China Army Day: PLA marks 98 years as global peace enabler with Pakistan as key strategic ally
Islamabad: As China celebrates the 98th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA), the military force continues to emerge as a global symbol of peace, stability, and strategic cooperation — with Pakistan standing out as a key partner in its evolving international role.
According to Kashmir Media Service, founded on August 1, 1927, during the historic Nanchang Uprising, the PLA began as an armed resistance movement led by Chinese communists against the Nationalist government. Today, it has grown into the world’s largest and one of the most technologically advanced armed forces, encompassing land, sea, air, and strategic units.
President Xi Jinping has reiterated China’s commitment to a defense-oriented military policy, stating that the PLA remains a staunch force in maintaining world peace. Over the past three decades, more than 50,000 Chinese peacekeepers have taken part in United Nations peacekeeping missions across world, highlighting the PLA’s commitment to global stability.
In recent years, the PLA’s role has expanded beyond traditional national defense to proactive engagement in regional and international peace efforts.
A cornerstone of this strategic outreach is the deepening military partnership between China and Pakistan. The collaboration between the Pakistan Armed Forces and the PLA spans multiple domains — from joint military drills and counter-terrorism cooperation to advanced weapons development and technology sharing.
A prime example of this growing cooperation was seen during the Indo-Pakistan Conflict of 2025, where Chinese-origin JF-17 Thunder and J-10C fighter jets played a pivotal role in Pakistan’s successful defense, drawing international attention to the efficacy of Sino-Pak military collaboration.
The maritime front of this alliance has also been significantly strengthened. The PNS Tughral — a guided-missile frigate based on China’s Type 054A design — has become one of the most powerful and technologically advanced warships in the Pakistan Navy’s fleet, symbolizing the depth of naval cooperation between the two countries.
On this occasion, the Pakistan Army commended the PLA for its transformation into a key pillar of peace, stability, and shared prosperity. The strategic trust and military partnership between the two allies continue to serve as a vital counterweight to regional instability and hegemonic ambitions in Asia.
