Queen Elizabeth made her first ever visit to Ireland on Tuesday, meeting with Prime Minister Enda Kenny and President Mary McAleese.

Her trip will extend through May 20. Later in the week she will also tour government buildings, take part in additional ceremonies, participate in receptions and visit various areas in Ireland.

It was a formal affair on Tuesday as the Queen inspected the Guard of Honour at the residence of the Irish President.

She made the trip together with Prince Phillip. While there she attended a tree planting ceremony at Aras An Uachtarain where she was also seen signing a vistors' book.

Queen Elizabeth also met with the Tanaise, Eamong Gilmore, who has the role of Ireland's Deputy Prime Minister at Aerodrome near Dublin.

The visit was not without side-incidents as members of the Irish police had to block demonstrators during a protest.

Fan Gang, director of Chinas National Institute of Economic Research, listens during an interview in Hong Kong October 25, 2007.
Fan Gang, director of China's National Institute of Economic Research, listens during an interview in Hong Kong October 25, 2007. REUTERS