(VOVworld) - World leaders paid tribute to Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej as a champion of his people. Russian President Vladimir Putin has sent his condolences over the death of the king and said that King Bhumibol Adulyadej had presided over successful economic development and contributed to the strengthening of Thailand's position abroad.

Thailand's King Bhumibol Adulyadej

He said in his telegram that the king had won "sincere love of his people and high respect abroad." Putin offered his support for the royal family, the government and the people of Thailand. Chinese President Xi Jinping hailed Bhumibol's contribution to Thailand's development, adding that the "good relationship" between Bangkok and Beijing were due in no small part to "personal efforts made by King Bhumibol himself". British Prime Minister Theresa May expressed her sincere condolences to the Royal Family and said that the King had guided the Kingdom of Thailand with dignity, dedication and vision throughout his life. EU President Donald Tusk and European Commission chief Jean-Claude Juncke said that Bhumibol's "rural development projects improved the lives of millions of people in Thailand" and will be remembered for generations to come.