Cambodian people of all walks of life gathered here at the Independence Monument this morning to mark the 70th anniversary of national independence from France (Nov. 9, 1953-Nov. 9, 2023).
The auspicious celebration took place under the royal presidency of His Majesty Preah Bat Samdech Preah Boromneath Norodom Sihamoni, King of Cambodia, with Samdech Vibol Sena Pheakdei Say Chhum, President of the Senate; Samdech Moha Rathsapheathika Thipadei Khuon Sudary, President of the National Assembly; and Prime Minister Samdech Moha Borvor Thipadei Hun Manet; as well as Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen, President of the Supreme Privy Council to His Majesty the King, and many other senior officials in attendance.
Foreign ambassadors accredited to Cambodia were also present at this annual event.
On the occasion, the monarch lighted the “victory flame” at the Independence Monument, which will be kept burning for three days.
After the celebration at the Independence Monument, there was a mass meeting in front of the Royal Palace.
The whole event was broadcast live on local television and radio stations. While public areas are decorated with slogans related to the independence of Cambodia, at night, there will be the display of fireworks at the Chaktomuk River.
Yesterday, delegations from the parliament, government ministries and institutions took their turn to lay wreaths at the Independence Monument and the Royal Statue of the late King-Father Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk (Preah Borom Ratanak Kaudh), located near the Independence Monument.
Nov. 9, 2023 is also the 70th founding anniversary of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF).
