Chief Executive John Lee said China's victory in the Second World War was key to the revival of the Chinese civilisation.

Lee on Monday delivered a speech at a forum organised by the DAB and state-owned logistics firm China Merchants Port marking the 80th anniversary of the victory of China's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War.

In a recorded message, the CE said the victory marked a "historical turning point" for the country to transition into rejuvenation, adding that Hong Kong had "never been absent" in the battles back then.

"Hong Kong people are closely connected with our fellow countrymen, and we have always fought together side by side. From sending supplies to rescuing those who were trapped, from joining the frontline of the war to defending the sea lanes, Hong Kong has never been absent.

"Many Hongkongers joined the guerrilla forces such as the Hong Kong-Kowloon Brigade and the Dongjiang Column, as well as other resistance groups. Many patriotic figures in Hong Kong were willing to sacrifice their lives to protect their compatriots and support the resistance movement."

The Hong Kong-Kowloon Brigade took shape after the fall of Hong Kong to Japanese forces in December 1941. It was later renamed Hong Kong-Kowloon Independent Brigade and came under the Dongjiang, or East River, Column.

Lee also said the SAR government will hold various activities, including special exhibitions and film screenings, to commemorate the anniversary.

"The SAR government will combine patriotic education, national security education and Chinese culture education so the younger generation can have the correct understanding of history and further develop their love for the country."

Lee made it clear the government opposes any behaviour or speech that distorts history.

Also speaking at the event at the Science Museum was DAB lawmaker and chairman Gary Chan, who said China's victory in the Sino-Japanese War contributed to the global triumph of the anti-fascist war.