Royalty of 22 countries set to join the party

When Thailand's Grand Invitation ceremonies reach their peak in June, royalty from 22 of the 29 countries with constitutional monarchies have accepted invitations to visit the Kingdom during the celebrations, according to the Thai Royal Household. The government is hosting the ceremony to commemorate the 60th anniversary of His Majesty the King's accession the throne. Monarchs from Japan, Sweden, Jordan and Monaco will attend the ceremony and Prince Andrew will represent the United Kingdom.

The campaign is due to run for the whole year. Juthamas Siriwan, governor of the Tourism Authority of Thailand (TAT), said the government was preparing many events, including an enormous Royal Barge Procession on June 12 and a gala dinner for guests and ambassadors on June 13. These days have been named as holidays for state employees in Bangkok and the surrounding provinces to alleviate traffic problems and help security arrangements run more smoothly.

A military procession will take place on June 23 and the government will organise an exhibition to honour HM the King at Impact Exhibition Hall in Muang Thong Thani from May 26 until June 4.

HM the King is already the world's longest reigning monarch, and the year will see a series of events and celebrations to honour his life and achievements.

Juthamas said the Kingdom hoped to attract 13.8 million foreign visitors this year, generating tourism income of Bt480 billion, proving the effects of the tsunami were no longer being felt on the nation's tourist industry.

The campaign has been divided into a series of events and several grand destinations have been named, which include notable tourist attractions such as Rattanakosin island, the Royal Palace, the Royal Project, historical destinations and national parks.

Grand events including a jazz festival and a performance by operatic tenor Andrea Bocelli's are planned, while grand festivals like Songkran, Loi Krathong, Bangkok's International Festival of Dance and Music and the Pattaya International Music Festival are also part of the celebrations.

The opening of public and private-sector facilities such as the Suvarnabhumi Airport and various tourist attractions will also be dedicated to His Majesty.

Suchat Sritama

The Nation

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