About

• Kyrgyzstan is a landlocked country in Central Asia, bordering Kazakhstan, China, Tajikistan and Uzbekistan.
• Kyrgyzstan, often referred to as Central Asia’s only democracy, is strategically located between Central Asia and China and is separated from Afghanistan by Tajikistan. 
• For China, the country, located at the centre of Eurasia, is a vital link in its Belt and Road Initiative.
• The Central Asian state became independent with the collapse of the Soviet Union in 1991.
• It has some oil and gas and a developing gold mining sector, but relies on imports for most of its energy needs.
• The Capital city is Bishkek.

Why in News?

• Street protests erupted in Kyrgyzstan recently following the latest parliamentary election. The opposition blamed the votes were rigged as protesters captured several government buildings in the capital Bishkek.

Reference:

1. https://www.thehindu.com/news/international/the-hindu-explains-whats-happening-in-kyrgyzstan/article32812356.ece