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 major freight transshipment point, financial center, and tourist destination. It is an official candidate for EU membership.
Location:
Southern Europe, islands in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily (Italy)
Geographic coordinates: 35 50 N, 14 35 E, Area:316 sq km
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
Climate: Mediterranean with mild, rainy winters and hot, dry summers
Population: 391,670 (July 2000 est.)
Languages: Maltese (official) and English (official)
Independence: 21 September 1964 (from UK)
Economic overview: 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; the state-owned Malta drydocks employs about 3,800 people. In 1999, over 1 million tourists visited the island. Per capita GDP of $13,800 places Malta in the ranks of the less affluent EU countries.
Currency: 1 Maltese lira (LM) = 100 cents
Bla bla bla ... seems we're back to school during geography lessons!! Would you let me describe Malta in my own humble words? Malts is simply ... well ... simply great! [on our chat you would see "great" written as "gr8" :-) ]. Someone described it in three simple words: Sun, Sea, Fun!! Best beaches, tourist attractions, climate ... best kitchen around ...maybe not the best chicks around but well ... let's rate them 8 out of 10 :-) ... let's cut it short ... it's simply gr8!! Best of all, you find us - Maltese people - kinder than the kindest men on earth!!
Well, whatever ... if you made it down here, shows you're really really interested in Malta!!! :-) Then, why not meet (real) Maltese people on Paltalk Group Maltese Pal Friends in the Section "Languages: Europe"?? c u around ...