On Sept. 3, a magnificent military parade was held at Tian’anmen Square in Beijing as part of a grand commemoration marking the 80th anniversary of the victory of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. International scholars noted that the parade reflected how deeply and extensively Chinese modernization has progressed, noting that it has contributed Chinese insights to human peace and development.

Ivona Ladjevac, deputy director of the Institute of International Politics and Economics in Serbia, told CSST that the parade offered a clear and multifaceted picture of China’s advances in modernization and scientific innovation. “The display of unmanned systems, hypersonic weapons, and cyber capabilities illustrates China’s technological advancements, strategic depth, and growing self-sufficiency in military innovation.”

While signaling strength and resolve, China continues to emphasize its peaceful intentions and its role in safeguarding both national and global peace. This dual focus on defense and global stability suggests that China’s military modernization is both a strategic necessity and a reflection of its broader vision for a stable and secure international environment, Ladjevac added.

“The extent and success of Chinese modernization have to be seen to be believed,” said renowned sinologist Colin Mackerras, professor emeritus at Griffith University and fellow of the Academy of the Humanities of Australia. “Modernization is a complex phenomenon, but one of its most important attributes is technology. We hear a great deal about artificial intelligence, and that is certainly important. However, it should not blind us to the many-sided technological achievements of the Chinese people, which are collectively contributing to a highly successful modernization process of a kind that is shaking the world and will continue to do so. ”

José Medeiros da Silva, a professor from the Portuguese Department at the School of European Languages and Cultures under Zhejiang International Studies University and director of the Brazil Research Center at the university, echoed that China’s modernization process has provided new opportunities for many peoples. He viewed the military parade as a tribute to those who fought to save the country and gave their lives for a more peaceful, friendly, and prosperous world; as a way to preserve historical memory, reflect on the great challenges of the present, and prevent new war catastrophes; and as a reaffirmation of China’s unwavering commitment to common prosperity and peace.

Da Silva stressed that China’s peaceful rise reinforces the importance of replacing any “hegemonic” mentality with a path of dialogue, where the diversity of civilizations is respected and common prosperity is sought. “In fact, this is essential if we are to keep the flag of hope aloft and pave the way for building a community with a shared future for humanity,” he concluded.