The Taoiseach, Mr Ahern, discussed a range of European issues with the Spanish Prime Minister, Mr Jose Maria Aznar, in Madrid yesterday.
The meeting included a discussion on the forthcoming European Council summit in Cardiff, and Mr Ahern also briefed the Prime Minister on the outcome of the referendums on the Amsterdam Treaty and the Belfast Agreement.
The Taoiseach said Mr Aznar had agreed with him during discussions on the Commission's proposals for the next round of structural funding on the need for "generous and adequate transitional arrangements" for Objective 1 regions.
The Taoiseach's visit to the Spanish capital was part of consultations with member-states on a range of EU issues in preparation for negotiations on Agenda 2000 which take place later this year.
Mr Ahern received congratulations from the Spanish government on the results of Friday's referendums.