Tourism not affected, says Thai envoy

As Thai people at home and abroad prepare to celebrate the 86th birthday of King Bhumibol Adulyadej on Thursday, clashes between anti-government protesters and Bangkok police diminished.

Thailand's Ambassador to China Wiboon Khusakul said the capital was safe for visitors, noting that as of last week, the embassy was still processing between 2,000 and 3,000 visa applications for Chinese visitors at its eight offices around the country.

Wiboon said the king's birthday would continue to ease political tensions after the holiday. "The king is the soul of the nation," the ambassador said.