China Marks 80th Anniversary of Victory Over Japanese Aggression

China is commemorating the 80th anniversary of its victory in the Sino-Japanese War and the broader Anti-Fascist World War with major events including a military parade in Beijing led by President Xi Jinping. The anniversary highlights China's significant sacrifices during the conflict, with an estimated 35 million Chinese soldiers and civilians dying, and underscores Beijing's efforts to reassert its role as a defender of the post-war international order amid growing tensions with the West. The Chinese Embassy in Cameroon and other venues globally have hosted receptions and symposiums recalling the shared spirit of anti-fascism and the sacrifices made, while also honoring foreign contributions to China’s victory. However, historical narratives remain contested, especially between the People’s Republic of China and Taiwan, with disputes over the recognition of the roles played by the Chinese Communist Party and the Nationalist government during the war. Cultural efforts, such as films depicting events like the Nanjing Massacre, serve to rally national unity and counteract domestic challenges, as China faces economic issues and a rivalry with the United States. The commemorations also reiterate China's call to preserve peace, justice, and the international norms established following the war.