German president congratulates new King

BANGKOK, Dec 2 (TNA) -- German Federal President Joachim Gauck has sent a message to congratulate His Majesty King Maha Vajiralongkorn Bodindradebayavarangkun on the ascension to the Throne. The German president said in his letter that “Your Majesty, it is a great pleasure and honour for me to offer you, also on behalf of my fellow Germans, my most heartfelt congratulations on ascending the throne.” “Germany and Thailand have close and friendly relations based on trust. I am convinced that our two countries will continue to successfully develop their relations under your reign. “I wish you much success and a sure hand as you promote the welfare of Thailand and its citizens.” Crown Prince Maha Vajiralongkorn, 64, became Thailand's new king on Thursday after he accepted an invitation from parliament to succeed his father, King Bhumibol Adulyadej, who passed away in October. Late His Majesty King Bhumibol named Prince Vajiralongkorn as the heir to the throne in 1972 in accordance with the 1924 Palace Law on Succession. (TNA)