Queen Elizabeth II has spoken out about Shinzo Abe’s “sudden and tragic death” and offered her condolences to his family.

Queen Elizabeth II (96) has commented on the death of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe (1954-2022). In a statement published on Instagram, among others, it said: “My family and I were deeply saddened by the news of the sudden and tragic death of former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe. I wish his family and the people of Japan at this difficult time I extend my deepest sympathy and condolences.”

Queen commemorates meetings in 2016

The British monarch has fond memories of meeting Abe and his wife during their visit to the UK in 2016, she said at the embassy. “There was no doubt about his love for Japan and his desire to develop ever closer ties with the United Kingdom.”

Shinzo Abe has died in an assassination attempt in the ancient imperial city of Nara. He was 67 years old. Abe gave a campaign speech in the street on Friday when he was gunned down in broad daylight from behind. A little later, according to consistent media reports, he suffered cardiopulmonary arrest and was taken to a hospital. Abe died there a little later.