The Welsh government and Visit Wales supported the conference, which hosted delegates from 20 different countries.

Domenico Maggi from Italy, a continental director for central and southern Europe, said: “The conference shows that well organised small countries can do an even better job than big countries.

“I think being a small country sometimes allows you to create a team spirit of collaboration and that shone out with everything that was done for this conference. It was really fantastic and an example for others to follow.”

The conferences also gave Wales the opportunity to express its desire to host a global event, the WorldChefs congress, in the future.

Speaking to the delegates, the CAW president Arwyn Watkins said: “The Celtic Manor Resort would like the Culinary Association of Wales to consider, in the future, hosting the WorldChefs congress, possibly in 2022 or 2024.

“It is something that we are seriously considering, but would rely on your support.”

Keith Smyton, head of the Welsh Government’s food division, was among the speakers at the conference.