The spokesperson for the Ministry of National Defense of China, Zhang Xiaogang, has announced that the Chinese armed forces will participate in the upcoming Pakistan National Day military parade scheduled for March 23. The Guard of Honor of the Chinese People’s Liberation Army (PLA) will send a contingent to Pakistan in mid-to-late March upon the invitation of the Pakistani military.

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This participation marks a continuation of the longstanding cooperation between China and Pakistan in military affairs. Notably, this won’t be the first time that Chinese troops have taken part in the Pakistan Day Parade, as they also participated in the event in 2017. Additionally, military troops from other countries, such as Saudi Arabia, have previously participated in the parade.

Preparations for the Pakistan Day Joint Services Parade began last month, with the Ministry of Defence reaching out to various government entities to compile lists of officials to be invited to the event by February 15. The parade is a significant occasion attended by top government and military officials, as well as foreign dignitaries. Moreover, it attracts a large audience from the general public who come to witness the spectacle.