The Kingdom of Cambodia opened a new chapter in its cultural diplomacy across Southeastern Europe on Friday with the official inauguration of the “Cambodia Corner – Books, Arts and Cultural Heritage” at the St. Cyril and St. Methodius National Library in Sofia.

Jointly organised by the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Bulgaria and the Bulgarian National Library, the landmark event brought together foreign ambassadors, senior government officials, library executives, scholars, and members of the diplomatic corps in Sofia.

The newly established Cambodia Corner goes beyond displaying traditional Khmer literature and art. It serves as a permanent cultural and intellectual hub designed to foster deeper understanding of Cambodia’s rich history, Angkorian civilisation, literature, and living heritage among the Bulgarian public and scholars across the Balkan region.

Speaking at the ceremony, Director of the Bulgarian National Library Kalina Ivanova commended the diplomatic initiative, emphasising that books remain unmatched tools for cross-cultural understanding.

“In the 21st century—despite rapid advancements in digital technology and international travel—books remain indispensable bridges for understanding the history and soul of a nation,” Ivanova said.

In a deeply moving address delivered entirely in Bulgarian, Ambassador of Cambodia to Bulgaria Chea Chanboribo reflected on returning as a diplomat to the very library where he studied as an international student nearly four decades ago.

His fluent Bulgarian underscored an enduring personal connection to the country he frequently describes as his “second home.”

“Nearly 40 years ago, I came to this library as a student seeking knowledge,” Ambassador Chanboribo said.

The Embassy curated 24 distinct catalogue items for the library, including 19 prominent book titles and five categories of traditional Khmer craftsmanship.

The literary collection spans Cambodian ancient history, the Varman Royal Dynasties, Angkorian architecture, gastronomy, tourism, and environmental conservation. Key titles featured include An Illustrated History of Cambodia, History of Angkor, The Story of Angkor, The Varman Dynasty of Cambodia: 2000 Years of Khmer Kingship, Stories in Stone, Reconstructing God, and Survival in the Killing Fields.