Image Credit: KBC
On Thursday, the Chinese Embassy in Kenya celebrated the 97th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) with a grand reception. The event, which took place in Nairobi, highlighted China’s enduring role in global peace and stability.
Chinese Ambassador to Kenya, Zhou Pingjian, acknowledged the PLA’s significant contributions over nearly a century. He noted that the army has navigated numerous challenges while working to safeguard global peace and prosperity. Ambassador Zhou emphasized China’s dedication to fostering peace and stability in Kenya and the broader Greater Horn of Africa region through cooperation.
Defence attache Qiu Yawei underscored the PLA’s commitment to peaceful development and building a global community with a shared future. He highlighted China’s substantial role in international peacekeeping, being the second-largest contributor to the UN peacekeeping budget and troops among the Security Council’s permanent members. Qiu reiterated China’s pledge to global peace as essential for shared prosperity.
In his remarks, Vice Chief of the Kenya Defense Forces, John Omenda, praised the PLA’s resilience, innovation, and effectiveness in addressing global threats. Amanda acknowledged the PLA’s history of excellence and its capacity to adapt and modernize, which has been a source of inspiration for Kenyan defence officials.
He affirmed Kenya’s commitment to strengthening defence cooperation with China, aiming to enhance peace, stability, and sustainable development in Eastern Africa.
The reception was attended by senior government officials, military officers, diplomats, and scholars, reflecting the strong bilateral ties and shared commitment to regional and global security.