Under a sky lit with history, Beijing’s Tiananmen Square became the stage for a defining moment: the 80th anniversary of the Chinese mainland’s role in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
More than 20 foreign leaders joined the ceremony on the Tiananmen Rostrum, where towering structures shaped like the Great Wall and giant numerals marking “1945” and “2025” set the scene. Representatives and family members of allies who aided China’s WWII efforts—from Russia, the United States, the UK, France, Canada and beyond—stood side by side with residents of Beijing eager to honor shared sacrifices.
“Humanity is again faced with a choice of peace or war, dialogue or confrontation and win-win outcomes or zero-sum games,” said Chinese President Xi Jinping, calling on all nations to join hands in building a community with a shared future for humanity.
Some 70 to 85 million lives were lost during WWII, with economic losses estimated between $1 trillion and $4 trillion. China’s 14-year struggle resulted in more than 35 million military and civilian casualties—about one third of the global toll. By tying down over half of Japan’s overseas military strength and defeating more than 1.5 million enemy troops on the Eastern battlefield, Chinese forces played a crucial role in slowing and reversing the tide of fascism.
As banners fluttered and military units marched, the message was clear: through trials and triumphs alike, unity and peaceful development remain the path forward. In commemorating the past, Beijing offered a vision for the future—one grounded in solidarity and a shared commitment to human progress.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
