AKP Phnom Penh, June 14, 2026 --

Cambodia highlighted its rich cultural heritage, tourism potential, and commitment to international philanthropy at the 6th Asia Festival held Sunday in the Bulgarian capital of Sofia.

Speaking at a press conference hosted at the Bulgarian News Agency (BTA) headquarters, Cambodian Ambassador to Bulgaria H.E. Dr. Chea Chanboribo emphasised the Kingdom's growing participation in the annual event, marking the country’s second consecutive appearance under the current diplomatic mission.

"Cambodia is proud to promote its culture, civilisation, arts, traditions, and tourism potential to the Bulgarian public and international friends," the Ambassador said during the press briefing.

In line with the festival's charitable mission, H.E. Dr. Chea Chanboribo announced that proceeds from the sale of Cambodian products at the event would be donated to a local foundation supporting children battling cancer.

The Cambodian pavilion drew significant interest from attendees, featuring promotional videos that highlighted the Southeast Asian nation's economic development and tourism sectors.

A major highlight of the cultural programme featured musical performances by young Cambodian talents Lita and Vathana, the children of Hong Angkearbosp, First Secretary of the Cambodian Embassy in Bulgaria. The duo performed the traditional Cambodian song "Phnom Penh" alongside the classic Indonesian melody "Bengawan Solo," earning warm applause from diplomats and festival visitors.

"This demonstrates how the younger generation is preserving our national cultural heritage and acting as cultural ambassadors on the international stage," the diplomatic mission noted in a statement.

The festival also featured cross-cultural exchanges, including an interactive martial arts demonstration where the South Korean Ambassador to Bulgaria invited the Cambodian envoy to participate in a traditional Taekwondo board-breaking exhibition.

The Cambodian Ambassador successfully completed the challenge, later reflecting that sports and culture serve as highly effective tools for building mutual understanding and fostering bilateral friendships.

By K. Rithy Reak