Prabowo Offers Condolences on Passing of Thai Princess
President Prabowo Subianto has offered his condolences on the passing of Thai Princess Bajrakitiyabha Mahidol. The sentiment was expressed during a bilateral meeting with Thai Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul at the Merdeka Palace in Jakarta on Monday. The princess, the eldest daughter of the king, passed away at the age of 47, with the royal palace making the announcement on Friday.
“Before we proceed, I would like to express my deepest condolences, on behalf of Indonesia and personally, to the Royal Family and the people of Thailand on the passing of Her Royal Highness Princess Bajrakitiyabha. Our prayers and thoughts are with you during this difficult time,” Prabowo stated.
During the meeting, Prabowo also extended belated birthday wishes to King Maha Vajiralongkorn, who turned 73. “I also wish to convey my warmest birthday greetings to His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Phra Vajiraklaochaoyuhua. May His Majesty continue to be blessed with health, happiness, and strength in leading the Kingdom of Thailand,” he said. He added that he shares a long personal relationship with the King, as both were soldiers in their youth, leading to fond memories whenever they meet.
Prime Minister Anutin Charnvirakul reciprocated by offering his condolences for the victims of the KM Mutiara Sentosa 2 ferry fire in the waters north of Sumenep, Madura, which claimed five lives. “I could not proceed with our meeting without expressing my deepest condolences on behalf of the Thai people for the ferry tragedy in Indonesia yesterday. Our deepest sympathies go to the victims and their families, and I hope there are no more casualties. I have just received good news from Minister Hartarto that you have managed to control the situation,” Anutin said.
Anutin also thanked Prabowo for his greetings to the royal family and recalled the Indonesian leader’s previous visit to Thailand. “You performed a military salute with our King. The whole nation smiled at that gesture because it truly represents the warm relations between our two countries,” he remarked.