Banif Bank will be taking the opportunity of tomorrow's 2010 World Cup Qualifying match between Malta and Portugal to launch its involvement in supporting Maltese support and also promote the island's tourism and business attractions to Portuguese executives.

A bank spokesman said the board of directors recognised this event as a good opportunity to get fully involved in and support the Maltese sports sector while helping to maintain the positive links between the two countries.

The bank committed itself to give away free tickets for the match to the hundreds of its new clients during this summer's International Fair of Malta.

Moreover, apart from watching the match, Portuguese top management officials from Banif Financial Group, together with other stakeholders, will also have the opportunity to get a glimpse of what the island can offer in terms of tourism and business opportunities, the spokesman said.

Banif Bank has also invited a number of corporate clients and local entities to attend the match.

"This occasion will serve to strengthen the close relationship that exists between both countries. Banif Bank is confident that the Maltese and Portuguese supporters will enjoy the game while cheering for their national teams and watching the football show," Joaquim Silva Pinto, CEO of Banif Bank (Malta) plc, said.