Cambodian King returns from visit to France

Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni arrived in Phnom Penh, capital city of Cambodia, on Monday morning after the tour to France for two weeks to strengthen and expand bilateral ties and cooperation. At the capital's airport, the 61-year-old King was cordially greeted by National Assembly President Heng Samrin, Prime Minister Hun Sen, members of the Senate and the National Assembly, government officials and royal family members. The King's return came just a few days ahead of his 61st birthday, which arrives on May 14. Last week, the country launched a new 50,000-riel banknote (in equivalent to 12.5 U.S. dollars) to mark his birthday.