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He received a red carpet welcome at Heathrow Airport and was greeted with an RAF ceremonial guard.

It is the first visit by an Argentine leader since the UK and Argentina fought over the Falkland Islands in 1982.

Carlos Menem's visit is the first by an Argentine leader since 1960

He landed shortly after 1530 BST on a Republica Argentina jet with the Union flag and Argentine flags flying from the cockpit.

President Menem was accompanied by his 28-year-old daughter Zulema, who was presented with a bouquet of flowers.

The pair were met by Lord St John of Bletso, representing the Queen, and Sir Roger Hervey, representing Foreign Secretary Robin Cook.

President Menem smiled and waved to journalists as he walked up the red carpet through the ceremonial guard.

Menem to meet the Queen

During his visit he will meet the Queen and Prime Minister Tony Blair. He will also meet business leaders as part of his drive to attract investment to his country.

The president was driven from the airport in a convoy about 10 minutes after his arrival.

Foreign Secretary Robin Cook: President Menem was imprisoned for five years

He has brought five members of his cabinet with him for his visit, including his defence, foreign and economic ministers.

In the House of Commons, Mr Cook welcomed the Argentine leader's arrival.