Malta-European Union relations

Malta gained its independence in 1964.With its independence, it had to give up its economical dependence on United Kingdom. This led to an awareness that it should become a part of any union to boast its economy. The relationship between Malta and EEC started with an Association Agreement. After the negotiations, lasting 40 years, Malta became an EU Member in 2004. The most important reason for Malta to wait for the membership for 40 years is its two-party system. The Nationalist Party followed pro-European policies and during its goverment, it reactivated the application for the membership. However, Malta Labour Party followed anti-European policies. During its goverment, it froze the negotiations. Malta in its application to join the European Union has faced a number of difficulties. The experience of Malta to become an EU member is differnt from that of other EU countries. Malta took advantage of its European and Mediterranean identities during its application for membership. Thanks to these identities, Malta has won concessions from the EU.