Queen Elizabeth II death | updates

King Charles III, in first address, vows ‘lifelong service’; to be proclaimed king on September 10

September 08, 2022 05:30 pm | Updated September 09, 2022 11:49 pm IST - London

Britain’s King Charles III appears on a TV screen at a pub in Washington, D.C. as he delivers his first speech as monarch on September 9, 2022.

Britain’s King Charles III appears on a TV screen at a pub in Washington, D.C. as he delivers his first speech as monarch on September 9, 2022. | Photo Credit: AFP

Queen Elizabeth II, the U.K.’s longest-serving monarch, has died at Balmoral aged 96, after reigning for 70 years.

As the British Houses of Parliament met in a special session to pay tributes to Queen Elizabeth II, who died on Friday, Buckingham Palace announced that her son Charles, 73, will be proclaimed King at a centuries old ceremony. The event, which will be held at St James’s Palace in London on Saturday, will involve a reading of the proclamation from a balcony , followed by similar announcements over the weekend at the Royal Exchange in London, in Scotland, Wales and Northern Ireland. The crown automatically passes to the heir the moment the sovereign dies, before the proclamation ceremony.

He will officially be proclaimed monarch on September 10 at a meeting of the Accession Council, Buckingham Palace said.

Obituary | Queen Elizabeth II, queen of the world

The formal body overseeing the succession from Queen Elizabeth II will meet from 10 a.m. (0900 GMT), with a first public pronouncement from a balcony of St James’s Palace in London at 11 a.m.

A funeral is to be held after 10 days of official mourning.

Also read | Queen Elizabeth's death | Reaction from world leaders

The impact of her loss will be huge and unpredictable, both for the nation and for the monarchy, an institution she helped stabilise and modernise across decades of huge social change and family scandals.

Latest updates:

London

King Charles III makes first speech to nation as Britain’s new monarch

King Charles III says he feels “profound sorrow” at the death of his mother Queen Elizabeth II, and has vowed to carry on her “lifelong service” to the nation.

King Charles is making his first address to Britain and the Commonwealth as monarch. He became King on Thursday after the queen’s death.

“That promise of lifelong service I renew to all today,” he said.

His speech was broadcast on television and streamed at St. Paul’s Cathedral, where some 2,000 people were attending a service of remembrance for the queen. Mourners at the service included Prime Minister Liz Truss and members of her Government.s ‘profound sorrow’ at the death of his mother, vows to continue queen’s ‘lifelong service.’ —AP

LONDON

Liz Truss arrives at Buckingham Palace

King Charles III hosts British Prime Minister Liz Truss at Buckingham Palace on Friday for their first formal audience as he starts his reign after the death of Queen Elizabeth II. - AP

LONDON

Queen was ‘radiant’ in final meeting: Boris Johnson

Queen Elizabeth was “as radiant, knowledgeable and fascinated by politics” when she met Boris Johnson during his final meeting with the monarch on Tuesday, the former British prime minister said on Friday.

Mr. Johnson called on the Queen on September 6 at her Balmoral estate in Scotland to formally offer his resignation to pave the way for Liz Truss to succeed him as the new prime minister.

Johnson said the 96-year-old Queen was “as radiant, knowledgeable and fascinated by politics as I can remember and as wise in her advice as anyone I know, if not wiser”.

“That impulse to do her duty carried her right through to her tenth decade to the very moment in Balmoral, only three days, ago when she saw off her 14th prime minister and welcomed her 15th.

“With her attentive and enquiring mind she became the greatest statesman and diplomat of all,” Mr. Johnson was quoted as saying by the BBC.

Former Prime Minister Theresa May said audiences with the “immensely knowledgeable” Queen were the only meetings as leader where everything that was said would remain private.

She said the meetings involved “talking about the affairs of the day, in a sense tapping into her wisdom and that knowledge that she had from her great experience”.

The Queen would pass on “the knowledge that she had of the people, a lot of the people that the prime minister, that I, was dealing with,” Ms. May told BBC’s Radio 4 Today programme.

“She was a very acute judge of people and was able often to give those little, if you like, pen portraits of people that she knew, that she’d met.”

“And sometimes it was a case of not just the individual but actually a sort of history of that individual, of her experiences of particular countries, particular issues.” “There was often that twinkle in the eye, and that magnificent smile that would break out and that calmed so many people’s nerves and made so many people feel at ease,” she said about the Queen, who died on Thursday.

Naturalist and broadcaster David Attenborough - a contemporary of the Queen - also paid tribute to the monarch.

“The Queen had an extraordinary ability to put you at your ease. If there was a technical hitch she wanted to know what it was and, if it had a funny side, she was quick to see the joke,” he said. - PTI 

LONDON

King Charles III arrives at Buckingham Palace

King Charles III has arrived at Buckingham Palace for the first time as Britain’s monarch.

The king flew to London from Scotland on Friday and was driven to the royal residence in an official Rolls-Royce. A large crowd cheered as the car arrived at the palace gates.

He got out of the car to greet well-wishers and look at some of the huge pile of floral tributes left to honor his mother Queen Elizabeth II. Some called “Thank you Charles” and “Well done, Charlie!” as he shook hands with the crowd. Several shouted “God save the King!” - AP

LONDON

Prince William heads back to Windsor from Balmoral

Britain’s Prince William has left Balmoral Castle in Scotland where Queen Elizabeth died on Thursday and is travelling back to Windsor, near London, a spokesperson for William, now the heir to the British throne, said on Friday. 

LONDON

Bank of England delays rate meeting as U.K. mourns Queen Elizabeth II

The Bank of England on Friday said it had decided to postpone a meeting on interest rates due next Thursday by one week following the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

“In light of the period of national mourning now being observed in the United Kingdom, the September 2022 meeting of the Monetary Policy Committee has been postponed for a period of one week,” a statement said.

LONDON

King Charles to be officially proclaimed at accession council tomorrow

Charles III will be officially proclaimed monarch on Saturday morning at a meeting of the Accession Council, Buckingham Palace said.

The formal body overseeing the succession from Queen Elizabeth II will meet from 10 a.m. (0900 GMT), with a first public pronouncement from a balcony of St James's Palace in London at 11 a.m.

LONDON

Liz Truss pays tribute to ‘great leader’ Queen Elizabeth II

Britain’s new Prime Minister Liz Truss paid emotional tribute in parliament Friday to the late queen and pledged the nation’s “loyalty and devotion” to King Charles III.

Elizabeth II was “one of the greatest leaders the world has ever known”, Ms. Truss told a hushed House of Commons, calling her “the nation’s greatest diplomat”. - AFP

LONDON

King Charles III’s televised address at 6 p.m.

Britain's new monarch King Charles is expected to deliver an address to the nation around 6 p.m. local time (1700 GMT) on Friday following the death of Queen Elizabeth, the speaker of the House of Commons said on Friday.

"I would like to inform the House that we will sit today until approximately 10 p.m. for tributes (to Queen Elizabeth)," Lindsay Hoyle told lawmakers in parliament.

"At approximately 6 o'clock, the House will be suspended while His Majesty the King makes his broadcast the nation."

LONDON

English Premier League postpones all games this weekend

The English Premier League postpones all games this weekend as ‘mark of respect’ following death of Queen Elizabeth II. “As a mark of respect to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, this weekend’s Premier League match round will be postponed,” it said in a statement. - AP

SCOTLAND

King Charles III leaves Balmoral for London

A vehicle carrying King Charles and Queen Camilla leaves Balmoral Castle, following the passing of Britain’s Queen Elizabeth, in Balmoral, Scotland, on September 9.

A vehicle carrying King Charles and Queen Camilla leaves Balmoral Castle, following the passing of Britain’s Queen Elizabeth, in Balmoral, Scotland, on September 9. | Photo Credit: Reuters

King Charles III and Queen Consort have left Balmoral Castle in Scotland are en route to Aberdeen airport, where they are expected to fly back to London. - AP

TOKYO

Japan emperor hails Queen Elizabeth’s ‘many achievements’

Japan mourned Queen Elizabeth's death on Friday, with the emperor hailing her "many achievements" and the prime minister calling her passing a loss for the entire world.

"I express my heartfelt respect and gratitude to the queen for the many achievements and contributions she has made," Emperor Naruhito said in a statement issued by the Imperial Household Agency.

"Her way of always wishing for peace and tranquillity in the world deeply impressed many people."

DHARAMSALA

Dalai Lama writes to King Charles III, condoles death of queen

Tibetan spiritual leader the Dalai Lama on Friday condoled the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

In a message to her son, King Charles III, posted on his website, the Dalai Lama expressed his sadness and condolences to the new monarch, the royal family, and the people of the United Kingdom.

“Your mother lived a meaningful life with dignity, grace, a strong sense of service and a warm heart, qualities we all should treasure,” the Tibetan spiritual leader wrote. - PTI

LONDON

U.K. declares period of national mourning for Queen Elizabeth

The British government on Friday officially declared the start of a period of national mourning for Queen Elizabeth, publishing ‘national mourning guidance’.

The document, which carried guidance on flying flags, information on travel, and other business and public services, stated that the mourning will continue until the end of the day of the state funeral.

INDIA

In Images | Queen Elizabeth II’s visits to India

Queen Elizabeth II, who died aged 96 on Thursday, was the first British monarch to accede to the throne after India’s Independence from colonial rule in 1952 and admired the “richness and diversity” of India where she made three State Visits over the course of her reign – in 1961, 1983 and 1997.

Queen Elizabeth II being greeted by father of Kaushik Basu, former chief economist of World Bank, during her visit to Kolkata in 1961.

Queen Elizabeth II being greeted by father of Kaushik Basu, former chief economist of World Bank, during her visit to Kolkata in 1961. | Photo Credit: PTI

In 1961, the Queen and her husband, the late Prince Phillip – Duke of Edinburgh, toured Mumbai, Chennai and Kolkata – then Bombay, Madras, and Calcutta – and also visited the Taj Mahal in Agra and paid tribute to Mahatma Gandhi at Raj Ghat in New Delhi.

They were Guests of Honour at the Republic Day Parade on the invitation of the then President, Dr Rajendra Prasad, and an enduring image from the tour shows the Queen addressing a massive crowd of several thousand people packed into Ramlila Grounds in Delhi for her address, dressed in a fur coat and hat.

Read more here...

NEW DELHI

India to hold one-day state mourning on September 11, says MHA

One day State mourning on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, MHA writes to all States on Friday. National Flag will be flown at half mast throughout India on all buildings where national flag is flown regularly and there will be no official entertainment on the day. - Vijaita Singh

LONDON

British military to fire royal salutes in Hyde Park

A royal gun salute will be fired in Hyde Park, London, at 1 p.m. local time (5.30 pm IST) on Friday. One round will be fired for each of the 96 years of the queen’s life, the Buckingham Palace announced.

LONDON

British sports hold day or mourning for Queen Elizabeth II

British sports were holding a day of mourning for Queen Elizabeth II, with high-profile golf, cricket and horse racing events cancelled Friday as a mark of respect and the Premier League meeting to discuss whether to call off games scheduled for the weekend.

The BMW PGA Championship, the flagship event on the European tour, was paused near the end of the first round Thursday following the announcement of the queen's death — there were still 30 players out on the course — and there will be no play Friday.

UNITED KINGDOM

King Charles III to address people on his first day as monarch

King Charles III on Friday readied to address his mourning subjects on the first full day of his new reign, as Britain and the world commemorated the extraordinary life of his late mother, Queen Elizabeth II.

At 73, Charles is the oldest monarch yet to ascend the throne, following the death of his "cherished" mother at her remote Scottish estate on Thursday.

“During this period of mourning and change, my family and I will be comforted and sustained by our knowledge of the respect and deep affection in which the queen was so widely held,” Charles said in a statement.

JOHANNESBURG

To Mandela, the queen was simply ‘Elizabeth’

Nelson Mandela stands with Queen Elizabeth II on his arrival at Buckingham Palace. File.

Nelson Mandela stands with Queen Elizabeth II on his arrival at Buckingham Palace. File. | Photo Credit: AP

Nelson Mandela was on first-name basis with Queen Elizabeth II, a rare privilege contravening royal etiquette, the late anti-apartheid hero’s foundation said Friday, sharing anecdotes of their fond relationship.

“By his own admission, Nelson Mandela was an anglophile, and in the years after his release from prison cultivated a close relationship with the Queen,” the Nelson Mandela Foundation wrote in a statement, sending condolences to the royal family.

“They also talked on the phone frequently, using their first names with each other as a sign of mutual respect as well as affection.” - AFP

NEW DELHI

Dalai Lama offers condolences to Royal Family

The Tibetan spiritual leader, the Dalai Lama, on Friday expressed his deep sadness over the death of Queen Elizabeth II and offered his condolences to her family and the British people.

In a letter to King Charles III, the Dalai Lama said “I remember seeing photographs of her coronation in magazines when I was young in Tibet.”

He added that “your mother lived a meaningful life with dignity, grace, a strong sense of service and a warm heart, qualities we all should treasure.”- AP

NEW YORK

Queen Elizabeth II remembered at Times Square

An image of Queen Elizabeth II is displayed at Times Square in New York on September 9, 2022 following her death at age 96.

An image of Queen Elizabeth II is displayed at Times Square in New York on September 9, 2022 following her death at age 96. | Photo Credit: AFP

LONDON

Harry and Meghan’s children become Prince Archie and Princess Lilibet

Archie Mountbatten-Windsor, the son of Prince Harry and Meghan Markle, is now technically a prince following the death of Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II, according to media reports on Friday, more than a year after his mother controversially claimed that he was denied the title because of his race.

His younger sister, Lilibet “Lili” Mountbatten-Windsor, is also entitled to be a princess after the death and the accession of her grandfather Charles, the Prince of Wales, to the throne, The Guardian newspaper reported.

The Duke and Duchess of Sussex Harry and Meghan Markle will see no change in their Royal titles. - PTI

HONG KONG

Queen Elizabeth II remembered in former colony Hong Kong

Many Hong Kongers took to social media on Friday to mourn Queen Elizabeth II, a woman affectionately nicknamed “boss lady” among older residents in a city that was one of Britain’s last colonies.

Elizabeth visited Hong Kong twice during her reign, while her son — now King Charles III — was present for the handover to China in 1997.

Britain has seen two major waves of Hong Kong immigration in recent decades — the first in the run-up to the handover, and the second over the last two years as China cracks down on political dissent. Many of those reacting overnight were doing so from their new home. - AFP

LONDON

Federer hails ‘grace’ of Queen Elizabeth II as Pele salutes ‘legacy’

Roger Federer hailed Queen Elizabeth II for her “elegance” and “grace” as the world of sport stopped to pay tribute to the British monarch.

“I am deeply saddened by the passing of Her Royal Majesty,” tweeted Federer, who met the queen when she visited Wimbledon in 2010.

“Her elegance, grace and loyalty to her duty will live on in history,” added the eight-time Wimbledon champion, who was not playing at the U.S. Open.

Fellow tennis legend Rafael Nadal tweeted his “most respectful, sincere and deepest condolences”.

Brazilian football great Pele was among other sports stars who paid tribute. “I have been a great admirer of Queen Elizabeth II since the first time I saw her in person, in 1968, when she came to Brazil to witness our love for football and experienced the magic of a packed Maracana,” he tweeted. - AFP

LONDON

In pictures | Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch

LONDON

Prince William becomes heir to the throne

Heir to the throne now that his father has become king, Prince William has stepped up to royal duties after the exit of his brother, Harry, and uncle, Andrew. William has grown up with a strong sense of his future responsibilities, with Charles’s reign inevitably set to be shorter than that of his mother, Queen Elizabeth II.

William, 40, has so far managed to carve a life largely out of the spotlight, taking on military and civilian jobs and as a hands-on father of three with his wife, Catherine, proving popular with the public. They are known as the Duke and Duchess of Cambridge, and now after the queen’s death, also as the Duke and Duchess of Cornwall. - AFP

TORONTO

Elton John pays tribute to Queen at final Toronto show

Elton John paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at his final concert in Toronto.

Elton John paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at his final concert in Toronto. | Photo Credit: AP

Elton John paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at his final concert in Toronto, saying he was inspired by her and is sad she is gone. “She led the country through some of our greatest and darkest moments with grace and decency and genuine caring,” John said on Thursday night.

“I’m 75 and she’s been with with me all my life and I feel very sad that that she won’t be with me anymore, but I’m glad she’s at peace,” he said. “I’m glad she’s at rest and she deserves it. She worked bloody hard.” The singer-songwriter then performed his 1974 track “Don’t Let the Sun Go Down on Me.” - AP

BENGALURU

When Queen Elizabeth II visited Bengaluru

Queen Elizabeth II of England leaves from the airport during her visit to Bengaluru.

Queen Elizabeth II of England leaves from the airport during her visit to Bengaluru. | Photo Credit: The Hindu Archives

Ahead of the Queen’s 90th birthday, celebrated in April 2016, Honorary Flight Lieutenant M.R.S. Pillai recalled selecting and training 150 airmen to present a Guard of Honour to Queen Elizabeth II.

“I was in my 20s and working in the Air Force Technical College, Jalahalli, Bangalore, as a ground training instructor. I was detailed to select 150 airmen and train them to present a Guard of Honour to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II,” said Flt Lt Pillai. “I wanted photos from the event and I ensured I had them,” he added.

Read more here.

INDIA

Kohinoor: A diamond at the centre of diplomatic rows 

The Kohinoor diamond is said to have been found in the Kollur mines in the Krishna basin of the present Andhra Pradesh, then under the Kakatiya kingdom in the 13th. century. The possession of the diamond changed between various powers for the next few centuries.

The priceless diamond ultimately left the shores of India in 1850, and now forms part of the British crown jewels displayed in the Tower of London making viewers savour this timeless beauty that rocked many a monarch across countries in the past many centuries. Read more here.

INDIA

Queen Elizabeth II cherished ‘warmth and hospitality’ of India visits

Queen Elizabeth II, who died aged 96 on Thursday, was the first British monarch to accede to the throne in 1952 shortly after India’s Independence from colonial rule, and cherished the “warmth and hospitality” she received during her three State Visits to the country over the course of her reign — in 1961, 1983 and 1997.

“The warmth and hospitality of the Indian people, and the richness and diversity of India itself have been an inspiration to all of us,” she said in one of her addresses.

Read more here.

Mumbai

Mumbai’s dabbawalas mourn Queen Elizabeth’s demise

Mumbai’s dabbawalas on Friday said they were grieving with the royal family and people all over the world after the demise of Queen Elizabeth.

“On behalf of all the dabbawalas of Mumbai, I pay my heartfelt condolences to the royal family,” said Raghunath Medge, an office bearer of the Nutan Mumbai Tiffin Box Suppliers Association.

Dabbawalas were unknown to the world but became famous due to Queen Elizabeth and the royal family, he said. Mr. Medge and another association office-bearer Sopan Mare attended the royal wedding of Prince Charles and Camilla Parker-Bowles in April 2005. - PTI

UNITED KINGDOM

King Charles III to address U.K. as nation mourns

King Charles III was on Friday due to address his new subjects, as Britain was plunged into mourning by the death of Queen Elizabeth II, ending a history making 70-year reign.

Charles, 73, became monarch immediately after the death of his mother at her Scottish Highland retreat on Thursday, sparking tributes at home and abroad.

UNITED KINGDOM

Line of succession

France

Eiffel Tower goes dark in tribute to Queen Elizabeth

The Eiffel Tower’s lights went dark early on September 8 night in tribute to Queen Elizabeth, with Parisians recalling a British monarch who anchored her country through upheaval with poise and grace for longer than many have lived.

The 1997 death in Paris of Princess Diana prompted Queen Elizabeth to endure some of the darkest days of her 70 years on the throne, when the palace appeared disconnected from the outpouring of public grief.

At the Flame of Liberty monument above the underpass where Diana was killed, some passers-by paused to remember Britain’s longest-reigning monarch.

“She was the person who defined Britain,” said optician Salima Gersa.

Another woman, Valerie, a museum worker, said Queen Elizabeth’s death marked “the end of an era”, describing her as “an extraordinary woman who saw the world around her crumble.”

Others paid tribute to a monarch who remained a symbol of stability and continuity for Britons at a time of relative national economic decline, while also adapting the ancient institution of monarchy to the demands of the modern era. — Reuters

France

Emmanuel Macron hails Queen Elizabeth’s immutable moral authority

Britain’s historic rival and contemporary ally France lowered flags at the presidential palace and public buildings to half-staff in honour of Queen Elizabeth II.

President Emmanuel Macron said no other foreign sovereign had visited the Elysee Palace more than Queen Elizabeth, who knew all eight Presidents of contemporary France.

He hailed her “immutable moral authority,” her intimate knowledge of French and the stability she brought “across the fluctuations and upheavals of politics, a permanence with the scent of eternity.”

“The woman who stood alongside the giants of the 20th century on the path of history has left to join them,” he said in a statement, sharing condolences to Britain from “the French Republic and the French people.”

At the British Embassy in Paris, a 20-year-old fashion student was among many who gathered, moist-eyed, with flowers and candles, to bid her adieu.

“When we learned the news we said to ourselves that Queen Elizabeth had followed us a good part of our lives,” said fashion student Theo Maillet. “We wanted to pay homage to her tonight, think of her family, and tell her one final goodbye.”— AP

Tributes to the Queen

Sporting events cancelled as mark of respect

The world of sport reacted to the death of Queen Elizabeth on Thursday with a raft of cancellations across cricket, golf and rugby, while others paid tribute by holding a minute’s silence.

The second day of the third and deciding cricket test between England and South Africa at the Oval on Friday was suspended as a mark of respect, while matches in the domestic Rachael Heyhoe Flint Trophy were called off.

The English Football League (EFL) cancelled two fixtures scheduled for Friday, with the possibility of more postponements at the weekend.

“A determination regarding the remainder of this weekend’s scheduled fixtures will be made following a review of the official mourning guidance, in addition to further consultation with DCMS and other sports on Friday morning,” the EFL said.

British media reported that the Premier League is also likely to decide on the weekend’s fixtures on Friday.

At Wentworth, which is hosting the BMW PGA golf Championship, the flagship event of Europe’s DP World Tour, play was suspended on Thursday, and organisers cancelled Friday’s second round.

“She was truly an inspiration to people the world over ... no play will take place at the BMW PGA Championship on Friday and the golf course and practice facilities will be closed,” the Tour said in a statement.

Peter Forster, captain of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club, said the queen’s 70-year patronage was a “great honour”.

“Following her accession in 1952, Her late Majesty graciously accepted the Patronage of The Royal and Ancient Golf Club of St Andrews ... although not a golfer, Her late Majesty’s 70-year patronage of the club was a great honour for its members,” said Forster.

Saracens’ game against Northampton Saints in the Premiership Rugby Cup later on Thursday was postponed while Scottish Rugby has suspended all domestic watches this weekend.

The British Horseracing Authority has also suspended all events for two days.

A minute’s silence was observed at Europa League soccer games featuring British teams on Thursday, while the U.S. Open tennis championships and motor racing’s Formula One will also observe silences.

World Athletics president Sebastian Coe hailed the queen for her role in the successful staging of the 2012 London Olympics.

“In the most demanding of roles, she has shown exceptional leadership, grace, wisdom and fortitude, touching us across the full fabric of society, including sport,” said Coe.

“I will never forget her total commitment to the success of the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.”— Reuters,

London

Queen’s death marked around world with tributes and flowers

A double rainbow is seen outside of Buckingham Palace on September 8, 2022 in London as crowds gathered on hearing the news of her health. The death of Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch died after 70 years on the throne, was announced later in the evening.

A double rainbow is seen outside of Buckingham Palace on September 8, 2022 in London as crowds gathered on hearing the news of her health. The death of Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch died after 70 years on the throne, was announced later in the evening. | Photo Credit: Getty Images

As world leaders paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth on her death aged 96 on Thursday, ordinary people in Britain and around the globe paid their own respects to a woman who had been the face of her nation for more than 70 years.

On a rainy London night, thousands gathered outside Buckingham Palace, in central London, some laying floral tributes outside the black iron gates. There were similar scenes outside the queen’s Windsor Castle home.

Royal superfan John Loughrey, 67, wept outside the palace as he paid tribute to the “inspirational” queen. He compared her and the late Prince Philip to swans, which are said to die of broken hearts when they lose their mate. She and Philip were married for 73 years until his death in April of last year.

“She went downhill after the Duke of Edinburgh died,″ Mr. Loughrey said. “They were like two swans.

“God save the Queen.”

Portraits of Queen Elizabeth were posted on billboard screens in central London’s Piccadilly Circus and the city’s Canary Wharf financial district, and also across the Atlantic in New York’s Times Square. Flowers were laid outside the British Consulate General in New York.

In Washington, the U.S. flag was lowered to half staff to mark the passing of a monarch whose legacy President Biden said “will loom large in the pages of British history, and in the story of our world”.

Her death was also marked in European cities.

In Berlin, flowers and candles were laid outside the British Embassy, while in Venice “God Save the Queen”, the British national anthem, was played outside the Italian city’s Festival Buildings — Reuters, AP

Russia

Vladimir Putin reaches out to King Charles III

Russian President Vladimir Putin was among the sea of world leaders who expressed their condolences to the British royal family over the death of Queen Elizabeth II on Thursday.

Despite the tensions between Russia and Britain over the war in Ukraine, Putin reached out to King Charles III in a telegram. He wrote: “The most important events in the recent history of the United Kingdom are inextricably linked with the name of Her Majesty. For many decades, Elizabeth II rightfully enjoyed the love and respect of her subjects, as well as authority on the world stage.

“I wish you courage and perseverance in the face of this heavy, irreparable loss. I ask you to convey the words of sincere sympathy and support to the members of the royal family and all the people of Great Britain.” — AP

Rome

Praying for the late Queen’s eternal rest: Pope Francis

Pope Francis told King Charles III in a telegram that he is praying for “eternal rest” for Charles’ late mother, Queen Elizabeth II.

The pontiff said he was deeply saddened to learn of the Queen’s death on Thursday at her Scotland estate, Balmoral Castle. He offered “heartfelt condolences to Your Majesty, the Members of the Royal Family, the People of the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth.”

Pope Francis, who met with the queen in 2014, said, “I willingly join all who mourn her loss in praying for the late Queen’s eternal rest, and in paying tribute to her unstinting service to the good of the Nation and the Commonwealth, her example of devotion to duty, her steadfast witness of faith in Jesus Christ and her firm hope in his promises.”

Queen Elizabeth, who as queen was head of the Church of England, first visited the Vatican while a princess in 1951. The first pontiff she met at the Vatican as queen was John XXIII, in 1961. — AP

United Nations

U.N. Security Council pays tribute to Queen Elizabeth II

The U.N. Security Council stood in silent tribute to Queen Elizabeth II at the start of a meeting on Ukraine on Thursday after France’s U.N. ambassador, Nicolas De Riviere, the current council president, sent condolences on behalf of its 15 members to the Government and people of the United Kingdom, her family and friends.

As Britain’s longest-serving monarch, Mr. De Riviere said Queen Elizabeth presided “over a period of historic changes both for her country and the world,” and that “her life was devoted to the service of her country.”

Britain’s U.N. ambassador, Barbara Woodward, thanked the council for the silent tribute and said the Queen will be remembered “for her dedicated service at home, across the Commonwealth and around the globe” that “fostered peace and friendship worldwide.”— AP

London

Country’s saddest day: Boris Johnson

PM Liz Truss’ predecessor, Boris Johnson, said “this is our country’s saddest day.”

He said the death of the only monarch most Britons have ever known would provoke “a deep and personal sense of loss – far more intense, perhaps, than we expected.”

He said her heir, King Charles III, would “amply do justice to her legacy.”

Opposition Labour Party leader Keir Starmer also paid tribute.

“Above the clashes of politics, she stood not for what the nation fought over, but what it agreed upon. As Britain changed rapidly around her, this dedication became the still point of our turning world,” he said. “So as our great Elizabethan era comes to an end, we will honor the late Queen’s memory by keeping alive the values of public service she embodied.”— AP

USA

U.S. Presidents past and present express their condolences

President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden said in a statement that Elizabeth was “more than a monarch” and that “she defined an era.”

“Queen Elizabeth II was a stateswoman of unmatched dignity and constancy who deepened the bedrock Alliance between the United Kingdom and the United States,” the Bidens said. “She helped make our relationship special.”

Mr. Biden’s predecessor in the White House, Donald Trump, said in a statement that Queen Elizabeth “will always be remembered for her faithfulness to her country and her unwavering devotion to her fellow countrymen and women.”

“Melania and I will always cherish our time together with the Queen, and never forget Her Majesty’s generous friendship, great wisdom, and wonderful sense of humor. What a grand and beautiful lady she was — there was nobody like her!”

Former President Barack Obama and his wife, Michelle Obama, also recalled the queen fondly.

“Back when we were just beginning to navigate life as President and First Lady, she welcomed us to the world stage with open arms and extraordinary generosity,” the Obamas said in a statement. “Time and again, we were struck by her warmth, the way she put people at ease, and how she brought her considerable humor and charm to moments of great pomp and circumstance.”

Former Presidents Bill Clinton, George W. Bush and Jimmy Carter also issued statements expressing their condolences. — AP

Paris

Paris Eiffel Tower lighting to be turned off

Paris Mayor Anne Hidalgo said in a statement on Twitter that the lighting on the Eiffel Tower would be turned off on Thursday night in honour of Queen Elizabeth.

Ms. Hidalgo said she had ensured British Ambassador Menna Rawlings of the deep sympathy and support of Paris for the people of the United Kingdom.

“Tonight, the Eiffel Tower lights will be switched off in hommage to Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II,” Ms. Hidalgo said. — Reuters

London

Condolences are pouring in from around the world

French President Emmanuel Macron tweeted that the Queen “embodied continuity and the unity of the British nation over 70 years. I retain the memory of a friend of France, a queen of hearts who marked as never before her country and her century.”

Germany’s Foreign Minister, Annalena Baerbock, expressed sadness at the news, tweeting: “Germany remains forever grateful that she stretched out her hand to us in reconciliation after the terror of World War II.”

Italian Premier Mario Draghi in a condolence message hailed the queen as having been “the absolute protagonist of world history of the last 70 years.” Mr. Draghi, who is now acting in a caretaker role ahead of Italian parliamentary elections later this month, said Queen Elizabeth had represented the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth “with equilibrium, wisdom, respect for institutions and for democracy.”— AP

London

A moment of the greatest sadness: Britain’s new King Charles III

Britain’s new king, Charles III, said that Queen Elizabeth II was a “cherished sovereign and a much-loved mother” who would be missed around the world.

Here is the full statement issued by Buckingham Palace after Charles, 73, ascended the throne following his mother’s 70-year reign:

“The death of my beloved mother, her majesty the queen, is a moment of the greatest sadness for me and all members of my family.

“We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished sovereign and a much-loved mother. I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the realms and the Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world.

“During this period of mourning and change, my family and I will be comforted and sustained by our knowledge of the respect and deep affection in which the queen was so widely held.”

London

‘New monarch will be known as King Charles III’

Royal officials have confirmed that Britain’s new monarch will be known as King Charles III, ending speculation about whether would use another name during his reign.

The former Prince of Wales has been known as Prince Charles since his birth in 1948, but British monarchs have in the past selected new names when they ascent to the throne.

The late Queen Elizabeth II said earlier this year that she hoped Charles’ wife Camilla, would be know as Queen Consort. — AP

London

The rock on which modern Britain was built: PM Truss

British Prime Minister Liz Truss says the country is “devastated” by the death of Queen Elizabeth II, calling her “the rock on which modern Britain was built.”

Ms. Truss said the news is “a huge shock to the nation and to the world” but that the Queen’s spirit will endure.

Ms. Truss was appointed by the Queen just two days ago, becoming the 15th Prime Minister to serve during Queen Elizabeth’s reign.

The Union Jack flag atop the Prime Minister’s 10 Downing Street residence was lowered to half-staff after the monarch’s death was announced. — AP

India

A stalwart of our times: PM 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 people of UK in this sad hour,” Prime Minister Narendra Modi tweeted.

“I had memorable meetings with Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II during my UK visits in 2015 and 2018. I will never forget her warmth and kindness. During one of the meetings she showed me the handkerchief Mahatma Gandhi gifted her on her wedding. I will always cherish that gesture,” the PM added.

London

Camilla becomes queen, but without the sovereign’s powers

After seven decades, the United Kingdom has a new woman to call queen.

Charles’ wife, Camilla, the Duchess of Cornwall, will be known as Queen Consort — a title that came with Queen Elizabeth II’s blessing after years of contention, dating back to the days before she even married Prince Charles.

It wasn’t always a given that the 75-year-old Camilla would take the title, even though it gives her none of the sovereign’s powers.

While the wife of a King is traditionally crowned queen, the question of what title Camilla would hold when Charles became king had been a tricky one for many years.

That was due to sensitivity about her status as his second wife — and the wave of grief that washed over Britain following the death of his former wife, Princess Diana, in a car crash in 1997.

Charles and the royal household have moved carefully on the matter, mindful of lingering public perceptions of Camilla as the “third person” that ruined the marriage between Charles and the beloved princess.

But over the decades, Camilla has won over large parts of the British public with her discretion, down-to-earth personality and loyalty to her husband. — PTI

London

Charles succeeds as King

The British monarchy’s rules state that “a new sovereign succeeds to the throne as soon as his or her predecessor dies.”

That means Queen Elizabeth II’s eldest son, Prince Charles, became king immediately upon her death on September 8 afternoon at Balmoral Castle in Scotland.

Within 24 hours of a monarch’s death, a new sovereign is proclaimed formally as soon as possible at St. James’s Palace in London by the “Accession Council.” However, it may be months or even longer before Charles’ formal coronation.

In Queen Elizabeth’s case, her coronation came on June 2, 1953 — 16 months after her accession on Feb. 6, 1952, when her father, King George VI, died. — AP

London

Queen Elizabeth II has died

Buckingham Palace says Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, has died. She was 96.

Queen Elizabeth spent more than seven decades on the throne as the U.K. rebuilt from war, lost an empire, transformed its economy and both entered and left the European Union.

She was a constant presence, the only monarch most Britons have ever known, and she guided the institution of the monarchy through choppy waters.

She likely met more people than anyone in history, and her image, which adorned stamps, coins and bank notes, was among the most reproduced in the world. But her inner life and opinions remained largely an enigma.

The impact of her loss will be huge, and unpredictable. — AP

Balmoral Castle

Royals arrive at Balmoral Castle

A fleet of cars carrying Prince William, Prince Andrew, Prince Edward and his wife Sophie, the Countess of Wessex, have arrived at Balmoral Castle, where Queen Elizabeth II is under medical supervision.

The plane carrying the royal party arrived at Aberdeen Airport just before 4 p.m. local time, and arrived at the queen’s estate about an hour later.

Prince Harry, who was due to appear at a charity awards ceremony in London later Thursday, cancelled that appearance and is making his way to Scotland separately.

London

Crowd gathers outside Buckingham Palace

People shelter under their umbrellas as they gather outside Buckingham Palace, following a statement from the Palace over concerns for Britain’s Queen Elizabeth’s health, in London on September 8, 2022.

People shelter under their umbrellas as they gather outside Buckingham Palace, following a statement from the Palace over concerns for Britain’s Queen Elizabeth’s health, in London on September 8, 2022. | Photo Credit: Reuters

Crowds of people have begun to gather outside London’s Buckingham Palace as news spreads that Queen Elizabeth II is under medical supervision at her Balmoral estate in Scotland.

More than 100 people, many holding umbrellas amid sometimes heavy downpours, have congregated on stone steps outside the royal residence, and dozens more are standing beside the gates, with many people peering through them.

Brussels

EU chief offers 'prayers' for 'legend' Queen Elizabeth II

EU chief Ursula von der Leyen on Thursday hailed Britain's Queen Elizabeth II as a symbol of Europe's shared history and offered "thoughts and prayers" for the monarch.

"My thoughts and my prayers are with her. And she represents the whole history of the Europe that is our common home, with our British friends," von der Leyen told a news conference in Rotterdam.

"She has given to all of us in all these years — always — stability, confidence. She has shown an immense amount of courage. She is a legend in my eyes."-- AFP

White House

White House says Biden’s thoughts are with Queen Elizabeth, her family

The White House said on Thursday that President Joe Biden had been briefed about the situation with Britain’s ailing Queen Elizabeth and that his thoughts were with her and her family.

“His and the first lady’s thoughts are solidly and squarely with the queen today and her family,” White House spokesperson John Kirby told reporters. -- Reuters

London

‘God save the queen’: Londoners and tourists wish monarch well

“Get well soon” was the message from Londoners and tourists on Thursday after doctors said they were concerned about the health of Queen Elizabeth.

“Everybody is really stressed about it, we have had her for 70 years so we need to digest the whole thing because it suddenly happened,” London resident Sharon Gove said outside Buckingham Palace.

“Two days ago she was with the new prime minister then suddenly everybody is concerned about her. So it is not very nice but God save the queen!”

People pose for pictures outside the Palace of Holyroodhouse following a statement from the Buckingham Palace over concerns for Britain’s Queen Elizabeth’s health, in Holyrood, Edinburgh, Scotland, Britain on September 8, 2022.

People pose for pictures outside the Palace of Holyroodhouse following a statement from the Buckingham Palace over concerns for Britain’s Queen Elizabeth’s health, in Holyrood, Edinburgh, Scotland, Britain on September 8, 2022. | Photo Credit: Reiters

Members of the royal family rushed to be with the 96-year-old monarch at her Scottish home, Balmoral Castle, where she had appointed Liz Truss as the new British prime minister on Tuesday.

The thoughts of American tourist Lupe Garcia, 60, were also with the family.

“Well I think it is very sad, I hope the Queen recuperates very quickly. I think everybody loves her and respects her and we want what is best for her and her family,” she said.

Some well-wishers were drawn to the palace just to be there after the news that the queen was ailing broke.

“I work close by and I heard on the news about her majesty’s failing health so I was concerned and it led me to come to Buckingham Palace, to be at the heart of the monarchy,” said Alexander Caplan, a 40-year-old who works as a technology entrepreneur.

Others were thinking of the queen and her family elsewhere on the streets of London.

Student Beatriz Cintra, 29, said she hoped the queen recovered and that the royal family could “navigate through this difficult period united and that they find peace in whatever happens”.

Bar tender Albert Laane, 18, summed up the thoughts of many, saying: “Hey Elizabeth, get well soon.” -- Reuters

London

Prince Harry going alone, without wife Meghan, to see Queen in Scotland: local media

Britain’s Prince Harry is travelling alone to Scotland, without his wife Meghan, to be with his grandmother Queen Elizabeth, after doctors expressed concern about her health on Thursday, PA Media reported. - AFP

London

Royal family gathers as Queen Elizabeth under ‘medical supervision’

Queen Elizabeth II’s closest family rushed to Scotland on Thursday, after doctors placed the 96-year-old monarch under medical supervision, prompting concern from British political and religious leaders.

Britain’s longest-serving monarch has been dogged by health problems since last October that have left her struggling to walk and stand.

Her children -- heir to the throne Prince Charles, 73, Princess Anne, 72, Prince Andrew, 62, and Prince Edward, 58, were either already at or quickly headed to Balmoral after the announcement.

A convoy of vehicles arrives outside the gates of the Balmoral Estate in Ballater, Scotland on September 8, 2022.

A convoy of vehicles arrives outside the gates of the Balmoral Estate in Ballater, Scotland on September 8, 2022. | Photo Credit: AFP

They were joined by Prince Charles’s elder son Prince William plus his younger son Prince Harry, who has been on a rare visit to Britain after abandoning royal life to move to the United States. - AFP

London

Liz Truss says ‘whole country concerned’

Moments before, notes were passed to Prime Minister Liz Truss and senior members of her team in parliament, prompting them to leave the chamber.

Ms. Truss tweeted almost immediately afterwards. “The whole country will be deeply concerned by the news from Buckingham Palace this lunchtime,” she wrote.

“My thoughts -- and the thoughts of people across our United Kingdom -- are with Her Majesty The Queen and her family at this time.”

U.K.

Opposition Labour leader Keir Starmer

"Along with the rest of the country, I am deeply worried by the news from Buckingham Palace this afternoon. My thoughts are with Her Majesty The Queen and her family at this time, and I join everyone across the United Kingdom in hoping for her recovery."

U.K.

First Minister of Scotland Nicola Sturgeon

"All of us are feeling profoundly concerned at reports of Her Majesty’s health. My thoughts and wishes are with the Queen and all of the Royal Family at this time."

U.K.

Archibishop of Canterbury Justin Welby

"My prayers, and the prayers of people across the @churchofengland and the nation, are with Her Majesty The Queen today. May God’s presence strengthen and comfort Her Majesty, her family, and those who are caring for her at Balmoral."

U.K.

Here are some facts about Queen Elizabeth, Britain's longest-reigning monarch.

Elizabeth was born at 17 Bruton St, London, on April 21, 1926, and christened on May 29 that year in the private chapel at Buckingham Palace.

She became heir apparent when her uncle, Edward VIII, abdicated on Dec. 11, 1936, and her father became King George VI. She was 10 years old.

She married navy lieutenant Philip Mountbatten, a Greek prince, at London's Westminster Abbey on Nov. 20, 1947. They had four children: Prince Charles (born in 1948), Princess Anne (1950), Prince Andrew (1960) and Prince Edward (1964). Philip died in April 2021, aged 99.

She ascended the throne on the death of her father on Feb. 6, 1952, while she was in Kenya on a royal tour. She was crowned on June 2, 1953 at Westminster Abbey, the first ever coronation to be televised.

When she ascended the throne, Josef Stalin, Mao Zedong and Harry Truman were leading the Soviet Union, China and the United States, while Winston Churchill was British prime minister.

She has been served by 15 prime ministers. During her reign, there have been 14 U.S. presidents, all of whom she has met bar Lyndon Johnson.

On Sept. 9, 2015, she surpassed the 63 years, 7 months, 2 days, 16 hours and 23 minutes that her great-great-grandmother Queen Victoria spent on the throne to become the country's longest-reigning monarch in a line dating back to Norman King William the Conqueror in 1066.

Elizabeth remains queen of 15 realms including the United Kingdom, Australia, Canada, New Zealand, Jamaica, Antigua and Barbuda, the Bahamas, Belize, Grenada, Papua New Guinea, Solomon Islands, St Kitts and Nevis, St Lucia, St Vincent and the Grenadines, and Tuvalu.

She celebrated her Platinum Jubilee - the 70th anniversary of her accession - on Feb. 6, 2022. - Reuters

(With inputs from Agencies)

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