World leaders have paid tribute to the Queen after her death at 96 – Joe Biden saying she was ‘more than a monarch. She defined an era’.
The American President issued a statement in which he said that “in an ever-changing world, she was a stable presence and a source of comfort and pride for generations of Britons”.
The president said she was a “stateswoman of unparalleled dignity and consistency” who “helped make our relationship special.”
Mr Biden said the Queen “charmed us with her wit, moved us with her kindness and generously shared her wisdom with us” during her visit with the first lady last year.
“His legacy will loom large in the pages of British history and in the history of our world,” he added.
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau tweeted: “It is with the heaviest of hearts that we have learned of the passing of Canada’s oldest sovereign, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
“She was a constant presence in our lives – and her service to Canadians will forever remain an important part of our
the country’s history.”
Speaking to reporters, he added that the Queen was “one of my favorite people in the world”.
“I will miss her so much,” he said.
French President Emmanuel Macron posted on social media: “Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has embodied the continuity and unity of the British nation for over 70 years.
“I remember her as a friend of France, a queen with a big heart who left a lasting mark on her country and her century.”
Russian President Vladimir Putin said he offered his condolences to Britain for the “irreparable loss” of the Queen.
Pope Francis said he was deeply saddened by the Queen’s death and offered his condolences to her family, including her successor King Charles.
The pontiff said in a telegram to the new monarch: “I gladly join all who mourn her loss in praying for the eternal rest of the late Queen and paying tribute to her life of unwavering service for the good of the nation and of the Commonwealth.”
Learn more about the queen:
A ‘selfless monarch’ who made Britain proud
Six moments that defined the Queen’s reign
The Queen’s most memorable quotes
A life of service in pictures
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese tweeted a statement paying tribute to the Queen’s “historic reign and a long life dedicated to duty, family, faith and service”.
“It is a loss we all feel, as few have known a world without Queen Elizabeth II. During her remarkable seven decades on the throne, Her Majesty has been a rare and reassuring constant in the midst of rapid change. .
“Through the noise and tumult of the years, she embodied and displayed a timeless decency and an enduring calm.”
The Queen with then US President Barack Obama at a state banquet at Buckingham Palace in May 2011
Former US President Barack Obama released a lengthy statement saying the Queen had “captivated the world”.
“Michelle and I were blessed to know Her Majesty, and she meant a lot to us,” he said.
“When we were just beginning to navigate life as President and First Lady, she welcomed us onto the world stage with open arms and extraordinary generosity.
“Time and time again we were struck by her warmth, the way she put people at ease and the way she brought her considerable humor and charm to moments of great pomp and circumstance.
“Like so many others, Michelle and I are grateful to have witnessed Her Majesty’s dedicated leadership, and we are impressed by her legacy of tireless and dignified public service. Our thoughts are with her family and the people of the United Kingdom. United in this difficult time.”
Donald and Melania Trump with the Queen in June 2019
Former US President Donald Trump said he and his wife Melania were “deeply saddened”.
“She will always be remembered for her loyalty to her country and her unwavering devotion to her compatriots,” he said on his social media platform Truth Social.
“Melania and I will always cherish our time with the Queen, and will never forget Her Majesty’s generous friendship, great wisdom and wonderful sense of humor. What a great and beautiful lady she was – there was no one like her!”
Ukrainian President Zelenskyy tweeted: “It is with deep sadness that we learned of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.
“On behalf of the people of Ukraine, we send our sincere condolences to the @RoyalFamily, the whole of the UK and the Commonwealth for this irreparable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you.”
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said: “We mourn Queen Elizabeth II. She was a role model and inspiration to millions, including here in Germany.
“Her commitment to German-British reconciliation after the horrors of World War II will not be forgotten. We will miss her, especially her wonderful sense of humour.”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said: “Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be remembered as a pillar of our times.
“She provided inspirational leadership to her nation and her people. She personified dignity and decency in public life.
“Painted by his passing. My thoughts are with his family and the British people at this sad hour.
Ursula von der Leyen, head of the European Commission said on Twitter that the Queen had “witnessed war and reconciliation in Europe and beyond, and profound transformations in our planet and our societies”.
“She has been a beacon of continuity throughout these changes, consistently showing a calm and dedication that has given strength to many. May she rest in peace.”
