[iparity]

Late Princess honoured with 7-tiered umbrella

His Majesty the King has honoured Her Royal Highness Princess Galyani Vadhana with a seven-tiered umbrella, which will be placed over her royal funeral urn — a symbol of great prestige.

The honour was given in recognition of the late Princess' great contribution to the country.

Their Majesties the King and Queen and Royal Family members yesterday attended the seven-day merit-making ceremony held at the Dusit Maha Prasart Throne Hall. A large crowd of mourners waited outside.
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Messages of condolence continued to arrive from overseas. Among the most recent were those from the Vatican and the heads of state of Spain and Malaysia.

There have been at least 52 messages from 39 countries, foreign affairs spokesman Tharit Charungvat said.

''Remembering Princess Galyani's goodness and generosity and her many initiatives in favour of those in need, I pray that she will be granted eternal peace,'' the message from Pope Benedict XVI said.

King Juan Carlos of Spain and Queen Sofia also expressed sorrow at the loss of the Princess.

''We send you our most heartfelt condolences and deepest sympathy in this time of grief,'' they said.

Malaysia's King Sultan Mahmud AlMuktafi Billah Shah said Thai people had lost a truly remarkable Princess who would be fondly remembered for her kindness and countless charitable works for the less fortunate.
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Bangkok Post : General news

Pic: The Royal Urn beneath the 7-tiered Royal Umbrella