AKP Phnom Penh, July 06, 2026 —

In a bid to strengthen cultural diplomacy and expand bilateral cooperation in education and science, Cambodia's top diplomat to Bulgaria has initiated a project to establish a dedicated Cambodian cultural and literary hub in the European nation's capital.

H.E. Dr. Chea Chanboribo, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Cambodia to the Republic of Bulgaria, met with Assoc. Prof. Kalina Ivanova, Director General of the National Library of Bulgaria "St. St. Cyril and Methodius," to discuss the creation of a "Cambodia Book Corner" within the historic institution, according to official sources.

The initiative marks a significant milestone in cultural exchange between Phnom Penh and Sofia, transforming traditional diplomatic relations into a meaningful bridge of knowledge for researchers, students, and the general public in Bulgaria and the wider European region.

Established in 1878 following Bulgaria’s liberation, the National Library "St. St. Cyril and Methodius" serves as the country’s premier repository of literary, historical, and documentary heritage. While the library hosts dedicated book corners for numerous countries, Cambodia has not previously had a permanent footprint there.

The proposed Cambodia Book Corner will showcase a diverse collection covering Cambodian history, civilisation, culture, literature, arts, religion, tourism, and national development.

Ambassador Chea Chanboribo stated that the embassy will initially provide approximately 20 books—predominantly in English, alongside selected Khmer-language titles to showcase the unique script and linguistic heritage of the Southeast Asian nation.

The corner will also feature cultural artifacts, tourism brochures, and promotional multimedia materials.
The meeting carried profound personal significance for the Cambodian ambassador.

H.E. Dr. Chea Chanboribo lived and studied in Bulgaria for eight years between 1985 and 1993, frequently using the National Library for his academic research.

Returning more than three decades later as an ambassador, he described the project as a gesture of profound gratitude to his "second home."

"The creation of the Cambodia Book Corner is a token of appreciation to the country that provided me with education and knowledge," the Ambassador said. "It is also a lasting legacy for future generations of scholars."

The leadership of the National Library warmly welcomed the initiative and committed to forwarding the necessary regulatory frameworks to finalise the setup.

Both sides also held preliminary discussions regarding an official inauguration ceremony. The upcoming event is expected to draw members of the diplomatic corps, academics, researchers, and students, particularly those specialising in international studies from Sofia University "St. Kliment Ohridski."

By K. Rithy Reak