Online Reporter
Ivan Zhakata and Anesu January
Defence Minister Oppah Muchinguri Kashiri has commended the People’s Liberation Army of China (PLA) for its role in maintaining world peace.
Speaking at the 98th anniversary of the founding of the PLA yesterday at the Chinese Embassy in Harare, Air Marshal John Jacob Nzvede, representing the Minister, commended the PLA for its resilience and role in global peace-building.
“On behalf of the President and Commander-in-Chief of the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, ED Mnangagwa, the Government and the people of Zimbabwe, I extend my sincere congratulations to the People’s Liberation Army on its 98th Anniversary,” said Air Marshal Nzvede.
He said PLA has been instrumental not only in the transformation of China but also in supporting global peace efforts, including the decolonisation of African nations.
“The PLA has become a strong force for peace and harmony across the globe,” Air Marshal Nzvede said.
“It is also making contributions to international peace and security, working through multilateral frameworks like the Global Security Initiative and through bilateral cooperation, especially in Africa.”
He said China’s support to the African union Standby Force, which includes training, financial aid and equipment support aimed at enhancing Africa’s capacity to prevent and resolve conflicts.
“A strong African union Standby Force will help the continent in conflict prevention, management and resolution,” he said.
Chinese Ambassador Zhou Ding said the PLA, founded in 1927 during the Nanchang Uprising, remained a pillar of China’s sovereignty and a contributor to international peace. He praised the work of Chinese Defence Attaché Senior Colonel Wang Zhenyu and acknowledged Zimbabwe’s role in deepening bilateral military relations.
“The PLA stands as the guardian of China’s national security and plays a vital role in global peace and development,” said Ambassador Zhou.
“This year is particularly significant as we also mark the 80th anniversary of victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.”
Ambassador Zhou drew parallels between China’s historical resistance and Zimbabwe’s liberation struggle, urging the international community to oppose unilateralism and support multilateral cooperation.
“As Zimbabwe advances toward Vision 2030, China will remain a steadfast and reliable partner,” he said.
Senior Colonel Wang Zhenyu said military ties between China and Zimbabwe continue to expand under the Comprehensive Strategic Partnership of Cooperation, which marks 45 years in 2025.
“Under the strategic guidance of President Xi Jinping and President Mnangagwa, cooperation between the two militaries has continued to grow,” he said.
“Looking ahead, we are committed to deepening cooperation in areas such as education, defence equipment, peacekeeping and counter-terrorism.”
The commemorative event was attended by senior officials from the Zimbabwe Defence Forces, Ministry of Defence, members of the diplomatic corps and representatives from the Chinese community in Zimbabwe.
