Custodian of the Two Holy Mosques King Abdullah bin Abdulaziz arrived in Madrid today for his first official visit to Spain since ascending the throne. Spain is the first stop on a five-nation tour that includes France, Poland, Egypt and Jordan.

King Abdullah was met at Madrid International Airport by King Juan Carlos. He received a red carpet welcome at the royal palace from Queen Sofia and Crown Prince Felipe, before being presented with a medal.

During the visit, King Abdullah is scheduled to hold talks with Spanish leaders on enhancing bilateral relations as well as regional and international issues. A number of agreements are expected to be signed.

Prior to arriving in Madrid, King Abdullah gave a wide-ranging interview to the Spanish newspaper El Pais in which he expressed concern about the Palestinian-Israeli conflict and the increasing instability in the region.

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