Austrian President Heinz Fischer was given a ceremonial welcome at St George's Square in Valletta this afternoon as he started a three-day official visit to Malta.

He was greeted by President George Abela, who then introduced him to the Prime Minister, members of the Cabinet, the Judiciary and the Diplomatic Corps, who lined one side of the square.

Both Presidents inspected a Guard of Honour before holding talks at the Palace. He was later due to lay a wreath on the War Memorial in Floriana.

Mr Fischer will receive  Dr Gonzi and Opposition leader Joseph Muscat in separate meetings at the Hilton Malta tomorrow. He will also visit Mdina before a state luncheon at the Auberge de Castille and a tour of the Upper Barrakka.

Mrs Margit Fischer will tomorrow visit the Limestone Heritage in Siggiewi.

The President will address the Maltese-Austrian Business Forum tomorrow evening.

The visit ends early on Thursday.

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