Next week, North Korean leader Kim Jong Un and Russian President Vladimir Putin will join over two dozen other foreign leaders at a major military parade in Beijing, as announced by the Chinese Foreign Ministry.
The event, set for September 3 at Tiananmen Square, marks the 80th anniversary of the end of World War II following Japan’s surrender. This historic occasion seems to create a vivid image of unity among these powerful leaders, standing side by side atop the iconic Gate of Heavenly Peace.
Notably, Kim’s attendance will be his first visit to China since 2019. Since he took office in 2011, Kim has made only ten trips abroad. Most recently, he met Putin at a spaceport in Russia earlier this year.
The parade offers Kim a unique chance to appear alongside global leaders rallying around a different global order led by Xi and Putin. As these nations form closer ties, the political landscape in East Asia may become increasingly complex.
This event sparks opportunity for dialogue, particularly given that just days ago, U.S. President Donald Trump expressed interest in meeting Kim in the near future.
On the day of the parade, China plans to showcase its military might in uncertain times, particularly amid tensions over Taiwan and territorial disputes with neighboring countries. With 26 foreign dignitaries on the guest list, including Pakistan’s Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the parade will certainly draw attention.
Interestingly, Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi won’t attend the parade, even though he will be in China for another summit. Myanmar’s junta leader Min Aung Hlaing, who assumed power after a military coup, will also be part of this gathering, reflecting the wide-ranging political implications of the event.
There’s a notable absence of leaders from significant Western nations, despite China’s historical role as a key ally during World War II. After Japan’s invasion ended, China was embroiled in its own internal strife between communist and nationalist forces, which didn’t conclude until 1949 with the establishment of the People’s Republic of China.
The parade is expected to feature over 10,000 troops, more than 100 aircraft, and a variety of ground equipment. This display underscores Xi’s mission to modernize the People’s Liberation Army (PLA). Spectators can expect to see state-of-the-art weaponry, from drones to hypersonic missiles—all domestic advancements making their debut.
For decades, China has acted as North Korea’s main ally, offering vital support to its struggling economy. The two countries share a formal defense treaty dating back to 1961. Recently, however, North Korea has strengthened its ties with Russia, particularly as Russia faces challenges in Ukraine, complicating the geopolitical dynamics in East Asia.
Xi’s relationship with Putin is double-edged. While he backs the Russian leader, he is also wary of the new alliance forming between Kim and Putin, especially as it involves North Korea sending troops to support Russia in Ukraine. This increasing military cooperation raises alarms for the U.S. and its allies.
At a recent press conference, Hong Lei, a Chinese assistant foreign minister, emphasized China and North Korea’s close relationship, harkening back to their shared history against Japan. He expressed a commitment to strengthening cooperation to promote regional stability and fairness.
This parade is more than just a showcase of military power; it’s a reflection of the shifting alliances and emerging dynamics in global politics. It serves as a significant moment for these leaders as they navigate a world defined by changing loyalties and rising tensions.
