Remembering Queen Elizabeth II
As world leaders gather in London this morning for the funeral of Queen Elizabeth II, a number of leaders in the world of tourism offered their thoughts on this somber occasion.
António Guterres, Secretary-General, United Nations, observed: “Queen Elizabeth II was a good friend of the United Nations, and visited our New York Headquarters twice, more than 50 years apart. She was deeply committed to many charitable and environmental causes and spoke movingly to delegates at the COP26 climate talks in Glasgow. I would like to pay tribute to Queen Elizabeth II for her unwavering, lifelong dedication to serving her people. The world will long remember her devotion and leadership.”
Jamaica’s Prime Minister, Andrew Holness said that: “As we reflect on the life and service of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, we can all agree that she was a portrait of dignity in how she conducted the affairs of State and remains an exemplar in leadership. Her grace, elegance and humility will be remembered throughout (the) ages.”
Dame Sandra Mason, President, Barbados, noted that: “Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will always hold a special place in our hearts and we in Barbados will always treasure the memories of her visits to the island, in particular on Wednesday, the nineteenth of February 1975 when she knighted our first National Hero the Right Excellent Sir Garfield Sobers on the Garrison Savannah.”
Dr. Mohamed Irfaan Ali, President, Guyana, emphasized that: “Queen Elizabeth’s place in history is assured, and her legacy is intact. Her long and impactful reign has helped to shape the post-World War II world. Her Majesty has been a source of stability for her country. She will be long remembered for her sterling leadership of the Commonwealth of Nations.”
Bermuda’s Premier, David Burt observed: “A life of undimmed duty, a model of strength and devotion to country. Queen Elizabeth’s reign has spanned decades of such immense change for the United Kingdom and the world. The recognition of her longevity and the significance of her service affords this consequential reign a unique place in history.”
While Dr. Natalio Wheatley, Premier, British Virgin Islands, said: “Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II leaves with us a legacy that reflects an unconquerable spirit, a monarch who was driven by her confidence in herself and her abilities. She will be remembered here in these Virgin Islands and around the world for her noble service to humankind.”
Julia Simpson, President & CEO, World Travel & Tourism Council (WTTC), said that: “WTTC, its members, and the global travel and tourism community are deeply saddened to hear of the death of Queen Elizabeth II. The Queen has been the most incredible force for good. She won the hearts and respect of people and nations around the world.”
