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Asean
This Week in AsiaOpinion
Hou Yanqi
Hou Yanqi

Opinion | China, Southeast Asia and the shared legacy of anti-fascist struggle

China’s ambassador to Asean reflects on the lessons of WWII and why the region’s destiny must be determined together

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A memorial service to mark the 80th anniversary of victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression in Hong Kong on August 9. Photo: Dickson Lee
Hou Yanqi

Eighty years ago, after 14 years of bloody and unrelenting struggling, the Chinese people won a great victory in the War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, a crucial part of the global fight against fascism.

The vicious Japanese militarist aggressors had inflicted immense suffering on China, Southeast Asia and the world at large. The flames of war engulfed more than 80 countries and regions, affecting some 2 billion people. Military and civilian casualties exceeded 100 million. Human civilisation endured devastation on a scale without precedent.

Victory represented justice prevailing over evil, light piercing darkness and progress overcoming reaction. It was a victory not just for the Chinese people, but for people everywhere.

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On September 3, the Chinese government will hold a grand event to commemorate the 80th anniversary of this victory, with President Xi Jinping delivering an important address. Eight decades on, we reflect not only on the victory itself but also on the meaning of remembrance: to learn from history, cherish peace and draw on collective wisdom for a better future for mankind.
People take pictures in front of a floral installation in Beijing commemorating the 80th anniversary of victory over Japan on August 18. Photo: AFP
People take pictures in front of a floral installation in Beijing commemorating the 80th anniversary of victory over Japan on August 18. Photo: AFP

Victories earned through struggle

The Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was an important part of the world’s anti-fascist struggle. The September 18 Incident in 1931 marked its beginning, opening the first chapter of the global war against fascism.

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