London:
Britain’s new Queen Consort Camilla paid tribute to Queen Elizabeth II on Sunday for her own role as a ‘lonely woman’ in a world dominated by men.
In her first public comment since Queen Elizabeth’s death, King Charles III’s wife said it must have been “so hard” for the late monarch, who inherited the throne in 1952 when she was just 25 years old.
Her pre-recorded commentary on BBC television was to be broadcast later Sunday before the national minute silence at 20:00 (1900 GMT).
“She’s a part of our lives forever. I’m 75 now and I can’t remember anyone except The Queen who was there,” Camilla said.
“It must have been so hard for her to be a lonely woman.
“There were no female prime ministers or presidents. She was the only one, so I think she played her own part.”
Camilla remembered her late mother-in-law and added: “She has those beautiful blue eyes that light up her whole face when she smiles.
“I will always remember her smile. That smile is unforgettable.”
In February this year, on the eve of the 70th anniversary of her accession to the throne, Queen Elizabeth put an end to all discussions about how Camilla should be known once her eldest son Charles became king.
The monarch said it was her “sincere wish” that she be known as the queen consort, “while continuing her own faithful service”.
Camilla took on the role with minimal fuss after gradually overcoming public opposition that lasted for years.
Camilla has toured Britain with the new sovereign. She also took part in a short walk outside Buckingham Palace, the new king’s proclamation and trips to Scotland, Northern Ireland and Wales.
Charles and Camilla eventually married in 2005 after a long-lasting love affair that sometimes involved adultery.
Camilla has experienced a long-standing dislike from many British people, who blame her for the failure of Charles’s first marriage to Diana, Princess of Wales.
While Camilla doesn’t top the polls of the most popular royals, her approval rating has improved tremendously.
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