ULAN BATOR, June 28 (Xinhua) -- An annual multinational peacekeeping exercise, code-named Khaan Quest 2018, concluded with a closing ceremony at Five Hills Training Area near the Mongolian capital on Thursday.

"First of all, I would like to express my sincere appreciation to all participating countries for sending their military servicemen to the multinational military exercise," Mongolian Prime Minister Ukhnaa Hurelsukh said at the closing ceremony of the military exercise.

"Peace and tranquility are the foundation of a nation's development. Therefore, Mongolia always welcomes any initiative to strengthen international and regional peace and security, and actively participates in the UN (United Nations) peacekeeping operations," he said.

A total of 1,400 military personnel from 26 countries, including Mongolia, the United States, China, Russia, Germany, Bhutan and Qatar have participated in the two-week-long military exercise.

Bhutan and Qatar's military servicemen have for the first time participated in the exercise.

Khaan Quest 2018 consisted of a command post exercise and a field training exercise focusing on peacekeeping and stability operations. Individual events include checkpoint control, combat casualty care, water patrolling and civilian protection.

Within the framework of Khaan Quest 2018, the participants provided medical treatment to more than 1,000 citizens.

In addition, cultural and sports events were held during the exercise, with the aim of promoting the traditions and customs of all participating countries.

The peacekeeping exercise was launched in 2003 by the Mongolian Armed Forces (MAF) in cooperation with the then U.S. Pacific Command and a United Nations peace support fund. It expanded to a multinational drill in 2006.