Cambodia marks 63rd Independence Day

PHNOM PENH - Cambodia commemorated the 63rd anniversary of the declaration of the Independence Day on Wednesday with the participation of approximately 10,000 people.

King Norodom Sihamoni, accompanied by Prime Minister Samdech Techo Hun Sen and National Assembly President Samdech Heng Samrin, laid a wreath and ignited the victory torch inside the Independence Monument to symbolize the country's independence from the colonial rule.

The victory flame will be kept burning for three days.

Live broadcast on the state-owned National Television of Cambodia (TVK), the celebration was attended by senior officials, diplomatic corps, armed forces, civil servants, residents and students.

Pigeons and balloons were released at the end of the event as a sign of independence and freedom.

In the evening, there will be a fireworks show over the Tonle Sap River in front of the Royal Palace.

The Southeast Asian nation gained full independence from the French protectorate on Nov. 9, 1953 during the reign of then-King Norodom Sihanouk.