A military parade is held to celebrate the 90th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) at Zhurihe training base in north China's Inner Mongolia Autonomous Region, July 30, 2017. Photo: Xinhua

The militaries of China and the UK should strengthen communication, and increase exchanges and mutual trust as military-to-military ties have always been an important component of China-UK relations, said Zheng Zeguang, Chinese Ambassador to the UK, on the 94th anniversary of the founding of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) on Sunday. 

Zheng made the remarks in an online video posted by the embassy in celebration of China's Army Day on August 1. 

The relationship between China and the UK has come to an important historic juncture. Both countries must live up to the spirit of mutual respect and mutual benefit, and focus on cooperation and properly handle differences, he said. 

Zheng noted that the PLA demonstrates determination, confidence and capability in dealing with all kinds of threats and challenges.

It is advancing the modernization of national defense, building a world-class armed force, and steadfastly safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests, he said. 

He highlighted the glorious victories the PLA has won in fighting courageously for the Chinese people for 94 years under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, saying the PLA is "a force of the people, a force of valor, and a force for peace." 

He also noted that the PLA has also been an active partner in international peacekeeping operations, maritime escort missions, humanitarian relief and global cooperation, and has played an important role in safeguarding regional stability and promoting world peace.