Latin American leaders mourn death of Queen Elizabeth II

​​By Laura Gamba

BOGOTA, Colombia (AA) - Latin American leaders are reacting to the death of Queen Elizabeth II, Britain's longest-reigning monarch, who died Thursday at the age of 96.

The announcement grabbed headlines in the region and notes of support from leaders have been pouring in.

The first to express sadness was the president of Ecuador.

“Appalled at the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, whose long life and dedication to the service of her people go down in history as an exemplary reign. I send my condolences to her children and grandchildren, to the royal family, to the Government and to the people of the United Kingdom,” said President Guillermo Lasso.

President Jair Bolsonaro declared three days of mourning in Brazil "as a sign of sorrow for the death of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.”

Paraguay’s president published a message on Twitter to the late queen.

“From the Republic of Paraguay, we convey our feelings of sorrow to the Royal Family, to the government and people of the United Kingdom on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, who will always be remembered for her great vocation of service,” wrote Mario Abdo Benitez.

Venezuelan President Nicolas Maduro expressed condolences to “the royal family, the United Kingdom and the British people” after the announcement. “Peace to her Soul,” he said.

President Andres Manuel Lopez Obrador of Mexico sent condolences to the Royal Family and friends.

“I send my condolences to the people of the United Kingdom on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, British monarch and sovereign of 14 independent states. Likewise, I extend my condolences to her family, friends and members of the Royal Family.”

Argentinian Foreign Ministry said it "accompanies the British people and Government on the death of their Head of State, Queen Elizabeth II." And the Colombian Foreign Ministry acknowledged the queen´s "leadership in crucial episodes of contemporary history will occupy a unique place in our memory."

Queen Elizabeth II is survived by four children, including now-King Charles III, eight grandchildren, including princes William and Harry and 10 great-grandchildren.

The Duke of Edinburgh and husband to the queen for more than 70 years died in 2021. ​​​​​​​