CRNTT:

On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, China and Russia have carried out a series of cooperative activities. Mr. Chuikov, what specific roles do you think these activities play in enhancing the common understanding of the history of the War of Resistance between the two peoples and consolidating the friendly relations between the two countries? Thank you.

Nikolai Vladimirovich Chuikov:

Thank you for your question. Indeed, both our countries will hold a multitude of commemorative events this year. Institutions such as the Chinese Embassy in Russia, the Russia-China Friendship Association, and the Victory Museum will all hold related activities. After returning to Moscow on Sept. 4th, the Marshal V. Chuikov Foundation for the Preservation of Historical Memory, which I represent, will also hold a large event. I believe these activities are of utmost importance. In addition, as a member of the foundation, I frequently give lectures at schools and military academies across Russia. There are 12 primary and secondary schools in Moscow named after Marshal Vasily Ivanovich Chuikov, which have become important platforms for patriotic education. We are aware that both Russia and China made tremendous contributions to the victory, especially the great Chinese people who made huge sacrifices. Without the Chinese people engaging a significant portion of Japanese troops, the Soviet Union would not have been able to resist the Nazi army's attack. It can be said that the Chinese people made an immense contribution to the victory of the War of Resistance and World War II.

Speaking of World War II, I would also like to say that my grandfather was the supreme commander during the capture of Berlin. He was a general at the time and accepted the surrender of the German garrison commander.

Speaking of the great sacrifices made by the people of Russia and China, it is important to remember that Chinese military and civilian casualties exceeded 35 million, while the Soviet Union suffered over 28 million casualties, many of whom were ordinary civilians. Although some in the world today attempt to smear and distort history, the truth of history cannot be altered.

When teaching history at school, I consider it a crucial part of my mission to promote the friendship and the people-to-people bond between Russia and China. I tell the young students about China's economic miracles, broadening their horizons and sparking their interest in Chinese culture. They are beginning to understand China and choosing to learn the Chinese language.

In short, the friendship between Russia and China must be passed on. We need to disseminate the historical truth of World War II and defend the hard-won peace. Thank you.