The Chinese Embassy in the United Kingdom on Thursday hosted a reception to celebrate the 99th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA). Nearly 200 guests, including British government officials, diplomats, military attachés, business representatives and members of the Chinese community, attended the event.

In his speech, Chinese Ambassador to the UK Zheng Zeguang noted that this year also marks the 105th anniversary of the founding of the Communist Party of China (CPC). He expressed confidence in China's modernization drive, saying the Chinese people are committed to building a great modern socialist country and writing a new chapter of rapid economic growth and long-term social stability.

Addressing the international situation, Zheng said the world is facing rising unilateralism and hegemonism, alongside lingering regional conflicts and growing turbulence. Facing these challenges, he said China is firmly committed to upholding the shared values of humanity and will continue to champion the purposes and principles of the UN Charter while upholding the international order with the UN at its center.

On the Taiwan question, Zheng reiterated that there is but one China in the world and Taiwan is an inalienable part of China's territory. The one-China principle, he said, is "a universal consensus of the international community" and the political foundation for diplomatic relations between China and other countries. He stressed that the Chinese people and their armed forces firmly oppose "Taiwan independence" separatist activities and will not tolerate external interference in China's internal affairs.

Looking ahead, Zheng noted China and the UK, as permanent members of the UN Security Council and major global economies, share broad common interests and responsibilities. With recent high-level exchanges and practical cooperation gaining positive momentum, he called for deeper dialogue, expanded mutually beneficial cooperation and closer coordination on regional and international issues. He also expressed hope that the two militaries would enhance exchanges and communication, contributing to the steady development of China-UK relations.