Khem Sovannara

 

Cambodia celebrated its 72nd Independence Day yesterday with a solemn and spirited ceremony at Phnom Penh’s Independence Monument, honouring the legacy of King Father Norodom Sihanouk and the nation’s hard-won freedom from French colonial rule.

 

Presided over by King Norodom Sihamoni, the event drew top officials including Senate President Hun Sen, Prime Minister Hun Manet, and National Assembly President Khuon Sudary, alongside diplomats, civil servants, students and members of the armed forces.

 

The King lit the traditional Victory Flame, which will burn for three days as a symbol of national pride and unity. Across the capital and beyond, banners and slogans adorned public spaces, while fireworks lit up the skies over Chaktomuk River each evening.

 

On social media, Hun Sen paid tribute to the King Father’s “royal mission” and the founding of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF), which shares its anniversary with Independence Day. Defence Minister General Tea Seiha echoed the sentiment, praising the RCAF’s role in safeguarding Cambodia’s sovereignty and stability.

 

The celebration also resonated with younger generations. Ky Sou Ing, a student from Chaktomuk Secondary School, said she felt honoured to witness the King’s procession. “Even though the event took place more than 70 years ago, it’s important to remember the sacrifices made for our independence,” she said.

 

Public wreath-laying ceremonies were held at the monument and at the statue of the late King Father, while balloons and doves—symbols of peace—were released in tribute.

 

The three-day commemoration, running from 9 to 11 November, reflects a deep national gratitude for the unity and courage that led to Cambodia’s independence in 1953. As the Victory Flame continues to burn, it reminds citizens of the enduring spirit that shaped their nation.

 

 

-2025-11-10

On 11/10/2025 at 9:26 AM, geovalin said:

Cambodia celebrated its 72nd Independence Day yesterday

 

The UK's King Charles sent congratulations to Cambodia's King Norodom Sihamoni 

 

The United Kingdom’s King Charles III has extended his congratulations to the Cambodian people on the occasion of the 72nd anniversary of Independence Day, expressing hope to further strengthen bilateral relations, particularly in addressing environmental challenges.

 

 

 

 

https://cambodianess.com/article/king-charles-congratulates-cambodia-on-independence-day