US President George W. Bush has been warmly welcomed in Albania. During his European tour, Bush decided to make a one-day visit in Albania, becoming the first US president to visit the country. He was welcomed by people lining the intersections and downtown streets on the journey from Tirana's Nona Teresa (Mother Teresa) airport.

During his stay in Tirana, Bush will meet with his Albanian counterpart Alfred Moisiu at the Brigadier presidential palace, hold talks with Albanian Prime Minister Sali Berisha, and have a luncheon party with three prime ministers from the Adriatic Charter countries -- Albania, Croatia and Macedonia.

"The talks would be focused on the excellent bilateral relations, reforms in Albania and their results, the Albanian government's bid and the U.S. support for NATO membership, regional stability and the fight against terrorism," Albanian Foreign Minister Lulzim Basha told reporters.

Albania decorated US President George W. Bush during his quick visit Sunday with the order of the flag, recognizing him as a "great ally."

The medal was an expression of "profound gratitude for a historic role in protection of freedom, democracy and rights of the Albanian nation," Albanian President Alfred Moisiu's cabinet said.

During his stay in Albania, Bush was also to have a Tirana street named after him, local reports said.