France, officially known as the French Republic (République française), is a country located in Western Europe. It shares borders with Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Monaco, Spain, and Andorra. France also has several overseas territories located around the world, including regions in the Caribbean, South America, the Indian Ocean, and the Pacific Ocean.
Covering an area of 643,801 square kilometers (248,573 square miles), France is the third-largest country in Europe and has a diverse landscape that includes coastal plains, mountain ranges such as the Alps and the Pyrenees, and the Massif Central. France has a temperate climate with regional variations, characterized by cool winters and mild summers.
The population of France is approximately 67 million people, with a rich history of cultural, artistic, and scientific achievements. French is the official language, and Paris, the capital city, is the largest urban center, known for its iconic landmarks such as the Eiffel Tower, Louvre Museum, and Notre-Dame Cathedral.
France is a unitary semi-presidential republic, with the President serving as the head of state and the Prime Minister as the head of government. The country is divided into 18 administrative regions, including 13 metropolitan regions in mainland France and 5 overseas regions.
The French economy is diverse and highly developed, ranking as one of the world’s largest economies. Key sectors include industry, agriculture, tourism, fashion, aerospace, and technology. France is also a founding member of the European Union and the Eurozone, using the euro as its official currency.
France has a rich cultural heritage, with a long history of achievements in art, literature, philosophy, music, and cinema. The country is also renowned for its cuisine, which emphasizes fresh ingredients, regional specialties, and fine wines.
Throughout history, France has played a significant role in global affairs, having been a colonial power, an Enlightenment leader, and a key participant in both World Wars. Today, France continues to maintain a strong global presence through its membership in international organizations such as the United Nations, NATO, and the G7.
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