Taipei [Taiwan]: China is actively reshaping the global narrative of World War II, presenting itself as a primary victor and a guardian of the post-war international order—an effort viewed by analysts as part of its broader geopolitical strategy to legitimize its territorial ambitions, including claims over Taiwan, Taipei Times reported.
A diplomatic source familiar with the matter, speaking on condition of anonymity, stated that the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) is promoting a revisionist version of history, downplaying the contributions of other Allied powers while amplifying China’s role in the defeat of Japan.
“Starting last year, China has been stepping up efforts to push the narrative that it was one of the key victorious powers in World War II and that it should therefore play a central role in maintaining the post-war global order,” the source said.
This state-driven narrative is being propagated through state media, international outreach, and planned commemorative events. Notably, Chinese President Xi Jinping is expected to attend a World War II anniversary ceremony in Moscow alongside Russian President Vladimir Putin, symbolically aligning two authoritarian regimes in a celebration of anti-fascist victory.
The source cautioned that Beijing is also trying to involve Taiwanese political figures and civil groups in its commemorative efforts to reinforce its disputed claim that Taiwan was returned to China at the end of the war—a claim strongly rejected by Taipei.
These initiatives are expected to culminate in a major military parade in Beijing on September 3, marking China’s official celebration of its victory over Japan.
Responding to Beijing’s narrative push, Taiwanese President William Lai, during a speech marking the 80th anniversary of WWII’s end, reaffirmed Taiwan’s stance on sovereignty and historical truth.
“The invaders always lose, and victory is assured by standing together,” Lai said, emphasizing the need for international unity in resisting authoritarian distortions of history.
Observers warn that China’s historical revisionism is more than symbolic—it is being deployed as a strategic tool to justify regional expansionism, suppress dissent, and redefine norms in global diplomacy.