Switzerland Liechtenstein map (Chinese and Foreign Contrast)

Author: Zhou Min, Editor-in-Chief
Publisher:
Publishing Date: 2002-01-01
Features: Switzerland: The national flag is square in shape. The flag is red with a white cross in the center. There are four representative theories about the origin of the Swiss flag pattern. By 1848, Switzerland established a new federal constitution, officially proclaiming the red-and-white cross flag as the Swiss federal flag. White symbolizes peace, justice, and light, while red represents the victory, happiness, and passion of the people. The entire flag pattern symbolizes national unity. This flag was modified in 1889, changing the original red-and-white cross rectangle into a square, symbolizing Switzerland's fair and neutral foreign policy. The coat of arms: It is a shield-shaped emblem with the same pattern and colors as the flag.
Natural Geography: The area is 41,284 square kilometers. It is a landlocked country located in central Europe, bordered by Austria and Liechtenstein to the east, Italy to the south, France to the west, and Germany to the north. The country is predominantly mountainous, divided into three natural regions: the Jura Mountains in the northwest, the Alps in the south, and the Swiss Plateau in the center, with an average elevation of about 1,350 meters. Major rivers include the Rhine and the Rh?ne. There are numerous lakes, with 1,484 in total, including the largest, Lake Geneva (Lake Lemano), covering an area of approximately 581 square kilometers. The country is in the temperate zone, influenced by both maritime and continental climates, resulting in significant climate variations. In Bern, the capital of Switzerland, dozens of visitors listen to staff explaining the Swiss Federal Palace during the parliamentary summer recess, when the public is allowed free access to learn about the parliament's functions and working methods. Thousands of people visit daily.
Population: 7.09 million (1997), with 19.4% being foreign residents. The official languages are German, French, and Italian. Among the residents, 63.6% speak German, 19.2% speak French, 7.6% speak Italian, 0.6% speak Romansh, and 9% speak other languages. 44% of the population is Christian, 48% is Catholic, and 5% follows other religions.
Capital: Bern
The Mystery of the Wealthy Living in Switzerland: In the 3rd century, the Alemanni (a Germanic tribe) migrated to eastern and northern Switzerland, while the Burgundians moved to the west and established the Burgundian Dynasty. In the 11th century, Switzerland was ruled by the Holy Roman Empire. In 1648, it broke free from the Holy Roman Empire and declared independence, adopting a neutral policy. In 1798, Napoleon I annexed Switzerland and turned it into the "Helvetic Republic." In 1803, Switzerland restored its federal system. The Congress of Vienna in 1815 confirmed Switzerland as a permanent neutral state. In 1848, Switzerland adopted a new constitution, established the Federal Council, and became a unified federal state. During both World Wars, Switzerland maintained neutrality. Since 1948, Switzerland has been an observer state of the United Nations. In a nationwide referendum held in March 2002, 54.6% of Swiss voters and 12 of the 23 Swiss cantons voted in favor of Switzerland joining the United Nations. On September 10, 2002, the 57th Session of the United Nations General Assembly passed a resolution by consensus, officially admitting the Swiss Confederation as a new member of the United Nations.
Politics: Switzerland is a federal state where cantons are sovereign entities with their own constitutions. The Federal Council is the highest administrative body. The Federal Parliament consists of the National Council and the Council of States, both with equal authority, and is the legislative body of the federation. Laws or resolutions can only take effect if both houses agree. The Federal Council is the highest administrative body, with the President of the Federal Council serving as both the head of state and the head of government. The term is one year, with no re-election allowed. According to the constitution, Switzerland practices "direct democracy" through "popular referendums" and "citizen initiatives." Any amendments to the constitution, treaties with a duration of more than 15 years, or membership in major international organizations must be approved by popular referendum and accepted by the cantons before taking effect.
Military: Switzerland implements a system of universal military service. Healthy men aged 18 to 42 must serve in the army for three weeks every two years, though they may choose to serve once instead. The total service period for men is 260 days. Women have the same rights as men and can carry firearms in military tasks. The Swiss army has 220,000 personnel (including 80,000 reservists and 20,000 trainees), with its primary functions being defense and counter-terrorism. Switzerland is launching an army reform plan.
Foreign Policy: Switzerland is a "permanent neutral country," pursuing an active neutral policy. "Universality," "benevolent service," and "international cooperation" are the three core elements of its foreign policy. In June 2005, Swiss voters approved joining the Schengen Agreement.
Relationship with China: Switzerland established diplomatic relations with China on September 14, 1950, and exchanged envoys. In January 1956 and April 1957, both countries elevated their legations to embassies. In November 2003, Swiss Federal President Pascal Couchepin paid a working visit to China.