China sends peacekeeping troops to Darfur

A total of 105 Chinese officers and soldiers departed on Tuesday from east China's Ji'nan city for Sudan's Darfur on a peacekeeping mission, according to military sources.

The peacekeepers, part of a 225-strong team, will build airports, bridges and roads while providing medical aid for local residents.

The team has received training in English, UN peacekeeping regulations and local customs.

A second batch of 120 soldiers and officers will set off on Aug 27.