WORLD leaders paid tributes to Queen Elizabeth, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, in glowing terms after her death on Thursday.

Some of the messages follow:

President Arif Alvi

“With a heavy heart on behalf of the people of Pakistan, I convey my profound condolences on the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth-II. Her sad passing away marks an end of an era spanning over a period of seven decades which was characterised by Her Majesty’s graceful service to the British people and the Commonwealth.

“Her Majesty’s life was devoted to public service and she performed her duties with dignity. I will always cherish my memory of seeing her as a 12-year-old when she came to Pakistan in 1961. She was a symbol of poise, grace and dignity.

“I offer my heartfelt condolences again to the royal family and to the people of the United Kingdom.”

Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif

“Deeply grieved at the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. Pakistan joins the UK & other Commonwealth nations in mourning her death. My heartfelt condolences to the royal family, people & government of the UK.”

UN Secretary General Antonio Guterres

“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 decolonisation 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.”

US President Joe Biden and Jill 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,” they said in a statement.

“Her legacy will loom large in the pages of British history, and in the story of our world.”

Russian President Vladimir Putin

In a message to Charles, Britain’s new king, Putin said the Queen “rightfully enjoyed the love and respect of her subjects, as well as authority on the world stage”, adding: “I wish you courage and resilience in the face of this difficult, irreparable loss. ”
Pope Francis

“I willingly join all who mourn her loss in praying for the late Queens eternal rest, and in paying tribute to her life of unstinting service to the good of the nation and the Commonwealth.”

Commonwealth Secretary General Patricia Scotland “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.”

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 people of 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 countrys history.”

Ghanaian President Nana Akufo-Addo

“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.”

South African President Cyril Ramaphosa

“Her Majesty was an extraordinary and world-renowned public figure who lived a remarkable life. Her life and legacy will be fondly remembered by many around the world.

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.”

New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern

“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.”

Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese

“With the passing of Queen Elizabeth, a 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’.”

Former US president Donald Trump and former first lady Melania Trump

“Queen Elizabeth’s historic and remarkable reign left a tremendous legacy of peace and prosperity for Great Britain. Her leadership and enduring diplomacy secured and advanced alliances with the United States and countries around the world.”

Former US president Barack Obama

“Michelle and I were lucky enough to come to know Her Majesty, and she meant a great deal to us.

“Time and again, we were struck by her warmth, the way she put people at ease, and how she brought her considerable humour and charm to moments of great pomp and circumstance.”

Former US president George Bush

“Laura and I were honoured to have known Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth. She was a woman of great intellect, charm, and wit. Spending time at Buckingham Palace, and having tea with Her Majesty and her Corgis is among our fondest memories of the presidency.

Queen Elizabeth ably led England through dark moments with her confidence in her people and her vision for a brighter tomorrow.”

Published in Dawn, September 10th, 2022