PHNOM PENH: National Assembly President Heng Samrin, has extend his condolences to Princess Norodom Marie Ranariddh on the death of Prince Norodom Ranariddh whom he described as an outstanding person who participated in helping the motherland with a strong will.

He says, “The loss of Prince Norodom Ranariddh, a royal dignitary in a royal family, who is not only a great intellectual, but also the loss of a high-ranking official who dedicated his strength, body, and intellect, and made significant contributions to the service of the nation, religion, and the King. My wife and I would like to pray for the merits of the soul of Samdech Krom Preah Norodom Ranariddh.”

Prince Norodom Ranariddh died at the age of 77 in France on Sunday morning. He was born on 2 January 1944, the second son of Prince Norodom Sihanouk and his wife, Phat Kanoul. He was the first Prime Minister from 1993 to 1997 and was the Speaker of the National Assembly from 1998 to 2006.