A new website, www.ngocb-csrn.prj.cn, was launched in Beijing recently, aiming to bring together Chinese NGOs (non-government organizations) and local and foreign-funded companies to carry out charity programs in the country.

The website is operated by the NGOCB-CSRN Network and co-sponsored by Lafarge China Co., Ltd. and Beijing Hong Shang Consultancy Company, according to Nicolas Lecerf, a communications official with the French company Lafarge.

"For a long time, NGOs have contributed immensely to public welfare and thus, social progress," said Nicolas.

The website, which is named after the organization, will provide a platform for the much-needed exchange of ideas between companies and NGOs, he said, adding, "Also, it will be conducive to the cooperation in such areas as poverty alleviation, orphan protection, disabled-caring, as well as environmental conservation."

Lafarge is a world leader in manufacturing building materials, while its partner, a sponsor of the charity website Hong Shang, is mainly engaged in introducing French investment in China.

(Xinhua News Agency December 24, 2005)