German Federal President Horst Kohler and his wife arrived yesterday on a two-day state visit.

The President is the highest German dignitary to visit Malta since then Chancellor Gerhard Schroeder, who stopped at Malta three years ago on a short visit.

His visit started off with a formal welcome in Palace Square, followed by a courtesy call on President Eddie Fenech Adami.

Mr Kohler then laid a wreath at the War Memorial in Floriana and was then taken round the exhibition of the Grand Harbour Project.

Later on in the afternoon, he met with the German community in Malta.

Today, the German President will receive a visit at San Anton Palace by the Opposition Leader, Alfred Sant, to be followed by a tree planting ceremony.

Soon after, he will receive a visit by Prime Minister Lawrence Gonzi and attend a meeting at the Mediterranean Academy of Diplomatic Studies.

Mr Kohler, accompanied by Dr Gonzi and Mrs Kate Gonzi, will also visit the Upper Barrakka Gardens and later go on a brief tour of Mdina.