Prince Harry and Meghan Markle's (open in new tab) departure from active royal life has been officially announced.

On Saturday, Buckingham Palace and Queen Elizabeth (open in new tab) II issued a statement finalizing the news. While Buckingham Palace's statement focused on logistical issues regarding Harry and Meghan's next steps, the Queen's message (open in new tab) was more personal.

In her statement, the Queen emphasized that Harry and Meghan's decision to step aside (open in new tab) was the result of "rigorous monitoring over the past two years" and that she fully supports them in their pursuit of "a more independent life."

The Queen also took time to explain how proud she is of her granddaughter-in-law, writing that she is "especially proud of how quickly Meghan has become part of our family."

The Queen's full statement on the news is below:

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