A charity dinner for the launch of a new African cook book titled "African Delicacies" took place in Beijing on April 28.

Before the charity dinner commenced, everyone in attendance observed one minute of silence in honor of the victims of the Lushan earthquake which happened a week ago.

Money from the book sales along with the money collected during the dinner will be donated to the victims of the earthquake.

The event's organizer, GAAS, which means Group of African Ambassador's Spouses in Beijing, committed itself to play a central role in strengthening the relationship between Chinese and African people.

The president of GAAS, who is the wife of Rwanda ambassador, Ms Anne Marie Ngarambe said the cook book "African Delicacies" would bring Africa's rich and diversified food culture to the tables of Chinese families.

The cook book introduces two of the most representative dishes from each of the 34 African countries, providing details on their origin, along with food ingredients and the preparation that is involved with making each dish.

This year marks the 50th anniversary of the African Union, and the 30th anniversary of GAAS Beijing. The organizers behind the cook book feel it will help present the beauty of African food culture to Chinese people.

Video: Lin Hanqing

Producer: Flora Yue