On 26 July, the Chinese Embassy in the UK held a reception to celebrate the 96th anniversary of the founding of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China. H.E. Ambassador Zheng Zeguang delivered a speech at the event. More than 150 people, including Director of the International Policy and Security of MOD Nick Gurrs, officials from the British Government and Parliament, Defense Attachés and members of the diplomatic corps in the UK, representatives of various sectors and Chinese communities in the UK, and diplomats of the Chinese Embassy joined the reception.
Ambassador Zheng pointed out in his speech that the PLA is the people’s military founded and led by the Communist Party of China (CPC). It is a military of special political significance. Starting from scratch 96 years ago, it has accomplished indelible feats in liberating the people and advancing the socialist cause. It has also made great contributions to world peace and tranquility. Following the strategic guidelines set out at the 20th CPC National Congress, the PLA is committed to the Chinese path to building a strong military and striving to achieve the goals for its centenary and better serve the Chinese dream of national rejuvenation.
Ambassador Zheng emphasised that Taiwan is an inseparable part of the Chinese territory. The Taiwan question is China’s domestic affair, and no foreign force has the right to interfere. We are firmly against any move that aims to upgrade substantive relations with Taiwan. The one-China principle is a red line that must not be crossed. At the moment, the biggest threat to peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait comes from the obdurate separatist activities of the “Taiwan independence” elements and the connivance and support of certain external forces. We will strive for the prospect of peaceful reunification with the utmost sincerity and efforts, but we resolutely oppose any separatist move towards “Taiwan independence” and any foreign interference. Seeking “Taiwan independence” will get nowhere. No one should underestimate the great resolve, firm will and strong capability of the Chinese people in defending our national sovereignty and territorial integrity.
Ambassador Zheng pointed out that the world has entered a new period of turbulence and transformation, and the international community is facing multiple crises rarely seen in history. The ultimate way out is to uphold real multilateralism and build a human community with a shared future. China stands ready to work with all parties to earnestly implement the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative, and the Global Civilisation Initiative proposed by President Xi Jinping. Together, we can make greater contributions to maintaining world peace and stability, and promoting common development.
Ambassador Zheng noted that military-to-military relationship is an important part of the overall China-UK relations. Not long ago, the Chinese and British militaries held the defence strategy consultation, which has increased mutual understanding. It is hoped that both sides will continue to deepen strategic communication, and carry out mutually beneficial cooperation, and by doing so, provide a positive impetus for the development of China-UK relations.
Guests from various countries extended warm congratulations on the 96th anniversary of the founding of the PLA. They spoke highly of China's new achievements in national defence and the armed forces and expressed hope to further develop relations with China and expand exchanges and cooperation in the field of defense.
