On Thursday, August 28, 2025, China’s Assistant Foreign Minister Hong Lei called on Japan to openly confront its wartime history, reflect on its acts of aggression, and make a decisive break from militarism to foster peaceful development and stronger regional relations. Speaking at a news conference in Beijing, Hong’s remarks were in response to questions about Japan’s stance toward China’s upcoming commemorations of the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War, scheduled for early September 2025. Hong emphasized that Japan’s approach to its historical actions during World War II is a critical test of its commitment to peace, warning that efforts by some Japanese groups to deny or whitewash past aggressions threaten the post-war international order. He also announced that 26 foreign leaders will attend China’s Victory Day commemorations in Beijing, highlighting the event’s global significance. This article provides a comprehensive analysis of Hong’s statements, the historical and geopolitical context, the significance of the upcoming commemorations, and the broader implications for China-Japan relations and regional stability.
The Context: China’s Victory Day and Historical Memory
The 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression (1931–1945) and the World Anti-Fascist War marks a significant moment for China, both domestically and internationally. The commemorations, centered around September 3, 2025, celebrate China’s role in defeating Japanese imperialism and contributing to the global victory over fascism in World War II. The events are expected to include military parades, cultural exhibitions, and diplomatic gatherings in Beijing, with 26 foreign leaders confirmed to attend, underscoring the international resonance of the milestone.
China’s focus on this anniversary reflects its broader efforts to shape historical narratives and assert its role as a global power. The Chinese People’s War of Resistance, which began with Japan’s invasion of Manchuria in 1931 and escalated with the Second Sino-Japanese War (1937–1945), was a defining period in modern Chinese history. The conflict resulted in millions of Chinese deaths—estimates range from 14 to 20 million—and widespread devastation, leaving deep scars that continue to influence China’s national identity and foreign policy.
Assistant Foreign Minister Hong Lei’s remarks at the August 28 press conference were a direct response to questions about Japan’s position on these commemorations. His call for Japan to confront its wartime history reflects ongoing tensions in China-Japan relations, which have been strained by historical disputes, territorial conflicts, and differing interpretations of Japan’s actions during World War II. Hong’s statements also highlight China’s broader agenda to challenge what it sees as revisionist tendencies in Japan and to reinforce the post-war international order established after 1945.
Hong Lei’s Remarks: A Call for Historical Accountability
Hong Lei’s comments were both a critique of Japan’s historical stance and a call for a forward-looking approach to bilateral relations. Speaking at the Foreign Ministry’s daily briefing, Hong stressed that a “correct perception of history” is essential for Japan to demonstrate its commitment to peace. “Japan must openly confront its wartime history, reflect on its acts of aggression, and make a decisive break from militarism,” he said, emphasizing that such reflection is critical for fostering peaceful development and strengthening ties in the Asia-Pacific region.
Hong’s remarks targeted what he described as “forces in Japan” that seek to distort or deny the country’s wartime aggressions. He specifically criticized attempts to “overturn the conviction of war criminals,” referring to Japan’s Class-A war criminals convicted at the Tokyo Trials (1946–1948). These trials, conducted by the Allied powers, held Japanese leaders accountable for atrocities committed during the war, including the Nanjing Massacre and the use of forced labor. Hong described such revisionist efforts as a “challenge to global conscience” and a threat to the post-war international order, which is grounded in principles of peace, justice, and accountability.
The Assistant Foreign Minister’s warning reflects China’s concerns about historical revisionism in Japan, particularly among right-wing groups and some political figures who have downplayed or denied aspects of Japan’s wartime actions. For example, visits by Japanese officials to the Yasukuni Shrine, which honors war dead including convicted war criminals, have been a recurring source of tension with China and other Asian nations. Hong’s remarks suggest that China views these actions as not only a bilateral issue but also a challenge to the global norms established after World War II.
Hong also highlighted the international significance of China’s Victory Day commemorations, noting that 26 foreign leaders will attend the events in Beijing. This attendance underscores the global recognition of China’s contributions to the defeat of fascism and its growing diplomatic influence. The presence of leaders from countries across Africa, Asia, Europe, and Latin America signals China’s success in framing the anniversary as a shared victory for the international community, reinforcing its narrative of global leadership.
Historical and Geopolitical Context
The tensions surrounding Japan’s wartime history are deeply rooted in the events of the 1930s and 1940s, when Japan’s imperial ambitions led to widespread aggression in Asia. The Second Sino-Japanese War, which merged into the broader World War II, saw Japan occupy large parts of China, committing atrocities such as the Nanjing Massacre (1937), where an estimated 200,000–300,000 Chinese civilians and soldiers were killed. The war also involved forced labor, chemical weapons, and other human rights abuses, leaving a legacy of trauma in China and other affected countries like Korea.
Post-war Japan, under the 1947 Constitution, adopted a pacifist stance, renouncing militarism and limiting its military to self-defense. However, historical disputes have persisted, fueled by differing narratives about Japan’s responsibility. While Japan has issued official apologies, such as the 1995 Murayama Statement acknowledging wartime aggression, some groups in Japan have challenged these narratives, advocating for a more nationalist interpretation of history. Textbooks that downplay atrocities or shrine visits by politicians have been flashpoints, drawing criticism from China, South Korea, and other nations.
China’s call for Japan to confront its history is part of a broader geopolitical strategy. As a rising global power, China seeks to assert moral authority by emphasizing its role as a victim and victor in World War II. The Victory Day commemorations serve as a platform to reinforce this narrative, both domestically and internationally, while challenging Japan’s historical stance. The events also align with China’s efforts to shape global governance, advocating for a multipolar world order that counters Western dominance.
The timing of Hong’s remarks is significant, as they come amid heightened regional tensions. Japan’s recent moves to strengthen its military capabilities, including increased defense spending and closer ties with the United States through the Quad alliance, have raised concerns in China about a potential revival of militarism. Territorial disputes over the Senkaku/Diaoyu Islands further complicate bilateral relations, making historical issues a persistent source of friction.
The Victory Day Commemorations: A Global Stage
China’s upcoming Victory Day commemorations, scheduled for early September 2025, are a major diplomatic and cultural event. The celebrations will include a military parade in Beijing, historical exhibitions, and ceremonies honoring veterans and victims of the war. The presence of 26 foreign leaders, representing a diverse range of countries, underscores the event’s international significance and China’s growing diplomatic clout.
The commemorations serve multiple purposes:
Historical Narrative:
By highlighting its role in defeating Japanese aggression, China reinforces its national identity as a resilient and victorious nation. This narrative is particularly resonant in a country where historical memory shapes public sentiment and government policy.
Diplomatic Engagement:
The attendance of foreign leaders provides an opportunity for China to strengthen ties with allies and partners, particularly in the Global South. Countries in Africa, Asia, and Latin America, many of which share histories of resisting colonialism or imperialism, are likely to align with China’s framing of the event as a celebration of anti-fascist solidarity.
Geopolitical Messaging:
The commemorations send a message to Japan and the international community about China’s commitment to defending the post-war order. By criticizing Japan’s historical stance, China positions itself as a guardian of global justice, contrasting its approach with what it sees as revisionist tendencies in Japan.
Domestic Unity:
Domestically, the events bolster national pride and unity, particularly among younger generations. Educational campaigns, media coverage, and public events will emphasize China’s sacrifices and contributions, reinforcing the Communist Party’s legitimacy.
Implications for China-Japan Relations
Hong Lei’s remarks and the upcoming commemorations have significant implications for China-Japan relations and regional stability:
Bilateral Tensions:
The call for Japan to confront its history is likely to strain bilateral ties, particularly if Japan perceives it as an attempt to shame or pressure Tokyo. Japanese officials have not yet responded publicly to Hong’s statements, but past reactions suggest that Japan may defend its apologies while rejecting accusations of revisionism.
The Yasukuni Shrine issue and territorial disputes could exacerbate tensions, making diplomatic dialogue challenging. However, both countries have economic incentives to avoid escalation, given their significant trade relationship, with Japan exporting over $150 billion in goods to China annually.
Regional Dynamics:
The historical dispute influences broader regional dynamics, particularly in East Asia, where South Korea also has grievances against Japan’s wartime actions. A coordinated response from China and South Korea could increase pressure on Japan but risks alienating Tokyo and pushing it closer to Western allies like the United States.
The Quad alliance (U.S., Japan, India, Australia) and China’s partnerships with Russia and other Global South nations highlight the broader geopolitical context, where historical issues intersect with strategic rivalries.
Global Order:
China’s emphasis on the post-war international order reflects its broader agenda to reform global governance. By framing Japan’s historical stance as a threat to this order, China seeks to rally support from other nations, particularly those in the Global South, to challenge Western dominance in institutions like the United Nations.
Domestic Impact in Japan:
In Japan, Hong’s remarks may fuel debates between nationalist groups, who resist external criticism, and progressive voices advocating for deeper historical reflection. The government’s response will be closely watched, particularly as Japan navigates its own domestic politics and regional security concerns.
Reactions and Public Discourse
Hong Lei’s statements and the upcoming Victory Day commemorations have sparked varied reactions:
In China:
Domestic media and public sentiment on platforms like Weibo strongly support Hong’s remarks, viewing them as a defense of national dignity. The commemorations are expected to generate widespread patriotic fervor, with state media emphasizing China’s wartime sacrifices.
In Japan:
Japanese media have reported cautiously on Hong’s statements, with some outlets framing them as part of China’s broader geopolitical strategy. Nationalist groups may use the remarks to rally support, while moderates may call for dialogue to ease tensions.
Internationally:
The attendance of 26 foreign leaders has drawn global attention, with countries like Russia, African nations, and ASEAN members likely to align with China’s narrative. Western nations, particularly the U.S. and its allies, may view the event with caution, given the underlying anti-Japan rhetoric.
Challenges and Opportunities
The call for Japan to confront its history presents both challenges and opportunities:
Challenges:
Diplomatic Friction: The remarks risk escalating tensions with Japan, potentially derailing efforts to improve bilateral ties through trade or regional cooperation.
Regional Polarization: Emphasizing historical grievances could deepen divisions in East Asia, complicating efforts to address shared challenges like climate change or economic recovery.
Balancing Narratives: China must balance its historical narrative with pragmatic engagement, as alienating Japan could harm economic and diplomatic interests.
Opportunities:
Global Leadership: The Victory Day commemorations provide a platform for China to assert its leadership in the Global South, rallying support for a multipolar world order.
Domestic Cohesion: The events can strengthen national unity and pride, reinforcing the government’s legitimacy.
Dialogue Potential: If handled constructively, the historical issue could open avenues for dialogue with Japan, fostering mutual understanding and trust.
Conclusion
China’s call for Japan to confront its wartime history, articulated by Assistant Foreign Minister Hong Lei on August 28, 2025, reflects the deep historical and geopolitical complexities shaping China-Japan relations. As Beijing prepares for the 80th anniversary of its victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance and the World Anti-Fascist War, the emphasis on historical accountability underscores China’s broader agenda to assert moral authority and defend the post-war international order. The attendance of 26 foreign leaders at the Victory Day commemorations highlights China’s growing diplomatic influence and its ability to frame the anniversary as a global event.
The remarks, while rooted in legitimate historical grievances, risk escalating tensions with Japan, a key regional partner. The challenge for China is to balance its advocacy for historical reflection with pragmatic engagement to foster regional stability. For Japan, the call presents an opportunity to engage in dialogue and address lingering concerns about its wartime past. As the commemorations unfold, the world will watch how these two powers navigate their shared history, with implications for East Asia and the global order.
