Q: It is reported that China will send a 700-strong United Nations (UN) peacekeeping mission to South Sudan early next year. This will be the first time for China to send an infantry battalion to UN peacekeeping operation. What significance does it bear?

A: At the invitation of the UN, China will send 700 peacekeeping infantry troops to South Sudan, the first time that China sends a peacekeeping infantry battalion to UN peacekeeping operation. This shows the importance China attaches to safeguarding international peace and security and the support China extends to the UN, and demonstrates that China is taking a more extensive and in-depth part in peacekeeping operations. It is also a proof of China taking international responsibility as a major country.

Being a firm supporter and active participant of UN peacekeeping operations, China contributes the most peacekeepers among the five permanent members of the UN Security Council. China has sent nearly 30,000 peacekeepers to UN peacekeeping operations. As we speak, there are over 2,100 Chinese peacekeepers performing their duty in conflicting areas. With the growth of China's national strength, we will continue to staunchly support and participate in more UN peacekeeping operations, and make more and new contributions to safeguarding world peace and security.