Tehran – As the world faces an era of growing geopolitical tensions, increasing anxiety and changing dynamics of power, one military institution continues to stand out, not for attacks, but for its steady contribution to international peace and stability. Founded in 1927, the People’s Liberation Army of China (PLA) not only became the foundation of China’s national defense, but also evolved into a prominent global force dedicated to promoting peace, development and multilateral cooperation.
This dual character of the PLA was vividly reflected on Tuesday at a prominent reception hosted by the Chinese Embassy in Tehran on Tuesday, both as guardians of Chinese sovereignty and as a key participant in the global security architecture. The ceremony celebrated the 98th anniversary of the PLA’s founding and brought together senior Iranian officials, diplomats and military attacks.
PLA expands its role in world peace
Speaking to the Tehran Times on the sidelines of the anniversary ceremony, Iran Kong Peiu’s Chinese ambassador reflects Pula’s growth and growing international involvement.
“98 years later, PLA has made great strides and has achieved great results in protecting national security,” he said.
However, as the ambassador emphasized, today’s Pla is not a guardian of China’s borders. “Now we are not only limited to national security, but we are expanding our influence around the world to protect regional and global peace,” he added.
To explain this evolution, Cong pointed to China’s growing footprint in international peacekeeping. “Over the past 30 years, we have seen more than 50,000 Chinese peacekeepers who have made great achievements not only in Africa but also elsewhere, and have taken part in a variety of missions around the world.”
He praised President Xi Jinping’s leadership in shaping this broader vision.
He made a speech at the PLA’s 98th anniversary reception in Tehran, Colonel Hosiao, China’s defence attachment to Iran, highlighting the military’s lasting commitment to peace and security.
“As a force, an army of civilization and an army of peace, China’s Pra will always function as an important force in maintaining world peace, not only by firmly protecting the sovereignty, security and integrity of our homeland, but also by contributing to a safer world,” he said.
Platform for International Cooperation
Photo caption: military attaches posed for a photo at the Chinese embassy in Tehran on July 30, 2025, commemorating the 98th anniversary of the PLA
The 98th anniversary of the PLA in Tehran was more than a ritual event. It was a platform that demonstrated China’s commitment to multilateralism and peaceful development. The presence of foreign diplomats, military authorities and senior Iranian officials at the event highlighted the importance of the PLA’s role in promoting bilateral military relations and promoting regional stability. The event will be at a critical moment as this year marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II, the establishment of the United Nations, and China’s active participation in UN peacekeeping operations.
The key forces for stability and hope
In line with these commitments, Zhongliang, China’s military advisor to the United Nations, has recently repeated Beijing’s vision for a safer world. At the ceremony on July 23rd to mark the PLA anniversary, he acknowledged China’s dedication to the Global Development Initiative and Global Civilization Initiative, President Xi Jinping’s dedication to the Global Security Initiative (GSI), one of three major international proposals.
GSI aims to address growing security challenges through multilateral cooperation and shared responsibility. Yin emphasized that China will strengthen its support for the UN peacekeeping mission and “providing more confidence and hope in the cause of peace and stability around the world.”
Modernization of PLA strengthens global contributions
A Hong Kong fan who highlighted the historical roots and continued transformation of Chinese military forces, the professor at the Shanghai Institute of International Studies, shared important insights into the evolution of PLA in an exclusive interview with the Tehran Times.
“The history of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) dates back to the Nanchan Uprising on August 1, 1927. As such, August 1 is commemorated as Armed Forces Day or PLA Day.
Fans then summarized the role of the PLA in major historical conflicts and their stance on war. “Since the establishment of the PRC, the PLA has defended its national interests, participated in the Korean War, and participated in the 1962 China and Vietnam Wars.
He also highlighted the contributions of the PLA in the age of peace. “In almost half a century of peace, the PLA also actively participated in national emergency disaster relief and other activities closely related to the welfare of Chinese people.”
Looking at recent developments, fans emphasized China’s push for military modernization. “In recent years, China has actively promoted military modernization, strengthening the PLA’s combat and defensive capabilities, particularly in areas such as fighter jets and ballistic missiles.”
He also pointed out the results of these efforts. “Based on by advanced management systems and sophisticated weapons, the PLA’s combat effectiveness has been significantly improved, providing a strong assurance of national security and unity.”
The power for the future
Photo caption: Hui Lee, head of political division at the Chinese Embassy in Tehran, provided commentary on the exhibition’s photographs on July 30, 2025, highlighting their importance and the story they represent.
As PLA celebrates its 100th anniversary in 2027, it is increasingly recognized not only for its military strength, but also for its constructive contributions to global governance, peacekeeping, humanitarian assistance and international cooperation. From responding to natural disasters and pandemics to playing a leading role in the UN mission, the PLA represents a vision for the future of military diplomacy rooted in peace, stability and shared development.
The reception in Tehran was more than just a celebration of history. It was a reaffirmation of the future in which the PLA wanted partnership rather than domination. Cooperation, not conflict.