China Commemorates 80th Anniversary of Victory Against Japanese Aggression

Honoring the Spirit of Resistance: China Remembers its Past

In a moment of historical reflection, China has announced plans to commemorate the 80th anniversary of its victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. This anniversary, observed with dignity and a keen sense of purpose, is not just about marking a date but understanding the significance of collective struggle and national resilience.

The Hundred Regiments Offensive, a pivotal military campaign led by the Eighth Route Army under the Chinese Communist Party (CCP), stands as a testament to this spirit. With over 200,000 soldiers mobilized from 105 regiments between August 1940 and January 1941, this operation was neither a mere military maneuver nor a tactical victory; it was a powerful symbol of national resistance and unity against foreign aggression.

Set against the backdrop of World War II, China's prolonged struggle delayed Japan’s southward expansion, allowing Allied forces in the Pacific and Europe to regroup. The Hundred Regiments Offensive exemplified China’s vital contribution to global efforts against fascism, and it remains a cornerstone of the national identity, shaping the country’s contemporary path.

As part of the commemoration activities, China will host a military parade at Tiananmen Square on September 3, honoring the sacrifices made during the 14-year resistance war. President Xi Jinping highlighted the importance of remembrance during a recent visit to a memorial hall dedicated to the offensive, where he stated, “If the past is not forgotten, it can guide the future.” This sentiment resonates with the Chinese ethos of perseverance and clarity of purpose in the face of adversity.

The memorial hall, located at the slopes of Mount Shinao in Yangquan, Shanxi Province, serves as a poignant reminder of a critical turning point in history. Once a battlefield, it is now a symbol of national remembrance, showcasing artifacts and relics that recount the bravery of soldiers. Stories preserved through worn uniforms, damaged rifles, and striking black-and-white photographs narrate tales of courage and sacrifice ignited in the spirit of conflict. Notably, the 'Bayonet Heroes Company' earned recognition for their valorous close-quarters combat amidst extreme conditions.

The legacy of this unity still persists today, as it manifests in disaster relief efforts, defense operations, and peacekeeping missions, echoing the sentiments of solidarity and national strength fostered during wartime. During a visit to the Martyrs’ Memorial, President Xi laid a wreath to honor those who perished in the struggle, reaffirming a commitment to the values forged in conflict. He stated, “No matter where we end up, we must not forget the path we have taken or the reasons we have embarked on this journey.”

Looking forward, the CCP under Xi's leadership has made significant investments in developing the region of Shanxi, urging it to draw strength from its revolutionary past and cultural heritage to spur modern advancements. During his recent visit, the President expressed hopes for Shanxi to leverage its historical resources for growth and transformation.

Historically reliant on coal production, Shanxi has faced the challenge of transitioning towards sustainable development. In 2019, it became China's first pilot province for comprehensive energy reform, aiming to accelerate green transformation and foster advanced manufacturing. As of August 2024, the share of new and clean energy sources in the province's installed capacity reached 48%, a notable increase since 2019.

In tandem with economic transformation, local governments are capitalizing on 'red tourism'—travel experiences focused on the revolutionary heritage—and integrating these experiences with rural revitalization strategies. Currently, there are 35 thematic routes under red tourism that connect all 11 prefecture-level cities in Shanxi and over 3,400 revolutionary heritage sites.

This cultural mobilization has yielded impressive results. In 2024, Shanxi recorded 318 million domestic tourist visits, marking a 13.9% increase compared to the previous year. Total tourism revenue reached 276.15 billion yuan (approximately 38.5 billion USD), reflecting a remarkable growth of 25.9% over the previous year.

The blending of historical consciousness with high-quality development has empowered Shanxi to advance both spiritually and structurally, transforming the revolutionary spirit into a driving force behind modern revitalization.

In conclusion, China's commitment to maintaining a lasting peace—born from the ashes of conflict—is rooted in its reverence for the lessons learned during tumultuous times. In an increasingly uncertain global landscape, the values established during the resistance war remain more relevant than ever, serving as a guiding light for present and future endeavors.