Nicosia: The world must safeguard the international system with the UN at its core, the international order based on international law and the basic norms of international relations rooted in the principles of the UN Charter, Ambassador of the People’s Republic of China to Cyprus, Liu Yantao said on Wednesday. The Ambassador was addressing a reception, at the Embassy, in Nicosia, to commemorate the ’80th anniversary of the victory of the People’s War of Resistance against Japanese aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.’
According to Cyprus News Agency, AKEL General Secretary Stefanos Stefanou also addressed the event, attended by government and party officials and members of the academic community, among others. Ambassador Liu stated that 183 countries, including Cyprus, have established diplomatic relations with China on the basis of the one-China principle. He emphasized the mutual support between China and Cyprus concerning national sovereignty and territorial integrity, describing it as the defining
feature of their strategic partnership.
In his speech, Liu referred to the ceremony and parade held earlier on Wednesday at Tienanmen Square in Beijing, attended by Chinese President Xi Jinping. He remarked on the historical impact of fascist aggression, which involved more than 80 countries and regions, affecting nearly 2 billion people and resulting in over 100 million lives lost. The Ambassador stressed that the commemoration of this victory serves to preserve historical truths and learn from its lessons, rather than to sustain hatred.
Furthermore, Liu highlighted the strong ties forged between China and Europe during the anti-fascist efforts and noted Cyprus’s significant contributions, with over 30,000 Cypriots participating in the World Anti-Fascist War. He reiterated the enduring friendship between China and Cyprus, rooted in common principles and values.
The event, which also featured a photo exhibition, included remarks from former Rector of European University Cyprus Kostas Gouliamos, who undersc
ored the importance of learning historical lessons to build a globally shared future. He concluded by stating that the international community, 80 years after World War II, faces a pivotal moment between choosing synergy or confrontation.