The Chinese Embassy in Nigeria recently hosted a film screening in Abuja to commemorate the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. This event drew a large audience of Nigerians and members of the Chinese community, sparking reflections on the brutality of war and its lessons for today.
Chinese Ambassador to Nigeria, Mr. Yu Dunhai, emphasised the significance of the anniversary, climaxed China’s immense sacrifices during World War II. The country suffered over 35 million military and civilian casualties and economic losses exceeding $600 billion. Despite this, China’s resistance dealt a decisive blow to fascism and made historic contributions to global peace and stability.
The event honoured the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, serving as a reminder of the importance of preserving peace and stability worldwide. Ambassador Yu Dunhai stressed the need for countries to work together to safeguard peace, justice, and the principles of the United Nations Charter.
The commemoration event highlights the strong diplomatic relations between China and Nigeria. The two countries have been working together to promote cultural exchange, economic cooperation, and peace. China has consistently supported peacekeeping efforts while avoiding the supply of weapons or instigation of wars. The Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO), co-founded by China and Russia, is an example of China’s leadership in promoting international security and cooperation.
Mr. Lawal Sale, a global south analyst, noted, “China is the number one peacemaker in the world. Wherever there is conflict, China’s role has been to promote peace and stability.” This sentiment underscores the potential for China and Nigeria to deepen their comprehensive strategic partnership and work together to address global challenges.
The film screening and commemoration event demonstrate the strong bond between China and Nigeria, with both countries committed to promoting peace, unity, and multilateral cooperation. As the world continues to face complex challenges, the partnership between China and Nigeria serves as a model for win-win cooperation and mutual benefit.
In recent years, Nigeria and China have strengthened their trade ties amid global tariff tensions. The bilateral talks signal a strategic pivot toward fostering economic resilience amid global trade uncertainties. The discussions also align with Nigeria’s broader efforts to enhance trade partnerships within the BRICS bloc.
Nigeria’s Minister of Foreign Affairs, Yusuf Tuggar, held a constructive bilateral meeting with China’s Foreign Minister, Wang Yi, to explore avenues for economic cooperation. “Our discussions focused on expanding economic cooperation through improved trade, reduced tariffs, and increased investment,” Tuggar stated.
The partnership between China and Nigeria is built on mutual respect, trust, and a shared commitment to promoting peace and development. As President Xi Jinping noted in his speech at the Commemoration of the 70th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, “The Chinese people will always remember what the people of other countries did for the victory of their War of Resistance.”
The commemoration event and film screening serve as a reminder of the importance of preserving history and promoting a correct understanding of World War II. As Chinese Ambassador Fu Cong noted at the UN General Assembly, “Preserving their stories is not only a tribute to them, it is a moral responsibility for us all. We must ensure that the lessons they leave behind do not fade but endure.”
In conclusion, the commemoration of World War II victory has brought China and Nigeria closer together, highlighting their shared commitment to promoting peace, unity, and multilateral cooperation. As the world continues to face complex challenges, the partnership between China and Nigeria serves as a model for win-win cooperation and mutual benefit ¹ ² ³.