At a display of military might in Beijing -- with Russian President Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un by his side – President Xi Jinping declared that “China is never intimidated by bullies”, in a statement that could be seen as sending a message to US President Donald Trump.
The leader of the second-largest economy also asserted the country’s rise was “unstoppable” as he held his country's largest-ever military parade on Wednesday.
"Today, mankind is faced with the choice of peace or war, dialogue or confrontation, win-win or zero-sum," Xi told a crowd of more than 50,000 spectators at Tiananmen Square, adding that the Chinese people "firmly stand on the right side of history".
The military parade was held to mark the 80th anniversary of China’s victory against Japanese aggression in World War II. Putin and Kim Jong Un were in attendance as Beijing exhibited its military prowess.
During his address, Xi called on the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) to provide strategic support for national rejuvenation and make greater contributions to world peace and development.
Apart from Putin and Kim Jong Un, the event also saw the presence of Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, Nepal Prime Minister K P Sharma Oli and Maldives President Mohamed Muizzu.
India’s Ambassador to China Pradeep Kumar Rawat attended the event, PTI reported citing sources.
Earlier in the day, Trump accused Xi Jinping of "conspiring against" America after Kim Jong Un and Putin attended China's largest-ever military parade.
"May President Xi and the wonderful people of China have a great and lasting day of celebration. Please give my warmest regards to Vladimir Putin, and Kim Jong Un, as you conspire against The United States of America," Trump wrote on social media.
"The big question to be answered is whether or not President Xi of China will mention the massive amount of support and "blood" that the United States of America gave to China in order to help it to secure its FREEDOM from a very unfriendly foreign invader. Many Americans died in China's quest for Victory and Glory. I hope that they are rightfully honoured and remembered for their Bravery and Sacrifice!," Trump added.
(With inputs from agencies)
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