France
National Name - République Française

France, a country of Western Europe, is situated on Atlantic Ocean and English Channel with vast cultural heritage. A land of great contrast, that offers an endless choice of alluring destinations, a rich diversity of landscapes, cuisines, climates, and peoples. Being a very magnificent and beautiful country, France attracts a millions of visitors every year.
Although France being one of the most advanced industrial economy, it also possesses a very efficient farm sector.

The country got its name from the Franks (Francs), a German tribe that occupied northern Europe after the fall of the Western Roman Empire. The first King of the Franks, Clovis, is popularly known as the forefather of the French kings.

GEOGRAPHY
Expanding over an area of 674,843 square kilometers, France shares its border with Belgium, Luxembourg, Germany, Switzerland, Italy, Monaco, Andorra, and Spain.
Located on Northern Temperate Zone, France has a temperate climate with generally cool winters and mild summers.

CULTURE
France has a very diversified, yet, unified culture. People of France belong to diverse origins. Population varies from region to region. French People are generally very fond of Art.
Many famous artists as well as writers of ancient times belonged to France.
Sports, lie in the heart of France. Games like Basketball, Football(Soccer),Rugby and Handball are most popularly played in France.France hosts the annual "Tour de france", the most famous 2500 mile road bicycle race in the world.France also hosts major tennis tournaments, including French Open, a grand slam tournament.

GOVERNMENT
France has a unitary semi-presidential republic with strong democratic traditions. The symbol of French Republic is MARIANNE, an allegorical figure of liberty and the Republic. One of the major slogans of the French Revolution was "Liberté, égalité, fraternité, ou la mort!" which means Freedom, equality, brotherhood, or death!, which now is France's motto.