Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Kobayashi Yokichi, son of Kobayashi Kiyoshi, a Japanese veteran of the Eighth Route Army

Mr. Jean-Louis Bussière, son of Dr. Jean Jérome Augustin Bussière, a French physician

Mr. Nikolai Vladimirovich Chuikov, the grandson of Marshal V.I. Chuikov of the Soviet Union

Mr. Jeffrey Greene, president of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation

Mr. Michael Crook, the son of the British friends David Crook and Isabel Crook

Chairperson:

Ms. Zhou Li, head of the Press Center for the Events Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War 

Date:

Sept. 2, 2025

Zhou Li:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to the third group interview of the Press Center for the Events Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

Eighty years ago, the Chinese people, together with peoples around the world, fought a grueling and heroic struggle to completely defeat fascism and achieve hard-won peace. We will never forget the invaluable assistance and support provided by peace- and justice-loving countries and peoples around the world during China's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Today, we pay our highest respects to the international friends who contributed to China's victory in the war, and we are honored to welcome five distinguished international guests to the press center to meet with journalists.

They are: Mr. Kobayashi Yokichi, son of Kobayashi Kiyoshi, a Japanese veteran of the Eighth Route Army; Mr. Jean-Louis Bussière, son of Dr. Jean Jérome Augustin Bussière, a French physician; Mr. Nikolai Vladimirovich Chuikov, grandson of Marshal V.I. Chuikov of the Soviet Union; Mr. Jeffrey Greene, president of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation; and Mr. Michael Crook, son of British friends David Crook and Isabel Crook.

Next, we will invite the five guests to briefly introduce themselves, after which we will proceed to the Q&A session. This group interview combines both consecutive and simultaneous interpretation, with foreign-language remarks by the guests and questions from journalists interpreted into Chinese. Now, I will give the floor to Mr. Kobayashi for his introduction.

Kobayashi Yokichi:

Hello everyone, my name is Kobayashi Yokichi. Today, I will introduce myself and answer questions in Chinese. I look forward to your kind attention.

My name is Kobayashi Yokichi. I am the eldest son of Kobayashi Kiyoshi, a Japanese veteran of the Eighth Route Army, and I serve as vice president and executive director of the Japanese Association of Comrades-in-arms of China's Eighth Route Army and New Fourth Army. In Japan, the Japanese Association of Comrades-in-arms of China's Eighth Route Army and New Fourth Army is also known as the "Coconut Society." The Coconut Society was founded in 1970 by Mitsushige Maeda, a former member of the Japanese Anti-War Alliance in China, and others. Due to the political environment in Japan at the time, the name of the association could not contain the words "Eighth Route Army" or "New Fourth Army." Therefore, it was ingeniously named the "Coconut Society," as the Japanese pronunciation of "coconut" corresponds to the numbers eight and four. Mitsushige Maeda, recognized as the "first Japanese Eighth Route Army soldier," along with his comrades, used the Coconut Society as a platform to hold gatherings, deliver speeches and write articles to educate the Japanese people, illustrating through their personal experiences the brutality of the Japanese imperialist war of aggression. The mission of our association is to carry forward the legacy of the older generation, inherit their cause, oppose war, uphold and cherish peace, and remain committed to Sino-Japanese friendship. Thank you.

Zhou Li:

Thank you, Mr. Kobayashi. Now, let us invite Mr. Bussière to give his introduction.

Jean-Louis Bussière:

Hello everyone, my name is Jean-Louis Bussière. My father was Dr. Jean Jérome Augustin Bussière. I am a cardiologist by profession and now retired. Like my father, I also studied at a military medical academy, and was assigned to Ivory Coast as a military doctor. After returning to France, I entered the hospital system and specialized in cardiology. Over the years, I worked in military hospitals, private clinics and rehabilitation centers in France. Before my retirement, I served as an international medical consultant at a multinational European medical rehabilitation company. Thank you.

Zhou Li:

Thank you, Mr. Bussière. Now let's give the floor to Mr. Chuikov for his introduction.

Nikolai Vladimirovich Chuikov:

Hello everyone, my name is Nikolai Vladimirovich Chuikov. I am the eldest grandson of Marshal V.I. Chuikov of the former Soviet Union. My association with China comes from my ancestors. As we know, my grandfather came to China three times in total and later served as a military attaché to the Chinese government. This was all between 1940 and 1942.

After the founding of the People's Republic of China, my grandfather became one of the initiators of the Russia-China Friendship Society. I am now a reserve officer, chairman of the veterans committee, a member of the Central Board of the Russia-China Friendship Society, and head of the Public Commission for International Relations of the Russian Union of Veterans. Thank you.

Zhou Li:

Thank you, Mr. Chuikov. Now, let's give the floor to Mr. Greene for his introduction.

Jeffrey Greene:

Good morning, everyone. I am Jeffrey Greene, president of the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation. 30 years ago I co-founded this foundation with Flying Tigers veterans, to better pass on the story of the Flying Tigers to the next generation, so they can understand the important significance of the Flying Tigers spirit. Over the past 30 years, we have sponsored more than 500 Flying Tigers veterans to come to China, leaving their footprints in in 12 provinces and more than 30 cities. Every time the Flying Tigers veterans come to China, it is a great honor for me because I can see how much the Chinese people respect the Flying Tigers veterans. This time coming to China, I also feel greatly honored to share some very important historical stories with all of you here. Thank you.

Zhou Li:

Thank you, Mr. Greene. Finally, let's give the floor to Mr. Michael Crook for his introduction.

Michael Crook:

Good morning, everyone. I am Michael Crook. My father, David Crook, was British, and my mother, Isabel Crook, was Canadian. I was born and raised in China and I will continue my speech in Chinese.

During the World Anti-Fascist War my father went to Spain in 1936 to join the International Brigades. He came to China in 1938, returned to the UK in 1942 to join the Royal Air Force and returned to China after the war. My mother was born in China, went to Canada to study, and returned to China in 1938 to participate in rural development and the industrial cooperative movement, and form farmers' cooperatives. In 1942, they met in China, later fell in love, and my mother went to the UK with my father to join the army. After the war, they returned to China, and I was born in Beijing.

I just mentioned the industrial cooperative movement. The International Committee for the Promotion of Chinese Industrial Cooperatives (ICCIC) was an organization established in Hong Kong in 1939, with Soong Ching-ling as the honorary chairperson. During the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the ICCIC did a lot in the supportive roles, forming production cooperatives, running hospitals, schools, etc. The ICCIC resumed activities after the reform and opening up. Our main work now is rural assistance and international people-to-people exchanges. Thank you.

Zhou Li:

Thank you, Mr. Crook. Thank you for your introductions. Now the floor is open for questions. Please identify the media outlet you represent before asking your questions. Now you may raise your questions.

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.

Sichuan Daily, Chuanguan News:

Mr. Michael Crook, hello. I just heard your introduction and I would like to ask: growing up in such a special international family, what is the most valuable legacy you inherited from your parents? How has this unique family history shaped your perspective on China and the world? Thank you.

Michael Crook:

Thank you. I have a special affection for Sichuan province because it was where my parents met and later became lifelong partners. What I have inherited from my parents? First, before the age of 30, my father had already lived and worked in the UK, the U.S. and China. My mother had lived in Canada, China and the UK, so both of them had a global perspective. I grew up in Beijing and was exposed from a young age to stories of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Linking the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression with the World Anti-Fascist War is, I think, a manifestation of this global perspective. Now, when we talk about the "global village," it means we are all interdependent — what happens in one country can affect others. I think one thing I’ve inherited is this global perspective. Also, my mother lived and worked alongside laboring people in impoverished mountain villages, including minority areas. My father worked as a laborer in the U.S. Before the age of 30, I had lived in the UK, the U.S. and China, and also worked as a laborer in both China and the UK. This life experience kept me closely connected to the working people. When we talk about sacrifices during wartime, it is ordinary people who suffer the most. Therefore, peace is especially precious, and we must unite to strive for peace and prevent the people from suffering. This is my feeling. Today, the ICCIC is also engaged in civil diplomacy, and I believe that continuing this cause is also a struggle for peace.

Tatoli, the National News Agency of East Timor:

My question is for Mr.Yokichi Kobayashi and Mr. Chuikov. We know both of you are descendants of soldiers, and through the stories of your relatives, you have a deeper understanding of the brutality of war. What is the importance and meaning of this hard-won peace, and how do this year's commemorative activities inspire both the people of your country and those of other nations? Thank you.

Yokichi Kobayashi:

Thank you for your question. My father, Kiyoshi Kobayashi, was originally a soldier in the Independent Mixed Fifth Brigade of the Japanese Expeditionary Forces in China. In 1939, he came to China, landed in Qingdao, and then was stationed on the Jiaodong Peninsula in eastern Shandong province. In 1940, he was wounded and captured while fighting with the Eighth Route Army. After being captured, he fell into despair and was very distressed. He once tried to escape, but there was no road in the mountainous area, he was caught once again. At that time, the Eighth Route Army also captured another Japanese soldier, who happened to be my father's superior, named Seko. Seko was shocked when he saw my father and asked, "Kiyoshi Kobayashi, how are you still alive?" We already sent your ashes back to Japan, and sent a notice of death in battle to your family, stating that you died in battle in Wendeng County, Shandong province, China. When my father heard that he had no chance of returning to the army or even home, he gave up the idea of fleeing.

At that time, Zhong Xidong, director of the General Political Department of the Eighth Route Army, spoke to him through a translator: Comrade Kobayashi, if you wish to return to the Japanese army, we can arrange it. However, having been held as a prisoner of war by the Eighth Route Army for so long, you will undoubtedly face trial by the Japanese military court upon your return, which would be an irresponsible decision on your part. After hearing his words, my father realized that the Eighth Route Army did not see him as an enemy. Instead, they gave him freedom and equal treatment, respected his personal dignity, and considered him a friend, a brother and a comrade. He was later sent to the Yan'an Japanese Worker and Peasant School, where he was re-educated and changed his perspectives. He quickly understood that Japan's war was an unjust act of aggression, and realized that to permanently end such wars and free the people of both Japan and China from Japanese imperialist oppression, it was necessary to follow the path of the Communist Party of China and the Eighth Route Army. He seriously reflected on himself and wrote an article titled "My Reflections," which was published in the Dazhong Newspaper on July 23, 1944, in the Shandong Anti-Japanese Base Area. This is a copy of that newspaper from that year.

My father gradually became famous in the Jiaodong Anti-Japanese Base Area, and the local military and civilians affectionately called him "Japanese Eighth Route". After that, he joined the Chinese people in the War of Resistance, fighting against the Japanese invaders. He also wrote articles in newspapers many times. My father deeply loved China and cared greatly for the Chinese people. He fought alongside the Eighth Route Army against the Japanese invaders. This part of his life was not only a proud and honorable chapter for him but also a great source of pride for me and my family. Thank you.

Zhou Li:

Thank you, Mr. Kobayashi. Please let Mr. Chuikov answer this question.

Nikolai Vladimirovich Chuikov:

Talking about atrocities is impossible to be pleasant. My grandfather participated in six wars in his lifetime. He always said that the duty of a soldier is not to fight, but to defend peace, In the postwar period, he was very concerned about the issue of peaceful development. After 1945, he worked in Berlin for another eight years. Do you know what the first military order was after the Soviet army captured Berlin? It was General Marshal Vasily Chuikov's order to distribute food to ordinary civilians. This was an order for peace. My grandfather was stationed in Berlin at that time and was the first to execute it.

I once thought that nothing could be more heinous than what the Nazis did. They killed hundreds of thousands of people in concentration camps. Later, I came to understand the Nanjing Massacre, realizing that the atrocities committed by the Japanese army were as horrific as those crimes committed by the Nazis. Two Japanese officers engaged in a killing contest, initially aiming to kill 100 people, but later increasing the target to 150 because they felt the original number was too low. Such cruelty is beyond the limits of human decency. During the Nanjing Massacre, tens of thousands of Chinese women were raped, while those who tried to protect their families were killed by Japanese soldiers with bayonets and bullets, which is outrageous. The world must know and remember this chapter of history. War has rules. Soldiers wearing epaulettes on their shoulders must not turn their guns or bayonets against civilians, but are instead obliged to protect them.

The veterans committee has subcommittees in different countries, including a Chinese subcommittee and a German subcommittee. The German subcommittee is composed of German anti-fascist individuals, and there are still more than 600 members, which is a considerable number.

After all that has been said, I still want to say that we must remember history and never let such brutal acts happen again. Thank you.

Hubei Daily:

During the war against fascism, the Flying Tigers fought against Japanese invaders alongside the Chinese military and civilians, forging a deep friendship. Mr. Greene, what do you think is the core spirit of the Flying Tigers? What is the significance of the Flying Tigers' story in today's world? What insights does this provide for the current interactions between the two major countries, China and the United States? And how will the Sino-American Aviation Heritage Foundation further promote friendly exchanges between China and the United States? Thank you.

Jeffrey Greene:

Thank you very much for your questions. Unfortunately, not many people in the United States know about what Americans did in China and what the Chinese did for the United States during World War II. Many people in the United States do not know about the existence of the Flying Tigers. China's full-scale War of Resistance began two years earlier than the European theater. In December 1941, just days after the Pearl Harbor incident, the Flying Tigers pilots flew to China to engage in combat. At that time, General Chennault, then serving as a military advisor to the Chinese Air Force, invited over 100 American pilots to volunteer for military service. They underwent training in Burma, and were then known as the "American Volunteer Group of the Chinese Air Force." After Pearl Harbor, General Chennault dispatched two fighter squadrons to Kunming, with the crucial mission of protecting the Burma Road. Since Kunming was at the northern end of the Burma Road, the Japanese forces frequently bombed the city, launching large-scale bombing raids every few weeks. One day, dozens of Japanese planes took off from the Indochina Peninsula, planning to bomb Kunming. They thought this operation would be very simple — they would drop bombs and then return easily. However, this time, about 30 miles from Kunming, they encountered 16 American fighter planes, and the young American pilots fought back. It can be said that this was the first time that Japanese aircraft were repelled, with four shot down and six damaged.

The downing of Japanese planes greatly boosted the morale of the Chinese military and civilians. The name "Flying Tigers" was given to these American pilots by the Chinese people, who believed that flying tigers were invincible. It was this spirit of the Flying Tigers that inspired growing numbers of American pilots to come to China at that time, volunteering to become members of the Flying Tigers.

What happened next was even more significant. In April 1942, the U.S. military launched the Doolittle Raid on Tokyo. After completing the mission, U.S. pilots ran out of fuel during their return flight and parachuted into enemy-occupied territory in eastern China, where eight were captured and three were executed, but 64 were rescued by Chinese civilians and returned to their base in China. Following the incident, the Japanese forces launched military operations, using guns, biochemical weapons and bombs to massacre approximately 250,000 Chinese civilians. The purpose was to teach the Chinese the lesson that if they dared to save Americans, the consequence would be merciless killing. Despite that, over the next three years, whenever an American pilot was shot down or forced to land in enemy-occupied territory, as long as they did not immediately fall into Japanese hands, they could always be rescued by the Chinese people. The Chinese people knew well that if the rescue operation was discovered by the Japanese military, not only would they face life-threatening danger, but their family, friends, neighbors and even entire village could be destroyed. In history, no other country's people has ever demonstrated such sustained and unwavering resolve to risk their lives for comrades-in-arms from a foreign country. This is the close bond between the Chinese people and the Flying Tigers during World War II. Thank you.

Public Establishment of Television (EPTV):

Before asking my question, I would like to take this opportunity to pay tribute to the Chinese people and to all the people around the world who devoted themselves to the Anti-Fascist War. My question is for Mr. Jean-Louis Bussière. Your father, Dr. Jean Jérome Augustin Bussière, took great risks during the war to deliver medicine and provide aid to the Chinese military and civilians during the War of Resistance. In your opinion, what belief supported him in making such heroic actions? On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, what do you think is the practical significance of your father's spirit? Thank you.

Jean-Louis Bussiere:

Thank you for your questions. My father came to China in 1913, and at that time he had no idea that he would spend the latter half of his life, more than 40 years, in China. His primary duty in coming to China was to devote himself to the modernization of the Chinese medical system. He held many important positions, such as professor at the famous Beiyang Medical School in Tianjin and a medical officer at the French Legation. He provided medical assistance to many high-ranking officials of the Chinese government. In 1918, he also supported the Chinese people in fighting an outbreak of the plague. In addition, my father served as the director of the St. Michel Hospital established by France in Beijing. During this period, he requested the expansion of the hospital to treat more Chinese patients. At that time, many foreign hospitals in Beijing refused to admit Chinese patients. My father thought it was very unfair, so he requested the expansion. He also provided medical services to many famous Chinese artists, such as Mei Lanfang and Qi Baishi, and treated many poor people.

As you may know, my father built a private mansion in the Western Hills of Beijing, known as Bussiere Garden. Later, he converted the Bussiere Garden into a clinic, providing free medical services to the local people. It can be said that my father wholeheartedly devoted himself to the Chinese people in the latter half of his life. He also actively trained doctors for China. He once served as a school doctor at Peking University, and was friends with Mr. Cai Yuanpei and Mr. Li Shizeng. Together, they initiated the work-study program in France, enabling outstanding Chinese students in various disciplines such as medicine, science and economics to pursue further studies in countries like France and Belgium. My father also participated in the founding of the Sino-French University. He participated in the establishment of the Aurora University School of Medicine in Shanghai, and served as its first dean, and long adhered to bilingual teaching in Chinese and French.

In addition to training doctors, my father made many efforts in the field of cultural exchange. My father could speak Chinese, and he, along with Mr. André d'Hormon, the translator-reviser of the French version of "Dream of the Red Chamber," organized cultural salons where many French and Chinese intellectuals exchanged ideas. They built a bridge of communication, understanding, and friendship between these two great civilizations.

Next, I will talk about my father's views on the Japanese invasion. As early as 1931, when the Japanese army invaded Manchuria (northeast China), my father witnessed the atrocities committed by the Japanese army. After the full outbreak of the war, he was deeply shocked. After the Lugouqiao Incident, he rushed to the front lines to treat the wounded. In letters to his French friends living in Beijing, he mentioned that he had treated some survivors of the Nanjing Massacre who had fled to Beijing. He was deeply angered by the atrocities committed by the Japanese and believed it was unacceptable. He felt it was only right to help the Chinese people resist the Japanese invasion.

You may still remember the Bussiere Garden I just mentioned. My father converted it into a temporary relief center, where he participated in organizing the treatment and transportation of critically injured patients. Later, some anti-Japanese resistance figures found him, hoping he could help with the transportation of medicine to resistance bases. My father agreed without hesitation. At first, my father was able to drive a car with diplomatic license plates through the Japanese blockades, using his identity as a medical officer in the French Legation as cover. But later, as the war situation became increasingly tense, gasoline became a controlled material, and my father resolutely switched to using a bicycle to transport medicine. He was already 71 years old at the time, traveling back and forth between his residence in the city and the Western Hills, secretly transporting a large amount of medicine to the resistance bases, including even radio batteries. It can be said that during the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, my father always firmly stood on the side of the Chinese people, helping them repel the Japanese invaders.

My father's spirit embodies practical significance on two levels. First, his heroic deeds further enriched the special relationship between China and France. I still remember back in 2014, when China and France commemorated the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations and President Xi Jinping visited France. At the commemorative meeting, President Xi Jinping delivered an important speech in which he mentioned my father, Jean Augustin Bussiere. He recalled how my father risked his life to blaze a “hump route” on his bicycle, carrying precious medicine to the base of anti-Japanese aggression in China. During the visit, President Xi Jinping also toured the Charles de Gaulle Foundation, where I had the honor of receiving him in a cordial meeting.

In fact, in Beijing, there are many Chinese citizens who received medical treatment from my father, and their descendants have also shared with me stories of his deeds. Today, the Jardin Bussiere has become a hub for people-to-people exchanges between France and China. This highlights the special ties between the two countries.

The second level is to bravely demonstrate the spirit of resistance — never giving up and standing firm in defending our homeland against the ravages of war. Moreover, we should respect cultural differences, value cultural diversity, and uphold solidarity among the peoples of different countries. I think this is the significance of reflecting on this period of history, especially as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression. Thank you.

Global Times:

My question is for Mr. Kobayashi Yokichi. As a descendant of an Eighth Route Army soldier, you have participated in numerous China-Japan friendship events. On this significant occasion marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, how do you think we can better carry forward and promote the spirit of anti-war soldiers like your father, in a bid to foster mutual understanding and friendship between the peoples of the two countries? Thank you.

Kobayashi Yokichi:

Thank you for your question. At the invitation of the Chinese government, I participated in the commemorations of the 60th and 70th anniversaries of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, respectively in 2005 and 2015, and received commemorative medals. This time, I have once again been invited by the Chinese government to take part in the commemoration of the 80th anniversary. I see this as both a tribute to my father and a recognition of his deeds, and it is truly the greatest honor and source of pride in my life. Today, as we commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, the purpose is to remind people not to forget history and to cherish peace, and to emphasize that today's Japan needs to draw lessons from history more than ever. China and Japan are neighboring countries separated by a narrow strip of sea. Our people have enjoyed thousands of years of traditional friendship. Nevertheless, no one should forget the brutal chapters in our bilateral relations — times of invasion and suffering. The atrocities committed by Japanese imperialism during its aggression against China should be made known to the world, so that people will remember them firmly. A nation’s self-reflection matters far more than another’s forgiveness. Only those with the courage to confront their own past can truly earn the respect of the world. Thank you.

Zhou Li:

Thank you, Mr. Kobayashi Yokichi Due to time constraints, we will have one last question.

CMG Voice of China:

Today, many international friends and their descendants continue to commemorate and carry forward the historical memory of mutual assistance between Chinese and foreign military and civilians. My question is for Mr. Nikolai Vladimirovich Chuikov and Mr. Michael Crook: from the perspective of your family recollections, what special significance does preserving and passing on this history hold for promoting friendly exchanges between the people of China and other countries? Thank you.

Zhou Li:

Let's hear from Mr. Nikolai Vladimirovich Chuikov first.

Nikolai Vladimirovich Chuikov:

I believe that our gathering together today is a testament to friendship. We come together precisely because we value the shared history of our two countries and peoples. The Chinese are peace-loving people. Throughout their thousands of years of history, they have never launched an invasion against another country, only defending their motherland and homes against aggressors. Invaders bring immense suffering not only to the countries and peoples they attack, but also to their own people. We hope that tragedies like the Nanjing Massacre will never occur again.

President Putin and President Xi Jinping are very good friends. They respect each other, and their friendship has promoted closer people-to-people exchange. We know that foreigners often associate Chinese Kung Fu with Tai Chi, describing it as graceful, gentle, and elegant. In today's complex international landscape, China's diplomacy carries the same qualities — gentle, elegant, and full of charm.

Looking at the relationship between Russia and China, I see it growing ever stronger. "Seeking common ground while reserving differences" is ancient Chinese wisdom. My grandfather was once stationed in Germany nominated as a member of the first government of the Democratic Republic of Germany. Although he and his fellow generals entered Berlin as victors, he maintained warm relations with the German people for many years and made many German friends. He also fought alongside leaders such as France's Charles de Gaulle and America's Dwight D. Eisenhower. They were his comrades-in-arms in the World Anti-Fascist War.

Peace and cooperation are the path forward for the world. The fact that we are all gathered here today shows that our eyes are set on the future, and on peace. Thank you.

Zhou Li:

Thank you, Mr. Chuikov. Now let's invite Mr. Crook to answer this question.

Michael Crook:

Among the interviewees here today are Japanese, French, Russian, American, and me, a Briton. I grew up in China, and one phrase I often heard was "international friends." But what does it really mean? It seems as if only foreigners who helped Chinese people are called international friends, but I think that view is incomplete. There is a traditional Chinese virtue, expressed in the saying "To be patient even when others do not understand." My father fought in the World Anti-Fascist War, first joining the International Brigades in Spain. But how many Chinese people know that nearly a hundred Chinese joined the International Brigades to help the Spanish people fight against fascism? At that time, people in Yan'an were singing "Defend Madrid." On the Russian battlefield, many Chinese also participated in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War. When the Chinese people suffered from fascist aggression, some foreigners with internationalist ideals came to its aid. In turn, many Chinese people also risked their lives to help the people of other countries. I believe that these are stories that deserve to be told more widely.

China is now a strong nation and can play a significant role on the international stage. To my knowledge, most Chinese troops serving abroad are in United Nations peacekeeping missions. When tensions arise, China often steps in to mediate. Its work in peacekeeping is a major contribution China makes to the world. I believe China can set an example for others. I hope that in the future, when the term "international friends" is mentioned, people will also be able to name some Chinese people who have helped others abroad and embodied the spirit of international friendship. In fact, there were already many examples from the very beginning of the founding of the People's Republic of China, when the country was still underdeveloped. China helped Tanzania build railways and sent medical teams to Africa. These are genuine acts of international friendship. Now that China is growing stronger, I hope it will continue to play a positive role in safeguarding peace. Thank you.

Zhou Li:

Thank you, Mr. Crook. And thank you to all five guests for joining us at the media center today to share their thoughts. Let us once again pay our highest respects to the international friends who made sacrifices and contributions to Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. The Chinese people will forever remember their inspiring deeds and noble character, and will continue to carry forward their spirit, safeguard the peace they helped create, and work toward a better future. Thank you again to our five international friends. This concludes today's press conference. Thank you.

Translated and edited by Liu Caiyi, Yan Bin, Liao Jiaxin, Liu Ziying, Xu Kailin, Wang Mengru, Zhu Bochen, Cui Can, Mi Xingang, Wang Yanfang, Liu Sitong, Ma Yujia, Gong Yingchun, Li Xiao, Liu Qiang, Zhou Jing, David Ball and Tudor Bentley Finneran. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Yang Boyao, chairman of the Association of Kwong Tong Cemetery Management Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia

Mr. Xu Songhua, president of the China Council for the Promotion of Peaceful National Reunification in Spain 

Mr. Lin Wenmeng, president of the Myanmar Chinese Chamber of Commerce Lin Wenmeng, president of the Myanmar Chinese Chamber of Commerce 

Mr. Fang Zhiwei, honorary chairman of the Fiji Chinese Culture, Arts and Economy Federation Fang Zhiwei, honorary chairman of the Fiji Chinese Culture, Arts and Economy Federation 

Mr. Yu Junwu, head of Huaxing Arts Group Australia Yu Junwu, head of the Huaxing Arts Group Sydney of Australia 

Chairperson:

Mr. Chen Tao, head of the press center for the events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War

Date: 

Sept. 1, 2025

Chen Tao:

Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. Welcome to the second group interview on the events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

During the war of resistance against Japanese aggression, Chinese people both at home and abroad united as one, forming a powerful force to defend the country against the enemy, achieving unprecedented national awakening and unity. Overseas Chinese, risking their lives and giving away their fortunes, made important contributions to the victory over Japanese aggression and fascism. Some donated money and materials or worked to gain international aid, others returned to China to fight, and still others participated in the anti-fascist war in their places of residence.

Since the beginning of this year, overseas Chinese communities have conducted a variety of commemorative activities worldwide. Today, we have invited five representatives to introduce the commemorative activities by overseas Chinese around the world and the historical contributions of overseas Chinese communities to the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. They are: Mr. Yang Boyao, chairman of the Association of Kwong Tong Cemetery Management Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia; Mr. Xu Songhua, president of the China Council for the Promotion of Peaceful National Reunification in Spain; Mr. Lin Wenmeng, president of the Myanmar Chinese Chamber of Commerce; Mr. Fang Zhiwei, honorary chairman of the Fiji Chinese Culture, Arts and Economy Federation; and Mr. Yu Junwu, head of Huaxing Arts Group Australia.

Now, I will give the floor to them for their remarks. First, let's invite Mr. Yang from Malaysia to give his introduction.

Yang Boyao:

Good afternoon, everyone. I represent the Association of Kwong Tong Cemetery (Guangdong Yishan) Management Kuala Lumpur in Malaysia. You may not be familiar with the term Yishan. Yishan originally operated as Yizhang (a traditional charitable facility in Southeast Asia that managed temporary encoffinment and funeral services) before evolving into a Chinese cemetery since many elderly overseas Chinese chose it as their final resting place. 

Previously, many overseas Chinese passed away without proper burial arrangements. Later, the leaders of local Chinese communities organized the Kwong Tong Cemetery and gave proper burials to our ancestors and esteemed predecessors, allowing them to rest in peace.

In 1947, the world's first monument commemorating the Nanyang Volunteers (overseas Chinese from Southeast Asia who volunteered as drivers and mechanics during the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression) was built in Kwong Tong Cemetery in Kuala Lumpur. Over the past 70-plus years, we have carried out maintenance, repair and improvement work to preserve it. Recently, we have further standardized and expanded the scope of efforts related to Nanyang Volunteers. From 1938 to 1942, Nanyang Volunteers responded to Tan Kah Kee's call in Malaysia, returning to China with enthusiasm to fight against Japanese aggression. They donated supplies, medicines, and money, shipping these materials back to their motherland via the Burma Road. We should narrate their stories and promote their spirit of sacrifice, helping the young generation better understand this history. Thank you.

Chen Tao:

Thank you, Mr. Yang. Next, let's invite Mr. Xu from Spain to take the floor.

Xu Songhua:

Journalist friends, good afternoon. The host just mentioned that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Overseas Chinese communities, including those in European countries like Spain, held various commemorative activities. I will now introduce the basic situation of the commemorative activities in Spain.

The overseas Chinese community in Spain began preparing for the 80th anniversary in the victory of the War of Resistance in early May and has already launched various commemorative activities. The first youth calligraphy competition started in early June, followed by many other activities. The first feature is the particularly wide range, with 19 events held so far. The second feature is the richness of the content. The commemorative activities include seminars, performances, recitations, photo exhibitions, and calligraphy and painting exhibitions, which were not seen in the past.

In the Chinese community in Spain, everyone is very enthusiastic. From Madrid to Barcelona, from Valencia to the islands, we have carried out commemorative activities extensively, allowing people to understand the patriotic sentiment of "everyone has a duty toward his country."

I think our overseas Chinese and our next generation should remember this history, never forget the past, honor the martyrs, and pool our wisdom and strength.

Thank you.

Chen Tao:

Thank you, Mr. Xu. Next, Mr. Lin Wenmeng from Myanmar will give an introduction.

Lin Wenmeng:

Hello, everyone! I will introduce the contributions of overseas Chinese in the battles fought between Chinese and Japanese forces in Burma (now Myanmar) and in Yunnan province, as well as the situation of overseas Chinese communities participating in the protection and maintenance of overseas memorial facilities for our martyrs.

During the War of Resistance, famous patriotic overseas Chinese leaders such as Tan Kah Kee, also known as Chen Jiageng, organized 3,940 anti-Japanese national salvation groups, which became an important force in supporting China's resistance against Japanese aggression. Patriotic overseas Chinese in Myanmar, by selling their ancestral properties, donated over 400 million yuan in national currency and contributed 19 airplanes. They also risked their lives to serve as translators, medics, and guides. The medical staff of the overseas Chinese hospital in Yangon worked day and night to rescue the wounded, while overseas Chinese lined up on the streets to donate money to support the resistance.

The Chinese Expeditionary Force was dispatched to fight Japanese aggressors in Myanmar twice, with 140,000 soldiers forever resting in a foreign land. Memorial monuments for the Chinese Expeditionary Force martyrs have been erected in many places across Myanmar, and the overseas Chinese community has consistently donated funds for their restoration and maintenance. Every year during major holidays such as Qingming Festival, the overseas Chinese community in Myanmar, the Chinese Embassy in Myanmar, descendants of soldiers of the Chinese Expeditionary Force, and people from all walks of life visit the monuments to pay their respects.

The history of the War of Resistance tells us that the fate of overseas Chinese is closely linked with their motherland. We deeply commemorate our martyrs and remember the contributions made by overseas Chinese to the War of Resistance.

Thank you.

Chen Tao:

Thank you, Mr. Lin Wenmeng. Next, let's welcome Mr. Fang Zhiwei from Fiji to give an introduction.

Fang Zhiwei:

Good afternoon, everyone. I am Fang Zhiwei, an overseas Chinese in Fiji, a South Pacific island country. My ancestral home is Zhongshan, Guangdong province. My Mandarin is not very good, please forgive me. I am the honorary chairman of the Fiji Chinese Culture, Arts and Economy Federation. Today, I am greatly honored to participate in the event commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance. Speaking of my family history, my grandfather Fang Zuobiao was a patriotic overseas Chinese. He was born in Shaxi town, Zhongshan, Guangdong province. In the 1920s, he and his brothers sailed to Fiji to make a living. Starting from nothing, he gradually built his own business, and became a patriotic businessman. In 1937, he took the lead in calling on and organizing the overseas Chinese communities in the South Pacific island countries to donate money and supplies. He mortgaged his own property to the bank and used his entire life savings to donate a fighter plane. Later, the overseas Chinese in the South Pacific island countries donated three more planes, bringing the total to four. Although he had little formal education, he named his children Guo (nation), Qiang (strength), Fu (prosperity), Min (people), Xing (revival). He did so to remind the next generation that only with a country can there be a home. My father, Fang Zifu, was the third child. He returned to China from a young age to study Chinese culture. After retiring, he took us back to Fiji. Later, I also sent my daughter and other children to China to study Chinese culture and traditional Chinese medicine. They are now making Chinese culture shine in Fiji, and sharing China's stories with the world. My hope is that they will become better and better, and tell China's stories well.

Thank you.

Chen Tao:

Thank you, Mr. Fang. Next, let's welcome Mr. Yu from Australia for his introduction.

Yu Junwu:

Hello, everyone. I am from Sydney, Australia. The year of 2025 marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. On this sacred occasion, the Huaxing Arts Group Sydney of Australia, with strong support from all parties, held a thematic commemoration, including a grand symphonic epic concert and photo exhibition, titled "Ode to Peace and the Future" at Sydney Town Hall on Aug. 9

As an overseas Chinese artist, I feel responsible for using culture as a bridge to let the concept of peace transcend borders and become an eternal driving force for human development. With this in mind, the "Ode to Peace and the Future" commemoration adopted a professional, popular, diverse and inclusive form. It brought together ethnic artists from many countries such as China, Australia, Russia, Germany, South Africa, Denmark and the Netherlands. With a cast of 400 actors, the performance was stirring and magnificent, and has gained positive feedback among locals.

Thank you.

Chen Tao:

Thank you, Mr. Yu. The floor is now open for questions. Please state your news organization before asking your question.

China News Service:

Looking back at the history of the war of resistance, overseas Chinese campaigned vigorously to support the war of resistance, or fought side by side with local people in their host countries, or traveled vast distances back home to fight against Japanese aggression. All of them have made unique contributions to the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. I would like to ask all of you: How do you understand this unity across geographies? What inspiration does it offer us today? Thank you.

Xu Songhua:

As the reporter from China News Service just mentioned, there is indeed this unity across geographies among our overseas Chinese. It is a precious cultural asset inherited from the older generations of overseas Chinese. They called on the world to support the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. They donated money and materials. They returned to China to join the war of resistance. And as two speakers mentioned earlier, overseas Chinese leader Tan Kah Kee not only took the lead in donating funds and supplies himself, but also organized more than 3,000 people from Southeast Asia to work on the Yunnan-Myanmar Road, ensuring a steady flow of goods from around the world to support the war of resistance. This period of history should be remembered. Of course, the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was an important part of the World Anti-Fascist War. I'll talk about the story of Spain.

In July 1936, the dictator Francisco Franco launched a coup to suppress the republican revolution. At this time, more than 40,000 volunteers from 53 countries formed seven international brigades. There were more than 100 Chinese volunteers, including a man named Xie Weijin, who had been a student leader. He led many volunteers in some truly vicious battles. Many members of the international brigades were imprisoned in concentration camps. But their spirit could not be quelled. They continued in their vocal support for the war of resistance against Japanese aggression, which was extremely difficult at the time. In 1940, through various forms of struggle, they eventually left the concentration camps. There were 14 martyrs.There are detailed records regarding seven of the volunteers, including Xie Weijin and Yang Chunrong, who returned to the motherland to fight against the Japanese invaders. Think about it, doesn't this mean unity across geographies? Isn't this the convergence of the war of resistance against Japanese aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War? Isn't this a case of courageously fighting against common foes? Therefore, at a time like this—especially on the 80th anniversary—we need to unite as one more than ever to safeguard the fruits of World War II victory. We must uphold justice and defend peace. Only in this way can we ensure lasting world peace. Thank you.

Yang Boyao:

I would like to add a few words. In Malaysia, we are thousands of miles apart yet when the overseas Chinese drivers and mechanics heard of the invasion, they got organized and travelled thousands of miles back to the motherland. Their contribution against the Japanese invaders embodied the unity across geographies. Among them were several modern-day Mulans, Chinese women who disguised themselves as men to support the war of resistance, such as Li Yuemei and Bai Xuejiao. Their devotion is truly worthy of remembering and promoting. I agree with what Mr. Xu just said; We must let the younger generations know these stories. Otherwise, the stories will be lost. We must pass down the stories to future generations. Thank you.

Yu Junwu:

Looking back at the history of the War of Resistance, overseas Chinese made an indelible contribution to the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Their spirit and patriotic feelings transcended thousands of miles and across national borders. Although overseas Chinese live in foreign countries, their hearts remained tied to their homeland, closely linking their personal fate with that of their ancestral country. This spirit embodies a shared destiny. Many overseas Chinese fought side by side with local people in their host countries against invaders. The force that transcends ethnicity and nationality is an important part of the world anti-fascist war. This spirit builds bridges of friendship. Overseas Chinese played a special role in integrating China and the world. They all actively took part in theoretical publicity, diplomatic mediation, and providing material channels. 

Especially now, I think the spirit of "united despite across vast distances" is also very meaningful. Firstly it promotes a sense of patriotism;Secondly it deepens international cooperation and thirdly it helps tell the story of China. Thank you.

Jinan Times APP:

I would like to ask Mr. Lin Wenmeng. How are the overseas Chinese in Myanmar currently involved in the protection and maintenance of the memorial facilities for the Chinese Expeditionary Force martyrs, and how are they passing on and promoting this historical memory? Could you provide us with more details? Thank you.

Lin Wenmeng:

Thank you for your question. My wife is a descendant of the Chinese Expeditionary Force and we feel the patriotism and loyalty of the Chinese Expeditionary Force very deeply. The overseas Chinese community in Myanmar has primarily contributed to the preservation and maintenance of the memorial facilities by donating funds for its reconstruction and repair, as well as conducting searches for the missing and reburial of their remains. The Chinese Expeditionary Force sacrificed their lives for justice, demonstrating the Chinese nation's sense of justice and resilience. Their patriotic spirit deeply moves and inspires the overseas Chinese in Myanmar. The overseas Chinese community in Myanmar should inherit the will of the martyrs, pass on the national righteousness and mission. They should support the cause of China's reunification, and contribute to China-Myanmar economic and cultural exchanges. Let us cherish peace together and work together to build a community with a shared future for humanity.

Thank you.

Phoenix TV:

We would like to ask Mr. Yang Boyao to introduce the process of planning and constructing the Nanyang Volunteer Drivers and Mechanics Memorial Park and Memorial Hall, and how they will interact with the public in the future? In addition, what is the significance of the completion of the memorial park and memorial hall? Thank you.

Yang Boyao:

Thank you. Every year, the Nanyang Volunteers Memorial holds activities for the Nanyang Volunteer Memorial Monument. It is a towering monument to commemorate the Second World War. We found the monument was a bit out-dated so we began to think about how to enhance its presence and interaction. Commemoration is about history. We need to preserve the original documents, so we made several visits, exchanges, and learning activities. We traveled from Malaysia to Kunming, and also retraced the Burma Road, visiting the Nanyang Chinese Association for Exchanges. We were inspired to replicate the layout of the Burma Road in the Nanyang Volunteer Drivers and Mechanics Memorial Park. Second, we built a long wall using compressed earth. We engraved the names of more than 3200 Nanyang volunteers along its side. When we communicated with the staff of the memorial , he gave us a few tips. The first is that numbers are easier to remember, 3200 represents 3200 volunteers, and 1146 represents the 1146 kilometers of the Burma Road. We have displayed these concepts in the current memorial park, and placed a statue of Mr. Tan Kah Kee in it. During the public memorial service, at least 1000 people can gather at the site. Additionally, we need to share these stories, so we divided the site into five exhibition areas according to the origin of these Nanyang Volunteers. Since it is an old building, we could only make minor renovations on the inside. Our exhibition areas include an audiovisual area, a reenactment of how we traveled the Burma Road, and a brief recount of Mr. Tan Kah Kee's call to action for volunteers. We also collected photos of more than 800 Nanyang volunteers. On August 14th this year, we held an opening ceremony. Coincidentally, it rained heavily that day. We invited several leaders, including the . Minister of Transport of Malaysia, Loke Siew Fook. On site he said that with just this little rain, how can we carry umbrellas? We should not let these tiny raindrops distract us. And we must stand in front of the Nanyang Volunteers Monument and pay the highest respect to our predecessors and the Nanyang volunteers." This revealed the minister recognized the value of our work, providing further inspiration. Thank you.

Channel 33:

I would like to ask Mr. Yu a question. I understand you've achieved many cultural "firsts" in Australia, including the first Spring Festival gala and the first Chinese-language theatrical production. Based on your experience, could you share how cultural initiatives can be used to promote China-Australia friendship and encourage people-to-people connections? Thank you.

Yu Junwu:

Thank you. I went to Australia to study in the 1980s. At that time, there were few Chinese cultural activities in Australia, giving us opportunities to fill that cultural gap. These included the first Chinese-language theater production, the first overseas Spring Festival gala, the first Chinese art school, and the historic debut of Chinese culture at Sydney Opera House. Over the past 30 years, I think we have always held to one belief: as foreign nationals of Chinese descent, the spirit of the Chinese nation and its entire culture is an inherent part of who we are. Additionally, as people in the cultural field, it is our responsibility to pass on and promote Chinese culture abroad. The best way for Chinese culture to flourish abroad is through its people. Over the years, we have continuously explored localized operations because only through localization can we build bridges of mutual understanding in the local community. To achieve this, we need to first bring together talented, accomplished, passionate and dedicated individuals who love Chinese culture to work as a unified force.

Moreover, Australia is a multicultural country. When organizing activities, we must consider mutual learning, emotional resonance and shared values with other ethnic communities. We should build our approach to success on the foundation of equality, respect and mutual benefit, working together to cultivate this land. Only through this approach can more non-Chinese speakers in Australia's multicultural environment come to understand, appreciate and engage with Chinese culture. I truly feel that community harmony is the cornerstone of a prosperous multicultural society, while culture and art serve as the wellspring for promoting such harmony. By embracing the spirit of "appreciating our own beauty, celebrating others' beauty, and sharing beauty together," we achieve the ideal that "relations between nations depend on bonds between peoples, and bonds between peoples depend on mutual understanding."

Thank you.

China Daily:

I would like to ask Mr. Xu a question. You just provided a detailed introduction of the activities organized by overseas Chinese in Spain to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. This year also marks the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's restoration to China from Japanese occupation. Could you briefly introduce the related activities organized by overseas Chinese communities? Thank you.

Xu Songhua:

Thank you for your question. As I mentioned earlier, during the commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, overseas Chinese have also been paying attention to the unification of their motherland and have carried out commemorative activities in different forms. On July 9 this year, an event was held in Serbia brought together more than 400 people from 60 countries, along with 20,000 compatriots from Hong Kong, Macao and Taiwan. The consensus was a strong call for China's peaceful and swift reunification and a firm opposition to all separatist activities by "Taiwan independence" forces. We say that the well-being of overseas Chinese communities is closely connected to the motherland. Why do we overseas Chinese support our motherland during difficult times? Why did we spare no effort and fear no sacrifice to support the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression? Because our survival and development abroad are directly tied to the strength of our motherland. When our motherland becomes strong, we stand taller, feel more confident and become more united. Overseas activities of this kind are driven by our heartfelt emotions, and we must use these events to awaken the memories of the past for our community and to ensure that the next generation learns to remember history, honor fallen heroes, cherish peace, and create a better future. This is our shared aspiration. Thank you.

China Education News:

Mr. Fang, could you briefly introduce your grandfather's specific contributions to the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression? Additionally, how has your family's fine traditions been passed down during peacetime? Thank you.

Fang Zhiwei:

My grandfather's devotion to our homeland has now been passed down to our generation. I will also continue this family tradition by sending my children to China to learn about Chinese culture, which they can then bring back and promote abroad. My grandfather frequently organized events with the local Chinese community in Fiji, and they would regularly visit China for exchanges. Thank you.

China Media Group:

The speakers just shared many touching stories of overseas Chinese who, with sincere hearts, united to save their homeland. The victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression is a shared memory of the Chinese people both at home and abroad. Mr. Lin and Mr. Fang, on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, what commemorative activities have Chinese communities in Myanmar and Fiji organized? Thank you.

Lin Wenmeng:

The Chinese community in Myanmar held a grand symposium at the Myanmar Chinese Chamber of Commerce to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. On Aug. 7, together with the Chinese Embassy in Myanmar and representatives from various sectors, we went to Toungoo to pay tribute at the Chinese Expeditionary Force (CEF) Memorial Monument and distributed supplies to representatives of CEF descendants. We remember history to cherish and safeguard peace. Thank you.

Fang Zhiwei:

This year marks the 170th anniversary of the Chinese arrival in Fiji, the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and Fiji, and the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Our Chinese community established a Chinese library and donated educational supplies to Fijian schools to strengthen the China-Fiji friendship. In addition, we held a symposium to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, where both long-established and recently arrived Chinese gathered to remember history. Thank you.

Beijing Daily:

Mr. Xu, you have been invited back to China multiple times to participate in major events. In a few days, Beijing will hold a grand event to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. What are your expectations and thoughts about this event? Thank you.

Xu Songhua:

Thanks for your question. Indeed, I have participated in many major national celebrations in China, including the 50th, 60th and 70th anniversaries of the founding of the People's Republic of China, as well as commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Each experience brought different feelings. This time, I still feel very excited, and like the other overseas representatives, we are all looking forward to and hoping for our motherland to grow stronger. According to media reports, this parade will showcase many new weapons to the world, demonstrating that China's military has grown stronger. Anyone wanting to invade China or interfere with the cause of peaceful reunification should think twice. As overseas Chinese, only when our motherland becomes strong can we all live better abroad, and only then will our children be respected in their local communities. This commemoration sends a message to the world: China is strong. We must stand united with our motherland, and China's future will be even brighter! Thank you.

Guangming Daily:

My question is for Mr. Yu. Mr. Yu, you just gave a detailed account of your 30-plus years of cultural work overseas. What suggestions do you have for promoting exchanges and mutual learning between China and the rest of the world and advancing peaceful development among countries worldwide under the current international situation? Thank you.

Yu Junwu:

Thank you. Since every nation has its own distinct values, unique understandings and perspectives on the world, I believe that overseas Chinese communities serve as crucial bridges connecting different regions and cultures. Your question just now makes me realize that over the past 30 years of cultural inheritance overseas, the overseas Chinese's longing for Chinese culture contains enormous energy. How to gather this energy and channel it to create meaningful impact locally is very important. Let me elaborate more specifically, using the model of the Huaxing Arts Group Sydney as an example. The word "group" in Huaxing Arts Group Sydney not only means an artistic group, but it also means "unity." It is circular, like a barrel hoop, binding together artists and art groups scattered overseas, drawing water from local resources and nourishing the soil of Chinese culture. At the same time, it is also square-shaped, because it leverages its extensive network of affiliated arts groups and rich variety of programs to showcase the artistic forms of the Chinese nation and spread the essence of Chinese culture through various performances. Meanwhile, in its organizational structure, it is triangular. When one group does the work, support comes from all directions. Currently, the Huaxing Arts Group Sydney has 57 different types of art groups and a cast of over 3,000 performers. In the process of development, it has formed the "1×57+4" model. "1" represents the concept of Huaxing, which is integrated and expanded through these 57 affiliated groups, while "4" refers to the four major traditional Chinese festivals: Spring Festival, Double Ninth Festival, Dragon Boat Festival and Mid-Autumn Festival. All teams of the Huaxing Arts Group use these four traditional festivals as opportunities to closely cooperate with local city and county governments, actively participating in the arts festivals organized by these governments, as well as numerous other large and small events. Sydney is a satellite city with more than 10, even dozens of large and small city governments. According to official statistics, the number of people watching the arts festivals organized by the Sydney city government and various levels of government each year reaches millions, with 65% of them being non-Chinese ethnic backgrounds. Therefore, integration into the local community is of great importance in terms of cultural inheritance and dissemination, because only in this way can direct and seamless exchange, interaction and mutual enrichment be achieved. Therefore, immersed in this atmosphere, the Huaxing Arts Group Sydney has pioneered a path of public welfare cultural development. Thank you.

Chen Tao:

Due to time constraints, we will take one last question.

China Youth Daily:

After listening to the introductions, we noted that standing at the juncture of "remembering history and looking forward to the future," the overseas Chinese community is committed to the intergenerational transmission of the memories of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. How do you explain the history of the War of Resistance to the younger generation? What challenges do you face?

Xu Songhua:

Thank you. Your question is my primary focus. It has been 80 years since the victory in the War of Resistance, and 94 years since the September 18 Incident in 1931. From this perspective, the surviving old heroes and veterans of the War of Resistance are already very rare and precious. On the other hand, our young people, especially those growing up overseas, are educated with foreign books and foreign worldviews, which are different from ours. If the gap is not filled, our history may be forgotten, which is very heart-wrenching. Our next generation must remember history and never forget the national humiliation. If they do not even know this, how can they strive for strength and unity, and how can they share the same sentiments with us? As such, this issue is indeed something we must seriously consider.

In Spain, various associations have collaborated with Chinese language schools to organize many activities. In 2015, on the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, we organized a contest featuring songs from the war period, such as "My Home is on the Songhua River in Northeast China." I found their performance full of conviction\, and through singing these songs, they were able to understand the situation in that era.

At the same time, we have also used our music, our dance and our songs to evoke memories of that period. Additionally, we have held photo exhibitions and calligraphy and painting exhibitions, through which people get to know that how much the Chinese people suffered and how incredibly tough their lives were. We have also inspired their profound love for the motherland through speeches and seminars by veteran leaders of overseas Chinese communities.

The issue of the next generation is indeed an important one. We are also organizing summer camps. This July, my granddaughter and seven of her classmates attended a summer camp. They are all high school students. After the camp, I said that if they had the opportunity, they should visit the Memorial Hall of the Victims in Nanjing Massacre by Japanese Invaders. When they came back, I asked them how they felt after visiting the memorial hall. My granddaughter said that she felt very heavy-hearted and angry. I suddenly felt that my granddaughter had matured. She already understood how to distinguish between love and hate. She knew how the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression came about. So we need to have a sense of numbers, such as the September 18 Incident in 1931, the July 7 Incident in 1937, and so on. I told them that on Dec. 13, 1937, Nanjing fell, and 300,000 of our compatriots were killed by the Japanese. They need to be told about these numbers. We need to talk about the 14-year War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, and teach them that in 1949 the People's Republic of China was founded, and the Chinese people stood up; after more than 40 years of reform and opening up, the Chinese people have gone from standing up, to becoming prosperous and then to becoming strong. Only in this way can we arouse their feelings for their motherland.

We need to cultivate the next generation, which requires our media to do more publicity, and our overseas Chinese organizations and the older generation to pass this on. Our tomorrow will be better. Thank you.

Yang Boyao:

I would also like to say something. Overseas, many ethnic Chinese families now have third, fourth and even fifth and sixth generations descendants. When we communicate with them, they always say they are Malaysian Chinese, and some no longer have a sense of their ancestral homeland. In Chinese communities, we must do some work. For example, we will make some short videos and promotional clips to post on platforms like Facebook, TikTok and RedNote. We also need to bring them to China to participate in summer or winter camps. After participating in these activities, they will actually have some changes, saying they hadn't realized how good China is. In their impressions, their grandfathers told them that China was poor at that time, and so they don't know that China is now very strong. Therefore, we often organize groups to return to China and tell China's story well. We also once told them and inspired them that no matter where they go, no matter how far they drift around the world, their roots are still in China. Thank you.

Yu Junwu:

As for myself, my father-in-law and mother-in-law are both veterans of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Sharing their personal experiences of this history creates a stronger emotional bond and resonance. In addition, artistic works have an appeal. At the 70th and 80th anniversaries of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, we held a large-scale symphony concert and World War II photo exhibition in Sydney, respectively titled "Commemorating the Past — Cherishing Peace" and "Ode to Peace and Future." From the artistic forms to their content, they stirred people's hearts, aroused resonance and brought people together. Thank you.

Lin Wenmeng:

Although we live overseas, we always have the blood of the Chinese descendants flowing in us. This is the blood of our nation. The Chinese nation is united, friendly, peace-loving and actively upholds justice. This is our national culture. In the current international situation, building a community with a shared future for humanity is very important. The peace, prosperity and development of the world are the shared benefits of all people around the world. Thank you.

Chen Tao:

Thank you to the five representatives. The words shared by the five representatives has made us once again feel the sincere patriotism that binds overseas compatriots to the motherland by blood, the shared hatred against the enemy and united resistance more than 80 years ago, and the subsequent concerted efforts and joint struggles of compatriots at home and abroad — all of which have pooled the majestic strength for national rejuvenation. May we continue to inherit this patriotic sentiment and jointly write a new chapter of peace and development.

Today's press conference is hereby concluded. Thank you again to the five representatives and to the media. Goodbye.

Translated and edited by Lin Liyao, Li Congrong, Zhang Tingting, Yan Xiaoqing, Wang Xingguang, Xu Xiaoxuan, Xu Kailin, Yang Chuanli, Yuan Fang, Zhang Junmian, Liu Sitong, Fan Junmei, Li Huiru, Ma Yujia, Wang Qian, David Ball, Jay Birbeck and Tudor Bentley Finneran. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Ma Feixiong, vice minister of the Ministry of Veterans Affairs (MVA)

Mr. Sun Deli, deputy head of the National Cultural Heritage Administration (NCHA)

Mr. Peng Yuehui, deputy director of the Department of Revolutionary Cultural Relics of the NCHA

Mr. Li Jingxian, deputy director of the Department of Commendation and Commemoration (also the Department of International Cooperation) of the MVA

Chairperson:

Mr. Zhou Jianshe, head of the Press Center for Commemoration of 80th Anniversary of Victory in Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and World Anti-Fascist War

Date:

Aug. 31, 2025

Zhou Jianshe:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to the third press conference of the Press Center for the Events Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Today, we have invited Mr. Ma Feixiong, vice minister of the Ministry of Veterans Affairs (MVA), and Mr. Sun Deli, deputy head of the National Cultural Heritage Administration (NCHA), to introduce the fourth batch of national-level war memorial facilities and sites, the list of renowned anti-Japanese heroes and heroic groups, and updates on the preservation and restoration of war memorial facilities, sites and relics, and to answer your questions. Also attending today's press conference are Mr. Li Jingxian, deputy director of the Department of Commendation and Commemoration (also the Department of International Cooperation) of the MVA; and Mr. Peng Yuehui, deputy director of the Department of Revolutionary Cultural Relics of the NCHA.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Ma for his introduction.

Ma Feixiong:

Thank you, Mr. Zhou. Good morning, everyone. I'm delighted to meet you all. On this occasion, on behalf of the MVA, I would like to express my sincere gratitude to the Party committees, governments at all levels and people from all walks of life for their long-term attention, support and care for the work of honoring martyrs.

During the 14 arduous years of resistance against Japanese militaristic aggression, the Chinese people united as one, forging a common will to defend the nation and ensuring its survival. In that struggle, they wrote a magnificent epic of courage and sacrifice. Martyrs such as Yang Jingyu, Zhao Shangzhi, Zuo Quan, Peng Xuefeng and Zhang Zizhong, as well as heroic collectives like the "Five Heroes of Langya Mountain" of the Eighth Route Army, the Liu Laozhuang Company of the New Fourth Army, the eight female soldiers of the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army, and the 800 heroes of the National Revolutionary Army emerged. These heroes of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression are the backbone of the Chinese nation. Their deeds and spirit remain a powerful source of inspiration that we must forever cherish.

Since the 18th National Congress of the Communist Party of China (CPC), General Secretary Xi Jinping has attached great importance to the work of honoring martyrs. He has presented a series of important ideas and proposals on remembering history, honoring fallen heroes, cherishing peace and creating a better future. He has also issued a series of important instructions on protecting the revolutionary resources related to the resistance against Japanese aggression and carrying forward the great resistance spirit, providing fundamental guidelines and action guides for our work.

The MVA has resolutely implemented these ideas and instructions. We have earnestly unearthed and shared the stories of anti-Japanese heroes, actively protected and made use of war memorial facilities, and vigorously promoted the great spirit of resisting Japanese aggression. First, we have continuously improved relevant regulations and policies. The General Office of the CPC Central Committee, the General Office of the State Council, and the General Office of the Central Military Commission have successively issued documents such as the "Overall Work Plan for the Planning, Construction, Repair, Management, and Maintenance of Martyrs' Memorial Facilities" and the "Opinions on Strengthening the Commendation of Martyrs in the New Era." They have revised regulations such as the "Regulations on the Commendation of Martyrs," the "Measures for the Protection and Management of Martyrs' Memorial Facilities" and the "Measures for the Burial of Martyrs." They have also formulated policies and systems to standardize the management of martyrs' memorial facilities and enhance exhibition and interpretation work at these facilities, laying a solid foundation for their protection, management and utilization. Second, we have organized a wide range of commemorative activities. On relevant occasions such as the Tomb-Sweeping Day, Martyrs' Day and the National Memorial Day for Nanjing Massacre Victims, we have actively mobilized and organized all sectors of society to participate in memorial ceremonies and visits. These events honor the memory of anti-Japanese heroes and guide the public, especially young people, to fully recognize the crimes committed by Japanese militarist aggressors, to remember the Chinese nation's resistance to aggression and courageous struggle, and to appreciate the Chinese people's great national sacrifices and important historical contributions to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, vigorously nurturing a spirit of national pride and patriotism. Third, we have strengthened the protection and management of memorial facilities. Through inspections, historical verification and field research, we have collected and verified information on memorial facilities for martyrs and gained a clearer picture, achieving more IT-based, digitalized and refined management. We have strengthened the upgrading and renovation of martyrs' cemeteries, investing 270 million yuan (about $38 million) in 43 projects. A total of 2 billion yuan in subsidies has been allocated to repair facilities below the county level nationwide, and more than 77,000 scattered martyrs' graves have been relocated to cemeteries. Together with the Supreme People's Procuratorate and the NCHA, we have carried out joint efforts to protect and manage the martyrs' memorial facilities and cultural relics, effectively improving their overall condition. Fourth, we have focused on better telling the stories of the fallen heroes. We have collected and compiled historical records and oral testimonies, organized exhibitions of historical materials, and compiled accounts of heroic deeds. We have unearthed the stories of heroes and their enduring spirit, actively staging high-quality exhibitions. So far, four batches of 294 national-level war memorial facilities and sites have been announced, along with 1,128 renowned anti-Japanese heroes and heroic groups. We have also hosted four consecutive national heroic deeds interpretation contests and other events to continue sharing the stories of heroes and the Chinese people's resistance against Japanese aggression, fostering a strong social atmosphere of remembering history and honoring fallen heroes.

Moving forward, we will take the announcement of the fourth batch of national-level war memorial facilities and sites as well as the list of renowned heroes, martyrs and heroic groups as an opportunity to further protect, manage and make full use of these red resources with care and dedication. We will promote the study and promotion of the deeds of the heroes in schools, communities and military camps, guiding the public, and especially young people, to deepen their sense of patriotism, inherit the red genes, and foster the great national spirit and the spirit of resistance throughout society. This will inject strong spiritual strength into advancing the building of a strong nation and the great cause of national rejuvenation through Chinese modernization.

In just a few days, we will mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. We wish to pay our highest respect to the heroes and martyrs, the soldiers who fought in the war, the relatives of fallen heroes, overseas Chinese and Chinese living abroad, and international friends who made significant contributions and sacrifices to achieve victory in this just war for national liberation. Thank you.

Zhou Jianshe:

Thank you, Mr. Ma, for your introduction. Now, let's welcome Mr. Sun to speak.

Sun Deli:

Thank you. Good morning, everyone. I am pleased to briefly introduce our work on the protection and utilization of cultural relics related to the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.

These cultural relics related to the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression provide solid evidence of that period of history and carry the nation's collective memory. They are valuable assets of the Party and the country, and serve as vivid materials for inspiring patriotism, uniting the people and fostering national spirit. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core has attached great importance to the protection of historical relics related to the War of Resistance. General Secretary Xi Jinping has attended many commemorative events, visited relevant sites and memorial venues, and shown concern, provided guidance and promoted the restoration of key relics and the protection of memorial facilities. He has also put forward clear requirements on comprehensively organizing historical documents, conducting in-depth research and enhancing the educational role of these memorial facilities, providing fundamental guidance for advancing work related to these cultural relics.

Under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee and with the coordinated efforts of all regions and departments, as well as the tireless dedication of cultural heritage workers, the protection and utilization of cultural relics related to the war against Japanese aggression have achieved new progress and results in the new era. These achievements can be summarized as "three fundamentals and one full realization."

First, the basic inventory of cultural relics related to the war against Japanese aggression has been fundamentally established. The statistics show that there are more than 10,000 immovable relics and over 500,000 movable relics or sets of relics related to the war across the country. The ongoing fourth national cultural relics census has identified a new batch of sites, with a special focus on memorial facilities built since the founding of the People's Republic of China.

Second, a systematic protection framework for cultural relics related to the war against Japanese aggression has fundamentally taken shape. The construction of 20 protection and utilization zones for revolutionary cultural relics related to the war against Japanese aggression is being carried out in an orderly manner, and the Yan'an National Cultural Heritage Protection Demonstration Zone has been further developed. Nationwide, more than 3,000 projects have been implemented to protect, restore and display sites that are related to the war against Japanese aggression, improve surrounding environments, and conserve and restore the sites and museum collections of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Major risks at key historical sites have been eliminated, and the preservation of collected relics has significantly improved.

Third, a comprehensive network of memorial halls has been fundamentally established. During the 14th Five-Year Plan period, nearly 20 memorial halls related to the War of Resistance were either built or renovated, and more than 50 existing memorial halls carried out upgrades to their War of Resistance exhibitions. The total number of registered memorial halls related to the War of Resistance nationwide reached 257. A total of 18 War of Resistance-themed exhibitions were selected as the top-10 national museum exhibitions, and 44 War of Resistance-themed exhibitions were included in the "Promoting Chinese Excellent Traditional Culture and Cultivating Core Socialist Values" promotional program. The quality and display standards of these memorial halls have been significantly enhanced.

Fourth, the educational function of relics from the War of Resistance has been fully highlighted. Each year, more than 500 related exhibitions are held nationwide, attracting over 60 million visitors to these historical sites and venues. A total of 96 these locations have been listed as national model bases for patriotic education. The governments of the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions have established the first patriotic education base for youth from Hong Kong and Macao at the Museum of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. A growing number of these sites and memorial halls are becoming important venues for education on ideals and beliefs, revolutionary traditions, patriotism, political thought and national defense.

The solemn commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War represents the Chinese people's enduring remembrance of history, their high tribute to the martyrs, their firm defense of justice and their continued efforts on the path to building a strong nation and achieving national rejuvenation. This year, in accordance with the overall plans of the CPC Central Committee, the NCHA has given full play to the advantages of cultural relic resources and made solid efforts in advancing work related to relics from the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.

First, we have strengthened overall protection. Local authorities have been guided to survey the preservation status of War of Resistance-related sites, eliminate major risks and safety hazards, and enhance routine maintenance and management in order to ensure the security of cultural relics. At the same time, we have supported local governments in initiating, implementing and completing a batch of projects for the conservation, restoration and environmental improvement of these relics.

Second, we focus on high-quality exhibition displays. We jointly organized the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression cultural relics protection and exhibition season, launching over 1,000 themed exhibitions nationwide to better fulfill the educational and inspirational functions of these artifacts.

Third, we focus on value exploration. We co-hosted the Fifth Revolutionary Story Telling Competition. We also jointly developed and promoted high-quality resources for ideological and political education at all levels from elementary school to university. These initiatives focused on the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. By doing so, we have vividly told the stories of the CPC, the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the martyrs, promoting love for the Party and the country through historical understanding.

Fourth, we focus on thematic activities. We jointly organized online thematic publicity campaigns for the protection and display of cultural relics related to the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Local authorities and relevant departments utilized sites and memorial venues related to the war against Japanese aggression to host distinctive exhibitions and themed activities, enhancing and expanding the educational function of these relics, providing ideological enlightenment and spiritual enrichment for officials, citizens and especially adolescents.

We enthusiastically welcome media outlets and journalists to continue their attention and comprehensively report on the cultural relics work related to the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Together, we can tell the stories of the war against Japanese aggression and vigorously promote the great spirit of resisting aggression. We are now ready to take your questions.

Zhou Jianshe:

Thank you, Mr. Sun, for your introduction. The floor is now open to questions. Please identify the media outlet you represent before raising your questions. Simultaneous interpretation will be provided throughout this press conference. Any questions asked in English will be consecutively interpreted into Chinese. Please raise your hands if you have questions.

People's Daily:

This year is the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. We note that the release of the fourth batch of national-level anti-Japanese war memorial facilities and sites and a new list of renowned heroes, martyrs and heroic groups represents an important activity to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Could you provide a brief overview of the related work? Thank you.

Ma Feixiong:

Thank you for your question. History is the best textbook, and also the best sobering agent. War memorial facilities, historical sites, and the martyrs and heroes who fought against Japanese aggression stand as important witnesses to 14 years of heroic resistance and carry forward the great spirit of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. The release of these two lists represents an important way to honor and remember the immortal contributions of resistance heroes while promoting the great spirit of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the great national spirit. It also provides an important opportunity to cultivate patriotic feelings, strengthen our resolve to build a great country, and conduct historical, ideological and political education throughout society. Following approval by the CPC Central Committee and State Council, three batches of lists were released in 2014, 2015 and 2020, encompassing 260 national-level War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression memorial facilities and historical sites, as well as 1,085 renowned heroes, martyrs and heroic groups.

This year is the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. To better honor the immortal merits of the resistance heroes and promote the great spirit of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the MVA worked with 12 military and civilian departments starting in April to issue notices organizing local nominations. We also publicly solicited leads from society and requested recommendations from relevant institutions and Chinese diplomatic missions overseas. We worked collaboratively to select the fourth batch of national-level anti-Japanese war memorial facilities and sites and the new list of renowned heroes, martyrs and heroic groups. We organized teams to collect and sort archival materials, conduct editing and verification, and carry out on-site investigations of War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression memorial facilities and sites. We invited experts on CPC history, military history and modern history to conduct careful reviews. Through collaboration with relevant departments, the lists were finalized. Following approval from the CPC Central Committee and the State Council, the lists have recently been published.

The fourth batch of lists includes 34 facilities and sites, 41 heroes and two heroic groups. The selection process took more than five months from inception to publication. It has three main characteristics: First, it highlights the CPC's pivotal role in the nationwide War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Under a national united front advocated by the CPC, the Chinese people fought bravely against Japanese aggression, together with anti-fascist allies and the peoples of various countries. Second, it emphasizes presenting the 14-year arduous history of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression from 1931 to 1945. Third, it recognizes the sacrifices and contributions made both on the frontal battlefields and behind enemy lines, while honoring and documenting the heroic actions of overseas Chinese and international supporters during the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Thank you.

Chongqing Daily:

The speaker just mentioned the ongoing War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression cultural relics protection and exhibition season. What is the goal of this activity? What are the upcoming plans? Thank you.

Sun Deli:

Thanks for your questions. Organizing the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression cultural relics protection and exhibition season is an important initiative this year. The main purpose is to strengthen coordination and interdepartmental collaboration under the theme "protecting War of Resistance artifacts, telling resistance stories well, and promoting the great spirit of resistance." We aim to create a communication network to achieve a comprehensive publicity effect. This helps us attract wide public participation and build a strong atmosphere of remembering history, commemorating martyrs, cherishing peace, and creating a better future. The activity season continues from July to September, with each month featuring activities that have distinct themes, substantial content and diverse formats.

In July, we opened the exhibition commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, jointly promoted a series of thematic exhibitions, co-hosted the National Revolutionary Story Narrator Competition, and advanced projects for the protection and presentation of sites related to the war.

In August, we launched over 30 thematic exhibitions on the war of resistance against Japanese aggression. We also held an exhibition on archived documents highlighting the role of the CPC in the war of resistance and a special exhibition on relics from the sites of Northeast United Resistance Army. We organized revolutionary story telling activities across six provinces, hosted donation drives for wartime artifacts and old photos. The top 10 and most excellent cases of protection and use of revolutionary cultural relics nationwide were displayed.

In September, we plan to launch a special exhibition on "International Friends and China's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression," and a permanent Flying Tigers exhibition, host the National Forum on High-Quality Development of Revolutionary Memorials, and jointly organize a themed class for students nationwide, to mark the anniversary.

This year, central and local media outlets have actively participated in and supported the work on relics from the war of resistance by setting agendas, creating dedicated columns both online and offline, producing well-planned programs, conducting interviews, and publishing a series of reports. These efforts have further fueled public enthusiasm for wartime relics and museums. On this occasion, I would like to express my heartfelt thanks to all media outlets and journalists for their dedication. Thank you. Thank you.

Macao Daily News:

We have noted that some of the sites included in the fourth batch of memorial facilities related to the war of resistance are located overseas. The third batch also included martyrs' memorial facilities overseas. Could you share more details about this? Thank you. Thank you.

Ma Feixiong:

Thank you for your question. Let us invite Mr. Li to answer the question.

Li Jingxian:

There are more than 100 memorial facilities and relics overseas related to China's war of resistance against Japanese aggression. More than 30 of these sites are located in countries such as Myanmar, India, Malaysia, Papua New Guinea and Russia, and over 80 sites in Hong Kong and Macao. These sites are usually maintained by overseas Chinese communities, social organizations, Chinese enterprises, or local authorities, and most of them are in relatively good condition. Among the first three batches of national-level memorial facilities and sites announced by the State Council, three are located in Hong Kong and Macao, and three overseas. The newly released fourth batch includes four overseas memorial facilities. These memorial facilities bear witness to how compatriots from Hong Kong, Macao, and Taiwan, as well as overseas Chinese, fought side by side with the people of the motherland against the atrocities of Japanese invaders under the banner of the Chinese united front against Japanese aggression. They bravely joined this life-and-death struggle for the survival of the nation, fought valiantly and fearlessly, stood united, and ultimately achieved victory — vividly demonstrating the great spirit of resisting aggression.

In recent years, China has stepped up efforts to preserve such sites abroad, including constructing and renovating memorial facilities in Myanmar and Papua New Guinea in 2023 and 2024. This year, working with the Ministry of Foreign Affairs and the National Cultural Heritage Administration, we have further strengthened these efforts. We recently completed and opened the memorial facility for the Northeast Anti-Japanese Allied Forces Teaching Brigade in Russia. We have also organized field trips to and held memorial ceremonies at sites in Hong Kong and Macao and carried out commemorative activities at memorial facilities in Malaysia and Papua New Guinea. In addition, Chinese embassies and consulates abroad are conducting comprehensive surveys of the status of these memorial sites, formulating restoration and protection plans for each of them, and organizing memorial activities to ensure that all memorial facilities, both at home and abroad, are well-preserved and utilized. 

Next, according to the arrangement of the central authorities and in line with the overall interests of China's diplomatic work, the Ministry of Veterans Affairs will continue working with relevant departments to protect, manage, and make good use of these overseas memorial facilities, share their stories, organize memorial activities, and carry forward the great spirit of resisting aggression. Thank you. Thank you.

China Culture Daily:

Protection first is a principle for the relics work in the new era. Could you share the progress relating to the protection of wartime relics? Thank you.

Sun Deli:

Thank you for your question. I'd like to invite Mr. Peng to answer it.

Peng Yuehui:

As wartime relics are precious, non-renewable, and irreplaceable resources, their protection is our primary task. In recent years, we have followed the principles of cultural relics preservation and the requirements for heritage work in the new era, advancing both rescue and preventive measures, safeguarding both the core structures and surrounding areas, and ensuring both individual sites and clusters are well protected. Our goal is to preserve as much as possible while focusing on priorities. As this year marks a key milestone, heritage authorities have focused on six major tasks, upholding three principles and strengthening efforts in three aspects. 

First is to serve the overall situation. We have carried out preservation and exhibition initiatives for relics from the war to enhance both their protection and adaptive reuse. This includes supporting the renovation and expansion of the Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, advancing the restoration of Lugou Bridge and a upgrade program for the historic Wanping City area, bringing new vitality to these iconic sites.

Second is to strengthen overall planning. We have guided the planning for the preservation and utilization of 20 cultural relic areas related to the war, defined spatial layouts and project designs, and implemented a batch of large-scale preservation and exhibition projects. Eleven provinces have launched 38 themed cultural tourism routes centered on these relics, strengthening systematic protection and contributing to the revitalization of old revolutionary base areas. 

Third, we have adhered to demonstration and guidance. We have implemented conservation, display, and environmental improvement projects for the sites of resistance war against Japanese aggression represented by the former site of the Eighth Route Army Headquarters, the former site of the New Fourth Army Headquarters, the site of the Battle of Pingxingguan, the site of the Battle of Taierzhuang, the site of the Battle of Xuefeng Mountain in Western Hunan, the Ranzhuang Tunnel Warfare Site, the site of Crime Evidences of the Japanese Invaders in Huainan, and the former site of Weihsien Concentration Camp, promoting the integrated protection of cultural relics, historic landscape, and environment.

Fourth, we have deepened archaeological investigation. New breakthroughs have been made in the archaeological excavation of the Anti-Japanese Base at the Hongshilazi Site in Panshi, Jilin province and the site of Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army Secret Camp at Jiguan Mountain in Mulan, Heilongjiang province, with more than 4,000 Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army sites discovered and nearly 5,000 relevant cultural relics unearthed. Yesterday morning, a special exhibition of unearthed cultural relics from the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army sites opened at the Museum of the Communist Party of China. We have jointly implemented a three-year action plan for the protection and utilization of revolutionary cultural relics of the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army and advanced the development of the Hongshilazi Site Park.

Fifth, we have deepened collaborative research. We have jointly established six national collaborative research centers for revolutionary cultural relics related to the war of resistance against Japanese aggression. We have carried out the rescue, collection, and research of physical objects, documents, and historical materials related to the war of resistance, We have strengthened the protection and utilization of sites and evidence reflecting the atrocities and crimes committed by the Japanese invading troops, and carried out joint research on the protection of the remains of victims and the display of the mass grave sites.

Sixth, we have enhanced local innovations. Provincial regions including Heilongjiang, Guangxi, Yunnan and Shaanxi have introduced seven local regulations on the protection of cultural relics related to the resistance war. Shaanxi and Shanxi provinces have rolled out several fiscal measures to support the protection and utilization of revolutionary cultural relics and taken solid steps to advance the construction of themed zones in the Shaanxi-Gansu-Ningxia, Shanxi-Hebei-Henan, Shanxi-Chahar-Hebei, and Shanxi-Suiyuan anti-Japanese base areas. Thank you.

Xinhua News Agency:

The general public is highly concerned about the protection and management of memorial facilities and historical sites related to the resistance war. Could you introduce the main work and considerations of the Ministry of Veterans Affairs (MVA) in the protection and management of these memorial facilities? Thank you.

Ma Feixiong:

Thanks to this reporter for the question. We will have Mr. Li Jingxian, who is specifically responsible for this work, to answer this question.

Li Jingxian:

General Secretary Xi Jinping pointed out, "In that arduous anti-fascist war, countless brave people sacrificed their precious lives for victory. Their heroic spirits will live forever." Protecting, managing, and utilizing the revolutionary resources of memorial facilities for martyrs of the resistance war is not only a profound tribute to the heroes of the war, but also a solemn remembrance of the history. It is also the sacred duty and glorious mission for the MVA.

The MVA has continued to promote the protection and management of these memorial facilities, constantly strengthening these bases of historical education. First, we have developed a clear picture. We have conducted information collection and verification, identified 39,000 martyrs' memorial facilities related to the resistance war, and entered them into the information system to achieve refined IT-based management. Second, we have strengthened renovation and protection. We have actively sought central government funding support, steadily implemented improvement and renovation projects for martyrs' cemeteries such as the Shanxi-Hebei-Shandong-Henan Martyrs' Cemetery and the Wuxiang Eighth Route Army Martyrs' Cemetery, and orderly promote the renovation of overseas memorial facilities such as the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army Training Brigade site in Russia. In collaboration with cultural and tourism departments, we have implemented cooperation agreements on the protection of revolutionary relics and memorial facilities, conducting regular inspections and maintenance. As a result, the overall condition of the memorial facilities for martyrs of the resistance war has been improved. Third, we have given play to their role in publicity and education. We have collected and organized historical artifacts and materials related to the heroic martyrs of the resistance war. We have conducted in-depth research into their stories, and actively curated high-quality exhibitions to enhance the reach, impact, and emotional resonance of these narratives. We have organized activities such as national competitions for docents narrating the deeds of martyrs and public storytelling initiatives about the heroes of the resistance war. We have carried out commemorative events on a regular basis to guide the public, especially teenagers and young adults, to remember the history of the resistance war, pay tribute to the heroic martyrs, and carry forward the revolutionary spirit.

Next, we will focus on fostering national spirit and patriotism, effectively protect the memorial facilities for martyrs of the resistance war, and continue to carry out commemorative and educational events. These efforts aim to guide the public to fully recognize the heinous crimes of Japanese militarist aggressors, deeply learn the heroic deeds of martyrs, and vigorously carry forward the great spirit of resisting aggression. This will help gather strong spiritual strength for advancing the construction of a strong country and the great cause of national rejuvenation on all fronts through Chinese modernization. Thank you.

Elephant News:

Cultural relics related to the resistance war against Japanese aggression are not only a shared historical memory for all humanity, but also an important carrier of the great spirit forged during the war. How can we tell the stories of the resistance war well by leveraging cultural relics from that period and promote the spirit of resisting aggression? Thank you.

Sun Deli:

Thank you for your question. General Secretary Xi Jinping highly values revolutionary history and has always held revolutionary cultural relics in high regard and with deep affection. During many inspections and research trips, he paid tribute to revolutionary sites and martyrs, repeatedly urging that the revolutionary cultural relics be well protected, managed, and utilized. On July 7 this year, as China marked the 88th anniversary of the start of the entire nation's resistance against Japanese aggression, General Secretary Xi Jinping made a special visit to the monument square honoring the martyrs of the Hundred-Regiment Campaign in Yangquan, Shanxi province, to lay a floral basket in tribute to the martyrs of the Eighth Route Army, and then visited an exhibition at the Memorial Hall of the Hundred-Regiment Campaign. On this sacred land where our Party led the military and civilians to fight bravely, it carries special and profound significance to revisit the glorious history, honor the martyrs, call for keeping the stories of resistance alive, and promote the great spirit of resisting aggression.

Cultural relics related to the resistance war contain rich stories and embody the great spirit of resisting aggression. We will thoroughly study and implement the important instructions of General Secretary Xi Jinping, fully carrying out the protection and utilization of cultural relics related to the resistance war. We will investigate the rich connotations and educational functions of the wartime relics, share the touching stories from the war, and promote the great spirit of resisting aggression, to pool our strength and forge ahead in unity.

I think, first, we need to leverage the role of cultural relics from the resistance war in providing evidence-based interpretation of history, using accurate historical facts and scientific conclusions to educate and enlighten people. Cultural relics are visible and tangible history. Historical photos and precious artifacts bear silent witness to the heinous and inhumane crimes committed by the Japanese militarists during the war. They also provide a vivid portrayal of the glorious history of the CPC leading the military and civilians in a united resistance against Japanese aggression with unwavering courage. They are a testament to our Party's role as the pillar of the entire nation throughout the war. We will further strengthen the historical research on the wartime relics, sift through historical details, restore the original historical landscape, and deeply reveal the development process and principles of victory in the resistance war. Not only that, but we will further enhance the exhibition level of wartime relics, delve into content development, strive for innovation of display methods, and guide people to form a correct understanding of history and deeply learn from historical lessons.

Second, we will narrate the touching stories behind the war relics, using the heroic deeds and shining images to inspire and enlighten people. Cultural relics are vivid and authentic, offering direct insights into historical events and figures. Among them are steel helmets of the garrison troops during the Lugou Bridge Incident housed in the Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the saber used by hero Yang Jingyu exhibited in the Museum of the Communist Party of China, the brocade banner inscribed with "Assault Company of the Battle of Pingxingguan" on display at the Pingxingguan Victory Memorial Hall, and the robe stained with the blood of patriotic overseas Chinese leader Yi Guangyan when he was killed, displayed in the Overseas Chinese History Museum of China. Behind each of these precious cultural relics are touching stories and shining original aspirations. We will actively guide the storytelling and detailed presentation of these war relics, enhancing the expressiveness and emotional impact of the exhibitions. By vividly telling the stories behind the relics, presenting multidimensional and lifelike images of heroes, we aim to promote respect for heroes, encourage people to learn from them, and inspire others to aspire to emulate their heroism.

Third, we will interpret the spiritual essence embodied by the war relics, using the grand spirit and honorable traditions they convey to motivate and uplift people. These cultural relics represent a deep accumulation of the Chinese nation's cultural spirit, breadth and confidence. In the Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, there is a manuscript titled "Camping Song" written by a Northeast United Resistance Army soldier. He writes: The north wind roars, the heavy snow flies. The warhorses hesitate, their steps uncertain; the biting cold makes sleep elusive through the night. Warmth radiates from the fire heating our chests, yet our backs remain chilled by the wind. Brave men! With utmost sincerity and vigor, we sweep across the Nenjiang Plain." When seeing this, some museum goers exclaimed, "Such spirit, such fervor, how genuine and bold! How could such a team not advance! How could they possibly be suppressed!" This is the inner strength of the war relics that directly touches people's hearts and moves them. We will organize solemn, ceremonious and engaging events to vividly display the timeless and ever-renewing spirit of the great resistance. These events are designed to ignite patriotic fervor, harness energy for progress, and inspire people to unite and strive toward the comprehensive advancement of national development and the grand cause of national rejuvenation. Thank you.

Nanfang Daily, Nanfang Plus:

Among the fourth batch of the newly announced lists, which heroes or memorial facilities have left a deep impression on you? Could you share some of them with us? Thank you.

Ma Feixiong:

Thank you for your question. During the arduous and protracted War of Resistance, all the sons and daughters of the Chinese nation fought for the survival of the country, for the rejuvenation of the nation, and for human justice. The extensive social mobilization, profound national awakening, tenacious fighting will and unwavering belief in victory can be said to have reached an unprecedented height. Every heroic deed within the fourth batch of lists is deeply moving and awe-inspiring.

Looking at the famous heroes and martyrs, the average age at which they sacrificed their lives was under 35. Among them are patriotic generals, such as Zheng Shaoyu, a senior commander of the Sino-American Composite Wing (SACW), who served as a captain in the 24th Squadron of the 4th Air Group. He made numerous achievements in the August 14 Air Battle, the Wuhan Air Battle and the Liuzhou Air Battle, dying in the line of duty in 1942. He was also an outstanding member of the CPC. There are combat heroes, such as Liu Mingqin, battalion commander of the 2nd Battalion of the 17th Regiment of the Eighth Route Army's Jin-Cha-Ji Military Region. He was a valiant fighter and led his troops to inflict heavy losses on the Japanese army many times. He was commended by Zhu De, the commander-in-chief of the Eighth Route Army, and Peng Dehuai, the deputy commander-in-chief. There are young warriors, such as Wang He, a member of the Children's League. Wang He is one of the prototypes of the little hero "Wang Erxiao" in the well-known song "Singing of the Cowherd Boy – Erxiao." The author was inspired by the members of the Children's League, represented by Wang He, who delivered messages, stood guard for the armed forces, and sacrificed their young lives. The author then created this revolutionary song, which has been passed down to this day. There were patriotic overseas Chinese, such as Yi Guangyan, who led overseas Chinese to actively carry out the national salvation movement and donated money and materials to his homeland for the War of Resistance. Later, he was assassinated by pro-Japanese spies in Thailand. There are also international friends, such as Alexander Orekhov, a Soviet pilot who came to aid China, and Gisela Muntianu, a nurse of the Romanian medical team aiding China. They traveled thousands of miles to China and sacrificed their precious lives for the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.

Regarding the memorial facilities and sites, there are those that showcase the nationwide War of Resistance, such as the Memorial Hall of the Eighth Route Army Office in Luoyang, Henan province. Comrades like Liu Shaoqi, Zhu De and Peng Dehuai visited this office many times to give guidance. Comrade Liu Shaoqi drafted the manuscript of "How to Be a Good Communist" here. There are those that bear witness to the victory of the War of Resistance, such as the former site of the headquarters building of the First Army of the Japanese North China Area Army during the Invasion of China in Taiyuan, Shanxi province. This was one of the 16 sites in China that the Japanese surrendered, and was where the Japanese army in Shanxi, Suiyuan, and other places surrendered to the then Second War Zone. There are those that record the bloody history of Japan's invasion of China, such as the Memorial Site for the Deceased Miners at Mount Xuelei (Blood and Tears) in Shiren town, Baishan city, Jilin province, which records Japan's numerous crimes during its aggression against China, including enslaving Chinese laborers, persecuting the Chinese people and plundering Chinese resources. There are also those that reflect the Chinese military's overseas combat, such as a monument in northern Myanmar's Myitkyina, dedicated to soldiers of the Chinese Expeditionary Force. It houses the remains of 347 fallen soldiers of the Chinese Expeditionary Force and records the significant contributions of the Chinese people to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War.

In short, the fourth batch of renowned heroes, martyrs and heroic groups represents diverse types of heroic figures. At the same time, the newly designated memorial facilities and historical sites are distributed widely across the country. This showcases the CPC's role as the mainstay in the War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression, demonstrates the grand history of the entire Chinese nation's resistance against Japanese aggression, and reflects the historical reality that the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression opened the main Eastern battlefield of the World Anti-Fascist War. Thank you.

Dazhong Daily:

We have noticed that the special exhibition featuring artifacts unearthed from Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army sites has already opened and is receiving considerable attention. How are the cultural artifacts from the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army being preserved and protected? Thank you.

Sun Deli:

Thank you for your question. I would like to invite Mr. Peng to respond to that.

Peng Yuehui:

The Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army was the earliest anti-Japanese armed force established by the CPC. They fought the longest resistance against Japanese aggression under the harshest conditions. In the vast forests and snowy plains between the Changbai Mountains and the Heilongjiang River, they bravely confronted national disaster and fought with their blood and lives, leaving a glorious chapter in the history of China's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. The spirit of the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army is among the great spirits included in the first batch of inspiring principles for Chinese Communists by the CPC Central Committee. Statistics show that there are nearly 700 Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army sites, 35 memorial facilities, and over 100,000 cultural artifacts and collections, serving as vital testimony to the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army's 14-year struggle. Through coordinated efforts by local authorities and various departments, work on preserving and promoting the cultural relics of the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army has been steadily advancing. This collaborative approach has laid a solid foundation and accumulated strong momentum.

First, we have strengthened policy guarantees. We established the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army revolutionary cultural heritage protection zone and incorporated 16 Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army memorial halls into the first three batches of the national free museum access program. We also jointly issued the three-year action plan for the protection of Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army revolutionary cultural relics and signed a cooperation agreement to coordinate the protection and utilization of the Hongshilazi anti-Japanese guerrilla base in Panshi.

Second, we have enhanced protection. We have completed a total of 72 archaeological surveys and excavation projects at Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army sites. We have carried out more than 200 protection and display projects, and have continuously advanced the complementary goals of site preservation, forest conservation, and environmental protection.

Third, we have deepened revitalization and utilization. We have launched a total of 42 basic exhibitions, 76 special exhibitions, and more than 300 themed activities. We have conducted over 2,000 exhibition and lecture activities on the theme of the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army. The integration of Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army heritage preservation with red tourism, winter tourism and educational travel shows increasingly evident development potential.

Looking ahead to the 15th Five-Year Plan, we will focus on advancing the systematic protection of Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army sites. We will concentrate our efforts on deepening research into the value of Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army cultural relics. At the same time, we will improve the quality of themed exhibitions. We will also expand the educational functions of Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army stories, vigorously promote related cultural heritage to empower northeast China's revitalization and development, and coordinate efforts to enhance the overall level of protection, management and utilization. Thank you.

Beijing Radio and Television Station:

Recently, a series of commemorative activities have been organized across the country to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. What work has the MVA done to leverage the system's red resources and inherit and promote the great spirit of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression? Thank you.

Ma Feixiong:

Thank you for your question. We must reflect on the past to understand the future. The great spirit of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression will forever serve as a powerful spiritual motivation for the Chinese people to overcome all hardships and obstacles in their struggle to achieve the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. This year, in accordance with the central government's unified arrangement for commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, we have focused on leveraging our system's revolutionary resources and carrying forward the great spirit of the War of Resistance. We have jointly launched the "Sharing Stories of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression" public service campaign with China Media Group. Additionally, we collaborated with the National Permanent Standing Commission-Young Pioneers of China to guide Young Pioneer organizations at all levels in carrying out "Red Scarves Pay Tribute to Martyrs" activities at nearby memorial facilities for War of Resistance martyrs. We mobilized the entire system to organize various distinctive memorial activities. These include "Mountains and Rivers Reflect Loyal Souls" Heroic Storytelling Competition, the Qingming Festival Mourning Heroes activity, and the "Pay Tribute to Heroes" community outreach programs. We held War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression-themed exhibitions, organized cross-generational dialogues between war veterans and new-era recruits, and used AI to restore portraits of anti-Japanese heroes. The list goes on.

Through a series of measures and activity arrangements, we have profoundly told the stories of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the heroic deeds of martyrs. We have comprehensively reviewed the unyielding struggle of the Chinese Communists who bravely resisted Japanese imperialist aggression. We have precisely explained the CPC's vital role as the mainstay in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Furthermore, we have thoroughly explored the new era connotations of the spirit of heroes and martyrs through these activities and arrangements. This work has inspired more people and hard workers to stay true to their mission at the intersection of the present and the future and has rallied tremendous strength for building Chinese-style modernization.

Next, we will continue to strengthen the commemoration and recognition of heroes and martyrs. We will protect, manage and utilize the system's red resources effectively, treating the memorial facilities and sites of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression as important red education bases. We will conduct thorough work on excavating and organizing heroic deeds and developing publicity and exhibition activities. These efforts will further foster a social atmosphere of revering heroes and commemorating martyrs. Thank you.

Guangming Daily:

Three government departments released a list of recommended thematic exhibitions in July to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. The announcement drew widespread attention. Could you outline the main features of these themed exhibitions? Thank you.

Sun Deli:

Thank you for your question. My colleague was directly involved in this work, so I'll defer to Mr. Peng for the answer.

Peng Yuehui:

I'll take this question. Exhibitions and displays constitute a primary method through which War of Resistance sites and memorial venues tell the stories of the war to educate the public. According to aggregated data, all 31 provinces, autonomous regions and municipalities, as well as the Xinjiang Production and Construction Corps and the Hong Kong and Macao special administrative regions, have all hosted War of Resistance-themed exhibitions. The exhibitions were innovative while maintaining historical accuracy, with improvements in both quantity and quality. They reflected concepts of openness, sharing and integration. The exhibitions garnered widespread attention, support and participation from all levels of government, all social sectors and people from all walks of life. Generally speaking, the highlights of this year's War of Resistance-themed exhibitions can be encapsulated in five keywords.

First, multidimensional storytelling. These exhibitions span a wide range, from the "For National Liberation and World Peace" exhibition to the CPC War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression archives exhibition, and to displays on the Hundred-Regiment Campaign and the Battle of Taierzhuang. The exhibitions and displays trace the history of the 14-year Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. They recreate that great victory through grand narratives and on an epic scale. From tunnel warfare to the heroic railway guerrillas, from the anti-Fascist battlefields in Spain to the anti-Japanese battlefields in China, from international friends to Flying Tigers, various special exhibitions focus on multi-perspective narratives and targeted presentations, making War of Resistance history more comprehensive and authentic.

Second, using physical evidence to tell history. The distinctive feature and outstanding advantage of War of Resistance exhibitions lies in using artifacts to narrate and explain history, letting artifacts speak and historical facts testify. The special exhibition of artifacts unearthed from Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army sites marks the first comprehensive display of such relics. It presents precious cultural relics, archival documents, and historical photographs and scene displays in a multidimensional format, fully showcasing the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army's arduous struggle and monumental contributions to the War of Resistance. An exhibition themed at the war that changed the world at the Museum of the Communist Party of China uses reports, works and manuscripts by international journalists and foreign writers to vividly demonstrate how the voice of Yan'an was conveyed to the world, helping understand the confidence and hope the CPC provided for the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.

Third, innovative presentation. We combine traditional methods with modern technologies, physical exhibits with scene displays, and static displays with dynamic demonstrations to bridge the gap between history and reality. This continuously enhances the immersive experience, interactive participation and sense of historical connection in War of Resistance exhibitions. A landmine warfare-themed exhibition targets children as its audience, using hand-drawn illustrations combined with multimedia elements to create an original exhibition that visitors can see, hear, touch and experience.

Fourth, emphasizing debut exhibitions. The Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression displayed for the first time the revolutionary martyr certificate of Shen Zhongming, the first underground CPC member who heroically sacrificed his life during the Lugou Bridge Incident. The National Museum of China held its first War of Resistance artifacts exhibition in Hong Kong. Overseas Chinese War of Resistance exhibitions showcased collected qiaopi (overseas Chinese letters with remittances), using stories of ordinary people to reflect profound emotions and telling extraordinary stories of common individuals. These exhibitions showcase the deep patriotic feelings and unyielding spirit of the Chinese people in uniting against aggression.

Fifth, creating synergy. We launched intensive exhibition programs around Jul. 7 and Aug. 15, and will launch more around Sept. 3, featuring four War of Resistance exhibitions at the Museum of the CPC. These also include an exhibition held simultaneously in five locations honoring overseas Chinese contributions to the War of Resistance. We also opened an exhibition jointly held by four provincial museums displaying revolutionary artifacts from anti-Japanese base areas in Shanxi, Hebei, Shandong and Henan provinces. Additionally, four War of Resistance exhibitions opened within seven days in late August in Hong Kong. A thematic exhibition at the Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression has received more than 600,000 visitors over 56 days. The Exhibition Hall of Evidences of Crime Committed by Unit 731 of the Japanese Imperial Army has averaged 3 million visitors annually over the past three years, with daily visitor numbers exceeding 12,000 during this year's summer period. Thank you.

Zhou Jianshe:

Let's continue with the questions. Due to time constraints, we will take one last question.

Changjiang Daily:

Have all the heroes in the newly released fourth batch of renowned heroes of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression been recognized as martyrs? Are their descendants eligible for related pension and preferential benefits? Thank you.

Ma Feixiong:

Thank you. I'll ask my colleague, Mr. Li, to answer that.

Li Jingxian:

The heroes listed in the registry are all heroes of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Whether or not they were officially designated as martyrs, they all deserve our remembrance. According to the State Council's regulations for commending martyrs, the designation and posthumous recognition of martyrs follow established procedures. We need to guide people to better follow these regulations in their future work. Since modern times, approximately 20 million martyrs have sacrificed their precious lives for China's revolution and development. Only 1.96 million have been identified by name. These martyrs are all recorded in local martyrs' registries, and eligible family members of martyrs receive related pension benefits. Verifying martyrs' deeds and registries is a long-term, systematic work that requires joint efforts from relevant military and civilian departments, as well as broad social participation. After the release of the fourth batch list, we welcome the public to report any new leads or information to veterans affairs departments. They can contact either local veterans affairs departments or report directly to the MVA. We will work promptly with relevant departments to verify the information and address public concerns. Thank you.

Zhou Jianshe:

That concludes today's press conference. Thank you to all the speakers and thank you to all the journalists. Goodbye.

Translated and edited by Xu Xiaoxuan, Liu Caiyi, Yang Chuanli, Liu Jianing, Xu Kailin, Liao Jiaxin, Li Congrong, Li Xiao, Zhou Jing, Li Huiru, He Shan, Zhang Junmian, Gong Yingchun, Wang Qian, Liu Sitong, David Ball, Jay Birbeck and Tudor Bentley Finneran. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Ms. Chen Xingying, vice-chairperson of the Central Committee of the Revolutionary Committee of the Chinese Kuomintang (RCCK)

Mr. Wang Lu, vice-chairperson of the Central Committee of the Chinese Peasants and Workers Democratic Party (CPWDP)

Mr. Lu Guoyi, vice-chairperson of the Central Committee of the China Zhi Gong Party

Mr. Cong Bin, vice-chairperson of the Central Committee of the Jiusan Society

Mr. Jiang Liping, vice-chairperson of the Central Committee of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League

Chairperson:

Mr. Xu Lei, head of the Press Center for the Events Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War

Date:

Aug. 29, 2025

Xu Lei:

Ladies and gentlemen, good afternoon. Welcome to the first group interview of the Press Center for the Events Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

During the War of Resistance, the Communist Party of China (CPC), assessing the situation, clearly advanced the correct proposal of establishing a national united front against Japanese aggression, leading the Chinese people in achieving the great victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and making a significant contribution to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. At that time, China's other political parties joined the CPC in resisting aggression, safeguarding unity and promoting democracy. From sympathizing with and supporting the CPC, to moving closer to it and gradually reaching political consensus, they chose the right historical path amid the flames of war. Their efforts made important contributions to consolidating and expanding the national united front and striving for victory in the War of Resistance.

This year, all other political parties have marked the anniversary with a variety of activities. Today, we have invited five leaders of the central committees of China's other political parties to share their views on the victory in the War of Resistance and their reflections on carrying forward the spirit of the war. They are: Ms. Chen Xingying, vice-chairperson of the Central Committee of the Revolutionary Committee of the Chinese Kuomintang (RCCK); Mr. Wang Lu, vice-chairperson of the Central Committee of the Chinese Peasants and Workers Democratic Party (CPWDP); Mr. Lu Guoyi, vice-chairperson of the Central Committee of the China Zhi Gong Party; Mr. Cong Bin, vice-chairperson of the Central Committee of the Jiusan Society; and Mr. Jiang Liping, vice-chairperson of the Central Committee of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League.

Now, I'll give the floor to Ms. Chen for her introduction.

Chen Xingying:

Good afternoon, everyone. I feel deeply honored to be here with you to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. The RCCK was founded in Hong Kong on Jan. 1, 1948. For more than 70 years, it has always worked in close partnership with the CPC, jointly contributing to China's revolution, construction and reform.

The history of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression is the history of building and strengthening the national united front against Japanese aggression under the CPC's leadership and achieving the victory in the war. More than 80 years ago, under the banner of this national united front, the entire nation's fighting spirit against Japanese aggression was aroused, and many patriotic Kuomintang generals and soldiers also volunteered to join the battle. Among them were General Zheng Dongguo, grandfather of the current RCCK Chairman Zheng Jianbang, as well as Li Jishen, Cai Tingkai, Jiang Guangnai and others who later became the founders of the RCCK. Under the guidance and support of the CPC, the predecessors of the RCCK, alongside millions of Chinese people, fought bravely and shed their blood. Their sacrifices not only reflect the spirit and fortitude of the Chinese people but also present historical pictures of the CPC cooperating with all other political parties and prominent figures without party affiliation to resist foreign aggression. This further demonstrates the CPC's role as the mainstay in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and its unwavering aspiration and mission to seek the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

Today, taking history as a mirror, cherishing peace and jointly creating the future are the shared wishes of all those who experienced the World Anti-Fascist War. As a participant in socialism with Chinese characteristics, the RCCK will remain under the leadership of the CPC, and continue contributing to the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation and building a beautiful world of lasting peace and security. Thank you.

Xu Lei:

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Wang for his introduction.

Wang Lu:

Good afternoon, everyone. This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. The War of Resistance was the longest, largest and bloodiest national liberation fight against foreign aggression of the Chinese people in modern times, and it was also a national liberation struggle that ended in complete victory. The key to the Chinese people's triumph over Japanese militarism 80 years ago lay in the CPC's pivotal role. Through their political propositions, firm will and exemplary actions, the CPC sustained the nation’s hope for survival and led the Chinese people in forging the great spirit of resistance. This will forever inspire us to overcome all difficulties and obstacles and strive for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

This year also marks the 95th anniversary of the founding of the CPWDP. The early history of the CPWDP is closely linked with the national salvation efforts in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Since its founding on Aug. 9, 1930, under the influence, assistance, guidance and leadership of the CPC, the CPWDP actively participated in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the national salvation movement. Through the baptism of blood and fire during the war, the predecessors of the CPWDP gradually realized that the CPC is the main force of the revolution. Inspired by the CPC's propositions on resisting Japanese aggression and saving the nation, they actively promoted and firmly maintained the national united front led by the CPC against the Japanese occupation, making due contributions to the ultimate victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.

History is the best textbook. Today, we are proud that the older generation of the CPWDP stood firmly with the CPC, fought side by side, and jointly composed the magnificent epic of persisting in the War of Resistance to the end. Organizations at all levels of the CPWDP and its members will keep the original intention of cooperation in mind, firmly believe in historical confidence, and adhere to, develop and improve China's political party system. Under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, we will move forward with full confidence toward building a great country and rejuvenating the nation. Thank you.

Xu Lei:

Now, I will give the floor to Mr. Lu for his introduction.

Lu Guoyi:

Good afternoon, everyone. I am Lu Guoyi from the China Zhi Gong Party. Eighty years ago, under the banner of the national united front against Japanese aggression initiated by the CPC, hundreds of millions of Chinese military personnel and civilians united in hatred of the enemy and marched forward to save the nation from peril. They built a great wall of steel with their flesh and blood, achieved the great victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, and declared complete victory in the World Anti-Fascist War. The China Zhi Gong Party has always shared the same outlook and destiny with the motherland, unswervingly adhering to the leadership of the CPC, and has written an indelible chapter in this magnificent struggle for national liberation.

The China Zhi Gong Party sprouted out of the patriotic enthusiasm of overseas Chinese and was born from the revolutionary efforts of overseas Chinese in modern times to serve the country. In October 1925, the China Zhi Gong Party was founded in San Francisco, the United States. At its inception, the China Zhi Gong Party issued national salvation propositions and devoted itself to the democratic revolution. At the critical juncture of national survival, the China Zhi Gong Party resolutely joined the fight against Japanese aggression, becoming one of the earliest among China's other political parties to respond to the CPC's call. After the September 18th Incident, the Central Committee of the China Zhi Gong Party issued successive express mail telegrams, calling on party members at home and abroad to contribute money and efforts to fulfill their duties. In 1931, from Sept. 18 to mid-December alone, the China Zhi Gong Party delivered 100,000 Chinese silver dollars to the Northeast Volunteer Army. When the Battle of Shanghai broke out in 1932, the First Branch of the China Zhi Gong Party in Shanghai fought side by side with the 19th Route Army, actively mobilizing overseas Chinese to donate money and materials, and demonstrated through their actions the patriotic sentiment that "everyone has a duty toward his country."

During the most difficult years of the war, the China Zhi Gong Party rejected Japanese attempts at co-optation and upheld the national interest of "first returning the three northeastern provinces." One of the party's founders, Situ Meitang, traveled around the Americas to organize overseas Chinese youth to participate in the united national salvation movement. More than 3,000 overseas Chinese drivers and mechanics from Southeast Asia braved artillery fire on the Burma Road to transport international aid supplies to China, earning the reputation of the "vanguard in breaking the enemy's blockade strategy." These heroic deeds forged with blood are vivid portrayals of the China Zhi Gong Party's spirit of "dedication to the public and contributing to the country through overseas Chinese."

The goal of remembering history is not to perpetuate hatred, but to safeguard peace. Looking ahead, the China Zhi Gong Party will unite more closely around the CPC Central Committee with Comrade Xi Jinping at its core, and dedicate itself to following the CPC and contributing to the country with overseas Chinese. It will widely gather the wisdom and strength of Chinese people at home and abroad, and strive to achieve new accomplishments in building a great country and rejuvenating the nation. Thank you.

Xu Lei:

Now I will give the floor to Mr. Cong for his introduction.

Cong Bin:

Good afternoon, everyone. Under the banner of the national united front against Japanese aggression advocated and established by the CPC, the great Chinese people, after 14 years of bloody struggle, finally achieved the great victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression 80 years ago. It can be said that this victory washed away the humiliation the Chinese nation suffered in resisting foreign aggression since modern times. What humiliation? The humiliation of repeated defeats. This victory also demonstrated the heroic spirit of the Chinese people who are not afraid of violence and fight to the end, and ushered in an important opportunity for a historic turning point in the nation's destiny.

Sept. 3, 1945, is the Victory Day of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. It was on this historic day that the predecessors of our organization established the Jiusan Society, naming the organization after this significant day. This commemoration not only celebrates the great victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, but also embodies the hopes and expectations of the predecessors of the Jiusan Society for national independence, national prosperity and people's happiness. After careful deliberation and choice, the predecessors of the Jiusan Society accepted the leadership of the CPC and embarked on the road of new democratic revolution. Under the guidance and help of the CPC, generations of Jiusan Society members have passed on the torch, continued to struggle and actively participated in the great practice of establishing a new China, building a new China, exploring the reform path, and realizing the Chinese Dream under the leadership of the CPC.

This year is the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. It also marks the 80th anniversary of the Jiusan Society. Standing at a new historical starting point, as a participating party of socialism with Chinese characteristics mainly composed of intellectuals from the sci-tech community, we will carry forward the fine traditions of our Jiusan Society predecessors and uphold the great spirit of the War of Resistance. We will remain unswerving in aligning our thinking, stance and actions with the CPC, serving as its advisors, assistants and colleagues, as we march forward courageously toward the grand goal of building a strong country and achieving national rejuvenation. Thank you.

Xu Lei:

Now, I will give the floor to Mr. Jiang for his introduction.

Jiang Liping:

Good afternoon, everyone. Today, on the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, it's truly meaningful to gather here with friends from the media to reflect on history and draw inspiration for the future.

First, please allow me to introduce the TDSL. The TDSL, short for the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League, is a participating party of socialism with Chinese characteristics mainly composed of people from Taiwan province. The TDSL was founded in Hong Kong on Nov. 12, 1947, and has gone through 78 years of glorious history. Over the past 78 years, it has consistently upheld the leadership of the CPC, actively participated in the Chinese revolution, construction and reform efforts, and played an important role in achieving national prosperity and progress, as well as promoting the peaceful reunification of the motherland.

This year is the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. It also marks the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's recovery. More than 80 years ago, the Chinese people, including compatriots in Taiwan, rose in unity against the Japanese invaders. Countless Taiwan compatriots, guided by the belief that "to save Taiwan, we must first save the motherland," consciously linked their destinies with that of the motherland and joined the whole nation's war of resistance. The patriotic spirit of Taiwan compatriots will forever be recorded in the history of the Chinese nation.

We should remember history and create a better future. Seizing the opportunity of commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, as well as the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's recovery, the TDSL inherits and carries forward the fine tradition of patriotism of Taiwan compatriots. We are striving to contribute to building a strong country and achieving national rejuvenation. We will align closely with the major decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee, conducting in-depth research and deliberations on further comprehensively deepening reform, promoting high-quality development, and formulating the 15th Five-Year Plan (2026-2030). We have put forward more opinions and suggestions that serve the overall development and reflect the characteristics of both sides of the Taiwan Strait. Leveraging our strengths in kinship and hometown ties, we rely on platforms and activities such as "Marine Culture Exchange," "Our Chinese Festivals" and the Dajiang Forum to preserve and promote the excellent traditional Chinese culture, foster spiritual bonds between people across the Strait, and unite the broad spectrum of Taiwan compatriots in jointly achieving the glorious cause of national reunification and rejuvenation. Thank you, friends from the media, for your attention and support.

Xu Lei:

Just now, five leaders of the central committees of China's other political parties shared their respective parties' perspectives on the monumental and arduous War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, and their in-depth reflections on promoting the spirit of the war. The floor is now open for questions. Please identify the media outlet you represent before raising your questions. Simultaneous interpretation will be provided throughout the press conference. If any questions are posed in English, they will be consecutively interpreted into Chinese. The floor is now open for questions.

CMG:

During the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, what were some vivid stories and journeys of other political parties as they moved from initial contact with the CPC to ultimately embracing its political propositions? What inspirations does the close cooperation of other political parties with the CPC during the War of Resistance provide for upholding and improving China's new model of political party system in the new era? Thank you.

Chen Xingying:

That is a very good question. Let me answer first. During the War of Resistance, the RCCK was in its formative stages and had not yet been formally established. However, through the course of the War of Resistance, many of its founding members increasingly realized that the CPC was the backbone of the resistance effort and the guiding force of national rejuvenation, ultimately leading them to accept its leadership.

Let me give you an example: the Fujian Incident in 1933, also commonly known as the Fujian Rebellion. After the Sept. 18 Incident, as Japanese militarism escalated its aggression, the CPC issued a series of telegrams and declarations calling for the whole nation's war of resistance, and organized armed forces under its leadership. Prominent figures who would later become founders of our party, such as Soong Ching-ling, Li Jishen and He Xiangning, publicly expressed that in the face of a great enemy, we must unite and confront the external threat together. They urged Chiang Kai-shek to convene national political figures to discuss state affairs and save the nation from crisis.

On Nov. 18, 1933, these founding figures, including Li Jishen, Chen Mingshu, Jiang Guangnai, Cai Tingkai and Feng Yuxiang, together with Huang Qixiang, the leader of the CPWDP, jointly launched the Fujian Incident. Li Jishen sent his plenipotentiary representative Xu Minghong to Ruijin in Jiangxi province to meet with comrades Mao Zedong and Zhou Enlai. At the same time, they initialed an agreement with Pan Hannian, the plenipotentiary representative of the Provisional Central Government of the Chinese Soviet Republic and the Red Army, to jointly resist Japanese aggression and Chiang Kai-shek.

During the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the concerted cooperation between the other political parties and the CPC has provided many valuable insights. First, we must firmly uphold the leadership of the CPC to guarantee the correctness of our path and direction. Second, we must unite sincerely and work together to forge an indestructible and majestic force, and only by doing so can we overcome all difficulties and obstacles and usher in the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation.

That's all I have to say. Thank you.

Lu Guoyi:

Let me add something. I am from the China Zhi Gong Party. Just now, the journalist mentioned the journey of cooperation between the CPC and the other political parties during the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. I will answer your question with three phrases. The first is from acquaintance to understanding, the second is from shared aspirations to close affinity, and the third is from compatriots to comrades. There is a process, and I can share three examples.

First, in 1935, the CPC issued the August 1st Declaration, which listed the China Zhi Gong Party as one of the "political parties and groups willing to participate in the cause of resisting Japanese aggression and saving the nation," giving it political recognition. This was not easy, as in 1935 the China Zhi Gong Party had just marked its 10th anniversary. Second, in 1942, Zhou Enlai arrived in Chongqing and had a discussion with Situ Meitang. Zhou informed Situ of the truth about the "Southern Anhui Incident" and exposed the reactionary crimes of the Kuomintang. Third, in 1945, when Dong Biwu was obstructed by the Kuomintang from attending the conference on the formulation of the Charter of the United Nations, Situ Juncong, then leader of the China Zhi Gong Party in the Americas, decided to help Dong. Situ organized a press conference to release relevant information and provided security for Dong, as Dong and other comrades were under great threat at that time. In addition, the China Zhi Gong Party published relevant information in the newspaper it ran, which played an important role in exposing the Kuomintang's misdeeds and publicizing the CPC's position in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.

Thank you.

People's Daily:

I would like to ask Mr. Wang a question. We understand that after the victory of World War II, some members of the Chinese Peasants and Workers Democratic Party participated in the Tokyo Trial and played their important role. Could you briefly introduce this situation and share your understanding of adhering to a correct historical perspective on World War II? Thank you.

Wang Lu:

Thank you for your question. Let me first address the historical perspective on World War II. The people are the creators of history. The historical perspective on World War II essentially reflects the historical victory of the world's people, including the Chinese people, in defending humanity's shared justice and conscience, safeguarding world peace, whilst opposing fascist aggression. China's battlefield in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was the longest-lasting battlefield in the World Anti-Fascist War. It was not only the main battlefield against Japanese fascist aggression but also the main eastern battlefield of the World Anti-Fascist War. During this war, China endured enormous national sacrifices, with total military and civilian casualties exceeding 35 million, direct economic losses surpassing $100 billion, and indirect economic losses reaching $500 billion. After 14 years of arduous resistance, the Chinese people, together with people around the world, defeated fascism, achieving a great victory of justice over evil, light over darkness, and progress over reaction.

As you mentioned, after World War II, the International Military Tribunal for the Far East (IMTFE), composed of 11 countries including China, the Soviet Union, the United States, the United Kingdom, and France, conducted the Tokyo Trial of 28 Japanese Class-A war criminals. Comrade Qiu Shaoheng, a member of the elder generation of our Chinese Peasants and Workers Democratic Party and former Assistant Prosecutor at the IMTFE, experienced this trial. Qiu and his colleagues, dispatched by the court, conducted extensive and in-depth investigations in Nanjing and other locations. Their work yielded abundant and irrefutable evidence, which exposed the Japanese militarists' inhumane acts of aggression, heinous massacres, and brutal plundering and destruction. This trial forever nailed the war criminals to the historical pillar of shame, serving as a reckoning for Japanese militarism and upholding the dignity of China as the largest victim country to appear at the trial. In doing so, they sought justice for the victims brutally killed by Japanese militarism. The written judgment of the IMTFE clearly documented the crimes of aggression committed by Japanese imperialism, with dedicated chapters describing Japan's aggression against China which served as irrefutable evidence.

The victory of World War II not only ended the global threat posed by militarism and fascism, but also reshaped the post-war international order and strengthened humanity's resolve to pursue peaceful development. The post-war international order is a precious achievement forged with the blood and sacrifices of the people around the world, including the Chinese people, and must be respected and protected. We know that peace does not come easily. Therefore, maintaining world peace and standing on the side of fairness and justice are the revelations World War II has left to all humanity.

In the face of an acceleration toward global changes unseen in a century, all Chinese people, including all political parties, will unswervingly safeguard the hard-earned results of World War II and the post-war international order under the leadership of the CPC, contributing to human peace and development and ensuring that the legacy of World War II continues to be remembered truthfully. Thank you.

Guangdong Radio and Television Station:

"Leveraging advantages to promote national reunification" is a fine tradition of the Revolutionary Committee of the Chinese Kuomintang (RCCK). In recent years, what particular measures has the RCCK implemented, and what experience has it gained in promoting dialogue between people on both sides of the Strait about the spirit of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, fostering a shared historical awareness among compatriots across the Strait, and strengthening the recognition of the Chinese nation, Chinese culture, and the one-China principle? Thank you.

Chen Xingying:

In recent years, the RCCK Central Committee has actively promoted cross-Strait sharing of historical materials and joint compilation of history books. It invited scholars and experts from both sides of the Strait to co-author and publish "The Great Wall and the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression," a collection of photographs and written accounts of the military's resistance efforts along the Great Wall. Most of the material had never been published before. Throughout the editorial process, experts from both sides of the Strait maintained an objective and comprehensive approach, respecting and accurately representing history. This earned high praise from all sectors of society. In addition, the RCCK Central Committee organized young people from both sides of the Strait to follow wartime resistance routes together, visiting Beijing, Hubei, Jiangsu, Shanghai, Shanxi and other regions for commemorative journeys, including the "Great Wall Commemorative Event" and the "Yangtze River Commemorative Event." Through paying tribute to fallen heroes, visiting war museums, touring memorial sites, meeting with veterans and holding academic seminars, these activities carried forward the great spirit of the War of Resistance. They strengthened the spiritual bonds that unite compatriots across the Strait and their spirit of ceaselessly pursuing self-improvement.

The RCCK Central Committee and RCCK organizations at all levels have also organized various commemorative activities, including cross-Strait calligraphy and painting exhibitions. From these activities and efforts, we have gained valuable experience. First, we must leverage the political advantage of the RCCK as a participating party in governance. Like our predecessors did during the War of Resistance, we must proactively embrace our historical mission and actively advocate for the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation. Second, we need to capitalize on the RCCK's distinctive historical roots by closely integrating the promotion of the Sun Yat-sen spirit, the Whampoa spirit and the spirit of the War of Resistance, thereby widely rallying patriotic forces. Third, we should utilize the RCCK's extensive network of connections. Through innovative thinking and by broadening our channels, we must actively promote the formation of a warm atmosphere where all sectors of both sides of the Strait jointly discuss the War of Resistance, commemorate the fallen heroes together, and create a shared future.

Thank you.

Beijing News:

The victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was achieved under a national united front against Japanese aggression. The CPC united people from all walks of life across the country to save the nation from peril. What positive roles did non-CPC parties play in promoting cooperation between the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) and the CPC and in consolidating the national united front against Japanese aggression? Thank you.

Wang Lu:

I will take this question first. Throughout the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the CPC consistently advocated for, actively promoted and steadfastly maintained and strengthened the national united front against Japanese aggression, mobilizing the entire nation's strength for collective resistance. Comrade Mao Zedong published "On Protracted War," providing clear guidance through the fog that enveloped the early stages of the war. Inspired by the call for a united front against Japanese aggression, Chinese people at home and abroad, including the Chinese Peasants and Workers Democratic Party (CPWDP), threw themselves into the great struggle for national survival. This marked a new chapter, unprecedented in modern times, where the entire nation rose up together to fight against invaders. The national united front against Japanese aggression mobilized and united all Chinese anti-Japanese forces, representing one of the most fundamental conditions for victory.

The CPWDP actively facilitated and steadfastly upheld the national united front against Japanese aggression led by the CPC. To save the nation, on Aug. 1, 1935, the CPC issued the "Message to all Compatriots for Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and for National Salvation," urging an end to civil war and unified resistance against Japanese invasion. The CPWDP's predecessor, the Provisional Action Committee of the Chinese Nationalist Party, responded swiftly by holding the Second National Cadre Conference in Hong Kong. In order to better fulfill the responsibility of resisting Japanese aggression and saving the nation, the name was changed to the Chinese Action Committee for Nation Liberation. It also proposed the general policy of resisting Japanese aggression, allying with the CPC, and opposing Chiang Kai-shek. It adopted the "Provisional Action Program" and the "Message to the Comrades." This marked the CPWDP's departure from the KMT system and the establishment of its political line of cooperating with the CPC in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.

As everyone knows, Deng Yanda, the founder of the CPWDP, studied at the Huangpu (Whampoa) Military Academy, and many of our party members are graduates of the academy. Responding to the CPC's call during the war, many CPWDP members joined the Eighth Route Army and the New Fourth Army to fight alongside the CPC. Today, as we commemorate the great victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, one of the most essential lessons is to deeply recognize that the CPC represented the will of all people, served as the backbone of nationwide resistance, and was the strong core leading the Chinese people in their struggle for national independence and liberation. Thank you.

Jiang Liping:

Mr. Wang just provided an excellent answer. Let me add some additional points. In the great struggle for national liberation, the CPC consistently provided political direction by grasping the overall trend and big picture. It played an irreplaceable leading role in securing victory in the war. In particular, the CPC gave strong impetus to Taiwan's recovery from Japanese occupation. As early as May 15, 1937, Mao Zedong told a journalist from the United States that China's goal was to achieve a final victory in the war — a victory that would recover the occupied Chinese territories in northeast China and to the south of the Shanhai Pass, and secure the liberation of Taiwan.

The CPC's policies and vision gained active support from Taiwan compatriots. They likewise realized that achieving liberation from Japanese colonial rule required forming a national united front against Japanese aggression with mainland compatriots under the leadership of the CPC. For example, the Taiwan volunteer corps, a group of Taiwan compatriots that went directly to the front lines to fight Japan, was organized with direct support and guidance from the CPC. Led by the patriotic Taiwan compatriot General Li Youbang, the Taiwan volunteer corps contributed to the resistance in various fields, including publicity, medical services and wartime production, earning high praise from both the military and civilians. The Taiwan volunteer corps was the largest, most influential, and longest-lasting anti-Japanese force composed of Taiwan compatriots directly participating in the motherland's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. It was also the only Taiwan compatriot resistance force nationwide with regular military organization, representing an outstanding example of Taiwan compatriots' participation in the War of Resistance.

During the war of resistance against Japanese aggression, many Taiwan compatriots organized resistance groups, but their strength was relatively scattered. In 1941, to unite the broadest possible range of Taiwan revolutionaries and form a strong anti-Japanese force, founding members of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League and other prominent figures of Taiwanese origin, including Li Youbang, Qiu Niantai, Li Chunqing, Song Feiru, and Xie Nanguan, established the Taiwan Revolutionary Alliance in Chongqing. The CPC actively supported their efforts. The Alliance aimed to "pool all revolutionary forces in Taiwan to overthrow Japanese imperialism and restore Taiwan to the motherland." It actively coordinated preparations for the restoration of Taiwan and offered proposals regarding the post-war status of Taiwan. The older generation of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League members played an active role in consolidating a united front against Japanese aggression with concrete actions.

Thank you.

China News Service:

As a political party characterized by its ties with overseas Chinese and returned overseas Chinese, the China Zhi Gong Party has close ties with overseas Chinese communities. Could you tell us about the historical details of the China Zhi Gong Party's efforts to connect with overseas Chinese communities and aid the nation in times of crisis? And what roles did it play?

Lu Guoyi:

Thank you to this reporter for your attention to the China Zhi Gong Party and to overseas Chinese and returned overseas Chinese. This year marks the 100th anniversary of the founding of the China Zhi Gong Party. Next month, we will hold a gathering in Beijing to commemorate the 100th anniversary of the founding of the China Zhi Gong Party. During the war of resistance against Japanese aggression, the China Zhi Gong Party actively engaged in this effort in the following ways. First, through public campaigns, they proclaimed China's policies, ideals, spirit, and national integrity to the world. Second, they directly participated in armed struggles. As I mentioned in my opening remarks, the China Zhi Gong Party members were involved in the Battle of Shanghai in 1937 and the Northeast Anti-Japanese United Army. Third, they made donations.

There are many examples in these three aspects. First, regarding making their voices heard. Nowadays, everyone has a mobile phone. There is self-media and numerous media organizations. Back then it was very difficult to make one's voice heard. However, overseas Chinese had their own advantages. They were located all over the world. They had their own media outlets and newspapers, and had extensive connections with other expat communities. This enabled their voices to be heard through media, as well as through express mail services.

The second aspect is armed struggle. The China Zhi Gong Party members participated in many armed struggles. Here, I would like to specifically introduce the stories of the Nanyang Volunteer Drivers and Mechanics. At the most critical moment of the war of resistance in 1939, overseas Chinese in Southeast Asia organized themselves. At the time, there were about 3,000 young people, mainly from Indonesia, the Philippines, Malaysia, Singapore, and several other countries. They returned to their motherland to participate in the war of resistance against Japanese aggression. Many were engaged in transportation, ensuring international aid supplies reached the mainland through the Burma Road. After several years, one-third of them sacrificed their lives. This casualty rate was even higher than that of the front-line combat troops. Their sacrifice was truly extraordinary. Many of those who served in this capacity were from well-off families. During that time, mastering both driving and automobile repair was a tremendously remarkable skill. This showed the patriotism of our overseas Chinese. The longer they lived abroad, the more patriotic they became. They really demonstrated this.

During the war of resistance against Japanese aggression, the China Zhi Gong Party also played a role in donations of money and supplies. According to rough statistics at that time, from 1936 to 1946, overseas Chinese communities in North America and other regions raised more than $480 million. This was subsequently delivered to supporting those on the front lines of the war of resistance. Thank you.

Science and Technology Daily:

This question is for Mr. Cong Bin. In the long scroll of modern Chinese history, the ideology of saving the country through science always resonated with the destiny of the nation. We also learned that the "Founding Declaration of the Jiusan Society" proposed to carry forward the spirit of the May Fourth Movement and uphold "Democracy and Science" as the way to save the country. During the war of resistance against Japanese aggression, how did the founding members of the Jiusan Society practice the spirit of saving the nation through science amidst the national crisis? And over the past 80 years, how have we carried forward the fine tradition of patriotism, democracy, and science, and participated in, and contributed to, boosting China's strength in science and technology? Thank you.

Cong Bin:

You raised very good questions. During the war of resistance against Japanese aggression, many of our predecessors used science as a weapon to participate in saving the nation through science amidst the raging war. For example, the renowned physicist Mr. Yan Jici led the Institute of Physics to produce more than 1,000 quartz oscillators for stabilizing wave frequencies in radio transmitters. He managed this feat from a simple bungalow, as stable wave frequencies are necessary for radio transmission. They also manufactured more than 300 sets of pentagonal rangefinders and binoculars for the infantry. These were all supplied to the frontline troops for the war of resistance, rear-line medical services, as well as scientific research and teaching. Another fine example would be the case of the meteorologist Mr. Tu Changwang. He and his team persisted in making high-altitude weather observations from a pile of rubble, using a rudimentary device—a kite radiosonde. They pioneered the theoretical framework for Chinese three-dimensional meteorology. Their observations accurately predicted the optimal windows for military operations, aiding transportation aircraft to break through the Japanese blockade. These efforts provided tangible scientific support for the resistance war against Japanese aggression. These distinguished predecessors are outstanding representatives of the Jiusan Society. They closely combined their personal ideals with the destiny of the nation, vividly interpreting the essence of the spirit of "saving the nation through science."

After the founding of New China, the Jiusan Society enthusiastically devoted itself to the construction of the new China. Well-known figures such as Wang Ganchang, Deng Jiaxian, Zhao Jiuzhang, Chen Fangyun, and Cheng Kaijia were all members of the Jiusan Society. They worked anonymously for decades, prioritizing the interests of the country and the nation. They made outstanding contributions to the successful development of China's "Two Bombs, One Satellite" project. Their determination to use science to serve the country—a determination full of patriotism and a tenacious conviction to win—is a perfect reflection of the great spirit of resisting aggression.

In the new era, we in the Jiusan Society adhere to the principle of serving the country's needs with our party's strengths. For example, we have scientist Lu Ke, who studies metallic materials, and Pan Jianwei, known for his quantum communication research. They exemplify countless Jiusan Society members who have made outstanding achievements in their fields, embodying our society's patriotic, democratic and scientific spirit, as well as inheriting our predecessors' passionate patriotism and steadfast belief in victory.

As we embark on our new journey, our new generation of Jiusan Society members are committed to carrying on our organization's excellent traditions while championing the great spirit forged during the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. With firm confidence and unwavering determination, we will strive to make even greater contributions to comprehensively advancing national rejuvenation and the great cause of building a strong country through Chinese modernization.

Thank you.

Legal Daily:

In recent years, the Democratic Progressive Party authorities have advocated a "Taiwan independence" narrative, pursued "de-Sinicization" policies, deliberately distorted history, and even whitewashed and glorified Japanese colonial rule, attempting to break the historical and spiritual ties connecting both sides of the Strait. History must not be distorted, nor can we allow the erasure of the historical contributions made by compatriots across the Taiwan Strait in resisting foreign aggression. Vice Chairman Jiang Liping of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League, could you describe how Taiwan and mainland compatriots courageously fought side by side against Japanese invaders and resisted Japanese colonial rule? What contributions did the predecessors of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League make during the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression? Thank you.

Jiang Liping:

Thanks for your questions. During the 50 years of Japanese colonial rule over Taiwan, Taiwan compatriots, with their glorious tradition of patriotism, fought courageously alongside their mainland counterparts against Japanese invaders. More than 650,000 Taiwan compatriots sacrificed their lives, making indelible contributions to safeguarding national sovereignty and territorial integrity. There are many such examples. Let me tell you the story of Qiu Fengjia. Qiu was from Miaoli county, Taiwan province, and traced his ancestry to Jiaoling county, Guangdong province. After the outbreak of the Sino-Japanese War of 1894-1895, Qiu set aside his scholarly pursuits to take up arms and organized a volunteer army. When word of Taiwan being ceded reached the island, Qiu was overcome with grief and indignation. He publicly pricked his finger in public and wrote in blood the four bold characters "Resist the Japanese and Defend our Land." He also submitted three blood-written petitions, urging the Qing government to nullify the treaty and continue the fight. He led the Taiwan volunteer army in fierce battles with the Japanese army in the rugged mountains of central Taiwan, successfully thwarting the Japanese invaders' reckless plan to rapidly advance southward.

During the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, many Taiwan compatriots bravely joined the national anti-Japanese struggle to save the nation. Among them, Xie Xuehong, the first chairman of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League, participated in the founding of the Taiwan Communist Party. Under the guidance of the CPC, the newly established Taiwan Communist Party overcame numerous difficulties in leading Taiwan workers and farmers in active anti-Japanese struggles. Another example is Cai Xiao, chairman of the second Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League headquarters council, who, in 1934, driven by hatred of Japanese imperialist oppression, traveled to the Chinese mainland to join anti-Japanese forces. On the smoke-filled battlefields of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, Cai joined the CPC and the New Fourth Army, fighting stubbornly against the Japanese invaders and earning numerous military successes during the war. Lin Zhengheng, a senior member of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League, abandoned his beloved art major to apply for the Central Military Academy in Nanjing. After graduation, he left his wife and children to go to the front lines, participating successively in the Battle of Kunlun Pass and the Chinese Expeditionary Force's campaign in Myanmar. After the nationwide War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression broke out, "To Yan'an!" became the most resounding rallying cry. Inspired by the CPC-led Chinese united front against Japanese aggression, senior members of the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League came to the revolutionary holy land of Yan'an. There, they worked in unity with their mainland compatriots, fighting side by side until achieving victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and Taiwan's liberation. They wrote a glorious chapter of Chinese sons and daughters facing a national crisis together and jointly resisting foreign aggression.

At a new historical juncture, the Taiwan Democratic Self-Government League will unwaveringly uphold the leadership of the CPC and consolidate its spirit with Xi Jinping Thought on Socialism with Chinese Characteristics for a New Era. We will promote the great spirit of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, continue our fine traditions, and draw strength for progress. By uniting the vast number of Taiwan compatriots, we will make new contributions to comprehensively advancing the construction of a strong country and achieving national rejuvenation through a Chinese path to modernization.

Thank you.

CETV:

Protecting sites from the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression is crucial for remembering the war's history and carrying forward our national spirit. We are aware that the RCCK has been working hard to promote the protection of War of Resistance sites in recent years. What specific work has the RCCK undertaken in this area, and what achievements have been made? Thank you.

Chen Xingying:

Thank you for your question. War of Resistance sites are precious remnants of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. They bear witness to this great history forged with blood and lives. These sites are inscribed with the Chinese nation's indomitable spirit of resistance and heroic deeds of bloody struggle. They embody the Chinese people's unwavering belief in victory and steadfast determination to fight to the end for national liberation and world peace.

The RCCK started its War of Resistance site protection work as far back as around 2011. In 2018, when applications opened for the eighth batch of National Key Cultural Relics Protection Units, the RCCK collaborated closely with many units and departments responsible for War of Resistance sites. Together, we nominated several historically significant sites, many of which were approved. The sites included the Yezhai Cemetery of Fallen Soldiers in the War of Resistance in Anhui province, the Jiangqiao War of Resistance Memorial Hall in Heilongjiang province and the Battle of Xuefeng Mountain site in west Hunan province. We also nominated the former residences of early RCCK leaders, such as Li Jishen, Zhang Zhizhong, Chen Qian and Jiang Guangnai. The RCCK Central Committee also places great importance on maximizing the educational function of these sites by designating them as education bases for RCCK members. This guides RCCK members to draw strength for progress from the patriotic sentiment that every citizen bears responsibility for the rise or fall of the nation. Members learn from history by drawing forward momentum from the national character that faces death fearlessly and refuses to yield. They also use history as their foundation of faith, inheriting fine traditions and further solidifying their ideals and beliefs through the spirit of perseverance and unwavering determination.

That's all I have to say. Thank you.

Xu Lei:

Due to time constraints, we will take one last question.

Xinhua:

As we know, this year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. It is also the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's recovery from Japanese occupation, the centenary of the founding of the China Zhi Gong Party, as well as the 80th anniversaries of the founding of the Jiusan Society, the China National Democratic Construction Association and the China Association for Promoting Democracy. How will these political parties better promote the spirit of resistance against Japanese aggression and uphold their fine traditions to contribute more effectively to Chinese modernization and the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation? Thank you.

Lu Guoyi:

I'd like to begin by sharing a few thoughts. Thank you for your interest in the China Zhi Gong Party. This year marks the 100th anniversary of its founding, which has filled me with great pride. The century-long journey has been magnificent and monumental. The spirit of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression is being increasingly remembered and upheld. Through various initiatives, the China Zhi Gong Party has worked to ensure that this spirit endures.

First, we have organized a variety of themed educational programs, regularly arranging for party members to visit revolutionary sites for firsthand learning experiences. We have leveraged the China Zhi Gong Party's strong connections with overseas Chinese communities to promote the spirit of resistance against Japanese aggression among Chinese nationals and overseas Chinese. As everyone knows, there are over 60 million overseas Chinese distributed around the world. This is a very powerful force, so we work to unite them and continuously promote the spirit of resistance against Japanese aggression with them. The spirit of resistance against Japanese aggression, as we often say, encompasses several key elements. It includes patriotism that inspires the individual to work for the well-being of the country. It embodies an indomitable national character ready for self-sacrifice in service of the greater good. It reflects heroic valor that nurtures a national will to confront brute force and fight until the end. Furthermore, it demonstrates great perseverance and an unfailing belief in victory. Just think about it: after so many years of war, without the spirit of resistance against Japanese aggression, it would have been very difficult for China — impoverished and weak as it was then — to survive such a prolonged struggle.

Second, the party has upheld the one-China principle and advanced the great cause of national reunification. Taiwan's recovery from Japanese occupation was a major outcome of the victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. That triumph was forged through the successive struggles and bloody sacrifices of all Chinese people, including our compatriots in Taiwan. The party will resolutely implement the CPC Central Committee's policies on work related to Taiwan. Taking the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's recovery from Japanese occupation as an opportunity, we will strengthen ties and exchanges with Taiwan compatriots, deepen their identification with the motherland, and advance the great cause of national reunification.

Third, the party has given full play to its strengths in overseas Chinese affairs and served the cause of Chinese modernization. The China Zhi Gong Party will focus on the China's overall development, unite overseas Chinese hearts and harness overseas Chinese strength to serve high-quality development. We frequently emphasize that our more than 60 million overseas Chinese are of great importance to our country's development. This was particularly evident in the early days of reform and opening-up, when overseas Chinese, their capital and expertise played a crucial role. Therefore, we must effectively engage with overseas Chinese communities, serve them well, let them work comfortably abroad and feel at ease when returning to the country to start businesses and develop, achieving better results.

Thank you.

Cong Bin:

Mr. Lu has given an excellent response. I would like to take this opportunity to add a few points. As the reporter mentioned earlier, this year also marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the Jiusan Society. As we often say, the best way to honor history is to seize the historical initiative and write new chapters of it. The 20th CPC National Congress and the third plenary session of the 20th CPC Central Committee made significant arrangements for advancing and deepening Chinese modernization, providing clear guidance for non-Communist parties like ours in fulfilling our responsibilities. We will seize the opportunity to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. The Jiusan Society will draw inspiration from the spirit of resistance to strengthen our dedication to the country and assist in building a strong nation through technological innovation. We will focus our efforts on the following four areas:

First, we will uphold the great spirit of resistance and remain true to our founding mission of promoting cooperation. The Jiusan Society educates and guides its members in three aspects. First, we draw strength from the spirit of resistance against Japanese aggression and the inheritance of revolutionary traditions. Second, we continuously deepen our members' understanding of our founding missions through studying the history of multi-party cooperation. Third, we encourage our members to learn from our predecessors' experience to continuously strengthen their comprehension and grasp of the fine traditions of multi-party cooperation. We work to enhance political, ideological, theoretical and emotional identification with the CPC and socialism with Chinese characteristics, thereby consolidating the shared ideological and political foundation of multi-party cooperation.

Second, we will uphold its tradition of serving the country through science and technology while contributing to high-level sci-tech self-reliance and self-improvement. Patriotism lies at the heart of the spirit of resistance against Japanese aggression, and serving the country through science and technology represents the enduring tradition of Jiusan Society members across generations. We will follow the example of pioneering scientists like Wang Ganchang, Deng Jiaxian and Wang Xuan to inspire our members, particularly young people, to align their personal ambitions with national development. We encourage them to continuously practice patriotism in the process of contributing to the building of a country strong in science and technology.

Third, we will strengthen our capacity to seize historical initiative and improve our effectiveness in fulfilling our duties. We will utilize our distinctive sectoral strengths and talent advantages to conduct in-depth research and survey, provide insightful recommendations and offer practical solutions for advancing Chinese modernization, promoting further deepening reform comprehensively, and facilitating high-quality development.

Fourth, we will uphold our fundamental principles, break new ground and strengthen self-improvement. We will learn from the ruling Party, carry forward the great spirit of the resistance and the fine traditions of the Jiusan Society. We strive to build a participating party in socialism with Chinese characteristics that is politically steadfast, organizationally solid, effective in fulfilling duties, exemplary in conduct and institutionally sound. Thank you.

Xu Lei:

Five officials from the central committees of the non-Communist parties have just conducted a valuable exchange with us. Today's press conference serves as a commemoration of the great victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. It will also surely inspire all members of the united front, including the non-Communist parties, to remember our history, strengthen our convictions, and uphold our traditions. Under the strong leadership of the CPC, we will make new and greater contributions to the comprehensive advancement of building a strong nation and achieving national rejuvenation.

That concludes today's press conference. Once again, we thank the five officials from the central committees of the non-Communist parties for their participation, and all media representatives for their attendance. Goodbye!

Translated and edited by Xu Xiaoxuan, You Jiaxin, Liao Jiaxin, Yang Chuanli, Cui Can, Xu Kailin, Wang Xingguang, Zhu Bochen, Wang Qian, Wang Wei, Zhou Jing, Gong Yingchun, Huang Shan, Ma Yujia, Zhang Rui, Li Huiru, David Ball, Jay Birbeck and Tudor Bentley Finneran. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speaker:

Mr. Ma Zhaoxu, vice minister of foreign affairs

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, head of the Press Center for Commemoration of 80th Anniversary of Victory in Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and World Anti-Fascist War

Date:

Aug. 29, 2025

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to the second press conference of the Press Center for the Events Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Today we are very pleased to have invited Mr. Ma Zhaoxu, vice minister of foreign affairs. He will brief you on pursuing peaceful development and promoting a community with a shared future for humanity, and answer your questions.

Now, I will give the floor to Mr. Ma for his introduction.

Ma Zhaoxu:

Ms. Shou, friends from the media, good morning. I am very pleased to attend today's press conference to brief you on China's pursuit of peaceful development and a community with a shared future for humanity.

The great victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression marked a historical turning point for the Chinese nation from deep crisis in modern times toward great rejuvenation, and had a significant and far-reaching impact on the victory of the global anti-fascist struggle and the noble cause of world peace. Since the founding of the People's Republic of China, the country has remained committed to an independent foreign policy of peace, put forward the Five Principles of Peaceful Coexistence, and advocated and promoted multipolarity and greater democracy in international relations, making important contributions to world peace and development.

In the new era, changes unseen in a century accelerate across the world, multiple risks interweave, and the deficits in peace, development, security and governance are growing, bringing human society to a critical crossroads once again. Standing at an elevated historical perspective and keeping in mind the shared interests of the Chinese people and people around the world, President Xi Jinping has accurately grasped the overarching trend and evolution of human society with the broad strategic vision, exceptional political wisdom and profound global vision of a leader of a large party and country, and proposed the significant vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity with foresight, providing answers to the fundamental question of the world, of history and of the times about where humanity is headed, charting a course for world peace and development at a historical turning point, and fostering a strong consensus for the common progress of humanity.

President Xi Jinping pointed out that humanity lives in a community with a shared future where we rise and fall together. Countries are not riding separately in some 190 small boats, but are rather all in a giant ship on which our shared destiny hinges. Small boats may not survive a storm, but a giant ship is strong enough to brave a storm. A community with a shared future for humanity means that all peoples and all countries — our journeys ahead being interconnected — must stand together in adversity and through thick and thin, navigating toward greater harmony on this planet that we call home, and turning people's longing for a better life into reality.

In 2013, at the Moscow State Institute of International Relations, President Xi Jinping noted for the first time that humanity has increasingly emerged as a community of shared future in which everyone has in themselves a little bit of others. In 2015, during the General Debate of the 70th Session of the United Nations General Assembly, he put forward a five-point proposal for building a community with a shared future for humanity. In 2017, in his speech at the United Nations Office at Geneva, put forward the goal of building an open, inclusive, clean and beautiful world of lasting peace, universal security and shared prosperity.

At the Central Conference on Work Relating to Foreign Affairs held in December 2023, President Xi Jinping delivered an important speech, defining the pillars of building a community with a shared future for humanity as a scientific system: The goal is to build an open, inclusive, clean and beautiful world of lasting peace, universal security and shared prosperity; the pathway is promoting global governance that features extensive consultation and joint contribution for shared benefit; the guiding principle is to apply the common values of humanity; the basic underpinning lies in building a new type of international relations; the strategic guidance comes from the implementation of the Global Development Initiative, the Global Security Initiative and the Global Civilization Initiative; and the platform for action is high-quality Belt and Road cooperation. On this basis, we seek to bring countries together to meet challenges and achieve prosperity for all.

The initiative of building a community with a shared future for humanity inherits and carries forward the diplomatic philosophy, strategic thinking and fine traditions established since the founding of the People's Republic of China. It has been continuously enriched and developed through the remarkable practice of major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics. The concept originates from a rational framework for interstate relations, reflects the broad consensus and shared aspirations of the international community, and demonstrates China's sense of responsibility and commitment as a major country. It introduces novel ideas for international relations, offers innovative insights for global governance, establishes new frameworks for international exchanges, and presents a vision for a better world. It transcends the "small circle" rules of bloc politics, the hegemonic logic of "might makes right," and the so-called "universal values" promoted by certain Western countries. This creates the broadest basis for building a better world together.

Through the joint efforts of all parties, building a community with a shared future for humanity has evolved from a Chinese initiative into an international consensus. It has transformed from an inspiring vision into concrete practices and developed from a conceptual proposition into a scientific framework. It has achieved a historic leap from bilateral to multilateral, from regional to global, from development to security, and from cooperation to governance, producing comprehensive and pioneering outcomes.

The international community widely believes that the vision of building a community with a shared future for humanity transcends narrow self-interest and protectionism, challenges the hegemonic mindset of countries pursuing supremacy, and reflects China's distinctive perspective on the trajectory of human development. It holds great significance for promoting solidarity and cooperation among all countries and creating a better future for humanity. Many international figures have stated that the concept of a community with a shared future for humanity represents the voice of the international community and brings peace, development and hope to the world. U.N. Secretary-General Antonio Guterres said that the purpose of practicing multilateralism is to build a community with a shared future for humanity. The major concept of building a community with a shared future for humanity has been included in multiple U.N. General Assembly resolutions, has appeared in Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) summit declarations for eight consecutive years, and has been referenced eight times in BRICS leaders' meeting declarations. Its core essence has been incorporated into the U.N. "The Pact for the Future," making it an international public good of great significance in today's world.

President Xi Jinping pointed out that dreams and wishes may be far, but they can be fulfilled with dedicated pursuit. Building a community with a shared future for humanity is a goal that requires one generation after another to carry the torch forward. China is willing to work with all countries around the world to uphold the concept of a shared future, draw wisdom from history, demonstrate responsibility in the current era, work together in solidarity, and make unremitting efforts toward the noble goal of building a community with a shared future for humanity. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Ma. The floor is now open to questions. Please identify the news organization you represent before posing your question. This press conference provides simultaneous interpretation. If you ask questions in English, we will provide translation in real time. Please raise your hand to ask a question.

China Daily:

Since the 18th CPC National Congress, President Xi Jinping has personally led and conducted exemplary head-of-state diplomacy. We have also learned that a series of bilateral and multilateral diplomatic activities will take place during the upcoming SCO summit. What are your thoughts on the strategic guiding role of head-of-state diplomacy in building a community with a shared future for humanity? Thank you.

Ma Zhaoxu:

Head-of-state diplomacy represents the highest form of Chinese diplomacy and plays a decisive role in major-country diplomacy with Chinese characteristics. Since the 18th CPC National Congress, President Xi Jinping has personally planned, led and conducted head-of-state diplomacy. This diplomacy has featured numerous highlights and successive breakthroughs. He has made 55 overseas visits to 72 countries across five continents and has hosted over 230 foreign heads of state on official visits to China.

President Xi Jinping has engaged in in-depth strategic communication with leaders of various countries, conducted friendly exchanges with citizens of nations worldwide, and thoroughly articulated the principles of peaceful development, the path of win-win cooperation, and the strategy of "working together for a shared future." This has injected peace, stability and progress into a world intertwined with changes and turmoil.

President Xi Jinping took a high-speed train and watched a football match with Russian President Vladimir Putin, celebrated the birthday of Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, and signed a copy of "Xi Jinping: The Governance of China" brought by Chilean President Gabriel Boric. These moments have become enduring diplomatic anecdotes. From state visits to diplomatic activities, from international multilateral summits to important domestic meetings, President Xi Jinping has comprehensively elaborated on the concept of a community with a shared future for humanity, continuously enriching its meaning and deepening international consensus.

CRNTT:

At present, international and regional hotspot issues are emerging one after another, posing challenges to global peace and stability. How will China apply the concept of a community with a shared future for humanity to address peace and security concerns? Thank you.

Ma Zhaoxu:

The world has enjoyed relative peace for the past 80 years since World War II, but today's world is far from tranquil. Regional flash points and local conflicts occur frequently, traditional and non-traditional security threats overlap and compound each other, and the international security situation is becoming increasingly severe and complex. With a focus on the future, destiny, safety and well-being of all humanity, President Xi Jinping solemnly proposed the Global Security Initiative. The initiative advocates upholding a vision of common, comprehensive, cooperative and sustainable security. It calls for respecting the sovereignty and territorial integrity of all countries and abiding by the purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter. The initiative emphasizes the importance of addressing the legitimate security concerns of all countries. Additionally, it advocates resolving disputes and differences between countries peacefully through dialogue and consultation. It also coordinates efforts to maintain security in both traditional and non-traditional domains. This provides a Chinese solution to eliminating the root causes of international conflicts, addressing global security challenges, and improving global security governance. Currently, the Global Security Initiative has received support from more than 130 countries and international and regional organizations. It has been explicitly included in over 140 bilateral and multilateral documents between China and other nations.

Since the founding of the People's Republic of China, the country has never initiated a war or occupied an inch of another country's land. China is the world's only country to enshrine its commitment to peaceful development in its constitution and the only nuclear power to pledge no first use of nuclear weapons. China has consistently and firmly upheld the purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter. It is the largest contributor of peacekeeping personnel among the U.N. Security Council's permanent members, and the second-largest contributor to U.N. peacekeeping funding, making significant contributions to maintaining world peace.

We solemnly commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. This serves to preserve historical memory, honor the martyrs, cherish peace, build a brighter future, safeguard the correct view of World War II history, and gather the strength to maintain peace. China stands ready to work with all parties to implement the Global Security Initiative, bringing greater stability and certainty to the international community and jointly building a world of enduring peace and universal security. Thank you.

Ethiopian Broadcasting Corporation:

Okay, thank you. I came from Ethiopia, and I have one question: In a world facing challenges posed by unilateralism and protectionism, and delays in attaining the U.N. 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, what more can China do to promote global development? Thank you.

Ma Zhaoxu:

As you mentioned, unilateralism and protectionism are on the rise, hampering global economic recovery. International development cooperation lacks momentum, implementation of the U.N. 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development has fallen seriously behind, and humanity's sustainable development efforts face severe challenges.

President Xi Jinping pointed out that China's development is inseparable from the world, and global prosperity also depends on China. China continues to provide new opportunities for the world through its own new development and promotes modernization in all countries worldwide through Chinese-style modernization. China is committed to expanding high-level opening up, promoting the construction of an open world economic system, and advancing trade and investment liberalization and facilitation. It upholds the multilateral trading system with the World Trade Organization at its core, and maintains the stability and smooth flow of global industrial and supply chains. High-quality Belt and Road cooperation has deepened and produced concrete results. More than 150 countries have joined the Belt and Road Initiative, and this "road of happiness" that benefits the world continues to broaden. China has announced eight actions for global development and granted zero-tariff treatment on 100% of products from the least developed countries with which it has diplomatic relations.

President Xi Jinping proposed the Global Development Initiative with the aim of encouraging the international community to "refocus" on development issues and "recommit" to the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development. More than 100 countries and international organizations have supported and participated in the initiative, and over 80 countries have joined the Group of Friends of the Global Development Initiative. The practical cooperation carried out under the initiative's framework has already generated tangible benefits for people in many countries.

At present, global economic growth remains weak, and the development gap continues to widen. We should revisit the original aspirations of the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, reinvigorate the global development partnership, and implement the Global Development Initiative to deliver greater benefits to people across all countries. Thank you.

Guangming Daily:

In recent years, ideas such as the "clash of civilizations" and "civilizational supremacy" have resurfaced, making the conflicts and challenges facing human civilization's development increasingly complex. Could you please elaborate on China's views and propositions regarding the elimination of civilizational divides and the promotion of mutual learning and exchanges among civilizations? Thank you.

Ma Zhaoxu:

In 2023, President Xi Jinping put forward the Global Civilization Initiative. It emphasizes jointly advocating respect for the diversity of world civilizations, promoting the shared values of humanity, valuing civilizational inheritance and innovation, and strengthening international people-to-people exchanges and cooperation. The initiative has provided important guidance for promoting civilizational exchanges and mutual learning and serves as a fundamental principle for promoting friendship among the peoples of all countries.

The Global Civilization Initiative is increasingly becoming a global consensus, having been incorporated into multiple U.N. resolutions as well as various bilateral and multilateral documents. In 2024, the 78th Session of the U.N. General Assembly adopted a resolution designating June 10 as the International Day for Dialogue among Civilizations. On July 10 this year, the Global Civilizations Dialogue Ministerial Meeting convened in Beijing. President Xi Jinping addressed the meeting through a congratulatory letter, offering guidance for dialogue and exchanges among different civilizations. Since President Xi Jinping put forward the "50,000 in Five Years" initiative in 2023, more than 30,000 American teenagers have visited China, formed friendships with their Chinese peers, and gained a real understanding of the country. China has implemented unilateral visa-free or comprehensive mutual visa exemption for citizens of 75 countries, as well as transit visa exemption for 55 countries, making travel to China increasingly popular. Cultural products like "Black Myth: Wukong," "Ne Zha 2" and Labubu have gained global popularity, continuing the inspiring story of exchanges and mutual learning between China and the world.

Each civilization is rooted in its own soil, embodying the extraordinary wisdom and spiritual pursuits of a nation or people, and possesses its own inherent value. Humanity differs only in skin color and language; no civilization is superior or inferior to any other. As human society has entered the 21st century, advocating or even instigating clashes of civilizations represents a regression of history. 

China stands ready to work with all countries to uphold the vision of equality, mutual learning, dialogue and inclusiveness among civilizations, implement the Global Civilization Initiative, and make greater contributions to the progress of human civilization. Thank you.

CCTV:

We also note that this year marks the 80th anniversary of the U.N.'s establishment. Facing endless emerging global challenges, some believe that multilateral mechanisms, represented by the U.N., have fallen short of fulfilling their responsibilities. May I ask how you view the status and role of the U.N.?

Ma Zhaoxu:

As you may recall, China was the first country to sign the U.N. Charter. Over the past 80 years, the U.N. has embodied the earnest aspirations of people worldwide for peace and development. To this day, the U.N. remains the most universal, authoritative and representative intergovernmental international organization.

Eighty years have passed, and human civilization has achieved remarkable progress, yet the beautiful vision articulated in the U.N. Charter remains far from fully realized. In particular, certain countries pursue unilateralism, withdraw from treaties and organizations, and treat the U.N. as something to be used when convenient and discarded otherwise, thereby severely undermining the international order and system. A series of major crises in recent years has repeatedly shown us that the role of the U.N. can only be strengthened, not weakened. Its status must be upheld, not replaced. Whether the U.N. can fulfill its due role depends entirely on whether member states honor the purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter and comply with international law and the basic norms governing international relations. At the same time, the U.N. needs reform and improvement to more effectively address global challenges and strengthen the representation and voice of developing countries in international affairs.

President Xi Jinping's major concept of building a community of shared future for humanity is highly aligned with the purposes and principles of the U.N. Charter. China has taken the lead in practicing true multilateralism and firmly supports the U.N. in playing a central role in international affairs. Under the U.N. framework, China has made important contributions to addressing important issues through political solutions, reforming the international economic and financial systems, safeguarding the interests of developing countries and tackling global challenges such as climate change. U.N. Secretary-General António Guterres has repeatedly stated that China is a cornerstone of international cooperation and multilateralism.

As the UN prepares to begin its next 80 years, China is willing to work together with all parties to strengthen the U.N.'s role and build a more just and reasonable global governance system. Thank you.

Zhinews of Shenzhen Satellite TV:

This year marks the 10th anniversary of the Paris Agreement, and global climate governance has reached a new crossroads. Although the U.S. has once again withdrawn from the Paris Agreement, the international community generally believes that the trend of green and low-carbon development is irreversible, and all parties are still jointly promoting the goals of peaking carbon emissions and achieving carbon neutrality. How will China continue to maintain and lead the global climate governance process? Thank you.

Ma Zhaoxu:

China is a firm advocate and important contributor to global green development. Under the guidance of Xi Jinping Thought on Ecological Civilization, China has steadily advanced its "dual carbon" goals, established a "1+N" policy system, built the world's largest and fastest-growing renewable energy system, and created the world's largest and most complete new energy industry chain. China is also the country with the fastest growing and largest increase in "greening," contributing a quarter of the world's new green area. Now, one out of every three kilowatt-hours (kWh) of electricity in China is generated from green electricity.

China has actively engaged in international climate cooperation. Since 2016, China has provided and mobilized over 177 billion yuan in project funding to help developing countries tackle climate change. Currently, Chinese new energy companies supply 80% of the world's photovoltaic modules and 70% of wind power equipment, driving down global photovoltaic power generation costs by over 80% and wind power costs by over 60%.

Regardless of changes in the international situation, China's actions to actively tackle climate change will not slow down, its efforts to promote international cooperation will not weaken, and the practice of building a community with a shared future for humanity will not cease. We will follow the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change (UNFCCC) and the Paris Agreement, anchor green and low-carbon development, and jointly address the climate crisis through multilateral governance. We will deepen international cooperation, allowing high-quality green technologies and products to flow freely, so that all countries, especially developing countries, can use them, afford them and use them well. At the same time, developed countries have an obligation to help and support developing countries, making due contributions to the global green and low-carbon transition. Thank you.

China News Service:

I would like to ask a question about Taiwan. This year marks the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's recovery from Japanese occupation. Currently, the international community's adherence to the one-China principle continues to strengthen, while some countries still attempt to undermine and hollow out the one-China principle. How will China's diplomacy in the new era resolutely curb external forces' interference in the Taiwan question and firmly safeguard national sovereignty and territorial integrity? Thank you.

Ma Zhaoxu:

As you said, this year marks the 80th anniversary of Taiwan's recovery from Japanese occupation. Taiwan's return to China is an important part of the victory of World War II and the post-war international order. A series of documents valid in international law, such as the Cairo Declaration and the Potsdam Proclamation, all confirm China's sovereignty over Taiwan. The historical and legal facts that Taiwan belongs to China are indisputable.

The one-China principle is a universal consensus of the international community and a basic norm of international relations. It is the political foundation and prerequisite for China to establish and develop diplomatic relations with countries around the world. So far, 183 countries have established diplomatic relations with China based on the one-China principle. In 1971, the 26th session of the United Nations General Assembly overwhelmingly passed Resolution 2758, deciding to restore all the legitimate rights of the People's Republic of China in the United Nations and immediately expel the representatives of the Taiwan authorities from the U.N. and all its agencies. This resolution completely resolved the issue of China's representation in the United Nations, including Taiwan, and completely eliminated any possibility of creating "two Chinas" or "one China, one Taiwan." The authority of the U.N. General Assembly Resolution 2758 cannot be challenged.

The Taiwan question is at the core of China's core interests. Solving the Taiwan question and achieving complete national reunification is the common aspiration of all the sons and daughters of the Chinese nation. Safeguarding national sovereignty, security and development interests is the sacred mission of China's diplomacy. Currently, the international community's adherence to the one-China principle is more consolidated, and the Chinese people's just cause of opposing "Taiwan independence" separatist activities and striving for national reunification has received widespread understanding and support from the international community.

I want to reiterate that the Taiwan question is purely China's internal affair and brooks no external interference. The handful of external forces seeking to exploit the Taiwan question to contain China are playing with fire and will perish by it. The overwhelming trend of China's ultimate and inevitable reunification is unstoppable. Thank you.

Hong Kong Bauhinia Magazine:

Solidarity and cooperation among major powers played an irreplaceable role in winning the World Anti-Fascist War, establishing the post-war international order, and maintaining world peace and stability. May I ask how China evaluates its current relationships with Russia, the United States, and Europe, as well as its stance on further advancing relations between major powers? Thank you.

Ma Zhaoxu:

As President Xi Jinping noted, major-country relations are crucial for global strategic stability, and major countries bear a special responsibility. We work to foster major-country dynamics characterized by peaceful coexistence, overall stability and balanced development.

China-Russia relations represent the most stable, mature and strategically significant major-country relationship in today's volatile and changing world. Eight decades ago, the Chinese and Russian peoples made tremendous sacrifices and contributed significantly to the establishment of the post-war international order. Both sides will uphold a correct historical perspective on WWII, safeguard the fruits of the victory in the war, advance the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era, and make greater contributions to the cause of human progress.

Since the beginning of this year, President Xi Jinping has had two phone calls and multiple communications with U.S. President Donald Trump, steering and setting the direction for the giant ship of China-U.S. relations. President Xi Jinping pointed out that China and the United States share broad common interests and vast areas for cooperation. They can become partners and friends that deliver mutual success and worldwide benefits. We are willing to pursue mutual respect, peaceful coexistence and win-win cooperation with the United States, while also firmly safeguarding China's national sovereignty, security and development interests. Attempts to pressure or coerce China in any form are destined to fail. Attempts to contain China's development and progress and obstruct the great rejuvenation of the Chinese nation will not succeed. We are willing to work with the U.S. side to implement the important consensus reached by the two presidents, maintain communication, manage differences, expand cooperation and continue exploring the right way for the two countries to coexist in the new era.

This year also marks the 50th anniversary of the establishment of diplomatic relations between China and the European Union. When meeting with EU leaders, President Xi Jinping offered a profound summary of the key lessons from 50 years of China-EU relations, namely: respecting each other, seeking commonality while preserving differences, upholding openness and cooperation, and pursuing mutual benefit. China is willing to deepen strategic communication with the EU, enhance understanding and mutual trust, consolidate the partnership, expand openness to each other, appropriately manage frictions and differences, and work to advance China-EU relations. Thank you.

Associated Press of Pakistan:

The Central Conference on Work Related to Neighboring Countries was held in Beijing this April. President Xi Jinping called for building a community with a shared future with neighboring countries and opening new ground to the work related to the neighboring countries. Can you update us on progress related to that front? Thank you.

Ma Zhaoxu:

China has always prioritized its neighborhood in its overall diplomacy and has consistently worked to promote regional peace, stability, development and prosperity. As you said, the Central Conference on Work Related to Foreign Affairs with Neighboring Countries held in April this year clarified the goals, tasks, ideas and measures for neighborhood work in the coming period. The conference emphasized the need to focus on building a community with a shared future with neighboring countries, working together to create a better future.

The construction of a community with a shared future with neighboring countries is making continuous progress and reaching new heights. President Xi Jinping has visited nearly all of our neighboring countries. Following the 18th, 19th and 20th CPC National Congresses, his first overseas visits were consistently to neighboring countries, ushering China's relations with its neighbors into the best period in modern history. China has announced its commitment to join efforts with many neighboring countries to build bilateral communities of shared future. The country has advanced the development of a closer China-ASEAN community with a shared future and achieved complete coverage in jointly building communities of shared future with countries on the Indochina Peninsula and in Central Asia at both the bilateral and multilateral levels.

China has signed Belt and Road Initiative cooperation agreements with 25 neighboring countries and has become the largest trading partner for 18 of them. China and ASEAN have been each other's largest trading partners for five consecutive years. Negotiations on the Version 3.0 China-ASEAN Free Trade Area have concluded, and the Regional Comprehensive Economic Partnership is progressing with high-quality implementation. Economic cooperation industrial parks, cross-border e-commerce hubs, and smart agriculture networks have been established in neighboring countries, generating substantial job opportunities for locals. There is a broad consensus among neighboring countries that cooperation with China brings both respect and tangibly benefits.

China advocates an Asian security model based on shared security concerns, seeking common ground while preserving differences, and dialogue and consultation. We have actively contributed Chinese wisdom and strength to advance political solutions to regional hotspot issues like those on the Korean Peninsula and in Afghanistan.

China promotes Asian values of peace, cooperation, openness and inclusiveness, implementing measures to facilitate people-to-people exchanges. The country has advanced the implementation of the "Lancang-Mekong Visa," the "ASEAN Visa" and visa exemptions with several Southeast Asian countries, leading to expanding exchanges between China and its neighboring countries in culture, tourism, youth affairs, local governance, media and think tanks.

China will actively practice the guiding principles of fostering amity, security, prosperity, sincerity and mutual benefit to build a shared future with neighboring countries. This way, we will write a new chapter of building a community with a shared future among neighboring countries. Thank you.

Brasil de Fato: 

How does China view the role of the Global South in building a community with a shared future for humanity? What will China do to support the development of the Global South countries and also to support a bigger role for these countries in international organizations?

Ma Zhaoxu:

President Xi Jinping pointed out that China has always been a member of the Global South and will always belong to developing world. In recent years, the Global South has grown significantly, accounting for more than 40% of the global economy and contributing 80% of world economic growth. It has become a key force in safeguarding world peace, promoting common development, and improving global governance.

China has always been concerned about, rooted in, and united with the Global South. For more than 10 years, China has issued action plans, joint statements, and other documents with dozens of Global South countries, with the aim of building a community with a shared future. Many multilateral communities with a shared future have been established covering Global South countries in different regions. China has also continued to deepen solidarity and cooperation with Global South countries on multilateral platforms such as the United Nations and the Group of 20. With active participation in the construction of the BRICS cooperation mechanism, the SCO and other platforms, China safeguarded the common interests of the Global South. With China's support, the Jakarta-Bandung high-speed railway has fulfilled the Indonesian people's high-speed rail dream. Chinese hybrid rice has enriched the "grain bags" of African people. The China-Latin America satellite cooperation has also become a model of South-South cooperation in high-tech fields.

We will uphold the correct outlook on justice and interests and the principles of sincerity, real results, amity and good faith. We will continuously deepen strategic mutual trust and pragmatic cooperation with Global South countries and support them in exploring development paths that suit their national conditions. We are fellow travelers and good partners in building a community with a shared future for mankind. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Let's continue. Due to time constraints, we will take one last question.

Global Times:

Last year, China evacuated more than 10,000 compatriots from abroad. This year, right after the outbreak of the Israel-Iran conflict, China took a series of consular protection measures to effectively ensure the safety of Chinese citizens and institutions there and quickly organized evacuation work. So, as more and more Chinese citizens go abroad, how will the Ministry of Foreign Affairs (MFA) better protect the legitimate rights and interests of overseas Chinese citizens? Thank you.

Ma Zhaoxu:

The safety of overseas compatriots is the deepest concern of the motherland, and serving the people is the original mission we always keep in mind. The MFA resolutely implements the important instructions of General Secretary Xi Jinping and the decisions and deployments of the CPC Central Committee. The coordination of various parties continuously builds a "five-in-one" consular protection work pattern involving the citizens, enterprises, central government, local governments, and embassies and consulates abroad. We adhere to the principle of equal emphasis on prevention and response, making every effort to safeguard the safety of the life and wealth of Chinese citizens. Since the beginning of this year, we have safely evacuated thousands of compatriots from war-torn areas, properly handled tens of thousands of consular protection cases, answered about 300,000 calls for help and consultation, and issued over 2,000 warning reminders. Many compatriots have expressed, "In times of crisis, the motherland is never absent," and "Even if the journey home is thousands of miles, the motherland will bring us back home."

With the significant increase in the flow of people between China and foreign countries, as well as expanding overseas interests of China, the responsibility of serving the people through diplomacy has become greater. We will closely focus on the needs and expectations of the people and continue to build a system that ensures the safety of compatriots overseas.

We will leverage our institutional advantages, further improve the overseas security system and mechanism, and perfect the coordinated, pragmatic and efficient security work pattern.

We will continuously enhance our ability to perceive overseas security risks, optimize the "red, orange, yellow and blue" risk rating system, and promptly issue safety reminders, making the overseas safety "signal lights" more emphatic and effective.

We will strengthen the capacity building for emergency response to foreign-related security incidents, ensuring that wherever Chinese citizens go, consular protection follows, responding to all needs of our compatriots. 

We will continue to build a professional consular protection team, dedicated to safeguarding the safety of overseas compatriots and institutions with care and effort.

Serving the people is a firm mission. Diplomacy for the people is an ongoing process, not a one-time task. Chinese diplomacy will continue to uphold the people-centered principle, acting as a caring friend of the people and a guardian of the safety and interests of overseas compatriots. No matter where you are, the motherland is always behind you. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you to Mr. Ma, and thanks to all the reporters for your participation. That concludes today's press conference. Goodbye, everyone.

Translated and edited by Zhang Jiaqi, You Jiaxin, Yan Xiaoqing, Liu Caiyi, Xiang Bin, Ma Yujia, Yang Chuanli, Gong Yingchun, Wang Qian, Wang Wei, Mi Xingang, Zhang Rui, Li Huiru, Liu Sitong, David Ball, Jay Birbeck and Tudor Bentley Finneran. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.

Read in Chinese

Speakers:

Mr. Hong Lei, assistant minister of foreign affairs

Mr. Lu Yingchuan, vice minister of culture and tourism

Major General Wu Zeke, deputy director of the Leading Group Office of Military Parade and deputy director general of the Operations Bureau of the Joint Staff Department of the Central Military Commission

Mr. Xia Linmao, member of the Standing Committee of the Beijing Municipal Committee of the Communist Party of China (CPC) and executive vice mayor of Beijing

Chairperson:

Ms. Shou Xiaoli, head of the Press Center for Commemoration of 80th Anniversary of Victory in Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and World Anti-Fascist War

Date:

Aug. 28, 2025

Shou Xiaoli:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Welcome to the first press conference of the Press Center for the Events Commemorating the 80th Anniversary of the Victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

According to the schedule of the commemorative activities, a grand ceremony to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, including a military parade, will be held at Tian'anmen Square in Beijing on the morning of Sept. 3. General Secretary Xi Jinping will deliver an important speech. At noon, a reception will be held in Beijing, and General Secretary Xi Jinping will deliver an important speech. In the evening, a commemorative gala will be held in Beijing, to be attended by Party and state leaders. Detailed introductions have been released regarding the arrangements.

Today we are very pleased to invite Mr. Hong Lei, assistant minister of foreign affairs; Mr. Lu Yingchuan, vice minister of culture and tourism; Major General Wu Zeke, deputy director of the Leading Group Office of Military Parade and deputy director general of the Operations Bureau of the Joint Staff Department of the Central Military Commission; and Mr. Xia Linmao, member of the Standing Committee of the CPC Beijing Municipal Committee and executive vice mayor of Beijing, to introduce the latest progress in the preparations for the events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, and to answer your questions.

Now, I'll give the floor to Mr. Hong for his introduction.

Hong Lei:

Thank you. Good morning. In a few days, we will hold a grand commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

Eighty years ago, after 14 years of arduous and heroic struggle, the Chinese people secured a great victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, marking the complete victory in the World Anti-Fascist War. China's War of Resistance started the earliest and lasted the longest. China held the ground in the main eastern battlefield of the World Anti-Fascist War with enormous national sacrifice. The Chinese People's War of Resistance is an important part of the World Anti-Fascist War and China made a historic contribution to the victory in the World Anti-Fascist War. China also received extensive support from the international community in its War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, and the victory of China's War of Resistance was a victory for the Chinese people and for the people of the world.

At the invitation of Chinese President Xi Jinping, 26 foreign heads of state and government will attend the commemorative event. They are: Russian President Vladimir Putin, Kim Jong Un, general secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and president of the State Affairs of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea, Cambodian King Norodom Sihamoni, Vietnamese President Luong Cuong, General Secretary of the Lao People's Revolutionary Party Central Committee and Lao President Thongloun Sisoulith, Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto, Malaysian Prime Minister Anwar Ibrahim, Mongolian President Ukhnaa Khurelsukh, Pakistani Prime Minister Shahbaz Sharif, Nepali Prime Minister KP Sharma Oli, Maldivian President Mohamed Muizzu, Kazakh President Kassym-Jomart Tokayev, Uzbek President Shavkat Mirziyoyev, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, Kyrgyz President Sadyr Japarov, Turkmen President Serdar Berdimuhamedov, Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko, Azerbaijani President Ilham Aliyev, Armenian Prime Minister Nikol Pashinyan, Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian, President of the Republic of the Congo Denis Sassou Nguesso, Zimbabwean President Emmerson Mnangagwa, Serbian President Aleksandar Vucic, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico, Miguel Diaz-Canel, first secretary of the Central Committee of the Communist Party of Cuba and Cuban president, and Min Aung Hlaing, acting president of Myanmar.

At the invitation of the Chinese government, parliamentary speakers, deputy prime ministers and high-level representatives from various countries, heads of international organizations, and former political dignitaries will attend the commemorative events.

The parliamentary speakers and deputy prime ministers include: Republic of Korea's National Assembly Speaker Woo Won-shik; Timor-Leste's National Parliament President Maria Fernanda Lay; Venezuelan National Assembly President Jorge Rodriguez Gómez; Singaporean Deputy Prime Minister Gan Kim Yong; Special Envoy of the President and Deputy Prime Minister of Egypt Kamel Al-Wazir; and Chairman of Bulgarian Socialist Party and Deputy Prime Minister of Bulgaria Atanas Zafirov.

High-level representatives include: Celso Amorim, chief adviser to the Brazilian president; Marcos Galvao, representative of the Brazilian government and ambassador to China; Laureano Ortega Murillo, representative of the Nicaraguan government and presidential adviser; Péter Szijjártó, representative of the Hungarian government and minister of foreign affairs and trade; Major General Haszaimi, commander of the Royal Brunei Armed Forces; Khalilur Rahman, representative of interim government of Bangladesh and national security adviser; Laid Rebiga, minister of war veterans and rights holders of Algeria; and Ondřej Dostál, member of the European Parliament.

Heads of international and regional organizations include: Under Secretary General of the U.N. Li Junhua, Director General of the U.N. Food and Agriculture Organization Qu Dongyu, President of the New Development Bank Dilma Rousseff, President of the Asian Infrastructure Investment Bank Jin Liqun, Secretary General of the Shanghai Cooperation Organization (SCO) Nurlan Yermekbayev, Executive Committee Director of the SCO Regional Anti-Terrorist Structure Ularbek Zarlykovich Sharsheev, Secretary General of the Conference on Interaction and Confidence Building Measures in Asia Kairat Sarybay, Secretary General of the Commonwealth of Independent States Sergey Lebedev, Secretary General of the Collective Security Treaty Organization Imangali Tasmagambetov, and Chairman of the Eurasian Economic Commission Board Bakytzhan Sagintayev.

The former statesmen include former Prime Minister of Japan Yukio Hatoyama, former President of the Swiss Federation and Minister of Finance Ulrich Maurer, former Prime Minister of Belgium Yves Leterme, former Prime Minister of Greece George Papandreou, former Prime Minister of Italy Massimo D'Alema, former Prime Ministers of Romania Adrian Năstase and Viorica Dăncilă, former Prime Ministers of New Zealand Helen Clark and John Key, former Foreign Minister of Australia Robert Carr, and former Premier of the Victoria State of Australia Daniel Andrews.

The foreign diplomatic envoys in China, the military attachés and the representatives of international organizations in China will also attend the commemoration upon invitation. 

We have specially extended invitation to the international friends who have contributed to the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression or their families. Altogether 50 international friends or their families from 14 countries, including Russia, the U.S., the U.K., France and Canada will attend the celebration. During the tenacious struggle, the international friends of different skin colors, different nations and different nationalities traveled the long distance to China and fought side by side with the Chinese people. They forged profound friendships with the Chinese people, a bond that is tested by blood and fire, and by life and death. The Chinese nation has always valued loyalty and righteousness, and we will forever remember their fearless spirit, touching deeds, and noble character.

Now the international situation is facing increased change and turbulence. The deficit of peace is rising. We still have a formidable task in safeguarding world peace. The theme of the Commemoration is to remember history, honor the fallen heroes, cherish peace and create a better future. The Chinese people will stand with people all over the world to firmly defend the victorious outcomes of WWII. We will safeguard the U.N.-centered international system and the international order underpinned by international law. We will work for the building of a community with a shared future for humanity and contribute to the noble cause of world peace and development. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Hong. Now I'll give the floor to Mr. Lu.

Lu Yingchuan:

Ladies and gentlemen, good morning. Entrusted by the leadership of the gala, I will briefly introduce the cultural evening and commencement of the party. The evening gala will be held on Sept. 3 in Beijing to mark the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Leaders of the Party and nation, veterans and individuals who contributed to China's War of Resistance, representatives who have received honors and awards, members of the general public, as well as other guests from all walks of life will attend the event.

The event will be jointly organized by the Publicity Department of the Communist Party of China Central Committee, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the China Media Group, the Political Work Department of the China Military Commission and the Beijing municipal government. A team of leading domestic artists was formed and fully engaged in the creation and rehearsal of the gala performance. After multiple rounds of revisions and evaluations, the gala performance has now entered its final integration stage. We strive to present a spectacular artistic performance that is both grand yet simple, inspiring and profound, as a tribute to the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression.

Now I will inform you about the gala.

First, in terms of theme, we must remember history, honor the fallen heroes, cherish peace and create a better future. The gala will focus on significant historical milestones and scenes from the eastern theater of the World Anti-Fascist War. It will highlight the pivotal role of the Communist Party of China in the nationwide resistance against Japanese aggression. While honoring the revolutionary martyrs who fought in the war, the gala will also demonstrate China's commitment to maintaining world peace and security, underscoring the eternal truth that justice will prevail, peace will prevail, and the people will prevail. The gala not only presents the grand history of the 14-year War of Resistance, but also portrays touching moments and glorious times during the war. The gala will journey from the past to the present, offering a heartfelt tribute to the history, figures, and events of the past, while envisioning a thriving China in the new era. It will highlight the indomitable spirit of the Chinese people in fighting to the end and safeguarding justice. It will celebrate 80 years of victory, and express the pursuit of a better life — inspiring patriotism and passion among the people.

Second, in terms of artistic expression, we strive to tell the story of the War of Resistance through the lens of art, within the grand narrative of history, highlighting the theatrical essence while aspiring to an epic quality. The gala will weave together music, dance, and dramatic scenes to subtly convey the emotional logic of the Chinese people toward this period of history. We will comprehensively employ a variety of expressive methods, including stage performances, multimedia and immersive sound effects, and fuse them to give full play to the synergistic role of these elements. This will create deeply moving historical scenes that amplify artistic appeal, visual impact, and emotional resonance. We hope that both those who have lived through this history and those in the new era who reflect deeply on this history will experience a profound historical immersion through the gala's captivating performance, prompting reflection and genuine emotion.

Third, as I mentioned at the previous press conference, we have boldly entrusted a group of young artists to take the leading role in the creation and performance of this gala. In areas such as directing, choreography, music and composition, a number of post-1980s artists have served as the main creative force behind the event. Among the performers, many young artists born in the 1990s and 2000s play the central roles. We believe that through the gala, the audience will be able to feel the sense of deep respect these youthful artists convey on stage, paying tribute to this important historical anniversary, with their superb performances. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Lu, for the introduction. Recently, we have already held a dedicated press conference regarding the preparations for the parade. If any reporters have questions of interest, you may direct them to Mr. Wu later.

Now, we invite Mr. Xia to give his briefing.

Xia Linmao:

Good morning, everyone. We are holding the commemorative events for the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. As the host city for these commemorative events, Beijing, under the leadership of the Central Commemorative Events Leading Group, has been fully committed to the preparations in strict accordance with the principle of "pursuing excellence and leaving no room for error." Together with relevant central and national departments, we have carefully studied and refined our plans, forming a list of 35 key tasks. We have conducted three comprehensive rehearsals and multiple specialized exercises, continuously optimizing and coordinating all aspects of the work. This is all in order to welcome the commemorative conference in the best possible condition and ensure the complete success of the events. I will now brief you on the relevant preparations.

First, we have adhered to the principles of upholding tradition while pursuing innovation, carefully preparing the on-site arrangements for the commemorative conference. We have drawn extensively on experiences from previous major events. Centered on the theme of the commemoration, "Remember History, Honor the Martyrs, Cherish Peace, and Forge the Future." the year-number platform, audience seating, and LED screens at Tiananmen Square, which are now visible to the public passing through the square, have all been arranged. We have emphasized coordination between the on-site arrangements and the surrounding architectural environment, highlighting not only the solemn nature and the grandeur and majestic atmosphere of the commemorative conference, but also the great triumph of the national spirit centered on patriotism. To allow more members of the public to attend, we have built temporary viewing stands. While ensuring the smooth conduct of the parade, we have positioned these stands as close as possible to Chang'an Avenue to maximize the viewing experience for the audience.

Second, we have actively and proactively provided solid service and support for the commemorative events. We have efficiently and meticulously met the needs of the troops participating in the parade. We fully supported the creation and rehearsal of the gala performances. Professional staff have been assigned to event venues and commemorative facilities, all to provide guidance and other services to citizens and visitors. In addition, we have selected a group of highly enthusiastic and professional volunteers from more than 30 universities in the capital. They will provide timely and attentive volunteer services at key locations of the commemorative events, showcasing Beijing's positive image.

Third, we have focused on improving quality and creating a harmonious and beautiful urban environment. Building upon the regular work of urban environment management and enhancement, we have made great efforts to improve the surroundings of the public. We have completed the refined management of 920 backstreets and alleys, arranged ten sets of visually striking three-dimensional flowerbeds all along Chang'an Avenue. These can be seen by anyone passing by, with five landscape bridge areas featuring roses. Local flowers have been planted in appropriate locations to provide more tangible and engaging urban garden scenes. We have also carried out in-depth actions to tackle air pollution, achieving the best air quality for the same period in history from January to July. Adhering to the principle of minimizing disturbance to residents, we have reduced the duration and scope of traffic control to the greatest extent possible, all through issued notices and guidance in advance. This will ensure the smooth conduct of the events and maintain orderly urban traffic.

Fourth, we have promoted the spirit of the War of Resistance and fostered a solemn and enthusiastic social atmosphere. To enable the public to gain a more direct and in-depth understanding of the history of the War of Resistance, we have organized a series of themed exhibitions and completed the high-quality and efficient renovation of the exhibitions at the Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression. Since opening to the public on July 8, the exhibitions have been visited by 580,000 people. They feature 1,525 photographs, 3,237 artifacts, and 45 historical videos, many of which are being displayed publicly for the first time. The exhibitions provide a comprehensive panorama of the fourteen-year-long struggle of the Chinese people during the War of Resistance. We have also organized a series of capital-specific public commemorative activities. We launched a number of themed reports and artistic works, vividly presenting the profound changes China has undergone in the 80 years since the victory of the war. This creates a stronger atmosphere throughout society for promoting the great spirit of the War of Resistance.

Fifth, we have strengthened coordination and firmly ensure the capital's safety and stability. In this process, we always regard ensuring safety as our foremost political responsibility and faithfully implement all security measures. We also step up public security management and crack down on all forms of crime. We are carrying out a fundamental campaign on workplace safety, with focused inspections and rectifications in key sectors and areas to eliminate risks and potential hazards. Every effort is being made to ensure the absolute safety of all aspects of the city's operations during the commemorative events.

On this occasion, I would like to extend my appreciation to the general public and friends from the media for their understanding, support, and attention. With six days remaining before the grand gathering, Beijing will continue preparations to the highest standards, with the strictest requirements and most practical measures. We believe that under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee and with the concerted efforts and support of society as a whole, this commemorative event will surely be a complete success. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you, Mr. Xia, for your introduction. Let's give the floor to the media. Please state your news organization before asking your question. Simultaneous interpretation will be provided throughout the press conference. If you ask questions in English, they will be interpreted into Chinese. You may now raise hands to ask questions.

CCTV:

You have announced the list of the foreign guests attending the commemoration. What are the features of the composition of foreign guests participating in the event? Thank you.

Hong Lei:

There are three features in terms of the participation of foreign guests. First, high-level participation. There are many foreign heads of state and government attending, which shows the great importance that these countries attach to China's holding of the commemoration and their friendship toward China. Second, the participation is highly representative. We have the participation from five continents across the world, and that shows the international community has wide recognition of the historic contribution of China's war of resistance and its world significance. Third, extensive participation. We have government representatives as well as private individuals. Many international friends or their families are household names in China, and some of them attended the commemoration of the 70th anniversary in China 10 years ago. We warmly welcome them to Beijing, to together commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Thank you.

People's Daily:

In May this year, President Xi Jinping attended the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War in Russia. You just mentioned that President Vladimir Putin will come to China for the commemoration of the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. China and Russia were respectively the main battlefield in Asia and Europe, and made historic contributions to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War. What message do China and Russia want to send through these arrangements? Thank you.

Hong Lei:

80 years ago, China and the Soviet Union were the main battlefield in Asia and Europe in WWII and served as central pillars in fighting against militarism and fascism. Both have made enormous national sacrifices. The people of the two countries fought side by side and extended each other support, saving their respective nations and the future of humanity. They have made decisive contributions to the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War.

In May this year, President Xi Jinping paid a state visit to Russia upon invitation and attended the celebration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Great Patriotic War. President Xi reached a lot of important consensus with President Vladimir Putin, and together sent the strong message that the history of WWII must not be distorted, the victorious outcomes of WWII must not be denied, and the post-war international order must not be challenged. President Putin is coming to China for the commemoration, demonstrating the high-level nature of the China-Russia comprehensive strategic partnership of coordination for a new era, and also the solidarity of the two countries in defending the victorious outcomes of WWII.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of the founding of the United Nations. In the face of the changing and turbulent international landscape, China and Russia, as founding members of the United Nations and permanent members of the U.N. Security Council, will continue to work together to safeguard the authority of the U.N. and international fairness and justice, enhance coordination at multilateral platforms such as the U.N., the Shanghai Cooperation Organization and BRICS, practice true multilateralism, and work together to shape a brighter future for humanity.

Hong Kong Ta Kung Wen Wei Media Group:

The military parade is a key part of the commemoration. With less than a week to go, could you please update us on the latest preparations? Thank you.

Wu Zeke:

Thank you for your question. The military parade is an important part of the commemorations marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. This parade will feature a comprehensive range of participating forces in a systematic formation, and a large number of weapons and equipment, many of which will be making their debut. It will be a concentrated display of the people's armed forces' strong political loyalty, new structural layout, recent advances in modernization, and enhanced combat readiness in the new era and new journey. The parade holds profound political significance and far-reaching historical meaning for commemorating the victory of the War of Resistance and carrying forward the great spirit of resisting aggression. So far, three full-scale rehearsals have been conducted in Tiananmen Square, all of which achieved the expected outcomes. Troops participating in the parade are in high spirits and full of confidence, and all the weapons and equipment have been kept in good condition. Preparations for the parade are basically complete, and we have entered the final countdown. Let's look forward to the grand parade on Sept. 3. We firmly believe that under the strong leadership of the CPC Central Committee, the Central Military Commission and President Xi, all participating officers and soldiers will live up to the trust and fulfill the mission placed upon them, and present to the people of China and the world a parade that carries forward the spirit of the resistance war, demonstrates the features of our times, and displays the demeanor of a major country. Thank you.

Xinhua:

The top leader of the Democratic People's Republic of Korea (DPRK) will attend the commemorative events for the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. How does China view the upcoming visit by the top leader of the DPRK? Thank you.

Hong Lei:

China and the DPRK are traditional friendly neighbors connected by mountains and rivers. We warmly welcome General Secretary Kim Jong Un to attend the commemorations in China.

This year is the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. It also marks the 80th anniversary of the liberation of the Korean Peninsula. During the arduous years of war, the peoples of China and the DPRK extended support to each other and fought together against Japanese aggression, making important contributions to the World Anti-Fascist War and the just cause of humanity.

To safeguard, consolidate and develop the relations between China and the DPRK is the firm position of the CPC and the Chinese government. China stands ready to work with the DPRK to continue to enhance exchanges and cooperation and advance socialist development, coordinate closely on promoting peace and stability in the region and safeguarding international fairness and justice, and continue to write a new chapter of the traditional friendship between the two countries. Thank you.

Cuba's Prensa Latina news agency:

Among the foreign dignitaries attending the commemorative events, many are leaders from Global South countries. What is China's view on this? Thank you.

Hong Lei:

The Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression is a national liberation struggle in which the Chinese people for the first time secured complete victory since the advent of modern times. It gave the colonial and semi-colonial countries that suffered aggression and repression a lot of inspiration, confidence and courage to fight for national independence and liberation, and had a huge impact on their victory.

Today, 80 years on, gone are the days when a few countries decide the future of other countries, dominate international affairs and monopolize the development advantages. The collective rise of the Global South is fundamentally changing the world landscape. Over the past 40 years, the GDP of the Global South has increased from 24% of the global total to more than 40%. In the past 20 years, the Global South's contribution to global growth was as high as 80%. More and more Global South countries have hosted the BRICS Summit, the APEC Economic Leaders' Meeting and the G20 Summit, giving powerful expression to the voice of the Global South and leaving a lasting imprint of the Global South. Countries of the Global South are no longer the silent majority or lagging behind others. Rather, they represent a new force that is awakening and are a new hope in a world experiencing changes unseen in a century.

More than 80 years ago, in the desperate fight between justice and evil, peace-loving people across the world stood together and formed a united front against fascism. They defeated the barbaric aggressors, forged world peace and laid an important foundation for the post-war international order. Today, 80 years on, China stands ready to work with the Global South and all countries for an equal and orderly multipolar world and a universally beneficial and inclusive economic globalization, and promote the just cause of world peace, development and progress. Thank you.

Beijing Youth Daily:

In preparing and holding this commemorative event, how has Beijing integrated the history of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression with the city's culture? And what measures have been taken to help citizens remember and pass on the history of the war? Thank you.

Xia Linmao:

Thank you for your questions. Beijing is the national cultural center and a famous historical and cultural city. It is very important to strengthen the combination of anti-aggression history and local culture so that the public can better understand history, remember the history of the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, and better carry forward the anti-aggression spirit. We have carried out work in several aspects.

First, we have successfully held themed exhibitions on the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression with high quality and efficiency. As I mentioned during the briefing, we completed the renovation and re-exhibition of the Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression with success in just eight months, increasing the exhibition area from the previous 6,700 square meters to 12,200 square meters. We successfully launched the "For National Liberation and World Peace - Exhibition of the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War." The exhibition catalogs and presents precious historical photos, cultural relics and videos, all of which are being made open to the public for the first time. From Jul. 8th to today, a total of 580,000 people have visited the exhibition, with over 3,000 reports from central and municipal-level media and over 60,000 articles published online. Last week, I specifically visited this exhibition. The quality of the exhibition is very high, and it was very educational. Journalists are welcome to visit when you have time, and you will definitely gain something.

Second, we have optimized and improved the protection of three major types of red-themed cultural sites. We have coordinated the protection of the three types of sites, which relate to the founding of the Party, the War of Resistance, and the founding of the People's Republic of China, to form a comprehensive network. We have conducted on-site surveys of more than 160 memorial facilities and former sites of the War of Resistance. The Jiaozhuanghu Tunnel Warfare Site Memorial Hall in Beijing, the December 9th Movement Memorial Site in the National Botanical Garden, and the "Without the CPC, There Would Be No New China" Revolutionary Song Memorial Hall have all completed exhibition upgrades and reopened. These locations have quickly become popular check-in spots. Based on these efforts, we have comprehensively carried out surveys of revolutionary cultural relics, and have announced 188 immovable revolutionary cultural relics and over 2,600 movable ones. We have promoted the upgrading of the renowned Shuangqing Villa to a national key cultural relic protection unit, and announced 16 revolutionary cultural relics, including the tomb of General Zhao Dengyu, as municipal cultural relic protection units, striving to create more moral education bases with immersive experiences.

Third, we have launched a number of excellent literary and artistic works. We have launched film and television works on the theme of the War of Resistance such as "Dongji Island" and "The Long Way Back," as well as the newly adapted modern Peking Opera "Struggles in An Ancient City" produced by the Beijing Peking Opera Theatre, the book series on the history of the resistance against Japanese aggression in Beijing published by the Beijing Publishing Group, and the six-episode large-scale documentary "Lugou Bridge: Our Memorial" produced by Beijing Radio and Television Station (BRTV). The special program "For National Liberation and World Peace - Chronicles of the Museum of the War of Chinese People's Resistance Against Japanese Aggression broadcast by BRTV on Aug. 15 ranked first in the ratings among provincial-level satellite TV special programs that night.

Fourth, we have soundly carried out a series of public commemorative activities. We have issued a plan for themed publicity and education activities with the aim to strengthen the country and rejuvenate the nation, carried out commemorative activities such as laying flower baskets and visiting memorial facilities, and held activities for the 80th anniversary of the victory of the War of Resistance among university students in Beijing under the theme of remembering the war history while studying hard. More than 800,000 primary and secondary school students in the city have been encouraged to explore seven red culture routes. We produced and launched a special webpage and an online quiz activity for the 80th anniversary of the victory of the War of Resistance, to better publicize the heroic deeds of revolutionary martyrs and share positive and worthy public opinion throughout the whole society. Thank you.

Channel NewsAsia, Singapore:

Some analysts are saying that this military parade and other anniversary events are not only commemorative, they are also saying that Beijing is using this occasion to showcase its growing strength. What message is China hoping to send to the international community with this display?

Hong Lei:

The love for peace is in the blood of the Chinese nation. The Chinese people have suffered from both the invasion and aggression of foreign powers and thus understand the preciousness of peace. We will hold the military parade to demonstrate our firm determination to take the path of peaceful development, our strong will to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and our powerful ability to maintain world peace and tranquility.

On issues of peace and security, China has one of the best record in the world among major countries. Since the founding of People's Republic of China, China has never initiated any war, never occupied any other country's land, never engaged in a proxy war. China is the only major country to write the path of peaceful development into its constitution, and is the permanent member of the Security Council that has sent the most amount of peacekeepers. China has proposed the Global Security Initiative, advocating a common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security concept, providing a practical path to address the security deficit. A stronger China will provide more positive energy for promoting world peace. No matter how developed it becomes, China will never seek hegemony, never engage in expansion, and never participate in any arms race. We will remain a force for peace, stability, and progress in the world. We are willing to work with all countries to make unremitting efforts for lasting world peace and development. Thank you.

Cover News:

Mr. Lu just mentioned when introducing the cultural performance that the younger generation of artists will be the main performer. Could you provide more details on this and explain the considerations behind this arrangement? Thank you.

Lu Yingchuan:

Thank you for your interest. For this cultural gala, we have, for the first time, appointed a young artist born in the 1980s as the chief director, and a large number of young choreographers born in the 1990s are also involved in the creation and execution of this arrangement. Although these creators are young, most of them have excellent works in the field of stage art and already deeply appreciated by their respective audiences. During the creation and rehearsal process of the gala, these young artists explored new ideas in deepening artistic forms and integrating artistic forms, making the gala both artistically enjoyable and emotionally impactful.

In terms of performers, this gala mainly features young actors from performing arts troupes and students from art schools. Actors born after 2000 account for more than 50% of the participants. Participating in such a high-level literary and artistic performance is both an opportunity for the younger generation to showcase their talents, but also serve as an important practice. Many participants have commented that through participating in the rehearsals, they not only gained valuable artistic improvement, but also experienced a profound patriotic education.

During the rehearsal process, these young artists used more diverse artistic expressions, more dynamic stage installations, and richer emotional power. They wholeheartedly and purposefully strove for perfection, forging traditional art and modern expression together. I can say that, based on the performance's final presentation, the performance is very much something worth looking forward to. Thank you.

Phoenix TV:

My question is about Japan. There is a high level of attention in Japan regarding China's commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the War of Resistance Against Japan Aggression. Some argue that China is using historical issues to pressure Japan and interfere with Japan's narrative of World War II history. At the same time, we have also noticed that in recent years, some forces in Japan have been seeking to loosen military restrictions. This includes downplaying the history of aggression and even distortion of history. This is in an attempt to create a public perception of "Japan as a victim of war." What is China's comment on this? Thank you.

Hong Lei:

Upholding historical truth and to a correct view of history is a matter of human conscience, international justice, and world peace. Whether Japan can correctly understand and address its history is a touchstone to test whether it can uphold conscience and adhere to its commitment to peaceful development.

There has always been a faction in Japan attempting to deny and glorify its aggression, distort and falsify history, and even attempt to exonerate and revere convicted war criminals. This is a challenge to the post-war international order, to human conscience, and to all peace-loving people. In recent years, Japan has also significantly adjusted its security policy, increased its defense budget year by year, continuously relaxed restrictions on arms exports, seeking breakthrough in military development. This cannot but raise strong doubts among its Asian neighbor countries and the international community as to whether Japan is truly committed to self-defense and peaceful development.

On the occasion of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, Japan once again faces questions of history and the times. We urge Japan to face up to history, deeply reflect on its crimes of aggression, completely break away from militarism, and take the right path of peaceful development and good-neighborly relations. Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Let's continue with the questions. Due to time constraints, we will take one last question.

The Paper.cn:

My question is about Beijing. As the main venue for the commemoration events, what measures has Beijing taken in terms of environment design and drill organization to balance the solemnity of the event with the normal daily lives of local people? Thank you.

Xia Linmao:

Thank you for your question. Providing service and support for the commemorative activities is the glorious mission of Beijing. From the beginning of the preparation for the commemorative events, we have combined providing service and support with enhancing the city's refined management, striving to create a grand and solemn atmosphere for the event, while minimizing the disruption and impact on citizens' normal order of work and life as much as possible.

First, we improved the environments and upgraded green spaces, closely following the theme of the commemorative events, characterized by a prominent topic, a dignified and formal tone, and be both concise and safe. We completed 330,000 square meters of road paving on Chang'an Street, increased green area by 2.53 million square meters, set up 10 themed floral displays, and five rose bridges, comprehensively enhancing the landscape along Chang'an Street and creating a clean and orderly atmosphere.

Second, we scientifically organized comprehensive drills. On the nights of August 9,16, and 23, we organized three comprehensive drills, trying to minimize the closure time of Tiananmen Square. During the drills, we increased the proportion of subway transportation mode use, utilizing subway shuttles service to transport various personnel, minimizing the impact on ground transportation, especially in the central urban area. The installation and dismantling of large facilities and equipment were carried out late at night or early in the morning to reduce the impact on the public.

Third, we strengthened traffic operation guarantees, adhering to the minimizing of intervention in people's lives as much as possible, whilst coordinating the organization of commemorative activities and urban operations. The oversight of areas and duration and respective planning was precise. We released control measures to the public in advance. We combined our efforts with road traffic control announcements, studied and adjusted operation plans for each route, and adjusted toward the needs of each station. We worked concurrently with the passenger flow information of high foot traffic locations such as "seven stations and two airports" ("seven stations and two airports" refers to the seven existing train stations and two international airports in Beijing), as well as commercial market areas. This collective and coordinated effort strengthened capacity dispatch guarantees, and met the travel needs of citizens.

Fourth, we strengthened urban operation guarantees and public services. We identified and rectified hidden hazards in commemorative activity venues and surrounding areas, addressing more than 1,000 safety issues. We deployed emergency rescue teams at 270 key area guard points, organized 253 special emergency drills, further enhancing our capabilities to respond to emergencies. All these efforts will fully ensure the safe and stable operation of the city during the event.

Beijing citizens have a fine tradition of considering the national interest and the bigger picture situation. We receive strong support to our commemorative activities and the city is fully understanding of the traffic management measures taken during the event. The national helpline, 12345, ensures that citizens who called to inquire about the relevant time and location of the restrictions, are both fully aware and largely support he measures we took to minimize the impact on citizens. So, I would also like to utilize this opportunity to express my heartfelt thanks and highest respect to thegeneral public and to our friends from the media present here. Thank you for your support on behalf of the Beijing Municipal Party Committee of the CPC and the Beijing Municipal People's Government! Thank you.

Shou Xiaoli:

Thank you to all our speakers and the journalists for your participation. This concludes the first press conference of the news center today. Goodbye, everyone.

Translated and edited by Liu Sitong, Liu Jianing, Liu Caiyi, Cui Can, Zhang Tingting, Yang Chuanli, Liu Ziying, Yan Bin, Huang Shan, Zhang Rui, Mi Xingang, Zhang Junmian, Zhou Jing, Liu Sitong, Li Huiru, Ma Yujia, David Ball and Tudor Bentley Finneran. In case of any discrepancy between the English and Chinese texts, the Chinese version is deemed to prevail.