Speaking during the donation ceremony, Mr Mizzi said that in the five years since HSBC set up operations in Malta, the bank has become an integral part of the community.

“The bank has not only had an important economic role but has also been very active in both the educational, environmental and artistic spheres.

“To celebrate both our anniversary and the common commitment we share with the Community Chest Fund, to ensure the brightest possible future for Malta, HSBC is delighted to present this donation to the CCF”, he said.

President Fenech Adami hailed the social commitment shown by HSBC, saying that apart from focusing on business, the company has also placed corporate social responsibility high on its agenda.

Prior to his visit to HSBC’s head office, the President also visited the National Museum of Fine Arts, where he was able to view the Malta Turner. This painting by the renowned British water colourist was loaned to the museum on a permanent basis by HSBC in 2003. Also present during the visit was HSBC director Philip Farrugia Randon, author of Turner’s Malta Watercolour.

Dr Farrugia Randon gave President Fenech Adami a detailed presentation on the merits of this painting.