At an event marking the 98th anniversary of the founding of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA), Pakistan’s Chief of Army Staff, Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir, highlighted the unshakeable military and strategic ties between Islamabad and Beijing, framing the alliance as a rare example of trust, cooperation, and shared geopolitical vision.
The ceremony took place at Pakistan Army’s General Headquarters (GHQ) on Friday, with China’s Ambassador to Pakistan, Jiang Zaidong, attending as the chief guest. Senior officers from both countries, including PLA Defence Attaché Major General Wang Zhong and officials from the Chinese Embassy, were present to commemorate the occasion.
A Bond That Withstands Global Shifts
Speaking at the event, Field Marshal Munir described the Pakistan-China partnership as a “model of enduring trust,” noting that the relationship continues to thrive despite changing global alignments and regional challenges. He underscored that the cooperation between the two countries—especially in the military domain—remains unaffected by external pressures or transient political shifts.
Munir praised the PLA’s role not just in safeguarding China’s sovereignty, but also in contributing to its economic and strategic rise. He drew parallels between the disciplined professionalism of both militaries and affirmed that the partnership between the Pakistan Army and the PLA is a cornerstone of stability in South Asia.
China Thanks Pakistan for Longstanding Support
In return, Ambassador Jiang Zaidong expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s consistent support and acknowledged the sacrifices of its armed forces in the fight against terrorism. He emphasized that China views Pakistan as a vital strategic ally, and reiterated Beijing’s commitment to deepening military and diplomatic cooperation.
Zaidong also noted that the shared vision of regional security and development is what continues to strengthen the Pak-China relationship at every level—from counterterrorism efforts to joint defense initiatives.
Strategic Takeaway
While the event was ceremonial in nature, the messaging was unmistakably strategic. As tensions simmer in multiple regions, including the Indo-Pacific and the Middle East, Pakistan and China are sending a clear signal: their defense collaboration is not symbolic—it’s tactical, time-tested, and here to stay.