Privy Council president Prem Tinsulanonda wished Prime Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha success in his handling of the country's administration and advised him not to be discouraged by problems he has encountered.
Gen Prem was speaking to Gen Prayut, cabinet members and leaders of the military and police forces who called on him at the Si Sao Thewes residence on Monday morning for blessings on the occasion of Songkran, the traditional Thai New Year.
The statesman said Gen Prayut must not be discouraged by problems he had encountered and wished him success in his task of "returning happiness" to the Thai people.
Gen Prayut was full of praise for Gen Prem, who he said was a role model for everyone in the country in terms of loyalty to the nation, religion and the monarchy.
He pledged to perform his duties with morality and good governance to lead the country to solidarity, prosperity and sustainability.
Gen Prayut presented a vase of flowers and a basket of gifts to Gen Prem, who in return distributed a CD on the tribute to the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej and a book of prayer to everyone present.
An official at the Office of the President of the Privy Council said that Gen Prem would not open his residence to receive any other people during the Songkran holiday because he was now aged 97 and unable to sit for a long time in the summer heat.
Another official said Gen Prayut would open Government House on April 12 for cabinet members, members of the National Council for Peace and Order, armed forces commanders and other officials to perform a rod nam dam hua ceremony for him to mark the Songkran Festival.
Video by Apichart Jinakul