For many, Switzerland is just a tiny spot in the middle of the European map, completely sur¬rounded by the European Union. They fail to appreciate that this alpine this alpine republic is not merely a quaint little country for tourists, but a platform for global activity. Strongly export-oriented, Switzerland trades on a global basis and is much more open to Asia and America than most European countries. In the field of pharmaceutical products, precision tools, foodstuffs and chemicals, Swiss companies have reached a global dimension. The banking and insurance sectors have decisively adopted worldwide strategies, and the Swiss franc has preserved its stability and international status despite the monetary integration of the European continent.