The UN General Assembly on Tuesday elected 47 members to the newly-created Human Rights Council through three rounds of secret ballot. China was elected to the council with 146 votes.

"The Chinese government has always been committed to the promotion and protection of human rights and basic freedoms," said Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Liu Jianchao here Wednesday.

The country has been actively involved in the promotion of human rights, he added.

"China supports the foundation of the UN Human Rights Council, and has made positive contribution to this end," Liu acknowledged.

As a member of the council, Liu noted, China will promote human rights within its territory and work with other members of the council.

China supports the council's efforts in handling human rights issues fairly, objectively and impartially, said Liu, adding that China values the political, economic, social and cultural rights of citizens.

The country also pledged to promote dialogue and cooperation between different civilizations, cultures and religions, the spokesman said.