King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of the Netherlands lead foreign royal tributes to the Queen

King Willem-Alexander and Queen Máxima of The Netherlands have led tributes to Queen Elizabeth II after her death at the age of 96.

Her Majesty passed away peacefully this afternoon at Balmoral shortly after it was announced she was ‘under medical supervision’ after doctors had becomed concerned for her health.

Following her death, the King and Queen of The Netherlands and their daughter Princess Beatrix posted a statement on Instagram praising the wisdom of the Monarch.

Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Máxima of The Netherlands attend a Ceremonial Welcome at the Horse Guards Parade in 2018

The statement read: ‘We remember Queen Elizabeth II with deep respect and great affection. 

‘Steadfast and wise, she dedicated her long life to serving the British people. We feel a strong bond with the United Kingdom and its royal family, and we share their sorrow at this time. 

‘We are very grateful for our countries’ close friendship, to which Queen Elizabeth made such an unforgettable contribution.’

The official account for the Dutch Royal Family posted photos of the Queen, the new King Charles III and the new Queen Consort Camilla hosting Willem-Alexander and Máxima at Buckingham Palace on a state visit in October 2018.

Queen Elizabeth II and Queen Máxima of The Netherlands pictured sharing a joke during the two-day visit of the Dutch royals to the UK in 2018

The Queen walks through the halls of Buckingham Palace to attend a State Banquet as she hosts the Dutch Royals in 2018

The Swedish Royal Family also paid tribute to the Queen after news of her death was announced.

In a statement also posted on the Royal Family’s official Instagram page, King Carl Gustaf Folke Hubertus said: ‘My family and I are deeply saddened to learn of the death of my dear relative Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II.

‘The Queen served her countries and the Commonwealth with outstanding dedication and duty. 

‘She has been a constant presence, not only in British society but also internationally. 

‘She has always been dear to my family and a precious link in our shared family history.

‘We offer our heartfelt condolences to Her Majesty’s family and her peoples.’

Following an announcement earlier today that doctors were concerned about the Queen’s health, her children, including the new King Charles III, travelled to Balmoral.

Prince William and Prince Harry, who happens to be visiting the UK, also travelled to the Royal Estate.

The Duchess of Cambridge remained in Windsor to look after Prince George, Princess Charlotte and Prince Louis, who have just started their new school, while the Duchess of Sussex also remained in London.

Prince Harry and Meghan Markle have pulled out of their appearance at the WellChild Awards in London this evening, with the ceremony still expected to go ahead.

Queen Máxima is currently visiting the US, where she was due to meet Texas governor Greg Abbott and Mayor Steve Adler to discuss the close economic ties of The Netherlands and the US state.

The Netherlands has been Texas’s closest training partner within the EU.