Cliff Stearns: “the sovereign nation of Liechtenstein is home to 34,000 people and is the size of Washington, DC. Yet this tiny nation…”

“the sovereign nation of Liechtenstein is home to 34,000 people and is the size of Washington, DC. Yet this tiny nation accomplishes far more in social, political and financial influence than its size would indicate. Nestled between Switzerland and Austria in the European Alps, Liechtenstein has established a stable and growing democratic government. For over 200 years it has maintained a constitutional monarchy with a vibrant parliament that employs a strong system of checks and balances. I, along with many of my colleagues, have had the privilege of visiting Liechtenstein on several occasions, and I was intrigued by its fascinating history and the people's commitment to freedom that has lasted for centuries. The Liechtenstein family of Austria were given the rights to the land in 1713, and the area gained the status of an independent principality of the Holy Roman Empire in 1719 under the name Liechtenstein. When, in 1806, Napoleon defeated the Holy Roman Empire, the conquered Emperor made Liechtenstein a sovereign country. Unfortunately, the people of Liechtenstein were not granted the full rights and liberties that come with sovereignty, as under Napoleon, the French occupied the country for the next few years. However, in 1815 within the new German Confederation, Liechtenstein regained its full independence. Liechtenstein has a long history in diplomacy and peaceful relations with their neighbors.”