Zhang Xiaogang Photo:mod.gov.cn

In response to a media inquiry that since China first held a military parade marking the 70th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War in 2015, Japan has spent more than 56 billion yen ($381 million) on promoting a so-called "correct image," and that against this backdrop Tokyo has recently urged European and Asian countries through diplomatic channels to carefully consider whether to attend China's V-Day commemorations on September 3, Zhang Xiaogang, spokesperson for China's Ministry of National Defense, said on Thursday that the Foreign Ministry had already responded to this matter and lodged solemn representations with Japan, demanding clarification.

"It must be stressed that concealing historical facts and shirking responsibility cannot 'whitewash' itself, but will only arouse heightened vigilance and stern condemnation from peace-loving people around the world, including the Chinese people. Japan should honestly face up to and reflect on its history of aggression, make a clean break with militarism, and genuinely respect the feelings of the peoples of China and other victimized countries. Only in this way can it truly win the trust of its Asian neighbors and the international community," Zhang said.

Global Times