The foreign experts recognized work in industry, agriculture, energy and environment protection, education, science and technology, health care and sports.

"China's Friendship Award is important, not simply because it recognizes contributions made by foreign experts, but because it serves as a statement of what is important to China. It reflects the commitment of government leaders to the future vitality of the country," said American David Heath, an award winner.

Heath said he hopes China's commitment to collaboration and intellectual exchange will be even greater in the future.

"We are honored to have been a part of China's remarkable history and remain committed to its future," Heath said.

Foreign experts working China totaled 480,000 person-trips in 2009,compared with fewer than 10,000 at the end of the 1980s.