Statement from President Clinton and Secretary Clinton on the Passing of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand

Statement from President Clinton and Secretary Clinton on the Passing of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand

Hillary and I send our heartfelt condolences to the people of the Kingdom of Thailand on the passing of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej. For seven decades, he worked to improve the lives of the Thai people, brighten their future, and be a good neighbor, as I saw when we worked together to support Timor-Leste, the first new nation of the 21st century.  His Majesty deepened ties between the U.S. and Thailand, our first ally in Southeast Asia.  He was a true servant leader, acting with wisdom, strength, humility, and genuine care for the welfare of all people.  I was honored to visit Thailand as President on the 50th year of his reign when we celebrated our shared love of jazz music, and Hillary was grateful to have had the opportunity, with President Obama, to visit with His Majesty on her last trip to Thailand.
His Majesty was a kind, good leader. Our world needs more leaders like him today. We send our thoughts, prayers, and support to Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, His Royal Highness Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, and His Majesty’s entire family.

Hillary Clinton Wishes The King of Thailand A Happy 85th

His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej's Birthday and Thailand's National Day

Press Statement

Hillary Rodham Clinton
Secretary of State

Washington, DC

December 3, 2012

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On behalf of President Obama and the people of the United States, I am delighted to send best wishes to His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej on his 85th birthday and congratulate the people of Thailand on your National Day this December 5.
President Obama and I were honored to meet with 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. As we mark our longstanding and multifaceted relationship, the United States is committed to a bright future of partnership with Thailand.
On this joyous anniversary, I wish King Bhumibol and the people of Thailand a peaceful and prosperous year to come.