Prime Minister meets with President Bush

22 February 2005

Tony Blair held a breakfast meeting with George W Bush this morning.

The American president is in Brussels attending a Nato summit on the second day of a European tour.

When the meeting concluded the Prime Minister said that the President set out a way forward on the Middle East process, adding that there was a 'renewed sense of vigour and optimism'.

He also said there was a chance for a stable, prosperous and democratic Iraq.

Both leaders emphasised the importance of the UK-US relationship.

The President praised Mr Blair, saying:

"A strong Europe is very important for the United States and the Prime Minister is one of the strong leaders in Europe.''

The PM is also expected to hold meetings today with the Turkish and Canadian Prime Ministers as well as President Yuschenko of Ukraine.