Chinese authorities on Thursday launched the seventh national campaign to identify and honor ethical role models.

A total of between 50 and 60 "moral models" will be chosen and recognized for their outstanding deeds of helping other people, acting bravely for a just cause, being honest and trustworthy, working hard and "making great contributions" or showing filial piety and love for their family, according to a circular jointly issued by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and five other agencies.

Members of the public are urged to recommend candidates from late March, and a vote will be held in June.

According to authorities at a conference held Thursday on the campaign, this year's event to honor ethical role models is an important step to create a favorable atmosphere for the celebration of the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China.

The campaign was first conducted in 2007.