Cambodia to Celebrate 72nd Independence Day on November 9
PHNOM PENH, Cambodia — Cambodia is set to commemorate the 72nd anniversary of its independence from France on November 9, with a series of grand ceremonies and royal observances under the leadership of King Norodom Sihamoni. The national celebration will highlight Cambodia’s sovereignty, pride, and historical journey towards independence.
The day will begin with a ceremonial lighting of the “victory flame” at the iconic Independence Monument in the capital, Phnom Penh. The flame, a symbol of Cambodia’s hard-won independence, will burn for three consecutive days, serving as a reminder of the nation’s struggle for freedom and its enduring spirit. King Norodom Sihamoni, who will preside over the event, is expected to lead the ceremony in a traditional and solemn manner.
Royal Ceremony and National Participation
The Independence Day ceremony will be attended by Cambodia’s top political leaders, senior government officials, civil servants, and citizens from all walks of life. Phnom Penh residents, along with students from various schools, will also join the festivities, underscoring the importance of the day as a national occasion that brings together people from across the country.
In addition to the royal family and government leaders, ambassadors from various foreign nations have been invited to the event, emphasizing Cambodia’s diplomatic relations and its status as a sovereign nation on the world stage.
During the ceremony, delegations from government ministries and institutions will pay respects by laying wreaths at the Independence Monument and the nearby Royal Statue of King-Father Samdech Preah Norodom Sihanouk, a towering figure in Cambodia’s independence movement. The late King-Father is credited with leading the nation towards freedom from French colonial rule in 1953.
A Celebration of National Pride and History
As part of the celebrations, fireworks will light up the night sky in front of the Royal Palace at 7:00 PM on both November 9 and 11. The dazzling display will serve as a joyous salute to the country’s independence and as a vibrant symbol of Cambodia’s modern identity and aspirations.
Dual Significance: The 72nd Anniversary of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces
November 9 is not only significant for Cambodia’s independence but also marks the 72nd founding anniversary of the Royal Cambodian Armed Forces (RCAF). The RCAF played a pivotal role in safeguarding the country’s sovereignty throughout its history, and this dual significance adds depth to the celebrations. The armed forces’ contributions to the nation’s defense, security, and development will be highlighted during the event.
A Day to Reflect and Celebrate
As Cambodians celebrate their independence on November 9, it is an opportunity for the nation to reflect on its journey — from colonial rule to sovereignty, and from conflict to peace. The ceremony, led by King Norodom Sihamoni, is not only a celebration of the country’s independence but also a reminder of the resilience of the Cambodian people and their ongoing commitment to peace and development.
The 72nd Independence Day celebrations are expected to be a moment of national pride, bringing together all sectors of society to honor the country’s history, heritage, and aspirations for a bright future.
