LONDON – World leaders and royals paid their respects to Queen Elizabeth II, after Britain’s longest-serving monarch died on Thursday at the age of 96.
The British Royal Family said the queen passed away “seriously” at Balmoral Castle in Scotland.
She was last photographed on Tuesday when Liz Truss was appointed UK prime minister.
Truss, former British prime ministers and other current and former world leaders who served during Elizabeth II’s 70-year reign, paid tribute to the queen, whose second longest reign in the world of all time.
King Charles III of England
“The death of my beloved Mother, the Queen, is a moment of greatest grief for me and all members of my family,” Elizabeth’s son and the new monarch said in a statement.
“We deeply mourn the loss of a revered Sovereign and much-loved Mother. I know her loss will be deeply felt across the country, Kingdom and Commonwealth. commonwealth, as are countless people around the world.”
British Prime Minister Liz Truss
“Queen Elizabeth II is the rock on which modern England is built,” Truss said. “Our country has grown and flourished under her rule. England is where it is today because of her.”
She continued: “Through thick and thin, Queen Elizabeth II provided us with the stability and strength we needed. “She is the spirit of Great Britain – and that spirit will live on. She is our longest-reigning monarch.”
US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden
“The Queen’s Queen Elizabeth II is more than a king. She defined an era,” the Bidens said in a statement. “In a world of constant change, she has been an unwavering presence and source of comfort and pride for generations of Britons, including many who have never known their country without a her. seven decades of her history-making reign have seen an age of unprecedented human progress and a step forward in human dignity.”
They continued: “In the years to come, we look forward to continuing to maintain our close friendship with The King and The Queen Consort. Today, the thoughts and prayers of people across America are with you. people of Great Britain and the Commonwealth in their grief.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
“It is with the heaviest heart we know of the passing of Canada’s longest reigning monarch, Queen Elizabeth II,” Trudeau wrote in a tweet. “She was always present in our lives – and her service to the people of Canada will forever be an important part of our country’s history.”
“As we look back on her life and reign spanning so many decades, Canadians will always remember and cherish Her Majesty’s wisdom, compassion and warmth. members of the Royal Family during this most difficult time.”
French President Emmanuel Macron
“Queen Elizabeth II embodies the continuity and unity of the British nation for more than 70 years,” Macron wrote in a tweet. “I remember her as a friend of France, a kind queen who left a lasting impression on her country and her century.”
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy
Zelenskyy wrote in a tweet: “We are deeply saddened to learn of the death of Queen Elizabeth II. “On behalf of the people, we extend our sincere condolences to @RoyalFamily, the entire UK and Commonwealth for this irreparable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you. by your side.”
Former British Prime Minister Tony Blair
“We have lost not only our monarch but our nation’s matriarch, who more than any other has brought our country together, keeping us in touch with the better nature us, personifying everything that makes us proud to be British,” Blair said in the statement.
He then continued, “We will mourn her. We will miss her. But our overflowing feelings will be gratitude, deep, sincere and sincere thanks for those who have been there. what she has done, what she has stood for, for the life she has lived and for what she has given us, her grateful subjects. Her reign is truly glorious. And it is a great blessing for us to have her reign over us.”
Former US President Bill Clinton
Clinton said in a statement: “During her remarkable 70-year reign, she has led Britain through great transformations with grace, indelible dignity and a genuine concern for the future. welfare of all citizens”. Rain or shine, she is a source of stability, serenity and strength.
Former US President George W. Bush
“Queen Elizabeth has guided Britain through dark times with her faith in humanity and her vision of a brighter tomorrow,” Bush said in a statement. “Our world benefits from her steadfast determination, and we are grateful for her decades of service as a sovereign. Americans in particular appreciate enduring friendships.” her firmness and steadfastness.”
Former US President Jimmy Carter
“Rosalynn and I extend our condolences to the family of Queen Elizabeth II and the citizens of the United Kingdom,” Carter said in a statement. “Her dignity, courtesy, and sense of responsibility were inspirational, and we join millions around the world in mourning an outstanding leader.”
Former US President Barack Obama and First Lady Michelle Obama
“Michelle and I have been fortunate to know the Queen, and she means a lot to us,” the Obamas said in a statement. “Back when we were just beginning to navigate our lives as President and First Lady, she welcomed us to the world stage with open arms and extraordinary generosity. Time and again, we are struck by her warmth, the way she puts people at ease, and the way she brings her sense of humor and remarkable charm into extremely proud moments. flowers and circumstances.”
“Like so many people, Michelle and I are grateful to have witnessed the Queen’s devoted leadership, and we deeply admire the legacy of tireless and dignified public service. hers.”
Former US President Donald Trump
“Melania and I will always cherish our time together with the Queen, and will never forget Her Majesty’s generous friendship, wonderful intellect, and wonderful sense of humour. What a wonderful woman she was. and beautiful – there’s no one like her!” Trump said in a social media post.
“God bless the Queen, may she dwell in our hearts forever, and may God keep her and Prince Philip in the care,” Trump wrote.
