Multiple Regional Leaders Attend China's Military Parade in Beijing

Several high-profile political figures from different countries are attending a major Chinese military parade commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of the Second Sino-Japanese War and World War II. Indonesian President Prabowo Subianto is attending at the invitation of President Xi Jinping, although he postponed other parts of his visit due to domestic unrest in Indonesia. In Taiwan, former Kuomintang (KMT) chairwoman Hung Hsiu-chu is attending the parade despite opposition from the current government and criticism that her presence undermines Taiwan's sovereignty and dignity. Hung and other KMT members emphasize the historical alliance between the KMT and the Chinese Communist Party during the war, while the ruling Democratic Progressive Party condemns their attendance as aligning with Beijing's narrative. In Australia, attendance by a former premier at the parade has drawn mixed reactions, with some officials defending the visit but others expressing concern about being photographed with controversial leaders such as Kim Jong-un and Vladimir Putin. These events highlight the complex diplomatic and political dynamics surrounding the commemoration and the varying national perspectives on China's role and historical narratives.