| Location |
The Swiss confederation lies
in Central Europe, is bordering on France, Germany, Italy
and Austria. |
| Area |
41,284 sq.km |
| Population |
6.7 million
Population Growth Rate: Population increased by an annual
average of 1.0% (1985–94) |
| Languages |
German (64%), French (19%), Italian (8%),
Rato-Romanson (1%), Other (8%). |
Religion
|
Christianity (Protestants 44%, Catholics
48%), Other 8% |
| Government |
Swiss confederation consists of 20 cantons
& 6 half cantons, has a republican Federal constitution. |
| Life Expectancy |
Males - 75 years, Females - 81 years |
| Capital |
Bern (Berne) |
| Major Ports |
Basle |
| Major Cities |
Bern, Zurich, Basel, Geneva, Lausanne,
Winterthur |
| Climate |
Generally temperate, but varies considerably
with altitudes and aspects. Temperature ranges from 1C
(30F) in winter to 16C (61F) in summer. |
| Public Holidays |
New Years Day - January 1st and 2nd
Good Friday
Easter Monday
Swiss National Day - August 1st
Christmas - December 24th, 25th and 26th.
In addition, various cantonal and local holidays are observed. |
| Education |
Mainly under cantonal & commercial
control - 26 different systems are in operation. Education
is compulsory for children between 7–15 years. |
| Time |
One hour ahead of GMT (same as BST) |
| Visa Requirement |
Similar to those of neighbouring European
countries. For information & documents, one should
contact the Swiss Embassy. |
| Weights and Measures |
Metric system |
| Currency |
1 Swiss France = 100 centimes |
| Rate of Exchange |
The Swedish currency is the Swedish Crown
(SEK).
1 Sterling
|
1.78 Francs
|
| 1 US $ |
1.15 Francs |
100 Swiss
Francs
|
L 55.98
= $ 86.90 |
| 1 Swiss
Franc |
Rs. 41.17
|
|
