Thailand sends condolences, sorrow on passing of Queen Elizabeth
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Thailand sends condolences, sorrow on passing of Queen Elizabeth

The Thai national flag flies at half-mast at Government House on Friday, in mourning at the passing of Britain's Queen Elizabeth II. (Photo: Wassana Nanuam)
The Thai national flag flies at half-mast at Government House on Friday, in mourning at the passing of Britain's Queen Elizabeth II. (Photo: Wassana Nanuam)

Thailand has expressed its "deepest sorrow" at death of Queen Elizabeth II and government offices will fly the national flag at half-mast for three working days as a mark of respect.

"The government feels deep sorrow at the death of Queen Elizabeth II who has been a highly respected figure of the international community," Anucha Burapachaisri, deputy secretary-general to the prime minister and acting government spokesman, said on Friday.

He said that caretaker Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon had ordered all government agencies and state enterprises lower the national flag to half-mast for three working days -- on Friday, Monday and Tuesday. 

Gen Prawit would visit the British embassy in Bangkok to sign his name in the a condolence book, Mr Anucha said.

Gen Prawit later sent this condolence message to British Prime Minister Liz Truss:

“I have learned with profound sadness of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizbeth II. On behalf of the Royal Thai Government and the people of the Kingdom of Thailand I would like to extend our deepest condolences to you in this time of sorrow.

“Her Majesty’s tireless compassion and dedication to the United Kingdom and the global community throughout 70 years of Her Majesty’s reign has been praised and admired all over and will always be remembered.

“Her Majesty’s trips to Thailand in 1972 and 1996 will be cherished and remain in our hearts.

“During this moment of bereavement, our thoughts and prayers are with you, the Government of the United Kingdom and the British people.”

Gen Prawit and Defence Minister Prayut Chan-o-cha went to the British embassy to sign their names in a condolences book later on Friday.

The Foreign Ministry this morning released the following statement:

"The Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the people of the Kingdom of Thailand wish to express our deepest sorrow at the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II of the United Kingdom of Great Britain and Northern Ireland.

"Throughout Her Majesty’s life, Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth II devoted her life and performed her duties for the benefit of the British people, the United Kingdom, the Commonwealth and the close ties between the United Kingdom and the Kingdom of Thailand.

"We share with the British people and the international community in mourning this great and irreparable loss."

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