Luxembourg
Luxembourg, officially known as the Grand Duchy of Luxembourg, is a small landlocked country in Western Europe, bordered by Belgium to the west and north, Germany to the east, and France to the south. It is one of the smallest sovereign states in Europe, with an area of about 2,586 square kilometers and a population of around 634,730 as of early 2023. Luxembourg City, the capital, is known for its fortified medieval old town perched on sheer cliffs. The country has three official languages: Luxembourgish, French, and German. Luxembourg has a parliamentary representative democratic monarchy, with the Grand Duke as the head of state and an elected Prime Minister who heads the government. The nation is known for its advanced economy, with a major sector being banking and financial services. It is also one of the founding members of the European Union, the United Nations, NATO, and Benelux. The country has a high standard of living and is known for its picturesque landscapes, which include rolling hills and valleys of the Ardennes forest in the north, the Moselle river valley in the southeast, and the Red Lands in the south. Luxembourg's culture is a mix of French and German influences, which is evident in its cuisine, architecture, and the multilingualism of its people. Despite its small size, Luxembourg plays a significant role in European and global affairs due to its strategic location and economic prowess.