China Honors 88 Years Since Nationwide Resistance Began
On Monday, China held a solemn ceremony to mark the 88th anniversary of the start of its nationwide resistance against Japanese aggression. The event took place at the Museum of the War of Chinese People’s Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, near the historic Lugou Bridge—also known as the Marco Polo Bridge—where the conflict escalated on July 7, 1937.
The ceremony also featured the launch of an exhibition titled “For National Liberation and World Peace,” commemorating the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. The exhibition showcases a panoramic view of the Chinese people’s 14-year heroic struggle during the war.
Cai Qi, a member of the Standing Committee of the Political Bureau of the Communist Party of China (CPC) Central Committee, delivered a speech at the event. He emphasized the unwavering resolve of the Chinese military and people in the face of Japanese militarists’ full-scale invasion 88 years ago.
“When the Lugou Bridge Incident occurred, the Chinese military and people rose up in resistance, initiating a whole-of-nation war effort that opened the main Eastern battlefield in the global war against fascism,” Cai said.
He highlighted the pivotal role of the CPC during the war, stating that it fought bravely on the front lines and served as the pillar of the entire nation. United in purpose, the Chinese people fought for the country’s survival, national rejuvenation, and the cause of justice for all humanity.
Cai stressed the importance of carrying forward the spirit of resistance, strengthening national confidence, and forging ahead to build a strong China. He also called for making new and greater contributions to peace and development for humanity.
Approximately 600 people attended the events, including representatives from various sectors of society who presented flowers to the martyrs of the war. The exhibition, spanning eight parts over a total area of 12,200 square meters, displays 1,525 photos and 3,237 artifacts.
The Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression was the first to break out and lasted the longest in the World Anti-Fascist War, resulting in over 35 million Chinese military and civilian casualties. China’s resistance was decisive in defeating Japanese fascism and supporting other fronts in Europe and Asia, contributing profoundly to the final victory and world peace.
