ISLAMABAD - 94th Anniversary of the founding of Chinese Peoples’ Liberation Army (PLA) was commemorated at GHQ in Rawalpindi on Thursday.
Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa was the Chief Guest on this occasion, says a press release issued by the Inter-Services Public Relations Directorate. Ambassador of China to Pakistan, Mr Nong Rong, Defence Attache Major General Chen Wenrong, officials from Chinese Embassy and officers from tri-services of Pakistan attended the event.
Speaking on the occasion, China’s Defence Attaché thanked COAS for hosting a reception on the eve of PLA’s 94th Anniversary. Recalling Chinese President Mr Xi Jinping’s view that Pakistan Armed Forces are the mainstay of Pak-China strategic relations, the Defence Attaché said China and Pakistan are iron brothers, all-weather friends and strategic partners. No matter how the world situation changes, we will always stand together in safeguarding our national sovereignty, territorial integrity and maintaining regional peace and stability.
COAS felicitated PLA’s leadership and lauded PLA’s role in China’s defence, security and nation building. Highlighting various facets of the deep rooted ties between the two states, militaries and the people, COAS said Pakistan China relationship is unique and robust that has proven its resilience in the face of challenges. In the evolving security milieu, Pakistan China partnership is becoming increasingly important for regional peace and stability. COAS said our past and present testifies that we never given in to challenges. PLA and Pakistan Army are brothers in arms and our relationship will continue to contribute towards safeguarding our collective interests, COAS concluded.
An impressive ceremony
The ceremony held at GHQ to commemorate 94th PLA anniversary was very impressive. The ceremony was specially arranged by the ISPR. The Chinese Ambassador and Defence attaches and members of Chinese embassy were given a very warm welcome.
The guests were stunned by the grandeur of the event. To mark the day the military band welcomed the guests playing Chinese tunes. The venue was specially decorated with Chinese colours theme.
Specially, a Chinese flag was made of red roses. There was pictures exhibition showcasing historic photos of military engagement and exercises. The venue was lit up with Chinese lanterns.
Special Chinese and Pakistani flags were highlight of the event. To pay tribute to Pak China relations a special documentary prepared by ISPR was also aired and special song was sung by Ali Zafar and Chinese singer was part of the ceremony. Chinese Ambassador and Defence Attache specially thanked COAS for not only gracing the occasion but also for giving a very warm welcome.
Belgian Ambassador to Pakistan calls on COAS
Meanwhile, Belgian Ambassador to Pakistan Mr Philippe Bronchain called on Chief of Army Staff (COAS) General Qamar Javed Bajwa at GHQ on Thursday.
“During the meeting matters of mutual interest, regional security situation including latest situation in Afghanistan and enhanced bilateral & defence cooperation were discussed,” the ISPR said. COAS said that Pakistan earnestly looks forward to enhance mutually beneficial multi-domain relations with Belgium based on common interests.
Visiting dignitary appreciated Pakistan’s sincere efforts for bringing peace and stability in the region, especially the Afghan Peace Process. Both sides reiterated the commitment to enhance bilateral relationship at all tiers.