Chinese Consul General in Cape Town attends 80th Anniversary Commemoration

The Chinese Consulate General in Cape Town marked the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People’s War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War with a reception and photo exhibition at the Castle of Good Hope.

More than 100 guests were in attendance, including Cedric Frolick, House Chairperson for Committees, Oversight and Public Participation, and Guy Redman, Deputy Director-General of the Western Cape Department of Cultural Affairs and Sport.

The venue, adorned with vibrant red décor, saw political, governmental, and business figures gather to honour history and strengthen present-day ties.

In his address, Consul General You Wenze emphasised that China had served as the main Eastern battlefield of the World Anti-Fascist War, making an indelible contribution to victory.

He reaffirmed China’s longstanding commitment to safeguarding world peace and promoting common development, underscoring its vision of building “a community with a shared future for mankind”.

Frolick and Redman both paid tribute to China’s decisive role in the defeat of fascism.

They also expressed appreciation for China’s valuable support to South Africa during its struggle for national independence and in its continuing development.

Between 1937 and 1945, China endured immense human and material losses under Japanese aggression. Despite this, it remained a critical front in the wider fight against fascism. This period, though often overshadowed in Western accounts of the Second World War, shaped China’s modern identity as a resilient nation that resisted foreign invasion.

The dual commemoration of the Chinese People’s War of Resistance and the World Anti- Fascist War highlighted the interconnected nature of the global struggle against oppression. It stands as a reminder that the defeat of fascism was achieved through international solidarity, not by any one nation alone.

The anniversary offered lessons extending well beyond history. China’s message to South Africa and Africa centred on resilience, partnership, and shared progress. At a time when South Africa faces challenges in its relations with the United States, its strategic relationship with China remains pivotal.

The 80th anniversary served not only as a commemoration of China’s sacrifices and victories but also as a forward-looking moment. It reaffirmed shared values of peace, independence, and development that continue to unite China, South Africa, and the wider African continent.