Thailand plays host to world royalty

Members from every royal house in the world attended the celebrations to mark the Diamond Jubilee of King Rama IX, the King of Thailand.

The Prime Minister of Thailand made a speech where he said: “One of the most important milestones in our nation's history. Indeed its significance cannot be lost on those outside the kingdom as they witness the entire nation uniting in homage to its beloved sovereign.”

In a return speech, the Thai King thanked his people for “every effort to do their best according to their own abilities in order to co-operate and support me in various activities throughout the years.”

Later in the day, the world’s royals joined the Thai King to watch over 2,000 naval oarsmen in traditional red uniforms row 52 elaborately carved long-boats down the Chao Phraya river.

At a royal banquet, King Rama IX said in a speech, “I am very happy to be among world's highest profile royals and worldwide leading figures,” he went on to thank everyone for their participation in the Diamond Jubilee celebrations.

Royals attending the celebrations included the Emperor and Empress of Japan, the Queen of Spain, the Sultan of Brunei, the King and Queen of Sweden, the Crown Prince and Princess of Belgium, Norway and the Netherlands as well as the King of Jordan and the Sovereign Prince of Monaco.

Representing Queen Elizabeth II at the celebrations was the Duke of York who was seen wearing the Star of the Order of the Garter for the first time. Prince Andrew was appointed to the order by the Queen in April 2006.