Talks: Zapatero

Downing Street has played down differences between Tony Blair and Spain's new prime minister.

Officials said differences between Blair and Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero would not prove a major stumbling block.

"The prime minister is somebody who has shown the ability to forge alliances across political boundaries," said No10.

Blair had spoken by telephone on Monday with Spain's prime minister-elect following his victory in Sunday's vote.

An official revealed Blair and Jose Luis Rodriguez Zapatero had a "warm and friendly" discussion during their 15-minute conversation.

"They agreed to meet as soon as Mr Zapatero takes office," said a spokesman.

Centre-left leader Zapatero beat Jose Maria Aznar's Popular party in Sunday's poll, which many observers believe was heavily influenced by the terrorist attacks in Madrid on Thursday.

Britain is still seeking clarity over how long Spanish troops are expected to now remain in Iraq.

Zapatero called on the prime minister and President Bush to have a period of reflection.

The new Spanish prime minister has been widely quoted as saying Spain's involvement in the Iraq war was a "disaster" and that he may withdraw troops from the Coalition effort if the UN has not taken over by the end of June.

Number 10 said progress in Iraq had already been made and that Zapatero's comments were not as alarming as first thought.

"You have to look at the fact that this was a statement which obviously had some qualifications built into it," said the spokesman.

"The important thing is to ensure there is progress on the ground," said the official spokesman.

"It is a statement of fact that there are differences over the war in Iraq. We are beginning to see the emerging transitional arrangements. It is important that momentum is maintained. It is a time for doubling our efforts."

The government is now reflecting on the election results in Spain which saw the centre right government swept from power.

Wider issues on EU reform - particularly tackling the stalled constitution talks - are also on the agenda.

Spain's new government wants to get talks back on track but Downing Street rejected claims that Blair is now isolated in Europe.

"It wasn't so long ago that people were commenting that the prime minister was taking part in a trilateral meeting. You have to be realistic about this," said the spokesman.

"In terms of Europe, we are at the centre of discussions on economic reform for example."