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         TURKMENISTAN
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Turkmenistan, a central Asian
republic of the former USSR,
declared itself a republic in
1991. Much of the west and
central areas are covered by
the sandy Kara Kum Desert,
while the east is a plateau.
The climate is extremely dry,
and most of the population
live in oasis settlements near
the rivers, where agriculture
is intensive. There are rich
mineral deposits, especially
natural gas. Silk, oil and
sulphur are also produced.

Area (Sq. Km.): 488,100

Population: 3,118,000

Capital: Ashkhabad

Language:
Turkmen
Russian

Religion:
Shiite Muslim
Christian

Government Type:
Republic

Currency: Rouble

Embassy:
Represented by CIS

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Foreign Office Advice:

Normal care and precautions
should be taken.

For more information ring:

 Foreign Office Travel Unit

       0171-270-4129