Blair and Berlusconi's Iraq talks

The Blairs on an impromptu walkabout with bandana-wearing Silvio Berlusconi (foreground)

Tony Blair and his Italian counterpart Silvio Berlusconi have been discussing the situation in Iraq during the UK prime minister's holiday.

Mr Blair, with wife Cherie, is staying at the Italian premier's villa in Sardinia, during a summer break which has also taken in Barbados and Greece.

The Blairs, with Mr Berlusconi, were filmed enjoying a visit to the plush resort of Porto Cervo on Monday.

No 10 stressed that the visit included talks on Iraq, and other global issues.

A No 10 spokesman said: "The prime minister and Prime Minister Berlusconi met privately today during the prime minister's visit to Sardinia.

The prime ministers also condemned the massacre of refugees in Burundi and reiterated their concern over the on-going crisis in Darfur No 10 spokesman

"They discussed a range of issues on which the UK and Italy are working closely together. In particular they expressed hopes for a successful national conference in Iraq and the resolution of the situation in Najaf.

"They are, of course, both committed to a peaceful and democratic future for the Iraqi people and the protection of the holy sites, respecting an ancient civilisation which rejects violence and terrorism.

"The prime ministers also condemned the massacre of refugees in Burundi and reiterated their concern over the on-going crisis in Darfur."

On Monday evening the Blairs were reportedly treated to a concert in the villa's amphitheatre by the Neapolitan singer, Mariano Apicella.

Before heading to Sardinia the Blairs took in the opening ceremony of the Olympics in Athens.

They had earlier enjoyed a private holiday in Barbados.