Phoenix TV:

The 2015 military parade commemorating the 70th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression featured a formation of war veterans riding in vehicles, demonstrating respect for those who fought in the war. Will war veterans also be included in the upcoming parade? Will the Chinese Kuomintang (KMT) party veterans who fought against Japanese aggression be invited to attend? Thank you.

Wu Zeke:

Thanks for your question. I'll take this one. Veterans of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression are national heroes, the backbone of the nation, and living witnesses to victory. More than 80 years ago, these veterans stepped forward in times of crisis, fighting for the nation, for the motherland, and for dignity, defending the vast territory of their homeland. Their heroic spirit in bloody battles, their unwavering determination in resisting foreign aggression, and their noble character of sacrifice are worthy of our eternal respect. In 2015, during the military parade commemorating the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, a formation of more than 300 veterans was arranged as the first group to be reviewed. This formation included veterans, model representatives of those who supported the frontlines, and children of martyrs. Veterans of the KMT forces who fought against Japanese aggression were also invited to participate, demonstrating our deep respect for these heroic predecessors and the great spirit of national resistance. As they passed through Tian'anmen, there were many deeply moving moments that touched people of all ethnic groups across the country and around the world. Ten years have passed. Most of the surviving veterans are now approaching 100 years old. These veterans are witnesses to and participants in history, and they are treasures of the Chinese nation. Considering factors such as their physical conditions, we will not organize a formation of veterans to participate in this parade. Instead, we will arrange for veterans, comrades, members of the militia, local model representatives of those who supported the frontlines, and martyrs' relatives to attend the Tian'anmen ceremony, expressing our deep respect for these heroes. As we know, China's war of resistance was a nationwide effort, and the KMT forces also played a vital role. We will invite KMT veterans to attend the ceremony in person. Thank you.