A major human rights exhibition kicked off in the capital on Friday, showcasing the country's efforts to protect human rights.

The 10-day exhibition, the largest of its kind ever held in Beijing, features more than 700 pictures, 250 legal documents, 330 books and 24 diagrams on human rights, which "truthfully record China's efforts to promote and safeguard the people's right to life and right to develop and, more broadly, their political, economic, social and cultural rights," organizers said.

"We hope the exhibition will give people a more comprehensive and objective understanding of human rights in China, a clearer picture of how human rights have developed in the Chinese context and more confidence in China's commitment to human rights as it builds a harmonious socialist society," said Cai Wu, director of the Information Office of the State Council, at the opening ceremony of the exhibition at the Cultural Palace of Nationalities.

The exhibition reflects China's recognition of and respect for UN statement on human rights and basic international human rights principles, Cai said.