#China #Beijing #Peking University #Taiwan Restoration #China War History

Peking University’s International Symposium on Wartime History

On November 2 and 3, 2025, nearly 100 distinguished scholars convened at Peking University for an international academic symposium that delved into the history of China's War of Resistance against Japanese aggression and the global implications of Taiwan's restoration to China. This event aimed to broaden academic perspectives and encourage meaningful dialogue around the significance of this historical period.

The symposium welcomed participants not only from mainland China but also from Taiwan, Hong Kong, and Macao, as well as international representatives from countries including the United States, the United Kingdom, and Japan. The diverse composition of the attendees facilitated a rich exchange of ideas and demonstrated the global relevance of China's wartime experiences.

Keynote Speakers and Panels

The opening ceremony featured leading figures such as Zhang Baijia from the Chinese Communist Party's Institute of History and Literature, Lu Fang-sang from Academia Sinica in Taiwan, and renowned professors like Hans van de Ven from Cambridge University and Liu Wei-kai from National Chengchi University. These speakers contributed their insights on varied aspects of China’s history and the war.

The symposium presented an impressive array of 20 parallel panels and a roundtable discussion, covering diverse topics such as military affairs, economics, international relations, and individual experiences during the war. This format allowed participants to engage deeply with the material, reflecting on how history has shaped current geopolitical dynamics.

The rich discussions transcended national borders and academic disciplines, offering a multi-faceted understanding of the war and its lasting impact. Scholars examined the complexities of international cooperation, the nuances of historical narratives, and the intertwining of culture and politics during wartime.

Revisiting Historical Narratives

This event marked a crucial academic endeavor, as participants sought to derive a more balanced, nuanced understanding of China's resistance war. The symposium not only served to enhance knowledge about historical facts but also aimed to foster a sense of unity among individuals on both sides of the Taiwan Strait. By encouraging face-to-face dialogue, the event emphasized the importance of collaboration towards national reunification.

2025 is a significant year, marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance against Japanese aggression and the global anti-fascist war, as well as Taiwan’s return to China. Through this symposium, Peking University aspired to cultivate a consensus among scholars and enrich public understanding of historical truths, advocating for enhanced cohesion across the Taiwan Strait.

Conclusion

In summary, Peking University’s international symposium demonstrated a vital commitment to holistic historical scholarship, facilitating interactions that may influence future dialogues on Taiwan's status and China's role in world history. As scholars reflect on the past, they also lay the groundwork for more informed discussions about our shared future in the international arena.