Situated 90Km south of Sicily and 290Km north of Africa, the Maltese
Islands are at the heart of the Mediterranean basin, providing a
Euro-Mediterranean link to North Africa and the Middle East.
A
colourful history spanning 7000 years has created a unique culture and
an indomitable spirit amongst the Maltese people. From the very first
signs of civilisation, as exemplified by the Neolithic temples - reputed
to be the oldest standing structures in the world -several nations have
left their mark, amongst which one can count the Phoenicians, the
Carthaginians, the Romans, the Saracens, the French and finally the
British.
The most visibly evident influence remains the 268-year
reign of the Order of the Knights of St. John of Jerusalem, who built
the many palaces and beautiful baroque cities that still grace the
Maltese Islands today.
Malta acquired independence from Britain in
1964, becoming a modern democratic republic and member of the British
Commonwealth of Nations. The Official languages are Maltese and
English, both of which are widely spoken. Many of the island's 390.000
inhabitants, including business people, are fluent in a number of other
languages. Malta enjoys a high standard of living and an excellent
education system.
Malta has superb international air, sea and
telecommunications links with the rest of the world, making it ideal for
commerce and trading within the Mediterranean region.