"Is it not a pleasure, having friends come from afar?" – Confucius

　　Following their participation in the "Chinese Chef's Festival" in Yibin, the delegation from the French Overseas Chinese Restaurant Association continued their tour of China, arriving in Quanzhou on November 5. During the "Chinese Culture: Yaji Cultural Salon" food reception held in Paris last April, the French delegation extended generous support to the Quanzhou team.

"Chinese Culture: Elegance Gathering" Food Tasting Event

　　Strengthening Culinary Ties

　　The Quanzhou Catering and Culinary Industry Association warmly welcomed the visiting delegation, organizing a grand "French Overseas Chinese Restaurant Association Culinary Seminar" at Zhongjun Plaza. The event saw participation from officials of the city's Business Bureau and Market Supervision Administration.

Culinary Exchange Seminar in Progress

　　During the seminar, representatives from the Quanzhou association expressed heartfelt gratitude for the French delegation's hospitality during the Paris visit and voiced hopes for deeper cooperation. Discussions centered on culinary preferences in China and France, current market trends, and future collaboration possibilities. Both sides reached a preliminary agreement to explore cooperative projects.

　　Liu Shuwen

　　Certified Chinese Culinary Master

　　President of Quanzhou Catering and Culinary Industry Association

　　Executive President of the World Chinese Cuisine Association

　　In April's "Chinese Culture: Yaji Cultural Salon," Quanzhou cuisine was showcased at the United Nations, earning international recognition. The support from the French delegation helped formalize the partnership between Quanzhou’s culinary sector and its French counterpart.

　　Quanzhou, historically a key port on the Maritime Silk Road, boasts a culinary heritage shaped by global influences. Ingredients like duck, curry, and satay, combined with exotic spices, reflect its multicultural legacy. Migratory waves from the Central Plains also brought traditional Chinese flavors, creating a unique fusion of "East meets West, North meets South." This culinary diversity supports Quanzhou’s bid to become a UNESCO "City of Gastronomy."

　　Cheng Zhenfang

　　Senior Certified Chinese Culinary Master

　　"For Quanzhou cuisine to succeed globally, innovation is essential," remarked Cheng. Quanzhou’s culinary tradition emphasizes harmony in color, aroma, taste, texture, and presentation—the essence of Chinese culinary artistry. As Chinese cuisine gains international popularity, Quanzhou must seize the "City of Gastronomy" bid as a springboard for modernization. Presentation techniques should cater to global palates, integrating international restaurant management practices while enhancing service standards.

　　Huang Meina

　　President, French Overseas Chinese Restaurant Association

　　Reflecting on their culinary tour, Huang shared insights gained while experiencing Chinese regional specialties. She noted that approximately 70% of the Chinese community in France works in the restaurant sector, though many establishments remain small, family-run businesses. Challenges such as limited access to skilled chefs, outdated cooking techniques, and static menus persist.

　　Huang emphasized that inspiration from China's dynamic culinary scene could revitalize Chinese restaurants in France. By adapting successful industry practices, they aim to modernize operations and contribute to the global development of Chinese cuisine.

　　Looking Ahead: Global Culinary Promotion

　　The exchange went beyond cultural dialogue, fostering mutual learning. Quanzhou’s expertise in traditional culinary arts can aid Chinese cuisine’s international expansion, while overseas market experience offers valuable strategies for Quanzhou’s global growth.

　　Addressing the question of "Where should Quanzhou cuisine go?" President Liu Shuwen offered a compelling metaphor: "For Quanzhou cuisine to go global, we must collaborate with culinary professionals worldwide, much like using a plug adapter when traveling abroad. Quanzhou cuisine needs these ‘adapters’ to connect with the world and thrive."

Gift Exchange Between Liu Shuwen and Huang Meina

　　The event concluded with a ceremonial gift exchange between Liu Shuwen and Huang Meina. President Liu also announced the formation of a "Quanzhou Cuisine Promotion Group" to advance the city’s culinary heritage on the global stage. By learning from international markets and aligning with evolving global tastes, Quanzhou aims to secure its place in the world’s culinary spotlight.