September 3 marks the 70th anniversary of the victory of China’s War of Resistance and World War II. “Victory Day” on September 3 is the date to commemorate Japan’s surrender.

An estimated 30 million Chinese soldiers and civilians died or were wounded in the fighting. Beijing has held a grand military parade.

President Xi Jinping delivered a keynote speech. Foreign leaders and high-level officials were there sharing common victory.

Marching forward, 70 years on. It’s more than a celebration for a country that suffered and won. The war of resistance was the worst humiliation. It’s also the greatest triumph for China.

Xi said: “For the sake of peace, China will continue on a path of peaceful development. The Chinese nation and its people have always treasured peace. No matter how strong or developed China becomes, it will never resort to hegemony, expansionism. It will not recreate and force the painful history it went through upon other nations.”

President Xi Jinping highlighted the sacrifices of the Chinese people. He stressed that looking back is to enable moving into a brighter future. World leaders and foreign representatives were there to share the big day. Xi Jinping went on to inspect over 10,000 Chinese troops, and more than 500 vehicles.

China says the parade is to show its capability and determination to defend its sovereignty and world peace. 50 Chinese formations took part. The veterans were at the forefront. The parade was a tribute to the victims of the war. China was the main eastern battlefield in World War II. They were followed by what’s known as the Heroes’ Troops in the war. These troops have become the key strength of today’s army.

17 foreign formations also marched at Tian’anmen Square. Most of their countries were China’s allies during the war. Displaying new weapons and equipment is a tradition for parades. This one featured some of the PLA’s main hardware. All of them are made in China. Most were making their public debut. This transparency reflects China’s defense achievements, and its growing confidence on the world stage.

China says it will never allow the wartime trauma to happen again. And a rising nation is for its own peace and that of others. This is President Xi’s first parade since taking office in 2012. In a country where many of the wounds of war have not healed, China’s parade to celebrate Victory Day comes as a boost to national pride. The parade through Tian’anmen Square is meant to be a showcase of a stronger country, 70 years on, striving for the Chinese Dream.