World leaders extend condolences over passing of Queen Elizabeth II

By Busra Nur Cakmak and Iclal Turan

ANKARA (AA) – Condolences pour from world leaders over the death of Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II on Thursday.

Britain's longest-serving monarch Queen Elizabeth II died at the age of 96, Buckingham Palace said Thursday.

"The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon," said the palace, adding: "The King and The Queen Consort will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow."

- UN, NATO, EU chiefs

UN Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said he was “deeply saddened” at the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, and added that she was “admired worldwide for her leadership and devotion.”

“She was a good friend to the UN and a reassuring presence through decades of change,” Guterres tweeted.

“Her unwavering, lifelong dedication will be long remembered,” he added.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg said Queen Elizabeth II exemplified “selfless leadership and public service” over more than 70 years.

“My deepest condolences to the Royal Family, to our #NATO Allies the United Kingdom and Canada, and to the people of the Commonwealth,” he continued.

European Council President Charles Michel said their thoughts are “with the royal family and all those who mourn Queen Elizabeth II in the UK and worldwide.”

“Once called Elizabeth the Steadfast, she never failed to show us the importance of lasting values in a modern world with her service and commitment,” Michel said.

European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen said she learned about the passing of the queen with “deep sadness.”

“She was the world’s longest serving Head of State and one of the most respected personalities worldwide,” she said in a written statement, adding: “I offer my heartfelt condolences to the Royal Family and the British people.”

EU’s foreign policy chief Josep Borrell said the queen’s “remarkable reign” oversaw key events of the 20th and 21st centuries.

“The EU pays tribute to her unique contribution to building peace & reconciliation,” Borrell said on Twitter. “While her loss will be felt around the world, our immediate thoughts are with her family and the people of the UK.”

- Heads of state

French President Emmanuel Macron also took to Twitter to express condolences.

“Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II embodied the British nation’s continuity and unity for over 70 years,” he wrote. “I remember her as a friend of France, a kind-hearted queen who has left a lasting impression on her country and her century.”

German Chancellor Olaf Scholz said they mourn the death of Queen Elizabeth II. “She was a role model and inspiration for millions, also here in Germany,” he said, and added: “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.”

Ukraine's President Volodymyr Zelenskyy extended "sincere condolences" to the Royal Family, the entire UK, and the Commonwealth over the "irreparable loss."

"Our thoughts and prayers are with you," he said on Twitter.

Israel's President Isaac Herzog said Queen Elizabeth II's passing is the "end of an era."

"Together with the Israeli people, I grieve her loss and extend my deepest sympathies to the British people and all nations of the Commonwealth, who have lost their matriarch," Herzog said.