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'Canadians will always...cherish Her Majesty’s wisdom': Justin Trudeau reacts to death of Queen Elizabeth II

Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau has released a statement following the announcement of the death of Queen Elizabeth II.

"She was a constant presence in our lives – and her service to Canadians will forever remain an important part of our country’s history," the statement posted on social media reads.

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

At a press conference on Thursday, Trudeau said the Queen was "one of [his] favourite people in the world."

She was our Queen for almost half of Canada’s existence and she had an obvious, deep and abiding love and affection for Canadians. She served us all with strength and wisdom for 70 years, as we grew into the diverse, optimistic, responsible, ambitious and extraordinary country that we are today.PM Justin Trudeau

"As her 12th Canadian prime minister, I’m having trouble believing the my last sit down with her was my last. I will so miss those chats. She was thoughtful, wise, curious, helpful, funny and so much more. In a complicated world her steady grace and resolve brought comfort and strength to us all. Canada is in mourning."

In a statement posted on social media, the Governor General of Canada, Mary Simon, stated that,"Canadians across the country will mourn the loss of The Queen."

"Let us take a moment to honour Her Majesty’s memory in each of our own ways," the message reads.

Ontario Premier Doug Ford also released a statement on the death of the Queen.

"On this sad day, I join everyone across our province, country and the world in commemorating the remarkable life of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II, the Queen of Canada," the statement reads. "Throughout her historic reign, she taught us the true meaning of selfless service and was respected and admired for her sense of duty and commitment to charity."

"On behalf of Ontarians, I am sending our thoughts and prayers to the entire Royal Family, the people of the United Kingdom and to Her Majesty's many admirers all of the world. Long live the King!"

At 1:30 p.m. ET, the Royal Family announced that Queen Elizabeth II "died peacefully at Balmoral."

"The death of my beloved Mother, Her Majesty The Queen, is a moment of great sadness of me and all members of my family," a statement from Charles, His Majesty The King reads. "We mourn profoundly the passing of a cherished Sovereign and a much-loved Mother."

"I know her loss will be deeply felt throughout the country, the Realms and thee Commonwealth, and by countless people around the world. During this period of mourning and change, my family and I will be comforted and sustained by our knowledge of the respect and deep affection in which The Queen so widely held."