A well-known Austrian shipping tycoon received the title "Friendship Ambassador" in Beijing on Thursday for his contribution to China-Austria ties.

Dr. Helmut Sohmen, the Austrian-China Friendship Association honorary chairman, was recognized by the Chinese People's Association for Friendship with Foreign Countries (CPAFFC).

Sohmen, chief of the BW Group shipping company, had set up foundations to boost exchange between young Austrian entrepreneurs and scholars and their Chinese counterparts. He also sponsored Sino-Austria seminars and Chinese students to study overseas.

At the ceremony, CPAFFC president Chen Haosu praised the enduring efforts of Sohmen for China-Austria friendship.

Sohmen, also son-in-law of shipping magnate Pao Yue-kong, expressed his delight and appreciation for the recognition of his "small efforts to strengthen the relationship between Austria and China," adding he would continue to contribute to the friendly ties.

The Friendship Ambassador title, established by the CPAFFC in 1990, is conferred to renowned international figures who have made great contributions to the friendship between China and foreign countries.

The title has been given more than 70 times with the recipients including ex-International Olympic Committee president Juan Antonio Samaranch, British scholar Dr. Joseph Needham and Thai Princess Sirindhorn.

(Xinhua News Agency October 10, 2008)