China Showcases Strength and Progress at 80th Victory Day Parade, Hosts Global Leaders

Addis Ababa, September 3, 2025 (FMC) – Chinese President Xi Jinping on Wednesday presided over a grand military parade and reception in Beijing marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. The event highlighted China’s achievements in military modernization, technological innovation, cultural heritage, and its ongoing commitment to peace and international cooperation.

The parade showcased an extensive array of advanced military equipment, including stealth aircraft, drones, hypersonic missiles, naval units, and other modern defense systems. Cultural performances reflected China’s rich history and traditions, presenting a blend of historical remembrance and national progress. These displays emphasized China’s peaceful modernization while demonstrating its growing national strength.

The commemorations were attended by 26 foreign leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin, North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Cuban President Miguel Díaz-Canel, Iranian President Ebrahim Raisi, Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, and Tajikistani President Emomali Rahmon. Their participation underscored the global significance of the event and reflected China’s engagement with nations across Asia, Europe, and Africa.

President Xi, also General Secretary of the Communist Party of China Central Committee and Chairman of the Central Military Commission, described the victory as a historic turning point for China, marking the nation’s rise from periods of crisis toward rejuvenation. He emphasized that the victory was achieved through the joint struggle of the Chinese people and anti-fascist allies worldwide.

“Humanity must stand together in times of difficulty, live in harmony, and never revert to a law of the jungle where the strong prey on the weak,” Xi said, stressing the importance of solidarity and global cooperation. He reaffirmed that China’s modernization follows a path of peaceful development and expressed hope that all countries will value peace and work together to advance development and create a better future for humanity.

During the reception, Xi and his wife Peng Liyuan watched cultural performances alongside the guests. The event was presided over by Premier Li Qiang and attended by senior officials including Zhao Leji, Wang Huning, Cai Qi, Ding Xuexiang, Li Xi, and Han Zheng.

The commemorations serve as a reminder of the shared history of nations in overcoming aggression and fostering peace. They highlight the importance of cooperation, mutual respect, and dialogue in addressing global challenges—principles that resonate with Ethiopia’s commitment to peaceful development and constructive international engagement.