Pakistan and China have once again reaffirmed the strength of their longstanding strategic partnership, with Chief of Defence Forces (CDF) and Chief of Army Staff (COAS) Field Marshal Syed Asim Munir describing the relationship between the two countries as “unique, time-tested and steadfast” despite evolving regional and global challenges.
Speaking at a ceremony marking the 99th anniversary of the founding of China’s People’s Liberation Army (PLA) at the General Headquarters (GHQ) in Rawalpindi, the field marshal highlighted the deep-rooted ties between Islamabad and Beijing, emphasising that the relationship continues to serve as a pillar of regional peace and stability. According to the ISPR, the event was attended by China’s Ambassador to Pakistan Jiang Zaidong, Chinese Defence Attache Major General Wang Zhong, officials of the Chinese Embassy, and senior officers from Pakistan’s tri-services.
Welcoming the distinguished guests, Field Marshal Munir extended his congratulations to the PLA on its 99th founding anniversary and paid tribute to its contributions to China’s national defence, economic development, and efforts toward international peace and security.
Reflecting on the enduring partnership between the two countries, the CDF said the friendship had remained resilient despite shifting geopolitical realities and changing global dynamics. He noted that Pakistan and China have consistently stood by one another through challenging times, strengthening mutual trust and expanding cooperation across defence, economic, and diplomatic spheres.
جی ایچ کیو راولپنڈی میں پیپلز لبریشن آرمی کے 99 ویں یوم تاسیس کی تقریب#GHQRawalpindi #PeoplesLiberationArmy #PakistanChinaFriendship #PakistanArmy #99thFoundationDayCeremony pic.twitter.com/cTGtoPL6pB
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The field marshal underscored that Pakistan’s armed forces and the PLA are true strategic partners bound by unwavering support, mutual confidence, and a shared commitment to safeguarding common strategic interests. He said the defence relationship between the two militaries continues to deepen through regular exchanges, joint exercises, training programmes, and enhanced strategic coordination. He also reaffirmed Pakistan’s commitment to working alongside China to promote regional peace, stability, and collective security. The remarks reflected Islamabad’s longstanding position that close cooperation between the two neighbours contributes to maintaining balance and fostering development across the wider region.
Addressing the gathering, Chinese Ambassador Jiang Zaidong thanked Field Marshal Munir for hosting the commemorative ceremony and expressed appreciation for Pakistan’s enduring friendship with China. He acknowledged the sacrifices made by Pakistan’s armed forces in the fight against terrorism, recognising their significant role in promoting regional security. The ambassador reiterated Beijing’s unwavering support for Pakistan and reaffirmed China’s commitment to further strengthening the All-Weather Strategic Cooperative Partnership between the two countries. He said China highly values its comprehensive relationship with Pakistan and remains committed to expanding cooperation in areas of mutual interest.
Pakistan and China have maintained close strategic ties for decades, with cooperation extending beyond defence to encompass infrastructure development, trade, energy, technology, and regional connectivity. The China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC), the flagship project of the Belt and Road Initiative, remains one of the most visible symbols of this partnership and reflects the shared vision of long-term economic cooperation.
The ceremony at GHQ served as another reminder of the depth of bilateral relations and the importance both countries attach to their strategic partnership. As regional and international dynamics continue to evolve, leaders from both sides reaffirmed that the Pakistan-China friendship remains rooted in mutual respect, shared interests, and an enduring commitment to peace, security, and common development.
