Armenian people deserve peace and happiness, their contribution to history is invaluable – Ambassador Li Xinwei

The Chinese Embassy in Armenia solemnly marked the 80th anniversary of the joint victory of the Chinese and Soviet armies over Japanese aggression in World War II.

In his speech, China's Ambassador to Armenia, Li Xinwei, paid tribute to those who sacrificed their lives to protect national sovereignty, independence and dignity, defend their homelands and people and safeguard international justice and world peace.

“The world is undergoing profound global changes and stands at a historic turning point. The direction of our future depends on the choices we make today, and our ability to make the right choices depends on how accurately we understand history. The purpose of today's gathering is to learn from history and build a common future,” Ambassador Li stated.

He emphasized China’s decisive role in the victory over fascism: "The Chinese people resisted Japanese militarism and held the Eastern Front of the World Anti-Fascist War, playing an important role in the final victory. China became one of the four major victorious countries of World War II. Our country contributed not only to the victory, but also to the establishment of the post-war international order.”

Li Xinwei highlighted Armenia's significant participation in the Great Patriotic War: “80 years ago, Armenia actively participated in the war, with more than 20% of its population serving on the front lines, the highest participation rate in the region. Armenians are a powerful nation and Armenian soldiers are among the bravest and most dedicated warriors in the world. Armenia gave the Soviet Union four marshals, one fleet admiral and more than 60 generals.”

Addressing the Armenian people, the Ambassador said: “You have reason to be proud. You are the owners of this land. The Armenian people deserve peace and happiness; your contribution to history is invaluable. You are the masters of your destiny. You deserve respect and friendship. You once fought shoulder to shoulder with us for world peace, and today we must work together to build a community with a shared future for mankind.”

The Ambassador also recalled that more than 6,000 Armenian soldiers took part in the war against Japanese aggression in northeastern China, sacrificing their youth, blood and lives for victory.

“I would like to tell my Armenian friends that the Chinese people love peace and reject war. Because we have felt the pain of war, we do not want to see conflict again. Peace is not simply the absence of war, it is the highest value we pursue, and the only path toward a better future for humanity,” Ambassador Li concluded.