Weird

Reuters:

Pomp and ceremony greeted Ahmadinejad on his arrival, the fanfare a stark contrast to Bush's rushed and secretive visits.

Ahmadinejad held hands with Talabani as they walked down a red carpet and a military band played their countries' national anthems. It was Iraq's first full state welcome for any leader since the U.S.-led invasion.

Ahmadinejad's motorcade drove from Baghdad's airport to Talabani's presidential palace. Visiting foreign dignitaries normally fly by helicopter to avoid the dangerous airport road.