AKP Phnom Penh, June 23, 2026 -- Cambodia’s Ambassador to Bulgaria, H.E. Dr. Chea Chanboribo, has expressed profound gratitude to Bulgarian Culture Minister H.E. Evtim Miloshev following Cambodia’s election to a key United Nations cultural body, highlighting a deep, four-decade personal connection to the European nation.

The diplomatic message follows Cambodia’s successful election to the UNESCO Intergovernmental Committee for the Safeguarding of the Intangible Cultural Heritage for the 2026-2030 term.

In an official letter, Ambassador Chanboribo thanked Minister Todorov and the Bulgarian Ministry of Culture for their unwavering support, trust, and friendship during the election process.

However, the envoy emphasised that his gratitude extends far beyond standard diplomatic pleasantries, describing Bulgaria as his "second homeland."

"This gratitude is not merely formal diplomacy," he wrote. "It comes from the bottom of my heart and is intertwined with a personal journey deeply connected to Bulgaria for over forty years."

H.E. Dr. Chea Chanboribo’s ties to the country began in the 1980s when he studied music at the National Academy of Music "Prof. Pancho Vladigerov" (then known as the Bulgarian State Conservatory) in Sofia. The Ambassador recalled the period with immense fondness, praising the generosity, rich culture, and warmth of the Bulgarian people.

"Bulgaria gave me more than an education," he noted. "It gave me lifelong friendships, love, warmth, and precious memories that time cannot erase. I have many friends here, as well as foster parents and a foster family who welcomed me with the intimacy and love of a family member."

He added that whenever he returns to Sofia, he never feels like a visitor but rather like he is "returning home." His affinity for the country extends from its musical traditions and national soul to its natural beauty and local cuisine, which he noted holds a place in his heart equal to traditional Khmer food.

Looking forward, the Ambassador stated that Cambodia’s new role on the UNESCO committee represents a premier opportunity to deepen cultural cooperation and bilateral ties between Phnom Penh and Sofia, rooted in mutual respect and shared values.

"I firmly believe that the friendly relations between our two countries will continue to grow and deepen, and that culture will continue to serve as a beautiful bridge bringing our two peoples closer together," H.E. Dr. Chea Chanboribo said. "Culture has taught us that despite geographic distance, human hearts can always remain close."

By K. Rithy Reak