Visiting British Embassy in DC, Biden signs condolence book for Queen Elizabeth

WASHINGTON

Marking the passing of Queen Elizabeth II earlier on Thursday, US President Joe Biden and first lady Jill Biden paid a visit to the British Embassy in Washington, DC.

Biden and the first lady were greeted by British Ambassador Dame Karen Pierce and her husband at around 6 pm eastern time (2300GMT).

Using notes from his jacket pocket, the president wrote in the condolence book.

"We mourn for all of you. She was a great lady, I’m so delighted I got to meet her," he said, and also thanked the embassy staff.

"Our hearts are with you," said the first lady.

Elizabeth II, 96, was the longest-serving monarch in British history. Buckingham Palace said she "died peacefully" at Balmoral Castle in Scotland.

King Charles III, her eldest son and successor, and Camilla, the queen consort, “will remain at Balmoral this evening and will return to London tomorrow," it added.

The queen had mobility and health issues for the past year stemming from age. She had to cancel several engagements due to her health and her physician's advice.

Her final public appearance was during the Platinum Jubilee celebration in June, marking her 70 years on the British throne. A statement issued mid-day Thursday said the queen was placed under "medical supervision" at Balmoral in Aberdeenshire, Scotland.