Aznar is one Europe's few Conservative leaders

In Spain, the visit is eagerly awaited by Prime Minister Jose Maria Aznar.

As one of Europe's few remaining Conservative leaders, Mr Aznar is a natural ally for Mr Bush and both leaders will undoubtedly want to make the most of their meeting.

Important link

Despite anti-Bush protests in Madrid at the weekend, Mr Aznar is hoping the visit will increase his standing on the world stage.

The fact that Mr Bush has chosen Spain as the first stop on his European tour is something of a coup for the Spanish Government, which knows it can provide an important link between the United States, the European Union and Spanish speaking Latin America.

US officials have said Spain was chosen because it is a vital Nato ally, an important business partner and because of its growing influence within the EU.

Spaniards are keen to hear Bush speak Spanish

Although there are areas of concern for European governments - Mr Bush's proposed missile defence shield, his refusal to ratify the Kyoto protocol on global warming, or the death penalty - it is unlikely that Mr Aznar will raise any serious policy objections during their discussions.

Mr Bush will meet King Juan Carlos, as his father did before him, and in recognition of his Texan roots he is being taken to a ranch near Toledo for the main talks with Mr Aznar.

Many Spanish people will be waiting to hear if he speaks any Spanish during his visit.

As he often peppers his speeches with Spanish words and phrases even back home, they are unlikely to be disappointed.