President embarks on official visit to Belgium and Italy

President Mary McAleese leaves today on a five-day visit to Belgium and Italy.

She will first travel to Belgium where she will meet King Albert II and attend the 400th anniversary celebrations of the Irish College at Louvain.

On Wednesday, the President will arrive in Rome where she will meet the Italian President and hold talks with business and tourism interests in both countries.

She is due to meet Pope Benedict in an official capacity on Thursday.