King Juan Carlos of Spain this afternoon concluded his short state visit to Malta with a ceremonial departure ceremony at the newly rehabilitated Palace Square in Valletta.

He then expressed his appreciation for the hospitality by hugging President George Abela.

Earlier in the morning he had formal meetings with Dr Abela, Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi and Opposition leader Joseph Muscat, who arrived late for the meeting because of traffic.

The PL described Dr Muscat's meeting with King Juan Carlos as very cordial. It said they had discussed bilateral relations, unemployment, illegal immigration and the forthcoming Spanish presidency of the EU.

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