On the 93rd anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Chief of Army Staff General Qamar Javed Bajwa said both military countries were core components of Pak-China strategic ties.

Celebrations to mark the 93rd anniversary of the establishment of the PLA took place at the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR) on Saturday. Defense Attaché Major General Chen Wenrong and his delegation attended the event at the Chinese embassy.

DG ISPR Major General Babar Iftikhar has invited the delegation to ISPR on behalf of COAS General Qamar Javed Bajwa, according to the military media wing. The DG ISPR also congratulated the PLA on the momentous occasion and conveyed appreciation to all ranks of the PLA from the chief of the army and all ranks of armed forces.

COAS Gen Qamar Bajwa said,

“Pakistan Army and PLA are the key components of Pak-China strategic relations and we are proud to be brothers in arms.”

Speaking at the ceremony, Major General Chen Wenrong said military relations between China and Pakistan have improved over the years.

“The two countries have forged an all-weather strategic partnership and China highly values the efforts made by Pakistan in all fields especially during COVID-19. China-Pakistan friendship will remain evergreen,” said Major General Wenrong.

The Chinese general also expressed his appreciation to the ISPR office for organizing the commemoration ceremony, according to the ISPR.

In the meantime, Yao Jing, a Chinese ambassador to Pakistan, also sent a message of congratulations on PLA day. He highlighted that the military links between Pakistan and China are a significant pillar of the two countries’ strategic ties.

“China looks forward to further expanding and enhancing military cooperation with Pakistan to make new contributions to the consolidation of bilateral relations and the maintenance of peace and stability in the region and beyond,” said the Chinese envoy.