Chinese President Xi Jinping delivered a speech expressing gratitude to the veterans, highlighting China’s contribution to global peace. He then began a tour to inspect the troops participating in the parade. The event was attended by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un. The main guest at this celebration was Russian President Vladimir Putin. Putin and Kim Jong Un had a brief conversation with Xi Jinping as the three leaders headed to the platform to watch the parade in Beijing. President Xi stated, “Today, the entire world must make a decision in the face of existing contradictions between peace and war, dialogue or confrontation.” The event was attended by 26 foreign heads of state and government. The grand military parade takes place on September 3rd to mark the 80th anniversary of the Chinese people’s victory in the war against Japan and the global war against fascism, with participation from Chinese President Xi Jinping, Russian President Vladimir Putin, and leaders from 24 other countries. More than 10,000 soldiers, hundreds of aircraft, and military vehicles participated, featuring 45 military formations representing traditional and new forces, including Chinese peacekeeping forces working within UN missions.
