Alpine states

Eight Alpine states with international borders marked

TheAlpine statesorAlpine countriesare eight countries associated with theAlpine region,as defined by theAlpine Conventionof 1991:Austria,France,Germany,Italy,Liechtenstein,Monaco,Slovenia,andSwitzerland.

Nations

Alpine skislope in theZillertalvalley,Austria

1. Austria
2. France
3. Germany
4. Italy
5. Liechtenstein
6. Monaco
7. Slovenia
8. Switzerland

Territory

The territory includes 83NUTS 3-level localadministrative divisionsand about 6,200municipalities.

In a narrow sense, the term "Alpine states" could be applied to Austria (28.7% of the total area), Italy (27.2%), and France (21.4%), which represent more than 77% of the Alpine territory and more than three quarters of the Alpine population. However, for larger countries like Italy and France, the share of their territory within the Alpine region only amounts to 17% and 7%, respectively. From a strictly national point of view, and with the exception ofmicrostatesLiechtenstein and Monaco,the Alpsare dominant in only two countries: Austria (65.5% of its territory) and Switzerland (65%).

Diplomacy

The diplomatic status between these countries varies depending on their individual relationships with each other. Many of these countries are members of theEuropean Union(EU) and have close diplomatic ties with each other through this regional organization. The EU has helped to facilitate greater cooperation and integration among the Alpine states in various areas, such as trade, transportation, and environmental policy.

There are also several bilateral agreements and treaties between these countries, covering issues such as border security, trade, and cultural exchange. In addition, these countries work together through various regional and international organizations, including theUnited Nationsand theWorld Trade Organization.

See also

• Alpine Skiing
• Association of the Alpine States(on state level)
• Baltic states
• Nordic countries
• Himalayan states