What is the record number of countries that has participated in a Eurovision Song Contest final (incl semi-finals)?

Explanation

In 2008, a record-breaking 43 countries participated in the contest. Azerbaijan and San Marino both debuted. The final was held in Serbia after Marija Šerifović had won with the song "Molitva" the year before. The winner in 2008 was Dima Bilan from Russia with the song "Believe".