Distinguished guests, ladies and gentlemen,

Today we are very pleased to have you all here to celebrate the 88th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army.

Over the past 88 years, the PLA has made great achievements and has grown into a strong military force. Today, under new circumstances, the PLA is adapting to the challenges in the national security environment. It is accelerating it's modernization and enhancing it's resolve and capabilities to safeguard national sovereignty, security and development interests, so that it can provide a strong guarantee for realizing the Chinese Dream of the great renewal of the Chinese nation.

As a staunch force for peace, and acting in line with the peaceful development strategy of China, the PLA follows the military strategic guideline of active defense. It aims at building a military, equipped with information technology, able to operate in the digital age. It deepens the reform in an all-round way, so as to build a modern system of military forces with Chinese characteristics. And it will constantly enhance its capabilities for addressing various security threats and accomplishing diversified military tasks.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

This year is the 70th anniversary of the victory of the world Anti-fascist War. As a nation, which has made immense sacrifices and contributions to the victory of the worldwide anti-fascist war, the Chinese people and the armed forces are committed to world peace. We pursue a security concept featuring common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security.

Up to now, the PLA has established relations with armies from more than 150 nations all over the world, including Czech Republic, and has conducted high-level visits, joint exercises and personnel exchanges, etc. At present, over 3,000 military personnel are operating in 9 peace-keeping missions around the globe. China is the biggest donor country among the 5 permanent members of the UNSC, and the biggest contributor of funds among all developing nations.

China's armed forces have also taken an active part in international disaster relief operations and carried out sealane escort missions. There is no doubt, that with the growth of China's national strength, the PLA will be an even bigger contributor to the international peacekeeping and humanitarian missions.

Ladies and Gentlemen,

In the last one year and half, we have witnessed a dynamic development in the China-Czech relations. Just mention a few examples: the Beijing-Prague direct flight to be opened in coming September, the increasing trade and investment figures, the spectacular 16+1 Local leader's Meeting and Health Care Summit, as well as the fast growing Chinese tourists and never ending cultural events. These tangible results accomplished through our joint efforts, give us courage and motivations to forge ahead for an even greeter progress in our bilateral cooperation.

Finally, I propose a toast to the bright prospects of relations between two countries and two peoples, to the friendly cooperation between Chinese PLA and the Army of Czech Republic, and to the health of all present here today, cheers!

Thank you very much!