Commemorating the 80th anniversary of victory: A tribute to China's heroic resistance and the shared spirit of humanity

This year marks the 80th anniversary of a monumental victory in human history—the triumph of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, and the global victory in the World Anti-Fascist War. This anniversary is not only a time of solemn remembrance but also a proud celebration of peace, justice, and international solidarity.

The context of aggression and suffering

On Sept. 18, 1931, Japan's Kwantung Army, stationed in northeast China, launched a sudden attack on Fengtian (present-day Shenyang) in an attempt to seize the region by force. The September 18th Incident marked the start of Japan's invasion of China, deliberately planned and initiated by Japanese imperialists. It also signaled the start of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression.

What followed was a 14-year-long brutal invasion by the Japanese imperial forces that left deep scars on the land and people of China.

The Chinese battlefield became the main eastern battlefield of the world's anti-fascist war. Cities were bombed, villages torched, and innocent civilians mercilessly massacred. Perhaps the most horrifying example was the Nanjing Massacre of 1937, where over 300,000 Chinese civilians and disarmed soldiers were killed in a span of just six weeks. According to historical estimates, more than 35 million Chinese were killed or wounded during the war, and the material destruction was immense, affecting countless lives and infrastructure across the country.

China's indomitable spirit and resistance

Despite facing overwhelming odds, the Chinese people displayed unwavering courage and unity. Under the leadership of the Communist Party of China and with the active participation of millions of ordinary citizens, the resistance against Japanese forces took shape through conventional warfare, guerrilla tactics, and a deep-rooted determination to safeguard the nation's sovereignty.

China's resistance was not merely a national struggle—it was a vital part of the global campaign against fascism. For years, China stood virtually alone on the Asian front, tying down a large portion of Japan's military forces and making an enormous contribution to the eventual Allied victory.

The Chinese people's victory over Japanese aggression was not only a military success but a moral and political one. It symbolized the triumph of justice over tyranny, unity over division, and peace over war.

The significance of commemoration

The 80th anniversary of this historic victory is an opportunity to reflect on the sacrifices made by countless heroes, both named and unnamed. It is a call to uphold the values of peace, cooperation, and mutual respect that underpin today's international order.

China views this anniversary as a solemn reminder of its people's suffering and resilience, and a powerful reaffirmation of its commitment to peace and development. This year, grand ceremonies will be held across the country, with the central event expected to take place in Beijing. High-level delegations, veterans, scholars, and youth representatives will gather to honor the memory of the fallen and celebrate the enduring spirit of resistance.

The official Victory Day is celebrated annually on September 3rd, marking the formal surrender of Japan in 1945.

Pakistan's historical and moral support

Though modern-day Pakistan did not exist during World War II, the territory and people that would later form Pakistan were under British India at the time and played an indirect but noteworthy role. Thousands of soldiers from this region served in the British Indian Army and fought in various theatres of war, including the Burma Campaign, where they encountered Japanese forces.

In this campaign, many South Asian soldiers—including those from present-day Pakistan—fought alongside Allied and Chinese forces to halt Japanese advances in Southeast Asia. Their contribution, though often unheralded, helped ease pressure on Chinese forces and was part of the larger struggle against fascist expansion.

Moreover, in the decades since independence, Pakistan has always shown moral solidarity with China in recognizing its wartime suffering and achievements. As a brotherly nation and an ironclad friend, Pakistan deeply respects the resilience of the Chinese people and their contributions to world peace.

Today, the people of Pakistan stand united with their Chinese brothers and sisters in commemorating this milestone. Our shared history of anti-colonial struggle, our mutual respect for sovereignty, and our joint commitment to peaceful development underpin the enduring friendship between our nations.

Looking ahead: Learning from history

Commemorating the 80th anniversary is not only about looking back. It is about drawing lessons for the future. At a time when the world faces new challenges—from geopolitical tensions to economic uncertainties—it is vital to remember the cost of war and the value of peace.

China's efforts to mark this anniversary also demonstrate its leadership in preserving historical memory, promoting a just world order, and fostering international cooperation. Through the Belt and Road Initiative, regional connectivity, and multilateral platforms like the Shanghai Cooperation Organization, China continues to promote shared development and peace—principles forged in the crucible of wartime unity.

As friends and neighbors, Pakistan and China will continue to support each other in these noble efforts. Together, we remember the past, cherish the present, and aspire for a future rooted in peace, justice, and harmony.

Let us all salute the courage of those who resisted fascism, honor the legacy of peace they left behind, and commit ourselves to building a better world in their memory.

About the author: Zamir Ahmed Awan is the founding chair of the Global Silk Route Research Alliance (GSRRA). He is a sinologist and former diplomat. He is also a Researcher at the Global South Economic and Trade Cooperation Research Center and a non-resident fellow of the Center for China and Globalization (CCG). (E-mail: awanzamir@yahoo.com).