Veterans of China's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and their families gathered at a meeting in Beijing Sunday to express their love to the country when the nation is marking the 60th anniversary of the victory of the war.

"As a veteran in the war, I'm very excited recalling the past with you. I believe the leadership of the Communist Party of China was the fundamental assurance of the victory," said Jia Yibin, a former general.

"I am grateful and honored that the Chinese government and people did not forget me so many years after the war," said Wang Guangfu, who was a pilot shot down eight Japanese planes during the war in 1931-1945.

Wang, who has been living overseas for years, said the compatriots overseas are very much concerned about the progress and development in China, and hope the peaceful reunification of the mainland will be achieved as soon as possible.

Yan Xiufeng, wife of a Taiwanese general named Li Youbang, recalled that all Taiwanese patriots joined in the war against Japanese aggression. "The Chinese nation is a great nation. Reunification is not only my wish, but also that of my husband and all Taiwanese people," she said.

Zhang Lianyun, daughter of patriotic general Zhang Zizhong, said she remembered the people's respect to her father after he died fighting Japanese invading troops. "The spirit of those generals and soldiers who died for the country is a treasure that will inspire the Chinese people forever," she said.

The symposium was held at the Great Hall of the People with 450 participants.

(Xinhua News Agency September 5, 2005)