Liechtenstein

Area: 160 sq km (61.8 sq miles).

Population: 34,294 (2004).

Population Density: 211.6 per sq km.

Capital: Vaduz. Population: 5,038 (2002).

GEOGRAPHY: Liechtenstein shares borders with Austria and Switzerland and lies between the upper reaches of the Rhine Valley and the Austrian Alps. The principality is noted for its fine vineyards.

Government: Imperial Principality with a hereditary constitutional monarchy. Principality established in 1719. Head of State: Prince Hans Adam II since 1989. Head of Government: Prime Minister Otmar Hasler since 2001.

Language: German; a dialect of Alemannish is widely spoken. English is also widely spoken.

Religion: Christian, predominantly Roman Catholic (78 per cent).

Electricity: 230 volts AC, 50Hz. European two-pin plugs are used.

Social Conventions: Similar to northwest Europe. Regulations concerning smoking are becoming increasingly strict.