Bush praises queen for U.K. support in war on terror

In a ceremony Monday celebrating the arrival of Queen Elizabeth II to the White House, President Bush lauded Britain’s alliance with the U.S. in the global war on terror.

“Today our two nations are defending liberty against tyranny and terror,” the president said. “We're resisting those who murder the innocent to advance a hateful ideology, whether they kill in New York or London or Kabul or Baghdad.”

{mosads}The president also said the U.K. and the United States “understand and accept the burdens of global leadership,” adding that the two countries “have built our special relationship on the surest foundations: our deep and abiding love of liberty.”

Bush went on to praise the queen for her leadership in trying times.

“I appreciate your leadership during these times of danger and decision,” Bush added. “You've spoken out against extremism and terror. You've encouraged religious tolerance and reconciliation. You have honored those returning from battle and comforted the families of the fallen.”

In her remarks, however, the queen avoided discussing the war on terror, choosing instead to focus on celebrating “the close and enduring associations which thrive between the United States and the United Kingdom.”

“And now, in Washington, we have a further opportunity to acknowledge the present strength of our relationship,” the queen said. “I shall enjoy not only renewing old acquaintances and making new ones, but also recognizing the breadth and depth of the friendship we have shared for so long.”