China has launched a comprehensive programme of events to mark the 80th anniversary of the Chinese People’s victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the global triumph in the World Anti-Fascist War, in a profound gesture of remembrance.
The months-long commemoration includes exhibitions, ceremonies, academic symposiums, military parades, and cultural events—all paying tribute to the courage, sacrifice, and unity of the Chinese people during one of modern history’s darkest periods. At the heart of these activities is a shared message: “Remember History, Honour the Martyrs, Cherish Peace, and Create the Future.”
The pinnacle of the events will be a major national gathering at Tian’anmen Square on 3 September, led by President Xi Jinping, who will deliver a keynote speech reflecting on the victory’s significance and its enduring legacy. A military parade will follow, showcasing China’s historical and modern military strength and symbolizing national pride and resilience. The day will also feature a state reception and a high-level gala performance attended by senior Party and government officials, honoured guests, and foreign dignitaries.
Victory Day commemorates the signing of the Japanese Instrument of Surrender on 2 September 1945. In recognition of immense wartime sacrifices, war veterans and families of fallen heroes will receive special commemorative medals issued by the state.
“The medals serve as a symbol of national gratitude and a reminder to younger generations of the price paid for peace and independence,” said Hu Heping, executive deputy head of the Publicity Department of the CPC Central Committee.
Exhibition on national liberation and peace
A major exhibition titled “For National Liberation and World Peace” is already underway in Beijing, featuring over 1,500 historical photographs and more than 3,000 wartime artefacts. The exhibit aims to educate the public, particularly the youth, about the realities of war, the unity of the Chinese people, and the global anti-fascist struggle.
To highlight the war’s international dimension, diplomats and representatives from over 100 countries and international organizations will participate in the commemorative activities. Last month, nearly 200 diplomats from 112 foreign embassies and 10 international organizations visited the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.
Their participation underscores China’s commitment to promoting shared memory, peace, and multilateral understanding through this commemorative platform.
“Looking around the world today, the shadow of war has not yet fully receded. To commemorate this victory is to draw strength from that history of blood and fire, to warn humanity against repeating past mistakes, and to build consensus on maintaining peace,” stated the State Council Information Office.
Symposiums involving compatriots from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, along with representatives of overseas Chinese, are also planned. Key events include a ceremony on September 18 to mark the incident which initiated Japan’s 14-year invasion; a gathering around October 25 to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Taiwan’s recovery from Japanese occupation; and a national memorial ceremony on December 13 to mourn the 300,000 victims of the Nanjing Massacre.
“After 14 years of tenacious resistance, the Chinese people achieved a great victory in the war against Japanese aggression, which also signalled the complete triumph of the global anti-fascist war,” remarked Hu.
To deepen public engagement and preserve historical memory, China will release a new list of national-level memorial sites, renowned heroes, martyrs, and heroic groups from the war. Special commemorative items—including books, documentaries, postage stamps, and coins—will also be issued to counter historical revisionism and instil pride and knowledge among younger generations.
More than a historical remembrance, the commemorations hold deep personal significance for many Chinese families who still recall loved ones lost or displaced in the conflict. The war, which spanned from 1931 to 1945, claimed over 35 million Chinese lives and marked the beginning of China’s emergence on the global stage.
Beijing has condemned attempts to distort or downplay WWII history, deeming such actions a betrayal of historical truth and a denial of the immense contributions made by the Chinese people.
President Xi Jinping has underscored that the spirit of resistance serves as an invaluable source of inspiration, motivating the Chinese people to overcome all challenges and strive for national rejuvenation.
Legacy of peace
While commemorating past pain, Beijing asserts that the events also reflect China’s present identity as a nation committed to peace, global development, and international cooperation. The military parade will feature peacekeeping units that have served in United Nations missions, marking 35 years of China’s participation in global peacekeeping.
As reiterated in the State Council press conference, the commemorations aim not only to honour the past but also to reaffirm China’s peaceful vision for the future; “They serve as a reminder of the resilience of a nation that rose from the ashes of war and continues to champion shared prosperity and stability in an uncertain world.”
Through these events, Beijing invites the global community to reflect on a common history and to look ahead—toward a more peaceful, just, and united future.
