Chinese President Xi Jinping will host the largest military parade in China’s history on September 3, 2025, in Beijing, marking the 80th anniversary of Japan’s defeat in World War II. This event aims to demonstrate China’s military capabilities and assert its vision for a new global order, positioning itself as a counterweight to the U.S.-led international system.
The parade, showcasing advanced weaponry such as hypersonic missiles and drones, highlights China’s technological advancements. Notable attendees include over 20 world leaders, notably Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, reflecting a growing alignment among nations that challenge Western influence. Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian and Myanmar’s junta leader Min Aung Hlaing will also participate, underscoring a coalition often at odds with Western policies.
Analysts describe this gathering as an “Axis of Upheaval,” symbolizing a shared effort to reshape the global order. The absence of Western leaders, aside from Slovakia’s Prime Minister Robert Fico, underscores the event’s focus on presenting an alternative international vision. The parade’s estimated cost of $5 billion signifies China’s commitment to this military and diplomatic showcase.
Beyond military might, the event offers China a platform to promote its historical narrative and its emergence as a global power post-World War II. By hosting such a significant event, Xi Jinping seeks to enhance national pride and legitimize China’s leadership in a multipolar world. The parade will be heavily choreographed and secured, with public access limited and viewership restricted to television and livestreams.
As the date approaches, global attention will be drawn to the implications of this display of strength and the potential shifts in international alliances and power dynamics, marking a pivotal moment in China’s diplomatic strategy.
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