Enduring mission of serving the people

As the People's Liberation Army marks its 99th anniversary on Aug 1, it remains true to the founding principle that has guided the military for nearly a century: serving the people and the nation. The PLA has made tremendous contributions to national liberation, world peace, national development and people's well-being.

Founded in 1927 under the leadership of the Communist Party of China, the PLA is a military force deeply rooted in the people. This force valiantly resisted colonial rule and foreign aggression. During the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931-45), it utilized strategic depth and protracted war, relying on popular support to create extensive resistance bases behind enemy lines. In doing so, it shattered the myth of the Japanese Imperial Army's "invincibility" and thwarted Japan's attempts to establish colonial rule and incorporate China into its so-called "Greater East Asia Co-Prosperity Sphere".

After the founding of the People's Republic of China in 1949, the bond between the military and the people grew even stronger. While safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity, the PLA actively contributed to infrastructure development, economic growth, disaster relief and emergency response for the public's welfare.