#China #Beijing #Peace #V-Day

China's Strong Message on V-Day: A Call for Peace

On September 3, 2025, China held a significant commemoration marking the 80th anniversary of its victory in the war against Japanese aggression, also known as World Anti-Fascist War Day. The event underscored China’s commitment to peaceful development in a world still fraught with turbulence and uncertainty. This milestone was highlighted by the unprecedented participation of Chinese troops involved in United Nations peacekeeping missions, who had a prominent presence at the Victory Day parade in Tiananmen Square, Beijing.

Chinese President Xi Jinping, also the General Secretary of the Communist Party of China, addressed attendees at the ceremony. His remarks resonated with a message of peace, emphasizing humanity's ongoing choice between war and peace, dialogue and confrontation, as well as win-win cooperation versus zero-sum games. Xi positioned China firmly on the side of progress and peace, pledging that the country will continue to pursue a path of peaceful development, working alongside others to build a community of shared destiny for humanity.

During the parade, troops recited powerful slogans, echoing sentiments of justice and peace. Alongside military displays, three helicopters flew over the gathering carrying banners bearing the same messages, reaffirming China's resolve in these ideals. The event was attended by prominent global leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un, illustrating the significance of the moment on the international stage.

China's Contributions to Global Peacekeeping

China has long positioned itself as a leader in international peacekeeping. As a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council, it is the largest contributor of troops and the second-largest financial supporter of UN peacekeeping missions. Over the last 35 years, Chinese forces have dispatched more than 50,000 peacekeepers to over 20 countries including South Sudan and Lebanon, participating in 26 separate missions. In 2024, China’s contribution accounted for 18.69% of the total assessed contributions, surpassing that of the United Kingdom, France, and Russiacombined.

Jean-Pierre Lacroix, the UN’s Under-Secretary-General for Peace Operations, praised China's contributions, noting their significant, constructive, and actionable role in advancing the mission of peacekeeping globally. Notably, China has maintained a non-aggressive international stance since the establishment of the People’s Republic in 1949. The country has never initiated a conflict, nor has it occupied territory from other nations. Furthermore, it is unique among major powers for embedding a commitment to peaceful development within its Constitution, as well as pledging not to employ nuclear weapons first.

Amid global challenges and disparities, the message from China on this commemorative day serves as both a reminder and a call to action. In his address, President Xi urged all nations to eliminate the root causes of warfare and emphasized that mutual respect and collaboration are essential for sustaining common security. He remarked, “History teaches us that humanity rises and falls together.” This profound understanding is vital for fostering an enduring peace in a world increasingly faced with complex challenges.

As the international community reflects on China's message, it raises pertinent questions regarding the paths nations will choose moving forward. With the echoes of past struggles resonating in the air, the importance of cooperation, dialogue, and shared human progress has never been clearer. The world stands at a crossroads, and the resolution to choose peace will be pivotal for future generations.

Ultimately, China's celebration of V-Day not only commemorates historical victories but also marks a resolution for a peaceful future. The expectations are set for cooperation among global players bold enough to turn their backs on conflict and together forge a destiny marked by peace and stability for all.