Nine foreigners have received permanent residence permits recently in east China's Fujian Province, the first batch in the province, with the approval from the Ministry of Public Security.

The residence permit gainers are from France, the Netherlands, the United States, Japan, Canada, Indonesia and Philippines, who have contributed a lot to the economic, scientific and cultural undertakings in the province.

Dr. Kristofer Schipper, a famous Sinologist in Europe, has brought his family to Fuzhou, the provincial capital, several years ago.

At the age of 71, Schipper has served in several renowned universities and institutes in France and the Netherlands. Now, heis teaching the course of world civilization in Fuzhou University.

Another 12 foreign applicants for permanent residence in the province are going through examination and approval procedures in the public security organs.

China adopted the "green card" policy last year to open more to the foreign nationals and conforms with the international practices.

According to the regulations, high-level foreign personnel who hold posts in major businesses in the country or make a large amount of direct investment may apply for the permanent resident status in China, in addition to those who have made contributions to China.

(Xinhua News Agency December 5, 2005)