Norway, officially known as the Kingdom of Norway, is a Nordic country in Northern Europe whose mainland territory comprises the western and northernmost portion of the Scandinavian Peninsula. The remote Arctic island of Svalbard and the sub-Antarctic Bouvet Island are also under Norwegian sovereignty. Norway has a long coastline along the North Atlantic Ocean and is famous for its fjords, which are steep inlets carved by glacial activity, surrounded by dramatic mountain landscapes. The country's topography is rugged, with high plateaus and rugged mountains broken by fertile valleys and plains. It has a population of about 5.4 million people, with Oslo being the capital and largest city. Norwegian culture is deeply rooted in its Viking history, with a strong emphasis on outdoor activities and a deep appreciation for nature. The country is known for its commitment to social welfare and environmental sustainability, boasting a high standard of living and a comprehensive social security system. Norway is also one of the world's largest producers of oil and natural gas outside the Middle East, which has significantly contributed to its wealth. Despite its northerly location, Norway's climate is relatively mild due to the warming effect of the Gulf Stream. The country experiences significant seasonal variation in daylight, with long summer days and short winter days. The Northern Lights (Aurora Borealis) can be seen in the northern regions during winter, while the midnight sun can be observed above the Arctic Circle during summer. Norway is a constitutional monarchy with a parliamentary system of government. It is a founding member of the United Nations, NATO, the European Free Trade Association, and the Nordic Council. The country maintains a combination of market economy and a Nordic welfare model, providing universal health care, subsidized higher education, and a comprehensive social security system. Norway consistently ranks high in metrics of national performance, including healthcare, education, and democratic governance. It is also known for its significant contributions to literature, particularly in the genres of drama, poetry, and crime fiction. The Norwegian language has two official written forms, Bokmål and Nynorsk, with Sami and Finnish being spoken by some communities. Norway's rich cultural heritage is celebrated through various festivals and its cuisine reflects its coastal geography, with a focus on seafood. The country is also a pioneer in electric mobility, with a high number of electric cars per capita. Norway's commitment to preserving its natural beauty, cultural heritage, and providing a high quality of life for its citizens makes it a unique and admirable country on the global stage.