Switzerland is not just cuckoo clocks and chocolate. This nation stands out as a politically stable haven for the wealthy amid pristine lakes and mountains especially the Swiss Alps.
11 October 2007
Full name: Swiss Confederation
Capital: Bern
Location: Europe. It shares common frontiers with five countries - Germany, France, Italy, Austria and the tiny Principality of Liechtenstein. Switzerland is therefore at the crossroads of the continent.
Population: 7.1 million (UN, 2005) Capital: Bern Area: 41,284 sq km (15,940 sq miles)
Area: 41,284 sq km (15,940 sq miles)
Major languages: German, French, Italian, Romansch
Major religion: Christianity
Life expectancy: 76 years (men), 82 years (women) (UN)
Monetary unit: 1 Swiss Franc = 100 Rappen
Main exports: Machinery and electronics, chemicals, precision instruments, watches
GNI per capita: US $39,880 (World Bank, 2003)
Internet domain: .ch
International dialling code: +41
Airports: Zurich, Geneva and Basel
Member of EU: No
Time Zone: GMT +1 - Daylight Savings Time is observed April through October (plus 1 hour).