In brief
On Monday, 9 November, Cambodia marked its 73rd National Independence Day. The head of state presided over an hour‑long ceremony at the Independence Monument, where he lit a victory fire and laid a wreath. The event ended with the release of pigeons and balloons symbolising peace and freedom.
On Monday, 9 November, Cambodia celebrated its 73rd National Independence Day. The ceremony took place at the Independence Monument in Phnom Penh and was headed by King Norodom Sihamoni.
During the one‑hour event, the King lit a ceremonial "victory fire" inside the monument to symbolize the nation’s sovereignty and laid a wreath in tribute to independence from French colonial rule, which officially ended 90 years of French control in 1953.
The ceremony was attended by Senate President Samdech Techo Hun Sen, National Assembly President Khuon Sudary and Prime Minister Hun Manet, alongside foreign diplomats and citizens, reflecting the country’s unity.
After the formal proceedings, the day concluded with a release of pigeons and balloons. The birds and floating balloons were intended to symbolize peace and freedom for Cambodia.
With the festivities, Cambodia marked 73 years since it gained independence on 9 November 1953, ending 90 years of French colonial rule that began in 1863.
