Fiji lauds peace-loving China's V-Day parade

SUVA -- A Fijian cabinet minister on Thursday lauded China's V-Day parade held earlier in the day, recognizing China as a peace-loving country whose defense strategy meets its obligations as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council in maintaining and preserving world peace.

Jioji Konrote, Fiji's minister for employment, productivity and industrial relations made these comments at a reception hosted by the Chinese embassy in Fiji, where over 300 people, including Fijian Prime Minister Voreqe Bainimarama and wife Maria, government officials, members of parliament, members of the diplomatic corps and representatives from the local Chinese community gathered to watch rebroadcasting of the live coverage of the military parade to commemorate the 70th anniversary of the end of World War II and the victory of the Chinese People's War of Resistance against Japanese Aggression.

"On the occasion of the 70th anniversary of the victory, we commemorate today the heroic and indomitable Chinese people, fighting bloody battles and making tremendous sacrifices, defeating invaders and safeguarding China's independence and national pride. As we commemorate the victory of this conflict, let us remember history and learn from the mistakes of our past," Konrote said as he delivered his speech on behalf of the Fijian government.

"Today, as a peace-loving country, the People's Republic of China has placed national security firmly in the hands of its own citizens, and has adopted a realistic and pragmatic defense strategy to protect its national integrity and security and at the same time meet its obligations as a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council in maintaining and preserving world peace, " the Fijian cabinet minister said.

The Pacific island country sent a team to participate in the historic parade.

"The Fijian government is represented in this year's commemoration victory parade in Beijing by a small contingent of the Republic of Fiji Military Forces led by Land Force Commander Col. Sitiveni Qiliho. In fact, we are honored and proud to be part of this celebration," Konrote said, adding that the occasion " reminds us of our past, but more importantly demonstrates our collective aspiration as a global community to preserve and maintain world peace."

Zhang Ping, Chinese ambassador to Fiji commended the supportive move made by Fiji.

"The Fijian soldiers marched through Tian'anmen Square in high morale, presenting the good image of the Fijian military forces as well as the country. They have left a deep impression on the Chinese people," said Zhang.