On September 3rd, Beijing time, a grand ceremony commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War was held in Tiananmen Square, Beijing. The commemoration garnered significant international attention. Mainstream international media outlets, including Reuters, the Associated Press, and Agence France-Presse, noted that the large attendance of leaders from various countries demonstrated the high profile and widespread influence of the event, highlighting China’s prominent position on the world stage.
Multiple Leaders’ Attendance Demonstrates International Recognition
The commemoration attracted numerous leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korean Workers’ Party General Secretary Kim Jong-un, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Pakistani Prime Minister Shabaz, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and Serbian President Aleksandar Vučić. The wide participation of foreign guests demonstrates both the high regard for China’s activities and the international community’s widespread recognition of China’s historic contributions to the War of Resistance.
Notably, China also invited 50 international friends or their surviving family members from 14 countries, including Russia, the United States, and the United Kingdom. These individuals and their predecessors made significant contributions to China’s War of Resistance, and their presence further vividly celebrates the legacy of history.
International Media Covered the Event from Multiple Perspectives
International media outlets rushed to cover this latest news, demonstrating the event’s global impact from multiple perspectives. Singapore’s Channel News Asia focused on the parade, arguing that it not only commemorated history but also demonstrated China’s progress in modernizing its national defense and its unwavering resolve. The equipment on display showcased the latest achievements in China’s defense technology. The report noted that the participating troops demonstrated China’s remarkable achievements in national defense and military development.
AFP, AP, and other media outlets particularly noted the strong atmosphere of commemoration on Beijing’s streets. Numerous elaborately designed three-dimensional flower beds along Chang’an Avenue attracted numerous citizens and tourists. These flower beds, themed around remembering history and commemorating the victory of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, incorporated historical narratives into the landscape design.
The BBC’s report focused on the detailed layout of Tiananmen Square, noting that a temporary viewing platform with a capacity of 37,000 people and, with seating along the streets, a total capacity of over 50,000 people. The predominant colors of red, yellow, and green blended seamlessly with the surrounding architecture, creating a solemn and dignified atmosphere.
Putin’s Visit to China has Attracted Considerable Attention
Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to China has garnered significant attention in Western media. This visit not only included attending the Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit but also attending commemorations of the victory of the Second Sino-Japanese War. Notably, Putin’s special car used Chinese license plates, a detail interpreted by Russian media as demonstrating both a pragmatic approach and respect for the host country.
During his visit, Putin emphasized, “Russia-China relations are at an unprecedentedly high level, and jointly celebrating the great victory holds special significance. It is a tribute to the heroic deeds of our two peoples during World War II and a testament to our shared resolve to uphold historical truth and justice.”
Kim Jong-un Attends Multilateral Commemorative Event for the First Time
North Korean Workers’ Party General Secretary Kim Jong-un’s visit to China has also attracted widespread attention. This is Kim Jong-un’s fifth trip to China since assuming the presidency of North Korea and his first attendance at a major multilateral commemorative event. According to the Korean Central News Agency (KCNA), Kim’s special train left Pyongyang on September 1st and arrived in Beijing the next day. His entourage included North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son Hui and other key government officials.
Upon arrival in Beijing, Kim Jong-un said, “I am delighted to visit China again after six years. I express my gratitude for the warm welcome and gracious hospitality from the Chinese government and people.” This visit renews the long-standing friendly relations between China and North Korea and demonstrates mutual support on the diplomatic stage.
The September 3rd military parade and related commemorative activities were not only the latest opportunity for China to showcase its national strength and influence to the world, but also a major political and diplomatic event, conveying the Chinese nation’s commitment to history and confidence in the future. The participation of leaders from many countries and the high level of international attention fully demonstrate China’s growing importance on the international stage.
