The Queen was our longest serving monarch.
After declaring on her 21st birthday “that my whole life, whether it be long or short, shall be devoted to your service”, she followed through with that selfless promise and dedicated seven decades to her country and the Commonwealth.
She will remain an inspiration to all who seek to build bridges in the pursuit of peace, progress and human dignity.
Her reign was an era of huge social, material and technological change; from great medical advances, television becoming a mass medium to space travel and the Internet. And although she was an iconic Head of State, there are many examples of her wonderful sense of humour; her stunt with James Bond at the London Olympics and her recent comic appearance with Paddington Bear being two of the best.
Her Majesty The Queen’s death has evoked strong feelings in Bahrain. His Majesty King Hamad issued a public statement of profound condolences immediately on hearing the news, as did His Royal Highness Prince Salman bin Hamad Al Khalifa, Crown Prince and Prime Minister, and other senior Bahrainis. They emphasised that the world has lost a great source of inspiration and strength, whose wisdom and humanity would be missed by all. I was humbled when flags in the Kingdom were flown at half-mast as a mark of respect.
It has been both moving and consoling to receive so many people, including members of the Royal Family, ministers, leaders and people from all walks of life, offering personal condolences and signing our Condolence Book. They all spoke of the Queen with great warmth and affection, and also towards His Majesty King Charles III. We are all glad we were given the time to celebrate her Platinum Jubilee in June, only three months ago.
The British community in Bahrain has been greatly affected by the Queen’s passing, with many feeling far from home – and I empathise with them. Many came to sign the Embassy Condolence Book and the various clubs, schools and institutions have expressed their loyal feelings in different ways. St Christopher’s Cathedral held a lovely service in celebration of Her Majesty’s life.
The State funeral today is the largest international event the UK has hosted in decades, with 500 dignitaries from almost every country travelling to London to pay their respects, including HM King Hamad and HRH Crown Prince Salman. It will be tough to watch.
Farewell Ma’am, thank you. And God save the King.
- British Ambassador
Roderick Drummond
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