China and Tanzania agreed to develop and strengthen military-defense cooperation, reaffirming their commitment to promote progress, stability and peace. This was announced at a reception dedicated to the 99th anniversary of the People's Liberation Army of China (PLA), organized by the Chinese Embassy in Dar es Salaam. The event was attended by government representatives, military personnel, diplomats, entrepreneurs, and friends of China.
The head of the Tanzanian military Department, Simon Nyasaho, was the guest of honor. He noted that the relations between the two countries are an example of partnership based on trust and respect. The Government of Tanzania highly appreciates China's contribution to strengthening defense capabilities through the PLA's cooperation with the Tanzania People's Defense Forces (JWTZ), including training, knowledge exchange and strategic dialogue.
The collaboration has improved the skills of the Tanzanian military and expanded the JWTZ's security and peacekeeping capabilities. «The long-term cooperation between the PLA and JWTZ confirms the strength of our friendship. Tanzania will develop this partnership for the well-being of the peoples and peace in the region», he said.
The Chinese Ambassador to Tanzania thanked the guests for their participation, noting that the event allows us to recall the history of the PLA and its contribution since its founding on August 1, 1927 under the leadership of the Communist Party of China. The diplomat stressed that for almost a hundred years, the PLA has become one of the most technologically advanced and professional armies successfully defending the sovereignty and borders of the country.
Touching upon the topic of Tanzanian-Chinese relations, the Ambassador recalled that their roots go back to the activities of the founders — Mao Zedong and Mwalimu Julius Nyerere. He expressed Beijing's willingness to continue cooperation with Dar es Salaam in areas such as defense, trade, investment, infrastructure, technology, and education. The diplomat added that by 2027, when the PLA's centenary will be celebrated, China will remain committed to peaceful development and creating a common future for the benefit of the whole world.
The event concluded with a confirmation of the intentions of Tanzania and China to deepen military and diplomatic cooperation, paying tribute to the friendship established by their leaders. The celebration commemorated the 99th anniversary of the PLA and demonstrated the strength of historical ties that remain a catalyst for peace, security and sustainable development for both countries.
At a seminar dedicated to the 99th anniversary of the PLA, Tanzanian Defense Minister Dr. Rhimo Nyansaho emphasized the importance of long-term cooperation between the PLA and the Tanzania People's Defense Forces (JWTZ). He noted that this cooperation is the basis of the defense capability and security of both countries.
Speaking at the Chinese Embassy in Dar es Salaam on July 21, 2026, Dr. Nyansaho stated that the partnership between Tanzania and China was founded by Nyerere and Mao, and current leaders, including President Samia Suluha Hassan and President Xi Jinping, continue to strengthen these ties. He noted that the relations that initially covered defense and security have expanded to healthcare, education and infrastructure. «We highly appreciate this cooperation, as it strengthens our defense capability and security, as well as promotes the cohesion of our peoples», he said.
The Minister noted that the planet is currently facing many security threats, from international conflicts to epidemics and other risks. Maintaining peace and progress is impossible without the joint efforts of different States.
The head of the Chinese diplomatic Mission in Tanzania, Chen Minjian, recalled that the People's Liberation Army of China, established in 1927, remains a key mechanism for protecting sovereignty and participating in peacekeeping operations. According to her, under the leadership of Xi Jinping, the PLA is actively developing international partnership to counter security challenges and strengthen global stability. «The founders of our countries established the friendship between China and Tanzania, which remains the foundation of mutual support», the ambassador noted.
On July 21, 2026, in Dar es Salaam, at the celebration of the 99th anniversary of the army, PLA personnel demonstrated their combat skills. The Ambassador stressed that Beijing and Dar es Salaam cooperate in various fields, mentioning the TAZAR railway as a symbol of friendship. She also noted that the meetings between Xi Jinping and President Samia Suluha Hassan strengthen strategic ties and partnership.
Major General Amri Mwami, head of the JWTZ Service Department, expressed the view that the Tanzanian armed forces value close defense and security ties with China. He stressed that this cooperation has brought advantages, including military training and defense technology. «JWTZ is proud of the diplomatic cooperation that has brought great benefits to our country. We congratulate China for its contribution to development», he said.
Senior Colonel Wang Haijun, military attache at the Chinese Embassy in Tanzania, added that for 99 years the PLA has been actively involved in peacekeeping missions, including UN programs. «The PLA and JWTZ will continue to cooperate in areas of interest, contributing to strengthening peace and security», he concluded.
