President Guido de Marco arrived in Greece yesterday on a state visit following his two-day visit to Cyprus.

He was greeted by Greek President Constantinos Stephanopoulos during a welcoming ceremony at the Presidential Palace in Athens.

After the ceremony, both Presidents had official talks.

President Stephanopolous later told the press they had had an exchange of views on the future of the European Union, the Cypriot issue, the events of September 11, 2001, and the Middle East, among other matters of common interest. Mr Stephanopoulos stressed his country's support for EU enlargement.

President de Marco explained that Malta's negotiations with the European Union were to be concluded soon, after which the government would be holding a referendum.

Prof. de Marco said that with regard to the issues of the Middle East and those of the Mediterranean, the two countries' closeness to the region made them knowledgeable of, and indirectly participants, in the whole problem.

"The realisation and observance of United Nations resolutions on the matter, by the international community, is of paramount importance if the issue is to be resolved."

The Maltese President concluded by extending an invitation to President Stephanopoulos to visit Malta.

President de Marco was decorated by the Greek President with the collar of the Grand Cross of the Redeemer.

He reciprocated by making President Stephanopoulos Companion of Honour of the National Order of Merit.

The President was last night due to meet Dimitros Avramopoulos, mayor of Athens.

President de Marco will today meet Greek Prime Minister Costantinos Simitis. He will also address an economic forum at the Athens Chamber of Commerce and Industry.

President de Marco is accompanied by, among others, Foreign Minister Joe Borg.