Switzerland Liechtenstein

Author: Zhou Min
Publisher:
Publish Date: 2003-04-01
Features: Switzerland: The national flag is square in shape. The flag is red with a white cross in the center. There are four representative explanations for the origin of the Swiss flag pattern. By 1848, Switzerland established a new federal constitution, officially establishing 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 the country'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: Area of 41,284 square kilometers. It is an inland 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 has high terrain, 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, the largest being 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. The Swiss Federal Palace allows the public to visit for free during the parliamentary recess to learn about the functions and working methods of the parliament. Thousands of visitors come each day.
Population: 7.09 million (1997). Of which, 19.4% are foreigners. The official languages are German, French, and Italian. 63.6% of residents speak German, 19.2% speak French, 7.6% speak Italian, 0.6% speak Romansh, and 9% speak other languages. 44% of residents are Christian, 48% are Catholic, and 5% follow 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, adhering to a neutral policy. In 1798, Napoleon I annexed Switzerland and turned it into the "Helvetic Republic." In 1803, Switzerland restored its federal system. At the Congress of Vienna in 1815, Switzerland was recognized as a permanent neutral state. In 1848, Switzerland adopted a new constitution, establishing 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 Federal State 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 only take effect if both houses agree. The Federal Council is the highest administrative body, with the President of the Federal Council serving as the head of state and government. The term is one year, and re-election is not allowed. According to the constitution, Switzerland practices direct democracy through "popular voting" (referendums) and "popular initiatives." Any amendments to the constitution, signing of international treaties with a duration of more than 15 years, or joining important international organizations must be approved by popular vote and endorsed 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 can choose to serve once. The total service period for men is 260 days. Women have the same rights as men and can participate in military tasks with firearms. The Swiss army has 220,000 personnel (including 80,000 reservists and 20,000 recruits), with its functions being defense and counter-terrorism. Switzerland will launch an army reform plan.
Foreign Affairs: Switzerland is a "permanent neutral country," adhering to 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.