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Queen speaks out on terror

The royals prepare for a salute of the guard at Windsor Castle

LONDON, England -- Britain's Queen Elizabeth II has spoken publicly for the first time on the September 11 terror attacks.

At a state banquet for Jordan's King Abdullah, the Queen thanked the Jordanian monarch for his country's backing of an international coalition against terror, and praised the Muslim community in Britain for its support.

She added, in a speech made during a banquet at Windsor Castle on Tuesday to welcome King Abdullah and Queen Rania, that hate-filled extremists should never be allowed to succeed.

The British monarch said: "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 praised the King's "steadfast and invaluable" support of the global war against terror.

The Queen also thanked Britain's Muslim community for their contributions to the country's multicultural society and urged them to reject extremism.

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"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 September 11 all of us have, whatever our religion or background, an added responsibility to ensure that those who are intent on stirring up hatred, fear and prejudice in this country do not succeed."

Quoting Conservative political theorist Edmund Burke, she said: "The only thing necessary for the triumph of evil is for good men to do nothing."

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.

And she "deeply regretted" the loss of life of the past year.

"As the holy month of Ramadan approaches, we pray that all concerned will reflect on the values which unite them, and renew their commitment to the search for peace.

"We share your hopes for a comprehensive and just peace, so that the people of Jordan and all the peoples of the region may at last enjoy the security, stability and prosperity they deserve."

In reply, Abdullah said that 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, Abdullah is scheduled to met Blair on Thursday at 10 Downing Street.

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.

He will also meet British businessmen and investors to promote Jordan and attract foreign capital.