King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand celebrates 80th birthday
12/05/2007
The BBC News reports on the celebrations, and on the King's role as a uniting force in a country where elected politicians struggle to sustain a majority government.
Though in fragile health and recently out of hospital, the King continues to enjoy the near fanatical support of the bulk of his subjects and the respect of the political and military forces who have maintained an uneasy truce since the last coup.
The King's calls for unity and cooperation bode well for the upcoming elections and a hoped-for return to democracy in Thailand.
More online at the BBC News web site.