Switzerland
obtained its independence from the Roman Empire in 1499. The Country
has been prominent in international affairs over the 20th century.
The International Committee of the Red Cross (ICRC) a major humanitarian
agency is based in the City of Geneva. Geneva is also home to the
European Headquarters of the United Nations. Switzerland was not
involved in either of the major world wars and has persistently
pursued a policy of neutrality.
Switzerland is a central European nation on the Alpine mountain
ranges. The Country is landlocked and is surrounded by France,
Germany, Austria and Italy. Switzerland is a prosperous nation
and enjoys a healthy and stable economy with low unemployment
rates. Major industries in the Country are; precision instruments
especially watches which the Country is famed for producing,
chemicals, pharmaceuticals and machinery.
Languages: German, French, Italian and Romansch are the Country’s
national languages.
Bern:
Bern is the Capital City of the Swiss Federation. Though it
is believed that the City had previously been settled prior
to its documented founding, Bern was established by Duke Berchtold
V of Zahringen in 1191. The City’s historic center has
been listed by UNESCO as a world heritage site. Most of its
buildings are largely intact since the City unlike others in
Europe, did
not have to bear the brunt of bombardment during the world
wars.
Zurich:
Zurich is the largest City in Switzerland and one of Europe’s
key cities. It is home to one of the Continent’s busiest
airports; the Zurich International airport. For a city of its
magnitude, Zurich has a small population which is estimated to
be at 366, 145.
Geneva:
The City of Geneva has gained world wide fame for being the
headquarters of the Red Cross and branches of the United Nations.
The City is one of the largest in Switzerland with a population
of about 185,000 residents.