Pakistan-China Friendship Remains Strong Despite All Challenges: CDF Asim Munir

ISLAMABAD: The 99th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) of the People’s Republic of China was commemorated at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi on Saturday, reaffirming the longstanding defence partnership between Pakistan and China.

Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong attended the ceremony as the guest of honour. Major General Wang Zhong, China’s Defence Attaché, officials of the Chinese Embassy and senior officers from Pakistan’s tri-services were also present.

According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, welcomed the guests and congratulated the PLA on its 99th founding anniversary.

Field Marshal Asim Munir said the friendship between Pakistan and China has remained strong despite facing various challenges. He described the bilateral relationship as unique, time-tested and resilient in the face of evolving regional and global challenges.

He paid tribute to the PLA’s contributions to China’s defence, national development, and international peace and security.

The field marshal said the Pakistan Armed Forces and the PLA are true partners, bound by mutual trust, unwavering support and a shared commitment to regional peace, stability and the protection of common strategic interests.

Speaking at the event, Ambassador Jiang thanked Field Marshal Asim Munir for hosting the commemorative ceremony. He appreciated the contributions and sacrifices of the Pakistan Armed Forces in the fight against terrorism and reiterated China’s continued support for Pakistan.

The ambassador also reaffirmed Beijing’s commitment to further strengthening the All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership between the two countries.