The Maldives is an island country located in the Indian Ocean, south-west of Sri Lanka and India. It is made up of 26 atolls, which are made up of more than 1,000 coral islands. The capital and largest city is Malé. The population of the Maldives is around 540,000 people.
The Maldives is a presidential republic with a president as head of state and a prime minister as head of government. The country has a homogeneous population, with the Maldivians being the largest ethnic group. Dhivehi is the official language, but English is also widely spoken. The majority of the population is Muslim.
The economy of the Maldives is heavily dependent on tourism and fishing. The country is known for its beautiful beaches, clear waters and luxury resorts. The government has been implementing economic reforms and trying to attract foreign investment to diversify the economy and create jobs. However, the Maldives is also one of the countries most vulnerable to the effects of climate change, rising sea levels threaten the low-lying islands.
The Maldives has a rich cultural heritage, with a history dating back to ancient times. The country is known for its natural beauty, including the Maldives National Museum and the Maldives Fish Market, as well as its traditional culture and customs, such as the Maldives Victory Day and the Eid ul-Fitr, as well as its art, architecture, and literature. The Maldives is also known for its traditional music, dance, and cuisine.