The reviews are in: China’s allies give military parade top marks but the West is not won over
Russia, Iran and Cuba credit the host with showcasing the strength of the Chinese military
But these countries are either some of China’s closest neighbours or part of the developing world – a group that Beijing has long sought to influence. Elsewhere, particularly in the West, the reaction was more critical.
The parade had a dual effect – it marked 80 years since the end of World War II and showcased China’s growing military might and rising diplomatic stature.
In his opening address, Xi sought to present China as a stabilising world power, warning that humanity once again faced the choice between peace or war and dialogue or confrontation.
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China showcases new military hardware in massive Victory Day parade
Following the parade, Putin said the events were “held brilliantly, simply very well, at a high level”, according to Russia’s official Tass news agency.