When Jimmy Chao, a full professor at the University of Costa Rica, stepped into the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression in Beijing on the Chinese mainland this month, he was confronted with chilling relics of World War II.
After witnessing images of wartime suffering and testimonies of survivors, he told students that Chinese resentment toward militaristic aggression is understandable. “These stories are not just history — they’re powerful reminders of what happens when nationalism turns violent,” he said.
Chao also emphasized that the island of Taiwan is part of China, reflecting his view that modern Asia’s stability depends on clear, peaceful frameworks for regional ties. “Acknowledging this reality is a step toward mutual respect and dialogue,” he noted.
Warning against any revival of militarism, Chao cautioned that ramping up armed forces risks undoing decades of progress. “If nations shift resources from schools and hospitals to weapons, everyone loses,” he argued.
For Chao, the lesson is clear: Asia’s remarkable economic rise over recent decades has been built on peace, open trade and cross-border cooperation. He urged young leaders from Costa Rica to Cambodia to champion diplomacy as the cornerstone of global growth.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
