Swiss - Key Characteristics

Switzerland is a landlocked alpine country in Central Europe. The country borders Germany to the north, France to the west, Italy to the south and Austria and Liectenstein to the east. The area of Switzerland is 41.2 thousand square kilometers and the population is 7.2 million. Historically it was a confederation and has been a federation since 1848.

Switzerland has a strong economy in finance and banking, and a long and strong tradition of political and military neutrality. This background allows Switzerland to be the host country for various international organisations.