There are enough miniature countries in the world, both in area and in population. The role of some of them is incommensurate with their size. Among the tiny states there are those who have a huge impact on politics in the world, and even those with whom the States are forced to reckon.
Ten smallest countries in the world in size
Order of Malta
The smallest state in the world is considered to be the Order of Malta (not to be confused with Malta). It is located in Italy, inside Rome. The area of this country is 0.012 square kilometers. Meanwhile, not all countries of the world have recognized the Order of Malta as an independent state. However, he has diplomatic relations with 104 countries and is a permanent observer at the UN. The state issues its own license plates and passports to its residents, and also has its own currency and stamps, which are signs of a full-fledged country.
Vatican
The Vatican is in second place in terms of area. It is also located inside Rome and is considered a state associated with Italy. Its area is 0.44 square kilometers. The country has the most powerful support from the entire Catholic community in the world. The head of the Vatican, the Pope, has a great influence on the economic and political balance of power not only in Europe, but also in the world.
Monaco
In third place is the Principality of Monaco, located on the Cote d'Azur. This country is associated with France. Despite its diminutive size, Monaco has its own Olympic team, led by a prince. The main source of income in this state is gambling and tourism. The area of Monaco is 2.02 square kilometers.
Nauru
This state covers an area of 21 square kilometers and is located in Oceania, on the coral island of the same name in the west of the Pacific Ocean. Nauru is the smallest independent republic on the planet and the smallest island nation. The absence of an official capital is another distinctive feature of this country.
Tuvalu
It is a state in the Pacific Ocean, which is located on five atolls and four islands. Its area is 26 square kilometers. Tuvalu earns its main income from growing coconuts and fishing. In addition, many television companies around the world pay her one million dollars on a quarterly basis in exchange for the right to use the.tv domain zone. Despite this, Tuvalu is one of the ten poorest countries in the world.
San marino
One of the oldest republics in Europe covers an area of 61 square kilometers. The main income of the state is the issue of postage stamps and tourism. On all sides, San Marino is surrounded by the territory of Italy.
Liechtenstein
This state is associated with Switzerland and has an area of 160 square kilometers. It also generates income from postage stamps and tourism. Its picturesque alpine landscapes attract many tourists.
Marshall Islands
This Pacific state is associated with the United States and is located on 5 islands and 29 atolls. The total area of the country is 181 square kilometers. Income to the budget of this state comes from tourism, the export of coconuts and fishing.
Cook islands
This state is self-governing and is in free association with New Zealand. The Cook Islands are located in the South Pacific Ocean and cover an area of 236 square kilometers.
Saint Kitts and Nevis
This country, located in the east of the Caribbean Sea, consists of two islands - Nevis and Saint Kitts. The total area of the state is 261 square kilometers. It is the smallest country in Latin America in terms of area.
Ten smallest countries in the world by population
Vatican
The smallest state in terms of the number of inhabitants. Its population is only 840 people.
Niue
Niue has a population of approximately 1,400.
Nauru
The population of Nauru is 9,320 people.
Tuvalu
Tuvalu has a population of slightly over 10,000.
Order of Malta
On the fifth line is the Order of Malta. Its population is 12,500 inhabitants.
Cook islands
This archipelago is home to 19,600 people.
Palau
This island nation in the waters of the Pacific Ocean has 20,850 inhabitants.
San marino
A population of 32,100 people allowed San Marino to take the eighth line of the ranking.
Liechtenstein
This European country is home to 35,900 people.
Saint Kitts and Nevis
The top ten small countries in terms of the number of inhabitants is closed by the Latin American state with a population of 50,000 inhabitants.
