President George Abela said today that his was an 'active presidency' which was always ready, when required, to lend a hand to support local industry.

Dr Abela was speaking at General Soft Drinks Ltd, where he received a donation to the Community Chest Fund of €41,550 raised by the company and the workers in an activity during the summer.

On Monday Dr Abela, at the government's request, chaired a meeting between the government and the opposition on Air Malta.

Questioned during this morning's event, Dr Abela said that while he had no further meetings planned over Air Malta, he would continue to monitor the situation and would be ready to give a helping hand if required to do so.