How do I craete interesting conversations and develop it? I look for common topic. I ask a question that gets attention. If people want to discuss that topic, they will provide half discussion to me.

At first, you can try to start a topic according to the interests of everyone,it's a good start, everyone can join in without embarass.Then you can start another topic according to the everyone's words,which topic make them happy,talktive,and relax.when everyone are willing to talk more and have a positve atmosphere,you can devolpe it into in-depth conversation :)

the topic of food is always a good topic for cultural exchange.

Jokes can be a starter, but it doesn't work well for cultural differences.And mostly ,the topics people interested are good begin ,if it goes well ,then go on to develop,but if it works bad,then you should stop to find another one .