Contribute more to UN peacekeeping

President Xi Jinping of China addresses attendees during the 70th session of the United Nations General Assembly at the UN Headquarters in New York, September 28, 2015.[Photo/Agencies]

What is the best way for the world to understand that a stronger China will shoulder greater international responsibilities? A quick answer is: peacekeeping.

China's peacekeeping record is honorable. Since 1990 it has sent more than 30,000 peacekeepers abroad. Now 2,883 military officers and soldiers are serving in nine different zones, stretching from the Middle East to western Sahara.

But Beijing can and will do more.

According to UN Secretary-General Ban Ki-moon, the number of major violent conflicts has almost tripled since 2008. UN peacekeeping operations now deploy more than 128,000 people on 39 missions, more than at any time in history. Still the proliferation of conflicts is outpacing the UN efforts. In short, Beijing has what Ban Ki-moon needs most: manpower. Beijing has a large pool of armed forces and police personnel that can contribute more to UN peacekeeping efforts.

Another advantage that China has is the quality of its manpower. The UN needs infantry soldiers for patrols, but it needs more sophisticated "enablers" such as engineers, helicopters and their crews, transport companies, communicators and medical personnel. Beijing has them all.

Chinese peacekeepers are among the most welcomed by the UN and local people. They are considered diligent and disciplined. Misconducts such as sexual exploitation and abuse by some UN peacekeepers in host countries are inconceivable for any of them.

China has all the reason to beef up its peacekeeping efforts to consolidate its credibility, enhance its image or protect its own interests. To a large extent, the UN is synonymous with peacekeeping. As one of the permanent members of the UN Security Council, all UN resolutions including those on peacekeeping will at least, in part, reflect China's views on global governance. An increased number of Chinese peacekeepers will help enhance the image of China as a responsible nation. That would be in China's own interest, too.