Story by Yvonne Mkondani
The Minister of Defence Cde Oppah Muchinguri-Kashiri has paid tribute to the People’s Liberation Army of China for the support it rendered to Zimbabwe’s troops during the liberation struggle which resulted in the ushering in of the country’s independence in 1980.
In a speech read on her behalf by the Deputy Minister of Defence, Brigadier General (Retired) Levy Mayihlome, during commemorations to mark the establishment of the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) in Harare this Monday, Cde Muchinguri-Kashiri said it is important to honour the role played by defence forces in protecting nations.
“We have been associated with the People’s Liberation Army from the time of the liberation struggle which ushered in our independence in 1980. The People’s Liberation Army contributed immensely to our struggle for independence. Many of our combatants were trained and equipped by the People’s Liberation Army. It is pleasing that after independence, relations between Zimbabwe and the People’s Republic of China continued to grow from strength to strength, particularly in the area of defence and security,” she said.
“As we honour this remarkable institution today, let us recognise the vital role that defence forces play in safeguarding national sovereignty and integrity as well as fostering international partnerships based on mutual respect and cooperation,” noted Cde Muchinguri.
She also spoke highly of the continued strengthening of military bonds between the two countries, indicating shared commitment to capacity building.
“In the area of military training, I am pleased to highlight that the Zimbabwe Defence Forces currently have 68 students engaged in various military courses in China. The People’s Liberation Army has seven senior directing staff who are serving as instructors at the Zimbabwe National Defence University and Zimbabwe Staff College.
“This engagement is not just a testament to our strong military ties, but also a demonstration of our shared commitment to capacity building and professional development. In this regard, let me take this opportunity to express our heartfelt gratitude to the Government of China for their generous support in providing our defence forces the opportunity to learn and within esteemed Chinese military institutions,” she noted.
In the area of expertise, the minister noted, “Knowledge and skills acquired during the studies will undoubtedly play an essential role in enhancing our national security capabilities and fostering peace within our region.”
Speaking during the same occasion, Senior Colonel Wang Zhenyu of the PLA stated that as an army and country, they are grounded on peace and harmony.
“Firstly, we value peace and harmony. China’s strategic culture is firmly based on universal love and non-aggression. For thousands of years, peace has been deeply ingrained in the veins and the DNA of the Chinese nation. It has been a consistent pursuit of Chinese military. Ever since the founding of the People’s Republic of China more than 70 years ago, China has adopted a national-defence policy that is inherently defensive and adhered to the path of peaceful development.
“China is a major country with the most outstanding record in the world regarding peace and security issues. Since the launch of reform and opening up, China has cut the number of its military personnel by more than four million. This is a solid step which honoured our commitment of never seeking hegemony or expansion. No matter how much it develops, China will never seek hegemony, expansion, or sphere of influence, nor engage in an arms race,” he said.
The People’s Liberation Army was formed in 1927, hence the commemorations mark 97 years of existence.
