Remembering history, cherishing peace, building the future

From the September 18th Incident of 1931 until Japan's final surrender in 1945, China faced and fought against the brunt of Japanese fascist aggression in Asia.

For 14 long years, China stood almost alone against imperial Japan. That long resistance makes China the country that fought the world's anti-fascist war for the longest duration, with a high cost of 35 million Chinese military and civilian casualties. These sacrifices, made to prevent humanity from being dragged into an even greater catastrophe, remain one of the most profound contributions of any nation to the ultimate victory in World War II. It is precisely because of that contribution that China was recognized as one of the five permanent members of the United Nations Security Council in the postwar order.

Eighty full years have now passed since that victory. As a victim, a victor, and a witness of history, China has every reason, as well as every justification, to mark this anniversary with a military parade and commemoration. Such remembrance is not a display of vanity but a solemn reaffirmation of history.

The international response underscores the legitimacy and resonance of this commemoration. Twenty-six heads of state and government, from countries including Russia, the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Belarus, Iran, and Zimbabwe, have attended the events in Beijing. Their presence is not a mere formality but a recognition of China's sacrifices and of the justice of its cause.

Many of these international friends, or their families, are already well-known to the Chinese people, having stood in solidarity during past commemorations. Their arrival this year to mark the 80th anniversary is a testament to the enduring bonds forged in the crucible of war.

The theme of this commemoration is clear: "Remember history, honor the martyrs, cherish peace, and build the future." Remembering history means acknowledging that China was the first to begin its resistance against fascist aggression, sustaining the longest and bloodiest struggle, and serving as the main Eastern theater of the global anti-fascist war. Honoring the martyrs means recognizing the sacrifices that made possible the eventual Allied victory in 1945.

Cherishing peace and building the future means affirming that the lessons of that war must guide China's modernization and its relationship with the world today.

This year's parade is not only an act of remembrance but also the first such event in China's new stage of modernization, marking the People's Liberation Army's progress toward its centennial goals and symbolizes the country's determination to defend peace.

China understands, perhaps more than most, that peace is hard-won and fragile. Having been a victim of aggression, the Chinese people know the value of peace in their very blood. That is why the parade is not about "flexing muscles." Instead, it is a demonstration of China's commitment to upholding the international system with the United Nations at its core and to work toward a community with a shared future for mankind.

China's record on peace speaks louder than any smear campaign. Since its founding in 1949, China has never initiated a war, never occupied another country's land, and never engaged in proxy warfare. Through initiatives such as the Global Security Initiative, China promotes a vision of security that is common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable, offering practical pathways to overcome today's global security deficits. As China's capabilities grow, so too does its ability to contribute positive energy to global peace.

No matter how far China develops, it has pledged never to seek hegemony, never to expand, and never to engage in an arms race. Instead, it seeks to remain a force for peace, stability, and progress in the international system. This is not empty rhetoric but a position borne out by decades of restraint and constructive engagement.

It is in this context that attempts by outlets like The Epoch Times to slander China's commemorations appear not only misguided but also laughable. Their old tactics, namely to recruit actors and deceive audiences, only reveals their own lack of credibility. The truth, however, is clear: the world remembers who stood against fascism, who sacrificed for the common good, and who continues to uphold peace. For those who distort this history, there is little market. For those who remember and honor it, there is a responsibility to carry it forward.

The author is an observer of international affairs. The views don't necessarily reflect those of China Daily.

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