“Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir hails Pakistan-China friendship as unique and time-tested, while Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong reiterates Beijing’s unwavering support for Pakistan and commitment to strengthening the All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership.”

RAWALPINDI, Saturday, August 1, 2026 (WNP): Pakistan and China reaffirmed their longstanding strategic defence partnership on Saturday as 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.

Chinese Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong attended the ceremony as the Guest of Honour, accompanied by Major General Wang Zhong, Defence Attaché of China, officials of the Chinese Embassy and senior military officers representing Pakistan’s tri-services.

Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, NI (M), HJ, Chief of Army Staff and Chief of Defence Forces, welcomed the distinguished guests and congratulated the People’s Liberation Army on its 99th founding anniversary, paying tribute to the PLA’s significant contributions to China’s national defence, socio-economic development, and international peace and security.

Highlighting the enduring strength of Pakistan-China ties, the Field Marshal described the friendship between the two countries as unique, time-tested and resilient in the face of evolving regional and global challenges.

He reaffirmed that the Pakistan Armed Forces and the People’s Liberation Army remain true strategic partners, bound by mutual trust, unwavering support and a shared commitment to promoting regional peace, stability and safeguarding common strategic interests.

Addressing the gathering, Ambassador Jiang Zaidong thanked the Field Marshal for hosting the commemorative event and appreciated the Pakistan Armed Forces’ immense sacrifices and contributions in combating terrorism.

The Chinese envoy also reaffirmed China’s unwavering support for Pakistan and reiterated Beijing’s firm commitment to further strengthening the All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership between the two friendly countries.

The ceremony reflected the deep-rooted defence cooperation and enduring strategic partnership that continue to underpin Pakistan-China relations across military, diplomatic and regional security domains.