Joe Biden, Emmanuel Macron and Pope Francis among world leaders paying tribute to Queen as Jubilee celebrations begin
Celebrations began with Trooping the Colour, with the Queen appearing on the balcony as thousands crowded along The Mall in central London to watch.
Thursday 2 June 2022 11:09, UK
Joe Biden, Pope Francis and Emmanuel Macron are among world leaders who have congratulated the Queen on her record-breaking 70 years on the throne as Jubilee celebrations began.
Today's Platinum Jubilee events began with Trooping the Colour, as crowds gathered to see the Queen appear on the balcony at Buckingham Palace alongside other close members of the Royal Family.
The US president posted a video tribute to the Queen wishing her a "joyful" celebration and congratulated the monarch on her milestone.
Queen on balcony for flypast - Jubilee latest live
Mr Biden said: "Throughout your reign, the relationship between the United Kingdom and the United States has grown stronger and closer than ever".
"Throughout the years, the joy your visits to the United States have brought Americans and your solidarity with the American people in times of tragedy have deepened the friendship and profound connection between our countries", First Lady Jill Biden added.
Similarly, in another video tribute the French president described the Queen as the "golden thread" that binds Britain and France and "the proof of our unwavering friendship between our nations".
Mr Macron also said the Queen had been a "source of wisdom for the leaders of our two countries".
"From the dark days when your family welcomed General de Gaulle in your home, to his joy to welcome you in his, you have been a constant presence and a source of wisdom for the leaders of our two countries," he said.
"Celebrating you today is to celebrate the sincere and deep friendship that unites our two countries, and your devotion to it.
"Your Majesty, it is my privilege to extend to you, on behalf of the French people, my heartfelt congratulations on your Platinum Jubilee."
He added: "You are our friend, such a close ally, our example of service to others."
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Meanwhile, Pope Francis also paid tribute to the Queen.
He said: "I send cordial greetings and good wishes, together with the renewed assurance of my prayers that Almighty God will bestow on you, the members of the Royal family and all the people of the nation blessings of unity, prosperity and peace."