On Jan. 12, 2000, China sent its first batch of peacekeeping forces to East Timor. According to the Ministry of Public Security, China sent over the past 10 years 1,569 peacekeepers to carry out peacekeeping missions in Afghanistan, Bosnia and Herzegovina, Kosovo, Liberia, Sudan and Haiti. They have had no casualties, no discipline violations and never left in the middle of a mission. [Editor's note: 8 Chinese peacekeepers died in the Haiti earthquake on Jan. 12.] For their efforts, Chinese peacekeeping troops were awarded U.N. peace medals.

More than 30 Chinese officers have held middle- and high-level positions in the mission areas. Two of them worked at the UN headquarters in New York, and five are training officers for UN peacekeeping troops.

Chinese peacekeeping troops have helped crack down on local crimes, protect human rights and rebuild local enforcement teams. They also have undertaken tasks of patrolling, community safeguarding and investigations. Despite complicated political situations, severe living conditions and dangerous missions, they also participated in several special missions to confiscate illegal weapons, demobilize illegal armed forces and assist in refugee allocation. They have made a great contribution to regional peace and stability, as well as people's lives and safety.

Chinese peacekeeping troops also collaborate with Chinese institutions and organizations in the country of residence to protect the rightful interests of Chinese people and companies. In addition, they play a role in displaying the progress and development of Chinese society and open a window to China for people and the international community.

During the missions, Chinese peacekeeping troops bring China's love and care to local children and people in need. Their work has strengthened communication and exchange between China and the UN, enhanced understanding and friendship among peacekeeping troops, and promoted China's cooperation with international organizations. Chinese peacekeeping troops have helped to show that China is a responsible country.