Post-Soviet States after 30 years of Independence: Kazakhstan, Azerbaijan, Uzbekistan and Georgia!

Summary

In this video, the host explores Azerbaijan, Georgia, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan, former USSR countries, 32 years post-independence. They discuss each nation's geography, population, economy, and political landscape, highlighting challenges like corruption and nostalgia for Soviet times. The host shares personal experiences, emphasizing the friendly locals and safety, recommending Georgia as a top travel destination for its diverse landscapes and rich culture.

Takeaways

• 🌍 Azerbaijan, Georgia, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan were all once part of the USSR and gained independence in 1991.
• 🗺️ Kazakhstan is the largest of the four countries, similar in size to Argentina, while Georgia is the smallest, comparable to Ireland.
• 🏙️ Population trends vary: Georgia has seen a decline since 1991, while Uzbekistan's population has nearly doubled.
• 🏛️ Each country's capital has unique characteristics: Astana (Kazakhstan), Tbilisi (Georgia), Baku (Azerbaijan), and Tashkent (Uzbekistan).
• 📈 Azerbaijan has a predominantly oil-based economy with strong ties to Turkey, while Kazakhstan has vast oil reserves and agricultural potential.
• 💼 Corruption is a significant issue in Kazakhstan, affecting business and major projects like the LRT Line in Astana.
• 🌐 Georgia has undergone economic reforms since 2003, making it business-friendly with low tax rates for non-residents.
• 📊 Uzbekistan has seen rapid economic and social reforms, opening up to foreign investment and developing its capital, Tashkent.
• 🏦 The economies compared: Kazakhstan has the largest economy and the highest GDP per capita, while Uzbekistan has the lowest GDP per capita.
• 🏅 Georgia ranks highest in terms of political freedoms, being partly free, while Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan are considered not free by Freedom House.
• 👨‍👩‍👧‍👦 The people of these countries are generally friendly, with rural areas of Azerbaijan and Uzbekistan being particularly welcoming.

Q & A

Which countries were discussed in the video?

The video discussed Azerbaijan, Georgia, Uzbekistan, and Kazakhstan.

What is the population of Kazakhstan?

The population of Kazakhstan is 19.3 million people.

What is the capital city of Georgia?

The capital city of Georgia is Tbilisi.

Which regions of Georgia are under occupation?

The regions of Abkhazia and South Ossetia are currently under occupation.

What is the population growth trend in Azerbaijan since 1991?

The population of Azerbaijan has increased from 7.2 million in 1991 to 10 million.

How does the video describe the population growth in Uzbekistan since 1991?

The population of Uzbekistan has nearly doubled from 20 million in 1991 to almost 35 million.

What is the main economy of Azerbaijan?

Azerbaijan's economy is predominantly oil-based.

What is the biggest problem in doing business with Kazakhstan according to the World Economic Forum?

Corruption is listed as the biggest problem in doing business with Kazakhstan.

How does the video describe Georgia's economic reforms since the Rose Revolution in 2003?

Georgia has undertaken a number of institutional reforms modernizing the economy, minimizing bureaucracy, and introducing great tax policies.

What is the Freedom House rating for Azerbaijan in terms of political freedoms?

Azerbaijan gets nine points out of 100, which is considered not free.

Which country among the discussed has the highest GDP per capita?

Kazakhstan has the highest GDP per capita at $11,591.