Taiwan and China are locked in a growing dispute over who deserves credit for Japan’s defeat in World War II. As China prepares a large military parade to mark the 80th anniversary of the war’s end, Taiwan is holding separate, low-key events focused on its own historical role.
Taiwan says the Republic of China led the fight against Japan. This government, which now operates from Taiwan, was based in mainland China during the war. After the war ended in 1945, Taiwan was handed over from Japan to the Republic of China. In 1949, after losing a civil war to Mao Zedong’s communist forces, the Republic of China moved to Taiwan.
China’s ruling Communist Party often presents itself as the main force behind the victory over Japan. Taiwan’s officials disagree, arguing that the People’s Republic of China did not exist during World War II.
Veteran Pan Cheng-fa, 99, recalled fighting as part of the Republic of China’s army. He said that while they once gave weapons to communist forces, the communists later turned against them after Japan’s surrender.
Taiwan’s Mainland Affairs Council stated that the Communist Party has been “distorting history” by taking credit for the war effort. The council repeated an old accusation: that the communists focused more on strengthening themselves than fighting Japan.
At an official concert in Taipei, performers dressed as World War II-era soldiers. The event highlighted Taiwan’s view that the Republic of China led the resistance.
China argues that the victory belongs to all Chinese people, including those in Taiwan. It also claims Taiwan is part of its territory — a view Taiwan firmly rejects.
President Lai Ching-te warned that aggression must be resisted. Taiwan’s government has advised citizens not to attend China’s parade, calling it a political move to support Beijing’s claims.
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