The longstanding friendship of Pakistan and the People’s Republic of China (PRC) dates back to 1951. It was during this year that Pakistan recognized the PRC on May 21, and developed diplomatic relations with it. This made Pakistan the first among Muslim countries to recognize the PRC. Since then, both countries have remained good neighbors and collaborative partners, helping each other in different sectors.
On 18 July 2024, Pakistan hosted the 97th anniversary of the People Liberation Army (PLA) at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi.
Mr. Jiang Zaidong PRC’s ambassador to Pakistan, along with Major General Wang Zhong (Chinese military attaché) and other embassy officials attended the occasion. The delegation was welcomed by General Syed Asim Munir the Chief of Army Staff (COAS) of Pakistan, who congratulated and applauded the PLA and its crucial role in Chinese defense and national development.
The COAS regarded the relations between Pakistan and the PRC as “exceptional” based on “mutual trust and unwavering belief in each other’s support.” Moreover, the “bilateral defense cooperation” between the Pakistan Army and PLA was appreciated and their relations were stated as “strong” by the COAS.
The PRC ambassador, Mr. Jiang Zaidong appreciated the Pakistani military in “countering terrorism” and the sacrifices it has made for the “peace and stability of Pakistan and the region.” He affirmed the support of the PRC to Pakistan in countering terrorism. He emphasized that “no force can destroy the iron-clad friendship between China and Pakistan and the brotherhood between the two militaries.”
The Significance of the Occasion
Pakistan and China have significant defense collaborations. China is the largest supplier of arms to Pakistan. It provides Pakistan with tanks, ammunition, and rifles.
Both countries have also carried out many “Joint Development Projects” such as the manufacturing of JF-17 fighter jets. Such endeavors have brought the nations and their militaries remarkably closer to one another.
Therefore, celebrating each other’s existence strengthens the “Iron Clad brotherhood” between Pakistan and China.
The celebration of the PLA’s anniversary by the Pakistan army symbolizes the close relationship between the two militaries. It sends a message to the mutual enemies of both countries, highlighting their military cooperation. Moreover, it strengthens their commitment to each other and reinvigorates their goal of a “Strategic Partnership.”
