Minister of National Defense Dong Jun said on Wednesday that the Chinese military is willing to engage in pragmatic and friendly cooperation with the armed forces of other nations to create a world of lasting peace and universal security.

He made the remarks during a reception held by the Ministry of National Defense at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing to celebrate the 97th anniversary of the founding of the People's Liberation Army, which is on Thursday.

Dong said that the Chinese military is also ready to work with the armed forces of other countries to implement the concept of a community with a shared future for mankind, as well as the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative, to foster a security framework characterized by fairness, justice and joint construction and sharing.

In his speech, Dong extended his greetings to the officers and personnel of the PLA, members of the armed police and paramilitary units, and paid tribute to veterans and heroes who contributed to the development of the people's armed forces and representatives of army role models.

He said that the PLA is steadfastly advancing at a new historical juncture, underscoring that all military personnel are guided by Xi Jinping Thought on Strengthening the Military and are committed to following the path of building a strong military with Chinese characteristics.

He also stressed the importance of forging absolute loyalty to the Party, focusing on combat readiness, enhancing capabilities, and consolidating and improving the integrated national strategic system and capabilities to achieve the centenary objectives of the PLA.

jiangchenglong@chinadaily.com.cn