BEIJING - China conferred the Friendship Award, the highest honor given by the Chinese government to foreign experts, to 50 foreign specialists here on Friday.

The foreigners, skilled in such areas as industry, agriculture, energy and healthcare, are from 22 countries.

Addressing the award-conferring ceremony, Chinese State Councilor Ma Kai said foreign experts are an important force driving China's modernization.

China will open wider to the outside world, and stick to the policy of introducing foreign talents, Ma said, adding that China will improve regulations to protect intellectual property right and encourage innovation.

Foreign talents are welcome to work and start businesses in China, he said.

The Friendship Award scheme was established in 1991.