China Hosts 80th Anniversary Military Parade in Beijing, Xi Jinping Highlights Global Peace vs. War

Beijing's Tiananmen Square was the scene of a significant military parade on September 3, 2025, commemorating the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II. President Xi Jinping, addressing over 50,000 spectators and a delegation of international leaders, emphasized humanity's critical choice between global peace and continued conflict. The event showcased China's advanced military capabilities, featuring modern hardware such as hypersonic missiles and unmanned aerial vehicles, underscoring the People's Liberation Army's modernization and China's strategic strength.

The parade was attended by leaders from approximately two dozen nations, notably including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The absence of Western leaders highlighted a distinct geopolitical alignment. Xi Jinping's speech called for international cooperation and dialogue to resolve confrontations, advocating for a shared future. This message resonated with attendees from the Global South and emerging economies, as well as Russia and North Korea, nations seeking to reshape the global order.

The event was interpreted as China's effort to position itself as a key player in shaping international discourse and to assert its vision for a multipolar world. The presence of leaders like Kim Jong Un, who rarely attends such large-scale international events, underscored strengthening diplomatic ties between China and its allies. The historical context of the parade, marking 80 years since the end of World War II, also reinforced China's narrative of its significant contributions to the Allied victory.

The military display aimed to bolster domestic pride and the legitimacy of the ruling Communist Party. While Western leaders' absence indicated divergent geopolitical perspectives, the gathering in Beijing underscored the evolving international relations landscape and China's assertive role. The parade also highlighted China's ongoing military modernization, with advancements in cyber and space capabilities, reflecting a commitment to maintaining a world-class military by 2049. The event served as a powerful statement of China's current capabilities and its aspirations for future global engagement.