South Africa and China came together in solemn reflection and cultural celebration this week as the Chinese Consulate in Johannesburg hosted a Film and Photography Exhibition 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.
Addressing the gathering, Speaker of the Gauteng Provincial Legislature, Hon. Morakane Mosupyoe, described the occasion as a moment to remember and honour the sacrifices made by the Chinese people and other freedom-loving nations in the fight against fascism. She reminded guests that this commemoration is not merely ceremonial but a meaningful reflection on the resilience and heroism that shaped the course of global history.
Drawing from the words of philosopher George Santayana, Mosupyoe noted, “Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it,” underscoring the importance of historical memory in preventing future conflict. She praised the Chinese people, and particularly the Consul General Mr. Pan Qingjiang, for the thoughtful choice of marking this historic milestone through a Film and Photography Exhibition, which not only educates but also fosters artistic and cultural connections between China and South Africa.
Mosupyoe emphasised the longstanding solidarity between the two nations, rooted in shared values such as the pursuit of peace, the defense of human rights, and a commitment to international cooperation. On behalf of South Africa, she reaffirmed support for a world free from aggression, imperialism, and domination, noting South Africa’s active efforts in international peacebuilding, particularly through its engagements in global conflicts and its participation in BRICS, which champions a multipolar world.
Mr. Pan Qingjiang, the Chinese Consul General, echoed these sentiments in his address, reminding guests of the heavy toll paid by the Chinese people during their 14-year resistance against Japanese militarism. He also acknowledged the contributions of approximately 1.5 million African people, including South Africans, in the broader World Anti-Fascist War, recognising the shared sacrifices in a just cause for global peace.
Pan reflected on the evolution of the world since the war’s end, warning against the re-emergence of divisive ideologies and power, driven politics that threaten global harmony. Quoting Chinese President Xi Jinping, he stressed that only mutual respect, equality, and peaceful development offer a sustainable path forward. Pan urged nations to oppose all forms of hegemony and to protect the post-war international order built on justice and cooperation.
He reaffirmed China’s commitment to global peace through the promotion of multilateral development frameworks such as the Global Security Initiative, the Global Development Initiative, and the Global Civilization Initiative. Pan highlighted the deepening partnership between China and South Africa, praising the “comrades plus brothers” friendship that continues to flourish in a new era of strategic cooperation.
Both speakers underscored the need for continued dialogue, people-to-people exchanges, and collaborative efforts in culture and development. The exhibition, as they noted, represents more than history, it is a platform for renewing commitment to shared values and a reminder of the responsibility that rests on present generations to protect peace and pursue justice.
As the evening unfolded with visual storytelling and cultural exchange, the message was clear: South Africa and China stand united, not only in remembering the past but in shaping a future rooted in solidarity, peace, and progress.