Experts of the ASEAN Regional Forum (ARF) have gathered in the eastern Chinese city of Qingdao to discuss plans to enhance peacekeeping cooperation, aiming to strengthen partnership and boost operational effectiveness. 

The topics include promoting the understanding of UN Peacekeeping mission mandates. 

The discussions are also focusing on improving training and protecting peacekeepers. Experts say UN peacekeeping missions face new challenges and new situations, and the meeting is of great importance in which people can pool the wisdom and come up with new solutions. 

"I think this meeting will help us share best practices and also learn from each other. I think such meetings are very useful to help us to know each other better and also to learn what's going on in the peacekeeping outside," said Sunil Kumar, head of the Singaporean delegation. 

Since its establishment in 1994, the ARF has become a platform for multilateral security dialogues and collaboration. The peacekeeping experts' meeting is one of the most important agendas of the forum. 

"What I see about the meeting is that it means to strengthen regional cooperation. And to support UN missions internationally. I think it is very important to share our experience," said Lieutenant General Savoeun Ker of the Cambodian National Center for Peacekeeping Forces.

China is among the major supporters of UN peacekeeping missions. Currently, the People's Liberation Army (PLA) has deployed 2,500 troops across seven mission zones. UN officials speak highly of the Chinese blue helmets' contributions over the years. 

"China has taken a key role, a leading role in peacekeeping in terms of many areas. In the near future, I think China will continue to enhance its capability and give proficient support for the UN," said Lieutenant General Carlos Society, military adviser to the UN secretary-general. 

The PLA has sent a total of 40,000 personnel on 24 operations since 1990. China once stated that no matter how the situation changes, China's determination in helping the UN peacekeeping mission remains unchanged. 

During the meeting, China says it will honor its commitment to world peace, and together with ARF members, enhance practical cooperation to make more contributions to regional and world stability.