Malta has placed near the top of the 2010 quality of life index compiled by an international publication after surveying almost 200 countries.

International Living gave Malta top marks for freedom and safety, 96% for the climate, 89% for health services and 84% for the environment.

The worst marks were for the infrastructure, at 52% and the economy at 53%.

The cost of living registered 63% and leisure and culture, 70%.

France topped the index, followed by Australia, Switzerland, Germany, New Zealand, Luxembourg, United States and Belgium.

Next came Canada and Italy, Holland, Norway and Austria, all one point ahead of Malta.

Malta is tied with Liechtenstein and is just ahead of Denmark, Spain and Finland.

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