There is a fear that as sea levels rise, island countries such as the Maldives and the Marshall Islands will simply be swamped and disappear.

For the moment the country is portrayed by travel companies as a tropical paradise with sandy beaches and coral reefs. The economy is highly-dependent on revenues from its tourism industry.

Seventy-four islands have been developed for the top end of the tourist market and they are favoured by scuba divers because of their abundant marine life.

Aside from the island capital Male, outsiders are only permitted onto inhabited islands for brief visits, thereby limiting their impact on traditional Muslim communities.

The Maldives has made progress in developing its infrastructure and industries, including the fisheries sector, and in improving health, education and literacy.

However the country was dealt a setback by the December 2004 Asian tsunami disaster. Homes and resorts were devastated by the waves, necessitating a major rebuilding programme.