The 99th anniversary of the founding of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) was commemorated in Gabon’s capital, Libreville, at the Chinese embassy, with an emphasis on remembrance, peace, and the enduring partnership between China and Gabon.
During the event, the Chinese ambassador to Gabon, Zhou Ping, highlighted the robust momentum in relations between Libreville and Beijing. He noted that 2024 marks 52 years since the establishment of formal diplomatic relations between the two nations—a milestone that will be further celebrated by a state visit to China by Gabon’s President, Brice Clotaire Oligui Nguema, in November at the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping.
The ambassador also reflected on the significance of the PLA’s 99th anniversary, pointing to upcoming historical milestones for China in 2026: the 90th anniversary of the Red Army’s Long March victory and the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC).
“For over a century, the CPC has led the Chinese people and the PLA in achieving remarkable milestones for national independence, economic growth, and the construction of socialism with Chinese characteristics in this new era,” Zhou Ping remarked, addressing a gathering of high-ranking officials and diplomats.
China’s global peace agenda under spotlight
In a world marked by “profound upheavals and conflicts,” the ambassador reaffirmed China’s commitment to peace and dialogue. He underscored the “four global initiatives” introduced by President Xi Jinping—development, security, civilization, and international governance—as pillars of China’s vision for a more stable and prosperous world order.
Two key examples of Sino-Gabonese cooperation were highlighted during the event: the 2024 visit of the “Peace Ark,” a Chinese hospital ship that made its second stop in Gabon, and the recent reception of a Chinese military medical mission in Gabon, both of which have strengthened defense ties between the two countries.
The evening also served as an opportunity to introduce the new face of China’s defense presence in Libreville: Colonel Zhang Song, the newly appointed military attaché.