A new Government programme to train African peacekeepers has been announced.
Minister for Foreign Affairs and Trade Charlie Flanagan has said Ireland would draw on its long experience of peacekeeping to help other countries assure regional security.
Speaking at a summit in New York, he said Ireland has a proud track record in UN peacekeeping missions over more than 50 years.
He said: "We want to assist prospective partners to enhance their own skills and capacities and to play their part in meeting the challenges of regional peace and security.
"Our training programme will draw on the widely-acknowledged expertise of Irish peacekeepers and also reflect UN best practice."
He said the training would include a focus on protection of civilians, gender sensitivity, human rights and leadership training and logistics.
Detailed planning on the scope, locations and focus of training is to be co-ordinated with the United Nations and European Union among others.
The minister made the announcement at the Strengthening United Nations Peace Operations summit.
