In an exclusive interview with CMG, several international political figures stressed that the brutality of aggressors once brought immense suffering to humanity. They emphasized that nations must remember history, safeguard the legacy of victory in World War II, and work together to advance global peace and development.
UN Secretary-General António Guterres remarked: “There is a perception that World War II began in 1939 and ended in 1945. In reality, Japan’s large-scale invasion of China marked the true beginning of the war. It must be acknowledged that China fought against Japanese aggression for many years, played a decisive role, significantly weakened Japan, and contributed fundamentally to its eventual defeat. China’s contribution was of utmost importance and was key to the victory of the Allies, alongside other nations.”
Many political leaders highlighted that the lessons of history remind humanity that only by remembering the past can we avoid repeating mistakes and preserve the hard-won peace.
Belarusian President Alexander Lukashenko said: “Only by remembering history can we prevent a repeat of disasters. If history is forgotten, tragedy will inevitably return. That is why we, together with the Chinese people and government, sacredly protect the memory of this victory. I thank China for inviting our delegation not only to the SCO Summit but also to this important commemoration of a great victory.”
SCO Secretary-General Yerzhan Yermekbayev noted: “Member states agree that we must remember history, use it as a mirror, and shape the future. As a Chinese proverb says, ‘With history as a mirror, one can understand the rise and fall.’”
The international community has widely recognized the Chinese people’s way of preserving historical memory, considering it a model for other nations, and acknowledging its profound significance in the context of national rejuvenation.
Fijian Speaker Jiko Luveni stated: “I have always been passionate about history, especially World War II. I studied the Japanese occupation of Shanghai, which left a deep impression on me. The massacres in Shanghai brought immense suffering to the Chinese people.”
Colombian President Gustavo Petro reflected: “History shows that when a nation draws upon its spiritual strength and moral resilience, it can resist aggression with unbreakable willpower. Such resistance not only reshapes the destiny of one country but also leaves its mark on the progress of all humanity.”
Senegalese Prime Minister Sidiki Kaba added: “What impresses me most is how the Chinese people cherish and inherit history. By showing respect and maintaining remembrance, generation after generation passes down knowledge and traditions. The Chinese people have transformed their historical memory into a bond of national unity—an important source of inspiration, progress, and rejuvenation.”
Source: Swarna-Hashim-Lily, China Media Group