China’s recent military parade in Beijing wasn’t just about tanks and jets—it was a vibrant reminder of history, peace, and global solidarity. Marking 80 years since the end of World War II and the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the event blended solemn remembrance with a forward-looking vision. President Xi Jinping’s speech echoed a message resonating worldwide: “Peace is precious, and humanity must choose dialogue over division.” 🌍✨
History as a Teacher
From Italian ambassadors to Japanese scholars, global experts praised the parade’s focus on honoring sacrifices. David Orzan, an Italian diplomat, called China’s wartime perseverance “a lesson for humanity,” while Japan’s Atsushi Koketsu warned against ignoring history’s truths. The story of the Lisbon Maru—a WWII tragedy where Chinese fishermen saved hundreds of British POWs—highlighted cross-border heroism. “Remembering isn’t about blame,” said Anthony Jones, a British historian, “it’s about valuing peace.”
Peace Over Power
Beyond the marching troops, the parade showcased China’s commitment to stability. Sheradil Baktygulov from Kyrgyzstan noted China’s military serves “to protect, not pressure,” while Sri Lanka’s Jinith De Silva applauded the PLA’s discipline as a “shield for global peace.” Even African scholars like Tanzania’s Humphrey Moshi linked China’s stance to their continent’s development: “No peace, no progress.”
Building a Shared Future
Xi’s call for a “community with a shared future” struck a chord. Kenyan analyst Stephen Ndegwa called it a blueprint for fairness in a divided world, while Cameroonian historian Victor Julius Ngoh saw it as a rallying cry for leaders to prioritize cooperation. For Elyn MacInnis, descendant of a WWII American pilot, the event was a reminder: “Peace isn’t free—we have to fight for it, together.”
As the world faces new challenges, China’s parade isn’t just a nod to the past—it’s a roadmap for a united future. 🌐🤝
