France

Although ultimately a victor in World Wars I and II, France suffered extensive losses in its empire, wealth, manpower, and rank as a dominant nation-state. Nevertheless, France today is one of the most modern countries in the world and is a leader among European nations. Since 1958, it has constructed a presidential democracy resistant to the instabilities experienced in earlier parliamentary democracies. In recent years, its reconciliation and cooperation with Germany have proved central to the economic integration of Europe, including the introduction of a common exchange currency, the euro, in January 1999. At present, France is at the forefront of efforts to develop the EU's military capabilities to supplement progress toward an EU foreign policy.

Languages & Population

Approximate Population: 63,713,926 (July 2007 est.)

Nationality (Noun): Frenchman(men), Frenchwoman(women)

Nationality (Adjective): French

Official Language(s): French

Major Languages Spoken: Basque, Breton, Catalan, French, Provencal, Valencian, Vlaams, Luxemburgian

Country Facts

Country Name (long form): French Republic

Country Name (short form): France

Country Name (local long form): Republique francaise

Country Name (local short form): France

Name of Capital: Paris

UTC Time Difference (from capital): UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time)

Countries Near by, and Bordering France: Switzerland, Italy, Luxembourg, Monaco, Spain, Andorra, Belgium, Germany

Land Area: 640053 sq km

Water Area: 3374 sq km

Comparative Area: slightly less than the size of Texas

Total Land Boundry: 2,889 km

Coastline: 4,668 km

National Holiday: Fete de la Federation, 14 July (1790)

International Phone Code: 33

Currency Code: euro (EUR)

Internet Country Code: metropolit

US Embassy Location: 2 Avenue Gabriel, 75382 Paris Cedex 08

US Embassy Mailing Address: PSC 116, APO AE 09777