Czech President offers condolences after death of Prince Philip

Prince Philip was a unique personality who represented Britain in the best sense of the word with his charm and intellect, Czech President Milos Zeman writes in his letter of condolences to Queen Elizabeth II.

Prince Philip passed away on Friday at the age of 99.

Czech Foreign Minister Tomáš Petříček wrote that one of the symbols of modern British monarchy had left with Prince Philip, the Duke of Edinburgh.

Zeman wrote to the Queen that he had learnt about the death of Prince Philip with deep sorrow.

He mentioned that 25 years had passed since the British royal couple visited Prague, and he personally met Prince Philip.

"This was an extraordinary honor for me. I have always considered Prince Philip a unique personality who with his charm, nobility and intellect represented Britain in the best sense of the word," Zeman wrote.

"His life is in a way an unbelievable chronicle of modern history not only of Britain but of the entire Europe. I am convinced that his exceptional legacy will keep living in our hearts," he added.

Petříček recalled that Prince Philip had turned 99 and had been the husband of Elizabeth II for over 70 years.

Prince Philip died in Windsor on Friday morning. During February and March, he was treated in a London hospital for infection following heart surgery.