By: Aaron Kubahn
Monrovia, Liberia – The Chinese Embassy in Liberia on Thursday hosted a movie reception at TM Mall to commemorate the 80th Anniversary of the Victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
The event featured the screening of The Sinking of the Lisbon Maru, a documentary recounting a tragic World War II incident. In late September 1942, the Japanese vessel Lisbon Maru, carrying more than 1,800 British prisoners of war from Hong Kong to Japan, was torpedoed off the coast of Dongji Island, China. While Japanese troops abandoned ship, the POWs were confined below deck. Many who managed to escape into the sea were met with gunfire from Japanese forces. In a remarkable act of courage, more than a hundred Chinese fishermen risked their lives, rowing through dangerous waters to rescue the struggling survivors.
In his remarks, the Chinese Ambassador reflected on the historical significance of the event and the broader lessons of World War II.
“Eighty years ago, people of different countries, social systems and ideologies united to defeat the dark and evil forces of fascism and won the victory of peace and justice,” he said, paying tribute to “the heroes of all countries who fought for the victory.”
He stressed that the commemoration is not intended to perpetuate hatred but to “bear history in mind, honor all those who laid down their lives, cherish peace and open up the future.” The Ambassador highlighted China’s pivotal role as the main Eastern battlefield in resisting Japanese militarism and acknowledged Liberia’s contributions, including supplying rubber to Allied forces, offering logistical support, and sending citizens to join the fight.
“From the soldiers who fought bravely to the unknown ordinary people, every action that chose justice and stuck to conscience deserves to be remembered and honored for all time,” he noted.
Amid global uncertainties, the Ambassador urged nations to choose unity over division and cooperation over confrontation. “Only by treasuring peace and upholding unity can humanity embrace a brighter future,” he said, reaffirming China’s commitment to peaceful development and safeguarding the outcomes of the World Anti-Fascist War.
The event closed with a call for collective action: “Let us join hands to commemorate and remember history, safeguard peace through unity, and pass on the common conscience and hope of mankind through action.”
