The King of Cambodia, Norodom Sihamoni, has announced that he has prostate cancer and is currently undergoing medical treatment in China.
In an official statement, the 72-year-old monarch indicated that the illness had been diagnosed following extensive tests conducted at a Beijing hospital. On the recommendation of his doctors, he specified that he would extend his stay in the Chinese capital by one to three months.
"It has been confirmed that I am currently suffering from prostate cancer," he said, addressing the Cambodian people directly to inform them of his health condition.
Norodom Sihamoni ascended the throne in 2004, following the abdication of his father, Norodom Sihanouk, a historical figure in the country. Unlike his predecessor, his role is essentially ceremonial in a political system long dominated by former Prime Minister Hun Sen.
Before his accession to the throne, the king had pursued an artistic career, notably in dance and ballet teaching, after studying in Europe.
This announcement comes at a time when the Cambodian monarchy plays an important symbolic role, although executive power remains concentrated in the hands of the government.
No further details were given on the evolution of the disease, but the authorities did not mention any immediate impact on the functioning of institutions.
The king's statement aims to reassure the population while marking an unusual transparency regarding the sovereign's state of health.
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