President Xi Jinping is set to lead China’s largest military parade on Sept. 3 as Beijing looks to strengthen its role on the global stage and signal a shift in international power dynamics.
The event, marking 80 years since Japan’s surrender in World War II, comes at a time of growing uncertainty in global politics. More than 20 world leaders are expected to attend the high-profile ceremony in Beijing, including Russia’s Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un. The joint appearance of Xi, Putin, and Kim is likely to become the most symbolic image of the parade, highlighting a united front among authoritarian powers.
The military parade is designed to project not only China’s technological advancements — including hypersonic missiles and unmanned drones — but also its rising diplomatic influence. As the United States reduces its global commitments under President Donald Trump, China is positioning itself as a central figure in shaping a post-U.S. international order.
Authoritarian bloc signals unity
For Kim, who arrived by train earlier this week, this marks his first multilateral event and the first time a North Korean leader has attended a Chinese military parade in over six decades. The presence of other leaders such as Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian underscores Beijing’s strengthened ties with governments that share its worldview.
Neil Thomas, a senior analyst at the Asia Society Policy Institute, said the growing attendance from leaders in Central, West, and Southeast Asia shows China’s expanding regional diplomacy. He added that the gathering reflects Beijing’s ambition to be recognized as the leading voice among authoritarian states.
China’s state news agency Xinhua confirmed the parade will begin at 9 a.m. local time. Western leaders are largely absent, with the exceptions of Slovakian Prime Minister Robert Fico and Serbia’s Aleksandar Vucic, both known for their criticism of sanctions against Russia.
Parade reinforces historical narrative
Earlier this week, Xi spoke at a regional forum in Tianjin, urging developing nations to support a more balanced, multipolar global structure. He also emphasized the importance of recognizing China’s role in defeating fascism during World War II, a narrative that aligns with similar efforts by Russia to challenge Western historical perspectives.
Preparations for the parade have brought tight security to Beijing, with road closures and increased surveillance. Local governments have mobilized tens of thousands of volunteers and party members to maintain public order.
Taiwanese officials estimate the parade could cost China up to $5 billion — nearly 2% of its defense budget. While some citizens have embraced the patriotic atmosphere, others online expressed concern over the expense. A viral post calling for the funds to be redirected to public welfare was later removed from social media platforms.
