#China #Xi Jinping #Beijing #Victory Day

A Celebration of Peace: China's Grand Victory Day Parade

On September 3, 2025, Beijing became the focal point for a significant event in history—the grand military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. This remarkable occasion was more than a display of military prowess; it was a celebration of the quest for peace and cooperation among nations.

The parade showcased the sacrifices made during this tumultuous period, where over 35 million lives were lost. In his address, President Xi Jinping emphasized the vital contribution of the Chinese people in preserving human civilization, stating, “The Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression represented a crucial element of the World Anti-Fascist War.” His remarks were a reminder of the importance of remembrance and the lessons learned from past conflicts, reinforcing China’s commitment to peace and stability.

The heart of the Victory Day parade was a clear message: China stands ready to collaborate with all peace-loving nations to safeguard justice in the world. Displayed prominently were more than 10,000 soldiers, along with a staggering array of over 100 aircraft and numerous ground weapons. This spectacle vividly illustrated the transformation of China’s armed forces from a once backward army into a modern, capable military power.

Among the advanced equipment shown were unmanned reconnaissance drones, hypersonic missiles, cutting-edge directed-energy weapons, and electronic jammers. Notably, this exhibition marked the first public appearance for many of these sophisticated systems, all vital components of China's active-duty military arsenal. Despite demonstrating such advanced capabilities, the Chinese government reinforced its stance that the military is a tool of deterrence rather than aggression, stating that true peace arises from a nation’s strength to counter potential threats.

President Xi asserted that genuine, lasting peace cannot be established through endless compromises alone; it must also be underpinned by a deterrence strategy that keeps aggressors at bay. He reiterated that the strength of a peace-loving nation lies in its power to defend itself and not merely in showcasing military hard power. China holds that a commitment to justice and the principles of peaceful coexistence are core to its national philosophy, which has guided its international relations since the establishment of the People's Republic 76 years ago.

For China, peace is enshrined in its Constitution and is a guiding principle in its national governance. The country prides itself on not having initiated any wars or conflicts in this time and remains the only significant power that has formalized peaceful development as a national priority while adhering to a no-first-use policy regarding nuclear weapons. Furthermore, China has emerged as a major contributor of troops to United Nations peacekeeping missions, reflecting its dedication to global stability and cooperation.

The events of the V-Day parade serve not only as a tribute to those who sacrificed for the nation’s peace but also as a reaffirmation of China’s resolve to foster a future built on collaboration and shared prosperity. It underscores a narrative that China’s growth is not a threat but a potential force for global peace.

In conclusion, the Victory Day parade was a vivid reminder that history bears lessons that must be heeded. The commitment to peace, coupled with adequate defense capabilities, forms the backbone of a responsible nation-state. As countries worldwide reflect on the lessons of the past, China stands at the ready—not as an aggressor, but as a firm believer in building a community with a shared future for humanity.