On July 30, Embassy of the People’s Republic of China in Canada held a reception in Ottawa to celebrate the 99th anniversary of the founding of the PLA. H.E. Ambassador Wang Di attended, and Defence Attaché Senior Colonel Li Yao delivered a speech. Representatives from the Canadian Ministry of National Defence,  former Canadian Senator Victor Oh, defence professionals, Ambassadors and Defence Attachés, and overseas Chinese, totaling approximately 180 people, attended the reception.

In his speech, Defence Attaché Li Yao stated that China remains firmly committed to a national defence policy that is defensive in nature. The People’s Liberation Army serves as a strategic pillar for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and a steadfast provider of public security goods to the international community. The continued improvement of China–Canada relations has created favourable conditions for closer communication and exchanges between the two militaries.

The reception featured a photo exhibition and promotional video about the Chinese military. Guests congratulated the People's Liberation Army on its 99th anniversary, spoke highly of the achievements in China's national defence and military modernization, and praised the important contributions the Chinese military has made to maintaining world peace. They also expressed confidence and high expectations for the development of relations between China and Canada, and between the two militaries.