China’s “Victory Day” Parade Showcases China’s Huge Growth in Miltiary Power
On September 3rd, China hosted a large parade in Beijing showcasing its military power in a way they never have before. The parade was held to honor the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II in the Pacific. President Xi Jinping presided over the event and hosted several world leaders. Notably in attendance were Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean Supreme Leader Kim Jong Un. The three leaders, pictured walking together and shaking hands, have never been together like this before.
The display featured missiles, military vehicles, and several pieces of new weapon technology that China has gained in the last few years. It also revealed the progress President Xi has made in his goal to grow China’s military power and make his People’s Liberation Army world class. Many analysts are viewing this showcase as a signal to the United States and its allies that the military power in China is something not to be ignored as it is substantial and always continuing to grow.
This signal has caused some concern as some are viewing this demonstration as a threat to the United States. President Trump responded to the event and its attendees on social media, stating, “May President Xi and the wonderful people of China have a great and lasting day of celebration. Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un as you conspire against the United States of America.”
However, the Chinese Ministry of Defense spokesperson, Wu Qian, addressed the parade on September 10th in response to the concern. Qian stated, “[the parade] demonstrated the comprehensive combat capabilities of the PLA in realistic training and exercises… Their appearance shows that our capabilities for defense are improving, but our strategic intention has not changed: we will never seek hegemony, never engage in expansion, and never initiate aggression.” Qian also emphasized the parade was not meant to be a signal to any specific country and that the Chinese military continues to support peaceful development.
