Malta
Official Country Name
Malta
Malta Overview
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. Since about the mid-1980s, the island has transformed itself into a freight transshipment point, a financial center, and a tourist destination. Malta became an EU member in May 2004.
Malta 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 fresh water supplies, and has few domestic energy sources. The economy is dependent on foreign trade, manufacturing (especially electronics and pharmaceuticals), and tourism. Continued sluggishness in the European economy is holding back exports, tourism, and overall growth.
Malta Location
Malta is located in Southern Europe, islands in the Mediterranean Sea, south of Sicily (Italy)
Region
Malta is located in Europe
Malta Population
Malta has population of 400,214 (July 2006 est.)
Malta Climate
Malta has Mediterranean; mild, rainy winters; hot, dry summers
Malta Terrain
mostly low, rocky, flat to dissected plains; many coastal cliffs
Malta Natural Resources
limestone, salt, arable land
Ethnic Groups in Malta
Malta has the following ethnic groups - Maltese (descendants of ancient Carthaginians and Phoenicians, with strong elements of Italian and other Mediterranean stock)
Malta Religions
Roman Catholic 98%
Malta Languages
Maltese (official), English (official)
Malta Capital
Malta capital is Valletta
Malta Currency
Malta currency is Maltese lira
Map of Malta
