Malta Location : Southern Europe, islands in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily (Italy)
Capital City : Valletta
Curreny : Maltese lira (MTL)
Languages Spoken : Maltese (official), English (official)
Climate : Mediterranean with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers
National Holiday : Independence Day, 21 September (1964)
Background Information
Great Britain formally acquired possession of Malta in 1814. The island staunchly supported the UK through both World Wars and remained in the Commonwealth when it became independent in 1964. A decade later Malta became a republic. Over the last 15 years, the island has become a freight transshipment point, financial center, and tourist destination. It is an official candidate for EU membership.
Geographical Note
the country comprises an archipelago, with only the three largest islands (Malta, Ghawdex or Gozo, and Kemmuna or Comino) being inhabited; numerous bays provide good harbors; Malta and Tunisia are discussing the commercial exploitation of the continental shelf between their countries, particularly for oil exploration
Economy
Major resources are limestone, a favorable geographic location, and a productive labor force. Malta produces only about 20% of its food needs, has limited freshwater supplies, and has no domestic energy sources. The economy is dependent on foreign trade, manufacturing (especially electronics and textiles), and tourism. Malta is privatizing state-controlled firms and liberalizing markets in order to prepare for membership in the European Union and is expected to complete EU accession negotiations in 2002. The island is divided politically, however, over the question of joining the EU.
Religions
Roman Catholic 91%
Ports : Marsaxlokk, Valletta
International Disputes - Risks to travellers
: none
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