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The Netherlands is located at the delta of four major rivers in northwest Europe. The few hills in the eastern and southern part of the country descend to a flat coastal area, bordered by the North Sea to the north and west. This is protected by a giant infrastructure of dunes, dikes, and canals, since 27% of the coast is below sea level. The Netherlands became one of the world's first confederative republics after Spain recognized its independence in 1648. Its highly successful economy has a long trading tradition, and Rotterdam is the world's largest port.