PLA celebrates 98 years, vows strength and readiness

China's military is willing to work with armed forces from other nations to jointly tackle global risks and challenges, and to help build a world of lasting peace, universal security and shared prosperity, Defense Minister Dong Jun said on Thursday.

He made the remarks at a reception hosted by the Ministry of National Defense at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to mark the 98th anniversary of the founding of the People's Liberation Army, which falls on Friday.

Dong said the PLA is ready to work with foreign militaries to implement the concept of a community with a shared future for humanity, as well as the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative.

He extended greetings to PLA officers and personnel, members of the armed police and paramilitary forces, and paid tribute to veterans, military heroes and model service members for their contributions to the country's defense.

Dong noted that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. It also marks the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's recovery from Japanese occupation and the founding of the United Nations.

Under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, the PLA has made "immortal achievements" in saving the nation from peril and achieving national liberation, Dong said, while contributing significantly to the global fight against fascism.

"In just over a month, the PLA will present itself as a force of peace, justice and might, ready to be reviewed by the Party and the people," he said, referring to the upcoming military parade scheduled for Sept 3 in Beijing to commemorate the 80th anniversary of victory over Japanese aggression and fascism.

Dong reiterated that the PLA "will never allow any attempts at 'Taiwan independence' to succeed" and said the military is prepared to counter any external military interference. The PLA, he said, remains fully ready to realize the complete reunification of the motherland.

He added that the Chinese military will step up training and enhance combat readiness to fulfill its missions and responsibilities in the new era.