Queen Elizabeth II Photo: Getty Images/Chris Jackson
World leaders and people from around the globe continue to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II.
Around the world flags were flown at half-mast and flowers left outside British embassies as the world mourned the death of the UK's longest-serving monarch.
Reactions from commonwealth and world leaders
New Zealand
In New Zealand all public buildings will fly flags at half-mast, up to and including the day of Her Majesty's State Memorial Service in New Zealand, except on Proclamation Day.
Governor General Dame Cindy Kiro and Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern are expected to travel to the UK funeral's service.
Dame Cindy Kiro, in a media conference, said the late Queen provided a "sense of continuity and stability" for New Zealand.
Dame Cindy Kiro speaks to the media after the passing of Queen Elizabeth II. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
She said she was "a real symbol of dedication for service", after serving for more than 70 years.
"I think New Zealanders will remember her for her service, she worked right up till her death at 96 years old which is a reflection of her commitment."
Jacinda Ardern writes condolence note after the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Photo: RNZ / Angus Dreaver
Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern said, "I know that I speak for people across New Zealand in offering our deepest sympathy to members of the Royal Family at the passing of the Queen. To us she was a much admired and respected monarch, to them she was a mother and grandmother."
"The Queen was a much loved and admired monarch, whose record reign of 70 years is an absolute testament to her, and her commitment to us all. She was extraordinary."
Australia
The Australian and Aboriginal flags fly at half-mast on the Harbour Bridge in Sydney on September 9, 2022. (Photo by Robert WALLACE / AFP) Photo: ROBERT WALLACE / AFP
Australian prime minister Anthony Albanese said the hearts of Australians go out to the people of UK.
He said, "With the passing of Queen Elizabeth the Second, an historic reign and a long life devoted to duty, family, faith and service has come to an end.
"Australian hearts go out to the people of the United Kingdom who mourn today, knowing they will feel they have lost part of what makes their nation whole.
"There is comfort to be found in Her Majesty's own words: 'Grief is the price we pay for love'."
United States of America
The American flag is seen at half-staff on the roof of the White House in Washington, D.C. on September 8, 2022, after news of the death of Queen Elizabeth II. Photo: Bryan Olin Dozier / NurPhoto / NurPhoto via AFP
US President Joe Biden and First Lady Jill Biden in a statement said, "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.
"Her legacy will loom large in the pages of British history, and in the story of our world."
Reaction of Commonwealth countries from around the world
Antigua And Barbuda
Prime Minister of Antigua And Barbuda, Gaston Browne said, "Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II has had an impactful reign, during which her relations with my State and its people have remained mutually respectful and unchanging."
"Before being accorded the role of Head of the State of Antigua and Barbuda, beginning 1st November 1981, Her Majesty was shown great affection by the people of our country on her visits."
Barbados
Barbados President Sandra Mason said, "Just under one year ago Barbados took the decision to complete the course of independence by breaking constitutional ties with the British monarchy and establishing the world's newest republic. Significant as that decision was, given the place Barbados has held in the British Empire for centuries, it did not in the least diminish the friendship between our two nations, or indeed with Buckingham Palace."
Canada
Mourner Eissa Saddozai (L) and Aidan Osadchuk place a Canadian flag on the front steps of the British High Commission after the death of Britian's Queen Elizabeth II September 9, 2022 in Ottawa, Canada. Photo: Dave Chan / AFP
Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau said, "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."
Ghana
Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo said "The Ghanaian people have very fond memories of the two visits she made to Ghana during her reign, and, on both occasions, we remember the friendliness, elegance, style and sheer joy she brought to the performance of her duties."
India
Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi said "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 people of UK in this sad hour."
Pakistan
Shehbaz Sharif, Prime Minister Of Pakistan said, "Deeply grieved at the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Pakistan joins the UK & other Commonwealth nations in mourning her death. My heartfelt condolences to the royal family, people & government of the UK."
Jamaica
Jamaican Prime Minister Andrew Holness said, "We join our brothers and sisters in the Commonwealth in mourning her passing, and pray for the comfort of the members of her family, and the people of the United Kingdom, as they grieve the loss of their beloved Queen and matriarch."
Trinidad And Tobago
Trinidad And Tobago Prime Minister Keith Rowley said, "Though Trinidad and Tobago gained its Independence and later became a Republic, this country recognizes the lasting legacy of Her Majesty."
Reaction of royal families from around the world
Dutch King Willem-Alexander said "We remember Queen Elizabeth II with deep respect and great affection. Steadfast and wise, she dedicated her long life to serving the British people. We feel a strong bond with the United Kingdom and its royal family, and we share their sorrow at this time."
Norway's King Harald said "Our thoughts are with His Majesty The King and the members of the Royal Family on the loss of Queen Elizabeth. For nearly a century, Her Majesty devoted her life to the service of the Commonwealth, following the British people through good days and bad, in times of happiness and sorrow. We also send our condolences to the British people.
King Carl Xvi Gustaf Of Sweden said "With sadness, my family and I have today received the news that my dear relative, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, has passed away.
"The Queen served Her countries and the Commonwealth with an outstanding devotion and sense of duty. She has been a constant presence, not only in British society but internationally. In addition, she has always been a good friend to my family and a link to our shared family history."
"You are all in our hearts and thoughts. We will miss Her dearly," said Spain's King Felipe in a telegram sent to the British Royal family.
Abdullah Bin Al Hussein, King Of Jordan said "Jordan mourns the passing of an iconic leader. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II was a beacon of wisdom and principled leadership for seven decades. She was a partner for Jordan and a dear family friend. We stand with the people and leadership of the UK at this difficult time."
World leaders who sent their condolences:
France
The Union Jack is seen at the entrance of the Elysee presidential palace in Paris after the annoucement of the death of Queen Elizabeth II, on September 9, 2022. Photo: Ludovic Marin / AFP
French President Emmanuel Macron said, "Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II embodied the British nation's continuity and unity for over 70 years. I remember her as a friend of France, a kind-hearted queen who has left a lasting impression on her country and her century."
Germany
German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said, "We mourn the death of Queen Elizabeth II. She was a role model and inspiration for millions, also here in Germany. Her commitment to German-British reconciliation after the horrors of World War II will remain unforgotten. She will be missed, not least her wonderful humour."
Iraq
Iraqi President Barham Salih said, "I am deeply saddened by the passing of HM Queen Elizabeth II. I extend profound condolences to the royal family and to the people of the United Kingdom. Queen Elizabeth will be remembered as a great icon of history who served with grace, dignity and fortitude."
Ireland
Irish Prime Minister Micheal Martin said, "I would like to convey my deepest sympathy to the British people on the loss of their beloved monarch, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth."
"Her State Visit to Ireland in 2011 marked a crucial step in the normalisation of relations with our nearest neighbour. That visit was a great success, largely because of the many gracious gestures and warm remarks made by the Queen."
Italy
Italian Prime Minister Mario Draghi said, "Queen Elizabeth was a major player in world history over the last seventy years. She represented the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth with balance, wisdom, respect for institutions and democracy. She has been the most beloved symbol of her country and has garnered respect, affection and warm feelings everywhere."
Japan
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida says Japan is deeply saddened by the death of Queen Elizabeth II and we express our sincerest condolences at the prime minister's office in Tokyo on Sept. 9, 2022. Photo: Masanori Genko / Yomiuri / The Yomiuri Shimbun via AFP
Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida said, "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."
Poland
Polish President Andrzej Duda said, "My deepest condolences to the Royal Family and all the British people on passing of Her Majesty The Queen. For decades she has been an embodiment of everything that makes Britain truly Great. She will be missed and remembered in Poland and all over the world."
Russia
Russian President Vladimir Putin sent a message to King Charles and said the Queen "rightfully enjoyed the love and respect of her subjects, as well as authority on the world stage".
He added, "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."
Singapore
Singapore Prime Minister Lee Hsien Loong said, "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."
Spain
Spanish Prime Minister Pedro Sanchez said, "My condolences to the entire Royal Family, the government and the people of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II."
"A figure of global significance, witness and author of British and European history."
Turkey
Turkish President Tayyip Erdogan said he was saddened to learn of Queen Elizabeth's death and sent his deepest condolences to the royal family and the people and government of the United Kingdom.
Taiwan
Taiwan President Tsai Ing-Wen expressed "deep condolences" for the death. Her office said: "Taiwan and the United Kingdom are united in their gratitude for the Queen's lifelong contribution to world peace and prosperity; Taiwan will also work with the United Kingdom to continue to work hard for common ideals and values."
Ukraine
Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskiy said, "It is with deep sadness that we learned of the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. On behalf of the UA people, we extend sincere condolences to the @RoyalFamily, the entire United Kingdom and the Commonwealth over this irreparable loss. Our thoughts and prayers are with you."
UAE
UAE's President Mohamed Bin Zayed said, "Her Majesty was a close friend of the UAE and a beloved & respected leader whose long reign was characterised by dignity, compassion & a tireless commitment to serving her country."
World leaders expressed their condolences
Pope Francis said he was deeply saddened by the death of Queen Elizabeth II. In a telegram to King Charles, he said, ""I willingly join all who mourn her loss in praying for the late Queen's eternal rest, and in paying tribute to her life of unstinting service to the good of the Nation and the Commonwealth."
U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said, "As the United Kingdom's longest-lived and longest-reigning Head of State, Queen Elizabeth II was widely admired for her grace, dignity, and dedication around the world. She was a reassuring presence throughout decades of sweeping change, including the decolonization of Africa and Asia and the evolution of the Commonwealth."
"Queen Elizabeth II was a good friend of the United Nations, and visited our New York Headquarters twice, more than fifty years apart. She was deeply committed to many charitable and environmental causes.
"The world will long remember her devotion and leadership."
Commonwealth Secretary-General Patricia Scotland said, "Her Majesty loved the Commonwealth, and the Commonwealth loved her. During her reign she travelled more than any monarch in history, visiting every part of our family of nations.
"The growth and vibrancy of our modern Commonwealth is a credit to her and testament to her dedication, wisdom and leadership."
European Commission President Ursula Von Der Leyen said, "It is with deep sadness that I have learned of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. She was the world's longest serving Head of State and one of the most respected personalities worldwide. I offer my heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family and the British people."
- RNZ/ Reuters