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The population is composed mainly of Karakalpaks, Uzbeks, Kazakhs and with smaller numbers of Turkmens, Russians and other nationalities. About one-half of the population is urban. The economy is predominantly agricultural. Cotton is cultivated along the Amu Darya and in its delta and is processed at Shimbay, Qon'irat, Beruniy, Takhtako'pir, Qarao'zek, Qanliko'l, Ellikqala, To'rtku'l, Khojeli, Moynaq, No'kis and Kegeyli Rayons. A well-developed system of irrigation canals supplies water from the Amu Darya to the crops. Besides cotton, crops include alfalfa, rice, and corn (maize). Cattle and Karakul sheep are raised in the Kyzylkum Desert.
The shrinkage of the Aral Sea eliminated the republic's fisheries and resulted in a harsher climate and a shorter growing season.
Area 63,700 square miles (164,900 square km). Population more than 2 mln. people. |
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