Phnom Penh, November 09, 2019 –Cambodian people of all walks of life gathered here at the Independence Monument this morning to celebrate the 66th anniversary of national independence from France (Nov. 9, 1953-Nov. 9, 2019).
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 Akka Moha Ponhea Chakrei Heng Samrin, President of the National Assembly, and Prime Minister Samdech Akka Moha Sena Padei Techo Hun Sen 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.
The whole ceremony 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 different 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 Rattanak Kaudh), located near the Independence Monument.
This year, Nov. 9, is more special as today is the celebration of 66th anniversary of Independence Day, the 66th founding anniversary of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces, and the Ambok-eating day under the slogan of “Khmer Ambok to maintain the Nation, Religion and King”, at the initiative of Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen.
By Khan Sophirom
