Kings, queens and heads of state will visit Bangkok next month on the auspicious occasion of the 60th anniversary of HM the King Bhumibol Adulyadej's accession to the throne. The King is now the world's longest-reigning monarch.

National Police Deputy Commissioner-General Isaraphan Sanitwong na Ayuthaya, who heads a taskforce charged with providing security during the celebrations, yesterday convened a meeting of more than 700 police officers to present a plan of action.

"We have to be well prepared. The royal convoy must be exactly on schedule. We count in seconds," Isaraphan said.

He added that all police officers would in the run-up to the official celebrations undergo simulation drills, including how to cope in emergencies.

Asked whether there was any terrorism threat, Isaraphan said the National Intelligence Agency informed him that there was nothing to suggest so.

"Moreover, all visiting royalty have their own bodyguards who work closely with us," Isaraphan said.

An informed source said police and security officers, including bomb-disposal officers and intelligence-gatherers, would be stationed at all 13 hotels where visiting royalty will stay and that at least 20 police officers would accompany each royal motorcade.