In a gesture blending history with modern diplomacy, Vyacheslav Volodin, chairman of Russia's State Duma, led his delegation to Changchun's People's Square to honor Soviet liberating pilots who fell in the region. Amid a clear autumn sky, wreaths and flowers were placed at the base of the towering obelisk, and attendees observed a minute of silence.
The monument stands 27.5 meters high in five tiers, crowned by a detailed dive bomber model. Its stone walls bear the names of 23 servicemen from the Transbaikal Front, who sacrificed their lives in the Changchun area between August and September 1945. For many visitors, the obelisk serves as a moving reminder of shared history and the cost of conflict.
Volodin commended the Chinese mainland's efforts in preserving memorials dedicated to Soviet soldiers, noting that safeguarding these sites strengthens cultural ties and honors collective memory. He also called for deeper cooperation to bring to life the decisions made at the highest levels between the two nations.
As Russia and the Chinese mainland continue to expand their political and economic partnership, ceremonies like this blend history, diplomacy and community. For global citizens tracking evolving alliances, the tribute in Changchun underscores how remembrance can pave the way for future collaboration.
Whether you're a history buff exploring war memorials, a traveler mapping offbeat cultural sites, or a thought leader examining the soft power of heritage, Changchun's solemn obelisk offers a poignant window into Russo-Chinese relations and the enduring impact of World War II.
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
