SCMP Editorial

Editorial | Parade more about peace than war

For some, the showcase of military prowess could appear threatening but China’s rise is also built on its commitment to a peaceful world

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The number 70 formed by fireworks over Tiananmen Square during the evening gala to mark the 70th anniversary of the founding of the People's Republic of China. Photo: Reuters

SCMP Editorial

Published: 9:38pm, 1 Oct 2019Updated: 10:40pm, 1 Oct 2019

If there was an expectation of yesterday’s National Day celebrations in Beijing it was that the lavish military parade would be a talking point. After all, it was to be the largest ever parade in terms of new weapons systems on show and the range of troops involved. The question was what sort of message it would send, and to whom. The parade did not disappoint. Nearly half the weapons systems were being shown in public for the first time, including a new generation of nuclear missiles such as the DF-41 multiple warhead, and the DF-17 hypersonic ballistic missile.

Given the rapid expansion of China’s military budget, such hi-tech weapons development can easily seem at odds with China’s repeated reassurances of a peaceful rise. In that sense it could be construed as threatening by other countries.

In the event the aggressive potential of the display was muted, with many observers saying the tone was more moderate than expected. The overall emphasis of the whole celebration, including the military part, appeared to be to show China’s progress and inspire pride among the people rather than projecting an intimidating image. However, perception is in the eye of the beholder. If viewers were suspicious or held a negative view of the Chinese government, they could feel uneasy about television images of advanced weaponry and phalanxes of highly drilled troops. But such images do not necessarily reflect an aim to project a threat.

China’s need to modernise its military is understandable. It was, in fact, the last sector subject to such reform. That said, while modernisation may boost national pride, it can easily be misunderstood by other nations. And by making people proud, military prowess can also breed nationalism and lead to more aggressive policies that are not good for China’s future development.

It is good therefore that for the first time the military parade projected a softer side of modernisation by featuring Chinese peacekeeping troops, who now play a bigger part in United Nations peace operations. Taking part in these missions is a practical way for the PLA to support China’s vow of a peaceful rise. Separately, yesterday’s civilian parade showcased the Chinese people’s peaceful aspirations. Overall, such a celebration of China’s rise should not be seen as threatening world peace.