On August 1, the Chinese Embassy in South Africa held a reception to warmly celebrate the 98th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA). Ambassador Wu Peng, Defense Attaché Major General Wu Wei, Mr Bantu Holomisa， Deputy Minister of Defense and Military Veterans, General Rudzani Maphwanya Chief of the South African National Defence Force and other senior military officials, along with Mr. Simphiwe Hamilton, Director-General of the Department of Trade, Industry and Competition (DTIC), Dr. Mlungisi Cele, Director-General of the Department of Science, Technology and Innovation (DSTI), Mr Sandile Ndlvou ,Executive Chairperson at the South African Aerospace Maritime and Defence Industries (AMD) and military attachés attended this function.

In his speech, Ambassador Wu Peng noted that under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, PLA has made outstanding contributions to the liberation of the Chinese people, the peaceful construction and reform and opening-up of China, and the safeguarding of national sovereignty, security, and development interests. China steadfastly pursues a path of peaceful development, firmly adheres to a defensive national defense policy, and is committed to implementing the Global Security Initiative raised by President Xi Jinping, advocating true multilateralism alongside the international community, upholding international fairness and justice, and building a world of lasting peace and universal security.

Defense Attaché Wu Wei stated in his address that the Chinese military upholds the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind and has always been a contributor to world peace and security. Under the guidance of the leaders of both China and South Africa, the cooperation between two militaries has continued to deepen, with bilateral military relations at their historical best. PLA is willing to work with global peace forces, including South Africa and its National Defense Force, to contribute to building a world of lasting peace and security.

Deputy Minister Mr.Holomisa and General Maphwanya delivered speeches, congratulating the PLA on its 98th anniversary and noting that the Chinese military has grown into one of the most powerful armed forces in the world. They highlighted that China-South Africa military relations are at their historical peak, with remarkable achievements, and expressed anticipation for further strengthening practical cooperation in various military domains.

The event was marked by a warm and friendly atmosphere. Guests watched a video titled Guardian, showcasing the Chinese military’s commitment to the Global Security Initiative, and visited a photo exhibition titled Safeguarding World Peace for a Shared Destiny — A Force for World Peace. They highly praised the peaceful achievements of the Chinese military.