Ouagadougou: The Ambassador of the People's Republic of China to Burkina Faso, Zhao Deyong, and the Defense Attach©, Colonel Ma Tengfei, reaffirmed on Tuesday, July 28, 2026, in Ouagadougou, their country's readiness to work together with Burkina Faso to preserve regional and global peace and stability. This declaration was made during a reception marking the 99th anniversary of the founding of the People's Liberation Army (PLA), celebrated annually on August 1.

According to Burkina Information Agency, the ceremony was attended by more than 150 people, including the Minister of State, Minister of War and Patriotic Defence of Burkina Faso, Major General Clestin Simpor, the Inspector General of the National Armed Forces, Brigadier General Mady Savadogo, as well as military attach©s accredited to Burkina Faso and friends from various sectors.

In their remarks, Ambassador Zhao Deyong and Colonel Ma Tengfei highlighted that 2026 also marks the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese Communist Party. They emphasized that, under the guidance of President Xi Jinping's military strengthening thought, the Chinese military is committed to pursuing a path of military strengthening unique to China.

The Chinese representatives also stated that China is devoted to peaceful development, actively implementing the four global initiatives, and promoting the building of a community with a shared future for mankind. In this context, they reiterated their country's willingness to collaborate with Burkina Faso to ensure regional and global peace and stability.

Major General Clestin Simpor praised the achievements of the Chinese army and expressed gratitude for China's support in helping Burkina Faso preserve national independence and territorial integrity. He also hoped that the Chinese army would achieve its goal of celebrating the centenary of its founding as planned.

The reception featured a video screening and a photographic exhibition, providing a visual narrative of the PLA's history and achievements.