Canada's prime minister sympathizes with passing of Queen Elizabeth II

WASHINGTON

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau sympathized Thursday with the passing of Queen Elizabeth II, saying Canada will remember her wisdom.

"It was with the heaviest of hearts that we learned of the passing of Canada’s longest-reigning Sovereign, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II," Trudeau wrote on Twitter. "She was a constant presence in our lives – and her service to Canadians will forever remain an important part of our country’s history."

"As we look back at her life and her reign that spanned so many decades, Canadians will always remember and cherish Her Majesty’s wisdom, compassion, and warmth," he said.

"Our thoughts are with the members of the Royal Family during this most difficult time," he added.

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

"The King and 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 old 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 as the monarch marked 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.