Cambodia marks 58th anniversary of independence from French protectorate
Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni (C) greets the crowds during a celebration marking the 58th anniversary of independence from French protectorate, in Phnom Penh Nov. 9, 2011. (Xinhua/Philong Sovan)PHNOM PENH, Nov. 9 (Xinhua) -- Cambodia commemorated the 58th anniversary of the declaration of Independence Day from French protectorate on Wednesday.
The event was held at the Independence Monument under the presidency of Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni and the participation of National Assembly President Heng Samrin, Cambodia 's Prime Minister Hun Sen, the First Vice President of Senate Prince Sisowath Chivan Monirak, and other high-ranking officials, diplomatic corps, armed forces, as well as students, totaling about 20,000 people.
During the celebration, King Norodom Sihamoni laid the wreath and lit the victory torch inside the monument.
The victory flame will be kept burning for three days.
Cambodia gained independence from the French protectorate on Nov. 9, 1953 after the retired King Norodom Sihanouk had conducted the royal crusade in 1952.
France had ruled Cambodia for 90 years until the country declared independence.
Editor: Chen Zhi
Labels: Cambodia's King Norodom Sihamoni, Independence, Prime Minister Hun Sen
