On 17 July, 2025, the Chinese Mission to the EU and the Chinese Embassy in Belgium jointly hosted a reception to celebrate the 98th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA).

The reception was held at the Chinese Mission to the EU. Head of the Chinese Mission to the EU Ambassador Cai Run, Chinese Ambassador to Belgium Fei Shengchao, Defense Advisor of the Chinese Mission to the EU Major General Yan Wenjing and Defense Attaché of the Chinese Embassy in Belgium Senior Colonel Chen Lifeng attended the event together with more than 550 military and political officials from the EU, Belgium and NATO, members of the diplomatic missions accredited to the EU and Belgium, as well as representatives from various sectors.

Ambassador Cai Run noted that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, as well as the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the EU. He said that President Xi Jinping's Global Security Initiative provides a Chinese solution to addressing the global security deficit and pursuing lasting peace. China remains firmly committed to the path of peaceful development and stands ready to work with the European side and countries around the world to safeguard world peace and address global challenges.

Major General Yan Wenjing reviewed the tremendous contributions made by the Chinese people to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. He noted that the Chinese military is a force for peace, openness and cooperation, and that China would like to work with all peace-loving countries and international organizations to promote the building of a community with a shared future for humanity.

The reception offered a multi-dimensional overview of the remarkable achievements along China's path toward building a strong military through a themed photo exhibition, video presentations and displays of equipment models. The guests extended their congratulations on the 98th anniversary of the founding of the PLA, spoke highly of China's important contributions to world peace and stability, and expressed their hope to further deepen friendly exchanges and cooperation with China in various areas including defense and security.