Leaders of energy companies across the world mourned the death of Queen Elizabeth, Britain’s longest-reigning monarch and the nation’s figurehead for seven decades, who died aged 96.
Ben van Beurden, CEO of London-headquartered energy major Shell said the Queen’s loss will be “felt personally,” adding that he was fortunate enough to meet Her Majesty and was always “struck by her strength, kindness and ability to find common cause with those around her.”
“We mourn the passing of a historic global leader of immense stature, courage and integrity. Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II spent a life dedicated to serving the country and improving the lives of others,” he added.
Bernard Looney, CEO of British oil and gas company BP, said in a statement that Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II will be remembered as “one of the most remarkable sovereigns in all history.”
“As the longest reigning UK monarch, Her Majesty played a critical and unifying role through extraordinary times,” he added.
“On behalf of BP, I offer my sincerest condolences to The Royal Family and to everyone mourning her loss.”
Both Shell and BP actively operate in the Middle East. The former has played a role in developing Abu Dhabi’s oil and gas resources since 1939, through the emirate’s first major oil concession.
In a LinkedIn note, Lorenzo Simonelli, CEO of OFS major Baker Hughes, wrote that Her Royal Highness will always be remembered as a “fearless leader who was passionately dedicated to improving the world.”
As a company with over 4,000 employees in the UK, Simonelli said Baker Hughes’ success in energy hubs such as Aberdeen, Australia and Canada have been made possible in part by Queen Elizabeth’s leadership.
“Her commitment to globalization is one that we must not forget in today’s challenging times, and her legacy will live on,” he wrote.
