On Wednesday in central Beijing, China staged a spectacular military parade marking the 80th anniversary of victory over Japanese aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Chinese President and General Secretary of the CPC Central Committee Xi Jinping reviewed troops and delivered a stirring address, highlighting the sacrifices that shaped human history and reaffirming China’s commitment to peaceful development.
Remembering History
In his speech, Xi Jinping reminded the world of the immense sacrifice made by the Chinese people in defense of global peace. Experts say this moment of reflection is vital.
“China’s sacrifices and perseverance should be remembered by the entire world,” said David Orzan, ambassador in World of Excellence of Gorizia, Italy. Atsushi Koketsu, professor emeritus at Yamaguchi University, added that history “acts as a mirror reflecting today and tomorrow.” Anthony Jones, chairman of the Lisbon Maru Memorial Association in Britain, highlighted the global nature of the anti-fascist effort: “This was a victory that united people worldwide against fascism.”
Commitment to Peace
Beyond its dramatic display, the parade sent a clear message: China seeks stability through strength, not aggression. “The discipline, unity and sense of mission of the People’s Liberation Army reminded us that strength protects peace,” said Jinith De Silva, president of the Sri Lanka China Society. From Russia to Africa, scholars like Andrey Gubin of Russia’s Far Eastern Federal University and Humphrey Moshi of the University of Dar es Salaam agreed that dialogue and cooperation are at the core of China’s vision.
“China never threatens other countries with unilateral sanctions or invasion but strives for peaceful resolutions,” noted Sheradil Baktygulov, director of the Institute of World Politics of Kyrgyzstan. Egyptian researcher Mostafa Amin observed that China’s ability to safeguard its development also benefits global peace.
A Shared Future
Xi Jinping closed his address with a call for unity: “Humanity must choose peace over war, dialogue over confrontation, win-win outcomes over zero-sum games.” That rallying cry resonated with global guests in Beijing, from Elyn MacInnis, who traced her family roots to the Flying Tigers, to Cameroon historian Victor Julius Ngoh, who urged world leaders to heed the lessons of history.
“Peace is the foundation of development,” said Stephen Ndegwa, a Kenyan expert on international affairs. “This parade is more than a show of force—it’s a symbol of hope for a community with a shared future for humanity.”
Reference(s):
World experts: China reaffirms peaceful development in grand parade
cgtn.com
