UN Secretary-General Ban Ki- moon on Monday voiced his "deep condolence" to the Royal family, government and people of Cambodia on the passing away of Cambodia's former monarch, King Norodom Sihanouk, acknowledging "King Sihanouk's long dedication to his country and his legacy as a unifying national leader who is revered by Cambodians and respected internationally."

In a statement issued here by Ban's spokesman, the UN chief hopes that the legacy of the former King will allow Cambodia to advance the national healing process, including through continued commitment to justice.

Sihanouk died early Monday morning in Beijing, China, at the age of 90. The body is set to arrive in the Cambodian capital on Wednesday afternoon.

Born on Oct. 31, 1922, Sihanouk reigned over Cambodia from 1941 to 1955 and again from 1993 till his voluntary abdication on Oct. 7, 2004 in favor of his son, the current King Norodom Sihamoni.