Malta
Malta is a small and densely populated island nation comprising an archipelago of seven islands in the Mediterranean Sea. Only the three largest islands, Malta, Gozo and Comino, are inhabited. Malta is in Southern Europe. Malta became independent from Great Britain in 1964. The country's official language are Maltese and English. Many Maltese also speak Italian. Malta has a typical Mediterranean climate. The summers are hot, dry and very sunny. Winters are mild and a little rainy. Annual rainfall in Malta is low, during the summer months there can be very long dry spells without a drop of rain. Malta's major resources are limes tons, a favorable geographic location, and a productive labor force. The economy is dependent on foreign trade, manufacturing, and tourism. Tourism infrastructure has increased dramatically over the years and a number of good quality hotels are present on the island. Film production is a growing contributor to Maltese economy, with several big-budget foreign films shooting in Malta each year. The country has increased the exports of many other types of services such as banking and finance. Another important resource for the Republic is Human resources. The government is investing heavily in the country's provision of education. As all education is free, Malta is currently producing a pool of qualified persons which heavily contribute to the country's growing economy. Education is a compulsory between the ages of 3-16 years. The state provides education free of charge. Education in Malta is based on the British Model.
