More messages of condolences from foreign leaders

Heads of state, government leaders and ministers from those countries have sent messages to His Majesty the King expressing their deepest sorrow, said ministry spokesman Tharit Charungvat.

Queen Elizabeth of the United Kingdom said in a letter to His Majesty the King that she was "saddened to hear of the death of Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vadhana. Her death will be a great loss to the Thai people. I send my deepest sympathy".

King Juan Carlos and Queen Sofia of Spain said they were saddened over the passing of the Princess, the elder sister of His Majesty.

The current king of Malaysia, Sultan Mizan Zainal Abidin, sent condolences, too.

Vatican Secretary of State Cardinal Tarcisio Bertone expressed condolences on behalf of Pope Benedict.

Some 130 Bangkok-based diplomats were invited to a royal religious ceremony to make merit on the seventh day of the passing of the Princess at Dusit Throne Hall, Tharit said.

It is the first since the death of the Princess that Their Majesty the King and the Queen have extended invitations to foreign diplomats.

by Supalak G Khundee

The Nation