Brown in Brussels for EU talks

Their discussions will centre on the global economy, climate change and security issues.

Mr Brown let the train take the strain, travelling by the new Eurostar high-speed link to the Belgian capital in just two hours.

The premier is also scheduled to have a one-to-one meeting with Trade Commissioner Peter Mandelson, the man with whom he is said to have had a simmering feud ever since Mr Mandelson backed Tony Blair to become Labour leader in 1994.

Downing Street said the two speak frequently on the phone, and Mr Mandelson has since praised Mr Brown's handling of the transition of power from his predecessor.

The Prime Minister was greeted warmly at the Commission's headquarters by Mr Barroso, but said nothing to waiting reporters.

Mr Brown's spokesman said: "The main items on the agenda today will be the economy, international development issues, the environment and global security."

The spokesman said he expected no "substantive" discussion of the EU approval needed for the Government's rescue of stricken bank Northern Rock.

The talks, which will also include wide-ranging discussions over lunch with a number of other commissioners, mark Mr Brown's first lengthy meeting in Brussels with Mr Barroso.

The two will host a joint news conference on Thursday afternoon after their approximately three hours of talks.