American President Joe Biden was among the world leaders who paid tribute to the late Queen Elizabeth II at Westminster Hall ahead of Monday’s State Funeral.
Joined by First Lady Dr Jill Biden, the presidential couple stopped by Westminster Hall to view the late Queen’s Lying-in-State before departing to sign a book of condolences at Lancaster House. The couple then made their way to Buckingham Palace for one of the world’s largest gatherings of heads of state, foreign royals, and world leaders.
On 9 September, President Biden signed the book of condolences for the late queen at the Washington, D.C. Embassy, writing: “The American people mourn today with people throughout the United Kingdom and the Commonwealth,” he wrote. “Elizabeth II defined an era. She led with enduring strength and dignity, devoting her whole life to serving her people. Jill and I will never forget meeting her and experiencing her warmth and kindness. She will be forever remembered.”
Some of the other dignitaries who stopped by Westminster Hall included Ukrainian First Lady Olena Zelenska in a surprise appearance.
President of the European Commission Ursula von der Leyen, Irish President Michael D Higgins, President Paula-Mae Weekes of Trinidad and Tobago, and President Droupadi Murmu of India were just some of the names who paid their respects in person.
More world leaders are anticipated to visit Westminster Hall after Sunday afternoon’s gathering at Buckingham Palace, but many have already stopped in as they arrive in London. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau and New Zealand Prime Minister Jacinda Ardern have already paid their respects.
Queen Elizabeth II will lie-in-state at Westminster Hall until 6:30 am on Monday, after which her coffin will be prepared for the State Funeral – the UK’s first since Sir Winston Churchill’s in 1965 – at Westminster Abbey at 11:00 am.
