Windhoek, 23 July 2026 – Namibia joined the People’s Republic of China in celebrating the 99th Anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA), with senior government officials, members of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF), diplomats, and invited guests attending the celebration in Windhoek.
Speaking at the event, as a guest of honor the Chief of the Namibian Defence Force (NDF) Air Marshal Martin Pinehas highlighted the deep historical ties between Namibia and China, recalling that during the 1960s, when many influential countries remained distant from Namibia’s liberation struggle, China formally recognized SWAPO and provided political, diplomatic, moral, military, and material support.
He noted that in 1965, Namibia’s Founding President, Dr. Sam Nujoma, visited China, where he met Chairman Mao Zedong and Premier Zhou Enlai. During the visit, Dr. Nujoma gained valuable insights into leadership, political mobilization, discipline, self-reliance, and national unity—principles that later influenced Namibia’s liberation struggle.
Air Marshal Pinehas also emphasized that China was among the first countries to establish diplomatic relations with Namibia on 22 March 1990, immediately after independence, transforming wartime solidarity into a partnership between two sovereign nations.
He further acknowledged China’s contribution to the development of the Namibian Defence Force through officer training, professional military education, capacity building, and broader Defence cooperation, which has strengthened the NDF since independence. ”The bond between Namibia and China was not created by temporary economic convenience, it was founded on a shared historical experience of national resistance, sovereignty and a determination of its people to shape their own future.”
Chinese Defence Attaché Colonel Li Shujun reflected on the history of the People’s Liberation Army and paid tribute to the spirit of the Long March, describing it as a symbol of perseverance, unity, sacrifice, and people-centred commitment. He said these values continue to inspire China’s development and contribute to global peace and security.
Colonel Li noted that over the past 99 years, the PLA has played a vital role in safeguarding China’s sovereignty, independence, and development while actively contributing to international peacekeeping and global stability. He added that the Chinese military continues to modernize under the leadership of President Xi Jinping and the Communist Party of China.
He also welcomed the successful state visit to China by President Netumbo Nandi-Ndaitwah earlier this month, during which President Xi Jinping and President Nandi-Ndaitwah agreed to elevate bilateral relations to a China–Namibia Community with a Shared Future for the New Era. He said the agreement provides strategic direction for deeper cooperation across various sectors, including defence.
Colonel Li expressed confidence that the longstanding friendship between the PLA and the NDF will continue to grow through practical exchanges, training, and cooperation, further strengthening the comprehensive partnership between Namibia and China. ”As defence Attaché here I’m proud and delighted to see that the tie between our two countries has been continuous strengthened.”
The evening concluded with a toast celebrating the enduring friendship between the two countries and their armed forces, reaffirming a shared commitment to peace, cooperation, and mutual development.
