Zimbabwean war veterans have praised China's development achievements, saying the country's commitment to hard work, innovation and the preservation of its history provides important lessons for Zimbabwe's own transformation.
The remarks were made during a reception held at the Chinese Embassy on Friday to mark the 99th anniversary of the founding of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) of China.
The event also saw war veterans receiving free medical services from the Chinese medical team as part of efforts to honour and support those who contributed to Zimbabwe's liberation struggle.
Guest of Honour, Zimbabwe Defence Forces Commander General Emmanuel Matatu, highlighted the strong historical ties between Zimbabwe and China, dating back to the liberation struggle when China supported Zimbabwean freedom fighters through training and other forms of assistance.
General Matatu said Zimbabwe had much to learn from China's progress, particularly the transformation of the PLA into a highly advanced military force.
"Through our close relations, we have seen the PLA develop rapidly from a fairly modest force into a highly advanced military force to be reckoned with, one that is counted among the world's most powerful," General Matatu said.
He added that the PLA had remained a reliable partner to the Zimbabwe Defence Forces through training and re-equipment programmes, strengthening cooperation between the two institutions.
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Chinese Ambassador to Zimbabwe Zhou Ding said the friendship between the two countries was built on a shared history of struggle and mutual support. He said China stood with Zimbabwe during its liberation struggle by providing diplomatic backing, military assistance and professional training.
"The Chinese People's Liberation Army and the Zimbabwe Defence Forces are both people's armies, forged in revolutionary struggles and hardened by immense challenges," Ambassador Zhou said.
Senior Colonel Wang Zhenyu said the PLA had grown alongside China and continued to contribute to peace and development.
"Over the past 99 momentous years, the People's Liberation Army has always stood as one with the people and advanced in step with the motherland," Wang said.
Speaking to Zim Now, war veteran William Mukumbuzi said Zimbabwe could draw important lessons from China's work ethic.
"The Chinese are very hardworking. If we, as Zimbabweans, manage to work like them, we will definitely develop our country," Mukumbuzi said.
Another war veteran, David Mushangwe, praised China's transport development, especially its bullet train system, describing it as a symbol of efficiency, speed and safety. He also commended China's efforts to preserve historical sites and transform them into tourist attractions so that younger generations can understand and appreciate their heritage.
The veterans said China's journey demonstrates that hard work, strategic planning and respect for history are key ingredients for national development.
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