Teaching Comparative Government and Politics

Friday, August 03, 2012

What does PLA mean?

As we pause to remember the 85th anniversary of the founding of the PLA (What was going on in 1927?), it's good to remember that the Chinese military is commanded by a committee of the Communist Party, not the government. Should it be called the Party's Liberation Army instead of the People's Liberation Army?

People's Daily hails PLA's role in socialism with Chinese characteristics

The People's Daily, the flagship newspaper of the Communist Party of China (CPC), will carry an editorial on Wednesday hailing the important role of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) in building socialism with Chinese characteristics.

The PLA includes naval and air forces

The editorial, written for the 85th anniversary of the founding of the PLA on Aug. 1, said the PLA has been a "strong pillar and an important construction force" in helping to create socialism with Chinese characteristics.

The editorial said the key to the PLA's growth was that it revered the Party's leadership and thus maintained great cohesion.

It is important to promote the scientific development of national defense forces, improve the core military capability of the armed forces and carry out military-related reform in an active yet prudent manner, the editorial said.

The editorial said the army must strengthen its capabilities in order to help the Party consolidate its ruling status, guarantee security, provide support for safeguarding the country's interests and maintain world peace.