Switzerland
Miscellaneous
About Switzerland
- Switzerland, officially known as the Swiss Confederation, is a landlocked country located in Central Europe. It is characterized by its unique geographical and cultural diversity.
- Bern is the capital city of Switzerland. It is referred as 'federal city' by the Swiss.
- It is not a member of the European Union or NATO.
Map of Switzerland
Borders
- North: Germany
- East: Austria and Liechtenstein
- South: Italy
- West: France
Land Area
- Switzerland covers an area of approximately 41,290 square kilometers, making it relatively small in size but known for its varied topography and natural beauty.
Latitude and Longitude
- Switzerland is situated roughly between 45° and 48° North latitude and 5° and 11° East longitude.
Strategic Importance
- Switzerland's central location in Europe makes it a hub for international trade, diplomacy, and finance. Its neutrality and strong banking system have significant global relevance.
Physical Features
- Switzerland is renowned for its mountainous terrain, with the Alps dominating the southern region and the Jura mountains in the northwest.
- The central plateau, home to major cities like Zurich, Geneva, and Bern, features rolling hills, plains, and lakes, including Lake Geneva and Lake Zurich.
- The country's geography supports tourism, agriculture, and hydropower generation.
Currency
- Switzerland's official currency is the Swiss Franc (CHF), which is one of the world's most stable currencies.
Current Polity
- President: The presidency of Switzerland rotates annually among the seven members of the Federal Council. For 2024, the President is Alain Berset.
- Federal Council: Switzerland is governed by a seven-member Federal Council, which acts as the collective executive authority.