Author: Prof. Engr. Zamir Ahmed Awan, Founding Chair GSRRA, Sinologist, Diplomat, Editor, Analyst, Advisor, Consultant, Researcher at Global South Economic and Trade Cooperation Research Center, and Non-Resident Fellow of CCG. (E-mail: awanzamir@yahoo.com).

On September 3, China commemorated the 80th anniversary of its victory in World War II with a solemn yet magnificent V-Day parade in central Beijing. The occasion was more than a military display—it was a profound statement of history, responsibility, and vision for the future. Against a backdrop of global turbulence and uncertainty, the commemoration carried a message of peace, justice, and cooperation that resonates far beyond China’s borders.

Remembering the Past, Shaping the Future

The V-Day commemoration reaffirmed China’s recognition of history and its lessons. Eighty years ago, the Chinese people emerged from one of the darkest chapters in human history, contributing significantly to the global struggle against fascism and aggression. Their resilience and sacrifices were decisive in ensuring eventual victory, not only for China but also for humanity.

In his keynote address, President Xi Jinping underscored this historical context while connecting it to present and future aspirations. He declared that “the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation is unstoppable.” His words reflected not triumphalism but confidence rooted in history, culture, and the collective will of the Chinese people. Xi’s message was clear: China’s rise will be peaceful, inclusive, and aligned with the aspirations of all nations seeking justice and security.

Crucially, Xi emphasized that the tragedies of war can only be prevented when nations treat each other as equals, live in harmony, and extend mutual support. It was a reminder that China’s vision of rejuvenation is inseparable from its commitment to building a community with a shared future for mankind.

The Parade: Strength with Restraint

The parade in Beijing’s Tiananmen Square was a striking display of discipline and unity. Thousands of troops marched in precision, advanced military equipment rolled past, and squadrons of aircraft flew overhead. Yet the symbolism went beyond showcasing power.

China’s military modernization, as presented in the parade, conveyed a message of deterrence rather than aggression. It reflected China’s determination to safeguard peace, defend sovereignty, and contribute to regional stability. The presence of new-generation equipment was not meant to instill fear but to highlight China’s readiness to shoulder responsibilities in an uncertain world.

Observers noted the harmony of the event—pride in national achievements combined with humility about history. Veterans were honored, cultural performances highlighted shared values, and the overarching theme remained: never again should humanity allow war and destruction to engulf the world.

Global Leaders Stand in Solidarity

One of the most notable aspects of this year’s commemoration was the presence of world leaders, signaling international recognition of China’s role in global peace. The attendance of Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean President Kim Jong-un carried immense symbolic weight.

For Russia, the parade reaffirmed the enduring strategic partnership with China, grounded in shared historical memories of sacrifice in World War II and a common vision of resisting unilateralism and hegemonism. Putin’s presence highlighted the growing convergence between Moscow and Beijing in promoting multipolarity and stability.

North Korean President Kim’s participation also carried significance. It not only underscored Pyongyang’s recognition of China’s historic role but also sent a broader message of solidarity among nations striving for security, sovereignty, and development free from external coercion. For China, hosting these leaders reflected its diplomatic influence and the resonance of its message beyond immediate borders.

Equally important was the attendance of leaders from Asia, Africa, and beyond, showing that China’s commemoration was not a narrowly national event but a global one. It reinforced China’s identity as a leader of the Global South, a country that connects historical memory with contemporary struggles for dignity and justice.

Pakistan’s Participation: A Testament to Brotherhood

Among the international participants, the presence of Pakistani leadership stood out for its depth of symbolism. Pakistan and China share a bond described as “higher than the Himalayas, deeper than the oceans, and sweeter than honey.” That friendship, tested through time and trials, found new expression at the V-Day commemoration.

For Pakistan, attending the ceremony was not only about honoring the memory of World War II but also about reaffirming its special strategic partnership with China. Pakistan’s leaders have consistently expressed admiration for China’s role in defending peace and promoting development. Their presence in Beijing highlighted shared values: respect for history, commitment to sovereignty, and belief in a future shaped by cooperation rather than confrontation.

This moment also reflected the increasing alignment of the China-Pakistan partnership within the context of regional and global dynamics. At a time when the world faces conflicts, economic uncertainties, and rising geopolitical tensions, the Pakistan-China bond serves as a stabilizing factor. The commemoration reaffirmed that both countries stand together not just in words but in vision—committed to peace, progress, and mutual respect.

China’s Narrative: Peaceful Development, Shared Future

The V-Day commemoration projected China’s official narrative with clarity and conviction. China is not seeking dominance; rather, it seeks harmony and justice. Its growing strength, as demonstrated in the parade, is not an end in itself but a means to safeguard peace and ensure security.

President Xi’s words at the reception following the parade were deeply telling. He emphasized justice, peace, and people’s strength as the foundation of China’s global engagement. This trinity reflects not only historical lessons but also contemporary realities: justice in international relations, peace as the ultimate aspiration, and people’s strength as the foundation of national rejuvenation.

At a time when unilateral actions, double standards, and conflicts dominate headlines, China’s message stands out for its optimism and inclusiveness. The idea that nations must treat each other as equals is not abstract rhetoric—it is a call for reforming international relations on the basis of fairness and respect.

The Message to the World

The 80th anniversary of victory in World War II was not just a Chinese commemoration; it was a global reminder. The message to the world was unmistakable: peace must be cherished, justice must be upheld, and cooperation must prevail over conflict.

China’s call for peaceful development resonates strongly at a time when humanity faces new challenges—climate change, pandemics, technological divides, and economic disparities. The parade showed that China is prepared to play its part not only as a regional power but as a responsible global actor.

To the countries of Asia, Africa, and Latin America, China’s commemoration offered inspiration: that historical suffering can be transformed into resilience, that national rejuvenation is possible without aggression, and that sovereignty is the cornerstone of dignity. To the developed world, it was a message of partnership—China is ready to cooperate, but on the basis of equality and mutual respect.

A Shared Journey Ahead

The commemoration was not about looking backward alone. It was about linking the past to the future. The spirit of sacrifice that brought victory in World War II now informs the collective determination to prevent future wars.

For Pakistan, the event reinforced the importance of deepening cooperation with China across all fields—from economic collaboration under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to strategic coordination in international forums. The parade reminded both nations that their destinies are intertwined, and that together they can contribute to regional stability and global peace.

For the world, China’s V-Day commemoration was an invitation—to reject zero-sum thinking, to embrace cooperation, and to believe in a future where nations coexist in harmony.

Conclusion

The 80th anniversary of victory in World War II, marked by China’s V-Day commemoration, was more than a grand parade. It was a profound expression of history, a declaration of peace, and a vision for the future. By honoring the past, China demonstrated the values that guide its present and will shape its future: resilience, justice, and a commitment to peaceful development.

The attendance of world leaders, particularly from Russia, North Korea, and Pakistan, gave the event an unmistakable international significance. Their presence reinforced the idea that China’s message is not isolated but shared by nations across continents.

In a time of uncertainty and division, China’s commemoration stood as a beacon of optimism. It told the world that the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation is unstoppable—not as a threat, but as a promise of contribution, cooperation, and peace. For Pakistan, it was a reminder that its destiny is tied to China’s in a bond of brotherhood that continues to inspire.

As humanity faces new challenges, the lessons of history remain clear: only through equality, mutual respect, and solidarity can we prevent tragedies from repeating and build a future worthy of our shared sacrifices. China’s V-Day commemoration, in all its dignity and strength, was a powerful step in that direction.

(ASIA PACIFIC DAILY)