On Thursday, world leaders paid their respects to Queen Elizabeth II, who passed away at the age of 96 in her Scottish summer palace after nearly a year of declining health.
Here are various honors to the longest-reigning monarch in British history, who is also the head of state of 14 Commonwealth countries:
“Grace, decency, and commitment”
Secretary-General of the United Nations Antonio Guterres stated that Queen Elizabeth was “widely admired.”
“As the longest-lived and longest-reigning head of state in the United Kingdom, Queen Elizabeth II was highly recognized for her grace, dignity, and dedication,” Guterres said. “She was a reassuring presence during decades of enormous change.”
“Hearts and minds”
The White House conveyed its deepest condolences, emphasizing that she was the leader of one of the United States’ most dependable partners.
“Our sympathies and thoughts are with the queen’s family and the people of the United Kingdom,” said White House spokeswoman Karine Jean-Pierre minutes after the monarch’s death was confirmed.
“Elizabeth the Stable”
EU leaders lamented the passing of the queen, who served as head of state throughout the duration of Britain’s EU membership and subsequent withdrawal.
Charles Michel, president of the EU Council, tweeted, “Once called ‘Elizabeth the Steadfast,’ she never failed to demonstrate the importance of enduring ideals in the modern world via her service and dedication.”
‘Remarkable buddy’
President Michael Higgins of Ireland referred to Queen Elizabeth II as a “wonderful friend” who had “a significant impact on the links of mutual understanding between our two nations.”
“As we extend our condolences to all of our British neighbors on the passing of a magnificent friend of Ireland, we recall the role Queen Elizabeth played in fostering the close and enduring friendship” between the two nations, he added.
“Motivating leadership”
India’s Prime Minister Narendra Modi expressed “grief” over her passing.
Modi tweeted that the monarch of India’s erstwhile colonial ruler gave “inspiring leadership to her nation and people” and exemplified “dignity and decency in public life.”
She marked the century.
French President Emmanuel Macron lauded Queen Elizabeth II as a “friend of France” who left an indelible mark on her country and century.
“For more than seven decades, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II personified continuity and togetherness in the British people,” the French president tweeted.
“Balance and discernment”
Premier Mario Draghi of Italy stated that the “loving” monarch represented the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth with “balance and wisdom.”
“She ensured stability in times of crisis and preserved the value of tradition in a society undergoing constant and profound change. Her spirit of service, her devotion, and the profound dignity with which she held office for so many years have been a constant source of admiration for generations,” he said.
“Stability and wit”
Earlier on Thursday, before the news of her passing, Dutch Prime Minister Mark Rutte stated that the queen was in his prayers.
According to the ANP news agency, he remarked, “She has lived through so many significant events in the Western world… and has done so with composure, stability, and humor.”