On a recent day in Beijing, China’s President Xi Jinping participated in a military parade, marking 80 years since China’s victory over Japan in World War II. The event featured a display of military might and showcased Xi’s diplomatic engagements with North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin, both of whom were present during the ceremony.
Xi’s defense of a united front with these leaders drew a response from U.S. President Donald Trump, who expressed concerns via social media about a perceived collaboration between the three nations. This spectacle may have been strategically designed to highlight China’s growing influence on the global stage, challenging a U.S.-dominated world order.
During the parade, Xi and the two leaders observed military formations from the iconic Gate of Heavenly Peace. This location is historically significant, as it was the site of important political gatherings during the Cold War, when China, North Korea, and the Soviet Union were more tightly aligned against Western powers.
In his speech, Xi spoke about the importance of peace versus conflict and reinforced China’s commitment to national sovereignty, notably concerning ongoing tensions regarding Taiwan. The military show included the introduction of advanced weaponry, such as nuclear-capable missiles, hypersonic anti-ship capabilities, and modern drones.
While the United States maintains a military advantage from its global engagements, China’s rapid military advancements pose a challenge. The parade also served as a means of bolstering national pride amid domestic issues like economic sluggishness and high youth unemployment.
As the event concluded with a release of doves, it raised questions about China’s positioning on the world stage and its readiness to confront modern geopolitical challenges, particularly as it seeks to portray itself as a leading global power.
Source: https://www.bbc.com/news/articles/cn0rllxld8go?at_medium=RSS&at_campaign=rss