Chinese President Xi Jinping said the rejuvenation of the Chinese nation is “unstoppable” as the country’s military displayed for the first time some of its brand-new weapons, including hypersonic, laser and long-range ballistic missiles.
Addressing an impressive parade to commemorate the 80th anniversary of China’s victory against Japanese aggression in World War II, Xi called on the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) to provide strategic support for national rejuvenation and make greater contributions to world peace and development.
The Chinese military for the first time displayed in the parade some of its most advanced military hardware in an apparent show of strength to the world, especially the United States.
Xi, who heads the Central Military Commission (CMC), the overall high command of the PLA, asked the Chinese military to build itself into a world-class force and resolutely safeguard national sovereignty, unity and territorial integrity.
China is the second largest defence spender after the US. Its annual defence budget this year amounted to USD 250 billion.
Besides the military hardware, the parade also showcased China’s diplomatic power as 26 foreign leaders, including Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, attended the event.
From India’s neighbourhood, Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Nepal Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu took part in the event.
