(VOVWORLD) - Leaders around the world have sent condolences over the death of Queen Elizabeth II.
President Xi Jinping of China expressed his sincere sympathies to the British government and people in a statement released through state media on Friday, saying that her passing is a great loss to the British people.
Russian President Vladimir Putin praised Queen Elizabeth II, saying the Queen had rightfully enjoyed the love and respect of her subjects and authority on the world stage.
Leaders of Italy and Spain expressed their condolences to the Royal Family, British people, and the UK.
Pope Francis prayed for the Queen's rest, and paid gratitude to her life of tireless service in the interest of the UK and Commonwealth.
On social networks, Pedro Sánchez, the Spanish prime minister, paid tribute to the figure of global significance, as a witness and author of British and European history.
Australian Prime Minister Anthony Albanese has announced that his Parliament will adjourn next week and will not meet again until at least two weeks to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II. The Parliament building and other Federal buildings have flown their flags at half-mast. Prime Minister Albanese and Governor-General David Hurley will travel to London to offer condolences to King Charles III and discuss preparations for the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, who is also the head of state to 14 other countries under the Commonwealth, including Australia.
US President Joe Biden on Thursday ordered flags to be flown at half-staff at the White House and other federal buildings and went to the British Embassy in Washington to write a book of condolences.
On the same day, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel declared a national mourning in memory of the British Queen. According to a decree signed by the Cuban President the same day, from 6 a.m. to 12 p.m. on September 9 (local time), public buildings and military units in the Caribbean island nation will fly flags at half-mast in remembrance of Britain's longest- reigning person.
Brazilian President Jair Bolsonaro declared three days of national mourning on Thursday over the passing of Queen Elizabeth II.