RAWALPINDI: Pakistan’s Chief of Defence Forces Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir highlighted the strong defence partnership between Pakistan and China, saying the two countries armed forces remain committed to mutual trust, cooperation and shared strategic interests during a ceremony marking the 99th anniversary of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA).
The event was held at General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, where senior military officials, Chinese diplomats and representatives from both countries attended the ceremony, according to Pakistan’s Inter Services Public Relations (ISPR).
Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong attended the ceremony as the chief guest, along with China’s Defence Attache Major General Wang Zhong, officials from the Chinese Embassy and senior officers from Pakistan’s army, navy and air force.
Field Marshal Munir welcomed the Chinese delegation and congratulated the PLA on completing 99 years since its establishment. He praised the Chinese military’s role in strengthening China’s defence capabilities, supporting national development and contributing to international peace and security.
Addressing the gathering, Munir described Pakistan, China relations as a unique and long standing friendship that has remained strong despite changes in regional and global conditions.
He said Pakistan’s armed forces and the PLA are “true partners” whose relationship is based on mutual confidence, continued support and cooperation to promote peace and stability in the region.
Munir also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to further expanding military cooperation with China, by saying both countries share common strategic interests and remain dedicated to maintaining regional security.
Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong thanked Field Marshal Munir for hosting the ceremony and appreciated the efforts and sacrifices of Pakistan’s armed forces in combating terrorism.
Jiang also reiterated China’s continued support for Pakistan and expressed Beijing’s commitment to strengthening the two countries all weather strategic cooperative partnership.
The ceremony reflected the longstanding defence ties between Pakistan and China, which have expanded through military cooperation, joint training exercises and strategic coordination over several decades.
Both sides emphasized the importance of continued collaboration to address regional security challenges and promote peace through stronger bilateral relations. The PLA was established on Aug. 1, 1927, and has since become a key institution of China’s national defence system.
