#China #Beijing #WWII #Peace

Commemorating Victory: China's Stand for Peace

On September 3, 2025, China marked the 80th anniversary of its victory in the Second Sino-Japanese War and the Second World War with a grand commemorative event in Beijing. This occasion not only honored the sacrifices made during the war but also signified China's resolute commitment to promoting peace and development amidst a world still characterized by turmoil and uncertainty.

During this significant event, the Chinese military showcased troops experienced in United Nations peacekeeping missions for the first time at the Tiananmen Square Victory Day Parade. Such participation in the parade exemplifies Beijing's dedication to fulfilling its international obligations and safeguarding global peace.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, concurrently serving as General Secretary of the Communist Party and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, utilized his keynote address to underline a crucial choice facing humanity today: between war and peace, dialogue versus confrontation, and mutually beneficial cooperation against a zero-sum game. He pledged that the Chinese people would steadfastly adhere to the right side of history and progress.

Xi affirmed, "We shall continue to resolutely embark on the path of peaceful development and jointly cultivate a community with a shared future for all humanity."

China's Role in Global Peacekeeping

As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, China stands out as the largest contributor of troops and the second-largest financial contributor to UN peacekeeping missions. Since joining peacekeeping operations 35 years ago, the Chinese military has deployed over 50,000 personnel to more than 20 countries and regions, including South Sudan and Lebanon, participating in a total of 26 missions.

In 2024, China's share of total assessed contributions reached 18.69 percent, surpassing the combined contributions of other permanent Security Council members such as the UK, France, and Russia. Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the UN Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, commended China's remarkable contributions, stating that the country has played a "significant, constructive, and supportive" role in advancing UN peacekeeping efforts.

Historically, China has maintained a track record of peace and security since the establishment of the People's Republic of China in 1949. The nation has neither initiated wars nor claimed parts of other countries' territories, distinguishing it as a major global power with its path of peaceful development enshrined in its constitution. Notably, it is the only nuclear-armed state to pledge no-first-use of nuclear weapons.

Celebrating Peace with Unity

At the parade, both male and female Chinese soldiers echoed the rallying cry: "Justice Wins! Peace Wins! The People Win!" This loud declaration was further amplified as three helicopters flew overhead, displaying banners with the same words during the large gathering commemorating the 80th anniversary of China’s victory in both the Second Sino-Japanese War and World War II.

As the Western bastion of the Second World War, the Second Sino-Japanese War provided crucial strategic support for allied operations, aligning its efforts with campaigns in Europe and elsewhere in Asia, ultimately contributing to victory.

More than 20 heads of state attended the remembrance event, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong-un. Xi Jinping, in his address, urged nations worldwide to eradicate the roots of wars and prevent the recurrence of historical tragedies. He emphasized that genuine security can only be assured when countries view one another as equals, live in harmony, and support each other mutually.

"History warns us that humanity collectively experiences both ups and downs," he added.

Through this event, China seeks to inspire a united global front towards lasting peace, forging a legacy of cooperation and goodwill for generations to come.