Thai king urges mutual support in birthday speech

King Bhumibol Adulyadej of Thailand has urged people to support each other for the sake of the country, in his address to the nation on his birthday, the BBC reported. Thailand is marking the 86th birthday of the revered king amid a truce after days of violent protests in Bangkok. Speaking at his palace in the coastal resort of Hua Hin, the king said that Thailand had been peaceful because of the unity of the people. There were violent clashes earlier in the week between police and protesters. The demonstrators, who are demanding that the current government resign, began protesting on 24 November. They agreed to stop their attacks on government buildings for the birthday celebrations, but have said they will be back right after them.