The photo exhibition that marks the 25th anniversary of China's participation in UN peacekeeping operations "provides a small taste of the major efforts undertaken by Chinese peacekeepers," said a UN official at Monday's exhibition at the UN headquarters.
"It is a pleasure to commemorate the 25th anniversary of the strong partnership for peace and security between China and the UN," UN Undersecretary-General for Communications and Public Information Cristina Gallach said in a speech on behalf of UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon.
"We honor the invaluable contribution of the Chinese armed forces to the UN peacekeeping operations across the world," she said.
A total of 64 photos and paintings offer viewers a rare chance to see Chinese peacekeepers in action, such as building roads and bridges, digging water wells, transporting humanitarian aid and providing medical care.
"Peacekeeping saves lives, protects people and helps countries overcome war and unrest," said Gallach. "Chinese peacekeepers have been contributing to these noble causes. I pay tribute to the 10 Chinese women and men who lost their lives in the line of peace."
China is a major troop and funds contributor. Currently, among the 16 UN peacekeeping operations worldwide, Chinese peacekeepers participated in nine, said Liu Jieyi, China's permanent UN envoy.
Gallach said China has taken part in 29 missions since 1990, demonstrating the country's commitment to multilateral solutions to conflict.
At the recent UN Leaders' Summit on Peacekeeping, the pledges put forward by Chinese President Xi Jinping will provide much needed capabilities for UN missions, she added.
"We are very grateful for such contributions. We look forward to continue our partnership with the Chinese government to turn these pledges into action," she said.
Today, more than 3,000 Chinese military and police personnel, including 68 women, are serving in 10 peacekeeping missions.
The week-long exhibition is organized by China's permanent mission to the United Natopms, the Peacekeeping Affairs Office and the International Communications Bureau of the Ministry of National Defense.
