Anovia- Under the patronage of the Ambassador of the Kingdom of Belgium, Serge Dickschen, the Embassy of Belgium hosted the Veliche Belgian Chocolate Night on Wednesday, an event dedicated to celebrating the artistry and heritage of Belgian chocolate.
Chef François Galtier, World Pastry Bronze Cup Winner and internationally acclaimed chocolatier and pastry consultant, crafted an exclusive chocolate menu that highlighted the creativity and depth of flavor of Veliche Gourmet Chocolate, offering guests a refined sensory journey of taste and artistic presentation.
The event was organized by Jozina for Food Trade, the exclusive distributor of Cargill’s Veliche Gourmet Belgian Chocolate in Jordan, in collaboration with the Embassy of Belgium.
In his opening remark, Dickschen emphasized the significance of such collaborations in strengthening economic and cultural ties between Belgium and Jordan.
“Belgium’s excellence in chocolate is part of our cultural heritage, and events like these go beyond gastronomy; they embody friendship, exchange, and the growth of business relationships between our two nations,” said the ambassador.
Shukri Salfiti, CEO of Jozina for Food Trade, expressed gratitude for the partnership and the shared vision that connects Belgian expertise with Jordan’s dynamic food industry.
In his speech, he stated that “the partnership with Cargill and Veliche Gourmet reflects our commitment to bringing world-class chocolate to Jordan while fostering meaningful collaborations that promote innovation and mutual growth.”
He told Anovia that the Belgian Chocolate Night was not merely an evening of indulgence, but a celebration of excellence and partnership, and a tribute to the craftsmanship and cultural exchange that unite Belgium and Jordan.
Salfiti added that Dickschen “graciously” opened his residence for the occasion, highlighting the event as a testament to the shared values of both nations; quality, authenticity, and creativity.
“Our collaboration with Veliche Gourmet is more than a business partnership,” said Salfiti, and added that “it is a shared journey toward excellence, one that inspires creativity and strengthens the bond between our two markets.”
The event also welcomed Yassir Dalil, Regional Manager for the Middle East and Africa at Cargill, Veliche, “whose presence underscored the company’s dedication to fostering global partnerships and expanding its presence across key regional markets,” according to Selfiti.
“His participation reaffirmed Cargill’s long-standing commitment to developing sustainable, high-quality collaborations within the Middle East’s rapidly growing gourmet and hospitality sector.”
The event brought together ministers, diplomats, business leaders, and distinguished guests, who experienced the essence of Belgian craftsmanship through a curated tasting session led by Chef François Galtier, joined by Chef Ilhame Guerrah, Veliche Regional Technical Chocolate and Pastry Chef, who presented exquisite creations that highlighted the artistry and versatility of Veliche Gourmet Chocolate.
Jozina for Food Trade, a leading B2B distributor of premium chocolate and pastry ingredients, continues to play a pivotal role in advancing Jordan’s confectionery industry by bridging international brands with local professionals. Through its exclusive partnership with Cargill – Veliche, Jozina offers technical expertise, professional training, and access to world-class ingredients, empowering chefs, artisans, and businesses across Jordan to achieve global standards of quality, innovation, and creativity.
Salfiti said that the Belgian Chocolate Night underscored the importance of continued collaboration between Belgian and Jordanian enterprises in driving trade and innovation, as it reinforced the value of building strong, long-term relationships that foster shared prosperity and open new opportunities for both markets within the gourmet and hospitality sectors.
“This event stands as a model of how strategic partnerships can enhance business exchange and strengthen the economic bridge between Belgium and Jordan.”
