In a recognition of the country's rich culinary heritage, the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and International Cooperation has won the Best Television Awards in the World for its cookbook "The Taste of Angkor". The award was presented at this year's World Gourmand World Cookbook Awards, held on 27-29 November in Riyadh, Kingdom of Saudi Arabia.
On 01 Dec 2023, the Ministry announced that its publication had taken top honors in the Best Television Awards category for the third consecutive year. This achievement reflects the government's policy of promoting authentic Cambodian foods and its efforts to share the country's culinary legacy with the world.
"The Taste of Angkor" cookbook was first published in 2021 as part of the Ministry's Economic Diplomacy Strategy, which aims to enhance Cambodia's international standing and contribute to achieving the Royal Government's vision of becoming an upper-middle-income country by 2030 and a high-income nation by 2050. The book has won several awards, including the Best Asian Cuisine Book and Best Heads of State/Food from Gourmand World Cookbook Awards in previous years.
The award-winning cookbook features cooking videos of seven dishes and two desserts, produced by the Ministry's National Institute of Diplomacy and International Relations as part of its culinary diplomacy training for Cambodian diplomats and their spouses. The training program aims to help diplomatic missions abroad understand Cambodian cuisine, how to cook authentic foods, explain their history, and promote Khmer foods and culture to attract foreign tourists and investment.
The Ministry's National Institute of Diplomacy and International Relations produced the videos as part of its efforts to expand exports of Cambodian agricultural products. The institute's training program has been successful in promoting Cambodia's culinary heritage and attracting international attention.
Culinary diplomacy is a cornerstone of the Ministry's Economic Diplomacy Strategy, which has been instrumental in enhancing Cambodia's international standing. The award highlights the country's commitment to sharing its unique cultural assets with the world and promoting economic cooperation through food and culture.
The award was presented at the World Gourmand World Cookbook Awards, an annual event that recognizes excellence in cooking and culinary diplomacy around the world. The awards were founded in 1995 by Edouard Cointreau.
Overall, the win is a testament to Cambodia's rich cultural heritage and its commitment to promoting economic cooperation through food and culture. The Ministry's efforts to share the country's culinary legacy with the world have paid off, and "The Taste of Angkor" cookbook will continue to be celebrated for years to come.
<b>Conclusion:</b> This award is a significant milestone in Cambodia's diplomatic efforts, showcasing its commitment to sharing its unique cultural assets with the world. As the country continues to promote economic cooperation through food and culture, this win serves as a reminder of the power of culinary diplomacy in building bridges between nations.