BANGKOK – Global condolences are being shared after the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother of Thailand, who died on 24 October aged 93. Their Majesties the King and Queen of Bhutan, joined by members of the Royal Family and the people of Bhutan, voiced deep sorrow and stood with Thailand in mourning.
In a royal message, Bhutan remembered Her Majesty as “a beloved Queen whose life was devoted to the service and well-being of her people,” highlighting her “compassion, devotion and tireless efforts to uplift communities and preserve Thai culture.” The message added that her legacy will live on in Thailand’s traditions and in the hearts of its people.
From Cambodia, Prime Minister Hun Manet extended heartfelt condolences on behalf of his government and citizens, calling the Queen Mother “the beloved Mother of the Thai Nation.” He praised her lifelong dedication to the welfare of the Thai people, her work to safeguard Thai crafts and culture, and her support for rural development, describing her legacy as “an inspiration for generations to come.”
In Kuala Lumpur, Malaysian Foreign Minister Mohamad Hasan sent sympathies to Thailand, saying, “My sympathy goes out to the government and people of Thailand.”
Embassies issued messages of condolence over the Queen Mother’s Passing.
The Philippine Embassy commended the Queen Mother’s “unwavering devotion to the Thai people,” citing her leadership in rural development, her support for artisans, and her commitment to traditional crafts. The Filipino community in Thailand expressed solidarity with the Thai people as they mourned the loss of their “Mother of the Nation.”
The Embassy of China honoured Her Majesty as “a great and cherished friend of the Chinese people,” noting the deep respect and affection she earned in Thailand.
The Embassy of Japan sent condolences on behalf of the Japanese people and recalled her “outstanding contributions to the unity and prosperity of the Thai people.”
The Russian Embassy said the Queen Mother made “an invaluable contribution to the country’s development” and helped strengthen Thai-Russian relations, including during her 2007 visit to Moscow. It added that in Russia, she is warmly remembered for supporting friendship and cooperation between the two countries.
The German Embassy said Germany stands with Thailand and its people at this time of national mourning.
The Embassy of the Netherlands joined the Thai people in honouring Her Majesty’s life of service and dedication, as well as her efforts to promote arts, culture, and community development. The embassy noted she is also remembered in the Netherlands for the warm ties she fostered with the Dutch Royal Family and the Dutch people.
The Embassy of India called her “a beacon of hope and inspiration,” while the Embassy of Egypt paid tribute to her “compassionate service to the underprivileged” and her work to preserve Thai cultural heritage.
The French Embassy described Queen Sirikit as “a great friend of France,” deeply familiar with French culture and language.
The British Embassy said the United Kingdom is “deeply saddened” by her passing. British Ambassador Mark Gooding posted on X, formerly Twitter, “The British people are deeply saddened to hear of the death of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit. We offer His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn, the Royal Family and the Thai people our most heartfelt condolences.”
The US Embassy stated, “We join the people of Thailand in mourning the passing of Her Majesty Queen Sirikit, the Queen Mother.”
A one-year mourning period has been declared for the Royal Family and Royal Court officials, effective from the date of her passing, according to Bangkok Post.
Born on August 12, 1932, in Bangkok, Queen Sirikit was the daughter of Prince Nakkhatra Mangala and Bua Kitiyakara. She became engaged to the late King Bhumibol Adulyadej, The Great (Rama IX) while overseas. The royal couple married on April 28, 1950, and she was officially named Queen on May 5, 1950, during his coronation ceremony.
Throughout her life, Queen Sirikit was deeply committed to the well-being of the Thai people. She was a patron of rural development and actively promoted women’s empowerment across Thailand. Her efforts to preserve Thai culture were notable, particularly in the revival and support of traditional arts and crafts.
