KEY POINTS:
The former Soviet republic of Kyrgyzstan, which has mountains honouring Communist and Russian leaders, plans to name a snowy peak "Mount Santa Claus".
"We want to develop tourism, and Santa Claus is an ideal brand to help us do this," said an official from the tourist authorities of the predominantly Muslim state.
Plans are afoot to hold an international Santa Claus congress in summer. The country also intends to hold annual Santa games.
- AP