Switzerlands

Switzerland, officially the Swiss Confederation, is a landlocked country in Central Europe, bordered by Germany to the north, France to the west, Italy to the south, and Austria and Liechtenstein to the east. The conventional name of the country is Switzerland; Switzerlands is not a standard designation.

It has a population of about 8.5 to 8.7 million people, with major urban centers including Zurich, Geneva, Basel, Lausanne, and Bern. The country recognizes four official languages: German, French, Italian, and Romansh.

Switzerland is a federal directorial republic consisting of 26 cantons. The Federal Council holds executive power, and a rotating presidency performs ceremonial duties. The country maintains a long-standing policy of neutrality in international conflicts.

The economy is highly developed, characterized by a strong financial services sector, advanced manufacturing, and high-tech industries such as pharmaceuticals and precision machinery. The Swiss franc (CHF) serves as the national currency, and the country is noted for high living standards and innovation.

Although not a member of the European Union, Switzerland participates in the Schengen Area and the European Free Trade Association (EFTA). It has close bilateral relations with neighboring countries, a robust education and healthcare system, and a policy of direct democracy at the cantonal level.