Chinese Defense Attache to South Africa Wu Wei speaks at a reception marking the 99th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) in Pretoria, South Africa, July 30, 2026. (Xinhua/Chen Wei)
PRETORIA, July 31 (Xinhua) -- The Chinese Embassy in South Africa on Thursday hosted a reception to celebrate the 99th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA).
South African government and military officials, defense attaches from various countries, members of local communities and overseas Chinese attended the event, highlighting the friendship between China and South Africa.
Speaking at the reception, Chinese Ambassador to South Africa Wu Peng underscored China's commitment to peaceful development and a national defense policy that is defensive in nature.
"We have demonstrated through concrete actions that China consistently and firmly supports the UN's core role, continuously increasing its contribution to UN peacekeeping operations," Wu said, adding that the PLA remains a steadfast force for maintaining world peace and stability.
Chinese Defense Attache to South Africa Wu Wei reviewed the PLA's development over the past 99 years, saying that the Chinese military has made historic contributions to saving the nation from peril and achieving national liberation.
The Chinese military stands ready to work with its counterparts around the world to pursue practical and friendly cooperation, advance the vision of a community with a shared future for humanity, and promote lasting peace and universal security, he said.
South African Minister of Defense and Military Veterans Angie Motshekga congratulated the PLA on the anniversary, saying its history is one of resilience, discipline and service to the nation.
"Over nearly a century, the PLA has grown into a modern force that not only safeguards China's sovereignty but also contributes to global peace and stability," Motshekga said.
She noted that South Africa and China share a vision of a more peaceful, just and prosperous world, as reflected in their cooperation within BRICS, joint peacekeeping efforts and growing defense ties. ■