Pascal Couchepin
President

(pronounced "pahz-KAHL koosh-PAN")

"Switzerland and the EU have a shared geography, common values, and economic interests. This requires us to continue our dialogue with the EU."

The Swiss Confederation is located in the heart of Western Europe and is bordered by Germany, France, Italy, Austria, and Liechtenstein. Of the country's 41,292 sq km (15,943 sq mi), 60% are covered by the Alps and contain some of the highest mountain peaks in Europe. The remaining 30% is referred to as the Mittleland or central plateau. This area supports the majority of the nation's urban, economic, and agricultural activity.

Switzerland's population numbers approximately 7.3 million (2002 estimate). The native Swiss are an amalgam of different ethnic traditions—65% German, 18% French, 10% Italian, and 1% Romansch. The majority speak German, with smaller percentages speaking French, Italian, and Romansch. All four are official languages of the government. An estimated 46% of Swiss were...