The world has a new republic. The Caribbean Island ceased to be recognized by the British Queen – TVNOVINY.sk

The Caribbean island state of Barbados officially became a republic on Tuesday at midnight local time and ceased to recognize Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom. as its highest representative. The current Governor-General Sandra Mason has become President. The AFP agency informed about it.

Mason, 72, took the oath of office on Tuesday, the 55th anniversary of Britain’s independence.

Part of the inauguration of the first Barbadian president was the launch of royal standards. The British Prince Charles also attended the ceremony in the capital Bridgetown.

In addition to Prince Charles and several leaders and dignitaries, the most famous Barbados, the singer Rihanna, attended the ceremony, which began late Monday evening. Celebrations took place all over the country and people lit fireworks.

Queen Elizabeth II in the message, she wished the people of the island state “happiness, peace and prosperity in the future” and emphasized the importance of continuing friendship with the United Kingdom.

Barbados was originally a British colony that gained independence from Britain in 1966. However, like other former colonies, it has maintained official ties with the United Kingdom and recognized the British monarch as its highest official. However, the Barbadian government last year announced its decision to become a republic before the celebrations of the 55th anniversary of its independence.

Over the past almost 30 years, Barbados has become the first country to stop recognizing Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom. for its High Representative. This was the last step taken by the island state of Mauritius in the Indian Ocean in 1992.