Chinese Defense Minister Chang Wanquan addresses a reception held by China's Ministry of Defense to celebrate the 86th anniversary of the establishment of the People's Liberation Army (PLA) at the Great Hall of the People in Beijing, capital of China, July 31, 2013. (Xinhua/Wang Ye)

BEIJING, July 31 (Xinhua) -- China will firmly pursue a path of peaceful development and enhance military cooperation with foreign countries to contribute to world peace and development, Minister of Defense Chang Wanquan said Wednesday.

China will unremittingly follow the national defense policy that is defensive in nature, strengthen military cooperation and mutual trust with other countries, participate in regional and international security affairs and play a positive role in the fields of international politics and security, Chang said.

The defense minister's remarks came at a reception held at the Great Hall of the People in downtown Beijing to celebrate the 86th anniversary of the establishment of the People's Liberation Army (PLA).