First couple pays last respects to Queen Elizabeth

President Ibrahim Mohamed Solih and First Lady Fazna Ahmed on Sunday paid their last respects to the late Queen Elizabeth II, the longest-reigning British monarch whose rule spanned seven decades.

The queen passed away on 8 September, at the age of 96.

Before paying their final respects, the president and the first lady wrote separate messages in the ‎book of condolences opened at Lancaster House in London.

The president and first Lady who departed from the Maldives to the UK Friday evening conveyed sincere condolences to King Charles III, the royal family, and the people of the UK and the Commonwealth.

"As the world mourns the loss of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, I am truly humbled and honoured to pay my final respects to Her. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II lives on in our hearts, and in our memories," the president said, in his message.

The first lady, as a mother herself and from mothers across the Maldives, offered her gratitude to Queen Elizabeth II for her devotion to her children, her country and her people, and for being an inspiration to all.

“It is with great sadness that I learnt of the passing away of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II. Her Majesty’s grace and devotion touched people around the world," the first lady's message read.

The state funeral for the queen will take place at Westminster Abbey on Monday.