George Bush plans world tour

Unpopular former president set to appear at speaking engagements in Europe, Asia and Canada

Soon after leaving Downing Street, Tony Blair eagerly launched himself onto the American lecture circuit. Now the international exchange programme for former leaders is entering its second, potentially more controversial phase: George Bush is coming to Europe.

Despite 2008 approval ratings of just 19% among Europeans - significantly lower even than his almost unprecedented ratings at home - the former president plans several speaking engagements in Europe and Asia over the course of the next year, according to his advisors, though they did not reveal which countries were involved. The appearances will be part of a tour involving at least 10 events at home and abroad, according to Politico, beginning with a speech next month in one of Canada's most conservative cities.

At a two-hour lunch event on March 17, described as "a conversation with George W Bush", the 43rd president will address 1,500 invited guests - and emphatically no journalists - at the invitation of the Calgary Chamber of Commerce. The brochure advertising Bush's appearance promises discussion of his "eight momentous years in the Oval Office," and "the momentous challenges facing the world in the 21st century." Local activists have promised protests. More