PHNOM PENH, May 15 (Xinhua) -- Fireworks lighted up the sky over the Tonle Sap River in front of the Royal Palace here Wednesday night to mark the 72nd birthday of Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni.

The stunning fireworks were displayed for roughly 20 minutes, catching the eyes of tourists and strollers on both sides of the river.

Blessing messages from the leaders of the Senate, the National Assembly, and the Government have been read on television and radio, published on newspapers, and posted on social media.

In a message to the king, Prime Minister Hun Manet lauded the monarch's role as a symbol of unity and progress, whose leadership has fortified national harmony and sustainable development.

He said the king has made great contributions to promoting the country's development in all areas, including economy, society, diplomacy, religion, education, culture, health, and humanity, among others.

As in previous years, the king did not host any lavish celebrations on his birthday, but attended a Buddhist ceremony held at the Royal Palace.

Sihamoni was born on May 14, 1953. He was inaugurated and formally anointed as the King of Cambodia on Oct. 29, 2004, after his father late King Norodom Sihanouk abdicated due to health problems.■