LONDON - The Mumbai terror attack figured during the State Banquet hosted by Queen Elizabeth in the honour of Indian President Pratibha Patil, with the British monarch paying tributes to the “courage and steadfastness” shown by Indian people in the face of the “appalling” incident.

“We are mindful that in a month’s time India will mark the anniversary of the appalling terrorist attacks on Mumbai, in which so many Indians were killed,” the Queen said Oct 27 night during the Banquet.

The Banquet saw the attendance of members of Royal Family, political leadership of Britain including Prime Minister Gordon Brown.

The Queen paid tributes to the “courage and steadfastness” shown by Indian forces and people “in the face of this great tragedy.”

Mumbai will next month mark the first anniversary of the November terror attacks in which over 180 people including top police officials were killed by 10 armed terrorists who struck at four locations.

President Pratibha Patil in her speech earlier has also lauded the “support and encouragement” received by India from Britain after the audacious terror attacks. of the cooperation between India and Britain is education.

“I know of your own personal commitment to building a high quality education system at all levels in India; and I want to assure you that we remain deeply committed to working with you towards this important goal,” she said.

The Queen said 2010 will be a “banner year” for India as Commonwealth Games will be hosted in New Delhi.                         (PTI)