World leaders have joined the Thai people in mourning on the passing of King Bhumibol Adulyadej who died on Thursday at age 88.
Adulyadej died after 70 years on the throne and he is considered the longest-reigning monarch in the world. He was known as a unifying force in Thailand and a king devoted to helping his people.
The messages of the world leaders mourning on his death are as follows:
US PRESIDENT BARACK OBAMA:
“I had the honor of calling on His Majesty the King during my visit to Thailand in 2012, and recall his grace and warmth, as well as his deep affection and compassion for the Thai people. 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. With a creative spirit and a drive for innovation, he pioneered new technologies that have rightfully received worldwide acclaim. His Majesty leaves a legacy of care for the Thai people that will be cherished by future generations.”
JAPANESE PRIME MINISTER SHINZO ABE:
“I remember King Bhumibol as a highly gifted and gentle person. … As a spiritual support for the people, His Majesty has led Thailand’s remarkable development and advancement of the people’s living standard. … The king’s great contribution in deepening friendship between Japan and Thailand will be remembered by all Japanese people.”
INDIAN PRIME MINISTER NARENDRA MODI:
“People of India and I join the people of Thailand in grieving the loss of one of the tallest leaders of our times, King Bhumibol Adulyadej.”
MALAYSIAN PRIME MINISTER NAJIB RAZAK:
“King Bhumibol was a towering presence whose contribution to Thailand, and the rest of the region, is beyond words. We join the Thai people in mourning his loss.”
BRITISH PRIME MINISTER THERESA MAY:
“My sincere personal condolences to the royal family and the people of Thailand on the death of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. His Majesty guided the Kingdom of Thailand with dignity, dedication and vision throughout his life. He will be greatly missed.”
U.S. AMBASSADOR TO THAILAND GLYN DAVIES:
“His Majesty lived a long and glorious life. Americans celebrate him because he personified the close connection between our two nations and peoples. … Through his patience, perseverance and selfless dedication to duty, King Bhumibol embodied Thailand’s Ten Kingly Virtues. This beautiful and unique land is touched today by a great and profound loss.”