Chi Haotian, former Chinese Defense Minister, received a specially designed trophy from the World Harmony Foundation (WHF) on October 27 for his contribution to promoting a harmonious relationship between China and the world. Sha Zukang, UN Under Secretary General for Economic and Social Affairs, presented the award to Chi.

The award was launched by the WHF earlier this year to mark the 65th anniversary of the UN. The trophy was designed as a crystal dove of peace, symbolizing the UN's core spirit of "harmony and peace."

The 81-year-old Chi joined the Chinese People's Liberation Army (PLA) in 1945. He was chief of general staff of the PLA from 1987 to 1992 and minister of national defense from 1993 to 2003. In September 1988 the PLA's highest military rank, that of general, was conferred upon him.

The WHF is a non-governmental advocacy group, which brings political personages, community and business leaders together with students and educators from around the globe to build a culture of peace and sustainable environments for present and future generations.