Condolences stream in from around the world

Condolences stream in from around the world

As Thailand mourned the passing of His Majesty last night, condolences for King Bhumibol Adulyadej streamed in from around the world.

US President Barack Obama offered his "heartfelt condolences" in a White House statement, saying: "As the revered leader and only monarch that most Thais have ever known, His Majesty was a tireless champion of his country's development and demonstrated unflagging devotion to improving the standard of living of the Thai people.

He recalled HM the King's "grace and warmth as well as his deep affection and compassion for the Thai people".

"The American people and I stand with the people of Thailand as we mourn His Majesty the King's passing, and today we hold the Thai people in our thoughts and prayers."

US Secretary of State John Kerry joined Mr Obama. "For over 70 years, His Majesty led Thailand with integrity and compassion, always mindful of the needs and aspirations of the Thai people.

"His Majesty the King was one of America's most valued and trusted friends, and was the only monarch in history ever born in our country. He will be long remembered and will be deeply missed."

A minute's silence was observed at a UN General Assembly meeting last night. UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon acknowledged HM the King's "long dedication to his country" and expressed hope Thailand will continue to honour his "legacy of commitment to universal values and respect for human rights".

British Prime Minister Theresa May said: "His Majesty guided the Kingdom of Thailand with dignity, dedication and vision throughout his life. He will be greatly missed."

British Foreign Secretary Boris Johnson, The Netherlands' Foreign Minister Bert Koenders, and Canada's Governor-General David Johnston also joined in offering their condolences.

Malaysian Prime Minister Najib Razak said HM the King was "a towering presence whose contribution to Thailand, and the rest of the region, is beyond words".

Singapore's Ministry of Foreign Affairs said HM the King will be remembered for his devotion to the Thai people. "His Majesty King Bhumibol was an outstanding and deeply revered monarch... He worked tirelessly for the betterment of the Thai people ... His Majesty King Bhumibol will long be remembered and respected both in the Kingdom of Thailand and around the world."

The Philippines' Inquirer news site quoted presidential spokesperson Ernesto Abella as saying: "On behalf of President Rodrigo Duterte and the Filipino people, we join the rest of Asean in mourning the passing of Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej."

Myanmar's President Office published a statement expressing "sincere condolences for the royal family and people of Thailand".

His Majesty King Jigme Khesar Namgyel Wangchuck of Bhutan said: "His Majesty the King has been an exceptional leader, a comforting presence in the lives of every Thai citizen." He added that His Majesty's enduring service for the welfare and wellbeing of his people will be remembered with honour and respect.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe expressed "truly deep sorrow", while India's Prime Minister Narendra Modi lamented "the loss of one of the tallest leaders of our times".

In Thailand, New Zealand Ambassador Ben King, Australian Ambassador Paul Robilliard, German Ambassador Peter Pruegel and French Ambassador Gilles Garachon all offered their condolences. Sri Lankan Ambassador Kshenuka Senewiratne said "His Majesty's visionary leadership, majestic generosity and gracious kindness will be irreplaceable".

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