Honouring History, Safeguarding Peace, Advancing Prosperity

The 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War marked a solemn and significant occasion for China and the international community. In his keynote address, President Xi Jinping emphasised the need to remember the sacrifices of millions, correct distortions of history, and reaffirm the lessons of the past to guide the path towards peace and shared prosperity.

For too long, the global narrative of World War II has often overlooked the immense sacrifices and contributions of the Chinese people. President Xi’s speech sought to restore balance by affirming that China’s prolonged and arduous struggle against aggression was a decisive part of the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War. The presence of many nations at this commemoration reflected recognition of this truth and the universal need for historical accuracy.

President Xi highlighted the central role of the Communist Party of China (CPC) in uniting the nation during its darkest hour. Under Mao Zedong’s leadership, the Chinese people built an unyielding national resistance; under Deng Xiaoping’s reforms, China entered a new era of modernisation and openness; and under Xi Jinping’s leadership today, the nation has achieved remarkable progress in poverty alleviation, technological innovation, and global engagement. Each generation of CPC leadership has carried forward the spirit of resilience and renewal, ensuring that China not only survived but thrived.

President Xi emphasised a timeless truth: peace brings prosperity. Stability after war enabled the People’s Republic of China to embark on its extraordinary path of development, lifting hundreds of millions out of poverty and becoming a key driver of global growth. In today’s uncertain world, this lesson is more relevant than ever. Confrontation and division serve no one; cooperation and solidarity safeguard the well-being of all.

This vision is reinforced by the recent success of the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit in Tianjin, where member states reaffirmed their commitment to dialogue, inclusivity, and collective security. The summit demonstrated the potential of international cooperation rooted in equality and mutual respect, offering a constructive alternative to zero-sum rivalry.

As President Xi reminded the world, history is both a warning and a guide. Honouring the sacrifices of the past demands that we prevent new tragedies. By upholding truth, strengthening cooperation, and building a community with a shared future for mankind, China stands committed to safeguarding peace and advancing prosperity - not only for its people but for all of humanity.

The author is Director of the Diplomatic Society of South Africa.

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