I am sorry that words, badly interpreted, have offended the sensibility of my Arab and Muslim friends

Italian PM Silvio Berlusconi

"They have tried to hang me on an isolated word, taken out of context from my whole speech," Mr Berlusconi told Italy's upper house of parliament.

The remarks enraged Islamic nations and were seen as undermining American efforts to build an international coalition against terrorism.

Western 'superiority'

On Wednesday, the flamboyant politician told reporters that Western civilisation was superior to Islam because it provided wealth and guaranteed respect for human rights.

He also said that he hoped "the West will continue to conquer peoples, like it conquered communism".

Mr Berlusconi's comments came at a bad time

The statement was denounced by European Union and Muslim leaders alike, while the Arab League called on Mr Berlusconi either to deny having made the comments or offer an apology.

Just hours before Friday's apology, British Home Secretary David Blunkett launched a public attack on the embattled Italian prime minister.

'Inappropriate'

Mr Blunkett described his remarks as inappropriate and inaccurate.

"It is clear that Berlusconi's remarks were offensive and offence has been taken," he told the BBC.

"They were inappropriate in terms of the way in which they affect the consensus across the world in the face of terrorism, and they were culturally inaccurate."

Mr Blunkett called on the Italian leader to repair any damage his comments may have caused.

"I hope he will be able to clarify his position, in order to be a constructive part of the consensus to bring about justice by tackling the terrorists rather than falling out among ourselves," he said.