Foreigners in China could be eligible for the title of "National Model Worker," one of China's highest honors, under a draft regulation that was opened to public comment on January 5.

The nationwide honor, which until now has been restricted to Chinese citizens, was started in 1950 and has been held once every five years since 1989. It commends exemplary figures from millions of the country's working people.

The State Council's draft on commendations and awards states that foreigners who have made remarkable contributions to China's socialist modernization can be honored. The regulation states that the laureates will be given material rewards.