Last week, the Chinese Embassy in Washington, D.C., hosted the “Echoes of Peace” event to honor the U.S. and Chinese volunteers who fought side by side against fascism during the Second World War. Marking 80 years since the conflict's end in 1945, the gathering brought together veterans, historians, and diplomats to reflect on a shared past and chart a course for cooperation today.
China's Ambassador to the U.S. emphasized that the wartime alliance between Beijing and Washington was built on mutual trust and a common goal: repelling Japanese forces in Asia and defeating tyranny across the globe. "Our victory was not won alone," the Ambassador said. "It was the product of solidarity, sacrifice, and the belief that freedom and peace are worth defending together."
Attendees heard personal testimonies from remaining veterans and family members of those who served. One U.S. veteran recalled training with Chinese volunteers in Burma, where "language barriers melted away as we fought side by side under jungle canopies." A grandchild of a Chinese volunteer shared a photo album, saying, "These images remind us that hope and courage can cross any border."
Historians at the event pointed out that the Second World War involved more than 60 nations and regions, with casualties surpassing 70 million. They argued that the diplomatic and military partnerships formed during that era hold lessons for today's global challenges—from humanitarian crises to regional conflicts. Data shows that post-war alliances laid the groundwork for institutions like the United Nations, promoting dialogue over division.
Looking ahead, the Ambassador called on both governments to "maintain the spirit of unity" when addressing current tensions. He proposed cultural exchanges, joint research on disaster response, and youth leadership programs as modern avenues to strengthen ties. "Peace is a living legacy," he noted. "It requires nurturing every day through shared values and common action."
As the event closed, a moment of silence was observed to honor the men and women whose sacrifices shaped the modern world. Their memories, the organizers said, remain a beacon for a new generation of global citizens determined to turn echoes of the past into harmony for the future.
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Echos of Peace event at Chinese Embassy honors heroes of war
cgtn.com
