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Most of the territory of France is in Western Europe, but also includes some overseas islands and other territories on other continents. France lays between Mediterranean Sea and English Channel, from North Sea to the Rhine River and to the Atlantic Ocean. Countries around include United Kingdom, Luxembourg, Belgium, Germany, Italy, Switzerland, Andorra, Monaco and Spain. The French Republic is a democratic country, a unitary semi-presidential republic. It is considered a developed country with the one of the biggest economies in the world.
France takes the fourth position in the world by its export. France is also a founding member of the EU and is the largest state of all EU members by its area. France is a founding member of the UN. French Republic is one of so called permanent members of the UN Security Council which have veto power, and it possesses nuclear weapons (one of the eight such countries in the world). The word France comes from ‘Franks’, a tribe that lived in the area after the demise of the ancient Rome.
France is known to be the major destination for the foreign tourism (more then 60 millions of visitors early). The reason for this is that France has something that appealing to everyone. Diversity of its territory, climate and culture ensures that France will be one of the top tourist destinations in the foreseeable future. French styles of life vary around France according to the landscape, foreign neighbors and climate conditions. From the peaceful life in France’s rural areas to the modern and vivid Paris and the prestigious southern regions there is always a way of life to satisfy all tastes. With its famous wine and food, innovative architecture and art and highly developed recreational facilities, France is a country well worth exploring.
Shortly about France
French Republic is situated in the European Union on the European continent
Capital of France (and largest city)- Paris
Official language - French
Governmental organization- Unitary semi-presidential republic
Legislature – Parliament, Upper House, Senate, Lower House, National Assembly
Accession in EU - 25 March 1957
Total area 674,843 km2
Total population (estimation on January 1, 2010 ) - 65,447,374
Currency - Euro (EUR)
Time zone CET (UTC+1), Summer (DST) CEST (UTC+2)
Drives on the right
Internet TLD .fr
Country calling code: 331
Emergency numbers:
Ambulance: 15, mobile: 112
Police: 17
Fire: 18
Gas: +33 1 43 35 40
Visas - EU citizens do not require a visa. For the others, please contact the French consulate or embassy in your country.
Address : www.expatries.diplomatie.fr
You can find more information : www.diplomatie.gouv.fr
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