|
BRUSSELS, July 31-- As part of a global celebration for the 90th birthday of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), Chinese embassies in European countries recently held rounds of receptions to mark PLA's tremendous contribution to world peace in the last 90 years. With an attendance of thousands, the receptions across the continent offer a rare chance to the West for a better understanding of PLA's role as world peace maintainer, public safety player and a bridge linking China with other countries. "During its 90 years of history, the PLA has achieved very much for the Chinese people ... It is (also) an instrument that's often used to make world a better place," said General Mikhail Kostarakos, chairman of the European Union Military Committee, at a reception co-hosted by the Chinese Mission to the EU and the Chinese Embassy in Belgium on July 20. As China's comprehensive national strength continues to emerge, the Chinese military has been effectively implementing its international obligations, making its own contribution to world peace. Data released by the Chinese military authority shows that the PLA has participated in over 30 annual joint exercises in recent years, including the United Shield-2017 joint anti-terrorism drill in Belarus and the Rim of the Pacific Exercise led by the United States. Covering non- and traditional security areas, these exercises, together with some bilateral and multilateral dialogue mechanisms, tested and improved PLA's ability as a staunch force in maintaining world peace. | 
