AKP Phnom Penh, September 29, 2025 — On Sept. 29, 2025, the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Sofia hosted a meeting to explore opportunities for strengthening bilateral ties between Cambodia and Bulgaria, focusing on economic cooperation and regional development.

H.E. Dr. CHEA Chanboribo, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Cambodia to the Republic of Bulgaria, met with Mr. Petko Karagitliev, Deputy Regional Governor of Stara Zagora province, and Mr. Simeon Yalamov, a Sofia-based lawyer.

Ambassador CHEA Chanboribo expressed his commitment to using his mandate to enhance the partnership between the two nations through mutually beneficial relations. He stressed the importance of reviving ties at all levels, encompassing diplomatic, economic, business, and academic exchanges, recalling his own experience as a student in Bulgaria.

Highlighting Cambodia’s economic potential, the Ambassador noted that the country has much to offer in both exports and imports. He underlined the necessity of exchanging information on goods, markets, and trade opportunities as a fundamental step for expanding bilateral relations.

For his part, Mr. Karagitliev presented the robust economic development of Stara Zagora province, emphasising its strong industrial base and numerous successful companies. He specifically highlighted a proposed cargo airport project aimed at establishing the province as a crucial air transport and storage hub connecting Asia and Europe.

He also showcased the region's cultural and tourism appeal, noting its wealth of historical sites and Kazanlak’s international recognition as the Rose Valley of Bulgaria, celebrated annually with the Rose Festival. Mr. Karagitliev underscored that the region successfully blends a dynamic industrial sector with a thriving tourism industry.

Both sides agreed that significant opportunities exist for deepening Cambodia-Bulgaria relations. Discussions included a potential visit by Ambassador CHEA Chanboribo to the Stara Zagora region and a meeting with the local Chamber of Commerce.

Adding a technological dimension to the trade discussions, Mr. Simeon Yalamov, who specialises in administrative and patent law, introduced a platform he is developing to provide transparent information on the prices and taxes of goods from various countries.

In a concluding proposal to formalise ties, Ambassador CHEA Chanboribo reaffirmed Cambodia's commitment to strengthening international partnerships, positioning Bulgaria as a bridge to Europe. He proposed establishing a direct connection between Stara Zagora province and Kampong Speu province in Cambodia, citing their similar experiences with economic growth and potential for cooperation and exchange.

By K. Rithy Reak