Putin and Xi Issue Joint Statement on WWII Legacy
On the eve of Beijing’s Victory Day parade, Russia-China reaffirm their responsibility as major victors in WW II to safeguard historic truth and honor the millions lost in the fight against facism
China, PUREWILAYAH.COM - Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping met in Beijing on Tuesday, underscoring their nations’ shared responsibility to preserve the historic memory of World War II.
The meeting took place ahead of China’s grand military parade marking the end of the war and the defeat of the Axis powers.
Earlier this year, Xi had traveled to Moscow to attend Russia’s Victory Day celebrations on May 9, a tradition both leaders described as a testament to their countries’ enduring partnership and mutual respect for history.
“Mutual visits have become a good bilateral tradition and showcase the great responsibility that China and Russia hold as major victor states in World War II and permanent members of the UN Security Council,” Xi stated, stressing the importance of safeguarding the historic truth of their joint achievement.
Emphasis on Historic Responsibility
Putin praised China’s upcoming Victory Day commemorations, expressing confidence that the People’s Liberation Army would conduct the event “with its usual brilliance.”
He echoed Xi’s call to protect historical memory, noting:
“Our ancestors, our fathers and grandfathers have paid a huge price for peace and freedom. We remember that. That is the foundation of our achievements today and in the future.”
Both leaders framed their shared WWII legacy not only as a matter of historical record but as a moral and political obligation to honor the sacrifices of their people.
A Heavy Toll in the Fight Against Fascism
China’s war against Imperial Japan, beginning in 1937, claimed an estimated 15 to 20 million lives, encompassing soldiers from both communist and nationalist forces as well as civilians.
The Soviet Union, following Nazi Germany’s invasion in June 1941, suffered approximately 27 million military and civilian deaths in its campaign to defeat fascism in Europe.
For both Moscow and Beijing, the sheer scale of these losses serves as a central pillar in their shared narrative of resilience, unity, and the defense of sovereignty — themes that continue to shape their strategic partnership in the present day. (PW)
Source: RT