AKP Phnom Penh, September 01, 2025—

Representatives from the Association of Bulgarian Veteran Peacekeepers met in Sofia today with H.E. Dr. CHEA Chanboribo, Ambassador of the Kingdom of Cambodia to the Republic of Bulgaria. 

The Bulgarian delegation included Colonel-General Stefan Davidov, Chairman of the Board; Mr. Ivo Hristoskov, Secretary; and Mr. Plamen Genov, Chairman of the Control Council and Lawyer.

The meeting took place in a spirit of mutual respect and friendship, highlighting the long-standing ties between the two nations and the cooperation established during international peacekeeping missions.

Ambassador CHEA Chanboribo opened the discussion by expressing his profound gratitude to the Bulgarian peacekeepers for their service during the United Nations Transitional Authority in Cambodia (UNTAC) mission in 1992-1993. He stressed that their participation was instrumental in stabilising Cambodia during a crucial period in its modern history.

The ambassador noted that the Bulgarian veterans have a unique understanding of the hardships Cambodia endured and the immense importance of safeguarding peace. 

He emphasised that Cambodia desires no confrontation or armed conflict, instead seeking to cultivate peace, stability, and joint development with its neighbours.

Despite Cambodia's commitment to peace, Ambassador CHEA Chanboribo highlighted the ongoing challenges of an unresolved border dispute with Thailand. He explained that while the borders were clearly defined after French colonial rule and subsequent formal agreements, Thailand has not always respected these arrangements.

He detailed several incidents, including aggressive actions such as the use of bombs, mines, and smoke grenades. Furthermore, he noted that despite a ceasefire agreement signed on July 28, Thai soldiers have continued to lay barbed wire in Cambodian territory and forcibly displace civilians. The ambassador stressed that these actions contradict the spirit of peace that Cambodia strives to uphold.

The Bulgarian veteran representatives affirmed that Cambodia holds a special place in their hearts, describing the nation as a "second homeland." They reiterated their strong conviction that international borders, once agreed upon, must be respected, and that disputes in the 21st century should be resolved through dialogue, diplomacy, and international law, not violence. They reaffirmed their dedication to the principles of the United Nations.

The Association of Bulgarian Veteran Peacekeepers presented two key proposals to strengthen bilateral relations and honour their shared history.

The first proposal called for establishing memorials to Bulgarian soldiers who died during the UNTAC mission. They suggested one memorial be placed at the Royal Embassy of Cambodia in Sofia and a second at the site of the former Bulgarian Embassy in Phnom Penh. 

The association also expressed its hope of being formally recognised by the Bulgarian state as veterans, acknowledging their service and sacrifice.

The second proposal focused on enhancing economic and cultural exchanges. The association suggested promoting Cambodian goods in Bulgaria and Bulgarian goods in Cambodia. 

Ambassador CHEA Chanboribo noted that Bulgaria could serve as a gateway to Europe for Cambodia, while the Kingdom’s could act as a gateway to the ASEAN region for Bulgaria. This mutual access, he stressed, would create new opportunities for trade, business, and investment.

Looking ahead, the ambassador outlined his vision to deepen bilateral relations not only at the diplomatic level but also in sectors such as tourism, education, and business. He specifically emphasised tourism as a natural bridge between peoples and expressed a desire to make Bulgarian visas more accessible to Cambodian citizens.

Both sides showed a shared commitment to cooperation and mutual support.

The Bulgarian veterans assured the ambassador of their readiness to contribute to initiatives that strengthen the friendship between the two nations. 

In turn, Ambassador CHEA Chanboribo reaffirmed Cambodia’s appreciation for Bulgaria’s solidarity.

The ambassador extended his heartfelt thanks to the Bulgarian veterans for their service and to the Bulgarian people for their continued support. 

Both parties expressed their hope that the relationship between Bulgaria and Cambodia will continue to deepen and flourish in the years to come.

By K. Rithy Reak