Rehearsals afoot for anniversary celebrations

The grand rehearsals of many ceremonies will take place next week in preparation for the upcoming 60th anniversary celebrations of His Majesty King Bhumibol Adulyadej's ascension to the throne.
The ceremonies are scheduled between June 8 and June 13 during which monarchs, or their representatives, from around the world will join the celebrations in honour of His Majesty the King. His Majesty is now the world's longest-reigning monarch. According to caretaker Deputy Prime Minister Wissanu Krea-ngam, the visiting royal members will be presented with either exquisite paintings or beautiful shawls as souvenirs. "We have planned strict security measures," caretaker Deputy Prime Minister and Justice Minister Chidchai Vanasatidya said yesterday. He said the incumbent administration had now placed its top priority on the upcoming celebrations. He said the fact that a caretaker government was preparing the events would not pose a problem. Wissanu said Bt1 billion, from various sectors, including the government, would be given to the Ananda Mahidol Foundation on this auspicious occasion. His Majesty established the foundation in 1959 in memory of his brother, King Ananda Mahidol, Rama VIII. According to Wissanu, about 5,000 invitation cards will be issued to the meticulously planned events. He said the list included all living former prime ministers, including Thaksin Shinawatra, who is now the caretaker premier.
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