Thailand has expressed its "deepest sorrow" at the 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 yesterday.
He said that caretaker Prime Minister Prawit Wongsuwon had ordered all government agencies and state enterprises to lower the national flag to half-mast for three working days from yesterday to Tuesday.
Gen Prawit yesterday paid a visit to the British embassy in Bangkok to sign a book of condolence.
"I have learned with profound sadness of the passing of Her Majesty Queen Elizabeth 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," Gen Prawit said in a statement.
"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," he said.
"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."
The Foreign Ministry also released a 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," the Foreign Ministry said.
"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."