The Spanish prime minister, Jose Maria Aznar, is visiting Miami for what is seen as an attempt to strengthen Spain's trading links with the Hispanic market in the United States, and reinforce ties with Latin America.

In the past two years, Spain has invested record levels in Latin America; the region now accounts for more than half of Spanish foreign investment.

A spokesman at the Spanish consulate told the BBC that Mr Aznar's visit underscored the important role Miami plays in linking not only the United States, but also Europe, with Latin American markets.