The 20-minute telephone conversation, which Bush placed from his Texas ranch, was "a warm call between close allies and friends, part of their regular consultations," said spokeswoman Claire Buchan.

"They discussed Iraq, including European support for a new Iraq, and coalition efforts, potential progress on Israel-Palestinian issues, and they agreed to remain in close touch," said Buchan.

The spokeswoman did not offer further details.

Bush was enjoying a long Easter weekend on his "Prairie Chapel" ranch near this hamlet of 705 people. He was scheduled to return to Washington on Monday.

Aznar firmly backed US-led military action to disarm and topple Iraqi leader Saddam Hussein.

SPACE.WIRE