ST. PETERSBURG, Aug. 24 (Xinhua) -- A Chinese youth delegation consisting of the offspring of police officers killed on duty was visiting St. Petersburg.

The "Children of Martyrs" delegation was welcomed Friday by the Chinese Consulate in St. Petersburg.

"The dedication of your parents and their peers has protected our people, safeguarded our national interest and made our job safer," said Consul-General Ji Yanchi.

During the 10-day visit, 14 Chinese children from 11 provinces would learn to improve their teamwork skills, self-discipline and independent decision-making.

More than 400 policemen were killed and about 3,500 injured each year on duty in China. Families of the officers, especially their children, have been granted financial aid by the government, according to head of the delegation Xu Hui.

The annual exchange program, organized by China's Ministry of Public Security and Russia's Interior Ministry, was launched in 2007.