“Victory Day Parade: Chinese, Russian, and North Korean Leaders Share Historic Stage on Anniversary of the War of Resistance Against Japan”

On September 3, a large military parade marking “Victory Day of the War of Resistance” was held at Tiananmen Square in Beijing, with the leaders of China, Russia, and North Korea appearing together — a rare image not seen since the Korean War more than 70 years ago.

This year marks the 80th anniversary of China’s official commemoration of the victory in the War of Resistance against Japan. The parade was the largest in China’s history and the third at Tiananmen Square since Xi Jinping took office. Experts believe Xi is seeking to turn the event into a diplomatic stage to showcase military strength.

A total of 26 national leaders attended, most from Central Asia and Southeast Asia. North Korean leader Kim Jong-un, together with his daughter Kim Ju-ae, had arrived in China the day before on an armored train.