed known for its incredible speed, endurance, and distinctive metallic sheen to its coat. Considered one of the oldest and most beautiful horse breeds in the world, the Akhal-Teke has been a symbol of Turkmenistan's national identity for centuries. These fascinating facts offer just a glimpse into the rich tapestry of history and culture that make Turkmenistan a truly captivating country to explore.

European Programme of Work (EPW)
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