Malta, an EU member since 2004, is a small archipelago in the Mediterranean with a population of about 514,564 (as of 2021). Its economy is diversified, strongly relying on tourism, manufacturing, and online gaming. Malta’s GDP per capita stands significantly above the EU average, showcasing its economic vitality. Politically, Malta is a parliamentary republic. It is also part of the eurozone, having adopted the euro in 2008. The country’s strategic location serves as a cultural and commercial bridge between North Africa and Europe, enhancing its importance within the EU framework.