Pakistan Army marks 98th anniversary of PLA with reaffirmation of Sino-Pak strategic partnership

By Our Staff Reporter

RAWALPINDI, Aug 1: The 98th anniversary of the founding of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) was commemorated at the General Headquarters (GHQ) on Friday, with senior military leadership of Pakistan and Chinese dignitaries reaffirming the enduring nature of the strategic partnership between the two countries.

Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan, Mr Jiang Zaidong, was the chief guest at the event, which was also attended by Major General Wang Zhong, Defence Attaché at the Chinese Embassy, embassy officials, and senior officers from Pakistan’s tri-services.

Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), warmly welcomed the Chinese delegation and extended heartfelt felicitations on the PLA’s 98th founding anniversary. In his address, the COAS lauded the PLA’s contribution to China’s defence and nation-building, praising its role as a cornerstone of China’s national security architecture.

Highlighting the deep-rooted nature of Pakistan-China relations, the Army Chief described the bilateral bond as "unique, time-tested and exceptionally resilient" in the face of shifting global and regional dynamics. He underscored that mutual trust, consistent support, and a shared vision for stability and development are hallmarks of this strategic partnership.

“The Pakistan Army and the PLA are true brothers-in-arms,” said Field Marshal Munir, adding that the relationship between the two militaries continues to be a force for regional peace and a guarantor of common strategic interests.

Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong, in his remarks, expressed gratitude to the COAS and the Pakistan Army for hosting the ceremony. He acknowledged Pakistan’s sacrifices in the fight against terrorism and reaffirmed China’s unwavering support for Pakistan in all strategic domains.

The commemorative event served as a reaffirmation of the close defence cooperation and mutual respect that have long characterised Pakistan-China ties, which continue to hold firm amid a rapidly transforming global security landscape.