We greet you as the Sovereign of an ancient Christian State which has many links with our own Church, Queen Elizabeth II

Crowds cheered the Emperor throughout his tour of the capital. His schedule included a visit to the Queen Mother at Clarence House and dignitaries from London City Council and the City of Westminster.

Welcoming him at the state banquet held in his honour the Queen said:

"We greet you as the Sovereign of an ancient Christian State which has many links with our own Church and...as the Sovereign of the country which was the first to regain its freedom during the last war."

Diplomatic analysts say Ethiopia is strategically important to Britain and the West for its geographical position, in terms of African and Commonwealth security.

The Ethiopian economy is receiving Western loans, aid and capital investment to develop its resources of oil and uranium, and bolster its exports, principally coffee.

The International Bank has lent �8.5 million towards transport and communications and British and US representatives are advising on Ethiopia's industry, social services and legal system.

At the state banquet, the Emperor spoke of his gratitude for Britain's help in liberating Ethiopia and his desire for continued warm relations between the two nations.

"Your support and the loyalty of the British people...make today the preservation and the strengthening of that friendship and affection a sacred trust."

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