Chinese President Xi Jinping emphasized the enduring legacy of China-Russia friendship forged during World War II in a signed article published Wednesday in Russia's Russian Gazette. The remarks come ahead of his state visit to Russia and participation in events commemorating the 80th anniversary of the Victory in the Soviet Union's Great Patriotic War.
President Xi reflected on the shared sacrifices of Chinese and Soviet forces during the war, stating, "The profound friendship forged with blood and lives in the World Anti-Fascist War has become an inexhaustible source of everlasting amity between our nations." He emphasized that those who contributed to defeating fascism—"from generals to soldiers"—will always be remembered.
The article coincided with anniversaries of key 20th-century milestones: the 80th year since victories in China’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression, the Soviet Great Patriotic War, and the founding of the United Nations. Xi stressed the ongoing relevance of these historic lessons, noting that today's world faces critical choices between "unity or division," "dialogue or confrontation," and "win-win or zero-sum" approaches.
Calling for global cooperation, Xi urged nations to reject unilateralism and hegemony while drawing inspiration from historical solidarity: "Together, we must take history as a mirror and resolutely oppose all forms of hegemonism to create a brighter future for humanity." His message highlights China and Russia’s continued alignment on multilateralism amid shifting geopolitical dynamics.
