"Hillary and I are profoundly saddened by the passing of Albright. She was one of the finest secretaries of state, an outstanding UN Ambassador, a brilliant professor, and an extraordinary human being." - Former US president Bill Clinton and former US secretary of state Hillary Clinton.

"It's because of people like Madeleine that the story of America is, ultimately, one of hope - an upward journey." - Former US president Barack Obama.

"She lived out the American dream and helped others realise it ... She served with distinction as a foreign-born foreign minister who understood firsthand the importance of free societies for peace in our world." - former US president George W. Bush.

"Madeleine was one of the most remarkable people I ever had the privilege to work with. She had the sharpest of brains, the most lively conscience and the deepest compassion for humanity." - Former British prime minister Tony Blair.

"Few of the world's leaders did so much for our country as Madeleine Albright. Born in Czechoslovakia, she left the dictatorship which sought the lives of her family. She got a chance in the free world, made the best of it. Thank you. We'll never forget you." - Czech Prime Minister Petr Fiala.

"You didn't have to share every one of Secretary Albright's policy views to appreciate her dedicated leadership on behalf of our nation ... Secretary Albright understood keenly that the United States of America is a global power with global interests and global responsibilities and must act accordingly." - US Senate Republican leader Mitch McConnell.

"She was a trailblazer and a luminary ... She left an indelible mark on the world and on the United Nations. Our country and our United Nations are stronger for her service." - US Ambassador to the United Nations Linda Thomas-Greenfield.

Australian Associated Press