Putin in Madrid; Aznar dines with Bush

Russian President Vladimir Putin concluded a two-day visit to Spain Thursday by calling for increased economic ties and broader cooperation in the fields of technology, space and transportation. Speaking in parliament, Putin said that Russian trade with other EU member countries is far greater than current economic transactions with Spain, which stands at US$3.7 billion. "Certainly, the quality and amount of our [economic] relations need to be improved," he said. "We have great capabilities, but we are not working at full [capacity]."

Terrorism issues and democratic guarantees in Russia were subjects that dominated Putin´s visit. Spain believes that Russia can act as an important mediator in the Middle East, especially following Hamas´ victory in the recent Palestinian elections. Putin has told reporters that he doesn´t view Hamas as a terrorism organization and believes the group will stand by its word in renouncing violence.

During a state dinner on Wednesday night, King Juan Carlos reminded the Russian leader that administering his country´s rich energy reserves carries "a great responsibility," and that terrorism could only be beaten by "the determination of a state bound by the rule of law, defense of rights and fundamental freedoms."

As Putin was courted in Madrid, the Bushes at the White House were wining and dining with former Spanish Prime Minister José María Aznar and his wife Ana Botella. Aznar, who served from 1996-2004 under the conservative Popular Party, described the encounter as a "dinner between old friends." He declined to say what was discussed but a source told the daily El País that Aznar praised Bush for his tough stance with Venezuela´s government in Caracas.