Jordan Times
Thursday, November 8, 2001
Queen Elizabeth praises King for his role in fight against terrorism
LONDON (Agencies) — Queen Elizabeth II praised His Majesty King Abdullah on Tuesday for his “steadfast” support for the international coalition against terrorism.Speaking at a Windsor Castle banquet for King Abdullah and Her Majesty Queen Rania on the first day of their state visit, the queen said King Abdullah's efforts to build an international response to the Sept. 11 atrocities had been “invaluable.”
“Your Majesty's help in persuading others that this is not a conflict between Islam and the West, but rather between decent people of all faiths and terrorism, has been greatly appreciated here,” she said.
The queen also thanked Britain's Muslim community for their contributions to the country's multicultural society and urged them to reject extremism.
“My country cherishes its tradition of tolerance and mutual respect, which permits people of different faiths and cultures to live and work together,” she said.
“Following the tragic events of Sept. 11, all of us, whatever our religion or background, have an added responsibility to ensure that those who are intent on stirring up hatred, fear and prejudice in this country do not succeed.”
The queen also expressed hope for a “comprehensive and just peace” in the Middle East, echoing sentiments expressed by Prime Minister Tony Blair during a trip to the region last week.
In reply, King Abdullah said Jordan would continue to play its “full part in countering the evil of terrorism.”
“Jordanians were filled with horror at the events in America, but we are also filled with resolve to create a safer world. My goal, simply put, is a fair and balanced resolution — justice for the Palestinian people and security for Israel, and one that realises the right of Palestinians to a viable, independent state and respects Israel's right to exist.”
During his state visit, King Abdullah is scheduled to meet Blair on Thursday at his 10 Downing St. residence. The King also plans to speak to parliament and will meet with Defence Secretary Geoff Hoon and Britain's top military officer, Adm. Sir Michael Boyce.
On Wednesday, the King met with representatives of two companies at Cambridge Science Park for talks on cooperation between their establishments and Jordan.
The King first visited Zeus Information Technology Company at the park, which was established by Cambridge University students.
The Jordan News Agency, Petra, said the King told company representatives that he aspires to copy the company's experience in Jordan.
His Majesty also visited a pharmaceutical company at the park for talks on establishing cooperation with Jordanian counterparts.
The King also visited the Marshall's Aerospace and toured its maintenance workshops.