Iranian President Mohammed Khatami, who is on a three-day visit here, was given a state welcome at Parliament House in Kuala Lumpur amid tight security on Monday.

Khatami, who arrived Sunday, was greeted by King Syed Sirajuddin and Prime Minister Dr Mahathir Mohamad against the backround of a 21-gun salute, as two police helicopters hovered overhead.

Khatami then inspected a guard of honour mounted by the 1st Battalion Royal Malay Regiment.

Mahathir was due to hold talks with Khatami later Monday, with the two Muslim leaders expected to focus on the Middle East crisis and terrorism.

Malaysia and Iran will also sign five memorandums of understanding, including cooperation in tourism, information technology and the avoidance of double taxation.

Malaysia and Iran are members of the 57-member Organisation of the Islamic Conference (OIC). Kuala Lumpur is to take over the chairmanship of the OIC next year. — AFP