Source:
UK telegraphTony Blair is to embark on a carefully stage-managed trip to America and Ireland this week to coincide with the publication of his memoirs after being warned he faces protests in this country.The former prime minister is to attend a dinner at the White House on Wednesday evening and will take part in Middle East peace talks.
He is expected to be accompanied by his wife and children, providing the first family photo opportunity since he left Number 10 more than three years ago.
He will be in America as President Barack Obama makes a major speech to mark the end of US combat operations in Iraq before beginning a renewed attempt to bring peace to the Middle East.
Mr Blair had been due to hold a launch party for his memoirs in London this week, which has now been delayed.
Anti-war protesters had threatened to picket the event and publishing sources were concerned that this may sour the simultaneous release of the book in America, where it is expected to become a best-seller.
Mr Blair will now appear as a world statesman who is once again grappling with major international problems alongside the US president and Middle Eastern leaders. He will then go to Ireland to sign books where he is expected to talk of his role in the Northern Irish peace process.
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