According to the News Agency of the Slovak Republic (TASR), Reuters, and other sources, on Monday (Sept. 1) local time, Slovak Prime Minister Robert Fico shared a video on social media announcing his upcoming trip to China for the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.
Fico stated that he accepted the invitation to attend the commemorations out of respect for the sacrifices made during the anti-fascist war.
He noted, "I have paid my respects at monuments in Moscow, Normandy, and Washington. This week, I will also honor the Monument to the People's Heroes in Beijing, as it was primarily the people of the former Soviet Union and China who endured the most suffering during World War II. I refuse to ignore this reality or allow history to be misrepresented."
Reuters pointed out that Fico will be the only EU leader present at the commemorations in Beijing, which he described with a sense of "regret" and "incomprehension."
He remarked, "I personally regret that Slovakia stands alone as the only EU country attending these commemorations, and I find this situation difficult to understand. A new world order is emerging, along with new rules and a new balance of power in a multipolar world, which are vital for global stability."
Fico emphasized that participating in such dialogues is about supporting multilateral negotiations rather than acting like a "spoiled child," which he believes is how the EU and its representatives are currently behaving.
He further asserted, "In addition to honoring the war victims, we must seize the opportunity to engage with world leaders in Beijing. Heads of state representing billions will be present, and while their opinions may vary, it is important to listen to and respect those perspectives."
In explaining his visit, Fico referenced the Slovak Constitution, which mandates that "every Slovak politician must seek lasting peace and cooperation with other countries." He reiterated his commitment to an "independent and peaceful Slovak foreign policy," open to all nations and grounded in strict adherence to international law.
Fico also mentioned that EU member states were informed of his plans to visit China, and that Slovak Foreign Minister Juraj Blanár had communicated necessary details with the EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Kaja Kallas.
The Slovak Government Office confirmed that Fico will depart for China on Monday evening local time. His itinerary includes a meeting with Russian President Vladimir Putin on Tuesday (Sept. 2), attending a military parade on Wednesday (Sept. 3), and laying a wreath at the Monument to the People's Heroes. He is scheduled to meet with Chinese leaders on Thursday (Sept. 4).
According to CCTV News, on Sept. 1 and 2, over a dozen foreign heads of state and government officials, along with representatives of international organizations, will arrive in Beijing via high-speed rail from Tianjin to attend the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War. Their attendance highlights the international community's respect for these commemorations and reflects a shared commitment to historical remembrance and a peaceful future.
On the evening of Sept. 1, leaders, including Mongolian President Ukhnaagiin Khürelsükh, Tajik President Emomali Rahmon, Maldivian President Muizz, CICA Secretary-General Kairat Sarybay, and AIIB President Jin Liqun, arrived in Beijing by high-speed rail. Additionally, the North Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs reported that Kim Jong-un, General Secretary of the Workers' Party of Korea and President of the State Affairs of the DPRK, traveled to China by special train on Sept. 1, accompanied by North Korean Foreign Minister Choe Son-hui and other senior officials.
(Source: Guancha.cn, TASR, Reuters | English Editor: Liu Yu)
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