Xi positions Beijing as ‘pillar of alternative world order’ at V-Day parade
Pakistan’s PM among world leaders witness China’s strength, global vision
Beijing: China on Wednesday staged its largest-ever military parade to mark 80 years of victory in the War of Resistance Against Japan, with President Xi Jinping using the occasion to position Beijing as the “pillar of an alternative world order” for the Global South.
According to Kashmir Media Service, more than 10,000 soldiers, over 100 aircraft, hundreds of tanks, and newly developed missiles and military robots rolled down Beijing’s Avenue of Eternal Peace in a spectacular display of military might. For the first time, China showcased its nuclear triad – land, sea and air-based strategic forces – signaling its readiness to defend sovereignty and secure economic and political interests at home, in the region, and beyond.
Analysts noted that the parade was “more than a simple show of military know-how.” Carlotta Rinaudo, a China specialist at the International Team for the Study of Security Verona, said it reflects Beijing’s determination to assert itself as the leading voice of the Global South and a counterweight to Western-dominated power structures.
The commemoration also sought to rewrite war literature by highlighting Asia’s overlooked role in defeating fascism during World War II. Frans-Paul van der Putten of the Clingendael Institute observed that Western accounts have long downplayed China’s sacrifices in breaking Japan’s war machine. Xi Jinping, recalling his May visit to Russia, underscored that “China and Russia were the main theatres of the Second World War in Asia and in Europe,” paying tribute to Moscow’s “generous” support during China’s struggle against Japanese colonial aggression.
With more than 20 world leaders attending, the parade reinforced China’s strategic partnerships. Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif joined President Xi at the ceremony, symbolizing Islamabad’s alignment with Beijing’s vision. In their meeting, Xi stressed that “as global changes unseen in a century unfold at a quicker pace, a strong China-Pakistan relationship is conducive to safeguarding regional peace and development.” Both sides reaffirmed their commitment to accelerating a “China-Pakistan community with a shared future,” setting what Xi described as a model for the broader neighborhood.
Observers say the day’s events underscored China’s dual message: honoring Asia’s historic resistance against colonialism and fascism, while asserting modern China’s resolve to defend sovereignty and lead a reshaped international order beyond Western dominance.
