Xi Jinping acclaimed the “grand revival of China” as he entertained Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un for Beijing’s largest-ever military procession.
The three leaders, labeled the “axis of disturbance,” observed as troops, tanks, and other military gear presented a show of might in the Chinese capital.
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Following the ceremony’s start, after being flanked by his Russian and North Korean counterparts, Xi paid tribute to China’s World War II soldiers who fought “the Japanese invaders.”
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Xi, Putin, and Kim walk out for parade
Xi: We will safeguard our sovereignty
The train procession honored the 80th anniversary of Japan’s defeat, which ended the conflict.
“It is a crucial part of our history, and we have made our contribution to saving the people, protecting peace, and ensuring victory,” Mr Xi said.
He urged countries to “collaborate with each other” to “prevent the repetition of tragedy”, before affirming China would “accelerate its development and defend its national integrity and sovereignty”.
Mr Putin and Mr Kim represent two of the Chinese president’s closest allies, both heavily reliant on Beijing for trade – the latter especially ostracised by the West due to the Ukraine conflict.
Tens of thousands of troops participated in the parade. Pic: Reuters
Trump’s comment
Donald Trump’s attempts to improve US-Russia relations and end the conflict, so far, have not yielded significant results.
Posting on Truth Social as soldiers marched through Tiananmen Square, the US president suggested China and its allies were plotting against Washington.
“May President Xi and the wonderful people of China have a great and lasting day of celebration,” he said.
“Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un, as you plot against the United States.”
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‘China needs us more than we need them’
