Foreign leaders have sent their best wishes to His Majesty the King on his 85th birthday.

They included United States President Barack Obama and his Secretary of State Hillary Clinton, Chinese President Hu Jintao and Chinese Premier Wen Jiabao.

In a letter to the King, Mr Hu said the monarch has been committed to the cause of national development and progress throughout his life, and was deeply esteemed by the Thai people.

"I believe Thais, who are known for their hard work and ingenuity, will make more glorious achievements under the guidance of Your Majesty's wisdom," he said.

• His Majesty's message: Kindness and goodwill
• Well-wishers: Subjects pay tribute

"China and Thailand are friendly neighbours. Your Majesty and the Royal Family, leading by example and playing an indispensable role, have attached significant importance to deepening friendship between our two countries and peoples.

"I wish to make joint efforts for Your Majesty for an ever-brighter future of China-Thailand relations."

Mrs Clinton sent her best wishes to the King on behalf of President Obama and the American people.

The message, which was posted on the website of the US embassy in Bangkok, reads: "President Obama and I were honoured to meet His Majesty during our visit to Thailand in November. Soon, our two countries will celebrate 180 years of diplomatic relations. The breadth and strength of our friendship, which spans nearly 60 years of our treaty alliance and 50 years of the Peace Corps in Thailand, continues to grow."

Mr Obama and Mrs Clinton had an audience with His Majesty on Nov 18. Mr Obama's visit to Bangkok was part of his Southeast Asian tour, which included visits to Myanmar and Cambodia.

"As we mark our longstanding and multi-faceted relationship, the United States is committed to a bright future of partnership with Thailand," she said. "On this joyous anniversary, I wish King Bhumibol and the people of Thailand a peaceful and prosperous year to come."

The presidents of Azerbaijan and the United Arab Emirates also sent birthday messages to His Majesty.

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