Cambodia to Establish 'Cambodia Book Corner' at National Library of Bulgaria, Fostering Cultural Diplomacy

In a move to strengthen cultural diplomacy and promote cooperation in education, culture, and science between the Kingdom of Cambodia and the Republic of Bulgaria, His Excellency Dr. Chem Boribour, Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary of the Kingdom of Cambodia to the Republic of Bulgaria (also accredited to Romania, Greece, Cyprus, Estonia, Latvia, and Lithuania), met with Professor Kalina Ivanova, Director General of the National Library of Bulgaria “St. St. Cyril and Methodius,” to discuss the establishment of a “Cambodia Book Corner” within the national library. His Excellency Dr. Chem Boribour stated that this meeting with the Bulgarian Library was not merely about book donations but marked the beginning of a meaningful cultural project that would serve as a bridge of knowledge between the Cambodian and Bulgarian peoples. He proposed the significant initiative to establish a “Cambodia Book Corner” at the National Library of Bulgaria, with the aim of showcasing Cambodian books, documents, and cultural materials to serve as a source of knowledge for scholars, researchers, students, and the general public in Bulgaria and Europe. The National Library of Bulgaria “St. St. Cyril and Methodius,” established in 1878 following Bulgaria's liberation, has been a cornerstone of knowledge for nearly a century and a half. It serves as the national center for preserving literary heritage, historical records, and significant documents, housing millions of books, manuscripts, ancient scrolls, maps, newspapers, and photographs that cater to scholars, researchers, and readers worldwide. The library is named in honor of the two holy brothers, Saints Cyril and Methodius, who laid the foundation for Slavic literature and made substantial contributions to the development of education and culture in Eastern Europe, symbolizing Bulgaria's knowledge and cultural identity. During the meeting, His Excellency Dr. Chem Boribour noted that while the National Library hosts book corners from many countries, Cambodia does not yet have one. Therefore, the presence of a “Cambodia Book Corner” would provide Cambodia with a proper space among other nations to present its history, civilization, culture, literature, arts, religion, tourism, and national development. The Ambassador also informed that the embassy would initially provide approximately 20 books as a first step, with continuous additions of new books to follow. Most of these books will be in English, while a number of Khmer language books will also be displayed to showcase the Khmer script and language, a valuable cultural heritage. Furthermore, the embassy plans to exhibit cultural artifacts, tourism brochures, and other promotional materials to make the center a comprehensive introduction to Cambodia. It is worth recalling that His Excellency Dr. Chem Boribour lived and studied in the Republic of Bulgaria for eight years between 1985 and 1993. During that time, the library was a place he frequently visited for study and research, significantly contributing to the building of his life and career. After more than three decades, he has returned to the country he considers his "second home" as the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Cambodia. This return is not to receive knowledge as a student, but to bring the knowledge, history, and culture of the Khmer nation to share with his Bulgarian friends. His Excellency Dr. Chem Boribour further stated that the establishment of the “Cambodia Book Corner” is an expression of gratitude to the country that provided him with education and knowledge, and it will be a legacy for future generations of learners. In response, Professor Kalina Ivanova, Director General of the National Library of the Republic of Bulgaria, warmly welcomed the initiative and confirmed that she would send the relevant regulations and conditions for establishing the book corner. Simultaneously, both parties discussed the organization of an inauguration ceremony, with plans to invite diplomats, scholars, researchers, and students, particularly from Sofia University St. Kliment Ohridski. His Excellency Dr. Chem Boribour affirmed that the establishment of the “Cambodia Book Corner” at the National Library of Bulgaria is not just about displaying books but about creating a knowledge bridge between the two countries' civilizations. "Each book placed on the library shelves will become a silent cultural ambassador, telling the world about the history, civilization, and identity of the Khmer people," he added. The Ambassador emphasized, "This project is not only a new step in cooperation between Cambodia and Bulgaria but also a valuable cultural heritage that will continue to serve learners, researchers, and the friendship between the peoples of both countries for generations to come."