"Culinary Diplomacy! H.E Chea Chanboribo Learns to Cook Khmer and International Dishes Before Taking Up Post in Bulgaria"

Phnom Penh: Before departing from his homeland of Cambodia, H.E. Chea Chanboribo, newly appointed Ambassador of Cambodia to Bulgaria, Romania, Greece, and Cyprus, has taken the initiative to learn more about the art of diplomacy through food. According to the Ambassador, learning how to cook — especially dishes that represent Cambodia — is a meaningful way to showcase national identity through culinary diplomacy.

Chea Chandaravibol, Secretary of State at the Ministry of Information, was officially appointed as Cambodia's Ambassador Extraordinary and Plenipotentiary to the aforementioned countries, with his residence based in Sofia, Bulgaria. His appointment was made by Royal Decree on December 6, 2024, and he is scheduled to depart Cambodia in April.

So, why did Ambassador H.E. Chea Chanboribo become interested in the culinary aspect of diplomacy? He explained that diplomacy is fundamentally about building relationships — especially at the international level — and that food is often used as a bridge in diplomatic interactions. Culinary diplomacy, he noted, offers numerous benefits by allowing countries to express their national identity through their cuisine.

Unlike other ambassadors, H.E. Chea Chanboribo chose to pursue cooking lessons before taking on his overseas mission. In a recent interview with local media, he stated:“I’m not comparing myself to other excellencies, but personally, I believe it’s an important and valuable step.”

The Ambassador emphasized that learning to cook is not just a personal interest, but also a tool for enhancing diplomatic relations with other nations. Through this experience, he shared that the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has also published a Khmer cookbook featuring 38 traditional dishes and desserts, complete with detailed ingredient lists and easy-to-follow cooking methods — tailored for those living abroad with limited access to local ingredients.

“This is wonderful,” he added, “because sometimes guests who enjoy our food want to try making it themselves. This cookbook helps diplomats learn to cook too. The important part is that it highlights authentic preparation techniques and supports the preservation of Khmer cuisine.”

Once in Bulgaria, Ambassador H.E. Chea Chanboribo plans to prepare Khmer Num Banh Chok (traditional rice noodle soup) and Amok (steamed fish curry) for international guests. In addition to the dishes themselves, he will also showcase Khmer cooking tools and ingredients.

Notably, the Ambassador has chosen to use Confirel's Cambodian spices and underwent his cooking lessons at their facility. Explaining his choice, he stated:“I want to help promote Confirel’s Khmer spices on the international stage — so that both Cambodians and foreigners can enjoy them.”

In his vision for strengthening ties between Cambodia and other nations, H.E. Chea Chanboribo expressed his commitment to deepening diplomatic relations, fostering solidarity, and mutual support. He also revealed plans to organize a cultural exchange trip to Bulgaria in the near future.