Chinese President Xi Jinping said the world stands at a crossroads between peace and war.
On the 3rd, President Xi stated during a speech at the ceremony commemorating the '80th anniversary of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War' that "humanity is once again faced with the choice of peace or war, dialogue or confrontation, cooperation or zero-sum." He added, "The Chinese people will firmly stand on the right side of history and the side of human progress," committing to pursue a path of peaceful development. He also stated, "To prevent the recurrence of historical tragedies, we will work hand in hand with the people of all countries to build a community with a shared future for mankind and move toward a new future."
On that day, President Xi stood at the podium dressed in the style of the People's Liberation Army uniform that former Chairman Mao Zedong favored. During his speech, he emphasized the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation with a strong tone. He declared, "The great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation cannot be stopped, and the cause of peace and development for humanity will certainly prevail." He then directed the People's Liberation Army to "provide strategic support for national rejuvenation and contribute more significantly to global peace." Furthermore, he urged them to "make themselves a world-class military and resolutely safeguard national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity."
Following President Xi's speech, the largest military parade in Chinese history unfolded for 70 minutes. In front of more than 50,000 spectators, cutting-edge weapons of the Chinese military, including hypersonic missiles, drones, and new tanks, were showcased in large numbers. President Xi reviewed the troops lined up on Chang'an Avenue while riding in the Hongqi (紅旗) limousine, China's highest-grade official vehicle.
The event also drew attention for the close cooperation displayed by the leaders of North Korea, China, and Russia. President Xi ascended the Tiananmen Watchtower with Chairperson Kim Jong Un and President Vladimir Putin. When entering the watchtower, Putin and Kim followed President Xi in order and greeted the veterans of the anti-Japanese resistance.
Throughout the main event, the three leaders sat together in the center of the watchtower, creating a harmonious atmosphere. This marks the first time since the end of the Cold War that the top leaders of North Korea, China, and Russia have gathered in an official capacity. This is also the first appearance of Chairperson Kim at a multilateral summit level event.