BEIJING - A training course for officers with the UN peacekeeping forces began in China on Monday.

The course, held jointly by the UN peacekeeping department and the Ministry of National Defense, is being held in the country for the first time.

A total of 26 senior peacekeeping experts from 17 countries will give lectures to peacekeeping commanders and soldiers.

The training will last until June 17, covering 23 subjects such as peacekeeping leadership, peacekeeping legal framework, civilian protection and logistical support.

During the opening ceremony, trainees stood in silent tribute to soldiers killed in past peacekeeping missions.

Herve Ladsous, head of the UN's Department of Peacekeeping Operations, spoke highly of Chinese peacekeeping soldiers at the ceremony. He also voiced his condolences to the departed and injured peacekeepers.

China has taken part in more than 24 UN peacekeeping missions in the past 26 years. More than 31,000 Chinese soldiers have served in operations, ranking first among all five permanent members of the UN Security Council.