Download Switzerland Report - The European Times

Town centre Zurich
Mayor Mauch emphasizes Zurich’s EU ties. She says,
“Joining the EU will be the right thing to do. We are
situated in the very heart of Europe. We exchange
60% of our exports and 80% of our imports with EU
countries. Global issues like the impact of climate
change or migration across borders affect Switzerland
and the EU alike and cannot be approached by a single
nation. Switzerland and the EU have a lot to offer to
each other. To be the odd one out would put us at a
growing disadvantage.”
Cultural hub
Zurich is not only a business centre but is also known for
its lively cultural scene and international population. As
Regine Aeppli explains, “Google alone employs people
from 40 nations here in Zurich. In fact, every fourth
inhabitant in the Zurich area comes from another
country.”
The city of Zurich has many theatres, museums, art
galleries, cinemas, concerts, exhibitions, clubs and restaurants,
and is within easy access of areas of great natural
beauty. Mercer International Inc. publishes regular
quality-of-life reports on the world’s cities, and has rated
Zurich number one several years in a row. The rating
is based on such factors as employment, housing, recreational
facilities, education, personal safety, transport
and medical care, and in all of these and more, Zurich
is a winner.
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