First press conference on the events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War

Channel NewsAsia, Singapore:

Some analysts are saying that this military parade and other anniversary events are not only commemorative, they are also saying that Beijing is using this occasion to showcase its growing strength. What message is China hoping to send to the international community with this display?

Hong Lei:

The love for peace is in the blood of the Chinese nation. The Chinese people have suffered from both the invasion and aggression of foreign powers and thus understand the preciousness of peace. We will hold the military parade to demonstrate our firm determination to take the path of peaceful development, our strong will to defend national sovereignty and territorial integrity, and our powerful ability to maintain world peace and tranquility.

On issues of peace and security, China has one of the best record in the world among major countries. Since the founding of People's Republic of China, China has never initiated any war, never occupied any other country's land, never engaged in a proxy war. China is the only major country to write the path of peaceful development into its constitution, and is the permanent member of the Security Council that has sent the most amount of peacekeepers. China has proposed the Global Security Initiative, advocating a common, comprehensive, cooperative, and sustainable security concept, providing a practical path to address the security deficit. A stronger China will provide more positive energy for promoting world peace. No matter how developed it becomes, China will never seek hegemony, never engage in expansion, and never participate in any arms race. We will remain a force for peace, stability, and progress in the world. We are willing to work with all countries to make unremitting efforts for lasting world peace and development. Thank you.