A Chinese historical documentary with the title, “The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru”, premiered on Saturday at an event organised by the Consulate General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos.
The West Africa Association for the Promotion of Peaceful Reunification of China was also part of the event which was organised in commemoration of the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese people’s war of resistance against Japanese aggression and the world’s anti-fascist war.
Speaking during the programme, Ms Yan Yuqing, Consul General of the People’s Republic of China in Lagos, said the programme was organised as a remembrance of the past and in honour of the heroes who gave their lives for justice and peace.
Yuqing noted that the programme was also to treasure their hard-won peace, and work together for a brighter future for humanity.
“The documentary tells a touching true story.
“In 1941, during World War II, more than 1,800 British prisoners of war, who had surrendered in Hong Kong, were forcibly put aboard the Lisbon Maru by the Japanese military and transported to Japan.
“When passing near Dongji Island in Zhoushan, Zhejiang Province, the ship was attacked and began to sink.
“The Japanese not only failed to rescue the British prisoners, but also locked them inside the cabin.
“Fortunately, local Chinese fishermen, at the risk of their own lives, rescued the British soldiers drifting at sea and brought them to the island.
”The brave choice and action of the Chinese fishermen changed the fate of thousands, and left a touch of warmth and dignity in this heavy chapter of wartime history.
“It reminds us that the mission of peace rests upon each and every one of our shoulders,” she said.
Yuqing noted that while regional conflicts still persist, the mission of peace must remain vital.
She urged people across the world to learn from history and ensure that every opportunity for peace and development is embraced.
“Let us join hands together to write a new chapter in China-Nigeria and China-Africa friendship and cooperation.
”This year marks the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
“It also commemorates the 80th anniversaries of Taiwan’s recovery and the founding of the United Nations.
”Looking back eight decades, we must remember that China was the main battlefield in the East during the war.
“It was the first to resist fascist aggression, the longest to endure, and the one that paid the highest price.
“The Communist Party of China played a central role, uniting the nation and leading a massive resistance movement.
”We must also not forget that China’s war of resistance gained valuable support from people around the world, including many in Africa.
“War is a mirror that helps us better understand the value of peace,” she said.
Also speaking, Chief Jacob Wood, the Secretary General of the West Africa Association for the Promotion of Peaceful Reunification of China, urged everyone to imbibe the courage of the Chinese rescuers and the resilience of the prisoners of war.
He urged people to be inspired by the spirit of international cooperation to build bridges of friendship, understanding and peace.
“As we reflect on these events eight decades later, we should be reminded that the bonds forged in times of adversity often prove to be the strongest.
”The screening of this documentary is significant, it demonstrates how historical memory can serve as a bridge between nations and continents.
“It is also to honour the memory of all who perished in that tragic incident, celebrate the heroes who emerged in humanity’s darkest hour, and commit ourselves to the values they represented,” he said.
Mrs Loi Eng-Koon, Adviser, Association of Chinese Women in Nigeria called for peaceful coexistence among nations.
She said, “We should all strive to love one another regardless of nationality and race. We should also say no to war.”
Dr Adetoro Bambo of the Department of Linguistics, African and Asian studies, University of Lagos saluted the Chinese disposition toward supporting and helping others.
Bambo noted that it was high time individuals begin to support one another bearing in mind that nations can only develop when there is peace.
