President Emeritus George Abela will act as “a catalyst” between Air Malta’s unions as government talks with a strategic partner continue.

Dr Abela accepted the Prime Minister’s invitation to co-chair a committee that will bring the airline’s four unions together to discuss a way forward.

The committee will be co-chaired by Air Malta chairwoman Maria Micallef.

This marks a return for Dr Abela at Air Malta 12 years after having been involved in a similar role during the first restructuring exercise undertaken in 2004.

Tourism Minister Edward Zammit Lewis, who is overseeing the process, confirmed Dr Abela’s participation. He described him as “a catalyst” to ensure the interests of Air Malta workers are safeguarded while making sure the airline is in a position to get the best possible deal.

It is understood the government is negotiating with Etihad Airways of the United Arab Emirates for the sale of a minority stake in Air Malta.

The minister said the committee headed by Dr Abela has been tasked with negotiating all expired collective agreements and conditions of work to ensure the airline would be in a better position for an eventual strategic partner to move in.