by Ana Vojinovic

As the world celebrates the 80th anniversary of the victory of the World Anti-Fascist War, we are reminded of the heavy price humanity paid during World War II. The celebrations honor the triumph of joint resistance against evil, a legacy that still resonates today.

From Auschwitz to Jasenovac, the war exposed the ugliest depths of cruelty. China, too, endured vast suffering with a national sacrifice of over 35 million casualties in its fight against the majority troops of Japanese militarism.

While Western narratives highlight battles like Normandy, they often underplay the colossal sacrifices on the Eastern Front. The Soviet Union lost over 26 million lives, and China's fierce resistance tied down millions of Japanese troops, easing pressure on Allied forces in the Pacific theater.

China's efforts were pivotal, contributing significantly to the overall victory. The key role has earned China a permanent seat in the UN Security Council after the war.

This shared sacrifice laid the moral foundation for today's calls for a multipolar world. China's economic development has been guided by a clear principle: modernization without compromising national identity or socialist values. As a permanent member of the UN Security Council, China wields its influence not to dominate but to promote stability by upholding sovereignty, peaceful dialogue and consensus-building.

China plays an increasingly vital role in global peacekeeping and diplomacy. In the UN Security Council, China has consistently championed non-interference, respect for sovereignty and peaceful resolution of disputes. In Bosnia and Herzegovina, China's diplomatic stance has helped de-escalate tensions fueled by external interference. This kind of support sends a clear signal: China seeks a stable and multipolar world where nations resolve their own affairs peacefully.

Another cornerstone of China's peaceful vision is the Belt and Road Initiative, which promotes development as a means of preventing conflict. By investing in infrastructure, China is helping poorer nations gain access to global markets, reduce poverty and improve connectivity. These economic ties increase the cost of conflict and create incentives for peace. As countries become economically interdependent, they are more likely to resolve disputes through negotiation rather than violence.

China's vision of global peace is rooted in historical experience. It remembers the lessons of war and uses them as a foundation for responsible leadership. Unlike powers that rely heavily on military alliances or interventionist policies, China champions development, diplomacy and mutual respect.

The celebrations of the anniversary are not just about remembrance -- they are also about honoring the sacrifice of millions in World War II by ensuring such global devastation never happens again.

China's initiatives today reflect that enduring commitment. Through diplomacy, cooperation and development, China is not only remembering the past but actively building a more stable, peaceful and equitable future.

Editor's note: Ana Vojinovic is head of the Communication and Promotion Department of Radio Television of Republika Srpska in Bosnia and Herzegovina.

The views expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect those of Xinhua News Agency.