FIFTY people from 18 countries were given the Magnolia Silver Award yesterday in recognition of their contribution to Shanghai’s development.

The expatriate contributions, made in the fields of business, finance, shipping, education, tourism, science, health, culture and international exchange, have injected strong vitality into the city, said Zhang Xiaosong, director-general of the city’s foreign affairs office, who presented the silver awards.

“Since the reform and opening-up policy was introduced, many foreigners have come here and participated in development of the city, making Shanghai their second home and actively promoting cooperation between Shanghai and the rest of the world in many fields,” Zhang said.