Queen Elizabeth reigned for 70 years, making her the longest-serving British monarch. She was the longest reigning monarch in British history. Her reign lasted nearly 30% of American history and met 13 of the last 14 presidents. She lived through numerous periods of conflict, from World War II to Brexit.
The 96-year-old Queen ascended the throne during Winston Churchill’s time as Prime Minister and symbolized stability in a period of dramatic social and political change. She has a long and fruitful relationship with British Muslims and has been a wonderful symbol of hope, integrity, stability, and unity for the country and beyond. She promoted harmony and cohesion between faith groups.
Imam Qari Asim, chair of the Mosques and Imams National Advisory Board, said, “The Queen has a long-term relationship with the Muslim community, and the majority of that has been fruitful.”
Queen’s health has been deteriorating since the doctors decided to put her under medical supervision. The monarch died peacefully at Balmoral on Thursday afternoon, two days after fulfilling her final public constitutional duty, appointing the 15th prime minister of her 70-year reign.
King Charles III, Queen Elizabeth’s eldest son, has assumed the role for which he has spent much of his life preparing. Now 73 years old, he becomes king automatically upon his mother’s death, with the coronation to follow in a few months.
World’s tribute to the death of the Queen.
As word of Her Majesty’s death spread and the world began to mourn, tributes poured in from all over the world. World leaders rushed to pay their respects and express their condolences to the Royal family.
In honor of the Queen’s life and legacy, the Empire State Building is lit purple and sparkling silver. While the Eiffel Tower was turned off, and the European Parliament flag was raised at half staff in honor of the Queen.
Reactions from world leaders
Here are some tributes from the world leaders as reported by Reuters;
US President Joe Biden
“In a world of constant change, she was a steadying presence and a source of comfort and pride for generations of Britons, including many who have never known their country without her,”
Russian President Vladimir Putin
“I wish you courage and resilience in the face of this difficult, irreparable loss. May I ask you to pass on sincere condolences and support to members of the royal family and the entire people of Great Britain.”
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi
“Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be remembered as a stalwart of our times. She provided inspiring leadership to her nation and people. She personified dignity and decency in public life. Pained by her demise. My thoughts are with her family and the people of the UK in this sad hour.”
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau
“It was with the heaviest of hearts that we learned of the passing of Canada’s longest-reigning 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 country’s history.”
Nigerian President Muhammadu Buhari
“The story of modern Nigeria will never be complete without a chapter on Queen Elizabeth ll, a towering global personality and an outstanding leader. She dedicated her life to making her nation, the Commonwealth and the entire world a better place.”
Oman’s Sultan Haitham Bin Tariq
Expressed his sincere condolences and sincere sympathy to His Majesty, his family and the friendly British people, recalling the merits of the late queen and the position she enjoyed among the peoples of the world.
Qatar’s Amir Sheikh Tamim Bin Hamad Al-Thani
“The world has unanimously appreciated and respected her. She was a source of inspiration and nobility.”
Dubai Ruler Sheikh Mohammed Bin Rashid Al-Maktoum
“We join the world in mourning the passing of her Majesty Queen Elizabeth, a global icon who represented the finest qualities of her nation and people. Her incredible lifetime of service and duty to the United Kingdom is unparalleled in our modern world.”
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida
“Queen Elizabeth … played an extremely important role in the peace and prosperity of the world. In 1975, she visited Japan and contributed greatly to the strengthening of Japan-Britain relations.
“(Her death) is a great loss not only to the British people but also to the international community.”
Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong
“She performed her duties with devotion, grace, and humility. Her contributions to the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth, and indeed to the world will be recorded in history, and she will always be remembered fondly as a great world leader.”
Malaysia Foreign Minister Saifuddin Abdullah
“Her Majesty was a towering figure and led a lifetime of dedication and service to the people of the UK and the Commonwealth.”
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