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Cambodia's former king Sihanouk dies in Beijing

Cambodia's former king Sihanouk dies in Beijing

Monday, October 15, 2012, 09:38 GMT+7

Cambodia's former king Norodom Sihanouk, a widely respected figure, died in Beijing on Monday, according to an announcement on national television. He was 89.

Sihanouk was a pre-eminent figure in Cambodia's history through a large part of the 20th century. He held considerable power in the 1950s and 1960s when, as a young, flamboyant ruler he held absolute authority and came to symbolize Cambodia.

He reigned over Cambodia from 1941-1955 and from 1993-2004.

Sihanouk died of natural causes in the early hours of Monday in a hospital in Beijing and his body would be returned to Cambodia for a funeral at the Royal Palace, the statement on national television said.

He abdicated for the second time in 2004 to make way for his son, Norodom Sihamoni, and went to live in self-imposed exile in Beijing, where he had for years received medical treatment for cancer and diabetes, among other ailments.

Sihanouk was seen as a symbol of national reconciliation and unity when he retook the throne. Throughout his life he enjoyed the genuine affection of the majority of his people, particularly in the countryside. 

Sihanouk lost five children and 14 grandchildren during the Khmer Rouge reign of terror.

Reuters

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