China expresses condolences over death of Thai King

Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej reads a statement convening Parliament in front of 391 newly elected members of parliament at Ananta Samakhom throne in Bangkok in this July 10, 1995 file photo.  [Photo/Agencies]

China expresses deep remorse at the death of the Thai King Bhumibol Adulyadej and extends sincere condolences to Thai government and people, said Foreign Ministry spokesman Geng Shuang on Thursday.

The Bureau of Royal Household announced on Thursday that King Bhumibol Adulyadej has died at the age of 88.

"The King showed great enthusiasm to the development of China-Thailand friendship," the spokesman said in a written reply issued on the ministry's website on Thursday evening.

Working together with Chinese leaders, the king jointly defined the direction for the development of the bilateral relationship, and made irreplaceable, important contribution to exploring the bilateral pragmatic cooperation, Geng added.

The king was greatly loved by Thai people and had made outstanding contributions to boosting the stability and development of his country, the spokesman said.