Accra: Ghana and China have renewed their commitment to deepening military cooperation and advancing global peace efforts as both nations marked the 98th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) at a diplomatic reception in Accra.
According to Ghana News Agency, the event was attended by top government officials, members of the diplomatic corps, senior military officers, and other defense dignitaries. Mr. Tong Defa, Chinese Ambassador to Ghana, highlighted the historical legacy and modern mission of the PLA, underscoring China's unwavering commitment to peace, cooperation, and development. He emphasized the resilience and sacrifice of the Chinese people, guided by the Communist Party of China, as key to the growth of the Chinese military over the last 98 years.
Mr. Tong stated that China has always cherished peace, asserting that the nation has never started a war or conflict and continues to pursue peaceful coexistence. He noted China's increasing global role through initiatives like the Global Security Initiative and Global Development Initiative, aiming to address global governance deficits and promote equitable international cooperation.
The Ambassador recalled China's sacrifices during World War II and drew parallels to Ghana's contributions, particularly the heroism of Ghanaian troops during the 1944 Battle of Myohaung in Burma. He paid tribute to Ghanaian World War II veteran Joseph Ashitey Hammond, highlighting him as a symbol of Ghana's commitment to global peace.
Ambassador Tong reaffirmed China's stance on its territorial integrity, stressing the importance of the Taiwan issue to China's sovereignty and international order. He expressed gratitude for Ghana's support of the One China principle and looked forward to the 65th anniversary of diplomatic relations between China and Ghana in 2025.
Dr. Edward Omane Boamah, Ghana's Minister for Defence, congratulated China on the anniversaries and praised the growing cooperation between the two nations in defense infrastructure, training, and logistics. He cited China's financial contributions to Ghana's National College of Defence Studies and the Ministry of Defence building in Accra as symbols of the enduring partnership.
Dr. Boamah emphasized the importance of China's support in developing military projects across Ghana and highlighted the necessity of such support in the complex security environment of West Africa. He reiterated Ghana's commitment to the One China policy and called for continued collaboration in addressing regional challenges like terrorism, piracy, and violent extremism.
Colonel DOU Yan, Defence Attach© at the Chinese Embassy in Accra, highlighted the global responsibilities of the Chinese military and its contributions to peacekeeping, humanitarian aid, and security operations worldwide. He described the PLA as a reliable force for global peace and expressed readiness to deepen strategic cooperation with the Ghana Armed Forces through joint training and high-level exchanges.
