The locals are fishing on bamboo rafts on the picturesque Lijiang River.

'The photos,' he said, 'show the diversity of China's natural environment and its ecological zones. They inspire us to protect it for future generations. China is emphasizing ecological awareness and protection.'

'We're very fortunate to be able to showcase China's beauty through photos exhibited on the fi rst fl oor, which will be seen by many delegates, staff and visitors,' he added.

The exhibition is based on the book China: Land in Five Colors, originally published by Red Flag Press in Chinese. The English version of the book is frequently presented as a state gift on diplomatic occasions.

Tao Hua, the book's editor and creator of the exhibit, said the volume features 400 photos from 134 of China's top photographers.