DHARAMSHALA: Sikyong Dr Lobsang Sangay today condoled the demise of King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand. King Bhumibol Adulyadej passed away on Thursday, 13 October at the age of 88.

“I offer my deep condolences to the royal family and the people of Thailand at the passing away of His Highness King Bhumibol Adulyadej,” Sikyong said.

“Since his coronation on 5 May 1950, His Highness King Bhumibol has been a beacon of hope and grace for the people of Thailand. During his 70-year reign, he led the country to economic and spiritual prosperity by demonstrating a tireless commitment to peace and development.”

“As a fellow Buddhist nation, Tibet shares a deep and special spiritual affinity with Thailand. Thailand was the first country that His Holiness the Dalai Lama visited after coming into exile. Tibetans still recall with fondness the grace with which His Highness King Bhumibol received His Holiness the Dalai Lama in 1967 and 1972.”

“The Tibetan people stands with the people of Thailand in this hour of grief and sorrow,” he said.

King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand was the longest serving monarch in the world. News of the 88-year-old’s death was announced Thursday, October 13, via a statement from the Royal Palace read on state TV.