China's Military Showcase: Commemorating WWII's End Amid Geopolitical Tensions

China celebrated the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II with a grand military parade in Beijing, featuring the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) marching past Tiananmen Square. The event showcased over 10,000 soldiers, numerous vehicles, and aircraft, signaling a powerful display of national pride and military capability. Xi Jinping, the State and Party leader, reviewed the forces while calling for peace, yet warning of new global threats. He stated, "Today mankind once again faces a choice between peace and war, dialogue and confrontation, win-win and zero-sum." Xi emphasized China’s commitment to a path of peaceful development and its goal of building a shared future with other nations. As the PLA’s displays unfolded, Xi underscored the importance of developing a world-class military to secure sovereignty and enhance global peace. The parade was not just a remembrance but also an announcement of China's growing military strength as a gesture toward the world. In a sharp counter to Xi’s message, U.S. President Donald Trump took to social media to question whether Xi would acknowledge the sacrifices made by the U.S. in fighting against Japanese aggression during the war. Trump noted that many Americans lost their lives contributing to China’s victory and urged that these sacrifices be honored. The event also served a geopolitical purpose, as it was attended by leaders including Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong-un, further emphasizing China’s alliance with these leaders, often viewed with skepticism in the West. The attendance of these heads of state at a significant moment in history drew attention, particularly from Western diplomats who largely chose to stay away, marking the occasion as a political showcase for China. Xi took the opportunity to express gratitude towards foreign governments and international allies who supported China during that challenging period of resistance. Ahead of the parade, the military had announced a display of newly developed systems produced exclusively within China. Overall, 45 formations participated in the parade, showcasing the completed advancements in military technology. Contextually, the parade, echoing a similar one held ten years ago, commemorated a painful chapter in history. Dubbed "The End of Japanese Aggression," the event remembers the conflict that began with Japan’s invasion in 1937 and extended until 1945, resulting in tragic losses in China. The conflicting narratives surrounding the war continue to affect relations, particularly with Taiwan, which China claims as its territory. Experts suggest that such commemorations serve Beijing’s broader foreign policy objectives, aiming to reshape the narrative around its historical role during World War II and solidifying its stature on the world stage. According to Claus Soong from the Berlin-based China Institute Merics, the parade is an assertion of China's capability and intent to influence global perceptions of history and order. In summary, the massive military parade not only served to honor a pivotal moment in history but also acted as a showcase for China’s military advancements and its ambitions on the international front. As global tensions rise and partnerships shift, the display of strength at this historical commemoration underscores China’s dual focus on domestic pride and international influence. Related Sources: • Source 1 • Source 2