Dried fruits in street markets of northwestern China. [Photo provided to China Daily]

"The Gastro Diplomacy Chef Competition is part of the Belt and Road Initiative," says Cointreau, "with two other chefs competitions in parallel".

The public is welcome to watch all three chefs' competition from May 22 to 24 at the National Convention Center, in Beijing's Olympic Park.

There will be numerous show kitchens, stands selling products, country food tourism stands, wine and drinks tastings, and conferences.

The results of last week's event－and similar programs around the world－will be announced then as the Top 100 Food Ingredients for the Belt and Road Initiative.