Focus on Germany
As the country with the largest population and the largest economy in Europe, beautiful landscapes and interesting cities as well as a vibrant cultural scene, Germany is well worth getting to know.
In spite of the current world-wide economic problems, Germany is still the world's largest exporter. Motor vehicles, machinery and chemical products remain the main exports.
The Football World Cup in 2006 allowed Germany to present itself as the modern, open and fun-loving nation that it is today, causing many an international visitors to lay a few old stereotypes to rest.
However, Germany is not without its problems. The current financial crisis is threatening many of the big and reputable names, posing real challenges to the government. A declining birthrate has led to a fierce debate about the future of the family, immigration, etc. In the face of global competition the German education system is under constant review. And how does a country that likes to think of itself as clean and green but has a large economy with a heavy manufacturing base face the challenges of climate change? And what about the security situation? Which role should the modern Germany play in the world?
To follow these and many other debates, and for background information on the country, please follow the links below or go to the list of recommended reading: Current affairs http://www.dw-world.de/ http://www.tagesschau.de/english
Economist Country Profile
http://www.economist.com/countries/Germany/
Travel and Tourism
http://www.germany-tourism.de/
CIA Country File
https://cia.gov/cia//publications/factbook/geos/gm.html
BBC web-site, Country Profile on Germany,
http://news.bbc.co.uk/hi/english/world/europe/country_profiles/newsid_1047000/1047864.stm
German Embassy in London http://www.london.diplo.de/Vertretung/london/en/Startseite.html
British Embassy in Germany, offers useful information on Germany for British citizens
www.britischebotschaft.de
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