European royal houses express condolences on the death of Elizabeth II

Sep 9 () –

The royal houses of Europe have unanimously expressed their condolences on the passing of Queen Elizabeth II of England, who with her longevity on the throne — more than 70 years — ranks behind only Louis XIV in historical terms.

King Philippe and Queen Mathilde of Belgium have described Elizabeth II as an “extraordinary personality.” “We will always have fond memories of this great woman, who showed during her reign dignity, courage and devotion,” they have stressed in a statement.

For their part, the royal family of the Netherlands have remembered “with deep respect and great affection” the late British queen, “firm and wise” during her seven decades of reign. They also thanked her for her “unforgettable contribution” to the relations between the two countries.

King Carl XVI Gustaf of Sweden, a distant relative of Elizabeth II, has praised the “devotion” and “sense of duty” shown by the monarch, who “was a constant presence, not only for British society but also internationally.”

The Royal House of Norway has conveyed its thoughts to Charles III and the British royal family on the passing of the Queen of England.

“For a century, the queen has devoted herself with devotion to her work and has accompanied the British people in joys and sorrows, in good times and in bad. Our condolences also go to the British people,” King Harald of Norway said in a letter.

Queen Margrethe II of Denmark has also sent a message of condolences to Charles III, extending to him and Queen consort Camilla “best thoughts and prayers.”

“Your mother was very important to me and my family. She was a towering figure among European monarchs and a great inspiration to us all. We will miss her terribly,” said the Danish queen, who stressed “the crucial role as a unifying figure” of Elizabeth II.

The condolences have been joined by King Felipe VI, who has stressed that the monarch was “an example for all of us” and that “her sense of duty, her commitment and a lifetime dedicated to the service” of the British will remain “as a solid and valuable legacy for future generations.”