In celebration of the 94th anniversary of the founding of the People's Liberation Army, Chinese Ambassador Zheng Zeguang delivered video remarks entitled A Force of the People, a Force of Valour and a Force for Peace.

The full text of the remarks is as follows.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

Friends,

August 1st marks the 94th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army.

On behalf of the Chinese Embassy in the United Kingdom, I would like to extend our warmest congratulations and pay our highest respect to all the members of the PLA.

The PLA is a force of the people, a force of valour, and a force for peace.

Founded and led by the Communist Party of China, the PLA has for 94 years fought courageously for the people, winning glorious victories one after another.

In the revolutionary and wartime era, this people's army distinguished itself fighting for national independence and people's liberation, resisting aggression and protecting the homeland. Generation after generation of servicemen and women have made heroic sacrifice and remarkable achievements.

In times of peace, wherever help is needed, the PLA will be there. From patrolling the border to fighting terrorism and maintaining stability, from disaster response to pandemic control and prevention, it is always a pillar of the nation and a core of strength.

The PLA has also been an active partner in international peacekeeping operations, maritime escort missions, humanitarian relief and global cooperation. It has played an important role in safeguarding regional stability and promoting world peace.

Under the guidance of Xi Jinping's thinking on strengthening the military, the PLA is faithfully implementing its missions of the new era, advancing the modernization of national defence, building a world-class armed force, and steadfastly safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests. It is demonstrating a determination, confidence and capability to deal with all kinds of threats and challenges. It is providing a solid strategic support for the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

China is firmly pursuing peaceful development. It is always a builder of world peace, contributor to global development and defender of the international order. The PLA will stay committed to safeguarding regional stability and promoting world peace. It is determined to make new and greater contributions to the building of a community with a shared future for mankind.

Ladies and Gentlemen, Friends:

At present, the relationship between China and the UK has come to an important historic juncture. Both sides should follow up on the important understanding between the leaders of our two countries. We must live up to the spirit of mutual respect and mutual benefit. We must focus on cooperation and properly handle differences. And we must work for continuous improvement and progress in our relationship.

The military-to-military ties have always been an important component in China-UK relations. It is our hope our two militaries could strengthen dialogue and communication, and increase exchanges and mutual trust. By doing so, we can add positive energy to China-UK relations and contribute to peace, stability and development in the world.

Here I would like to express appreciation to friends from all sectors in the UK who have been supporting the military-to-military ties between our two countries. The Chinese Embassy stands ready to work tirelessly with the UK side to promote the steady growth of China-UK relations, including the military-to-military ties.

Thank you