[Congressional Record (Bound Edition), Volume 152 (2006), Part 9]
[Senate]
[Pages 12237-12238]
[From the U.S. Government Publishing Office, www.gpo.gov]




  ACCOLADES FOR THE 60TH ANNIVERSARY OF KING ADULYADEJ AS MONARCH OF 
                                THAILAND

                                 ______
                                 

                         HON. CHARLES B. RANGEL

                              of new york

                    in the house of representatives

                         Tuesday, June 20, 2006

  Mr. RANGEL. Mr. Speaker, I rise today to enter into the Record, an 
article from the Washington Times by Sebastian Berger titled, World's 
royals fete Thailand's King. This article describes the celebration of 
history's longest-reigning monarch, King Bhumibol Adulyadej of 
Thailand. The celebration of this king's reign will last 3 days and has 
included the biggest reunion of royal heads of state in decades. I 
would like to join these world leaders in celebration and tribute to 
King Adulyadej and in recognition of the anniversary of his ascent to 
the throne.

       King Adulyadej's reign of 60 years has outlived many 
     turbulent times in Thailand and his leadership has survived 
     17 military coups, 23 different prime ministers and 15 
     constitutions of Thailand. His soft spoken yet effective 
     manner of advocating for issues important to Thailand has won 
     him admiration and affection from all of his people.
       Known as the ``Developer King'' to many, Secretary General 
     Kofi Annan visited the King during the celebrations in order 
     to present him with the United Nations Development Program 
     Award. This award presentation was meant to recognize the 
     King's steadfast devotion for improved living circumstances 
     for the Thai people. He initiated many development projects 
     which, throughout 60 years, have created progress and 
     prosperity for the country. So beloved is this sovereign that 
     he has also been nicknamed the ``soul of the nation'' by his 
     people.
       The King is also well known for his abilities in the 
     artistic field. Because of this, King Adulyadej was granted 
     the title of ``Supreme Artist'' in recognition of his 
     contributions to art and artists in Thailand. So great was 
     his role that the country established ``The Supreme Artist 
     Hall'' to commemorate and display the King's work.
       His model for sustaining a unified Thailand despite 
     numerous obstacles against progress is a great example for 
     all. With words alone, King Adulyadej ended bloodshed in 1973 
     and 1992, during times of hostility against military 
     dictatorships. His current appeal for Thai people is a call 
     for unity during a time of national division. Indeed, the 
     entire nation has united in order to pay homage to its 
     beloved ruler and I stand in camaraderie with the Thai people 
     to celebrate and appreciate the example of King Adulyadej.

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