Their Majesties King Abdullah II and Queen Rania Tuesday began a historical three-day official visit to Britain in a bid to explain Arab stances on the latest regional and international developments, particularly the Palestinian cause. The King will stress the urgent need to revive stalled Middle East peace process and rally international backing to recognize a Palestinian independent state on Palestinian national soil with Jerusalem as its capital.

Queen Elizabeth and Prince Philip will this evening host a state banquet at Windsor Castle in honour of the Royal guests.

The King is scheduled to speak to Parliament, and will meet with Defense Secretary Geoff Hoon and Britain s top military officer, Adm. Sir Michael Boyce.

He will also visit Cambridge city to meet British businessmen and investors to promote Jordan and lure foreign capital.