During his three-day official visit to Thailand, Annan will present the "UNDP Human Development Lifetime Achievement Award" on the occasion of the 60th anniversary of HM the King's accession.

"It is the first time that such an award has been given, and we are very proud that the award will be given to the well-deserving King of Thailand, who has dedicated his life to improving the lives of Thai people," said Joana Merlin-Scholtes, UN resident coordinator and UNDP resident representative in Thailand.

Although HM the King has already received several awards from various UN agencies, including the World Health Organisation and the World Food Programme, this will be the first time he has received one from Annan personally, said Ministry of Foreign Affairs spokesman Kitti Wasinondh.

Sopaporn Kurz

The Nation