Queen Elizabeth has declined Tourism Ireland’s request to light Buckingham Palace green for St Patrick’s Day, as part of an international celebrations of Ireland’s patron saint.



In a letter to the marketing body the Queen said that her decision to not take part did not take away from the special affection she has for the country and the people of Ireland, especially since her historic State Visit, in 2011.



The Tourism Ireland initiative will see iconic landmarks around the world including the Empire State Building, Christ the Redeemer in Rio and even the Pyramids in Egypt turning green for St Patrick’s Day, March 17th.



Niall Gibbons, chief executive of Tourism Ireland, said tweeted saying they had received a "lovely letter" from Buckingham Palace.



He tweeted "Her Majesty has sent 'good wishes to all those in Tourism Ireland working hard to promote the many attractions of Ireland north and south'”



"While not lighting green on 17 March, the Queen's 'special affection for Ireland' (was) noted."



PHOTOS – Check it out the world’s iconic tourist spots “go green” for St. Patrick’s Day