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Malta

Introduction:

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.

Official name: Republic of Malta Capital: name: Valletta geographic coordinates: 35 53 N, 14 30 E time difference: UTC+1 (6 hours ahead of Washington, DC during Standard Time) daylight saving time: +1hr, begins last Sunday in March; ends last Sunday in October Government type: republic Population: 401,880 (July 2007 est.) Languages: Maltese (official), English (official) Official Currency: Maltese Lira (MTL) Current Maltese Lira Exchange Rates Historical Maltese Lira Exchange Rates Chart Maltese Lira Exchange Rates Currency code: MTL Area: total: 316 sq km land: 316 sq km water: 0 sq km Climate: Mediterranean; mild, rainy winters; hot, dry summers

Map of Malta

Facts at a Glance:	Geography - People - Government - Economy - Communications - Transportation - Military - Current Time - Ranking Positions - Maltese Lira Exchange Rates
Notes and Commentary:	People - Economy - Government and Political Conditions - Historical Highlights - Foreign Relations - Relations with U.S.