The Queen congratulated Barbados on its 'momentous day' as it removed her as head of state and became a republic

• Barbados on Tuesday removed the Queen as its head of state and became a republic.
• Barbados was seized by the British in 1627 and became independent in 1961.

Queen Elizabeth congratulated Barbados after it removed her as head of state and became an independent republic.

Barbados was seized by the British in 1627 and gained independence in 1966.

As of Tuesday, Barbados became a fully independent republic after severing ties with the royal family. Barbados elected Sandra Mason, who was previously the governor, as its first president on October 20 and she took up office on Tuesday.

The country is to remain a part of the Commonwealth after becoming a republic. The Commonwealth is a group of 54 independent nations, almost all of whom were once part of the British Empire, that work together to improve "development, democracy and peace." The Queen is head of the Commonwealth.

In a letter to Mason on Tuesday, the Queen wished Barbados well.

"On this significant occasion and your assumption of office as the first president of Barbados, I extend my congratulations to you and all Barbadians," she wrote.

"Over the years, our countries have enjoyed a partnership based on common values, shared prosperity, and close collaboration on a wide range of issues, including recent work on climate change. It is also a source of great satisfaction that Barbados remains an active participant within the Commonwealth, and I look forward to the continuation of the friendship between our two countries and peoples."

"As you celebrate this momentous day, I send you and all Barbadians my warmest good wishes for your happiness, peace and prosperity in the future. Elizabeth R," she wrote.