China's Grand Military Parade: A Display of Power Amidst Increasing Paranoia

Sat Sep 13 2025 10:49:13 GMT+0300 (Eastern European Summer Time)

As Beijing prepares for a colossal military parade commemorating World War II's end, the event symbolizes not just strength but also the Chinese government's high level of caution in safeguarding its authority. With notable global leaders attending, Xi Jinping aims to affirm China's dominance on the world stage.

Beijing is set to host a grand military parade to mark 80 years since Japan's surrender in World War II, highlighting President Xi Jinping's vision of projecting power and influence. The parade, featuring foreign dignitaries such as Vladimir Putin and Kim Jong Un, comes with extensive security measures reflective of the government's concerns over public dissent. Amidst preparations, China sees this as an opportunity to bolster national pride while navigating economic challenges domestically.

The stage is set in the heart of Beijing for a grand display of power and military might that has been choreographed by President Xi Jinping.

Eight huge Chinese flags flutter and flank the portrait of Mao Zedong, the founder of Communist China, which sits on top of the Gate of Heavenly Peace overlooking Tiananmen Square, one of the largest public squares in the world.

Below are rows of seats reserved for 26 foreign heads of state, including Russia's Vladimir Putin and North Korea's Kim Jong Un, whose attendance is a diplomatic win for Xi.

Ostensibly the parade marks 80 years of Japan's surrender in the war, and China's victory against an occupying force. But it's so much more than that for President Xi.

This is a big week for him, with quite a few firsts. He enticed Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to visit China over the weekend for the first time in seven years, rebooting a key economic and strategic relationship.

Across the road, two huge floral arrangements commemorating the end of World War II rise up alongside seating for around 50,000 invitees.

North Korean leader Kim Jong Un's attendance, only announced at the end of last week, adds to the significant nature of this event as Xi aims to assert China’s influence amidst a backdrop of national pride and patriotism.

However, this display of power comes with stringent security measures and a cautious approach to public dissent. Authorities have raised concerns following previous protests and have taken meticulous steps to ensure a smooth and uninterrupted celebration.

While the parade is a show of China's strength and Xi's influence, there is also a clear domestic message in a time of economic uncertainty and visions of grandeur that frame this event as part of a broader narrative of resilience and authority.