The former King of Cambodia Norodom Sihanouk has died in China, where he had been receiving medical treatment. He was 89. Norodom Sihanouk played a crucial role in the life of Cambodia for more than 60 years.

Eight years ago he abdicated in favour of his son Norodom Sihamoni due to health reasons.

Norodom Sihanouk came to the throne in 1941 at the age of 19. Sihanouk was heralded for bringing his ancient kingdom through independence from France, war and genocide to form a fragile democracy.

For the people of Cambodia he was a much loved father figure through decades of instability and bloodshed.