by Michael Holden
LONDON, June 2 (Reuters) – Britain’s Queen Elizabeth II has thanked everyone involved in preparations for her Platinum Jubilee celebrations ahead of four days of pomp, parties and parades to mark the 70th anniversary of her accession. to the throne, a record.
Millions of people across Britain and around the world are expected to take part in the festivities which kick off on Thursday in honor of the 96-year-old monarch.
“Thank you to all who have been involved in bringing communities, families, neighbors and friends together to mark my Platinum Jubil, in the UK and across the Commonwealth,” Queen Elizabeth said in a statement.
“I continue to be inspired by the goodwill shown to me, and I hope the next few days will be an opportunity to take into account all that has been achieved over the past 70 years, as we look forward with confidence and enthusiasm,” she added.
However, due to recent health concerns, Queen Elizabeth’s attendance at the festivities may be limited.
A military parade in central London will kick off the festivities. For the first time, Elizabeth will receive from the balcony of Buckingham Palace the salute of 1,500 soldiers and officers.
If Prince Charles, son and heir to Elizabeth, and Prince William, her grandson, will be present to conduct ceremonial ceremonies on her behalf, attention could focus more on the absentees.
Prince Andrew should not take part in the festivities after having reached an amicable agreement last February to settle a trial in the United States for a charge of sexual assault.
Prince Harry, now exiled in Los Angeles with his wife Meghan, will also not be in the family photo when attending the Royal Air Force aerial ballet from the Buckingham balcony.
Among the other events on the program, a concert organized on Saturday evening in which the rock group Queen will take part as well as the American singers Alicia Keys and Diana Ross. On Sunday, more than 16,000 street parties are expected across Britain. (Report Michael Holden and Natalie Thomas; French version Jean Terzian)