NAIROBI, Oct. 30 (Xinhua) -- The 15th International Chinese Catering Development Forum took place Thursday in Nairobi, the Kenyan capital, bringing together diplomats, industry leaders, and scholars to discuss the role of cuisine in fostering cross-cultural understanding and cooperation.
The forum featured keynote speeches and discussions on the evolution of Chinese cuisine, its global influence, and how culinary exchange can deepen China-Africa ties.
Zhang Zhizhong, minister counselor of the Chinese Embassy in Kenya, said that Chinese cuisine is spreading and developing widely in many parts of the world, including Africa. As an important carrier of Chinese culture, it serves as a vivid window for the world to understand China.
According to Zhang, Chinese cuisine, with its unique aroma and charisma, has fostered cross-cultural exchanges, while in Africa, it has become a key part of the continent's diverse culinary landscape.
He said that the globalization of Chinese food has promoted standardization and brand building alongside the export of agricultural commodities and kitchen appliances from the Asian nation.
Chinese restaurants have also integrated into local economies by sourcing supplies locally and employing the native workforce, transforming livelihoods and fostering economic cooperation, Zhang said.
Wu Li, vice president of the World Federation of Chinese Catering Industry, said that Kenya and other African countries present potential markets for Chinese cuisine.
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