Polish President Lech Kaczynski and his wife Maria Kaczynska were welcomed by Irish President Mary McAleese this morning as part of their three-day state visit.
After a 21-gun salute at the Áras an Uachtaráin, Mr Kaczynski met briefly with Mrs McAleese and planted a tree on the Áras grounds, a customary practice by visiting heads of state.
Later today, the Polish president will have a private meeting with the Taoiseach, Bertie Ahern, in which they are expected to discuss a plan to revise the European constitutional treaty.
With more than 100,000 Polish nationals thought to be living and working in Ireland, Mr Kaczynski is also meeting with many of his constituents. Last night, he attended a private function with several members of Ireland's Polish community.
Mr Kaczynski said he believes increased prosperity in Poland will attract many emigrants back home within the coming years.
