President Pervez Musharraf was given the Award of Illustrious Visitor to the city of Madrid by the Mayor of the Spanish capital Alberto Ruiz Gallardon during his visit to it, said an official statement. The Mayor led a warm welcome to the President on his arrival at his office. Speaking on the occasion, Musharraf said he was deeply touched by the welcome spirit of this metropolis as it embraces people of all continents and faiths. "We have been much impressed with the world class road transportation, underground commuter systems and high speed railways. And it is the people that we have been most fascinated with," he said. The President spoke of linkages between Pakistan and Spain, referring to Arab and Greek influence centuries ago. Musharraf said both Pakistan and Spain are trying to broaden those linkages and trying to contribute to promotion of harmony and peace in the world in general and in the Muslim world in particular. The Mayor of Madrid, in his welcome address, said Spain considers the President of Pakistan a friend.
