Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II passed away yesterday at Balmoral. She became Queen on February 6th, 1952 after the death of her father King George. Her reign lasted for 7 decades and saw 15 Prime Ministers. Throughout her rule, she has been actively involved in international ties with countries outside Britain. As England mourns her demise, let’s take a look back at her ties with Pakistan.
Here are 3 things you should know about Queen Elizabeth & her affiliation with Pakistan.
1. She Was The Queen Of Pakistan For 4 Years
This may come as a surprise to us Pakistanis but Queen Elizabeth II ruled over Pakistan for 4 years as ‘Queen of Pakistan.’ her father was the King of India and Pakistan until India became a republic in 1950. However, after his demise, in 1952, Elizabeth II took over as the queen of Pakistan till 1956 when Pakistan became a republic. Even though she was the Queen of Pakistan, her involvement in the state’s affairs was intentionally kept minimal.
2. Her First Visit To Pakistan
Queen Elizabeth II’s first royal tour to Pakistan in 1961 was 16 days long. She along with her husband Duke of Edinburgh Prince Philip visited Karachi, Lahore, Peshawar, Quetta and the Northern areas of Pakistan.
Their first stop was in Karachi on 1st February, where they were greeted by President Ayub Khan. Their visit to Karachi included tours of Mazar-i-Quaid, Frere Hall, and Korangi Township. They stayed at the presidential residence until 4th February and left for Peshawar.
“I feel at home in Karachi as we share the same culture and understand each other well”
Queen Elizabeth II (Source: Dawn)
3. She Expressed Her Grief Over The Devastating Floods In Pakistan
Queen Elizabeth II lent her support to the people of Pakistan currently engulfed by floods and those who are working tirelessly to rehabilitate and bring relief to the flood affectees. She expressed her grief over the situation.
“The United Kingdom stands in solidarity with Pakistan as you recover from these terrible events,” she stated.
Her last rites will stretch over a period of 10 days. The Queen’s funeral will be held in Westminster and she will be buried in King George VI Memorial Chapel in Windsor. (The News)
Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif and President Arif Alvi expressed their condolences over the Queen’s demise. Notable Pakistani celebrities have also shared heartfelt words on Her Majesty’s passing.
Queen Elizabeth II Passes Away At 96 After Reigning For 70 Years
Sources used in this article include The Diplomat, Dawn, and Business Recorder.
