New Delhi

Congress President Sonia has said that India’s association with Queen Elizabeth will abide in history.

In a condolence message put out on Saturday, the Congress President said, "The passing away of Queen Elizabeth, a great and much-loved figure of our times, is a moment of sadness, but also a time to celebrate her long and devoted reign as sovereign of the United Kingdom and head of the Commonwealth. For generations across the world, in a period of rapid change over seven decades, she was a symbol of constancy and continuity."

The message read, "Her passing is also an occasion to remember her warm association with our country, cherished by her and by us."

Sonia said, "Her many visits to India both symbolised and cemented the close relationship between our two countries, starting shortly after our Independence when the government of Jawaharlal Nehru played a determining role in establishing the Commonwealth.''

The bilateral relationship between India and U.K. has evolved naturally with the passage of time, but it has remained durable and important for both countries. India’s association with Queen Elizabeth will abide in history.