Queen Elizabeth Speaks To United Nations For The First Time In Over 50 Years

Queen Elizabeth II appealed for world unity and peace during a speech at the United Nations earlier today in her first visit to the International institution since 1957. The 84-year-old British monarch and her husband, Prince Philip, were greeted by U.N. Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon and General Assembly President Ali Abdessalam Treki and their wives after arriving in the United States earlier today after visiting Canada over the last nine days

The Queen’s speech was remarkable in its historic context of a well-respected and aged monarch speaking to the international body, but was rather predictable in its safe, if not banal assessment of the world body. “When people in 53 years look back on us, they will undoubtedly see many of our practices as old fashioned,” the Queen said. “It is my hope that when judged by future generations, our sincerity, our willingness to take the lead and our desire to do the right thing will stand the test of time.”

After addressing the General Assembly and meeting with U.N. officials and diplomats, Elizabeth will visit the World Trade Center site, laying a wreath in tribute to the thousands who died in the Sept. 11, 2001, terror attack, including 67 Britons.

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