Cambodian government civil servants participate in the country's 70th Independence Day, in Phnom Penh, Cambodia, Thursday, Nov. 9, 2023. The country gained independence from France on Nov. 9, 1953. - AP
PHNOM PENH (Xinhua): Cambodia celebrated the 70th anniversary of its independence on Thursday, vowing to stay united as one to safeguard the kingdom's peace, security, stability and development.
The celebration was held under the auspices of the nation's King Norodom Sihamoni and was attended by National Assembly President Khuon Sudary, Senate President Say Chhum and Prime Minister Hun Manet.
During the celebration, Sihamoni laid a wreath and lit the ceremonial victory fire inside the Independence Monument to symbolize the country's independence from the colonial rule.
After the event at the Independence Monument, the king and the prime minister traveled in open-top cars to the front side of the Royal Palace, where they joined the Independence Day commemorative gathering.
Addressing the ceremony, Sihamoni said the commemorative event was held at a time when Cambodia has been enjoying full peace, security, political stability and development in all sectors.
"On this special occasion, I would like to call on the Cambodians in all walks of life to unite as one under the roof of the state's constitution and laws to protect and construct our motherland in all areas," he said.
Under the reign of King Father Norodom Sihanouk, Cambodia gained full independence on Nov. 9, 1953, after almost a century of colonial rule.
"We vow to stay united as one under the leadership of Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni to continue to protect the country's independence, sovereignty, peace and development," Hun Manet said.
At the end of the event, pigeons and balloons were released as a sign of independence and freedom. - Xinhua
