PITTSBURGH, Oct 13 (APP/AFP) – US President Barack Obama extended condolences Thursday to Thailand for the death of King Bhumibol Adulyadej, calling him a “close friend” and partner of the United States. Obama paid tribute to the king, whose death at age 88 was announced Thursday, as a “tireless champion” for Thailand’s development, praising his “unflagging devotion” to improving the lives of his subjects. Obama’s warm words for the monarch belie difficult recent relations with Thailand. Two military coups in quick succession have damaged relations with Bangkok, a treaty ally and regional powerhouse whose relations with Washington date back more than 180 years. The US has not been able to prod the generals into restoring elections or easing controls on dissent. But the much-loved king is a rare point of commonality in Thailand’s deeply divided society. “His Majesty the King was a close friend of the United States and a valued partner of many US presidents,” Obama said.
International News
Obama pays tribute to late Thai king as ‘close friend’ of US
