China wraps up Victory Day celebrations with commemorative gala at Great Hall of the People

Key Concepts:

• Commemorative gala for soldiers who fought in World War II
• Chinese-style modernization and peaceful development
• Military parade as a projection of power
• Patriotic sentiment and public engagement

Gala in the Great Hall of the People:

• A commemorative gala was held in Beijing's Great Hall of the People to honor soldiers who fought in World War II.
• The 90-minute cultural performance consisted of 18 dances, depicting a journey from war, mourning, victory, and healing.
• Attendees included foreign representatives, military veterans, and representatives from Hong Kong and Macau.
• Security was tight, with long lines and security checks.
• The gala concluded China's special day marking 80 years since the end of World War II.

President Xi Jinping's Address:

• During a lunch reception, President Xi Jinping addressed foreign guests.
• He stated that Chinese-style modernization follows the road of peace.
• He emphasized that China will be a stabilizing force for progress in the world.

Military Parade and Public Observation:

• Beijing residents gathered near Tiananmen Square to watch the military parade.
• Roads were blocked off by police starting at 8:30 a.m. before the parade started at 9:00 a.m.
• Despite being told to watch the parade online, people gathered to experience the on-site atmosphere.
• China last held a military parade in 2019 to mark 70 years of the People's Republic.
• This year's display is the largest ever, marking 80 years since the end of World War II.
• The parade took place 6 kilometers down the road at Tiananmen Square.
• Foreign leaders were gathered to witness the event.

Public Reaction and Patriotic Pride:

• Residents were rewarded with a flypast from Tiananmen Square.
• Police relented and allowed residents to watch the flypast before clearing the streets.
• The event left many beaming with patriotic pride.

Conclusion:

The events in Beijing, including the commemorative gala and the military parade, served to honor the sacrifices of soldiers in World War II and project China's power and commitment to peaceful development. The public's enthusiastic participation and patriotic sentiment underscored the significance of the occasion.