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Annexed by Russia between 1865 and 1885, Turkmenistan became a Soviet republic in 1925. It achieved its independence upon the dissolution of the USSR in 1991. Turkmenistan is a Neutral and Independent country.
President NIYAZOV(a.k.a. "Turkmenbashi", Father of Turkmens) retains absolute control over the country and opposition is not tolerated. Extensive hydrocarbon/natural gas reserves could prove a boon to this underdeveloped country if extraction and delivery projects can be worked out. Is also popular for its Akhalteke (or "Ahalteke") horses and its carpets ("Turkmen haly").
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Country
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Surface Area: 488,100 square km
Population: 4,688,000 (July 2004 est.)
Located in: Central Asia
Capital City: Ashgabat
Head of State: Saparmurat NIYAZOV (Turkmenbashi)
Prime Minister: Saparmurat NIYAZOV
Independent since: 27 October 1991 (from the USSR)
Currency: Turkmen manat (TMM)
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