Commemorations across the country marking the 80th anniversary of the victory in the Chinese People's War of Resistance Against Japanese Aggression and the World Anti-Fascist War don't just honour the millions of lives sacrificed, but are also an affirmation of national resilience and the country’s commitment to peace.

That's according to David Gosset, founder of the the China-Europe-America Global Initiative.

Speaking on RTHK's "China Perspectives" podcast, the French sinologist said the suffering endured by China and all countries affected by the war must never be forgotten – and the lessons of the war underscoring the dangers of militarism, expansionism and disregard for human life must be passed on to future generations.

"The observances are not merely ceremonial, they're meant to reinforce a collective memory that values peace, international cooperation and historical truth."

During the 14-year War of Resistance, China suffered over 35 million military and civilian casualties, accounting for more than one-third of the global total in World War II.

Gosset says the legacy of the war has helped cultivate a deep national appreciation for peace and sovereignty in China that helps shape Beijing's modern day approach to international diplomacy.

"This historical awareness informs its diplomatic posture, one that emphasises dialogue, non-interference and peaceful resolution of disputes," he said.

"Its efforts in conflict mediation, participation in peacekeeping, especially under the United Nations, and calls for a multi-polar world order reflect a belief in balance and cooperation."

The sinologist also said while the dominant narrative of World War II in the west has historically focused on the conflict in Europe, China's emergence on the global stage has changed things.

"Clearly there is a shift and a realisation that it was a global war – that the war in the Pacific was as important as the war in Europe, and that China played a very important role in the victory of the Allied [forces] during this war," he said.