Carmelo Caruana Company Ltd: Carmelo Caruana is at home in Malta, the island republic at the centre of the Mediterranean. Trade is part of our DNA. The sea has been Malta’s key resource and partner throughout history and has played a central role in its economic, social and cultural transformation. Its rich maritime history is firmly ingrained in its present and future shipping developments. The Maltese continue to leave their mark in the wake of the Phoenicians who were the first seafarers to recognise the potential of its natural harbours and strategic location in the heart of the Mediterranean, the meeting point of trade routes. Almost a way of life, hubbing and transhipment flourish in Malta, where heavy investment continues to be directed into the infrastructure and maritime facilities to consistently be a step ahead in merchant shipping. Malta is linked to the Mediterranean basin, North Africa, North Europe, the US, the Far East and beyond through direct sea freight connections, trailer services and daily flights. A member of the European Union since 2004, Malta adopted the euro as its currency in 2008.