President Barzani arrives in London ahead of Queen's funeral

ERBIL, Kurdistan Region - Kurdistan Region President Nechirvan Barzani arrived in London on Sunday to attend the funeral of the late Queen Elizabeth II, as well as a reception with world leaders.

Barzani arrived in London “at the official invitation of the United Kingdom to attend the state funeral service of the late Queen Elizabeth II,” a statement from Barzani’s office reads.

Queen Elizabeth II, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch, died on September 8 at the age of 96 following health complications, triggering 10 days of national mourning and a tremendous amount of tributes from people all over the world.

“The President will also attend a reception for world leaders during the two days of the ceremony in London” the statement added.

Hundreds of royals and heads of states from around the world have been invited and the funeral is expected to be one of the largest gatherings of leaders in recent years. 

Top officials of the Kurdistan Region mourned the Queen’s death, and President Barzani said he was “deeply saddened” by her passing and extended his condolences to the Royal Family.

Prime Minister Masrour Barzani also extended condolences for the Queen’s passing, describing her as a “beacon of selfless duty.”

King Charles III, the Queen’s eldest son, automatically became King and succeeded her following her passing.