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Background:
Switzerland's independence and neutrality have long been honored
by the major European powers, and Switzerland was not involved
in either of the two World Wars. The political and economic
integration of Europe over the past half century, as well
as Switzerland's role in many UN and international organizations,
has strengthened Switzerland's ties with its neighbors. However,
the country did not officially become a UN member until 2002.
Switzerland remains active in many UN and international organizations,
but retains a strong commitment to neutrality
Economy
- overview:
Switzerland is a prosperous and stable modern market economy
with low unemployment, a highly skilled labor force, and a
per capita GDP larger than that of the big Western European
economies. The Swiss in recent years have brought their economic
practices largely into conformity with the EU's to enhance
their international competitiveness. Switzerland remains a
safe haven for investors, because it has maintained a degree
of bank secrecy and has kept up the franc's long-term external
value. Reflecting the anemic economic conditions of Europe,
GDP growth dropped in 2001 to about 0.8%, to 0.2% in 2002,
and to -0.3% in 2003.
For more
information please visit:
CIA
World Factbook
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Articles:
Zürich – Switzerland
by Pieter Lemstra
Zürich gained international fame as a banking town and
for being the world's cleanest and most pleasant city to reside
in. Throughout recent years, Zürich is increasingly influenced
by big-city and multicultural influences and while maintaining
its calm and idyllic character untill today, its burstling downtown
provides in plenty of bars, restaurants and entertainment. Blessed
with its sceneric natural setting, including a large lake, two
rivers, tree-covered hills and the snowcapped Alpine mountain
peaks aligned on the horizon, Zürich is undisputedly one
of the most beautiful cities in Switzerland. If not, in the
world!
The
medieval old town of Zürich is divided by the river Limmat
and its churches, medieval guild halls and narrow alleys give
the historical centre a charming ambience. On the east bank
of the river, the part called Niederdof is the place where most
bars and nightlife is concentrated. Filled with the crowds of
the nearby University, this part of the old town is a lively
place under the shadows of the majestic Grossmünster church.
The historical centre of Zürich is situated on the west
bank, with the St. Peter's and Fraumünster churces as its
main landmarks. Here you will find a variety of exclusive shops
and boutiques and the extensive Bahnhofstrasse is considered
as one of the most prestigious shopping streets in Europe.
Despite
its image as a conservative and tranquil city, Zürich offers
a lot of entertainment, culture as well as a vibrant nightlife.
Being a center for contemporary art and offering its visitors
a wide variety of interesting museums, galleries and cultural
events, Zürich is definitely a good place to stick around
in for a few days. Old factories has been transformed into trendy
bars, restaurants or nightclubs and gives the city the dynamics
of any world city. Zürich is also a good base for day trips
to popular destinations like Baden and Winterthur.
About the Author
Pieter Lemstra is the copywriter for
http://www.reservehotelonline.com.
He obtains information about cities all over the world through
online research and writes informative articles for business
travelers and tourists.
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