XI receives Shehbaz, Putin, Kim in the parade marking China’s victory in World War II

President Xi Jinping welcomed Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif of Pakistan, along with Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong one for Beijing for the 80th anniversary of China’s victory over Japanese aggression, marked by a great military parade that shows the global power of China.

The presence of Putin and Sharif indicates the strongest ties in China-Russia, which could change the balance of long-term power.

The Chinese president, Xi Jinping, is in a car in Beijing, China, on September 3, 2025 [Reuters]

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President XI, also general secretary of the Communist Party of China, president of the State, and president of the Central Military Commission, directed the parade and inspected the troops of the Popular Liberation Army (PLA) that marched throughout Chang’an Avenue.

More than 45 military formations participated in the parade, showing China’s military power through a series of impressive weapons and machinery.

China shows its yj-15 missiles: Reuters

The parade showed advanced military hardware, including 99b tank, hypersonic missiles and Dongfeng 31 and intercontinental land missiles Dongfeng 60, highlighting China’s strategic deterrence.

The missiles of Julang 3 Submarine Ready and the Red Flag 20 and 19 Air Defense Systems demonstrated the growing capabilities of China in nuclear defense, air defense and autonomous combat systems.

China’s intercontinental nuclear missiles, from X

One of the most symbolic moments of the event was the release of 80,000 peace pigeons and colorful balloons, indicating the Peace Message of China in the midst of its powerful military exhibition.

More than 50,000 spectators in Tiananmen Square saw aerial screens. The parade was attended by 26 world leaders, marking the global importance of this anniversary and the growing influence of China in the international stage.

Members of the PLA Air Force march during a military parade [Reuters]

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According ReutersThe analysts are observing signs of narrower defense ties between XI, Putin and Kim, after the recent pacts between North Russia-Korea and China-Pyongyang, which could change military dynamics in the Pacific Asia, with Pakistan also aligning closely with China.

President XI concluded his speech with a powerful message, saying: “The Chinese nation achieved victory through great sacrifices, and now it is our responsibility to learn from history and work towards the protection of peace.”