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China marked 80 years since its victory over Japan in World War II with a military parade, led by President Xi Jinping. The event drew 26 world leaders, among them Russia’s Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. This was the first time Xi, Putin, and Kim appeared together in public. For many, the sight of Kim standing with the other gloabal leaders was surprising, considering his long history of isolation from global events. (Photo Source: Associated Press)
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Chinese President Xi Jinping, center, and foreign leaders including Russia President Vladimir Putin, center left, and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, center right, walk to Tiananmen Rostrum ahead of a ceremony. The three leaders were photographed walking together towards the ceremony, a striking image broadcast on giant screens in the capital where they were joined by heads of state from Pakistan and Indonesia. (Photo Source: Associated Press)
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From left, Russian President Vladimir Putin, Chinese President Xi Jinping, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Pakistani Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif arrive at a military parade to commemorate the 80th anniversary of Japan’s World War II surrender on Wednesday. (Photo Source: Associated Press)
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The parade showcased China’s most advanced weaponry, much of it being revealed publicly for the first time. Military officials confirmed that the display included hypersonic missiles, long-range precision strike systems, anti-drone technology, stealth drones and strategic bombers. (Photo Source: Associated Press)
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The nuclear triad including land, sea and air-based deterrents featured prominently. Overhead, fighter jets and helicopters flew in formation, while 80,000 doves were released to symbolise peace. (Photo Source: Associated Press)
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In his remarks, Xi called for accelerating the modernisation of the People’s Liberation Army, reiterating his goal of transforming it into a “world-class military.” (Photo Source: Associated Press)
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The ceremony opened with an 80-gun salute, followed by the national anthem, “March of the Volunteers.” (Photo Source: Associated Press)
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The presence of Putin and Kim at Xi’s side underscored Beijing’s deepening ties with Moscow and Pyongyang at a time of heightened tension with the West. (Photo Source: Associated Press)
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The three leaders exchanged words during the parade, with Xi seen conversing separately with both men on multiple occasions which invited ‘hateful’ comments from Donald Trump. (Photo Source: Associated Press)
