TRIBUTES AND PRAISE FOR THE QUEEN
From presidents to pop stars, Queen Elizabeth II was loved and respected worldwide.
“She listened deeply, thought strategically, and was responsible for considerable diplomatic achievements,” former US President Barack Obama wrote in a statement. “And yet, she wore her lofty titles with a light touch – as willing to act in a comic sketch for the London Olympics as she was to record steadying messages for the people of the UK during the COVID-19 lockdowns.” Obama and the Queen first met in April 2009 at a reception for the Group of 20 nations (G20) summit in London. The Queen then invited Obama and former First Lady Michelle Obama for a state visit in 2011. “Michelle and I were lucky enough to come to know Her Majesty, and she meant a great deal to us,” the Obamas said. “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. Like so many, Michelle and I are grateful to have witnessed Her Majesty’s dedicated leadership, and we are awed by her legacy of tireless, dignified public service.” All five living former US presidents – Barack Obama, George W. Bush, Bill Clinton, Donald Trump and Jimmy Carter – were invited to a memorial co-hosted by the British Embassy at the Washington National Cathedral in Washington, D.C. while President Joe Biden attended Queen Elizabeth II's official funeral service in London.
Sir Elton John, knighted by the Queen at Buckingham Palace for his contribution to music and philanthropic work, wrote on her passing: “Along with the rest of the nation, I am deeply saddened to hear the news of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth’s passing. She was an inspiring presence to be around, and led the country through some of our greatest, and darkest, moments with grace, decency, and a genuine caring warmth. Queen Elizabeth has been a huge part of my life from childhood to this day. I will miss her dearly.”
French President Emmanuel Macron said in a tweet, “Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II embodied the British nation’s continuity and unity for over 70 years. I remember her as a friend of France, a kind-hearted queen who has left a lasting impression on her country and her century.” Queen Elizabeth II had her first official visit to France in 1948, when as 22-year-old Princess Elizabeth, she was accompanied by her husband, Prince Philip. The princess endeared herself to the nation by giving her first speech in impeccable French.
New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern called the Queen “extraordinary”. “Her commitment to her role and to all of us has been without question and has been unwavering,” she said of the monarch.
The Queen met Barbra Streisand at the premiere of Funny Lady in 1975. Streisand famously asked her: “Your Majesty, why is it that women have to wear white gloves to meet you and men don’t?” The Queen replied, “I’ll have to think about that one. I suppose it’s tradition.” On her passing, Streisand wrote: “She was a constant for us all. Respected around the world. May she rest in peace.” “She’s an incredible woman,” said Bono when he met the Queen in 2012. “Her stamina is unbelievable.” He was made honorary Knight Commander of the Most Excellent Order of the British Empire (KBE) for services to the music industry and humanitarian work.