Islamabad: Pakistan and China celebrated the 99th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in Islamabad on Wednesday evening with the high-profile ceremony emerging as a strong demonstration of the two countries’ deepening strategic partnership and expanding defence cooperation.
The commemorative event, hosted by Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong and Defence Attaché Major General Wang Zhong, brought together senior Pakistani civil and military officials, diplomats and members of the diplomatic corps, highlighting the enduring strength of the Pakistan-China “all-weather strategic cooperative partnership.”
Pakistan’s Chief of Air Staff Air Chief Marshal Zaheer Babar Sidhu attended as chief guest and congratulated the Chinese leadership, the Communist Party of China and the People’s Liberation Army on the occasion of the PLA’s 99th founding anniversary.
Describing Pakistan-China ties as “time-tested and enduring,” the Air Chief said the bilateral relationship has continued to flourish despite evolving regional and international dynamics. He noted that mutual trust, strategic coordination and unwavering support for each other’s core interests have transformed the friendship into one of the world’s most resilient bilateral partnerships.
He emphasized that cooperation between the armed forces of Pakistan and China has become a vital pillar of regional peace, collective security and strategic stability, adding that military collaboration continues to expand through joint exercises, professional exchanges, defence technology cooperation and institutional engagement.
Air Chief Marshal Sidhu said Pakistan remained committed to broadening defence cooperation with China while simultaneously strengthening collaboration in economic, technological, industrial and cultural sectors. He expressed confidence that the comprehensive partnership would continue contributing to peace, prosperity and stability throughout the region.
Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong thanked Pakistan’s military leadership for participating in the celebrations and reaffirmed Beijing’s appreciation for Pakistan’s consistent friendship and strategic support.
He said the PLA anniversary commemorates not only China’s military achievements over nearly a century but also symbolizes the enduring friendship and strategic trust that continue to define China-Pakistan relations.
Chinese Major General Wang Zhong said defence cooperation between the two countries has continued to expand steadily, reflecting the shared commitment of both sides to safeguarding regional security and promoting common development.
Founded in 1927, the People’s Liberation Army is the principal armed wing of the Communist Party of China and the armed forces of the People’s Republic of China. With approximately 2.03 million active-duty personnel, the PLA remains the world’s largest standing military, comprising the Ground Force, Navy, Air Force, Rocket Force and Aerospace Force.
Under President Xi Jinping, China is implementing one of the most ambitious military modernization programmes in its history, seeking to transform the PLA into a world-class military by 2027. The modernization drive includes the rapid expansion of advanced naval capabilities, next-generation aerospace platforms, hypersonic missile systems, cyber warfare capabilities and strategic deterrence assets.
The ceremony concluded with Pakistan and China reaffirming their commitment to further deepening defence collaboration, expanding strategic coordination and strengthening the enduring partnership that continues to serve as an important pillar of regional peace, security and long-term stability. A generous dinner was served after the cake cutting.
