Massive China military parade: Kim Jong Un, Vladimir Putin join Xi Jinping; signal West defiance

Beijing on Wednesday rolled out a massive military parade to mark 80 years since the end of World War II. About two dozen foreign leaders are in attendance, looking to strengthen ties with Beijing amid US tariff tension.

Among the most watched guests are North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, Russian president Vladimir Putin and Iran’s president. Leaders from Southeast Asia are also present.

Chinese president Xi Jinping rode in an open-top black limousine as he inspected thousands of troops and new weaponry along Beijing’s Avenue of Eternal Peace. Passing rows of tightly lined military formations, Xi greeted the soldiers with a brief salute, saying, “Comrades, you’ve worked hard!” during the show of strength.

Xi further told thousands of troops that China will not bow to pressure from any country. Speaking as tensions with the US grow over trade, technology and global influence, Xi said he was working to shape an alternative to the US-led world order.

“The Chinese nation is a great nation that is never intimidated by bullies,” he declared, before the military parade began rolling through the heart of the capital.

He also urged the creation of a “world-class” military, stressing that the People’s Liberation Army must be modernised to ensure it can “fight and win wars.”

Troops marched in lockstep past president Xi, who also heads the Communist Party and the military. Beijing is showcasing its latest missiles, fighter jets and advanced weapons, with many being shown publicly for the first time, officials said, reported news agency Associated Press. It is China’s first large-scale military parade since 2019.

The parade is tightly controlled, with barriers keeping the public at a distance and businesses along the route shut until the event ends. For most Chinese citizens, the only way to watch is through television or online livestreams.

Readers Comments