Hindu pilgrims wait in a line to receive free food distributed by a non-governmental group (NGO) before heading for an annual trip to Sagar Island for the one-day festival of "Makar Sankranti", in Kolkata January 11, 2015. [Photo/Agencies]

SHANGHAI-- China highly appreciates the contributions made by overseas non-governmental organizations (NGO), and will further support their friendly activities in China, said Guo Shengkun, Minister of Public Security on Saturday.

Guo made the remarks during a symposium on overseas NGOs, attended by China's Ministry of Foreign Affairs, Ministry of Public Security and Ministry of Civil Affairs, along with the representatives of some renowned overseas NGOs and consul-generals of the United States, Britain and Germany in Shanghai.

Guo said the Chinese government would provide more convenience to foreign NGOs in China.

Thousands of overseas NGOs have entered China since its opening-up in late 1970s, bringing advanced technologies and management skills.