Why are Cyprus and Malta sometimes considered European countries?

<h3>Why are Cyprus and Malta sometimes considered European countries?</h3>

Malta is in the African plate and Cyprus is closer to the middle east than to any european country.


<strong>Cyprus best answer:</strong>
<p><i>Answer by yourinnervoice</i><br/>Historically they are European islands, with Mediterranean culture influenced by European mores trade, and development. And, back when established, there was no knowledge of plate tectonics. Vessels built were from Europe, so they built the influence, also.</p>
<p><strong>Cyprus Hymenoptera for naming</strong>
<img alt="Cyprus" src="http://farm8.staticflickr.com/7063/6872362985_60b1273b53.jpg" width="400"/><br/>
<i>Image by <a href="http://www.flickr.com/photos/54028555@N00/6872362985">Nigel Jones</a></i>
Josef Dvorak has very kindly contributed many high quality photos to the new BWARS wesbite, which is under construction. In return Josef has asked if BWARS can help name this set of images from Cyprus. Genera, species or cf species will be helpful.
All suggestions welcome and thanks for any help.</p>

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