Beijing Prepares for a Grand Display of Power
BEIJING — In the heart of Beijing, a grand display of power and military might is about to unfold, meticulously orchestrated by President Xi Jinping.
Eight massive Chinese flags proudly flutter beside the portrait of Mao Zedong, the founder of Communist China, perched atop the Gate of Heavenly Peace overlooking Tiananmen Square, one of the world’s largest public squares.
Rows of seats are reserved for 26 foreign heads of state, including Russia’s Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, a diplomatic victory for Xi.
Near the Great Hall of the People, massive floral arrangements commemorating the end of World War II stand tall, alongside seating for approximately 50,000 invitees.
On the eve of the event, Chang’an Avenue, the multi-lane road cutting through the square, was once again open to the public. Drivers and cyclists eagerly captured the scene with their phones.
Although the parade ostensibly marks 80 years since Japan’s surrender in the war, and China’s victory over the occupiers, it holds greater significance for President Xi.
Xi has been making headlines this week with several firsts. He successfully lured Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi to China for the first time in seven years, strengthening a crucial economic and strategic bond.
More than 20 world leaders attended the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) summit, the largest gathering to date.
Xi is seizing the spotlight, projecting power and presenting a vision of a new global order that challenges the United States. Now, all eyes are on the parade in Beijing, showcasing China’s growing military prowess against the US.
The parade will feature precise troop formations, new hypersonic weapons, and unmanned underwater drones, impressing leaders from Iran, Malaysia, Myanmar, Mongolia, Indonesia, Zimbabwe, and other central Asian countries. Only Serbia and Slovakia represent the West among the guests.
Kim Jong Un’s surprise attendance adds to the spectacle, alongside Putin. Their presence will undoubtedly spark Western headlines dubbing them the “axis of upheaval”.
While the parade flaunts China’s strength and Xi’s global influence, it also sends a clear message of pride and patriotism to the nation.
The event coincides with a domestic campaign promoting China’s resistance against Japanese aggression during World War II, aimed at fostering a patriotic view of history.
Despite economic challenges, youth unemployment, and social unrest, China’s leadership aims to rally the nation behind a narrative of unity and strength.
Preparations for the parade have been meticulous and cautious, reflecting the Party’s control over the capital. Security measures are stringent, aiming to prevent any disruptions.
As Beijing gears up for the grand event, life for its residents has been upended, with road closures, heightened security, and transportation disruptions impacting daily routines.
With clear skies predicted for the parade, Beijing is leaving nothing to chance on President Xi’s momentous day. — BBC
