‘The heart of the Buddha’: the world pays tribute to Thailand’s beloved King Bhumibol Adulyadej

In the days since Thailand’s King Bhumibol Adulyadej passed away, aged 88, prominent figures – heads of state and business leaders alike – have been queuing up to offer their condolences and best wishes to a nation in mourning.

The Chinese Ministry of Foreign Affairs said Bhumibol worked to strengthen ties between China and Thailand and “made an irreplaceable contribution to cementing the two people’s friendship and expanding bilateral cooperation”.

“China deeply mourns King Bhumibol’s passing and expresses sincere condolences to the Thai people and government,” the ministry said.

US President Barack Obama call the king “a tireless champion of his country’s development and demonstrated unflagging devotion to improving the standard of living of the Thai people”.

Former President Bill Clinton and his wife Democratic Presidential Candidate Hillary Clinton have offered their heartfelt condolences over the death of Thailand’s king, calling him a kind, good leader.

“His Majesty deepened ties between the US 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,” the former president said.