Queen Elizabeth II Congratulates Barbados After It Scraps the Monarchy
Queen Elizabeth II showed there were no hard feelings as she congratulated Barbados on removing her as head of state.
The Monarch, 95, ensured a positive atmosphere between the British Monarchy and the Caribbean island nation which has elected its first president, Dame Sandra Mason.
Prince Charles flew out to take part in the presidential inauguration ceremony, a guest of honor even as the country partially severs ties with the royals.
It will not be a complete break, as Barbados will remain a member of the Commonwealth, a global partnership which has the queen as its head and is made up mainly of Britain's former empire.
Elizabeth said in a message to Mason: "On this significant occasion and your assumption of office as the first president of Barbados, I extend my congratulations to you and all Barbadians.
"Over the years, our countries have enjoyed a partnership based on common values, shared prosperity, and close collaboration on a wide range of issues, including recent work on climate change.
"It is also a source of great satisfaction that Barbados remains an active participant within the commonwealth, and I look forward to the continuation of the friendship between our two countries and people.
"As you celebrate this momentous day, I send you and all Barbadians my warmest good wishes for your happiness, peace and prosperity in the future."
The royal standard was lowered and replaced with a presidential flag, but the royals received a warm reception with Prince Charles given a 21 gun salute.
Quoted by the BBC, Mason said in a speech: "Vessel Republic Barbados has set sail on her maiden voyage.
"May she weather all storms and land our country and citizens safely on the horizons and shores which are ahead of us. Our country must dream big dreams and fight to realize them."
Fireworks lit the skies over Bridgetown and Barbadian popstar Rihanna was given the honor of being officially named a national hero.
Quoted by the BBC, Prime Minister Mia Mottley told her: "May you continue to shine like a diamond and bring honor to your nation."
Queen Elizabeth II's Message to Barbados in Full
"On this significant occasion and your assumption of office as the first President of Barbados, I extend my congratulations to you and all Barbadians.
"I first visited your beautiful country on the eve of independence in early 1966, and I am very pleased that my son is with you today.
"Since then, the people of Barbados have held a special place in my heart; it is a country rightfully proud of its vibrant culture, its sporting prowess, and its natural beauty, that attracts visitors from all over the world, including many people from the United Kingdom.
"Over the years, our countries have enjoyed a partnership based on common values, shared prosperity, and close collaboration on a wide range of issues, including recent work on climate change.
"It is also a source of great satisfaction that Barbados remains an active participant within the commonwealth, and I look forward to the continuation of the friendship between our two countries and people.
"As you celebrate this momentous day, I send you and all Barbadians my warmest good wishes for your happiness, peace and prosperity in the future."
