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Obama hails special relationship with UK

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Obama reaffirmed the enduring bonds between United States and the United Kingdom and reinforced the special relationship between these two nations in a speech delivered at a state banquet at Buckingham Palace.

The lavish banquet, hosted by the Queen, was to honour the Obama's state visit, and the President and First Lady posed here with the Royal couple before enjoying their meal. [People's Daily]

He expressed his gratitude for the solide support of the United Kingdom after 9/11. "I'm particularly grateful for the solidarity that the United Kingdom has shown to America over the past decade. From that day to this, you have been our closest partner in the struggle to protect our people from terrorist attacks and violent extremism around the world, despite very heavy sacrifices here."

"Our alliance is a commitment that speaks to who we are," said Obama. "Our relationship rests on common language, common history, common adherence to the rule of law, the rights of men and women -- the very ideals born in this nation. And yet our relationship never rests," the president continued.

“Above all, among the English-speaking peoples, there must be the union of hearts based upon convictions and common ideals," The president quoted what Winston Churchill said during a visit to the United States.

The Queen also expressed her firm belief in the special UK-U.S. relationship at the banquet. "I firmly believe that the strength of our links and many shared interests will continue to ensure that when the United States and the United Kingdom stand together."

"We are here to celebrate the tried, tested, and, yes, special relationship between our two countries," the Queen continued.

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