PHNOM PENH: His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni has given permission to Senate President Samdech Vibol Sena Say Chhum to extinguish the Independence Day "Victory Torch" at the Independence Monument on Thursday. The King will be attending UNESCO 41st General Assembly. The occasion is in line of the 75th anniversary of UNESCO to be held in France from 10-15 November.

 In a letter dated 5 November, received by EAC News, His Majesty King Norodom Sihamoni has stated, " All of you, Samdech, Excellencies, Lok Chumteavs, Ladies and Gentlemen, Grandparents, Nieces and nephews, I will be absent from the motherland from 10 to 15 November 2021 to participate in the opening ceremony of the 41st General Assembly on the occasion of the 75th anniversary of UNESCO in the French Republic. In the absence of my Majesty, Samdech Vibol Sena Pheakdey Say Chhum, President of the Senate, will assist me. On the afternoon of 11 November 2021, the President of the senate will be my Royal Highness the King's representative in extinguishing the candle of the National Independence Day at the Independence Monument."

 The King is expected to deliver a message on the convention on Saturday. According to the Constitution, when the King is unable to fulfill his royal duties as usual, the President of the Senate will perform the duties of the Head of State in his place as a regent.