In brief
In Phnom Penh, Cambodia celebrated its National Independence Day, commemorating 73 years since gaining freedom from French colonial rule. King Norodom Sihamoni presided over a ceremony at the Independence Monument, lighting a victory fire and laying a wreath. The day ended with the release of pigeons and balloons, symbolizing peace and freedom.
In Phnom Penh, Cambodia marked National Independence Day on Monday, the first holiday since the nation ended French rule on Nov. 9, 1953.
The main ceremony was held at the Independence Monument, a key symbol of the country’s freedom.
King Norodom Sihamoni opened the event, lighting a Victory Fire and laying a wreath inside the monument as the people watched.
Other top leaders attended. Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen, National Assembly President Khuon Sudary and Prime Minister Hun Manet were all present with a handful of foreign diplomats.
The one‑hour program included speeches that highlighted the importance of sovereignty and the hard‑won independence after nine decades of French colonial control that began in 1863.
After the speeches, the organizers released pigeons and balloons into the sky, a gesture meant to symbolize peace and freedom for Cambodia’s citizens.
At the ceremony’s close, crowds celebrated the 73rd anniversary of independence. The day’s activities highlighted how the nation has grown since it joined the international community as a fully sovereign state.
The king’s lighting of the Victory Fire was seen as a reminder of Cambodia’s determination to defend its sovereignty.
Khmer people from all walks of life gathered around the Independence Monument, a display of the country’s unity.
Cambodia's independence was achieved after 90 years of French colonial rule that began in 1863, during which the country was part of French Indochina.
The ceremony’s release of pigeons and balloons was a ritual that symbolizes the desire for peace and freedom, echoing a tradition seen at other national celebrations.
