Kazakhstan is the world's largest landlocked country, a status that presents unique economic and logistical challenges as it has no direct access to the world's oceans. Stretching from the Caspian Sea in the west to the Altai Mountains in the east, it is the ninth-largest country globally. Most of its territory consists of the Kazakh Steppe, a vast region of open grasslands. Its capital city is Astana, which has undergone several name changes in recent years (including Nur-Sultan). Central Asia is also home to Uzbekistan, one of only two 'doubly landlocked' countries in the world, meaning it is surrounded entirely by other landlocked countries. Kazakhstan’s geography is strategically important as it bridges Europe and Asia, serving as a key node in the ancient Silk Road and the modern-day Belt and Road Initiative. The country's economy is heavily reliant on its massive reserves of oil, natural gas, and minerals like uranium.