Xi Jinping says China will be guarantor of world peace as he downplays parade’s military muscle
Diplomatic observers and analysts say display of advanced weapons shows mainland is staking its claim to leadership of Asia
China pledged to be a guarantor of postwar peace and order and downsize its armed forces during Thursday’s grand parade – downplaying concerns over how Beijing will apply its military muscle when it is knocking horns with its neighbours over territorial and historical disputes.
However, diplomatic observers and analysts said that by showcasing some of its most advanced weapons during the parade, China was staking its claim to leadership of Asia.
In the interests of peace, we need to foster a keen sense of a global community of a shared future ... China will never seek hegemony or expansion
President Xi Jinping, in his speech at the parade commemorating the 70th anniversary of the end of second world war, spoke of China’s contribution to the victory of the allied powers – a subtle message to remind the West about the shared lineage between the two sides.
“With huge national sacrifice, the Chinese people held ground in the main theatre in the East of the World Anti-Fascist War, thus making a major contribution to its victory,” Xi said.
“In the interests of peace, we need to foster a keen sense of a global community of a shared future.
“All countries should jointly uphold the international order and system underpinned by the purposes and principles of the UN Charter."
