Prince Harry has spoken of the passing of Queen Elizabeth II for the first time in a touching tribute where he reflected on the “special moments” he shared with his “granny”.

Britain’s longest-reigning Monarch, Queen Elizabeth II passed away on Thursday, September 8 at 6.30pm London time at Balmoral at the age of 96.

Buckingham Palace issued a statement announcing that the beloved Monarch’s 70-year reign came to an end, triggering an outpouring of grief from across the globe.

“The Queen died peacefully at Balmoral this afternoon,” the Palace said.

In a statement, issued on Monday, September 12, the Duke of Sussex said that following the Queen’s passing “we are all reminded of the guiding compass she was to so many in her commitment to service and duty”.

“She was globally admired and respected,” he said.

“Her unwavering grace and dignity remained true throughout her life and now her everlasting legacy.

“Let us echo the words she spoke after the passing of her husband, Prince Philip, words which can bring comfort to all of us now: ‘Life, of course, consists of final partings as well as first meetings’.

Harry spoke fondly of some cherished memories from his time with the Queen, including the first time she met his “darling wife”, Meghan Markle.

“Granny, while this final parting brings us great sadness, I am forever grateful for all of our first meetings — from my earliest childhood memories with you, to meeting you for the first time as my Commander-in-Chief, to the first moment you met my darling wife and hugged your beloved great-grandchildren,” he said.

“I cherish these times shared with you, and the many other special moments in between.

“You are already sorely missed, not just by us, but by the world over.

“And as it comes to first meetings, we now honour my father in his new role as King Charles III.

“Thank you for your commitment to service. Thank you for your sound advice. Thank you for your infectious smile.

“We, too, smile knowing that you and grandpa are reunited now, and both together in peace.”

Harry’s poignant words came after a recent display of unity with his brother Prince William, when they reunited to greet well-wishers and view tributes left for the Queen at Windsor Castle on Saturday, September 10.

Despite years of strained relations between the brothers, Prince William reportedly extended the invitation to the Duke and Duchess of Sussex to join him and his wife, the now Princess of Wales, for the walk.

Prince Harry told the crowd that the Queen was a “great granny”.

“No matter what room of the castle you are in, you can feel her presence,” he said.