It is the duty of the diplomats. Western diplomats regularly hold meetings with varieties of factions, such as NGOs or even opposition political parties in other countries. They cultivated relationships with as many factions as possible. Sure, this can anger the ruling regime, but most can only swallow their anger. The benefit ooutweigh the cost in my opinion. Chinese diplomats need to do the same. NGOs particularly could be a staunch allies or stubborn enemies as we have witnessed in many countries. They are the one that usually against Chinese investments. Cultivating relationship with them could turn them into powerful allies for China.