The President of the United Arab Emirates (UAE), Sheikh Khalifa al-Nahyan was officially welcomed to Britain by Queen Elizabeth on Tuesday (April 30) as he began a two-day state visit to the UK.

The ceremonial visit comes at an awkward time amid allegations that three Britons were tortured in Dubai before being jailed on drug charges.

The British men said the confessions were forced after they were electrocuted and beaten. They were jailed for four years.

Human rights campaigners say the charges and convictions should be dropped. Dubai police deny any wrong-doing.

The Queen and Prince Philip greeted the president in Windsor before making their way in an opulent horse-drawn carriage to Windsor Castle, where the Sheikh will be staying.

On Wednesday the president will meet for talks with British Prime Minister David Cameron, who has said he will raise the torture allegations during their Downing Street meeting.

For Britain, the UAE is its largest export market in the Middle East and the two countries are strengthening defence and security ties.

Presented by Adam Justice

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https://www.ibtimes.co.uk/articles/462761/20130430/uae-president-visit-dubai-prison-torture-cameron.htm