China's defense ministry holds reception to mark 98th founding anniversary of PLA

China's Ministry of National Defense held a reception to celebrate the 98th anniversary of the founding of the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA), which falls on Aug. 1, in Beijing on Thursday.

Making remarks at the reception, Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun said this year marks the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, as well as the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's restoration and the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations.

On Sept. 3, China will hold a military parade in Beijing's Tian'anmen Square to celebrate the anniversary of victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

Dong said the parade will demonstrate to the Party and the Chinese people that the PLA is a force that safeguards peace and justice, and that excels in military strength.

He said that the Chinese military is always ready to pursue the goal of China's complete reunification, pledging resolute efforts to thwart any separatist attempts seeking "Taiwan independence" and foil any military interference by external forces.

Dong also noted that the Chinese military is willing to work with its counterparts in all countries around the world to achieve the vision of a community with a shared future for humanity and the three major global initiatives, address risks and challenges, and build a world with lasting peace, universal security, common prosperity, openness and inclusivity, and a clean and beautiful environment.

China's defense ministry holds reception to mark 98th founding anniversary of PLA

China's defense ministry holds reception to mark 98th founding anniversary of PLA

China's research icebreaker Xuelong, or Snow Dragon, departed Christchurch, New Zealand for the 42nd Antarctic Expedition on Thursday after completing resupply operations.

The vessel arrived at New Zealand's Lyttelton Port Sunday evening.

During its stay in Lyttelton, the vessel took on 1,200 tons of light oil and replenished supplies including vegetables, fruits, and fresh water.

The light oil will be brought to China's Zhongshan Station in Antarctica, exclusively for fixed-wing aircraft.

Thirty four new crew members boarded the ship in Lyttelton to commence oceanographic operations.

The supplies of fruit, vegetables and other food items include not only items for the Xuelong crew but are also destined for the Qinling Station.

"The Qinling Station has a longer overwintering period, so they will run out of fruits later in the season. To better support their daily needs, we've replenished large quantities of green vegetables, fruits, beverages, as well as beef and mutton," said Li Donghui, the service team leader of the Xuelong vessel.

During its port call, the Xuelong also completed a freshwater replenishment of approximately 600 tons. The freshwater is primarily for drinking and kitchen use, serving as vital daily supplies for the expedition team during their subsequent fieldwork.

China's Xuelong icebreaker leaves New Zealand for Antarctic expedition after replenishment