- Capital city: Amsterdam
- Total area: 41 864 km²
- Population: 16.3 million
- Currency: euro
The Netherlands is situated in the lowlands of north-west Europe and is bordered by Germany and Belgium. To the north and west lies the North Sea. Just beyond the coast lie the polders - land reclaimed from the sea.
The Netherlands has an average population density of 452 people per km2, making it one of the most densely populated countries in the world. There are about 775,000 foreign residents, about 200,000 of whom come from the European Union, with most of the other foreign residents originating from Turkey and Morocco.
The Netherlands position in the heart of Europe determines the character of the Dutch economy, which is highly international in its orientation. Trade and transport are two of its most important sectors. In terms of cargo handled, Rotterdam is the largest port in the world. The Netherlands has major chemical, electrical engineering as well as car industries in addition to a highly mechanised agricultural sector. Oil and natural gas production are of considerable economic importance.
The Netherlands is a parliamentary democracy and a hereditary monarchy. Together the Sovereign and the Cabinet constitute the Government. Ministers are responsible to Parliament, which consists of two chambers. The 75 members of the Upper House are elected indirectly by the provincial councils. The 150 members of the Lower House are elected directly, for four years, by a system of proportional representation.
Netherlands
