Chinese President Xi Jinping marked the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II with a grand military parade in Beijing. Unlike in 2015, when he stood alongside his predecessors, this year Xi was joined by Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un, underscoring China’s growing global influence and new alliances.
Xi’s Diplomatic Week
The parade followed Xi’s high-profile Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi in Tianjin and his rare trip to Tibet earlier in the year. Analysts say these moves project strength, unity, and stamina, easing concerns about Xi’s health and succession plans as he serves his third presidential term.
Nationalism Over Economy
Experts note that Xi is relying on nationalism to rally domestic support as China’s economic growth slows. Unemployment, falling property values, and stagnant wages have hurt public sentiment. By staging international displays of strength, Xi aims to reinforce pride and distract from economic challenges.
Global Attention at the Parade
Xi’s choice of attire—a grey Mao-style suit—projected elder statesman status, while leaders like Premier Li Qiang played a more minor role. Meetings with leaders from Turkey, Malaysia, Uzbekistan, and others highlighted China’s expanding diplomatic reach.
Strategic Partnerships
Many visiting nations face US tariffs and sanctions. India continues to buy Russian oil, while other states look to China for investment and development partnerships. The SCO has grown to include India, Pakistan, and Iran, expanding its global footprint.
Challenges Ahead
While China seeks to present itself as a stable global partner, tensions remain. India distrusts China despite brief diplomacy, and disputes over territory and trade practices are unlikely to fade soon. Still, Xi’s activities position China as a counterweight to the United States, especially among developing countries.
The 80th anniversary parade was more than a commemoration — it was a message that China under Xi Jinping is ready to shape the international order, balancing between alliances with Russia and North Korea while reaching out to nations across Asia and beyond.
